Author's Notes: Hello, everyone! Ｏ(≧∇≦)Ｏ Thanks for the warm welcome! °˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)◜✧˖° Look who's updating just as scheduled for once? (´∇ﾉ｀*)ノ If you're asking if there would be a repeat of this, I can't answer you yet. (｡•́︿•̀｡) The next chapter is still underway. (〜￣▽￣)〜
Anyway, while I tried to reread and edit this chapter the best I can, (つ﹏ 。) I'm afraid it still very far from perfect. ƪ(‾ε‾")ʃ Of course, that is all my fault. ╮(─▽─)╭ I'll try and edit it again in the far future. （ʃƪ＾3＾）
Please forgive me in advance. ＿φ(°-°=) This chapter seemed a little fast-paced and try as I might, I can't seem to make the proper changes. ＿φ(￣ー￣ ) Also, please do not expect good action scenes from me. (っ◞‸◟c) I live for fluff! (๑ ๑) F*ck. If I could and I had the ability, I'll put lemons in all the chapters! (з) Who wants to write about Rido?! ∑(ΦдΦlll No one! Alas, I'm sorry for the disappointment in advance! ｡ﾟ･（ ﹏ ）･ﾟ｡ Hope you still enjoy it! (´∇ﾉ｀*)ノ
Also, the spell on the strips bandaging Anne was written using a pureblood vampire's, Rido's, blood. Normal hunter's and vampire's spell shouldn't have any effect on her since she has control of both power in her blood but since it's a hunter's spell written in pureblood vampire's blood and given in her current state, she was unable to fight it.
Chapter 32
Incarnadine
"When the fuck will this end?"
Kaito cursed after taking one careful step after another down the damp stone steps. He didn't know how long he had been walking inside the damnable passage and he was getting irritated. He would have run but since he couldn't see what was in front, he opted in to cautiously thread his way lest he literally run to his death.
The air felt cold and musty on his skin. Long legs continued into the darkness and at length, finally descended the last of the steps. The hunter turned a corner to find a light in a distant. He hurried as much as he was allowed to using his little fire. He was almost upon the light of what appeared to be two torches hanging quite a distant from one another.
"What the hell do we have here?"
Black vertical metallic jail bars of what appeared to be a prison cell, illuminated by the two torches, came to view. Despite the current predicament, Kaito internally snorted.
"Seriously?" He couldn't believe that they still had something so medieval inside their respectable headquarters. Like fuck, yeah, they didn't have automatic doors but this was just too ancient. They really should demolish these disgraces inside the Association premises before those pompous bloodsuckers, who no doubt had the latest technologies, found that they still had something so primitive there.
"Damn waste-," The mockery he was about to spout died in his throat once he reached the holding cell and beheld the horror inside. His numb hand unconsciously let go of the lighter he was holding before stepping nearer to grip the prison bars.
No words or thoughts came as stunned hazel orbs beheld the lone creature seated on a metal chair in the middle of the room. It was hard to make out for the small body was bandaged by long narrow strips of paper or fabric that was decorated by the strongest and oldest hunter seal he knew. It was wrapped around the tiny body, which seemed to be naked under the tight covering, from her head to her ankles. Only a few small patches of her skin on her forehead, nose, chin, shoulders, inside bend of the elbows, fingers, stomach, thighs, and feet were visible.
The poor being also seemed to be tied to the back and arms of the infernal chair by another strips of cloth containing hunter incantations for immobilization. A red tube on each antecubital fossa was sticking out like an IV tube that Kaito would only realize later as blood being taken out of the body. Only the dark brown hair that escaped the tight shroud would give anyone identification of the sad captive.
"A-Anne." He rasped in stupefied disbelief. No. It couldn't be her… It was just not possible… How… How could anyone treat her so… so savagely? How could they… towards her? But he knew, even if he couldn't see her face. He just knew that the prisoner was the child-woman who used to annoy and irritate him out of his skin for no apparent reason. It was that royal pipsqueak. There was no mistake. Realization of the pain she must be feeling jarred him out of his disturbed condition. "Anne!" He shouted in agitation. Rough limbs tried to violently shake and kick the metal bars.
Frustration and anger instantly flooded him when the old damn thing didn't budge. He cursed when he saw hunter charms even on the jail bars and urgent hands immediately snatched the gun from under his coat.
Hunter spells wouldn't work on an anti-vampire weapon since they had the same power and so letting go of the silence, he shot the metal door's lock. All idea of stealth vanished in his mind. The sounds of gunfire echoed loud and clear inside the dungeon. He kicked open the entrance and immediately went to the unmoving body.
"Oi, brat!" The agitated hunter yelled as he anxiously tapped the covered face of the child. Maddening rage and fury fast filled him when he closely inspected the vicious and brutal way the accursed bastard wrapped her body and monstrously took her blood. "Damn it!" He cursed repeatedly even while searching for one of the hunters' knives he always carried with him after snatching away the two tubes that pierced her veins.
"Those bastards. They'll fucking pay." Kaito breathed harshly while cutting the binds as fast as he could without cutting her, internally thankful that it was a hunter knife he was carrying and not just any ordinary knife. He clenched his teeth even harsher when he gently unwrapped the broken strips to find purplish bruising marks on death pale skin. That bitch will fucking go to hell.
"Oi, Anne! Brat!" The livid voice loudly called while insistent hands mildly shook the small body in another attempt to rouse her. "Shit!" He gave up when the fair creature remained unconscious. Without much option left, he just wrapped his long coat around her semi-naked body and was about to get the fuck out of that hell when several marching feet resounded in the hall. Oh, damn it.
"What do you think you're doing, Takamiya-kun?" The president of the Hunter Association asked once they met the sight of the young hunter carrying their prize that was unbound by any of their spell and was out of its cell. He was followed by four more hunters, all dressed up, ready for a mission. They all wore unsurprised expressions telling Kaito of their knowledge of the situation. It fueled the young hunter's rage to unimaginable degrees.
"That's my question. What do you bastards think you're doing?!" He bellowed. This… this was purely monstrous! How could any human being with a beating heart do something like this to a child? To someone so innocent?
"What a funny question, specially coming from you, Takamiya-kun." The beautiful head of the association said. He glided nearer but abruptly halted his steps when the young hunter fearlessly pointed his gun at him in warning. "What is this, Takamiya-kun? It can't be that you're betraying your own kin because of pity for a monster?"
"I don't fucking remember having demons as my kin." He growled, unfazed by the cold scrutiny trained on him.
"Ah, it seems like you have been poisoned as well. I knew that Cross will be a thorn eventually. I really shouldn't have let that academy be established." The president sighed. "Give it here, Takamiya. That thing in your arms is not something worth pitying. It's just like a pureblood. Remember? Just like that fiend that turned your brother into a beast."
"Fuck you." Kaito knew that he was not wrong. Anne was indeed just like a pureblood, only with something even more special, but he never once thought of her as someone like the monster who turned his brother. No, because he was sure that this child was not evil. Those lavender eyes never once displayed anything remotely frightening or disgusting. No, she was not a monster.
Hazel eyes narrowed at the people he had once thought as one his own. He knew that the Association was no longer what it was or should be. The bitterness and disappointment at what it had become coursed through him. He squarely met the cold and apathetic scrutiny of their Association's president.
"Suit yourself." Then turned to the other four hunters and ordered concisely. "Kill him."
The youthful president watched indifferently as his subordinates moved to attack, already expecting their easy victory. However, he couldn't keep his apathy anymore when his more experienced underlings fell rather easily in the hands of a lone, hotheaded hunter. Groans of dying hunters soon filled at gloomy hallway. Arctic olive-green eyes narrowed irritably at the sight of the compelling barrier that protected the brunette.
Kaito smirked at the ugly look that took over the girlish features of the ogre in human skin. Sure. There were a lot of older hunters who were more powerful and experienced than him but he came prepared. A long middle finger touched the scarlet stone adorning his earring, a clear taunt at the asshole.
"I didn't know you would stoop so low as to use a bloodstone."
Hah?! Look at the nerve of this bitch. "You talking about yourself, you fucking scumbag?" The younger man didn't wait for the response and instantaneously fired his gun once more. After all the commotion, he just knew that the place would soon be swarmed by his enemies.
Innumerable curses colored the brunette's mind when the bullets hit nothing. What the hell?
"Still so impatient."
"Fuck."
Kaito gritted his teeth at the insane speed with which the purple-haired hunter evaded his attacks. Nimble fingers pressed the trigger to fire his weapon continuously, internally cursing the bitch for the action that no doubt granted him skills akin to a vampire.
The older man swiped his opened fan towards the brunette who immediately jumped back to evade the attack. Olive-green orbs crinkled in relief at the sight of the barrier vibrating slightly when it made contact with his weapon. While not perfect, the modifications made with his anti-vampire weapon would surely help him retrieve his reward. With the blood in that brat's veins, beauty and power would surely fall in his hands. Perhaps, it would even be possible to live longer than Kaien.
Dark eyebrows crumpled over confused hazel orbs at the slowly stabilizing enclosure before it turned invisible once more. His gaze found the satisfied expression on the monster in drag and the malevolent fan clutched in his hand. Something's wrong.
However, before he could pinpoint the reason for the president's now serene expression, the same hateful fucker drew a talisman that hunters normally use to call for help during desperate times.
Of fucking course.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
In a seemingly different realm with its still peaceful air, a lone blonde traversed the familiar hallways of his family's main mansion. Despite the years he spent in that lavish estate, nostalgia wasn't invoked by the grand architecture and familiar interior. All he could remember feeling was relief at leaving it once he was ordered to keep their king company to ensure of his continued favor towards the Ichijou Family.
As the chancellor as well as the head of Vampire Senate, it was already decided that he would become aid to their pureblood king. Takuma thought that it was the only blessing being born in that accursed family brought him. The rest of his childhood were only filled with abusive words, disappointed sighs, heavy expectations, punishing slaps and emotional turmoil.
His grandfather once told him that he would one day become the leader of the senate so he had to be perfect. However, he never wanted that. He only wanted something far simpler.
It was apparently not grand enough for his grandfather.
It was inevitable that their paths would diverge at one point.
The young noble searched himself for any hint of hesitation in what he was about to do but found his feeling to be the same as when his grandfather had first ordered him to spy on their king. He still felt that unwavering loyalty towards the brunette. How could he even betray his friend? Who, despite that ever-unchanging apathy on his ethereal face and even with the knowledge of his grandfather's machinations, still treated him sincerely? He thought that he would never regret taking Kaname's side.
"Young master?"
Takuma's contemplations were halted by the surprised voice of their old butler. While they, as lowly servants, couldn't help him despite seeing how he was continuously pressured and harshly treated by their master, they tried their best in serving him with utmost goodwill. He couldn't claim a close relationship with any of the household servants for he rarely returned after formally serving Kaname, but he could still feel for them. Now that he thought about it, wouldn't he be saving all of them by fulfilling his mission?
"Young master, is something going on? There were a lot of rumors going around. They said that during the Winter Sols-," The old vampire couldn't even finish his worried inquiries for the esteemed child of their house raised his hand to stop him.
"Don't worry yourself, Matsuda-san. All will be over soon"
The confused butler was mute for a moment. Old grey gaze found the familiar smiling visage of the noble vampire. However, despite the familiarity of it, he couldn't help but think that it was miles away from the usual angelic smile of his young master. He recognized that it was because those deep, hardened emerald orbs replaced the childish hope that everything would be better if he tried harder. Before the old servant could further inquire about his young master's state, a would-be cheerful voice questioned him.
"Grandfather is here, right? Could you lead me to 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-
Hanabusa slashed his sword downwards, effectively taking the hunter's life. Crimson liquid stained his black coat after flicking his sword once to shake off the blood. Despite all the enticing scent in the air, retained aquamarine orbs narrowed irritatingly at the general direction that a certain apprentice instructor disappeared to less than an hour earlier. After all that reminder, he still managed to loudly advertise his presence. He knew it! He was as impulsive as the silver consort!
Despite the building ire, the blonde couldn't simply leave the allied hunter to single-handedly deal with the mess he made. With the thought of his beloved angel in mind, he found himself stealthily trying to reach where the loud signal call was made. He was sure that he would find that moronic hunter there as well. The task, however, was proving difficult because of the sheer number of hunters slowly blocking his path. Even with the tremendous help of the barriers, he didn't think to try and test how long it would last against numerous attacks made at the same time.
Startled sapphire orbs widened when he then smelled the familiar scent of his dorm mate's blood in the air. He turned to find Shiki Senri slowly walking to him, one hand on his bleeding arm.
"Aido."
"What in the world happened?" How had he still gotten hurt with Akira-sama's bloodstone on his bracelet?
"I met a high-ranking hunter. He wielded a weird weapon."
"Weird weapon?" Hanabusa asked, observant sapphires eyed the slowly closing wound.
"It's a newly developed anti-vampire weapon." Answered a different voice.
The blonde noble turned to the hunter who came with the vampire. He didn't know he would ever feel relief at the sight of this particular hunter. "Sensei!" His darling Ichiru repeatedly expressed worry regarding Yagari Toga's safety. Now, at least, his baby could rest easy. "What did you mean by that, sensei?"
"That bitch collaborated with the vamps to develop weapons that could rival Zero's brats' powers." The older man explained, irritably puffing a smoke. They used the same concept of combining hunter weapons with pure blood. They initially failed of course, but finally found perfect way. They used the blood they collected and preserved from Ichiru and Zero years ago.
Since the Kiryū twins managed to survive when it was well known that hunter twins never lasted in the womb, the more academic and less prejudice of them wanted to know how it was made possible. That study would have led to a remarkable rise in the number of hunters. The black-haired hunter growled in frustration. The blood was supposed to be used for the betterment of the hunters. Trust that bastard to taint such a virtuous cause.
Good thing that the study was still in its initial stages and the preserved Kiryū blood was highly limited. They only managed to create less than ten of such weapons. Still, it had taken him too long to silence all the people involved in the research and steal all the research materials. While it was undeniable how this could profit the hunters, the raven-haired hunter didn't like the idea of having his dear pupils shed blood to make it possible.
Toga infiltrated the Association with the intention to make off with the only successful products and was surprised to see the situation at hand. He was barely in time to help the vampire model from being skewered by one such weapon.
Gloom settled over the thoughtful blonde. That made things more complicated. He no longer wondered why Shiki's wound was slow to heal. If the injury was done by a weapon bearing the dynamic forces of hunter, pureblood and Suzaku, then it could very well be lethal to anyone. "Do you still have your extra bloodstone from Akira-sama?"
"I already replaced the broken one." The brunette answered in his usually listless and even tone.
"We need to quickly take care of the president." The hunter shortly said. He was only slightly taken aback when the blonde offered a silver bracelet with a garnet stone to him. He nodded his thanks and added, "I'm sure that his weapon was the first to be modified."
"There was a loud signal that seemed to call to all the hunters just earlier. If I'm not wrong, that could be the president. Takamiya-sensei already went to that direction." Hanabusa then informed. Long legs were already running to lead the other two. All swiftly moved, cloud of their softly flapping dark coats surrounded them.
The raven-haired hunter clicked his tongue. Of all the fucking possibilities, why did it have to be that quick-tempered brute? He needed to hurry before Kaito kicked the bucket. He was not the type to stall for time. "Where are they?"
He had just finished asking when suddenly, an incredibly huge explosion went off in some distance to their left.
"They're probably over there." Shiki uselessly pointed out.
"Well spotted, kid." Toga responded dryly. A hand was already back around the grip of his gun while his one eye met the stunned regards of the hunters they met on their way.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
There was only a loud shriek before the creature pierced by a blade made of water turned to ashes. The silver beauty straightened her posture as reddish-lavender orbs momentarily stared blankly at the vandalized wall of the alley way. Her expression spoke of no emotions but her family would certainly note the dour and deep gaze.
"We have finished sweeping this area, Suiren-sama." Seiren appeared behind the silverette together with three other nobles.
The answering nod was the only indication that the enchanting creature heard the solemn report. Still without turning to her companions, a pale arm then raised to let a silvery owl land on her hand before she spoke. "Nao and Rima-bachan were finished, too."
"Understood." The purple-haired girl bowed in understanding.
The nobles watched in amazement as their silver prince's familiar disappeared in the air. "Shall we move to the next area, ohime-sama?" One of the nobles asked.
Another nod answered the vampire before all instantly disappeared to another area to silently and covertly clean out the filths that threatened their peace.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
"I wonder how senpai is?" Loudly wondered the brunette who was still in the middle of her patrol of the Kuran Castle's expansive outer grounds. She trudged slowly and nonchalantly, sure that there would be no immediate danger upon them. She only halted when chocolate orbs spied another irresponsible figure in the form of her adopted-brother. "Ichiru?"
"Yuki, can you feel that?" The newly transformed vampire turned to his sister. Unsurprised for he already sensed her before she even came near. He was just trying his hands on his freshly developed senses to test how far he it could go when he felt something amiss.
"Feel what?" Yuki closed her eyes to briefly sharpen her vampire senses and was startled to perceive the aura of the creatures she could only associate with vampires that had fallen too low. Wide russet orbs opened to meet worried amethysts.
Without words, both ran with inhuman speed towards the incoming intruders. They could feel several nobles follow suit, much to their relief.
They stopped their mad dash at the edge of the outer grounds. Both tried to stop the shudder at the sight of about a hundred or more pairs of vicious vermillion orbs and deadly fangs from growling and drooling mouths.
No wonder there were talks about human disappearances nationwide! Only truly moronic individuals would not note the abnormality.
Oh. "I think we're in big trouble." The brunette mumbled numbly. Chocolate orbs still intent at the upcoming disaster. Didn't everyone tell her that the possibility of an attack was slim to none? So, what was this?
"Oh really, you think?!" It was already screaming on their faces, this idiot. Immediately, Ichiru summoned his anti-vampire weapon and was bewildered that it felt even lighter and in harmony with him after he became a vampire. He was so astonished that he could only belatedly acknowledge the arrival and worried exclamations of the noble vampires from the Aido, Souen, Akatsuki and Toya households who came to aid them.
"Yuki-sama! Ichiru-kun, are you both still alright?" Aido Nagamichi urgently inquired.
"Yuki-sama, Ichiru-sama, please retreat to safety." The head of the Souen asked, immediately standing in front of the two important figures of the vampire society.
"We're alright, Aido-san, Souen-san." Yuki assured them, which was seconded by a flustered Ichiru, before also summoning Artemis. The weapon still made her palm tingle but she bore with it. She could no longer be fussy.
With just one more look at her current companions, she poised to meet the attack of the now sprinting mob of insane creatures. She had to stand her ground. She after all promised her brother to protect their home.
More importantly, she told someone that she would be waiting there.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
"Haku! Haku! Quick! Look over there and check if there's a secret black hole that's vomiting these morons!" Despite the energetic exclamation, Kuran Akira seemed genuinely pissed off at the seemingly endless streams of level Es and aristocrats fighting them. An annoyed groan resounded before columns of fire surrounded the young Adonis to buy him some time. Russet orbs glanced towards his uncle and aunt to make sure the barrier he erected to protect them was still intact. It was harder to keep it when he was using multiple abilities on top of being occupied.
"Calm yourself, Aki. You're embarrassing me." Kohaku dully responded though burgundy orbs seriously observed the rather skilled swordsman who expertly parried his blades. Nevertheless, he did not forget to discharge bolts of electricity to the couple of bold ones who tried to come for his back. After a few more exchanges and a feint, he managed to stab his opponent. He took the chance to checked their companions in time to see the two unleashed attacks within the safety of his twin's barrier. He released a relieved sigh before unleashing multiple bolts in his surroundings.
The scent of something sharp and almost astringent filled the atmosphere, mingling with the metallic scent and sooth in the air.
"Argh. It stinks, Haku!" Came the loud complaint from a boisterous brunette. "Don't let loose your thunder near me! You'll ruin my hairstyle!"
An imaginary vein ruptured at that outrageous remark. After being exhausted mentally, emotionally and physically, even the normally mild-mannered brunette would snap. That idiot! Where did he think they were? And to care about his hairstyle of all things! Even though he knew his twin was only being his usual annoying self and was not in fact being careless, he could not help the surge of his temper. With his mind power, he lightly lifted a garden statue to hurl at his obnoxious twin, fully knowing that he would effortlessly dodge it.
And dodged it the younger Kuran did.
Only, the statue hit a noble, who was poised to attack, in an unmentionable place. Both brunettes winced. They thought they also heard their uncle groan in sympathy. The younger's wide eyes met the elder's equally startled ones.
"I always thought you were kind of cruel, Haku, but I didn't think you were this heartless." Akira earnestly remarked, half impressed and half horrified.
"Did you honestly think I'm a demon? That was not my intent." Came the clearly affronted rebuttal of the Kuran heir.
Their ridiculous discourse was immediately disrupted by another torrent of attacks. As if reading each other's mind, both princes vented their vexation by releasing walls of fire and lightning. They couldn't even pay attention to another astonished gasps from their aunt and uncle. All they wanted to do was finish the encounter as fast as they could. However, it was the third time they did the hellish attack and while the number of nobles greatly diminished, the storm of level Es remained incessant.
When the blinding view finally settled to leave only charred grounds, mountains of ashes and a discernably number of level Es, flaming vermillion orbs met again. Finally seeing the end of the bothersome crowd, they repeated the attack despite the strain.
When the ruined surrounding was at last cleared of hungry eyes and crazy expressions, both brunettes breathed deeply in satisfaction. Even the slight weakening and trembling of their limbs was well worth it if the adversaries had finally been annihilated.
Sensing that he could now jokingly whine like usual without his twin launching errant statues that may just endanger his privates, Akira smirked as if he had nothing to do with the indiscriminate attacks. "Please don't do that again. There are other ways to get attention."
"Silence, you." Kohaku glared at his twin before serenely turning to the only nobles remaining. "Any injuries, Ruka-bachan, Kat-jichan?"
"None, thanks to both of you, Kohaku-sama." Ruka answered with awe. She already knew that they were strong when she fought with them the night before. However, unlike last night where they had to restrain themselves due to the captives, the exalted creatures before her unleashed just destructiveness that she thought death would imminent despite the dependable barrier around them. It was truly in their favor that their foes didn't attempt the same strategy. Well, perhaps all the humans they captured were turned into level Es, she thought with disgust.
"Shall we look for Anne-sama then?" Kain then asked, already shaken out of his stupefaction. It was a good thing that he was never a vain person or he would have himself depressed at the sight of power so wholly beyond his own abilities.
Any answer the twins would have uttered was disrupted by the sound of another collapsing wall in the mansion. They had been aware of the violent fight that was happening somewhere in the mansion. Only the preoccupation and their beloved chichiue's orders prevented them from allowing it to steal their attention.
They didn't even allow thoughts of intervening intrude their minds. They knew the priority at the moment and after the briefly smelling their sister's blood in the air earlier, they knew they mustn't waste any more time. "Everyone will split up. Please inspect all the rooms and leave nothing unturned." The adversaries proved capable of concealing themselves so it would be possible to do the same to their sister.
Without knowing of the crucial truth about the eldest princess' whereabouts, each decided on the floor dedicated to their search. All as one ran without stopping, not quite allowing themselves to be distracted when another loud commotion reached the ruins of the once unmaintained but beautiful garden.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
Green, thorny vines muted the deranged sound of one fallen vampire before it constricted tightly around his head and crushed it mercilessly. The vines opened up to nothing and uncaring lavender orbs passively watched the ashes get carried away by the wind.
"Nao."
The quiet but still melodious call for his name had him turning to the angelic silverette who soundlessly landed behind him. Pale hands held both his own in a decidedly innocent fashion. A smile finally appeared on the princess' face after being absent for almost the whole day.
The poor noble from the Souen clan who was startled to silence at the sudden appearance of their youngest princess couldn't quite make his report at the seemingly important conversation the pair was doing with their eyes. He could only watch as slightly cheerful lavender orbs met almost somnolent lavender orbs. Since their mission seemed to be over already, he didn't think it wise of him to interrupt the two. Especially after seeing how silently and rapidly their prince decimated his opponents.
Having already sensed their tasks' completion, Naoto seriously considered his twin's silent suggestion of daring their fathers' and brothers' wrath by following behind. He also spared careful thought to going to the Association instead. He could still remember what that president did to their otou-chan. Sadly, before the youngest prince could decide, a frantic noble made the decision for him.
"Naoto-oujisama! Naoto-oujisama! The Kuran Castle is under attack! Eeek, Suiren-himesama!" The frantic vampire froze dramatically when two pairs of darkened amethysts fell on her. She couldn't move or acknowledge the arrival of the team who accompanied their silver princess and the rest of her own group.
The small smile on the angelic face turned into a resentful pout once Suiren heard the news. Loathe as she was to abandon her earlier plan, she knew she could not leave their aunt Yuki and uncle Ichiru be. Still, it was very vexing to be kept away from the place where she would rather be.
Seeing the bitter resignation on his twin's face, Naoto also disregarded his own displeasure and instead nodded once before turning to both his aunts. "Please check."
"Please rest assured, Naoto-sama. We shall make doubly sure that all threats had been completely wiped out before returning." Seiren, who came from the same silent country, immediately acknowledged the order.
"Please return carefully!" Having understood the decision made, all the noble vampires chorused.
Without another word, the silver pair jumped from the rooftop they were at. Pale hands still connected and quietly raging fire inscrutable in their glowing scarlet orbs.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
Harsh breaths escaped the exhausted hunter but even though his lungs protested at being overworked and his chest constricted because of the effort to outrun the monster chasing them, long legs didn't even stop to rest. Weary but still heated orbs glared at the abominable fan that once again struck the now considerably shaky barrier. He could tell that after another attack or two, the protective dome would completely disappear. Kaito was not that worried though, for he still had a couple of that particular bloodstones to spare. What made him worried was the inability to deal any crucial attacks on the despicable bitch still hot on his heels. Not to mention, something was severely altered with that annoying fan of his.
The brunette lunged to dodge another strike that destroyed the floor he had just passed. A quick hand then immediately threw another set of throwing knives wrapped with hunter talismans. He continued to run with his arms constricted protectively around the precious bundle and didn't look at the explosion that occurred which sent another wave a debris to pollute the air. He knew that it didn't have the intended effect on that overpowered asshole but he still smirked when he heard irritated growls from behind.
While he wasn't able to land any major hit, the brunette knew that he at least exhausted him quite a bit. Even vampires get tired. What more a hunter who only temporarily gained inhuman abilities through the deplorable means of stealing blood? That said though, he was becoming as drained as his opponent if not more. Not to mention, even if he looked like a bimbo now, that bastard was still powerful enough to have had earned the title of Association President. Coupled with momentary increased in his speed and regeneration abilities and that troublesome weapon of his, it would be stupid to underestimate him.
"Fuck." Kaito ducked to avoid the stab of a metal fan. Regardless of his efforts, the attack still hit the barrier which finally worn its use. The almost transparent dome shook before completely fizzling. Though slightly shaken due to the aftershock of the dissipated barrier, nimble movements didn't pause and soon he was dashing once again.
He had to smirk at the reaction he received when he took out another bejeweled bracelet. Mocking hazel orbs watched with satisfaction as the triumphant expression on the youthful face unsightly crumpled in anger.
"Takamiya! You're getting on my nerves!" Roared the annoyed voice behind him.
That's my line, you shithead. He internally mussed though he didn't shout back in an attempt to conserve more of his energy. Long limbs continuously ran through the minimally illuminated path and jumped over the large rocks that fell on the narrow stair when he had thrown a small bomb at the fiend in an act of desperation which thankfully didn't cause the whole structure to collapse. When copper orbs spied the bright sight of the exist, he sprinted even faster. Fucking finally!
What met the panting young man upon stumbling out of the spooky dungeons, chilling tunnels, narrow stairs and dusty storage room was sight of an on-going melee in the now wrecked covered hallway. He could even see the light of the early afternoon through the demolished ceiling. Despite the situation, hazel orbs couldn't help but pause for a while at the sight of some hunters crushed under the boulders.
He had thought he was lucky when the irritating alarm that almost busted his eardrums didn't summon more annoying flies to him. Now, he knew why. He met the regard of all the companions who came with him and to his delight, he even found the gallant figure of his mentor firing his guns at several hunters.
"Kaito-kun!" Kaien immediately came to him after dealing grievous blows on two other hunters. "Watch out!"
The brunette who was momentarily frozen stupid with relief and exhaustion was snatched from his place by capable hands. He barely out of the way of razor-sharp winds. Those fucking wind blades again? That fan really needed to be broken.
"Kaien." Growled the newly arrived Association President. He was very tired and irritated so the face of his eternal rival was not appreciated.
"President." Was the only thing the blonde managed to utter before he parried the attacks from the metal fan. He couldn't even ascertain the brunette's well-being or ask about the package he was carrying. He was already informed about the disturbing new weapons their Association created using the blood of his children and so he made measured movements.
As much as Kaito would have wanted to take the chance to catch his breath, a different hunter tried to stab him. Curiously, the barrier didn't shake this time. He easily managed to shoot the fucker in the head before his back met the large one of his teacher's. "Sensei."
"Good. You're not dead yet." Toga muttered even while throwing some knives. "Listen carefully but don't get distracted." He then launched a very brief explanation about the troublesome weapons without looking at his pupil.
Fuck. Seriously? "How many are they?"
"We already took care of some. Only three left." The older hunter answered. Bullets found the head of the swordsman whose attack was hindered by the sturdy barrier surrounding the two. How convenient. He didn't even need to take cover.
"Okay. That bitch has one. The other two?" Kaito asked while also firing shots. Now more aware of the situation, he needed to be wary of only three people. The rest were pitiful collateral damage.
Considering the owners of the other weapons, Toga deduced, "Most probably Ogata and Kusakabe." He named the two other closest hunters to their president.
"Fuck."
"I already asked the two vamps to search the buildings." Toga of course knew who was the greater threat.
The younger hunter looked around after taking care of the buff hunter who finally went out of his hiding place and saw that the only vampires in their midst were already missing. Though he was probably being negligent, the brunette didn't really care much for Kusakabe who was a swordsman. They had the long-range advantage as marksmen. The most disturbing one was Ogata.
She was a sniper.
-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 once lavish room was already reduced to ruins that would certainly have made the owner of the mansion cry tears of blood. However, the ruinous raid only continued. Another barrage of the metallic vines smashed part of the expansive wall and the room beyond that. Already, they could see the outside hallways where the same vines wreaked havoc in pursuit of one annoying pureblood.
The silver hunter growled again. While there was a noticeable drop in speed in the slimy old bastard's movements and his stamina was surely challenged by the continuous attacks from two powerful vampires, they were still unable to put an end to his struggles. They had naturally landed a few heavy blows on the rat but his previously insane regeneration rendered those attacks useless. The hunter could tell though; the advantage his daughter's blood had given that infernal Rido was slowly waning.
Nevertheless, the silverette could not celebrate for he was also slowly getting exhausted. Even while remaining stationary the whole time, for no amount of fury would make him forget about the life inside him, Bloody Rose's new form took more from him in exchange for its destructive force. He knew that without the bond with his mate, he would have already collapsed. Whatever. He was sure to last longer than that bastard who was now parrying his mate's sword.
Glowing ruby orbs darkly observed at the slowly paling vampire. For sure, Rido had either overestimated the power he would get from Anne's precious blood or severely underestimated the might of their bond. His folly of using his strength to make hundreds of level Es and sharing his blood to his subordinates undoubtedly weakened him as well. It mattered not. Kaname swore to use everything to his advantage to finally free himself of the unwanted link with this devil. His kick had sent the older one flying. "Zero."
"I know." The hunter then wasted no time in catching the cursing figure with Rose. He had intended to strangle the life out of the old weasel but he still managed to escape though not without numerous cuts that were currently slow to heal.
Wretches! Rido internally cursed as he nursed the largest of his injuries with his hands. He didn't think that they would be able to deal so much damage on him. He was incensed at the humiliation of being reduced to his current state.
In the first place, he didn't think that the silver hunter would already be able to participate in battle. The poison he had used was the deadliest of its kind. In the off chance that he would show up, he thought that he would at least struggle to control his new weapon. It was too obvious just the night before how he couldn't even make the weapon obey his will! Unacceptable!
Landing soundlessly beside his lover, Kaname further observed the ugly expression etched on his uncle's face. He was doubtless that unconsciously, the older pureblood had already written off his hunter as insignificant. That was his first mistake. He had clearly forgotten that there was a reason why the Kiryū family was highly regarded by the hunters. His deeply seated belief in their race also made him exaggerate the effects of his children's blood. But how could a mere cup go against astounding prowess of a bonded couple who constantly exchanged potent blood? Rido was truly a fool.
Without needing to look at each other, the Vampire King immediately kicked the floor to slash at his uncle who met his blade with his blood whip.
Previously taunting vermillion orbs now agitatedly watched ancient sanguine ones. He spared a glance at the more problematic hunter. He had noted that the silverette had barely moved. He knew why and it would be to his advantage. This ancestor would never be able to kill him and with the only real threat slightly incapacitated due to his present condition, it was still possible for him to escape. While others would think that it was a disgrace to retreat, he knew that surviving took priority. With the brat still in his possession, taking revenge later would still be possible. Deciding to give them the slip, he released a cloud of bats to aid him.
His smile of triumph when his nephew jumped backwards was halted, however, when he felt the pain that blossomed in his chest. Startled rubies gazed at the lone thorny vine that appeared in his chest through his back. He tried to look behind but saw nothing. Frustrated gaze found the hunter who had both hands in his coat pockets and still standing where he saw him last. Fury filled him when he belatedly noticed a silver vine partially concealed by the hunter's long coat piercing through his pocket and into the ground. He didn't think the older Kiryū's infamous explosive temper would allow him to do a sneak attack. Rido couldn't help the laugh that escaped his mouth even as the piercing vines multiplied.
Quiet crimson and disgruntled vermillion watched the mad vampire maniacally snicker. The sound continued to get louder and the silverette was seriously worried that the vampire had another card in his sleeve to be able to express mirth even in the face of apparent death and defeat. However, he could only be further convinced of the older pureblood's insanity when the joyful sound suddenly turned into anguish screams. Eerie shrieks filled the whole estate until all that was left were large pieces of crystallized remains.
Then it was over.
The couple stood for a moment of confounded amazement.
Was that really it?
Even after hearing only the pair of heartbeat previously drowned by the sound of pandemonium and destruction clearly, they still couldn't quite believe the truth presented to them.
It was done.
Mission accomplished.
Their task was complete.
Burgundy orbs momentarily stared unseeingly at the remains of his unwelcomed donor. For a while, doubtful that he was finally freed of him. However, that infernal link was indeed nowhere to be felt anymore. Instead, the warm bond he shared with his one and only pulsed happily deep inside him. He looked up at the sky which could be seen from the destroyed wall of the mansion. He knew that other than the change in color because of the later hour, it had remained the same as always. Somehow, it looked much prettier than normal to him.
"Stop stupidly standing there."
The pureblood turned to his silver hunter and met reverted breathtaking lavender orbs. Even in his slightly dirty and tousled state from the earlier fight, he was still the most welcomed and ravishing sight his claret orbs had ever laid upon.
A long time ago, he had planned for this magnificent creature to end things he could not do so with his own hands. The results shouldn't come as a surprise. So why was he still astonished at the sight granted to him? Wasn't that what his hunter always did? Didn't he always free him from all his shackles and provided him with all the treasures he didn't think he would ever desire? "You have my gratitude, my love."
The silverette quickly banished the quick thudding of his errant heart and the inappropriate blush that tried to creep into him at the sight of a soft smile and loving wine orbs on him. It was not the time. "Shut up. Let's go find our daughter."
"Indeed, my love."
However, the actions taken to look for their other children and the two nobles froze when both caught sight of innumerable silver creatures flying away from the ruined mansion.
Dark eyebrows crumpled over deep russet orbs at seeing his sons' familiars moving in all directions.
Spying silvery crows and ravens dotting the purple-orange winter sky of the late afternoon, the hunter also frowned. "Aren't those Aki's and Haku's familiars?"
The couple's deep and worried gazes clashed once more as the ominous premonition washed dread over them.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
Kaito thought they really had it in the bag.
After all, even with the measly number of their people, they had two of the greatest hunters in their midst. It was already like having a battalion with them. Not to mention, everyone carried protections that shielded them from most of the attacks.
Even with the weight in his embrace, he had no trouble pulling the trigger continuously. Even the painful stabs in his heart at having to face those he had previously considered as comrades diminished entirely at the look of pure murder in their eyes. He never considered himself sentimental anyway and with slightly lighter psyched, he continued on the pull the trigger.
Of course, even the president that gave him so much trouble was no match for the hunter who had more than two hundred years of experience. Superior weapon or not, shaky shield or not, there was no stopping the trained blade that skillfully blocked agitated attacks and landed decisive hits. It was no longer a surprise when the purple-haired hunter went down one knee with deep injuries littering his body.
Even when the warmth plastered on his back disappeared to face the other bastard they needed to look out for, he was not worried. Though he might be troublesome, that Kusakabe was no match for his sensei. He instead concentrated on the other hunters still concealed by the crumbling but standing columns in the covered hall.
After deciding that he could no longer wait, the brunette jumped high, not really to avoid the bullets but to have a clear shot of the sneak hiding behind a low barricade. The bullet released instantly found its target. His landing, however, was shaky. A shockwave almost made the young hunter stumble when another powerful attack hit the trembling sphere.
Shit. She's here. "Oi, Aido, Shiki! Hurry the fuck up!" Kaito shouted even though he doubted that the two could hear him. He tried to take cover but the damn place with its absent roof made him an easy target for the trained eyes of an experienced sniper.
While he didn't wish for the chairman or his teacher to be the target instead, he had to wonder if that witch really hated his guts enough to attempt to do away with him first. Just because he called her a hag once or a thousand times, did it really warrant consecutive sniper shots? Fucking bitch.
He eyed the shaking barrier warily while firing another shot at the spiteful cow who tried to take advantage of his misfortune. The two vamps should be able to pinpoint that she-devil's location now that she had revealed herself, right? Fuck. Hurry up! The hunter internally willed after enduring another bout of aftershock while still facing opposing hunters.
It maybe took an eternity or two minutes before the troubling barrage finally stopped. Finally! He thought he'd be Swiss-Kaito-cheese first before the other two made a move.
He was just feeling relieved when a desperate cry for the Association President stole his attention. While the sight of an agile Kaien running to the fallen shrew on the ground should have given him some measure of delight, hazel orbs widened instead.
Even with imminent death looming in the horizon, he knew that scoundrel wouldn't be satisfied traversing the road to hell alone. Of course, he'd try to give out an invite and it was in the form of a red knife he threw in his direction.
Kaito instantly knew that small dagger was bad news.
Before he could even think, he had bodily turned away from the attack to shield the precious charge still in his embrace. Long legs stumbled at the shock wave of the barrier that shattered and dissipated before he fell face first.
He felt the piercing pain on his back and heard the shout of the others in the background. Somehow, the surrounding became even more chaotic. Yet, resolute hazel eyes were intent on the dark mahogany hair and the patch of pale forehead that peeked through the folds of his black coat.
Those were the last things he saw before everything became dark.
-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-