I… am stunned by the amount of the reviews I received for this. You guys seriously made my entire damn /month/. Thanks everyone, I hope you guys continue to give me feedback.

Warning: I wrote this at …3:00 am… so, it probably sucks.

Couple: If I have to say this one more time….. *Whips out a gun.*

"It seems the pureblood prince has made his first move, my lord."

"Excellent. What exactly has our target done?"

"He has enlisted the help of the hunter association. Four members have been dispatched to his aid, yet I'm not informed of the identities of the four. There are rumors going about that one of the hunters in the group is the next hunter to be labeled the president of the association."

A cruel smirk took the lips of the man shadowed in darkness, his figure cloaked by the reaching ghouls of the night whilst the man's eyes glowed a blinding shade of sapphire. "Just like Kaname-kun to set the chess board long after the game has begun." Shaking his head, the man pointed a single digit toward the exit of his domain. "Find out who those four are at once. I would prefer not to have any unnecessary surprises when I finally get the chance to take down that retched Kuran family."

The servant clad in a robe bowed his head, his fiery red locks slipping out from beneath his hood. "As you wish, my lord." Turning on his heel, the informer swiftly headed out.

"Just a moment, Korari."

The man paused in his dismissal, pivoting to face his master once more. "Yes?" Korari inquired in an obedient tone.

Spinning his finger around in the shadows, the man watched as tendrils of black writhed over his flawless skin. The smirk on his face enlarged with each passing second. "Make sure to report in immediately if one of the hunters happens to have silver hair and a tattoo on his neck."

Korari's vampire vision spotted the tendrils slithering over his master's finger. He had to hold back a shudder. "Of course." The red-head stated before vanishing from the room.

Meanwhile the pureblood continued to plot, his sapphire orbs bursting into a purple haze as flames seemed to dance in them. A menacing cackle fleeing from his grinning lips. "Ah…I do hope it is Kiryu-kun that you brought along to play, Kaname-kun. I would love to see the despair shine across your face as I rip him apart. It'd be even more beautiful than the look on your face when I destroy your darling little sister, I imagine."

A memory of the pureblood prince and the hunter embracing flashed in Kazuma's mind. "Yes… much more beautiful."

Zero didn't know what he had been expecting but this definitely wasn't it.

Sliding out the vehicle that had transported him and his team to the Kuran manor, the famous hunter found himself staring in awe at the building's dominating stature and beauty. It honestly looked like it had been sculpted from a fairy tale novel; the gothic vibe the place secreted sending the landscape into a surreal moment. The trees surrounding the manor were tall and shadowed, like warriors standing at attention, and the lawn was perfectly cut, becoming a hypnotist as the blades of grass bent to the wind's will. Zero noticed stone of deep gray cut through the grass and it formed into path that lead up to the large oak doors; the path was framed by scarlet roses. Gray against red in a splash of color… The building itself was old and aged, but that only added to its charm. Vines creeping over the towering grander like the arms of a long lost lover. It was a manor fit for a king.

A manor fit for someone like Kaname… Zero's eyebrows drew together.

Was this one of the reasons Kaname abandoned him that night..? Were they too different?

A sudden pain in the back of his head caused Zero to growl, his skull rebounding off the book that had been smashed into his head. What. The. Hell.

Whipping around, Zero instantly brought a hand to the spot of impact, glaring harshly at the brunette who had hit him with some sort of novel. Where the hell did he get a book anyway? "Kaito." He said in a warning manner, still massaging his head.

Kaito just gave him a lop-sided smirk, his ash brown bangs framing his sculpted face. "Pay attention to what you're doing."

The silverette didn't bother to reply, simply falling into step behind Kaname who didn't seem to be paying him and Kaito any mind. Not that he figured he would. He no longer had to act like a gentleman now that Kaien and Toga were dispatched somewhere in the forest—given the task to watch the surrounding area. Zero had already expected Kaname to act as if he and Kaito didn't exist. So far, he hadn't been off the mark with his suspicions.

That's why he had been caught off guard when Kaname's eyes locked with his from over the taller man's shoulder. An unreadable emotion in the pool's he used to find comfort in. "Kiryu…" The pureblood trailed off, his attention being caught by Kaito for a second, noting the way Kaito tensed as he spoke to Zero. "I expect you and Takamiya to split up during your time in my home."

Kaito reacted faster than Zero could blink. "Why do we have to split up? I'd rather not leave him alone in a house full of scheming vampires like you."

The venom in that tone didn't get past Kaname, for the Kuran ancestor's face darkened considerably. He could already tell… Takamiya was going to be a problem. In more ways than one… "Takamiya, I'm sure your eyes are not for decoration. The area you're protecting is vast. It'd be more efficient if you and Kiryu were on separate sides."

Kaito couldn't argue with that. Gritting his teeth, the brunette held his tongue, storming into the house he was employed in. Zero studied him in confusion as he disappeared behind the door. Zero didn't understand what was so bad about splitting up, it was just as Kaname said, it'd be more efficient. There was no need to give the enemy an opening. Sliding his hands into his trench coat pockets, the young man just concluded Kaito was strange and moved to open the door. But the door he was standing in front of opened without him making it.

Zero glanced at Kaname in silent question.

"After you."

"..Tch."

This was going to be a long mission.

After countless minutes were wasted convincing Kaito to go to his room, Kaname and Zero were finally alone. Much to the latter's chagrin and the former's delight.

"Where are you taking me?" Zero demanded after moments of silence echoed throughout the deserted hallways, his steps in line with Kaname's as his vision shot around. It was hard for him to tell where they were headed, not only did he not now the map of this place yet but the corridors were bathed in darkness, making it impossible to see ahead of them.

Kaname surveyed Zero's expressions discreetly before returning his gaze to the front of him. His footsteps silent as he made his way to their destination. "To your room." Kaname answered curtly, stopping at a simple white entryway. Then without touching the door, he opened it with a glance, walking into it.

He didn't need to check to see if Zero followed him, he knew he would.

The room was filled with plush carpet and Kaname's shoes sunk into it while he made a sweeping motion with his arm, showcasing the room to his white knight. The room obviously wasn't half as fancy as the rest of the living quarters but it was still nice. With its high ceilings and lush tan carpet that was soft to the touch, Zero should be more than comfortable here while he was away… Kaname wouldn't mind having the male stay in his room though. "This will be your room for the majority of your stay here. You mine as well rest here for the time being, it is nighttime for us vampires after all."

Kaname watched through wine pools as Zero's hatred filled eyes flared at his comment. He hadn't changed at all. Yes…he really wouldn't mind Zero spending his stay in his room. Locked in his arms…but that was impossible. At least for now it was.

"I'm well aware it's snoozing time for you damn bloodsuckers."

Zero shoved past him, his shoulder hitting his in a spiteful way that just further amused Kaname. Zero didn't seem to understand that as long as he so much as noticed his existence, the pureblood would enjoy any time spent with the man. Hate and Love were two packages that came together after all, indifference was the true enemy.

"You talk about vampires as if you weren't one."

"I'm not!"

"So if I cut my neck open right this moment…you wouldn't react?" Kaname's elongated nail crept up to his barred neck.

Zero was on him in a blur of movement, his familiar touch on Kaname's wrist, stopping the man from proceeding in his actions. "Don't."

The prince smiled coldly at his ex-lover, his heart pricking just a bit when Zero ripped his hand off his wrist as if he'd just touched the devil himself. Maybe in Zero's mind…he had. Kaname refused to dwell on it, this was part of his plan, and he was prepared for such treatment. "Then accept what you are."
"Like hell I will."

Kaname went to move his hand again. "Then maybe I should slit my throat and watch as you fall prey to your animalistic desires."

Zero's defying eyes shot up to his and Kaname felt the tension in the air. Seconds passed and shifted to minutes, the room fading away as they stared each other down. Miraculously, Zero was the first to look away.

Perfect.

Flicking his gaze over to the bed, Kaname muttered smoothly. Knowing he had won the silent argument between them. "Get some sleep, Kiryu."

Zero still didn't meet his eyes when he responded. "I don't need to."

"Hm. You look dead on your feet and I don't wish for Yuuki to see you like that tomorrow. She will undoubtedly nag me about your condition." Kaname pointed out in hopes of hiding his concern…and it worked a little too well. Zero's whole body became a statue.

"Don't concern me in your little lovers spat. If she nags you about it, that's on you. I frankly don't give a rat's ass."

Lovers? Is that what he… Kaname almost laughed. As if he'd ever wish to defile his innocent sister, the thought alone was revolting. Not that she wasn't attractive…she just didn't have the aspects he needed in a mate. Aspects such as … silver hair, lavender eyes, smooth pale flesh and a temper worse than the God of war. Only Zero could ever be a lover to him, it was a simple truth to Kaname. "I would hardly call a sibling debate a 'lovers' spat." Kaname stated, moving to leave the room. "But aside from that, this isn't up for discussion. Sleep, Kiryu."

Zero didn't move until the door behind Kaname slammed shut.

. . . "…A sibling debate…?" Zero whispered to himself in bewilderment, his legs on autopilot, directing him toward the bed, plopping him down on it. "They're not together…?" He had honestly thought…

Zero's head hit the pillow, his eyes screwing shut. I don't care, he told himself, willing himself to settle into a deep slumber.

. . .

. . .

Stars sparkled across the inky blackness of the night sky as pale hands brushed over the angelic coat of a large animal. Gentle digits stroking the fur with utmost care. The pampered mammal soon let out a neigh of appreciation, its head nudging itself against the caresser's shoulder. A breathy chuckle was the horse's reward for the bold action before feather-like palms rested on her neck in a soothing embrace. Natural and familiar, the touch of the only person the horse would allow to bond with her.

The white stallion almost seemed to smile to herself before she released a huff of air, jerking her head to nip her companion's silver locks.

Zero closed an eye in annoyance the minute her teeth descended upon his hair. "Hey, no need to bite me." He grumbled out, his mind already processing the reason why Lily bit him. She obviously still wanted him to groom her, the greedy thing. Then again, he couldn't exactly blame her; he was the one who spoiled her after all. Briefly he recalled how in the past he had always been doubted for his ability to become a hunter due to his "too kind" nature. Maybe he was still as soft-hearted as back then, beneath all the barriers he put up. It was a disturbing thought. He had been so helpless back then…but was that really any different now? Could he honestly continue to evade the truth by telling himself that he'd be able to protect those he held dear, even while he was in a constant battle with his own demons? Not to mention while he fought another raging battle to avoid becoming a crazed bloodsucker? No, he couldn't and that caused Zero's aura to darken immensely, the ever constant spear of depression striking deep within him. Every good thing in his life….was destined to slip away.

Another sharp tug at his hair caused the brooding teen to snap from his ponderings. Black orbs boring into his with an almost impatient gleam in them. Pft. "You're too demanding." Zero stated in mock disapproval, his touch already cascading over the horse's back in a half-assed attempt to get Lily to release his damn hair.

Lucky for him, it worked.

Softening his features the minute Lily removed her chompers from him, the prefect gave a weary sigh. The silence of the night and crisp air dancing across his flesh to sooth his nerves into equilibrium.

Suddenly, Lily stirred, her body jerking from him. "What t—"

"You have a quite a strange habit of coming here."

Blinking once, Zero immediately registered two things. Lily was acting as if she were about to sprint for her life and the reason behind that was the new guest among them. It didn't take much to figure out why; any animal would know to run away from the ultimate predator. Letting out another sigh, (He could've been the sigh captain of the world by now), Zero ignored the pureblood in favor of calming down his loyal friend and only after she had been pacified, did the level D speak. "What do you want, Kuran?"

"Could you at least be polite enough to look at me while we talk? Or is that too much to ask of you?"

The mockery in that voice composed of satin made Zero's lips form a very straight line. Kaname always was and forever would be an asshole, despite how much the pureblood denied it. Huffing childishly, Zero turned around at a snail's pace to face Kaname. His expression schooled to perfection as his eyes gulped down the sight of that alluring man. Dark mahogany framed by thick lashes, thin but devilishly full lips, velvety smooth tresses snaking over a long beautifully pale neck... correction. Kaname was a sexy asshole and always would be. Hell, Zero could stare at Kaname all damn day. Not that he actually would, he just wasn't opposed to the idea.

"There. I'm looking at you. Now why are you here?"

Kaname's seductress of a mouth upturned into a mischievous simper and Zero felt a chill roll over his spine. "It's rather simple to figure out, isn't it? I'm here to see you."

Zero almost smiled at that. Almost. "Tch, you mean you're here to annoy me? Go back to your dorm, Kuran."

Kaname's simper quickly shifted away into an aggravated scowl. "Call me by my name, Zero. I'm sure we're past the formalities by now." Just as fast as it left, the mischievous glint was back in the brunette's expression. "Also, if I you wish for me to back to my dorm, I'd have to insist you accompanied me, Mr. Disciplinary committee."

Fighting back a blush, Zero drew his brows together. The suggestion did not go over the lower vampire's head. "Kaname," Zero spat, "you are an insatiable bastard."

The night class dormitory leader didn't appear offended, his scowl already melted away into a breath taking smile. A smile aimed at Zero despite his crude speech. "Maybe, but no one can blame me. I have a lover who is irresistible… " Dark and lustful globes scanned over the silverette's body, no doubt discarding the clothes with mere imagination. "And he's right in front of me… tempting me with his adorable demeanor. It's a wonder I haven't taken him to my chambers by now."

Zero cussed under his breath at Kaname's perversions before he felt his face heat up. He was pretty sure he resembled a lobster by now, and yet he still couldn't resist the temptation to play along. Maybe it was just his boyfriend's charm forcing him to join in the game or maybe it was just his own insanity. Probably the latter, the hunter decided. Heh. Getting a pinch of playfulness, Zero summoned his inner smartass and responded. "He sounds out of your league."

Amusement coated Kaname's next words. "Is that so?"

"Yeah." Zero shot back, a hint of a smirk appearing.

"Then I suppose I'll have to prove otherwise."

"Let's see you try, bloodsucker."

On cue Kaname abruptly began to saunter over to him at the challenge, his face alive and free of the impassive mask. Just the way Zero liked it.

STOMP.

But apparently not the way Lily liked it, the forgotten horse making her presence known by slamming her hooves in the ground in objection to the predator's proximity.

The threat halted in his approach at the action, the corner of his mouth twitching in what appeared to be an attempt not to frown. Zero got an idea.

Turning his back to his ex-nemesis, the argent haired boy leaned down to whisper calmly to Lily. Petting her to help push things along. "Shhh, it's okay. Calm down, he's not going to hurt you with me here, I can easily shoot him in the ass." He heard a snort come from Kaname at his words while Lily steadily became tranquil again. Stroke after stroke, her complete trust in the handler.

Keeping his hand on Lily's firm back, Zero peered at his lover from over his shoulder. "Come here, but do it slowly and dull your aura."

Raising a single brow at Zero's request, Kaname shot him a look but obeyed his request. Doing as he was told by slowly advancing, watching with fascination as Zero managed to keep the stubborn and feared animal from freaking out. Lily was still behaved even when he was right next to her, inches away from possibly stealing her life…. It was foreign to him.

Sensing Kaname's confusion and unease, Zero's heart sped up in excitement. "For a high and mighty pureblood you act like a damn child." Kaname's eyes zeroed in on the male beside him in anger, but Zero didn't give the elder a chance to retort. His hand was already interlacing with Kaname's, pressing it to the horse's smooth mane.

Zero's eyes held fast to Lily as he explained softly, a warm flush spreading over the youth's cheeks. "See…he's not going to hurt you." Peeking at Kaname from the corner of his eye, Zero's cheeks darkened a shade. Kaname was smiling gently, his eyes smoldering with adoration.

Zero knew he just fell in love all over again.

In his sleep, Zero rolled over, smiling gently.

Completely unaware of a hooded man watching him from the window pane.

That sucked- oh well. *Sighs.* This story is going by so slow…I won't be shocked if it goes over 20 chapters. Anyway, I hope it's decent.

Just a heads up, I recently moved, meaning I have no internet. I only can do things on my phone, meaning my updates will be slower as a result. I'll still update as much as possible though. I hope it's worth the freakin' wait, and if anyone has any tips or wants some changes in the story, let me know. I will take it into consideration.

Another thing, Kaname had a very good reason for breaking Zero's heart, don't kill him. XD

Last note: So.. I've been debating over if I should pm reviewers that review constantly as a thanks… I know some people that do and I personally think it's cool. But… I don't know if that'd be creepy or something.. ugh.. life is too short was this crap.