Enjoy~!
(≧∇≦) … (〜￣▽￣)〜 ….. *:.. o(≧▽≦)o ..:*….. (〜￣▽￣)〜… (≧∇≦)
Chapter 18
The Summons
It's unnerving.
Ever since he has been turned, every trip to the Hunter's Association has been stifling and tedious as all the hunters present would watch him and his every move with contempt and revulsion as if he just committed the most horrendous crime known to man-kind. Never mind that he became a vampire not by choice and in fact was the result of a bloody massacre that killed his parents. For hunters, there's simply no excuse for being what he has become.
A demon.
And now, being a vampire's mate, each look is more poisonous than ever.
He ignored the criticizing looks from his kin and instead focused on the path that will lead him to a bigger problem in the name of the association's president. He's been dreading it since his guardian got that call. He braced himself for some mocking and even harsher abuse as that perverted president is sure to spout things he never wanted to hear. He can depend on him to be nauseating at all times. He growled.
"Still okay, Zero-kun?"
He turned his head towards his guardian who he momentarily forgot in his brooding. The chairman insisted to come with him even after he refused any company. He didn't want to acknowledge it, and never will he to anyone but himself, but the normally idiotic guardian's presence in this suffocating place is most comforting. There's a strange assurance with him around that everything will work out somehow. He stopped himself from smiling and instead, fixed him with a signature scowl, "What do you think?"
"Don't worry, Zero-kun, everything will work out somehow."
Zero watched as the honey haired man smile encouragingly. He wanted to point out that it won't be that easy but decided against it. He knew he's being cheered up and he didn't want to be an ass about it. That thought made him internally raise an eyebrow. They said that pregnant women were irritable but it's somehow the opposite with him as he spent less time getting pissed off at the chairman recently. Is it because he's a man? Anyhow, he just grunted in reply as they continued in their way, feeling much better than he did earlier.
They entered the large metal gates leading to the hunter's building and passed several pillared hallways that are connected to the largest building inside the compound where the president's office resides. When they reached a large white building, both went through the already open heavy double doors all the while ignoring the glares of every hunter they encountered.
"It's amazing that Kaname-kun let you come here without him." Kaien conversationally commented after a moment of silence.
Zero didn't say anything, his eyes avoiding the chairman's, as he tried to blissfully forget about his clueless lover.
"Err… Don't tell me you didn't inform Kaname-kun because you did… right?" the chairman asked, hopeful, as he tried to convince himself.
"…" the silverette frowned at his guardian's optimistic expression, "He didn't need to know."
Kaien's jaw hit the floor.
'Oh, no!'
He shook his head in exasperation, silently bemoaning his own naïve and careless decision of letting the silverette himself inform the pureblood. Why, oh why, did he even think for one moment that Zero would tell Kaname? Why did he trust this obstinate child? He should have known better and now he shall be the receiver of that quiet look from the pureblood which conveys a thousand sighs and remarks of disappointment.
Because, of course, Kaname will inevitably find out, one way or another.
-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 early morning and he's pacing nervously just outside the Moon dormitory's front doors, the bell of his new hair tie ringing noisily at his every step, as he didn't know how he could possibly broach the subject of his concerns without really revealing anything.
Oh hell.
He's really going to be roasted alive by his brother.
He couldn't even find the courage to knock on the door even after going out of his way in ditching homeroom, thank goodness for the cultural festival preparation and to their whatever-may-be booth or café, also fearing on calling on the occupants so early as most of them are still undoubtedly asleep.
He hopes Hana is still asleep because he'll hang himself if he ever found out the reason why he's there.
He was contemplating retreating for the meantime when the door opened to reveal a curious Anne, already up for the day.
"Uncle," the young child greeted, "Good morning. I was wondering what's taking you so long to knock. Is there any problem?"
Ichiru blushed. Of course she'll be able to sense him and no doubt she can also hear the party in his chest. Oh, how he dearly praised the heavens for gracing his brother with a kind and tactful daughter who didn't openly pointed it out, "Anne-chan, err, good morning. You're quite early, aren't you? I mean for a… uhm… vampire."
She smiled at her nervous Ichiji to somehow put him at ease. He seems to be bothered by something, "Well, it's been a habit of ours to wake up early for there are lots to be done in this time. And with the cultural festival coming and the arrangement of the evening ball, we're quite busy. As you well know, nothing was done for the last days as it has been understandably hectic for everyone so we must work overtime," she chuckled as she opened the doors to let the silverette in, "Akira and Kohaku are already up as well though Nao, Sui-chan and pretty much everyone else are still asleep."
"Oh yeah, the Night class are handling the ball's preparation right?" Ichiru asked conversationally, hoping for the chance to finally ask his question, "It's better than preparing for a class booth." He added with an awkward laugh.
"But it must be marvelous to attend one," Anne excitedly exclaimed, "It's a shame that it's not something that the Night class students will be able to do." She let a bit of disappointment hint in her tone though she already decided that she'll definitely attend them, even if it means abandoning sleep altogether as it will start very early indeed.
"Uhm, yeah. Well, it can't be helped since you'll all be asleep by then and you still have a grand ball to organize. At least we'll all meet at the evening ball." He didn't need to point out how risky it is to let out all the vampires unsupervised during the event so he just pacified his niece whilst being led to another room which turned out to be the dining hall where the identical twins Akira and Kohaku were seated with breakfast already served.
"Ah, Ichiji, good morning. What a pleasant surprise." Kohaku greeted him once he entered the room. It was empty except for the four of them.
"Good morning uncle! Would you like some breakfast?" Akira offered after Ichiru seated himself in front of Kohaku with Anne taking the one besides him.
"Ah, no, I've already eaten, thanks." He politely declined, his nervousness returning again.
They sat in companionable silence, awkward for him, while he internally prayed to all who'll hear him up above to give him the chance to put him out of his misery. The suspense is killing him.
Because he's stupid and he's clearly not thinking right.
It all started with the advertisement that he saw yesterday as he was waiting for his brother and the chairman to get back after some kind of interrogation. It was just about the normal, cute and adorable commercial for baby diapers. He was smiling at the cute cherubic face of the infant in the ad and was innocently wondering what Hana's child would look like. He imagined a beautiful child with the same golden tresses, cupid bow shaped pink lips, and fair skin. His eyes travelled at the white bracelet he's wearing. For the eyes, it would be nice if they'll get his own lilac colored ones.
He was stupidly trying to rein his grin at the thought when it struck him.
Children.
Oh shit.
It's not impossible!
He jumped on his feet at the idea, not that he'll have children in the future but that they might already have successfully made one.
That night.
Oh hell, they didn't think of using contraception that night.
That's what one gets for being such a horny, hormonal teenager.
It's not like he didn't want it, it's just that he might not be ready for it yet.
But he's human… no, that's irrelevant.
Anne-chan said that conception was most definite what with the abysmally small number of their kin, like two. Duh.
So he's really…. Huh…
Will he be able to take responsibility?
He wanted to but he's somehow scared.
So much so that he didn't know what he wanted more.
For him to be pregnant or not.
He needed to know so he immediately went to the closest pharmacy earlier, in disguise of course, and bought a pregnancy examination kit as soon as the store has opened. He was furiously blushing and unsure as he did the test.
Will this even work on male? Goodness, what completely sane people with dicks would even think about using them? The Kiryū twins, who else?
He was grimacing at the thought while waiting for the result and was quite surprised to see a negative sign. He looked at the instruction and read the label again but the result clearly meant that he's not pregnant.
Why?
He was so confused and unsure, thinking that it might be because this kind of examination doesn't work for men but he doubted it. The contraption was hardly a feminist. Surely, it won't condemn him for being a man. He was unsettled but could only sigh as he decided to ask the children for they would of course know when he'll have his first child. He was actually proud of that smart assumption, only now that he's here, he can't just ask outright or actually didn't know how.
"Is there something bothering you, Ichiji?"
Ichiru was pulled out of his head at the sound of concerned inquiry by his niece. He looked beside him to face Anne, "It's nothing really," he swallowed and in the most natural voice he could muster continued, "I was just curious, you know, seeing you all here, w-when I'll have my own c-child."
The children were clearly caught off guard. The silverette bit his lip as he watched his brother's children look at each other with alarm in their eyes. Did he just say something he shouldn't have? "I mean, I'm human so I didn't know if… if you know… I-I'll experience something like nii-san is experiencing." He added just to give some explanation, "You did say that conceiving is very high with only the two of us remaining, right?"
Anne looked back at him with concern, "That's indeed correct Ichiji. Normally, it matters not if you're human or vampire, you'll still be able to rear a child but…" he dreaded what she'll say next. And he was right to fear it, "it will be hard for you, Ichiji," she finished softly.
"W-why? You said it's possible, right?" he can't help the small quiver in his voice as he asked.
"Certainly, uncle," it was Kohaku who continued, "Your blood will want you to bear children but it will first and foremost prioritize your own safety."
"…You mean…"
"You could possibly die if you're to conceive now," Anne answered. She was tempted to add 'with your body as it is now,' but she can't without raising any questions.
Ichiru was speechless. He felt cold and he somehow couldn't breathe. He wanted to laugh no matter how hollow he felt. He's extremely stupid. How can he forget?
Of course, no matter what, he just can't escape what he is.
A pathetically weak and sickly human.
He won't be able to survive it.
"Uncle, are you okay?" Akira asked, concerned with his silence.
The silverette looked up at them. He smiled, albeit weakly and forlornly, and was about to say something when they were joined by the Moon dorm president.
"Good morning. It's a surprise to see you here, Ichiru-kun." Kaname greeted as he walked towards their table. The older brunette smiled as he bent down so his children can kiss his cheeks before returning his gaze to the silverette. He frowned at his expression, "Are you quite alright? Is something the matter?"
"Yeah, yeah, senpai." He assured them as he stood, "Please don't worry about me, I'm fine. I just… I just remembered that my classmates are probably shouting for my bones so… I need to go back to… to help them," he laughed awkwardly and knew he didn't fool anyone, if the concerned expression on their faces was any indication. "I better go back. Uh, see you around then." He quickly made for the door before anyone can say anything in response.
He didn't know where to go. He sure didn't want to go back to the festival preparation or the dorm and the chairman will kill him if he finds out that he ditched homeroom so he can't go back anywhere the teachers can spot him. In the end, he just decided to go to the woods.
He felt so empty.
He can't believe that even after all this time and his every attempt in at least passing the bare minimum to be recognized, to be less pathetic and not entirely useless, he still can' get anything done.
Sure, it's not like pregnancy is a duty or something. Hell, it's not even supposed to be possible for men but that fact didn't stop him from feeling like an utter failure. He felt as if he let Hanabusa down.
What will he say once he found out that though it's supposedly possible, he still won't be able to bear him a child? He wondered if he'll be disappointed.
Hana is the only son of his parents. The heir to their noble line.
Isn't having children like… important to them?
He sighed dejectedly.
He hopes that the vampire loves him enough to be able to forgive him for that.
He managed a smile at the thought. Yes, he's sure that Hanabusa will forgive him for that.
The real question was… will he be able to forgive himself for letting him down?
His thoughts were prematurely cut when he sensed some intruders nearby and heard some rustling among the leaves. He was instantly on alert as he tried to feel the presences with his meager hunter abilities, a hand on the plain red stud in his ear to be able to take out his katana if an attack happened.
He waited in suspense silence but suddenly the auras were gone.
Did he just imagine it?
He stood waiting for a few more minutes for good measure but no surprise blows happened. No gunshots or even whispers. He was alone in the woods with his thoughts and though he still doubted it as he can't be too sure with his abilities, still he could have sworn that he felt something.
Some vampires were watching 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-
Okay, this is it!
She took a deep breath before going out of her designated room to charge at her older brother's study. The door opened, just like usual, even before she could knock. Yuki made a tentative peek before entering. Her brother sat behind his desk with his vice-president beside him seemingly discussing something and his three eldest children, in chibi form, sat around the coffee table as they go through the short stack of papers with some tea and biscuits.
"Err, g-good morning Kaname-niisama, Ichijou-senpai, Anne-chan, Kohaku-kun, Akira-kun." She greeted as she closed the door behind her.
"Good morning." Everyone greeted her back, Ichijou a bit meekly in contrast to the children's lively one.
"Ano, nii-sama?" Yuki began, fidgeting the hem of her top. She specially dressed extra cuter today for, if everything goes as plan then, she'll be out with her crush in the next ten minutes, "I, uh, I need some help in… in buying some tablecloths for the, uh, our booth. I-I hope you can help me."
"Ah, is that so," Kaname replied in a serious, flat tone, "I would have loved to help but I have some pressing matters to engage to today. I'm afraid I can't accompany you."
"Oh dear!" Anne exclaimed anxiously, with more feeling, a hand on her cheek, "I would have loved to come with you instead aunty, but I'm afraid we're quite busy as well."
"We-,"
"Indeed, there are some films and photographs to be developed," Kohaku joined in as he perceptively read the intent, immediately putting a hand on his twin's mouth to prevent him from speaking, "I'm so sorry, aunty."
"Takuma, please escort my sister for today." The pureblood nonchalantly commanded.
"Eh?"
"Since Aido is still with Ichiru and the rest of the Night class handles the preparation for the evening banquet, I'm afraid no one is free to protect Yuki." The pureblood stressed the word 'protect' to make sure that the responsible gentleman in the noble will accept for given the occurrences last night, there was no way they'll allow their pureblood princess without any escort, "The children and I will handle the remaining documents."
"Uh, o-okay, if… if you say so." Ichijou hesitantly agreed as he put down the papers at hand.
They were ready to set out but before leaving, Anne made a request, "Ah aunty, if you could be so kind as to do me a favor, I'm in great need of some stationeries and some fruits for otou-chan. Also, Rima-bachan told me that there's this café that sells these divine strawberry short cakes. I hope you could get some for me as well, please."
"Oh, no worries. Leave it to us!" Yuki enthusiastically accepted.
"Thank you, aunty. Have a safe trip!"
And then they were gone.
"…."
"Seriously, what's going on?" Akira suspiciously glanced at the three other vampires. He found the earlier exchanges quite unnatural since he knows that in some other detached space, his sister owns and conceals so many stationeries, food, treats, and other useless (and not so useless) things to last anyone a lifetime.
"Oh dear Akira, you have a long way to go." The little princess sighed sympathetically.
Akira scowled. 'And you have a long way to go in acting,' he wanted to say out of spite but thought better of it.
"It was good thinking, Anne, to send them to several places as well."
"Thank you, chichiue." She beatifically returned her father's smile. "I figured that aunty might become too nervous to invite Takuji for tea and stopping by so many places will allot them a longer time together."
"Well, the rest depends on their own feelings and determination." He spoke as he refocused on the paperwork at hand.
Akira made a face as he finally understood, chagrined at being so slow while his twin only continued with his task.
"By the way father, where is otou-chan this morning?" Akira asked after a few minutes of companionable silence. He concentrated briefly and found that their other parent was nowhere inside the academy.
"He went on some business with the chairman." Kaname answered simply. Zero told him that they're running a short errand for the association though he didn't expound further but he's not worried for his trustworthy friend is with him.
"How about Ichiji? Did you tell Hana-jiji about earlier?"
Kaname stopped for a moment, quite concerned about his mate's twin. Being a pureblood, he of course heard the conversation between his children and his lover's brother and immediately understood the concern. He was still debating with himself if he should let his subject know of this as it clearly bothered and troubled Ichiru but since the silverette chose to come so early in the morning just to ask his question even after knowing full well that no one should have been awake yet means that it was deliberate and that he didn't want anyone else to find out. He quietly sighed, "No, I did not. I think that your uncles' affair this time should be handled privately between the two of them. We cannot mend this for them." He decided.
Aido Hanabusa might irritate him most of the time with his overzealousness and interventions but he knew of his sincerity. If he's any judge at all, he could confidently say that this shan't be a problem for them, Ichiru only needs to have the courage to talk about it.
"Uh, okay chichiue." Akira conceded. He was so worried that he wanted to inform his uncle Hana but if his father ordered otherwise then he'll obey.
"We understand, father." Kohaku and Anne also nodded.
They were having a quiet time as the four went on with their respective work and were almost finished when Kaname felt a sharp ache. He abruptly stood up, a hand over his heart, when he felt the surge of pain kept on flowing through the bond.
"Chichiue? Is something the matter?" the elder twin inquired upon noticing his disturbance.
But Kaname didn't acknowledge it as his whole attention was focused in feeling his mate through their connection. His eyes were tempestuous pools of blood as rage and apprehension filled him, unconsciously releasing his stormy aura causing havoc inside the room, creating fissures in the windows and glasses simultaneously alarming the children.
It can't be.
"Zero."
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
Finally, they reached the center of the building where the president's office is located. It was just as he remembered, with high ceiling supported by several pillars. The hall was filled with the sound of their steps on the marble floor and murmurs of the hunters present huddled in the dark corners.
"Hmmmm," came from a buffed blond hunter who was leaning on a pillar, "There's a ward placed at the entrance of this building to repel vampires but if you were able to come in, that means you've been domesticated then," he taunted, "Ah, there's your brand."
Zero glared at him but said nothing while Kaien opened his mouth to say something but the voice of a new arrival prevented him.
"That should be enough," intervened the association's president as he elegantly glided towards them wearing his ornate and colorful robes, his hair beautifully tied up like a woman's and his decorative fan held gracefully by long delicate fingers, "Zero is a respected ally. He was born to the Kiryū family, a family superior even among hunters and with the power of a vampire, he has become an even more dependable ally. And perhaps more…" He trailed meaningfully.
The buffed blond bowed apologetically, "Forgive me, president, I just…" he glared at the silverette, "He is, after all, a vampire…"
"You're being stubborn." The president mildly scolded as he lightly hit the blond hunter with his fan.
"Forgive me." He apologized again, half-heartedly, before going away.
The president turned to Kaien and Zero the moment the other hunter was gone, "Zero, you've grown big." He pleasantly remarked, the closed end of his fan on his lips, "Shall we go have some tea?"
"We're only here to report." Zero coarsely replied. He didn't want to play niceties with this bastard and pretend everything is pleasant and fine between them.
"My, you're cold, Zero." then turning to the old veteran hunter, "Cross-kun! I think you might have made a mistake with your education policy." He shook his head when neither of his visitors rose to his playful banter, "I understand, well then Zero, why don't we talk in the library? Cross-kun, please stay here, I want to talk to the little Kiryū alone." He didn't wait for any reply and went on his way to the direction of the library.
"Zero, if-," Kaien started but the silverette cut him off.
"I'll be fine." was all Zero said as he quietly followed their president. The sooner it's done, the better.
He entered the old library, the president already waiting for him inside. The smell of old books and dust immediately filled his nose with the eerie and gloomy air hovering as light scarcely peeked from the closed windows. There was no one else inside but the two of them. Zero stood in the middle of the room as the president glided near one of the shelves, feigning interest in the books encased.
"A most interesting information has reached my ears, Zero," he started, "I wonder… why an ally happened to forgot to report acquiring some powerful and dangerous creatures to the headquarters?"
The silverette took a deep breath for calm, "If you meant my children then you'll have to excuse me. I didn't think that my family is any of your business."
"Children, eh?" he slyly glanced at the hunter, "But yes, I'm afraid it is my business, a very important business, especially if they were conceived together with a vampire." he turned towards the silverette, "Or have you forgotten? He's a pureblood." He sternly looked at the silverette, "like the one who murdered your parents and doomed you."
"I haven't but he's not like those vampires who kill just because it's fun."
"Regardless, he's still one of those creatures. He's dangerous."
"Kaname Kuran is not a danger to you." Zero steely replied as he followed the president's movements with his eyes.
The older hunter briefly looked at the silverette, a taunting smile appeared on his lips, "I see. You're in love with him." He accused with mock disbelief before letting out an amused laughter, "I cannot believe it. Have you gone mad? Must I remind you that you're a hunter? One that was trained to kill vampires yet you shamefully stand here after offering yourself to a pureblood!" he further derided, "Tell me, did you cry in pleasure? Did he whisper in your ears as he rode you? Did he delight you enough to forget what you are?"
Zero squared his jaw but didn't say anything; he only clenched his fists tightly to prevent himself from throwing a punch. He won't succumb to these provocations. He ignored the president as he circled him who continued when he didn't reply.
"You're a Kiryū, from one of the most prestigious line of hunter families and yet you stand here unabashedly when you've already sullied yourself. Can you even swear to me that you're still a loyal hunter when you're in love with one of them?"
"Who I chose to be with is no one's concern but mine."
"You didn't answer the question, little Kiryū. Are you still one of us?"
"I am and nothing will change that. I'm still a hunter."
"But you're now mate to a vampire who is king to those who killed many of our kin."
Zero closed his eyes in order to block the unsightly image of their president. He knew what this bastard was trying to say and just how badly this plays for him because he's a hunter mated to a vampire.
But isn't it the same for Kaname? He's a pureblood mated to a hunter, no matter if that hunter is now a turned vampire with ancient blood desired by vampires. Still, he's a hunter that killed many of Kaname's kin and will more likely continue to do so. Zero just realized that not once did Kaname ever ask him to stop being a hunter. He always just encouraged him to be what he is, always telling him how he loves him, awkward and broken as he is.
"Why can't I just be myself? A hunter that still protects even though I'm a vampire and a vampire's mate?" he asked the president. The he from several years ago will find his own words ridiculous but it's what he has learned recently. To accept. For even through his darkness and abjection, there are still people who loved everything about him.
That's right, as even when he thought he has fallen to the lowest circle of hell, he was still accepted and loved. The chairman, Yuki and Ichiru never left him even with the danger of his level-D status; his sensei and even that irritating Kaito still treated him like they always did and Kaname still cared for him even after everything. He even took that strike for him back in that island. For him. For a worthless level-D.
Why did he never saw it in this way before? Why was he so blind to all of this?
"And how could you even protect when you're already a monster?" the president drawled, cutting of his internal revelations.
The hunter tightened his grip, almost breaking skin, "I'm not-, I won't become a monster. I have people who'll prevent that from happening." He hissed.
"It seems to me, Zero, that you've accepted, no, embraced your vampire self." He sneered, "Have you fallen so low?"
"I've embraced myself. I am who I am." A hunter, a vampire, a vampire's mate, parent to a vampire child, each face is all him, "No matter what I've become and who I choose to be with, I'll still be a hunter."
The old hunter let out a chuckle, "Fufu. Zero, you're being ridiculous and pathetic. Do you expect me to believe that you can still be a hunter when you let yourself be used by a vampire?"
Zero cringed, hating the president more each second, "I haven't done anything for you to suspect my loyalty and let me remind you that Kaname is fighting for the survival and protection of humankind."
"I see he has a devoted advocate in you, little Kiryū." He remarked tauntingly, "You know, I don't care what those leeches fight for. They cannot be trusted and so I cannot let such a powerful weapon fall in their midst when they could turn against us anytime."
The younger hunter gritted his teeth at his child being called a weapon.
"So I want that thing as soon as it has come out." He finished, finally expressing his goal, unmindful of the anger he can see from the silverette as he pointed his fan at him.
Zero can't help the growl that erupted at that statement, "My child is not a thing or a weapon," he breathed slowly, "You're not going to use her like you will a gun or a sword."
"Don't be a fool, Zero." He chastised as he went near him, "You're being used like a breeding pig just because of that blood in your veins. Don't prove yourself to be whore and do what you owe to your people."
He gritted his teeth, "No." he answered firmly.
The association president narrowed his eyes before taking Zero's wrist, "Follow me." and forcefully led him in another part of the library. He pulled a lever and part of the wall swung open wherein he dragged the silverette inside.
Zero stumbled, gagging at the scent of dried blood, panicking slightly as bloodlust attacked his system. His heart sped as he clutched his neck to control himself.
"Look here, Zero," he held out a strip of bloodied paper, "the reports here have been soaked by the blood of our brethren. Everything here was sent from a place of death. These symbolize what our people tried to live for, to protect. What they sacrificed," he looked into his eyes, "Even after knowing this, can you still refuse? Will you dishonor them? Even what your parents died for?"
The silverette swallowed several times in between his labored breathing as he curbed his thirst. It wasn't that hard though he was still shaking and considerably sweaty by the time he managed to look at the president who only coldly watched his suffering.
"Ah, how remarkable. Drinking the blood of your mate has done wonders to your savage side. Tell me, how does it feel? To forsake your kin? To betray your parents?"
"My parents died to protect me and my brother. To see that we'll live," he panted, "and I am and will always adhere to that which I gave my oath to and that's to protect humans and kill all the dangerous vampires that are a threat to them but my child won't be a piece to your games."
There was silence for a while as the president sternly scrutinized him.
"How disappointing. And I so dearly wanted you to work more for me," he replied as he took out a piece of paper with unfamiliar symbols from the inside his sleeve and threw it at the younger hunter.
Zero tried to swat the paper away but the moment it made contact with his skin, bolts of severe electric-like current steadily struck him. He collapsed on the floor as he screamed at the agonizing blows, it was like being continuously lashed and beaten by steel whips. It violently swung at him that he heard his own clothes get ripped by brutal currents. He wasn't even able to stop his howls of agony as it left him a crumpled mess on the floor, his arms around his stomach, fully covered by terrible marks before it stopped after many excruciating minutes.
"How was it? Did it hurt? Was it painful?" he leaned as he asked mockingly, "That's only a small piece of what you'll experience if you defy me, young Kiryū, so let me give you another chance. Bring that thing to me and let me raise it once it's born or you'll experience a far worst pain than that." Then he whispered closer to him, "And not only you, what do you think will happen if that twin of yours experienced that? Or your beloved sensei?"
"You!" he weakly jerked his head, "You'll fucking start a war!"
"And it won't matter once I have an exceptional weapon in my hands. A trump card. This will be the key, Zero, for the hunters to stand superior. Peace will be eternal if we can be at the pinnacle of power so we're going to teach that thing to be a loyal hunter even before it can be contaminated by vampire values." he spoke as he straightened himself, "You'll have months to think about this. Don't make the wrong decision that will cost you everything." He gave out a final warning before he glided out of the room.
Zero was left seething inside that damnable chamber. He barely staggered outside and it already made him feel hell, like all his bone had melted and his skin was slowly being peeled off, and with his healing ability completely impaired because of some sort of hunter spell in that attack, he was mending very slowly. He didn't know how long he stayed lying on the floor as he embraced his lower middle protectively. Somehow, he wanted to cry, in hopelessness and anger, as he felt powerless against something greater than him.
It's frustrating.
It's agonizing.
How could he have let such evil hurt his child?
Why is such a demon the Hunters' president?
He still has not yet recovered and was almost unconscious when Kaien walked in, seemingly in search for him, and happened upon his body half lying outside the secret chamber.
"Zero!"
He gaped in shock at the sight of his son thoroughly battered, with his coat completely torn and his skin marred by deep distinct slash marks though there's fortunately no bleeding. Rage instantly filled him and he would have flown to take that wretch's head if not for Zero needing immediate attention. He helped the silverette sit down and the pained expression, burning sweaty ashen skin, labored breathing and the way he hugged his stomach sent fury boiling inside him as he clutched the red ring adorning his thumb.
"Don't even think about it."
"Zero." Kaien breathed in relief at the first sign of life from the young hunter.
The silverette opened his eyes, welcoming the sight of his relieved guardian, "Don't even dare go after him." He rasped as he adjusted himself in his seat, "even if you manage to kill him, that bitch has many supporters and followers."
It will only cause the academy to be raided by that bastard's goons.
The blond turned grim, understanding the consequences. He shook his head to redirect his attention to his son instead, "Let me get you out of here then." He knew there are lots to be discussed and that a new problem just arose but he wanted to take Zero to a much safer place before anything else is done.
His heart heaved as he assisted his beloved son up but more than him, he just knew Zero felt even worst.
Oh, how the pureblood king is going to kill 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-
'You're a disappointment.'
"Ichijou-senpai?"
Yuki's voice drowned the voice of condescension in his memories and he was instantly jarred out his musings. He turned to give her smile, albeit one that didn't reach his eyes, as he willed away many unhappy thoughts, "What is it, Yuki-sama?"
The pureblood was momentarily frozen at the epithet, frowning as she tried to think about what to do or say first. She's worried, nervous and confused. She didn't know which one to address first. First, there was this uncharacteristic silence from the noble since earlier then there was that unbefitting melancholic expression and lastly, that sudden formality which drew a high and sturdy wall between them. She knew she's being pushed away but she wanted to know why.
Even if she's scared of the answer, she still needed to know.
"Uhm, I wanted to thank you for coming here with me," she started in a cheerful manner which broke when she started to stutter, all the while fiddling with the beverage coaster of the café that Anne mentioned. She's so nervous that she began to wonder if she should have ordered tea instead of coffee, "Ehm, I… uh… would have been in trouble, I mean, carrying all those bags…"
"It's my pleasure to be of assistance, Yuki-sama." The noble replied in an unexpectedly quiet tone.
The brunette looked at her companion briefly before finally venturing dangerous waters, "Ano, senpai? You know, you can call me Yuki-chan like you always did before."
Somber emerald orbs met nervous and pleading sardonyx ones. Pain ate his heart as he watched those expressive eyes on him. He knew of what she's feeling, how could he not? When he's been watching her for so long and it hurts more to know that he can't have it even now that she's freely holding it out to him, "If that's what you wish, Yuki-sama." He responded in a hollow tone that greatly reflected his dying heart.
Yuki's delicate brows creased even deeper at that. No, she didn't want this. It's like he's complying because he was ordered to. She didn't want that. Yuki only wanted to go back to how it was before. What's wrong? What changed exactly? What happened? She wanted to cry out but before she can voice any of her questions, Ichijou spoke again.
"Are you excited for the coming Winter Solstice Yuki…chan?" he started, redirecting their conversation to safer fields.
"Eh? Ah, I don't know." She distractedly answered, getting more and more confused each second.
"I'm sure you'll love it. You'll be introduced as a pureblood then and for sure you'll meet many with the same status other than Kaname. I'm sure many await your debut." He bleakly continued as he sipped his tea.
Eh? She didn't know why but these words were like premonition of an impending storm. Yuki felt unsettled as she glanced at the aristocrat. Is this what changed? Her status? Her being an exalted pureblood? She swallowed, "I… I think… I like it better with the Night class nobles," she tightly held the hem of the table cloth as she spoke, "o-other p-purebloods may not l-like me anyway. After all, I'm clumsy and inelegant." she convinced.
"Please don't say that," Ichijou disagreed as he looked straight in her sienna eyes, "Yuki-chan is surely the most beautiful and outstanding pureblood, that I'm certain." He supplied with utmost sincerity.
She smiled as he spoke, seeing a glimpse of the Ichijou she knew, feeling relieved as it showed she was not hated after all.
The aristocrat caught himself as he realized what he just implied and so added, "I'm sure that the other purebloods will love to meet you. I just know they'll be scampering to ask for your hand."
The pureblood's shoulder slumped at that, "Is there a law saying a pureblood must be together with another pureblood?" she thoughtlessly asked.
Ichijou froze, "None." He answered truthfully though he didn't meet her gaze.
"Then are there laws stating a noble must only marry another noble?"
"…None."
The silence that permeated their space cut them off from the rest of the world as the pureblood stared at the golden crown of the noble who adamantly refused to meet her scrutiny.
Yuki swallowed her heart to stop it from climbing up her throat as she gathered all her faltering courage. At this point, it's impossible not to ask for she knew that he knows just how she felt. "I-Ichijou-senpai, if you don't hate me then p-please go out with me!" She blurted out as her heartbeat deafened her, surprising even herself at the confession. She can't believe she finally said it!
Ichijou's heart stopped as his fear came true. He clenched his fists while his heart suffered the most unbearable torment as he feigned ignorance, "Aren't we already out, right now?"
Her pink lips trembled at his reply. She stared blindly at the tablecloth as fear burned tears in her eyes, "Y-you know I didn't mean t-that. I-,"
"Please Yuki-sama." He interrupted her, fully knowing what she wanted to say but he can't allow himself to hear it, "You don't know what you're saying. You… there… there are still a lot of vampires you have yet to meet… and I-,"
"But Ichijou-sen-,"
"I'll go back to the academy first. Let me bring this back for you." Takuma immediately stood up as he carried all the shopping bags they procured. He didn't want to hear it for he feared what he might do the moment she uttered more of those beautiful words. He can't allow himself to waver.
He went outside the shop to find that raindrops started to fall but that didn't deter his feet from carrying him away from the café, away from his heart. The rain immediately got stronger and fell harder but he didn't even try to cover himself or walk faster to escape despite getting wet. He just let it be, half wishing that it could somehow wash away his fears, insecurities and pain. Better yet, let this tiny drops of water grant him the courage and power to hold on to her but he knew that was next to impossible.
In his heart, the happiness that he felt the moment he realized that his love was reciprocated was brutally murdered when he learned of her lineage. The matter of other more suitable vampires was true but he'll willingly spend an eternity fighting for her love as long as she chooses him but what he was concerned about the most was the cruelty his own family can deliver to her.
His grandfather…
For sure, the minute that he learned of their understanding, he'll waste no time in telling him to use her for whatever reason.
And he has no doubt that he'll gladly go against his wishes no matter the cost in his expense but what power does he truly possess?
Not once was he able to stand up against his grandfather…
So how will he be able to protect her?
With him, she'll only be used as a powerful piece in his grandfather's ambition.
And he won't have that.
He won't let it.
No, she's far too important to be put at risk.
She's much better without him.
Away from the dark tentacles that he, himself, cannot escape from.
He halted his steps and his thoughts when he heard his most beloved call out his name. The sounds of splashing waters resounded as she ran after him. He closed his eyes as he steeled himself and forced his heart to accept the decision he made.
For it's the only way he can shield her from those ambitious and greedy clutches.
"Do you think I don't know my own heart better?!" Yuki shouted at his back, stopping a short distance behind the blond, when she finally caught up to him. Both of them were already soaked but they were unmindful of their clothes and hair sticking closely to their skin. Even her tears that steadily fell and mingled with rain water were left unnoticed as her heart tried to reach out to his.
She fiercely looked at the frozen back of the noble, waiting for him to answer and turn back to look at her. She wanted to know why. Please, please, look at me. Please senpai… But to her immense pain, the blond merely continued to walk forward.
He didn't even glance back at her.
And she was left standing alone under the kind rain which hid her tears as the cruelty of his rejection finally dawned upon her.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
"Oh, dear." Kaien miserably uttered as he saw who welcomed their return to the academy. In front, leaning against one of the trees, grimly stood the vampire king. He can already tell that this could turn as ugly as the unexpected storm that just passed. He sighed, "Please let us off here." He ordered the driver of the cab they were riding. Better have no civilians near a raging pureblood, he thought.
Zero swallowed as he turned away from the sight. Damn it. He was planning on not meeting him until the gash marks disappeared completely for even though it was not as prominent as before, one can still trace obvious pinkish bruises on his skin and his pale complexion only made it more obvious. He clicked his tongue and how would he even explain his clothes? Surely he won't get away with the simple 'I tripped' as a reason.
Why in hell is he even there? Zero distinctly told him he was just running a short easy mission with the chairman. He was sure it sounded simple and nonthreatening so why does he look so serious?
Oh fuck.
The bond.
Okay, now he's convinced he's in deep shit.
He dreaded even more when he realized it. He really didn't feel like getting off the car but knowing better than to test Kaname's temper in front of a normal human, he swallowed his trepidation and got out with seeming nonchalance and ignorance. Argh! He would much rather face any pureblood in a death match than a serious confrontation with Kaname over his lie. Shit.
"Ara, Kaname-kun! What a surprise! We didn't expect such a warm welcome!" Kaien cheerfully greeted once the cab was gone, doing his very best to lighten the mood even though the three of them know just how ineffective it was.
The pureblood didn't even glance at the chairman, his eyes was immediately on his hunter, narrowing as he closely observed his present condition. He tensed as he drank each detail of his battered state, from the mark on his skin to the torn up coat. His aura aggressively stormed around him, silencing even the chairman's futile cheers and freezing his stubborn lover who looked even more petulant as if he's refusing to acknowledge his wrong-doing and Kaname's anger.
"Where did you go?" he asked with strained calmness akin to a taut string that will snap at any given moment, "Who did this to you?"
The young hunter swallowed, not willing to look at his lover, "It's nothing serious."
"Don't even try to mislead me, Zero." Kaname warned dangerously, "What happened?"
Zero breathed harshly, gritting his teeth as he answered, "I got summoned by the association president."
"You told me it's a mission."
"I…"
"You lied to me!" the pureblood lividly shouted, now with the rare open display of his emotions. A violent gust stormed around them that even the chairman worried that he must take drastic steps to calm the pureblood.
"It's not-," Zero was taken aback for surrounding him was the dark current of his lover's aura, "Kaname, it was just the headquarters!"
"You put yourself in danger!"
"It's the Hunter Association!"
"Don't try to fool me. You know as well as I do that it has become rotten to the core and even more dangerous for you than most places."
The silverette opened his mouth to retaliate but could not think of any words to say. Of course, Kaname was right. Now, the association could easily be the second most dangerous place for him after wherever that Rido bastard is. Only the Kiryū family's legacy, his guardian and master's capabilities and reputation are sheltering him from being attacked by his own kin.
It's saddening. To think that he's now unsafe in the midst of those who he still considered as his people. Being a vampire's mate carrying a vampire child of immense power just shows how he's being considered part of the vampire world instead of the hunters. He's more likely to be revered by those creatures he hunts rather than killed. Now, he's their king's mate.
And it's what he has chosen.
To be with Kaname and to stay by his side through the changing era even as a hunter.
The pureblood startled Zero when he held him in a crushing embrace. He remembered the maddening sensation when he tried to pinpoint his lover's location only to be blocked by some ancient spells. The pain was so unbearable that he would have murdered anyone just for the information of his whereabouts. It killed him not being by his mate's side even after knowing he was hurt. He started to think the worst. He thought… Kaname tightened his hold around his silverette, "Don't ever go anywhere where I can't follow. Please Zero," he whispered, "Don't ever let yourself be in danger again."
Zero relented, all his anger and hatred already melted. It's because of this person that he can't come to regret his decisions, even continuing this mere pathetic life he thought of ending multiple times in the past and choosing to live.
He didn't provide a reply instead he just wrapped an arm around his lover; the apology he wanted to say got stuck in his tongue though hopefully Kaname understood. He sighed, exhaustion finally attacking his senses as the sudden comfort his mate's warmth and scent lulled him to peaceful trance and he would have fallen asleep right then had it not for the sudden flash of a camera towards them.
"Eh?" the chairman uttered in surprise as if he didn't realize what he was doing, "this old thing, where did you come from?" he turned to the contraption in his hand as if completely baffled.
"Chairman," Zero snarled. He detached himself from Kaname and stalked menacingly towards his guardian who immediately hid his precious camera inside the red ring's dimension around his thumb. "Give me that!"
"No, Zero-kun, not my baby." He pleaded as he hugged himself.
Kaname sighed, mildly shaking his head at his friend's old antics, "Don't exert yourself, Zero. You need to be treated." and fed, he thought as he took his lover's hand and led him away from the headmaster who sighed in relief and towards the Moon dormitory, the ex-hunter cheerfully following behind them.
Up the nearest tree, unbeknownst to the three of them, comfortably perched their five little royals. They merged with the darkening sky and concealed inside their brother's barrier as they watched the exchanges between their parents.
They all smiled contently, Akira sat on a big branch with his feet comfortably stretched out along it, his back on the bark while his elder sister boldly and fearlessly stood just in front of him unsupported by anything and his twin Kohaku, with the young silverettes leaning on his either side, sitting with their feet dangling freely.
Anne sighed happily and relief after seeing that their otou-chan made it back quite safely.
"Nee-chan."
"Hmmm?"
"Nee-chan."
"What?"
"Isn't that a bit too much?
"What do you mean 'that'?"
"I meant that camera you're holding!" Akira pointed at the video camera his sister was using to record their parent's touching moment. Really his sister, it's been decades but sometimes he can't help but be exasperated because of her antics as she's currently holding the most high-tech video camera back in the future, eighty years from now, and only used by media companies.
"Well, this is a precious, treasured moment! I'll be very sorry indeed if I let such important occasions pass by unrecorded and I shall irk myself should I find low quality footages in my collection of our parents' special moments."
"You look suspicious, nee-chan."
"Nonsense."
"Really, you look like a stalker."
"My dearest little brother Akira, you should thank your God-given gifts. If not for your barrier concealing us, you would be swimming with the fishes by now."
"Nee-chan, without my barrier, you would be called a pervert by now."
"Ho-ho, is this retaliation I hear from your lips, little brother? Are you so courageous now that I do not have any means of giving you a little expedition to Antarctica? Do I need to remind you that I happen to have an excellent memory and I have never, I repeat, never forgotten an insult?"
"Come on, nee-chan, I was just joking."
The two smiled at each other (Anne, icily while Akira, pleadingly) for a few minutes while Naoto watched them in silence.
"Ignore them, Nao." Kohaku said in a quiet tone as he unfalteringly observed their silverette parent. He squared his jaw as he reined his anger as to not make a fuss about it that would throw those two monkeys' efforts to waste. It will be disastrous should these two little silverette angels attack the hunter's association in vengeance as they all can clearly see the abused state of their father.
"Haku-niichan, otou-chan -,"
"Shhh, Sui-chan," he soothed as he gently rubbed their backs, "otou-chan is well. Look, he's walking perfectly fine. Don't worry. He's with chichiue now."
"Is it the association president?"
The three eldest swallowed.
"Err, we don't know, Nao. And don't think about it anymore. Chichiue will handle it. Don't worry, alright?" Anne lied but it was for the best. Being with hunter blood and enormous power, it will be a piece of cake for any of them (though excluding her, presently) to just waltz inside the association and take the president's head but that would cause repercussions against their chichiue, otou-chan, grandpa and Toga-sensei/jiichan.
It will most definitely ignite a war between their races and while they'll likely be victorious, a lot of lives will surely be lost. No, that old coot is not worth it. They'll not waste their parents' and grandpa's efforts for someone like him. And also, not while there's still the danger of their grandpa Rido threatening their peace.
So they can only endure for now.
But surely, there'll arise an opportunity to exact revenge for what he did, in the near future.
And when it comes, they'll take it unhesitatingly.
Only if their father didn't beat them to it.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
"The food is here!"
Kaien cheerfully announced to his children after receiving the ordered foods from the delivery man. He was surprised to find all three of them at home. They all decided to eat in his house tonight but since he was out almost the whole day and nothing was prepared, they just opted in to ordering take out. Normally, this always causes some sort of celebration by his children because for some unknown reason they were really averse to home-cooking - come to think of it, they were only if it's his turn – but now, no one even acknowledge it let alone make any move. All three sat dejectedly on the sofa causing Kaien to awkwardly stand in the middle of the room for a few minutes like an idiot.
"Uhm… Let me prepare this." He notified his children but no one even uttered a syllable again.
Three humongous sighs escaped from the three melancholic prefects. It would seem as if they were carrying the weight of the whole world on their shoulders if judged by their grim expressions.
Yuki's chin was placed on her bended knees which she hugged tightly together. Her despondent chocolate orbs displayed gloomy depths, remembering what passed during this horrible day.
That jerk! Stupid, selfish prick! She whimpered at the reminder. How could he even steal her heart one moment then mercilessly crush it the next? What hurts most was that she was so sure he felt the same. She felt it in their everyday encounter recently, in his gaze, in his smiles, and in the way he tenderly called her name as if it's a song to the heavens. Had she imagined all that? Was it wishful thinking on her part? Was it all just an illusion made by her weary heart?
Damn it. It hurts!
She really wanted to beat the crap out of him for leading her on, for building her hopes up then smashing it to pieces, but every time her anger bubbles from within her, images of the brief time they spent together flashes beneath her eyelids as if she needed a reminder of why her heart is in pieces. Suddenly, she was back in that fiery afternoon in the amusement park, in the mall hunting the perfect gift, under the rain while he embraced her trembling body, in her room as he watched her sleep. She closed her eyes and his bright smile would immediately welcome her, she listens and there's his voice sweetly calling her name and when she closes her hands, there was his hand holding hers tightly.
She mewled inaudibly and buried her face on her knees, feeling her pain intensified by ten thousand folds.
She'll really clobber that bastard.
Ichiru blindly stared at the ceiling, not noticing the people around him, at once transported to the depressing facts at hand. Hana kept asking him if there was something wrong for he noticed his preoccupation earlier. He wanted to confess what happened but every time he looks into those clear pools of sapphire showing nothing but affection and concern towards him, that sad news kept getting killed in his throat.
He didn't want anything to take those lights in his eyes and so he was banished to silence while he kept his considerate and loving vampire under the ignorant but blissful shadow of unawareness. Deep down, he's worried and anxious. He wished for the noble to be informed of this so he can attest that everything will be alright. If Hana still accepts that future even with this knowledge then and only then can he be at ease.
A part of him rebels though for in his musings, an idea suddenly popped up in his mind but he immediately silenced it. He glanced at his brother before he shook his head, feeling guilty for seriously contemplating such a way. He's being completely selfish…
But really, if he became a vampire…
Zero groaned again, his eyes closed, as he willed unpleasant memories and distasteful facts at hand away for the meantime. It's freaking exhausting having to deal with one bullshit after another.
He sighed, a hand unconsciously covered his lower abdomen. That nasty old bitch. He'll really fry him the moment he got his chance. He opened his darkened lavender orbs to blindly glare at the ceiling. He won't give this child to that bastard Rido or to the association's rotten dogs or to any smelly greedy assholes trying to stand above everyone else using an innocent life.
What has become of them? The vampires he was no longer surprised with, but the fact that even some of his kin wished to land their abominable paws on his child was so disappointing and depressing. That president really poisoned the previously noble Hunter's association. He unconsciously gritted his teeth. They needed to be purge.
And he will see it done.
There was also the matter with his pissed off pureblood. He really needed to direct his mate's anger elsewhere for now. He groaned once more. After what happened today, Kaname has been such a pain in the ass. He even needed to convince him to let him eat in his guardian's house! It was the idiotic chairman's own abode and yet he was still reluctant in letting him leave! He even discussed his transfer to the Night class which he already declined once when it was mentioned the night they awakened Yuki. Even she didn't want to leave the Day class since they can't leave Ichiru to be the lone prefect.
Argh! This is all messed up! It's all that bitch's fault!
But perhaps, he was also to blame for not informing Kaname… Che. Bonds and mates are all too troublesome. Zero sulked internally. He's not feeling guilty, damn it! And he only agreed to sleep in the Moon dorm because he needs to drink from Kaname. He's not trying to make up to him or any shit like that!
He unknowingly growled. Relationship sucks.
"Zero?"
The honey haired ex-hunter called out to his son who at least let on a sign that he's alive but when he was fixed with his ever present glare, his smile froze and he shrunk even smaller. He travelled his gaze to his other silent son, "Ichiru?" but then soulless lilac orbs met his inquiring hazel ones. No luck with him as well and so his eyes flitted to his only daughter and he started at her expression. She scowled but her puffy eyes bellied more unshed tears. "Yuki?"
When all three did and said nothing but glare and stare at him blindly, he sighed. Is it the time for the so-called Family heart-to-heart talk? Is this where he gives out advices? Speeches? Should he isolate each of them to talk to them? What should he do?!
He stared at each one of them again. Well, it seems that what they needed, more than a solemn tête-à-tête, are some positive air. It's better to shower them some sunshine! So after bracing himself for the punches and shoving that are sure to come, he opened up his arms and run to them, "Oh, my beautiful daughter and lovable cute sons!" he dramatically exclaimed before jumping at the trio.
It successfully managed to wake them up for they got suffocated by strong arms that persistently didn't let go even after they shoved the nutcase away from them.
Yuki's impending tears instantly dried up as strong arms snatched her into a big group hug, "Wah! Chairman, where did you come from?!"
Ichiru, who got most of their insane guardian's weight, was trapped under the blond whack-job and was almost completely smothered, "Chairman, what are you doing?! You're heavy!"
"Get your ugly mug outta my face!" Zero roared while shoving their mentally challenged guardian's face away with his hand.
All the ruckus and struggle the three made as they tried to pry the ex-hunter away from them were frozen at his gentle and surprisingly serious words, "No matter what happens, remember that papa's here, okay? You can talk to me anytime." He whispered, tightening his embrace.
The prefects all looked at each other and had to fight down a smile as they suddenly felt very light and happy. A faint blush appeared on their cheeks. Really, the chairman. They internally sighed in resignation.
"Why do I feel that talking to a dog is much better than talking to you?" Zero muttered, looking away and pretended to be unaffected.
"Wah! Papa's hurt!"
Ichiru took their guardian's distraction as an opportunity to throw him off his lap, "I said you're heavy!"
Yuki chuckled while watching their ever so weird headmaster lament his unfeeling children while sprawled on the floor like a pitiable maiden, "Come on chairman, let's have dinner!" she invited, holding out her hand.
"My daughter!"
"You didn't cook, right?" the older silverette asked their guardian who clung to the pipsqueak pureblood like an overgrown koala while they made way towards the dining table.
"Unfortunately, my dear beloved son," Kaien started, ignoring Zero's 'I'm not your son', "I wasn't able to cook any of my masterpieces tonight." All of them sighed, him in dejection and the other three in relief, "but don't worry! I have set aside a delicious dish I've been wanting you all to taste!"
"Hah?!" the prefects chorused in varying degrees of alarm. They thought they were safe! Damn it!
They all sat around the table as the enticing aroma of the much preferred ordered take-outs pleasantly attacked their noses but their appetite plummeted when the blond laid out his homemade dish.
Zero's eyebrow twitched in irritation while staring at the lump of something-whitish that the chairman presented, "What the hell is this?"
"Mashed potatoes!"
Is he kidding me? The older silverette thought though upon looking at the guardian wearing nothing but a face depicting pure joy, he was convinced otherwise. He shook his head before piercing the said unidentified object with his chopsticks and was no longer surprise to lift all of it at once for it was un-mashed and very solid indeed, "I don't think it's supposed to be rock solid chairman." He frowned, scrutinizing it further.
"Indeed, I don't know what happened," Kaien wondered, "and I was so sure that I followed the rec-," he was cut off by the sudden movement his oldest son made as Zero scrambled to get away from the table while covering his mouth before running towards the bathroom.
At this, the two remaining prefects stared in horror at the questionable dish in front of them, "Cha-chairman, what have you done?" Ichiru asked in horror. He saw it when his brother sniffed it and instantly turned sickly pale. Surely this must mean that their guardian has successfully concocted the deadliest poison of all.
Yuki, all the while, was seriously wondering if even she can survive after eating this highly suspicious object, "You-you're amazing, chairman."
The honey blond perpetrator turned to his children with a look of utter heartbreak, profusely claiming that it was one of the superbly delicious dishes he has ever cooked using only the finest ingredients and even while the prefects looked at him sporting blatant disbelieving expressions, he still managed a smile.
Ah, at least now, they're feeling much better even for a moment, he mused. Guess it was worth it to keep that masterpiece stored. Hmmm, was it yesterday or the day before? Oh well, he knows it will still taste fantastic. He's convinced as he persuaded all his children, even the ashen Zero who was edging away from him and his masterpiece since he came back from the comfort room, to partake in his lovely dish.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-