Chapter 48
"I'm home now!"
Senri declared his arrival soon as he entered his home and found his mother sitting at the bottom of the stairs. She appeared lost, looking at nothing in particular. Her state completely miserable. The clothes adorning her body looked dirty, her hair was unkempt.
It made him wonder when was the last time she bathed.
The moment Shiki Midori realized her son has returned home she ran to him crying and threw herself into his arms.
"Senri... Senri..."
"I'm home mother. So please relax." As she hugged him, he took notice of her condition from up close which had been promoted from being bad to worse.
"Please brush your hair mother. The fans you had during your prime time would cry seeing you like this."
It hurt his pride to see his once famous actress mother fall into such pathetic condition.
He instructed the maid who came to retrieve his suitcase to take his mother give her a proper bath.
Once she was bathed and put into fresh set of clothes Senri sat her down before the dresser and brushed her hair.
"You look more like that savage brute everyday." She noticed after carefully observing him through her hand-mirror that was handed to her by her son to keep her mind distracted while he worked on fixing her hair.
"Really?! I hardly remember what my father actually looks like."
"Where did you learn to brush hair like that? Has Kuran Kaname taught you?"
"No."
"How is he doing after all that has happened?"
"He is doing fine."
"Are you sure? I thought his reputation was ruined. Although people don't talk about it out loud but there are whispers that he raped that witch."
"Please don't refer to Ai-chan like that."
"But she is a witch. A witch that devours powerful men."
"Mother please!"
"I warned Kaname-sama that day. Told him again and again to finish her off once and for all. But he didn't listen. That foolish man."
"Mother." This time he warned.
For a moment Midori paused but soon started speaking again, this time it was a different topic.
"Yesterday, my uncle told me to send you over for a visit."
Senri sighed, and didn't bother to hide how irritated he was.
"You can't defy him... after all he is from the senate." She stood up and turned to her son. Only to embrace him tightly and nuzzle his neck. "You just came home, you don't have to go now. But when you do... come back quickly and feed your starving mother some of your blood... I will be waiting." She placed a quick kiss at the crook of his neck before biting down.
"You're so greedy... but alright." He said monotonously while his mother continued to greedily devour him.
A week later:
The black limousine drove through the empty streets. Inside, the three individual sat quietly. The purebloods sat side by side and Seiran occupied the seat opposite to them. While the rest were still at the Aidou villa, Kaname took Aiyora and Seiran and headed for the Kuran manor to finish up some outstanding work.
The ancestor watched his descendant as she stared out of the window wordlessly. Aiyora remained quiet throughout the duration of the journey. Although Kaname and Seiran briefly discussed some business and financial matters, but since it did not require Aiyora's focus, she did not bother participate. Only turned, when her hand was tenderly held.
"Almost there. We shall reach our destination in about half an hour." Kaname informed and Aiyora only muttered an "Okay."
"You probably would have preferred to stay back at the Aidou-villa. I'm sorry to have drag you along. I promise to wrap up everything in a week, then we can head back."
"You can take your time... ever since Ri-chan left I really don't care."
Her tone showed how upset and displeased she was with her half-sibling's decision. Especially the fact that he left without actually telling her anything. The wonderful experience she had the night before was ruined over few hours if sleep.
"Have you spoken to him, afterwards...?"
"No." Aiyora exhaled in exasperation. She wished he didn't ask that. "He left me a letter... which I'm yet to read."
"Are you saving it for a particular day?"
"No... I don't think I'm ready to know what that letter contains. What if those are his last words to me?"
"You're worrying for nothing. He will be fine." Kaname assured, pinching her nose. It was an attempt he took to lighten her mood.
"Then why do I have this unsettling feeling inside me...? Why does it feel like something bad is about to happen...?"
Kaname was forced to look away. He could not bear the intensity of her gaze anymore.
"...Honestly I do not know what to tell you Aiyora. But I wish I did."
Those were the last words spoken for the rest of the ride.
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Following the long duration of drive came a long duration of walk. Not sure how much time has actually passed, but according to Aiyora's calculation they have been walking through the dark underground path for close to forty minutes. If not, more.
His hold on their entwined hand tightened.
"I'm sorry..." He muttered lowly.
The words made her turn and gaze at him in confusion, wondering what that was about?
"What for?"
"For making you take this path rather than the front entrance. Especially when you're wearing those delicate shoes." He pointed towards her footwear, the four inch beige pumps. "I hope you understand it's the safest option at the given moment."
"I get it."
They returned to being quiet for sometime before Kaname started another conversation.
"Would like to go out for dinner tomorrow? There are some nice restaurants in the neighbouring town."
"Tomorrow won't be possible, I made plans. But I'm available the day after."
Kaname squeezed his brows, feeling a little suspicious. Who could she have made plans with? Shiki is away and the rest are at the villa. Maybe her other friends...?
"What do you have tomorrow?" He couldn't stop himself from inquiring. He just had to know.
"Sara-san invited me over to her residence for dinner."
Kaname's heart missed a beat. Which Sara was she talking about? He had to confirm.
"Shirabuki?"
And she nodded her, confirming. In other words, turning his fears to reality.
"I would have taken you; but you see... she specifically requested me not to bring a companion. Because she expressed her desire to get to know me personally."
Kaname bit the inside of his mouth and rubbed his forehead. This unnecessary problem just flew out of nowhere.
"If it worries you that much, then have a familiar follow me for your peace of mind. Just make sure to be discreet." Aiyora offered the solution, as if she just read his thoughts.
The said solution brought relief inside him. He didn't want to stop Aiyora from going or making friends with people of their rank. However, Shirabuki Sara is a questionable character and Kaname doesn't want some like her, anywhere near his dear girl. For now, he was glad that Aiyora agreed to have him follow her there discreetly. Because— he was going to do that regardless. When his weakness is walking into the mouth of the viper, he cannot just sit tight and do nothing! Although there is no reason to worry about Aiyora's physical safety... yet, as she stands in a position where even a small scratch on her would mean war from both himself and the council. But the influence of the Shirabuki heiress is not something Aiyora needs. She is still too young and inexperienced and woman like Sara could lead her in the wrong path.
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Kaname gave her a quick tour of the manor.
First he took her to the west wing, it was the area under construction. He was renovating it into a private suite for Aiyora. The area was spacious enough to contain a small private living room where she can entertain her guests. A large bedroom with an attached luxurious bathroom, walk-in closet with an entire section dedicated to her massive footwear collection. Attached to the closet is her beauty/dressing room, where she can get dressed, do her makeup etc. Then showed her the suite he designed for himself. The layout was quite similar. Only difference, instead of a huge closet he used that space for his office.
Moving from there he showed her all the other existing corners, kitchen, Seiran's room, library, entertainment room. They also took a small trip down the memory lane by visiting the basement. The particular part of the mansion where she and Yuuki spent most of their childhood.
It was when they were coming back up from the basement, Aiyora took notice of the set of large double door, locked.
"What about that door? Where does that lead?"
Kaname tensed. He was hoping to avoid that area, for now. Aiyora felt his distress right away and immediately she left his side and rushed towards the locked door.
Kaname slowly followed.
"This door would lead to the mausoleum. If you want we I will take you inside."
She swallowed, feeling nervous all of a sudden.
The male vampire eyed the female vampire and understood that— no, she wasn't ready yet. Even though she said nothing verbally but the silence spoke on her behalf.
"Let's leave this place for now. We can always return whenever you feel ready."
He delicately took hold of her wrist and led them out of the basement to her interim chamber. Then told her where he would be, incase she needed him, before bidding her goodnight.
"You are exceptionally beautiful." Sara told Aiyora.
"Thank you. Might I say, you are quite beautiful yourself." The younger pureblood also buttered the host.
The two purebloods were seated in the Shirabuki mansion's living room. The environment there was dark, gloomy and lonely. Nothing about it quite fit Aiyora's taste but she decided to keep those judgmental thoughts to herself and focus on the host; who appeared to be bearable.
A servant appears with a tray containing two champagne flute. The drink inside captures Aiyora's attention instantly.
It was blood! Human blood!
After offering Sara the first glass the servant turned to Aiyora. The latter gracefully accepted and brought the glass to her lips before taking a small sip.
The muscles under her skin tensed. But her vampire instincts didn't stop her from savouring it's taste. It was her first time tasting human blood, although not directly from the neck, rather served in a glass but that didn't change its taste even a bit.
"I've been following your work for sometime. Although at first I was a bit skeptical but now I am huge fan." Sara said, twirling the drink in her glass. "Not only that, I have grown to admire you. Something that rarely happens with me."
"You're being too kind Sara-san."
"Believe me I'm not. You're worth every bit of the offered praise. You may not realize it yet Aiyora, but for such a young age you have made remarkable achievements— Establishing yourself as a model in our conservative society, trapping your fiancé and breaking off that sham of an engagement. Then, enslaving the said fiancé. ...For most female vampires, you are considered a role model."
"Circumstances between me and my then fiancé were different and difficult. Although it's unfortunate but it was better off that we went our separate ways."
Aiyora made sure to keep her words on the neutral ground. Besides, she isn't close to the blonde female to share details of her private life. But little did she know, Sara was not done, not yet!
"Getting forcefully engaged to a man who has no interest in you, isn't uncommon in our culture. Our feelings don't matter to the council of elders. All they care about is producing more of us.
Just like you, I have also been engaged to someone who doesn't care about me. Similarly Hio Shizuka was engaged to your father. Your unfortunate mother Hanadagi Layla, was traded in by her own brothers. Before her, her older sister Maya had to give up life so that her brothers don't kill each other off. It was no different for lady of the Shouto family.
However... the only exception was Kuran Juuri. She was the only fortunate one, who got to marry her beloved.
But you, Kuran Aiyora... you turned your unfortunate fate around. You didn't only end your engagement, but made that disinterested fiancé fall neck deep. At such a young age you did something, that none of us could do. For that I feel envious."
With a smile playing at the corner of her lips Aiyora stated the obvious.
"Seems like you did quite the research on me."
And Sara did not deny.
"Indeed. I mentioned earlier, I am a big fan of yours, and did what any other fan would do."
Sara took another quick sip of blood to moisten her throat. "Which is precisely why am saddened and disappointed by what you're doing currently."
"What does that mean?" The Kuran pureblood raised her brow suspiciously.
"Don't waste your time with that boy. The only outcome this relationship will bring is heartbreak for you and misfortune for him."
Aiyora detected something akin to genuine warning in Sara's voice. While the former appreciated the latter's concern, doesn't mean she would let the woman manipulate her.
"Sara-san I would appreciate if you do not delve so much into my personal—"
"Did Shizuka-san warn you about the same subject?" Sara simply brushed her off.
Aiyora didn't answer. She tried not to react. But for a fraction of second her eyes went wide as she replayed the late pureblood's warning from a particular conversation.
"Love isn't meant for us purebloods. Whenever we grow attachment, misfortune always follows. It's inevitable."
"Is that why you turn a blind eye to that masked boy?"
"Correct. In the end it is better and safer that I take no notice of that young boy's growing feelings for me."
Aiyora shook herself free from the memory and refocused on Sara who continued to watch her earnestly.
"Our situation is more alike than you know."
"How so...?"
"Just like you, I too was once in love with a nobleman. However, my feelings were not reciprocated. As a matter of fact I never got to express those feelings to him. But I did hope to, after my scheduled hibernation. Then, soon after awakening from my slumber I attended a soirée where I found an older dignified gentleman strange familiar. When I learned it was him, my heart broke. Not because how he appeared, but because he paid me no attention and instead introduced me to her grandson."
Sara finished and Aiyora noticed the sadness reflected in those violet-blue orbs.
"This nobleman you fancied, is he someone well known?" Having finished the blood, Aiyora put down the champagne flute and picked up a glass of water and started drinking it. Without the slightest idea of what a big mistake that was.
"Yes, he is the man who rules the Senate today, Ichijou Asoto."
In seconds the Kuran pureblood spit out the water in her mouth and chocked badly. Causing Sara and a maid quickly rush to her side to help.
"I'm so sorry! That was uncalled for." Aiyora apologized, after regaining her composure.
"Not worry Aiyora-chan. I can understand you weren't expecting such an answer. Anyway, I think dinner is served, let's go eat." She said and pulled her younger pureblood up and led her to the dining room.
Next afternoon Aiyora lay in bed, sleepless.
With eyes fixated on the envelope and her mobile phone, placed on the bedside table.
She was watching those objects like a predator watches its prey.
Like any normal person, she was also expecting her phone to ring. Just one call... where he would tell her that he's alright and that he's sorry, sorry for leaving like that. The fact that he didn't... yet, was making it harder for her mind to fight the temptation to not open the letter. She was starting to get worried for God sake!
The conversation with Sara may have been brief but Aiyora understood the message the woman tried to convey.
At this point Senri's safety was her number one priority. Which was one of the many reasons why she refrained from interacting with him at the soirée. It is also the reason holding her back from banging on the door of the Shiki residence.
A soft knock grabs her attention. The door slightly opens.
"Kaname-sama is ready and waiting for you."
Seiran conveys the message.
The pureblood crunches her brows, to think why was he ready and waiting? Only to recall they were supposed to go out for dinner. Something, which she totally forgot about.
Wait... dinner at this time?! Isn't it still afternoon...? Her gaze moved to the windows and she notices the sun has already set for the day. Time flew right under her nose.
Shit!
"Please tell him I'm not feeling well and have asked if we could do this another time...?"
No response came except for the soft click of the door closing, indicating Seiran has left. Once again Aiyora's attention returned to her phone as she proceeded to check if there was any missed call... only to be met with disappointment.
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An hour later Kaname shows up in her room holding a bowl full of steaming hot liquid inside.
"I cancelled the reservation." He placed the white ceramic bowl on the bedside table and helped her sit up. "But that does not mean I'll allow you to skip dinner and remain hungry."
Kaname settled down at the edge of the bed and picked up the bowl, stirring the liquid inside.
"I brought you vegetable-soup. Have it before it gets cold." He offered to feed her and she complied by obediently opening her mouth.
They did not converse much. But those dark burgundy eyes were taking notes of her actions. Often she would gaze at her phone but look away moment later. Even a child could tell she was expecting a call. She was also eyeing the letter with equal interest, yet refused to open it. Kaname thought of her actions to be childish but refrained from giving his opinion. He decided to give her space and allow her to deal with it in her own terms. If she needed something... he was just a call away.
"Any plan for tomorrow?" Kaname asked. Breaking the silence that has stretched for far too long.
"I have an appointment at this place..." She grabbed her phone and showed him the address. "Do you happen to know where this place is?"
The expression on Kaname's face remained impassive, even after he recognized the address.
"What business do you have there?"
"I'm getting a tattoo."
Automatically one of his brows rose up.
"Ah! Someone is trying to be a rebellious child." He teased lightheartedly, only to receive a hard look from her in return. "Where do you plan to get a tattoo?"
"Here..." she showed him her left palm and lightly fingers the area beneath the ring finger.
"It's not exactly a commonly seen area. Wouldn't you prefer to get the tattoo somewhere, where it would be seen...?"
Aiyora looked back at the bedside table... this time her gaze lingered upon the small black notebook, resting beside Senri's letter.
"I'm not getting a tattoo to show it off. I'm getting it because I want to have his name embedded into me... forever."
Whose name? Whose name Aiyora?
The question crawled all the way up his throat and came close to the tip of her tongue.
Why do you want to ask when you already know the answer...?
But alas! It could not slip out.
"What time is your appointment?"
"Around 11, in the morning."
"Very well, I'll take you."
"You don't have to come. I'll be fine."
"The place is located deep inside the vampire hunters town, Aiyora. You as a pureblood cannot just walk in there. I won't allow you to set foot in there just by yourself." He said firmly, borderline scolding. Then assured, "But don't worry, I'll have permission from the council arranged before sunrise. Now rest."
He pet her head before gracefully getting up and leaving her room with the bowl he came carrying.
Aiyora took another deep breath, this was the fifteenth one in a row, in a attempt to calm herself down. But it barely worked. After all the kind if pain she was going through was successfully surpassing everything.
The pins and the needles in the tattoo machine here are made with components that are found in hunter's weapon. Therefore making it double painful for the pureblood who was getting a small tattoo on her left palm.
"We're almost done." The rugged looking man, who is the tattoo artist in duty today, told Aiyora— the young pureblood who bravely came to get a tattoo but now, was sitting there with a painful expression on her face.
She looked at Kaname and squeezed his hand, harder than what it was a moment ago. He assured her with small smile that he was right here by her side and not going anywhere.
"Here you go young lady we're done."
The tattoo artist put his machine away and asked his assistant Suki to bring in the some ice and soothing gel before he left to process the payment. Kaname followed the man once his assistant started to tend to Aiyora's nearly bruised and swollen hand.
After her hand was bandaged, Aiyora was led to the small artifact shop located at the corner of the tattoo parlour. There she saw Kaname, purchasing what looked like a box of rose tea and a live size voodoo doll...?!
What the heck?!
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Once they exited the tattoo parlour, Aiyora's demeanour changed. She threw her companion a hard impatient glare that stated in bold letters— 'WHAT'S THE MEANING OF THIS?!'
But Kaname acted oblivious and continued to walk back to the awaiting car. Only to stop when she finally cleared her throat.
"Yes...?" His tone was a combination of teasing and taunting.
"Aren't you going to explain that absurd purchase?"
He turned to face her.
"Oh you mean this?" And motioned towards the huge white voodoo doll that he was carrying on his shoulder. "It's for my favourite cousin. I plan to gift him after he returns."
"You are definitely not doing that!" Aiyora challenged. Then without any warning she almost pounced on him and tried to snatch the voodoo doll. But sadly didn't get to move it an inch as Kaname kept his grip firm.
"Aiyora, we're in the enemy territory please don't cause a scene."
"I don't care! I won't let you give that to Ri-chan!"
"I actually paid lot of money for this, I won't let you destroy it."
Without realizing they were arguing like children.
"Don't make me use powers." Aiyora warned and Kaname raised an eyebrow.
"Seriously... You plan to use your powers in the hunters territory?! I thought you were smarter than that."
Aiyora could only glare. He had a point but still!
"Go ahead give this ridiculous doll to Ri-chan. But guess what...? This would be the last time I ever speak to you."
Kaname became visibly stiffed, but said nothing. Unfortunately he was smart enough to know she wasn't bluffing. Unlike Yuuki, she won't come around in a matter of fortnight.
His grip on the cursed doll loosened but to his surprise Aiyora did not snatch it. Which only showed how seriously she meant her terms.
"Don't worry... I won't give them to Shiki." He walked to her and assured.
"... I will give them to Kiryu."
Aiyora rolled her eyes. Which prompted him to quickly dive in for defence.
"I have to give it to somebody. I payed a hefty price for this."
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On their way back inside the car, Aiyora suddenly noticed,
"Look!" She tapped on Kaname's shoulder to gain his attention.
Tearing his gaze away from his side of the window, Kaname looked at the direction Aiyora was pointing towards. Only to find— Yuuki, Zero, the headmaster and professor Yagari all walking through the streets of this town.
"Where are they going?"
"My guess would be the association headquarter. Yuuki is starting to regain her memories, so it is only natural for her mind to be filled up question." Kaname replied.
"So she's heading to the association headquarter to seek answers?"
"Precisely."
"Shouldn't she be stopped?" Both her brows rose up.
"It's already taken care off."
With that, their conversation fell. The rest of the ride went quietly... until Aiyora noticed they left the route that leads back to the Kuran manor behind.
"Are we going somewhere else?"
"...Yes. There's something I would like to show."
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Aiyora found herself standing before a sea of red roses.
Kaname brought her to the famous garden that contains the rare rose which blooms once every ten years.
Aiyora wouldn't lie, she was impressed. The sight was breathtaking. Hands down! It was unlike anything she had ever seen. The effect of which left speechless. Something that rarely happens.
She crouched down to touch the one of the freshly bloomed roses near her.
"Don't! It will wither away once you touch it."Kaname prevented.
"Oh sorry." She quickly rose up, face flushed in embarrassment.
The sight of her rosy cheeks automatically made him take a step towards her.
"Don't worry, I actually have one encased in resin... for you." The last two words were technically lie. While it is 100% true that now he wanted to give it to her. But when he placed the order ten years ago, it was done under someone else's name. A crucial detail that slipped his mind in that moment.
Just then an old lady appeared at their side holding a box and spoke to Kaname like she had known him for ages.
"My oh my look at you! You've grown up to be such a handsome man."
"I'm surprised you still remember me." He told the older woman while accepting the box from her.
"You don't have a forgettable face young man."
Young man! Oh please! Stop gushing lady, if only you knew his actual age you'd fall dead right here. —The thought ran through Aiyora's mind as she continued to smile politely.
"And who might this beauty be...?"
"Pleasure to meet you, I'm—"
The chatty lady cut her off and went along with her own assumption.
"I know who you are. Your name is Yuuki. This handsome boy mentioned you multiple times when he visited ten years ago. Not only that, he also placed a special order to have one of the roses encased in resin for you."
Naturally Kaname panicked and desperately tried to intervene but he was no match for a overly talkative human who was too busy gushing over Aiyora thinking she was Yuuki.
Unless... he used his powers.
And that's exactly what he was about to do. But Aiyora blocked him using her own powers. All the while keeping the lady oblivious as to what was going.
"Such a lucky girl you are to have this handsome man head over heels for you."
Aiyora mischievously glanced at Kaname, who in turn looked ready to dig own grave bury and himself alive.
"...Promise me that you will take good care of him, always keep him happy and in good health."
"Sure!" Aiyora went along with the act.
Soon the lady bid them farewell and left them to deal with the awkwardness. The type that Kaname didn't exactly know how to tackle.
"I am sorry..." Those were the only words he could find in his vocabulary in that moment.
Aiyora gave him a look.
"What for?! ...For doing something nice for a loved one?"
"Yuuki doesn't need it..."
"Neither do I. There's no need for me have a souvenir. I've seen it live. That's all that matters."
"What if I don't want to give it to Yuuki...?"
"In that case options are plenty— you could give it to that lady or throw it away, flush it down the toilet etc etc. There are thousands of way to get rid of a junk. I'm sure you don't need me to list every single one of them.
However, if I were you... I'd give it Yuuki. Otherwise how would you explain taking a Voodoo doll for Zero and nothing for your precious girl."
The purebloods planned to stay home for the remainder of their time left in the Kuran mansion. Any errands that needed to run was taken care of by Seiran.
The next seven days went by rather quickly because; Kaname was drowned in paperwork and Aiyora used this time to work on her perfume deal. She decided to make three lines:
For the ladies— based on the fragrance of her own blood.
For men— based on the notes of Kaname's blood.
Unisex— based on the fragrance it generated once her and his blood were mixed.
Once that work was wrapped up, she proceeded to finish up her journal, which started keeping after learning about her cousin's misfortune. Although her initial plan was to write him a letter, but realized later that there was a lot more she needed to tell him. Thus it became a journal, addressed to her dearest Kaname onii-sama.
But the time he wasn't working, Kaname made it a mandatory point to spend it with Aiyora. Even if they talked about the most mundane thing or did the most bizarre or rather foolish activity. No matter what it was, he did not mind as long as he was doing it with her.
Their time was mostly spent in the family living room. During lazy evenings he rested on her lap and read her short stories and romantic poetry. When she was in mood they played chess. Then there were times when he played the piano as she practiced ballet. Some afternoon on less brighter days they would go for a stroll into the garden. There, aside from watching the flowers, occasionally Aiyora would hop on the swing and have him push from behind. If there was absolutely nothing to do, they would play with each other's familiar. His wolf would chase her around the manor whilst her snakes would slither up his body and wrap themselves around his neck.
There have been couple if awkward moments too. One morning Aiyora walked in on him, as he stepped out of the shower with a towel wrapped around his hips. Then there was a time when he walked in on her as she was humming a tune and vulgarly shaking her hips.
At this point Aiyora did not mind his company. To be quite honest she preferred to have him around as it kept her distracted and prevented her from:
— Constantly staring at her phone screen, in hopes of getting a call.
— Excessively think about the letter that Senri has left behind.
— Coming up with crazy ideas as to how she could just barge into the Shiki household and forcefully bring Senri back.
"It's ready... where do you want the journal to be place?"
"Huh?"
The voice snapped Aiyora out of her thoughts. She looked at Kaname and found him lifting the lantern that he just finished making.
"Um... can you put it inside."
"Pass me the journal, let me see. It might be risky to put it too close to the fire." He grabbed the small notebook she passed while searching for the right place to have it attached. And in the process got a glimpse of her tattoo.
'KANAME ONII-SAMA'
Although he was right by her side when she was getting the name engraved on her palm, he actually never had to courage to look at it. Even now, it was just an accidental glimpse.
He did not want to see it.
In all fairness Kaname could not comprehend her obsession towards that dead boy. Having his name tattooed on herself, writing him a full diary of letter and sending it via lantern. She also managed to find a picture of him after searching through all the albums Juuri kept in her collection. Then cut that photograph and now wears it in a pendent around her neck.
He thought it was total madness and absolute absurdity.
Yet the ironic factor was, despite not agreeing with her the slightest, he was complying to everything. He took her to the tattoo parlour and sat by her calmly while she almost tore the flesh off of his hands in pain. He was the one, working the past couple of hours in making this lantern.
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On the rooftop, shortly before dawn:
"Don't let it go, yet. We must wait for the wind speed to reduce." Kaname instructed.
Once the windspeed reduced, the lantern was set free. The pair silently watched the small light as it was blown away by the gentle breeze.
Only moment later Kaname's nostrils were hit with a distinctive smell. It was the smell of salty tears. Aiyora was crying, he realized. She was shedding tears; her heart was breaking for someone she never knew, nor met. No doubt the dead boy has made a space for himself somewhere in her heart.
...something that he couldn't... yet!
The fact brought an agonizing pain to the ancestor's ancient soul.
Aiyora knew all this was childish and pointless. Having her deceased cousin's name tattooed in her palm and wearing a pendent containing his photo wouldn't bring him back to life nor would it undo her father's sin. Just the way this lantern carrying her message would never ever reach him.
...Yet, she couldn't help it. All these gestures maybe childish and foolish. But at least it gave her a sense of fulfilment. It gave her the feeling as if she was able to do something for him. As a result, reduces the burden in her heart.
"Do you think my words will ever reach him?"
He did not want to answer that question. He really did not! But he did...
Grabbing her by the arm he turned her towards him. Wiped her tears... softly kissed her forehead.
"It already has..." He wanted to say more but figured it's best they remain unsaid.
...He never got the chance to be aquatinted with the world. Therefore he bears no attachment. But I'm sure, not being able to meet you... is his only regret.
After days and nights of waiting, came the anticipated phone call. However it wasn't her mobile phone that rang; what rang was the residential landline.
That snowy evening the purebloods were in the library, in the middle of an intense chess match when Seiran suddenly appeared with the cordless receiver in hand.
"Call from the Shiki residence..."
Aiyora's face lit up. She was about to jump up when the grey haired female revealed the rest.
"...for Kaname-sama." And handed the receiver to the said man.
Aiyora was baffled, face filled with confusion. But she did not jump into conclusions. Instead checked her cellular device to see if there was any network problem. To her surprise, everything seemed fine.
Strange.
In any case she decided to be the good girl and patiently wait for her turn to speak to Ri-chan.
A huge ear to ear grin formed on her face when she heard Kaname ask Senri whether he should pass the phone over.
Excited, Aiyora almost reached for the phone and snatched it from him.
"Ri-chan! How dare you leave without telling me. I was so mad. In fact I'm angry. For now I'll let it slide and resume once you come back. How is everything back home? How's your mother?"
She said so much but response from other side was silence.
"...Ri-chan...? Can you hear me? Ri—"
The line was disconnected. More accurately— it was put down.
The cordless receiver in Aiyora hand shattered.
She abruptly stood up and walked out, clapping the dirt and particles off of her hand.
She tossed and turned in bed.
Tonight would be the last at the Kuran manor. The following afternoon, they will set out for the vacation villa and join the others and spend the remainder of the holiday there.
Senri most likely wouldn't. At least that is what she picked up from his fishy behaviour.
Aiyora was still having hard time processing the event from few hours prior. In the end Ri-chan ultimately called... but for someone unknown reason he only spoke to Kaname.
But Why?! ...Why?! ...Why?!
The question throbbed in her head.
Aiyora sat up, clutching her head and lowly groaning under the breath. Not being able to find the answers she was seeking, brought upon an ache, which seemed to become unbearable as time passed without any possible lead.
Just because he was laying with his eyes closed doesn't mean he was asleep. In fact whatsoever light sleep was there, left, the moment his bedroom door opened and his nostrils were hit by the familiar lavender aroma.
He picked up the sound of her nearing footsteps and tensed when she joined him under the duvet. His brows furrowed and hand tightly clutched onto the pillow.
Kaname didn't dare turn! Even when every cell in his body was begging him to do so.
"Kaname...?" Her call sounded like an invitation to his ear.
"Hmmmm..." His breathing wasn't the steadiest. He closed his eyes and tried to melt himself on the bed. But that effort became futile with the command that came next.
"Turn."
He did! He had to! Because his body decided to obey her, by disobeying him.
"I'm ready..." Her hand gently caressed his face. "...to learn about you."
Kaname stayed still; his face hard as he was still absorbing her words. And didn't move until she spoke again.
"Show me who you are; the person that my father rose from the coffin..." and the person Ri-chan is starting to trust. The last part was left unsaid.
Despite the subtle hesitation he left the bed... came around it... scooped her up into his arms... and...
•
•
•
He carried her through the dimly lit hallway and turned to take the stairway that directly led to the underground mausoleum.
"We don't have to do this if you're nervous." Aiyora tried to see if he was having second thoughts. Since she couldn't quite tell by looking at his face.
"The world you see is different from the one I see. That's precisely why... when you expressed your interest, it made me glad."
The sound of door opening grabbed her attention.
This is that place...
Aiyora's heart skipped a beat, rendering her to be speechless temporarily.
For a mausoleum it was quite spacious and luxurious. Which made the younger Kuran wonder if it was always the case or was this an exception, as the person who rested here was the progenitor of the vampire world's monarchy.
Almost there...
Tap!
Tap!!
Tap!!!
He was stepping up the small flight of stairs. Before long Aiyora found herself being laid down over a closed casket.
Her resolve cracked. She felt immensely overwhelmed and could no longer hold onto that brave upfront. Her hand reached out and fisted on his shirt. Just to make sure that he wouldn't vanish on her.
"This room... I can smell three different scents... your is the strongest. The other two I can't fully tell who they belong to, although they seem very familiar."
Kaname sat down on the edge of the coffin.
"You're right Aiyora... I spent the longest time of my life slumbering in this underground mausoleum, inside this coffin. All that long flow of time wishing to be ultimately reduced to dust, but never having that wish granted. The time I thought my long tedious journey was reaching its end... the casket was opened..."
He paused, to let out a deep sigh and ran his fingers though his hair.
"...That day their blood was spilled, hence why their scent still lingers, haunting the place."
Aiyora sat up. "Do you mean my father and Kaname onii-sama?"
"Correct."
Kaname said nothing after, which resulted in a silence. Aiyora understood he was waiting for her consent to proceed further.
So she gave.
"... I want to know everything."
"If that is the case Aiyora... May I suggest you ask my blood." He cupped her face and gazed at her lovingly. "...It will tell you everything you want and need to know. I promise."
Colour drained from her face. Leaving her conflicted and in hesitance of the decision.
She knew she needed the answers, but was unsure, whether drinking his blood would be a good idea. For vampires of their rank it is such a sacred act— and the young Kuran Aiyora understood the seriousness of this concept after feeding him. Until then, she had no idea how intimate and pleasurable the act of getting bitten willingly is.
As matter of fact she never had the guts to share with anyone the feelings she felt in those moments. When those pleasurable seizures hit her nerves, it not only made her body shudder but numbed her mind and blocked off her thought process. It was unlike anything she had ever felt before.
However, the guilt that came following... resulted her in multiple sleepless days and continuous crying in the shower. A part of her still hasn't forgiven herself for experiencing those ecstatic feelings with someone other than Ri-chan.
But you need the answers... that only he can give you!
Perhaps her heart will never forgive her and neither it should, for giving those feelings to someone that wasn't her Ri-chan. But..
You need the knowledge to understand... and his blood is the only book to read!
Her heart continued to warn, but the brain continued with the argument.
It's not for you, it's for them!
Your father... perhaps whom you can save.
Little Kaname... who barely got the glimpse of life.
And Senri... maybe you will be able to understand him better.
Unbeknownst to her, her body was crawling onto Kaname's lap. She sat straddling his thighs, arms around his shoulders and face slowly closing in on his neck.
He hugged her tightly. Trying to touch as much of her, with as much of him possible. Few shaky breaths left his lips when the tip of her nose ran down the length of his neck, all the way from the back of his ear to the spot where his pulse was beating. The beats increased at his growing excitement resulting in his scent to come out stronger than before. Her mouth parted, tongue darted out and tasted the neck, slowly savouring the feeling of her prey shivering to the act before thrusting her long grown fangs deep inside him.
The sound of his deep groan broke the silence in the room.
His head shot back from the impact, giving her more access. His eyes remained closed, with furrowed brows but lips parted for another inaudible moan to pass while his breath came out in series of short pants.
He wanted to show her everything— starting with his beginning... his life before he met that woman... his time spent with that woman... the despair he felt after she was gone... his awakening from the long slumber... Yuuki's arrival... ultimately her arrival... and how that changed everything once and for all.
AI, I LOVE YOU...
Yuuki, you and I, we are going to be like otou-san and okaa-san when we grow up.
...Do you really mean it Kaname niisama.
I WANT YOU...
Doctor-sama, thank you for saving my child. I will forever be indebted to you. But I just have to ask...? Are the rumours about you true? Are you taking our blood secretly...?
Give back the blood you took from us. You freak!
I DESIRE YOU...
Kaname, that's the name of my hometown and that is what I wish to call you, because you remind me of my home, my family and my loved ones.
I YEARN FOR YOU...
Kill those monster! Those bloodsuckers!! Kill them all!!!
SO MUCH...
I will be visiting my mother's uncle in a few days. If something happens to me, will you look after Ai-chan...?
I don't think it's an answer I need to verbally give you.
For how long will you take care of her?
...Forever!
THAT IT HURTS...
Her grip on him loosened and her unconscious form was about to collapse, but he caught her on time.
Kaname licked the line of blood trailing from the corner of her mouth and laid themselves down back over the coffin.
A content smile made its way onto his lips. With hopes that once she awakens, she will have a better understanding of everything.
A.N. Thank you all for reading hope you guys enjoyed. I'm sure many of you noticed that I'm trying to get Hooded woman's chapter out now, rather than when it happens in the original manga timeline. Given Aiyora's situation I see no point in waiting till that time. Another thing I wanted to point out- Sara is the villain in the manga arc. It will be the same here. But I wanted her and Aiyora to start off better as their situation is quite relatable.
If you find any mistake feel free to point out, I'll have them corrected.
Also I have a question for all the experts or knowledgeable ones out there... what is exactly the connection purebloods have with their heart? To clarify Shizuka was shot with Zero's gun, then kaname drank her blood and took her heart out then she died. Kaname on the other hand took out his own heart out dropped it in the fire and died minutes later. But head of Hanadagi family, had his heart taken out by Sara and she ate it as well. But nothing happened to him. He was sitting there read to attack Aidou's father. I'm wondering what's going on?! Why different people have different reaction?
And if anyone out there is reading Vampire Knight Memories, any idea what going on. I tried and found myself lost half way. I was thinking whether I can go up to the Memories timeline... but probably not. Even I do manage to get there it'll probably be slightly different story line.
...
Reply to guestwithreviews: Well... In terms of making Yuuki his lover he was referring to the situation that will happen just before her awakening. And in a way he was trying to see how Aiyora would react information. But clearly she has other things in her mind than to focus on what happens to Yuuki. Or what Kaname's doing to Yuuki.
While I know it looks a little selfish but Aiyora is kind of pulling away from Yuuki because of their differences in values and priorities. It's not like she wishes her ill but prefers to keep away from Yuuki.
As for Kaname wanting a baby... even I don't know what to say. My explanation would be, he was expressing his desire to want a family. And with hope that it she might find the idea romantic. But... she was weirded out.