Chapter 63


Lately things didn't seem right between Juuri and Haruka. The two seemed close, too close for platonic sibling-like relationship. And of course for pureblood vampires like them, relationship between siblings of opposite sex were never platonic. It has never been, in the longest history of their family tree.

Rido could sense their closeness in his bones. His eyes picked up their flirtatious attitude towards one another. But every time he asked, they denied and looked at him like he was crazy. Haruka more so than Juuri.

However, hiding secrets in a manor filled with countless maid-servants was impossible. Therefore soon gossip started to make rounds. The maids would gush over how the second young master is so persistent to share umbrella with the young mistress that he'd hide all umbrellas in the house, or how he would mess up her perfectly done hair and offer to do it himself, or how he would intentionally step on her foot then use that as an excuse to carry her around the entire day.

One time Rido heard with his own ear, one of the maid narrating to another how Haruka stole a kiss from Juuri, and furious she chased him all around the house. At that the Kuran heir could no longer hold back. In deep dark rage he slapped the particular maid so hard and that not only she fainted but her jaw also got dislocated. Rido felt no remorse for his actions. How dare this lowly maid gossip about his Juuri! The fact that he spared her life shows how merciful he is.

Even though he punished the maid but her words didn't stop plaguing his mind. Rido spent the next two days suffering from insomnia before he made up his mind and decided to confront Haruka.

That afternoon the older Kuran walked into his younger brother's chamber unannounced, woke him up with few quick jerks and demanded.

"Is something going on between you and Juuri?"

"Of course not! Juuri is not my type. In fact I don't understand what you see in her. She looks like okaa-sama and has really bad temper. I can't tame that temper." Haruka responded in the most reassuring tone. "Besides she is meant to be with you, to carry on the family lineage. So why would I waste my time there."

Rido bought his younger brother's words. Believed him, trusted him, even when every cell in his body was asking him not to. His ears clearly picked up the sound of Haruka's unsettling heartbeat. The clue was right there but Kuran Rido chose to rely on his brother's words.

Little did he know what a mistake that was. But he learnt that few years down the line…

.

.

.

"Welcome back Rido-sama! Kuran-sama is expecting you in his office."

The butler that answered the door, informed him soon as he stepped into the manor that snowy evening.

With a smile Rido headed towards his father's office. One of his hand automatically dipped inside the pocket of his overcoat, lightly tracing the velvety box to make sure it was still there. After finishing up with his father, plan was he'd head over to Juuri's room and propose to her. Although Juuri was already his from birth but the girl was a sucker for romance, therefore a little romantic gesture wouldn't hurt. Kuran Rido never intended to kneel before anyone; but for Juuri, for his Juuri he could do anything— give up his life, take lives of others. Anything! So getting on a knee was naught.

The suited guard on duty opened the door for Rido. Giving the man an acknowledging nod the Kuran heir entered his father's office.

It didn't even remotely occur to the Kuran prince that he just marched to his doom. All that was awaiting him was betrayal and heartbreak.

"Otou-sama you wanted to see me?"

"Please have a seat son."

His father's faltering voice caught Rido's attention right away but didn't think much. He sat down without paying attention to a very important detail— his father was refusing to meet his gaze and instead kept his eyes on the file in hand, that he was pretending to read.

Rido was quite familiar with this habit of his father. But tonight he paid the man no heed. His mind was preoccupied with thoughts of Juuri and their supposed future.

"What do you think of Hio Shizuka?" His father finally spoke, clearing his throat.

For a second Rido had to think who that was. Lucky for him, his father noted his confusion and reminded him.

"It's that girl I introduced you to the other day. She has beautiful silver hair and pink coloured eyes."

Further confused, Rido's brows creased. The only one to fit such description was the child of the Hio clan.

"That weird kid?" He asked to confirm. And his farther nodded affirmative. "What about her?"

"Your mother and I think growing up little Shizuka would make a great wife for the Kuran clan."

"I don't think she would fit the criteria that Haruka is always looking for in women. She's being raised too traditionally."

"I wasn't speaking for Haruka." His father clarified, again clearing his throat. "I was talking about you—"

"Excuse me!" Rido exclaimed, shooting up, utterly confused. Why would their parents find a betrothed for him, when he already has Juuri? It made no sense.

"Your mother and I think she would make a great wife and partner for you, Rido."

"She's a kid!" Rido reminded slamming his hands over the large oak desk sitting between him and his father.

"She will grow up. Besides what is age to us, pureblood vampires." His father said overlooking Rido's insolence. Something he has been doing for such long time that by now it has become norm.

"I love Juuri… always have… and always will… forever. And I don't intend to share that love with anyone else. Its all for Juuri. More importantly have you not thought about the wrath Juuri would unleash once she hears about your plan to make me take two wives."

The Kuran king closed his eyes to hide the pain that flashed within them. It was the second time in his long life he felt trapped. First time was when he had to pick between his son or his youngest sister, the one that gave birth to his son. His wife made him do it. Similarly this time also his wife has made it crystal clear she won't allow Juuri to marry anyone but Haruka. She even played the cupid between them while tactfully keeping Rido away. Now Juuri and Haruka are inseparable.

"Juuri doesn't return your feelings. She and Haruka have been in love with each other for a while now." His father admitted with a heavy heart.

"Since when do you pay attention to the gossiping maid-servants." Rido countered, leaning forward.

"Rido, my son, I am telling you the truth."

"Impossible…" Rido mumbled in disbelief. He sat back down and shook his head. "That's impossible… there must be some type of misunderstanding. I have spoken to both of them and they assured there's nothing between them."

"That's because they're afraid of how you would react."

"No you're lying! You are LYING!!"

"My son, please try and understand. I will not allow or tolerate any form of injustice towards you. If you think Shizuka won't be enough then just tell me, I will make a harem for you, where you can keep as many women as you please. Not only that, I have also made the decision to name all family assets under you. Everything I have will be yours tomorrow, me precious boy. Those two won't even get a penny. If you want, I will have them sent far away. You won't have to ever see them."

"I don't need any of this. Make a harem for Haruka. Have him ascend the throne after you. Name all assets under him. And send me far away with my Juuri."

"It's not possible my son. It's simply not possible. Ask for anything else, anything else and I shall move the world in order to obtain it for you."

"Juuri is all I want. Juuri is all I need."

A moment of tensed silence passed before his father said the following, the words that brought comfort and hope into Rido's riled up heart.

"Give me sometime, let me see what I can do."

The time granted was utilized well. Unfortunately not so much in Rido's favour though.

.

.

.

Couple months after their first conversation Rido sat down with his father again. This time his mother was also present. Which wasn't a good thing. As recently in her presence his father became a completely different man.

"We were told you didn't visit the Hio girl. Why is that?" His mother was the one demanding.

"There's simply no need. Why waste time there, when there is no hope. I understand to protect our unsullied bloodline, I must wed a pureblood vampire. But must it be this tiny child? And why was it done without my consent?"

"Is there some other girl you have in mind?"

Rido looked into his mother's suspicious eyes and smiled broadly. The woman's audacity really has no boundaries.

"Of course there is. And you both know very well who that is. It has always been her and it will always be her."

"That's one match we cannot approve of."

His father interjected sternly, with eyes pouring down on Rido. The latter turned to the former, slightly taken aback by the change of tone. Simultaneously he had to suppress the urge to laugh. The man's pretentious bravery in front of his wife was hilarious.

"Why not? I simply cannot understand what objections you could have to our match. You both know how precious she is to me. Yes… So very precious that I want to devour her…" Rido darted his tongue out and licked his lips. The memory of Juuri's clear gaze and silken skin rose unbidden in his mind. Making his eyes go wide with pleasure, once again caught in her enchantment.

Catching his expression, his father cast him a disgusted look.

"That love of yours is perverse."

"Perverse? You're calling my pure love for Juuri perverse?" Soon Rido's astonishment was replaced by a sinister smile. "Look who is talking… the man who was feasting on another woman, despite having a mate."

Both his parents eyes went wide in shock. It's as if they were seeing ghost.

"Yes, I found her journal. Your other sister, Marika. She wrote in vivid detail of how you used to enjoy her body. Oh she also mentioned becoming pregnant with your child. Despite such history you dare call my feelings for Juuri perverse."

A deafening silence fell into the room. Rido focused on his mother and judging by the look on her face he understood she knew about the matter inside and out.

"What happened to that woman?" Rido refocused on his father. But the latter refused to meet his gaze. And that answered his question.

"I see… so you devoured her." With a twisted smirk, Rido sneered. "How vampiricly romantic."

His mother's eyes flashed red and the temperature in the room suddenly turned freezing cold. The woman clenched and unclenched her fist to bring her rising temper under control.

"You were supposed to kill her. Not become one with her by devouring her." His mother said to his father through gritted teeth.

"I promised you she would be out of our life, and I kept my promise. So do not question my ways." He hissed. Keeping his eyes locked with son. "Anyway, this is our private matter wife, let's not discuss it in front our child."

To that she exploded.

"He's not our child! He's your child! … WITH HER!" She screamed at him before storming out. Slamming the door shut behind her.

A long silence lingered afterwards. A silence that neither the father or son knew how to break. Many unwanted secrets have suddenly been opened. On the plus side Rido finally understood why his mother always looked at him with so much disdain. In all honesty Rido didn't care how the woman felt about him. But her attempt to take Juuri away from him made her his enemy. For which she will have to pay!

"I will do whatever it is best for my children." His father muttered, recovering from the unexpected chaos. "And the best thing for you both is to keep you apart from Juuri."

Rido tried to protest but his father put his foot down. Showing his son who the actual king was.

"My decision is final. Starting now you will stay away from Juuri and I won't hear a word of protest."

In that moment a dark fire flared up inside Rido's chest. A man that couldn't control his lust for another and a woman who failed to keep her husband's attention. Both were failures! How dare they take away his only sanctuary, his peace, his happiness, the light to his dark world. He had been so good, controlled himself for so long and yet this was how they chose to repay. How could he ever forgive them?

Well, he wouldn't. He would make them both pay the price very soon.

With that thought settled in his mind, Rido was completely swayed by the basest of vampire instincts.

When her eyes flashed open, the first image she was greeted with was Hanabusa's concerned face.

"Aiyora-sama! Thank God you're awake."

"Huh?"

Initially she shot the blonde a confused stare, wondering what he was talking about. Then surveyed her surrounding, only to find the floor around her to be decorated with pieces of broken glass, some big, some small.

Finally, Aiyora recognized the place. It was the foyer and remembered she was standing here by the window, watching Kaname's car drive away. After that she couldn't remember anything else up until now, waking up in Aidou's arms.

"What happened?" The pureblood asked after regaining her voice.

"I found you unconscious on the floor." The aristocrat stood on his feet with her nestled in his arms.

"Oh."

"Yeah."

And carried her back to her room and laid her down on the bed. Just as he was about to pull the covers, the door opened revealing the other pureblood.

Noticing, Hanabusa took a step back and Aiyora sat up.

Kaname waltz in with an ease only he possessed. His posture straight and face impassive but the eyes reflected worry and concern. The already opened coat was carelessly tossed on the sofa before he came around the bed and sat down beside Aiyora. The mattress dipping under his weight. He checked her face for any sign of injury. But there was nothing. Thankfully the window that broke due to her changing temper didn't scratch her face.

"What happened?" Even though it was asked looking at Aiyora but it was obvious the question was actually meant for Aidou.

"Forgive me Kaname-sama I'm not so sure. I was on my way to the kitchen when I found Aiyora-sama, laying on the floor, unconscious."

"Thank you helping Aiyora. I'm happy to know I can rely on you, Aidou." Kaname said not taking his eyes off the other pureblood, who for some reason appeared lost in deep thought.

"Please don't mention. It was no big deal."

"Anyhow, you may leave." With that he dismissed the aristocrat.

Once the noble was gone and the sound of door closing was heard, Kaname leaned forward, resting his forehead on her.

"Another vision?" He asked tenderly.

She nodded her head, confirming. They remained like that for sometime until Kaname pulled back to look at her.

"You seem upset." He observed. His fingers combing through her dark locks before placing some strands behind her ear. "Why is that?"

In a futile attempt to hide her jealousy, tearing her gaze she looked the other way, facing the window. Vision settled on the bright sunny day outside. Bright sun— the very thing that symbolizes Kuran Juuri and her daughter Yuuki.

What a cruel reminder.

Her jaw clenched so tightly that to the person watching it seemed like it would break at any point. Soon the vision blurred because of the tears that gathered around her eyes. It wasn't long before the first drop rolled down followed by the second… third… fourth and so on.

Kaname's hand reached out to wipe away her tears. But Aiyora slapped the hand away before it could make contact with her face. She needed to cry. It helped her ease the emotions boiling her blood.

"I don't understand," She finally spoke, muttering in a voice so low that it was hardly audible "what is he trying to show me? All his visions are about her. Even these ones!"

Jealousy was laced within her voice which she made no attempt to hide.

"It seems like I didn't even matter to him much." She looked at Kaname with teary eyes. "Did I really mean anything to him at all? Was I just a means to replace his precious little sister—"

Kaname intervened by pulling her into his arms. His grip was so tight that her face was almost squashed onto his chest as he rested his face over her head.

"You have to understand Aiyora, both you and Juuri were important to him. Difference is, while Juuri was his cause, you were his cure. She was the problem whilst you were the solution. His deep feelings for her caused him insanity. The insanity that you cured in the end.

Aiyora, you were the best thing to have ever happened to him. He loved you more than anyone, more than Juuri." He assured her, then added. "If anything, his only regret was not being able to give you the love you actually deserved."

Looking up she asked. "How are you so sure?"

Cupping her face Kaname gave her a small smile. A moment later the same hand slowly slid down to her chest and slowly laid her back to rest. Then joined her under the cover and intertwined theirs hand, lacing their fingers together.

"Because I know exactly how he felt towards the end of his life. I was also a father once, and I had daughters too. It gives me a certain degree of understanding on father-daughter relationship and it's dynamic."

"Oh yes, I totally forgot about that part." She turned to him, smiling softly. A smile so beautiful that it captivated him.

He brought their locked hands to his lips to press kiss at the back of her hand. It was a fleeting kiss with lingering effect.

Then suddenly Aiyora moved, resting her head over his chest she snuggled. Although little surprised by the sudden closeness, Kaname still smiled.

"Aiyora, are you listening to the sound of my blood streaming?"

"Maybe…" she spoke keeping her eyes closed. There was no need to look, just being able to take in his essence was enough. Kaname on the other hand thought of it as a gift, as it gave him the opportunity to freely watch her.

That goes without saying he couldn't watch her blissfully for long. He sighed, as his concern returned. Aiyora isn't faring well. She continues to grow restless everyday. And with patience running so thin, nothing seems to hold her interest for long.

The idea to get her life back to normal crossed his mind already, multiple times. But he never considered it seriously until now. Intentionally, he was procrastinating. Waiting the for the tension outside to calm down. And over three months time passed in that.

Only now he was realizing how selfish that was.

After all why should she suffer the consequences of his actions? He massacred the Council, not she. In spite of all these if he could step out of the manor freely then why couldn't she?!

"Aiyora…?"

"Hmm…"

"Shoto Isaya, a long time friend of Juuri and Haruka has awoken from his long slumber recently."

Her head rose to look at him. "How is this information any relevant to me? He was their friend, not mine."

"He has invited me over for dinner, tomorrow. And I want you to come with me to this dinner."

For a brief moment Aiyora watched him wordlessly before advising. "Take Yuuki-nee. I'm sure he'd be delighted to meet the daughter of his friends rather than me, who is from the enemy clan."

"You maybe right, but I want you with me. I seek your company. Will you not give me that for one evening?" Kaname took hold of her chin and slightly lifted her face to a better look. "Besides being cooped up in the manor like this is damaging your mental state. You need to get out of the house more often. Meet with your friends. Get back to work. Do anything and everything that makes you happy."

"Are you sure it is okay for me to step out?"

The fact that she cared made his heart warm up.

"I will be honest, the situation outside is still crucial. But it has nothing to do with you. Their problem is with me, not you." He pinched her nose. "So you should not suffer the consequences of my actions."

She reconsidered his words, he had a point. She was in desperate need for fresh air. Maybe the dinner wasn't a bad idea after all.

"Okay, fine I'll come."


Aiyora browse through her closet aimlessly with the goal to find a dress for the dinner she is to attend tonight. Her eyes scanned, fingers traced, the long line of dresses hanging perfectly on hangers. Confused as to which one would be appropriate for tonight's dinner.

She wasn't particularly excited nor she looking forward to meeting Shoto Isaya. The man was Juuri's friend, and that alone was enough for to make him unfavourable in Aiyora's eyes. But she already promised Kaname. So there is no going back at the eleventh hour.

In the sea of rainbow finally a dark violet colour caught her attention. She pulled the fabric and turns out it was an A-line sleeveless dress that ended just above the knees. It was a dress she owned for years but never had the opportunity to wear. Then, walking over to the shoe section she picked a pair metallic silver peep-toe platform pumps, that was approximately six inches in height.

.

.

.

Just to make sure everything was in order, Aiyora decided to check herself in the mirror for one last time.

The dress and shoe were a perfect combination of contrast— Deep dark violet versus metallic silver. The lavender overcoat was thrown over just to stick with the purple family. Her hair was flat ironed and brushed down completely straight. Her makeup was kept bare minimum. Only a slight brush of rosy blush on the cheeks. Matte mauve lipstick on the lips. Thin liner on the eyes and her already long voluminous lashes coated with heavy mascara, drawing the main focus on them.

Knock.

Knock.

Knock.

The sudden eruption of knock made her jump on the spot.

"Come in."

Quickly recovering she gave the permission and watched through the mirror.

Kaname walked in dressed in his usual dark pants and a dark overcoat. He stood tall, his shoulders straight and his arms relaxed at his sides. His long coat reached his knees and was unfastened.

Walking over to her he offered his arm. "Ready?"

She accepted linking her arm to his. "Ready."


Yuuki was standing at the foot of the stairs waiting for Aidou to bring her a case of new blood-tablet when she suddenly heard to sound of nearing footsteps.

Turning, she saw her fiancé descending the stairs. Looking as regal and dangerously handsome as she could remember. The long dark hair perfectly shaping his structured face. His dark burgundy eyes are as mesmerizing as she can remember. The smile on his lips as kind as before. Yuuki wasn't sure if it was her mind playing tricks or has Kaname become more handsome in the past couple months since they left the academy.

Their eyes locked.

In response her heart skipped a beat before it accelerated and cheeks were set aflame under his heated gaze. Her chest swelled up in pride at the realization that this beautiful man belonged to her and she to him. A dry itch crawled up her throat as his enticing smell invaded her nostrils. She gulped, sensing her thirst increasing; thirst for his blood.

Yuuki was so lost into his dark sea of abyss that she failed to notice the person beside Kaname, whose hand he held in a possessive grip.

"Good evening Yuuki." Kaname was the first to greet. His voice made her snap back to reality.

"G-Good evening Kaname onii-sama." She almost stuttered, yet managed to ask, giving into the curiosity. "Are you going somewhere?"

"We have to attend dinner at a place of my acquaintance."

We? Yuuki thought confused.

Then finally she noticed Aiyora, beside him, her figure leaning onto his. The enthusiastic look on Yuuki's face fell and it dropped even more as her gaze travelled down and fell upon their entwined hands.

An unknown burning sensation erupted within her chest. Yuuki would probably never have the courage to admit it before anyone, but at the scene of them holding hands, a wave of unpleasant feeling washed over her.

And suddenly she found her mind working differently.

She was surprised and disappointed at the same time that Kaname was taking Aiyora out with him. And felt the distinct urge to ask if Aiyora could step out of the manor, then why couldn't she? But before Yuuki could put more thought on the matter and form it into a coherent sentence Kaname spoke again. This time taking a step closer to her.

"In the meantime, Yuuki, can I count on you to look after the house?"

"Huh?! Um… yes of course!" Instantly, her enthusiasm returned. So did her bright sunny smile. Her facial expression revealing how excited she was to receive some responsibility from Kaname.

"Thank you Yuuki. I'm glad to know that I can always count on you." He said with a smile. A smile that melted her heart. All these bitter feelings from moments ago were left forgotten,

"Anyway, we shall get going now."

Giving her a soft pet on the head he walked past the shorter brunette, tugging the other pureblood along. Just as Aiyora passed Yuuki blinked, wondering how she appeared so tall. Aiyora was certainly taller than Yuuki but not as tall as she was appearing now.

Looking over her shoulder Yuuki studied the retreating figures, before her vision fully focused on Aiyora, then on her foot.

How does she walk so effortlessly wearing something like that...?

Quickly, Yuuki shook her head vigorously.

What am I thinking, that's not important!

Her eyes marginally narrowed down on Aiyora.

Aiyora-chan, she seems very close to onii-sama, maybe I should ask her to help me understand Kaname-senpai better.

But... but... what if she also likes Kaname-senpai?

The thought alone was enough to make make the newly awakened pureblood's stomach churn.


Aiyora quietly sat at the dinner table and observed the two men converse. Her blue eyes focused on one of them in particular.

Shoto Isaya, the head of the Shouto clan.

Although by the normal eye the pureblood would be described as a rather neat, tidy appearance, with a well toned lean body. Hair reaching his shoulders and skin that is flawless, smooth and fair in complexion. But as a fellow pureblood Aiyora could see his age in his eyes. He was at least over two thousand years old.

In many ways Shoto Isaya reminded her of headmaster Cross Kaien. A lonely old man with a supposedly good heart and generous, kind soul. He welcomed them both wholeheartedly. However, when Kaname introduced her as Kuran Rido's daughter a small frown appeared on Isaya's lips. Regardless, he remained cordial and very hospitable towards her. For which Aiyora gave him full credit.

However, by the time they sat down for dinner Aiyora found herself at the edge, struggling with her temper. By now the man was pushing all the wrong buttons by excessively praising Kuran Juuri for no apparent reason. It reached a point where Aiyora simply wanted to get up and storm off. But restrained herself reminding her head she cannot appear unhinged, for she has a reputation to uphold. So biting back the inside of her mouth she stuck around, tolerating the nonsense.

Kaname sensed Aiyora's uneasiness and made several attempts to politely change the topic of their conversation. But their host, for some reason overlooked those attempts. And not only that, he even invited Aiyora into the conversation.

"You know Aiyora,our society named your aunt the Sunshine." While the Shoto pureblood went on speaking in the background, Aiyora took the opportunity to glance at Kaname and glare. Showing him how upset she was with him, for bringing her to this bloody damn dinner. "But I always believed she was more than that. She was the blaze of the sun."

Kaname met her gaze hardly for a second before adverting his eyes towards their host. Aiyora's eyes returned to her plate. She continued to play with the food, poking it with the fork instead of eating. Her appetite long gone.

"...Her light was almost as strong as the fire. She was truly a misfit amongst our kind, the creatures of the darkness."

Aiyora no longer cared if the man saw her rolling her eyes. She was done being polite.

"I don't see how's that something to be proud of? Being a vampire and constantly being compared to the sun and daylight is the very proof you don't belong in your world. You're an outcast! Therefore in my eyes it's a disgrace." She finally spoke, after finding herself unable to hold back on her words any longer. Her eyes pouring down like hot water on Shoto Isaya, burning and melting him on the spot.

"You always long for what you can't have, isn't it?"

"Shoto-san that sentence could be interpreted in many different directions? Which ones am I to take?" Aiyora quipped, smiling mischievously.

At that moment Isaya's face could be best described as the thief caught in the act. He looked uneasy, desperate to find a hiding spot for the stolen goods.

"She was a good friend of mine and I was quite fond of her. Nothing more." He answered clearing his throat.

"So you knew her well?" Aiyora added.

"Well enough." Isaya confirmed.

"In that case," Aiyora began, arranging her tone and words in a way that it sounded like she was genuinely interested. "I heard a lot about my aunt's greatness and her great idea towards the building a world where humans and vampires can co-exist. However, I never heard anything about her achievements. Since you are her friend, Shoto-san, would you mind sharing some?"

Isaya quieted down to think. He thought for a moment to make a list of achievements Juuri made in her lifetime before answering.

"It was her dream to build a school where vampire children and human children would study side by side. The first step to show the world peaceful co-existence between humans and vampires was possible."

Since Isaya wasn't familiar with this particular female, so he did not realize that he just walked into a trap.

"And what steps she took to achieve that dream?" Aiyora arched a brow.

"She did not have much time in hand to fulfill it."

"What are you saying Shoto-san? Three thousand years is quite the long time to achieve great load of things. A person living that long should have long list of accomplishments. Not just one dream project. Unless, they're selfish and don't see beyond their need."

"Not a big fan of your aunt, are you?" Isaya observed, staring her down.

"I'm simply trying to understand what was so special about her." Aiyora didn't deny. If the man was expecting her to backdown, he was in for a rude awakening. She wanted to make that point clear.

And clear she did!

"To answer your question, no, I'm not a fan of her."

Isaya was the first to surrender from the staring contest and turn to Kaname, who was cutting the stake with cutlery.

"Tell me about Juuri's daughter? Is she as beautiful as our little Aiyora here or perhaps more."

The brunette paused in action as he looked up to meet the expecting eyes of their host. His face stiffed as he gave the other man a hard glare but that had no effect on the head of the Shoto clan. His interest in Yuuki didn't falter.

"Tell me more about her, does she resemble her mother or has she taken after her father?"

Aiyora also turned to Kaname in anticipation of his response.

Sighing Kaname decided to answer, in hopes that sooner the matter is addressed and put on the table, the sooner they can move onto a different topic. He came here on business, with an agenda to gain another fellow pureblood's support in order to reestablish the monarchy in their society. Since the fall of the Council, their society has been in shambles. And with no proper governing body to look after, it will only go into ashtray.

But so far this evening was proving to be useless. Isaya only seemed interested in indulging himself to idle chatter; first about Juuri and now Yuuki.

"She is still undergoing training. She has a lot to learn and catch up on before her existence is revealed to our society." Kaname replied taking a sip of his wine.

"Do you intend to make her your wife before you introduce her?"

Kaname remained expressionless on the outside. Whereas inside he was glad the other pureblood asked such a question. As it gave him the opportunity to clarify what he wants, especially to the person sitting beside him. Who was still absently playing with her food rather than eating it.

"Actually Isaya-san I don't intend to marry her." He cast Aiyora a side-eyed glance, just to watch how she reacts. Sadly, there was nothing. Her face wore the same irritated expression from before.

"But isn't that what your parents wanted?" Kaname wasn't exactly sure if Isaya was mocking. But he didn't care either way.

"Probably." A smirk graced the Kuran pureblood's lips. "But that's not what I want. Besides, there is somebody else I have in my mind," with that said he fully turned to Aiyora, who still didn't meet his gaze. "… given, she also feels the same way."

"Oh I see…" Isaya muttered uneasily, finally catching on to the real picture.

A silence fell between the three pureblood vampires. The conversation totally died out. The only source of noise coming from the dimly lit dining room was from the movement of cutlery. That's how the rest of the meal finished.

.

.

.

After dinner, Isaya offered Aiyora a tour of his castle while Kaname remained in his study going over some documents. During which, in a friendly conversation Aiyora inquired about his family, only to learn…

"I only had one son. But both, my wife and my offspring have perished long ago."

"Oh I am sorry to hear that." Aiyora offered genuine sympathy. But that was until she knew what exactly happened to them. "How did such happen? Was it the war?"

"Oh no my dear, it wasn't the war. My wife died like your aunt Juuri, while transforming our son to human. As for my son… he died of old age."

Aiyora looked at the man in disbelief. Not understanding how was he speaking about it so casually. No ounce of rage in his voice towards his wife, who selfishly made him this lonely. If she was angry before, she was furious now. This was absolutely outrageous!

Seriously what was wrong with these people!

"If you don't mind me asking, why did she do such a thing? What did she achieve by turning your son into a human?"

"She and Juuri would often talk about saving our children from the fate of being the pureblood. They both wanted their children to smile like a normal human child."

"I was raised as a pureblood. Introduced to the society even before turning one. I turned out fine. While I agree that my childhood was rough but that shaped me into who and what I am today. Going forward I'm sure I'll be able to tackle whatever obstacle is thrown on my way." Aiyora explained.

"My dear, not everyone was as reckless as your father."

"I strongly disagree with you. I think my father did the right thing. Let's look at Juuri's daughter for example— she may have had a simple, easy, sheltered childhood, smiling freely like a human child. But what happens now that she is back to her true form? She's stuck in the middle, trapped. She cannot live amongst human nor can she blend in with her own kind.

Then let's look at you— I do not know what motive your wife had behind her actions. I'm sure her intentions were well. However, what good outcome did it bring you? Because from where I'm watching, I see a lonely man, aching to be reunited with his family." Aiyora finished her long explanation.

Isaya kept his mouth shut as he did not know how to counter that. He couldn't disagree with what she just said. She was right. His wife's decision cost him everything.

"It seems to me that you quite dislike your aunt Juuri and everything that she stands for." He asked, tactfully diverting the topic.

"Let's put it this way Shoto-san, my hatred for Kuran Juuri goes far beyond the love my father had for her. And believe there's a strong reason for me to feel this way about her."

"Will you ever reconsider forgiving her?" Isaya attempted to taste the water.

"Of course! Why not!" Aiyora's response was encouraging, until she added. "...That is if she can come out of death, touch my feet and beg for my forgiveness."

To say Isaya was stunned would be a massive understatement. But years of practice taught the man how to hold back on his shock.

"You know how to talk young lady. I must say it's a concerning trait. I am quite worried about the gentleman that will become your husband." He joked.

"Oh please save yourself the worry. Marriage isn't happening for me. I have whole other plans for myself. Not settle down, have children only to turn them into humans."

"Oh! And what might that be…? Care to share."

"Unlike other members of my family I'm not satisfied with homeschooling. I would like to pursue my education in the proper way. Go to university and get a degree. Maybe afterwards do higher studies."

"In that case may I offer you an advice..."

"Please by all means."

"Study the law." He said looking deeply into her eyes. Like he was trying to have a peek of her soul. "You my dear, have the potential to be a good lawyer."

Aiyora smiled. For the first time this evening their host said something that satisfied her.


Slowly slowly her life was returning to some sort of normalcy.

Ever since attending the dinner at Isaya Shoto's place, Aiyora started to get out of the manor frequently. Together with Kaname, she paid a visit to the Shiki manor to meet with Shiki Midori. Then for a weekend the two of them also went to a private island to enjoy warm weather and the beach.

Meanwhile Aiyora also got in touch and met up with her cousin from her mother's side, Hiragazawa, who is also her photographer and part owner of the agency she is with. And from Hiragazawa she learned that her grandmother was eagerly awaiting to meet her again.

But Aiyora wasn't sure how to face them, given how things went down during their first meeting.


She peeked her head out to check left and right, then ahead, eyes searching for her friend. Once it was established the person she was looking for wasn't there, Kurenai Maria stepped out of the car and burst into a quick sprint, heading directly into cafe, with excitement could hardly be contained. This is her first time leaving the house since she returned home from the academy.

When Aiyora offered to meet for coffee the silver haired female said 'yes' instantly. Her family didn't stop her either after learning it was an invitation from a Kuran pureblood. Despite the current tension, end of the day a pureblood is still a pureblood. They are still feared and respected the same way as before… outwardly at least. Also, after Hio Shizuka's death the Kurenai family has lost their last remaining pureblood relative. Therefore their daughter's close friendship with Kuran Aiyora could turn greatly beneficial in the near future. So why interfere.

"Aiyora-chan!" Maria waved excitedly, after locating the pureblood, sitting under a shaded booth at the most secluded corner of the cafe.

Aiyora was talking to someone on the mobile phone and upon sighting her friend quickly ended the conversation, left her seat and rushed over to embrace the aristocrat.

"Maria-chan! I've missed you."

"I missed you too Aiyora-chan!"

The two girls held each other like their life depends on it. Neither wanted to let go of the other. But finally did, after clinging onto each other for what felt like ages.

Aiyora had many friends and people to socialize with. But she's wasn't as close to them as she was with Maria.

Even after Maria left the academy the two stayed in touch. Aiyora often phoned the Kurenai manor to check on Maria's health and it's progress. But then with whole Kuran Rido situation there has been a gap in their communication. However couple months ago when Maria reached out, the two reconnected once more. Only this time their friendship became stronger than ever.

Maria is the only one with whom Aiyora opened up and candidly shared everything. The pain and pride she felt while devouring her father. How annoyed she is with her birth mother. Her new life at the Kuran manor. She even broke down to bitter sobs when Senri was mentioned for the first time. But eventually she explained how letting him go with a brave face was one of the biggest sacrifice she had ever made. While also admitting that her heart still yearns for him. And the fact that they aren't even speaking to one another is a hard factor for her to digest.

Their friendship wasn't just one person talking and the other listening. Maria also had her chance, during which she opened up about her unrequited love for Kiryu Ichiru. She too cried the day Aiyora confirmed his death.

Aiyora has no sister. Although blood wise Yuuki is the closest to thing to sister for her, but the two hardly had any connection at the moment. They are yet to speak to each other. Which is probably why the void of not having a sister have been so easily filled up by the daughter of the Kurenai family.

A timid waitress showed up to take the orders soon as they settled down. Aiyora ordered lemon-iced tea whilst Maria ordered vanilla milkshake with chocolate-chips.

The actual conversation between the two vampire friends began after the waitress left. The first couple minutes passed with each passing the other complement and expressing aloud how happy they were able to see each other. But soon it moved to topic with more substance.

"Who were you talking to?" Maria asked.

"Naomi-san," Aiyora answered, "she's one of the two nurses we appointed for Midori-san."

"Two nurses!" Maria was shocked to learn this. "Is her condition that bad now?"

"Since Shiki Sayatohi's demise her mental state further deteriorated." Aiyora revealed. "We went to see her, Kaname and I. And the entire time we were there she clutched onto me like a child grasping onto her mother."

"Did you meet Shiki-kun?"

"No, Ri-chan wasn't home. He was abroad, shooting his first television commercial with Rima. You see…" The pureblood ran a hand through her hair uneasily. "… it's precisely why I chose that time. So I don't risk coming face to face with him."

"Oh, I see." Maria muttered awkwardly. Hoping and praying inside, the topic of Shiki Senri wouldn't continue for long. She didn't want her friend to get emotional and start crying at a public place.

"Ladies!" It was as if her prayer was answered. The waitress returned with their beverage just when Aiyora was about to open her mouth.

"Here is your lemon-iced tea," the clear class with light orange coloured liquid was placed before Aiyora and the larger glass was placed in front of Maria. "…and vanilla milkshake with chocolate chips. Enjoy!"

The aristocrat muttered a quick 'thanks' to the waitress before the latter turned on her heels and left.

The conversation was about pick up from where it was left off. If not for Maria to quickly divert it.

"Are you planning to take control of the Shiki household?"

The pureblood was about to take her first sip but paused and watched the aristocrat taking a small sip of her shake through the straw. "No, not take control. I'm only trying to help out as much as I can." She took her first sip and put the glass down. "End of the day we are still family. Ri-chan is my older brother, which automatically makes his mother a mother figure to me. Plus, I can't just sit tight knowing the role Kaname played. Sayatohi may have been corrupted but he was needed for the Shiki family. Now in his absence we have to pick up the leftover pieces."

"So are you and Kaname-sama…?" Maria trailed off. She didn't dare finish the sentence. The thought crossed her mind as Aiyora referred to Kaname and herself as 'we' earlier.

"No." Aiyora calmly replied without taking offence to the insinuation. Her lips forming into a tight smile. "Technically, Yuuki-nee is his fiancée."

"B-but the two of you are very close."

"So…?" Aiyora made a 'please elaborate' face.

"Wouldn't she have a problem?"

"First of, do I look like someone who cares about her problems. Besides..." she took another sip of her drink. A long one this time before putting her words out in a cunningly seductive tone. Something that mostly belongs to women who enjoys the attention of already taken men. "…maybe I want problems."

Maria made the most scandalized face possible. But Aiyora only laughed it off before making a serious face all of a sudden.

"Let's talk about why I wanted to meet today, Maria-chan." She dipped a hand into her purse, pulled out a medium sized yellow envelope and passed it over to the aristocrat.

"What is it?" Maria eyed the envelope suspiciously.

"Open it."

Maria did as she was instructed. Ripped the envelope, pulled out the paper from inside and went through it for a bit before looking up and meeting Aiyora with her confused gaze.

"Aiyora-chan, I don't understand, why are you giving me university forms?"

Aiyora smiled, "It is our ticket to freedom."

Colour drained from Maria's already pale face.

"I'm afraid I don't understand." She muttered, still confused. "Are you suggesting..."

A look of surety flashed on the pureblood's face. Her already existing smile stretched further before those pink lips parted to confirm.

"Yes... we will be going to university together. Given, we are accepted. After all getting into this particular university is no joke."

"But isn't it too far from here." Maria pointed out.

"Yes, three hours by plane and six hours by the fast underground railway. And that's exactly the point Maria-chan! Listen, we will never learn the taste of true freedom unless we get out of this city and away from our families."

"You have a point. I hate the fact that my parents and brother are constantly spying on me."

"So it's settled then..." Aiyora began and Maria finished the sentence taking hold of her friend's hand.

"...we're going to university together."


A.N. Thank you for reading. Hope you enjoyed. I guess we finally know who Aiyora's best friend is. Also yes I introduced Shoto Isaya a little earlier. It isn't exactly mentioned when he woke up from his slumber but to fit my story, I decided it was now. Not sure if I was able to write him well. I put his words more based on chapter 58 of the manga where his interaction with Kaien is shown. Feel to tell if there is something that needs to changed or corrected with his character. As you can see I'm having a little trouble trying to figure him out. On another note- yes Aiyora didn't have a great first impression if him, since he is Juuri's friend and kept praising her. But their connection may change as the story process. Let me know your thoughts if you have any.

Also, I do plan to follow the manga timeline. However before the story is blended into that timeline, Aiyora will have a small different adventure of her own.

Reply to guestwithreviews: I hope the flashback here answered your question as to how Juuri's mind diverted from Rido towards Haruka.

People are noticing Aiyora's deteriorating condition. And that includes Kaname. While the rest can't do much he has the power to do something. Hence why he pushed Aiyora to come with him to the dinner and also starting to encourage her to go out more.

The next chapter will probably focus more on Yuuki and Aiyora. So there we will see where the two cousins stand.

Reply to the new guest: thank you I'm glad you are enjoying. I'm trying to show more details on the vampires world and their lifestyle and political. So there maybe more chapters on them in the future.