Chapter 33
Fate's Decree
With undetectable speed, the most prominent couple of the Vampire Society travelled from the ruined chamber straight to the beckoning presence of their warm lights. Zero and Kaname only stopped once their sight found the welcomed form of their unharmed children. Despite not seeing them in their entirety for their backs were on them, they could tell that they were relatively well. Even with all the confusion at their unexplained actions of releasing multiple vampire familiars despite the sky not even darkening yet, they let themselves feel relief at seeing them safe.
Their mood only plummeted once more when they also noticed the still absent form of their eldest daughter.
Before they could ask their numerous questions, both turned at the sound of hurrying steps. The scurrying forms of Souen Ruka and Akatsuki Kain soon met their vision.
"Kaname-sama!"
Flaming garnets of the Vampire King narrowed at the obviously anxious expressions on the two exquisite faces of the nobles. "What is it, Akatsuki?" He addressed the aristocrat who stepped forward to seemingly shield the female vampire from him.
Both stood muted for a minute. They couldn't even form the congratulations they wanted to say the moment they felt one of the compelling auras vanished earlier.
However, as much as he wanted to be anywhere but there, the taller noble had no choice but to be the bearer of bad news. "It's Anne-sama… She's not here…" The red-head uttered carefully. His senses were alert to the rising temper of their king. Having been coerced to watch far too many movies and TV series to know the normal fate of the unfortunate lackeys who happened to deliver extremely unpleasant news to their bosses, his body instinctively moved closer to his cousin. He flinched when the heavy crimson regard of the pureblood king fell on him and then to the bloodied gown that the royal princess was last seen wearing that was in his grasp.
The pureblood couldn't help but internally curse the dead vampire. He truly knew how to make a nuisance of himself. Truly abominable. Now, he knew what his children were trying to do. He hoped to hear better news soon.
The hunter, however, almost panicked at the information. Pale hands lightly snatched the bloodied gown in the noble's grasp. "What the fuck do you mean she's not here? Where could she be if not here?!" He shouted and clutched the gown closer. It couldn't be. After going so far, how could it be that he still couldn't hug his eldest child?
Before he could appeal for his love's calm, the pleasant voice of the younger twin jostled the anxious adults.
If not for the familiarity they all had with the children, they would have thought that Kohaku was the one speaking due to the uncharacteristic somberness in Akira's tone. He spoke evenly and calmly, a returned silver crow perched on his hand. "Don't worry, otou-chan. I think I know where nee-chan is."
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Ah.
How heavenly.
She sighed when she smelled that luscious aroma in the air. It was sweet and undoubtedly delectable. It seemed to be a fierce flavor judging by the scent but surely no less rich and savory. It was enticing and the ambrosial smell further roused her from unconsciousness.
Blood.
In her weakened state, it was all she could think about. She was thirsty. She really wanted to have real blood in that very moment even though they had been raised to take only blood tablets for many decades after they stopped consuming from their parents.
Just this once.
Just this blood.
The fair creature blindly tried to move her hands but found that her limbs were restrained by something. She couldn't move, not that she had much power to do so at the moment. She didn't even have the strength to open her eyes.
What happened?
She couldn't remember.
She could only determine her present condition; it was like floating in the oblivion. She was so dizzy and hungry, also nauseous and sleepy.
Ah, she so badly wanted to have that drink.
Where was that smell coming from? It was so tempting.
It was near. Very near.
Whose blood was it?
Such a strong aroma.
She focused her senses to try and pinpoint the origin of the scent.
'My, it's familiar, this scent.' She knew this scent. Like warm coffee and rum with the blaze midnight campfire and a hint of gunpowder. Of course, she loved this smell for it was just like…
Reddish-lavender orbs abruptly opened at the realization. At first, it didn't register what she was seeing but as further clarity and focus graced her, she was finally able to make sense of the chest she was pressed against.
Suddenly, the horrible memories of tortured hours resurfaced together with the voice that came to her rescue.
No, no, no.
She tremblingly looked up. Fear and dread viciously crept deep inside her so fast that a tear had already formed and fell by the time her sight found her only light, ashen faced, with blood running down the side of his lips.
She didn't know how she was able to do it when she could barely feel her limbs and even had no strength to move a muscle earlier but she eventually managed to reverse their position, mindful of the wounds she could feel rather than see. She gently turned them over before she hovered over the almost lifeless hunter, tears drowning disbelieving eyes.
Despite the bloodlust that was still stabbing her vampiric instincts, dark amethysts were intent on the wan face. Small trembling hands cupped his face, unable to accept what she was seeing. Hot tears continued to flow down her cheeks.
She was now vaguely aware of the situation at hand; the loose coat that barely hid her almost naked body, sensed the battle around her, smelled the scent of others' blood, felt the aura of death, heard several loud guns being fired, heard the clashes of swords and recognized her uncles and grandpa near but she couldn't find it in her to turn, help or run. She dazedly sat there, turning cold faster than the body before her.
"Kai… to… san…?" Anne weakly uttered. What was this she was seeing? What was happening? Was this a nightmare? Of course, it must be… for there was just no way that this strong, talented hunter was there right now… minutes from his death…
The thought jarred her. No! She couldn't let this happen! She looked around. Distraught orbs tried to find someone who could help.
That's right! Chichiue turned him. It must be this moment. Where is father? "Chichiue! Chichiue! Chichiue!" She called out frantically, over and over. Where are you, father?
She focused but found not a sliver of his presence. Someone must administer the bite or they would lose him forever. Someone… someone… someone… some…
Then realization struck her.
"Ah, Kuran turned him…"
Kuran turned him. His otou-chan once told him.
No. It was "A Kuran turned him."
A Kuran.
Ah, so that was why…
She finally understood.
Her tears fell even harder than before while gently cradling her precious person's head. So that was the reason why she never got him. Why he was forever lost to her. It was because of this. This moment when she became the audacious thief who selfishly did what she wished.
She was the one who robbed him of everything he held dear.
His life.
His lineage.
His pride.
His choice.
All because of her own self-indulgence and greed. Because she couldn't bear to be under the vast sky without him. Because she did exactly what that vampire did to his older brother years ago.
She understood it and even with the realization of the hatred that awaited her, of the future she chose for herself and her favorite person, even as something painful crushed her heart to ashes of the acknowledgement of never having the right to love him, she still sank her little fangs on the soft, cold flesh of his neck, granting him the poison that would turn him to the very creature he hated.
She drank his incredibly luscious blood a bit before forcing herself to stop. It was one of the hardest things she ever did for his blood was everything she ever thought it would be and more; rich and heavenly.
Watery lavender orbs heartbrokenly gazed at his face. Several drops of tears fell on him, but she couldn't help it. It felt like her heart was brutally torn apart at the tragedy that pierced her.
She was a fool all along.
How could she had even dared aspire to be with him when she committed a grave crime against him? She knew Kaito-san. He would have been proud to die in the line of duty as a hunter but she just deliberately disregarded that. She would have loved to say it was out of the kindness of her heart but no, it was because of pure selfishness on her part.
It was because she just couldn't let go.
She realized that, at that very moment, she had truly become a monster.
She cried out even harder than earlier, like she never cried before in her life, while cradling the hunter's head against her bosom. Her little body trembled in grief and sorrow. She didn't even know how long she stayed in that manner, unmindful of the battle and its outcome. She didn't make a move even after her tears stopped and dried on her cheeks. Not even when she felt the aura of her parents.
She sat there, with the hunter's head still pressed against her small body. Until she felt a hand on her shoulder.
"Anne…"
She turned around and found her parents' worried but understanding eyes on her with her siblings. Her aunts and uncles behind them. They must have already sensed what she did. "Otou-chan, I… I…" The little princess faltered and tears formed again. She didn't know what to say for no words were enough to describe his and her pain.
Nothing.
Zero gathered her small body in his arms. Allowing her to bury her head on his chest and cry her heart out. Lighter lavender orbs silently greeted his master who went beside Kaito's beaten up body to feel his pulse. They briefly looked at each other, both grim, understanding what must have happened. Toga reached out and patted the sobbing young girl's head.
"It's alright, kid. Everything will be fine now."
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While there was relief to be felt at the sight of the returned royal couple and their children, no one was able to celebrate. Even after the return of their Royal Princess, they could only express the abatement of their fears but not of any joy. Their side didn't suffer any deaths despite all the injuries, yet they could not even proclaim their victory. Not even the success of all the missions were enough to make all those who survived laugh.
There were far too many deaths on all sides to feel any sense of triumph. So many humans, hunters and vampires died.
With that much loss, how could anyone be in a festive mood? They could only comfort themselves with the thought that danger had already passed.
But that was all.
Through the momentous though solemn time of lovers meeting again and of families being completed once more, even amidst the tremulous smiles, of tight embraces and soft kisses exchanged, the dreary air was still present.
The somber mood of the Royal Family also prevented any cheer from developing. Granted, only a day had passed but the foreshadowing of an extended time of grief blanketed the whole castle.
Even after recovering from her horrifying experience and being back on her feet, the eldest princess remained depressed and melancholic. She carried herself as if she was enduring a broken heart and no amount of support from her dearest family could completely lift her dismal mood.
While the Kuran Castle was already mending all the ruined parts that were blatant reminder of what they suffered, the occupants seemed determine to lament. Not even the newly bloomed winter flowers that the youngest prince helped the gardeners grow or the newly delivered garden statues and superbly remade garden pathways that their liege's immense fortune managed to quickly provide were enough to bring back the dwellers' high spirits.
With the old Council of Ancient gone, there were debates on whether a new one should be formed. Given what the senate tried to do, it was without question that the new one, if one would indeed be made, would be under full scrutiny and control of the Vampire King.
It had also taken the full force of the remaining aristocrats and even the royal princes to fully quell the danger of their race's exposure to the human population. They had to brainwash and erase the memories of all those who were involved. They also had to manipulate the news to further confuse the human community and finally pull the wool over their eyes. They could only put the blame on a merciless serial killer and three destructive terrorist groups. Making sure that said scapegoats were safely arrested was the only compensation they could secretly provide.
All the hunters who allied themselves with Kaien Cross had already returned. With the Chairman of the famous Cross Academy expressing his willingness to resume some responsibilities in the Association and the confirmation of Yagari Toga's safety, the vacant post of the president was swiftly filled. But even after this, the Hunter Association was still struggling with the loss of numerous comrades. It didn't matter that those dead would have murdered them all in cold blood. Their passing, even when done by their own hands, was still tragic. The woe would only intensify once they learned more and more about the deeds the previous president did. Still, they could only move forward and strive to get back on their feet.
They did not automatically gained utopia even after that dark day had passed. They all knew that what happened would come back to haunt them in their nightmares.
They also knew that regardless of the challenges, even if they wanted to crumble under the pressure, all must carry on.
For some, it may take only a while. For the others, however, the burdens may weigh them down for a long time. While the effects may be temporary for the others, it undoubtedly and ultimately altered the life of some. And for those permanently affected by what happened, only time would tell if the wounds would fully heal.
Still, what else could they do but grit their teeth and put one foot forward to take one heavy step at a time?
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Somnolent lavender orbs blinked once before closing again. Despite being well rested and her health being back to normal, she could not find the energy to get up. She let herself burrow in the comforting warmth of his silver brother and the oldest brunette twin who fell asleep while embracing her small body. She could feel Akira and Suiren sleeping beside their twins but usual fondness at this affectionate display of familial love was squashed by the guilt that drowned her anew.
She burrowed her face against Kohaku's, willing the unconsciousness that would deliver the sweet respite from the awareness of her terrible deed. The remorse for her action was still present even after the reassurances of her fathers. Even so, she wanted to delay the inevitable time when she would have to face the wrath that would come.
She had to marvel at the strength of the hunter once again. How could he have treated the young her with warmth all those years? Even while fully knowing what she did to him. How could he have been prevailed to look at her as if nothing happened? What must pass in order for him to accept even being near the monster that took away his choice from him? In all those time that he looked after her, what thoughts had filled his mind?
She didn't think that he had ever treated her with any pretense. She fell in love with his daring audacity and blunt honesty after all. But how could it be that there was no resentment after that? Perhaps, he had acknowledged that the infant her was not the same creature that delivered him all the difficulties coupled with being turned. If that was so, then would things now change since this incident had come to pass?
Whatever should she do if the hunter never looked at her in the eye ever again?
What face should she made in his presence once they see each other again?
Would he even see her?
Or would that image of him sleeping on the large bed in one of their guest bedchambers be the last sight of him she would ever see?
Her silver father had assured her that everything would be fine. That had he been the one to be there, he would have asked her pureblood father to turn him as well. Was that true?
"Anne?" Zero patted the soft locks of the child sleeping in the middle the group of heavenly cherubs on the massive bed. He had been reading the messages sent on his phone by his guardian regarding several updates about the current happenings in the Association and the news circulating within the humans. He was so absorbed that he belatedly realized that one of the heartbeats in the room started to pulsate quite unevenly. He knew that it was his daughter who would undoubtedly be dwelling on gloomy thoughts. He was sure she got that worrying trait from his mate.
"Otou-chan." Anne murmured, not even attempting to feign sleep. "Has he awakened yet?"
"No, not yet." The silver hunter answered, knowing who the lovely child pertained to. It rankled him a little that the first thought his daughter had been of that annoying senpai of his. Light purplish orbs watched as the small head nodded once in understanding before closing sorrowful eyes once more. The pale hand continued with its soft caresses from his half reclining position beside Akira who was hugging his waist. Soft sigh escaped pinkish lips once all the heartbeats of his darling angels evened out once more.
That senpai of his was surely taking his time. It had been hours and while a vampire doctor, his mate and the idiotic boyfriend of his brother had assured him that all injuries sustained from the earlier fight had already healed and the transformation had been progressing without problems, it did worry him for a bit. Ichiru did mention that it had taken the young him a while to awaken as well when he had been turned. He slept for the whole day, several times longer than his twin or Yuki did when they had been turned.
While the terrible remembrance gave him no pleasure, it was enough to relieve him a bit. The experts had also told him that the fact that the ash-brown haired hunter was bitten by a hybrid, not a pureblood, could be one of the reasons why he was slow to wake. They expect that, like the silver consort hunter and his esteemed twin, the brunette hunter would be quite unlike all the humans turned. Though they were not sure how he would be different, there weren't signs that they needed to be concerned.
The pure academic curiosity he had spied from the doctor and the blonde noble irritated the silverette for a bit. It must have escaped from him somehow since Aido was quick to mask it after coughing once to cover his slip. Well, for the more inquisitive mind, this particular case must be extremely interesting. After all, it was known that the result of a change would be different depending on who administered the bite and the creature that was bitten.
Zero had surprised both the hunters and vampires by becoming a vampire that could wield an anti-vampire weapon. Of course, they now know that his ancestry had a lot to do with it. Ichiru turned out to be the same but they observed that the younger silverette did not experienced thirst as badly as his twin did largely because it was the pureblood king himself who turned him.
Ichiru's thirst was akin to that of a high-ranking noble and miles away from a level D's which gave all of them immense relief. Not that he was in any danger of falling to the bottom anyway. Not only because of their lineage, his master had provided him large bottles of consumable bloodstones to take with his blood tablets.
Zero was not envious for his previously dreadful lust for blood abated once his bond was completed. He had reckoned that if not for the craving born out of astounding affection for that bastard and his present condition, perhaps he wouldn't feel the thirst at all. There was a conjecture that after the pregnancy, he would only feel the yearning to drink when he's intimate with his mate.
Now, he had to wonder the effect of his daughter's bite on his senpai. Surely, it couldn't be worse than Ichiru. Even without the advantage of an impressive ancestry, as a strong hunter bitten by a creature with dynamic force and power, his situation would be even better.
The hunter had sincerely hope so. While he had still reservations as someone who, not long ago, could only view the act of turning humans as an act of violence, he could not deny the relief that coursed through him at the thought of the lives saved by this action. The hypocrisy did not escape him. Well, damn it. Sue him.
He could no longer completely detest the action that brought his brother so much freedom. Though he had yet to see him again because of the hectic happenings, one after the other, he was informed that his twin had been doing well. They reported his magnificent contributions during the second invasion in the castle. That his sickly brother could now do all those, how could he even scowl or blame anyone?
Though he spouted all kinds of reassurances to his daughter who seemed to be swimming in the cesspool of guilt, he still did not know how the older hunter would react once he awakened. They had shared the same abhorrence towards purebloods after all.
All he knew, right or wrong, he would stand by his daughter's side. If it would lead to the severance of a long-established relationship, then so be it.
It would be regrettable, but what else could he do? The rest was up to Kaito.
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"This can't continue."
The other five vampires in the parlor turned to look at dark eyebrows crumpling over dark sienna eyes of their pureblood princess. It was only last night when the same pair of eyes were producing copious number of tears at the sight of her returned boyfriend.
She couldn't even ask if he was alright. Yuki knew that though a genial smile lighted that handsome face and despite his repeated claims of having felt nothing for that man, he was his only family left. How could one completely feel nothing after killing their only relative left? So, she did the only thing she could and stayed by his side.
The couple fell asleep together with the other nobles who were quite unable to let the sight of their counterparts out of their sight. Even the slight discomfort of squishing two bodies on one of the divans in the room were worth the relief of having their better half near. Ichiru and Hanabusa were the ones to wake them up and after appeasing the steward who came to apologize for his short-sightedness of not preparing a large enough bedchamber to satisfy their princess' wishes, they all had their breakfast together.
After a hearty meal with everyone except their leader's family, all had to work in order to see off the confined vampires that were finally released from the castle. The Vampire King had finally let them go after receiving the reports made about the investigations done by the loyal vassals. While it could not be said that they were satisfied with being detained, these nobles could do nothing after directly witnessing the Royal Family's might. They could only meekly express their allegiance and gratitude with smiles on their faces before hurrying away from the palace.
After personally seeing off the relatives and immediate family of the Night Class members, they once again gathered in a room. But even with all the sumptuous refreshments, soft covers and pleasant fire in the chimney keeping all of them warm from the chilling winter air, the atmosphere had remained gloomy.
It was at that moment that the always positive brunette finally threw her hands up in frustration.
"Christmas Eve is tomorrow!" Yuki stood up and faced the surprised nobles. "Are we going to celebrate it like this?" They couldn't keep on moping! Darn it! Just a few days ago, she had been discussing this merry event with her nieces and nephews. The Night Class even had an on-going bet regarding the presents that others had prepared. Now, how could she let this important holiday pass by like this?
She understood that it was a trying time. A lot of things happened and huge losses were incurred but she believed it was precisely for that reason that they had to rally their spirits and try to be festive. "We must do something!"
The answer of all the other vampires were suspended for a moment at the entrance of the Vampire King with his mate and children. Everyone stood to greet the couple which was only waved away by the pureblood as they all found a place to sit with the maids already setting down additional refreshments.
Kaname had now started to miss Cross Academy where formalities didn't apply. "No need to be so formal." A small and quiet but genuine smile appeared on his lips at the multiple sincere inquiries after his eldest daughter. "Thanks to your effort, Anne had already recovered. She's still resting but there's no more need for any concern." Her physical well-being was no longer the issue. He internally worried more about her emotional and mental state.
"That's good to hear, nii-sama!" Yuki cheerfully exclaimed to her brother.
"That's really great news, nii-san." Ichiru also professed to his own brother. It felt like it had been many years since he last saw his doppelganger. In truth, it hadn't even been a week.
"Thanks, Ichiru." Zero who had felt the same couldn't help but carefully observe his twin. He hadn't seen him since he got turned and while he was extremely apologetic that he hadn't been there to give his support to him given the situation, he knew that his brother understood. "How are you?" Indeed, when his brother answered, he knew he had been doing well.
"I feel like I can finally win against you in a physical match." The silverette grinned. He was really fine. His lover never left his side the whole time. In the only time he felt it, he didn't even suffer the pain of an unquenched bloodlust unlike his brother did because of his boyfriend and the bloodstones Kaname-senpai had passed through the noble.
Now, after being more accustomed with his newfound abilities, Ichiru could resume his daily activities without accidentally breaking things. His oversensitive senses had also quietened down. He also no longer felt breathless even after traversing the expansive hallways of the castle. How could he even complain? Only the recent happenings prevented him from expressing his delight. The thought of his hunter senpai would also slightly put a damper on his feelings. For sure, unlike him who was born weak, Kaito would feel differently.
Yuki beamed at seeing her two adopted-brothers banter like normal. "That's the spirit, Ichiru! Let's team up against Zero. It's time to finally get our revenge for all the times he bullied us!"
"Shut up, Yuki." The older silverette only dryly looked at the pipsqueak. And when did he ever bully those two? Gasps from his angelic silver children drew his attention from two delusional siblings.
"Otou-chan, b-bully?" The aghast expression on Suiren's and Naoto's faces as if their childhood hero turned out to be the final boss stopped the two vampires' cry for revenge.
The pureblood king who had the silver twins on his lap chuckled. "Your aunt and uncle were only jesting, my darlings." He assured the two which was hastily followed by agreeing remarks of the other vampires in the room.
One orange vampire was nodding despite the flashback of the pain he felt when the silver consort threw him over his arm months ago flitted over his mind. Pretty rose-quarts tried not to grimace at the multiple memories of unwarranted and not-so-unwarranted moments of when the snout of a silver gun would find a part of her body. The other nobles who also did not share an exactly warm and affectionate relationship with the hunter could not fully agree, however, they had to keep mum to avoid the explosion of ire.
But even though there was a lavender glare silently admonishing foolish brother and sister for almost ruining his image, the lighter mood did not break. As burgundy gaze fell on his lover who was still trying to intimidate the whistling duo even with their older children's appeasement, much sought after peace and contentment filled the pureblood.
In the end, Yuki's earlier remark of a cheery Christmas was addressed and a small, private gathering was arranged to the delight of many vampires. It was not like it was common for the Kuran Family to throw balls during this day anyway. Not like anyone would wish to attend so soon after what happened. So, like what the three adopted children of the newly ordained Hunter Association president were used to, a simple gathering for a meal and gift giving was to take place as was previously discussed before the Winter Solstice.
The old steward smiled in gladness at the order to prepare for the private party. He knew that while it was farfetched to expect things to be completely normal, they were now truly on the road to moving forward.
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Chilling breeze of the early dawn on the 24th of December could be felt in the halls of the striking home of the Vampire King. Threats of snow was forecasted since yesterday but others merely celebrated the possibility of having an iconic white Christmas. Though the rest of the Royal Family were still busy dealing with the aftermath of the recent tragedy, the slightly more energetic servants and the only remaining nobles in the castle prepared for the approved merry gathering.
While the castle had started become alive with the hurried preparation led by the pureblood princess, the lone form of the Royal Princess found its way to the large corridor of the State Apartments. It was almost empty saved for the two footmen stationed outside the only occupied room in that wing. Both were startled at the sight of the eldest royal child and hurriedly bowed in respect. They offered to help carry the large bouquet in her arms which the princess softly declined.
The cherubic brunette murmured her gratitude when they opened the heavy double doors to grant her entry. She nodded to both of them once before stepping inside and allowing the doors to once again contain the silent space inside. She proceeded to another set of doors which she opened through sheer mind power. It was useless to knock, given that the only occupant of the room laid senseless once more, surrounded by soft and comfortable duvet and cushions.
The child placed her burden on one of the tables in the sitting area of the bedchamber before slowly walking towards the slumbering hunter. The drapery on one side was drawn. Perhaps because the newly turned vampire had already awakened once before this second visit.
When she had heard that Kaito-san finally opened his eyes, she dreaded the impending chaos and brawl. She had half expected the hunter to find her for the inevitable condemnation once they had explained all that had passed and the outcome to the brunette. Yet, nothing untoward had passed. Not even a roar of anguish and betrayal was heard. There wasn't even the storm of a thirsty newly changed vampire insensible because of bloodlust.
It was all so quiet.
The only uproar that happened was in the form of his uncles' slight exclamations of disbelief at finding him relatively normal, save for the glowing rubies where dark hazels were supposed to be. Ichiru and Hanabusa who came with royal couple to the guestroom were surprised when they examined the newly turned vampire to find him untroubled by bloodlust unlike any other turned humans before him.
Kaito hadn't even realized nor felt that the core of his being had been ultimately altered at first. He had certainly been caught off guard at the thousand different sensations that assailed him as soon as he became conscious. Coupled with the disorientation and cluelessness about what happened to him after he blacked out, he was rightfully confused.
The nagging thought inside him only caught up with him the moment he saw his kohai and remembered the precious package he had been carrying. He immediately asked what happened and inquired after the well-being of the child he last saw as a bruised, unconscious mess. He would have jumped out bed had it not been for the pressure produced by the heightened senses grating his nerves. It felt like wearing high prescription glasses when one had perfect vision. Everything was magnified.
The news and explanation that followed bewildered the young man. He was so shocked that the numerous expletives he had wanted to say as revelations after revelations of what had passed reached his ears. The final piece of information regarding what happened to him had him muted. He had wanted to ask if his shitty kohai was kidding him but the sight of serious expressions and the overwhelming impressions he could perceive ceased his remaining doubts.
It made sense now.
The building tension was abruptly cut when he was offered to drink the infamous blood tablets. He wrinkled his nose at the scent of bland-looking red drink. He loudly refused before telling them that he was not thirsty. This had his visitors blinking at him. He was then questioned multiple times.
Why would he ever think of them appealing? Had Zero turned narcissistic after being in the company of these snobs?
And why would he crave to drink their blood? Was this blonde asking for a beating?
No, they didn't absolutely look delectable. Was Ichiru insane?
When he had answered all the crazy questions and insisted in the face of doubtful expressions, the pureblood then asked if his impression of them had changed.
Well, they all did smell rather wonderful but it was simply like passing by a perfume store. While he could ascertain that there was a scent or two he liked among the selection, he certainly wouldn't be jumping all over it. Was he a lunatic? Not to mention, these walking perfume bottles seemed capable of fighting back.
When he answered as such, a look of quiet contemplation filled deep burgundy gaze while sparkling sapphire orbs glinted with interest and awe. The silver-lavender orbs were filled with surprise and a little envy while the same pair on the older silverette's face was filled with relief.
There incredulity further grew when the hunter's stomach loudly grumbled and, unabashed, Kaito merely demanded some food. Even while watching the brunette wolf down plates after plates of steak bought to him by the servants who were already preparing a feast for the upcoming party, the small group of esteemed individuals were still observing the hunter for any hint of deception or struggles against newly formed instincts. However intently they observed, much to their amazement, they couldn't find even a hint of bloodlust.
They were then rudely kicked out by the satiated hunter who went back to sleep. The royal couple went to directly let their daughter know while the blonde noble was asking his lover if there were any possibilities of the hunter being persuaded to be the subject of a case study.
The good tidings were received with doubt by the Royal Princess. Kaito-san was the only one turned by a hybrid. Up until then, she, her siblings and her cousins, of course, never attempted to even try sinking their fangs on normal humans. She herself didn't know if there were any differences between those that were turned by purebloods and those turned by creatures like her.
The latest information brightened her mood at first before she voluntarily crushed it. No matter what, it wouldn't be enough to earn Kaito-san's forgiveness. While eagles may be the strongest creature in the air and were able to view the world from above, would a lion want to be changed into them? Not everyone wanted to become a vampire. Especially not hunters. She had heard her otou-chan struggle for a long time in order to just accept what he had become. It took for her chichiue's affection for him to merely entertain the idea.
Soft sighs escaped bow-shaped lips and dark brows met in consternation, morphing the seraphic features into one filled with melancholy. A pale hand tried to reach out to the sleeping figure but fell. She no longer had any right to be near him. What if her presence robbed him of the only positive element in his current situation?
Somberly, she turned back to the splendid perennial beauties still on the table and began arranging them in an enormous vase she produced. After leaving the elegant arrangement on the nearest bedside table, quiet steps slowly left the room.
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In normal households far away from the impressive castle of the Vampire King, families and lovers could be surely seen gathering to celebrate the jolly annual holiday with cheer and anticipation. But the warm and easygoing air didn't quite reach the deeply exhausted new president of the Hunter Association. Though more than the bombardment of new responsibilities foisted on him, it was anxiety that burdened him more.
The normally intimidating hunter slowly took the silent, heavy steps that would take him to where his older student was confined. He let out a sigh when he recounted where all the mess brought all his beloved pupils to.
All three turned to vampires.
Great.
His one blue eye reflected a somber light as he ascertained his feelings regarding the matter. It couldn't be helped. He was just glad two of them were already able to accept it so he only needed to worry about one particular bullheaded brunette who he heard already woke up once since being turned. Well, since the castle was still in one piece, he could tell that he didn't do anything stupid.
Well, none just yet.
He needed to talk to that stupid stubborn student of his before he did anything idiotic. As his mentor and the new Association co-president responsible for all hunters, he'd probably shoot someone if the Vampire King had to send him an invoice asking for compensation for reparation costs.
He had already seen the silver twins and confirmed that they were doing far well than he had anticipated. Given the circumstances of why he was turned, he had expected the younger silverette to be gloomier and so was pleasantly surprised to find him adjusting to his transformation much better than his twin did. Perhaps, witnessing what his brother experienced gave him a better idea on how to react thus being well accustomed to the change. Well, Ichiru had always been an adaptable child and excelled in accepting reality much quicker than his two older students.
He was relieved.
Since he had been busy what with cleaning up after that fool of an ex-president, it had been the first time he was able to visit all his pupils. It had just been a day since he was appointed as the new Hunter Association's other president, a position he now shared with his own lover, so was besieged by mountains upon mountains of work. Another thing that gave him a throbbing headache was the knowledge of what that bitch did to their noble association.
Really, that greedy mongrel, giving him more work to do even in his grave. He had to fight the new lieutenants just to get one freaking break. Hopefully, given the lucky turn in that student's circumstances, it would take him only a single trip to convince that headstrong Kaito.
He was walking alone in the hall of the ridiculously gigantic castle when he felt the aura of a certain child just up ahead. After turning at the corner, he found his student's future eldest about to meet him.
Anne greeted the old hunter with a smile that didn't convince him of her present happiness. She just looked extremely sorrowful that any attempt to make it appear otherwise looked painful.
"How good of you to come, sensei. I trust you're in excellent health." She pleasantly greeted.
"Yeah. You?" Toga replied. Hard sapphire closely scrutinized the young lady before him who he last saw as a miserable crying mess.
"Never better, sensei. I must excuse myself, however, for there is something urgent that I must attend to. I do hope you'll stay longer to relish this joyous holiday with us. I wish you all the best in the days to come." She curtsied before walking passed him even before he could think of anything to say in response.
The azure orb quietly regarded the retreating young lady and noticed two red small pieces of cloth or paper escape from the ruffles of her dress. Calloused fingers found the soft texture of a rose petal when he picked it up. He internally wondered where in the world she managed to get the flowers when it was dead middle of winter. Well, someone as rich as the pureblood would certainly have something fancy like a Greenhouse in his glorious estate. He was still holding on to it when he reached his intended destination.
He offered a nod to the vampire servants who were tasked to wait on the guest, begrudgingly acknowledging the Vampire King's gracious hospitality internally before entering the waiting room and opening another set of heavy doors to find a sleeping Kaito. A generous bouquet of red roses neatly arranged in a big vase on the bedside table.
Ah.
So that's how it is.
Suddenly, her overflowing tears and apparent heartbreak made sense to him. He briefly contemplated the possibility of him merely overthinking things. However, he couldn't help but be more convinced with his newfound conjecture.
Well, this particular pupil repeatedly claimed being a lady-killer, perhaps he was right. He shook his head to dismiss the thought.
The quiet raven-haired hunter decided to wait for the younger man to awaken and went by the window of the luxurious room to light a smoke. All the while, he wondered about the future the shitty fates had laid out to all his beloved charges. No matter what, the choice still rested upon them and it was his job to make sure they knew what they were getting into.
After only a short while, as if roused by the change in the room, the ash-brown hunter finally stirred from his slumber. Kaito must have sensed him for his eyes were immediately on him the moment he woke up. One hard azure orb unsurprisingly found two blood red ones.
"Sensei." Kaito rasped, prompting himself to sit properly. When the lithe body turned to the side table to find water to sooth his parched throat, he noticed the fresh flowers prepared for him imbued with a specific sweet scent that was not of roses. Lily of the Valley. He absently thought.
"You okay there, Kaito?"
"Yeah, sensei." He answered. Flaming crimson orbs never left the lavish flower arrangement, unconsciously wondering about the giver's welfare.
One Yagari Toga found himself briefly blinking at the unbelievable expression spotted on the troublemaker. He gave himself another moment to ascertain the truth his damn eye was presenting him. It couldn't be that he was so tired that he started hallucinating, right? He looked away before looking back at the brunette but saw the sight unchanged. He tried one more time and even shook his head once before finally giving up.
Are you kidding me? "I must have been a terrible role model. Two students became homos and one a lolicon."
"W-what?!" Kaito stammered. He turned to his mentor in shock. What the hell? At the back of his mind, he felt uncomfortable at the words that seemed to scratch the persistent itch he had been trying to ignore all the time. Suddenly, the younger hunter wanted to run.
Toga gave a knowing look that spoke a thousand warnings against feigning ignorance.
At that familiar gaze, Kaito had to shake his head repeatedly. "I don't know a damn thing about what you're talking about, sensei."
"'s that so? I didn't know you're still a kid, Kaito."
"Didn't know you know what lolicon even meant, sensei."
"Kaito." Toga uttered warningly.
"Sensei." Kaito imitated in mock warning which earned him an unrelenting blow on the head. Fuck. If he thought he'd be more resilient against his trainer's rough handling, he reckoned he would be in for a world of disappointment.
"Kid, listen here. I'm just saying it's not a completely bad thing. After all, she's already more than old enough." She was about eighty, right? But when he thought of her still childlike figure, he paused. "Wait… no… Well, it's complicated since she still looked like a child but the important thing is…" The black-haired hunter swore under his breath. He was finally convinced that he was not made for pep talks despite his lover telling him he always gave good advices. He exasperatedly threw his hands up in his mind and silently yelled for reason to just run the fuck off. He gruffly continued, giving up delicacy. "Just don't make a fucking move until she looked of age."
"Woah, what the fuck, sensei?!" Kaito sputtered. This conversation was turning more and more disturbing by the minute. It was just like having that embarrassing sex talk between parent and child and he was not even a teenager anymore!
As the younger one in a relationship with more than two hundred years of age difference, Toga really didn't feel all that weird about the situation. He also knew his pupil. He may not have the most noble of characters but he was definitely no scum. He surely didn't fall for her childlike appearance. With the knowledge of her real age and that a lot of their interaction were done in her teenage form based on the accumulated messages sent by his lover, he had pretty much a rough idea regarding how things went.
He still had to sigh, however. Why did all of his pupils loved to have complicated romances straight from freaking shoujo manga?
"It's really not like that, sensei." The brunette insisted. The grip he had on the poor duvet turned even more unforgiving in his distress. Surely. There was no way it was like that.
"Yeah, sure. Keep telling yourself that. Maybe one day you'll believe it." The black-haired hunter deadpanned. As someone who had already witnessed that never before seen expression on this particular student's face and was currently witnessing the way his face flushed all the way to his ears, he knew what he was talking about.
The brunette was silent for a long moment after that.
Toga was content to drink the refreshment he was served earlier and was willing to wait for the younger man to sort out his thoughts. He could of course sympathize. When he first realized the meaning of the rapid palpitations his heart would make at the sight of a particular hunter he had always called an old man, he was not all that accepting.
On top of being more than two hundred years older, Kaien was also a man. Would anyone be simply running to the sunset at the thought of falling in love with someone who may very well still be seeing them as babies and never as a romantic partner considering their gender? He had struggled with denial for a while before giving up. He worked damn hard to be seen as an equal and a possible romantic interest. Now that he thought about it, he had really outdone himself in that regard.
The older hunter was still giving himself an internal pat in the back when the younger one finally spoke. "How would you even…"
Toga understood the question despite the incompleteness. As much as he would like to answer that one would simply just know when their heart had finally been snatched, he knew that would hardly help the poor bloke. He seriously considered it before answering in an honest tone. "If there was a checklist regarding this, I would be the last one to know." What he knew was that they would always invade every waking thought and that there would always be the desire to share the whole world with them.
The black-haired hunter remembered all the times when his gaze would search the crowd for honey-blonde hair and feel the excitement at the thought of missions shared with a certain sword-wielding hunter. He would recall the contentment of sharing simple meals watching the rain fall and wishing the same scene would find him fifty years from then, gazing at aged amber eyes. He recounted the times sapphire orbs, even when one eye was robbed off of him, would contentedly gaze at the tranquil blonde sleeping deeply after a night of excitement. He could almost smile at the remembrance of a euphoric laugh from a delighted man, proud that he was the one who made that happen. He could relive the thousand other things that made him certain of his feelings. Truly, it boiled down to one thing.
An unwavering sapphire met confused and lost crimson orbs. "When you start freaking about every little thing about them yet still be so fucking happy all the time, then that is as good as any sign. Have you ever thought like you're going to go crazy when you thought about her?"
The young hunter was instantly transported to the classroom of the Cross Academy where his gaze would unconsciously fall on the exquisite features of a celestial maiden. He would pore over his teaching materials despite initially not taking the teaching post seriously just so he wouldn't make a joke of himself. He would stupidly linger the hallways of the academy for the slightest chance of glimpsing at flowing mahogany hair.
He could almost smell the forest back in the academy where he would often meet her during his patrol after his classes. Not really asking why she was not in class like she was supposed to be and instead would take the long way to explore even the areas already done by his kohai just so she could finish the funny anecdotes she just happened to remember, foolishly wondering if she would ever develop wrinkles around those stunning lavender eyes and how she would look like surrounded by cute children like the adorable cousins she talked about.
Suddenly, he was back in that school festival ball searching for the slender form of a goddess in vermillion dress amidst the hundred other students vying for the attention of the Night Class. Dazed Hazel orbs watched those soft lips smile all through the long dance shared, not really noticing the other pairs that came and went. He had wondered why the simple steps of basic waltz had him breathless as he listened to that euphonic voice recount her day and the plans they made for an upcoming affair in the Kuran Castle.
He was there again in all those encounters with a beautiful teenager with the mystifying gaze of someone so mature. Always, even in front of a suffocating sea of people, he could see only her silhouette.
Yeah, he had to be insane to be thinking about whether she was being badgered by annoying aristocrats during a time where they could be attacked at any time. It was truly foolish that all he could think about was relief at being able to see her before he died. Certainly, he should have seen it coming if there was only concern about what she was feeling at that moment after he learned about what happened to him. It should have been obvious to him when all he felt was satisfaction at the knowledge that it was her and not the almighty pureblood who turned him.
Fuck.
Now that he thought about it, there were a lot of times when he would even consciously try holding back his tongue to avoid offending her. He would try to avoid her only for his damn eyes search for her like someone with double personality disorder. He knew the answer and realized what it meant. Perhaps, he did for a long while now… he just didn't want to acknowledge it.
"Did it escape your notice that she's a vamp, sensei?" Kaito asked instead of answering.
"Did you?" The other asked rhetorically. "Listen kid, as long as you do not give a fuck, no one else can say a damn thing about it."
Searching rubies probed his master's sapphire. Unable to believe he was hearing words of encouragement regarding this matter. Silent awe filled every fiber of his being. "How the hell can you easily accept all these, sensei?" In this pandemonium of lunacy and confusion, what he needed were terrifying reprimands and an extra violent punch that would dissuade him from the corny dreams that had solidified.
A kind half smile surprisingly appeared on the gruff hunter's severe features as if remembering something wistful. Perhaps, of long blonde hair and eternal hazel eyes.
"With all the bloodshed I've experienced, which I know you all will too, I think I can be satisfied with the knowledge that you at least found something so important that you'll willingly ruin your life for. Something that strong will surely save your ass in the future. So don't hesitate to take that light, Kaito."
Kaito gaped at the tall man. "Who are you and what have you done to my sensei?" He breathed in mock suspicion but with genuine surprise which was awarded by another unrestrained smack on his head by the esteemed hunter.
"Shut up, kid. I'm just telling you not to worry about it."
"Fuck, sensei. Stop hitting my head like that. What would you do if I become even more stupid." The brunette groused as long fingers massaged the hurt area. It didn't take long before the pain disappeared though he still acted injured.
Toga only snorted at the big baby. "Whatever. Stop dallying here and report back as soon as you can. We're short on hunters taking missions."
At this, the vampire on the bed stopped moving. "Can I even continue to be one?"
"What do you mean?"
"I'm a vampire now. Can I still even be called a hunter?"
What? Did Zero look like a duck to you? The older man expelled a harsh breath. "What do you think a hunter is? It's not about the lineage or blood. It's not just about power or ability. It's largely about the spirit and will to protect." Well, only really tenured hunters who were considered higher ups learned about the parent. The young ones didn't yet know that their powers came from a pureblood. Guess that's a story for another day. Instead, he grunted. "I don't care if you become a bloodsucker like the rest of them. So? Your eyes turn red and you got even more annoying. Big deal. I still want you in the association and take those damn missions, got that?"
Kaito chuckled at little at the blunt voice that seemed to be more insulting than encouraging. "Do I get a raise? I'm sure I can do more missions now."
"Look at this shitty brat. The rate is still the same, kid. We're not exactly swimming in money after all the stunt that bitch made." They were sure that asshole had some slush funds somewhere but they were still looking for it. For now, they had to make do with what they have.
"Will everything be really alright, sensei?"
Toga sobered at the serious question. "It'll be fucking hard but you already know that. The only question is if you are willing to endure all of that." Deep cerulean met still glowing garnets. "So, answer me. Is everything worth it?"
Kaito stared at the thick quilt covering him. The familiar thoughts of long wavy dark chestnut hair cupping a pale face containing stunning amethysts and shapely lips intruded once again. A half smile unconsciously appeared on his face as if he himself couldn't believe he was thinking of such things. "Yeah, she's worth any everlasting regret and a lifetime a pain."
Toga stared hard at the far-off gaze of his clearly smitten student. He couldn't believe that this crass mouthed hunter would ever show such a bewitched expression, get openly sappy, punch him poetry and all because of a brat even. He shook his head before snorting to himself. Three hunters to three vampires? Life indeed worked in a funny way. "Then hop on it, kid." He brusquely replied. Rough hands ruffled Kaito's light mane.
"Sensei, stop calling me kid. I'm no longer a freaking child." The brunette surly complained as long fingers tried to bat away the strong hand on his head.
"Then man up and do what you must do."
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Author's Notes: Hello, everyone! d(￣◇￣)b Hope you're all having a great time. ( ˆ⌣ ˆԅ)
Sorry I couldn't update for two months again. (ノдヽ) It was a busy time in the real world. (°△°|||) Anyway, I was also trying to delay the slaying џ(ºДºџ) that might happen as I'm afraid some people would be out for my blood. (╥╯⌒╰╥๑)
In my defense, (￣ ￣|||) it was already foreshadowed so please don't curse me. (๑˃̣̣̥⌓˂̣̣̥) Still, some people might not like the AnneXKaito pairing ╭(°ﾛ° ")╯ though to be honest, there were still no romantic advances, just realization? 〣 ( ºΔº ) 〣Also, for the record, I do not condone pedophilia! (ง ͠ ᵒ̌ Дᵒ̌ )▬▬ι═══════ﺤ It's an absolute no-no for me!
φ(￣ー￣ )ノ No matter what, I hope you still enjoyed this nonetheless. (_ _*)