Disclaimer: I do not own Owari no Seraph (Seraph of the End). I write this for your enjoyment only (and mine too, lol). This story is the fourth arc in my fem!Yuu AU story and is my personal take on the events of the Osaka arc and will have differences from the original. I strongly recommend reading Who She Is Within and Broken Bridges, Mended Hearts parts I and II before getting into this because I will be making many references to them. Once again, I would like to thank my beta readers, Falchion1984 and xLightningToki, for their help in making this fic possible.
Broken Bridges, Mended Hearts III
Chapter 1: The Village by the Sea
December 1, 2020
"Go on… Without me, Yuichiro would be dead by now. Because of you…"
Yuichiro gasped at the cutting words of her guardian, a cruel barb that struck deep into the already riled Mikaela, igniting a blaze of fury within him. Those who spoke of Lieutenant Colonel Guren Ichinose weren't exaggerating; he was the kind of man who sneered defiantly in the face of death itself.
Yet, Mikaela was unfazed by Guren's bravado. He recognized the bitter truth in the man's statement and found it infuriating that this entire nightmare had begun with his own misstep- being torn from Yuichiro's side. What gnawed at him even more was the fact that it was Guren, of all people, who had discovered and raised her during their agonizing years apart.
"Don't expect my gratitude for what you did to Yuu-chan," Mika growled, raising his sword high. "From now on, I will protect her. What happens to Yuu-chan is no longer your concern—especially not where you're headed!"
"MIKA, NO!"
But the cry fell on deaf ears. Having exhausted her strength and seraph powers to stop Mirai earlier, Yuichiro could only watch in horrified helplessness as Mikaela finally delivered the fatal blow, severing Guren's head from his neck… *1*
SSSSSS
"Guren! Mika!" Yuichiro cried, her voice slicing through the chilly morning air.
"Yuu-chan, wake up! It's all right, you're safe now!" a familiar voice called urgently, grounding her in reality.
Yuichiro's eyes shot open as she felt the firm yet comforting grip of her brother shaking her awake, immediately followed by the warmth of his embrace enveloping her in a cocoon of safety.
Once she regained her bearings, Yuu's frantic gaze darted around the unfamiliar room until a wave of relief washed over her—Guren's decapitated corpse was nowhere to be seen. As her heart gradually slowed its frantic rhythm, she realized the horror she'd just experienced had been nothing more than a nightmare. This realization solidified as she met Mikaela's worried gaze, his ruby eyes intensely fixed on her emerald ones.
"Wh…what happened?" she gasped, her hand instinctively clutching the front of her plain white nightgown, as if it could shield her from the remnants of her fear.
It was then that she fully grasped her surroundings: she was out of her uniform, half-sitting up in a bed that felt foreign, surrounded by walls she didn't recognize. Curiously, she noticed that Mika was also out of uniform, dressed in brown slacks and a beige sweater. At first, the casual attire struck her as odd; she was so accustomed to seeing him in his vampire soldier uniforms. *2*
"Calm down, Yuu-chan. You've been through a lot, so take it easy. I'll do my best to explain everything," Mika said, his voice low and steady, providing a soothing counterpoint to her racing thoughts.
Trusting her brother's words, Yuu allowed herself to relax against him, letting the tension seep from her muscles as he gently lowered her back onto the bed.
"What happened?" she asked again, the urgency in her voice now softened. "Where are we?"
Mikaela took a moment, drawing a chair from a nearby desk before settling in beside her, preparing for a lengthy explanation.
"You passed out shortly after we managed to get you away from the airport. Fortunately, everyone from both Shinoa and Satoshi's Squads, as well as Narumi-san, made it out with us. We were all worried when you lost consciousness, likely due to your seraph transformation. But taking you to a hospital was not an option. So, we had to find a place where the Demon Army and their leader wouldn't think to look for us. This is it."
He gestured towards the window, the wilderness outside hinting at their secluded location.
"And where is 'here'?" Yuu pressed, curiosity piqued.
"A small, deserted fishing town near the sea, surrounded by wilderness," he explained. "I can't tell you the name, as the residents are long gone, and there's no one left to ask." *3*
"How long have I been out?" she inquired, a hint of dread creeping into her voice.
Mika hesitated, weighing his words carefully before responding.
"Two weeks." *4*
Yuu's mouth fell open in disbelief. "WHAT?!"
"I'm sorry," Mika said softly. "Nothing we did could wake you, and we had no choice but to wait and see if you would come around on your own. The others offered to take shifts watching over you, but I insisted they focus on themselves first. I could manage just fine alone; I don't need nearly as much rest."
Yuu blinked, processing this. "You mean… you've been here every day for two weeks watching over me?"
Mika leaned back in his chair, exhaling a long breath. Though he didn't fully trust Shinoa or Yuu's other friends, he couldn't deny their assistance during her unconsciousness.
"Essentially. I could have stayed up all night to watch over you, but I thought it more appropriate to let Shinoa, Mitsuba, and the Harada twins help bathe and change you out of your uniform."
Color flooded Yuichiro's cheeks as she looked down, realizing her skin was clean and she wore comfortable clothing for sleep.
"You mean…"
"Not entirely," Mika replied, his tone neutral but understanding her train of thought. "You weren't in a condition for a regular bath, so the girls cleaned you up with hot wet towels after getting your uniform off. It was Shinoa's idea, I believe."
A sigh of relief escaped Yuu. Despite Shinoa's tendency to annoy her, Yuu appreciated her thoughtfulness in such a delicate situation. And as much as Shinoa loved to poke fun at Yuu's lack of experience with men, she fiercely protected her modesty, just as Guren had.
"I see. I'll have to thank her for that. If we're all here and not with the Demon Army, does that mean what happened was real?"
Mika nodded gravely. "Believe me, Yuu-chan, I wish it were a dream."
"So, we really did escape during the chaos when the humans and vampires clashed again after…"
"Yes. I had intended to leave with you alone, but the others insisted on coming along."
Yuu sighed heavily. "I know… I remember everything. We betrayed the Demon Army, the Hiragi leaders, and… Guren."
As soon as her mentor's name left her lips, regret washed over her. Mika's frown deepened as he took her by the shoulders, his grip firm yet comforting.
"No, Yuu-chan! You didn't do anything wrong! It was Guren who betrayed you. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: your mentor has been using you for his own ends all this time. Even though he raised you, it still doesn't change that cold, hard fact. I assure you…you don't owe him anything!"
"I…" Yuu started, but words failed her as she realized Mika was undeniably right. There was nothing she could say in Guren's defense, not after everything that had transpired at Nagoya Airport.
Guren had even confessed to her that he lacked the luxury of saving anyone who didn't serve a greater purpose. But what that "greater purpose" meant for her was still a mystery to Yuichiro.
Knowing that it would be insensitive to Mikaela to speak of Guren any further after everything he had gone through to save her, Yuichiro finally decided to drop the subject of her guardian. At least for now. *5*
"Yes… you're right. The question remains, what do we do now? Where do we go from here?"
Mika visibly relaxed at her change of topic. "For now, Shinoa, Satoshi, and Narumi have decided we should lay low until we chart our next move. It's likely we won't be able to stay here long before the humans and vampires come after us again."
"Us? Or just me?"
Before Mika could respond, their conversation was interrupted by a familiar voice.
"Technically, we're all on the Demon Army's wanted list. But it's you they're most interested in, Miss Hyakuya."
Turning toward the door, Mika shot an irritated glance at the purple-haired squad leader.
"You know, it's common courtesy to knock before entering someone's room, human," he growled, irritation evident in his tone.
Instead of being offended, Shinoa simply smiled, leaning casually against the door frame. She held a dark JIDA uniform that looked strikingly similar to Yuu's old one, folded neatly over her arm.
"I did, Mikaela. A few times, actually. But you two seemed so… absorbed in your conversation that you didn't even notice. So, I decided to let myself in and check if everything was alright. After all, it's my duty to ensure the well-being of all my squad members."
Ordinarily, Yuu would have also been annoyed by Shinoa's tendency to pry into her business, especially at a moment when she finally had the chance to be alone with Mika again. However, after the traumatic events at Nagoya Airport two weeks ago, Yuichiro felt a profound gratitude that everyone dear to her had emerged from the battle alive.
"It's okay, Mika," she said, giving her brother's hand a reassuring pat. "I'm just so relieved that everyone made it out alive. Even Shinoa."
Shinoa sighed dramatically, placing a hand on her chest in mock sorrow before brightening her expression with her customary cheerfulness.
"I'm genuinely touched by your concern for me, Yuu. But truly, we've all been worried about you—not just Mika."
"Yes, he already mentioned that. I appreciate it, I really do. If you don't mind me asking, did Shinya and the rest of his squad make it as well?"
Shinoa keenly noticed that Yuu deliberately avoided bringing up her guardian, likely out of consideration for Mika, who harbored little affection for the older man. Consequently, she made a conscious effort to address her subordinate's question without mentioning Guren, at least not directly by name.
"The last time I saw Nii-san and the rest of his squad, they chose to stay behind to cover our retreat. We owe them our lives. Unfortunately, I have no idea what happened to them afterward."
"Do you think they'll be labeled traitors like us?" Yuichiro asked, worry creasing her brow.
Shinoa crossed her arms and closed her eyes momentarily, contemplating how best to respond.
"To be honest, I'm not sure. I want to believe that my elder brother, Kureto, would not harm them. They are his best soldiers, and he may have need of them again in the future. At least, that's what I'm hoping."
Yuu cast her gaze downward, absorbing her squad leader's words. Guren's Squad may have humiliated Shinoa and Satoshi Squads in front of the entire MDC for arriving late in Ebina, but there was no denying that they had risked their lives to ensure the safety of both junior squads.
"I understand… I guess we'll have to hope for the best and not let their efforts go to waste."
"Exactly… Speaking of which, how are you feeling, Yuu? I'm sure Mika told you that you've been asleep for two weeks. Would you like something to eat?"
At the mention of food, Yuichiro's stomach growled loudly, eliciting a chuckle from Shinoa and a smirk from Mikaela.
"I'll take that as a 'yes'?" Shinoa teased playfully.
"Well, duh! I haven't eaten since we left Nagoya, so what do you think?" Yuu replied impatiently, trying unsuccessfully to mask her embarrassment with irritation. She was about to point an accusatory finger at her squad leader when she noticed the cold metal cuff around her wrist, linked to a chain.
"And what's this?" Yuu demanded, her eyes widening as she glanced around and confirmed she was also cuffed at her ankles. Shinoa remained standing in the doorway, not making a move to approach—at least, not yet.
Instead of answering immediately, Mika and Shinoa exchanged uncertain glances before turning back to Yuu, both appearing conflicted on how to proceed.
"Well?" Yuu pressed, her impatience growing.
As much as she preferred Mikaela to handle the explanation, Shinoa knew it was her responsibility as Yuichiro's squad leader. The blond had already played a crucial role in his sister's recovery and managing her… other complications.
Preparing for a lengthy conversation, Shinoa stepped into the room. With no extra chair available aside from the one Mika occupied, she opted to stand near Yuu's bedside.
"Yuichiro…" she began, her tone serious but gentle. "I hope you don't take offense, but after what happened at Nagoya Airport, we had to take… precautions to ensure not only your safety but the safety of everyone in our squads, including Mika, who has been watching over you closely."
Yuu looked puzzled. "What do you mean, what happened to me?"
Shinoa and Mika were taken aback by Yuu's confused response.
"What? Are you really saying you don't remember anything, Yuu?" Shinoa asked, disbelief etched on her face.
Yuichiro rubbed her forehead, trying to piece together her fragmented memories of the events at Nagoya before she, Mikaela, and their friends in the Shinoa and Satoshi Squads deserted the Demon Army, leaving both the warring humans and vampires behind.
"My memories are a bit hazy…" she admitted. "But I can faintly recall speaking with Asuramaru before…"
"Yes?" Mika urged, leaning in with concern. "Go on." Although he disliked putting his sister in an uncomfortable position, it was crucial to determine what she could remember.
"I remember feeling an intense heat coursing through me, followed by… pain. So much pain. It was as if I weren't myself anymore, becoming someone else entirely… Yet, I still recognized my actions as my own. I reveled in devastation, whether it was humans or vampires. They all appeared equally loathsome to me. And then…"
"And then?"
"I saw and heard Asuramaru again. I think he was trying to coax me into trusting him, reminding me that my true desire wasn't to destroy humans and vampires. After that, I fell, but I wasn't injured because Risa saved me. And then…"
Looking at Mika again, Yuichiro paused, unsure if she should mention Guren. Sensing her hesitation, her brother sighed and nodded, encouraging her to continue.
"It's all right, Yuu-chan. We need to understand how much you remember if we are to help you."
"I remember you and Guren clashing like you did back in Shinjuku, but it felt different this time. He wasn't himself, and I was terrified that you both…"
Yuichiro buried her face in her hands, the mere thought of what might have happened weighing heavily on her heart, rendering her momentarily speechless.
Mika's expression softened as he reached out to take Yuu's hands, squeezing them gently, as if to convey that at least he was safe. Guren's fate, however, was anyone's guess.
"It's okay, Yuu-chan. As you can see, I'm fine. And as for Guren… well,"
Recognizing the delicacy of the topic surrounding Yuichiro's guardian, Shinoa interjected with a reassuring tone.
"You need not worry about Guren. The last time I saw him, he was very much alive, just like Shinya and the others. If there's one thing I've learned about your mentor, it's that he's not a man who would die easily, Yuu. The same goes for Nii-san and the rest of their squad."
Hearing that Guren was still alive and that her disturbing dream of Mika beheading him had never happened filled Yuichiro with a sense of relief. However, the presence of Mikaela made her hesitate to express her gratitude. Even after two weeks in a haze, the memory of the two men she treasured most trying to kill each other was still vivid.
"Yes… Now I remember. After Mika defeated Guren, Kureto sent some soldiers to capture me, but Yoichi and Takeshi held them off long enough for us to escape."
"Right," Shinoa confirmed, momentarily pausing before asking her next, more pressing question. "Do you recall anything else after that?"
"I…" Yuu began, only to trail off. Truthfully, she couldn't recall anything after Mika, Shinoa, and the others had rescued her from Nagoya, until she awoke in this strange room.
"You really can't remember, Yuu-chan?" Mika pressed gently.
Yuichiro closed her eyes, delving into her memory for any clues, but ultimately came up empty.
"No… I'm afraid that's all I can recall. Tell me, was I really asleep this entire time?"
Mikaela and Shinoa exchanged alarmed looks at Yuichiro's unexpected inquiry. Their reactions led her to assume that she hadn't been entirely unconscious; she just had no memory of the events following the airport battle. A deeper worry nagged at her—was that why she found herself shackled in the first place?
"Well, it's a bit complicated, Yuu," Shinoa began. "I can explain later, but for now, why don't you change and join us for breakfast? If you're worried about clothes, Mitsuba and the Harada twins have secured some things for you in town. As for your uniform, I made you a new one to match it since the old one couldn't be salvaged."
Yuichiro blinked in surprise. "Really, Shinoa? I didn't know you could sew."
Shinoa waved her hand dismissively, as if it were no big deal. "When you've raised yourself like I have, you pick up a few useful skills along the way."
Though cooking had not been among Shinoa's acquired skills, she conveniently omitted that fact and continued, "While you were… indisposed, Kimizuki and I taught everyone some domestic skills we'll need to survive out here."
"Is that so? Well, in that case, I'd like to get changed and grab some breakfast. How long do you think we'll be here?"
"About that: Satoshi and I are considering ways to leave Japan. We must take you beyond Kureto's reach—and even Guren's."
"Wait, you want to take me away from Guren? Are you serious, Shinoa?"
"Yes, she is, Yuu-chan," Mika interjected sharply. "And for once, I actually agree with her."
"And why's that?" Yuu challenged, her voice rising.
"Because it's for your safety—and for the world's, too. Now that others know your true nature, they'll never leave you in peace, Yuu-chan. Remember what I told you after we left the hospital? Your powers stem from the Demon Army's, or more precisely, Guren's secret experiments. If you thought Nagoya was chaotic, just imagine what would happen if the Hiragis or the vampire progenitors got their hands on you again. It could spell doom for all life as we know it."
Yuichiro felt unease knotting in her stomach. Despite her protests, she could not poke holes in Mika and Shinoa's argument. As Asuramaru had warned her, once she embraced the trumpet, her previous life would end, and the Yuichiro she had been would vanish.
"All right," Yuu started, hoping to persuade her brother and squad leader to explore alternatives. "Let's say I agree with you both. How in the world can we leave the country? The airports are shut down; there hasn't been an outbound flight since the Apocalypse! Traveling by boat would be suicide with the oceans filled with acid and monsters. And even if that weren't the case, none of us can fly planes, sail boats, or navigate the skies and sea."
"You're right, Yuu-chan; humans don't have the means. But vampires do."
"What are you suggesting, Mika?" Shinoa asked, concern threading her voice, unsure of where this conversation was leading.
"Not quite what you think," Mikaela replied before turning back to Yuichiro. "There's a vampire who played a role in the Seraph of the End experiments. Unbeknownst to us during our childhood, she safeguarded the Hyakuya Sect children, concealing our existence from the other vampire progenitors. She is the queen who raised me after you and I were separated."
"You mean the one captured by Ferid?"
"Yes. Her name is Krul Tepes."
"Can we trust her?" Shinoa questioned, skepticism clear in her expression.
"I want to believe we can. Ironically, Krul was the only vampire I truly trusted after my transformation. One thing I know for certain is that returning to the humans in the Demon Army is not an option—not for any of us, and especially not for Yuu-chan."
"B…but!" Yuu protested, but Shinoa interrupted.
"I'm sorry, Yuichiro, but I agree with Mikaela on this. Guren is possessed by his demon—my sister, Mahiru. We can't trust him as he is, particularly after what he tried to do to you."
As Shinoa spoke, she turned her gaze toward Mikaela, offering a look of silent apology for invoking the painful memory of Guren's actions back in Nagoya.
Fortunately, the blond did not take offense, nodding in understanding.
"It's all right. It was important to address."
"So, what do we do now?" Yuu asked, her expression a mix of curiosity and concern.
"For the moment, we need to lie low until you regain your strength, and until we can figure out how to locate the vampire queen Mika mentioned," Shinoa replied, shifting her attention to Mikaela. "Does that work for you, Mikaela?"
Mika nodded in agreement. "Yes… It's not like we have much choice."
Yuichiro scoffed, impatience edging his tone. "Tsk, fine! Can I be released now? I'm starving and could really use a stretch!"
A hesitant look crossed Shinoa's face. Sensing her reluctance, Mikaela subtly conveyed with his gaze that he would be able to keep Yuu restrained if she were to be overtaken by her demon. After a moment's contemplation, Shinoa finally relented.
"Of course," she said, reaching into her pocket to retrieve the key to Yuu's manacles. She handed it to Mika with a determined nod. Then, she placed the new uniform she had been holding at the foot of his bed.
"I'll leave you to get changed. Please join the rest of us in the dining room afterward; I'm sure Mitsuba and the Harada twins will have breakfast ready by then."
Recalling what had happened the last time the girls, including Shinoa, tried to cook for them, Yuichiro felt a bead of sweat forming on her brow.
Fortunately, her squad leader could read her thoughts like an open book.
"It's all right, Yuu," Shinoa reassured her. "We've all improved our culinary skills over the past two weeks. While you were away, Kimizuki supervised all our…kitchen activities."
At Shinoa's calming words, Yuu felt a wave of relief wash over her. If the girls hadn't managed to set fire to the house by now, then she was likely right. Yuu made a mental note to express her gratitude to Kimizuki later.
"All right, I will."
Once Mika unlocked her manacles, he stepped outside, allowing Yuu to change out of her nightgown. She had braced herself for a new uniform that would either be oversized or too small, given Shinoa's culinary history. However, to her surprise, it fit perfectly. Yuu guessed that Shinoa must have taken her measurements while she was unconscious—possibly with the help of Mitsuba and the Harada twins.
As she meticulously fastened the buttons of her dark jacket, Yuichiro couldn't help but reflect on the irony of donning the uniform of the army to which she and her squad mates had sworn off their allegiance. It brought to mind a lesson from Guren, who had once remarked that people often cling to what is familiar, a sentiment that resonated deeply with her. After all, Yuichiro had maintained the facade of a boy for years, long after her parents had passed away.
A frown creased Yuichiro's brow as her thoughts drifted back to Guren. She had made a conscious effort to avoid discussing him unless absolutely necessary, particularly in the presence of Mikaela, but a nagging worry for her guardian lingered in her mind. Yet, she also recognized that there was little she could do for Guren—nothing that Mika wouldn't object to anyway. With a determined shake of her head, she resolved to push thoughts of her mentor aside, focusing instead on joining her companions downstairs.
SSSSSS
"Good morning, Miss Hyakuya! How are you feeling today?" Risa's cheerful voice rang out as she spotted Yuu stepping into the dining room, a warm smile spreading across her face. The atmosphere was lively, with their friends from both squads assembled around the dinner table. Alongside them were Mikaela and Narumi, adding to the camaraderie.
Like Yuu herself, everyone donned their military uniforms once again, including Mika, who had also turned his back on the vampire army. The irony of the situation weighed heavily on her mind, a poignant reminder of the choices they had made.
As Yuichiro surveyed the scene, she noticed Shinoa, Mitsuba, and Riku emerging from the kitchen, each balancing plates brimming with food, which they carefully arranged on the table. To her relief, everything prepared by the other girls appeared not only edible but also quite appetizing, all thanks to Kimizuki's vigilant oversight.
Though Shinoa and Satoshi held the titles of squad leaders, everyone knew that when it came to culinary matters, Kimizuki's directives were to be followed without hesitation—especially if they wished to avoid a repeat of the kitchen disaster back at JIDA Headquarters.
"I'm feeling much better now, thank you, Risa," Yuu responded graciously, her gaze drawn to the enticing array of food before her. The freshly baked bread, perfectly scrambled eggs, smoked ham, ripe fruits, and fresh juice appeared far more appealing than the monotonous rations they were accustomed to in the army.
A wave of nostalgia washed over Yuichiro; it was clear that this feast was the result of collective effort. She imagined her friends had baked the bread from scratch, foraged for eggs and fruits in the nearby woods, and perhaps even hunted the local hogs for meat—a task Yoichi and Takeshi would undoubtedly excel at with their impressive archery skills. *6*
"Is something on your mind, Yuu?" Risa inquired, her curiosity piqued as she noticed the dreamy expression on Yuu's face.
Startled back to reality, Yuu quickly apologized. "Oh, I'm sorry! I was just reminiscing about the mornings I spent helping Sayuri and Shigure make breakfast before I joined the Shibuya Guard."
"Sayuri and Shigure? I didn't realize you were on a first-name basis with the lieutenant colonel's entire squad," Satoshi remarked from his seat, eyebrows raised in surprise.
"That's because they practically raised her," Mitsuba explained while circulating around the table to fill everyone's glasses with orange juice.
As Yuichiro observed her blonde squad mate pouring juice, she noted that the glasses, plates, and utensils were not only in excellent condition but also impeccably clean. It suggested that the house they were staying in still had electricity and running water—or perhaps her friends had taken the initiative to clean their dishes in a nearby freshwater stream or pond. *7*
"So, does that mean you're as close to the rest of Guren's Squad as you are to him?" Takeshi queried, his expression one of genuine curiosity, though he soon felt Yoichi nudge him gently in the ribs.
The brunet boy glanced questioningly at his sniping partner, only to see Yoichi subtly signal toward Mikaela, who was seated at the far end of the table. The vampire's silence spoke volumes; the slight frown on his face conveyed enough to make Takeshi think twice before pursuing the question any further. He knew well enough when to steer clear of sensitive topics, especially with Yuichiro's orphanage brother present.
Eager to redirect the conversation, Shinoa cleared her throat and retrieved a small vial filled with deep red liquid from her apron pocket. With a practiced motion, she filled Mika's empty glass. It was known among them that the blond could not partake in the lavish spread prepared for the rest of the group. The sight stirred an unsettling curiosity in Yuichiro—whose blood was it, if not her own?
"I apologize, Mikaela," Shinoa said gently, glancing toward him. "Takeshi didn't mean anything by it. How are you holding up? It's been some time since I last saw you feed."
Yuichiro's heart raced at Shinoa's words, and she turned her gaze to Mika.
"Is that true, Mika? If you're thirsty, I can offer you some of my blood again."
Before Mikaela could respond, Shinoa interjected. "No, Yuu, I wouldn't recommend that. You've just emerged from your coma and need time to recuperate; excessive blood loss could hinder your recovery."
Mika often found Shinoa's protectiveness to be exasperating, just as Yuu did. Yet, in this moment, he couldn't help but feel a sense of relief at her reasoning—it offered him an excuse to refrain from drinking from Yuu, especially given her condition, even if his thirst was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
"It's okay, Yuu-chan," he assured her softly, taking the glass before him. "Shinoa is right. I'd never forgive myself if I lost control and harmed you. It's safer this way."
While she appreciated their concern, a pang of disappointment flickered within Yuichiro.
"Oh... Are you sure that's all right, Mika? Whose blood is that, anyway?" she asked, her curiosity tinged with unease as she watched him drink in swift sips.
The idea of her blood being drawn while she remained unconscious for the past two weeks unsettled her. However, she was willing to accept it if it meant helping Mikaela.
"It's fine, really," he replied, his tone reassuring. "Everyone contributed a bit of their blood to help me out. So, there's no need to worry."
Technically, this was only partly true. While the combined blood of Yuichiro's other friends was not objectionable by any means, it was nowhere near as divine as hers has been.
Though there was no way in hell Mikaela Hyakuya was ever going to admit it.
Yuu cast a probing glance at Mika, her expression a blend of doubt and concern. She couldn't quite tell whether to trust his words, yet she was careful not to press him—aware that this was a deeply sensitive subject for him.
"All right, if you say so, Mika."
Grateful for his sister's perceptiveness, Mika mentally noted to apologize to Yuu later for his less-than-honest response. Despite their separation of nearly five years, Yuichiro still possessed an uncanny ability to sense when Mikaela was not being entirely truthful.
Forcing his mind away from that nagging thought, Mika turned his attention to the gathered members of Shinoa and Satoshi's Squads, as well as Narumi, to discuss the plan he had briefly shared with Yuichiro earlier upon her awakening.
"Thank you, everyone, for helping to sustain me while Yuu-chan slept. Now that she's awake, we must discuss our next move."
"Indeed, Mikaela, you mentioned wanting to take Yuichiro away from here, correct?" Satoshi asked, studying the Hyakuyas with keen interest.
"That's right. However, I haven't yet delved into the specifics of how we plan to execute that with the rest of you," Mika replied.
"Oh, do enlighten us, Mr. Hyakuya," Risa chimed in, her brown eyes sparkling with intrigue.
"Yes, please share! We're all ears," Riku added, equally intrigued by her sister's inquiry.
Once Mika ensured he had everyone's undivided attention, including Yuu's, he continued, "As you all know, Yuu-chan isn't the only one marked by the Demon Army. We all are. Yes, that includes me. Thankfully, we've avoided detection while hiding in this abandoned town, but that luck won't hold forever."
"You mean the Demon Army will come after us? Well, that's always been a no-brainer," Kimizuki retorted, crossing his arms and leaning back into his chair. "They've been experimenting on my sister behind my back all this time, as well as Yuichiro. We can't trust them."
"So, who do we turn to? The vampires?" Daisuke asked, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
To his astonishment, Mika responded, "Exactly."
Most of the table gasped, with the exception of Shinoa and Yuichiro, who were already aware of Mika's plan. Takeshi burst into laughter, convinced it was a ludicrous suggestion.
"Haha! And I thought vampires had no sense of humor!"
Yet, the serious expression etched on Mikaela's face, coupled with the palpable unease radiating from everyone else at the mere thought of seeking help from vampires, stifled any potential laughter.
As Takeshi realized no one had joined in on his amusement, embarrassment washed over him, leaving him tongue-tied. Yoichi couldn't help but roll his eyes; after all the effort he had put into reminding his sniping partner to be considerate of their new vampire ally, Yoichi felt that his words and warnings went through one ear and out the other with Takeshi Saehara.
Still, Yoichi needed clarity on Mika's suggestion. "Are you serious, Mika? I know returning to the Demon Army is out of the question, but what makes you think the vampires would be any better?"
Mika appeared prepared for the skepticism, stating, "Not just any vampire—Krul Tepes, the vampire queen who raised me. She gave me her blessing to go missing in action to find Yuu-chan. She possesses extensive knowledge about the Seraph of the End project. I believe we can trust her to help us escape Japan and ensure Yuu-chan's safety. She might even assist us in rescuing Kimizuki's sister."
While everyone trusted Mikaela's sincerity, none seemed eager to place their faith in the enigmatic third progenitor vampire queen.
An uncomfortable silence enveloped the group, each squad contemplating Mikaela's proposal until Narumi, who had been quietly listening, finally broke the tension.
"I hate to admit it, but Hyakuya does have a point. Even if any of us knew how to sail a boat and navigate the seas, traveling that way is out of the question because the oceans are now filled with acid. Not only that, but monsters even stronger than the Four Horsemen of John lurk beneath their depths. The only way we can leave Japan is by plane, and none of us has access to one.""
"None of us can pilot an aircraft, either," Satoshi added, sipping his orange juice.
"Or navigate the skies," Kimizuki grimly echoed.
"Right," Mitsuba nodded in agreement. "Staying in Japan isn't really an option, either. If this country weren't so isolated, or part of a larger continent like Europe or the Americas, we might have a chance to hide out safely. But these islands are just too small; we wouldn't last long, especially with the Hiragis controlling everything here."
"Unfortunately, I can't disagree with that," Shinoa chimed in. "The Hiragis—specifically my father and older brother—hold the power of the entire country in their hands. If we want to ensure our safety, we need to escape their grasp completely, find another country where their reach can't touch us."
"Wait a minute!" Yuu interjected, a sudden realization dawning on her. "Even if we make it out of Japan, where exactly are we supposed to go? Just like the Hiragis dominate Japan, I'm sure the vampire progenitors have the entire world under their thumb, too. Since I'm the main target here, I think I should go with Mika alone to draw the Hiragis and vampires off your backs. There's no point in putting everyone else in danger for my sake."
"Yuu, hold on a moment," Narumi interrupted.
Yuichiro stared at him, bewilderment written across her face. "What?"
"I've lost my entire squad because the Hiragis are hell-bent on claiming the power you possess. We all witnessed how the lieutenant general wasn't content with just Kimizuki's sister; he was ready to sacrifice as many of our comrades as necessary to add you to his twisted arsenal for whatever dark schemes he's cooking up. And, no offense to your dear 'brother' here, but I can't feel at ease unless I play a part in making sure you don't fall into the hands of those who want to exploit whatever it is inside you that triggered the disaster back in Nagoya. Otherwise, my subordinates would have died for nothing."
Mikaela felt the sting of Narumi's implication that he wasn't capable enough to protect Yuichiro was ready to snap at the older man. But Shinoa, sensing that an argument would lead nowhere productive, quickly interjected.
"Mikaela, please don't take this the wrong way. No one here is questioning your ability to protect Yuichiro. But let's be real: no matter how strong you are, you're still just one person and can only do so much on your own. We've made it this far because we stuck together after deserting the mess at Nagoya Airport. If we decide to split up now, the Demon Army, not to mention the vampires, can easily track us down and pick us off one by one. Plus, Yuichiro is our friend too, and we want to protect her just as much as you do."
"I agree," Satoshi said, turning his attention to the two in question. "If you believe that the vampire queen who raised you can help us, then it's a risk we have to take. Honestly, I don't see anyone else who could possibly come to our aid. That is, of course, if she's willing to help. I assume that is the case, or else you wouldn't have suggested it, right, Mikaela?"
"Exactly," Mika replied, momentarily pushing aside his earlier irritation with Narumi. "But like I said before, she was captured by Ferid and Crowley. I really don't know what her situation is right now."
"Do you think it's even possible to rescue her?" Daisuke asked, his skepticism evident. He, too, was hesitant to trust the vampire queen, and the thought of mounting a rescue felt overwhelmingly daunting given everything they were facing.
Still, with no other viable options to ensure Yuichiro and their squad were safe, the red-haired boy chose to keep his doubts to himself.
"I want to say 'yes,' but honestly, I wouldn't even know where to begin," Mika admitted, but then a thought struck him. "Wait, that's not entirely accurate. Since Ferid was the one who captured Krul, I believe that if we can track him down, we'll find her as well."
"And how do we locate this Ferid?" Kimizuki asked.
"Knowing him, we might not need to search for long."
"Meaning?"
"Meaning there's a strong chance he'll come looking for us. More specifically, for me and Yuu-chan."
"You seem to know that noble quite well…" Riku remarked, a hint of intrigue in her voice.
"Exactly! Do you two have some kind of history together?" Risa chimed in, her curiosity bubbling over.
Mikaela sighed, rolling his eyes. "You have no idea, girls…"
Intrigued, the twins were on the verge of pressing Mika for more details when they noticed Yuu's subtle gesture, a quiet signal that this was a touchy subject for him. Catching the hint, Risa and Riku quickly backed off, shifting their focus to their squad leaders as if silently asking what their next move should be.
Shinoa was preparing to speak when she felt Satoshi's hand on her shoulder, signaling his desire to take the lead. After all, she had already expended energy devising their options as well as calming Mika down after Narumi had rubbed him the wrong way.
"If what you say about Ferid is true, then it looks like we don't have to do anything except wait for him to come to us. Though whether or not we can actually get him to reveal Queen Krul's whereabouts is another story. Do you really think we can force an answer, and an honest one at that, out of him, Mikaela?"
Mika sighed, pressing a hand to his forehead as if trying to stave off a headache. As much as he hated to concede, Satoshi raised a valid concern.
"I'm not certain. I believe that with both of your squads collaborating, you might stand a chance against Ferid. However, that's useless if he takes the knowledge of Krul's fate to his grave. The same goes for Crowley."
"Wait…" Yuu spoke up, an idea forming. "Brute force isn't our only option for getting answers, Mika. Perhaps we can negotiate with them."
Mitsuba stared at her raven-haired comrade as if she had made the most absurd suggestion imaginable.
"Are you serious?! You can't honestly think those bloodsuckers would…"
"I've done it once before," Yuichiro interjected, her tone sharp as all eyes turned to her.
Alarmed, Mika grasped Yuu's arm, careful not to be too rough with her.
"What do you mean, Yuu-chan?" he pressed.
Yuichiro paused for a moment, weighing whether to share her attempt to negotiate with Crowley for Guren's release with Mikaela and the others. She suspected that her squad mates thought she had tried to rescue her mentor solely by force, especially since they had rushed in to save her only after she was caught off guard and defeated by Crowley.
With the weight of their expectations hanging in the air—after all, she had been the one to suggest they negotiate with the vampires—Yuichiro steeled herself and decided it was time to come clean.
"Before we saw Guren at the airport, he was captured. And, as all of you except Mika know, I went back to city hall to confront Crowley Eusford and challenge him for Guren's safe return."
Mika's jaw dropped in disbelief. "You did WHAT?!"
"Please, let me finish, Mika!" Yuu urged, her voice steadying as she turned back to the group gathered around the table. "I never had a chance to tell any of you until now, but I struck a deal with Crowley during our confrontation. I challenged him to a one-on-one duel, stipulating that if I won, he would return Guren to me alive and unharmed."
"And if he won?" Mika pressed, an edge of concern lacing his tone.
"Um..."
"Well?"
Yuichiro sighed and braced herself for her friends' reactions.
"I promised to surrender myself to him."
Just as she anticipated, shock swept across the faces of her friends, and Narumi whistled, breaking the silence.
"Oh, wow, Miss Hyakuya. I've always known you to be gutsy, even if a bit reckless. But challenging a noble on your own? That really takes the cake."
Ignoring Narumi's praise, Mika glared at Yuu, his expression a mix of disbelief and fury.
"I can't believe you actually agreed to such a outrageous deal with a noble like that!" he exploded, his voice rising.
"You're one to talk, Mika!" she replied, a smirk playing on her lips, as if to throw his own questionable past with Ferid back in his face, when they were just kids trying to survive in the rough world of Sanguinem.
"Enough, you two!" Narumi interjected with authority. "While I share your concerns about Miss Hyakuya's impulsiveness, at least we now understand that even nobles are open to negotiation."
"That may be true, but what could we possibly have that those two nobles would want badly enough to tell us the queen's whereabouts?" Yoichi inquired, a hint of skepticism in his voice.
"I'm not sure…" Yuu admitted, her voice softer now that she and Mika had calmed. "That's something I need to think about."
Turning to Shinoa, Satoshi, and Narumi, Yuichiro cast a pleading look, silently asking the squad leaders to trust her judgment, at least for this moment.
Taking the cue, Shinoa exchanged glances with Satoshi and Narumi. She recognized that while she managed her squad independently, the success of Yuichiro and Mikaela's plan hinged on the cooperation of the entire group, especially if negotiations with Ferid and Crowley went sour.
"Well, what do you two think?" Shinoa asked, her voice steady. "Yuichiro is my subordinate and my responsibility, even if we're no longer part of the Demon Army. If you and your squad wish to steer clear of this mess and avoid entanglements with nobles, we understand. However, if you choose to assist us, your help would be invaluable."
"Shinoa, you don't need to ask," Satoshi replied with warmth. "I've told you before that my squad stands with you no matter what. We made that choice the moment we decided to leave the Demon Army at Nagoya and forge our own path."
"Exactly," Narumi added, a reassuring smile on his face. "And I did promise to protect Yuichiro from anyone who might misuse her powers. Count us in."
Grateful for their unwavering support, Shinoa stood, leaning over the table with both hands pressed against the smooth wood.
"Then it's settled. For now, we wait. I'd give it about a week to ensure Yuu recovers fully. If Ferid and Crowley don't make an appearance by then, we'll leave this town and track them down ourselves. Is everyone in agreement?"
In response, the group raised their glasses in unison, determination etched on their faces.
"Agreed.
SSSSSS
Later that night, once everyone in the house had turned in for the night, including Yuichiro, Shinoa nestled into an old leather armchair that faced a vintage fireplace in the cozy living room of the house she and her squad shared with Satoshi's Squad, Narumi, and Mikaela. The crackling flames cast a warm glow around the room, creating a perfect backdrop for her thoughts to wander.
Over the past two weeks, the group had transformed the two-story dwelling, which they suspected once belonged to some of the town's more affluent residents, into a livable haven. With the luxury of multiple rooms and beds, remnants from the previous owners—who once had live-in staff—now served them well after a thorough cleaning. The linens, long nestled in the closets, had emerged unscathed, ready for use just in time for the arrival of the two squads.
While they all waited for Yuichiro to wake from her slumber, the squads scavenged the deserted town and the surrounding wilderness for food and essentials. Narumi, ever the pragmatic leader, had issued stern warnings against complacency, reminding everyone of the need for vigilance—prepared to flee or fight at a moment's notice should the situation demand it.
Despite both the human and vampire armies suffering significant losses in the aftermath of the battle at Nagoya Airport, everyone understood that each side would eventually resume their search for Yuichiro. Now that the girl in question had finally awoken and a plan was taking shape, Shinoa could shift her attention to another pressing matter. After pouring herself a steaming cup of tea, she retrieved a vial of blood from her shirt pocket and poured it into a second teacup placed across from her, eagerly anticipating the arrival of her visitor.
Her wait ended when she heard the soft padding of footsteps behind her. Without looking back, she broke the silence.
"So, how is Yuu?"
"She's asleep," Mika replied, his voice laced with both relief and concern. "Though she wasn't too happy about it, I managed to persuade Yuu-chan to let me shackle her to the bed again, as long as I stayed by her side until she fell asleep. I told her it was a necessary precaution in case her demon got restless again. Not that it wouldn't have been necessary no matter who was keeping watch, but at least she seems to trust me a little more with this."
Shinoa sighed, rising from her seat to face Mikaela. "I see. What are your thoughts, then? Does she really not remember anything from when she fainted after we left Nagoya until now?"
Mika shook his head, pausing as if searching for the right words. Aware that this topic could be sensitive for him, Shinoa remained silent, waiting patiently as she lifted the teacup filled with blood and offered it to him.
Her patience was rewarded when Mikaela accepted the cup and finally spoke. "No, I'm afraid not. It seems Yuu-chan doesn't have any recollection of what she says or does when she transforms. This has been the case for the past two weeks when I'm alone with her. I suspect whatever is inside her only reveals itself to me due to our shared history."
"I see… Could you elaborate a bit more, if you don't mind?"
Mikaela hesitated, clearly reluctant yet recognizing the importance of sharing this truth with at least Yuichiro's squad leader.
"Very well..." he conceded.
SSSSSS
"Mika, my love, please free me from these chains…" The demon possessing Yuichiro pleaded, her voice dripping with sweetness as she pressed her shackled wrists against Mikaela's chest. "We can run away together, just like you've always dreamed—just the two of us."
Mika smirked, taking "Yuu's" wrists in his hands and gently pushing her back, fixing her with a disdainful stare.
"Who's 'we,' demon? You're no family, no sister of mine. Don't you dare mock me with words I know she would never say."
"Aww… that stings, Mika!" The creature inhabiting Yuichiro's body pouted, the two black horns protruding from her skull unmistakable signs of the demon's influence.
"You must be parched. Otherwise, you wouldn't be saying such mean things. Oh, I know! How about I offer you some of my blood like I did back at the hospital? I remember how much you enjoyed it…" she purred, leaning in with the intent to kiss him.
With a low growl, the blond seized "Yuichiro" by her shoulders, pinning her down onto the bed while doing his best to ignore the enticing cleavage spilling from her nightgown, its buttons undone in disarray.
"Not a chance, demon. That trick won't work on me, so save your breath. Just give up and release your hold on Yuu-chan."
At his refusal, "Yuichiro" dropped the flirtation, fury twisting her features as she glared and fought against his grip and the chains that bound her to the bed.
"Damn you, bastard!" she screeched. "Unbind me, or I'll devour you right here, right now!"
In moments like these, Mikaela was grateful Shinoa had equipped him with talismans to soundproof Yuichiro's room, keeping the demonic raving hidden from their companions.
Ignoring her threats, Mikaela waited patiently, biding his time until the black horns sprouting from Yuichiro's temples finally receded back into her skull, concealed by her rapidly healing flesh, before she succumbed to unconsciousness once more.
SSSSSS
"So that's how it went every time?" Shinoa asked, allowing Mika to share his thoughts.
"Exactly," Mika replied, his brow furrowing slightly. "Yuu-chan—well, more accurately, the entity controlling her—might try different tactics each time, but the outcome is always the same: she threatens to devour me out of frustration when I refuse to bend to her whims."
"Is that all there is to it?"
Mika shook his head, a deep-seated frustration bubbling beneath the surface. "If only it were that simple," he said, his voice tinged with despair over his sister's plight.
"Go on…" Shinoa pressed, her curiosity piqued. "What else?"
Mika set his cup down with a soft clink and pulled out the pocket watch Shinoa had lent him, returning it to her with a sigh.
"One hundred and twenty seconds. That's how long Yuu-chan was under the demon's grip last time. The first instance lasted twenty seconds, then thirty, and so on, until it stretched to a full two minutes. At this rate, she'll be fully taken over for half a day in just six months."
"I see… This is a problem—not just for Yuichiro, but for all of us."
Mikaela gritted his teeth and clenched his fists. "It wouldn't be if not for that bastard, Guren Ichinose! I knew the Hyakuya Sect was already messing with Yuu-chan before she ended up in his care, but there is no doubt in my mind that Guren is the one who twisted her into this!"
Shinoa recalled her own unsettling conversation with Yuichiro's guardian after her first transformation during the Battle of Shinjuku and frowned in silent agreement.
"I can't argue with that," she admitted. "Though he never openly acknowledged it, I sensed he had a hand in Yuu's seraph transformations. Honestly, I unknowingly aided him until after the chaos in Shinjuku. I couldn't bring myself to tell Yuu, given how much she looked up to her mentor. But after the disaster in Shinjuku, I made it clear to Guren that I wouldn't assist him in harming Yuichiro anymore—whether she knew or not. Not even if he commanded it. My resolve hasn't changed."
Not too long ago, a confession like that might have set Mikaela off like a bomb. But after witnessing the unwavering support from Yuichiro's other friends—especially those from Satoshi's Squad and even Narumi—Mikaela had started to warm up to them. He realized he could only do so much for Yuichiro on his own, so he was more than willing to accept any help they offered to look after his orphanage sister.
"Tell me, Shinoa. Who exactly is Guren Ichinose?"
Shinoa was taken aback by the abruptness of his question.
"Excuse me?"
"You heard me, Miss Hiragi. I want to know what kind of man exploits and manipulates an innocent girl he's supposed to protect. From what I gather, you seem to know him quite well."
With a sigh, Shinoa poured herself another cup of tea, contemplating Mika's inquiry. Although she preferred to avoid discussing her former superior officer, she recognized that to earn Mika's trust—and ensure Yuichiro's well-being—she needed to be transparent.
"If you really want to know, then please take a seat, Mikaela. This could take a while." *8*
Taking Shinoa's invitation, Mika seated himself in the armchair Shinoa was sitting on earlier while she awaited his late arrival.
"I've got time," he said simply.
A knowing smile crept across Shinoa's face, as if she had anticipated such a response from Yuichiro's ever-vigilant brother. As thoughts flickered through her mind, Shinoa turned her gaze away from Mika and stared into the flickering flames of the fireplace, lost in thought for a moment.
And as she had done for him earlier, Mikaela waited patiently for Shinoa to speak.
"I was only eight years old when I first crossed paths with Guren Ichinose. He was still young himself, barely sixteen, yet already the head of his family. Much like Yuichiro, Guren was a prodigy—gifted with a mind that danced between genius and madness, remarkable combat skills, and a knack for leadership, all while projecting an image of complete disinterest to the outside world."
"He also has a talent for manipulation and he doesn't hesitate to use it, even on those he claims to care for," Mika interjected, bitterness lacing his voice.
Rather than take offense, Shinoa offered a sad smile and nodded in agreement.
"Yes, that, too. Especially if he deems it necessary for the greater good. Guren can be a difficult person to read, even to his closest friends. He often keeps things to himself and has no qualms about dishonesty, should it be necessary to achieve his objectives."
"Even to Yuu-chan?"
"Especially to Yuichiro. Oh, I was just as appalled as you were when I confronted him about it after the events in Shinjuku. I wanted to know what Yuu really meant to Guren and what his true intentions were. After all, she was just another orphan out of thousands left to fend for themselves after the world fell."
"Except that wasn't the case with Yuu-chan, and he knew it. It can't be a coincidence that she was the one Guren chose to take under his wing when so many other orphaned children were out there needing care," Mika pointed out sharply.
"Exactly," Shinoa affirmed. "Guren's every action is meticulously calculated; he never does anything without a reason. When I inquired about Yuu, he referred to her as a 'necessity'—crucial to humanity's survival. But there's more lurking beneath the surface."
Mikaela's eyes narrowed, his expression intense. "What do you mean?"
Shinoa's gaze drifted back to the fireplace. "I think Guren sees Yuu as a tool, a means to an end. He's willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals, even if it means using and manipulating those around him. And Yuu, with her unique abilities and connection to the Seraph of the End, is the key to unlocking his plans."
"For what, exactly?"
"That in itself is also a long story, but I'll do my best to give you the short version."
Without turning around, Shinoa continued. Even as someone who typically respected her superior officer's privacy, she was willing to make exceptions when she knew the life and well-being of someone involved with Guren was at stake.
"Guren's family, the Ichinoses, are what you might call the outcasts of the Hiragi clan. They've been labeled as 'defects'—despised and scorned by their own kin. Throughout his childhood, Guren endured relentless mistreatment, all because of the bloodline he was born into. Yet he bore it with a stoicism that was almost admirable—until he fell in love with someone he shouldn't have: my elder sister, Mahiru Hiragi."
"You mean the demon in his sword? Wasn't she the one who had Guren take Yuu-chan hostage at the airport?"
"Yes and no," Shinoa admitted, her tone measured. "It's important to understand our demon contractors don't have the power to force us against our will. Instead, they coax and manipulate us to pursue our innermost desires, and Guren is no exception. While it's true he saved and raised Yuichiro for his own agenda, I genuinely believe he harbors some emotional connection to her as well."
Mikaela scoffed, folding his arms. "Love? You really think he's capable of that anymore? It didn't seem that way when he threatened to slice Yuu-chan's throat just to keep me away from her."
Shinoa's expression grew somber, and she nodded slowly. "I understand what you're saying, Mikaela. But Guren's feelings for Yuichiro are far more intricate. While he may have exploited her for his own ends, I think he genuinely cares for her in his own twisted way."
Mika snorted derisively. "Twisted? You're being far too generous, Shinoa. That man is a monster. For years, he's manipulated Yuu-chan, controlling her every move. And why? So he can further his own ambitions? It's repugnant."
Shinoa sighed, her eyes reflecting a mix of sadness and concern.
"I get why you feel that way, Mikaela. But Guren's a complicated individual, and his actions can't be simplified into just good or evil. He's a product of his environment, shaped by his past. While that doesn't excuse his actions, it does shed light on why he behaves the way he does. Believe it or not, it was love for my sister that sparked Guren's initial plans to take down the Hiragi family. Ironically, changing his family's shameful status came second."
"And judging by what we saw in Nagoya, things didn't exactly go as planned if your sister is no longer human and the Hiragis are still in power, actively hunting Yuu-chan as we speak. And they're not the only ones after her," Mika shot back, his tone sharp.
"Yes, I'm fully aware the vampires are on her trail too."
"I know, but that's not who I was referring to."
"What are you getting at?" Shinoa asked, her curiosity now fully sparked.
"He'll come for her. You know this as well as I do. The real question is when—and how."
Shinoa's heart sank at the implication. As much as she wanted to reassure Mikaela that Yuichiro would be safe under her squad and Satoshi's protection, they both understood that Guren had invested too much in Yuichiro to give her up that easily.
The room filled with a heavy silence, the weight of their unspoken fears hanging between them like a thick fog.
"I…can't disagree with that. But we're doing everything we can for Yuichiro. I don't know what else to tell you."
Mikaela sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Look, Shinoa. Despite what you might think, I'm not heartless. I sympathize with Guren's tragic past—I really do. But regardless, I won't let him use or sacrifice Yuu-chan for his own agenda, be it to settle his vendetta against your family or to change the tide of this war."
"Believe me, I feel the same way. But I must tell you that without Guren's protection and guidance, Yuichiro would not have even survived alone outside the vampire city, let alone become the warrior she is now, despite her many gifts and talents."
Mikaela's expression darkened. "But at what cost, Shinoa? You say Guren protected her, but he did so out of necessity, not kindness. He took advantage of her vulnerabilities, molded her into a weapon, and now he uses that weapon to further his own agenda."
"I understand your frustration, Mika," Shinoa replied softly, her voice steady despite the tension in the air. "But you have to recognize that the situation is more complicated than that. Guren did raise Yuichiro, and there were moments when he genuinely cared for her. It's just that his love is twisted by his desire for power and revenge."
"You think that excuses what he did?" Mika spat, frustration bubbling to the surface. "Revenge doesn't justify the torment he's put her through. It doesn't excuse the manipulation. He may have saved her life, but he's also been the architect of her suffering."
Shinoa bit her lip, her mind racing with the memories of their past encounters with Guren. "You're right-he's done terrible things. But you can't deny that Yuichiro also grew from those experiences. She's stronger now, in part because of what he put her through-painful as that may be."
Mika frowned and shook his head. As much as he hated to admit it, he knew Shinoa was right.
"I see. But part of the blame also lies with me. I'm sure Yuu-chan didn't tell you this, but it was my fault our brothers and sisters were killed trying to escape the vampire city. So, in a sense, I am responsible for her ending up in Guren's hands."
As he said this, Mika shut his eyes and gritted his teeth again while remembering the cold hard truth of Guren's words back at Nagoya Airport that had tempted him to execute the man then and there. In fact, he would have, had Yuu not begged Mika to spare his life.
Go on... Without me, Yuichiro would be dead by now. Because of you.
"Mika, are you all right?" Shinoa asked in concern after noticing the vampire's prolonged silence while he was lost in thought.
"I'm fine," he insisted, not wanting Shinoa to know how deeply Guren's words affected him. "You're right, however. Even though I can't forgive what Guren did to Yuu-chan, I have to admit that I'm in his debt for being there for her when I couldn't. Even if it was for his own ends."
Shinoa smiled. "Yes, the lieutenant colonel is a rather complex man. And like I've said before, he has many talents. Not only is Guren among the best leaders and fighters I have ever seen, but he can also carry a tune. One might say his voice is enchanting, as I'm sure Yuichiro herself can tell you."
Mikaela's eyes snapped open at the mention of Guren's singing voice, and he stared at Shinoa in surprise.
"Really?" he asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.
Shinoa nodded, a small smile still on her face. "Yes, I've heard him sing a few times. It's quite mesmerizing, actually."
"About that," Mika began. "When we saw him at the airport, I've noticed that Guren held Yuu-chan in thrall with his singing. What kind of sorcery was it?"
It's not sorcery, exactly," Shinoa replied, her eyes looking distant as if lost in thought. "But rather a unique ability that Guren possesses. You see, his singing voice has the power to enthrall and control the minds of those who hear it. It's a trait that's extremely rare and is often associated with those who possess a high level of spiritual energy."
"I don't believe it..." Mika muttered. "That sounds just like the Phantom from that musical Yuu-chan is so fond of. So you're saying that all Guren has to do to secure her obedience when she hesitates to do his bidding is open his mouth and sing to her?"
Shinoa nodded slowly, the gravity of Mikaela's observations settling in the air around them.
"Yes, it's a tactic he can and has used, especially when he needs to command loyalty or submission from others. But it's not just manipulation; there's a kind of beauty to it. Those who hear him can become entranced, often losing themselves in the melody."
Mikaela's frown deepened. "So that's how he's managed to keep Yuu-chan under his thumb all this time. She's been ensnared by his voice, and I was too blind to see it."
Shinoa reached out and placed a reassuring hand on Mikaela's shoulder. "You're not blind, Mika. You were doing everything you could to protect her, even if you weren't aware of Guren's methods. It's a difficult truth to face, especially when it comes to someone you care about."
Mikaela clenched his fists, grappling with the frustration and helplessness that came with the truth.
"But this changes everything, Shinoa! If Guren can sway Yuu-chan with just a song, what's to stop him from using that power to turn her against us?"
Shinoa shook her head. "Mika, there are limitations to the power of Guren's voice. That's why he doesn't use it often-he knows that true control comes from genuine connections, not manipulation. While he might have influenced Yuichiro, she still has a will of her own. The bond she shares with you, with all of us, is stronger than whatever hold Guren has."
Mikaela took a deep breath, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly as Shinoa's words began to sink in.
"You really think so?" he asked, skepticism lingering in his voice.
"Yes, I do," Shinoa replied firmly, a hint of warmth in her eyes. " The love and trust she has for you-what you two share-is genuine and irreplaceable. Guren may have raised her, but he can't dissolve the bond you two have developed. I don't presume to know Yuichiro as well as you do, but I do know this: she chose you, not Guren. And I doubt even his enchanting voice could change that."
Mikaela absorbed Shinoa's words, feeling the tension in his chest begin to lift. "Yes, you're right. Thank you for reminding me. The question is, what will you do when he finally comes for her? I know what I must do."
"If you're concerned that the rest of us will be caught between our loyalty to Guren and our vow to protect Yuichiro, then you can put it to rest. We will defy not only him, but also the Hiragis, the entire Demon Army, and the vampires as well to keep her safe," Shinoa assured before placing a gentle sisterly kiss on his cheek.
Mikaela felt a surge of warmth at Shinoa's reassurance, the weight on his heart easing just a bit. "Thank you, Shinoa. Your words mean more than you know."
She smiled softly, her eyes reflecting the flickering flames in the fireplace. "We're all in this together, Mika. None of us will back down. Yuichiro is our responsibility now, and we're going to protect her at all costs."
Relieved that he no longer had to worry whether the Shinoa and Satoshi Squads would hesitate to protect Yuichiro from those who would seek to exploit her, Mika gently squeezed Shinoa's hand.
"You have my gratitude. And if it's not too much to ask, I would appreciate it if you kept this discussion a secret from Yuu-chan and the others."
Shinoa raised an eyebrow, surprised by the request. "You don't want her to know about Guren's influence over her?"
Mikaela nodded, his gaze steady but filled with concern. "Not yet. I don't want to add to her burdens while she's still recovering. She's already dealing with so much—what's happened, her powers, and now the knowledge that Guren might have manipulated her. I want her to focus on healing and regaining her strength before confronting those truths."
Shinoa understood. "I can respect that. But you should know that keeping secrets can be dangerous. If Yuichiro finds out later, she might feel betrayed."
"I know," Mika sighed, rubbing the back of his neck in frustration. "But I trust her to make decisions when she's ready. I just need time to find a way to help her navigate this without sinking further into despair."
"That makes sense," Shinoa replied softly. "But promise me, when the time comes, you'll be honest with her. She deserves to know the truth."
"I will. You have my word. Thank you for taking time to speak with me. I'll be taking my leave now since I've kept you up long enough. Good night, Shinoa."
"Good night, Mika," Shinoa replied, watching as he exited the room, the weight of their conversation lingering in the air long after he left.
In the quiet solitude of the living room, Shinoa took a deep breath, absorbing the flickering warmth from the fireplace. It was a comforting reminder that even amidst the chaos surrounding them, there were still moments of peace to be had. She glanced around the room, her thoughts drifting back to Yuichiro and the trials they would all face in the days to come.
Footnotes
1. Refer to "Broken Bridges, Mended Hearts, Chapter 31.
2. The scene of Mika in civilian clothing is an anime original but I've decided to include it in my AU.
3. In the manga continuation of SotE that takes place after season 2 of the anime, Yuichiro and company settles in a seaside village that was still occupied by people but in my fic, the village is completely deserted.
4. In the anime adaptation, there is a four month time skip at the end of season 2 while in the manga, it is three months. In my fic, the time skip is much shorter between the Nagoya and Osaka arc: two weeks.
5. Male!Yuu mentions Guren constantly after waking from his coma but fem!Yuu is a bit more considerate of Mika's feelings knowing that he obviously doesn't like her guardian.
6. In the manga, the village people provide Shinoa's Squad with all their basic necessities in exchange for hunting the monsters roaming the area. In my AU, everyone has to provide for their own needs because the village is deserted.
7. In addition to being deserted, I am also going with the suggestion of Falchion1984 that the seaside village has been vacated fairly recently so that may still have electricity and running water.
8. Most of what I had Shinoa tell Mika about Guren's past came from my limited knowledge of the SotE prequel light novels, "Catastrophe at 16", which I have not yet had time to read in detail. If any of my reviewers have read them and can give me suggestions on how to make the Shinoa/Mika discussion about Guren more in-depth, accurate, and interesting, please let me know and I will fix it.
