ROSARIO+KIVA

Episode 25: A Mother's Love

"Are you sure this is the right place, Nii-san?" Wataru asked as he, Taiga, and the girls squeezed their way through a tight cavern.

"Yes," Taiga nodded. "Not only is the map correct, but I also know this place from when I was growing up."

"What do you mean Taiga-san?" asked Moka curiously.

"As King, I am allowed anywhere I want unless there's a good reason." Taiga explained. "Bishop never gave me a reason why I was never allowed here. Everywhere else had a good reason. If it was a lab it was either because of the sensitive equipment or that I was too young. I never got a straight answer when I asked why I couldn't come here, however."

"Then there's something here he didn't want you to see!" Yukari gasped.

"Precisely," Taiga nodded. "If there's anything here, it's going to be something important in finding Kaa-san."

"Ooh, I can't wait to meet Wataru's mother!" Kurumu giggled silently.

"I will meet her first," Mizore mumbled quietly.

"This is so exciting!" Yukari beamed.

Coming to the end of the tunnel, the group came out into open air that had rock walls with only glimpses of the outside forests. There was a pool of water nearby, but it was undisturbed and pure. There was a large rock nearby. On that rock was a person in a black cloak with the hood up. This person had their back turned to the group, but the slight turn of the head indicated that this person knew they were there.

"You aren't Bishop," the person muttered in a female voice. The voice was soft, but it was blunted by years of solitude. "Who are you?"

"It's me, Kaa-san, Taiga," the first heir of Kiva spoke, hope in his voice.

"Taiga…" the voice whispered. "I…I am glad to hear you are well. Bishop told me what kind of man you were growing into. I am glad."

"Don't be," Taiga frowned. "Bishop has turned against me because I will not start a war between Fangires and humans. I tried to find you and he sent a Fangire army to kill us."

"WHAT?!" the woman hissed. She appeared to desire turning around, but was struggling not to. "HOW DARE HE?!"

"He will be dealt with," Taiga reassured his mother. He tried to step forward, but Maya stood up and moved away. "I have brought others."

"Yes," Maya nodded, "A witch, a vampire, a yuki onna, and a succubus. Are you searching for a wife? A new Queen has not appeared?"

"Hey!" Kurumu cried. "Wataru is the only one for me! Taiga wants Moka anyway!"

Maya immediately stiffened. Her body seemed to tremble as she heard the name. Her desire to turn around seemed to become stronger, but she still fought it.

"Wataru?" she gasped. "Son of Otoya?"

"Hai," Wataru nodded, daring to hope that this woman was his mother. "You're my mother, Maya Kurenai."

Maya began to tremble as she desperately tried not to turn around. One could hear her soft sobs as she stood, "I don't…I don't want you to see me this way….please."

"Kaa-san," both boys gasped. Bravely, they stepped forward and walked towards the woman that they called mother. Maya didn't resist, but her trembling became worse. Both boys gently clasped her shoulders and turned her around. Her skin was deathly pale but her head was bowed. Wataru and Taiga gently clasped a side to the hood and pushed it back revealing Maya's face.

The beautiful face that existed in the portrait that existed in Castle Doran was certainly there. It had gone pale from so many years without light. There was no rosy hue to her lips or cheeks and her hair was long and dead. However, what shocked the boys most was that their mother was now wearing an eye patch indicating that she had lost an eye.

"KAA-SAN!!" both boys cried. Forgoing their personalities, they hugged their mother as tightly as they could. It was enough, Maya finally broke down crying, sobbing loudly.

"My babies!" she sobbed as she hugged the two boys close. She was once again reunited with her sons.

The girls started to tear up at the happy reunion of the two sons and their mother. They were happy for Taiga and Wataru. The small family held each other close for a while as they shed their tears. After enough time had passed, Maya finally released her sons.

"It has been too long," she sniffed. "I'm so glad to see you both."

"Haksjr ahjdoosk ajdhrjka, Maya!!" Sagark cried as he flew down from the air.

"Maya-sama!" Kivat cried as he followed the silver creature.

"Eh?" Maya blinked as she saw the incoming Kivat and Sagark Clan members. "Ah! Sagark! Kivat! It's been so long!"

"Tghks shjooss hfhrhksk ahduhfjhd!" Sagark cried and looked like he was going to cry.

"What did he say?" asked Wataru.

"He asked what happened to Kaa-san's eye," Taiga translated. He then turned to Maya. "A good question."

"A story for another time," Maya answered, but held her hand to her covered eye self-consciously. "I am sensitive about it."

"You don't have to feel bad about it," Wataru spoke, seeing his mother's discomfort. "You're still beautiful even with it."

"Hmm," Maya smiled. "You have your father's charm. He had a touch with women too. Tell me; are these girls' victims of that charm too?"

"Ano…" Wataru blushed as Taiga seemed to smirk for a bit. He rubbed the back of his head nervously. "I guess I should introduce them to you." Wataru then proceeded to introduce his friends to his mother. "Kaa-san, these girls are my best friends who I met back in Yokai Academy. They are Moka-san, Kurumu-san, Yukari-chan and Mizore-san."

"It's good to finally meet you, Maya-sama," Moka bowed respectfully, happy to finally meet Wataru's mother. Yukari, Mizore and Kurumu were stunned. This was the former Queen of Fangires and they were unsure of how to properly speak to royalty, especially since she was Wataru and Taiga's mother.

"You've made very interesting friends," Maya observed. How did her son gain the affection of these girls, she did not know. Maybe he had a bit of his father in him after all. She then recalled the name of the school. "Ah, Yokai Academy. It's been so long since I heard of the school's name." She smiled as nostalgia came over her.

Kurumu blinked, "You've heard about it?"

Maya laughed slightly. Maybe seeing her sons again had brought that spark back in her. "Heard of it? Oh, I was a teacher there."

The two Riders and the girls were shocked at hearing this. Maya was a teacher? That was probably why the headmaster knew where she was. He most likely had tabs on her ever since she left the academy.

"How long ago was that?" Kurumu asked.

"I think it was since the school was first built," Maya stated. "Then I had to retire."

"Sugoi," Yukari was amazed.

"So, Wataru, tell me what you've been doing in Yokai Academy. You too, Taiga," Maya smiled. She had a lot of catching up to do.

"Maybe we should do this elsewhere," suggested Taiga. "Bishop may send another army after us."

"Where will we go?" Maya asked.

"To Castle Doran," said Wataru. "Now, Kaa-san, let's go."

"You won't be going anywhere, I'm afraid," spoke a voice at the entrance. The entire group looked to see a new figure standing at the mouth of the cave. It was a Fangire, but was blacker than stained glass. In one hand it held a scythe and in the other it held a chain connected to a coffin. This was the Mantis Fangire. Wataru and Taiga narrowed their eyes.

"Who are you? Did Bishop send you?" demanded Taiga. He never recalled meeting a Fangire like this before. Although, in the light of Bishops schemes, Taiga suspected that there were a lot of Fangires that lived behind the scenes.

"Does it matter?" spoke the Mantis Fangire. "All I am here for is the former Queen. Now be good boys and step away." He tapped his staff on the ground and the casket he'd brought with him opened up to reveal glass shards. The shards floated out from the casket and then reformed into three Fangires. They were the Shark, Cicada and Moose Fangires. "I don't like to dirty my hands so I will leave them to deal with you. Goodbye." The Mantis Fangire then walked away, dragging the casket behind him.

Taiga's eyes widened as he took in the appearance of the three Fangires in front of him. He knew them all personally as some of his most devoted subjects. He left them behind when he went to the academy. What had happened to them? Judging from how the Mantis Fangire summoned them, they were already dead. Was Bishop so determined to manipulate the King that he took out any other familiar connections he had with his subjects?

"Minna, protect Kaa-san," said Wataru. The girls nodded and took Maya away from the fight that was about to begin. "Kivat!" Kivat flew into Wataru's hand.

"Sagark!" called out Taiga. Sagark placed himself on Taiga's waist as the belt wrapped around him.

"Henshin!" the two brothers called out as they activated their belts. Their bodies became covered in quicksilver which shattered to reveal Saga and Kiva, the Sons of the Queen.

The fight was taken outside of the cave and back into the forest where Saga engaged the Shark Fangire as Kiva battled both the Cicada and Moose Fangires. The Shark Fangire took a swing at Saga who dodged and retaliated with a slash using his Jacorder. At the same time Kiva was punching the Moose Fangire's chest rapidly while elbowing the Cicada Fangire's chest. He then landed a kick on both of them.

Kiva took out Tatsulot's Fuestle and slipped it into Kivat's mouth, "TATSULOT!"

"Tension Fortissimo!" Tatsulot called out as he activated Kiva's transformation to Emperor Form.

In the distance, Maya and the girls watched the two young men battling the Fangires. Maya could hear the girls cheering on Kiva while occasionally cheering on Saga.

"Go, Kiva-sama!" Yukari cheered happily.

"Beat them up, Wataru-san!" Mizore added.

"You rock, Wataru!" Kurumu cheered loudly.

"Wataru-kun! Taiga-san!" Moka called. "Fight!"

Maya heard the cheers for her children and it was obvious as to who these girls preferred. Wataru apparently inherited his father's charm if he could get girls to come to him like that. Was the one fighting so hard before her really the young boy she'd left so long ago?

The Jacorder Bute Mode wrapped around the Shark Fangire and Saga tossed him into the ground with immense force. He then withdrew the whip and lunged with the rapier-like Rod Mode of his weapon.

"Zanvat!" called out Kiva as he aimed Tatsulot at the Cicada and Moose Fangires. The Imperial Blade flew out from the dragon's mouth and slashed at the two Fangires before flying back into Kiva's hand. He slid Zanvat quickly up the blade and then right back down before leaping into battle once again.

Kiva and Saga slashed at their opponents with their weapons before using a combination of punches and kicks to send them staggering back. Now, it was time for the finisher. Saga and Kiva took out their respective Fuestles and activated them.

"Wake Up!" called out Sagark as the plate on his head spun.

"WAKE UP!" called out Kivat before Kiva slid Zanvat up the blade, causing it to glow red before being slid back down.

"Hah!" yelled out Saga as he lashed out with his Jacorder's Bute Mode which stabbed into the Shark Fangire. Turning his back to the Fangire and then getting down on one knee, he gave his Jacorder a tug and the Shark Fangire shattered as result from the Snaking Death Break.

"Hyah!" Kiva shouted as he slashed at the two Fangires he was fighting with the Zanvat Sword. They both froze and Kiva slid Zanvat right up the blade to the tip, causing the red glow to fade before sliding Zanvat back down. The two Fangires then shattered into oblivion as a result from the Final Zanvat Slash.

As soon as they entered Castle Doran, Jiro and Maya locked eyes.

"Jiro," Maya frowned.

"Maya," Jiro returned her glare with his own.

Wataru could feel the situation getting tense and all but ordered Jiro, "Jiro-san, now's not the time. Kaa-san needs a place to rest and recuperate."

Jiro sighed, unable to ignore the plea of the boy who he'd come to love as his own son. "Very well." He turned towards Riki and Ramon, "You two, take her to a guest room and get her something to eat."

"Thank you," Maya said gratefully. "And thank you for watching over Wataru."

"It was a promise we made to Otoya," Jiro said gruffly. "A promise I shall never turn my back on."

Maya was led out of the Main Chamber towards the hallway. Both Ramon and Riki found her a guest room to rest in. Taiga and Wataru were both in deep thought. Ruby was already bringing back tea for everyone to drink when they were ready. Magic was handy for things like that.

"Bishop has something to do with this," Taiga frowned. "I just know it."

"But I doubt he'll give us an answer," Wataru replied. "We are his sworn enemies now."

Taiga silently agreed. Bishop had taken over, calling King a traitor of their race. This also meant some powerful Fangires would try to fill in for the position of King, which would not happen until…Taiga was dead.

"Wataru-san, is something wrong?" asked Mizore.

"I just have a lot on my mind, Mizore-san," said Wataru. Mizore didn't like seeing Wataru so stressed and upset. He'd been so happy to see his mother again but now things were getting serious. The gravity of the situation had dawned on them since now they were enemies of the Fangire Clan.

"This is going to start a war within the Fangire ranks," muttered Taiga. "A war that may involve humans, which is what Bishop wants."

"If it's any consolation, I think you're both doing the right thing," said Mizore.

"Thank you, Mizore-san," Wataru smiled slightly.

"I take it you are still angry at me," Maya sighed as Riki opened a room to her.

"My race is nearly gone because of you Fangires," Riki commented coldly. "I can never forgive that."

"And I suppose you don't like me because of the day I fought you," Maya sighed, looking up to the tall Franken Clan member. "Still, I owe you so much for protecting my son. I don't think I could repay you."

"It would be stupid for Wataru-sama to feel my pain because of the actions of others," Riki answered as Maya walked inside. "Besides, he's a fine young man."

"Yeah!" Ramon nodded. "He's super cool!"

"I see," Maya smiled. "I have missed so much of their lives. So…are those girls special in my children's lives?"

"Hmm," Riki snorted. "All four of them wish to be with Wataru. He desires Moka, even if he won't admit it."

"He is Otoya's son!" Maya giggled. "What about Taiga?"

"He likes Moka too!" Ramon snickered. "So he's tried setting Wataru-sama up with one of the others."

"Oh my!" Maya gasped. "Have they fought about it?"

"Some arguments," Riki nodded. "Not outright violence though. That was when they discovered who the other was in Saga and Kiva."

"I feared as much," Maya frowned. "What stopped them?"

"Wataru-sama and Taiga were friends when they were little!" Ramon answered. "Taiga wanted to fight at first, but then he lost the will when he realized that Wataru-sama was his brother!"

Maya was relieved. It would appear that things were the way they should be. Still, Bishop may try to attempt something, maybe even brainwash her son Taiga. The man did have a long time to do that. Thank the gods that her first born had grown up to be a fine young man, so unlike her father but still inheriting his strength.

"But be warned," Riki nodded, "Though you are Wataru-sama's mother, it will take a very long time to earn our forgiveness. We do this only because of the promise we made to Otoya and nothing more."

"And for Wataru-sama's happiness," added Ramon.

"Now," Riki's expressions softened. "Rest. We will bring you a meal later. I'm sure you are famished."

"Yes, I am," Maya nodded. "And, again, I thank you."

Riki gave a nod before leaving Maya in the room. Ramon regarded the woman for a few seconds before skipping after his friend.

Sitting on the bed, Maya was in deep though. For nearly ten years she'd been forced to live away from her sons. She had a lot of catching up to do. Her sons still loved her, which was a relief, but now things were going to become even more dangerous for them.

For the next few hours, Moka and the rest of the girls were treated to the sight of Wataru being truly and utterly happy. Not because of the power boost given to him by the Imperial Blade that was now dubbed the Zanvat Sword, but because, after a decade, he'd finally been reunited with his mother and had a brother no less. Half brother, but still a brother no less.

Moka felt happiness foe Wataru. She'd seen him happy before but never so happy in his life. He'd cried tears of joy at the reunion with Maya, former Queen of the Fangires.

Maya finally exited her room after over an hour of soaking in hot water and thorough cleaning. Obviously she had changed her garb, now wearing a clean black robe and hood instead of the old tattered one she'd worn for who knows how long in that dreadful cave. She was also clean after taking the long awaited bath and the color was starting to return to her skin. Still, there was that eye patch that made Taiga and Wataru want to question her. Was Bishop involved?

She was also amazed that Wataru had drawn the Zanvat Sword. By all rights it should've been Taiga but the sword deemed him worthy. The former King's Imperial Blade couldn't have picked a finer man as its wielder.

Maya gazed longingly at the portrait of her and Otoya, painted not long after they'd wed. Unlike Taiga's father, she'd loved Otoya, a human no less, deeply. Despite his shortcomings, Otoya was a fine man. He was honorable, selfless, and courageous. He'd even dared to challenge the previous King.

She'd gotten to know her sons' friends quite well. She sensed a power within Moka that could rival hers as Queen and also she could see the love she held for her youngest son. Yukari, as she saw her, had a crush on Wataru. Mizore and Kurumu, both children of dying races, were interested in having him to help breed a stronger generation for their kind but they too also loved him. Even Ruby, who was an older woman, had taken a shine to her little boy. It was interesting to see that, even without effort like Otoya, Wataru managed to win such loyal friends and companions.

Taiga, she could see, also had eyes for Moka. This could turn for the worse between the two brothers. She didn't want them to fight one another. Bishop was the true enemy if he was willing to start a war with humans that could very well doom both races. Humans weren't as inferior as she'd originally thought. They had great potential, the ability to better themselves, and to evolve. That was what the Fangires had feared and tried to stop. That was why she'd given the power of Kiva to Wataru in order for humanity to have a chance.

Though Taiga had been taught to hate humans, it would seem that he was more tolerant of them. He didn't speak ill of Wataru for being half human though this may be because of their friendship and bond of brotherhood.

"Ne, Maya-sama," Maya heard a voice speak which shook her out of her thoughts and she turned to see that it was Yukari speaking. She looked a bit intimidated.

"Yes, child?" she asked.

"I know Wataru-sama already introduced us, but I wish to introduce myself." Yukari curtseyed since she was in the presence of royalty. "I am Yukari Sendou, a witch in training, and Wataru-sama's future bride." Maya was amused. This little one had laid a claim on her 2nd born.

"Hold on, brat!" Kurumu hissed as she pushed Yukari aside to bow. "Hello, your majesty. I'm Kurumu Kurono and I have chosen Wataru as my Destined One." It would be good for her to earn Maya's favor. This was Wataru's mom after all.

Suddenly, without warning, Kurumu had been frozen in ice as Mizore gracefully glided towards Maya. She knelt down and bowed her head, "It's my honor to meet you, Maya-sama, former Queen of the Fangires, and mother to Wataru-san. I am Mizore Shirayuki."

Maya blinked. These girls were definitely aggressive in their pursuit for her son's heart, but unfortunately for them Moka had already snatched it if what Riki said was true. Still, they were nice girls. They had no ill will. They'd even fallen for him before they found out who he really was.

"Please, stand, and could you please remove the ice from Kurumu-san?" Maya requested. With a wave of her hand, she'd melted the ice around Kurumu who didn't look happy.

"Damn you, ice girl," growled Kurumu then she realized that Maya was still there so she recomposed herself, "I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me."

Maya smiled serenely, "It's alright. You're still young. Emotions do run high at that age." It'd been centuries since she'd been their age but she still remembered what it'd been like to be so passionate.

She then heard it. It was a violin and it wasn't just any violin. It was the violin she and Otoya had both crafted together. "The Bloody Rose," she said. "How I've missed it." She turned to the girls, "Come, girls, let us go watch Wataru perform for us." The girls leapt at the invitation.

Moka, Taiga and Wataru were in the son of Otoya's workshop, listening as Wataru played for them on the Bloody Rose. This was the one place Wataru could be at peace in and he wanted his brother and Moka to enjoy his playing. It did seem to have more feeling put into it. Guess he was happy to see his mother again and wanted to show it by playing a piece in her tribute.

Taiga could only leer at the violin which was a symbol of Maya and Otoya's love and bond. It just reminded him of how his mother had turned back on her beliefs but he couldn't fault her. Love could make you do some crazy things.

Maya knew this wasn't Otoya's work shop upon entering but it looked just the same to her. It reminded her of the one human she'd come to love deeply. Violin components hung around, incomplete, with a wooden work bench and the tools on it. Her son had indeed inherited his father's talent, both in making and playing the violin.

Wataru finally took notice of his mother and nearly faltered but continued to play. This was a gift for her. This was how he was showing her how much she'd missed her and how happy it was to be with her again. 10 years without his mother had finally ended. The emptiness was nearly gone. All he needed would be his father but that was impossible. His father was gone and not coming back.

With the trademark plucking of the strings his father had been known for, he ended his little concert, receiving applause from his audience.

"Impressive as always," Taiga smiled. His little brother was truly talented.

"You studied your father's music very well," Maya smiled as she clapped happily. "Your playing sounds much like his. But…I can hear your own soul in the music. He would be very proud."

"Ah, arigato," Wataru blushed brightly. It felt so good to hear his mother praise him for his playing.

"Nothing less from my Destined One!" Kurumu squealed as she yet again glomped onto Wataru.

"Don't you have any shame, you cow!" Yukari cried as she raised her wand. "Not in front of Maya-sama!"

"No shame," Mizore commented, but her hands turned to icy claws, showing her displeasure.

"Ara," Maya giggled. These girls were indeed very passionate about her son. If there was any doubt before, it was clear now. Only the son of Otoya could attract females so easily. What made it so cute was that he didn't even have to try.

Later, Maya was simply enjoying one of the books by the fire. Everyone else was in bed and Castle Doran was flying back to its regular plot while waiting out the break between the school years.

"Kaa-san?" a voice asked.

Maya looked up and saw Taiga standing at the entryway to the room. "You couldn't sleep?"

"I have had nothing to do but sleep and contemplate," Maya sighed as she set down her book. "I would like a break from it. Could you not sleep?"

"Not easily," Taiga sighed. He walked into the room before taking a seat in front of his mother. "I have been thinking about things I wanted to ask you."

"Such as?" Maya asked, despite having an inkling of the answer.

"Why…why did you leave father for a human?" Taiga asked bluntly. "I mean, your very role was to prevent Fangires and humans from falling in love."

"Yes, it was," Maya nodded. "I first met Otoya during one of those tasks. He seemed to have such knowledge about love so I was curious about what he knew about it."

Taiga blinked in confusion.

"You see, Taiga," Maya sighed. "While I knew the love of a mother to her children, I could never understand the love between two people who were not related. Your father and I were fated to meet because of our roles, but our marriage was arranged. Love was not a large concern."

"I…see," Taiga nodded. Bishop had often spoken of how Taiga would meet his Queen one day and how it was meant to be. As he got older, he figured that it would be arranged, but he held out hope that he and his future Queen would come to love each other. "But…why a human?"

"He was interesting," Maya shrugged. "I knew he knew about love so I desired to learn about it. At one time he lost his memory and thought I was his girlfriend. I suppose that was when I got my first taste, as diluted as it was."

Taiga nodded, intent on hearing the story.

"Our true connection came to be in the form of violins," Maya continued. "I had studied under many masters and was able to copy his music easily. After such discussion over the soul of music, he and I worked together to create what is known as the Bloody Rose."

"The symbol of your love," Taiga finished.

"Among other things," Maya nodded. She looked to her depressed son. "Do you…dislike me for my choices?"

"A part of me is upset at not having my mother or my father in my life," Taiga sighed. "But that part is my immature side who desperately wanted a family. My adult side acknowledges your argument and finds it sound. Still, I still wanted to be with my mother."

"Well I am here now," Maya answered. "Wataru has had his time with me so far. Do you not think I don't have time for you now?"

Taiga stiffened from her soft gaze. For a moment, they looked at each other before his strong shoulders began to tremble. Getting up, he walked over to his mother before dropping to his knees and resting his head on her lap before crying again. He cried out his loneliness while he secretly reveled in the fact that his family was coming back together again.

"There, there, Taiga," Maya smiled as she stroked her son's hair. "Let it all out. Okaa-san is here to wipe your tears."

Hidden by the shadow of a wall, Wataru smiled as he heard his brother and mother reconnect with each other.

"I will never go away again."

Maya listened to her son's tales but the interesting ones had to be of those when they'd gone to Yokai Academy. Wataru recounted on how he'd met Moka and then following after a fight with an orc. An orc's strength could never come close to a Fangire's, even a half Fangire, but Wataru could not consciously activate his Fangire side, not without side effects. This personality, dubbed Kurenai, was Wataru's opposite and Maya feared that one day it would take over and her son would be gone for good.

Maya had laughed at some more of the stories but she became angered when she'd heard of Rook. Personally, she'd never held much respect for him even if he was a strong Fangire but to harm her son was unforgiveable.

Then, to hear that another user for IXA had been chosen was a surprise. To her only Otoya was worthy for the mantle of the white knight of the Wonderful Blue Sky Organization and no one else. Also, this new IXA had a black and white view of the world, seeing ALL monsters as evil creatures that must be eliminated at all costs.

Maya was also angered by this Kuyou character who'd harmed her son and his friends only because of Wataru's half human status. It was a good thing that her son had managed to unlock Kiva's true power. She could've given it to him from the start but it would've been too much for him at the beginning. She had to seal the true power in Tatsulot and allow Wataru to grow into his powers…alone.

Now, they were all present in the training room to watch as Kiva and Saga duked it out in the ring. Wataru had gone Emperor Form almost immediately, which was an impressive sight to see but to see her son as Saga also made her proud. They were most powerful demons but still needed to train.

With his Jacorder in Rod Mode, Saga struck hard and fast at Kiva who was armed with the Zanvat Sword. Though they would avoid from using deadly blows, the inner instincts of the Fangire within them would try and drive them to fight harder. Kiva managed to parry a slash aimed at his chest before knocking his half brother back with a kick and then aiming an overhead swing on Saga who managed to block with his Jacorder. Saga used a sweep kick to knock Kiva off his feet and then flipped back to his own feet before jumping back to gain some distance. Then, he used the Bute Mode of his Jacorder to ensnare Kiva's ankle and throw him around the room before slamming him to the ground.

Saga was smug. As powerful as his younger brother was he was still the stronger one, but he was taken by surprise as Kiva dashed at him with a sudden burst of speed and disarmed him with the flat side of the Zanvat Sword. Now, Saga was at his younger brother's mercy as the edge of the Imperial Blade was pressed against his throat.

Saga surrendered as Sagark retracted the belt and flew off his master's waist, allowing the armor to vanish. Kivat and Tatsulot did the same, allowing the Emperor Form to vanish as well. The Imperial Blade returned to its resting place as the Zanvat component slid off the blade and turned back into the Arms Monsters' human forms.

"Now I see why Bishop wanted you out of the way," said Taiga.

"Really, Nii-san?" Wataru responded.

"You're strong, too strong for him," said Taiga honestly. "He's afraid of you not because of your strength but also because of your influence on me. Maybe that was why he wanted me to kill Kiva. He knew who you were the whole time. He wanted me to…shed my humanity." He said the word 'humanity' like it was a curse.

"Possessing humanity is not a weakness," assured Wataru. "It separates us from the true monsters whom enjoy suffering. We're better than that."

"Well said," agreed Jiro. Looks like Wataru was starting to become wise.

Taiga conceded that point to his brother. Despite having to fight and kill, he never enjoyed it. He just did it because he felt it was necessary. He worried that if he ever enjoyed taking lives, he would be no better than some of the rogue Fangires he had to deal with in the past.

Moka watched the sparring match with some worry for both Taiga and Wataru. She considered both her friends, but Wataru was just so precious to her it almost hurt. She knew how Taiga felt about her, but she just couldn't return his feelings. It wouldn't be fair to him if she faked it. What worried her was that her father might try to say otherwise in courting Wataru. Both boys may have been related to Royal Fangires and heirs to the throne, but Taiga had much more to offer as a husband.

Shaking her head, she tried to think about the here and now. Bishop was getting out of control with his desire for war against humans. No doubt many Fangires will be hunting their group down in hopes of claiming Taiga's title. That worried her since her friends were going to be in a lot of trouble.

She idly wondered why the Headmaster of Yokai Academy hadn't tried to get involved since his students were being forced to reveal themselves in the human world. They were fighting Fangires, true, but one would think that someone high up in authority like him or someone similar would get involved. It might mean the Mazoku were able to deal with things themselves or Bishop had enough influence to keep the incidents hidden, which wasn't a good thought.

Moka didn't know what to think about the future.

Kurumu wasn't sure when her emotional high was going to wear off, but she didn't really care. Her Destined One was finally back with his mother and his happiness was spreading into everyone around. Her momma was going to be so impressed when she told her the news of how she helped with their reunion. Still, her mother wasn't impressed by the way Kurumu had lied to her about the state of her relationship with him.

Still, Kurumu figured she was pretty lucky that she only had three girls to deal with in her pursuit. If word got out back at school that Wataru was an actual prince, the hordes of girls would be immense! They would be flooding to Wataru in hopes of cashing in on his genes. Kurumu would have wanted that at one point too, but she had changed since then. She loved Wataru and wanted to be the one who would bear his children. Hopefully five or six of them at least. From what she knew, only similar breeds of monsters could get together to create half-breed monsters. For everyone else, it was either one or the other with a perk or two from the opposite side.

Still, Wataru was half human and half Fangire so it caused Kurumu to think. Would their children be human, Fangire, or succubus? Personally she hoped for the third, but since Fangires were one of the Mazoku, their genes might overpower hers. It didn't matter to her though since they would still be her children with Wataru, but it would get some of her relatives off of her back.

All she had to worry about was making sure Bishop didn't get his way and get his war.

Mizore watched the sparring match with her usual cool eye. Inside though, she was feeling a little intimidated. Not by the two warriors, since she knew they wouldn't hurt her. What she was intimidated by was their mother, Maya. She was a former Queen and a regal lady. Being a yuki onna, Mizore had to deal with the Snow Priestess on a regular basis and she didn't like the woman to be honest. She may have helped keep their race alive, but she was even colder than the element they had power over.

Maya didn't appear to be like that. She seemed to be very warm and loved her sons to the point of taking anything in order to protect them. Mizore wasn't sure about the story behind her missing eye, but she wouldn't be surprised if it involved her two children in any way.

Mizore liked how strongly this family felt with each other. It reminded her of how warm Wataru truly was. It was a warmth that he had given to all the girls. Taiga had lost his murderous rage and Maya was free of her imprisonment. That love was truly a wondrous thing.

It was also why she loved Wataru. He was special. His royal heritage just proved it. Being an heir of the Fangire King's throne just made him extra special. It seemed he was able to go beyond the plans of fate. It might have been what helped her find him. He could make a bright future for the both of them.

Yukari watched the two brothers with glee. Her idol was so cool! He was so powerful and he always seemed to get stronger in some way or another. The sword was one of the best things she had seen yet. She was just burning to know more about Wataru.

She'd been very curious about him from the start, about the markings on his skin that would appear and disappear with the change of his mood and of Kivat. His armor had also been something that piqued her curiosity but most of all what attracted her to him was his gentle and warm nature.

It surprised her how a gentle boy like Wataru could turn into an almost brutal fighter. As Kiva, his power was immense and it was only getting stronger. They'd faced several Fangires before and Wataru had defeated them with little to no effort, at least in Emperor Form.

She just couldn't help but love him and Moka. They were just so amazing! She really couldn't decide between them so she'd decided to love them both. It was just that simple for her.

At first she'd been a little nervous when they'd started this mission to go look for Wataru and Taiga's mother. She was after all a powerful Fangire and this frightened Yukari. She'd even momentarily forgotten that Taiga was a Fangire and Wataru was a Fandiri but reminded herself that race didn't determine one's true nature. While Taiga was a little arrogant at times he was a nice guy to hang around…most of the time and well Wataru was just so human that it was hard to tell that part of him was associated to a race of Life Energy sucking demons.

But she could not see him that way. Wataru would always be Wataru.


Ruby was busy with her tasks in Castle Doran for the day. She had the usual lists of things to do every day since she had taken up residence. It was a little difficult at first because she had never done some of the tasks before, but she learned quickly. Ramon, Riki, and Jiro were also nice enough to explain the places where she shouldn't go. Highly powerful artifacts existed in Castle Doran and were sensitive to people's presences.

Working as Wataru's maid was also such a treat. He was a very nice boy who had done so much for her already. He gave her a new home, he gave her a new job, and he had given her a new purpose. It was really no surprise that she had become smitten with him.

Now, she knew how the other girls would react if they heard she was trying to seduce him. So, she tried to be subtle. Usually it was an offer to wash her master's back or making him snacks to show how much she cared about him. The other girls would get upset at her if she seduced him, but they couldn't do anything if he chose her, right?


"You love my son, don't you?" asked Maya suddenly making Moka turn to her in shock. Moka was in the library doing some light reading to pass the time when Maya had entered. The sudden question had surprised her.

"Ano…" Moka hesitated.

"Don't feel tense, Moka-san. I only wish to know how you feel for Wataru," Maya elaborated.

Moka sighed. There was no hiding from the woman who had centuries of wisdom under her belt. The others weren't around so maybe she could have a private chat with Maya. "Yes, I do."

"Have you told him?" Maya asked curiously and

Moka nodded her head but answered, "However…he forgot afterwards and I haven't told him again."

"Why not?"

"It's because…I'm a vampire," Moka reasoned.

"Is that all?" Maya questioned.

"Unlike Wataru-kun, I will live for centuries. He's half human so he may have a longer life span than normal humans but he will still pass on before I do." Moka trembled, "I don't know if I could bear it."

Maya frowned and took a chair to sit down on before taking Moka's hand in hers. "Moka-san, look at me. I was the Queen of Fangires and lived for centuries, yet I gave that all up for Otoya, Wataru's father. Do you know why?" Moka stared, listening, "It's because I loved him as he loved me and he didn't care about the difference in our races or age. Even if he would've died an old man while I remained youthful, he would have no regrets and neither would I. The short time I spent with him was precious to me and I will always cherish it. Even when he is gone, I know he lives on in here." She placed a palm to her own heart.

"But I don't know if Wataru loves me either," Moka frowned. "He has all those other girls who would be better for him."

"There's something more, isn't there?" asked Maya.

"My father…he would never allow me to love a half human. Vampires mostly look down on other races, half breeds are treated like garbage especially half humans."

"Do you see him like that?" Maya asked.

"I do not," Moka shook her head. "Wataru-kun is special. He's an exception."

"Moka-san, listen, because I'm only going to say this once," said Maya sternly. "Love is worth sacrificing everything for. I love Otoya and my sons and I paid the price but I have no regrets, and neither should you."

Moka knew Maya was saying only the truth.

"Just, if you love him, tell him as soon as possible. Those other girls have laid their claim on him. You should too." Maya was playing the role of the meddling mother and matchmaker. She decided to add wood to the fire, "Also, I believe that Taiga has feelings for you too."

"He did tell me," admitted Moka. "During the School Festival. He told me he loved me but I didn't give him an answer."

"So, which of my sons do you love?" Maya asked. Moka opened her mouth but no sound came. "It's alright, young one, you have a lot of time to think about your answer. Knowing Wataru, he's too shy to pursue a serious relationship without some pushing for it."

Moka nodded. She was rather happy for Maya's words. In some ways, it made the fact that she only had a limited time even more obvious. Still, Maya had technically given her approval for Moka to pursue one of her sons. Moka still knew that she had to consider just how strong her love for Wataru was.

Bishop looked over the reports and growled. The Rat Fangire had failed and no doubt Taiga and Wataru had found Maya by now. That would make things harder since Maya knew a lot about the Fangire hierarchy and his plans.

Now what was he to do about it?

Telling the Fangires that Taiga had betrayed them was a good start. All of the big gunners were going to try and hunt them down to take him out and gain his power and title. Still, the chances of them actually winning were low and they may not take after his plans anyway.

No, what the Fangire Clan needed was some assistance. Someone to stand in until a true King was ready to take the throne. There was only one being and one Mazoku Clan that he would even consider for the task.

Arc and the Legendorga Clan.

ZK Chromedragozoid: Arc and the Legendorga? Not good! Well, the next chap will take place at Wataru's hometown. Wonder how the girls will react?