A/N: And I'm back with brand new chapter. I really wanted to update sooner after all that lovely reviews that you left, but it took me more time and though I tried to finish it in two weeks, I wasn't able to do it. Yeah, the real life issues and all that crap. And I'm very sorry for being so late. But your wonderful feedbacks, alerts and favorite adds always make my days and even weeks and I truly appreciate it. Thank you for it. I'm very grateful.
Special thanks to sweet L'sTrueHeart who edited the chapter. (BTW have you read her story? As for me, I can't wait to see the new chapter of it! : 3)
That's it, please enjoy reading~^^~
Chapter 3: Twisted Reality
He wondered if it could become any worse. The situation he was in, that is. Having his life totally messed up even before those strange events was enough as hell and the teen didn't need any more problems than he already had. Frankly speaking, he was tired of it. Zero wasn't that suicidal, but right now he wanted the darkness of oblivion like nothing else in this twisted world. For a brief moment he almost envied Yuuki's ignorance.
The hunter was standing in the kitchen making a dinner for himself. It was late, but he preferred it that way. At this time Yuuki would be lying in her bed soundly asleep while the Chairman would still work in his office. The silver-haired teen knew it was wrong to do it, but he couldn't help himself. Since that 'accident' both Cross and the female prefect behaved overly attentively around him, considering what had happened and all, but the only thing that attitude had managed to do was angering the ex-human further. Yes, he was aware that they were worried. But they couldn't do a thing to help him, so what was the point? Not that he would ever ask for something like that, of course, this only confirmed the meaningless of the situation. Really now...was there anything left for him?
And to top it all, Kuran wanted some 'payment' for his venomous blood...'Payment?' What the hell could he give to that self-centered asshole? He already had everything he wanted, for God's sake! One snap of his fingers and both vampires and humans would crawl to his feet, willing to do anything the pureblood wanted. Of course, Zero would rather die than do something of that sort and the bastard knew it all too well. Then...what did the bloodsucker want from him...?
The ex-human was sure that he wouldn't like the answer to his questions, but he needed to know. That countless musings were driving him crazy, only adding to the headache that just couldn't leave him alone after all that events.
It was as well that Kuran was out for one of his stupid Council meetings or something. At least the younger vampire could sort out some things and take a little break from the damn leech who haunted him like some dark shadow from his never-ending nightmares. He hated feeling like this. When did things turn out this way? No... he guessed he knew the answer at least for this question...It was like that from the very start. It began when he was in his mother's womb, devouring his brother's life powers and foredooming his other half, the one whom he loved with all his heart even before they were born, for neglected and denied existence because of the younger twin's weak health, the cause of which was none other than himself. And Zero knew it all too well. Just like he always knew about Ichiru blaming him. And day by day...his twin's hatred grew harder. It was only a matter of time till the younger Kiryuu snapped, and when it happened, it was far more disastrous than anyone could imagine. That night Zero was completely swallowed by the world of eternal darkness; completely alone with his ever-lasting agony. Then Yuuki appeared. She was like a bright, warm light that could bring comfort to anything, but the true was that it couldn't fulfill the emptiness in the very depths of the ex-human. He couldn't stop himself from recalling all those memories and it destroyed the silver-haired prefect from the inside like some slow poison that lay within his body starting from that lethal night. After that, with Yuuki came Kuran. And if the former was the silver-haired teen's light, then the latter would be his curse. The hunter had been almost sure of it since their first encounter and now his guesses were confirmed.
But better he then Yuuki. About that he was sure. Even though he didn't know what exactly the stupid leech's purpose was, he was determined to protect the girl he loved as a sister from that beast...From the both of them. Because he was sure, Yuuki would do anything for the pureblood, she would even accept becoming a vampire for the bastard, but the ex-human couldn't allow it. He knew how terribly wrong and painful was the feeling of having your very soul taken away, the coldness spreading somewhere deep inside, the body cells reconstructing, life becomes death just like you become a bloodthirsty monster, always ready to kill anyone even for a single drop of blood; detestable lowly creatures. How could he allow someone as precious and innocent as Yuuki to become one of those things? Monsters in human skin. It was the one thing that would never happen. And knowing Kuran, he had already guessed that the older vampire wouldn't help him for nothing but a mere safety of the female guardian. That monster needed something and so long as Yuuki wasn't concerned, he would agree to anything.
"What are you doing?" unexpectedly, a sickeningly familiar melodic voice sounded near his ear, making the prefect jerk his hand, that was cutting vegetables with knife less than a second ago, quite violently. The action resulted in Zero's barely audible groan of pain and deeply sliced index finger.
"Ngh...Damn it, Kuran! Ever heard of personal space?" The younger vampire directed an accusing glare towards the brunet, now cradling his bleeding hand. Kaname watched him silently before answering, still not moving from his spot near the hunter.
"I apologize," he closed his eyes, nodding in apologetic manner. "For startling you, Kiryuu-kun."
Zero looked away after a few seconds of burning a hole in Kuran's body with his eyes and retorted irritatedly, "Will you move already?" After a few seconds of heavy silence with the pureblood standing motionless, the ex-human pushed past the older vampire, not able to stand the abhorrent presence.
Kaname watched as the silver-haired teen switched on the water in faucet and put his hand under the stream, washing the blood away. "Such a waste," the brunet tore his eyes from the prefect, chuckling quietly, "Still in denial of your instincts?"
The Level D vampire watched his wound healing slowly, trying his hardest to stay as calm as he possibly could. As the sound of rushing water stopped, he kept his eyes on the remaining amount of crimson liquid, once again deeply in his thoughts despite the pureblood still being in the same room with him.
The silence lingered and the older vampire felt a slight spike of irritation towards the moody prefect. It was indeed remarkable how this boy always could make Kaname's mood change from one edge to another, a completely opposite one, without making any efforts at all. That attitude alone was able to fully infuriate the brunet and even despite his definite talent of hiding any emotions under the blank, unbreakable mask, his true nature always threatened to reveal itself when the despicable, stubborn, insolent little brat was near. And the fact that some disgraceful lowlife was able to influence him - the pureblood with Royal vampire blood running through his veins - that much didn't help to reduce the level of his fury. A hunter and an ex-human on top of that, a damned existence in all possible ways and he still had no respect for Kuran, a future King of all vampires. Zero had always wanted to kill Kaname, even knowing that he had no chance of standing against the older youth, he was ready to die trying to murder the subject of his undying hatred. Or...Could it be that the boy actually wanted to die? Being familiar with the hunter's character, it wasn't that surprising of a thought, but the ex-human wouldn't be able to get what he wanted yet again. Neither of them could go for each other's heads because of Yuuki and the pureblood himself had no intention of taking Kiryuu's life yet. He was too interesting to play with and too convenient of a pawn. Besides, Kaname's precious girl would be really sad if someone were to hurt her dear friend.
Though the older vampire had been watching Zero for a few minutes now, the male prefect continued standing with his back half-turned to the brunet, purposely ignoring the damn bastard. He knew it was futile to hope that the pureblood leech would get the hint and leave him the hell alone, but he still wanted to try, desperately wishing to be anywhere but this place. Still looking at his little injure, he noticed ruefully how long it was taking to heal. Which meant...'Heh...Can't it at least be delayed for a little longer?' He would need blood soon and Kuran knew it too.
Suddenly, Zero felt a cold touch on his skin as his wrist was yanked to the side roughly, causing the ex-human to turn around and face the brunet who was now holding his hand in vice-like grip. A mere contact made shivers of fear mixed with disgust shoot down the hunter's spine. The silver-haired male started pulling on his hand instinctively, but Kaname's fingers only tightened in response.
"I assume it is the only way to draw your attention." The pureblood's eyes were narrowed in disdain despite his calm, even tone.
"Let go! What are y-!" The male guardian froze in mid-sentence when the other vampire brought the still healing finger to his lips and took it in his mouth, skilled tongue swirling around the digit sensually. Not averting his gaze from the silver-haired teen, Kuran watched how Zero's face changed its color from deadly pale to bright red as the teen angrily gritted his teeth in embarrassment. "That's enough!" The pureblood only smiled amusedly, enjoying the younger vampire's distress. "Kuran, I'm serious, quit it!" Finally, the prefect's attempts were accomplished with success after Kaname gave one last caress and lessened his grip. Zero recoiled a few steps back, holding his hand defensively. His death glare increased in its intensity as he looked at the brunet, who kept grinning in self-satisfaction.
"Have you completely lost your mind, you sick, crazy leech! What the fuck was that!" The teen's form nearly started shaking of rage and deep hatred. How he wished he could tear the damn beast in front of him apart.
"I merely helped to quicken your healing. There is no need to be so upset about such a trivial thing, Kiryuu-kun."
"No one asked you to! I'd rather die than be near you!"
Kaname felt that familiar sensation yet again. One moment he felt amused by the boy's reaction, and the other he already wanted to suck the defiant brat dry. "Why, is my presence so repulsive to you?"
"You damn well know the answer. Stop playing your twisted games." Kaname didn't answer, but the ex-human felt the dark aura slowly intruding into his personal space, making him feel even more disgusted with himself. It was as though Kuran wrapped himself all over Zero's body, just like back then in the pureblood's rooms. He knew that the older vampire was doing it on purpose, knowing how it would affect him.
"Really now..." the brunet closed his eyes, bringing a hand to massage the bridge of his nose tiredly. He felt a headache starting to form as a result of this conversation coupled with all the stress he got from countless meetings and business affairs. "Why can you never keep your disrespectful retorts to yourself at least as a form of courtesy?"
"Because you're not worth the efforts." The teen spat, narrowing furious lavender orbs at the other vampire. However, he was met with hardly covered rage of the deep ruby depths that fully conveyed Kaname's wrath.
"It seems like you never learn. Do you like being punished that much?" The pureblood was clearly not in the mood for one of their little verbal battles and Zero noticed it. The appearance of the vampire before him was nearly demonic and any sane person would have gone silent by now, but since it was none other than Kiryuu Zero, all general principles had long gone to hell. He wasn't affected by Kaname's foul mood, at least not outwardly, which caused even more distress to the brunet. No matter how hard he thought about it, he couldn't understand the boy before him. His very nature was an enigma he couldn't decipher. For the first time in his life he was faced with such an utter defiance and open disrespect, and the strangest thing was that he didn't know if he hated or liked it more. All confusion he had ever experienced was connected to Zero. He could easily see through everything and everyone in this world aside from this creature; even Yuuki. He could read her like an open book, he knew her sweet, kind, loving character, and he watched how she grew and nourished the impossible dream of having her only for himself one day, knowing that she would never deny him anything, because she loved him. It could be false, but he still had at least some hope in his heart.
But it changed with this boy's appearance. Yuuki's full attention that used to be concentrated on him was now directed on Kiryuu. Her world stopped revolving around Kaname alone and it disturbed the pureblood. Zero could always be with his dear girl, relish in her affection without doing a thing, while the older vampire had to exist in that hellhole called Ichijou Asato's house, in the world where every vampire lusted for him and his sacred blood. Of course, he had Takuma near him, but it wasn't the same feeling that Yuuki's warmth could give him. Her pure, unconditional love and adoration made him feel happiness spreading in his chest; it was the only thing that could make his smile sincere. Yuuki was the only person who could help silence and almost fully suppress the beast inside of him. He could forget about the violent nature that had always tortured him, begging to break free. However, his peaceful sanctuary cracked and started to shatter when Zero came to their lives. And if Yuuki was the one who managed to quiet his vampiric side, then the ex-human was the one who always could wake it.
A mere thought of it unnerved the pureblood. He didn't want to be affected by some lowly being that wasn't even supposed to be here. Kiryuu's life ended the moment Shizuka's fangs pierced his neck and Kaname wasn't the only person who knew that fact. He was a dying man and Zero himself knew it. Yet he kept living and taking Yuuki away, and it unnerved the pureblood further. He couldn't grasp what his precious girl saw in this insufferable being that could do nothing but scowl, glare and draw danger to himself with that irritating attitude of his.
Yes, the pureblood knew how kindhearted and naive Yuuki was, but he could neither understand, nor accept her affection for Kiryuu. She often told him how 'caring and gentle' the ex-human really was, but Kaname couldn't bring himself to even try to believe in it. Besides, it didn't concern him in any way. The hunter was just his pawn, both to protect Yuuki and entertain himself, no more no less. He would keep the insufferable brat alive as long as his precious girl would want, but while he was at it, he would make it more beneficial and enjoyable for himself as well. If Zero wanted to anger him that much, he would get it. The ex-human clearly never wanted any kindness from the older vampire, so why even trying to give him any? If the silver-haired teen wished to play rough, they would have it. One way or another.
As silence lingered, the brunet started taking an intentionally slow, but sure steps towards the male prefect, whose first reaction was to back away. The reaction pleased Kaname and a dark smirk of satisfaction appeared on his lips. He let it stay there for a few seconds before changing his expression to the one of fake, mocking innocence.
"Is there something wrong? Am I making you feel uncomfortable in some way?" The tone was calm and quiet with hint of amusement. The pureblood's smirk was back, now twice widened, revealing the tips of his sharp, hungry canines as he continued, "I won't bite, Kiryuu. You don't have to be so scared."
"Screw you." Despite his inner dread, the hunter didn't let his facade fall. His gaze was hard and steady, fully concentrated on the older vampire. "Who would be threatened by some arrogant asshole like yourself?"
Kaname let out a small half-amused chuckle, approaching Zero in a few swift steps. He pinned the younger vampire to the wall, squeezing the slender throat with his strong fingers, and closed the distance between them so that his face was a mere inches from the hunter's.
"I do need to teach you some manners. These little insults of yours can be truly annoying."
"Then why don't you stay the fuck away from me?" Turning his head away from the pureblood, Zero continued, "I'm sick of seeing your smug face."
However, the hand on his neck moved up, forcing the hunter to face him. "You are forgetting about the position you are currently in; yet again." The pureblood lifted his free hand, steadily holding the hardened gaze on the teen in front of him. Zero's eyes widened as he watched the other vampire's actions. An utter horror had been placed on his face when he realized what Kuran was going to do. Arms that were hanging limply on his sides seconds before shot up, one hand grabbed Kaname's wrist, preventing it from moving further to the brunet's neck, and the other pushed on his chest, trying to force the older vampire away from him. Zero knew where it led. The bastard wanted to force him into bloodlust.
Judging by his expression, the pureblood was satisfied with himself. The terrified look Kiryuu gave him made Kaname almost literally shiver in sadistic pleasure that he felt inside.
The ex-human's efforts were useless against him, but Zero kept struggling against the firm grip. Kaname's fingers had already reached the skin on his neck when something caught the pureblood's attention. Stopping in his motions and letting out an exasperated sigh, he moved back, closing his eyes for a few seconds to gather his composure. When he opened them again, the emotionless mask was put firmly in place as if nothing had happened. A cold ruby orbs regarded the hunter before walking away, "Our conversation is not over yet. Come to my rooms tomorrow after finishing your prefect's duties." Sensing the upcoming retort from the silver-haired tee, Kaname peered over his shoulder, voice a mere whisper when he continued, "I suggest you to obey this command, otherwise I will be forced to send someone to bring you against your will."
Zero was about to answer when his acute hearing picked up a sound of approaching steps. Realizing that Kuran had stopped only because of that interruption, the teen inwardly thanked his adoptive father for always choosing that kind of moments to show up. Less than in a few seconds the said man came into view of both vampires, a slight confusion was quickly replaced with an overly joyful expression as he looked over them.
"What a nice surprise to see you back, Kaname-kun! Could it be that you came to join us for a late dinner?"
The Chairman was his usual cheerful self, beaming at the two vampires with his huge, stupid smile. Zero felt his eye twitch at the eccentric idiot before him. Heading back to the kitchen counter where he stood before the pureblood bastard came, the silver-haired teen bit out venomously, "Who'd invite someone like him? Don't make me laugh." Ignoring Kuran's attentive gaze, the ex-human turned his back on both men and resumed his earlier task of preparing food for himself.
"Aww, don't be so shy, Zerorin! You should be more hospitable with our guest!"
"Stop calling me that, damn it! You know I hate it!" The silver-haired hunter half-turned to direct a death glare full of murder on his adoptive parent. At that, Cross made puppy eyes full of crocodile tears, facial expression full of hurt as he fetched a handkerchief out of nowhere and made a gesture as if to wipe non-existent moisture from his cheeks. Zero rolled his eyes at that action, all too familiar to him after years of living with the man.
"But I'm doing it because of my fatherly love for you!"
"You're not my father. Stop it already." Tired of the entire act, the teen turned his back on him yet again.
"But Zeroriiiin!" When the ex-human didn't answer, the Chairman turned his attention to the pureblood who watched their family routine silently. Though his face was as stoic as ever, a hint of amusement sparkled in ruby orbs at the scene before him. The brunet suppressed a chuckle that threatened to escape his lips as Cross continued whining, "See, Kaname-kun? How my adorable son talks to his parent! He never calls me 'daddy' no matter how hard I ask him to. My heart is so broken!" For better effect, the ex-hunter put a hand on his chest, slightly turning his head to the side, bringing the tip of the cloth to the corner of one eye.
The ex-human sounded again, "Will you stop this stupid farce, Drama Queen? It's annoying!" He felt a vein pop on his temple when the Headmaster's face started changing to another, more efficient and impossibly irritating. But before the older man could continue his performance, Kaname cleared his throat to draw Cross's attention.
"Headmaster Cross, pardon my interruption, but I need to discuss some matters with you. If you could devote me some time..."
"Oh, of course. Please follow me to my study then." All seriousness was back; he smiled warmly and gestured for the brunet vampire to go after him.
They exited kitchen and the room became quiet once again. Zero sighed tiredly, enjoying the long-awaited silence. For once, he was almost grateful to the lecherous bastard who had involuntarily helped him to get rid of the Chairman. However, his moment of peace was interrupted once more when the said man's head showed up in the room again, the idiotic grin back in place as he spoke, "Don't worry, I will be back shortly so that you won't feel lonely! Daddy would never choose someone else over you, even if it's Kaname-kun!"
"GET LOST!" Zero's angry roar sounded through the entire house, earning an amused chuckle from the pureblood, who was on his way to the Cross's study. The ex-human had nearly thrown the knife he was holding right in his 'daddy' to silence the lunatic man. But the idiot disappeared as fast as he showed up, leaving the fuming teen alone.
It took them some time to discuss the recent events on both sides and when Kaname started heading back to the Moon Dorms, the darkness had already fully surrounded the Academy grounds. Not wishing to witness the Chairman's dramatic whining about 'losing the opportunity to spend some quality time with his adorable son', the pureblood quickly excused himself and left Cross's quarters.
The atmosphere in the main hall, where all vampires of the Night Class were waiting for him, was tense. Even though it had been more than a week since Aidou's outburst, they still couldn't bring themselves to be more relaxed in their leader's presence. The blond noble was punished, and very strictly, even for their Kaname-sama. As the pureblood entered the room, they all stood and greeted him in unison, bowing respectfully. The brunet merely looked over them and nodded lightly. After a few moments his silky voice sounded, "Takuma, how did things go in my absence? Is everything alright?"
"Yes, Kaname-sama. Everything went quite smoothly and everyone behaved themselves according to your instructions."
"Good. And what about that matter?" At these words the tone took on a more strict edge.
Ichijou smiled a little nervously under the pureblood's hard gaze, "I think Aidou has already understood his mistake." He paused before adding cautiously, "Should I bring him to you?"
"Please do. I will be waiting in my study." With that said, Kaname went upstairs, but in the mid-way up, he turned his attention to the blond noble, who had already started departing, "And Takuma..." The green orbs turned to him and the brunet continued, "Make sure to bring him without any delay. I wish to get rid of it and take some rest as soon as I can."
The message that Aidou should be standing in front of the pureblood immediately was clear and the only thing Ichijou could do was to nod in agreement, "Will be done, Kaname-sama."
Without further ado, Kuran proceeded in his tracks, disappearing from the other vampires' sight.
After a few minutes of checking his correspondence and one glass of artificial blood, there was a light knock on the wooden doors of his room. Already knowing who it was, the pureblood granted them permission to enter, putting aside the documents he was reading and leaning back in the leather armchair. He focused his full attention on the two nobles who were now standing before him.
Though his wounds had already healed, Aidou's appearance wasn't healthy at all. Together with skin that was paler than usually, tired look that was visible even despite the noble's efforts to hide it, and figure almost undetectably thinner than it was supposed to be, Kaname noticed a slight trembling of the blond vampire's form. The noble still kept his head lowered and his eyes were closed, but even without looking the pureblood knew that they weren't of their original color. Since Kuran gave an order to lock Aidou up in the dungeon of one of the Academy buildings and not to give him any sustenance till the pureblood was back, no one dared to disobey this command. And now the little noble should feel the effects of bloodlust.
"Aidou, lift your head and look at me." Hearing his leader's smooth voice, the blue-eyed vampire flinched slightly, but nevertheless, complied. It looked like the noble managed to regain at least some control over himself, because Kaname was met not with violent crimson, as he predicted, but only with a light shade of red. After a moment of silence, the brunet continued, "From Ichijou's words I can assume that you are ready and willing to admit your...mistake. Is that right?"
"Yes, Kaname-sama. I beg your forgiveness for my unforgivable behavior. It will never happen again." Bowing once again, Aidou waited for the pureblood response. He felt nervous under the harshness of that steady gaze.
"...You should understand the possible consequences of your reckless actions. No matter what you think, you cannot behave yourself that way, Aidou." The brunet stood up and moved to the window. Looking outside, he fell silent for a short time before his voice sounded again, "If I hadn't been there in time then, Kiryuu would have died. If something of that sort ever happens, none of us will be able to stay unaffected by it. Not only a student of this Academy, but also an adoptive son of the Headmaster Cross. And despite his status in vampire society, he is a descendant of one of the most powerful vampire hunter families, and the last one at that. Neither hunters nor Council will lose the opportunity to use it against this school and the idea of co-existence."
The pureblood half-turned to look at the noble, eyes narrowed and filled with crimson as he resumed, "Not to mention that you have openly disobeyed my direct order not to touch him and threatened Yuuki, using her to get to him. Because of you and your inability to control yourself, my authority can be doubted. If you can't understand that much, I don't need you here." By now his voice had become nothing but a quiet and dangerous whisper. Neither Aidou nor Ichijou could tear their eyes off him, so they kept watching the pureblood with apprehension clearly visible on their faces. The sight of Kaname like that was frightening enough to make their rapidly beating hearts stop. The brunet turned away from the window, now fully facing the two noble vampires. However, his attention was concentrated only on one of them as he said his final words, "Don't you dare question my actions, Aidou. Not now, not ever. One more slip on your part and I will not be as merciful as I am now. Am I clear enough?"
Swallowing a lump in his throat, the blond answered, slightly stuttering, "Y-yes, Kaname-sama."
"Then make sure not to show your face in front of me for some time. I wish to neither see nor hear you." Kaname regained his calm facade and started moving towards the adjoining bedroom. "Takuma, Kiryuu-kun will come to see me tomorrow night. Please escort him here and make sure that no one disturbs us." The pureblood cast one last glance at the two nobles before dismissing them, "You both are free to go now." The next second Kaname was left completely alone, finally able to rest.
For Zero the first day of the new week was terrible in all possible aspects. Waking up from one of those haunting nightmares, listening to the Chairman's prattle and watching his stupid performance, not being able to get some sleep during all those boring lectures because each and every teacher just had to get on his nerves with their countless complaints about his 'improper behavior', escaping detention, and now on top of all that, he had to suffer being stuck with all these hormone-crazed fangirls that just didn't know how to shut up since the word 'silence' was foreign to them. And not only this, he felt the hunger for blood growing inside of him. Not to mention that the main bloodsucker didn't leave his thoughts even for a minute. Like hell he would go to that beast's lair, making himself an easy prey for the damn leech. However, the teen knew that Kuran was right in some aspects. The bloodlust would hit again, and soon. And he had to do something about it; otherwise he would hurt some innocent unsuspecting human who wouldn't even understand what was happening to them while their throat was being torn.
The silver-haired hunter was brought out of his musings when the bunch of girls behind him screamed louder. He understood the reason for this agitation as his eyes caught a sight of the tall figure heading in his direction. Putting on his most efficient scowl, he watched Kuran closing the distance between them.
"You don't have to be so wary every time I'm near you, Kiryuu-kun. I won't do anything..." He regarded the male prefect with an amused glance, a barely visible, predatory smirk gracing his lips, "At least not while we are here with so many witnesses around."
"Go to class, Kuran. Now."
Though their voices were low enough to keep the conversation private, when the pureblood spoke again, his words sounded even quieter as he shifted a little closer, his lips now only a few inches from Zero's ear and he whispered, "Don't make me use force, Kiryuu. You know that I can and will send someone after you."
The ex-human's response was just as soundless, so that only Kaname could hear him, "Then I'll have a good reason to shoot them. And you if you don't back off right now, vampire."
Zero felt a light puff of breath on his ear as a barely audible chuckle sounded before the brunet continued, "But this way you will hurt Yuuki even more. After all that events...you don't want to upset her any more than that, now do you?" He moved back to watch the younger vampire's reaction, already predicting what it would be. Indeed, he was right. Not too visibly, but Kaname could surely tell that the silver-haired teen was tense. He struggled to control himself, clenching the fists at his sides and glaring heatedly in anger. Being pleased with this result, Kuran resumed heading to the school building, but not before saying his final words to the prefect, "Don't forget that I am the only one who can save you. And no matter what, you have no other chance but to come to me. You should be grateful that I am still willing to help you..."
Silently cursing his luck, the ex-human watched the pureblood's retreating back, missing the worried look that Yuuki gave him.
All vampires of the Night Class fell silent when Yagari entered the auditorium and regarded them with his unwavering gaze.
"It's so nice to see you again, vampires." The sarcastic words were harsh and lit with venom despite the outward calmness of the hunter. "I heard that a lot of things happened during my absence. You should have a better control over your dogs, Kuran." Though this sentence was addressed to the pureblood, Yagari kept his angry eye on Aidou. The said blond squirmed under that look. The Number One hunter had never been overly friendly with them, he had always openly expressed his strong hatred for them, but right now it was much worse. Every vampire had noticed the deadly intent in his aura, and all of it was meant for Aidou who desperately wanted to be anywhere but here.
The silence was broken by Kaname's silky voice as he replied, not averting his gaze from the book he was reading, "I believe I can keep them in check quite well."
"It doesn't look like it. And if you're not able to do it, then I will keep an eye on them." Though he was talking about all vampires present, in reality he mostly referred to the blond that sat before him. The hunter shifted his attention to the pureblood for the first time this night when the said brunet answered.
"I do appreciate your concern, but there is no need to bother yourself with such a trivial matters, Yagari-sensei. As I have said earlier, I can handle it myself just fine."
"Then make sure that they behave themselves." He gave Aidou one last warning glance, "Otherwise I'll try my new bullets on their pretty heads."
The blond noble got the message and averted his gaze abruptly, face noticeably paled. Yagari looked over to Kuran when the latter let out a small chuckle and replied smoothly, "I will."
The silence had lingered for a few more moments before the veteran hunter started the lecture. The vampires relaxed visibly, but some stiffness was still present and quite evident in their forms. As they went on with studies, the midnight was getting closer as well as the end of their classes, and soon the vampires returned to the Moon Dorms, free to do anything they pleased.
He didn't really know how he got there. It looked like his legs brought him to this place on their own accord while he was absorbed in his thoughts. And when Zero looked around, he realized that he was heading in the Moon Dorms' direction. But before the ex-human could start thinking over his actions any further, he was fully brought into reality by his former mentor's voice that called out his name. The teen turned around to face the older hunter.
"Master...You're back."
Yagari regarded his former student silently, a cloud of smoke from his cigarette surrounding them as he spoke, "Cross told me what happened. Are you okay now, kid?"
The teen nodded slowly before replying, "Yes. I'm sorry. I was careless." He felt a large hand on his head, ruffling his hair reassuringly. Somehow the action worked. Though Yagari wasn't his mentor anymore, the man's presence always helped him, bringing back at least some peaceful memories from his past, when he still was human and had his family, life, future and himself.
"No one blames you for anything. I only asked if you were alright, that's all. Got it?"
After receiving another nod, the older hunter continued, his tone now more firm, "Don't let Kuran get to you, Zero. That bloodsucker is the most dangerous among all of them. I don't know what he'll gain from helping you, but it can't be good."
The ex-human didn't answer. He knew and understood what the man before him was talking about and words weren't necessary. The older man inhaled one long drag from his cigarette and exhaled slowly before speaking again, "You still remember what I taught you, don't you, Zero?"
The prefect smiled bitterly, "As if I could ever forget your lessons, master."
"Then you know what to do. Never forget who you are, Zero." With last pat to the ex-human's head, the older hunter passed his former apprentice and left, leaving the teen alone with his musings.
The moon was present high in the night, starless sky. Its beautiful gleams passing through the large windows, bringing some weak light in the dark, almost pitch-black room. The atmosphere was still, frozen and none of the two figures moved.
Sitting casually on his couch with one elbow leaning on the handle, head resting lightly against slender fingers, long legs crossed as Kaname watched the ex-human in front of him with amusement clearly evident in his burgundy eyes. Deciding to spare the teen who had already felt himself uncomfortable enough under that scrutinizing gaze, the pureblood voiced, "Although this visit is truly pleasant for me, I believe you made it clear that you don't wish to see me. May I know the cause of this unexpected change?"
Glaring at the brunet heatedly, the Level D growled angrily, "Can't you drop this stupid act and save it for that little fan club of yours because I'm sick of it." Not paying much attention to the other vampire's changed expression, Zero continued, "And same goes for you."
"I am aware of it. And it makes all the fun even better."
"Asshole."
"Don't try my patience, D." The smile had long faded from his lips. Once again, the brat had managed to irritate him faster than anyone. Despite his efforts to keep it civil, Kiryuu just had to challenge him. Even without words, those eyes were expressive enough to convey his strong hatred and steady defiance. At moments like this the brunet vampire wanted to see the pain and suffering in these lilac hues the most. The tone became more commanding as he spoke, "Watch your mouth or I'll personally teach you some manners."
"Fuck you!" The ex-human spun around and dashed towards the door, unable to stand seeing the arrogant bastard any further. If the damn leech asked him to come only to play one of his little games, then he wouldn't stay here any longer. However, when he had reached the doorknob, he heard a light 'click', indicating that the door was closed now. And these suspicions were confirmed when the teen tried it, still foolishly hoping that he was mistaken.
"You already know it's useless. Why even try?"
Zero could hear a mocking smile that was plastered on the bloodsucker's face while he spoke those words. Growling frustrated, the prefect turned his attention to the other vampire. He felt more anger boiling inside of him when the bastard's smirk widened.
"Unlock the damn door." Instinctively, his hand took a hold of the Bloody Rose. He had already started pulling it out when the dangerous growl stopped him.
"Do it and I'll rip your throat out. Don't tempt me, Kiryuu." His eyes were glowing a violent red now. At this sight the silver-haired teen felt shivers running up and down his spine. On its own accord, the hand that was holding the gun, released it and got back to his side.
"Now sit. We still have matters to discuss."
"Just get it over with. Tell me what you want and I'll leave."
Kaname didn't answer, but watched the teen silently. He let a small smile grace his lips before answering, "Very well. If you're so eager..." His fingers started unbuttoning his shirt. Zero watched these motions with dread and fascination. One part of his being in complete anticipation while the other was terrified, already knowing what would happen next. But he couldn't tear his eyes away from the pale column that was now fully revealed to him. And neither could he stop his orbs from burning red and fangs from growing. He could literally smell Kuran's blood even without actually breaking the skin. And that part was the most frightening. Not only the fact that the bloodthirsty beast inside of him had become even stronger, but also the craving he felt for the older vampire's blood. It felt like he had become addicted to this poison only after a few times of taking it.
Kaname seemed to be pleased with the hunter's reaction. The intensity of that clouded gaze sent tremors of pure excitement through his entire being. He left done only a few buttons of his black shirt, allowing it to fully reveal his firm chest and a part of a toned stomach. Voice suggestive, as if trying to seduce his victim as he stretched out one hand and spoke, "Come here." After a few more silent moments, the silver-haired prefect shifted his gaze, abruptly locking his eyes with that of the older vampire.
"You still haven't told me what you want, vampire," the harsh voice was even, but only a bit louder than a whisper. The teen noticed a little spark of surprise flashing in the ruby orbs at his words. But it disappeared as fast as it came as Kaname regained his usual facade and replied smoothly in an amused tone, "Because it doesn't matter. You have no other choice but to...agree with my terms."
The ex-human sneered, "Full of yourself as ever."
"..." Kaname didn't answer but only looked the ex-human up and down slowly and silently. It seemed like he was thinking something over. Zero stood still despite the strong discomfort he felt under this gaze. The bastard really knew how to cause him a complete distress. The prefect flinched visibly when Kuran's eyes suddenly burned red after locking with his. With sadistic smirk adoring his features, he spoke his sentence-like decision, "How about your blood?"
Zero felt his entire being frozen, it was hard to breathe as if his lungs were crushed. But this time it wasn't because of the bloodlust, the causes of it were Kuran's words that he thought he had heard. Finding the strength to speak again, he questioned quietly, afraid of hearing the answer since he was mostly sure that he had heard it right. But the silly, useless hope was still present somewhere inside of him.
"What...what did you say?" He had heard it right. Judging by that wide smirk, he had definitely heard that right and the son of a bitch was thoroughly enjoying it. But the teen refused to show his fear. For he knew that it would only fuel the leech's desire to torment him further. And it was the only thing that was left for him. His pride that he would doubtlessly loose very soon.
But despite his efforts, Kaname could see through him since the teen's eyes always conveyed his emotions way too well. And the ex-human couldn't even imagine the excitement the brunet felt. Kuran stood up from the couch and took a step towards the prefect. It looked like Zero had woken up from his trance-like state when he saw and felt the other moving closer. Even if it were only a mere inches, he would never be able to ignore it, this horrid presence. Despite the instinctive urge to back away, the hunter clenched his hands and stood his ground, watching Kuran carefully. He was trapped there anyway, the door was still closed and behind him was only wall.
"I said, 'how about your blood'? As a trade for mine." The brunet came closer, looking the silver-haired hunter steadily in the eye. Before the younger vampire could react, Kaname grabbed his neck tightly. He gave the slender column a light squeeze, narrowing his burning eyes dangerously, all playfulness had already fade away when he continued, "This price is the very least you could pay. Your blood and obedience, that is."
Though Zero had some problems with voicing his words right now, he spoke nevertheless, "Why don't you go to hell instead? I would rather die than give in to you, damn leech."
"Of course...it would be so boring if you didn't resist, now wouldn't it?"A cruel, bone-chilling smirk pulled at the brunet's lips. He squeezed the neck in his hand tightly, cutting off the air from the boy's lungs. The smoothness of his voice never changed, but the tone took on a more dangerous edge, "However, if you want to die that badly..." The silver-haired teen felt Kuran starting to move, pulling him forward before suddenly, the prefect's back felt a cold surface of the massive wooden desk as he was slammed against it quite violently. The younger vampire heard a rustling of papers and banging that indicated of different objects being knocked down to the floor. When it became quiet again, Kaname resumed speaking, "I always can fulfill this wish of yours."
"L-let...go...ngh..." All words were dulled in Zero's mind. He couldn't take enough air in his lungs. He knew that the older vampire wouldn't kill him though. However, it didn't help lessen the pain from the pressure that he felt in his head. The bastard's fingers would surely leave bruises later since the leech didn't hold back that much. If the ex-human wasn't so preoccupied with trying to think of a way to free himself, he would have commented on Kuran's constant change in behavior when they were alone. Where the hell had that damn facade of a good vampire gone? That impassive mask surely was much better than this sadistic smirk.
"Damnit...K-Kuran...!" The prefect practically breathed out the name, clutching the pureblood's arm.
The brunet watched the teen's face, adoring the way the moonlight caressed his silver strands and smooth, pale skin. Kaname lessened his hold, but still kept the hunter firmly in place. Zero turned his head to the side, coughing hoarsely. Through the haziness of his mind he heard the other vampire speak again, but this time it was much closer and he felt a warm breath on his ear, "You're not the only one who feels the craving for blood, Kiryuu. Though I can quench it with blood tablets, it doesn't mean that I'm sated with it." The close proximity of their bodies was sickening, the ex-human pushed on the pureblood's shoulders with both hands, trying to lift the both of them up. The position was making him uncomfortable and no matter how futile the attempt itself was, he still had to try. But the action ended up with his movements becoming fully restricted because Kuran took a hold of his wrists and pinned them down.
"Let me go already, damn it! I got your point so get yourself off me!" The brunet didn't answer, he still hadn't moved from his position. He could feel the boy's unique scent and hear the loud accelerated beating of his heart. It intoxicated him and Kaname felt it again. His permanent thirst becoming even more unbearable. Eyes locked on the throbbing vein on that inviting beautiful neck that was practically calling for him. And he complied, moving down to give it an experimental lick. The teen's struggles stopped. Sighing softly, the pureblood spoke, "You never understood anything...and still don't." He lifted his head to look Zero in the eye. The hunter let out a barely audible relieved sigh that failed to escape the other vampire. Chuckling lightly, the older male continued, "But I'll make sure that you will." A wide smile pulled at his lips, revealing two sharp, fully aroused, white points of the pureblood's fangs. The dark orbs became bright red in a second.
"Kuran..." The clear fear, so evident in the boy's voice, pleased the violent beast that had fully woken up inside of Kaname the moment Kiryuu entered the room.
"Ngh! Kuran!" In a flash, the canines pierced his skin and the pain shot through his body as he cried out. Unlike the other times, the penetration was painful. He didn't remember it that clearly, but he was sure that it wasn't so agonizing. Zero started feeling dizzy not short after. The pureblood sure as hell didn't hold back at all, taking large, greedy gulps. Kaname buried his fangs even further in the hunter's flesh, leaving the teen breathless.
The ex-human felt a hand in his hair intertwining with silvery strands before his head was roughly yanked back to give the other a better access. Next moment he became aware of another pair of sharp teeth in his throat. He guessed it were the lower fangs. Kuran bit down even harder before taking in the last mouthful of blood and completely withdrawing with one sudden movement, tearing the skin of the slender column and making Zero cry out in pain.
Fascinated, the pureblood watched the blood flowing from the raw flesh – the evidence of his ruthlessness. Usually he was very careful and drank without spilling even a single drop, but right now he could grant his inner beast this little joy. Licking the remaining crimson elixir from his lips, the brunet kept eyeing the other vampire's tortured expression.
"You are trembling. Is it because of the strong, unbearable bloodlust you should feel right now...or could it be because of fear?"
There was no answer as Zero lay quietly, trying to control his body. He was ashamed and disgusted with himself, because Kaname was right. And his body was shaking not because of the unbearable lust for blood, but because of the terror he felt. He never should feel such an emotion when near a vampire, and a pureblood at that. They could literally smell it and it only excited them more. They liked to play with their prey like that. Yes, the ex-human knew too well. But it didn't mean that he could stop his body from reacting this way. After being turned, one of the strongest fears of his was the vampire bite because it was bound to awaken the memories of that gruesome night.
Kaname grabbed the teen's jaw tightly. The prefect winced at the pain, but didn't try to pull away, knowing that it was useless. He heard the pureblood speaking, "Whatever it is, never forget this feeling, Kiryuu. Because it's a constant reminder of who your master is, who allows you to live and whom you are eternally indebted to." The brunet's voice turned into a quiet animalistic growl, "My offer is excessively generous and a lowly ex-human like you should be grateful for it...! You cannot and won't defy it, and if I have to drain you every time to make you accept your true nature and submit to me, I'll gladly comply with this condition. Am I clear enough? !"
After a few moments of heavy silence, the teen nodded slightly, closing his eyes in defeat. Satisfied with this response, the older male smirked wickedly, ceasing the firm hold and moving his hand to the prefect's nape. His voice was once again its smooth, silky self as he said, "Good. And now..." Lifting Zero up to a sitting position and placing his own neck directly under the silver-haired teen's lips, the brunet hooked his free hand around the other's waist, holding the younger vampire tightly and whispering a command that didn't leave a room for refusal, "Drink."
Breathing out shakily, the ex-human lowered his head and licked the older vampire's neck languidly, the unwitting sensuality of the action made Kaname tighten his hold and bring the other's body even closer. One of the teen's hands grasped the back of the pureblood's shirt while the other moved to interlace with the dark locks. His throat was burning, he was almost literally dying to pierce that soft skin and bury his aching fangs in the inviting, tempting neck. With all his remaining strength, he pulled on the silky strands, bared his sharp canines and bit down harshly, fully losing himself in the feeling of that heavenly elixir on his tongue. His wounds started closing immediately as he drank in large gulps.
Sighing softly, Kaname leaned closer, letting out hot puffs of breath on the prefect's ear. A smirk graced his lips when he heard a quiet whimper escaping the other vampire in response to his action. The ex-human tried to bite harder, but stopped when the pureblood fisted his hair tightly in warning. The brunet eased his hold, allowing the teen to continue his feeding. Smiling evilly when Zero complied, he whispered, "Your life is fully bound to me, Kiryuu. I have allowed you your existence by forgiving an unforgivable." He gripped the silvery locks painfully, making the other freeze in his tracks. With his teeth still buried deeply in the other's neck, the prefect shifted his attention to the older vampire who watched him intently. The pureblood's tone became graver when he continued, "You can neither escape nor die without my permission. And from now onwards...your every move will be controlled by me." He released the soft strands, allowing Zero to take a few more mouthfuls before the latter's complete withdrawal.
His mind was still a little cloudy because of the powerful, pure blood that he had drunk, but even in this condition he felt insecure near Kuran. Clumsily, he tried to make some space between them by pushing on the other male's chest since he himself was pretty much trapped. However, the older vampire kept standing there motionless, and soon after the ex-human gave up, dropping his heavy head on the pureblood's shoulder. His eyes fell on the bloody mess on the other's neck. Though he wasn't thirsty anymore, he moved to lick the crimson liquid on sheer instinct, making the other shudder in delight.
When Zero was finished, Kaname took a hold of the silver-haired teen's throat and gripped it, tilting the other's head back. His eyes locked with hazy lavender orbs as he forced the prefect to look at him.
The silence lingered for a few moments before the pureblood decided to break it, "Do not ever forget who your master is." He gave the slender column a hard squeeze to silence the defiant brat who had already opened his mouth to protest. The action helped since the Level D didn't utter a word, but only winced at the pain he felt from his windpipe being almost crushed. He clutched the front of the brunet's shirt in a wordless request while the older vampire resumed speaking, "Because like it or not, you're in no position to refuse. And I will quite literally beat it into your head if I should."
After a short while of staring into each other's eyes, Kaname released the silver-haired teen and backed away, allowing the other to have some space for himself. He watched Zero's every move as the teen slid from the table and moved to the side cautiously, trying to put between them as much space as he could, all the while holding the pureblood's gaze. Chuckling darkly, Kaname questioned, "Are you scared of me now, Kiryuu-kun?"
"Unlock the door." The ex-human shot him a fierce glare, ignoring the brunet's words. "You had your fun, now let me out of here."
"Or what?"
The prefect's hand twitched at the open mockery in the bastard's words. He ached to slaughter the sick leech, to spend all bullets of his anti-vampire gun by shooting Kuran repeatedly. But despite the strong desire to pull out his weapon and aim it at the pureblood, he thought better of it and stood still, inwardly cursing the stupid beast's existence.
Kaname grinned widely at the teen's scowl. As he spoke, the uncovered amusement in his words angered Zero even further, "Why don't you try to ask nicely? I'm sure it's not as difficult as you think."
"Why don't you stop dreaming? It's not that hard even for you." He mimicked the pureblood sarcastically.
"Ah...That's good. You're back to your usual impudent, disrespectful, provocative, bratty self. I've nearly started worrying that I'll get bored."
Gritting his teeth in fury, the hunter spat angrily, "Find yourself another entertainment and leave me out of all this crap! You sick, crazy as-!" He stopped himself when the deep brown hues turned crimson.
Kaname's expression remained unreadable for a few silent moments before a dark smirk graced his features yet again. Though seemingly smooth and even, his voice was dangerous, and the ex-human had felt it, thus refrained from saying anything further as the pureblood spoke, "What, Kiryuu? Please, do continue. I would really like to hear the end of this little phrase."
Zero started backing away even before the other made a first step towards him. In a few torturous seconds the hunter's back hit the hard surface of the heavy wooden door. He fully pressed himself into it when the other male put his hands on either side of the silver-haired teen's shoulders.
"I'm waiting. Don't make me repeat myself." His features were completely deprived of any traces of recent amusement. Brown locks cascaded over his cheekbones, eyes glowing red, a cold emotionless expression with a hint of sadistic pleasure behind those burning orbs that watched him unblinkingly – all these and the complete darkness of the room, it looked like the moon had disappeared from the night sky, leaving him alone with this...beast. And at this very moment he really meant it. Kuran was an image of pure devil: terrifying and deathly dangerous, but indescribably alluring. It both scared and fascinated him and Zero couldn't neither move nor say a word. He kept standing there motionlessly, silently watching the other. It looked like the air itself was frozen.
Kaname was the one who made the first move. He brought his hand to the ex-human's cheek and caressed the velvety skin with his fingers. Before the younger vampire could pull back from the contact, he grasped the boy's jaw firmly, restricting his movements. When he leaned in, closing the distance between them, Zero's arms shot up: one pushed at the pureblood's shoulder, the other – at his chest. The hunter had already opened his mouth to protest when quiet, but persistent knocks sounded. Distracted, the brunet looked at the other part of the double doors with irritation. He had already recognized the intruder by smell and aura and was not pleased with this interruption.
When a few seconds passed by in silence and no one answered, a soft voice of the Night Class' Vice-President spoke, "Kaname, I know that you asked not to disturb you, but it's urgent. I can't calm them down."
Though Zero didn't quite understand what Ichijou was talking about, he was inwardly grateful to the blond because he wasn't eager to deal with the pureblood even in the slightest. It was too much for one night and the only thing he wanted at the moment was to get out of this damn lair.
Kaname closed his eyes, exhaling slowly. When he returned his gaze to the prefect, wine red replaced the violent crimson once again. He removed himself from the other's form. Subconsciously, the younger vampire let out a relieved sigh, glad to be finally left alone. The action failed to escape the brunet, but he didn't comment on it, only whispered, "For now...you may be excused. I shall see you later on."
Belatedly complying with the silver-haired teen's earlier request, Kaname unlocked the door with his mind and opened it, moving slightly to the side as Kiryuu all but dashed out of the study, nearly bumping into Takuma and escaping as if his life depended on it. Well...perhaps he was right to some extent.
When the hunter disappeared from his sight, the pureblood turned his attention to the nervously-looking Takuma, who gave him an apologetic smile, "I'm really sorry, but the Night Class seem exceedingly restless because of the...mix of smells. I think you're the only one who can handle it, Kaname."
Despite his inner discontent, the brunet eyed his childhood friend calmly and answered, "It's alright. We have finished discussing our matters anyway."
With that said he exited the room and headed in the main hall's direction with Takuma loyally following behind.
Ironical, indeed. It was the only word that could come to his mind no matter how much he thought about this situation. The more he took, the more he wanted, and that thirst seemed unquenchable. It was true that out of all vampire levels, purebloods experienced the strongest bloodlust. It was their nature of the most perfect predatory beasts that were absolutely inhuman. In fact, every vampire should feel the thirst for that sinful crimson liquor, it was inevitable – simple as that. But the higher the rank, the stronger the desire would be. The same went to the amount of needed blood. The self control issue also wasn't different. In pureblood vampires' cases, it was perfect, so they actually could do without the red liquid, but it would certainly be a Hell. The predator in them wouldn't stay all calm and quiet. It would crave for a warm blood, soft flesh and agonized cries, it would demand nothing but a violence of the cruelest kind. Of course, their condition wouldn't be like that of a starved Level E or D since they would never show it, but internally it would be a torture.
However, such cases were rare since every vampire would gladly give his or her whole self to their Lords. In fact, it would be proper to say that each and every one of them would kill for such an honor. They would willingly become purebloods' slaves, toys, blood sources – anything the higher-ranked vampires wished. It was the only possible variant since any other was both ridiculous and unacceptable.
Kaname's lips pulled into an amused smirk at the thought, 'It seems like there are exceptions in everything... And I have found a really unique one.'
Only several days had passed since their little 'meeting' in his study, but he was hungry again. It wasn't his usual, normal bloodlust, but more strong and demanding one. He had already started taking more tablets to quench it, but frankly speaking, it didn't help much. Firstly, the taste was horrible and it made him want to drink the real thing even more, in order to at least dull the aftertaste of the synthetic substance. Secondly, the tablets were meant to only lessen his thirst: nothing could sate him but a real blood. And thirdly, it wasn't fun at all. There was no excitement, hunt adrenaline, anticipation, ripped flesh, prey's screams, trembling body and warm, sweet blood oozing from deep wounds down his throat, making him shiver in dark delight and sick pleasure. Yes, vampires were violent by nature, but brutality of a pureblood couldn't be compared with anything. Though usually they didn't show it openly, it always was there. And no one but vampires of this kind knew about it.
They loved human blood...Its taste, smell, texture, the warmth that it gave, dissolving the coldness within them. It was completely different from that of another vampire, it held no strength, no power – but was incredibly enticing nevertheless, just like humans themselves. And, even though it may be wrong to say that, but they were a perfect prey as much as vampires were the perfect predators. Humans were weak and fragile, could be broken so easily and die so fast...Kaname hated these feeble creatures.
And Yuuki...Some day she would die too. And he knew for sure that this day would come too soon for his liking considering the lifespan of his kind. Of course, he could change it. Turning her wouldn't be so hard and he was sure that she would be willing to do it for him. He knew that she loved him as much as he loved her. However, there would always be that nuisance called Kiryuu Zero. The lowly ex-human had managed to spoil even this little, precious part of the pureblood's life. As he was sure that part of his dear girl's heart belonged to the silver-haired hunter. The filthy low-blood would never allow Yuuki to be turned into a vampire, naturally. Although Kaname didn't care about the boy's views and opinions, his precious girl did. She never showed it openly, but the pureblood saw how much she cherished her adopted brother and valued his opinion.
Really, she was too kind for her own good. The pureblood honestly couldn't grasp how she could have any affectionate feelings for that being. True, the male prefect's looks were very rare and even more than good. Anyone could tell that his natural beauty was inhuman-like with those striking eyes, flowing hair, smooth pale skin, graceful features, slim, but well-built body and unusual, exotic coloring. Vampires valued beauty even more than humans since they had to be perfect in everything. Imperfection of any kind was unacceptable in their society, and despite Kaname's dislike for the defiant brat, he wasn't exception and appreciated the real beauty and could admit that at least in this aspect he and Zero were even. Complete opposites, but still even.
But what else could Yuuki see in that lowlife? His body was the only good thing about him since that scowl the teen always wore could do nothing but push others away. Well...maybe not the only...After all, the boy's blood was so sinfully delicious. Probably because he was not a mere human, but a hunter. Kiryuu was a vampire, but not fully. In fact, except purebloods, every vampire had some human genes in them. Considering Zero's human and hunter lineage, he was only a half-vampire, thus closer to human than all students of the Night Class together. But the ex-human's positive traits ended there. And it definitely wasn't enough to justify his bad temper, permanent anger issues and open disrespect towards his superiors.
It was a Friday evening, and highly unpleasant one at that. He had been working on his business and Council affairs without any sleep or rest last few days, and to say that his mood was fool would be an understatement. And to top it all, he was hungry. He had drunk blood tablets, an enormous amount of it and not once. Well, for him it was only a little more than norm, but still, for any lower-ranked vampire it would be too much. As expected, it helped, though not for long. That, and the metallic taste of the synthetic substance didn't help to cease his stress.
Leaning back and exhaling tiredly, the pureblood averted his gaze from the papers lying on the table towards the window. It was a quiet, moonless night since the said physical object was hidden behind the massive clouds. It looked like it would rain soon. Kaname's gaze was focused somewhere far. Deciding to take a short, calming walk, the brunet stood up and headed to the double doors of his spacious residence.
The Moon Dorms were empty since the whole Night Class was at lessons right now. His steps echoed in the silent halls as he walked out of the building, met by the light night breeze. Giving the guard a signal to open the gates, Kaname stepped out of the Moon Dormitory's territory into the night. He felt himself relaxing slowly as the darkness embraced him. After a few minutes of strolling leisurely, his senses picked up a familiar aura. The pureblood smirked wickedly at the sudden thought that crossed his mind.
'Just perfect...'
"Get back to class." The prefect took a hold of his gun and aimed it at the two vampires standing before him.
He was not in the mood for dealing with the stupid leeches right now. Honestly, for today he had had more than enough. First the mission where instead of one he had found four Level Es, which resulted in huge gashes across his chest and forearm. Yes, he had managed to complete the task and exterminated all of them, but right now it wasn't helping him to get rid of the pain. Not to mention that his mind was still clouded due to the blood loss and damn injures that hurt like hell even now.
He had bandaged the wounds upon returning to the Academy, hoping that it would be closed soon enough for other vampires to either not notice or simply ignore it. But being who he was, naturally, it was foolish of him to expect that to happen. And now, when the only thing he wanted was to get to his room and go to bed to get much needed sleep, the freaks just had to annoy him even more.
'Fucking great.'
"You smell good..." said the vampire who was standing closer to Zero. He had a dark, pitch-black hair and ice-blue eyes. Though now the hunter could see the tint of red in it. The grin was plastered on his face as he continued, "Or should I say...your blood smells really good, Mr. Prefect."
The other was standing a little further, a few steps behind the brunet. With his bright amber orbs he was watching Kiryuu like a hawk the whole time. He grinned, stepping forward.
"I bet its taste is as delicious as the smell." He brushed a few unruly, wavy acid-red strands away from his face, "It smelt good the last time too. So tempting and tantalizing...Are you provoking us on purpose?"
'Click!' The safety latch of the Bloody Rose was switched off. The ex-human clutched the anti-vampire weapon tightly, voice unwavering, "I said, get back to the damn class."
"How scary. Do you really think it can stop us?" The red-haired noble's tone was way too amused for Zero's liking. Somehow this conversation reminded him of Kuran, except that 'His Highness the Great Vampire Lord' was even more annoying with his complex of God. The thought of the pureblood unnerved the silver-haired teen further.
The younger male's eyes narrowed into slits threateningly, "Try me."
"Gladly." That came from the raven-haired Level B who smiled darkly, showing the tips of his fangs. Zero scowled, disgusted by these beasts. He readied himself for the fight; his finger almost literally ached to pull the trigger. The redhead was the first to move.
"Am I interrupting something?" All too familiar voice sounded, successfully stopping the Night Class student in his tracks even before the said vampire could make the next step towards Zero.
"Ka-Kaname-sama!" The same noble blurted out, slightly stuttering upon seeing the pureblood's stern expression. Kaname's tone was smooth, yet firm and commanding. Being near Kuran for quite a long time, they could tell that at the moment their leader was not happy. And nothing could be worse than angry pureblood. The two nobles felt their hearts sunk. With this action of trying to 'have a taste' of Kiryuu, they had openly disobeyed and offended the Level A's idea of co-existence, which wasn't good at all.
"We…We're just..."
The older vampire turned his attention to Zero. The teen had lowered his gun, but still held it tightly by his side. His deadly glare intensifying as he matched eyes with the brunet.
Still watching the silver-haired prefect attentively, Kaname spoke to the nobles, "Go to class. I shall deal with you later."
The two aristocrats hesitated only for a few seconds, but all doubts disappeared the moment their Lord roared at them impatiently, his burning crimson eyes narrowed dangerously as he turned to them, "NOW."
In a flash, the Level B vampires disappeared not leaving a trace of themselves. The silence lingered as the pureblood regarded the ex-human leisurely, "Why are you bleeding?"
"I'm not." The teen replied curtly, groaning inwardly and cursing himself for his foolishness. When he thought that this night couldn't get any worse...Yeah, right. When did he become so optimistic? Naturally, Kuran wouldn't lose the opportunity to get on his nerves.
"However, the smell is all over you."
"And it's none of your business."
The older vampire chuckled quietly. Surprisingly, his stress had really ceased a bit. "Actually, it is. Because it's my blood you're spilling so freely, Kiryuu." The pureblood grinned evilly at the prefect's discontent expression. He loved seeing those expressive eyes. Anger, pain, sorrow, hatred, defiance and hidden fear there pleased Kaname greatly. Just like Zero's crimson elixir...it fulfilled him inside, and each time he wanted more. And with this heavenly odor so strong, he almost started considering draining the boy right there and then. But he refrained from doing so. After all, he wanted his fun to continue as long as possible.
Surprisingly, Zero stayed silent, and the brunet male noticed it, "Why, no sharp retorts tonight? Feeling unwell?"
"Screw you." The ex-human averted his eyes, causing a small, amused smile to pull at the other's lips.
"Well, at least this part of you never changes."
The hunter sighed, closing his eyes and running a hand through his silver tresses tiredly. He was exhausted, and Kuran's presence wasn't helping. It only made him feel even worse. More than anything, he wanted to get out of here. His voice was weak and quiet when he replied, "Just go away."
It felt like his insides were burning and suddenly his vision started getting blurry. His heartbeat raced together with his breathing, the ex-human had to use the tree behind him for support and his back met the wooden surface. The Bloody Rose hit the ground as Zero's hand released it to hold his heavy head. He couldn't get what was happening to him. His body started shaking uncontrollably; vision blurry and he couldn't keep himself standing. As he slid down, the pain in his chest intensified. The rapid beating of his heart was echoing in his ears and it was killing him. For some time his senses were dulled, and when his surroundings returned, the first thing he felt was the cold hands on his seemingly burning skin. Though not clearly enough, he still could see the silhouette looming over him and he knew who it was.
The prefect hissed at the intense pain he felt from the pureblood's touch when the older male brushed the tips of his fingers over the clothed wounds. The silver-haired teen could comprehend now that Kuran was kneeling in front of him, already finishing unbuttoning his shirt and starting to work on the bandages. When he was finished, he inspected the ex-human's upper half, eyes slightly widening at the sight, but it disappeared as fast as it came. He had known that the boy was injured, but he hadn't thought that it was serious. Such deep wounds...no wonder the hunter looked so pale and couldn't even oppose him. And if Kaname's guess about these gashes being caused by the Level E was right, then Kiryuu would better thank him properly for taking all the troubles of helping him. Well, at least he would have some fun. The boy owed him his life yet again, and the more the better. One day, he would fully consume the younger vampire, and each time they were getting closer to that point. Ah, how the thought of breaking this being always made him shudder...but it was too early for that. He liked their games. And Kiryuu was the most interesting thing to play with. Kaname let the sinister smile grace his perfectly sculpted lips before moving on with his task. The wounds should be closed and he knew only one way how to do it fast.
Through the haze surrounding his mind, Zero felt something warm and wet trailing over his chest. Somehow, the pain he had felt earlier had ceased considerably, but he still didn't feel well. It was disturbing and he couldn't grasp what was happening, but he was thankful for the agony leaving his worn out body. It trailed higher...to his collarbone, neck, stopped at the jugular vein, lingered there as two sharp fangs nipped at the skin. Fangs? Blinking slowly a few times, he cleared his vision and took in his surroundings. His head kept pounding and he turned it to the side, groaning, and the intruder went higher and bit on his earlobe, making him shudder. His eyes dilated as he recognized this place: the scent, the bed he was laid upon, the presence and the body above him. The gut-wrenching dread pierced his body like a thousands of needles. Immediately, he tried to get up and jostle away the other figure, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't make his limbs work.
A low chuckle sounded near his ear before Kuran whispered, "Feeling better?"
Again, that luring voice was too close, sickeningly close and he knew he was trapped. Those wandering hands went to his exposed back, lifting him up slightly while the pureblood nuzzled his neck, nibbling, licking and...kissing?...the tattooed skin. Well, nothing new here, since the silver-haired teen had long realized that this ravenous beast was a sick pervert.
A strangled cry fell from the prefect's lips when Kaname latched himself onto the boy's throat, burying his painfully aroused canines in the tender flesh as deep as his blunt teeth could allow. This time he drank in a torturously slow rhythm, the bite was bringing nothing but agony, and the brunet knew it, because he was doing it on purpose. The area where the anti-vampire charm was embedded was burning, making the silver-haired teen's skin even more sensitive and bringing the pureblood's fangs, lips and tongue strange, but not unpleasant tingling sensations. He wanted more...Kiryuu's blood was so sweet and warm, a pure bliss that he couldn't get enough of. He became even hungrier after 'healing' the hunter's wounds, and now was the time to take what was rightfully his without holding back.
Zero's body trembled under the older vampire's wandering hands. "Kuran..." He felt lightheaded and dark spots started dancing before his eyes, voice strained and barely audible as he gasped, "Kuran..! Stop, stop it!" He could barely see now.
Bringing his clawed hand to the Level D's nape, Kaname fisted the other's hair and pulled on it harshly, forcing the ex-human's head back painfully, all the while preventing Kiryuu from biting him in return and lifting the boy from the silk sheets with his other arm that rested under the younger one's waist. He wanted to enjoy it...the unique taste of that forbidden elixir that every vampire craved for, but no one but him could have so freely. The blood of a hunter, that was so rare and nearly unattainable in their society.
Way too soon for his liking, the slim body underneath slackened and went limp. Swallowing the last gulp, the pureblood freed his fangs and released the unconscious form, letting it fall to the mattress. Licking off the remains of crimson from his teeth, Kaname looked over the ex-human's face, mesmerized by its calm, serene expression.
The brunet extended his hand to brush a few silvery strands away from the closed eyes, but before he could touch the other vampire, his wrist was caught in vice-like grip and two deep red, piercing, burning orbs caught his garnet ones, freezing the pureblood in place as though penetrating his very soul. Those cold, hungry, murderous eyes captivated him, unwavering gaze sending shivers down Kaname's spine.
In a flash, he was pulled down by the collar of his dress shirt and Kiryuu's fangs were driven into his neck, immediately drawing the blood. A breathless gasp was tore out of the older male's throat at the amount of pleasure he was receiving from that violent, furious bite. The moment he lost his balance and fell forward, the hunter's legs wrapped around his waist and the pureblood was flipped on his back with Zero sitting on top of him. The teen bit harder, his fingers gripping the older vampire's silky chocolate locks loosely, almost lazily. He retrieved his fangs and licked the wounds clean, lightly biting the moist skin. The brunet exhaled shakily, shuddering. The way Kiryuu played with him was incredibly enticing. As if the boy knew what buttons to push to bring him the immense pleasure. The pureblood was brought back to reality when another wave of delight overtook him as the ex-human bit down once again and slightly shifted his hips in a rather provocative manner, albeit unconsciously.
Kaname let out a content sigh. His hands went to rest on the prefect's knees, which were so conveniently placed on his sides at the moment, and slowly moved farther up. He ran his fingers up the younger teen's sides in feather-like touches, earning a light shudder from the boy. Snaking his arms around Zero's back, he brought the prefect's body closer, relishing the warmth he got from the contact.
He continued caressing the velvety skin while the hunter drank his fill, completely oblivious to the pureblood's actions. It felt so good...that blood...so sweet and intoxicating...The feeling of soft skin under his lips, flesh giving way under the pressure of his throbbing canines...The hunger retreating as well as the madness he felt only a mere seconds before. And peace...so rare and long-awaited, something he never could and never would have due to his cursed existence. As much as Kuran's blood gave him freedom, it destroyed him all the same. Little by little, and he could literally feel how that venom was spreading in his system, flooding in his veins, overcoming the abhorrent beast inside of him. One's coldness was being replaced with the other – less dangerous, but more frightening. And the sane part of his mind was terrified each time he willingly took this poison.
It had no depths...The darkness of the pureblood's heart was a fathomless abyss that engulfed him imperceptively, stripping him of a tiny part of his very soul every time they contacted. Even so, it was just as inveigling, making it harder for Zero to escape.
Almost completely, the coldness retreated and his vision started becoming more clear as well as his senses. He felt the light touch on his shoulder blades, ribs, waist, and hip bones – the long fingers caressing his burning skin. Again, it sent tremors through his weakened form, but he couldn't gather enough strength to let go of this alluring, soft slender column just yet. However, the haziness disappeared and his mind sobered when the insistent hands moved lower, gentle touches replaced with aggressive ones as his buttocks were grasped firmly in painful, somewhat demanding manner. His eyes shot open and he retrieved his fangs, chocking on the last mouthful of blood. He started lifting himself up, but a sudden pain pierced his back, tearing the breathless, agonizing half-cry half-gasp out of his throat and almost making him collapse on the person underneath.
Something was trailing down his spine, coating his skin in its warmth. He realized what had just happened when the smell of his own blood reached his nostrils. Raising his head, he caught a sight of none other than Kuran licking his fingers clean off the red liquid that was now streaming from his back. Using his shaking arms for support, the silver-haired teen sat up, still crouching slightly as he held his clouded head, swearing irritatedly. Hearing a soft chuckle coming from the pureblood's direction, the ex-human turned his attention to the older vampire.
"Don't you think that it's a rather...inciting position, Kiryuu?"
Zero blinked once, twice, still not understanding what the other was talking about. His confusion was evident.
At the quizzical look the boy gave him, Kaname shifted his hips slightly upwards, silently explaining the meaning of his previous words. Zero's eyes went as wide as it was possible, the color drained from his face before it returned again, but this time as a deepest shade of red that expanded all the way from his cheeks to ears. The sight actually pleased the pureblood – he liked this mortified expression. Kiryuu looked so alluring like that: so lost and embarrassed.
Snapping out of his daze, the ex-human jolted backwards, attempting to escape the smug-looking bastard who kept grinning in a creepy manner. But being not fast enough, he wasn't able to get away too far as Kuran grabbed him and reversed their position. Zero gasped as his wounded back made contact with the silk sheets. The next moment his mouth was covered with that of the pureblood, wrists pinned to the mattress as Kaname straddled him.
The moment the brunet's tongue started exploring the hot caverns feverishly, the ex-human could feel the other's pure blood running down his throat. He didn't feel any thirst, but something like that wasn't significant – no matter how much he took, the blood never failed to tempt him further. Yes, he was the worst kind of monster and he had confirmed it for the umpteenth time this day. Even so, he couldn't stop himself from tasting that sweet liquid. His fangs elongated once more and he bit onto Kuran's lower lip and then the tongue. The pureblood laughed darkly – it seemed like the boy's actions amused him greatly.
Kaname pulled back, smirking slyly as the prefect tried to follow him up. Reluctantly giving up, the hunter fell down with weak whimper falling from his bloodstained lips. The brunet ceased his hold, one hand moving down, exploring the younger vampire's body. Not meeting any resistance, he questioned quietly, "Finally accepted your position?"
Still panting slightly, Zero furrowed his brows, not quite understanding the meaning of the pureblood's words. Not waiting for his reply, Kuran lowered himself to the boy's neck and trailed a line from base to ear with his hot tongue. Inhaling deeply, the brunet whispered – his voice now more firm and serious, "The true vampire's hunger can't be satisfied only with blood...Aside from the bloodlust, there are a lot of other cravings that we experience."
Kaname's fingers stopped at the ex-human's pants' waistband, tracing the hem. He chuckled lowly into the boy's ear, making the said teen tremble at the sudden action. He bit on the skin, drawing and licking off the tiny beads of blood, before continuing, "And you, Kiryuu...As a full payment for your sanity, you'll satisfy all of them for me."
The body under him went rigid. Shell-shocked, he turned his dilated eyes to the older vampire only to be met by the hungry, deep, crimson hues that sent shivers up and down his back. Slowly, with purposeful deliberation, Kuran's lips pulled into a wide, wicked, sadistic grin, chilling the hunter to the bone. Still stark, the Level D almost missed the pureblood's next words.
"Tonight...I'll collect the first part of your debt..."
A/N: Uwha! O_O It's actually finished! OMG, I can't even describe how happy I am right now! Now that I have this chapter posted, I can finally continue (and even start somewhere) studying for my finals! Yeah, the University gives me tons of headache at the moment, but there are only five more to go and then I'll be free to write as much as I want *evil grin*
But the damn computer crash was worse than anything U_U I cried my eyes, throat, lungs, etc out.
Back to the matter at hand, I AM very sorry and ashamed of myself for being so late even though I promised to post it sooner.
However, I sincerely hope that you can forgive me and that you enjoyed reading this chapter.
Reviews are appreciated, hope to see you soon~*_~