The Week of Four Thursdays

by madmaenad

Humans don't have dynamics. Level D vampires only present as Betas. Vampires mature around age 50. Only one of these things applies to Kiryuu Zero. Now Yuuki, Kaname and Zero will have to learn to live with the aftermath (A/B/O AU. In nature, the most dangerous animal is a mother with her young, and a vampire is a predator at its core. Kaname/Zero/Yuuki, Omega!Zero)

23. Reparations

Sorry this was a few days later than I wanted. Fun story - my eight-year-old laptop's hard drive failed, and fixing it would almost be the cost of a new one. I didn't lose any writing, because I switched over to google docs the first time I had a computer scare, but a big chunk of this chapter was written on my smartphone.

Anyway, to the guest who asked, Zero threw a temper tantrum when Kaname told him he was now Kaname's "wife", but eventually accepted it, because Kaname had legitimate reasons. The lie explains to ordinary humans why the three are so close. A sexual relationship between three people is illegal and wrong under human law, and saying they're family is an excuse for why they can sleep in the same room, kiss etc. It's easy to tell that Kaname and Yuuki are blood related, but I don't think anyone would believe Zero is their brother, so he becomes Kaname's wife instead. And with the way he dresses and his pretty face, humans might accept Zero is just a masculine woman. This is actually a normal vampire cultural practice with male omegas. When vampires interact with humans, they have to explain somehow why "men" are pregnant and have children with other men without giving away their secrets. So when a omega who was born male goes out in human society, they pretend to be female. The vampires even create false birth certificates and other records so the male omega's children can be correctly listed as their own. The Night Class would have expected Kaname to follow this practice as well. Thus, Zero becomes a woman and Kaname's wife.

Also, remember to take Kaname's imagined scenario last chapter with a grain of salt, because it involves Kaname's self-perception and beliefs which aren't always accurate.

And yes, my other Guest reviewer, you did inspire that slight change to the finger licking scene. I'd already planned it, but you had such a good suggestion I just had to tweak the scenario and use it. Gold star for you!

---

XXII. Reparations

Aido slams his hand on the chair arm. "How many does this make!? Fifteen?"

"Sixteen, actually," Takuma corrects, face disgusted at the waste of life.

Kaname's mood is little better. In the last month and a half, sixteen of his agents have disappeared in Europe, including the one who never met him at the plaza while he waited with Kiryuu. Most - or all of them - are probably dead. They may have been human, but Kaname regrets the futility and waste of their deaths.

"There's no doubt Shirabuki-sama is hiding something," Ruka reflects angrily. "This is too thorough. She is being careful not to let a single piece of information slip out."

"Ahhhh!" Aido musses his hair wild in his fury. "I just don't get it. What do any of these places have to do with each other?!"

Kain, leaning against the wall and so far silent, nods to Ruka and looks at Kaname. "What would you have us do, Kaname-sama?"

The pureblood leans back in his chair. "The epitome of madness is repeating the same action and expecting a different outcome. Human agents have proved inadequate. Perhaps it is time to risk a more significant piece. Seiren."

His Shadow appears, kneeling by the foot of his study's desk, not a grey hair out of place. "Yes, Kaname-sama?"

"Have you completed the request I made?"

"Yes, Master."

"Then I am sending you to Europe, along with Aido. The human agents have shown us the locations Shirabuki guards most closely. Begin there, but prioritize your safety. I want no more losses."

Seiren bows her head. "Yes, Master."

Kaname looks to Aido. "Is this mission any problem for you, Aido?"

"Kaname-sama…" The blond's eyes are glassy and on the verge of tears. "To be trusted so much by Kaname-sama…"

Aido pumps his fist, "I'll do my best! You can count on me, we'll find out what she's up to!"

Kaname chuckles. "Thank you, Aido. Your enthusiasm is always appreciated."

---

"A little hungry today, are we?" Kuran laughs as Zero pushes him down on the bed.

Leaning over the pureblood's chest, Zero searches for his favorite place to sink his fangs, a wide vein that won't wastefully bleed more than Zero can swallow. Honestly. Talking is a really stupid thing for Kuran to do right now, because Zero's fangs are unsheathed next to the pureblood's jugular. One ill-timed twitch from Kuran and his ambrosial blood will soak the sheets red, irresistible bait for every vampire on the estate.

Zero bears down with his weight, reminding Kuran not to be careless. Zero's reaction time hasn't recovered enough to prevent accidents if Kuran feels like being dramatic today.

Besides, that's Zero's and Yuuki's blood! No wasting it on teasing Level Cs and causing problems for the laundry staff!

Not when it's the second best thing Zero's ever drunk, so rich and hot and the taste - human languages have no words. 'Taste' is not a strong enough word for a substance you feel with all your senses, that quenches more than the sweetest drop of springwater, that burns in your belly as it courses through every last cell and changes your very nature. Kuran is a bastard, but his blood is a temptation beyond rational thought, a ruby siren's song of bliss and power.

As Zero feeds, swallowing greedily and flicking his tongue out to clean up stray drops, Yuuki drapes herself over Zero's back, seeking contact and absent-mindedly scenting him, smoothing her hands over his shoulders and back.

Even carried off by the rush of pure blood, Zero doesn't let go of his resolution. He's slacked off too much; he needs to be stricter with himself, even if the idea makes him squirm uncomfortably. He's a Hunter of the Kiryuu line - surely he can do this much?

That's why, when Yuuki's hands come to rest at the small of his back, right in the dip above his ass, Zero takes his courage in a white-knuckled grip, reminds himself that he's fifty-two years old, dammit, and raises his head. "You can go further if you want."

It's as though Yuuki doesn't understand him for a moment. "What did you say?"

The Hunter sighs, feeling the warmth in his cheeks rise, but Kuran's shocked face below him is enjoyable enough that Zero can power through. "You can touch me. Lower. On my - rear." Now he's certain he's wearing a full-fledged blush. "If you want too."

From the tension suddenly coursing through her body, Yuuki is paying Zero her full attention now. "Are you...sure, Zero?"

Zero blushes even more heavily. Do they really need to talk about this? "Yeah."

The Court is coming up, and Zero needs to start making some progress pushing through his stupid physical hang-ups. It's time for him to do his duty and provide what he promised. (And if he still can't look at or touch himself, that doesn't matter, because all he has to do is spread his legs and stare at the ceiling while Yuuki and Kuran find their pleasure. It's not hard. Being so frightened is ridiculous.)

"Okay," Yuuki whispers, reminding Zero where he is and what he just offered. "Thank you, Zero, for trusting me."

She rubs his back soothingly, with a deep pressure that pushes him against Kuran's chest, and teasingly moves lower, and lower. Then, deciding to charge forward as usual, Yuuki's touch disappears, and Zero feels her soft, small hands each grab a firm handful of his ass.

He makes an undignified noise, despite his resolution to remain stoic.

Kuran is making a ridiculously smug expression, so Zero shoves his hands in the pureblood's face, smacking Kuran and blocking his eyesight. The pureblood's protest is also muffled; Zero pretends he hasn't heard.

Yuuki squeezes gently, like she's testing how his flesh feels.

Zero wishes he could see her face; she isn't saying anything. Is his ass too weird? Is is bad? Oh Ancestress - is she comparing him to Kuran? Is Zero losing to that crusty bastard again?!

"It's softer than I imagined…" Yuuki groans dreamily against his ear. She sounds almost drunk, and she gives another solid squeeze, sighing happily, as though all her dreams have come true.

Zero feels irrationally defensive. "I've been out of training! My body's not in good condition!"

Kuran has finally pried Zero's hands off his face. "Let me feel," he tells Yuuki, and she reluctantly slides her palms up so Kuran can take his own handful.

Kuran's hand is much bigger, and heavier. Zero glares intensely at this bold, pushy alpha, the high of blood drinking now fully worn off.

Hold on - Zero makes a swift examination of his feelings. There's anger and embarrassment, yes. But even having Kuran touching him doesn't feel bad or uncomfortable as he feared. This is okay, and Zero relaxes minutely, once he understands that he's found another safe threshold.

"You could bounce a coin off Zero's butt in school," Yuuki informs her husband, who is squeezing the flesh of Zero's abused bottom with gusto. Then he gives it a small smack, like he's testing the bounce.

Zero jumps, offended, and considers punching the pureblood in the face.

"Really?" Kuran asks, patting the flesh to take away the sting.

Yuuki nods against Zero's back, happily kneading her soft, round prize. "Some of the Day Class girls dared each other to try it. I think there's video somewhere."

"Mmmm," Kuran replies, still preoccupied with discovering the wondrous properties of Zero's hind end. "A bit lean. He's still too thin; we need to keep feeding him."

"Firm is nice. But soft is really, really, really, great too," Yuuki gushes, still sounding drugged. "I like Zero's butt no matter what."

"You two are the worst," Zero grouches, glaring at thin air. Damn alphas.

---

"You're a bit grouchy today, Zero-kun. Are you sure you're fine?"

Takuma's green eyes are wide and concerned, and just make Zero squirm deeper in his pillow nest in embarrassment. "Yes," he mutters.

Takuma raises an eyebrow for a moment, sighs, and gives up, going back to his manga.

The moonlight streaming through the windows of the Shouto estate is bright white, illumination almost as blinding as day. It leaves Zero too restless to settle and read his book - a full moon like this is a Hunter's boon. Were he still unmarried, Zero would be spending every second of precious nights like these in pursuit of his most dangerous prey.

Zero tosses and turns on his cushions, rolling one way and another. "Takuma-sempai, I'm sorry, but can we do something else tonight? I can walk a little further now with my cane, if you wanted to go somewhere, but I'm really slow."

The noble looks fondly on Zero, shutting his book between his palms. "Perhaps a little mental stimulation? We could go over more scenarios for the autumn Jeweled Court. I'm sorry I won't be able to attend, but omegas are dangerously aggressive when in season."

At the reminder, Zero grimaces. "Maybe just a few. I'm convinced they're going to string me up either way, but it couldn't hurt."

Takuma quizzes him for nearly an hour, a game they have often played where Takuma acts as the opponent and his questions fly thick and cutting, forcing Zero to think on his feet and come up with a good response. When Zero's brain feels like a wrung-out dishtowel, Takuma orders a tea break, and the room falls into a comfortable silence.

"Takuma-sempai…." Zero ventures, playing with the tassels at the edge of his pillow. "In light of what the Court brought up last time, may I ask a really rude, personal question?"

"Go ahead, Zero," Takuma invites him without needing to think.

Zero heaves a breath. His shoulders are tensed up by his ears, and he almost chickens out, but the Hunter can't afford to keep shying away from this problem. "Does doing...you know, with a pureblood, hurt?"

Takuma blinks, bemused by Zero's request.

Rushing to explain, the words trip over his tongue. "It's just, there are rumors, among the Hunters - and most of them are pretty ugly."

Takuma sips his tea. "What do the Hunters say about lying with purebloods?"

Mindful that Takuma was raised by Kuran's side, Zero tries to find a polite way of phrasing things. "The nicest rumors say purebloods prefer things violent and bloody. The worst say most lower classes don't live to tell the tale, and their families are left to bury the pieces."

The noble's brow furrows. "There is truth to that," he admits slowly. "Some purebloods will commit such acts. Kuran Rido was notorious for needing replacement partners after they endured his 'attentions'."

Takuma turns suddenly to Zero in understanding and asks, "Is that what you thought would happen to you the night you married Kaname and Yuuki-san?"

Zero says nothing, but turns his face away.

"That's why you were so pale that night. Oh, Zero, I'm so sorry," Takuma says, reaching out to rest his hand on Zero's arm. "You must have been terrified, but you were terribly brave to face things anyway."

Uncomfortable with Takuma's compassion, Zero shifts uncomfortably. "It was fine, Takuma-sempai. I didn't think they would kill me."

Unsatisfied, Takuma shakes his head, but goes on. "Under normal circumstances, sex with purebloods is no more painful than with an ordinary lover. Their strength can sometimes cause bruises or minor injuries if they forget themselves, but you need never fear. You are an omega, and their mate; their instincts won't allow them to physically harm you by accident. Hurting on purpose," he says with a blush, "can be arranged if the partners wish."

Zero matches his sempai's blush, and nearly upsets his cane leaning against the table. "Then, the actual...you know, sleeping together, doesn't hurt?"

"Not unless you're doing it wrong. Properly prepared, you shouldn't feel more than some discomfort, and afterwards you may feel some aches."

Takuma meets his eyes, face schooled to a more businesslike air. "There is one exception. Remember I told you male omegas have a protective membrane sealing off the newly made womb?"

Zero nods. "You said it was very thick and tough. I would assume tearing it hurts?"

"Quite badly," the Noble admits, stirring his cup. "Breaking a male omega's seal and opening his womb takes effort on the alpha's part."

"But that's just the first time, and never again!" Takuma hurries to reassure Zero, realizing belatedly the effect of his words.

Well fuck. Zero scrubs his hands over his face. So he has to lie still and meek while Kuran tears him open. His stomach ripples with nausea and Zero regrets the tea.

"Zero…" Takuma begins, but the Hunter really needs to think about something else right now.

"How did you and Shouto consummate your relationship? How does it usually work in a courtship, I mean, you don't have to give me...details?" Zero wants to know what he's going to be compared against - hopefully he won't fall too short - and maybe get an idea of what he ought to do.

Examining the Hunter for a long moment, Takuma decides to let Zero avoid the topic for now.

Zero breathes a sigh of relief.

"Come here, Isa," the noble calls. The grey and white hound is splayed like a fluffy rug on his back with his paws in the air, but returns immediately to his master's side, silent as always.

Welcoming him with one of his happy smiles, Takuma plays with the dog's silky ears, and Isa's tail whips back and forth a few times. "That's a bit of a story, because I didn't really do things the usual way."

Tucking his hands under his chin, Zero cocks his head to the side, prompting an explanation.

Takuma laughs, rubbing the back of his neck. "Alright, I'll tell you. It's embarrassing - I think I was reading too many manga at the time and it made me do something silly and dramatic. Usually, an unbonded omega doesn't have sex until the final stage of their courtship, when they've narrowed down the pool to the final handful of candidate alphas. They'll take some or all of them to bed, and it's very showy, and formally announced when it happens. If they intend to bond more than one, sometimes the omega will test them by sleeping with them simultaneously."

"Anyway," Takuma continues, smile leaving his face, "you know the trouble I had refusing Shirabuki Sara, and how Isaya only joined at first to help me block her. But you may not have heard about the scandal late in my courtship. Kaname discovered that some of the alphas were courting me under bad faith. They had gathered bets about who could sleep with me first, and significant sums of money were wagered on the outcome."

"I was devastated - some of them had been very eager and persuasive. I thought they really cared about me, and that was why they kept pushing me for more than I was comfortable giving. More than anything else, I wanted affection in a partnership. I didn't want to be like my parents, who tolerated each other only long enough to produce me, and then went their separate ways."

"Gambling on the outcome is completely against the ethics and spirit of a courtship, and I had those alphas expelled and blacklisted. But then I did something stupid - I listened to Shirabuki-sama, and I believed her."

"What happened?" Zero asks, leaning forward.

Takuma smiles wanly. "They kept records of everything - which alphas bet money, how much, and when they expected to 'collect' it. But the name of the alpha who wagered the largest sum was blank. If I had been thinking clearly, I would have realized it was probably Shirabuki's scheme. But I was so torn up, in such shock and misery, that when she implied it could be Isaya, I believed the worst. I could only imagine that she was right and I really had been thoroughly betrayed."

Isa whines and shoves his head into Takuma's lap, trying to comfort his master as forcefully as possible. Zero doesn't doubt that Shouto is with them right now, present in his familiar.

Takuma smiles down at the dog, and continues. "That's when I did the ridiculously dramatic thing I mentioned…"

A knock, long past sunrise. Isaya looks curious to find his noble host at his door, blond hair brightened under the early morning light, wearing an unusually long, thick robe for the heat.

"May I come in?" Takuma asks, and perhaps it's the dark circles under his eyes, or his pale, drawn expression, but Isaya lets him in.

The same fit of anguish that drove Takuma here still holds him in its teeth. He only knows he needs to do something, to purge this, or it will eat him. And so this mad fit was born.

"Takuma-kun! What are you -"

Takuma's robe slips to the floor, and the omega stands naked in front of Isaya's eyes, trembling and feeling like he's about to shake himself apart.

Isaya looks stunned, grey eyes transfixed by the bare golden idol offering himself, gaze drifting despite himself to stare at the illicit sight of an omega's untouched sex.

"If Isaya-sama desires entertainment," Takuma announces with exaggerated politeness, refusing to watch the pureblood, "then Isaya-sama should do as he likes. That way he can end this boring charade he agreed to, and return to Sleep as he wishes."

Grey eyes meet green. "Is that what you think, Takuma-kun?" The pureblood looks sad, no longer spellbound by the omega's glorious nudity; Takuma might as well be wearing a sack for all the notice Isaya takes.

Doubt creeps in; Takuma tries to push it away with more fury. "This is all you wanted, isn't it, my lord? Please just take it so you can go!" Takuma shouts, angry and confused, hurting and wanting his fears confirmed so he can crush his hopeless wish.

Because even if Isaya wants nothing more than to use his body and leave, Takuma still wants to give that to him. No matter how, even if it's just for a single moment, Takuma wants Isaya to touch him so they are as close as two people can become. Because Takuma's feelings for Isaya, his secret affection for the kind, gentle, thoughtful man who helped him, won't go away no matter how hard he tries to remind himself that Isaya feels nothing but friendship in return.

Isaya's eyes, if possible, become more pained, and an answering pain shoots in Takuma's breast. Tears begin to prick at the corners of his eyes, and he feels keenly his nakedness and shame at such a desperate, hysterical plan.

The pureblood comes toward Takuma with one of his own nightshirts in his hands and no judgement or anger in his face, just gentle hands that help Takuma pull the garment over his head and cover him from neck to ankles. It's too large, and the sleeves fall over his hands. Takuma feels somehow comforted.

"I think you have mistaken my intentions, Takuma-kun," Isaya says quietly, guiding the noble toward the bed. "But tonight, just rest. We can talk about things in the morning."

"I should go -"

"No. Wandering around a house full of alphas in this state isn't safe, Takuma-kun. Please let me take care of you tonight."

"...yes, Isaya-sama."

Takuma lays there quietly while Isaya puts on his own nightclothes, and then climbs into bed beside him. Like they're married, Takuma's mind provides, and the heartache is too much, because Isaya's feelings mean that hope will never be reality.

"I'm sorry," Takuma says, beginning to cry, but trying to stifle the sounds. "I'm just so afraid. I don't know who I can trust anymore. What if I make the wrong decision? How do I know the other alphas aren't going to lie to me like they did?"

Isaya's arms come around him, and Takuma finally feels secure enough to release his stress and pain and fear, crying openly into the pureblood's shoulder.

"Such things would never have happened in the past. I am sorry you had to suffer like this, Takuma. You deserve to be treated with reverence by your alpha, like the treasure you are." Isaya rests his cheek in Takuma's hair. "I wish I could spare you all pain," he whispers like he doesn't mean to be heard.

Takuma sniffles. "I'll be fine, Isaya-sama. When you return to Sleep, you don't need worries about me disturbing your rest."

"I no longer wish to Sleep," Isaya says with certainty. "I have rediscovered what having purpose feels like. Remembering the past still pains me, but I have found things worth remaining for. As long as you allow me your companionship, Takuma-kun, I would like to enjoy it."

"I'd like that too, Isaya-sama."

"So you stripped naked in front of the alpha you were in love with, hoping he would be madly overcome with lust and have sex with you, like dangling meat in front of a starving lion? And he just dressed you and put you to bed?"

"Yes," Takuma admits, burying his face in his hands. "I told you it was ridiculous."

"What happened the next morning?"

"Isaya escorted me to my room, and handed me over to my attendants wearing his clothes and covered in his scent, but still completely untouched. I think they assumed I had tried to confess to him, and been rejected. I was confused, but I had enjoyed being allowed so close to him. So I went back the next day."

"You went back?!"

Takuma nods, as though that was the logical thing to do. "Yes, although this time Isaya didn't give me the chance to take off my clothes. He had me change in the bathroom, and then we went to bed. When I showed up for the third day in a row, I don't think he was surprised; he just handed me a nightshirt and let me in. By the fourth day, Isaya came to collect me from my bedroom; he didn't want me wandering around without protection."

"I thought this was the story of how you two decided to bond?" Zero says.

"It is. I'm getting to that part," Takuma explains. "We did this for almost two months, as my courtship drew close to the point where I needed to make a final decision. Everyone believed it was some kind of platonic comfort thing, and assumed Isaya had remained to watch over me. Remember, we both thought that neither of us had any feelings for the other except friendship, and that our love was unreturned. We thought the idea of a bonding was hopeless. All of that changed the night Isaya told me he loved me."

Takuma shifts in bed, trying to tilt his head so he can see Isaya's face, but they're tucked together so closely he can't move. "Isaya-sama?"

"Yes, Takuma-kun?"

"You know, you don't need to remain a part of my courtship if you don't want to. I appreciate that you're trying to protect me, but I hate making you go to the trouble of pretending to court me." The idea of Isaya leaving hurts more than tearing his own heart out, but Takuma needs to think of Isaya's good. He's already been very selfish to let things go this far.

Isaya goes rigid. "You believe I am pretending to court you?"

Takuma frowns. "You joined my courtship so I could evade Shirabuki-sama's advances without offending her. You don't really intend to bond me."

Isaya's body doesn't relax. "Do you wish for me to leave?"

"No! No, Isaya-sama, you don't have to go. I just, I don't want to trouble you when you've already done so much for my sake." Takuma buries himself deeper against the pureblood's body, seeking the warmth that will soon leave him. He'll have to spend his nights in another alpha's bed, with just these memories as comfort.

"Takuma-kun." A pale hand raises his chin, until Takuma can meet storm-grey eyes, holding more intensity in that gaze than Takuma has ever seen before. "I have not been pretending to court you for a very long time. And I am exactly where I want to be. I will not leave unless you tell me to go."

Eyes widening, Takuma searches for some way to make sense of those words. Surely he must be wrong! Isaya can't really mean he wants Takuma to choose him! "What about all of this?" he asks, gesturing between them. "When I came to you, why did you refuse me?"

Isaya smiles. "I wanted to stay with you however I could. And you were clearly distraught that day. I could not in good conscience accept." The pureblood sends Takuma a long, heavy look. "However much I wished to."

Takuma feels dizzy at the realization, resting his head on Isaya's chest. Isaya cares for him - may even love him! The man he loves wants to be with him. They can stay like this, forever. "Kiss me. Prove that you mean it," he dares.

And Isaya does, giving him the lightest, gentlest kiss against his lips, before tucking the omega back against his chest.

Takuma's heart throbs with joy.

At such a precious memory, Takuma's whole manner has gone soft and relaxed. "I went back to my room that night, canceled all my plans, and did nothing except think about what I wanted for my future. And I made a choice that I would seek out what made me happy, without being afraid of the consequences."

Zero teases, "And this is part where you decided to bond with him, right?

Laughing, Takuma's cheeks pink again. "You're not wrong. When he came to get me that night I was in the same heavy robe I first wore and nothing else. Everyone was shocked the next morning to find that Isaya had stolen the prize out from under them. Of course, I was very happy to be stolen."

Framed by the doorway, Takuma looks alluringly beautiful, even with all his charms hidden away except his plush lips, enticing eyes, and sweet omega scent. "Will you come in, Isaya-sama?"

The pureblood's throat bobs as he swallows, something predatory peering through the eyes of the normally genial and calm man.

"Takuma-kun, I am doubtful that is a wise idea."

"I know," Takuma replies boldly. "I'm asking you anyway."

Nostrils flaring as he tries to take in as much scent as possible, Isaya never takes his eyes off the omega as Takuma closes the door and bolts it shut. When Takuma comes close enough to touch, Isaya inhales and brings their bodies just shy of contact.

"Isaya-sama," Takuma whispers, rising up on his feet to reach the pureblood's ear, "I would like it very much if you aren't noble this time. Please take advantage of me in every way an alpha takes advantage of an omega who loves him."

Isaya groans and traps Takuma in an unbreakable grasp, "How is it possible for you to love me? You would freely give me this gift?"

"Yes." Takuma affirms, with absolute certainty.

Isaya's hands tighten around the omega's upper arms, and he closes his eyes to try and calm his want. "Do you understand, Takuma? If you do this, your courtship will end today. In the evening I will drive the others away with claws and fangs, if they do not leave when I command it. I will never allow another alpha to share you, to even think of touching you. If I lay one hand on your skin, Takuma, I will kill any alpha who thinks they can contest my claim. You will be mine, and only mine."

"Good," Takuma replies with satisfaction, as he loosens Isaya's grip, and guides the pureblood to the ties on his robe.

Such a perfect invitation is too much for Isaya's control, and he groans in lust as he begins to cut the ties with his claws, one by one. "As my mate wishes. I love you, you know, no less than I loved my wife. Does it bother you, that my heart cannot wholly belong to you?"

"No," Takuma says through his dry throat, robe gaping further open with each tie destroyed. "I would never ask you to forget her."

"Too generous, my sweet Takuma. My summer's night, my gentle sun," Isaya murmurs, urging the omega to begin undressing him as well.

"My heart's blood, my reason for living. I will never Sleep so long as you live," the pureblood promises, leaning down to kiss Takuma's collarbone as the last of their clothes fall to the floor, leaving not a single barrier between them.

Isaya surveys his prize with hunger. The pureblood may have height, but he is lanky instead of overly thick or broad, and the length of him is proportionate to his size. Takuma can feel the wet tip brush against his belly, and a hunger rises in his core.

"You have done this before?" asks the pureblood, backing toward the bed, drawing Takuma after him though pure hunger for touch.

"A few times," Takuma admits. "My grandfather bought me a pair of courtesans when I turned fifteen, and insisted I learn. But I felt dirty, like I used them, and the idea of doing it again for pleasure...I could not."

Isaya snarls. "If the man were not dead, I would kill him myself."

Takuma rises up on his feet to soothe his alpha. "It's fine now, Isaya-sama."

"Isaya," the pureblood insists, tumbling down on his back. He pulls Takuma down after him, until the noble is straddling his waist, Isaya's reddened cock brushing between golden thighs.

"Never call me Isaya-sama again. To you, my love, I am only ever Isaya. That is the name I want you to call when we join," the pureblood requests, running his thumb over Takuma's bottom lip.

"Isaya," Takuma breathes obediently, throwing back his head, his lover's hands guiding his hips. "Isaya, ah, ISAYA!"

"So that's how it happened?"

"More or less," Takuma replies, patting the top of his hound's head.

Zero considers this, before leaning back and crossing his legs. "Are you going to trigger a heat while you're in season this year?"

Takuma's smile strains at the edges, and he shakes his head no. "I can't decide. This is only our second time that I'll come into season. Now that we're already bonded, I don't need to enter a heat unless we want to try for a child. I'll probably send Isaya away and let it pass. I don't want to remind him of the family he lost."

"Have you discussed it with Shouto yet?"

Takuma shakes his head again, shamefaced. "I do want a child. I'm just not sure now is the right time."

Zero shrugs. "Shouto is stupid in love with you, and pretty decent for being a pureblood. I'm sure you'll choose what's best for the two of you right now, and he'll support you whatever you choose. But Takuma-sempai, to tell you the truth, I'm really envious you have this chance. I'll probably never have a child."

Takuma tries to interrupt, but Zero shakes his head, a deeply sad look in his eyes. "If I were in your position, I think I know what I'd choose. Anyway, I should probably go."

Zero gathers his cane, and Takuma offers him an arm for balance as he stands. As Takuma helps the younger omega to the car with slow steps, each one careful and laborious, Isa patters along ahead.

"I don't think we'll get the chance to see each other again before you're in season, Takuma-sempai. I'll be fine, so don't worry about me," Zero tells him once he's in the car, gripping Takuma's hands. "Focus on taking care of yourself, alright?"

Once Zero is out of earshot, Takuma taps Isa's muzzle. "I think it's time you and I had a talk."

---

"There's somewhere I'd like to visit," Zero announces at dinner that night, savoring the experience of using a spoon more-or-less neatly. His hands have become much steadier, though his legs are still shaky.

"I'll go with you if I'm free," offers Yuuki. "Who's house are you going to?"

Zero sets his jaw. "The Hunters' Association."

As expected, his alphas completely disapprove.

"Zero," Yuuki objects, "it isn't safe! Because of the wards, our familiars won't be able to follow you there!"

"Master Yagari will be with me. I've already arranged it. You'll drop me off at Cross' house, Master will collect me, and he'll drop me off again when I've finished my business."

Kuran has his hands steepled in thought. "There is a further concern. You are our Consort. The vampires may consider it inappropriate."

Zero glares at Kuran, offended. "I am a Hunter. It is my right. I will not stop visiting the Association because your snotty nobles disapprove of my background."

"And if the Hunters no longer wish to see you?" Kuran asks, playing devil's advocate as always.

Zero's mouth tightens. There is a fraught silence, and Yuuki shoots Kuran a chiding look for bringing up such a painful possibility.

"Lead Hunter Ilesanmi seems to think I will not be turned away. I am not asking you for permission, husband. I am informing you to be polite," Zero tells him, going back to his soup to show the conversation is finished.

They don't stop trying to dissuade him, but Zero is stubborn when he's set on his goals.

That's how, despite the Kurans' best efforts, Zero ends up in the passenger's seat of Master Yagari's car late one October afternoon, smelling heavily of alpha from a fresh scent marking (not that human noses could tell). For his visit, Zero's worn his Hunter clothing, that same cream wool coat Master and Cross bought him for his betrothal ceremony, the better to avoid looking like an outsider.

Zero stares out the car window, watching the columned entrance of headquarters. The world outside Rosehill has embraced autumn, bedecked in red, orange, and cold. Without Zero noticing, the world has kept turning.

Unbidden, the memory of the day he returned from the hospital comes back to him. Once again, Zero is a stranger returning to a familiar place - first as an omega, now as a Consort. In the old days, after a woman married she might never return again to the place of her birth, forever becoming part of her husband's house. How lonely. Zero can return home, but does home really want him back?

Slowly pulling himself out of the car, Zero swings his legs over the seat, and uses the car door and his cane to take his weight until he's steady. Master waits politely, smoking and doing Zero the courtesy of not offering to help. Zero wants to return on his own two feet, dammit. He has his pride as a Hunter.

A sharp wind cuts at his cheeks and sluices down the back of his neck, a touch of the approaching winter chill. Zero pulls the collar of his coat tighter with the hand not resting on his cane, and begins stumping up the steps with determination.

At the questing touch of the wards, Zero's neck tingles, the remnants of his taming mark granting him entrance just as Cross promised. Relief sweeps over him, mimicked by the warm air of the building relieving the chill of the autumn air.

Already, Zero and Master Yagari are drawing eyes, and the whispers fly thick and fast, forgetting in their enthusiasm Zero's vampire hearing.

Look at his face, woah!/Looks like the rumors of his attack were true/I heard he couldn't walk at all for a while, but look at him now. Vampire healing really is frightening/Kiryuu still hasn't bonded with them yet/or boned them, I heard!/Even with his face, he looks kind of hot/hush, don't be disrespectful of Hunter Kiryuu

"I want to visit Archivist Fong. And I should probably see Dr. Sawamura," Zero adds.

Yagari grunts. "We'll go find that old pervert then."

The elderly archivist is overwhelmed with excitement when he spots Zero, carrying his student off to the archive break room to ply him with coffee and a tin of Archivist Grey's imported digestive biscuits.

Zero is glad to see Archivist Fong acting as energetic as ever. After being away for so long with little news, Zero had feared the Archivist's age might have finally taken a toll on his health.

Once Zero has reassured the fragile old man he's alright, and told him a carefully censored summary of his life since he's married, Archivist Fong insists that Zero report any new information he's learned so it can be added to the archives, and takes careful notes in his spidery hand.

Leaving Archivist Fong beaming with enthusiasm and clutching a sheaf of notes on omega vampires, Zero ventures down to the medical center.

Dr. Sawamura looks Zero over from head to toe, pronounces herself displeased with his condition, and orders Zero to scold Yuuki and Kuran in her stead. Then she takes him to her office, shuts out Master Yagari, and asks him if he needs any medical help or advice, because she's bound by doctor-patient confidentiality and she doesn't have to inform President Cross if Zero needs something he can't let the Kurans know about.

Zero sputters this thanks, but firmly assures her there's nothing he requires.

Dr. Sawamura squints at him, determines Zero isn't lying, gives a decisive nod of her head, and kicks him out of her territory once more, informing him to visit again next time he's at the Association.

Standing outside the medical center after collecting Master Yagari, Zero checks the time. "That was everything I wanted to do this afternoon. We're early, but do you mind if we head back?" Zero's vampire body is protesting having to rise so early in the day, and he wouldn't mind leaving now to rest. He still ought to be asleep, dreaming softly between Yuuki and Kuran in their ridiculously large bed.

"Actually," Yagari says, hands making the twitching motion that means he wants nicotine but isn't allowed to smoke, "there are some people who would like to talk to you, if you want."

Zero taps the head of his cane, considering the request. If Master passed it on, then it means they have Master's approval. Anyone Master approves of will be worth the time to speak with. "I'd like that, Master."

Yagari takes them toward the upper rank offices, holding open the door to what looks like a sizable lounge. Scattered around the room on the mismatched couches, armchairs, stools, benches and a single beanbag chair, is a pack of older Hunters, all experienced veterans in good standing.

Zero recognizes a fair number; there's Ilesanmi, Yamamoto and over a dozen others he's worked under at one time or another. Kaito waves from a corner, and Master Yagari goes to stand next to him, lighting a cigarette. The room fills with the scent of smoke.

"Lead Hunters of the Association, what can I do for you today?" Zero says, limping to the center of the room. He'd love to sit down, but won't until he's invited. Politeness counts a lot for these people.

"Hunter Kiryuu, please take a seat," Lead Hunter Albrecht invites him, gesturing to the sole empty seat facing the room.

Zero lowers himself onto the chair, still poker faced and studying the assembled Hunters. He can't figure out what they want him for, but with Yagari and Kaito in on it, it can't be something too bad.

Lead Hunter Suzuki shakes his cup, swirling the sake inside. "Actually, Hunter Kiryuu, we've asked you here today because we want to know what we can do for you."

Zero's eyes narrow. "I'm not sure I understand."

Ilesanmi speaks up. "I told you the last time we met that your actions have brought us more benefit than expected."

"Yes, I recall."

"Well, it's true," interjects Lead Hunter Santos. "It's like the floodgates have opened up and gold is raining down on us. We thought the treaty was the end of it. Don't get me wrong, the treaty changes may be small, but they've made a world of difference to us."

Lead Hunter Nguyen laughs. "Turns out having a Hunter married to pureblood royalty comes with perks. Especially when those purebloods have gone on record to say anyone who threatens their husband is going to die."

Pushing her glasses up her nose, Lead Hunter Nasrallah explains for Zero's benefit. "We're seeing levels of cooperation from the vampires we've never witnessed before. Red tape disappears in weeks instead of months. Bureaucrats are suddenly willing to push our requests to the front of the line. We're receiving anonymous tips, and we have access to vital records and tapes. Even ordinary witnesses are more willing to talk to us. Our investigation speed has increased by significant margins. We've actually been digging into the most important cold cases while they're so willing to give us the help."

Zero's been in their position; he knows what a difference unwillingness and obstruction make in a Hunter's job. But the news startles him. Zero believed his reputation was so bad that being associated with him would hurt the Hunters rather than help them.

"Not to mention the six ex-nobles living in our basement," adds Suzuki.

Nguyen laughs again. "The Kurans solved our blood supply problems and terrified the entire B class. That's a pretty good two-for-one, I'd say."

"Hunter Kiryuu," Albrecht says, "we want to support you by whatever means we can. We know we may not be able to offer much, but you are helping us immensely, simply by remaining close to the Kurans."

"I don't know how long I'll remain in favor," Zero admits. "I doubt I will produce a child, and that's the kiss of death for an omega's influence."

"Doesn't matter," Kaito pipes up from the back. "We'll take as long as we can get. It's still more than we had before."

That's the pragmatic Hunter mentality talking. Kaito can say that, but it would still work best if Zero can keep that favor for as long as possible.

Zero's resolve hardens. Whatever it takes, Zero needs to do everything necessary to make sure the Kurans and vampire society remain happy with him. But until he can...

"There is something you can do for me, Hunters."

---

Cracking her jaw in a wide yawn, Yuuki emerges from the bathroom in her nightgown and her hair braided for sleep. "This was a good idea, Zero," she says as she climbs into bed. "It was relaxing to get out of Rosehill for a day. I almost don't want to go back tonight."

Body stiff from a combination of anxiety and fear, Zero attempts a smile from where he sits in his armchair, trying to act unconcerned. "Kuran said he'd never been to Nikko. The autumn foliage is quite famous, and I thought we could use a daytrip."

"Mmmm," Yuuki agrees, fluffing her pillow and yawning again. "Aren't you going to get ready for bed?"

Zero's hand on his cane tightens in a death grip. "In a little bit," he says in a light tone. "I'm not tired yet."

"Kay."

Zero needs to get a damn grip on himself, or they're going to notice something and his plan is going to fail. He shuts his eyes until he can take control of his breathing, forcing his body into a semblance of relaxation. He is an adult. He has a duty. He needs to push past this crap and get on with it.

Kuran slides the balcony door shut, padding into the bedroom in his stupid silk pajamas. It's like that pureblood bastard doesn't even feel the cold, and Zero latches onto that irritation, using it to disguise his real state of mind.

Raising an eyebrow at Zero's fully dressed state, Kuran says, "Not coming to bed tonight, Zero?"

Zero tsks. The 'first names in the bedroom' rule still applies in borrowed bedrooms, according to Yuuki. "I'm tempted, now that you're in it, but I guess I'll go get ready."

Using his arms to push himself out of his chair, and then relying on his cane, Zero retreats to the bathroom.

Once the door is safely closed, Zero stares at himself in the mirror, taking in the way the whites of his eyes show at the corners.

All the preconditions are satisfied. A little preparation and a lot of mental stubbornness, that's all he needs now, Zero urges himself as he changes his clothes.

"Zero, is everything okay?" calls Yuuki. "You're taking a really long time. Did you need help reaching something?"

"No!" he responds hastily, nearly knocking his cane to the floor. "I'm fine, I'll be out in a minute."

Don't fuck this up, Kiryuu, he reminds himself. This isn't about you. Don't let your hangups get in the way of what needs to happen.

Cracking open the door, Zero peers out. Neither Yuuki nor Kuran are paying attention. Good.

He ventures further, using the doorframe and the furniture to keep himself upright, wobbling dangerously a few times when his arms need to reach a longer distance. It's necessary; his cane isn't suitable for this.

Yuuki finally looks up, and her jaw drops. "Ze-Zero! What are you doing?" she sputters, eyes roving over every inch of his body.

Kuran's head jerks up, and he blinks too fast to be normal. "Where is your shirt?"

Zero grins. "I hope you don't mind. I was feeling a little warm," he replies, nearly amused.

His wife looks like someone hit her over the head, eyes glued on Zero's nudity, and Kuran is trying and failing to disguise the same obsessive alpha drooling beside her.

This part is okay, Zero realizes when his heartbeat doesn't increase. His upper torso may look different now, but men go shirtless all the time, and Zero did most of his training this way. Taking off his shirt in front of his spouses still feels comfortable, even with the added sexual interest.

Alright, step one was more successful than Zero expected. Now to set the right bait, he thinks uneasily as his stomach squeezes and flips. But then Zero loses his grip on the sidetable, accidentally pitching headfirst into bed

Shaking off the daze caused by Zero's bare chest, Yuuki lunges forward to catch him, and hooks an arm under his knees to lift his legs onto the mattress.

This wasn't part of the plan, but having Yuuki with an armful of half-naked omega could be to his advantage. Zero just needs sufficient determination to overcome the sickening fear when he thinks about what he needs to do next.

"Zero's nipples are such a cute pink," Yuuki murmurs to herself, bending down so her nose is almost touching them. Then she jerks her head back up, looking abashed. "I said that out loud, didn't I?"

"Yes," Kuran says with interest. "They are quite a light color, aren't they? Perhaps because he's so pale."

There's a curious curl of pleasure when Zero thinks about their regard, which he files away to think about later. It flickers out when he remembers what his aim tonight is.

Yuuki mmms in agreement, then freezes and tries to back away from Zero.

Zero can feel what he suspects is Yuuki's penis against his lower back. She's being thoughtful and careful with him, but Zero needs her to act on her desires if this is going to work.

Overcoming his paralysis, the Hunter catches her by the arm. "You don't have to hide that you're interested in me, Yuuki," he tells her, gathering his courage for his next move.

Zero tries to hide the way his hands shake as they fall to his waistband, and he begins sliding his pants down.

Like a striking snake, Kuran's hand snaps around his wrist, stopping him cold. "Kiryuu. What are you doing."

Trying to keep up his act, Zero swallows. "Aren't you paying attention? I'm taking off my clothes."

"I can see that, Kiryuu. Why is the question." Yuuki is starting to catch on too, the haze clearing from her eyes as she frowns, concerned by Zero's strange behavior.

Zero knows they can hear his pulse beating rapidly in his throat. "How else are we supposed to have sex."

The Kurans exchange a look. Turning back towards him, Yuuki asks slowly, "Do you want to have sex, Zero?"

"Of course! I'm trying to seduce you!" Zero insists weakly, hearing the lie in his own ears. Dammit, they were supposed to jump him when he got naked, not ask him what he wanted!

Clawing for mental balance, Zero knows somewhere he's gone wrong, but he's too stubborn to back down now. "I'm not wearing any underwear!" he blurts out.

Instead of being overcome with lust, Yuuki looks even more troubled, and Kuran has a slight line between his eyebrows. The mood is thoroughly ruined, and Zero hangs his head, ashamed.

"Zero, please look at me," Yuuki pleads in a gentle tone.

Never able to deny her, Zero lifts his chin but still can't meet her eyes. He's failed again, and in such a humiliating way. He shivers with the autumn chill, wrapping his arms around himself like he can hide.

"Kiryuu, it's clear you did not actually wish to have intercourse with us. What is this about?" Kuran asks, surprisingly free of mockery.

"I know you've been sleeping together," Zero admits. "I just - everyone expects us to have done this already, and I know it's my fault we haven't. I was just trying to fix things."

Yuuki and Kuran look at each other again, communicating something silently, and Kuran comes around to Yuuki's side of the bed, sitting beside their wife. "Zero. I am the pureblooded Ancestor of the Kuran. I do not care what 'everyone else' wants or expects. The Kuran family will do as we wish, and it is vampire society's job to accept that without complaint."

And somehow, Kuran's complete certainty that he will bend the whole world to his will makes Zero feel calmer. Arrogant bastard, Zero thinks almost fondly.

"And there is nothing to 'fix', Zero," Yuuki adds. "We're happy if you're happy. Kaname and I are married, so we're used to doing that kind of stuff. That is not a reflection on you, or our satisfaction with the relationship between the three of us."

"We decided we were going to wait until you are fully healed before we attempt anything more physical," Kuran offers. "Provided you are willing, and it does not come at the cost of your mental health. If that means it takes another year to bond, then so be it."

Yuuki lunges forward to grasp Zero's hand. "Treaty or not, we don't expect you to push yourself into anything you aren't ready for. We're not going to force you or hurt you. I swear it. We want you to honestly desire this, Zero. To desire us."

Zero looks at the two of them, judging their honesty and commitment to those promises, and accepts them without question, his gut telling him this is the absolute truth. The tangle in his chest eases, and he feels relief at the burden suddenly lifted from his shoulders.

"So please go put your clothes back on, so we can go to sleep," Kuran says.

"I'm leaving my shirt off," announces Zero, stubborn to the last.

"It's cold," Yuuki points out.

"Then you better cuddle closer so I can put my cold hands down your back," he tells her.

Yuuki sticks out her tongue.

"By the way, was that really your best effort at seduction?" Kuran says, a devilish gleam in his eye as Zero turns away toward the bathroom. "That was pitiful. I can't believe your past lovers fell for that."

Zero is very glad they can't see the sudden stiffness in his expression.

---

Though nothing came of it, Zero's failed seduction emboldens all of them, as though acknowledging the unspoken issue has broken a dam. Nobody has to pretend anymore, at least, and they can talk about things openly.

Yuuki and Kuran stop hiding their trysts, and their carefully leashed desire for Zero. They don't pull away at every accidental brush against him, or bother to hide the arousal that results from their long kissing and scenting sessions. They're also less mindful of their nudity when bathing or changing, and more careless about Zero seeing the aftermath of their lovemaking.

And some contrary, screwed up part of Zero's brain decides now is a good time to start thinking about stuff like that.

Being told he isn't allowed to have something makes Zero start to wonder if maybe he does want it. Knowing that he's safe makes him bolder, makes him curious, gives him space to explore.

Zero can't stop remembering what the two of them looked like together, when he stumbled on Yuuki and Kuran after they'd made love in the bedroom. They were like two white marble statues - no, too cold, like some painting of old gods, beautiful, immortal, eternally young - the folds of the red silk sheets twisted artfully to display fair limbs and just a hint of sin, without spoiling the mystery beneath - the side of Yuuki's porcelain breast, the edge of Kuran's hip. The sleepy-eyed way they looked at him, their slow, satisfied movements, their rosy flushed skin, and the residual heat in the air. And the smell, the heavy pheromone tang cloaking the room, made something instinctual and omega in Zero's brain quiver, and open his mouth so he could fill his lungs with it.

Zero had backed out of the room, knowing he'd seen something he shouldn't have, with a hot tingle in his belly he realized didn't just come from the omega. The servants changed the sheets, but it took Zero a long time to fall asleep that night anyway - he imagined that the smell lingered in the mattress.

That memory always conjures a mix of curiosity and jealousy, and a faint heat. Doing that is something Yuuki and Kuran share, but Zero doesn't. Zero doesn't want to be left out, and he wants to give Yuuki whatever she wants. And Kuran hasn't been so bad lately either. The two of them certainly enjoy it, or they wouldn't do it so often. Maybe Zero would enjoy it too?

But Takuma said it would be painful at first. And the first one has to be Kuran, not Yuuki, and Zero doesn't trust the man. And Zero would have to face some of his issues with his new body first; every time Zero's tried pushing that far, it ended with terror and paralysis. His mind shies away from even imagining what has to happen, and leaves a nauseous feeling in his stomach.

But then Zero remembers the alluring way Yuuki and Kuran looked together after they were through...

Torn one way, then the other, Zero struggles to decide what he wants.

---

Yuuki should probably get up and wipe the cooling sweat from her skin, but lying here with her head resting on Kaname's chest, as their heartbeats slow in unison after making love, is too decadent to forego.

And she knows that moments like these can be lost, so why hurry through them when one day they might not be there anymore?

"We didn't have anything to do this evening, right?" she wonders.

"Not in particular." Kaname's voice vibrates through her cheek, and Yuuki giggles at the sensation.

"Aido sent his first report from Europe. I'd like you to read it when you have time."

"Mmmkay," Yuuki agrees, still in no hurry to get up.

"By the way," Kaname continues, "I would like to borrow Zero tomorrow after dinner. Do you mind leaving us undisturbed for an hour or two?"

Kaname mentioning Zero is no shock; they speak of him often when they make love - before, during, and after. But Kaname wanting to spend time with Zero alone is an unusual action.

Yuuki cannot see her husband's face, but she hears the change in tone he almost conceals. This request matters to Kaname, for some reason. "Is this about the orders you gave Seiren, the one you asked me not to ask questions about?"

Kaname doesn't answer, but that might mean anything. He's taught her to use that trick himself, to let the listener fill in what they want to hear.

"If it matters to you, then I'll leave you alone. You better take care of Zero though."

Chuckling, her husband rests a hand on Yuuki's head. "I will. I thought he was going to burst into flames the day he accidentally walked in and realized we were naked under the blankets."

Yuuki grins into Kaname's chest. "I know! Poor Zero, he looked so embarrassed. And he didn't even see anything!"

We could change that, reminds her alpha, sighing forlornly in her subconscious. Just let him catch us, and surely he will wish to join in!

Things don't really work that way, Yuuki thinks, rebutting her instincts. Her smile falls, and she grows serious. "Do you think Zero's okay?"

"What do you mean?"

"That time he tried to seduce us, he was really insistent, but he didn't want that at all. Zero always tries to deal with everything himself. I guess I'm worried that if something is wrong, Zero wouldn't tell us about it."

Yuuki wishes she could enjoy that memory without reservations: her first sight of Zero's half-naked new body, all that fair skin, his smooth stomach, and the softened chest and puffy nipples bestowed by his omega nature. The alpha enjoyed it, no question (mate will nurse our babies as easily as he'll birth them!), and all that new territory has featured heavily in Yuuki's new fantasies.

But something had been troubling Zero, and he was trying to bear the burden alone again. Yuuki still isn't confident they pulled out the root cause.

"Perhaps you are right," Kaname replies, deep in thought. "I will keep an eye on him."

"That's all I ask," Yuuki says, and settles down to enjoy the last of the afterglow.

---

Clutching the handle of his cane, Zero eyes Kuran and his outstretched arms with undisguised doubt. "Where are we going?"

"Somewhere without level roads. You're not surefooted enough yet that I want to risk a fall," Kuran replies evenly, arms rock-steady.

Zero is certain the pureblood won't take no for an answer, so he sighs, hikes up his heavy wool skirts, and steps into arms' length. A moment of weightlessness, and Kuran swings Zero up into his arms like a fairytale princess. How irritating. Zero hangs onto the cane Yuuki gave him, and loops his elbow around Kuran's neck. "You can go now."

In a rush of motion, Kuran begins to run, and Zero's eyes tear up from the wind; he hides his face in Kuran's suit jacket, grateful that the pureblood warned him to wear warm, outdoor clothes tonight.

"We're following the path through the back gate," Zero hears Kuran speak over the wind. That means they're going deeper in the valley, away from the mountain pass that cuts through the mountains hemming Rosehill for privacy and defense. Was there anything back there? Zero's never heard of anything significant beyond Rosehill's walls, and never ventured out himself. Where is Kuran taking him?

There's the spicy smell of rotting leaves, and when Zero dares lift his head, he can see the forest in autumn colors whipping past his eyes, as Kuran speeds by at a pureblood's blur of a gait. When the cold wind bites at his face, Zero burrows back into Kuran's warmth, and relaxes into the familiar position of being carried.

After Zero counts to sixty around twelve times, the pureblood begins to slow. Curious, Zero peeks out. Above the trees, still some distance away, a white stone dome rises out of the red and gold forest canopy. In the early predawn glow, it shines like new, clean of any fallen leaves or the stain of time.

The narrow, unmarked trail widens into a true path, with stacked stone boundary walls on either side topped by golden lamps. Kuran breaks into a clearing not twenty meters later, the boundary wall widening to enclose a perfectly square, paved courtyard of impressive size for a mysterious stone building surrounded by forest, out in the middle of nowhere.

Whatever this place is, it has a remarkable beauty. The dome Zero saw through the trees is the crown of a large building, with two lesser domes on each side topping the left and right wings of the structure. Built to each side of the arched, tall doorway is a stone watchtower, as though this place was precious enough to be guarded. The whole edifice is made from a white stone that gives brilliant contrast to the autumn colors of the surrounding forest, and has been carved with symbols and bas-relief friezes.

"Where are we?" Zero asks, spotting the Kuran nine orchid crest repeated throughout the design, mixed with other symbols and inscriptions he doesn't understand.

Striding through the courtyard and up the stairs, Kuran replies, "The mausoleum of Royal Consort Aileya."

Zero almost loses his cane, he's so shocked to hear he's visiting the burial place of his role model and predecessor. The sounds of Kuran's feet echo hollowly inside the domes, and Aileya's resting place carries an air of sacredness and reverence. The chill crawling through Zero's bones is eased by the warmer air inside, from the fire lit in front of the altar, and the scent of fresh incense tickles his nose.

Kuran places Zero carefully on his feet beside the flower covered altar. "Aileya was not a Kuran by blood, so she was not permitted to be buried in the catacombs beneath Kuran Manor. She was deeply loved anyway, and her children were so devastated by her loss that they built her a grand memorial, close by so they could visit and remember her every day. Succeeding generations have honored their wishes that her memorial never be abandoned or forgotten. To this day, it has been rebuilt twice, and is cleaned and maintained every day by Rosehill's staff."

Zero stares into the fire. How wonderful, to be honored in such a way by those you loved. Consort Aileya was truly held in high esteem; Zero wishes he had half her talent and skill.

At the same time, building such a grand home for the dead seems a little sad. Like the living couldn't let go of who they lost. "When I die," Zero says slowly, "you will make sure Yuuki doesn't do something hasty, right?"

Taking Zero by the shoulders, Kuran looks nearly exasperated. "Must you be so selfless all the time? You will have to live, Kiryuu - I cannot promise anything. Anyone else but you, I could. But you are her love, and half her heart. Should she lose half that heart, I cannot know what that might drive her to do."

Turning away, Kuran heads into one of the wings, "Come, have a seat. I wish to speak with you, and this seemed the right place to do it."

---

Their game has entered a stalemate. Kaname understands that clearly. And Kiryuu is unwilling to advance their game to the next phase. Kaname has given him no reason to lift his hand; games require trust that both players will abide by the rules. If Kaname leaves the next move up to the Hunter, their stalemate will become permanent.

The question then becomes: is Kaname content with this state of affairs? Should he stand aside as they enter an eternal lacuna, as the opportunity to escape stasis slips further and further away?

No. For Kaname, stalemate is no worse than defeat. Meaningless effort, neither victory nor gain.

And Kaname may not understand what Kiryuu means to him, but he knows he is dissatisfied with their current truce. Kaname does not know what he wants from Kiryuu, but he does know he wants more than he has now. Kaname is a selfish man. For his greedy desires, he will shatter their deadlock and discover what mysterious metamorphosis lies beyond.

But how? Kiryuu will not be moved, stubborn as the bedrock beneath a citadel. Kaname knows the Hunter's openings intimately well, and could strike them to force Kiryuu to act. But it would solve nothing. Kiryuu would turn circles, and they would return once more to this impasse, stasis only built deeper.

No. Kiryuu must move though his own will. Nothing less will suffice. The opening move rests, therefore, on Kaname.

But that is his current problem. None of Kaname's preferred strategies will give him the result he desires. Kiryuu is not a subordinate, an enemy, an admirer, or a toady. Kiryuu is a Hunter who knows Kaname's real identity and true personality, and his Hunter blood lends him immunity to Kaname's pureblood charisma and power of command.

Kiryuu cannot be bought, fooled, ordered, threatened, coerced, persuaded, or bribed. All Kaname's wealth, his power, his status, his physical appeal, his skill, his charm - Kiryuu cares for none of it.

Kiryuu Zero is an anomaly: a virtuous man, a genuine white knight with a compassionate heart, a spine of steel and a will like diamond. Kiryuu cannot be broken without breaking everything he is, and Kaname rejected the idea in the same breath he thought it, with a strange pain in his chest. That would destroy the game itself, and what Kaname desires is to continue play.

An unconventional opponent requires unusual tactics. Of course, Kiryuu being Kiryuu, Kaname has been forced to employ the one he hates the most: honesty.

If Kaname wants Kiryuu to engage, the only viable path is through Kiryuu's better nature, much as Kaname grits his teeth at the thought. If Kaname wants to obtain the result he desires, Kaname must offer something Kiryuu values. To Kaname, Kiryuu's price is dearer than crude wealth, petty favors, or simple influence.

And Kiryuu is the only opponent with whom Kaname would consider using this method - that ridiculous sense of fairness ensures Kiryuu will not share his weakness with others, even if Kaname fails. (The irony. Kiryuu distrusts Kaname, but Kaname trusts Kiryuu without exception, so long as his actions satisfy Kiryuu's morals)

Seated on the opposite stone bench, Kiryuu stirs, warming his hands with his breath.

Kaname recognizes that quilted grey coat, he realizes, the phantom taste of spicy blood on his tongue. Except for the stiffened, upright collar and the quilting, the clean shape is reminiscent of Kiryuu's Hunter coat; Kiryuu insists on being himself, stubbornly.

The brightness through the glass skylight reminds Kaname that morning is drawing near, and his purpose for choosing this time and place.

"Look," Kaname gestures toward the luminescent glow, "this is called the Children's Chapel. It's designed so the light strikes that statue every morning."

Kiryuu looks up at the beautiful woman on a pedestal, with her arms outstretched in welcome. "It's Aileya, isn't it?"

"Yes. I'm told you are fond of her."

"That's true," the Hunter admits, plainly surprised Kaname would care about such a small detail, but again falls silent, leaving the conversation to peter out.

Kaname's move. The pureblood leans forward, fostering the impression of intimacy, but he can't use too many tricks. Success hinges on being as straightforward as possible. Kiryuu won't respect theatrics.

The pureblood meets Kiryuu's gaze, stripping away his defenses and leaving his expression as as open as possible. Kiryuu returns the scrutiny with a faint curiosity mixed with strained patience, soon to become annoyance if Kaname doesn't explain his intentions soon.

"I want to renegotiate the terms of our initial agreement," Kaname tells him, beginning simply and going straight to the point.

"Agreement?" Kiryuu repeats neutrally, face taking on its familiar stoicism.

"Yes, our agreement," Kaname says, lacing his fingers together.

"Ah yes, I remember now. The one where you strangled me," Kiryuu remarks in an offhanded tone.

"That did happen beforehand," Kaname agrees. He can hardly deny it, now can he? And Kiryuu would not believe or accept expressions of regret. At the time, Kaname enjoyed it very much.

"On what point does our previous agreement not meet your expectations?"

Kaname shifts to recapture Kiryuu's gaze, refusing to let the Hunter's attention drift. "Our needs have moved beyond civility and noninterference. And the preconditions that were the foundation of our first agreement are no longer true."

"Explain," the Hunter requests, eyeing Kaname.

"We have achieved civility, thanks to Yuuki's persistence. To continue our noninterference in each other's affairs ignores reality and the benefits to be gained if we work together. We are involved, whether we like it or not. Your work with the Hunter's Association and the Jeweled Court, and my work with the monarchists and the Senate faction - both can be improved by assisting one another, rather than ignoring the possible benefits to preserve the status quo."

"I see," Kiryuu acknowledges. "I can't say I don't see your point. You've already helped me with the Court. What did you have in mind?"

"An alliance. A cooperative union born from mutual interest. We are married, after all," the pureblood proposes.

"And the second part?" Kiryuu asks, eyes unfocused as he considers Kaname's proposal.

Unacceptable. Reaching out, Kaname tips Kiryuu's chin up so those widened lavender eyes have no choice but to meet his rusty red-brown. Satisfied with the result, Kaname settles his hands back on his thighs.

"Yes. Those invalid preconditions. To put it simply, I no longer despise you."

Oh, that's a good face. After the initial shock, Kiryuu is working himself into a nice outrage. Inwardly, Kaname labels this expression as the 'angry kitten face.' "I'm not lying to you, Kiryuu. Do your instincts tell you I'm being truthful?"

The Hunter's brow furrows in concentration, sharp eyes studying Kaname's features.

"Is a change of heart so difficult to believe? Have I acted lately like I despise you?"

"No," admits the Hunter, "you haven't. I don't think you're lying."

We're not lying! chirps the alpha, happy that Kaname is finally setting things straight. We like mate the most! Seeing mate, we think good thoughts like feeding and mating and getting blood all over by killing alphas who look at him!

Kaname senses the opening. "Then you agree to my proposal, and accept the renegotiated terms?"

Kiryuu's stoicism doesn't waver. "Answer me something first. Why did you order Kain to hunt Level Es?"

That's a surprise. Finding himself at a loss and set back on his heels, Kaname stalls for time to think. "How did you know I was involved?'

"How could you not be? He's one of your lieutenants," Kiryuu rebuts, not taking the bait. "Why did you do it?"

Kaname wavers, caught between the desire to lie, and the knowledge that any untruth will destroy his efforts, and this gambit will fail. If he wants the prize, Kaname cannot lie to Kiryuu. This conversation must be absolute truth. Kiryuu won't accept or respond to anything else. The pureblood settles on a dodge. "You wouldn't believe me if I told you."

"Try me," Kiryuu challenges, glaring fiercely and crossing his arms.

Breathing out, Kaname knows that he's evaded as long as he can. He allows himself a partial truth. "The Hunters are my allies, as much as any vampire can claim. If they are overwhelmed, it lessens my strength."

Undaunted, Kiryuu's glare sharpens a notch. "My intuition says that's not the whole reason."

Kaname cannot tell him the whole reason. It would be disastrous, and he would make a fool of himself. So he remains silent and impassive.

"Kuran, if you don't tell me the truth, I will assume it's bad and walk out of here right now," warns Kiryuu.

Tell mate the truth, urges the alpha. We want mate to stay! Telllll hiiimmmmm.

Mouth tightening, Kaname wavers back and forth, debating with himself which is the lesser evil. In the end, the lure of victory is too much. He already allows Kiryuu to tread on his pride more than any being save Yuuki - what's one more time?

"...I did not want you to worry."

Kiryuu's mouth drops open, and he struggles to form a response. "Wh-, what? Why would you - No, that's a good question. Why would you care about me. You said that you despised me, but you don't now. Why? What changed?"

And it may be the way Kiryuu looks at Kaname with those wounded, angry lavender eyes expecting to be hurt, or the way his pale skin glowing in the dawn gives him a fleeting, luminous divinity, or the shrine itself, reminding Kaname of the last Kuran Consort's tragic fate, and how the only thing standing between Kaname's Consort and that same end is himself, because what slips out is -

"I nearly saw you die."

The words are too raw, and painful to pass off as a joke. The alpha whimpers, and fills Kaname with the urge to sweep his Consort up and hide him away.

"Oh." His husband's features soften, that native empathy and compassion extended even to those who harmed him and hated him. Sweet little fool.

It's not that simple, but Kaname could not explain in words the matrix that guided him to this outcome. His feelings are a complex mix of selfish and selfless, personal and political, pragmatic and instinctive - appetite for the political gains brought by Kiryuu's skills and influence, acknowledgement of Kiryuu's admirable nature, the certainty that Kiryuu did not deserve to be hurt, unquenchable urges driven by the lustful, possessive alpha instincts, envy of Kiryuu's closeness with Yuuki, the greed of wanting more intimacy, the desire to have his own fascination and admiration returned - all of that, and more.

Kaname would like to go Hunting again with Kiryuu, that's all.

"Things became clearer to me. You need not fear. I will not seek to harm you again, and I will prevent anyone else from harming you. The possibility of your death is an unacceptable outcome. Any injury to you is also unacceptable."

Kiryuu is still struck silent, disbelieving, with that soft, wondering expression adorning his features.

Kaname bristles. "Don't misunderstand, Kiryuu. I may not hate you any longer, but neither do I like you. In point of fact, I find you irritating. And Yuuki's good is my primary consideration in this decision. I know our difficulties have negatively affected her relationship with you, to her loss. I wish to mend what I have helped disturb."

There. Now Kiryuu looks more normal, pink mouth twisted in a scowl.

"To that end, I have prepared something for you. Will you come with me to see it?"

---

What the hell is going on. Has Zero stumbled into some mirror dimension? Is this a hallucination of his dying brain, and he's really bleeding out as those crazy pureblood groupies dance around his corpse?

"Keep a hold on me, Kiryuu. The path here is steep," Kuran tells him, grip tightening on his body as he navigates a tricky stretch.

See? That's what Zero means. Kuran is supposed to be an asshole. That's how the world works...though not the past few months. Damn. Zero's gut thinks Kuran wasn't lying, either.

According to Zero's Hunter training, Kuran is taking Zero toward the very back of the valley; they've left the eaves of the forest behind, and are moving through a grassy foothill region sparsely dotted with trees. The pureblood crests one last hill, and Zero looks down on a wide, sloping meadow, glazed with frost. Nestled in the meadow is a long, low structure built of stone and wood, with a taller square annex at one end that looks like a house.

Zero casts a glance at the pureblood carrying him, but Kuran's face is impassive and completely unhelpful when Zero is trying to figure out what's going on.

Descending the slope, Kuran's feet make crunching noises as the frozen grass beneath his shoes snaps like spikes of glass. "Are you familiar with the legal concept of reparations?"

"No," Zero tells him. He's a Hunter, not a lawyer. The only laws he knows are the ones he's sworn to obey.

"Put simply, reparation is compensation for a previously inflicted loss by the offender to the injured party. It is neither a gift, nor a bribe."

The pureblood stops, and gestures at the meadow around them with the fingers of his hand, careful not to unseat Zero. "This is my reparation to you."

Zero twists to look at Kuran's face in disbelief, but those russet eyes regarding him contain no hint of levity or mocking. "When you say 'this', what exactly do you mean?"

Continuing to move in the direction of the low building, Kuran picks up his pace. "Everything in this area - the land, the buildings - all of it belongs to you, legally valid and in writing, with the caveat that it cannot be sold, and will return to the possession of the Kuran family after your death."

Mouth dropping open, Zero hastily surveys Kuran for any falsehood. Nothing. Kuran is being serious. "What is all this for, Kuran?"

"You'll see," the vampire replies, knocking on the door of the taller annex. A human, of all people, opens the door with a slight bow toward Kuran, and leaves just as quickly once Kuran nods in return.

"Let me get a few papers from the office, and I will show you the rest," Kuran says, placing Zero on his feet and holding his shoulders until the Hunter's balance steadies, leaning on his cane. Kuran strides away, disappearing for a few seconds.

"A human, Kuran?" Zero calls when the dark-haired vampire returns. "That seems like a risk, given our respective conditions."

"A necessary one," the vampire replies, pushing his hair out of his face as he thumbs through the the binder in his hands. "There are living quarters upstairs, and my orders are not to leave this building after dark; this entire structure has Hunter wards, for the protection of its inhabitants."

Now even more bewildered, Zero sucks in a breath. Hunter wards are no small thing, and the cost to pay Hunters to set them must have been staggering. "Kuran, why would people live here? What is this place?"

Holding up a hand, Kuran asks Zero for silence. "You'll understand when you see. Come, and I will show you the last part of your reparations."

Subsiding for the moment, Zero follows Kuran down the corridor, curiosity eating at him badly enough not to protest further. His cane thumps against the pavestone floor, and then freezes when a familiar smell meets his nostrils. No way, Kuran wouldn't possibly -

Zero pushes past Kuran, silhouetted in the doorway, and stops short, bringing a hand to cover his mouth.

A friendly nicker meets his ears, and a soft pink muzzle pokes through the closest stall door. Curious, intelligent eyes regard Zero with interest.

Holding out his hand, Zero doesn't breathe, his chest tightening with nostalgia and pain. The palomino horse, a bright golden color with a stripe down its forehead, lips at his palm like it expects a treat, but allows Zero to scratch under its chin with a sigh.

"You bought me a horse?" Zero says, hardly believing this is real; his chest is full of sharp fragile things.

"I bought you three horses," Kuran corrects him. "Yuuki mentioned once that you raised a horse called White Lily at Cross Academy."

"Yes," Zero admits, his heart squeezing. Shuffling closer to the palomino, he tries to bury the old hurt under the smell of horse and the warmth of its body.

Voice careful, Kuran admits, "Seiren discovered that she was killed when Rido's Level Es invaded the academy, along with all the other equestrian club horses."

Zero squeezes his eyes shut. "Yes." White Lily was just one more thing he lost that day, but she had been innocent of blame, shut in her stall and easy prey for frustrated, hungry vampires. Zero had found her on her side, in a pool of congealed dark blood with a hole in her throat. He had never entered that stable again, unable to bear the memory.

Kuran shifts; Zero hastily opens his eyes, making sure his back was turned.

"White Lily had a half sister. This horse is her great-great-great-great granddaughter, and so are the other two horses. I cannot return your horse's life, but I hope you can accept this one as compensation for her loss."

Turning his head to stare at Kuran, Zero is embarrassed to feel a prickly feeling in his eyes, and he snaps his head back to look at the palomino mare. She's small, with four white feet, a fine head, and good carriage, a lovely little saddle horse This is a precious remnant of White Lily, he thinks, warmth centered in his chest.

Stumbling down the aisle, Zero goes to the next stall, and comes nose to nose with a dark bay mare lifting her head out of her hay. She has a lopsided snip of white on her nose, turning her left nostril pink, and she nibbles his sleeve when he offers his hand. A little overweight, and a heavier, cobby build than the first mare, fuzzy with her winter coat.

"This horse is restitution for the figurine my servants stole and smashed, the glass horse that belonged to your mother," Kuran tells him from the doorway, keeping his distance so he doesn't frighten the horses with his pureblood aura.

"And this one," Zero asks, blindly overwhelmed and guiding himself by touch to the last occupied stall, a spotless black mare who regards him coolly from the corner of her stall. She's the most expensive, if Zero guesses right, some kind of tall sporthorse. She ventures out to sniff him, tickling Zero with her velvet nose.

"She represents acts I've committed since we married that go against the spirit of our vows," explains the vampire. "This stable and the land I built it on are recompense for any acts occurring before then."

"You are the full, sole legal owner of both the land and the horses. My only condition is that Yuuki or I accompany you whenever you visit. We are very far from help if someone decided to attack you."

Huffing, but seeing Kuran's point, Zero shakes his head yes.

Kuran holds up the binder full of papers. "In here, you'll find financial statements for bank accounts showing your name as the sole account holder. Those accounts contain enough funds that the accrued interest alone will support your property's expenses and upkeep."

Zero tries to breathe, leaning against the stall door as he absorbs the impact of the past few minutes. "Anything else I should know," he squeaks out. The black mare butts her head against his shoulder, and Zero absent-mindedly rubs her neck.

Kuran's expression flickers, and Zero catches him squaring his shoulders. "I investigated White Lily's background. According to her breeder, she was a 'pasture accident' when a rare, pure white racehorse at a neighboring stud farm jumped a fence. I have found that stallion's male descendents with the same white mutation. If you wish, you could breed Lily's grand-nieces to one or more of those stallions, in the hope of a white foal."

Zero covers his face, his cane the only thing keeping him upright. "I don't know...I'll need to think about it."

"The stud fees have already been funded in a separate account, whatever you decide," Kuran informs him.

"You told me once that you cannot buy forgiveness. But what I have done here is not about forgiveness. At the time, I felt no remorse, and I do not regret that it led to the present outcome. I offer you reparation for my conduct with the intention of putting our past interactions to rest. I treated you poorly - I do not intend to do so again. I want our proposed alliance to begin on even ground, with the possibility we could come to have confidence in our shared work."

Ruefully amused, Zero raises his head. Zero told Kuran that he didn't trust him. Apparently Kuran wasn't satisfied with that. "You know," the Hunter tells him, "normal people just apologize."

Kuran pretends he doesn't hear, the dramatic bloodsucking bastard. "Will you agree to my proposed alliance, and accept the renegotiated terms?" The pureblood's expression remains composed, as if Zero's choice doesn't matter to him, despite the manifest evidence to the contrary. Kuran built him a stable, for Ancestresses' sake!

"Trust can be earned," the Hunter muses, feeling the black mare's hot damp breath on the back of his neck.

Zero tips his head back to stare at the ceiling, considering everything Kuran's done in the past few months. Yuuki was not the only one to stay with him when he was sick, or punish the vampires who harmed him. "You didn't drop me. Not even once," he tells the empty air.

Kuran says nothing, and Zero can't watch his response.

"Alright," Zero accepts, turning to the pureblood at the stable door, "We'll try this alliance thing. But this is your one chance - mess up, and we go back to the way things were."

The pureblood gives a slow, elegant nod, the morning light catching the shards of ruby in his eyes.

"And also," Zero interrupts as the pureblood begins to turn away.

Kuran tilts his head in question, and Zero smiles, breathing deep the smell of hay, leather, and horse. "Thank you, Kaname."

---

Kaname finally Does A Good Thing, and everyone is stubborn.

I told you that Takuma and Isaya's courtship was shoujo manga level, right?

Anyway, most of this chapter was not supposed to exist. Yet here we are anyway. Someday my writing plans will go perfectly and I'll end up with what I meant to write. We will get the Second Jeweled Court next chapter, I swear.

Thanks for being patient again, guys. Hopefully I will work out the computer situation.