Author's Notes: Oh dear! Oh my! I'm hopeless! First and foremost, I'm really sorry for my incompetence. I tried to better myself and this chapter but I don't think there was much improvement... Please forgive this amateur! and please bare with me, I'll try to do better on the next chapter. and I'm sorry there wasn't much action here (or none at all)... next chapter then, okie? (〜￣▽￣)〜 (シ_ _)シ
Right now, I'm addicted to these songs: Without You by My Darkest Days, Clarity by Zedd, Troublemaker by Olly Murs and Demons by Imagine Dragons. Nothing, I just wanted to share since they affected the whole feel of this story. ohohoho~! （^[]＾）／
Dear HR, please give me back my 2 consecutive days off, PLEASE! (╯°Д°）╯︵/(.□ . )
And many thanks for the continues support! The lemons will be next chapter okay? Sorry, didn't think it's appropriate for this one, ohohoho~! (´つヮ⊂)
Banzai! Banzai! Yeah, I'm turning crazy! へ(゜∇、°)へ
(≧∇≦) … (〜￣▽￣)〜 ….. *:.. o(≧▽≦)o ..:*….. (〜￣▽￣)〜… (≧∇≦)
Chapter 13
October Night
It was already late into the night. The moon was high in the sky, illuminating the otherwise pitch black world. The air was cold as late autumn wind prepared to give way to winter. The surrounding was quiet and the only sounds that can be heard were the rustling from the tall trees that do not shed their leaves and the harsh breath that came from a sprinting silver-haired prefect.
He's running as fast as he can yet he felt his legs aren't carrying him quickly enough. He wanted to fly straight to his lover's side. He wanted to see his face. He didn't want to admit it, and never will to anyone but himself, but he missed that bastard. He wanted to hear his voice, to feel his touch, to bask in his heat and to look into his burgundy eyes.
The silverette was panting at the effort of running as the cold wind bit his pale white skin but he didn't care, he only wanted to reach his destination as soon as possible and he wouldn't have stopped had it not for the two people he encountered on his way as he made a turn to the bridge going to the Moon dormitory.
Ichijou and Yuki were surprised when Zero almost crashed into them. They were just walking towards the Sun Dormitory as the vampire escorted the female prefect back when they were shocked at the silverette's sudden appearance.
"Zero!" Yuki exclaimed, startled, "What happened to you? Where are you going?"
"Nothing," he panted even harder as he abruptly stopped his sprint, "Later, Yuki." He added shortly before he continued to run.
Both can only stare at his retreating back and it hit them as they watch the direction of his goal. They looked at each other, wide eyed with exhilarated smiles on their faces. Yuki unconsciously covered her mouth with her hands as she trembled in excitement and anticipation. Finally!
She closed her eyes briefly as she uttered as silent wish to let everything be settled this time. Ichijou watched her silently before turning his head towards the Moon dorm, thank goodness for this. 'I'm happy for you Kaname.' He mentally wished his friend good luck.
"How wonderful." The blond vampire sighed in relief.
"Uhm! I bet Kaname-senpai will be happy." Yuki cheerfully supplied as she nodded.
"I hope they take their time," Ichijou implied with a hidden smile, "ah, it's good tomorrow is a rest day." He added subtly which made the female prefect frown. "Shall we continue on, Yuki-chan?" as he smiled a bit mysteriously.
Though a bit confused at her companion's words and that smile, she simply nodded.
Only after a while, they continued on their way, feeling that the day has become a blessing for many of their friends and important people.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
There was still a buzz that can heard throughout the main building of the Cross Academy as the Night class students went to take in their break. It's rare to see the students so motivated about going to classes but no one can blame them as it became a bit suffocating to be inside the Moon dorm this past week what with the depressing atmosphere that permeated the air inside their dormitory so right now, they're enjoying the rare peace they're having though they're all still very worried about their pureblood leader.
"Hah~…" a little sigh escaped from the pretty honey blond vampire who sat beside her orange haired cousin. She's been trying to think of ways to solve the miserable situation her beloved pureblood is in though the problem is actually not that clear but one can guess the root cause of all of this. It's because of that silver haired hunter. "What did that hunter do this time?" she said with a tone of irritation.
"Ruka," Kain scolded her, warning in his low tone while looking around to check if their little princes and princesses heard her.
"Don't worry, they went out in the garden. They said they're not hungry." She said sighing again. It's a good thing that the children are at least less depressed every time they go to class since they worry about the lower class vampires and are careful with their auras so everyone can relax during classes. "But what should we do for Kaname-sama?"
"Want to kidnap Kiryū then?" the devious plan was unexpectedly voiced out by the sleepy copper haired vampire. What's more surprising was that he looked almost serious while he suggested this.
"Want to lose your head?" Kain shook his head.
"That might be a good idea," Ruka distractedly whispered, seriously contemplating the idea. Desperate times calls for desperate measure.
"Ruka!" the orange haired vampire was exasperated that they'll even consider it.
"We can wrap him up very nicely," Rima suggested impassively before taking a bite at a strawberry flavored pocky.
"Rima!" Kain called out warningly.
"With a big ribbon for the presentation," added Shiki as he took a pocky from Rima's box.
"Shiki!" Kain is now a bit panicky for the three looked really serious by now.
A laugh suddenly came and shook them all out from the evil plan they're beginning to hatch and they turned to see a jovial green-eyed vampire that just came inside the room and made the red head vampire almost sigh in relief.
"Now, now, I don't think there's any need to dirty our hands to fix this," Ichijou continued while chuckling, slightly surprised that the normally sensible nobles would actually consider something so ridiculous. "If Kaname was planning on forcing him, he could have done it very easily. Come now, leave them alone. They'll fix it and perhaps everything will go back to normal by tomorrow." He declared and something in his voice sounded so certain that it made the other vampires a bit suspicious.
"Where have you been, Takuma-san?" asked the copper haired vampire to his roommate.
"Uhm, well, somewhere…" he trailed a bit suspiciously, "huh? Where's Aido?" he asked to distract the others.
"There, by the window," Kain pointed at his cousin with his thumb, "in his own world yet again." He added with a frown. Aido has been really weird lately. Well, he knew that Kaname asked him to guard the younger Kiryū. He sighed. Hana is such a simpleton. 'He's that happy huh?' he mused as he also watched the bright expression on his blond cousin's face. He can't help but smile while watching his cousin's blissful expression. 'I hope it went well.'
"How lucky," Ichijou muttered absentmindedly in a low tone that still managed to be overheard by their group.
"What was that Ichijou-san?" Ruka inquired.
"Huh? Oh, it's nothing,"
They looked at each other at the weirdness of both of the blonds but asked no more.
The vice-president just proceeded to the classroom for the next class is about to start, feeling light as his friends found happiness and wished that his will have the same lucky outcome.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
He ran pass the guard post then proceeded inside the dormitory without knocking and run up the stairs until he was in front of the familiar wooden door that houses his heart. That was the only time he stopped. He took deep breaths and attempted to calm his heart as it beat mercilessly inside his chest both because of the exercise and nervousness.
As he stood there waiting for his breath to even out, he remembered something odd at the situation and he was suddenly struck by the idea that normally, the door would automatically open every time he went there. Zero almost banged himself on the door. Stupid! He has completely forgotten the fact that at this time, Kaname must have been attending his classes!
He sighed, he wasn't thinking right, it's because his head was up in the clouds. He was unmoving for a moment and was already in the act of leaving though his very inside opposed the mere thought. He then decided to just wait. The silverette looked around and found that he didn't like the idea of being spotted by vampires while waiting for the pureblood so he decided to enter inside the Moon dorm President's room even without permission, something only he can do and get away with unscathed.
So without knocking, he opened the door and entered the completely darkened room of his mate and had he been a normal mortal, he would have never seen the figure slumped on the chair behind the big oak table. He would have never noticed Kaname if not for his vampiric vision and the moonlight that illuminated the unmoving body of his beloved.
He stood still for a moment before he uttered, "Kaname?" and when he heard no response, he proceeded to walk very slowly towards him and sure enough, he found his lover sleeping in an uncomfortable sitting position, with his head hanging a bit to his left side that sent his long brown locks to cover a bit of his face, his eyebrows drawn together in a deep frown.
He stared as he swallowed, a bit worried; he has never seen the pureblood like this before, trouble clearly reflected on his face even as he slept. He looked exhausted and distressed. The hunter just silently watched the vampire for a few moments as something heavy weighed down his heart at the look of agony on his lover's handsome face. He was so affected by the sight that he wasn't able to stop his hand as it unconsciously reach out to set aside the dark brown strands that cupped his mate's face when he felt his lover stir from his sleep.
Kaname felt a presence inside his room, a comforting aura, and for a moment, he was lost and detached from the current happening as he felt his body heavy from exhaustion from lack of sleep and sickness of his heart and soul. He didn't even notice that he has already fallen asleep and currently waking up but when he caught the whiff of the intoxicating smell of night dew that he's been craving for the whole time and then felt the warmth of the familiar touch he's been desiring, all sleep instantly flew away from him that his eyes shot wide open to reveal startled red wine orbs as he turned to the person caressing his hair.
"Zero," he whispered in disbelief as he stared at the equally surprised hunter who went very still.
The hunter was frozen on the spot, seemingly embarrassed at being caught red-handed while he caressed his lover. He was in the act of retracting his hand when his pureblood's hand shot up to snatch his wrist and pull him closer. It caught the silverette off guard that he lost his balance and ended up falling face first towards the vampire.
Kaname caught him and instantly embraced him, tightly trapping him in his arms, with Zero's head below his chin. Kaname can't help but bury his face on his mate's silver hair as he took in the comforting smell of the night wind off his lover, unable to believe he's here at last. "Zero, Zero, Zero…" he repeated softly again and again as if chanting, murmuring against his hunter's silver locks.
"Fuck Kaname, don't scare me like that," the hunter barked to hide his embarrassment though he made no attempt to escape from his lover's grasp.
Then a moment passed without any movement from the two occupants of the study as both tried to ascertain the other's feelings. Nothing can be heard and silence permeated the air until the pureblood spoke in the softest voice Zero has ever heard from him.
"Forgive me Zero, about everything, I-," his words where abruptly stopped by the hunter.
"Enough, I didn't come here to hear that," he interrupted but without any hint of irritation or anger, "I know, so it's enough already." He placed a hand on Kaname's shoulder and propped himself away to look at the pureblood properly.
"Then why have you come?" the pureblood asked a bit warily as he looked at his lover's lilac eyes. The idea that the hunter might have come to break up with him hit him, sending cold fear to grip and squeeze his heart painfully. "Do you forgive me?" he asked a bit hopefully.
There was a short silence before the silverette spoke again as if trying to sort out his speech though his thundering heartbeat messed up most of his thoughts. He could only looked at his burgundy eyes and drowned inside them making it almost impossible for him to provide any coherent answer but the voice that was inquiring him begged to have the answer that would build or destroy him completely. Zero couldn't help but be in pain as well as he saw the desperation that unconsciously reflected on his pureblood's face.
"I love my parents very much, they were my whole world," he began as he dazedly brushed away the dark brown threads that curtained his vampire's face who became very stiff at his words, "and it hurts to have them taken from us," he continued, not breaking eye contact with the brunette, "and I should really hate you for this …"
Kaname was wide eyed for a moment. He's almost sure that his fears are being confirmed and was about to say something, anything that might prevent his hunter from leaving him when Zero spoke again, cutting out whatever eloquent speech he could come out to.
"But I can't." Zero continued as he turned his gaze downwards, blindly looking down, sadness reflected in his silver lavender eyes, "I love my parents Kaname, very much," he said emotionally before returning his gaze to look unwaveringly at Kaname's while his eyebrows drew together as if he's enduring something a bit painful and whispered in an almost inaudible voice, "but I love you too…"
Once again, there was silence as both can only stare at each other, especially the pureblood who could only gape at his hunter's words, for a moment, unable to comprehend his words.
It seemed like a century has passed before Kaname's hand moved. Both of his hands reached out to cup his lover's cheeks which were frozen because of the cold night wind, and without words, pulled his mate closer as he also moved to meet him halfway to share a kiss, something that was clearly missed, as they close their eyes. It was light and gentle.
Zero felt his lover's soft lips brushed against his as if merely trying to test his reaction or to see if he's real and not an illusion brought forth by a weary heart. It stayed like that for a while before he felt Kaname's tongue brushed his close mouth as if seeking permission which was freely given as he opened to allow his mate to explore and delve further inside.
Kaname can't help but tighten his grip as it swam from Zero's cheek to his silver hair and nape. He meant to grant only a light kiss but the flavor of his hunter tempted him to taste even deeper and feel more of his heat as he basked in the delicious sensation of Zero's reciprocation.
When he broke the kiss to look at his silver haired mate, wanting more than ever to be forever part of his soul, to steal his heart and trap his stubborn lover somewhere he can never escape from, he wallowed at the feeling his last words gave to him. He pulled him close again to crush him in a hug which again, startled the silverette.
"I'll make it up to you. I'll not be able to bring back what you've lost and nothing will be able to replace them but I swear I will love you more than anyone will ever do," Kaname promised as he stoke Zero's hair, "I'll do everything in my power to grant your every wish, I won't cause you any regret and I'll be by your side until the end of my time," he pledged so passionately which made the hunter stiffened as he caught his breath, "I'll give you my life," he added softly, "so stay by my side."
The hunter closed his eyes, unmindful that Kaname's hug was so tight that it almost crushed him, as his own hands wrapped around his mate's body. "I know already, moron." he grumbled as he hid his embarrassed and flushed face on his lover's shoulder, his body relaxing in Kaname's arms.
They stayed in that position for quite some time, with Zero almost kneeling while Kaname leaned forward to be trapped in each other's embrace, both very much contented with the silence as no more words needed be uttered to confirm forgiveness or acceptance.
Kaname continued to softly stroke his mate's hair while Zero remained pressed against his pureblood, unable to move as he continued to hide his embarrassed and flustered face. Such moments weren't really made for him though he felt satisfaction course through his whole being.
Nothing passed from another's lips until Kaname spoke again as he remembered something he wished to hear once more.
"Zero," the pureblood spoke, with energy and playfulness as he felt light having his hunter again, "say it again for me, will you?" he loosened his embrace to look at his lover's blushing face.
"What?" Zero inquired with a frown,
"What you said earlier. You said you love me," Kaname answered with a teasing smirk which made his hunter's blush a shade darker.
"Baka!" the silverette exclaimed, flustered as he attempted to escape from the brunette. Why does Kaname love to put him in an awkward situation even when his mate knew he's very bad at it?
"Why are you so embarrassed? It's unfair that it's only me who's saying it, or are you just lying then. My, how lonely. I'm wounded." Kaname said trying to act pitiful though his eyes lit up in amusement as he tighten his hug yet again to imprison his now struggling mate.
"Kaname!" the hunter yelled in warning which was lost as his vampire watched his chagrined expression. Knowing that any form of struggle is futile, he just conceded, "You really are a bastard. Fine! I love you!" he harshly vociferated in resignation as he looked away.
Kaname smiled as he reached out to his face to force Zero to look at him again, "One more time," he requested again but this time, Zero's complaints were silence as his lover gave him a look of pure desperate longing.
Bastard, that's foul play. "I love you." in a gentler tone.
"Again." Kaname repeated as he gently put his forehead on Zero's while he closed his eyes, as if trying to embed the memory of Zero's voice as he said the words he's been wanting to hear for a long time for he realized that it was the first time that his lover ever said he loves him. It's music to his ears.
"I love you, you bastard." He sighed in surrender, how can he even deny Kaname anything if he was given that expression. That's really foul play.
Zero watched as a smile form before Kaname's lips crashed into his. He closed his eyes as he let himself be drowned at the wonderful feelings his vampire grant him. He opened his mouth to allow his mate entrance which was most eagerly accepted.
Kaname groaned in delight as he delved deeper to taste the lush heat of his hunter, relishing on the fact that his Zero is finally here, again, even after everything that has happened and that he loves him, wretched as he is, even with all his vile darkness and repugnance. He let himself explore deeper and demanded to know every part of his lover that may be unknown to him, claiming his mark and possession.
The cold night wind was instantly lost as intense heat spread throughout the study. Kaname very easily stood as he guided his mate to do the same without breaking the searing kiss they share. They blindly struggled to find the way to the main bedroom while Kaname made short work of Zero's school shirt and promptly shedding it off his pale body as they go, bumping to walls and furniture in the process, not stopping even though they made quite a mess in the study, hearing some books, papers and something that might be the lamp falling here and there, but still not caring as their clothes littered the floor. When they wrestled each other on the bed, they were already topless and half-naked.
It was only then that the pureblood broke their kiss to stare down at his lovely mate, still completely flushed and panting below him and allowed himself to trace finger on his smooth pale skin. He smiled, he really missed the sensation of having him, "I wouldn't mind doing it there but you might become uncomfortable. Staying there for a long time will be bad for your body."
"Tch," Zero turned his head sideways while he raised an arm to cover his mouth in an attempt to hide his undoubtedly red face from his mate that intensified even brighter at the hint of making love multiple times, "You sure say a lot of things,"
"Get use to it," Kaname purred as he lowered himself to his hunter while removing the arm between them and turning his lover's head towards him so he can claim his lips once again, already a bit impatient to take him fast, to embed himself deep within him, to be part of him.
The cold wind continued to rustle the leaves of the tall trees outside but none of it was heard as the two remaining occupants in the Moon dorm immersed themselves in the heat of passion that ensued which continued even when the first light of the morning came.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
It's too late into the night and dawn is almost breaking. He finished his patrol already but he's still very much awake and was in no mind to rest, too flustered to actually feel sleepy. He didn't even notice that he was already pacing here and there until Yuki came in and found him in his distracted state.
Yuki stared at her adopted-brother for a while before finally speaking, jarring her brother out of his musings, "What are you thinking about, Ichiru?" she asked though she already knew as his obvious blush almost screamed out his thoughts. She fought really hard to hide her smile.
"Yuki!" Ichiru almost jumped at the sight of the brunette. He's been thinking really hard about what happened earlier today and if Yuki had seen them. He blushed. He wanted to ask but looking at her innocent face, words can't seem to come out.
The brunette watched in silent amusement as Ichiru's mouth closed and open only to close again while embarrassment and conflicted emotions danced across his face. She just knew what's going on his mind and knowing how shy he could be, she was resigned to help him sort out his words. "How was your day?" she began mildly at first.
"Eh? G-good, good. H-how about yours?" he stammered as he asked back, valiantly trying to act normally though he's as good in acting as he's proficient in Math which is frankly, nothing more than a dream.
"Heh? Only good? Are you sure?" she asked back, leaning a bit as she let a teasing smile graced her features.
He leaned back as Yuki leaned forward. Her smile answering his earlier inner question and he wanted to hide in a hole because of extreme embarrassment. Yep, no need to ask, she saw. "You saw that, huh." he stated more than asked as he looked away with a blush darker than before.
Yuki giggled before answering, "Yep, I knew for a while already," she saw Ichiru turned at her with wide lilac eyes, "Anne told me." she explained.
"Argh!" Ichiru wasn't able to stop the grunt of embarrassment that escaped him as he covered his face with his hands which made Yuki giggle even louder.
"Maa, maa, It's okay. You look good together." She smiled kindly at her blushing brother before continuing, "No need to be embarrassed, you're happy now, right?"
This stopped the young silverette from wallowing in shame and he slowly removed his hand. He only nodded a bit in agreement which made Yuki go 'Kyaa~!' as she tackled her cute adopted-brother.
"I'm really happy for you." She whispered sincerely. She sighed with satisfaction as she looked up at him, "And now, with Zero and Kaname-senpai making up, everything's perfect!" she cheerfully added.
"Eh?" he blinked and he was told the wonderful news that almost crashed them earlier.
Ichiru looked out the window and sighed with a smile, "Then we should lock the door already, I think nii-san won't be coming back tonight."
"Eh? Eh?!" now it's Yuki's turn to blush as she finally got what Ichiru (probably Ichijou-senpai as well) meant. She covered her mouth a bit flustered making her laugh a bit unnaturally. She marveled a bit as she realized that she's not hurt even after being given the hint of the possible happenings tonight. She sighed as she smile. 'I'm happy for you Zero.'
Ichiru looked at her and had to smile as he saw her expression. 'Ganbatte, nii-san.'
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
There was a soft groan that came from the silverette that is languorously trying to wake up. He felt absolutely tired but his body also felt light at the same time. He could hear the chirping sound of the birds and feel the morning heat infiltrating the large room where he's in.
When he finally opened his eyes, he was greeted by the smooth, creamy white flesh of the body that he only just notice is currently holding on tightly to him. He felt a hand tangled on his silver hair that held his head in place on the nook of his pureblood's neck, Kaname's other arm is wrapped around his waist, bringing their body closer even in sleep. He felt his own arms loosely hugging the brunette, one of them has lost all feeling as it was trapped underneath his lover's body but he only sigh, not caring even if it was amputated all together as he let himself relax. He wanted to sleep again but he felt himself completely wake and he felt hungry. He sighed again; guess it's time to get up.
He was a bit surprised when he successfully managed to gently untangle himself from Kaname. He looked at him for a while and saw just how deep into sleep he was. He must have been really exhausted as well. He let a small smile appear as watched the innocent face of his slumbering mate though he knew better than to be deceived by this angelic form as he knew how beastly he could get. His expression became a bit disgruntled at the memories that he shook his head almost harshly.
He trudged towards the bathroom a bit clumsily as he felt the pain in his hips that forcefully reminded him of the events from the night before that turned his pale white skin into beet red. He grimaced a bit, it's not like the first time but it still never fail to leave him flustered every morning after. He waived the embarrassment away as he proceeded to the bathroom and had his much needed bath.
When the hunter emerged wearing a bathrobe while he pat his hair dry with a towel, all fresh and clean, he found the pureblood already stirring and about to wake up. He smiled, amused, as he saw Kaname's hand blindly patting the empty space in front of him, no doubt trying to find him. He leaned on the bathroom's door frame as he watch his mate propped himself up with his elbow and turn to find his missing hunter. It didn't take him long to find Zero by the bathroom's door, then let himself lie again completely as he beckoned his hunter forward.
The silverette went near to sit next to the pureblood; Kaname immediately wrapped an arm around his waist from behind.
"It's too early, sleep some more." Kaname urged as he closed his eyes again, still feeling a bit sleepy, inhaling the fresh scent of his lover deeply.
"What are you saying? It's already afternoon, sleep some more if you want. I'm hungry so I'm going back." The hunter supplied as he watched his pureblood about to sleep again.
But Kaname shook his head and opened his eyes again, "No need, eat with me. I'll ask for food to be sent up." He pressed as he sat up, sending the sheets cascading down to reveal his fascinating upper body.
"It's okay, sleep some more if you're tired. I can just go back." He frowned, there's really no need for Kaname to go through the trouble.
"No, just wait for me, I'll just take a shower," the brunette insisted, already walking towards the bathroom, "and the children will be happy to see you," he added to convince his hunter. "You can use any of my clothes if you want."
"Pushy bastard," Zero muttered under his breath as he walked on to find his clothes. He put on his boxer and pants he found lying on the floor. He didn't feel like borrowing those from Kaname, his pants are a bit too long which greatly impacted Zero's manly ego, but went to the dresser to take a shirt. Once dressed in his school pants and a cotton white button up shirt, he proceeded to the study to collect his clothes and had to grimace as he saw the chaotic state of the books and furniture.
By the time Kaname emerged from his room, all dressed in his usual black pants and ruby red shirt, he found his lover already finished cleaning the mess they left from the night before and currently sitting on the couch seemingly not knowing what to do.
"Do you want to eat here or do you want to go down to the dining area?" Kaname asked.
"Here," he answered quietly, even after everything, he's still a hunter and he can't imagine himself eating all chummily with a swarm of vampires.
Kaname understood this and he didn't blame his hunter. He knew just how much he was given, how many rules and principle his lover has given up just to be with him and he really appreciated that. Considering how Zero was before, it's really a miracle that they could still be together after everything that has passed.
Kaname smiled at Zero, "You can check the children first while I asked for breakfast," he suggested to which his lover nodded in agreement.
The pureblood was about to go down when he was greeted by all his five children with the three eldest are carrying trays with breakfast.
"Good morning, chichiue," they all greeted him very brightly. They decided to eat breakfast with him as they felt a change in his aura when they returned from classes earlier. They instantly knew that something great has happened to him and they strongly believed that their parents have already made up.
"Otou-chan!" the two silverettes immediately rushed to Zero when they saw him emerged from their father's room as he was about to go to the room across to check on them.
"….!" Zero wasn't able to utter a single word as he was tackled by his youngest. He smiled down as the two hugged each of his legs. He bent down to pat their heads, feeling a bit guilty that he wasn't able to visit hem in the past week. "How have you been?"
"I've been a good girl, otou-chan." Suiren mumbled as she hugged his daddy's leg very tightly. She really missed him.
"Oh, they behaved very admirably, no need to worry about us Otou-chan, we're fine." Anne supplied in a very cheerful tone,
"Would you like some breakfast?" Kohaku offered in an unusually lively tone.
"It's great that we chose to have more. We thought otou-chan might be here. I'm glad we're right." Akira said, feeling extremely energetic.
"You have perfect timing; we were just about to have some breakfast." Kaname smiled as he took the tray that Anne was carrying and proceeded to get back to his room.
There's a variety of sandwiches ranging from egg, ham, bacon, peanut butter and strawberry jam sandwiches, pancakes, waffles, unopened cereals, milk, coffee, and hot cocoa.
"Would you like to have some Japanese style breakfast chichiue, otou-chan? I can get some from the kitchen," Anne offered.
"I'm quite fine, how about you Zero?" Kaname immediately turned to his mate who's eyeing the food quite quizzically.
"Huh? I'm fine," Zero answered as he took one sandwich with strawberry jam with a thoughtful look.
"The food is delicious; did you ask someone from the staff to prepare them?" Kaname conversationally asked his little ones.
"We made them! I made the peanut butter sandwiches!" Naoto proudly said.
"Me! Me! Ham sandwiches!" Suiren quickly followed.
"Egg sandwiches." Kohaku quietly informed as he raised his hand.
"I made the best bacon sandwiches! Please try them!" Akira immediately advertised his.
"My masterpieces are ones with strawberry jam," Anne declared as she took one of her creation and ate it.
"Nee-chan only made it because it's easy," Akira muttered.
"I made them because I like them." Anne retaliated, "Otou-chan, you won't believe how many burnt bacons were left in the kitchen, such a waste! I pity the staff who were left to clean after him."
"Hey! It's not that many!" the little brunette quickly raised his defense.
"Just half the pack." Kohaku supplied, "Nee-chan, it's already a great improvement from his previous attempts where he burnt the whole pack."
Anne looked at Akira with pity in her eyes, "That's why I told you not to get too excited, fire reacts to your mood." She sighed, what a waste of meat, "You just never learn."
Kaname chuckled, "All of you seem to love to cook."
"Because otou-chan taught us!" Suiren informed as she climbed besides her daddy's space.
"That's why all of us are good at it!" Naoto said but fell on a short pause when he saw his big brother Akira so he added, "…well, supposedly!"
"Hey Nao-chan, why did you look at me and said that?" Akira asked in disbelief, a bit shock. Even his little brother is bullying him!
"Nice one Nao." Kohaku quietly praised with a thumb up.
Their parents smiled as they watched their children banter.
They were all enjoying a rather lively breakfast in Kaname's study while they talked about stories from their childhood and what they did the past week, especially the slight changes they noticed from Takuji and Hana-jiji who were noted to be acting very weird, each child giving out their opinions from time to time.
"And Hana-jiji was so happy yesterday. We were almost blinded by his aura." Naoto narrated.
"Heh, I'm sure it's because of-," Akira's words were cut when there was a knock on the study's door.
"Takuma, enter." Kaname said and willed the door to open.
"Oh, good morning, Kaname. I'm sorry. I didn't know you're having a lovely gathering here." Ichijou started a bit awkwardly. He really hated to be the bringer of bad news. He silently cursed the fates, why now? When everything was just starting to get right again for his friend?
"What is it, Takuma?" Kaname asked. He frowned when he saw anxiety and trouble filled his normally cheerful vice-president's face but then he felt a new presence inside the Moon dorm.
"You have an early visitor, Kaname." The noble informed a bit miserably.
"Ah, very early indeed. My, I can't believe how rude he is to be calling on us so early." Kaname instantly turned grim, completely identifying their annoying guest. He forgot all about their impending visit because more important matters occupied his mind. He looked at Zero who was looking back at him with an inquiring frown on his face. He sighed; he didn't want that old man to see his mate because for sure, they'll be conducting new schemes to possess him for their own goal and greed. He almost betrayed himself by showing the fury starting to bubble deep inside him though he stopped himself at the troubled looks of his children and mate.
Before Kaname could even give the order to direct their guest to another room, a knock resounded inside the room. The pureblood felt his irritation build higher when he sensed the vampire just outside the door. Damn this old schemer!
"Kaname," Ichijou whispered, very concerned. He knew it's his grandfather.
"Kaname? What's happening?" Zero asked suspiciously. He just felt his mate's very pissed aura though their bond as he felt the presence of an old noble outside the door.
"It's the head of the vampire senate widely known as Ichiou, Ichijou Asato. He seems adamant in wanting to meet you." Kaname explained with a wry smile. He's irritated at the aristocrat's insistence on meeting his lover and children.
When the knocks ceased to stop, Kaname had no choice but to will the door to open even when he'd rather just leave it be, "Enter," he ordered in hard voice.
The door opened to reveal an astute and dignified looking vampire who surveyed the room with cold interest, "Forgive my rudeness for intruding so early, Kaname-sama. I thought my grandson might have forgotten to inform you of my arrival so I came up already."
Kaname more than ever wanted to snap at the audacious vampire that obviously came up so he wouldn't have the time to hide Zero and the children, "You're indeed right, it's quite early and as you can see we're still in the middle of our breakfast so I would like to have our talk in another room. It's not polite to talk about such formal matters during a meal." He coldly expressed as he stood up.
"Of course Kaname-sama but before that, may I give my greetings to Zero-sama and…to your lovely children?" Ichiou boldly requested knowing that at this point, there's no way that his king could still deny their meeting.
The old noble already moved forward to Zero's seat which was beside Kaname's even before the pureblood could answer. He bowed slightly as a sign of respect which put out the hunter before introducing himself, "Greetings, Zero-sama. My name is Ichijou Asato, head of the vampire council. It's a pleasure to meet you at last."
Zero was frozen when the vampire reached down to grab his hand and kiss the back of his palm which sent shivers of disgust on the hunter's spine that made him harshly snatch his hand back as he glared at the aristocrat. Kaname was immediately between them, "Ichiou, do not treat him like a woman." Quiet annoyance is very clear in his wine orbs.
"Ah, forgive me. He's your mate that's why I did what is only proper. That was thoughtless of me. Please forgive me Kaname-sama, Zero-sama." He offered unrepentantly then move to face the children who were looking at him with polite indifference, "And these are the little princesses and princes, correct?" he noted while he scrutinized the young ones, "they're indeed very enigmatic and adorable with a quaint and powerful aura," he added before he introduced himself in the same manner.
The children all stood up and introduced themselves after granting a small curtsy. Anne and Suiren gave their hands so Ichiou can kiss their hands, as per the normal decorum in formal introductions.
"My, how well mannered. Truly befitting royalty. I'm very happy for you, Kaname-sama, to be blessed by such a lovely mate and wonderful children." There was genuine amazement and hint of envy in his voice that hasn't gone undetected by Kaname's ears.
"Of course, I'm proud of all of them. Now, let us proceed to the drawing room to leave them to enjoy their meal." The pureblood coldly commanded.
"Very well, Kaname-sama." Ichiou then turned to the children and to Zero, "I would take my leave now, let us meet again during the winter solstice in the Kuran castle. The vampire society would be very happy to meet you."
"Likewise. Goodbye." Anne replied after one more curtsy before Kaname led Ichiou and Ichijou out of the room to leave them and their daddy alone in the study.
Ichiou stole one last glance towards Zero's way before completely following his king. There was a sigh that escaped from Akira's mouth the moment the door closed completely.
"Oh man, a ball?! I thought we're at least safe from that in this time!" Akira groaned even more loudly. He hates formal functions, especially balls.
"Why? Can't we just not attend?" Zero absentmindedly asked while still glaring at the closed door as if he's still looking at the old vampire. He didn't like the look in his eyes and his mate's irritation that pulsed through the bond only confirmed that he's really not someone to be trusted.
"We can't, otou-chan. The Winter Solstice, like the one held every summer, is a tradition that is yearly made. As the royal family, it's our duty to attend it and if the vampire society already knew of our existence, they will expect us to be present." Anne sighed, frowning in confusion. How did word got out? They were present when their father gave the express order of not letting the information about them be spread through the outside world. Something is clearly amiss.
"What a pain," Zero grunted then stopped when he remembered something, "Do I need to attend? I'm not part of the royal family," then quickly added when he saw the sad frowns of the youngest twin, "yet, I mean, not yet."
"Hmmm, but you're already mated to father, right, otou-chan?" they were silently amused when they saw the blush that spread on their daddy's face, "and if it's already known, they would expect you too." Kohaku continued.
"Some of them will most likely go only so they can see you, otou-chan." Akira speculated as he put his hands behind his head.
"That's right, otou-chan. I don't think anyone would be able to avoid it especially since the council head have already personally invited us." Anne supplied.
Zero groaned. Now, he really doesn't want to join whatever that party is. It will be undoubtedly a pain in the ass.
"Don't worry. I'll protect, otou-chan!" Naoto very energetically offered.
"Me too! We'll protect otou-chan!" Suiren followed as she hugged Zero, not losing in chivalry.
"That's right! Don't worry, otou-chan! We'll protect you from those clingy nobles that would dare approach you!" Akira announced with determination burning in his eyes.
"Worry about yourself first, Akira," Kohaku turned to his twin with a deadpan look. He can almost see Akira's troubled face once the nobles swarmed around him. He shook his head when his twin stiffened at his words.
"Don't worry, since you're just children in their eyes, they won't be pushing their daughters to dance with you. We'll only be decorations there." Anne encouraged matter-of-factly. Well, I hope…
"I'll be fine. Don't worry about me," Zero smiled while he patted Akira's head, thinking he could always just slip out. He didn't even think he'll go for there's no need for him to attend.
The hunter looked towards the door again. He can feel through the bond the annoyance that Kaname was feeling right then. He wondered what they could be talking about.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
"He's a really handsome man. Let me congratulate you yet again for your choice of mate. Truly an excellent taste, Kaname-sama." The old blond vampire complimented once he seated himself in front of the pureblood inside the drawing room.
"Hmmm, and I was so sure that you would disapprove," Kaname smiled wryly, "a hunter and an ex-human, I would have thought that you would storm in to condemn my choice."
"I would never. Since you chose him yourself, I would imagine that you are very fond of him to have formed a bond and your happiness matter to us, first and foremost." Ichiou denied without breaking eye contact.
"How noble. I thank you." Kaname coldly uttered, not at all believing the felon's words. He knew that had Zero been but a normal hunter and ex-human, and not possessing the ancient blood of Suzaku, oppositions would be raining down from the council, "Why have you come?"
"Only to see to your well-being, Kaname-sama and of course, to introduce myself to your future family. They're very admirable. Your children are extremely well-behaved. The aristocrats can't wait for the yearly Winter solstice ball to meet them. Such extraordinary vampires and to think that they came from the future. How completely unbelievable."
"You seem to have readily accepted the facts considering how unbelievable they are. Tell me, where have you heard of this knowledge?"
"From mere gossips. Some nobles have been chattering about it because they heard it from their children who're students of the Night class and I merely made a short and small investigation to find out the truth."
"I see." was what only Kaname said in reply to the smooth and clearly rehearsed answer from Ichiou. He knew that cannot be it for no one from the Night class would dare disobey him.
"Well then, Kaname-sama, I have intruded upon your hospitality enough already. I will go now. Let us meet again during the ball. I'm looking forward to it." Ichiou made a final bow before leaving the room. He was followed by Takuma who only stood silent the whole time to see him out.
Kaname slowly walked towards the window to watch the old noble as he entered the classy black car that was parked just outside the Moon dorm. He was deep in thought while staring at the car as it drove away to exit the academy, "The Winter Solstice, hmmm…" he uttered to himself.
"He seems adamant in having us attend the Winter solstice ball. What is he planning?" Takuma asked Kaname when his grandfather left and he returned to the drawing room.
"We'll see." was Kaname's only reply as he watched the retreating black car from the window of the room. You won't get him.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
When Zero opened the door to his guardian's house, he was greeted by the sight of his twin brother who was at the moment just descended from the stairs.
"Ah, nii-san! Welcome back!" Ichiru greeted his older brother. He just woke up himself and was quite surprise that it's already afternoon.
"Tadaima," the hunter announced while he took off his shoes. He followed his brother who went to the kitchen to get something to drink. He was watching his twin rummage the refrigerator when he thought of something important he needed to inform him. He became slightly uneasy as he thought of the possible violent reaction from Ichiru regarding the matter of his mate's past that was related to their family. He really wished that Ichiru wouldn't get angry at Kaname.
"Ichiru, I need to tell you something," Zero started.
The serious tone of his older brother's voice made Ichiru stop his search for breakfast (or lunch). "What is it, nii-san?" he asked a bit worriedly.
"This… well, this is regarding the matter of Shizuka Hio's escape." He began as he looked as his brother's lilac eyes that instantly expressed fear at the mention of the vampire's name and very slowly and as gently as he's able to, he told Ichiru how his own mate was responsible for the mad vampire's escape from her prison which led to their family's tragic fate.
When Zero was finished, he watched as Ichiru gape at him, a bit stun, then stepped backwards to lean his back on the kitchen counter's edge.
"Oh, I see, I see…" the younger silverette uttered somberly, "was this the reason for your quarrel?" he turned to Zero who nodded. He smiled sadly then turned his head slightly upwards as he sighed. "It must have been hard then but you made up, right?"
"Are you angry?" the hunter asked as he looked down.
"Why would I be?" he was caught off guard by the question.
This made Zero look up and meet his brother's gaze, "because I still chose… to be with him… even though it was because of him that… that our parents are dead…"
Ichiru granted him a frown and a smile, "Oh nii-san, I understand that he might have indirectly caused it but I really can't blame him for their death." Then he sighed, "Who could have said for sure that Shizuka will not escape by herself? Or that they'll still be alive right now if… if not killed then? They're hunters after all… and it's not like it was intentional… after all, who would have thought… right? She's mad anyway… and besides, aren't we happy right now?" he turned to Zero who's looking at him a bit startled at his easy understanding.
"Think about it, we might have lost many things but we have also gained many more," Ichiru continued as he walked towards his brother, "Just imagine, our being here might have been a blessing in disguise for many people."
"What do you mean?"
"Hmmm, like saving Yuki from the chairman's cooking. You think anyone would survive that for years?" the younger Kiryū replied with a laugh, "And you might have become an overly serious and miserable hunter." He added as he embraced his brother, "Our lives might have been different had he not done that but aren't we blessed right now? Aren't you happy right now? From now on, we can look forward to a better future and the proof is even present now." He smiled as he leaned his forehead on Zero's, "We might have lost our parents but we've gained… well… an idiotic father and sister," they chuckled, "and you've gained five children and a boyfriend."
"Don't say boyfriend," Zero hissed a bit embarrassed at the word as he pinched his brother's cheek.
Ichiru laughed, "A boyfriend is a boyfriend, nii-san. You wouldn't want to be called a girlfriend, right?"
"Shut up."
"Ow, ow, ow!" he tried to detached his brother's hand from his cheek as he was squeezed harder but then he was surprised when Zero let go to put his head on his younger brother's shoulder.
"Thank you," Zero sincerely whispered. He honestly didn't know what to do should Ichiru swore vehemence against his mate.
"Why nii-san? Scared?" he chuckled. He knew Zero must be feeling conflicted about loving the man who freed their parent's murderer but for Ichiru, his brother's happiness mattered more than the departed. He has learned to treasure those that are still alive though he made sure to never forget their beloved parents' memories.
"Stupid." was only what the hunter replied.
Their moment was cut short by a gasp that came from the female brunette that happened upon them, "What is this infidelity? Kaname-senpai will not be happy, Zero and you Ichiru, you're cheating on Aido-senpai this early?" She teased, breaking the awkward situation she has walked herself into.
"What? Aido?" Zero asked, very confused.
"Ah! Yuki, what are you doing here!?" Ichiru immediately diverted the situation and turned to his adopted-sister who quickly covered her mouth, cursing herself at the slip of tongue she has undoubtedly put herself and her brother into.
"Ah, ah, ah! The chairman is looking for Zero! It's something… something about a doctor's visit! Right! That's right!" she explained all too fast with evident panic in her voice.
"Oh nii-san, you must go to the chairman quickly!" coaxed the very flustered Ichiru.
"Wait you two, what did you mean by cheating on Aido," Zero asked with menace in his voice as he tightly gripped Yuki's and Ichiru's shoulder when they attempted to run away.
Ichiru glared at Yuki who whimpered.
Oh dear, they're dead.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-