Author's Notes: Here's another chapter as promised. To give me more time, I will upload the next chapter on September 1. (っ◞‸◟c) Hopefully, I can keep the bi-weekly update. Don't keep your hopes up though. Sorry! ｡：ﾟ(｡ﾉω＼｡)ﾟ･｡
Also, to all named Nevaeh and Anne, please know that I have nothing against you. Believe me, I love the name Anne! Please don't take offense!
(≧∇≦) … (〜￣▽￣)〜 ….. *:.. o(≧▽≦)o ..:*….. (〜￣▽￣)〜… (≧∇≦)
Chapter 25
In the Name of Love
"What are you doing?"
Silver-lavender eyes frowned when the first thing they saw were the shuffling figures of his twin brother and adopted-sister inside his room the moment he opened the door.
"What else, Zero? Spreading the reference materials." Yuki answered nonchalantly before she continued to neatly stack the reference materials for all their subjects and neatly arrange their notes on top of the short-legged tables they put in the middle of Zero's room.
"Why?" Zero growled at the petite pureblood when she simply ignored his obvious irritation.
"To review, of course, silly."
"I can see that but why the fuck here?!"
The hunter was suddenly disturbed by Ichiru and Yuki after dinner earlier, suddenly declaring having a study session for two angels from up above promised immediate rescue and will be coming to tutor all of them. He snorted. Like he needed to be tutored; only those two hopeless creatures needed strict and close attention.
"Come on, nii-san. Don't be like that. You're the only one whose room is in a presentable condition." The younger silverette nonchalantly replied before he laid down a tray of snacks, juice and several glasses.
The hunter gave them an annoyed look that they didn't meet. "Yeah Zero. It was just that Ichiru and I were busy, you know. So we weren't able to do much cleaning. Don't be stingy!"
"Argh! Why not downstairs?!"
"But what if we suddenly feel sleepy in the middle of the night?"
"You're not allowed to sleep, moron. Now, get these back downstairs!"
The pureblood princess stood to face the hunter and prepared to give him the largest puppy eyes she could muster, when she suddenly picked up an intimidating scent and aura currently marching towards the chairman's house accompanying their private tutors for the night. Without words, she immediately picked up the whole table, reference materials and all, and dashed out outside the hunter's room and down the living room. The twins who were left inside the room stood in confused silence, surprised eyes meeting surprised eyes, before the younger twin mutely followed the pureblood.
Before Ichiru could even inquire after Yuki's curious actions, the doorbell rang and he soon found the answer by himself. It seems that someone who would not be pleased with them for bringing other men inside Zero's room invited himself to their little session. Smart move, Yuki.
"Good evening, Ichiru-kun." Kaname pleasantly greeted.
"G-good evening, Kaname-senpai." Ichiru returned but not quite meeting those piercing auburn orbs that seem to hint knowledge of their earlier breach of his brother's privacy. To the silverette's relief, the children were also there and their greetings somewhat expelled the awkwardness he felt. Together with Hana and Ichijou-senpai's warm greetings, the silver prefect finally managed to completely expel his earlier unease.
"Kaname?" Zero decided to also go down after sensing his mate and children downstairs. He was quickly bombarded by sweet greetings from his children who run passed his brother to hug him. He was about to go to the Moon dorm as per his nightly routine ever since their stupid association president gave him hell so he was quite surprised to find them all at the chairman's house instead.
"Otou-chan, good evening! We came to help aunt and uncle study as well." Anne explained after giving him a kiss on the cheek.
Zero only nodded while thinking, 'yeah, they need all the help they can get.'
Akira and the silver twins nodded enthusiastically even though they smiled at him in a way that say they only came there to see him and play. Since Kohaku is looking at them sharply as if determined to stop any meddling from them, Zero didn't say anything else.
Despite the silver hunter's worry about a noisy night for a large party was sure to put the chairman in annoyingly high spirits coupled by his energetic children who would no doubt indulge his guardian's sickeningly sweet taste for domestic affairs, midnight found them relatively quiet. Zero supposed that might be because the main contributors to the rambunctious noise, AKA the headmaster, fraternal twins and surprisingly, Akira, were already asleep. Kohaku and Anne are both with him in the kitchen while they do the dishes used during dinner and preparation for some midnight snack.
"It's alright, otou-chan! Kohaku and I will handle preparing the tea and snack for later. Don't you need to do your homework and review for the examination?" Anne urged her father while examining the contents of the pantry. She supposes they have all the necessary ingredients for cookies and cupcakes.
"It's fine. I already finished all my work." Zero replied, contemplating another bowl or two of strawberries before sleeping.
"As expected of otou-chan." Haku praised, offering one of his rare smiles. He sincerely wished the same circumstance is also experienced by his beloved aunt and uncle but it's unlikely especially given how often Hana-jiji's censures mingled with cheerful encouragements from Takuji reach them in the kitchen.
"Yuki-sama! Please don't make your own equation. Didn't I just explain this a mere moment ago?"
"Now, now, Hanabusa-kun, there's no need to look so scary. It's fine, it's fine."
"But Ichijou-san, how in the world is this even a proper formula?!"
"Eh?! And I thought it even looked correct."
"What do you mean 'look', Yuki-sama? Please try to comprehend it." And in a decidedly softer tone, added, "Eto, Ichiru, this English sentence is a bit…"
"I'm… I'm sorry, Hana. I'll do it again."
"It's okay, Ichiru. You don't need to apologize."
Three pairs of eyes met at another worrying exchange before expelling deep sighs. Zero was at least glad that it's currently the weekend so he didn't have to worry about the two having too little sleep to catch up with the last few discussions on top of overheated brains. He just hopes they will be able to stay awake throughout the whole night. He's not that optimistic though.
The night settled in such a manner for many hours, until, of course, Yuki broke it by painfully exclaiming "Ouch! What the hell was that?" The brunette sat up straight while massaging her injured forehead that just got stabbed by the sharp pencil taped on the table that will poke them should they start to sleepily lean forward. Evidently, her pencil did the job wonderfully. Her drowsiness, however, only vanished completely when he saw the tall blue-eyed noble towering over her slouched form. She could have sworn she saw golden fire surrounding him that she has briefly mistaken him for a golden hound from hell.
"That must have been the feel of your sharp pencil pricking your forehead when you boldly dozed off in front of me when I was trying to help you study, Yuki-sama." Hanabusa articulated in a controlled voice.
"S-senpai… g-gomen." Yuki quickly apologized and would have immediately dived into the text book in front of her when she caught the peaceful slumbering form of her silverette companion just beside her. His own sharp pencil removed and safely out of his way. "Wha! Ichiru is also asleep!"
"He's very tired, Yuki-sama. It's not a surprise considering how it's already 4 am. Please let him. I'll make sure he'll cover what he missed."
Chocolate orbs were overcome with incredulity as she stared up at the unfair vampire teaching them – only her in the meantime – at the obvious partiality to his boyfriend. It seems like being a pureblood will never give her an edge when it comes to Aido-senpai and Ichiru. She huffed instead of voicing out her complaint and went back to her notes.
"Now, now, Hanabusa-kun, isn't it unfair? I think Yuki-chan has also earned her right to relax even for a bit." Ichijou smilingly entered the room while carrying a tray full of rich cocoa drinks, crumpets, cookies and cupcakes.
"Senpai!" Yuki cried in relief and gratitude. "Eh? Where's everyone else?" she asked after noting the absence of her brothers and their children.
"Ah, Sui-chan, Nao-chan and Akira-chan all woke up from their 'afternoon' nap about 2 hours ago and went with Anne-chan, Haku-chan, Kaname and Zero-kun for a patrol. Apparently, the children went back to the Moon dorm to eat but Kaname and Zero-kun just came back a moment ago. They're in the drawing room." Ichijou explained while handing her a cup of hot beverage.
"Thanks, senpai!" the brunette beamed and accepted the cup, getting another bout of energy because of the kind blond.
"Here's yours, Hanabusa-kun. By the way, Yuki-chan, have you ordered your ball gown for the Winter Solstice?"
The little liquid that the pureblood princess managed to sip from her cup got promptly expelled at her boyfriend's question.
The green-eyed noble immediately patted his girlfriend's back, "Ara, ara, are you alright, Yuki-chan?"
"Yuki-sama!" Hanabusa immediately rescued the hand-outs they were finally able to finish and made sure that his darling angel wasn't splattered by hot choco.
"I-I'm sorry, senpai. I'm sorry. I'm okay now." The brunette immediately assured the two blonds after her coughing fit. Goodness, she kept on forgetting just how different her life is now. The idea of the Winter Solstice completely left her mind what with the recent excitement. Also, she barely has any dresses, let alone a ballgown. "Oh dear, I haven't. I-I actually have no idea how to prepare for something like that." She confessed, now worried. She didn't want to cause her onii-sama any trouble. Certainly, she didn't want to embarrass him and Ichijou-senpai, The brunette wondered if her best dress, the same one she used during the last banquet, will be enough.
"It's okay, Yuki-chan. I'm sure Kaname made the preparations for you and Zero-kun. I just wanted to make sure nothing overlaps. I'm pretty sure he even has something prepared for Ichiru-kun."
Ack! Hanabusa's image of 'couple' suits disintegrated in his mind. While his darling Ichiru normally has presence of mind for he is perfection himself, he knew his angel is not someone who would think about such extravagance nor imagine himself to be part of an opulent world where such things mattered. So of course, he took it upon himself to prepare for the both of them but alas, it might be all for naught for indeed, Kaname-sama is sure to have it all planned. Perhaps he can ask Kaname-sama so he can match his lover's attire instead, he thought crestfallenly.
"Really? I'm glad." Yuki rejoiced. She's relieved for while she can barely sew a button back and make a bigger hole while mending her socks, she knew that one can't sew a ball gown overnight. "Ne, senpai, what do vampires celebrate during the Winter Solstice?"
"Well, it's the anniversary of the vampire society's founding. It's when the first vampire king, one of the progenitors of the vampires and the first Kuran, united all the vampires. It signifies the beginning for us vampires that's why it's the most important event in the vampire society. Every noble and pureblood family will come to greet the royal family. Even the all the elders of the council of old will be present." Ichijou explained, his voice going understandably grim while mentioning the last fact. At Yuki's worried look, he smiled reassuringly and added, "It might become a bit stifling for you but Kaname and I will be there. Not to mention the children. Also, there will be dancing, music and delicacies from all over the world. I'm sure you'll enjoy yourself, Yuki-chan."
Yuki smiled and nodded before resuming drinking her now cold drink thus completely missing the look that both nobles shared. They knew that because of the danger lurking around, the event may very well become a bloodbath but while they knew that a move will be made during that time, they won't be able to avoid it. Jilting the celebration or having the royal family hide will be seen as something weak and will tarnish the Kuran's reputation which may also cause others to challenge their authority. Despite the fact that their king would unlikely lose, it will still be a troublesome affair in the end. They knew that their leader wouldn't have minded going there alone but because someone just has to spread news about Zero and the children, this is no longer an option.
Really, like irritating pests, they kept on flying around.
Meanwhile, in another room, another couple is having quite a leisure time.
"Really, who would hate their daughter so much that they'll name her NEVAEH?" Zero remarked while reading a book about baby names that the chairman still bought even though everyone already knew the names of all their children. He still ended up checking it to look up the kanji writing he would like for their names though. His hormones grumbled at each ridiculous name he encountered and he would never admit that he finds reading that silly book while perched on the couch, his head on the pillow on Kaname's lap, quite relaxing.
"Indeed." Kaname obligingly agreed, a hand leisurely stroking soft silver locks.
The hunter was silent for a while before off-handedly inquiring, "… Hey, Kaname, why would you name your eldest 'Anne'?" He frowned, his lilac eyes intent on a particular name.
"I've never thought of naming our daughter as such." The pureblood answered and upon remembering something the irritating substitute instructor mentioned before, while knowing it's a lie, burgundy eyes narrowed while adding, "Wasn't it something you've thought of and decided?"
"What? No." Zero immediately responded, lavender eyes still on the name and its meaning, "It's too common. Also, I've never thought much of western names since I like kanji." Forget about names, he didn't even think he'll ever have his own children, he thought silently. Then finally meeting his lover's eyes, continued with a frown, "Weird. Why does Anne the only one with a western name?"
A detail Kaname has previously noticed himself but given the story that Takamiya told them(though Zero had already told him it's not true), refused to contemplate. Surely there's no force on Heaven or Earth which will make him name their daughter after his lover's previous crush. Then, as if struck by lightning, a thought suddenly crossed his mind; an answer that can easily be deduced after knowing his daughter and her conquest better. A very small and quiet smile appeared on his ethereal face before answering, "Indeed, a most unusual thing. Do you have something in mind then? It seems a name has caught your fancy."
"Eh? No, it's just… I just thought it's… pretty." The silverette replied. After hesitating for a while, a pale finger ended up pointing out a name on the page he's in.
Kaname read the name and its meaning. He hummed in approval.
"Indeed, it's a very pretty name, Zero."
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Kiryū Zero thought that nothing would ever go wrong with him today.
The silver hunter woke up early, feeling quite rested despite going to bed late because of the nightly patrol around the Cross Academy. No doubt the ridiculously expensive and sinfully soft sheet, blanket and pillows on the pureblood king's bed played a large role in ensuring that he'll have a fine sleep. And with the pureblood himself snugly wrapped around him, his scent providing further appeasement, his comfort was completely secured (not that he'll ever tell him that). He was even able to untangle the long arms around him without waking the persistent bastard and was able to sneak out fairly quick without trouble, a miracle in itself.
Upon arriving at the headmaster's abode, he found that the blond is still not up so no poisonous breakfast awaited him. Not only was he able to save untold amounts of raw ingredients from becoming biochemical weaponry, he was even able to cook everything he craved to eat that morning. He even found an incredible amount of his current favorite fruit in the vegetable rack despite being quite sure that he had already demolished their supply just last night. Someone was clearly making sure that they have it on hand. Maybe given what an extra cranky monster he turns into whenever he can't eat the freaking fruits. Really, he should feel guilty but damn it. People are careful and cautious around pregnant people for a reason. Well, whatever. Anyhow, he was truly grateful that he was able to make strawberry pancakes, strawberry French toasts, strawberry salad, strawberry breakfast tacos and strawberry smoothie all before the other three woke up. He was already devouring his third pancake and eyeing his fourth toast when they went down, apparently roused by the sweet scent.
The three prefects were also able to make it on good time to the school building well before the first class started so no one pestered him with unwanted attention. And though he can sense several irritatingly keen regards on him, no one tried to 'confess' their imaginary feelings which was unfortunately rare these days. Needless to say, given their present circumstances, Zero was quite satisfied and happy.
Amazed by the wonderful start of his morning, he was really looking forward to a terrific evening as well. He was convinced that the Day class students were already over whatever disease they caught since he was able to make it to the end of his classes without being ambush even once.
He should have been suspicious. Given his luck, he should have known.
How could he have expected a catastrophe hitting him in the most unlikely place? But of course, he should have expected it. After all, the fates have inherent talent in fucking his life in the most unexpected way. Why doesn't he ever learn?
It all started when he was minding the Day class students' behavior like usual during the cross-over, just before the gates of the Moon dorm opened. And eerily enough, though they were obviously vibrating with energy, his lane of eager Day class students stood to attention and behaved remarkably well which was a suspiciously common occurrence these days. The hunter just turned to Yuki's lane where the students were more disorderly and rowdy when out of nowhere, a light brown haired Day class student who is completely out of her rockers suddenly hugged him from behind while exclaiming a love so great that she'll even offer the heavens to him.
A hush blanketed the whole assembly and even he was not able to react as the unprecedented action completely took him off guard. He must be wearing a highly dumbfounded face since he could make out both Ichiru and Yuki's constipated expressions, as if they're trying to stop their laughter, in his peripheral vision. The silverette whirled and was about ready to roar at the trembling, foolish person when someone actually beat him to it. Before he knew it, another Day class student has already come close enough to also embrace him while claiming that her love for him is nothing compared to hers.
This was followed by another one who declared that her love for Zero is the truest one.
This too was crazily followed by another one and another one still.
And like a water valve going out of control, a mad throng of students suddenly crowded around, all fiercely trying to speak louder than the others to make their genuine feelings heard.
In a matter of seconds, the silver hunter found himself being embraced, tugged and pulled in about fifteen different directions. He was surrounded by girls and some boys all trying to claim to love him better than the others. Several pairs of hands were on him, all trying to shake him to get his attention and to demand that he acknowledge their feelings for him. Students tried to pull him while pushing away all the other girls around him which crushed him as a result. Instinctively, the prefect's hands went around his lower abdomen. All the while, the battle around him only grew in intensity.
The quiet smile the vampire king was sporting while watching his mate go about his duties as a prefect completely fell when he saw a female Day class student sneak behind his lover and wrap dainty arms around his silver form. He wasted no time and turned away from the window of his study where he was watching from, forgoing buttoning the cuff of his white uniform, to go down and lead the Night class despite it being a few minutes early than usual. The ardent declaration from the woman which he can still clearly hear further narrowed garnet eyes that were already filled with distaste. If he was not posing as a normal mortal, he would have already made an undesirable move to stop the foolish woman's action. He schooled his features as best as he could despite the impatience and ire that were swimming inside him. He hastened his steps when he heard and sensed a growing commotion outside. He could tell that the other vampires also perceived the disturbing excitement for he found them already gathered on the first floor, faced turned towards the noise though they're unable to see anything. He met equally concerned amethyst eyes on the face of his beautiful eldest.
Outside, the argument between the students escalated so fiercely and rapidly that the laughter the other two prefects felt died instantly. They watched in horror as their brother got quickly surrounded by all the students in his lane. They both moved in to rescue him but like a flash flood, they got violently pushed aside, nearly trampled, by the students in their own lanes when they also frenziedly went towards the hunter. Torrents of female and male fans frantically stampeded while desperately hurling their own undying devotion to the older Kiryū.
"Zero!"
"Nii-san!"
Frightened lilac orbs watched in shock disbelief as his brother got swallowed by the mad mob of female and male admirers. The sight rooted him to where he was thrown on the ground, quite unable to feel anything except alarm at how his brother's figure got quickly engulfed so that only his silver hair is visible to him. He could only shout for his brother while desperately trying to get to him. It was absolutely horrifying how not even his masculine and hunter strength was enough to push the rabid crowd out of the way. He was barely able to move forward and yet, he already felt crushed by the overwhelming number of students trying to push their way in. "Nii-san!" Ichiru continuously shouted. "Stop it! Enough! Hey, get out of my way! Let go of nii-san!"
All the while, Yuki was in the right state of panic. Her heart beat frantically inside her chest and for a second, stood stupefied in a moment of indecision. She was quite sure, though it's hard when faced with something seemingly overpowering like this one, that she is powerful enough to push aside the girls but she was afraid of not being able to keep her strength in check. What if she seriously hurt someone? What if they found out that she has superhuman abilities? What will she do if they found out that she's a vampire? Her anxious thoughts were halted, however, when she heard her other adopted-brother shout for his twin and poised to join the struggle to reach the silver hunter. "Ichiru! No!" When chocolate orbs found Ichiru also trampled in the melee, the pureblood princess wasn't able to stop herself from joining the fray. "Get out of the way! Ichiru! Zero! Hey! Don't push! Get away from Zero! Ichiru! Zero!" She managed to at least make more headway than her silver companion. She could feel someone's feet and elbow connect to other parts of her body but she still soldiered on. She wasn't hurt but still, between making sure she doesn't hurt anyone while pushing them away and the continued pressure from the mad throng around her, Yuki wasn't able to make as much progress as she would like.
And that was how the Night class found them.
That no one even noticed that the gorgeous Night class was already before them was testament to how far gone were the Day class students.
Startled reddish-lavender eyes widened at the riot just outside the Moon dorm's gates. They all decided to go out much earlier than intended when they heard the commotion outside. They hurried their steps when distressed exclamations of her father's name by her aunt and uncle reached their ears. Numbly, she can feel the aura of her grandfather and beloved ash-brown haired hunter coming closer, but all her senses could focus on was how her dear otou-chan seems to be in the core of the confusing scuffle.
"Otou-chan!" the children all exclaimed worriedly, quite forgetting to keep their secrets.
"Zero!" Kaname called in an uncharacteristically loud voice. The contrived mask of sophistication he was always wearing slipped slightly for the second time that night at the disturbing sight before him. Reaching out to their bond, he ascertained the well-being of his mate. Vast relief filled his very being when his hunter echoed that he's fine but he can't move without somehow doing something decisively unnatural. He unconsciously sighed in relief. Auburn orbs then sharply turned to the students who all seem to have completely lost it.
"Ichiru!" Hanabusa cried upon seeing his lover being squished by the Day class students. He made a move to immediately rescue his angel but was stopped by his cousin. Aquamarine glare found the tall red head who, while looking perturbed as well, merely nodded towards their president, indicating that all will soon right itself.
"Yuki-chan!" Ichijou also shouted at spotting his girlfriend in the middle of the dangerous crowd. Only his trust in Kaname and their little royals prevented him from instantly flying to her side.
"Zero-sama! Yuki-sama! Ichiru-sama!" the rest of the Night class students exclaimed.
"My children! Stop it, my little lambs! No!" the headmaster wailed when he finally got closed. He hurried upon receiving the alarming report from one Wakaba Sayori who happened to be walking back to the Sun Dorm when she saw a dangerous looking tussle rapidly develop. He could barely persuade the kind girl to go back to the dorm directly before quickly running there with the apprentice instructor. He can now see why Ichiru-chan was worried.
"Shut up, chairman. Oi, that's enough, the lot of you!" Kaito barked, a hand inside his coat. No doubt reaching for his baby and contemplating firing a warning shot.
"Don't, Kaito-kun!" the blond ex-hunter yelled. Even though he's sure that there won't be any danger since anti-vampire weapons won't harm humans, he still can't condone firing a gun near his beloved students.
"Are you seri-," the argument the apprentice instructor was about to say didn't quite escape his lips for just then, a surge of aura from the pureblood king and his children immediately shot through the crowd.
There was suddenly a strange silence that followed. Humans will never guess it but even they were able to feel the change in the atmosphere and pressure injected to the very air they breathe. Something akin to fear filled their heart, silencing their voices and freezing their movements but their mortal brains can't even keep up with the dynamic force that is the pureblood king and his children.
All the vampires and hunters present then felt an odd aura that they were sure came from one of the royal children before, as if in a trance, the Day class students slowly stepped back from the silver hunter and the two prefects.
The bizarre lull was broken when the Night class president stepped forward and politely but firmly ordered to the Day class students, "It's already late. Please go back to your dorms."
Cloudy gazes found the imposing figure of the handsome brunette but nothing seems to register in their minds based on their blank stares. They however nodded before slowly filing out back to their dorms without any word. Several confused eyes followed the weird movements of the ominous crowd as they trudged in a way that obviously reminded them of sinister zombies.
While others were preoccupied watching the now silent Day class students, various vampires quickly went to the prefects, joined by the chairman.
"What the fuck just happened?" Kaito demanded, while following the blond headmaster, when no one remarked about the creepy spell the Day class students seem to be under.
"Nao." Zero breathed in relief while straightening himself up, his lavender orbs also intent on the retreating mob. Being fully aware of his children's power by now, he had no trouble pointing out just who's responsible for the peculiar look on the earlier crazed individuals. He felt his mate's and children's auras behind him. He turned to find blood-red eyes on his desponded youngest son with uncharacteristically crumpled dark silver brows gracing his normally impassive expression. He instantly found himself wrapped around the dainty arms of his youngest daughter, a worried pout on her ethereal face.
"Are you alright, otou-chan?" the children immediately asked with varying degrees of alarm evident in their voices. Even though they can already tell that he's not injured despite the mess his uniform is in and his appearance remains as perfect as ever, they can't help their worried inquiries.
"Zero." The vampire king merely took stock of his mate's welfare before giving him a hard, disapproving look which the hunter pointedly didn't meet. He could tell that the silverette lied to him regarding the keen attention the Day class students have been giving him but he put his trust that he'll always keep himself safe. He was so sure that the hunter would never put his guard down and like always, tear any adversary viciously or avoid any unpleasant confrontation he senses for the sake of their unborn child. He wanted to honor his mate's wishes and knew he can rely on his capabilities. Apparently, he trusted him too much for while he has impeccable abilities as a hunter, he tends to put too little value on himself. Knowing his lover, he must have underestimated his admirers' obsession to him or plainly didn't believe in them.
When the last of the female students vanished into the Sun dorms, Zero turned to his son, "It's fine now, Nao. Let them go."
Flaming pools of garnet blinked once to reveal reverted reddish-violet orbs. Inscrutable worry filled the youngest son's face. He inquired, holding on to the fabric of his father's black uniform like a child, "Are you alright, otou-chan?"
"Yes, thanks to you." Zero confirmed one more time before guiltily smiling at his children. He can't believe he had caused them some trouble. It's hard not to notice especially when one frantic chairman ran to him, looking genuinely harried for once with a disgruntled looking Kaito shaking his head.
Meanwhile, one Aido Hanabusa was instantly by his Ichiru's side. Frantically, he helped his angel straighten himself up while trying to fix his rumpled clothes. Cerulean orbs immediately inspected his lover for any injuries and dark golden brows had to crumple in confusion in miraculously finding none.
"I'm alright, Hana. Really." The younger silver prefect assured, also surprised to find himself unharmed despite drowning in clashing bodies of deranged female and male suitors just seconds ago.
"Really?" the blond charmer confirmed despite seeing his lover's unscathed form with his own eyes. He can see not one scratch or bruise on his pale face nor smell any blood from any injuries that he might have received.
"Wow, honestly, I thought it was too late to save you." Kain remarked thoughtlessly. He even dully thought how he'll stop his cousin from avenging his love. Instead, they only found the prefect's clothes and hair disheveled but was otherwise untouched.
"Kat! Don't just kill my angel!" Hanabusa immediately rounded his cousin like a mad dragon.
"Really, it's fine." Ichiru assured them once again. His hand on his lover's to prevent him from jumping on the tall vampire and to drag him to his brother who's surrounded by Kaname, the children, Kaito and the headmaster.
They could still hear the last of his brother's assurances to the headmaster. Based on his twin's disgruntled expression, he just finished giving one his multiple reassurances. For Zero, he's already showing admirable patience for simply answering another of their zealous guardian's confirmation for his wellbeing. But seeing how he avoided everyone's scrutiny while stroking his youngest daughter's silver hair, he must be feeling incredibly guilty.
The guilt that the younger Kiryū had been suspecting flowed in torrents in his brother's amethyst eyes when he spotted him.
"Ichiru!" Zero breathed, obvious relief filled his voice.
"I'm alright, nii-san." Ichiru smiled, the exchange far too familiar to him but now said under quite a different scenario.
"I'm sorry." Zero whispered. He don't know what he would done if Ichiru and Yuki were hurt because of this. Well, Yuki… maybe he shouldn't be so worried but Ichiru… Nonetheless, upon carefully inspecting his brother's appearance, he found that he's as unscathed as he was… Now that he noticed it, how in the world?
The other silver prefect cut his twin's contemplation short by determinedly criticizing his lack of foresight, "See, nii-san? I told you they were not joking." He has been persistently telling his brother that the fervent and piercing gazes the students have been giving him are not in fact cross–eyed stares designed to taunt him but ardent ones turning manic.
"Ah, shut up. I know that now." Zero grumbled, glaring at the ground.
"Otou-chan…" Anne and the brunette twins hesitated, sounding as if they also want to further caution their father.
"But son, didn't Anne-chan and them already told you long beforehand about just how desirable you are to both vampires and humans?" the headmaster added, unable to help the admonishing tone slipping in his voice. "Why didn't you tell me you were already receiving such attentions?"
"Well, apparently, they were just pestering him for answers regarding Ichiru-kun and Hanabusa's relationship, and so was certainly nothing of consequence." The vampire king joined, reproachfully imparting his lover's lie, provoking him to finally look at him. He failed for his silverette resolutely didn't return his regard even to scowl.
"What? Nii-san!" Ichiru exasperatedly shook his head. To think that he even went out of his way before going to bed just to be able to report to Kaname-senpai. "You know that this won't go away!"
"Well, aren't you such a stud, Zero-kun." Dryly gibed Kaito.
Zero glared at the substitute lecturer before turning to his guardian and twin, "Yeah, I know. My bad."
Kaien can only sigh. It has already happened so he supposed there was no point berating the hunter further, "I'm just glad that all of you were fine." And as if only then noticing how they didn't actually appear to have just come out of a gigantic brawl involving overly zealous admirers, he frowned.
"Ah, that…" Zero started, also not knowing the answer.
Kaname shook his head a little, understanding the blatant look of confusion on his hunter's face. Obviously, he has already forgotten.
"It's because of Akira's blood stone, otou-chan." Kohaku supplied the answer, also noting his father, his uncle and his grandpa's confusion. "We attached them to the trinkets we gave both of you for your birthday. I'm glad you're both using it and it was of use." He smiled while his father finger one of his piercings. His uncle did the same to his hair tie. He could already sense his twin swell with pride.
"Oh thank goodness, indeed." Anne exclaimed before turning to her brother and remarking rather ungraciously, "At least you have some use."
"Hey!" Akira protested, feeling extremely slighted. And he was still basking on such a happy feeling too! However, it was easily restored when his dear otou-chan and Ichiji smilingly thanked him again.
"So that's why." Remarked the female prefect who came nearer with an agitated looking Ichijou just beside her.
Their relatively happy bubble was punctured when their eyes fell on the female prefect.
"Yuki!" the chairman exclaimed upon seeing his daughter's appearance for despite being the powerful pureblood among the three of them, she's the one who sported more injuries. They can see bruises on her temples, neck, cheeks, side lip and thighs where she might have been kicked and/or elbowed on top of the dirtied and ruffled state of her uniform. He thought that her newly awaken lineage would be enough to prevent such a state that was why he went directly to the hunter instead. His poor, beautiful daughter!
"I'm alright, chairman. Really, it looks more serious than it feels." Yuki assured them when several eyes widened at her appearance. But she can barely feel any pain and she can tell that whatever injuries she sustained are already healing. She's only thankful that her sickly brother and her pregnant brother are both fine. She only felt a bit sheepish since she's a pureblood but was still unable to help. "Are you really alright? Zero? Ichiru?"
"Y-yeah. Thanks, Yuki. It was my bad." Zero said, feeling guilty for placing the two in such a situation.
"I'm fine too. Don't worry about me." Ichiru managed, quite shocked at the condition of his adopted-sister. She indeed looks worse for wear. Suddenly, he wanted to grovel ingratitude in front of his nieces and nephews for their choice of gift for his birthday. He can just imagine how flattened he would have been if he had faced the same rough treatment without protection. He'll be ichi-pancake-ru in no time to be sure. He shuddered at the thought.
Hanabusa, having no trouble coming to the same conclusion, expelled a relieved sigh. Thank goodness for that special hair tie. There are not enough words of gratitude in this world to express how truly appreciative he was.
After several more worried inquiries from the pureblood, the children and the headmaster, and assurances from the prefects, they were finally convinced enough. The three prefects were able to persuade the vampires to continue on to their classes. Kain, Rima and Shiki towed the reluctant children, Aido and Ichijou with them to class, with the substitute instructor and the headmaster following from behind, while their president remained and accompanied the prefects to patrol around the academy grounds.
Yuki was completely recovered physically and emotionally that she was already able to discuss the incident with Ichiru spiritedly. She was still awestruck at how far anyone would go in the name of love. And here she thought she had seen the worst of hysterical and frenzied confessions before. This certainly set a new record. But seriously, how could Zero have missed this or mistaken those blazing and avid regards for anything else other than what it was?
Zero's head can't seem to find the strength to straighten up, especially not when a certain pureblood is walking beside him with his aura wrapping around him heavily. Anyone could probably feel the vampire's displeasure from a mile away. It must be why Yuki and Ichiru are walking quite a distance in front of them. Normally, he wouldn't have cared if Kaname is a breath away from exploding with ire but he knew he's in the wrong. Given the trouble he has caused everyone, he can't seem to find his normal spunk. He didn't want to fight with Kaname. Hopefully, his hormones won't get in the way now.
"My, you look awful, my love. Is that your guilt weighing you down?" Kaname asked mockingly, breaking the heavy silence, his voice not quite so angry but not gracious either.
The silver hunter flinched, "Yeah, yeah, I know. I get it."
"Hmmmm?"
Zero sighed, already knowing what the vampire is waiting for. He faltered before finally getting the nerve to apologize, however petulantly, "I'm sorry for lying to you…"
The pureblood hummed in acknowledgement and as encouragement for the prefect to continue.
"I'm sorry for getting myself in trouble… For letting my guard down… For underestimating them…"
Kaname faced his lover, a small but genuine smile on his lips, and reached for his hand, finally yielding to the temptation of touching his lover by initiating the first contact that evening. It's rare for him not to try and touch his mate, but he's afraid of easily letting his hunter off without making him understand just how grievously things could have turned out. He knew he would forgive Zero for anything. Already, he's giving him more concession than he had provided to all his subjects combined.
"I understand your disposition. You never saw yourself as anyone's object of affection and admiration but I hope that you'll get used to the idea soon."
"Yeah. I guess I'll hold on until I pop Anne out." Zero answered awkwardly, pink scores decorating his cheeks. He's glad that the two stooges have outstripped them and are quite far away.
"Not quite." The brunette sighed. Old habits die hard indeed, as does deeply rooted beliefs, "You were never aware of it, but you command the attention and admiration of everyone around you."
A silver eyebrow arched at this, just about done with this conversation, "Yeah, no. You're just blind." He was the academy's demonic prefect and he was pretty sure he made multiple students cry in fright before.
Kaname chuckled, hearing his thoughts through their bond, "Your actions and attitude may have earned you the dislike of the students but had you not behaved as you did, you would have made them as obsessed with you then as they do now while you're expecting. You're beautiful, Zero. So much so that I'm uneasy letting anyone else lay eyes on you."
Violet eyes can't help but roll at the exaggerated compliments. However, it didn't quite banish the happy color that marred the hunter's cheeks. He's not vain but why does it sound so damn good coming from Kaname? Well, fuck it. "Well, whatever. I'll… I'll be more careful."
"Please do. I understand that you were not fond of the time when Seiren was tailing you but I must confess that the idea is tempting in the face of the present circumstance."
"Ugh, fuck no. I'll manage on my own." Zero resolutely affirmed. While he's sure to be on guard all the time moving forward so that history won't repeat itself, he wonders if there's anything he can do to completely make sure of it. If he's being honest with himself, he was truly frightened for a moment there as he protected his midriff from the onslaught of the maiming. He should really start thinking not just of himself but of the life inside him as well. He can't afford to be careless anymore.
"Very well, I'll hold your word for it, Zero. Kindly ease my worries and try not to force my hand." Kaname conceded but with warning in his russet eyes.
The hunter nodded, fully understanding the last chance he was given before his over protective mate, who would probably bundle him in the most expensive soft swaddling clothes for the rest of his natural life if given the chance, finally snap and just lock his ass inside a mansion or something. And fuck if he'll take that lying down.
And so quite the opposite of his fabulous morning, the silver hunter found himself looking for ways to avoid being trampled by affection from all sides while an extremely possessive pureblood resolutely held his hand the entire time he was doing his patrol as if giving him the taste of just how limited his freedom will be if he let the same clusterfuck happen again.
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"Are you sure they won't remember anything?" the younger silverette yawned before asking his twin and adopted sister as they traverse the familiar path from the headmaster's house to the main school building.
"Uh… yeah? Kohaku-kun said that they modified the Day class students' memories." Yuki answered. She's confident of her nephews' and nieces' abilities but she is skeptical as to how they'll be able to manage that.
The silver hunter merely grunted in response. Still feeling tired because of last night's debacle. The children informed him about using the bloodstone of their cousin. They refused to tell him about that particular cousin for some reason and insisted that he keep it a secret from their aunt and uncle as well. He frowned at the recollection but complied for he knew he can trust in his children. They must have felt that the fewer things known about the future, the better.
When the three prefects arrived at the main school building, they were startled to meet several bruised and positively maimed students who still looked towards the hunter's way with stars in their eyes. How could they possibly find an explanation to this? Injuries don't miraculously appear on someone overnight unless they were beaten in their sleep. Not to mention these wounds and bruises were sustained by almost the whole Day class population. Even if they can't remember anything, it will certainly raise questions! They put their worries aside though when they met Wakaba Sayori at the entrance.
"Ah! Yori-chan!" Yuki loudly greeted when she spotted her dear, sweet friend who, she was told, called the chairman after seeing the riot, "Thanks for yesterday!"
"Good morning." She then frowned at the brunette, "To what are you referring to, Yuki-chan?"
"Eh? Didn't you call the chairman because of the brawl yesterday?"
"Oh. Did you mean the struggle for the special 50% off the most delicious meal combo at the cafeteria? It's nothing. Why are you even thanking me for that?" Sayori said, unable to understand her friend's gratitude. Yuki wasn't even there during that time.
"Eh?" the brunette blinked, sure that they just missed each other in the conversation.
Zero, correctly assuming that his children also modified the petite girl's memories and that they just replaced the incident with something else, cut in before the pipsqueak pureblood say anything idiotic, "Yeah, but since we're the prefects, it should have been our job. Thanks, Wakaba." Really, he shouldn't have doubted his children even for a second. They must have anticipated the damage the students have sustained.
"Y-yeah, thanks, Sayori-chan." Ichiru offered, also coming to the same conclusion.
"It's nothing, really." Sayori smiled at the three, "I'm just glad that they sported only mild bruises after the struggle. I guess the cafeteria won't be having the same promo for a while."
"Yeah, that's too bad." The younger silverette nodded in agreement though he's sure that their stingy school kitchen will never intend such a thing in the first place.
Finally, the female prefect's face lit up in comprehension, her lips forming an 'O', with awe swimming in her sienna eyes. She nodded in agreement though belated as they all walk to their classroom.
It was such an uncomfortable day for the three prefects. Yuki and Ichiru resolutely stayed by their brother's side. Aside from the two, no one else noticed the tense and on guard stance of the silver hunter the whole day. There was an almost permanent scowl on his ethereal face that still failed to completely mar his gorgeous features and mask that attractiveness that overflows from him. Still, the Day class students found it hard to approach him for he'll send the almost forgotten vicious glare to anyone who so much as turn to his direction that not even Ichiru's new found fans managed to come near him for new petitions about him and Aido-senpai. They can only content themselves to following Zero's every movement with spellbound gazes. Somehow, the three managed to survive the whole day with barely any interaction from the students.
During cross-over, the relatively organized and orderly, but still lively and love-filled Day class students noticed the rather foul mood of the Night class president. He didn't scowl nor were his eyebrows creased together in irritation. He still had the same elegantly impassive expression but they could tell that he's somehow displeased. Like an invisible dark aura is being produced by his very cells and infused with the air they breathe. It was enough to silence them almost completely. There's also the subdued air around the Night class who are following behind him. They couldn't even growl in contempt when the handsome blond vice-president smiled and waved a hand at the female prefect who returned it in kind. However, a few girls still can't help but squeal in delight when their beloved Idol-senpai playfully winked at the younger silverette which made Ichiru-kun blush and avert his eyes. Oh! So cute!
Come to think of it, why can't they remember doing it yesterday? And they were even looking forward to seeing the two together after the cultural festival so they can show their support to the couple and let them know that while some detestable girls disapprove of the match, they're Idol's true and loyal fans and so they'll support them no matter what. Also, because Ichiru is their angelic prefect and he's the twin of their Zero! How can they even say anything against this couple?!
But even the few squeals from the newly established couple's fans quieted considerably when the brunette Moon dorm president slightly turned back and bestowed them such a chilling and sharp look. It must be what amounted to a glare when it comes to that senpai of theirs and so a hush completely blanketed the already restrained admirers. Their bewitched gazes can only dazedly follow the heavenly beauties of the Night class until they reach their destination. Surely, the cross-over has never been this solemn before.
"Now, go back to your dorm!" the older Kiryū bellowed with more venom than normal when the last of the vampires disappeared to the main school building.
All scrambled to comply, unable to deny the gorgeous prefect anything. They didn't notice when the other two prefects exchange relieved looks and sigh as if they just managed to escape a very dangerous situation. Internally, the prefects were hoping that this will calm the obviously unhappy pureblood.
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The warm auburn gaze on the impassive face of the Moon dorm president that followed the silver hunter as he patrol around the academy turned severe upon noting a presence that should not be near him. Russet eyes narrowed when they spotted the familiar silhouette of a light brown haired, blue eyed bespectacled female Day class student who seems to be stalking his mate. He can easily remember her for she still wore her long hair in the same low braids with two barrettes clipped on one side of her fringe. It's the same hairstyle she wore the first time he noticed him giving covert glances towards the silverette and yesterday, when she boldly confessed her undying love to his lover in front of the whole Day class students assembled for the cross-over.
Like the other students, her memories were modified and so she has no recollection of doing what she must have been intending to do for a while now. Cold burgundy eyes can't help darken even further at the notion that she might try again.
How irritating.
He has never abhorred any human before. While he never shared his uncle's idea of them being mere cattle to be feed upon nor thought of them with reverence for he did see foolishness in them, he does respect them enough especially when they try to reach for aspirations well above their own abilities and work hard despite their limitations and mortality. Indeed, it must be because of that fatality that he sometimes fancied himself envious of them. Death might claim them at any time and so every moment spent is a glorious and beautiful one. And because they know that their doom will inevitably come, they brave even the highest seas and steepest mountains to achieve whatever they covet the most.
He had seen Shindo Nadeshiko's attempts to get close to the hunter. He would often wonder then why savage relief will keep on swelling deep inside him every time the hunter rebukes her. Now he knows why and though the pureblood knows that his mate will never accept her feelings, he can't possibly permit her another chance to express her feelings. He won't allow it. She's done enough damage what with the result of her foolish action just last night. Immediately, he turned from the window and proceeded outside the room.
Damn it. The silver prefect cursed upon sensing a Day class student near. He can't believe he was so deep in thought that his senses belatedly registered her scent, heartbeat and overall aura. These people are really giving him a headache. He scowled when the fact that he must really do something to put a stop to it once and for all grew more vividly inside him. He just knew that he'll fucking lose it should he get confessed to once more. But before he could turn around to yell at his chaser, his hunter senses tingled at the sudden appearance of the vampire king who should really be in class like a good student.
Lilac eyes scowled at the irresponsible Night class student who dared to play truant in front of an academy prefect. "What the hell are you doing out of class, Kaname?" he demanded harshly, lavender gaze turner sharper when he met a suspiciously smiling brunette. There's something quite wicked and devilishly malicious in those auburn orbs that's setting him on edge. He frowned, "Go back to class."
"I assure you that there's no harm done. After all, we were given a free moment to study by ourselves."
"Then go study and don't bother me." Zero growled. He doesn't know why but something in Kaname was presently distressing him. He wasn't even aware of stepping back from the pureblood.
The action didn't escape the brunette's notice. An imperceptible smile reappeared on his inhumanly exquisite face at the uncharacteristically agitated expression of his lover which was apparent in his distrustful lavender orbs and by the crease on his forehead, "My, am I frightening you?"
"Fuck, no." but despite his determined answer, he unconsciously took another step back.
"Then why do you seem to be on edge?"
"You tell me. What's wrong with you?"
"Believe me, there's nothing wrong with me." He chuckled at seeing the furrow on his lover's forehead deepen in anxiousness. He added sultrily, "Is it suspicious of me to come to my lover whenever the opportunity presents itself?" and just like that, he crossed the little distance between them and took the hunter's lips on his. He sucked and nibbled his lower lip before taking him deeply and exploring the familiar moist and luscious cavern. They have already shared numerous kisses and yet, each and every one still tastes heavenly. Perhaps, it will always be this sweet and isn't that such a pleasant prospect. While offering his beloved a captivating kiss, he felt his lover capitulate, closing amethyst eyes. The pale hands that were meant to push him away remained motionless on his arms.
The pureblood successfully hypnotized his hunter to join him in that familiar dance and soon the world fell away. They became blind and deaf to everything else in their surroundings. An insistent hand slipped inside the folds of his mate's black uniform while another arm clenched tighter around the lithe body to press it closer against him, further enthralling his lovely captive to ensure that he's mesmerize enough that he won't notice the shock gasp and rapid heartbeat of their audience.
The prefect struggled when he finally caught himself, his hands immediately pushing the damn pureblood's chest, "Kaname! What the fuck?!" he panted when he managed to free his lips from the sudden onslaught.
The vampire king merely redirected his kisses on the long, smooth neck before him. He sucked his enchantingly soft and tattooed skin before saying, "Never allow anyone else see this expression, Zero. Remember, it's only I who's allowed to see you like this. That only I can make you like this." An authoritative voice declared instead of justifying his conduct. A thumb gently caressed the scarlet cheeks of his sexily disheveled hunter, enjoying his alluringly erotic expression.
This damn bastard. "How can I fucking forget?" The silverette growled, blushing harder than ever. "When you'll remind me every other freaking night?" Did this freaking asshole really just come there to remind him of that? As if he needed a fucking reminder.
"I merely do not wish for you to forget." Kaname chuckled, giving him one last chaste kiss before letting him go.
One delicate silver brow rose in annoyance. If he didn't know that this irritating pureblood is a creature from some dark country and really has a propensity to hellish possessiveness, he would have thought that he had finally lost it.
"Just go back to class!" the silver hunter roared before angrily stomping away from the irksome bastard of a lover even though, as a disciplinary committee member, he should really escort him back to the main building. Still, the only think in the silverette's mind was put some distance between him and the bastard before he does something he'll regret. The prefect has a nagging feeling that he forgot to do something quite important but was too crossed to even try to remember. He didn't appreciate being harassed on top of everything else.
Quiet and smiling burgundy orbs followed his retreating hunter before sharply turning to the direction where a certain mortal was previously standing. He set chase once the silver prefect was far enough. He could tell that she had already stopped her mad dash and was already resting while, most certainly, contemplating what she just beheld.
"It's futile. No matter how long you stare at him, no matter how hard you work to gain his attention, it's all for naught. He'll never be yours."
One Shindo Nadeshiko hastily turned at the cold voice that suddenly reverberated around her. Why is he here? Is this about Zero-kun? How did he know she was watching him? And how did Kuran-senpai caught her so fast? Well, maybe she wasn't able to run that far since her legs turned to jelly upon witnessing her beloved prefect get kissed by the most esteemed Night class student but she ran away while they were still kissing so how? She was still breathless because of the sudden marathon while carrying the broken pieces of her heart but found that she's unable to catch her breath for a pair of dark and fearsome wine regards were trained on her. She froze as unexplained apprehension and terror filled her. It's as if she's meeting an angel's cold and compelling regard, who has the power to smite her where she stands. She found herself unable to speak or even look away.
"Everything that he is, his past, present and future, are all mine. You have no chance to be a part of it. Never attempt or even think of closing that distance." Kaname ordered in a low and freezing tone before finally leaving the wide-eyed female who immediately slumped weakly on the forest floor, unable to utter anything in response. Just as well, for he has no interest in hearing what she has to say.
The Night class president then ventured back to the main building. He can tell that he has yet another observer but he didn't stop to acknowledge his presence knowing that he'll announce himself soon, no doubt to berate him for his questionable actions tonight.
"Kaname." One Ichijou Takuma appeared from behind a tree. His handsome face contorted with worry and confusion. "Why did you do that?" He was just also taking advantage of their self-study time to spend time with his girlfriend before the prefects went to bed when he happened upon the delicate situation. He sensed that there was a Day class student who could see the couple in their intimate moment so he got worried. What he witnessed afterwards was even more worrisome. He cannot understand what possessed his dear friend to do something so cruel to someone relatively harmless.
"Enough, Takuma. Let's go back."
"But!" the noble protested but still followed his king, "She's only a simple girl of no consequence. You know that Zero-sama would have never left you for her so why?"
"I know this already, Takuma."
The blond can only shake his head to show his objection, "This is so unlike you, Kaname. She was no threat to you."
The pureblood didn't justify his actions nor further provide a response to the troubled noble even to ease his distress. He knew he acted uncharacteristically petty and that someone as insignificant as that woman doesn't warrant even the smallest attention from him. Yet, he can't help the vile feeling that viciously springs inside him at the mere recollection of those pure and ardent gazes from innocent cerulean eyes. Even he can't believe he was feeling insecure and inferior against a simple mortal. It's laughable but whenever he thinks of some abominable possibilities that his treacherous mind keeps on conjuring, he can't help the cruel wish to violently crush that fervent affection.
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He's really stupid. Why is he letting himself get talk into doing this? He knew it's freaking ridiculous. It's a freaking pain in the ass and they even just about to have their examinations! It's certainly not the time to do something troublesome. They could just count the days before the school formally let out so it means that they just need to endure it for less than a week.
In the past, he would even rather just swallow his own tongue than ever let the mere thought cross his mind but his brother and his pipsqueak adopted-sister are like a fucking irritating freight train haranguing him all the time. Not to mention a certain pureblood kept on his sour mood and despite his many reassurances, Zero is not fooled for a moment. He would never admit to anybody that part of the reason he's willing to do something like this is because of that bastard. Yeah, relationship sucks. So after being accosted and harassed by the two obnoxious devils and reassured by his twin countless of times, he found himself on his way to make the most unbelievably moronic arrangement with an equally idiotic person.
"Argh!" the silverette growled for the hundredth time while on his way to his guardian's office.
"It's really fine, nii-san." Ichiru voiced just behind him as he followed.
"That's right, Zero. It's already come to this so let's do this!" Yuki cajoled, also following him.
"Damn it. I know that already. Just shut up." The hunter glared at the two before opening the large double-doors once they finally reached their destination.
They all heard an exaggerated gasp from the chairman before the blond whack job took on a very touched expression as if about to cry from happiness, "My children visited me… My children actually visited me…"
"Stop it. Don't even try continuing that or I'll hurt you." Zero threatened in a low even voice which made the chairman froze from the act of pulling out a white handkerchief.
"Eh?" the headmaster paused. As if sensing the truth behind his threat, he didn't continue. With the knowledge of his hormonal son's foul mood these recent days, the thought of challenging that warning and that look didn't even cross his mind.
"We need a favor from you, chairman."
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She is a nice woman.
Garnet eyes narrowed when unwanted memories of innocent gazes belonging to a certain brown haired mortal intruded in his mind. He knew of her affection and of her kindness. Like him, her eyes always followed Zero. For sure, if a sick twist of fate happened where his lover were to be with that woman, she would have done everything to make him happy. She might even earn his affections in return just for that alone for she's that much in love with him and that thought makes him want to crush her thoroughly. Even just the idea that she could have made Zero happier for the world she'll provide him is that of only light, a great contrast to the world he's living in, sends vicious envy down his very core.
"Kaname?" His hunter's raspy voice rang in the darkness of the night, clearly having just woken up. "What's wrong?" Zero sleepily asked, leaning on his elbow to prop himself up to look at the brunette.
The pureblood king internally berated himself. His feelings and thoughts must have bled into the bond to have roused his lover, "It's nothing, Zero."
Zero gave him a sleepy scowl through half-lidded eyes, "Don't give me that shit." He snorted. He couldn't catch his lover's last thoughts but it must have been gloomy enough to stir him awake. He's about ready to flop back on the soft sheets but the unconscious worry over what's troubling the pureblood prevented any further drowsiness. He sleepily glared at the pureblood, ignoring the fact that it must have lost all its power to intimidate and warned, "Tell me or I'll make you regret it."
Kaname quietly smiled at the threat before sighing in defeat. "I just wondered…" he began after he finally laid down on the bed, taking his hunter with him and arranging him snugly in his half-embrace, "if you would have been happier living in a world full of light instead."
An alternate future.
Life as a human.
Having a cute wife.
Normally fathering a son or daughter.
The pureblood didn't voice anything else, but he knew Zero heard all the untold questions. Lilac eyes blinked, seemingly have fully awaken, before narrowing down on him. Sure that he said too much, he added, "So you see, it was really nothing."
An exasperated sigh came from the hunter before he huffed and turned to the other side, giving his back to the pureblood. Kaname silently sighed and smiled ruefully, knowing it was his fault and he deserved such treatment. The placating hand he raised in order to pull his hunter back froze when Zero finally spoke.
"The only world I know is one where I'm a hunter." The silverette said softly, "Where Ichiru is my brother, where Yuki is a clumsy oaf, where the chairman is an idiot, where Kaito is an asshole, where sensei is my master and where you're a bastard." He sighed audibly, "You're an idiot. Even children know there couldn't be a world of only light since there's day and night."
Kaname chuckled at the insult. Nevertheless, he knew Zero understood that he didn't just mean the literal sense of light. The hunter continued before he could say anything in response.
"I don't know any other world than what we have right now and I don't know what other light you're looking for," Zero then continued in a mumble that was almost inaudible if only Kaname was not a vampire, "You and the children are here, isn't that plenty of light already?"
Burgundy eyes can only stare at the back of his lover's silver head in quiet surprise because of that hushed declaration which the hunter seemingly didn't want him to hear. Copious affection he can't seem to contain drowned the pureblood. His arms embraced his lover tenderly and burrowed his nose on his silver locks and breathed, "Zero… Zero…" he repeated softly.
"Stupid." The hunter only mumbled but didn't do anything to extract himself from the vampire's hold and just like that, he finally managed to go back to sleep.
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A few days after the horrible and nightmarish chaos caused by the Day Class' stampede and a short talk with an ecstatic chairman, two students found themselves following a substitute instructor in the empty hallways of the Cross Academy's main building in the middle of the night.
"I'm telling you it's a bad idea."
"Come now, Zero, don't say that. Think positive."
"Right…" the silverette sighed with a heavy dose of irritation and frustration before saying, "I'm positive it's a bad idea."
Yuki huffed but didn't stop walking, "Really, Zero, you're making a big deal out of this."
Silver eyebrows knotted dangerously close together as he regarded the small brunette with disbelieving eyes, "You're the one who insisted on making this a secret and getting this freaking elective class now of all times! Do you know who normally teaches that class?! But now I'm the one making a big deal out of this?!"
"Oh hush, you. They'll hear us!" the pureblood hissed under her breath when they stopped in front of a familiar oak double door. It will be horrible if they're heard. She was even able to successfully hold her tongue though she's really dying from excitement deep inside. She even asked her cute nephew for his precious blood stone. It'll be disappointing to blunder now.
"That's right, princesses. Ready?" said the aggravating voice of the substitute instructor.
"Shut up, Kaito. Why are you even teaching this subject? It doesn't suit you one bit." Zero growled.
Kaito sighed as if disappointed by his kohai's shortsightedness, "Of course, Zero-chan," he started with a tone of controlled mockery, "if I didn't do this, I wouldn't be able to teach your lovely ass some manners. And of course, it will ease me to know that sensei's class is being handled by someone capable." He finished with an aggravating smirk.
"Fuck you."
"It's just your first day and already, you're not making a very good impression." Kaito tutted, smirk still in place. Before Zero could make additional rude remarks, he added, "Well, it's time and being the responsible teacher that I am, I don't want to be late. Let's go inside, shall we?"
Zero glared while Yuki giggled.
"Ah, one other thing, no fighting. Play nice with the other kids, unless, of course, the other kids wanna fight, then you have to kick the other kid's butt or shoot their asses with Bloody Rose. That's preferable."
The silverette didn't answer and simply flicked him the finger which Yuki slapped away.
Kaito only smirked even more, clearly unaffected, before throwing the double-doors open.
Yuki dragged Zero to the side so they won't be visible from anyone inside the room while Kaito started off with the greetings.
"What are you doing here?" someone inside that sounded like Souen Ruka voiced in a tone of irritation that Zero could certainly relate to.
"Well, don't sound too happy, lassie," Kaito answered, impervious to the slight hostility, "Mr. Aikawa finally keeled over so he'll be back to being only your English teacher and I will be replacing him for this subject." He finished the news that the silverette was sure gave no one, save for his children, pleasure. Sure enough, he heard a few brave groans from the Night class.
"Yes, yes, we can celebrate later." The brunette continued deadpan, not hurt by the abysmally poor welcome by the Night class, "Before we start though, you have two new classmates that will be joining you for this class. They're first years so don't bully them." He added the last part with suppress laughter as if the thought of Zero getting bullied was such a funny idea.
With that cue, Yuki, with her massive strength, excitedly dragged him, heavy feet and all, into the room.
Petulant lilac gaze stubbornly stayed in the dark hallway and refused to face the class in front of him even after he heard a collective gasp of surprise and heard several movements from the class. He would have ignored even Yuki, who for sure was waving enthusiastically like an idiot to a certain blond, when he felt her cling to his white uniform as if startled.
He finally looked in front only to groan at the sight of the whole class, except for Kaname, the children, Ichijou who was still sporting a look of utter surprise and Shiki who was asleep, in a respectful bow.
"Welcome to the Night class, Yuki-sama and Zero-sama!" the students simultaneously exclaimed loud enough that the silverette thought that the whole Cross Academy would wake up.
"Uhh…" Yuki uttered eloquently.
He heard a snicker and his lavender glare immediately zeroed on the substitute instructor.
"Well, this is quite a welcome. You don't get this every night, Zero-sama." Kaito mocked in a voice full of mirth and amusement.
The silverette ex-prefect groaned again. This is going to be a hell of a long night.
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