Disclaimer: Kuroko no Basket is owned by Fujimaki Tadatoshi

Pairing: AkaKuro

A/N: Thanks to my reviewers: black rose, dayanayaacob, KurokoTetsuya101, AK47reloaded, ShioriErz, yoshan-chan, kh07gl, Hasuki-chan, Assasin8, Kichou, Scarlet Aki-chin, Moonta11, Bellatrix Trickster, Dark Cat Food Lover, angel of neverending darkness, Misa, EclipseKuran, Pongu, Lily Fenton Phantom, AngelTricks, Behappyalways, Kandaka, Lithium HK, Alexiella, Purified Sins, ashleykhl, ImJustAnIllusion, Kottori, Knight Yuuki, lumiere du soliel and 3 Guests. Thanks for the favorite and follow alerts, too.


Fifth Night: A Silent Descent


Kuroko absentmindedly poked the tamagoyaki in his plate, his thoughts far away before slowly picking it up, the mutters of Aomine, Kise and Murasakibara drifted through him like air as he methodically ate his breakfast. He hadn't finished half of it yet when he placed his chopsticks over his plate, silently announcing that he was done and caught the vampires' attention.

"Don't you like your breakfast Kuro-chin?"

Kuroko looked at Murasakibara with a blank look on his face. He should feel guilty for wasting the food he had prepared for him but his thoughts were all muddled of other things. He would apologize to Murasakibara when he felt like himself again if that day came that was. He wondered if that would happen. "I'm sorry Murasakibara-kun. I'm just…not that hungry," he weakly said.

"Do you want vanilla milkshake Kuro-chin? I can make you one," Murasakibara suggested and Kuroko quickly averted his eyes from the vampire's worried gaze on him.

Kuroko slowly shook his head tiredly and then an arm draped around his shoulders. He turned to Aomine, who was grinning at him though he could see the concern reflecting in his dark blue eyes. "How about basketball, Tetsu? Let's play some one-on-one."

Gently shrugging off Aomine's arm, Kuroko said, "I'm not in the mood to play Aomine-kun, maybe next time."

"How about we go to the library then Kurokocchi?" Kise asked with a hopeful expression on his face. "We can stay there for the whole day."

"I…" Kuroko trailed off. He did want to go to the library and just lose himself with all the books there but…

Kuroko turned his attention back to Aomine who sighed. "Akashi isn't here. He left with Midorima this morning and said that he'll be gone for the whole day so you don't have to worry about bumping into him Tetsu."

Was Kuroko that transparent? He was used to always being unnoticed in his whole life then suddenly his world turned upside down when he met these vampires, who could read him so easily. But then again, he wasn't being that subtle in evading the vampire leader.

It was a few days ago when Kuroko said goodbye to his parents and after that, he took careful measures in avoiding the red haired vampire. He only talked to the rest of the coven and when Akashi talked to him directly, he only gave him short responses.

Kuroko was sure he wasn't the only one who sensed Akashi being displeased at his behavior lately. But he didn't care and besides he was mad, too. If given a choice he didn't want to see Akashi at all. He knew Akashi was losing his patience with him and what he was doing could possibly lead to dire consequences but he was indifferent to it all. He couldn't feel anything. He was numb.

"I'm going to the library," Kuroko safely answered and quietly left the kitchen.

Kuroko heard footsteps following him which he could only assume belong to Kise and Aomine. The two vampires never left his side and even seemed to help him in dodging Akashi. He only hoped Akashi wouldn't punish them for it since he considered both Kise and Aomine as his close friends and didn't want anything bad to happen to them.

Midorima obviously sided with Akashi but he was keeping silent at Kuroko's actions and didn't reprimand him about it. Murasakibara was more neutral and tried to disregard the cold war between him and his leader.

Once they were in the library, Kuroko sat in the couch and took a book in the pile neatly stacked on the table just like days before and started to read, quickly immersing himself into the story and ignored his surroundings. Nonetheless, he was aware of Kise softly humming as he looked through a bunch of fashion magazines and Aomine stretched out on the couch beside him while flipping his gravure magazines.

"You don't have to stay here with me," Kuroko said. He didn't know how many times he said it for the past few days, it almost became like a routine.

And just like a rehearsed play Kise and Aomine simultaneously said, "We're fine."

Kuroko thoughtfully regarded the two vampires and hiding the fond smile showing on his face with the book in his hand, he softly whispered, "Thank you." Aomine and Kise didn't say anything but the pleased expression on their faces told all he needed to know. Plunging into a world of vampires, he was still lucky to find new friends.

xXx

"Are you sure about this Akashi?"

Akashi remained quiet, his mind running many things on his mind though most of them centered on a certain teal head. He thoughtfully glanced at Midorima beside him, knowing his right hand man was having doubts at his decision but it wasn't up to Midorima. "Yes, I'm certain," he finally answered, resolved.

Midorima sighed in defeat. "Since you've obviously made up your mind I won't stop you."

Akashi deemed no response before walking towards the relatively normal looking house and pressing the doorbell. "Coming!" he heard a woman's voice called out before the door was opened revealing a lady with a petite frame and with a very familiar teal hair and sky blue eyes. The woman blinked at him in confusion. "May I help you?" she asked.

"Kuroko-san," Akashi greeted, bowing slightly. "I'm Akashi Seijuurou and I'm here to talk to you about your son." He eyed the woman, shock visible on her face before looking over her shoulder to the fair build man with raven colored hair behind her and whose dark brown eyes were watching him thoughtfully.

The man placed his hands on the woman's shoulders and gave him a polite smile. "Come in, Akashi-san," he said. "I think it's best if we continue this conversation inside."

Akashi blinked at the man's politeness and found himself going inside Kuroko's home with Midorima obediently following him without a word. They both sat down on the couch where Kuroko's father motioned them to. He thought of different scenarios when he decided to talk with Kuroko's parents but this—the calm situation and civility—was not he was expecting.

"Would you and your friend like some tea Akashi-san?" Kuroko's father offered.

"That's not necessary—"

"I insist," the man cut him off, glancing at his quiet wife beside him. And Akashi understood that Kuroko's father was doing it not for them but for his wife, to give her time to calm down from her shock.

An unnerving silence filled the room, the clanging noise in the kitchen as Kuroko's mother prepared tea was the only sound that could be heard, adding into the awkward atmosphere. Midorima stood up to help Kuroko's mother when she came in but stopped when she took a step back, her body hunched defensively.

They quietly offered their thanks after she was done pouring their tea though none of them made any move to take it; the tension was too high for one.

"I believe introductions are in order. I'm Kuroko Ryuuji," the man started and gestured at the woman beside him. "And this is my wife, Kuroko Miyako."

"I'm Midorima Shintarou," Midorima offered his name. "Akashi's, um, companion."

Ryuuji nodded. "Okay—"

"Where is Tetsuya-kun?"

They all turned to Kuroko Miyako who spoke for the first time. Her sky blue eyes solely focused on Akashi and he could clearly see the sorrow and anger burning in them. "He's at home," he answered.

"This is Tetsuya-kun's home," Miyako gritted out. "Not to that place where you're keeping him."

Ryuuji took his wife's hand, soothingly patting it. "Dear, you should calm down."

"How can I calm—"

"Miyako."

Kuroko Miyako breathed out a frustrating sigh, shaking off her husband's hands on her and took a cup of her tea, taking a sip of it. Ryuuji sighed before facing both he and Midorima again. "I'm sorry about that," he said.

Akashi shook his head, "It's fine." He couldn't blame the woman for her resentment since he understood why.

"You came here to talk about Tetsuya, right? I know you have your reasons for taking him away and honestly, I'm quite surprised to find you here. Just to be sure, are you letting Tetsuya back here?" Ryuuji asked and even Miyako perked up at the question.

"I'm sorry but no."

"I see," Ryuuji nodded as if expecting it while Miyako just glared at Akashi. "Then, what is it you want?"

Midorima glanced at him since he wasn't aware of Akashi's intentions as well. A part of him didn't know what he was doing here either. "I want you to entrust Tetsuya to me," Akashi found himself saying.

Miyako looked ready to retaliate but Ryuuji stopped her. "You already have Tetsuya with you, why do you need our permission?"

"I want Tetsuya to fully accept me and for that happen, I thought I should start with his parents."

"Wouldn't it be better if you just let Tetsuya back here and visit him? It's not like we'll forbid you to see him."

Akashi decided to be truthful. "That's not enough. I want—no, I need Tetsuya to be with me."

Ryuuji narrowed his eyes at him. "Are you in love with Tetsuya?"

"I just need him."

Ryuuji shook his head in amusement at his vague answer. "How is Tetsuya?" he asked and noticing how Midorima stiffened in his seat, he backtracked. "He's depressed, isn't he?"

"Who wouldn't?" Miyako coldly said. "After someone forced you to leave your family and then had the guts to come here asking permission to sweep him off to somewhere as if it was that simple. He's lucky we're not calling the police right now."

Ryuuji tried to hide his laugh with a cough. "Now dear, hold your tongue. They're guests."

Miyako harrumphed but Akashi could see how she hid her anger and pain through a tough façade. "Tetsuya isn't talking to me," he said, catching both of their attention. "No matter how bad you think of me, I don't like seeing Tetsuya so…sad."

In the corner of his eye, Akashi noticed how Miyako fidgeted with her skirt and Ryuuji's shoulder straightening when they heard of Kuroko's current state. "We can't do anything about that Akashi-san," Ryuuji said. "Only you have the power to do that."

"I know."

"Can we see Tetsuya-kun?" Miyako asked, hope evident on her face.

Kuroko Miyako greatly resembled her son that it was difficult for Akashi to see such a frantic expression on her face. "I'm not saying this to be cruel but it's imperative for both of you to not see Tetsuya," he said. "It will be dangerous if you see each other."

"Are you saying that something bad will happen to us just because of Tetsuya's connection to you?" Ryuuji asked, his eyes glinting sharply. "Are you perhaps from the yakuza or even the mafia?"

Akashi inwardly smirked at the absurd assumption. "I'm afraid my enemies are far more dangerous than any crime organization you can think of."

"If they are threatening as you say, how do we know that you can protect Tetsuya?"

Akashi stared hard at Kuroko Ryuuji and he knew his eyes were gleaming predatorily. "Because I and my companions are the most powerful and more dangerous than anyone else," he confidently stated.

"But why?" Miyako murmured, whimpering slightly as she hugged herself. Teary eyed, she looked at Akashi. "Why does it have to be Tetsuya-kun? Why my child?"

Akashi has seen many things in his lifetime especially when someone lived as long as him but the heartbreaking face of Kuroko Miyako was something he couldn't stand to see. It must be because it reminded him of Kuroko's lifeless gaze from before. He looked down at his hands on his lap, clenching it tightly and ignored Midorima's worried gaze on him. He took a deep breath and returned his eyes back to Kuroko's parents. "Because Tetsuya is special," he answered truthfully.

Ryuuji eyed him suspiciously. "Is it because of his weak presence?"

"It's one of the factors," Akashi admitted. "But ultimately, it's because of Tetsuya himself. He's one of a kind."

Ryuuji sighed. "That he is. Truth to be told, we don't understand why you're doing this Akashi-san, for choosing Tetsuya, for taking him away and now meeting us,"—he looked at Akashi with reservation—"We can't give you the permission you want until we decided that you deserved it. I'm sorry."

"I understand," Akashi nodded. "I perfectly understand. I knew that would be your answer when I came here."

That seemed to catch Ryuuji's attention. "Did you have another reason for coming here?"

Akashi schooled his expression to a more serious one. "Yes. I can't say anything much, it's just a gut feeling you could say, but I want both of you to be more careful in the next few days. I wish to take you somewhere safe but that is too much to ask."

"I see. So it isn't just me," Ryuuji muttered, not escaping Akashi's notice. "Take you for the warning Akashi-san. I'll keep it in mind."

Akashi turned to Midorima next to him. "Give it to them Shintarou," he ordered. Midorima blinked at him but did what he was told and fished out two white pearls from his pocket, handing it to Ryuuji.

"What is it?" Ryuuji asked as he examined the small pearls. "It doesn't look like an ordinary pearl."

"It isn't," Midorima answered. "If you are in any danger, break the pearl. It will protect you."

Ryuuji looked like he wanted to ask more questions but held back when he glanced at his still wife beside him. "We don't mean to be rude but I think it's best if you leave now, Akashi-san, Midorima-san."

Akashi nodded as they all stood up. "Thank you for your hospitality Ryuuji-san…Miyako-san," he said as they stopped in the genkan. "It was nice meeting you even under these circumstances."

Ryuuji smiled at him politely. "Thank you."

Akashi blinked in surprise at Ryuuji's unexpected words. "Whatever for?"

"For coming here to talk to us," Ryuuji said, shrugging. "Tetsuya doesn't know that you're here, am I right? I don't know why but I get the feeling Tetsuya will be alright if you're with him."

Akashi nodded, accepting the man's words. "I promise that I will always protect Tetsuya," he vowed. He glanced at Kuroko Miyako, who was silent and subdued, refusing to look at him. He knew the woman didn't like him for taking Kuroko away but perhaps it was for the best, he deserved it anyway.

"Take care of our Tetsuya," Ryuuji said, placing a comforting hand on his wife. "I believe this won't be the last time we'll see each other Akashi Seijuurou."

"I agree Ryuuji-san. We'll be going then," Akashi said as he and Midorima bowed before turning to leave. He glanced back at Kuroko's parents once more before looking ahead as he and Midorima walked away, the sounds of their shoes against the pavement filled the silence.

Akashi's meeting with Ryuuji and Miyako was surprising to say the least; he supposed it was to be expected considering they are Kuroko's parents. He could perfectly see how they raised Kuroko to who he was now. Forcibly taking Kuroko away from them was cruel but he is heartless enough to do just that because he was a selfish man. He wouldn't pretend otherwise.

Akashi stopped, his halted step echoing the empty street and turned to Midorima. "You can go ahead Shintarou."

Midorima stared at him pensively. "Where are you going Akashi?"

"I have something to pick up. I'll be back before dinner," Akashi added the last part when Midorima didn't seem to believe him. He didn't wait for Midorima's response and immediately vanished in a blink of an eye.

xXx

Midorima was deep in thought as he made his way towards Akashi's office to pick up the documents his leader had finished reviewing. What happened with Kuroko's parents kept plaguing his mind particularly the straightforwardness of Akashi. Akashi kept all his thoughts about Kuroko all to himself that it came a surprise for Midorima when he answered Kuroko's parents so honestly though a little vague.

Akashi must have really been bothered by Kuroko's indifference these past few days that he deemed it necessary to do that. Though if Kuroko didn't know about it, what was the point? Sometimes he really didn't get Akashi's way of thinking.

Midorima stopped when he noticed Kuroko walking aimlessly, unaware of his surroundings. "Kuroko," he called out to Kuroko and paused when Kuroko didn't seem to hear him. "Kuroko!"

Startled, Kuroko looked up and finally took notice of him. "Midorima-kun," he said and as if remembering something, he frantically looked around.

"Akashi isn't here," Midorima said, already knowing why Kuroko was on edge. "He said he has something to take care of first and will be back before dinner."

Kuroko visibly sighed in relief. "Oh…"

At that, Midorima wondered if there was something he could do to stop the tense atmosphere enveloping the mansion for days; even Kise and Aomine were slowly getting affected by it. If this was the result every time Akashi and Kuroko had a disagreement, then the upcoming days would be hard for the coven since they couldn't function normally as they should. "Kuroko, can we talk?"

Kuroko stared at him for a moment before nodding weakly. "Alright."

With Midorima leading the way, they walked outside the mansion and were greeted by a gentle breeze as they walked into the deepest part of the garden, green leaves fluttering around them as they softly fell to the ground. Midorima watched in the corner of his eye how Kuroko seemed unperturbed by the scenery and soon snapped out of his musings when they saw a fountain up ahead.

They both silently sat on the edge of it with Kuroko dipping his fingers on the water, creating tiny ripples over tiny ripples, obviously distracted. Midorima watched the swaying trees, its leaves showering the place and the birds perched on a branch chirping happily before asking. "Do you hate living here Kuroko?"

Taken aback, Kuroko turned to him puzzlingly. "No," he said, shaking his head and watched the tranquility enveloping the garden, "actually, I like it here. Kise-kun and Aomine-kun are very nice to me and made me feel welcome. Murasakibara-kun takes good care of me and I'm fond of him and you're patient and very understanding to me."

"And what about Akashi?" Midorima asked when Kuroko didn't add more.

Kuroko sullenly stared at his reflection on the water. "…I…don't know…" he whispered. "What do you feel about someone who abducted you? Shouldn't it be resentment or hate? But I don't feel that way…" He looked up at Midorima, doubt and confusion clearly shown on his face. "…And I don't know why. It's more like, I can't hate him. I'm angry for what he did but not at him."

"I'm not really the best person to do this but let me tell you something Kuroko," Midorima started. "Akashi wasn't always like this. He's meticulous, plans ahead, patient and calm. It's been a long time since I've seen him show any emotion aside from his indifference to the world. Then, he met you."

Midorima looked at Kuroko's sky blue eyes, listening intently at him. "I've never seen him so alive ever since I met him. You bring out emotions in him that no one could. You made him mad, amused and even draw out his gentle side. I may be asking a lot but I hoped that you will be more understanding to Akashi. I don't know what it is but I know that he has his own reason for doing things.

"I know that what he did hurt you in many possible ways and it might seem highly impossible but he did it for you—for your sake. I hope that you will trust Akashi the same way we trusts him. You're already halfway there, aren't you? That's why you're so confused because your emotions are conflicted with your logic."

Kuroko took his words silently, sitting so still he was like a statue. "I still don't know what to do," he finally said.

"You don't have to do anything right now," Midorima advised. "Take your time but don't think too much. There's no right answer just do what you feel is right. And when the right time comes, talk to Akashi. Tell him what you really feel." He took a final glance at Kuroko before straightening up and patted him on the head. "Dinner will be soon. Don't be out here too long."

"Thank you Midorima-kun…"

Midorima let out a small smile. "You're welcome Kuroko."

xXx

Murasakibara gave the door a warning knock before opening it and pushed the cart filled with food inside Akashi's office. His leader didn't even look up from the papers in his hands. "Are you sure you don't want to join us for dinner Aka-chin?" he asked.

"If I join you, Tetsuya will leave," Akashi casually answered. "And dinner will be disastrous because of the awkward atmosphere it will ensue. It's better if I stay here. I have a lot of documents to sort through anyway."

As Murasakibara arranged Akashi's dinner on another table, he glanced at the pile of papers on Akashi's desk. It looked like his leader wasn't just making up an excuse and seemed to be really busy though he wondered what it was about. "Is there a problem Aka-chin?"

Akashi paused and looked up at him. "Nothing much," he said, "just checking up on things. But just in case, do warn the others to be prepared."

Murasakibara blinked in surprise. Akashi was being forthright tonight which was unusual. He supposed it only went to show how tired his leader was. Did Midorima know anything about this? "Is it about Kuro-chin?" he guessed.

Akashi sighed wearily and placed down the papers he was reading on his desk. "How is Tetsuya?"

Murasakibara was nonplussed at his leader's silent demand not to inquire more. "Kuro-chin is still sad but Kise-chin and Mine-chin kept him company. He seemed to cheer up a little after talking to Mido-chin this afternoon though."

"Shintarou, huh?" Akashi distractedly said as he twirled a pen on his fingers.

"I don't like it," Murasakibara found himself saying.

Akashi looked at him, one eyebrow arching in wonder. "What is it that you don't like, Atsushi?"

"Aka-chin and Kuro-chin fighting," he childishly answered. "Everyone is too tense. Kuro-chin is sad and you're also sad, Aka-chin. Even Mine-chin and Kise-chin are acting weird, they don't fight like usual and they're too quiet. They don't leave Kuro-chin alone and follow him everywhere even if Kuro-chin doesn't want them to. Only Mido-chin act normal, he's more paranoid though."

Akashi stared at him for a moment before sighing and placed down the pen on the table. "Tetsuya and I won't reconcile just because you don't like it, Atsushi. It's more complicated than that."

Murasakibara pouted. "But it's not that complicated Aka-chin. Both you and Kuro-chin are making it complicated because neither of you won't talk."

"Atsushi, you do know Tetsuya is hiding from me and doesn't want to see me much less talk to me."

Murasakibara took one truffle from Akashi's dessert since all this talking was making him hungry (Akashi wouldn't get mad at him anyway). "I think Kuro-chin is ready to talk to you now Aka-chin," he said in between bites. "He didn't ask but I think he was looking for you when he went to dinner."

That seemed to surprise Akashi. "Oh, really?"

"Yup," Murasakibara nodded, popping the p. "Mido-chin must have said something to him." He didn't know if it was his imagination or what but he was sure he heard Akashi muttering "he better not tell him about that" or something along those lines. "So are you going to talk to Kuro-chin, Aka-chin? I want everyone eating together again. It's like we're a family."

"Is that right?" Akashi said with a smirk, amusement evident on his eyes.

"Yeah," Murasakibara nodded. "Aka-chin and Kuro-chin should make up."

"You're right Atsushi," said Akashi, standing from his chair and moved towards the door. "Tetsuya and I need to talk."

Murasakibara watched his leader's retreating figure before the door was shut closed. He glanced at the food he brought. Aka-chin won't kill me if I ate his dinner, right? He shrugged and took the plate of pasta as he settle down on the couch.

Murasakibara was a hundred percent sure that everything would go alright.

xXx

Kuroko distractedly watched the glowing full moon at the starry night sky as he sat on the window seat, Midorima's words from before forefront in his mind. He wondered what his next step should be. It would be awkward for him if he approached Akashi after evading him for days.

Kuroko gave no outward reaction when he heard the door to his room opened and then footsteps, muffled by the carpet, getting closer to where he was. He glanced at the corner of his eye as Akashi leaned against the wall next to the window, crossing his arms over his chest.

Kuroko turned his attention back at the scenery outside, waiting for Akashi to speak up. "Atsushi said we should make up," Akashi said after a few beats of silence. "Apparently, everyone is on edge and couldn't act normally as they should since they thought it might displease us."

Kuroko scoffed. "What are we, their parents?" He could feel Akashi smiling at his comment. He didn't bat an eyelash when he sensed Akashi sitting next to him and just stared at his reflection mirrored on the window, waiting for one of them to make a move. "This isn't how I envisioned our confrontation. I thought there will be shouting and such," he commented.

"Huh…" Akashi sighed as he leaned back at the window. "That's what I thought, too. I planned on doing that before but things changed."

"What made you changed your mind?"

"You did," Akashi confessed. Kuroko blinked in surprise and turned to Akashi. Akashi gave him a weary smile as his hand reached out towards him. Kuroko didn't know how but he found himself meeting Akashi halfway until their hands touched, palm to palm, until their fingers slowly intertwined together. "Are you still mad at me?" Akashi asked as he stared at their clasped hands.

"I don't know," Kuroko honestly answered. "I guess not. I'm talking to you now, aren't I?"

"Hmm…"

An unusual silence filled between them. Feeling each other's presence. Hyperaware of every breath they each take.

Kuroko broke the tranquil atmosphere. "Akashi-kun, can I ask a favor?"

If Akashi was surprised at his sudden question, he didn't give any indication. "Of course."

"I would like to see my parents," Kuroko said, gazing squarely at Akashi's eyes. "I mean, not right now but maybe later, a few months, a year or two. I don't care how long it takes. I just need to see them again."

Akashi brushed his thumb at Kuroko's skin between his thumb and forefinger, distracting him a little. "I hated these past few days," Akashi started. "You were here with me but at the same time you were not. You were running and hiding from me. You ignored me. And you don't talk to me."

Kuroko stared at Akashi, wondering where he was going with this. He didn't know if Akashi was deflecting or what but he decided to humor him.

"I would have taken your hate and anger; in fact I would have preferred it. But instead I sensed that you felt nothing. You were numb. So lifeless, it's like you're a walking dead man. It felt like I killed your soul—your essence. And I hated it."

"My parents are my reason for living Akashi-kun," Kuroko admitted. "When you took me away from them, it's like you ripped my life out of me."

"I know," Akashi whispered. "That's why I'm saying yes to your request Tetsuya. When the time is right, I'll take you to your parents."

"Thank you." Kuroko was surprised Akashi easily agreed but he was grateful that he understood what Kuroko was saying. He raised an eyebrow when Akashi took something out of his pocket. He stared at him in confusion when Akashi opened his palm showing a black bracelet with three red rubies—the middle one being the biggest—embedded on it. "What is this for?" he asked as he reached out and lightly touched the rubies with his finger.

"A gift," answered Akashi. "A peace offering you could say."

"Are you bribing me Akashi-kun?"

Akashi chuckled. "Not really. It's only a coincidence that the jeweler finished customizing it today." Akashi looked at him tenderly. "May I?"

Kuroko wasn't a big fan of jewelries (that was a given considering he wasn't a girl) and he didn't know much about it. His first thought was to refuse. He couldn't accept something so expensive but some unknown feeling prompted him to accept Akashi's gift.

Kuroko nodded his consent.

Akashi put the bracelet on Kuroko's left wrist, stroking it gently before taking his hand closer to his face, his crimson eyes intently gazing on him. Kuroko's lips parted slightly as Akashi kissed his bracelet not breaking eye contact but Kuroko could feel the warmth of it through his wrist. Not fair, Kuroko thought. "Why did you bring me a gift?"

Akashi leaned closer to him and wrapped an arm around his shoulders to tug him closer as if Akashi had enough of the space separating them. Kuroko could feel Akashi taking a deep breath and pressed a soft kiss on his forehead. "It's not exactly a normal gift," Akashi finally answered.

Kuroko looked up at Akashi. "You mean, this bracelet,"—showing the jewelry on his wrist—"isn't an ordinary bracelet."

"Don't take this the wrong way—"

"When you say it like that it feels like I am going to take it the wrong way."

Akashi smirked. "That bracelet will protect you."

"Why? Is it a charm or something?"

Akashi looked amused. "Love, how about you let me finish talking and ask questions after?"

"Fine," Kuroko said with a frown.

"In a way it's like a protection charm but its main function, you could say, is a security alarm," Akashi explained. "It will alert me when you are in danger."

Kuroko couldn't help it, he asked. "How?"

Akashi reached out to touch the bracelet specifically the biggest ruby. "The ruby has my blood in it. So whenever you are, I can trace you. It will also alert any vampire near you that you are mine."

"So let me get this straight," Kuroko said, arching an eyebrow, "my bracelet serves as a tracker and a metaphorical collar."

"You have a way with words, love."

"Stop deflecting, Akashi-kun."

Akashi sighed. "Yes."

Kuroko narrowed his eyes at Akashi, who tried to look innocent. It wasn't working obviously. He let out a tired sigh. "I can't get it off, can I?"

Akashi cleared his throat. "Only the one who put it on can take it off."

"And you wouldn't obviously take it off so I'm stuck with it," Kuroko stated and Akashi just gave him a shrug. He rubbed the ruby on his bracelet deep in thought. No wonder it shined so strangely, a vampire's blood was in it. He didn't even know how that happened. "Does vampires' blood do that?" he asked.

"No," said Akashi. "My blood is different."

Kuroko had a feeling that he wouldn't get any more information out of Akashi. "Since it's for my protection,"—and partly claim of ownership—"I guess it's fine, so thank you for the gift, Akashi-kun."

"You're welcome, my love," Akashi whispered near his ear making him shudder slightly.

Kuroko stared at Akashi thoughtfully. He seemed awfully compliant and gentle than normal maybe because he was apologizing in his own weird way. It still hurt him when he remembered his parents and their tearful goodbye but he wasn't mad at Akashi anymore. He figured Akashi had his own reason why and Midorima already confirmed that this was an unusual move from Akashi.

Kuroko may be a captive (was it still considered kidnapping?) but it wasn't like he was being mistreated and such, contrary he felt welcomed as if the coven was waiting for his presence to fill up some void they were feeling—as if he was already a part of them like he was designed to be with them from the very start. He could feel it and he knew everyone could sense it as well. For that, he wanted to give Akashi something in return. But he didn't know what to give to the vampire. He blinked when an idea sprouted in his mind.

Kuroko did have something he could give Akashi. Only him.

Resolved and before Kuroko could talk himself out of it, he wasted no time and started unbuttoning the upper part of his shirt. He ignored Akashi, who was raising an eyebrow at his actions. He put his hands on Akashi's shoulders, leaning towards him. "I want you to…" he paused and gathered all his courage. "I want you to drink my blood Akashi-kun."

Akashi stared at him blankly, unfazed at his words. "You don't have to do this, love. I can wait."

Kuroko shook his head. "It's my choice Akashi-kun. I'm doing this of my own free will."

"Are you sure, my love?" Akashi asked, his arms encircling Kuroko's waist.

"Akashi-kun," he whispered in the vampire's ear, "don't make me beg."

That seemed to snap Akashi's control and Kuroko gasped when Akashi unceremoniously placed him on his lap, his thighs straddling Akashi's hips. Kuroko's heart thudded wildly against his chest as he gazed at Akashi's crimson eyes; burning with so much intensity it was as if they were flames.

Without thinking, Kuroko closed his eyes when Akashi slowly and gently kissed his forehead trailing down to his eyes, to his cheeks, and his jaw and slowly, slowly tracing downward to his throat and neck. Kuroko clutched Akashi's shoulders, his nails digging hard to leave bruises but not like it would matter when Akashi nipped and sucked his skin. Kuroko leaned his head back, revealing his neck more to Akashi's perusal. He let out a breathy moan when he felt Akashi's fangs grazing his neck especially his throbbing vein preparing to bite.

He felt a sharp prick of pain.

And then pleasure.

A surge of overpowering and indescribable pleasure, an unrelenting sensation overflowing his whole body that took control over him.

Kuroko sluggishly shifted closer to Akashi with the vampire tugging him tighter, a soft moan escaping out of his parted lips and through his blurred senses he heard Akashi groaning. He should have been embarrassed when his moans got louder as Akashi continued to drink his blood but he didn't care. All he could think and feel about was Akashi's fangs on his neck and the unbridled pleasure it gave him.

Kuroko was the one giving blood but why did it feel like he was the one receiving it? He wanted Akashi to continue and continue drinking his blood because just as blood left his body he felt something inexplicable filling him in exchange and he was too listless to know what it was. He softly groaned in protest when Akashi pulled his fangs back, his tongue licking up the excess blood and Kuroko's wound. He must have been too out of it that when he blinked, he was already lying on his back on the bed with Akashi hovering above him.

"Too much, love?" Akashi asked and it took Kuroko a few seconds for the words to permeate his brain. He couldn't answer; tiredness seeped through his body and mind and just let out a quiet moan. "How peculiar," Akashi absentmindedly murmured, tenderly caressing his face with his hand.

"Akashi-kun," Kuroko sighed, unsure.

Akashi gave him a soft smile. "It's alright, my love. You should rest." He pressed a gentle kiss on Kuroko's forehead before straightening up.

Kuroko didn't know where he got the energy from but he unexpectedly found himself tugging Akashi's shirt, stopping the vampire from leaving. "Don't go," he whispered. In the back of his mind, he was questioning his strange actions but pushed those thoughts aside for now. Tonight, he just wanted Akashi to be beside him.

Akashi took his hand and for a fleeting second Kuroko wondered if the vampire would ignore his request. He breathed a sigh of relief when Akashi sat on the edge of the bed, running his hand through Kuroko's hair to soothe him while still holding his other hand.

Kuroko smiled a little as he dazedly stared at Akashi. "Good night Akashi-kun."

"Good night, my love," Akashi whispered, returning his smile.

Kuroko's small smile lingered as he drifted into sleep, trusting the vampire to watch over him.


Q&A CORNER!

Q1: How long will it take for Kuroko to warm up to Akashi? (Guest 1)
A: He's slowly warming up to him in Chap 7 and 8 but he'll accept Akashi after Arc I specifically on Chap 12. And their relationship will progress more after that.

Q2: How many chapters there will be still for them [AkaKuro] to start their relationship as a couple? (Guest 1)
A: After Arc II which means Chapter 20+ or so.

Q3: Is there something special about his [Kuroko] blood? (KurokoTetsuya101)
A: Yes, there is. It will be explained after Arc I or maybe at the start of Arc II. Kuroko's blood is pretty important actually.

Q4: What do they plan to do with him [Kuroko]? Turn him into a vampire or something more? (KurokoTetsuya101)
A: Yes, Akashi wants to turn Kuroko into a vampire (so they can be together forever) but the decision is still up to Kuroko. (But we all know that he will be so it's pretty much a given.)

Q5: Kuroko's Akashi's mate, right? Right? *puppy eyes* (ShioriErz)
A: AkaKuro is the story's endgame so yes, Kuroko is Akashi's mate. They were made for each other (in this story anyway).

Q6: How many arcs are there in this story and how long are they? I don't know if you mentioned this before but I haven't read it anywhere. (kh07gl)
A: I haven't mentioned it yet so here it is: There will be 8 Major Arcs plus a few chapters in between them (those chapters are pretty important since it's a progression of Akashi and Kuroko's relationship).
Arc I: 4 chapters (Chapter 8-12)
Arc II: 5 chapters and starts at Chapter 17
Arc III: This is a long arc so maybe 6-8 chapters
Arc IV: 4 chapters
Arc V: It's still in plot stage but this is an important arc so it's 5 chapters or more
Arc VI: 3 chapters? (I still don't know if I want to include this arc, many might not want it.)
Arc VII: At least 5-6 chapters (ugh, everyone is so going to hate me in this arc)
Arc VIII: After Arc 7, we're going to immediately dived into this arc (you're going to thank me for it). It might last 8-10 chapters because it's the last one; then epilogue
So all in all, it might last...50+ chapters?! What the hell did I get myself into?!

Q7: I'm really excited about seeing Kagami! Off the top of my head, I can think of five ways he might be introduced: 1) He's a strong vampire from somewhere else, and the GOM happen to meet him 2) He's a mortal with a lot of potential that stumbles into the vampire world 3) He's connected to Murasakibara through Himuro 4) He's a childhood friend or a classmate of Kuroko's or 5) He's a vampire hunter out for the covens' hides. (Assasin8)
A: Totally not a question but I just want to put this in here. So Kagami, the answer to that (or the closest to it) is #1. He's not that strong (yet) but he is a vampire and Kuroko was the first one who noticed him not the GOM. There's a little bit of #3, too. Kagami is connected to Himuro and Himuro is connected to Murasakibara but Kagami and Murasakibara doesn't know each other. I can't say more since, gah, spoilers! But I like your theories especially #4 & 5!

Q8: Akashi does know that Kuroko will hate him for making him give up his family, right? (Kichou)
A: Yes, but Kuroko's reaction wasn't he was expecting hence why the scene with Kuroko's parents in chap 5 was born. I was surprised when that scene popped into my head and immediately wrote it.

Q9: What did Midorima mean by 'That incident will happen again'?/What incident is Midorima warning Akashi about? Ahhh I'm so excited to know! Could it be Akashi found someone before and that person died or something due to his wrong decision? (lumiere du soliel/Misa)
A: Yes, that's exactly it! Well, actually, it's not exactly a wrong decision on Akashi's part. It's just that everyone warned him to be careful and he didn't. He's kind of like that now with Kuroko, too but he's taking careful measures as well and everyone supports him. He doesn't know what to do if something bad happened to Kuroko so he's kind of paranoid, it's just unnoticeable to Kuroko (and in a way to, you, readers as well) since he doesn't know what Akashi was like before. You'll know the full story after Arc II though there are hints about it (and even who that person is) during it.

Q10: Anyway, I can't wait to see Kagami's appearance! Heheheh. I can't imagine him as a vampire, though. Is he even one in the first place? (Alexiella)
A: Yes, Kagami is a vampire. He is also part of a coven (not Akashi's). I think you can guess whose coven is that, right?

Q11: Also, is there something the coven are hiding from Kuroko? (lumiere du soliel)
A: The coven has a lot of secrets that they hide from Kuroko as a group and also their individual secrets. Kuroko will know about them little by little as the story continues.

Q12: What did Aomine's slip up mean? (lumiere du soliel)
A: You mean when Aomine said that Akashi wants Kuroko to be a vampire, right? I don't think this isn't all that spoilery since some of you might have guessed it so here it goes: Mated vampires drink only each other's blood, in a way they're bonded together like that. If one drinks blood that isn't his/her mate, that vampire will get sick (or in some cases poisoned). A vampire mate's blood gives them twice or perhaps more nourishment than a normal blood does and even tasted delicious than anything. That's the only thing I can say. Further explanation will be in the future chapters.


A/N: Okay so my excuse for the late update: I was distracted, that's it. I did say before that it was pathetic, right? I was so focused in reading books and re-reading my new fav book series (plus fanfics of it) that I was in no mood to write any of my fics. I was more in tuned to that series that born to a new fic about it and immediately wrote scenes. I wanted to write DD, really I did but my heart just wasn't into it. But I got my groove back and finished this chapter albeit late.

Anyway, for chap 6, I'll post it next week. And this time, I really will post it on time. I'm serious. I'm almost finished with it, just need to write 2 more scenes and I'm done.

As for chap 7, I'll post it on Nov and it's going to be the only chapter I'll post for that month. In Dec, I'll update 3 times: Chapter 8-10. Yup, that's right, it's Arc I. It's kind of like a Christmas and New Year gift to all of you. To be clear though, I won't post them simultaneously, there's a few days (maybe a week) in between.

So I guess that's it. See you guys on Nov!