Chapter Ten ~The wedding~
The wedding will be in two weeks.
Lying silently on her bed Hotarubi's eyes were wide open. It wasn't even night, but Hotarubi had lost her motivation in doing anything meaningful. Well, not that she could do much anyway. Upon their announcement of the upcoming wedding, both Zero and Hotarubi's parents returned home immediately, bringing with them the 'Kougazan'.
Paranoid that Hotarubi may change her mind and sneak off to her vampire lover, or the Pureblood may come and snatch her away, heavy security was set around her. Hotarubi was basically confined in her room, and she was never allowed to leave her room unsupervised.
Staring blankly into the wooden ceiling Hotarubi pondered why Zero bothered to create a two weeks gap? Why don't they just get married straight away and have it over and done with? That way, the hunters would not have to be on such high alert around the clock, and there won't be time for her mind to wonder and give chance for second thoughts about the wedding.
Instead, the groom-to-be seemed to have also vanished from her world. Zero had not come to visit her, and from her mother's words, it appeared Zero too had isolated himself from all. But, she was assured that Zero was well, maybe he was just shying himself from meeting his future wife before the wedding. You know, all men are like that.
It was a relief for Hotarubi somehow. With the guilt of Ichiru's death weighing on her conscience, she was not sure how she could face Zero. If only she had known her place as his fiancée from the beginning, if only she had stopped being so naïve believing in an impossible dream…if only she had never been rescued by Kaname that day…
Hotarubi's hands gripped onto the bed sheet tight upon the thought.
Kaname….Kaname, the gentle, kind man that read to her when she was immobile due to her injuries, the handsome princely gentleman that danced with her and spoke to her of his love for her. He was the man that had such great effect on her emotions, making it possible to forget all and only see the positives of life.
At the same time, Hotarubi wrapped her arms around her body when it trembled whenever that cruel gruesome scene was replayed in her mind. The vampire that took the life of her most precious friend was also Kaname. The look on his face when he decisively plucked out Ichiru's heart with his vampire claw, there was no mercy, no hesitation.
Acquainted with the two complete opposite sides of Kaname, Hotarubi no longer knew which side was the true Kaname.
Holding the necklace with the Kuran crest pendant in her palm, Hotarubi recalled the scene when Kaname gave this to her. He told her that he was indeed a person, whose hands were stained with blood, yet as a monster, he had fallen for her, for he found salvation in her...
And when he placed this necklace on her, the tender look in his strikingly beautiful eyes as he whispered,
Even though we didn't do it, to me, you are already my wife.
Because to me, Hotarubi…you are my Queen.
The passionate and burning emotion she had developed towards Kaname rained down upon her taking over her whole being as she leaped onto her feet in haste, sensing every cell in her yearning for the man who loved her unconditionally.
Kaname…Kaname…
Like a drug addict craving for her dose of fix, Hotarubi chanted the name within as she ran for the door. She needed to see him now, she needed to feel the warmth of his touch, she needed to hear his deep suave voice that whispered to her like the soft breeze in the night!
As she reached for the door handle, to her surprise, Hotarubi's mother entered the room with a few others following her. The moment her mother encountered the expressions on Hotarubi's face, the woman frowned a little before she asked. "Rushing off to somewhere, Hotarubi?"
Backing away from her mother, Hotarubi lowered her head and shook her head.
"Good," Smile returned to the mother's face as she spoke with a soft warm tone like a loving mother. "Because if you were to go missing before the wedding it would really cause trouble to all those around you. Don't forget, Hotarubi, every wrong decision you make, someone else always end up paying the price for you."
Like a bucket of ice cold water poured down upon her, the deep burning love for Kaname within that had just revived were put out once again. As if all strength left her body, Hotarubi sat back onto her bed and nodded silently suppressing the tearing heartache within.
Approaching her, Hotarubi's mother gently fondled her daughter's soft dark locks. "Come on, smile now, Hotarubi. For your big day would be coming soon, and as a mother, I couldn't be happier to know her daughter has found a wonderful counterpart." Indicating to the people behind her, she smiled. "And as a gift from your mother, I have custom made your wedding dress from the best dressmaker in town." Lifting up Hotarubi's face, the mother smiled in pride. "For I believe, my daughter would be the most beautiful bride ever."
Ashamed of her temporary loss of logic to flee to Kaname, Hotarubi kept silent and obeyed like a beautiful porcelain doll, allowing her master to dress her up in the way that pleases others.
"Mine, the bride is indeed beautiful…" Unlike Hotarubi, the people around her rejoiced and adored the stunning girl in a pearl white dress before them.
"A little lose around the waist, but that can be easily fixed." The old lady dressmaker said as she temporary clipped up Hotarubi's dress with the pin from her tool box. Turning to the old man beside her, the dressmaker smiled. "Darling, would you be able to fetch me the scissors from the box?"
Looking through the tool box, the old man lifted his head. "I can't find it in here, did you leave it at home?"
"I must have, clumsy me." Placing her hand on her head, the dressmaker sighed.
"We have scissors," Hotarubi's mother smiled. "Do you want me to get it?"
"Sorry for the trouble," The old man bowed in apology and followed Hotarubi's mother out of the room.
When it was only Hotarubi and the dressmaker left, the old lady looked up at the emotionless beautiful face of the future bride and asked with a caring smile. "Why looking so gloomy? I have never seen a bride I made a dress for that does not beam with the most beautiful smile."
"I am sorry…" Hotarubi muttered softly. "This is indeed a most beautiful dress…"
With a soft sigh the dressmaker shook her head. "I do not mean beaming with joy because of the design of the dress. It's your big day, and I heard the groom is a wonderful man too, isn't it all supposed to be a joyous occasion for all?"
It was a simple question from the dressmaker, but Hotarubi knew it was something she could not give answers for. Squeezing out a smile, Hotarubi replied softly, "He is indeed a good man. I have known him since childhood, and he had always taken good care of me…" As if she was persuading herself, Hotarubi lips spoke of the praises of her fiancé.
"Then he indeed would be able to continue to take good care of you as you walk down this path together." With a warm understanding smile, the dressmaker said. While fixing up the other side of the dress, the old lady continued. "I understand the nervousness and doubts you are facing right now. I went through that too before my big day. I even asked myself whether he really was the man I love when I was walking down the aisle.
But my husband and I have been married for more than forty years now, we have had our ups and downs of course, and running a tailoring business with just the two of us wasn't easy, but we took good care of each other along the way…"
Although it was just the old lady blabbering on about her own ways of life, for some reason, Hotarubi discovered the words of wisdom in those words as she kept quiet and listened on.
Fixing the veil on Hotarubi's head, the dressmaker continued. "You know what sweetie? Marriage is like cooking a good pot of stew. It needs constant stirring, to even out the flavours in the soup, and it also requires the right heat, and long hours of cooking. And the longer you cook, the softer the meats become, and better the stew tastes…" With a chuckle the old lady concluded. "In summary, marriage life may not be rainbows and butterflies every day, but it's an experience of growing old together."
Unknowingly, the old lady's last three words shook Hotarubi out of her imaginary world into the reality of life. Feeling her hands turning cold Hotarubi was struck with despair when she was reminded once more, as an almighty Pureblood vampire, Kaname could never grow old with her. Yes, he told her once that he did not care if she aged and have lost all her beauty and youth, but could Hotarubi say the same about herself?
Could love really overcome all obstacles and conquer all? In fact, it was because she loved Kaname so much, she could not bear the thought of her body aging before the man who would always remain beautiful and young. Was she able to live the life of feeling left behind? Her physical strength would eventually fail her and she will no longer be able to be by Kaname's side and not feel ashamed every time she would see her wrinkly face in the mirror.
"Oh dear, sweetie. Have I said something that I shouldn't have?" It was not until the dressmaker asked in concern and dapped her handkerchief against her cheek did Hotarubi realise that she was weeping.
"No, it's okay." Hotarubi said quickly drying her tears. "In fact I should thank you for showing me the way."
"The way?"
"Yes, because I am sure now," Nodding softly, Hotarubi replied softly indicating something deeper. "My fiancé is the one that I could grow old with…"
"Oh really?" The old lady beamed happily with Hotarubi's words. "I am glad that I could be of help…"
Bang!
While the old lady was still talking, both Hotarubi and she heard a huge explosion. "Good lord, what was that??" The dressmaker immediately ran to open the door and saw people running all over the place in alert.
"We are under attack!" Hotarubi's mother had returned with the dressmaker's husband. "Please follow me and I will take you to a temporary shelter."
Clueless of the battle between hunters and vampires, the old lady nodded quickly and left with her husband. Unlike the dressmaker, Hotarubi was extremely calm as she sat back down onto the bed despite the yelling and fuss she could hear from the hunters guarding the premise. And as if the attack happened on the East Wing of the Hunters Headquarter, she could hear the footsteps of hunters heading towards there and soon her room that resided in the West Wing became quiet once more.
Knock, knock
To her surprise though, Hotarubi heard a soft knock against her window. Seeing no one there at the window, Hotarubi walked up to it and found a person crouching outside as he smiled and waved at her when their eyes met.
"Long time no see, Hotarubi." Pointing to the window, the person whispered. "Can you open the window and let me in?"
Hotarubi hesitated for a second before she finally unlocked the window and allowed the man to leap into her room. Patting the tree leaves off his coat from squatting in the garden outside Hotarubi's window, the person's eye widened in astonishment when he saw Hotarubi's attire. "Wow, you look so beautiful, Hotarubi! Is that your wedding dress??" Pausing, with a sad smile the person sighed. "But I have a feeling you weren't wearing this for Kaname right?"
Trying to avoid the heartache within, Hotarubi asked the person instead. "Why are you here, Takuma?" Looking out the window, Hotarubi concluded. "And I suppose it was the rest that were attacking the East Wing so you could meet me here alone?"
Nodding, the beautiful noble class vampire Ichijou Takuma beamed. "Well, considering the heavy securities set around here, it only makes sense for Aidou and Cain to make a fuss on the other side as decoy so I could catch a little moment alone with you."
"And why would you do that?"
"Because I am worried about you, Hotarubi." Ichijou sighed. "What had happened? How come all of a sudden you have returned home with the hunters? And Kaname returned badly injured and as you know him, he wouldn't tell us a thing."
Hotarubi's heart skipped a beat when she heard of Kaname's condition. Suppressing the urge within to enquire of Kaname's injury, Hotarubi replied instead, making sure her voice contained no emotions. "The mission we have set out for in the beginning was a failure, so I have returned home to where I belong, that's all."
"And this is where you belong, Hotarubi?" Although still smiling, Ichijou asked sharply. "I thought it was back at the Estate of Seiran, where you and Kaname were residing. That was where you called 'home'?"
"No, that was not my home!" Hotarubi disagreed immediately. "I am a hunter, and this is my home here! Before I met Kaname, I was already betrothed to Zero, and this was my life before it went off course!"
"So you really see yourself as a hunter?" Not letting go easily, Ichijou asked again. "Was it not peaceful and tranquil for both Kaname and you when you both lived at the estate not as vampires or hunters, but just two people in love?" Stepping forward, Ichijou fondled Hotarubi's hair in warmness. "Hotarubi, I have been by Kaname's side for many years. And it was only those few months when he was at the estate with you, forgetting his status as a Kuran Vampire, and you have forgotten your ground as a Yagari Hunter, that I have seen Kaname smiled most genuinely." Sighing, Ichijou added. "I know it was my selfishness that I am saying this. But I really enjoy seeing the two of you together." Holding up Hotarubi's hand, Ichijou whispered. "And this beautiful dress you are wearing, it should be for Kaname, and no one else…"
"Takuma, please stop." Shaking her head Hotarubi took in a deep breath to calm her emotions. "Yes, I was happy when I was at the estate, but it was only because, my bliss was built upon other people's miseries."
"Other people's miseries?" Not buying the self pity and blame Hotarubi was laying on herself Ichijou said without mercy. "Aren't you thinking too highly of yourself if you think you could please everyone by this self-sacrificing act?"
"I…!!"
"And I won't accept the pitiful excuse of how you could not be with Kaname because of your fragile and limited life as a human being." To stun Hotarubi even more, Ichijou spoke out the other concern Hotarubi had deep in her mind.
"Takuma, how did you…??"
Smiling in response, Ichijou answered. "That night when you were dancing with Kaname at the estate, when you addressed your concern, well, let's say, I was kind of there too."
Hotarubi's pearl white cheek flustered immediately when she was reminded of the night when she danced with Kaname, indeed as the "butler" of the estate, Ichijou too was present. Turning her head, Hotarubi looked away. "Maybe to you, this was a pathetic issue. But to me, it is forever weighing on me. Maybe I could ignore it for a short while, but it will always come back to me, and call me cynical, but I don't believe simply basing it on love works for me!"
"Well, I do see where you're coming from. But…" Crossing his arms, Ichijou replied. "It would not be a concern anymore if you become one of us right?"
"Eh?" Turning to look at Ichijou in shock, Hotarubi found a playful smile on the handsome vampire's face. And like the persuasion of the devil to entice his prey into taking the forbidden fruit, Ichijou leaned forward and whispered by Hotarubi's ear.
"All you need to do is ask Kaname to turn you into a vampire, and if you remained beside the Pureblood who turned you, receiving his blood as nourishment, you would never degrade into a Level E vampire." Stopping, Ichijou chuckled softly. "And you could remain youthful and perfect for eternity with Kaname…"
Feeling her heart pounding hard with Ichijou's tempting yet dangerous solution, Hotarubi moved away from Ichijou immediately. "No! it's impossible!" Shaking her head Hotarubi rejected the idea immediately. "I am a human being, this is what I am!"
Before Ichijou could speak further, both noticed rapid footsteps coming towards her room. With a sigh, Ichijou shrugged his shoulder as he headed for the window once more. "I guess my time is up. But remember this, Hotarubi." The smile left Ichijou's face as his emerald green eyes looked straight at Hotarubi in all seriousness. "You do know that if you have taken this path, it would mean next time we meet, we will become enemies? And if you contributed in any ways to harm Kaname," Stopping, Ichijou threatened coldly. "Then I will take your life personally."
Sensing her heart pounding hard Hotarubi watched as Ichijou left her room so soundlessly as if he never was here. Yet, whatever Ichijou spoke to her tonight carved deeply into her heart.
Enemies? Yes, her choice would put Kaname and her as enemies forever…
***
It was a horrible day. Grey dark skies and heavy clouds, and with the thick damp smell in the air, one could tell storm was coming. It was the type of climate no bride would want on their big day. At the Hunters Headquarter today, people were moving about keeping busy. Not because they were worried the storm would wreck the wedding, and there was no bad weather preventions prepared. Rather the hunters were busy making other preparations knowing today, they most likely would be expecting some uninvited guests to the wedding.
Watching the busy bodies, Yagari Touga remarked with his arms crossed. "I don't understand women. What is the point of putting so much effort on a wedding set up when we all know once the vampires come, all these would just be destroyed in battle?"
"Don't say that, as a mother, it is only normal to marry off their daughters in the most glamorous way possible. As the brother of the bride, shouldn't you be running around preparing as well?" In tease, Cross added.
"Even if I have time to waste, I wouldn't use it on wedding preparations." Rolling his eyes in boredom, Touga replied. Standing up straight, the blue eyed hunter stated in all seriousness, "From the vampire attack a few days ago, it is rather clear that if the Pureblood came, there is no way we could stop him."
Cross remained silent in concurrence to Yagari's statement. A few days ago when Ichijou and the other noble class vampires came, the hunters were already finding it a handful to prevent the group from entering the premises. Yet known to all, today would be the day where their master, the Kuran vampire would pay the bride a visit personally.
"I will not let that vampire go anywhere near Hotarubi." Coming from beside the two, the silver haired groom stated. Dressed in a formal morning suit of charcoal, and violet cravat that matched the colour of his eyes, Zero's already tall fit manly figure looked even more charming than he already was. His handsome face remained unfriendly and cool despite he was supposed to be the main cast of today's joyous event. Carrying in his white gloved hand was a black katana, an unfitting item for a groom to carry.
Both Cross and Yagari exchanged a look when they notice Zero's hand unintentionally gripped onto the katana handle tightly when he talked of the Pureblood. Recognising the weapon to once belong to the groom's twin, Cross sighed and asked in concern. "Zero, I know you are currently filled with hatred towards Kaname. But it is after all your big day too, and maybe to others it was simply a ceremony to ensure the reviving of the ancestor, but to you and Hotarubi, shouldn't this marriage mean something deeper?" Pausing, Cross added sharply. "Or are you saying to you, Hotarubi was merely the key? If that is the case, Kaname's love for her would superior to you in this aspect."
As if Cross' words were like a knife that cut him deep, Zero inhaled deeply not allowing anyone to see any sign of weakness. Instead, his lilac eyes gleamed of a dangerous light, something dark and bitter as he said. "Don't worry; no one looks forward to this wedding day as much as I do…"
"Zero, you…?"
"The vampire is here!! There is only one of them but he has already broken through the first fortification!"
Before Cross could ask further, they heard the alert from the hunters on watch. Taking out the sword from his back, Touga smiled challengingly. "The man came alone? I guess we really have been underestimated."
"He has already passed the second!! Our seals seemed ineffective to the vampire! Emergency assistance is required!!"
Touga frowned when he heard another hunter called. Turning back to Zero, Touga commanded. "Zero, stay by Hotarubi! Do not let that Pureblood anywhere near her!"
After the two senior hunters left to provide aid against the vampire intrusion, Zero turned and headed for the West Wing. Noticing the groom approaching, the hunters that guarded the bride's room bowed in respect to the next leader of the hunter race. Because all knew, after tonight, the hunter ancestor would be revived.
"The vampire has broken through the second fortification already," Without showing any emotions, Zero stated. "They require some aid immediately. Meanwhile I will be here guarding the bride."
"Yes, Zero-sama." Acknowledging the orders, the hunters left as told.
Unlike the other side of the Hunter Headquarters where the battle was fierce, the West Wing immediately became silent with only the bride and the groom present, separated by a door. Instead of knocking on the door, Zero stood silently outside the barrier that parted him from his bride.
"Zero? Is everything okay?"
The groom's heart skipped a beat when he heard the soft tender voice of his bride that came from the other side of the door. Ensuring his voice sounded calm, Zero answered. "Everything is fine…but I guess the ceremony is delayed."
"I see," Unknowingly Hotarubi said softly. Then as if she remembered something, the shy bride added quickly. "I, I would have opened the door and invited you in, but you know, it's bad luck if the bride and groom met before the ceremony…"
Although what Hotarubi said was a light joke she made attempting to lift the solemn mood between them, Zero had only felt his heart hurt so much knowing how much he deeply loved her. Things would be so much easier if he was not a Kiryuu and she was not of Yagari. Maybe then he would be able to be honest to her about his feelings.
Standing outside Hotarubi's room, Zero could hear the howling of the stormy wind that resembled the chaos happening around them. When suddenly, Zero sensed every cell within started going wild upon the presence of an unwelcomed guest.
He is here.
Zero muttered within as he grabbed onto the katana by his side. He didn't think the hunters could stop the Pureblood from coming, but it was faster than he had anticipated.
"Zero…"
Hotarubi called softly once more from the other side of the door. This time, Zero could tell the tone of uncertainty because like him, she too knew the Pureblood was here. However, he knew the reason her emotion quavered upon the Pureblood's appearance was not for the same reason as he. Slowly Zero closed his eyes as he rested his hand against the door.
"Everything is going to be okay, Hotarubi." Zero whispered in a most gentle tone that Hotarubi had never heard from the silver haired hunter. "You will soon be free, free of guilt and duties that were placed upon you unfairly."
"What, what do you mean?"
For the first time, a beautiful yet sad smile appeared on Zero's face knowing the girl on the other side of the door would not be able to see it. "I do not blame you for Ichiru's death because it was never your fault but mine. Ichiru died because I was weak and powerless and if anyone was to pay for it, it should be me."
Although Hotarubi was unable to see Zero's face, she knew he was hinting something, and her instinct told her, it was going to be bad. In concern, Hotarubi called quickly, "Zero? Why are you saying this?"
Instead of answering his bride's question, Zero jammed the lock on Hotarubi's bedroom door. "When this is all over, you will probably hate me. But even if it was hatred, I would be glad that somehow I would have become part of your memory…"
"Zero??"
When Zero heard Hotarubi's anxious tone, he smiled softly to himself once more before he turned and walked out of the building to where the Pureblood awaits.
***
In the midst of ruins from the hunters' useless attempt to stop the Pureblood, Zero saw the tall vampire whose crimson eyes fixed on him, his face still calm and charismatic. "I am here to take Hotarubi away." Peacefully he declared, simple and straightforward.
"I knew you would come, vampire." Zero glared at the man whom had taken everything from him. Despite a monster, the only honourable thing about him would be his genuine feeling towards Hotarubi. That, Zero could not deny. Knowing so, Zero agreed on the wedding knowing the vampire would come alone due to his love for Hotarubi.
Leaning low in an attacking position, Zero's thumb slightly parted the katana from its sheath, ready for a lightning strike when he pull out the weapon at his opponent.
Unlike him however, Kaname stood still, not taking the position to defend or attack. "I did not come to fight because Hotarubi would not have wished it."
"Unfortunately I am dying to kill you, vampire." Zero hissed in hatred. "You have taken the life of my twin brother and you think I would stand here and let you to take my bride away without a fight?"
Upon Zero's provoking challenge, Kaname frowned a little before he slowly gave a sigh. "Very well, out of respect of your love for her, I will claim Hotarubi rightfully."
Immediately after Kaname finished his sentence, a howl of wind whirled harshly around them due to the release of Kaname's enormous power adding onto the storm that was crashing down upon them. As a reflex, Zero narrowed his eyes and ensured his hand was tightly gripping onto the katana for the most crucial initial attack. In the blink of an eye, the vampire had vanished from before him, however Zero knew exactly where the Pureblood went as in one fast swift movement, Zero pulled the katana out of its sheath and swung it to his left.
"Not bad," Kaname smiled calmly as he leaned aside and smoothly dodged the attack. Not allowing Kaname to recover his position, Zero turned his wrist as the katana came swinging upwards towards the back of Kaname's head.
Kaname frowned with the way Zero was attacking him. Knowing the power difference between them, Zero had abandoned all his defence as he came striking at Kaname ignoring the risk to his own life. Unlike him who avoided harming Zero because of Hotarubi's feeling, Kaname realised Zero was determined to destroy him. And with the distinction in their motives, even as an almighty Pureblood, Kaname had found Zero's attack difficult to handle. Difficult, because unless he did some serious harm to Zero, the groom was not backing down. Above all that, it appeared to Kaname it was exactly what Zero wanted him to do. Zero wanted to be destroyed in this battle, and along with it, he planned to take Kaname down with him.
Seeing how Kaname just dodged his lightning attacks without even raising his arms, an indescribable frustration burnt within Zero. Was he really that useless and powerless? Was he really that weak? Because of his incapability, he was unable to protect the ones he loves.
You need to release me…
Zero's heart thumped hard when he heard a voice within. The same voice he heard constantly since Ichiru's death. The voice that sounded like part of him and yet not.
Only I could handle the Kougazan…
Taking in a deep breath, Zero ignored that voice as he called out to Kaname. "What are you afraid of, Kuran? If I had known you would be such a coward, I wouldn't even need to use Hotarubi as the key to release my true power…!!"
Immediately responding to his malicious remark, Kaname was suddenly in front of him as he grabbed Zero by the neck and pushed him right through a wall. Pinning Zero onto the ground, the furious Pureblood threatened, his voice merciless. "Are you saying to you Hotarubi is only a mean to intensify your powers?"
Instead of answering, a smirk crept onto Zero's face. "I have finally got you, Kuran…"
Bang!
Moving away from Zero, Kaname frowned as he placed his hand on the gunshot wound on his tummy. Kaname's eyes narrowed in alert when he saw no blood from the wound, yet he was sure he sensed the pain and impact when he was shot. Looking up at the hunter that shot him, Kaname saw Zero held the Bloody Rose in his hand and a solemn look on his face.
"The Kiryuu Truss…" Kaname muttered gravely, his eyes looking directly at Zero's. "…Are you sure this is the price you are willing to pay?"
"Yes, because I knew there was no other way to kill a Pureblood with my current ability." Zero mocked with a despised look. "But if it only costs me my own life to take down yours, it was a bargain worth striking."
Similar to the Yagari Clan who has the ability to activate the powerful Yagari Seal by paying the price of offering up an amount their life to the guardian creatures, the Kiryuu Clan too had a similar ability. The Kiryuu Truss was a contract implanted into the other party where the two entities would periodically share the same fate. So if any harm was to happen to either party, both would go through the same damage.
Knowing with Kaname's ability as the Pureblood, Zero's Kiryuu Truss probably could only be effective for a very short while, but it was enough for him to do what he needed to do. "That is why," Smiling cruelly, Zero replaced the bullets in his revolver with normal bullets. "You will die here today with me, Kuran."
Kaname remained silent when he saw the determination in Zero's eyes. Instead of panicking with the unexpected outcome, calmly, Kaname closed his eyes peacefully.
Maybe this was the best solution. Along with both their deaths, the battle between the vampires and hunters would end and even if it weighs on his heart to know that he could no longer protect Hotarubi, he knew she would be safe now…
Seeing how Kaname serenely accepted the outcome, Zero understood why. Because within, the thoughts and feelings he has for the same girl filled him as he placed the gun against his own head. Closing his eyes too, Zero knew if there were any last regrets, it was that he did not get to see Hotarubi one last time. She must be stunningly beautiful in her wedding dress…And if the Pureblood had arrived slightly later, maybe he would be able to see her walk down the aisle towards him…Even if it was all an act, but for a short moment, Hotarubi was his bride…
So many ifs and maybes…but it all no longer mattered.
Smiling to himself, Zero's thumb pressed down on the revolver hammer.
Bang!
Almost at the same time of the blustering sound of the gunshot, Zero sensed an object hit the gun off his hand as he pulled the trigger.
With the sudden outcome, both Zero and Kaname opened their eyes in alert. Both men's heart burnt when they saw a beautiful girl standing between them, her white wedding dress fluttered in the wind like the wings of an angel that had descended from heaven. The bride was so breathlessly gorgeous that both men did not realise they have only scarcely escaped death while both their eyes fixed on the bride as if they were frightened she was an illusion that would vanish once they returned to reality.
Due to the after-effects of the Kiryuu Truss, all the strength vanished from Zero in one go as he collapsed onto his knees but to find, the girl reached out her arm and supported him before he fell. Without saying a word, Hotarubi carried and rested him by the wall. Although it was the first time in two weeks the couple had finally seen each other but Zero found such unspoken sadness in Hotarubi's beautiful eyes when she looked at him.
Ah…she must be angry at him. In self mocking, Zero knew his plan to kill the Pureblood was nothing but a failure, and now, his bride would leave with the vampire, the man she actually loves….
"Hotarubi…" Kaname spoke the name softly while he admired the face he had missed so very deeply. Holding the urge to want to hold Hotarubi tightly in his arms to confirm her presence, Kaname reached out his hand and smiled in a most gentle way. "I have come for you, Hotarubi."
However, instead of accepting his hand, Hotarubi swung her whip and sent numerous sharp swift attacks at Kaname, forcing him to back away from both Zero and her.
"I have no reason to go with you, vampire."
While both Zero and Kaname were stunned by Hotarubi's action, both heard the girl spoke with a firm, crisp voice. With her chin high, Hotarubi continued. "I am Yagari Hotarubi, a hunter of the famous Yagari Clan, and today I have become a new family member of the Kiryuu Clan, and therefore…" Standing before Zero in a protective manner, the beautiful bride declared.
"I will not let you hurt my husband."
***
Hotarubi was although not close to Zero as she was to Ichiru, but she knew him well. When she noticed how gentle Zero sounded when he came to speak to her, Hotarubi knew Zero have come to say goodbye. Zero may not have a sweet mouth, but he had a most thoughtful heart. Everything he did, he had always taken others' happiness over his own.
When she found Zero had jammed the lock to her room, she was confirmed that Zero had planned to sacrifice his own life to take down Kaname's. The idea of the two most important people in her life was to fight till a life was lost frightened her so much. Although it took a while, Hotarubi was able to finally unlock the door and ran out after Zero.
However by the time she reached the battlefield, to her horror she saw Zero raised his gun against his head, and without wasting another second, Hotarubi threw her dagger and successfully hit the gun off Zero's hand in time!
"Hotarubi…"
Hotarubi already spent the last two weeks working on hiding her feelings towards Kaname, yet, the moment she heard that deep loving voice calling her name in such a yearning way, she thought her efforts have gone to waste. A million emotions occurred at once, the joy, warmth, love, anger and hatred she has for Kaname threw Hotarubi into chaos.
For the first time in her life, Hotarubi discovered how difficult it was to make sure her tears would not run down her face. With her best endeavour, Hotarubi swallowed the tears and spoke of her decision to the love of her life.
Yes, she had chosen Zero because it was the right thing to do. Her life and Kaname's were on different paths and have intercepted by accident. It was only right if they each returned to where they belong.
However when she saw the vulnerable look on Kaname's perfect face when she called Zero her husband, she knew she finally did it. Hotarubi never knew it was possible to hurt a Pureblood. Without an effort, she broke Kaname's heart. She could not even imagine what torment Kaname must be experiencing right now for if he was going through half of the heartache she was going through, it was painful enough.
"Is," Kaname asked softly as if he had no more strength left to speak. "Is this really what you wanted? You have chosen your path as a hunter?"
"This is…" Knowing she was unable to answer the question without breaking down in front of Kaname, Hotarubi could not complete her sentence. As a trained hunter, Hotarubi had been through much more intense and harsh trainings, yet none of them could compare to the severity she was facing right now. How impossible it was to ensure those tears would not fall down, and how intricate it was to guarantee her voice would not crack and break into sobs.
Lifting her head as a lame attempt to pull back the tears, Hotarubi secretly took a deep breath to give her the strength she needed. "Yes, it is my final decision." Gently taking the Kuran pendant off, Hotarubi held it out before her. "That is why, I am not the person eligible to wear this…"
Kaname's eyes however showed no interest in the pendant as he continued to gaze at Hotarubi as if he was trying to remember her every detail in case their departure would mean he could never see this sweet little face that occupied his entire soul. Or even worse, he would not be permitted to admire her beauty for they will soon be enemies.
Gently reaching out his hand, Kaname placed the pendant back into Hotarubi's hand as he closed her palm for her.
"Kaname…" Calling the name she had sworn to never spoke of again, Hotarubi finally gave in and allowed her tears to fall down her face when she sensed the gentle touch of her beloved.
Unable to smile any longer, extreme melancholy painted Kaname's burgundy eyes as he lifted his hand and lovingly dried Hotarubi's tears for her. Whispering bitterly, Kaname sighed. "I guess…you have chosen him again…"
Again…? Before Hotarubi could understand what the Pureblood implied, she sensed Kaname pulled her over as he placed his lips deeply on hers. Closing her eyes as a reflex, Hotarubi could taste her own bitter tears just like the taste of their kiss, their last and final kiss.
"Don't ever forget this," Looking deep into her eyes, Kaname whispered. "No matter what happens, I love you Hotarubi, more than anything in this world…"
"Kaname…" Upon such passionate confession, Hotarubi sobbed sulkily when the Pureblood finally released her from his embrace as he turned and just like how he came, the man of her life vanished before her.
***
"I know this place was not exactly a luxurious honeymoon suite, but you know, after the vampire had granted us with his presence, the Hunter's Headquarter is in ruins." Shrugging his shoulders, the dark haired hunter Yagari Touga sighed whilst his eyes glanced over to his little sister who sat silently before the window in the hotel room they managed to find for the groom and bride. Moving his eyes back onto the groom who stood solemnly by the door, Touga laughed as he gave Zero a pat on the shoulder. "But I guess this is acceptable in your standards?"
Not responding to Touga's words, Zero remained silent, arms crossed and like usual, no smile on his face. Observing the reaction of the new couple, Touga frowned. Despite he predicted Hotarubi to choose this path, he was indeed surprised how the Pureblood would let go so easily. When Kaname arrived, he wasted no time and without taking any hunter's life, he still managed to temporary immobilise them all and reached Hotarubi in the shortest time possible.
Yet as if there was no real purpose to his intrusion, the Pureblood was gone. He came alone and he also left alone.
"All jokes aside, Zero." Clearing his throat, Touga leaned in and whispered to Zero in all seriousness. "You do know what had to be done, we no longer have the luxury to lose any more opportunities. Kaname is the ancestor reborn, and after tonight I am sure he would claim his kingship as the rightful Kuran King, and a final battle between the hunters and vampires would soon occur. If you do not awaken your abilities, everyone, not just hunters but humans would be wiped out."
"…I understand."
Although Zero showed no particular emotions when he said that, Touga knew there was not much more he could do. Turning to take another look at Hotarubi, Touga sighed secretly within before he finally left the two newlyweds.
Dead silence and awkwardness immediately befall the two after Touga left the room. Zero secretly took a look at Hotarubi and found, her eyes continued to gaze out the window, and from her puffy red eyes, he knew she had not stopped weeping since Kaname left.
How was it possible for him to "do anything" when the woman he loves wept so bitterly for another? How could he hold her in his arms tonight when he knew he was not the man in her heart? Yes, Touga did say they no longer have the luxury for emotions and sympathy, but because Zero loves Hotarubi so much, he knew he could not touch her.
Why does he feel so defeated even though it was him that Hotarubi had chosen to be with? Because Zero knew clearer than anyone, Hotarubi had remained only because of her responsibilities, but her heart was not here with him. With the pain as if his heart had been yanked out of him, Zero finally approached Hotarubi and gently placed his coat over her shivering shoulders.
Zero frowned when he sensed Hotarubi's body jumped immediately upon his touch. Taking a step away from her, Zero said. "It's late now. You take the bed and I will go sleep on the couch."
However, as he turned away he sensed Hotarubi grabbed his arm and with the trained battle skills she knew, Hotarubi pinned Zero down onto the bed.
"Please Zero…" Almost begging, the girl above him cried. "Do what you needed to do and do not pity me!! Because the last thing I need right now is for anyone to…" Unable to continue Hotarubi lowered her head as she whispered. "…Am I not your wife now?"
Instead of answering her question, gently lifting his hand Zero caressed Hotarubi's soft cheeks. And when Hotarubi discovered how placid Zero's touch was, she finally lifted her face again as her eyes met up with her husband's. The clear violet eyes she had known for many years, the same gentle expression Zero had like that day when they were on the snowy mountains together…
Slowly sitting up whilst his hand was still on her soft cheek, Zero looked deeply at Hotarubi. "It is not pity that I have for you…but something else I know you would never understand."
"…Zero?" Clueless of what Zero was referring to, Hotarubi called softly. However she no longer could ask any more questions when she sensed Zero leaned close as his lips softly caught onto her own. Closing her eyes slowly Hotarubi's mind went blank when she felt Zero's lips rubbing gently against her own taking away all the heartaches she had been experiencing for the past month.
"From tonight onwards, I do not want you to think of that man…" Hotarubi heard Zero whispered deeply in between the kisses, "Ever again."
***
"Kaname…."
Ichijou frowned when he saw his best friend looking up at the moon, and he was so alone. When he saw Kaname returned unaccompanied, Ichijou knew Kaname had lost Hotarubi forever.
"I must say I did not expect you to actually hand her over to the hunters just like that."
Just when things could not get worse, Ichijou's handsome face frowned a little in alert when Sara had appeared once again and calmly approached Kaname. Seeing how Kaname did not even turn or respond to her appearance, an irritation aroused within the beautiful Pureblood as she added. "You are indeed a sweet gentleman, Kaname. To grant her spoilt little wish even if it means, it may cost the lives of your very own people..."
Before Sara went on further, she suddenly encountered a majestic aura from Kaname and much to her disliking, she had found her body frozen in submission. Looking up at the strikingly gorgeous Pureblood, Sara saw a most authoritative expression from Kaname and hearing her own heart pounding she knew something was different about this Pureblood who had stayed low key in the past decade.
Not only Sara, but vampires all over the country immediately echoed in response to the revival of their long lost Kuran King, for he had finally returned to claim the throne and lead their people against the hunters.
In almost an instance, the hill they were standing on were filled with thousands of vampires that have gathered upon the call of their King.
"Our King has returned!"
"The rightful Kuran king has finally reclaimed his throne!!"
Seeing the gathered crowd kneeling before Kaname in absolute submission, Sara bit her lower lip in displease, but soon she was able to place that beautiful elegant smile back onto her face as she walked up and stood next to Kaname.
"And may Sara-sama be our new Queen!"
"Long live the Pureblood vampires!!"
Hearing the calls of the vampires, Ichijou, Aidou and Cain frowned in unison before their eyes landed once again on their master in concern.
***
Letting out a big yawn Yagari Touga scratched his head in tiredness. It was early dawn and the entire night he stayed up with the responsible hunters ensuring the vampires would not return while the rest attempted to rebuild the Headquarter that was almost destroyed by Kaname.
However as he walked pass one of the training buildings, Touga was surprised to hear the sound of gun shots in the shooting room. Walking down the stony steps, Touga's eyes widened when he saw a silver-haired hunter there.
"Zero...?" Approaching the youth, Touga frowned. "What is the groom doing up so early on the first morning after the honeymoon?"
However Zero did not answer the question as he calmly replaced the bullets in his revolver. Seeing this, Touga frowned even more when he sensed no particular change in the youth before him. With his arms crossed, Touga asked seriously. "Is it done?"
Pointing his gun at the target, with precise clear shots one after another, Zero replied.
"...Yes, it is done."