Disclaimer: Kuroko no Basket is owned by Fujimaki Tadatoshi
Pairing: AkaKuro
A/N: This chapter is dedicated to Korunakuroko! Happy birthday, darling~ I hope you have a great birthday, today ˚✧₊⁎( ˘ω˘ )⁎⁺˳✧༚
Thanks to my reviewers: Bre, Kuroko-SenPaille, silver woman, BerryBliss, Tamani, Kottori, ghost reader, Reality Slap, zoedapoey, 123ANIMEfun, ShinseiShinwa, manna95, Jennosaur, Kasu97, madworld27, Adorable Reader, Luralis, PrideViola, Yami-The Lord of Darkness, Purpley97, KNBSnkLover and 2 Guests. Thanks for the favorite and follow alerts, too.
Sixteenth Night: Games and Riddles
"I don't think I can kill a vampire."
Kuroko was surprised when he suddenly blurted that out. He only though of that since he was reading a novel with vampires as its characters except from the main protagonist. Kuroko was in the climax with the main character turned into a vampire and almost killed her sire and mentor.
(He picked the book because of Kise and Aomine's affronted faces when he mentioned the story to them and told Kuroko that all of those were fiction and didn't resemble any truth. Midorima and Murasakibara agreed to this while Akashi only glanced at his book in amusement.)
Kuroko turned to Akashi beside him when he heard him closing his own book. They were on his bed and reading novels to pass the time before settling to sleep. "Are you finished reading, Akashi-kun?" he asked.
Instead of answering his question, Akashi faced Kuroko after placing his book down on the bedside table. "What do you mean you can't kill a vampire? Daiki and Ryouta already trained you to incapacitate one. The next step should be killing it before it could attack you again."
"Yes, they did," Kuroko answered, "but no matter how much I practice, it will still be different when I'm already in that moment. Aomine-kun and Kise-kun are training me seriously but I know the difference between that and a frontal attack from a vampire with intent to kill me. I'll be killed instantly."
Kuroko blinked when Akashi abruptly cupped his face and gazed at him in shock. "Akashi-kun—"
"Don't ever say that again," Akashi firmly and intensely stated as his crimson eyes flashed like a blazing inferno. Noticing how fervent he was, Akashi sighed and his eyes dimmed to a slow burn. "Merely thinking of that scenario just makes my blood go cold. I can't lose you, Tetsuya. I just can't."
Kuroko could only nod his head as his whole being was simply stunned to the core at Akashi's revelation. "I'm sorry," was the only thing he could say as he was wrapped in Akashi's embrace. He didn't know why Akashi was so this ardent but he got the sense that Akashi lost someone important before and couldn't afford to experience that pain again.
Was it his parents? A sibling? Maybe Friends? Or perhaps…a former lover?
In any case, Kuroko needed to sidetrack Akashi from lamenting. As much as he wanted to know and he knew that he would get answers if he asked Akashi now, Kuroko still wasn't ready to find out. Perhaps he was being a coward but he wanted to remain ignorant for now. "Anyway, Akashi-kun," Kuroko started as he pulled away from Akashi, "what do you suggest I do? Does Akashi-kun know some kind of trick for me to overpower a vampire?"
"Overpowering a vampire is impossible for you, love," Akashi answered, taking Kuroko's lead.
Kuroko raised an eyebrow. "As you pointed out earlier I can incapacitate a vampire so why do you think it's impossible? Is it because I'm human?"
"There is a difference between disabling a vampire to overpowering one," Akashi countered. "And perhaps the reason for that is as you said, you are human. The latter is harder for you than the former. Not to mention, even by human standards, you are weak, my love. "
Kuroko slightly glared at Akashi. "Akashi-kun is too frank."
Akashi's mouth tipped in a small smile. "There's no point in denying it, love. You should be aware of your own weakness."
"Then, what does Akashi-kun propose I do?" Kuroko asked. All the training and practice he'd undergo would be a moot point if he couldn't attack a vampire and get killed instead.
"Tetsuya, I'm not the only one who recognized you're unique talent. Everyone is already familiar with it. And you even incorporated it to your own fighting style. It is apparent that you should use it to your advantage," Akashi said, gazing at him seriously.
Kuroko blinked. "By unique talent, you mean my weak presence? Can I beat a vampire with just that?"
"Of course," Akashi nodded. "Your weak presence enables you to be undetected to the point of being invisible. You can ensure your success if you use it for a surprise attack. It's the only advantage you have. You can't beat a vampire with brute force, Tetsuya. It is certain you will lose in that regard."
"Is Akashi-kun saying I should use misdirection to fight a vampire?" Kuroko asked, looking at Akashi in confusion. "I understand what you mean, but is it possible?"
"Nothing is impossible if one sets his mind to it. And after watching Tetsuya train, I noticed that you're unconsciously using misdirection when fighting. Most of the time, you're only using it when you're on the defense. But you're true strength lies on the offensive. I believe in you, Tetsuya. I'm confident you'll be able to master your own style. And if I remember correctly, Tetsuya also uses misdirection in playing basketball."
Kuroko nodded; a bit stunned that Akashi knew his playing style in basketball. "I do. But I'm a passing specialist and a support type of player. Basketball and defeating a vampire are vastly poles apart. How can I use my weak presence against them? It's not like I can pass my weapon to a vampire."
"You are right in saying those two things are dissimilar," said Akashi as he leaned closer to Kuroko. "But, Tetsuya, we are fighting for our survival. If a vampire tries to kill you, do not hesitate in killing it. You aren't going to shoot a ball through the net but staking a vampire through its heart. And you can easily do that if you use misdirection."
Kuroko clenched his fists on his lap. "But I don't want to kill anyone. I can't do it Akashi-kun."
"I know," Akashi said sympathetically. "But between your life and a vampire trying to kill you, you have no choice but to choose. Kill or be killed. Survive or die."
Kuroko stared at Akashi, his face devoid of any emotion. He knew what Akashi was saying but this is a life—a supernatural one but still a life they were talking about. He is not a killer.
"I know you still don't understand my point. And I will do everything I can to ensure you won't be in that situation until you're prepared," Akashi continued as he scooted closer Kuroko and took hold of his hands. "But if that were to happen, Tetsuya, promise me you'll live. That you will at least try to survive."
Kuroko grasped Akashi's hands. "Akashi-kun, I…"
"Promise me, Tetsuya," Akashi insisted.
Kuroko gazed hard at Akashi's ruby red eyes. He could see desperation reflecting in them, an unusual emotion coming from Akashi. He knew Akashi was only worried about him. When Akashi looked at him like that, how could he say no? "I promise Akashi-kun," Kuroko vowed. "I promise that I will live."
Akashi gave him a soft smile and tenderly kissed his knuckles. "Thank you, my love."
"Even so, I still don't know how to use my misdirection to vampires," Kuroko said, going back to their previous topic. "It doesn't seem to work on you, Akashi-kun."
Akashi released his hands and leaned back. "Don't worry, love, it will work on vampires. The only reason why it doesn't work on me is because of my eye."
"Your eye?" Kuroko repeated, curious as to what Akashi meant.
"It's a story for another time," Akashi said with a dismissive wave of his hand and Kuroko had to sigh for that. Akashi was really full of secrets. But Kuroko knew not to pry since it would only lead to Akashi in a bad mood and Kuroko didn't want that.
"Anyway, love, how about we play a little game?" Akashi asked with a smirk splayed on his lips.
xXx
Kuroko only watched as Akashi tugged his gloves tighter and he stared back at Kuroko before eyeing his coven. They were in the entryway seeing Akashi off. Akashi took the gray overlong coat Murasakibara handed him and slipped into it. "Well then, I trust everyone to watch over Tetsuya."
"You sound like I always get in trouble, Akashi-kun," Kuroko deadpanned.
Akashi smirked. "I'm just looking out for you, my love."
"Where are you going again?" Kuroko asked. He was curious to where everyone went to when they go outside. Except when Murasakibara went grocery shopping and always asked Kuroko if he had any requests.
"I'm going to meet someone," Akashi answered. Kuroko didn't know he was frowning until Akashi pointed it out, his tone full of amusement. "Stop pouting, love. I'm only meeting informants of mine not a secret lover. So don't worry, you have nothing to be jealous about."
Kuroko shifted his eyes away from Akashi's amused gaze. "I am not jealous," he said though his voice kind of lacked conviction.
"Whatever you say, my love," said Akashi as he tried to hide his smile. "I'll be back at, say, around dinner."
The whole coven seemed surprised at that. "But that means you'll be gone for the whole day Akashicchi," Kise said, confused. "Does your meeting have to last that long?"
"Of course not," said Akashi as he gave Kuroko a subtle meaningful look. "I have other things that I need to attend to."
Kuroko knew what Akashi was suggesting. Akashi was giving him the whole day as an allotted time for their game. He really didn't know what Akashi was thinking when he thought of this game; aside from as a way of training, of course. And it wasn't like there were going to be winners and losers in this. Well, except from him since if he was successful, it would be an advantage for him.
"Take care Akashi-kun," Kuroko said before the rest of the coven could further question their leader.
Akashi gave him a small smile. "I'm going, my love," he said, stepping outside the mansion with a car waiting for him. Murasakibara closed the door before Kuroko could see if Akashi was the one driving or if there was someone else on the car.
"Well, that's that," Aomine remarked as he let out a huge yawn. "I'm going to take a nap. Want to come with me, Tetsu?" He blinked when Kuroko didn't answer and looked around the entryway. "Tetsu? Hey, did any of you see Tetsu?"
Kise's eyes wandered around the place to search for Kuroko and then shrugged at Aomine. "Kurokocchi was just here. Maybe he went upstairs?"
"Since when did Tetsu move that fast?"
Murasakibara only passed by them and went to his room while Midorima reprimand the two. "If Kuroko wants to be alone, you should let him be. You two are often stuck to his side that he maybe got annoyed of you both."
As the two tried to protest at Midorima's statement, Kuroko watched their reflections on the big vase displayed on the table in front of him. So they really didn't notice his presence as soon as he used misdirection. He hid behind the wall in the corner of the left hallway near the entryway while they were watching Akashi leave.
Kuroko remembered last night as Akashi explained the mechanics of the game. Akashi gave him different yet specific colored markers and told him to place it on everyone without their notice. Akashi forbade Kuroko to put it when he was with any of them, aware of his presence and had to plant the stickers when the vampires were alone.
It sounded easy at first but considering how keen their senses were, it would be difficult for Kuroko. Akashi's only advice was for Kuroko to his use his weak presence and misdirection to his full advantage. Whatever the case may be, Kuroko had to be creative in playing this game. For some reason, he didn't want to lose.
Kuroko returned his attention back to the three—now, two vampires. Midorima must have left while Kuroko was lost in his thoughts. He watched as Kise left Aomine and skipped to somewhere. And with that, Kuroko decided Aomine as his first mark.
Aside from Akashi, Aomine's senses were superb. He could feel Kuroko from miles away but that was when Kuroko didn't hide his presence. He never once tried misdirection on Aomine except when they were training and Aomine's guard was always up at that time. Now though, not so much, maybe Kuroko could do this but he needed to be careful. For Kuroko, Aomine was the hardest to catch off guard. It was best to get this over with early on the game.
And so, Kuroko followed Aomine like a ghost, taking careful measures to make his steps inaudible and willed his heartbeat in a slow yet steady rhythm. Aomine always took a nap outside so Kuroko was confused when Aomine veered to his room instead. Did Aomine already catch onto Kuroko's presence?
Kuroko quickly slipped inside Aomine's room before the door was shut closed and situated himself to an inconspicuous part of the area. If Aomine was going to sleep in his room, Kuroko had to wait a long time for Aomine to wake up and leave his room. Kuroko couldn't afford to put the marker on Aomine while he was asleep. Aomine always knew when someone was near him especially if he was sleeping so that was a no go.
Fortunately for Kuroko, Aomine didn't seem set on sleeping and instead was sitting on his bed, appearing to be deep in thought which was unusual to Kuroko. Kuroko rested his back to the wall and observed Aomine in fascination, who was rummaging underneath his bed. Kuroko was curious as to what Aomine was looking for and then rolled his eyes when he saw the scantily clad bikini girl on the cover of a magazine.
After almost an hour of just standing, Kuroko was getting bored and wished that Aomine would get out of the room. He didn't have much opening if they were in an enclosed place like this. And as if hearing Kuroko, Aomine stretched and stood up, moving to the door. Kuroko stealthily shadowed Aomine and stopped when Aomine halted in his tracks and took out his phone from his pocket.
Aomine took a right in the corner and opened the balcony doors, stepping outside. Shrouded by a big potted plant near the balcony, Kuroko tried to eavesdrop on Aomine. This wasn't part of the game but he was curious.
"Yo," Aomine greeted to his phone. "What? Why? I don't wanna. Why don't you do it, asshole?" A few silence and then, "Fine, fine, I'll do it. Tomorrow, right? Where? Yeah, I'll be there."
Kuroko hastily moved further behind the plant as Aomine passed by his hiding place. He stiffened in fear at the sound of rustling leaves when he tried to step out. At the corner of his eye, he saw Aomine pausing and looked back. Kuroko gulped and stabilized his breathing as Aomine approached. Holding his breath, he kept an eye as Aomine closed the balcony doors and departed.
Kuroko inwardly relieved a sigh of relief. That was a really close call. He really thought Aomine found him. Nevertheless, it was good thing that happened. Kuroko got the chance to place the marker on Aomine and put it on his back. Since Aomine was often messy, the others would disregard it when they saw it.
Despite having done with Aomine, Kuroko silently trailed after him and then blinked when Aomine was suddenly gone. Aomine must have used his vampire speed to get away from him. In any case, it only meant that Aomine was aware that someone (or something) was following him but still hadn't figured out that it was Kuroko.
At any rate, Kuroko wasn't worried where Aomine was going since judging by the direction Aomine trekked, it was obvious where he would go. He silently made his way to the control room where Midorima was. (Midorima corrected Kise's name of 'command center' when Kuroko used it once before.)
Due to his panic, Aomine must have forgotten to close the door which was just fortunate for Kuroko and peeked inside. He didn't step inside in the off chance that they might see him. Kuroko saw Aomine gesturing wildly with his hands while Midorima looked annoyed and put off, perhaps because he was interrupted in his work.
"You're imagining things Aomine," Kuroko heard Midorima said as he glared at Aomine. "It's inconceivable to believe that someone was following you in here. There is a possibility that it was only Kuroko. Have you forgotten about his weak presence?"
"I would know if it was Tetsu," Aomine protested. "Yeah, Tetsu's presence is so low but I got used to it already. Well, most of the time but still. And I could sense Tetsu's blood from miles away! So I'm pretty sure it wasn't Tetsu!"
To Kuroko, it looked like Midorima wanted to roll his eyes at Aomine but seemed to decide against it. "Then, maybe it was only your imagination," Midorima said and tried to go back to his work.
Aomine didn't let him though and grabbed Midorima by his shoulders. "Midorima, you researched this mansion thoroughly, right? There are no shades here, right? Tell me, Midorima!"
Shades? Kuroko thought, his interest peaked at the unfamiliar word.
"Stop shaking me, Aomine!" Midorima groused as he pushed Aomine's hands off him. "And yes, I did a background check. And no, there are no shades around here. And I already placed a technical barrier around the whole estate so having a passing shade in the mansion is not feasible."
Aomine seemed to relax slightly at Midorima's explanation. "Are you sure?"
Midorima only sighed at him. "Yes, I'm sure," he said and regarded Aomine disapprovingly. "And the way I see it, you still have that irrational fear of ghosts, Aomine."
"Oh, shut up!" Aomine complained.
Kuroko blinked as he disregarded Aomine's grumbles (although he inwardly smirked and filed that info just in case). I see, so shades mean ghosts. Wait, ghosts exist? He wondered why Midorima didn't disclose it in their lessons. Maybe he forgot? Or perhaps they would tackle it in the future?
When Kuroko noticed that Midorima dismissed Aomine, he stepped inside and hid behind the door. Since Aomine forgot to close the door on his way in, Kuroko was pretty sure he would forget to close it again after leaving. He watched as Aomine strode away and by the looks of it, he was still guarded even after Midorima's rationalization. There was no point in following Aomine since Kuroko already placed the small sticker on him. He guessed that his next mark would be Midorima.
Now how should he go about this?
xXx
Midorima sighed as Aomine left the control room. He frowned when Aomine just abruptly left without closing the door and stood up to close it, annoyed at the interruption. He stilled when he heard a loud clatter behind him and turned around to find a bunch of fallen documents on the floor. Narrowing his eyes at the mess, he walked over and crouched to clean it up.
Midorima wondered how the papers had fallen over when there were now windows in the room so a wind knocking it over wouldn't be possible. He paused in taking another document from the floor as his eyes keenly swept over the room. He couldn't feel any presence in the room, not even a shade. He cursed Aomine for putting that thought in him and went back to arranging the documents, placing them back on the shelf.
Even so, thoughts about shades wouldn't leave his mind. And with that, Midorima closed his laptop and decided to go back to it later after he checked if the barrier was still in place. It was better to be safe than sorry. They had to be more cautious now more than ever because of their enemy.
Midorima went outside the mansion and headed to the northern part of the estate—a small, isolated and secluded forest. He had to admit the forest gave off an unusual vibe that Kise, Murasakibara and obviously Aomine didn't try to venture in it often. Midorima gave his reservations about the forest to Akashi but his leader waved off his doubts and was set on buying the estate despite it. Aside from the bizarre atmosphere, there was nothing out of the ordinary in the forest itself nor did it have any supernatural ties so he agreed as well.
Midorima proceeded further until he found what he was looking for, a bricked water well. The well was dry but it provided a good location for the center of the barrier he put up. He peered inside the well and when he saw the magical item faintly shimmering, he knew the barrier was still working. Midorima reared back and turned around to find Kise jogging towards him. "What are you doing here Kise?"
"That should be by line. What are you doing Midorimacchi?" Kise asked, glancing at Midorima before leaning forward a little and looked down at the well. "Are you checking the barrier you put up?"
"Yes," Midorima nodded. "I wanted to make sure it still works."
Kise raised an eyebrow at him. "Does this have to do with Aominecchi rummaging through the library looking for scrolls in exorcising evil spirits and ghosts and hoarding paper talismans?"
Midorima sighed. When he'd initially known that Aomine had phasmophobia, it was laughable at first almost to point of comical. It quickly turned to annoyance and irritation though after Aomine reacted exaggeratedly every time. Case in point, right now. "Just ignore him, Kise," he said.
"Well, I'm used to it already so I really don't care," Kise said, shrugging in nonchalance. "But what about Kurokocchi? He'll ask why Aominecchi is acting weird."
Midorima scowled. Now that he thought about it, he hadn't talked about shades yet to Kuroko. And knowing how interested Kuroko was when it came to their lessons then it would be tedious to explain about the other supernaturals to him in a short time (Kuroko likes to raise many questions after all). "Then, let's just hope Aomine will go back to normal before Kuroko finds out."
"Why don't you just give Aominecchi his lucky item for the day?" Kise suggested with a teasing smile on his lips. "He's going to need all the luck he can get if Midorimacchi is going to leave everything up to fate."
Midorima only glared at Kise but he did try to remember what was Virgo's lucky item for the day and when he recalled that it was salt (a basic element to thwart an average shade), he inwardly grimaced. "Just help me with the barrier Kise," he said instead.
"Eh, but why?" Kise asked, looking over at the well again as he leaned against it. "You're only testing if it still works, right? You won't need any help for that."
"Normally, yes, I wouldn't need help but I'm not only inspecting if it's still functioning. I want you to amplify its power, Kise. And you have more affinity to it than I do."
Kise blinked before shrugging his shoulders. "Okay, whatever you say Midorimacchi," he agreed as he leaped over to the well without any preamble.
Midorima narrowed his eyes and looked over his surroundings suspiciously. He could have sworn he heard some kind of stifled yelp. Maybe it was a stray animal; there were many that ventured in this part anyway. He looked down at Kise in the well. "Are you done Kise?"
"Almost," Kise shouted. "And it's still working perfectly fine by the way. Are you sure you want me to increase its power Midorimacchi?"
"Yes, so hurry up," Midorima answered. He took a couple steps back when Kise finished his work and let him jumped from the well. "Were there any problems?"
Kise shook his head. "Nope, everything is fine. And I gave it enough juice so it's going to work flawlessly than before. But if you really want to amplify it, you should have asked Aominecchi. He's good at this than I do and he has the same affinity to it, too. I'm sure he'll gladly do it considering his paranoia."
"I want a barrier that could keep out shades not something that could keep us imprison inside the estate," Midorima said, uncharacteristically rolling his eyes. And with that, he spun around to walk back to the mansion with Kise following his heels.
"By the way Midorimacchi," Kise started, breaking the silence between them, "have you seen Kurokocchi? I haven't seen him since Akashicchi left. I asked Murasakicchi but he said he didn't see Kurokocchi either. And Aominecchi shooed me away when I asked."
Midorima was surprised to hear that. They were used to Kuroko being with one of them especially Aomine and Kise so having Kise looked for him and with Aomine not knowing either was unexpected. "Have you looked everywhere? Maybe you missed him in some places or you passed by each other."
"I guess. I only searched at the places he frequented so there may be spots I'd missed. But if you see Kurokocchi tell me, okay?" Kise then laughed. "I thought Kurokocchi followed Akashicchi or something. That would be terrible."
Midorima abruptly stopped and that made Kise bumped to his back but he ignored it (as well as Kise's whines) as he glanced back at him. "Are you sure Kuroko is still in the mansion?"
Rubbing his achy nose, Kise blinked at him. "What, are you saying Kurokocchi really did follow Akashicchi? I was just joking, you know, that won't happen. And if it did, Akashicchi would know and contact us."
Kise did have a point. Midorima had a lot on his plate right now that he couldn't think straight. "Perhaps, you're right," he reluctantly agreed. "In any case, find Kuroko. We did have orders to keep an eye on him."
"Roger~" Kise playfully saluted Midorima before walking ahead of him to the mansion, probably to search for Kuroko right away.
Midorima followed but in a more leisure pace, his mind full of things. He was so lost in his thoughts that he jumped in surprise when he heard his name being called. He looked around and found Kuroko to his left. "Kuroko! Stop sneaking up on us like that!"
Kuroko just gave him an impassive stare. "I kept calling Midorima-kun's name but you didn't hear me. Moreover, I thought you sensed me coming Midorima-kun."
After calming his heart down, Midorima sighed and Kuroko's statement was right but he was preoccupied that he didn't discern Kuroko's presence until he showed himself. Midorima's eyes narrowed at Kuroko. "Where were you all this time Kuroko? Kise has been looking for you for a while now."
"Is that so? I was here in the garden waiting for Aomine-kun," Kuroko answered. "But it seemed he decided to sleep in his room instead so here I am."
Midorima didn't know what but there was something off in Kuroko's explanation. Kuroko had no reason to lie, did he? "In any case, you need to let Kise know where you are before he panics," Midorima said. Kuroko nodded and they made their way back to the mansion with Midorima going back to the control room and advised Kuroko to look for Kise in places where he was often at.
Midorima watched Kuroko's retreating figure in contemplation. He wasn't certain but there was something odd to Kuroko that day. Was it his imagination or did Kuroko's presence got a lot weaker than usual?
xXx
When he was out of Midorima's sight, Kuroko sighed. That was too close. He was almost found out.
His task with Midorima was over and down with. He actually already done it inside the control room but when Midorima hurriedly left, he followed him due to curiosity. Kuroko was surprised when he trailed after Midorima to the dense part of the estate; overgrown trees shrouded the thick forest and gave off a mysterious and intense vibe. Kuroko was aware of it when he wandered too far from the garden and made an unconscious decision not to go near it.
Kuroko was apprehensive in going there but he swallowed the trepidation in his chest and shadowed Midorima. He made sure not to lose sight of Midorima and thanked his lucky stars that Midorima didn't use his vampire speed. He was also careful in keeping a low profile and was cautious in his steps as to not alert Midorima. It wouldn't be good of he was found out and in that place, too. Kuroko knew in no uncertain terms that he wasn't allowed to be in that forest.
Kuroko was surprised when Midorima stopped in front of a well. He decided not to get too close since he couldn't find a place to hide so he hid behind thick bushes not too far off while lying on his stomach. He wondered what Midorima was doing there and his inquisitiveness raised more when Kise arrived and jumped over to the well. He quickly slapped his hands over his mouth when he screamed as Kise did that and willed his frantically beating heart to a more steady rhythm when Midorima surveyed his surroundings.
Kuroko felt like his heart would burst when that happened and thought he was caught and heaved a sigh of relief when he wasn't. He felt like he shaved off some parts of his lifespan just for this game.
When Midorima and Kise started to go back to the mansion, Kuroko trailed after them a little bit closer so he could hear them. He didn't hear what they were talking about when they were near the well and he inwardly frowned at that since they seemed to be talking about something important. But he put it out of his mind since he couldn't do anything about it.
It was a good thing Kuroko chose to move nearer or he wouldn't have known that Kise was looking for him. He revealed himself to Midorima before any of them panicked and actively searched for him (or worse, called Akashi). He would lose the game if that were to happen.
At the very least that was a small crisis averted.
For the time being, Kuroko's next target was Kise.
It would be a challenge to tagged Kise when he was looking for him but Kuroko would find a way to circumvent Kise. He needed to win this game and he couldn't afford to lose when he was already halfway there. And besides, Kuroko thought as he looked at the window and saw the grey cloudy sky. I still have plenty of time left.
Even so, Kuroko wondered where Kise was. He already passed the kitchen and gave Murasakibara a wave before continuing on. He sweatdropped when he saw Aomine in the library wearing several amulets on his neck and wrists (and probably ankle, too), scrolls littered on the floor around him and clutching some paper talismans tight in his hands. Kuroko left him to it and opted not to disturb him. He didn't want to be pulled along with whatever weird Aomine was doing. Everyone's room was a no go, too and he even double-checked the control room and only found Midorima there.
Now, Kuroko was getting restless and tried to deduce where Kise was. He didn't want to add a chase of cat-and-mouse to this game. He wandered around aimlessly on the first floor, checking the infirmary, the ballroom, and even the conference room. He decided to check the garage but a voice called out to him before he could.
"There you are, Kurokocchi."
Startled, Kuroko spun around and found Kise walking towards at him. "Kise-kun," he greeted. Well, at least he now knew where Kise was but he wouldn't be able to put the sticker on him. Too bad, but perhaps he could do it later. "Midorima-kun said you're looking for me."
"Yeah," Kise nodded and grabbed Kuroko's hand, pulling him along. "I've been searching for you for a while now and I looked everywhere. What are you doing here anyway Kurokocchi?"
"Coincidentally, I was looking for Kise-kun as well," Kuroko answered.
Kise drew Kuroko to the library and then backtracked when they remembered Aomine was there and instead headed to Kise's room. Kise's room was like Kuroko's room but the ocean blue color was more prominent than the snowy white in his room. To Kuroko, Kise's room was the most calming one for him. Plus, the room was neat and organized, not as systematized like Midorima's but it was leagues better than Aomine's (his room was dirty and chaotic) or Murasakibara's (not as bad as Aomine's but it was still messy due to the countless snacks in there).
"Why are we in your room Kise-kun?" Kuroko asked as Kise took a binder from his bookshelf.
Kise sat on his bed and patted the space beside him for Kuroko. "We're going to plan Kurokocchi!"
"Plan for what?"
"Kurokocchi's birthday, of course! We only have like two months to prepare."
Kuroko tilted his head to the side. He almost forgot about that but Kise was right, his birthday was close. "That's very thoughtful of Kise-kun. I'm a bit amazed that Kise-kun wasn't planning a surprise birthday party for me."
Kise's eyes widened, as if he only thought about that just now. "Wait, does Kurokocchi want a surprise birthday party? It will be difficult since Kurokocchi knows about it but I can think of something to make it really surprising!"
"Please, don't Kise-kun," Kuroko requested. "Forget I said that. And anyway, I don't like big party Kise-kun especially an extravagant one." He narrowed his eyes at Kise when he saw him quickly averting his eyes.
Kise sighed in defeat. "Then, what does Kurokocchi want for his birthday? We want to celebrate it since it's a special day. I'm sure Akashicchi will okay it if we go out. I know Kurokocchi missed going outside."
"Didn't Akashi-kun tell any of you?" Kuroko questioned. Kise shook his head in confusion. "Akashi-kun said that we'll go to my parent's house. We'll celebrate my birthday there."
Kise looked excited. "Really?! That's great! I know how much Kurokocchi wants to see them again. Ooohh, I remembered Miyako-san saying that she has a secret recipe for a birthday cake. She said that it's your favorite! I'm sure Miyako-san will make that cake! You should have seen Murasakicchi's face when Miyako-san refused to reveal the recipe."
"Kise-kun seems really close with Okaa-sama," Kuroko pointed out with a smile.
Kise chuckled, a bit embarrassed. "Yeah, Kurokocchi's mom is energetic like me so we got along well. Plus, she has lots and lots of stories about Kurokocchi as a kid and pictures!"—Kuroko's eyes twitched at that; he knew how exuberant his mother was when it came to him—"And I like Ryuuji-san, too! I thought he was scary at first but it turns out that's where Kurokocchi's personality came from. Ryuuji-san seemed a bit interested in vampires, too and often asked me questions."
"Otou-sama always likes to learn new things and vampires or supernaturals definitely fascinate his curiosity," Kuroko clarified. He and his farther were alike in that aspect.
Kise clapped. "So we're going to Kurokocchi's parents. That takes care of the location but the theme! What theme should we pick Kurokocchi?"
"An ordinary one," Kuroko deadpanned.
Kise pouted. "Kurokocchi is no fun~! You can tell me anything. We can do whatever you want. Don't worry about expenses. Akashicchi will cover it."
"I'm serious Kise-kun. I don't want anything outlandish," Kuroko said. "All I want is an ordinary birthday party. And I don't need anything, my parents and everyone will be there. That is enough for me. It already makes me happy that we're all going to celebrate my birthday together."
Kise appeared teary-eyed and Kuroko braced as Kise glomped him. "Kurokocchi!"
Once Kise calmed down, they finally planned for Kuroko's birthday. Kuroko relented when Kise begged to at least have some decorations. Kise also insisted that they will give him presents. Murasakibara and Kuroko's mother will handle the food with Akashi paying for it all. Kise said that he would finalize all of it with his mother next time Kise visits them.
Kuroko blinked when Kise told him that he was going to get something from Akashi's office and left Kuroko in his room. Kuroko saw this as a chance and waited a few minutes before following Kise, making sure that he was unnoticeable.
Kuroko saw Kise a few ways off and trailed after him. He stopped and hastily hid behind a stand cabinet as Kise got inside Akashi's office. Kuroko opted to wait for Kise to come out instead since he knew chances were he would get discovered if he had gone inside the office. Kuroko didn't have to wait long as Kise stepped out and made his way back to his room.
Crouching, Kuroko waited as Kise passed by him. As soon as he saw Kise's shoes, he swiftly stuck the marker at the hem of Kise's pants. Now, all he needed to do was to wait for Kise to go to his room and pretend that Kuroko went out for a reas—
"Kurokocchi?"
Kuroko froze and winced when the thud of the fallen pen echoed in the hallway. He looked up and saw Kise staring at him in both shock and confusion. "Kise-kun," he greeted, standing up after picking up the pen on the floor. "Here, you dropped this."
"Well, I only dropped it because Kurokocchi came out of nowhere." Kise took the pen, watching Kuroko carefully. "What are you doing here anyway? I thought Kurokocchi was waiting in my room."
Kuroko shrugged as casually as he could. "Kise-kun was taking too long so I came to find you."
"Did I take that long?" Kise mused.
To distract him, Kuroko took Kise's hand and tugged him. "Let's go Kise-kun. We're not finished planning, right?"
"O-Okay," Kise acquiesced, letting himself get pulled.
Inwardly, Kuroko heaved a sigh of relief as Kise didn't ask any more questions and got sidetracked at preparing for his birthday. He hoped Kise forgot about that instance. He didn't how many times he got caught by them today.
This game really wasn't good for his heart.
xXx
Murasakibara stepped out of the kitchen and looked at Kuroko, who was sitting down on the floor near the entrance way. "Kuro-chin, what are you doing? You've been sitting there for a while now. Just come in if you want to."
Kuroko only stared at him with unreadable eyes before standing up, dusting off his pants and went inside the kitchen. "How did Murasakibara-kun know I was there?" he asked.
Murasakibara tilted his head to the side before shrugging his shoulders. "I don't know. I just sensed Kuro-chin." He went back to what he was doing which was reading some cookbooks and recipes in the internet, plus the notebook Kuroko's mother gave him opened on the table.
Kuroko sat across from him, dragging a cookbook near to inspect it. "Is Murasakibara-kun trying new recipes?"
"Yup~" Murasakibara said, nodding before going back to his laptop and skimmed the different type of cuisines listed on the site. "I'm going to make Kuro-chin eat all kinds of food and taste assorted cuisines."
"That's nice of you, Murasakibara-kun," Kuroko remarked which only made Murasakibara hummed in gladness. Kuroko then stood up, saying, "Actually, I have to go Murasakibara-kun. Kise-kun asked me to extract Aomine-kun from the library and to stop him from making any more mess than necessary before Midorima-kun gets mad."
Murasakibara nodded his head noncommittally, engrossed at what he was reading. "Good luck with that Kuro-chin~" he said and gave Kuroko a glance as he left. He then wondered what Kuroko went there for but forgot about it when he saw an interesting recipe.
Murasakibara didn't know how long he was surfing on the net before deciding to stop for the day, cleaning up the books and Miyako's notebook. He stood up and carried them all and his laptop to his room. He halted in his tracks and turned around and found Kuroko behind, who was surprised that he saw him. "Kuro-chin, why are you following me?"
"I'm going upstairs, too Murasakibara-kun," Kuroko answered as he moved and walked alongside him. "Aomine-kun doesn't want to leave his room and Midorima-kun told me Akashi-kun wouldn't like it if he skipped dinner."
Murasakibara accepted Kuroko's answer. "Do you know what's wrong with Mine-chin, Kuro-chin?"
"Aomine-kun thinks there are ghosts in the mansion," Kuroko answered with a weary sigh. "He didn't believe me when I said there were none with Kise-kun and Midorima-kun backing me up. Aomine-kun is an idiot."
"Mine-chin always has that fear of ghosts. It takes a while to calm him down. Kuro-chin should tell Mine-chin that Aka-chin will ship him to Sacchin if he won't go back to normal."
Kuroko looked at him in confusion. "Sacchin?"
"You know, Mine-chin's childhood friend."
"Oh, you mean Satsuki-san?"
Murasakibara nodded. "Her full name is Momoi Satsuki."
Kuroko still appeared uncertain though. "Are you sure that will snap Aomine-kun from his paranoia? And won't Aomine-kun be happy that he'll get to see his childhood friend?"
"Mine-chin likes Sacchin but he doesn't like staying at her coven for long," Murasakibara informed. "And Mine-chin won't be happy that Aka-chin send him off to somewhere especially at this time."
Kuroko opened his mouth to probably ask him what that meant but Murasakibara gestured at Aomine's room beside Kuroko's and nodded at him to go inside before going to his own room which was on the other side of Kuroko's room. For the first time, Murasakibara locked his door after stepping inside. He wasn't dense. He knew Kuroko was hiding something. Kuroko evaded his questions when he found him outside the kitchen and skirted his other inquiries.
Not to mention, Kuroko disappeared in interval times throughout the day and when only Kise and Midorima looked for him that he showed up. Also, he was suspicious why Akashi had to spend the whole day away from the mansion when he only needed to meet with his informants. Murasakibara concluded that these two instances were related. And this was probably his leader's idea.
In the end, Murasakibara shrugged it all off. It was Akashi and Kuroko's business; he wouldn't intrude to whatever they were doing.
When it was almost time for dinner, Murasakibara went out of his room and blinked when Aomine's room opened as well and Kuroko and Aomine stepped out. Aomine still wore a black beaded charm around his neck and Murasakibara knew Aomine was also keeping a bunch of ofuda in his pocket. It looked like Kuroko hadn't calm Aomine down yet. "You're an idiot Mine-chin," he commented.
"Huh?! Murasakibara, you—" Aomine didn't get to finish his tirade as Kuroko elbowed him in the gut hard.
"I agree with Murasakibara-kun," Kuroko off-handedly said, disregarding Aomine's protests. "Aomine-kun is taking things to extreme. And as I said before, there are no ghosts here Aomine-kun."
Aomine rubbed his stomach as he stared at Kuroko suspiciously. "How would you know Tetsu? Don't tell me you can see ghosts?!"
Murasakibara volunteered to shut Aomine up by covering his mouth. Kuroko looked like he was close to snapping at Aomine. Kuro-chin is scary when mad, Murasakibara thought. "You're just hungry Mine-chin. You'll forget about ghosts after you eat." He ignored Aomine's muffles behind his hand and pushed Aomine down the kitchen with Kuroko accompanying them.
Kise met up with them at the staircase and doubled up in laughter when he saw Aomine being manhandled by Murasakibara. That ticked Aomine off as he got out of Murasakibara's hold and pounced on Kise. Kuroko rolled his eyes at the scene and called their names which instantly stopped them. It was really amusing how Kuroko could easily control those two when Akashi sometimes had difficulty in handling them.
Once settled, Kise offered to help Murasakibara in cooking which he appreciated but forbade Kise to not bake or handle desserts which Kise insisted that that was an accident. He was still cross at Kise for ruining and damaging his kitchen from before.
Murasakibara was too focused on telling Kise off and paused on his tracks when he noticed that Kuroko was too close to his side. He turned to Kuroko at his left. "What's wrong Kuro-chin?"
Kuroko appeared a little startled before giving him a small smile. "There's nothing wrong Murasakibara-kun," he said but Murasakibara noted how Kuroko's heartbeat picked up before going back to a normal pattern; either Kuroko was lying or Murasakibara surprised him.
"Are you sure Kuro-chin?"
Kuroko nodded. "Yes, I'm sure Murasakibara-kun. It must be because I'm famished. Handling Aomine-kun when he's paranoid can be a little tiring," he said which Aomine swiftly objected at hearing it.
"Whatever you say Kuro-chin," Murasakibara shrugged as they reached inside the kitchen.
He and Kise quickly went to work with Aomine and Kuroko watching them, the two would set up the table a bit later. Murasakibara rolled his sleeves up to his elbows so as not to inconvenient him. He noticed that Kuroko was staring at his left arm. "Something wrong, Kuro-chin?" he asked.
"Nothing, Murasakibara-kun," Kuroko said with an enigmatic smile on his lips as he placed his elbow on the table with his face resting on his right hand. "Please, don't mind me."
Even mystified, Murasakibara however, went back to preparing dinner with Kuroko watching him.
xXx
Kuroko gave the coven—barring Akashi—a fleeting glance before taking a sip of his tea.
Midorima sat on the other couch with Kise beside him while Aomine sat on the window ledge, his stare alternating between Kuroko and Akashi to outside the window; and Murasakibara sat on the big armchair since Akashi opted to be beside Kuroko on the couch.
They must be wondering why they were in the parlor considering that it was an unspoken rule for Kuroko and Akashi to spend time alone together after dinner. He turned to Akashi beside him and found him staring at Kuroko with an eyebrow raised.
Kuroko knew what Akashi was silently telling him and tipped his head to the side, giving the floor to him. Akashi was the one who suggested the game; he was the game master while Kuroko was the lone player. Akashi should be the one who would explain it to the coven.
Akashi nodded and gently placed his cup down to the table, the inaudible thud gathered the coven's immediate attention. "You all must be wondering why we are all assembled here tonight," he started. "But before that, can I ask all of you to check if there is a marker upon yourselves."
Even if they were confused, the coven did as they were told. Aomine found his first at his back—a dark blue sticker. Next was Murasakibara, who found it at the edge of his left sleeve and didn't saw it when he rolled it up to his elbows when he cooked earlier. Midorima took off the green marker on his belt and help it up with his hand, looking at Akashi and Kuroko but chose to wait for their explanation. Kise was the last who found his at the hem of his pants and mumbled how he didn't notice something so bright colored even if it was small.
"Okay, what the hell is this sticker for?" Aomine asked, taking the initiative as he stared between Kuroko and Akashi. "What did you two do?"
"A game," Akashi answered as he clasped his hands together, leaning forward. "How did you think you came to have that on you without drawing your attention?"
Kuroko's gaze drew to Midorima and Murasakibara, who seemed to figure it out easily. Kise blinked and when he put the pieces together, he stared at Kuroko in amazement. Unfortunately for Aomine, they had to spell it out to him. "What are you talking about Akashi?" Aomine asked.
"Use your brain, Aomine," Midorima sardonically stated, pushing his glasses up with his fingers. "Who do you think is the only person who could get close to us without our notice? And if you haven't guessed yet, I'm not talking about Akashi."
Aomine's eyes widened in shock as he turned his gaze to Kuroko when he finally found the answer. "No way," he uttered in disbelief. "It was Tetsu?!" And as if only remembering what Akashi had said, he shifted his eyes to his leader. "Wait, what do you mean by game? Are you telling me you had Tetsu plant some marker on us unaware?"
"More or less, yes," Akashi nodded as he inclined back on his chair, taking Kuroko's right hand to his lap. "The game was simple: Tetsuya will put a marker to all of you while masking his presence. He can't do it if you're aware of him so a simple misdirection isn't viable. The game would end if any of you caught Tetsuya in the act or he failed to tag one of you during the time limit."
Midorima narrowed his eyes at Akashi. "So that is the reason why you're out throughout the whole day. That was the time limit," he inferred and Akashi gave a nod of assent.
"But, um," Kise cut in, who seemed to be still confused, "what was the point of this game anyway? I mean, what Kurokocchi did was amazing, surprising but still amazing. No one ever got close to us except for Akashicchi."
Kuroko decided to answer it. "It's as you said Kise-kun, no one—not even a vampire—ever caught you unaware excluding Akashi-kun. Since I completed the game, what do you think it means if I ever tried it to an unsuspecting vampire?"
"That's so cool Tetsu!" Aomine exclaimed, his eyes burning with thrill. "It's like you're a ninja!"
Kuroko tuned out Aomine's rambles about trying it on their training next time and glanced at Akashi beside him when his hand was gripped tightly. He saw Akashi staring and followed his gaze to Murasakibara. "Atsushi," Akashi called out, "is there something on your mind?"
The rest looked at Murasakibara, who seemed surprised that he was called. "Nothing," he said. "It's just I always caught Kuro-chin trying to sneak up on me so I was wondering how he put the sticker on me."
"Woah, you sensed Tetsu?" Aomine said. "I didn't even felt even an ounce of his presence. And this is me we're talking about!"
Midorima glared at Aomine. "Your arrogance is still atrocious as ever, Aomine," he muttered before looking at Murasakibara. "Nevertheless, knowing you could detect Kuroko's presence when we did not is outstanding Murasakibara. Do you know why that is?"
"Nope~" Murasakibara shook his head. "I just can feel Kuro-chin, that's all."
"Maybe because Murasakicchi's sire is Akashicchi," Kise suggested. "Maybe Murasakicchi got it from him since Akashicchi can recognize Kurokocchi's presence anytime."
They all stared at Kise and then as one, they turned to Akashi, who looked contemplative. "I suppose Ryouta's theory do warrant some consideration. On the other hand, If Atsushi discerned your presence, how did you placed the marker on him, Tetsuya?" he asked, cocking an eyebrow at Kuroko. "Don't tell me you used some kind of trick, my love?"
"The rule you set indicated that I need to catch them alone but it was never stated that I couldn't do it while everyone was with me. Therefore, I didn't broke the rules and did not cheat as you implied, Akashi-kun," Kuroko placidly answered.
Aomine snickered. "He got you there, Akashi. Tetsu found a loophole."
"Ah!" Kise exclaimed suddenly, catching everyone's attention. "So that's what Kurokocchi was doing in the hallway. You weren't squatting because you picked up my pen but because you placed the sticker on my pants!"
"And the reason why Kuro-chin kept so close to me," Murasakibara added.
At this, Midorima narrowed his eyes at Kuroko. "Don't tell me you followed me to the forest Kuroko?" he inquired and sighed when Kuroko only nodded his head.
"Wait, does that mean Tetsu was the one following me all along?!" Aomine yelled out and then glared at Kuroko for probably scaring him throughout the whole day.
Kuroko let the accusations breezed through him like air as he finished his tea. "I only did what needs to be done," was all he said, unrepentant.
"Still, if this is a game and since Kurokocchi placed all the stickers to us, does that mean he won?" Kise asked both Kuroko and Akashi. "Does he get a prize or something?"
Kuroko glanced at Akashi and the vampire leader shook his head. "No, there is no prize. I just want to test Tetsuya's skills as well as assessing how vigilant everyone is. It seems you're all became too comfortable in Tetsuya's presence and let your guard down," he explained and eyed his coven disappointingly. "Since Tetsuya is a special case, I'll let you off this time. Although I do hope this won't happen in the future. Do I make myself clear?"
Looking like reprimanded kids, the coven nodded as one. To Kuroko, it seemed like Akashi was being too hard on them but he kept his mouth shut. This was Akashi's coven after all; he knew how to handle them best.
Kise couldn't seem to really hide his excitement at what Kuroko did and took a seat at his other side, probing about his misdirection. Akashi stood up and beckoned Murasakibara to talk to the side and Aomine chose the moment to occupy the vacant space, inquiring Kuroko, too. Kuroko was curious what Akashi and Murasakibara were talking about but it was probably about Kise's theory before and left them to it. Midorima joined in Kuroko's conversation as well, interested as to how Kuroko concealed his presence very well.
Akashi clapped his hands to get their notice. "It's late everyone. Tetsuya needs to rest. You can ask him questions tomorrow."
Kuroko bid them goodnight as he took Akashi's offered hand and made their way to Kuroko's bedroom. At the corner of his eye, he noted how Akashi appeared to be deep in thought. "Akashi-kun is hiding something," he said, gaining Akashi's attention.
Akashi raised a surprised eyebrow. "My, whatever do you mean, my love?"
Kuroko squeezed Akashi's hand tighter. "I have a feeling the game was your way of experimenting something. You are going to tell me about it soon, right? I know how preoccupied Akashi-kun—no, all of you are right now. But if it involves me I have the right to know Akashi-kun."
"It seems secrets can't be hidden long when it comes to you, love," Akashi remarked. "Give me more time, Tetsuya. Once I know everything, I will tell you. I promise."
Kuroko knew that once Akashi vowed, he would ensure everything to keep it. "I'll be waiting then Akashi-kun."
xXx
Akashi felt like he was losing time. He was close to cornering that vampire and his coven but it felt like he was missing a vital piece. It also didn't help how this sense of foreboding racked his whole being. According to his informants' report yesterday, they finally found that coven's hideout but Akashi had a feeling that it was a trap or a decoy and ordered for them to proceed cautiously.
Akashi looked up when someone knocked on his office door and found Midorima stepping inside. "What is it Shintarou?" he asked, noticing the grave expression on Midorima's face.
Midorima didn't answer and instead gave him a thick folder. If Akashi remembered right, this was the gift Kuroko's parents gave to Midorima. He opened it and his eyes widened marginally for a second before schooling his expression back to neutral as he read info after info before taking it all in.
Akashi sighed as he finished reading the thick documents and closed the folder. With his elbows resting on the mahogany desk and his hands clasped together, he leaned forward as he intently regarded Midorima, standing across from him. "So what do you think about this?" he asked.
Midorima glanced at the documents on the table before looking at Akashi. "You don't look surprised," he said instead of answering. "How did you know about it? Did Kuroko have a nightmare?"
"Miyako-san told me about it," Akashi answered which made Midorima raised an eyebrow in wonder and Akashi knew what Midorima was exactly thinking. Certainly, he and Miyako didn't see eye to eye and she had an utter dislike of him. His coven took too much pleasure in this and tried to subtly remind him about it. "And no, Tetsuya haven't had a nightmare. Yet."
Midorima opened the folder, flipping through the pages as he skimmed the psychiatrist's notes and the detailed script interview of Kuroko. He stopped at one page, pointing at the answer Kuroko had said written on there. "Kuroko said here that he doesn't remember having a nightmare. Considering how frequent it was, it's highly suspicious. And his nightmares weren't ordinary either judging by the statements of his parents written in the records. Another thing is this unknown language; even the psychiatrist couldn't find out what it was."
"In other words, you think a preternatural reason may be the cause of Tetsuya's nightmares," Akashi deduced and when Midorima nodded, he leaned back in his chair. Akashi read the whole file and when he read that Kuroko's nightmares swiftly died down after his grandmother's death; he couldn't help but accept the glaring evidence. There was something abstruse and mystifying about Kuroko's family and he needed to find out what it was.
"What are you thinking Akashi?" Midorima asked and Akashi almost forgot that he was still there. "If my speculations are correct then we need to look more on this. I know finding that vampire and his coven takes precedence but we couldn't ignore this fact. If Kuroko is joining our coven we need to more about him especially if he's hiding something this significant."
Akashi knew all that. He didn't need Midorima's reminder. "Tetsuya isn't hiding this. In fact, he doesn't know anything. He is more clueless than us."
"So are you going to tell Kuroko? It is his life we're talking about after all."
Akashi shook his head. "Not yet. Not until I know everything."
"Do you want me to look into it?" Midorima offered.
Akashi was tempted to take his offer but Midorima was already saddled with many things, he couldn't burden him any longer. "No, just keep studying Tetsuya's file. See if you can find any more hints there. I'll task my informants to investigate Tetsuya's family."
"Certainly," Midorima assented as he picked up Kuroko's file on the table and turned to leave but the door opened before Midorima could touch it.
Kuroko blinked at Midorima and looked between him and Akashi as he stepped inside the office. "I'm sorry. Am I interrupting you both?"
"No, my love, Shintarou was just leaving," Akashi answered and gestured for Kuroko to take a seat in the couch. Midorima nodded in agreement and bid Kuroko and Akashi goodbye before closing the door. "Did you need something, love?"
Kuroko shook his head. "Not really," he said. "I was just bored since everyone is gone."
Ah, of course. Murasakibara was in town shopping for groceries while Kise went out to meet up with Kasamatsu and Kaijou and Aomine was picking up special magical items delivered by Kagetora. "Do you want me to entertain you, my love?" Akashi proposed with a suggestive smirk on his face.
"No, thank you. I just don't like being alone. And I figured Akashi-kun wouldn't mind my presence," Kuroko declined in his deadpanned way and instead opened up the book he brought. He looked up at him, cocking an eyebrow when Akashi didn't respond. "Unless Akashi-kun wants me to leave?"
Akashi only shook his head before leaving Kuroko to his book and went back to his laptop and some paper works that he needed to sign. He was thinking of bringing in Momoi to the mansion so she could watch over Kuroko while his coven focused in their mission of taking down that vampire and his coven. Akashi was positive Momoi and Kuroko would get along and it wasn't uncommon for her to stay with them in an amount of time as Momoi was an honorary member of his coven (plus, there was also Aomine).
Akashi made a mental note to call Momoi later so she could ask permission from her leader. Imayoshi wouldn't ask as he knew it was rare for Akashi to summon Momoi unless it was urgent. Furthermore, Momoi was an expert in gathering data even obscure information. It wouldn't hurt to ask for her assistance especially if she could help shed some light to his theory about Kuroko. Nevertheless, asking from the source himself could be fruitful, too.
"Love," Akashi started as he placed his pen down and gazed at Kuroko with a serious look on his face, "did you ever wonder where your lack of presence came from?"
Kuroko looked up at Akashi in surprise at his abrupt question. He bookmarked the page he was reading before putting his book down. He stared at Akashi, a tinge of curiosity showing in his sky blue eyes. "I did when I was little," he answered. "But I didn't ponder on it for too long and accepted it since there was no point. Even my own mother doesn't know where our weak presence came from. Only that it's genetically inherited."
Akashi nodded. "I see."
Kuroko continued to give him an obstinate stare. "May I ask where this is coming from?"
"Nothing, my love. Just a curious thought," Akashi evasively said. "Do you feel anything different these past few days, love?"
Kuroko tilted his head to the side in confusion, looking at Akashi with a tinge of doubt. Nonetheless he still answered. "No, I feel fine and normal." He furrowed his brows, a clear sign of his worry and confusion. "Shouldn't it be me asking Akashi-kun that? You seem to be deep in thought since yesterday."
Akashi smiled a little to ease Kuroko's concern. "Don't worry, my love. I simply have a lot in mind."
"Don't push yourself too hard Akashi-kun," said Kuroko. "Why don't we take a break? It's a good day today. It's nice to have tea under this good weather."
Akashi knew he had no chance to refuse especially when Kuroko rarely invited him. There was no point wallowing in his thoughts since he wouldn't find any answers there anyway. For now, he would just have to indulge himself in Kuroko's company. "If you insist, my love," he agreed. "Why don't you go on ahead? I'll catch up to you after I finish some of this paperwork."
"Very well, but don't take too long Akashi-kun or I'll leave you behind."
Akashi couldn't help but to let out a small chuckle for that. "I'll hurry up then." He watched as Kuroko stood up and quietly left the room. As soon as Kuroko was out of the vicinity, he pulled out his phone from his pocket and dialed a familiar number.
"Well, well, this is a surprise. I just gave you my report yesterday so what's the sudden call for, Akashi?"
Akashi leaned back in his chair and sighed. "As a matter of fact, I'm calling you for a different reason."
"Oh? Color me intrigued. What is it?"
"I want you to investigate someone."
"Investigate? You have another enemy or something? And why does it have to be me? Midorima can easily do that."
"He is not an enemy as you assumed. As for Shintarou, he already tends excessive work for me as it is. I don't want to inconvenience him any longer. I merely need to know something."
"Hmm… Did you just say he? Are we talking about the human you picked up?"
"I can see that Ryouta already spoken to you about him. However, do not address him like you would to a dog. He is not some stray that I whimsically acquired."
"Jeez, calm down, I was just teasing you. But man, Kise was right, you're overprotective. And if I heard right, damn possessive, too."
Akashi sighed tiredly and rubbed his temple. "So will you do it or not?"
"Sure, so the usual background or…?"
"Trace his family ancestry and gather up any unusual information you can find. Be it rumor or otherwise."
"Unusual, huh? Now, I'm curious. Okay, we'll do it. I'll call you when we find something."
Akashi stared at his phone after ending the call. He already had enough evidences to back up his theory but they were all circumstantial at best. He wanted a concrete proof. It wasn't just his and Kuroko's life that would change. Everything would be altered.
xXx
Akashi found Kuroko standing in the middle of the garden, staring at blue sky like it has the answers to the secrets of the world. He walked over to him, taking note how Kuroko's sky blue eyes appeared to be hazy and dim. "Tetsuya?" he called, his hand brushing Kuroko's cheek gently.
Kuroko blinked slowly as if waking from a dream and turned to him. "Ah, Akashi-kun."
"Why are you standing here, love?" Akashi took Kuroko's hands and rubbed them together for warmth. "See? Your hands are cold now."
Kuroko shrugged and when Akashi glanced at him, he knew Kuroko was also confused at his own actions. He tugged Kuroko as they silently wandered around the garden. "You know," Kuroko started, breaking the comfortable silence between them, "there's something bothering me when I heard Aomine-kun and Kise-kun's past."
They stopped and Kuroko turned to him, his gaze so focused on him. "What do you mean, love?" Akashi asked, bringing up their hands to his lips and kissed the back of Kuroko's hand.
"Power…" Kuroko whispered and Akashi willed himself to appear casual at that word. "Aomine-kun said that he has a power and you trained him and you taught Kise-kun how to control his own. Knowing that, I realized Akashi-kun has some kind of power, too. No, not just you three, all of you do. It's not something an ordinary vampire would have, isn't it?"
If Kuroko was asking Akashi then it only meant that neither Aomine nor Kise told Kuroko about their powers. They must have only mentioned it in passing but knowing how observant Kuroko was it would certainly not passed his notice.
"I want to tell you, Tetsuya. I want to explain," Akashi paused as he regarded Kuroko solemnly. "But not now, love. I'm not ready yet."
Bemused, Kuroko asked. "Is it that difficult to explain?"
Akashi shook his head and cupped Kuroko's face tenderly, his thumb brushing his soft cheeks. "I don't want Tetsuya to hate me. But most importantly, I don't want you to be afraid of me. That's the last thing I ever want."
"You're not making sense Akashi-kun. Why would I be afraid of you? I know Akashi-kun is a vampire but I already accepted that fact a long time ago. I know you won't hurt me, not intentionally."
Akashi let out a bitter smile and wrapped his arms around Kuroko, enveloping him in a warm embrace. He knew how confused Kuroko was right now but he couldn't say it. The others wouldn't have this trouble in explaining about their powers but he was different. Even now, Akashi could sense his other self—his vampire side awakening from the recesses of his mind. The imminent threat to Kuroko and his coven wasn't helping either. Akashi didn't know how his other self would react to Kuroko. He didn't want what happened before to occur again.
He couldn't lose Kuroko.
Not to anyone. And not to anything.
"Akashi!"
Startled, both Akashi and Kuroko turned to Aomine, who was running towards them and then an ominous feeling crept over Akashi as his phone rang and he took it out.
"Kuroko Tetsuya, Akashi," Kasamatsu's voice filled Akashi's ear and it didn't escape how his tone was perplexed but urgent. "They attacked one of your blood donors. That name was written on the wall by the blood's victim. And that's not all, there's another message, too. It said: I know his secret."
Wasting no time, Akashi frantically yelled, "Daiki, take Tetsuya inside!"
Hearing Akashi shout must have prompted Aomine to quickly obey as he hoisted Kuroko over his shoulder like a sack of rice and ran towards the mansion.
xXx
Despite Aomine running in full speed, Kuroko watched Akashi as if in slow motion.
Kuroko couldn't control the tremble and shiver of his body as Akashi continued to talk to his phone, his ruby eyes growing colder and colder. Kuroko didn't know if it was a trick of light or what but he was sure he saw Akashi's left eye glowing in an ember color. He wasn't a vampire but he sensed the terrifying and oppressive aura and bloodlust that Akashi exhibited.
And finally, Kuroko understood what Akashi said before.
For the first time, Kuroko learned how true fear felt.
And the curtain for Arc II rises...
Q&A CORNER!
[This is probably the shortest Q&A ever.]
Q1: You [Akashi] have my blessing to marry Kuroko! And why didn't you make that officially yet?! (ghost reader)
Akashi: As much as I would love to make Tetsuya mine now, it will hold more meaning if Tetsuya marries me of his own accord. And if it's Tetsuya then waiting would be worth it. And I assure you, we will marry. Soon.
Q2: And how dare you [Akashi] to cheat on him! He's only an innocent kid! (ghost reader)
A: Sorry it's not Akashi answering. That part will happen in the last Arc. So calm down people, there are still a lot of things to happen before that.
Q3: I love how Kuroko doesn't really mind being kissed by Akashi in front of Kise 3 is he ok with everyone or just Kise? (Kasu97)
A: They're okay with Kise and Murasakibara. It's a bit awkward for Midorima since Akashi&Kuroko are too close (or lovey-dovey). And a hell no for Aomine, unless they want to hear inappropriate jokes. For days.
Q4: Will there be Aokise? (Adorable Reader)
A: Answered in Chapter 6's Q&A: Q #4.
Q5: That time Aomine asked if he knew Kuroko from somewhere, when they met, is it going to be explained? (Luralis)
A: Kuroko reminded Aomine of someone from the past. That person will be revealed in Arc II.
Q6: Midorima-kun, what do you think about Kuroko's nightmares and that psychiatrist file? Will you share with me secret of what is in folder? (ghost reader)
A: Midorima already shared some of his views about that file (and even what the file is about) in this chapter [16]. But here's more if you want...
Midorima: I've never seen an enigmatic case like Kuroko's. Akashi and I talked about it and we conjectured that we need to observe Kuroko especially after he has a nightmare. It would be difficult as his nightmares were stopped six years ago but Akashi guessed that Kuroko will have a nightmare soon. And as I always trust my leader's judgement, I am incline to agree. Kuroko's case file needs more studying and I will do my utter best to solve it.
