Author's Notes: Oh dear! Oh my! I'm hopeless! First and foremost, I'm really sorry for my incompetence. I tried to better myself and this chapter but I don't think there was much improvement... Please forgive this amateur! and please bare with me, I'll try to do better on the next chapter. and I'm sorry there wasn't much action here (or none at all)... next chapter then, okie? (〜￣▽￣)〜 (シ_ _)シ
Right now, I'm addicted to these songs: Without You by My Darkest Days, Clarity by Zedd, Troublemaker by Olly Murs and Demons by Imagine Dragons. Nothing, I just wanted to share since they affected the whole feel of this story. ohohoho~! （^[]＾）／
Dear HR, please give me back my 2 consecutive days off, PLEASE! (╯°Д°）╯︵/(.□ . )
And many thanks for the continues support! The lemons will be next chapter okay? Sorry, didn't think it's appropriate for this one, ohohoho~! (´つヮ⊂)
Banzai! Banzai! Yeah, I'm turning crazy! へ(゜∇、°)へ
(≧∇≦) … (〜￣▽￣)〜 ….. *:.. o(≧▽≦)o ..:*….. (〜￣▽￣)〜… (≧∇≦)
Chapter 13
October Night
It was already late into the night. The moon was high in the sky, illuminating the otherwise pitch-black world. The air was cold as late autumn wind prepared to give way to winter. The surrounding was quiet and the only sounds that could be heard were the rustling from the tall trees that do not shed their leaves and the harsh breath that came from a sprinting silver-haired prefect.
Zero was running as fast as he could yet he felt his legs weren't carrying him quickly enough. He wanted to fly straight to his lover's side. He wanted to see his face. He didn't want to admit it, and never would to anyone but himself, but he missed that bastard. He wanted to hear his voice, to feel his touch, to bask in his heat and to look into his burgundy eyes.
The silverette was panting at the effort of running. The cold wind bit his pale white skin but he didn't care. He only wanted to reach his destination as soon as possible and he wouldn't have stopped had it not been for the two people he encountered on his way as he made a turn to the bridge going to the Moon Dormitory.
Ichijou and Yuki were surprised when Zero almost crashed into them. They were just walking towards the Sun Dormitory. The vampire was escorting the female prefect back when they were shocked by the silverette's sudden appearance.
"Zero!" Yuki exclaimed, pleasantly surprised. "What happened to you? Where are you going?"
"Nothing." The silverette panted a little at the abrupt stop. A hand was placed on his midriff, hoping that the exercise was not too much for the fetus. "Later, Yuki." He added shortly before he continued to run.
Both could only stare at the retreating back and the wonderful possibility hit them at the realization of the direction of the hunter's destination. They looked at each other, wide eyed with exhilarated smiles on their faces. Yuki unconsciously covered her mouth with her hands, trembling in excitement and anticipation. Finally!
Chocolate orbs closed briefly to silently wish for everything to be settled this time.
Ichijou watched her silently before turning his head towards the Moon Dorm. Thank goodness for this. 'I'm happy for you, Kaname.' He mentally wished his friend good luck.
"How wonderful." The blonde vampire sighed in relief.
"Uhm! I bet Kaname-senpai will be happy." Yuki cheerfully supplied with a nod.
"I hope they take their time." Ichijou implied with a hidden smile. "Ah, it's good tomorrow is a rest day." He added subtly which made the female prefect frown. "Shall we continue on, Yuki-chan?" He offered without any explanation with a smile that was a bit mysterious.
Though a bit confused at her companion's words and that smile, the brunette simply nodded.
After a while, they continued on their way, feeling that the day had become a blessing for many of their friends and important people.
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There was still a buzz that could heard throughout the main building of the Cross Academy where the Night Class students went to take their break. It was rare to see the students so motivated about going to classes but no one could blame them. It became a bit suffocating to be inside the Moon Dorm this past week what with the depressing atmosphere that permeated the air inside their dormitory. Right now, they were enjoying the rare peace they were having though they were all still very worried about their pureblood leader.
"Hah~…" A soft sigh escaped from the pretty honey blond vampire who sat beside her orange haired cousin. She had been trying to think of ways to solve the miserable situation her beloved pureblood was in though the problem was actually not that clear. However, one could guess the root cause of all of this. It was because of that silver haired hunter. "What did that hunter do this time?" She rhetorically asked in a tone of pure irritation.
"Ruka." Kain scolded her, warning in his low tone while looking around to check if their little princes and princesses heard her.
"Don't worry. They went out in the garden. They said they're not hungry." Ruka assured before sighing again. It was a good thing that the children were at least less depressed every time they go to class. They worry about the lower-class vampires and were careful with their auras so everyone could relax during classes. "But what should we do for Kaname-sama?"
"Want to kidnap Kiryū then?" The devious plan was unexpectedly voiced out by the sleepy copper haired vampire. What was more surprising was that he looked almost serious while suggesting this.
"Want to lose your head?" Kain shook his head.
"That might be a good idea." Ruka distractedly whispered, seriously contemplating the idea. Desperate times call for desperate measures.
"Ruka!" The orange haired vampire was exasperated that they'd even consider it.
"We can wrap him up very nicely." Rima suggested impassively before taking a bite at a strawberry flavored pocky.
"Rima!" Kain called out warningly.
"With a big ribbon for the presentation." Added Shiki while taking a pocky from Rima's box.
"Shiki!" Kain was now a bit panicky for the three looked really serious by now.
A laugh suddenly came and shook them all out from the evil plan they were beginning to hatch. They turned to see a jovial green-eyed vampire that just came inside the room and made the red head vampire almost sigh in relief.
"Now, now. I don't think there's any need to dirty our hands to fix this." Ichijou continued while chuckling, slightly surprised that the normally sensible nobles would actually consider something so ridiculous. "If Kaname was planning on forcing him, he could have done it very easily. Come now, leave them alone. They'll fix it and perhaps everything will go back to normal by tomorrow." He declared and something in his voice sounded so certain that it made the other vampires a bit suspicious.
"Where have you been, Takuma-san?" Asked the copper haired vampire to his roommate.
"Uhm, well, somewhere…" Ichijou trailed a bit suspiciously. "Huh? Where's Aido?" He asked to distract the others.
"There, by the window." Kain pointed at his cousin with his thumb. "In his own world yet again." He added with a frown. Aido had been really weird lately. Well, he knew that Kaname asked him to guard the younger Kiryū. He sighed. Hana was such a simpleton. 'He's that happy, huh?' he mused while also watching the bright expression on his blonde cousin's face. He couldn't help but smile at his cousin's blissful expression. 'I hope it went well.'
"How lucky." Ichijou muttered absentmindedly in a low tone that still managed to be overheard by their group.
"What was lucky, Ichijou-san?" Ruka inquired.
"Huh? Oh, it's nothing,"
They looked at each other at the weirdness of both of the blondes but asked no more.
The vice-president just proceeded to the classroom for the next class was about to start, feeling light that his friends found happiness and wished that his would soon have the same lucky outcome.
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The lithe figure ran pass the guard post then proceeded inside the dormitory without knocking and ran up the stairs. Stopping only once he was in front of the familiar wooden door that housed his heart. He took deep breaths and attempted to calm his heart that beat mercilessly inside his chest both because of the exercise and nervousness.
As he stood there waiting for his breath to even out, he remembered something odd at the situation and he was suddenly struck by the idea that normally, the door would automatically open every time he went there. Zero almost banged himself on the door. Stupid! He had completely forgotten the fact that at this time, Kaname must have been attending his classes!
He sighed. He wasn't thinking right because his head was up in the clouds. He was unmoving for a moment and was already in the act of leaving though his very inside opposed the mere thought of retreating before achieving his goal. He then decided to just wait.
The silverette looked around and found that he didn't like the idea of being spotted by vampires while waiting for the pureblood. In the end, he decided to enter inside the Moon Dorm President's room even without permission, something he was quite confident he could do and get away with unscathed.
Without knocking, he opened the door and entered the completely darkened room. Had he been a normal mortal, he would have never seen the figure slumped on the chair behind the big oak table. Thanks to his vampiric vision and the moonlight that illuminated the unmoving body, he easily spotted his beloved.
Zero stood still for a moment before uttering. "Kaname?" When he heard no response, he proceeded to walk very slowly towards him and sure enough, he found his lover sleeping in an uncomfortable sitting position, with his head hanging a bit to his left side that sent his long brown locks to cover a bit of his face. Dark eyebrows drawn together in a deep frown.
He stared, swallowing in worry. He had never seen the pureblood like this before, with trouble clearly reflected on his face even as he slept. He looked exhausted and distressed.
The hunter just silently watched the vampire for a few moments. Something heavy weighed down his heart at the look of agony on his lover's handsome face. He was so affected by the sight that he wasn't able to stop the hand which unconsciously reached out to set aside the dark brown strands that cupped his mate's face. He paused when he felt his lover stir from his sleep.
Kaname felt a presence inside the study.
A comforting aura.
For a moment, he was lost and detached from the current happening. His body felt heavy from exhaustion due to lack of sleep and sickness of his heart and soul. He didn't even notice that he had already fallen asleep and was currently waking up but when he caught the whiff of the intoxicating smell of night dew on lavender that he'd been craving for the whole time and felt the warmth of the familiar touch he'd been desiring, all sleep instantly flew away from him. Russet eyes shot wide open in surprise and immediately fell on the beautiful creature caressing his hair.
"Zero." The pureblood whispered in disbelief. Burgundy stared at the equally surprised hunter who went very still.
The silverette was frozen on the spot, seemingly embarrassed at being caught red-handedly caressing his lover. He was in the act of retracting his hand when the pureblood's hand snatched his wrist and pulled him closer. It caught the silverette off guard that he lost his balance and ended up falling face first towards the vampire.
The Vampire King caught him easily and instantly embraced him, tightly trapping him in his arms, with the silver head below his chin. Kaname couldn't help but bury his face on his mate's silky locks. Unable to stop himself from taking in the comforting smell of the night wind off his lover, unable to believe he was there at last. "Zero, Zero, Zero…" He repeated softly again and again as if chanting, murmuring against his hunter's red ear.
"Fuck, Kaname. Don't scare me like that." Zero barked to hide his embarrassment though he made no attempt to escape from his lover's grasp.
A moment passed without any movement from the two occupants of the study while both tried to ascertain the other's feelings. Nothing could be heard and silence permeated the air until the pureblood spoke in the softest voice Zero had ever heard from him.
"Forgive me, Zero, about everything. I-," The string of words where abruptly stopped by the hunter.
"Enough. I didn't come here to hear that." The silverette interrupted but without any hint of irritation or anger. "I know, so that's enough already." He placed a hand on Kaname's shoulder and propped himself away to look at the pureblood properly.
"Then, why have you come?" The Vampire King warily asked. Hesitant to meet his lover's lilac eyes, afraid of what he'd see. The idea that the hunter might have come to break up with him hit him sent cold fear to grip and squeeze his heart painfully. "Do you forgive me?" He asked in a hopeful voice.
There was a short silence before the silverette spoke again as if trying to sort out his speech. Only, his thundering heartbeat messed up most of his thoughts. Zero could only looked at burgundy pools, unusually troubled, and drowned inside them. The sentiments it awakened almost made it impossible for him to provide any coherent response but the hoarse voice that was inquiring him begged to have the answer that could either build or destroy him completely.
Zero couldn't help but be in pain as well and realized that no matter how angry he was, he had never once sought to hurt Kaname.
How stupid of him not to realize that.
As it was, the hunter could only think about how much he wanted to erase the desperation that unconsciously reflected on the pureblood's face.
"I love my parents very much. They were my whole world." Zero began, dazedly brushing away the dark brown threads that curtained his vampire's face who became very stiff due to his words. "And it hurts to have them taken from us." He continued. Determined lavender not breaking eye contact with dismayed russets. "I should really hate you for everything you've done…"
Kaname was wide-eyed for a moment. He was almost sure that his fears were being confirmed. Petrified lips opened to say something, anything that might prevent the hunter from leaving him when the hunter spoke again, cutting out whatever eloquent speech he could come up with.
"But I can't." Zero continued, gaze downwards, blindly looking down with grief reflected in silver lavender eyes. "I love my parents, Kaname. Very much." He voiced emotionally before replacing his gaze to unwaveringly meet Kaname's. Dark eyebrows drew together as if he was enduring something painful and finally whispered in an almost inaudible voice, "But I love you too…"
Once again, there was silence. Both could only stare at each other. Especially the pureblood who could only gape at his hunter's words, for a moment, unable to comprehend his words.
It seemed like a century had passed before Kaname's hand moved. Both of his hands reached out to cup his lover's cheeks which were frozen because of the cold night wind. Without words, he pulled his mate closer and moved closer to meet him halfway to share a kiss, something that was clearly missed. It was light and gentle, almost uncertain but sweet nonetheless.
Zero felt soft lips brushed against his, testing his reaction to see if the advance was welcomed, to see if he was real and not an illusion brought forth by a weary heart. It stayed like that for a while before he felt Kaname's tongue brushed his close mouth as if seeking permission which was freely given. Lips parted to allow his mate to explore and delve further inside.
A large hand softly caressed the smooth cheek that was chilled by the autumn wind before it settled to firmly but gently grip a handful of silky silver hair and slender nape. Lips that only meant to serve a light kiss weren't able to resist the urge and succumbed to the temptation to taste even deeper and feel more of that beloved heat, rejoicing in the fiery reciprocation that followed.
When the brunette broke the kiss to look at his silver haired mate, wishing more than ever to be forever part of his soul, to steal his heart and trap his stubborn lover somewhere he could never escape from, he wallowed at the feeling his last words gave to him. Long arms constricted around the lean body once again, regret and determination mixing inside him to create a heavy blend that burdened his heart.
"I'll make it up to you. I'll not be able to bring back what you've lost and nothing will be able to replace them but I swear I will love you more than anyone will ever do." Kaname promised as a gentle hand caressed the silver hair underneath. "I'll do everything in my power to grant your every wish. I won't cause you any regret and I'll be by your side until the end of my time." He pledged so passionately which made the hunter stiffened, breathless. "I'll give you my life," the pureblood added softly, "so stay by my side."
Startled amethysts closed once more. Unmindful that the embrace constricting him was almost too tight that it almost crushed him, his own pair of arms wrapped around his mate's body. "I know already, moron." Zero grumbled and hid his flushed face on his lover's shoulder, body relaxing even in the suffocating hold.
They stayed in that position for quite some time, with the silverette almost kneeling while the brunette leaned forward to trap the other in the fervent embrace. Both very much contented with the silence for no more words were needed be uttered to confirm forgiveness or acceptance.
Contented strokes continued to play with starlight strands while the hunter remained pressed against one firm chest, unable to move with embarrassment and self-consciousness rooting him on the spot. Such moments weren't really made for him though there was satisfaction coursing from the top of his head to soles of his pale feet.
No words passed between the silent lovers until Kaname spoke again once the recalling the words that gave him unbelievable delight.
"Zero," A voice filled with energy and anticipation to once again hear words of affection knifed through the pleasant silence, "say it again for me, will you?" The pureblood loosened his embrace to look at his lover's blushing face.
"What?" Zero inquired with a frown.
"What you said earlier. You said you love me." Kaname answered with a smile, playful but sincere, which made his hunter's blush a shade darker.
"Baka!" The silverette exclaimed. Flustered limbs immediately moved to extricate himself from the warm prison. Unfortunately, darn pureblood strength had him sitting on welcoming lap even before long limbs could take him one step away. Why does Kaname love to put him in an awkward situation even when his mate knew he was very bad at it?
"Why are you so embarrassed? It's unfair that it's only me who's saying it, or were you just lying then. My, how lonely. I'm wounded." Kaname pouted against the sealing tattoo of the struggling silver beauty, arms constricting around the taper waist once more.
"Kaname!" The hunter yelled in warning which was ineffective against the shameless vampire who merely smiled at his painstaking attempts and chagrined expression. Knowing that any form of struggle was futile, he ended up conceding instead. "You really are a bastard. Fine! I love you!" He harshly vociferated in resignation before pouting scowling massively.
Kaname smiled wider. A hand reached out to turn that endearing pout his way. "One more time." He requested again but this time, Zero's complaints were silenced at the look of pure, urgent longing swimming in wine pools.
Bastard. That's foul play. "I love you." The silverette affirmed in a gentler tone.
"Again." Kaname repeated. Gently replacing his forehead on Zero's with his eyes closed, as if trying to embed the memory of that euphonic voice enunciating the words he'd been desperate to hear for a long time. He realized that it was the first time that his lover ever professed that he loves him. It was music to his ears.
"I love you, you bastard." Zero sighed in surrender. How can he even deny Kaname anything if he was given that expression? That was really foul play.
"As I love you, my love, my Zero."
Zero watched passion-filled burgundy orbs open before his lover's lips found his. Amethysts eyes closed and let himself be drowned at the wonderful feelings his vampire grant him. Turning slightly in the embrace, lips welcomed the tender assault, wanting more.
Kaname groaned in delight and delved deeper to taste the lush heat of his hunter, relishing the fact that his Zero was finally there again, even after everything that had happened. That the impossibly lovely creature in his arms still loved him, wretched as he was, even with all his vile darkness and repugnance. He let himself explore deeper and demanded to know every part of his lover that may be unknown to him, claiming his mark and possession.
The cold night wind was instantly lost and replaced by an intense heat that spread throughout the study. Kaname very easily stood with the hunter still in his arms, halting any complaints by the continued kiss.
Impatient to re-familiarize himself with his lover's body, the brunette placed his precious cargo on the large mahogany desk before making short work of Zero's school shirt and promptly shedding it off his pale body. Enthusiastic lips explored the pale skin that slowly got uncovered and ears drank the sultry voice that panted in desire. Hands restlessly gripped and squeezed the supple flesh, leaving numerous marks in their wake. They were only half-naked when he entered the wet cavern that he knew was also eager for him.
Twin groans filled the study. Soft kisses administered by apologetic lips were peppered on the flushed skin. Despite being endowed with adaptability and natural lubrication, entering without preparation couldn't have been comfortable for him. "Forgive me, Zero. I just couldn't endure any longer." Regardless of his wish to be gentler, he couldn't but thrust a tad faster. The long legs wrapped around his hips guiding his movements encouraged him further.
"Just shut up and move." Groaned the hunter to his hand, attempting to smother that sounds escaping him that'd only embarrass him after the fact. He ignored the breathless chuckle by his ear and instead grasped a handful of brown hair of the man marking his shoulder.
His waist and back would probably kill him the next day but he'd gladly blame those on Kaname.
The cold wind continued to rustle the leaves of the tall trees outside but none of it was heard as the two remaining occupants in the Moon Dorm immersed themselves in the heat of passion that ensued which continued even when the first light of the morning came.
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It was too late into the night and dawn was almost breaking. Ichiru finished his patrol already but he was still very much awake and was in no mind to rest, too flustered to actually feel sleepy. He didn't even notice that he was already pacing here and there until Yuki came in and found him in his distracted state.
Yuki stared at her adopted-brother for a while before finally speaking, jarring the poor bloke out of his musings. "What are you thinking about, Ichiru?" She asked though she already knew since his obvious blush almost screamed out his thoughts. She fought really hard to hide her smile behind an innocently confused expression.
"Yuki!" Ichiru almost jumped at the sight of the brunette. He'd been thinking really hard about what happened earlier that day and whether Yuki had seen them. He blushed. He wanted to ask but looking at her wide-eyed expression, words couldn't seem to come out.
The brunette watched in silent amusement as Ichiru's mouth closed and opened only to close again, embarrassment and conflicted emotions danced across his face. She just knew what was going on his mind and knowing how shy he could be, she was resigned to help him sort out his words. "How was your day?" She began mildly at first.
"Eh? G-good, good. H-how about yours?" The young silverette stammered, valiantly trying to act normally though he was as good in acting as he was proficient in Math which was frankly, nothing more than a dream.
"Heh? Only good? Are you sure?" The female prefect asked back, leaning a bit, a teasing smile slowly gracing her features.
Ichiru leaned away from his adopted-sister's closeness. Her smile answered his earlier inner question and he wanted to hide in a hole because of extreme awkwardness. Yep, no need to ask, she saw. "You saw that, huh." He stated more than asked, elusive lilac orbs looking brighter against the darker blush that covered the normally fair skin.
Yuki giggled before answering. "Yep, I knew for a while already." She explained when Ichiru turned at her with wide, surprised eyes. "Anne-chan told me."
"Argh!" Ichiru wasn't able to stop the grunt of self-consciousness that escaped him. The sound resembling a dying donkey and the hue of ripe tomatoes of the hand covering equally flushed face made the brunette giggle even louder.
"Maa, maa. It's okay. You look good together." She smiled kindly at her blushing brother before continuing, "No need to be embarrassed. You're happy now, right?"
This stopped the young silverette from wallowing in shame and he slowly removed his hand. He only nodded a bit in agreement which made Yuki go 'Kyaa~!' before he suddenly found himself tackled to the ground.
"I'm really happy for you." The brunette whispered sincerely. Elated chocolate orbs found her adorable brother. "And now, with Zero and Kaname-senpai making up, everything's perfect!" She cheerfully added.
"Eh?" Ichiru blinked and was told the wonderful news that almost quite literally crashed them earlier.
Ichiru looked out the window and sighed with a smile. "Then we should lock the door already. I think nii-san won't be coming back tonight."
"Eh? Eh?!" Now, it was Yuki's turn to blush once she finally realized what Ichiru (probably Ichijou-senpai as well) meant. She covered her mouth. Fluster made her laugh a bit unnaturally. She marveled a bit when she comprehended the absence of pain even after being given the hint of the possible happenings tonight. She sighed and smile. 'I'm happy for you, Zero.'
Ichiru looked at her and had to smile at the expression of joy on the pretty face. 'Ganbatte, nii-san.'
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A soft groan came from the silverette that was languorously trying to wake up. He felt absolutely tired but his body also felt light at the same time. He could hear the chirping sound of the birds and felt the morning heat infiltrating the large bedroom room where he was in.
When somnolent lavender orbs finally opened, he was greeted by the smooth, creamy white flesh of the body that he only just notice was currently holding on tightly to him. A hand tangled on his silver hair that held his head firmly in place on the nook of his pureblood's neck. Kaname's other arm was wrapped around his waist, bringing their body closer even in sleep.
Zero felt his own arms loosely hugging the brunette. One of them had lost all feeling after being trapped underneath his lover's body but he only sighed, not caring even if it was amputated all together. He wanted to sleep again but felt himself completely wake because of hunger. He sighed again; guess it was time to get up.
The hunter was a bit astonished at his success in managing to gently untangle himself from Kaname. He looked at the peaceful figure for a while and saw just how deep into sleep he was. He must have been really exhausted as well. A small smile appeared at the vision of innocence on the beguiling face of his slumbering mate. He knew better than to be deceived by this angelic form though.
At the recollection of how beastly the bewitching vampire could be, the entranced expression became a bit disgruntled. He shook his head almost harshly.
The silverette trudged towards the bathroom a bit clumsily. The pain in his hips forcefully supplied the events from the night before and turned his pale white skin into beet red. He grimaced. It was not the first time but it still never failed to leave him flustered every morning after. He waived the embarrassment away and proceeded to the bathroom to have a much-needed bath.
When the hunter emerged wearing a bathrobe while patting his hair dry with a towel, all fresh and clean, he found the pureblood already stirring and about to wake up. He smiled, amused, at the sight of Kaname's hand blindly patting the empty space in front of him, no doubt trying to find him.
The lean figure leaned on the bathroom's door frame and watched his mate propped himself up with his elbow to find his missing hunter. It didn't take him long to spot Zero by the bathroom's door. Letting himself lie again completely, an imperious hand beckoned his hunter forward.
Ignoring the urge to slap that annoying hand, the silverette went near to sit next to the pureblood. Kaname immediately wrapped an arm around the narrow waist from behind.
"It's too early, sleep some more." Kaname coaxed, burgundy orbs already closed. He was still feeling a bit sleepy and the fresh scent of lavender was only lulling him even further.
"What are you saying? It's already afternoon. Sleep some more if you want. I'm hungry so I'm going back." The hunter supplied, watching his mate about to sleep again.
But Kaname shook his head and opened his eyes again, refusing to part so soon. "No need. Eat with me. I'll ask for food to be sent up." He pressed while sitting up, sending the sheets cascading down to reveal the fascinating, well-toned upper body.
"It's okay. Sleep some more if you're tired. I can just go back later." Zero frowned. There was really no need for Kaname to go through the trouble.
"No, just wait for me. I'll just take a shower." The brunette insisted, already walking towards the bathroom. "And the children will be happy to see you." He added to convince his hunter. "You can use any of my clothes if you want."
"Pushy bastard." Zero muttered under his breath before moving to look for his clothes. He put on his boxer and pants he found on the mahogany bench at the end of the bed. He didn't feel like borrowing those from Kaname. The pureblood's pants were a bit too long which greatly impacted Zero's ego, but went to the dresser to take a shirt. Once dressed in his school pants and a cotton white button up shirt, the silverette proceeded to the study and had to grimace at the chaotic state of the clutter on the desk and the faint scent of misdeed in the room.
By the time Kaname emerged from his room, all dressed in his usual black pants and ruby red shirt, he found his lover already finished cleaning the mess they left from the night before and currently looking out the open windows, seemingly not knowing what to do next.
"Would you like to dine here or do you wish to go down to the dining area?" Kaname asked.
"Here." Zero answered quietly. Even after everything, he was still a hunter. He couldn't imagine himself eating all chummily with a swarm of vampires.
Kaname understood this and didn't blame the hunter. He knew just how much he was given, how many rules and principle his lover had given up just to be with him and he really appreciated that. Considering how Zero was before, it was really a miracle that they could still be together after everything that had passed.
Kaname smiled at Zero. "You can check the children first while I order some breakfast." He suggested to which his lover nodded in agreement.
The pureblood was about to go down when he was greeted by all his five children with the three eldest carrying trays laden with food.
"Good morning, chichiue." They all greeted him very brightly. They decided to eat breakfast with him once they felt a change in dorm's overall aura the moment they returned from classes earlier. They instantly knew that something great had happened to him and strongly believed that their parents had already made up.
"Otou-chan!" The two silverettes immediately rushed to Zero when they saw him emerged from their chichiue's room on his way to check on them.
"….!" The surprised Zero wasn't able to utter a single word to the silver koalas who tackled him. He smiled at the two cherubs hugging each of his legs. Pale hands gently patted fluffy silver heads, feeling a bit guilty that he wasn't able to visit hem in the past week. "How have you been?"
"I've been a good girl, otou-chan." Suiren mumbled, stubby arms constricting around one long limb very tightly. She really missed him.
"Oh, they behaved very admirably. No need to worry about us, otou-chan. We're fine." Anne assured in a very cheerful tone lest their beloved parent feel even more guilty.
"Would you like some breakfast?" Kohaku offered in an unusually lively tone.
"It's great that we chose to have more. We thought otou-chan might be here. I'm glad we're right." Akira supplied, feeling extremely energetic.
"You have perfect timing. We were just about to have some breakfast." Kaname smiled and took the tray that their eldest child was carrying and led everyone back to the study.
There was a variety of sandwiches, pancakes, waffles, French toasts, eggs benedict, hash browns, frankfurters, unopened cereals, pots of warm milk, coffee, and hot cocoa.
"Would you like to have some Japanese style breakfast, chichiue, otou-chan? I can get some from the kitchen." Anne offered.
"I'm quite fine. How about you, Zero?" Kaname immediately turned to his mate who was eyeing the food quite quizzically.
"Huh? I'm fine." Zero answered before immediately taking one sandwich with strawberry jam, a thoughtful expression on his face.
"The food is delicious. Did you ask someone from the staff to prepare them?" Kaname conversationally asked his little ones.
"We made them! I made the club sandwiches and I helped flip the pancakes!" Naoto proudly trumpeted, eyes uncharacteristically energetic.
"Me! Me! Meat sandwiches!" Suiren quickly followed.
"Egg sandwiches." And everything else. Kohaku modestly informed, one hand raised.
"I made the best bacon sandwiches! Please try them!" Akira immediately advertised his.
"My masterpieces are ones with strawberries and strawberry jam." Anne declared, taking one of her creations.
"Nee-chan only made them because they're easy." Akira muttered.
"I made them because I like them." Anne rejoined. "Otou-chan, you won't believe how many burnt bacons were left in the kitchen. Such a waste! I pity the staff who were left to clean after him."
"Hey! It's not that many!" The little brunette quickly raised in his defense.
"Just half the pack." Kohaku chimed in. "Nee-chan, it's already a great improvement from his previous attempts where he burnt the whole pack."
Anne looked at Akira with pity in her eyes. "That's why I told you not to get too excited. Fire reacts to your mood. Apologize to all the pigs in the world." She sighed, all dramatic. "You just never learn."
Kaname chuckled. "All of you seem to love to cook."
"Because otou-chan taught us!" Suiren informed, short legs climbing besides her daddy's space.
"That's why all of us are good at it!" Naoto affirmed but fell on a short pause when reddish-lavender spotted his big brother Akira. He added, "…Well, supposedly!"
"Hey, Nao-chan, why did you look at me and say that?" Akira asked in disbelief, a bit shocked. Even his little brother was bullying him! The little seraph abandoned his breakfast to burrow on his silver father's arms for comfort. He beamed however, at the soft pats from his otou-chan and little sister.
"Nice one, Nao." Kohaku quietly praised, sharing a thumbs-up with the eldest and youngest children.
Their parents smiled, watching their children banter.
They were still in the middle of enjoying a rather lively breakfast while talking about stories from their childhood and what they did the past week, especially the slight changes they noticed from Takuji and Hana-jiji who were noted to be acting very weird, each child giving out their opinions from time to time.
"And Hana-jiji was so happy yesterday. We were almost blinded by his aura." Naoto narrated.
"Heh, I'm sure it's because of-," Akira's words were cut when there was a knock on the study's door.
"Takuma, enter." Kaname willed the door to open to allow his friend entrance.
"Oh, good morning, Kaname. I'm sorry. I didn't know you're having a lovely gathering here." Ichijou started in an awkward voice. He really hated to be the bringer of bad news. He silently cursed the fates. Why now? When everything was just starting to get right again for his friend?
"What is it, Takuma?" Kaname asked. He frowned when he saw anxiety and trouble filled normally cheerful emerald orbs. Understanding filled him the moment he perceived a new presence inside the Moon Dorm.
"You have an early visitor, Kaname." The noble informed a bit miserably.
"Ah, very early indeed. My, I can't believe how rude he is to be calling on us so early." Kaname instantly turned grim, completely identifying their annoying guest.
The pureblood forgot all about their impending visit because more important matters occupied his mind. He looked at Zero who was looking back at him with an inquiring frown on his face. He sighed. He didn't want that old man to see his mate because for sure, they'd be conducting new schemes to possess him for their own goal and greed.
He almost betrayed himself by showing the fury starting to bubble deep inside him. He managed to stop himself at the troubled looks of his children and mate.
Before Kaname could even give the order to direct their guest to another room, a knock resounded inside the room. The pureblood felt his irritation build higher when he sensed the vampire just outside the door. Damn this old schemer!
"Kaname." Ichijou whispered, very concerned. He knew it was his grandfather.
"Kaname? What's happening?" Zero asked suspiciously. He just felt his mate's very pissed aura surge further though their bond at the presence of an old noble outside the door.
"It's the head of the Vampire Senate widely known as Ichiou, Ichijou Asato. He seems adamant in wanting to meet you." Kaname explained with a wry smile. He was irritated at the aristocrat's insistence on meeting his lover and children.
When the knocks ceased to stop, Kaname had no choice but to will the door to open even when he'd rather just leave it be. "Enter." He ordered in hard voice.
The door opened to reveal an astute and dignified looking vampire who surveyed the room with cold interest. "Forgive my rudeness for intruding so early, Kaname-sama. I thought my grandson might have forgotten to inform you of my arrival so I came up already."
Kaname more than ever wanted to snap at the audacious vampire that obviously came up so he wouldn't have the time to hide Zero and the children. "You're indeed right. It's quite boorish to be calling on us so early. As you can see, we're still in the middle of our breakfast so I would like to have our talk in another room. It's not polite to talk about such formal matters during a meal." He coldly expressed, already rising from his seat.
"Of course, Kaname-sama. I apologize once more. Before we leave, however, may I offer my greetings to Zero-sama and…to your lovely children?" Ichiou boldly requested knowing that at this point, there was no way that his king could still deny their meeting.
The old noble already moved forward to Zero's seat which was beside Kaname's even before the pureblood could answer. He bowed slightly as a sign of respect which put out the hunter before introducing himself. "Greetings, Zero-sama. My name is Ichijou Asato, head of the Vampire Council. It's a pleasure to meet you at last."
Zero was frozen when the vampire reached down to grab and kiss the back of his hand. The unpleasant sensation sent shivers of disgust on the hunter's spine that made him harshly snatch his hand back as hard amethysts glared at the aristocrat.
Kaname was immediately between them. "Ichiou, do not treat him like a woman." Quiet annoyance was very clear in his wine orbs.
"Ah, forgive me. He's your mate that's why I did what is only proper. That was thoughtless of me. Please forgive me, Kaname-sama, Zero-sama." He offered unrepentantly then move to face the children who were looking at him with polite indifference. "And these are the little princesses and princes, correct?" He noted while blue eyes scrutinized the young ones. "They're indeed very enigmatic and introducing himself in the same manner.
The children all stood up and introduced themselves according to etiquette. Anne and Suiren offered their hands so Ichiou could kiss their hands, as per the normal decorum in formal introductions.
"My, how well mannered. Truly befitting royalty. I'm very happy for you, Kaname-sama, to be blessed by such a lovely mate and wonderful children." There was genuine amazement and hint of envy in his voice that hadn't gone undetected by Kaname's ears.
"Of course, I'm proud of all of them. Now, let us proceed to the drawing room to leave them to enjoy their meal." The pureblood coldly commanded.
"Very well, Kaname-sama." Ichiou then turned to the children and to Zero. "I would take my leave now. Let us meet again during the Winter Solstice in the Kuran Castle. The vampire society would be very happy to meet you."
"Likewise. Goodbye." Anne replied after one more curtsy before Kaname led Ichiou and Ichijou out of the room to leave them and their daddy alone in the study.
Ichiou stole one last glance towards Zero's way before completely following his king. There was a sigh that escaped from Akira's mouth the moment the door closed completely.
"Oh, man! A ball?! I thought we're at least safe from that in this timeline!" Akira groaned even more loudly. He hated formal functions, especially balls.
"Why? Can't we just not attend?" Zero absentmindedly asked while still glaring at the closed door as if he was still looking at the old vampire. He didn't like the look in his eyes. His mate's irritation that pulsed through the bond only confirmed that he was really not someone to be trusted.
"We can't, otou-chan. The Winter Solstice, like the one held every summer, is a tradition that is yearly made. As the royal family, it's our duty to attend it and if the vampire society already knew of our existence, they will expect us to be present." Anne sighed, frowning in confusion. How did word get out? They were present when their father gave the express order of not letting information about them be spread through the outside world. Something was clearly amiss.
"What a pain." Zero grunted then stopped when he remembered something. "Do I need to attend? I'm not part of the royal family," then quickly amended when he saw the sad frowns of the youngest twin, "yet. I mean, not yet."
"Hmmm, but you're already mated to father, right, otou-chan?" They were silently amused when they saw the blush that spread on their daddy's face. "If it's already known, they would expect you, too." Kohaku continued.
"Some of them will most likely go only so they can see you, otou-chan." Akira speculated, putting his hands behind his head.
"That's right, otou-chan. I don't think anyone would be able to avoid it especially since the council head have already personally invited us." Anne regretfully disclosed.
Zero groaned. Now, he really didn't want to join whatever that party was. It would be undoubtedly a pain in the ass.
"Don't worry. I'll protect, otou-chan!" Naoto very energetically offered.
"Me too! We'll protect otou-chan!" Suiren followed while hugging one lean arm, not losing in chivalry.
"That's right! Don't worry, otou-chan! We'll protect you from those clingy nobles that would dare approach you!" Akira announced with determination burning in russet orbs.
"Worry about yourself first, Akira." Kohaku turned to his twin with a deadpan look. He could almost see Akira's troubled face once the nobles swarmed around him. He shook his head when his twin stiffened at his words.
"Don't worry. Since you're just children in their eyes, they won't be pushing their daughters to dance with you. We'll only be decorations there." Anne encouraged matter-of-factly. Well, I hope…
"I'll be fine. Don't worry about me." Zero smiled while patting Akira's head, thinking he could always just slip out. He didn't even think he'd go for there was no need for him to attend.
The hunter looked towards the door again. He could feel the annoyance that Kaname was feeling right then. He wondered what they could be talking about.
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"He's a really handsome man. Let me congratulate you yet again for your choice of mate. Truly an excellent taste, Kaname-sama." The old blonde vampire complimented once he seated himself in front of the pureblood inside the drawing room.
"Hmmm, and I was so sure that you would disapprove." Kaname smiled wryly. "A hunter and an ex-human, I would have thought that you would storm in to condemn my choice."
"I would never. Since you chose him yourself, I would imagine that you are very fond of him to have formed a bond. Your happiness matter to us, first and foremost." Ichiou denied without breaking eye contact.
"How noble. I thank you." Kaname coldly uttered, not at all believing the felon's words. He knew that had Zero been but a normal hunter and ex-human, and not possessing the ancient blood of Suzaku, oppositions would be raining down from the council. "Why have you come?"
"Only to see to your well-being, Kaname-sama and of course, to introduce myself to your future family. They're very admirable. Your children are extremely well-behaved. The aristocrats can't wait for the yearly Winter Solstice ball to meet them. Such extraordinary vampires and to think that they came from the future. How completely unbelievable."
"You seem to have readily accepted the facts considering how unbelievable they are. Tell me, where have you heard of this knowledge?"
"From mere gossips. Some nobles have been chattering about it because they heard it from their children who're students of the Night Class and I merely made a short and small investigation to find out the truth."
"I see." Was Kaname's short response to the smooth and clearly rehearsed answer from Ichiou. He knew that cannot be it for no one from the Night Class would dare disobey him.
"Well then, Kaname-sama. I have intruded upon your hospitality enough already. I will go now. Let us meet again during the ball. I'm looking forward to it." Ichiou made a final bow before leaving the room. He was followed by Takuma who only stood silent the whole time to see him out.
Kaname slowly walked towards the window to watch the old noble enter the classy black car that was parked just outside the Moon Dorm. He was deep in thought while staring at the car driving away to exit the academy. "The Winter Solstice, hmmm…" He uttered to himself.
"He seems adamant in having us attend the Winter Solstice ball. What is he planning?" Takuma asked Kaname when his grandfather left and he returned to the drawing room.
"We'll see." Crimson eyes narrowed at the retreating black car.
You won't get him.
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When Zero opened the door to his guardian's house, he was greeted by the sight of his twin brother who was at the moment just descended from the stairs.
"Ah, nii-san! Welcome back!" Ichiru greeted his older brother. He just woke up himself and was quite surprise that it was already afternoon.
"Tadaima." The hunter announced while taking off his shoes. He followed his brother who went to the kitchen to get something to drink. He was watching his mirror-image rummage the refrigerator, recalling something of extreme importance that he needed to inform him. He became slightly uneasy at the thought of the possible violent reaction from Ichiru regarding the matter of his mate's past that was related to their parents' demise. Despite what he, himself, felt, he really wished that Ichiru wouldn't get angry at Kaname.
"Ichiru, I need to tell you something." Zero confessed.
The serious tone of his older brother's voice made Ichiru stop his search for breakfast (or lunch). "What is it, nii-san?" He asked in a worried tone.
"This… well, this is regarding the matter of Shizuka Hio's escape." Concerned lilac gaze tangled with identical ones that instantly expressed fear at the mention of the vampire's name. Very slowly and as gently as he was able to, he told Ichiru how his own mate was responsible for the mad vampire's escape from her prison which led to their family's tragic fate.
When Zero was finished, he watched Ichiru gape at him, clearly stunned. The hunter leaned on the kitchen counter's edge to wait for his twin's composure.
"Oh, I see, I see…" The younger silverette uttered somberly. "Was this the reason for your quarrel?" He turned to Zero who nodded. He smiled sadly then turned his head slightly upwards and expelled a sigh. "It must have been hard then but you made up, right?"
"Are you angry?" The hunter asked, looking at the floor.
"Why would I be?" Ichiru was caught off-guard by the question.
This made Zero look up and meet his brother's gaze. "Because, I still chose… to be with him… even though it was because of him that… that our parents are dead…"
The younger silverette couldn't help but smile even while frowning. "Oh nii-san. I understand that he might have indirectly caused it but I really can't blame him for their death." Then sighing once more, he speculated, "Who could have said for sure that Shizuka will not escape by herself? Or that they'll still be alive right now if… if not killed then? They were hunters after all… and it's not like it was intentional… after all, who would have thought… right? She was mad anyway… and besides, aren't we happy right now?" He turned to his twin who was looking at him in surprise at his easy understanding.
"Think about it. We might have lost many things but we have also gained many more." Ichiru continued, mirroring his brother's position. "Just imagine. Our being here might have been a blessing in disguise for many people."
"What do you mean?"
"Hmmm, like saving Yuki from the Chairman's cooking. You think anyone would survive that for years?" The younger Kiryū replied with a laugh. "And you might have become an overly serious and miserable hunter." He added, an arm embracing the tall figure beside him. "Our lives might have been different had he not done that but aren't we blessed right now? Aren't you happy right now? From now on, we can look forward to a better future and the proof is even present now." He smiled, replacing his forehead on Zero's, copying his twin's gesture when calming him down as a child. "We might have lost our parents but we've gained… well… an idiotic father and sister," they both chuckled, "and you've gained five children and a boyfriend."
"Don't say boyfriend." Zero hissed in embarrassment at the word, long fingers pinching one pliant cheek.
Ichiru laughed. "A boyfriend is a boyfriend, nii-san. You wouldn't want to be called a girlfriend, right?"
"Shut up."
"Ow, ow, ow!" The younger one tried to detached his brother's fingers that squeezed harder but then, he was surprised when Zero let go to put his head on his slender shoulder.
"Thank you." Zero sincerely whispered. He honestly didn't know what to do should Ichiru swore vehemence against his mate.
"Why, nii-san? Scared?" The younger silverette chuckled. He knew his twin must be feeling conflicted about loving the man who freed their parent's murderer but for Ichiru, his brother's happiness mattered more than the departed. He had learned to treasure those that were still alive though he made sure to never forget their beloved parents' memories.
"Stupid."
Their moment was cut short by a gasp that came from the female brunette that happened upon them. "What is this infidelity? Kaname-senpai will not be happy, Zero and you Ichiru, you're cheating on Aido-senpai this early?" She teased, breaking the awkward situation she had walked herself into.
"What? Aido?" Zero asked, very confused.
"Ah! Yuki, what are you doing here!?" Ichiru immediately diverted the situation and turned to his adopted-sister who quickly covered her mouth, cursing herself at the slip of tongue that had undoubtedly put herself and her brother into trouble.
"Ah, ah, ah! The Chairman is looking for Zero! It's something… something about a doctor's visit! Right! That's right!" She explained all too fast with evident panic in her voice.
"Oh, nii-san, you must go to the Chairman quickly!" Coaxed the very flustered Ichiru.
"Wait, you two. What did you mean by cheating on Aido." Zero asked with menace in his voice. Heavy hands tightly gripped Yuki's and Ichiru's shoulder when they attempted to run away.
Ichiru glared at Yuki who whimpered.
Oh dear, they're dead.
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