A/N: Awe, sad. So much sadness. Maybe it's a reflection of my mental well-being but, more sadness. Cute but, still sad.

There were drawbacks to being a vampire. Watching human friends pass was one. Trying to draw the courage to tell someone you liked them was another. Kain would argue watching someone in proximity suffer was another. Others would have the argument that it went without saying. Kain's argument was considering how much it hurt, it should be said.

The worst was Kiryuu's soft whines. No matter how often he'd wake from his broken slumber to glare at the aristocrat until Kain had his arms around him again, the twisted expression in what should be relaxed mixed with those small agonizing moans would push Kain away. In the darkness, he could barely make out the worst of the injuries. The broken rib cage. The gash on his thigh and forearm where Ichijou had peeled the skin away, exposing the bone. The angry red bruising on his neck, as if the Hunter had been strangled. Even the corners of his mouth were red and bruised. Kain's best guest was a bit during horseplay. He hadn't had time to examine the injuries done to Kiryuu's legs, anticipating the rest would be just as horrendous.

He pressed a kiss to Kiryuu's head, lifting him lightly to free his arm. Sleep wouldn't come to him in this state. Kain was careful not to make a sound as he left, settling on the small loveseat that smelled vaguely of Touya. She'd know what to do, Kain thought bitterly. Still, it was unlikely the small girl, as much as he'd love to see it, would be able to do much. For a moment, Ichijou's face passed through his thoughts. Kain's teeth grinded together, his hands balling into fists. The brunette that followed after calmed him a moment.

I could… It'd be so easy… But, what good would it do? His expression softened as his eyes flittered to the room where Kiryuu slept. It'd set him back years. All the progress he's made… He groaned, his head falling to the back of the loveseat.

He heard the jingle of her keys trying to slip into the knob. It was followed by a clash, a sigh and a soft profanity. He cringed at the thought of adding another person to the mix, especially as the door swung open. Wakaba closed the door swiftly, another loud bang. In a flash, Kain was standing on the small ledge, segregating the front entry to the living space. Wakaba turned and jumped, holding a hand to her chest. "You scared me."

"Sorry. Just, be quieter, please." He set her bags in her office as she changed her shoes, leaning against the small counter.

"I live here, too, Kain." Wakaba stated though, her voice was uncertain. She rested against the loveseat arm, a good two feet away from the vampire. Kain winced at the sound, his attention on his bedroom door. Wakaba followed his gaze and scoffed. "Is Lee here?"

"Kiryuu." He answered, muttering, "I wouldn't bring Lee here."

Wakaba's curious nature and consideration for the Hunter caused her voice to soften. "What happened?"

"Injuries." He was trying to keep it vague, unsure of how much she knew.

"Hunting or…" She audibly swallowed, her usual crossed arms falling to her sides. "… Ichijou?"

"The latter." Kain let a whoosh of air leave his system, glad he wouldn't have to cover. "… It's bad."

"Must be if he's here." Wakaba shifted uncomfortably. "Shouldn't he be healed already?"

"That's why I wanted to talk."

"Talk? Usually, you order me around." Kain cringed. "What do you want to talk about?"

"… I'm wondering if you can stay with Touya for a bit."

"Kiryuu's got control and I trust him."

"He also hasn't fed for… I don't know how long." He tried to do the math in his head but, time blurred for him. He only returned to the situation at hand as Wakaba sighed.

"Fine. I'll stay with Rima for a couple of days." There was a faint smile on her face. "Give you guys some time to reconcile."

Kain rolled his eyes. "I'm not going for it, Wakaba."

"No but, you'll be playing nurse."

"… In a sense, yes. W…" Realization hit him hard. His eyes widened, a faint blush on his cheeks. "D… Do you think he actually goes for that?"

"He ha—"

"I don't want to know." Still, he knew his Adam's apple bobbed, even as he held up his hand. "You'll stay with Touya."

Wakaba sighed though, the amusement stayed on her face. "Yes, I'll stay with Rima."

"Good, good." He scratched the back of his head, the concern still on his face, satisfied with the resolution. He had expected more fighting.

"If I may…" He almost jumped as she touched his shoulder. "It's good to have you back."

He averted his gaze, only nodding slightly. As she was changing her shoes for the second time, Wakaba's head twisted to him. "Maybe you should order him something."

"Why? Blood water will fix him right up."

"He's fragile right now." Wakaba straightened, leaning against the wall as she corrected the backs of her shoes. "Even if blood water does him good, it'd be a nice thank you."

With that, she was gone.

Silence. Kain hated it. At the best of times, memories of Kitashi and Mayoko would filter through. The worst…

Kain lay on the loveseat, contemplating on whether or not the love triangle of his favourite characters would stir Kiryuu. He decided against it and also against calling his cousins, sure their argument would be heated. Though, half the time, he was sure their arguments were bickering blown out of proportion. He scrolled through his phone, hovering over the names of each of his contacts. I'd wake Kiryuu if I called them. Can't stand the mindlessness of clothes right now. Asleep. In Europe. His finger hovered over Mr. Sneaky, his heart dropping. He could see Gonkuro's laughing face, youthful. For a moment, he forgot to breathe, the tears prickling his eyes. His phone fell from his hand, crashing to the floor as his hands came to his hair, pulling hard. No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no! He wordlessly chanted it, rocking in his seat. Still, the memories of that night… Feeding. He shook his head violently –

And the blood soaked his jacket. Gonkuro's eyes widened with the pain, the hand on the back of Kain's head the same as when he walked into his parents bedroom. Back then, he had pressed Kain's head to his chest, shielding him. Now, it lowered to his neck. The blood had excited Kain's instincts. For a moment, the vampire thought it wouldn't matter. No one would suspect what he had done. And Gonkuro was dead anyway. Just a small snack. Something to help him keep his resolve.

But hell, it was good. Still warm. The tang on his tongue. He saw Mrs. Gonkuro again, her arms outstretched to him. She had never bothered calling him Master Kain, insisting on calling him Akatsuki as she fussed with his hair, holding him to her. Their second son… Gonkuro always insisted that he was his first son and 'such a disappointment'. She'd only laugh at that.

He saw his mother's imposing figure, bending to Gonkuro's level, the dangerous glint in her eye. The vampire that killed his family. The orphanage he grew up in. None were Kain's memories. Only one more thought: 'I'm sorry for what I've done.'

Kain lifted his head, holding Gonkuro to him. His support network. His butler. His other father. His brother. His best friend. It was his fault. He had confronted Kuran. He had fed from Gonkuro. He had killed him.

The thoughts were rushing to Kain. Filling him. His grip tightened on Gonkuro, had crushed his appendages. He felt his mouth move, unsure if sound came out. He couldn't move his arms, Gonkuro's face pressed against his chest, his arms around his waist. The commotion around him… He recognized the words, recognized the voices. He thinks it was Enmei, sweet Enmei… His mischief much like his mother's but poorly planned out, like his father's… If Kain had to see him now, he'd crumble. Gonkuro's eyes would be reflecting back at him. It seemed right that Enmei would be the one to kill him. Mrs. Ozaki hadn't visited her father… Another pang. She could have been Mrs. Gonkuro's clone if not for that determination or the slightly crooked rare smile.

He was standing now, Gonkuro still with him. Kain nodded to himself. Or, at least, he thought he did. He braced for impact, waiting to join the world beyond. Or, maybe, just be dust. It'd serve me right. I fed on Lee. I killed Gonkuro. I've ruined Kiryuu's chances of ever getting to where he needs to be. Ruuka and Hana will get by. Rima will understand. Instead, he was leaning against someone, lured to the car. Ushered into the backseat. Gonkuro's body slumped against him. Maybe it was the first time he had said something audible. "Kanno."

He buried his face in the others hair, the paralysis wearing off. Don't cry. Don't cry. You did this. You don't deserve to feel bad... But... Kanno. He pressed his cheek against Gonkuro's hair, his breathing irregular. He could hear which caused his stomach to flip. The one thing he wanted to hear... He had to accept that was no longer a possibility. Enmei cleared his throat, gently resting a hand on Kain's shoulder. "Master Kain?"

I killed your father, boy. Don't think I won't kill you, too. Kain thought wryly, his grip on Gonkuro tightening. A moment later, he slackened his grip. Did... Did I really just think that? His breath intensified, the world turning in a sick, colourful rainbow. Spinnning even. He clenched his jaw, his hands rising to his head. The pain behind his eyes was unbearable. Someone had pried Gonkuro out of his lap. He reached for Gonkuro, the same instinct he had since he could remember -

The smile... The scent... Kitashi was splayed on the couch, a joint between his fingers. Kain waved his chubby hands towards him, toddling as he did so. Kitashi's smile was not the wolfish grimace he would later inhabit, lifting Kain to his lap. Kain remembered the stench more than anything else, wrinkling his nose at Kitashi. The other chuckled, someone resting their hand on Kitashi's shoulder. Kain's wide eyes trailed to her. Mayoko. He wasn't sure what the words were said, only that Kitashi had crushed it and lifted his hand in defeat, laying down and resting Kain's head on his chest.

Kain gasped, his arms around a pillow rather than the form of Gonkuro. He lay on the asphalt, sure his head was bleeding. Enmei stood over him, offering his hand. Kain shook his head, lifting himself off the ground, the pillow still securely in his arms. "Kanno?"

"... We can't really let you go in with..." Enmei averted his eyes, unable to say the rest. The vampire rested against Enmei, allowing himself to be escorted inside.

Kain squeezed his eyes shut, forcing himself to be rational. "Honeymoon suites. Ask the Guard Chief if you can have a weapon. If not... Anything that'll slow me down."

"Are you worried that..." He dropped his voice, sure that the human attendant would hear him. "That bloodlust will take hold?"

"I don't think it will but..." He shrugged. Enmei nodded, pressing the elevator to the bottom floor. "Clear the area. Tell the attendants to offer full refunds or, alternatively, put them up at any other eight locations. Limos, champagne, any effects to be moved... free of charge."

Enmei nodded. Kain continued. "Call the location on 10th. Ask for Chief Guard to dispatch some men. I want one standing in front of the connecting door, two on main floor."

"Got it."

Kain rested his head against the back wall of the elevator. Tiredly, he studied Enmei. "Now that Kanno's... I suspect you're the most well equipped person to take over. If you want the job, that is."

"Who else would you hire?" Enmei questioned.

"Someone who doesn't hate me, knows about vampires and my deepest darkest secrets."

"So, it's down to Master Kiryuu and myself?"

Kain's sidelong glance caused Enmei to squirm. "You don't hate me?"

"Right now, I do." His jaw clenched momentarily. "Right now, I'd love a Hunter's weapon... But, I also know... He was declining, you know?"

Kain nodded slightly. "Months. Maybe a year."

"Right... Well, to be fair... He would have wanted to go out like that. Protecting you, I mean."

Kain bit his lip. "Of course, you don't have to start immediately. A month bereavement. At least."

"That's generous."

"Kanno was a family friend." The use of was hurt. Still, Kain continued. "It's no more than what others get."

Enmei chuckled, despite the situation. "He always said you were stupid."

Kain smiled halfheartedly as the door opened. "He said the same about you."

They stepped off the elevator, Enmei's brow furrowing. "What should I do if Kiryuu or the others come looking for you?"

Kain pinched the bridge of his nose. "I doubt the others will come. But... if Kiryuu comes, let him in."

"What if he's armed?"

"Right now, there's three people who have the right to kill me. That is yourself, Mrs. Ozaki and him." They nodded to the guard who let them in. Kiryuu admired the muscles in his neck, fixating on the blood flowing through. He forced himself to focus. "Once I'm in room... 8, I think, is free... I'll need blood water. Other than that, do not enter."

Enmei nodded.

The room was nice. Kain had spent a small fortune to assure his guests would be well looked after during the most important part of their life. Minibar, on call butler, on call maid. Surround sound. Couch with an in room popcorn maker and wet bar. Obscenly large screen. Small kitchen. California king bed. His and hers sinks in the bathroom with a shower and a soaker tub. Though underground, Kain had used lowlight projectors for the scenery they craved. Basically a 'look how many places you can screw' room, he thought, dragging the pillow closer to his chest. He lay on the couch, flipping through the channels until he wound up on a drama. The first half was unassuming. Rich boy who's perfect in every way meets poor girl who's fiesty. It was supposed to be a comedy but, nothing about her situation cracked a smile. Soon, the images of the orphanage Gonkuro had grown up in filtered through. With it, another migraine.

"I haven't cut you, yet." Mayoko shouted at Gonkuro as the other squirmed. He was small for a boy of twelve going on thirteen. Small and scrawny. Kain could see the veterbraes in his spine, his ribs protruding out of his skin. His clothes hung loosely on his frame, his outstretched arm on a specialized cuttingboard. One that would allow the blood to drain into a large glass.

"P-Please..." Gonkuro tried, tears welling in his eyes.

Mayoko sighed, holding his arm at a painful angle, her expression dark. Still, her face twisted into one that was pleasant though, her eyes remained predatory.

"Don't you want to help my son?" Her voice was sugarcoating, sickly sweet. Kain felt the wave of compulsion being used and shivered. "Help him be -"

"Is he for me?" A small voice asked.

Gonkuro and Mayoko turned their heads. The small boy, one that had to be at least four, maybe six, maybe eight - spoke softly.

I remember this. Kain thought. I teased him, didn't I?

"Yes, darling." Again, the soft threat aimed at Gonkuro. The trance broken, Gonkuro jerked his arm back and stepped away from the two.

"I don't like vampires!" He spat. "I won't be property."

With lightening speed, Kain had approached him and slapped him so hard, Gonkuro's head slammed into the island. Gonkuro stumbled, falling to the floor. Kain kneeled in front of him, his eyes those of a manic. Wide. Merciless. He wrapped one hand around the others throat, the other gripping Gonkuro's wrist. From the loud crack, Kain could only guess that he had broken it. Still, the voice was soft, calm. He had heard a voice of the like numerous times. Usually when Kitashi was home. "That's not what you say. You say 'yes, Master Kain'."

Mayoko wrapped her arms around Kain's waist, pulling him off Gonkuro. The twelve-year-old boy coughed hoarsley, gasping for breath as he cradled his arm. Kain screamed in Mayoko's arms, kicking any part of her. "Mine! Mine! Mine!"

"Shhh." She tried, stroking his hair like a dog. "Yes, he's yours, my love. But, what did we say about breaking our possessions?"

Kain started crying, clawing, chanting. Mayoko set him firmly on the ground, backhanding him. Kain's bratty tears stopped, replaced with the tears from the sting. She sunk lower to him, no kindness in her eyes. "Listen. Very. Carefully."

But, Kain didn't. Gonkuro could have left but, he was afraid of being chased down by either of them. His eyes darted for a weapon. Anything. Kain charged for him again. Mayoko gripped her sons' arm, tugging hard enough for dislocation. Gonkuro audibly gulpted.

"Listen to me! You are too old to behave -" Her red nails dug into Kain's cheeks, forcing his head towards her. She muttered under her breath. "I'll take him back to the orphanage if you don't smarten up right now."

Just like that, Kain stopped, holding the deadweight of his shoulder. Mayoko nodded. "Now, go to your room."

With a glare towards the human boy, Kain mustered as much noise as he could, stomping every step of the way. Mayoko stood and straightened, beckoning Gonkuro forward. Gonkuro was frozen in place, aware of Kain just behind the corner. The red eyes glowed in the darkened corridor. With no energy for another argument, Mayoko forced the boy to stand and again, started the painful angle. "Now, this is wh-"

"I don't want to help that little brat!" Gonkuro screamed at her, trying to pry his arm from her. He ignored the pain swelling in hand. She leaned over the island, her eyes just as red. Gonkuro met hers with defiance.

"My son will be a leader. Innovative. And you will help him."

"I wo-"

"There's two ways we can do this. One way is this way. The other is I make you."

"You can't make me!"

"You sure about that?" Again, that unnatural feeling. "Think of who you'd like to be friends with."

Kain flinched, touching his shoulder. His mind flittered back to Kitashi yanking him. Was that a lie? It didn't match up with the other memory. That lady... Kain forced the memory, pausing on her. She had scolded Kitashi, Kain was sure. The small smile on her face was adoring, her straight ash-blonde hair much like Souen's. Mayoko's was darker. But then, hair could darken through age... Or sun. But, it explained the small strands of blonde in his own. Still, it could have been Mayoko, just tired of her child acting up.

He was vaguely aware of Enmei's presence, the other shoving a duffel bag under the coffee table and a waterbottle of blood next to Kain's head. Kain odded once. "Thank you."

"Mm." Enmei followed the instructions to the letter. Once again, Kain was alone, his drama still playing. His brow furrowed, the other guy looking for the girls love punching a wall. Kain sat up, preparing to rewind. Instead, another memory.

Kiryuu had found him shortly after one of these memories. Kain was trying to compare his to Gonkuro's, the sinking feeling in his stomach as he realized who he had been... Or was, at his core. He let the smaller lead him to the bathroom, something of a harash reality. Or, perhaps... I'm dead. And this is the afteraffect. Still, the violet eyes met Kain's, the struggle seen on his face. "Open."

Kain did, not realizing what was happening until the taste of blood was replaced with mint. How many times has he done this? Hell, this has to be destroying him... I'm sorry, Kiryuu... I shouldn't have... It's best if you stay away. Marry some Hunter boy or girl... Have a billion babies. They'd be beautiful. Grow old... Be happy. Allow yourself to be happy.

With this thought process, he shoved Kiryuu away from him, the feel of his hand against his abdomen his worst fear realized. Kain... Holding Kiryuu, drained... His blood in his mouth. He hadn't realized he slid down the wall, hiding behind the pillow. Gonkuro chose to get between me and Kuran... He shouldn't have died that way... But, Kiryuu? He knew he was rocking again. The person changed. Touya... Wakaba... Hana... Ruuka... Lee...

He was being led again. A false sense of security. The craving stirred. He wished he had Lee around. It would have been a better choice than anyone else. At least Kain had Lee's consent to drain him. He shoved the thought away, his fangs growing again. Wanting... Desperate. He pinned the other down, arms over the perpertrators head. Except, when he found Kiryuu's face, he bit his lip, doing anything to satiate the feeling. You shouldn't be here... You should be anywhere else but here... He tried his best to convey it, the vision of Kiryuu lying next to him, bled dry... Kain knew now he was capable of it. Hell... What I've done to Gonkuro... He couldn't breathe. Instinctively, he wrapped his arms around the pillow, holding it tight.

Kiryuu used his freedom to rest a hand on Kain's abdomen and chest, lowering them both onto the mattress and bringing Kain close to him. He could feel Kiryuu's breath on the nape of his neck - something that both excited and scared him. "Talk to me."

It took a while for Kain to speak, the threat of another memory coming through. When he did, his voice wasn't his own. But, at least it pushed it away. Maybe if I talk, it won't come. He was happier with that. Soon, conversation fell short. Kain wrapped his arms around Kiryuu, his face burrowed in his chest. I'll indulge tonight. I'll sleep with him in my arms and I in his. Tomorrow, I'll put my walls up... Tomorrow I'll help.

Not this again. Kain pleaded with his subconscious. His younger self ran ahead, barely visible to his parents. He was more stoic than he should have been at that age, the effects of Gonkuro's blood taking hold. He passed the cotton candy, passed the juggling clown, passed the strange mime that always came out. He stopped once his legs were tired, eyeing his surroundings. They rested on the fortune teller's tent. Kain was slow, as if in a dream where he'd approach a door only for the door to move away. Kain stayed at the entrance, waiting for Mayoko and Kitashi.

"Is this really the best thing for him?" Mayoko asked, examining her nails.

"You want to play family? Part of it is indulging him." Kitashi remarked haughtily.

He stood back as Mayoko plastered a smile on her face, lowering herself to his level. "Fortune teller?"

Kain nodded. Kitashi sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "It's a scam."

"He sees us so little." Now Kain knew Mayoko was mocking him. "Let's indulge him a little."

Kitashi narrowed his eyes but nodded. Kain approached her, settling in on the chair. He gazed into the crystal ball as Kitashi handed over the money. Kain watched the swirls and twirls of the smoke as the Fortune Teller started. She hummed softly. Kain's eyes brightened as he saw himself. The Fortune Teller stopped. "I see you... Yes, the head of a corporation."

"He didn't need a Teller to know that." Kitashi muttered under his breath.

"But look how excited he is." Mayoko reiterated.

"It'll be massively successful - even more so than now."

"What about other areas of his life?" Mayoko encouraged.

"He'll have a small group of friends... But, no love."

"No... love?" Kitashi questioned.

The Fortune Teller shook her head. "You will give up something dear to you... And that will be the journey."

"Journey?" Kain questioned. In his child brain, Kain knew he measured her words carefully. To give up something dear to him... There was nothing more dear to him than the company for a journey.

"Yes... A journey to love, you must give up something."

He felt the weight of the world crumble on him. He had to be successful in both business and love. He was the only heir to Kain. There was no other choice. No room for failure. No this or that - it had to be this and that. His breath became shallow, the fear crumbling.

He tore out her throat. The mean lady lied to him. He was engaged to Souen. They would have three children. Kain industries would merge with Souen's. That was his life. Love would figure itself out after.

Kitashi pried Kain off as Mayoko focused on the others. She tsked. "Your son has no control."

"He does." Kitashi remarked, wiping the blood off Kain's mouth. "Think your little pet can do an alteration?"

"Oh, I'm evil when I use Gonkuro but, when you use it -"

Kain clawed at Kitashi, rocking slightly. "I promise, dad. I promise I'll be a good husband and CEO and prove the mean lady wrong!"

Kitashi held Kain's head to his chest, shushing him. "Something else. Anything else. Hell, make it seem like I tore her throat out in rage. I don't care."

He smoothed Kain's hair as the other stared at his father, his big eyes still teary. "I promise I'll do it!"

"I know, Firecracker. You're my brave boy." Kitashi sighed.

"Even if I wanted to, I need more."

"Like?" Kitashi turned his head, rubbing Kain's back, doing his best to calm the rising panic.

"My company isn't doing so great. Kain Industries is doing well."

"Like?" Kitashi raised his voice, instantly holding Kain to him.

"I need a scandal."

"..." Kitashi swallowed. "What do you want me to do?"

"Your usual. Wine, dine."

"Fine."

"Still need a plan." Mayoko interjected after a moment. Kain held onto Kitashi, his head resting on his shoulder. Kitashi nodded to himself, resolving something.

"I'll meet you back at the house." Without a word, Mayoko left. Kitashi muttered to himself. "We won't see her for a month, Firecracker."

"Gonkuro?" Kain questioned.

"First problem first." He set off a small spark on one of the electrical plugs, watching as it caught fire.

Kain hadn't realized he had drunk from Kiryuu, the effects of the memory still in his mind. He could taste blood, yes. But, was it Kiryuu's? Once he focused, he kenw. It was instant. The blood. The bile. The starvation. The fear. Though, how he wound up in the bathroom... He rinsed out his mouth then sunk to the floor. The memories seemed to come faster now. Sleep made them faster.

"Akatsuki, get off him. Now." Kitashi pulled him off, quickly popping the shoulder back into place. It was a small room, only big enough for a bed a small chest of drawers.

"It's not fair! Mom likes him better!" Kain shouted.

"Your mom doesn't like him better." Kitashi answered, his voice soft. He cradled him, his eyes resting on Gonkuro. "You know what you have to do."

Gonkuro, now a teenager, snorted. "I don't have to do a damn thing. Your sons a shithead."

"Watch what you say." Kitashi let go of Kain, towering over the boy. "You don't know what he's been through."

"It's no wonder his mom doesn't like him." He peered at Kain, the other clutching his dad's side. "You're a tantrum throwing fu -"

Kitashi had struck him. Gonkuro stared at him, eyes wide. "You will alter this."

"Dad!" Kain stepped in front of Kitashi, his big eyes pleading. Kitashi ruffled his hair, his attentions on the teenage boy.

"You... You can't hit me!" Gonkuro yelled.

"You live in my house. You insult my son. And, you think I don't have grounds?" His voice softened. "I'm well aware Mayoko uses you like a pawn. Her alterations are frequent. Mine are not."

Gonkuro went quiet. "She won't like it."

"I don't care what she likes. It's her fault Akatsuki doesn't get the mother he deserves. Her fault for bringing you in. Really... Her fault for how you live."

"... That's not true." Gonkuro was quieter now, sitting on the bed. Kain patted his knee, unsure of how to express his apologies for what went on. Gonkuro pushed him aside. "What would I even alter it to?"

"You can make me the villain. I don't care." He sighed as Kain patted his hip, unable to reach his shoulder, glancing back to Gonkuro every so often. "This is not the life he was meant to live."

"He's not my son." Mayoko shouted at Kitashi, throwing something at him. Kain flinched at the impact.

"You started this so, act like it!" Kitashi threw back.

"All I wanted was our businesses to merge!"

"Then, you should have asked and then both of us could have been happy!"

Kain hid under the covers, covering his ears. He felt the familiar sinking of the bed, introducing Gonkuro to his side. Instinctively, he turned to the other and wrapped his arms around the human. "They're fighting again."

Gonkuro nodded, holding the small frame. "It's getting worse."

"What do they mean when they say I'm not her son?" Kain asked.

"Probably that she doesn't act like a mother."

"But... She teaches me piano and violin and cello and flute and waltz and -"

"Kid, one of the preppy schools for vampires teaches you that. It doesn't make her a mother."

"Why doesn't she love me?" Kain asked.

"Cause you're a twerp." Gonkuro grinned at his own joke.

"Am not!" Kain sat up right, crossing his arms over his chest. "You're mean."

"Distracted you though, huh?"

Kain stayed silent for a moment, shaking his head. "No."

Gonkuro rubbed Kain's back as he had seen Kitashi do a million times. Kain shyly looked at him. "What were your mom and dad like?"

"My dad was... strict." Gonkuro ruffled Kain's hair. "Kind of like your dad. Except, mine would expect us out in the fields and work from sun up to sun down. Then, he'd preach the word of God - sorry - to us. Then, he'd have us practice fighting against different enemies. Mostly crows and bears and wolves."

"Are there bears and wolves?"

"Oh, yeah. Big ones. The bears are worse than wolves, though."

Silence. Kain spoke up again. "And.. Your mom?"

"Much different from your mom." He pulled Kain down into him as something else crashed in the other wing of the manor house. He glared in their direction. "She was warm... Kind. Always fed us the same thing. Couldn't cook anything else. But, every Sunday, she'd go down to the market and sell arts and crafts she and my sisters worked on during the nights."

Kain nodded to himself Gonkuro lifted his head. "If they find out you heard their argument, they'll ask me to change it."

"What does change it mean?"

The older frowned. "You and I have a special bond. I can erase or change what you remember based on how bad it is."

"... Have you done it before?"

"Many times. You're still a twerp, though." He smiled as Kain kicked him, becoming serious again. "But, I think... You should have the ability to choose which memories you keep. You're old enough, now."

"Will I remember this conversation?" Gonkuro shook his head. Kain was silent for a moment. "Will you tell me about your mom and dad again?"

"Why?"

"... I want to remember."

"I can let you keep that section."

"No, I want to hear it again."

Another thing broke. Gonkuro bowed his head. "All right, Master Kain. I can tell it to you again."

"How does it work? Kain sat up. This time, Gonkuro followed in suit.

"First, I think about what they're fighting about. So, in this case, I'd choose... Kitashi's affair."

"What does affair mean?"

"It means he's cheating on your mom."

"..."

"... Do you know what cheating is?" Kain shook his head slowly, feeling dumb. "He's spending his time with someone else. Another family, probably."

"But... We're his family."

"... Yeah. I know, buddy." Gonkuro inhaled, cutting the base of his neck. "And now, you drink."

"... Will you explain more after?"

Gonkuro's face fell. Still, he tilted his head. "Sure, kid."

It wasn't the last fight he'd alter. The discussions, even in public... Kain felt sick, his younger self sitting in silence as Mayoko continued drinking whine, completely uninterested. Kitashi tried to keep it friendly, his concern for Kain cutting across his face. Mayoko flirted with their waiter. Kain stood up.

"Akatsuki." Kitashi cocked his head.

"I'm..." Tired of playing family with two people who can't stand each other? Tired of all the secrecy? Tired of the fighting? "... Tired."

"Understandable." Kitashi offered a weak smile. "Do you want me to walk you home?"

Kain shook his head, flinching as Kitashi rested a hand on his shoulder. The pain that spread across his face... Now Kain understood. Too little, too late. "I'll go bother Gonkuro."

Mayoko's eyes lit up. He didn't understand at that time but, older Kain shuddered, his gut instinct horrified at the notion. Younger Kain sped from the restaurant and started walking. It was better at night. Aged twelve, Kain knew there was something wrong. With him. With this family. He looked through windows. As he turned into a back alley, something forced him back. It was gripping the back of his shirt. Kain sighed. "Kanno, let go."

"No can do, Master Kain." He was in his early twenties, late teens. "Your parents insist."

"I don't care." There was a hesitance to Gonkuro's actions. He leaned against the brick wall, dragging Kain with him before unhooking his fingers from his shirt.

"Want to talk about it?" Kain shook his head. "But, you were so excited."

"Mom got into the whine and started flirting. Kitashi keeps dragging me into conversations." He slumped back. "Neither of them care."

"Care about what?" He didn't answer. Gonkuro sighed. "Guessing game?"

Kain shrugged. Gonkuro nudged his shoulder. "You want to run away and join the circus."

Kain shook his head. Again, Gonkuro sighed. "Tell me if it's about Mistress Souen or about being a CEO."

"Souen..." Kain muttered, kicking a rock.

"You don't love her, do you?" Kain's head jerked up. "Yeah, I know."

"How?"

"The amount of times you get annoyed with her. She's more suited to Master Aidou."

"They'd drive each other crazy." He lowered his head again. "I don't want to hurt her but..."

"You need a better solution, then." Gonkuro tilted his head. "Come on. We'll come up with it."

"You'll help?"

"Course. You'd think I'd leave my brother in a relationship where he's not head over heels?"

"I don't get that expression." Kain answered, trudging slowly beside Gonkuro.

"If they don't make your heart go pitter-patter, they're not worth the time."

"My heart beats regular."

"For now." They walked in silence, Gonkuro contemplating. "Only way I can see it working is if she falls in love with someone else first."

Kain wrinkled his nose. "She knows she has to be loyal to me."

"Well, you could both call it off." Kain shook his head again. Gonkuro sighed. "Or, go through with the marriage and risk a broken blood bond."

Kain stopped in his tracks. Gonkuro, startled, followed suit. "Something wrong?"

"I don't want a relationship like mom and dad's."

"Well, those are your options."

"... Is it too late to join the circus?"

"For a freak like you? Never." He wrapped an arm around Kain's neck. "Now, come on. Your mom and dad will kill me as is."

The sun had barely come up when Kain entered through the servants door, sure that he would receive a lashing from Kitashi. Gonkuro followed in suit, not so stealthily taking a bun from the hot cookie sheet and being whacked with a spatula. He shrugged, pointing at Kain before stuffing the full bun into his mouth. Kain surveyed the area, seeing no one. Gonkuro patted his back, leaving Kain alone to ascend the staircase and enter their room. Kitashi, at the very least, would want to know. He wandered down the long hallway, entering the master bedroom. Kitashi was dead on the floor, blood soaking the carpet. Kain's jaw dropped as he searched for Mayoko. She stood in front of the window, her left hand stretched far from her neck, her right closer to her neck. Now, it was opposite. And now, it was righted again.

"M... M... Mom?" Kain gulped, taking a step into the room. Mayoko turned slowly, showing that she was nearly through her neck. Her smile for Kain was grotesque, the saw between her fingers still working. Just like that, her head lopped off and rolled towards the foot of the bed, her eyes landing in the perfect place to watch Kain's reaction. He stood there, screaming for an hour. Gonkuro heard the screams first, asking Kain to reiterate what happened. Kain explained it. Gonkuro searched for the saw that had cut off Mayoko's head. Nothing was found. He confirmed that Kitashi had passed from the same. By now, Kain sat in the middle of the hallway, rocking, mumbling. Gonkuro shut the door and shushed Kain, pressing his head into his chest.

Gonkuro dropped his voice as he explained what happened to the police. Kain was unable to speak, wandering down the road, covered in blood. He wasn't sure if it was Mayoko's or Kitashi's. He didn't remember hugging either. Gonkuro caught him before he got too far into town, brushing the hair from his face. People stared at them, gawking. Gonkuro rolled his eyes and led Kain to the alley, far away from prying eyes. "I know this came as a shock to you."

No answer. Gonkuro continued. "But, I can make the memory go away. I've told you before, I can alter your memories. I can make it make sense. Do you want me to?"

Kain's resolve broke momentarily. He nodded, the tears slipping past. Gonkuro held his head. "Are you sure? This kind of thing will have drawbacks."

Again, Kain nodded. Gonkuro opened a vein and added the spies. The same thing anyone could read from the police report. But, he couldn't bring back Kain's parents.

"I'm telling you, Kanno..." Kain shook his head, clearly agitated. "it's an addiction."

"To Lee's blood. Specifically." Gonkuro snorted. "Okay."

"What do you mean okay?" Kain spat at him.

"Well, first it was Kiryuu's blood and now Lee's... But, you crave Lee's more than you crave Kiryuu's?"

"Lee's is more human..." He ran a hand through his hair. "I'm going to kill him, Kanno. And then, I'll kill Kiryuu. And then, I'll have fallen."

He exhaled. Kain recognized this as perhaps their last conversation.

"Mm..." Gonkuro shook his head. "I don't think you'd kill Kiryuu."

"Why?"

"He's your blood master."

Kain blinked rapidly. "My what?"

"Your blood master."

"Repeating the phrase doesn't make it clearer." Gonkuro chuckled. "What?"

"Just that you had a simliar declaration as a boy."

"Whatever." Kain leaned back in his chair. "So, what is a blood master?"

"It's someone who let's you be you." Kain tilted his head at that. "Your mother showed me how."

"... Mayoko?"

"Yes."

"Showed you how?"

"Yes."

"Why?"

"Well, you weren't exactly a good boy." Gonkuro smirked, as if a fond memory. Looking back, Kain could understand why he smirked like that. Ignorant little boy that he remembers. Like a cruel prank. "I'd feed you my blood and you'd behave correctly... For a time."

"I'm not following."

"No, you wouldn't." Gonkuro sighed, scrunching his nose. "It's old magic. An idea that a human can -"

"Can control a vampires actions. Proven by Hive Mind."

"And you."

"Why are you telling me this?" Kain asked after a moment.

"Because the time's coming for me to pass."

"You know -"

"Take it seriously, Akatsuki." Kain flinched at the use of his first name. Gonkuro had never used it unless it was important. "I've been your blood master all your life. And now, that honor is Master Kiryuu's."

"What do they do?" Gonkuro told him. Kain's fangs grew, his hands curling into fists. "And what gave Mayoko the right to order you? Or the right for you to mess with my memories?"

"How else would we have dealt with you? You were a menace." Kain stayed quiet. Gonkuro continued. "I didn't mess with your memories until you asked me to. I'd give you the choice."

"Did you tell me each time?"

"Yes."

"Then, why not let me remember that?"

"Counter intuitive. You'd have spent your life wondering what memories were yours and what I controlled."

"Will there come a time when I know?" Kain asked.

"Yes. When I'm dead, the memories will go to you."

"And, Kiryuu being the blood master? How does he fit in? Does he know he is?"

"No, no. Nothing like that. But, considering your devotion to one another - let me finish, Master Kain... Very good. Now, considering your devotion to one another, he'd be able to take the worst of the memories, calm you down. Do I speak a lie?" Kain didn't answer. Gonkuro continued. "It's obvious the effect he has on you. He won't manipulate you like others -"

"You mean yourself."

"I only did as Mistress and Master instructed... And, later, yourself." Kain leaned forward, his burgundy eyes flashing red. Gonkuro met them, no hint of the bashful servant left. "Or, did you forget, Master Kain, that I was a human child in the care of a vampire family?"

Kain's gaze broke. "I never forgot."

"I didn't agree with the method, if it's any consolation... Until you and I were actually friends, that is." At the head tilt, Gonkuro nodded. "There were sentiments you had about the situation you found yourself in. You, above all else, should know how it is to be helpless."

"So, you trained Kiryuu to replace my memories -"

"Not at all. It wouldn't work for a Hunter, wouldn't work for a vampire of lower standing." Gonkuro shook his head vehemently. "But, what he can do is calm you."

"How am I supposed to believe a word you say?"

"Have a drink. Think it over." Kain poured himself one, mindless about it. The metallic tang coated his tongue. He spun toward Gonkuro, flinging his glass at the wall.

"You'd -"

"Mm..." Gonkuro had lifted his sleeve to show the gash.

"I deserve to be treated with respect! To remember -"

"It won't do you good to remember right now. And, it'll assuage your fears of killing anyone. For a time, anyway."

"Why are you like this?"

Gonkuro shrugged, readjusting his sleeve. "Why indeed."

The splitting migraine. Kain was sure he had seen each memory only a handful of times but, the newly embedded pathways in his brain trying to correct his established past that ran deep were still painful enough to blur his vision. The worst was he was now starving, needing to clear the memories anyway he could. He downed one blood water. Another. Another. He knew these were intended for Kiryuu but, he needed them. Now. Even just the thought of Kiryuu, his head tilted to the side... He hated that his fangs were so agreeable to the idea. "Kain?"

Robotically, Kain opened the next bottle he was planning to drink, setting it on the counter. "We're going to need more."

"I see that." Kiryuu lifted the bottle to his lips as Kain managed to gain some control over himself.

"Thank you." The vampire muttered, still breathing heavily.

"For what?"

"For staying with me during..." He swallowed, the lump in his throat rising instead of falling.

"You would have done the same." Kain said nothing though, he was sure his unchecked temper and worry would have bested him. Kiryuu set the bottle down, the contents only half gone. "Were you really hungry or just didn't want to cuddle?"

"You kept whimpering every time I touch you. So much so, I figured I was hurting you."

"I have bruises all over my body. A feather poking me hurts. Doesn't mean I don't want to be held." Kain met those lilac eyes, almost bulging out of Kiryuu's sockets. One kept closing, the bruise around it forcing the swelling. How hadn't he noticed the cut across his cheekbone? The busted lip?

"Have you cleaned any of the cuts?"

"They'll heal." Kiryuu lifted his botte, a small smile on his face. Kain assessed himself, nodding lightly. Yes, Kiryuu did calm him. Made the pain bearable. "What?"

"Oh, uh..." He was glad for Wakaba's earlier comments, sure he would have been blanking for a while yet. "I want to take you somewhere."

"Where?" Kiryuu was skeptical. Kain wrapped his mind around all the places that could help, deciding on one.

"It's a restaurant that uses tablets as a base."

"I don't know, Kain."

"Let me treat you. Please."

Kiryuu stared at him for a while, finally agreeing.

There were a few times in Kain's life where he realized how stupid he was. They ate in silence, the lack of blood in Kiryuu's body and pure exhaustion almost causing him to land face first into the appetizers. Kain leaned forward, placing a hand on Kiryuu's uninjured cheek. Kiryuu leaned against it, his eyes closing slowly. Deciding it'd be better to go home with Kiryuu rather than force him to eat, Kain requested for the meal to be wrapped up. The server nodded.

Kiryuu was barely able to support himself before they got in the car and drove back. Even less when they arrived at the condo complex. Kain sighed and turned Kiryuu's body towards him, wrapping his arms around his neck, legs around his waist. He had only done this a handful of times, both for Aidou and Souen. Funnily enough, Aidou was the more frequent of the two.

He trudged up the steps, balancing Kiryuu, the dinner, and his keys. He set the dinner in the fridge, the keys on the table and slid Kiryuu onto the bed. As he made to stand, Kiryuu groaned. Kain tried not to think about the drunken night where their situations had been reversed. Kiryuu, though, extended his pinky. "Promise you'll come back?"

He's delirious. Kain thought. Still, he intertwined his pinky with Kiryuu's. "I promise."

He shut off the lights, locked the door, stripped down to his underwear. Kiryuu remained on the bed, fully dressed, under the covers, already snoring. Confidently, Kain slid under the covers with him, sighing with relief. He slipped one arm under Kiryuu's head, the other overlapping the hand that overlayed his abdomen. But, being alone with his thoughts was proving more and more dangerous.

He could feel the craving his younger self would have had. Has had. Some days, the dreams where he'd drain Kiryuu were actual dreams, not nightmares. Can't leave if he's not alive... Kain thought, hating that there was a part that liked that idea. But, that isn't who he deserves. Kain reasoned, lowering his head slightly. A few strands of Kiryuu's hair tickled Kain's forehead. I won't risk becoming the beast he'd have to hunt down. He's already got enough. Still, the small portion that wanted his blood protested. Kain shut his eyes, thankful for a dreamless sleep.

It was warm. Bright. A small white light. Kain could see it behind his eyes, promising. He knew this light wouldn't hurt him. Wouldn't dream of it. It'd grow. It'd keep him warm. It would forgive him.

"And," Souen blushed, the new puncture marks mirroring Aidou's, "it felt... feels like every promise we ever made to each other would be honored."

Kain scrunched his nose, blearily opening his eyes. The darkness of the room seemed to glow this same light. Easing him. Coaxing him. Kain swallowed hard, the tiredness overcome with annoyance. He tried to lift himself up, carefully not to wake Kiryuu. Still, his body wanted to listen to the light. Wanted him to lie down and enjoy what it was. Bask in it, even. Kain started withdrawing his arm from under Kiryuu's head. The flare of pain jolted him to his senses.

Kiryuu had punctured Kain's skin with his own teeth. The beginnings of a Blood Bond were forming.

A/N: Last bit seems rushed, non? I'll fix it. Unfortunately the good computer has officially crapped out. My other computer's word doesn't catch any mistakes. None. So, if you notice spelling errors, can you inform me? Thank you!

Let me know if you think it's rushed. It might just be me.

Until next time, my lovelies!