Author's Notes: Yo minna-sama~~! (´∇ﾉ｀*)ノ How are you? Hopefully you haven't forgotten about me. Tee hee~! *wink* *．･(*ゝ∀・*)ﾉ
Yes, yes, I know that I must be hated already at this point but please do forgive the incompetence of this poor poor soul. _:(´□`」 ∠):_ If it's going to make you feel better, I'll have you know that my dearest horrifying sister is doing a good job beating me up and guilt-tripping me. へ(´д｀へ)
Thank you for the patience and continuous support! I really really appreciate it! (づ￣ ³￣)づ
Well, I'm sure that you're not interested with my excuses so without further ado, please enjoy. (ʃƪ ˘ ³˘) To be honest it doesn't contain much scenes and fun but all must be done for the sake of continuation (*´﹃｀*) . I'll do better in my next chapter (hopefully!) φ(￣ー￣ )ノ
Please enjoy! ( ´ ▽ ` )ﾉ
(≧∇≦) … (〜￣▽￣)〜 ….. *:.. o(≧▽≦)o ..:*….. (〜￣▽￣)〜… (≧∇≦)
Chapter 15
The Glimpse and the Party
It was almost noon when they found themselves back in the academy as the ever romantic pureblood wished to explore the island with his silverette, subtly reminding his lover of how he was abandoned there the last time he came making the hunter choke his grumbling and guilt forcing a consent out of him.
They walked for a while, going to the very small city where there were lots of tourists as it turned out to be a newly discovered prospect for fine resorts with its white sand beaches, only the latter part of the island, the mountainous and woody area where their property stood, was left unexplored. Kaname was internally relieved that he was already able to buy one sixth of the island so he can preserve that memorable place for his hunter.
They only looked around for a while, Zero taking the chance to buy his twin a gift and so was Kaname who wish to leave a good impression on the younger Kiryū. After satisfying the spoiled vampire's request, they headed back to the academy with great timing as the chairman was actually looking for his son who had a physician visiting him in a few hours.
"Son! Where were you the whole morning?" Kaien greeted him in his frilly pink apron when he saw the young hunter came from the front door. He went to his room quite early to be able to be one of the first to greet him to find him already out, "Ah, good morning Kaname-kun," he added when he saw the pureblood prince follow Zero inside. Oh, I see.
Zero fought down a blush, not willing to give himself away, "None of your business," his reply was only smiled upon by his happy guardian, "Where's Ichiru?"
"Nii-san?" his younger brother's voice came from the kitchen.
"Zero?" Yuki also called out from the kitchen.
The two prefects emerged from the kitchen, and to Zero's horror, wearing their aprons and each in the middle of mixing something inside a large bowl, "Oi, oi, what are you two doing over there?"
Yuki pouted towards her adopted brother after greeting the pureblood, "We're cooking of course. There's going to be a great party later on!"
"Ah, Kaname-senpai, you're welcome to come later," Ichiru said as he continuously stir whatever concoction was inside the metal bowl, "Nii-san, you should help too, you know it's our -,"
"Birthday? Yeah, I know," Zero said as he sighed, he should have known that these very happy people would also plan a party for their birthday like always, "Here, Happy Birthday, Ichiru." He said as he walked to his twin to take the large bowl he's carrying to replace it with the white paper bag he's been holding.
This surprised Ichiru, Yuki and the chairman. Their comical disbelief, with exaggerated gasps and bulging eyes, at what just happened told Kaname that it's very rare (or actually the first time) that Zero remembered their birthdate thereby being on time with his gift. They looked at Zero then the paper bag then back at Zero again.
"What?" snapped the annoyed silverette hunter.
"How? How did you remember?" Ichiru looked at his brother suspiciously (just to be annoying), as if suspecting a trap or him being someone else in disguise, even though he's sure that Kaname-senpai told him.
"Shut up, just take it."
"Here, Ichiru-kun." Kaname smiled as he also gave his present which was in a small box, "Happy Birthday."
"Thank you, Kaname-senpai," he's bit shy as he accepted the gift from the pureblood, 'Ah, I didn't expect him to also give me a gift…'Ichiru mused silently as he gave him some 'family-acceptance-points.'
"What time will that doctor come here?" Zero said as he walk towards the kitchen with Ichiru's bowl.
"Maybe not for two to three more hours," Kaien said as he followed his son towards the kitchen.
"Good," he said as he put on his own white apron and proceeded to inspect what has been done in the kitchen, the ingredients, and if there's already any damage on whatever dish they've been trying to make, "there's still time," to salvage these. He motioned for his adopted father to stick with cutting the ingredients and not to do more than that.
While the silverette hunter quickly became immersed with cooking, Yuki and Ichiru turned to the pureblood vampire, "Ah, Kaname-senpai, be sure to come here alright?" Yuki enthusiastically invited, not seeing the worry behind the pureblood's burgundy eyes as he observe her action for anything abnormal.
"You can bring the Night class, since, of course, the children are also invited though we invited Kaito as well." Ichiru said, they also invited Toga-sensei but he's currently away on a mission.
"If you insist," Kaname smiled, he walked towards the kitchen to say goodbye to Zero who merely nodded and waved his hand at him before barking at his adopted father to put down the spice the honey-haired hunter was trying to secretly put into the boiling dish in the pot.
Kaname chuckled as he left the chairman's house, greatly looking forward to the events of the coming evening.
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There were some scurrying and scrambling inside the chairman's house as the occupants prepare for the small party they'll have for the ex-hunter's most beloved sons. Zero busied himself with the dishes with the chairman's help while the cleaning and whatever decorating they had in mind were left to the two other clumsy prefects. The Kiryū twins' birthday has always been a private event for them but now, with the addition of the children, the twins' lovers (Zero whacks them when they said 'boyfriend'), the student-teacher hunter and of course, with Aido and Kaname invited, the Night class as well, there's going to be quite a fun party to look forward to.
They were almost finished with the preparation when the doorbell rang. It was opened by Yuki and he was greeted by the pureblood prince, "Kaname-senpai, you're early."
"Ah, no, I came to collect Zero and the chairman, the physician is here." He smiled at the petite prefect.
"Oh, alright, please come in. Zero's in the bath, he just finished cooking and we're just waiting for the cake to bake in the oven." She said as she let him in, "Wait, I'll get the chairman, he's been baking a pie when I last checked on him." She said as she skipped some step as she hummed a tune. She's excited as she'll be able to see the blond noble later on.
Kaname watched her quite intently as he gauge her condition. He's sure that she should be showing signs of her memories returning but it's weird how she seems to be able to act normally. Nothing seems to be wrong. He frowned. His thoughts were then cut by the jovial voice of his longtime friend.
"Ah, Kaname-kun! I heard the doctor is already here?"
"Yes, they've already set up their instruments in the clinic of the Moon dormitory."
"Oh wonderful!" the honey-haired man ecstatically said as he clapped his hands together.
"What's wonderful?" Zero said as he descended from the stairs, fresh from the bath, "I really don't see why there's a need for a checkup. It's most definitely a girl you know." He said a bit grumpily, he hates medical examinations and he's not too keen about someone actually looking at his prostate or anywhere near there, he cringed at the thought.
"It's not just that!" the chairman said disapprovingly, "We need to make sure that my granddaughter is healthy and well and we need to know how to take better care of you!"
Zero clicked his tongue. Well, it's not like he's especially against it and if it's to ensure his child's safety then perhaps he can suck it this once.
Kaname smiled as he walked towards his mate, "Well, shall we meet our child in her earliest stage?"
"Fine," was all his hunter muttered as he sighed.
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"A-ah, Z-Zero-sama! It's an honor to meet you!"
The enthusiastic and stuttered greeting came from a nervous and modest looking old vampire who bowed, flustered, together with his middle age female assistant, when they entered the Moon dorm's clinic. The greeting which was overflowing with such awe and excitement made the poor hunter uncomfortable. He's not used to being treated like a celebrity or anything of the like, the most he got from introductions were whispers (from the class during day one) and a taunt (from the bastard Kaito when they were kids).
"Zero, this is Dr. Matsumoto. He's been our family friend since my parents' time." Kaname introduced the good doctor, "He took care of my mother during her pregnancies. He's someone we can trust." He said as he smiled politely at the old vampire.
"Thank you very much Kaname-sama. I was really fortunate to be under Lady Juri and Master Haruka's graces." The vampire smiled sadly, remembering the kind purebloods who befriended a lowly vampire like him.
"I'll leave Zero in your care." Kaname said before leaving the room with the chairman so they can begin the examinations.
"Zero-kun, be good kid okay? I'll give you some candies later."
"Get lost, you stupid oaf," He shouted as he kicked his guardian out of the clinic. What am I, a kid visiting the dentist?
Kaname and the ex-hunter waited for about half an hour for the examination to finish. The otherwise silent waiting was shattered by the chairman's camera's continuous clicking as he's enjoying documenting 'A Father's Waiting' look of his pureblood friend.
The brunette had to fight down the twitch of his fingers to snap and break the noisy device in his friend's hands, as the repeated shutter sound and flashes of light distracts him from his internal reverie.
"Don't worry Kaname-kun, I'm sure Zero-kun is alright and little Anne-chan is healthy." Kaien said quite seriously as he reviewed the shots he took of the unconsciously worried pureblood just now.
"I'm not worried," Kaname said quietly, though in actuality, he's indeed quite worried about his mate's condition as the last week has been hectic and there was also a time when he didn't drink blood for three months. It's also the first time there was such a case and so he wished to be able to provide Zero everything he'll need. He sighed inwardly as he saw another flash of his friend's camera.
"Oh, but you are," the ex-hunter knowingly teased. He smiled as he saw concern for his beloved son reflects on his young friend's wine colored eyes. Ah, how they've grown. "Oh yes, where are the children?"
"They're in their room. There was a 'Do Not Disturb' sign hanging outside so no one dared enter," the pureblood said as he chuckled, then another flash of the camera, "It must have something to do with Zero's birthday gift." He added, ignoring his friend's maniacal hobby.
"Oh! How wonderful!" the cheerful chairman chortled as he clapped his hands together, "I wonder-," but his words were cut when the doctor went out and asked them to come in.
Zero was already buttoning up his light blue shirt as he sat on the clinic's bed when they entered the room.
"Everything's alright with Zero-sama," Dr. Matsumoto cheerfully informed his king as Kaname sat on the seat in front of the clinic's table. "Here, Kaname-sama," he handed him a black and grey photograph.
Kaname stared as he looked at the ultrasound image of his child. It's then that it really hit him that everything is real. His child is really about to be born soon.
It's not that he doubted it, of course not, but there's a possibility that Anne will be born years from now and that what Zero was feeling was merely due to stress and such but now that he holds the absolute evidence that everything's set and that his mate is indeed pregnant with his child, it sent a light feeling to spread deep inside him. He pressed his lips together to stop himself from showing his emotions but a smile still escaped from him despite himself and the chairman didn't waste a moment and though he heard the continuous sounds of shutter, he couldn't stop himself. He stared and marveled how he could already make out the head and tiny body of their little angel.
He felt Zero stand beside him to look at the photo he's holding. He stood up to let his lover get a closer look as he wrapped an arm around his hips to drew him closer, unable to contain his pleasure and happiness (ignoring Kaien who's having a feast).
Zero would have shoved his overly clingy vampire away at his display of affection had it not been for that look of utter bliss in his face that made him knot his forehead in amusement and wonder, though he felt he could relate to that as he looked at the image of the life growing inside him. It's unbelievable and amazing how such a precious thing is currently within him.
"He's already in the beginning of his fifteenth week," Dr. Matsumoto said, shaking himself from the trance that his king's smile and joy has provided as he never seen such an expression in his handsome features before, "Please continue on to take care of your health, Zero-sama. A regular intake of blood and normal food," as they were handed a certain list of food that's good for pregnancy, "it's the first time that I've handled such a case as yours, Zero-sama, but I can't see much differences, I'm only wondering though when and how the birth will proceed." He was already informed of what the children said about a cut appearing naturally and so they decided to monitor Zero periodically to ensure his safety, "and Zero-sama, I would like to advice you of one more thing," the old vampire said after providing several advices, his tone turning less cheery and more serious, "I know it might be difficult for you given the young stage you're currently at in your life but considering your circumstances, I would advise that you stop your education for a while."
There was a short silence as everyone in the room looked at the hunter.
Dr. Matsumoto continued when no one spoke, "it's not that I can see that it's a delicate kind of pregnancy but I think Zero-sama has also already notice," he looked at the young silverette, "it's already showing and soon, no amount of clothes will be able to hide it. I would not have advised it had yours been a regular situation but it would certainly seem… odd in the humans' point of view." Then he added as he felt that he said something out of line, "I'm sorry."
"It's okay, I understand, I'll think about it," the silver haired hunter conceded.
Kaien shifted his worried gaze on the two young vampires while Kaname looked guiltily at Zero as he tightened his hold on his hips making his lover inch away just a bit with a 'it's-sweltering-you-idiot' look.
"Don't worry about it, I'm not that bothered regarding repeating a grade, you know." He said quietly as he looked at the photograph in his pureblood's hand. He knew it would come eventually since that time he decided to keep the child and he's honestly not bothered by it but he must admit becoming a bit disgruntled at the thought of Yuki and Ichiru becoming his senpais (not that he'll ever call them that anyway).
The hunter turned towards his mate who's still looking at him with trouble reflected in his wine orbs, 'Don't look at me like that. It's not like it's your fault. It takes two to create a child, you moron.' Zero spoke to him through the bond. His words were only awarded a small smile and an even more troubled look from the brunette.
The pureblood certainly felt guilty but more because of the fact that he greatly wished to see Zero heavy with his child. He grimaced internally. How abominably selfish he has become. He wanted to see it so much that he forgot about what trouble it might cause his hunter. He's clearly mad with hot obsession and possessiveness. How monstrously greedy he has become, enough to softly suffocate his own beloved so he'll only breathe his scent. He took a deep breath to rein in his raging beast as he held on tightly to his mate as the physician carried on.
"We can expect your child around mid-spring," Dr. Matsumoto then cheerfully continued, breaking the awkward moment by giving good news.
"Oh perfect. The best time for a hanami. Spring!" the honey haired ex-hunter declared.
After a few more advices from the good doctor, and setting the schedule for the next appointment, Zero and the chairman went back to their house to continue the preparation while Kaname remained to help and see the physician out, agreeing to see the pureblood at a certain time for the private gathering.
The silverette and the honey-haired were walking in the quiet afternoon without saying anything but the hunter could feel his guardian's eyes glancing at him from time to time.
"I'm really fine," Zero started, feeling a bit annoyed at the chairman's obvious careful treatment with him regarding the doctor's earlier advice, still looking at the black and grey photograph of the ultrasound. "I'm not bothered by it."
Kaien sighed, a bit conflicted though not wanting to voice out his concern lest he troubled his son furthermore though Zero surprised him by continuing.
"There's nothing for it. I'm already prepared for this." The silverette added determinedly.
This made Kaien smiled, "You'll be a wonderful father, son."
"I'm not your son," Zero grumbled as a flash of camera captured his solemn expression as his gaze was steadfastly trained on the photograph of his child.
Their walked turned a bit merry, on the chairman's part, as he continued on chattering about being reminded of his cuteness as a child and blatant flashes of his camera while the hunter grumbled and scowled.
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It was already after four in the afternoon when the doorbell rang in the chairman's residence. It was immediately opened by the excited female prefect. She found the whole Night class led by the pureblood president waiting outside. Her eyes immediately flew to her savior's right where a certain green-eyed vampire met her gaze with a blinding smile on his lips.
"Senpai-tachi, please come in," Yuki invited, a bit flushed.
"Thank you Yuki." Kaname smiled, noting her sudden blush when her eyes flitted to his vice-president. He made mental observations as he followed the two with his auburn eyes and it didn't escape him the sudden splash of ecstatic aura at their meeting. He shook his head a bit in disbelief at his own inattentiveness. He has been blind. He made a mental note to gently question his closest friend later on.
Yuki was all smiles and was too happy that she belatedly noticed that their little party is missing a few faces, "Where are the children?"
"They said they're not yet done with their gift," Kaname explained, frowning a bit at the memory of his eldest daughter's state when she opened the door to their room earlier. Anne was bit flustered with a bit of sooth covering her pretty face, he saw that they even already transformed to their older selves, no doubt because of the miscalculation of the time it will take to prepare whatever present they have in mind. "Anne said that they may be a bit late." He continued.
"Oh, okay." Yuki replied thoughtfully, wondering what their gift might be.
"Ah Kaname-kun, children!" Kaien's voice boomed joyously at the sight of the Night class who stopped at the sight of him. He's looking comical and ridiculous with his childish party hat and extremely colorful clothes.
"Take that off!" Zero scoffed at his guardian as he forcefully took the cardboard hat off the ex-hunter's head to which the older man whined, irritating the silverette even more.
"Geez chairman, where did you even get that?" Ichiru sighed as he came inside the room from the kitchen, carefully carrying a dish and arranging it neatly on a table.
Yuki could only shake her head in exasperation and shame ('so that's what he bought earlier in great 'secrecy,' she mused), Kaname merely smiled, some of the Night class chuckled and laughed, while the others shook their head in embarrassment.
"Where's the children?" Zero asked while he arrested his guardian by the collar of his shirt.
Kaname told them that they might be late because of the finishing touches with their gifts.
"Oh my, that's so sweet of them," Kaien fawned at the thought even though he still being man-handled by his son, "Well, we can wait some more because Kaito-kun is also not yet here."
"Who cares about him," Zero mumbled under his breath, Kaname noticing a bit of bitterness in his voice that made him smile. Clearly, Zero still hasn't forgiven the young hunter for seducing his eldest daughter.
The Night class gathered and separately came to the Kiryū twins to give their congratulations and gifts (Zero's were through Kaname as he's still not comfortable with the Night class). They were scattered throughout the room. Yuki and Takuma were immediately immersed in a world of their own near the window which was closely but secretly observed by Kaname and Zero from their position on the couch in the middle of the room as the pureblood immediately informed his hunter of his suspicion and the two immediately scrutinized the understanding forming between the two as they both didn't want any more pain to befall their most beloved sister, while Hanabusa helped his own beloved silverette arrange the dishes neatly and saving them whenever Ichiru would almost stumble as he trip on his own feet even on flat surfaces, the chairman was flitting across the room offering drinks to the other vampires as they observed the couples; Rima passively, Shiki sleepily, Ruka half-vehemently and half-resigned and Kain in contentment (for Hanabusa) and worry (for Ruka).
They were having a comfortable and satisfyingly peaceful late afternoon when it was shattered by the arrival of their temporary mathematics teacher who unceremoniously opened the door as Zero was halfway to the kitchen.
"Yo, Kuran Zero-sama!" was the first thing out of the mouth of the mischievous new-comer.
Zero stiffened when he heard the irritating voice of a certain annoying hunter that just entered the room. Suddenly, the room became very quiet. He looked around and sure enough, there stood Kaito Takamiya wearing a teasing sneer.
"I was at the mall yesterday, you know, when I heard that very amusing announcement. That's really bad of you Zero-kun. You must always look after your children." He said in a very amuse tone while walking towards his kohai.
Zero only grimaced inwardly, cursing Kaito inside his head and gathering all his will power not to just punch the hunter there and then out of sheer annoyance. He didn't want the party that Ichiru, the chairman and Yuki prepared to be ruined just like that.
"Hey, are you listening, Kuran Zero-sama?" Kaito smirked as Zero walked away from him, "Hey, Kuran Zero-sama! Kuran Zero-sama!" he called after him, "Don't be stubborn Kuran Ze-," he suddenly stopped when his face was hit by something soft… and disgustingly sweet.
Apparently, the silverette just threw him the pie that the chairman baked for their birthday, not at all being able to stop the irritation that he's feeling because of Kaito's teasing. Screw patience. "You're fucking noisy so shut up, Kaito-sensei."
There was a heavy silence that blanketed all the guests of the private party, many of them are suppressing the laughter at the sight of the two pissed off hunters, before the sound of the falling metal platter from Kaito's face resounded inside the room.
There was a silent countdown for a fight to start.
And there would have been a mighty brawl as the two hunters ready themselves to leap at the first attacker but then the sound of the new arrivals snatched their attentions.
"Hello! We're sorry we're late! Otou-chan?" Anne's clear voice came resounding from the hall, "Oh my, what happened?" was her surprised exclamation at the sight that greeted her when she entered the room with her siblings, "Kaito-san?"
The ash-browned haired hunter stopped his impending attack when he saw the children in their adult appearances enter the room. His attention was instantly stolen by the beauty leading the other four. Suddenly, he became very aware of his shameless actions and the white icing that still covered his face.
"Mou, what happened? Kaito-san? You're teasing otou-chan again, aren't you?" there was a slight scolding tone in her voice as she immediately came towards the hunter after kissing Zero on the cheek, who's already calm but still throwing daggers at him (albeit for a whole different reason Kaito has yet to know), to wipe the icing off his face. "You should stop baiting otou-chan every time, Kaito-san." She said quietly as she wiped some more icing, "since chichiue is a really jealous man," she added seriously in a whisper.
Kaito could only quietly stare at the young vampire as she helped him, not even laughing (when he could hear the others muffled their laughter) at the, no doubt, ridiculous state of his face. He slightly grimaced inwardly, how uncool.
"Ehem!" the chairman finally found his voice which he seemed to have lost after watching his masterpiece fly into the young teacher apprentice's face. He wanted to cry. My work of art! He could only sigh, "Well, it seems like we're finally complete so we can now start the birthday celebration for my cute sons, (he ignored the expected retaliation from the older silverette, "We're not your sons!" and continued with his speech.) Thank you all for coming, please enjoy yourselves!"
"Kaito-san, you can go to the comfort room now to wash your face. Almost all of the icings are gone already but you must be feeling sticky and uncomfortable." Anne said to the hunter after her grandpa's speech, smiling as she did.
Kaito only grunted in agreement before quickly proceeding to the guest's bathroom and quickly locked himself inside. He didn't stop even when he felt Zero burn holes on his back. When he looked at the mirror, he quickly wished that he went there with icings covering his face.
He can't believe it. He grimaced as he looked at himself in the mirror. He hoped that no one noticed that he's actually blushing…
Fuck. "I'm sure it's because of humiliation." The hunter tried to convince himself.
Kaname looked at his mate, discontent in his eyes.
"What?" Zero asked when he caught his lover's stare.
The brunette looked away to blindly look forward before he answered, "Do you hate it that much? Do you hate being called by my name?"
Zero stared as the controlled angry tone of his mate alarmed him, he swallowed, not knowing how to answer his sulking mate, 'No.' He instead answer though the bond as he look away, it seems much easier for him, 'it's just… I'm… still… not use to it…Fuck… I'm a man too, you think I ever thought I'll even change my name?'
He sigh in understanding, 'Then, do you hate it?' he asked though the bond.
'… Not… really...' Zero said while looking further away, feeling embarrassed at admitting it.
Kaname smiled at his mate, he knew Zero's feeling strange about it, after all, he's very manly with a high ego that's why he appreciate his mate giving way too many things because of him. He discreetly reached for his hand to hold it briefly and tightly before letting it go. He watched as a blush creep all the way to his lover's neck at his gesture. Fortunately for Zero, their children came to distract him.
"Chichiue! Otou-chan!" their little angels gathered around them, "Here's our present!" as they handed Zero a small rectangular wooden box, with elegant lines engraved into it for the design. He opened it to reveal seven silver-metal earrings: five huggie hoop earrings, one slightly elongated clip-on cartilage earring, and one stud earring. All of which are modestly decorated by little red blood stones so that it won't become too eye catching, knowing their otou-chan's low profile.
"We're sorry we're late otou-chan, it took us a while to finish it," Kohaku apologized as he sat beside Zero.
"What? You made this?" the silverette was amazed as he took and examined the simple but finely made accessories, "You know how? What, did you train to be a silversmith?" a crease appearing on his forehead. Seriously?
"Not silversmith. Goldsmithery." Kaname corrected, "It's made of white gold, isn't it?" he confirmed with Kohaku who nodded.
"It's not like we really mastered it. It's only like a hobby." Akira piped in as he sprawled on Kaname's lap, "Well, when you're alive for so long, one tends to venture a lot of things to occupy our bored minds." He didn't add the fact that it's actually their parents who made them do it in an attempt to distract them from doing highly dangerous and unmonitored distraction like sneaking outside the palace to play and some other things they haven't confessed to just yet. They unfortunately didn't succeed but they're not supposed to know that. He snickered internally.
"That's why it took us a while," Suiren squeaked, seated on the floor between Zero's legs, her chin on her daddy's knee, "We forgot how hard it is! It's been a long time and only nee-chan has been practicing it for her dimensional blood stones." She finished, she's exhausted as they pulled up an all-nighter to finish it though they were still late.
"Well, thanks." Zero sincerely said as he patted his daughter's silver hair. He really like the present as it looks simple enough for him, "Are these stones…" he trailed as he inquiringly glanced at his children.
"Um! They're our blood stones so that otou-chan will always be protected!" Naoto brightly offered from his seat on the floor between Kaname's legs, his chin on the pureblood's knee nearest Zero. "So please always wear them otou-chan."
"I will," the young hunter smiled, feeling a rush of satisfaction from the pureblood beside him.
Kaname is extremely pleased with the idea as it would mean additional protection for his beloved. He does love the way his children's wonderful mind works. He could feel the awe that came from the Night class as they quietly regarded the family.
Blood stones are considered one of the most precious objects in the vampire society, and that its being freely given must have come as a shock for the aristocrats.
The children also went to Ichiru to give their present. Ichiru opened a smaller, intricately carved wooden box, which contained a better imitation of his hair tie. A thin silken ribbon with a small white gold bell attached to it. The children explained that the small loose sphere enclosed within the body of the bell is made of Akira and Kohaku's blood stone (for their most beloved uncle's protection) which made Hanabusa choke on his drink.
The blond is certainly happy about it as it will put his mind at ease specially whenever his silverette would leave sight, but he's internally grimacing at the fact that his gift might not be at par with their royal highnesses present. He received a pitying look from his most faithful cousin, Kain, who lightly patted his shoulder for support.
It didn't escape Ichiru's attention, "What is it?" he asked his dejected lover who smiled at him but didn't convince the silverette. Then he caught Hanabusa's gaze on the children's present and immediately understood. He sighed at the sweet thought while coloring a bit as he softly whispered, "You're a moron. I know I will love it, as long as it came from you." A smile in his voice.
And just like that, the proud blond noble's confidence was restored and they were instantly thrown into their own universe, violently kicking the red-haired third-wheel out to hastily retreat to their friends who are distractedly feasting on the lavish food prepared by the hunter.
"They should get a room, those two," Kain muttered under his breath, a bit disgruntled at his cousin's poor treatment of him despite his continuous support in his genius affairs though he only sighed before he smiled. He still can't help but be happy for that little blond devil. He really does spoil his cousins.
"Did you say anything?" Shiki turned to him, his sleepy eyes half-mast as he munched on his strawberry cake.
"Nothing," he answered and he was startled as Ruka silently handed him a slice of strawberry cake. His beloved's gesture instantly completed his day even though he really isn't a fan of sweets.
"What?" the beautiful vampire snobbishly asked, arching an eyebrow, as she sat next to Kain to eat her own slice of strawberry cake.
"Nothing, thanks." The flaming haired vampire smiled as he took a bite of his sweet.
Meanwhile, the chairman was busying himself with dishes while accompanying the ash-brown haired hunter who took refuge inside the kitchen after sneakily emerging from his hiding from the comfort room. He didn't dare show his face again (not that he had any interest in socializing with bloodsuckers anyway) after his earlier embarrassment. He was quiet with resignation as he half-listened to the ex-hunter's incessant chattering of some nonsense or another when the phone rang.
"Hello?" Kaien answered the phone as Zero walked inside the kitchen with more dirty plates, "Ah, Toga-chan! Great timing!" he cheerfully exclaimed thinking that the hunter called to wish his students a happy birthday but the serious voice of his former student hinted a more dreary reason for calling, "Toga-chan?"
The sudden change in his guardian's voice stopped Zero from exiting from the room as he listened intently with the help of his vampire hearing.
There were harsh breathes on the other line, sign of the raven hunter's irritation with a hint of hesitation in delivering the terrible news, no doubt from the association. "Is Zero there?" he asked but then quickly added, "No, don't call him. You can just tell him later. Don't ruin his day." He breathed deeply and harshly before releasing a litany of curses full of frustration, irritation and downright anger but not directed to the chairman or to his pupil.
"What is it Toga?" Kaien asked again, abandoning his normally sweet tone. He's sure that it's not anything good.
"It's urgent so I'm warning you now but don't tell Zero just yet." Toga continued after a few more curses, "The president will ask him to report to HQ, a letter will arrive any time now," he breathed deeply, "some asshole leaked the story about the brats."
The honey-haired ex-hunter was still as he starred wide-eyed to his son whose presence he vaguely felt, knowing he heard every word. Zero visibly paled, his expression strained, clearly remembering the last time he was summoned by the association's president.
"Kaien, this doesn't look good for the kid. Knowing that psychotic bastard, he must be cooking up something" The hunter continued, "Watch out for him. That fucking asshole has sent me on one hell of a mission." The underlying meaning that he's being purposely kept away was completely understood by the chairman.
"I understand. Thank you for telling me." Was all he said before ending the call. He took a deep breath before fixing his silent son with a very serious look.
"What the hell was that about?" Kaito loudly asked, reminding them of his presence. He didn't hear the conversation but he can judge from the two's expressions that it's not anything decent.
"Fuck," Zero muttered under his breath, closing his eyes, not answering Kaito's curiosity, "and I thought repeating a grade was the worst I could land to," he grimaced. With the swirl of events and after being immersed with his personal problems and emotions, he completely forgot the nutcase that is the hunter association's president. It didn't really hit him that since the story and matter of his lineage and children was broadcasted far and wide within the vampire society that the same news would reach the hunters in no time at all. Shit! He's really screwed. Compared to meeting the president, calling Yuki and Ichiru 'senpai' is definitely less painful.
"What? Repeating a grade? Why the fucking hell?" Kaito repeated loudly, confused while trying to put two and two together before finally understanding why that certainly would happen as he eyed his kouhai's belly.
"Otou-chan repeating a grade?" repeated once again but by someone else, disbelief laced in her high and feminine voice. Anne walked inside the kitchen, followed by Kaname, carrying another batch of empty and dirty dishes. There was a thoughtful then scandalized frown on her exquisite face as she also realized the reason behind that phrase. Her eyes widened as her gaze also fell on her beloved otou-chan's abdomen, "Oh," she lowered her head, "Oh, I see."
"Anne," Zero was immediately with her, momentarily forgetting his greater problems in the face of self-hatred he can see reflecting his daughter's lilac orbs, "It's not your fault," he assured her.
"That's right Anne. Don't worry yourself over it," Kaname added, putting away the dirty dishes in the sink then coming beside his mate.
The chairman also helped in the assurances, not forgetting the greater calamity but welcoming the distraction. He also didn't want the others to know about it, which he knew would agree with Zero who would not want anyone (not even Kaname) to know. Kaito retreated to just observing the family, strangely getting tongue-tied at the sight of the female brunette.
"Oh, but it is, isn't it?" the young brunette faced her parents, "must it be so?" then shaking her head at the ridiculous question. Of course, it is. It will certainly be strange once his otou-chan's stomach slowly swell on the next stages of his pregnancy. It's something he won't be able to hide soon. She bit her lips. She was contemplating suggesting Zero's transfer to Night class but she remembered that they still have some human teachers as well, and he'll still be spotted during class exchanges. She was near tears with frustration which frantically sent her parents and grandfather beseechingly for her calm, which she could barely hear in her distress, when she remembered something that she can do.
She suddenly perked up, looking at her parents with wide-eyes, now filled with bright glee. She didn't even stop to think and proceeded with her plan. Without words and as fast as she can, she crouched to hold on to her silverette father's shirt's hem to hold it up to reveal his stomach. She vaguely heard the young hunter's yelp of surprise at her unexplained actions and the other's questions. She unceremoniously nicked her index finger, filling the room with the heavenly scent of her blood which sent everyone in a quiet panic and making her siblings ran to the kitchen to see if there's any problem, the other nobles just behind them, with flaming red eyes, but she didn't give anyone of them any attention as she focus on writing symbols on their daddy's stomach, just below the navel, using her blood as she muttered incantations under her breath.
The older twins immediately recognized her action, she even heard Kohaku's admonishing tone to stop but they're already too late as the blood on their parent evaporated and the smell of burning power became evident in the air.
Zero took a step back as scorching warmth spread inside his stomach making him blanch white, his heart raging inside him, alarming his mate but before they can even say anything, the heat abated as soon as it came which successfully calmed both of them though they're still confused and then panic came over them when they saw the faint expression of their eldest.
"Nee-chan!" there was a mix of anger and worry in Kohaku's exclamation as he came running inside the kitchen where Anne slumped on her thighs, her shoulders sagged with evident exhaustion and chest heaved as she desperately gasped for air.
"Anne!" there was a general commotion as the children herded their older sister outside the kitchen, thank goodness for their adult body, in the living room and deposited her in the large couch, the nobles staying out of the way as they calmed their thirst shaken by the intoxicating scent of their princess' blood.
"Nee-chan? Are you feeling much better?" Suiren worriedly shook her older sister a bit for reaction.
"Are you okay now?" Naoto frowned as he perched his chin on top of his twin sister's head.
"Nee-chan why did you do that?" Akira exclaimed with confusion and exasperation while his twin merely sighed as if fighting for patience.
"What happened?" Yuki and Ichiru asked in chorus.
"What did Anne do?" Zero asked, his heart beat steadily slowing down, mighty confused as he didn't understand what just happened.
Anne raised a hand as a gesture that she's feeling much better as evident by her much easy breathing.
"Are you alright, Zero?" Kaname asked after making sure that their daughter is doing much better. A frown decorating his handsome features.
"I'm fine," the silverette answer, his eyes not leaving his daughter's face who seemed to have been overcome with surprise as well as awareness seems to have finally hit her system.
After a while, when Anne was a bit calmer and uninfluenced by her turbulent emotion, she sat for a quiet moment as she took deep breaths, taking stock of her body and finally realizing the consequences of her abrupt action.
Her younger twin brothers only followed her action, seeing the remorse etched on her lovely faced, when she suddenly stood without words and went to face their parents who're also looking at her with worried frowns. They were greatly disturbed once again when she, their elegant and proud princess, kneeled in front of them and prostrate herself in a low bow without any words. Anne spoke even before her parents could react.
"Please forgive me otou-chan, chichiue," she said in a most repentant voice which deepened the crease on her parents' foreheads. She then sat back up, still in a formal sitting position, to face a completely puzzled Kaname and Zero. Her face set as if readying herself to take on a harsh scolding.
"What was that about?" Zero can't help but be bewildered by his own daughter's antics. She's really the one with the most drama.
"Explain yourself, Anne." Kaname said in a quiet and serious voice which made Anne internally whimper, pursing her lips a bit in fright.
"She opened and created another dimension," Kohaku answered for her when it took her more than a minute to respond. He's clearly not pleased with her actions.
"Eh? What for?" Ichiru asked.
"Yeah, what for nee-chan?" Akira curiously asked as he knew well enough that though her sister could be a bit impulsive sometimes, it's because of a great cause, it must be very important because she'll plan her steps first if she can. There must be something she can't let go.
They all waited. The nobles are already back sporting their own eye colors with the other prefects who are situated behind the couch the silverette hunter, their king and the royal children are sitting. The chairman and Kaito are by the kitchen's entrance.
"Uhm, I… I… o-," she stopped to swallow before continuing, "open a contained space that will take up the fetus' space once it grew bigger inside otou-chan's womb," she sniffed a bit as she finished knowing that this time, she really did cross the line by not getting permission before doing what she did because it could have endangered the child (though she was also careless knowing it's her inside her dad anyway) and that she might have unknowingly trampled any wish of her parents, and now after the deed is done, she just realize many miscalculations on her part in terms of her remaining power.
"What?!" Zero blurted, understanding and at the same time completely questioning what she said.
"What do you mean, Anne-chan?" Anne heard her grandfather question from behind her.
"Eto, it's so that it will not appear in the naked eyes…" she said, not knowing how to explain it.
"Does it mean that there is a space inside Zero," the genius of the Night class started, remembering in time to give due respect to the hunter no matter how much they hate each other's guts, "-san where the child will be nurtured?" he finished though can't see the reason for it.
"Meaning, nii-san currently has his own mini black hole inside his stomach?" Ichiru tried to make sure he understood.
Anne nodded but added, "It's something like that but it's not completely detached as it would result to… a miscarriage," her tone became extremely low, almost inaudible, and before anyone can even react, she immediately added, "and it's only a limited space. So otou-chan will still feel the mass and weight of it but I did it so he'll not…" she trailed.
"So it won't be obvious?" Zero finished which made Anne stare hard on the floor. He would have said more as it did sound quite dangerous but he can only sigh at her expression, "It bothered you that much, huh?" the silverette scratch his head.
"What do you mean, otou-chan?" Kohaku turned; it's his turn to be concern.
"It's really nothing big," the silverette gave him a small smile before sighing again and looking at his daughter whose eyes still seemingly drilling holes on the floor with the sheer power of her mind, "it's just that I might stop in this school year because of my…" he cleared his throat awkwardly before continuing, "pregnancy."
There was a gasp of understanding around them. Now fully comprehending what might have happened and the reason for the young brunette's action. They all realize what might have been the series of events and thoughts that led here. The adults all smiled kindly at the impulsive little princess, her siblings shaking their head and the parents sighing in both understanding and resignation.
"Ah, I see." Yuki chimed in, "that's why you made it so Zero will not look… well, pregnant?" Anne nodded to confirm her claim. "Well, that's convenient for you then, ne Zero?"
"But that was extremely dangerous. We could have lost you," Kaname intervened before the silverette could even answer. He understood her reasons but he's still displeased as it seems like it was a tricky feat to perform. Had it been a failure then it would have meant her own demise. The pureblood just knew what a risky stunt it was for both Zero and the budding child inside him (as evidence by how his daughter was now rigid with distress at his words and how the older twins sighed and shook their heads) and he didn't like how her daughter seemed to have gone paler than normal (even paler than Zero) and in closer inspection… "You've used everything now, haven't you, Anne?" This troubled him as he can't feel any remaining power from within her. He saw as she finally lifted her head with a remorseful frown gracing her features.
"I'm sorry, I can't help it. The mere thought that I'm ruining otou-chan's youth is enough to kill me with guilt," she looked down again as she addressed her siblings who're looking at her with troubled understanding as if not knowing what to feel, "I'm sorry, I know that with this we'll be staying here even longer." She said apologetically. While she didn't mean to use every last bit of her remaining strength for her own selfish reasons (as she miscalculated and really didn't think that it would use every power she has), it has completely flown from her mind how sluggish every bit of her vampiric power returns. She looks at Kohaku who she knew must be the one most troubled by it all.
"It's not like that, nee-chan. You should know that I wouldn't mind staying here longer because as per the law of time, our parents would know by now when to expect us back," Kohaku calmly but very seriously said, internally adding that they might even already have encircled the date of when they'll be home, "but what really troubles me is how weak you are right now!" He finished a little exasperated.
"That's right, nee-chan," Akira agreed, sounding equally worried, "the way you are right now… you're… you're…" he paused and though it would still sound serious, Anne could already tell that he's already back in finding amusement in her predicament. My, what a brother. But his enjoyment was taken from him by his twin.
"You're even weaker that the lowest leveled vampire in the academy." Kohaku finished in a serious tone, ignoring the disappointed look his brother gave him as unlike Akira, he can't see this as laughing matter as their sister's vampiric power's slow regeneration is a serious concern especially now that they know there is danger lurking around and they do not even have a good grasp at the situation. Forget returning to the future, she won't be able to protect herself like this!
"Anne," Zero's hard voice made his eldest look up. He frowned but more in worry than anger as the same realization of her present vulnerability hits him.
"Please don't worry about me, otou-chan!" Anne defended, "It's not like my powers are combative anyway and I still have my sword mastery and all." She assured them, her voice confident though she knows that the loss of her powers affects even her regeneration and fatigue but she didn't mention that. She caused enough trouble for the day and to think that her action was to lessen her parents' (as well as her own) distress, what with the results, she just completely ruin the point! "Please don't worry, I'll be fine and I assure you that what I did will not affect otou-chan's health or the baby's." she strongly assured. For the latter part, she's most sure as she didn't spare any expense on her part to ensure that (hence, her powerless state now).
Zero's hand travelled on his stomach, greatly relieved with her repeated assurances that nothing happened to his child, "Geez you. I can't believe that you'll," he sighed again, unable to finish his sentence, not at all liking burdening his own child regarding his own matters. "I told you it's not your fault. It's not really a big thing."
"But it is!" The young brunette exclaimed, "I definitely wouldn't want to rob you of the enjoyment of your youth." She looked up to him with her big lilac eyes. She remembered her aunt Yuki telling them of the fun experiences they had in Cross Academy. She would often tell them their adventures, the embarrassing, humiliating, and of course, exciting and happy memories they had. It's one of the reasons why she greatly looked forward to growing up, so she can attend this school and have pleasant experiences as well. She just can't take it away from him.
Zero scratched his head, "Really you, I don't know where you got that idea but I'm telling you now that I don't exactly live a rosy life." He doesn't know what's going on in his eldest's mind or how she even came to that conclusion as he didn't exactly had a highschool debut. Really, it must be something she knew as she came from the future, but what could possibly be different from now? He only took a deep breath before ruffling the dark brown threads of the repentant child in front of him, "Well, it's not like there's anything we can do about it anymore. Just don't do it again. I do not want you being reckless for any reason at all," then he looked at their younger children, "that goes for all of you, do you understand?" he asked seriously to which the children nodded vigorously. He looked at their earnest expressions, Akira's he knew was a bit forced (the little devil), before shaking his head and granting his eldest daughter a smile. "Now, stop kissing the floor already. Once you return on your own time, you'll be grounded," he laughed at the whimpered that escaped from Anne. "Yeah, you heard me. I won't forget. Really, you're so reckless." He whispered as he hugged her, "And here I thought you're the most behaved. Turns out you're just as troublesome as the rest," he chuckled as he tighten his embrace.
"Demo," Anne started a whine but just opted in burying her face on her father's chest, relieved that at least for now, she avoided trouble with her parents.
Zero was about to open his mouth to insist her stubbornness when he was stopped by the flash that slightly blinded him. He looked up to find the chairman with his despicable camera and he just remembered where they were. He looked around to find the Night class still there, watching him with amusement (clearly amazed and interested by his expressions as it's the most emotion they witnessed from the grumpy hunter), Yuki and Ichiru are grinning from ear to ear, Kaname had a hint of a smile in his eyes though his face is still serious, Kaito had an unreadable expression while the ex-hunter was extremely delighted. He blushed and he would have barked to ward off the spectators had he not been smothered by several layers of hugs from his children, directed and started by Akira, to which Ichiru, Yuki and even the chairman followed.
"Aw Zero," Yuki fawned at her brother's cuteness, "you're such an adorable father!" she said as she tighten her hug around Suiren and Naoto who're on top of Zero.
"He certainly got it from me," squealed their honey-haired guardian while embracing his other two children.
"Don't butt in in odd places, chairman," Ichiru grumbled as he threw his weight on Akira, who forced his twin to also join them, and Kohaku.
Kaname chuckled as he looked at the small mountain of embraces, "Now, now, you're going to crush Zero and Anne," mildly detaching the adults from the pile, knowing that by now, his mate must be seething at being suffocated.
After one more squeeze from the chairman, Kaname was able to successfully save his lover and eldest daughter from being crushed and suffocated.
"Well, now that that's done, how about we go explore your presents?" the ex-hunter cheerfully invited.
Zero only grunted whereas Ichiru agreed with more spirit and so with their festive spirit restored, they went and spent the remaining evening jovially wherein Yuki was hunted by both her brothers for giving them a highly inappropriate gift; a picture frame depicting a single image; for Zero, a certain hot encounter inside an amusement park's Ferris Wheel car and for Ichiru, a passionate moment in the middle of a wild vegetation (courtesy of her lovely eldest niece).
She of course, managed to expertly dodge them, with no small help from her cheerful conspirator and accomplice. And the night went on as it should have been, full of warmth and enjoyment.
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They trekked the forest quietly, the handsome noble tightly holding his hand as he led him to a specific location. He looked up to gaze at the young moon that just ascended to take the sun's place in the high heaven, illuminating to set a beautiful glimmer on his silver hair. He let out a sigh as he remembered the look that a certain red-haired vampire gave them when he caught them sneaking out to silently slip out from the party. He grimaced inwardly; Kain must have thought that they're out for some 'private' time.
His face burned at the thought.
It's not like he didn't wish for it nor does he think it's humiliating to be intimate with another man as he's been in love with this aristocrat since time immemorial but he just felt indignant as they were just innocently going out to where Hanabusa said he left his present for Ichiru. But it's not like he's expecting anything in their private time.
No, nope, nu-uh, none at all.
He tensed, then sighed. Crap. Maybe, he did expect a little after all.
Honestly, just a little!
Now he just felt guilty, damn it!
Well, he's a very healthy teenager (in that aspect). He cleared his throat, his face burning brighter.
"What is it?" Hanabusa called out to him, jolting him out of his internal reverie where he convinced and deluded himself.
He opened his lilac eyes, which he didn't realize he already closed when he was deep in thought, to look at the smiling blond. His charming blue eyes prodding him for his thoughts. His fair skin beautifully illuminated by the moon giving Ichiru a breathtaking spectacle of a fallen angel.
God, he's wiped.
"Nothing much. It's just that your cousin might be thinking were up to something… well," he coughed instead to hide his embarrassment though he burned in guilt and, just a little, anticipation, "It's nothing."
"Is that an invitation?" the vampire smirked as he leaned towards his silverette.
The prefect blushed, gaping at his lover, unable to say anything in response, the vampire's pheromones completely muddling his brain into mush, "Geez you, you're such... You're just…" Ichiru can't seem to finish.
Hanabusa chuckled, "Well, you seemed to be expecting something."
Ichiru's eye widened. What the hell? Was he that transparent? Is he openly drooling at him? Fuck, dignity? What dignity? And ego? What the hell is that? He doesn't know the meaning of the word. Still he tried to save whatever he could salvage, "Excuse me, I didn't come with you with ulterior motives." He said as he looked away.
The blond noble just smiled at the captivating picture of his silverette, watching as he reddened from his cheeks to his ears, listening to his heart beat mercilessly in his chest, all an indication of his feelings and attraction but his lilac eyes stubbornly trying to say otherwise. How adorably delusional. But he can't have that, he wanted Ichiru to always openly show him his feelings. He cupped his petulant lover's chin to gently force him to look up at him, "Well, is it alright if I do?"
This startled his silverette once again. His words deepening his blush.
"Come with me," the vampire said huskily, ushering his lover more eagerly than before while Ichiru could only stare at his dancing golden hair, his heart running wild in his chest,
Shit. I'm going to die tonight.
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"Oh my, it's already this late. I didn't even notice. Where has the day gone by?" Anne said in a seemingly cheerful manner. She laughed, albeit awkwardly, as she felt her beloved brother burned holes behind her back.
They just came back from their grandfather's house. It's almost midnight and though they could have stayed longer, there will be classes by tomorrow and so their aunt, uncle and otou-chan must already retire for the day. They've been silent on their way back and they knew their sister has been trying to avoid the discussion.
"Nee-chan," Kohaku started. He knew his sister has been trying to avoid them for fear of what they might say regarding her earlier action. They could see beads of sweat form. Her pretentious livelycountenance was immediately replaced by guilt and repentance. He heard her sigh.
"I'm sorry. Please forgive my action, it was really thoughtless of me." She said as she faced her siblings.
Kohaku sighed, "I understand your reason nee-chan and had I the similar abilities, I would do the same for otou-chan."
"That's right and I know you will still do the same thing if not earlier. It can't be helped. It's a matter regarding otou-chan's future." Akira reassured.
"But it doesn't change the fact that you're in a dangerous situation now, nee-chan." Kohaku continued, "I'm reminding you now that Rido-ojiisama is after you and otou-chan. You'd be powerless against him as you are now." His worry evident despite his very severe tone.
"I know," Anne answered dejectedly. Going to where their youngest siblings are. She flopped down on her back, Suiren perched her chin on her stomach and she proceeded to stroke her silky silver hair, "I didn't realize that it will deplete me that much. I had to make sure that otou-chan and the child will be safe so I used more than what a normal dimensional spell would require. I couldn't very much let otou-chan have a miscarriage and risk losing, well, me." She added and had to frown at how strange it sounded to be worded like that. "It turned out I only had so much of my powers left. Gosh, I'm wiped, It only took three powerful spells to drain me." She sighed again, the time spell really took much of her powers, it must have taken more than half of her monstrous strength. Not to mention, she's been creating blood stones after blood stones so they'll have enough to use to attend the Night class. Well, at least she has made enough, and she still has a few left that she made on and off during her regular time in the past for emergencies, in short for sneaking out and disguises.
"We must be careful now, nee-chan. With this, you'll have a much slower regenerative ability as your body will prioritize generating your powers back," Kohaku reminded her again for good measure, "and that will take a long time," he finished, mentally calculating the estimate amount time it will take for sister's power, enough for the time spell, to come back based on her previous records.
"Seven to eight months," Akira said out of the blue, "With nee-chan's record and with that certain amount of power needed, it will take her about that long to generate enough for the time spell." He said as he stare upwards, recalculating on top of his head just to make sure.
Suiren sharply looked up to her brother at that.
"Wah nee-chan, that's very long," Naoto, who was sprawled just beside her, sat up.
Anne could only sigh. She wouldn't have minded staying for that long but she worried about her siblings and parents that were left behind. Well, her parents should already been aware, though she worried how they're both taking it, so it's really her siblings she's worried about. "Yes, I'm sorry." She repented.
The two twins looked at her for a while. They smiled in quiet resignation.
"Mah, mah, it's okay nee-chan. With this I'm sure we'll have lots of fun with young otou-chan and chichiue!" Suiren positively exclaimed.
"Umh, maybe, we'll also see your birth!" Naoto also looked up at the positive side of their situation.
Akira clapped his hands at the idea, "Ah ha! That's right! It will be the perfect opportunity to get our revenge on nee-chan!" he mischievously exclaimed.
"You will do no such thing," Kohaku smacked his twin before shaking his head. There's nothing they can do at this point anyway, and it's possible that there's still a role that they need to play in this time. He just hope that their parents are still alright even with their long absence. They worry about them.
Anne smiled at the encouragement, embracing the two silverettes besides her, "Thank you. Forgive this foolish nee-chan. Don't worry, I'll be careful." She murmured on their soft silver tresses.
"Don't worry nee-chan, we'll be here." Kohaku gallantly said.
"Uhm, we'll protect you!" Suiren squeaked as she was crushed tighter in her sister's embrace.
"There're also otou-chan and chichiue!" Naoto reminded them.
"Though I'm sure that one glare from nee-chan would surely send all enemies to scamper away anyway," Akira smirked as he teased generating a look from his older sister. "Yes, that's the look! Freeze them with your stare nee-chan, oh our ice princess!"
Her scowl turned to restrained chuckles as she regarded her brother with warm affection. She's really lucky to have such kind and understanding siblings in them. Really, what would she do without them?
"Just remember to stay close to us, nee-chan. We'll handle protecting you, Sui-chan and Nao," Kohaku interrupted.
"Hai! Haku-niichan!" Anne answered in a playful and teasing tone. She smiled as Kohaku shook his head, Akira just smirked while the youngest silverettes snuggled closer to her.
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A sudden smile graced the lips of the pureblood king which made Zero frown in question.
They just came back from his guardian's house and though he does have classes in the morning, Kaname insisted that he comes back with them so he can drink some blood and though he insisted not being thirsty, his mate was kind enough to forcefully remind him the doctor's orders of daily intake of blood as well as normal food and so the silverette can only grudgingly agree.
They went to his room right after bidding their children a good night, though Kaname still strained his hearing to know what their conversation will be about. He smiled at the closeness of their children. They clearly grew up in a warm and affectionate family to have such strong bonds and relationship. He's happy. It's everything he wished for his offspring to have; a loving family.
He looked at his lover who's leaning with his back and hips against his work table, his hunter's long arms folded in front of his chest, his enchanting silver-violet eyes looking down at him inquiringly with a quizzical eye brow arching up to complete a soft frown. He smiled at his extremely adorable lover.
"It's nothing." He answered which didn't really convince his silverette though he was not pressed for more; perhaps Zero knew that he'll not give any other answer.
"Fine, whatever." He straightened up, "Let me drain you already so I can go back. I have classes tomorrow and because of Anne, I'll not be able to avoid midterms," He sighed. He's not bad at it but he's also not fond of examinations. It's a fucking pain in the ass.
"Ah, yes. How regrettable," Kaname agreed as he sighed.
Zero frowned at his pureblood, "Why? Weren't you also troubled by it?"
"Yes, certainly. And while I'm glad that your pregnancy," He smiled as his silverette blushed reflexively, "will not affect your studies, I'm saddened by the fact that I'll not see you round with my child."
This made the hunter sharply turn to his vampire.
"Why? Do you want to see me fat?" Zero asked, arching an eyebrow, honestly baffled at Kaname's preferences.
The brunette only chuckled before suddenly taking his hunter's arm to pull him near. It caught the silverette by surprise as he was positioned to sit on his pureblood's lap. Zero grabbed his vampire's shoulder to balance himself, Kaname immediately wrapped his arms around his hips and waist while he leaned a bit to whisper in his ear. "It's tempting, you know, to see you heavy with my child," he lowered further, his lips so near to the pale skin of his hunter's neck, kissing it before continuing his ardent confession. "The thought that I can declare to the world that it's my child you carry, that it was me who filled you, that it was I who made you that way and the unchanging fact that you belong to me seduces me to the point that I'm delirious." he arrived at the base of his lover's neck which he proceeded to suck until it reddened, generating a shiver from his adorable silverette, as if to further provide evidence to his next words, "You are mine and I simply want everyone to know that."
The silverette could feel his face burn at Kaname's declaration. He's speechless and unable to form any smart retort against his possessive mate. He could only tighten his hold on his shoulders as the brunette continued with his sweet violation on his neck making him tremble as his heart went wild. "Kaname," he managed to groan through gritted teeth, "I'm still sore." He can't help but blurt out as his pureblood threatened to snatch and throw him again in a hot and amorous cataclysm.
Kaname chuckled against his lover's flushed skin, now decorated with a new passion bite, "I know, I was just saying." He inhaled deeply, taking in his lover's intoxicating scent before giving his skin one last suction and kiss, "Don't worry, I can wait until tomorrow."
"Geez you, have some restraint why don't you?" Zero grumbled, trying to hide his awkwardness by snapping at the brunette, trying not to focus on how he's still nicely arranged in Kaname's lap and embrace. "You're fucking merciless. My freaking body won't be able to take it,"
"My, is that a plea I'm hearing?" Kaname teased, finding great enjoyment at his lover's embarrassment, "Why don't you try saying please?"
"I'll fucking shoot you, you bastard." the silverette countered as he gave his vampire a look which was supposed to be intimidating had it not been for the flush across his face and neck.
The brunette only chuckled before directing his lover's lips right above his neck so he can be fed, arching his head to give him better access, "My, how frightening." He said as he heard his hunter grunt, feeling a pleasantly wet tongue lick the base of his neck before slender fangs pierced his skin making him sigh in pleasure.
He hummed as he listened to his silverette drink his fill all the while, his hand rubbed comforting circles on his back while the other gently stroked his silver hair, basking in the delicious feel of his mate's weight on him. He'd like it if they could stay like this for eternity.
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There were footsteps that resounded in the darkened hallway of the elegant and humongous mansion of the noble as Ichijou Asato made his way on one of the chambers underground where his lord and master currently resides while bidding his time as he planned and envision his favorite nephew's demise all the while gathering his strength to patch up his broken body.
He opened one heavy oak door and he was greeted by the gruesome sight of several dead bodies of humans that littered the floor. The stench of rotting bodies and dried blood heavy in the air but he did his best not to show any of his disgust in the presence of his lordship.
"Rido-sama," Ichiou greeted the pureblood as he bowed on one knee, knowing full well that he sensed him coming.
Rido didn't immediately answer though he did look up from the neck of a once beautiful maiden's neck that he's been gnawing. Blood trickled from his chin, his body all bloodied from broken skin that still hasn't quite healed and still generating and trying to fully cover his flesh and recover his gorgeous features. He pulled what was revived of his lips to an unmistakable smile. His fangs, his pride, flashed in the darkness as he began to question his servant, "What news?"
"They've gathered, my lord, in different places as you've predicted. We can expect multiple movements in all directions. It's as you said." Ichiou answered, his cold blue eyes trained on the bloodstained carpet.
"Excellent. I knew they'll move. One single phrase and they all gather like the flies that they are," his cold and cruel sneer echoed in the room. "Spread it far and wide, make sure that not one vampire is ignorant about it." He said before lowering down on his meal again, the squelching sound of his feeding filling the room once more.
"Certainly, my lord." The blond acknowledge the order before closing the door to contain the little hell inside it once again.
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