Author's Note: I'm back with the latest chapter of Switched! And I sincerely apologise for the long delay since the last chapter T.T Thank you all for the support I've received during this time, as well as the urges to update! Those really helped to kick me into gear to get this out! To everyone who have been patiently waiting for this chapter, thank you SO MUCH, and I hope you enjoy this one! :)

Disclaimer: Credits to Matsuri Hino, Blackened Wing and TammyTBoneTTB! :)

PRESENT

Burgundy eyes snapped open.

Kaname jerked up abruptly, heart pounding a mile per minute. What had happened to him? The last thing he remembered was sitting through another dull lesson in the Night Class, his vision suddenly blurring and darkening, before he fell forward. It had all happened so fast that he didn't even remember hitting the desk.

The pureblood ran one hand across his face, using that action as a cover to compose himself. He had not sensed anything amiss before his sudden collapse. Had the Zero from the future done something to him without him realising...? Impossible, he growled. If he dared...

'Kaname-sama...?'

The pureblood's head immediately snapped up at that familiar voice.

Despite his current disconcerted state, it was unforgivable for him to have failed to immediately sense the vampire presences all around him. However, after an initial moment of alarm, he relaxed somewhat, easily recognising the figures standing above him.

'Takuma,' he acknowledged with a brief nod, before swiftly rising to his feet from the chair on which he had been resting. 'What hap-?'

His words were abruptly cut off as narrowed eyes shifted past the blond noble's concerned face, having finally caught sight of their surroundings.

Instead of the dark, musty classroom he had been expecting, they were now all in what appeared to be a kitchen. Cooking utensils and ingredients were neatly arranged on the various shelves and counters. Everything was simply and ergonomically designed, not excessively decorated, as so many luxurious houses often were.

For it was clear that 'luxurious' was what this was. He might not be much of a cook, but even he could identify the famous, costly brand names that popped out before him. The place might look simple, but everything was obviously of the best quality money could buy.

His gaze flashed over to his inner vampires, all gathered around him. They all looked exactly the same as they had when he had last seen them, yet, something felt slightly off, even though he could not quite put his finger on what exactly it was that was bothering him.

Similar expressions of worry and relief were evident on each of their faces as his gaze fell upon them, one by one. A faint sense of unease started tugging at him as he silently scrutinised them, even though his imperturbable mask gave nothing away. He did not know this place, nor did he remember having travelled here. Was this some sort of a trap?

All this while, a faint, particular smell had been clamouring for his attention. As he started to become aware of the familiar cloying scent infiltrating his senses, his sharp gaze shifted downwards. At his feet was a symbol, clearly painted in blood. Tracing the lines of the symbol, his eyes widened imperceptibly, muscles tightening in agitation.

He recognised it instantly.

After all, it had been mere hours ago that he had seen it.

The symbol for The Time Switcher Spell.

Jaw tensing, his eyes once again sought out Takuma's gentle green ones. The noble could clearly recognise that Kaname had already put two and two together. However, he did not speak, choosing to meet the icy glare steadfastly.

'What is the meaning of this, Takuma?' demanded the pureblood in a soft, controlled voice. Despite how calm he sounded, all the vampires in the kitchen stiffened as the room's temperature started to plunge. They had long come to recognise the voice that Kaname used whenever he was extremely furious.

'Kaname-sama, you've been sent to the future,' explained the noble quietly. Having spent a huge portion of his years with the pureblood, he had grown accustomed to his deadly moods. He didn't fear him as much as he knew he should. Or rather, he couldn't. Takuma didn't just admire the pureblood, he loved him like his own brother. He knew Kaname was a fair, reasonable pureblood who never abused his powers or authority unless there was just cause for it.

Still, even he flinched slightly as the pureblood turned the full extent of his glare on him, darkened eyes flashing with barely-veiled fury.

'Why have I been sent to the future?' He turned his head, piercing gaze sweeping the room, addressing all the vampires present. 'Were you the ones who cast the spell on me?'

Then Kaname paused, a sudden thought hitting him. How had he not suspected it before? Was it... could it be?

'Was everything actually your plan right from the start?'

'No, Kaname-sama, of course not!'

The protest slipped out of Aidou's lips before he could restrain himself. As severe wine eyes settled on him, he shivered under their intensity, almost wishing that he had not said anything. It was just that them being involved in a ploy to hurt Kaname-sama was unthinkable. How could Aidou have simply stayed silent while the pureblood suspected otherwise?

'"No"? Then pray tell, Aidou, why exactly I'm here, with The Time Switcher Spell symbol at my feet, and with all of you surrounding me this way. You must realise how this looks, don't you?'

He gulped at the pureblood's silky voice, laced with a dangerous undercurrent. Shit, shit, shit! What was he supposed to say now? He couldn't very well say that their Kaname-sama had gone back into the past in order to get his lover, the ex-human Kiryuu Zero, back, now could he? Not only would the pureblood not believe a single word of it, it would just infuriate him even more. But, but... he couldn't think of anything better to say! Oh god, someone, help!

His frantic gaze ran over the other vampires, practically begging them to help him. All looked back at him uneasily, looking just as helpless as he felt. Apparently, all too focused on Kaname-sama's safety and the success of the spell, they hadn't really stopped to think about how to explain the situation to the past Kaname.

An oversight that Aidou was suffering for right now.

'Kaname,' said Takuma, drawing the icy glare towards himself, on whom it was probably the least debilitating. 'Your future self wanted to return to the past to change certain events there.'

The pureblood's eyes narrowed. The future Zero had already told him that he would be remaining in the past to do that, so why exactly did his future self have to –

Oh. Of course.

After all he had seen in the necklace, it was clear that his future self believed, however mistakenly, that he loved the hunter. Leaving him behind alone to play God was probably something he could not accept. Kaname could understand the feeling. He would have done the exact same thing... if it had been Yuuki who was staying behind.

'Right. I get it,' exhaled the pureblood bitterly, finally reining in his raging aura. The nobles all sighed in relief, released from the oppressive air that had been crushing them.

'So, I gather this is where my future self and his protégé live in together?'

Takuma's brows furrowed slightly at the emphasis of that word, but made no mention of it. 'Yes, it is. Welcome to Night Haven, Kaname-sama.' He opened his arms slightly, gesturing around the place.

The pureblood had already deduced as much, having recognised the place from the memories he had seen previously. He wandered through the kitchen and into the living room, finding everything exactly as how he had seen it. Almost forcefully, images of the various... activities that his future self and Kiryuu had been engaging in on all these surfaces swept through his mind like a hurricane. With a silent growl, he shoved the thoughts away. He could already foresee that his stay here would be an abysmal experience, seeing as how the pair had seemed to be aiming to do it practically in every room.

Actually... they probably had covered every room already.

This was one of the few occasions where the pureblood cursed his eidetic memory. Those "home videos" he had seen would not be leaving him anytime soon...

If ever.

Silent fury swirled up within him as he eyed his surroundings in disgust. For a second, he had half a mind to demand a spell reversal. Why should he have to be displaced from his dear girl's side for an indefinite period of time just so that his future self could reunite with his lover? Even if he had seen a side of ex-human he never had, which helped in understanding him just a little better, the relationship between him and his own future self was still preposterous. It was practically unnatural. They were meant to be enemies, then, and now. It was as wrong as a lion mating with a deer. A mouse with a cat. It just didn't make any biological sense.

Just the thought of what they were probably doing right this second had his stomach roiling in revulsion.

Unacceptable..!

But then his mind flashed to Yuuki. All this 'staying back in the past to change the future' was ultimately forher sake. To keep her safe and protected from any threats. What if he demanded to return to his world, and his future self insisted that his lover return too? Knowing how Kiryuu had been so adamant on staying back, despite the way he'd practically self-destructed after said decision, he did not doubt that the hunter would fight strongly against that. But... Kaname knew better than anyone how shrewd he could be when required of him. He might be able to think of a way to force Zero to return with him, whether against his will or not.

Could he take that risk? Kaname did not know how his future self ranked Zero and Yuuki. The thought of Yuuki's well-being not being his utmost priority was absolutely absurd to him, but after hearing how his future self had chosen to stay together with Kiryuu despite leaving her defenceless, he would not presume to understand the warped mind of his future self. That Kuran Kaname was like a completely different vampire, one that Kaname could not even begin to comprehend.

So, swallowing down the words that were on his lips, he simply stated instead, 'I would like to see Yuuki. Where is she?'

If I can't be there with her, at least I can stay by her future self's side.

Thankfully for Takuma, his many years on the Council had allowed him to perfect his poker face. Despite the worry and dismay that swelled up at that particular topic, his mega-watt smile came easily, eyes calmly meeting Kaname's gaze.

'I completely understand that. However, I'm not so sure that's a good idea, Kaname.'

An eyebrow twitched in displeasure. 'What is that supposed to mean, Takuma?'

The noble continued smiling serenely. 'Well, it's just that it's the middle of the night now. Work at the Academy is apparently quite exhausting, and she will no doubt be in bed now.' He cocked his head questioningly. 'Unless you don't mind disturbing her, I believe visiting her tomorrow in the day would be much more convenient.'

Kaname frowned, more curious than irritated at his friend's audacity to presume he knew better than the pureblood. Takuma often offered him his advice, true, but never in such a patronising manner. This Takuma had obviously honed his skills at putting up a mask, a feat that both relieved and prided Kaname, despite his annoyance at having it directed at him right now.

The pureblood had always been a little concerned by how gentle the blonde was. Ichijou Takuma was not known for being particularly shrewd and blood-thirsty, and he had never quite had the stomach for conflict that was required of an heir of Ichijou. Kaname had worried over whether Takuma would be able to take the reins of the family's business corporation once Asato was gone. However, it was clear to Kaname that his fears had been unfounded. Despite his bright smile, his old friend's eyes concealed wisdom and strength that had never there before.

Nevertheless, having grown up with him, the pureblood could sense the uneasiness beneath that smiling veneer. Takuma was hiding something, and that 'something' definitely involved Yuuki.

Could it be that the future Kiryuu had not been totally honest about the situation here? About what had happened to his beloved girl? Had things been worse than the hunter cared to admit? Was that the real reason why Kiryuu had been so resolute on his decision to change the future? To prevent something horrible from happening?

...to Yuuki?

Doubts and suspicions swirled around in his mind. Hot on their tails were anxiety and alarm about the brunette's safety and well-being. Kaname needed, no, deserved, to know the truth. After all, his life was being turned upside down because of it.

Lips parted, ready to force the answer out of the blonde noble... when the living room door slammed open. The door, having been the poor victim of such violence twice, was pulled slightly off its hinges, hanging slightly lopsidedly.

One Kiryuu Zero stood in the doorway, amethyst eyes narrowed, expression livid.

'Kuran...,' growled the hunter, his eyes scanning the vampire before him.

The pureblood eyed him coolly in return. And even though he looked pretty much identical to the Kuran from before, this one was dressed smartly in the white uniform of the Academy's Night Class, his expression a thousand times haughtier.

With that, it took Zero no time at all to conclude that this was the Kuran Kaname of his time, not the one he had last seen.

So, that was it then. The spell had been completed. The Kuran who had freely given him his blood was now reunited with his protégé.

His heart constricted painfully, and he immediately baulked.

What the... what the hell is this feeling!? I should be pissed as hell that that he knocked me out that way! Not... not... whatever the hell this is!

/"Zero means a lot to me... will not have him suffer alone in the past this way..."/

Zero swallowed hard, his expression darkening at the memory. Those words that Kuran had spoken earlier... They could not possibly have been true. There was just no way that the arrogant, self-centred bastard in front of him had become someone who cared so much for the ex-human Kiryuu Zero. They were enemies, rivals, from completely different backgrounds. The future Kuran Kaname must have had some reason for deciding to go back in the past, as well. There had to have been some hidden agenda, some bigger picture that he was not seeing. He was the dumbest fool in the world for even considering that the pureblood could possibly care about someone like him.

The more he thought about it, the more convinced he was that it had all just been a huge lie. Just a ruse to get him to lower his guard so that he would not interfere with the spell.

That had to be it.

Definitely.

Silently, Kaname observed the warring emotions battling it out within the hunter's eyes. He did not know exactly what it was that held the other male so lost in his thoughts, but he was willing to bet that it had something to do with the future Kuran Kaname he had met.

After all, thoughts of the future Kiryuu had risen up, unbidden, to occupy Kaname's mind as well.

Kaname shook his head in irritation. He had no time for this. He was here now, and he had to concentrate on what he could do. Not think about downcast amethyst eyes, darkened with pain and memories past. Or long, pale fingers roughly scraping against bark, red drops of scentless blood trickling down the slender arm of a broken, emotionally-wrecked vampire hunter.

Turning away from the silver head without a word, he addressed the noble. 'I want to see her, Takuma. I need to know she's safe.'

At that last word, Kaname's eyes narrowed as he stared deep into his friend's eyes. 'Yuuki... she is safe, isn't she?'

Hearing Yuuki's name, Zero's initial irritation at having been so blatantly ignored by the pureblood transformed into hope, and he, too, turned to face the blonde.

He couldn't help feeling like something in the pureblood's tone had seemed slightly strange, as if Kuran was accusing Ichijou of something. Whatever that could be, he didn't know, but he would make damn sure to find out whatever they knew.

Takuma maintained the smile, even though it was becoming a challenge to keep the corners of his mouth turned upwards. It was clear that this Kaname already had suspicions about why both future Kaname and Zero would return to the past. Anyone who knew the two of them at all, knew that Yuuki was the only thing that could affect them both to such an extent. And the lack of the girl's presence here was no doubt feeding those doubts swimming within Kaname's quick-witted mind.

He knew he would not be able to keep the two vampires in the dark for long, but perhaps just for now, while they figured out how to handle this. Of course, it was only a matter of time. Eventually... eventually they would find out the truth about Yuuki.

But not right now.

'Of course she's fine, Kaname,' reassured Takuma gently. 'She's just been working too hard, and I thought you would like her to get her rest. After all, tomorrow is a school day, and she will have to get up in a few hours from now.'

The rest of Kaname's inner circle watched on, awed, as the lies spilled forth so effortlessly from Takuma's lips, his expression as calm and relaxed as if he were simply commenting on the weather.

At that point, all of them felt just a little more intimidated by their gentle, cheerful friend.

Kaname frowned. His gut was telling him that something was definitely up, but here Takuma was, acting as if nothing were wrong at all. His friend had never lied to him before, so did that mean he could believe him?

But then again, Takuma seemed as though he had changed so much from the one he knew. Could he really trust him?

However, before he could make a decision on how to proceed, Kiryuu cut in with a hiss. 'I don't need a vamp telling me what I can or can't do. If I want to see Yuuki now, I'll do as I damn well please!'

And that outburst was what made Kaname's decision for him. Kiryuu was a wild card, prone to exploding at the slightest things. If he sensed that something was not quite right with Yuuki, he would quite possibly do something to ruin everything. Kaname did not fully understand how all this messing about with time worked, and he was not willing to take the chance that something stupid Kiryuu did here could affect whatever was happening in the past. Whatever had happened to Yuuki, Kaname would investigate and uncover... alone.

Thus, despite his absolute reluctance, he nodded his agreement. 'Alright then, Takuma. Perhaps another day would be more suitable.'

Beside him, the silver-haired hunter bristled. How dare Kuran act as if he called all the shots!? Who the heck did he think he was? Did he really expect Zero to tuck his tail obediently between his legs and listen to whatever the pureblood said?

'Tell me where Yuuki is,' growled Zero, stepping threateningly towards Takuma. 'I'm going, even if he's not.'

Slightly too late, Kaname realised that he should not have conceded so easily. Whatever he said, this Kiryuu would make sure to do the exact opposite. After all, this wasn't the same Kiryuu who had so easily agreed to look him up if something should happen...

'Kiryuu. It would be best for Yuuki to get her rest, don't you think? Or are you so selfish and concerned about your own feelings that you would put them above her well-being?'

In a second, Bloody Rose was out and aimed straight at the pureblood's chest. The hunter snarled as he regarded his target. 'I don't give a damn what you think, Kuran. I don't listen to you, or your "orders"! I'm not like those pansies over there, who trip over their own feet to satisfy your every wish!'

At the chin jerk towards them, Ruka growled in fury, fists clenching as she started forward. It had been years since she had wanted to kill the hunter, but that feeling was very easily re-found, considering what the stupid boy was saying and doing. How dare he point a gun at Kaname-sama!? Whether or not this was the Kaname-sama of her time or another mattered very little. Her loyalty to and protectiveness over him was absolute and unfaltering.

This time, Aidou was the one holding her back. Grabbing her arm, he silently shook his head at her. 'Let Kaname-sama handle him, Ruka. He doesn't need us to interfere.'

Shocked by the unexpectedly wise words from her usually hot-headed cousin, she faltered, blinking in surprise. Taking advantage of her momentary hesitation, Kain put an arm around her shoulders, turning her away. 'Come on, Ruka. Since there's nothing left here for us, we should go get settled in the guest room. With all those clothes and products that you brought, who knows how long it's going to take for us to unpack.'

As expected, that well-timed gripe successfully managed to distract the honey blonde. Protesting in indignation, she allowed herself to be led out of the room without much fuss. Rima shook her head in amusement, feet pattering softly on the carpeted floor as she followed them out.

To say that Kaname was surprised would be an understatement. Not only had Kain managed to handle Ruka so easily, he could scarcely believe that it had actually been Aidou who had dissuaded her from leaping – however pointlessly – to his defence. In the past, it had always been the blonde who was getting himself caught up in the heat of the moment, doing unnecessary things that frequently led to Kaname having to teach him a lesson.

But now... everything had changed.

It was a little hard for Kaname to wrap his mind around exactly how much had changed, in what was presumably such a short period of time. It wasn't that he'd never thought things would be different after they left the Academy. However, faced with all of these right at once, it was a little disconcerting.

Unfortunately, right at that moment, he didn't have the luxury of time to further contemplate this unexpected future. Not as a gunshot echoed around the room.

Faster than Zero could see, Kaname moved, just a blur of white against the surroundings. The silver bullet that had been just inches away from meeting his heart shot harmlessly into the couch, leaving a smoking hole in its wake.

'Now, now Kiryuu, there's really no need for such violence, don't you think? You wouldn't want to destroy your home now, would you?'

Zero spun around, gun at the ready. Kaname was now behind him, regarding him with amusement as he taunted him.

'This isn't my home, Kuran. This is the lair of an evil, blood-sucking devil who manipulates everyone to do as he wishes! It would give me great pleasure to destroy everything in this stupid house.'

Although Kaname bitterly agreed with that last point, he gave no outward indication of his feelings. He was growing tiresome of this same routine, time and time again. The hunter was always trying to pick a fight, always trying to kill him even without any conceivable reason. It irked him beyond reason. Why was Kaname always the only one at the receiving end of ridiculous accusations? Of a Level D's judgement, no less! Everything in the future, whether what had befallen Yuuki, or this whole ludicrous pureblood-hunter "love" relationship, it was just as much Kiryuu's fault as his.

In fact, it was Kiryuu who had been stupid enough to trust his brother and start this whole mess in the first place. If he'd had the brains to realise that it was all just a very elaborate trap, none of this would have played out the way it had. Yuuki would still be safe and well, and Kaname would continue to remain at her side, loving and protecting her.

Kaname had had enough trying to reason with the cantankerous hunter. Let him do what he would. If need be, Kaname would simply debilitate him enough that he could no longer cause any trouble.

'Considering how your future self gets together with that same 'evil, blood-sucking devil', I wouldn't recommend putting yourself on so high a pedestal, Kiryuu.'

With that last parting shot, not caring whether or not Kiryuu knew the truth about their future selves' relationship, Kaname stalked out of the room.

The remaining noble vampires stared after him, eyes widened in disbelief. So he knew...

Aidou's jaw hung open, the gears in his brain turning a mile a minute. If the pureblood had known the truth all along, why had Aidou had to suffer earlier!? When he had been subjected to Kaname-sama's anger, he could've just told the truth, instead of having been at a loss for words.

The blonde groaned in frustration, head dropping into his hands.

He had theworst luck.

Takuma sighed lightly. No wonder he's in such a foul mood, he concluded. To have found out that he ends up loving someone who has always been his enemy. His behaviour makes sense now.

Takuma eyed the door through which the pureblood had just left, drawn by the irrepressible urge to be the support for his friend. Still, he couldn't very well just leave. Not with young Kiryuu still in such a mood, going trigger-happy all over the place. Whatever happened, this was still Kaname and Zero's home and haven, and Takuma would do his utmost best to ensure that these possessions remained intact and undamaged for their return.

He started to turn towards Zero, but paused when he felt a light tug on his sleeve.

'Go to him, Takuma,' murmured Shiki. 'He shouldn't be alone right now.'

Takuma blinked down in surprise at his lover. The redhead seemed to have a knack for reading Takuma's desires and thoughts from his behaviour alone. He rubbed the bridge of his nose, a little embarrassed that he was apparently so transparent to Shiki.

'Yes, but Zero, too...'

'Aidou and I will keep an eye on him,' stated Shiki matter-of-factly, though he was eyeing said vampire, still groaning softly, rather doubtfully. He exhaled softly in exasperation, gaze returning to Takuma's. 'So you go make sure Kaname-sama is okay too.'

Takuma smiled gratefully, squeezing his lover's hand. 'Well, if that's the case... thank you, Shiki.'

The redhead nodded, smiling softly. As Takuma quickly exited the room in search of the pureblood, he turned back to the room, elbowing Aidou to snap him out of his self-pity party.

Zero's irate glare swept over the two remaining vampires. Initially, he had not sensed anything amiss with Kuran's scathing remark. After all, it was true that their future selves were working and living together.

He had been ready to charge after the pureblood, Bloody Rose in tow, about to make him pay for his arrogance.

But the other vampires' shocked reactions had given him cause to hesitate. And that was when the pureblood's choice of words had replayed through his mind. "Get together"? People didn't usually use that phrase unless...

Zero had stiffened, the implications of those words endlessly whirling around in his mind.

It couldn't be.

No.

There was just no way...

...Or was there...?

'What the hell did Kuran mean by that?' demanded Zero, glaring from one to the other. His dread and horror translated well into anger, and he made no attempt to restrain his emotions. 'Tell me, dammit!'

The two vampires exchanged uneasy looks, unsure of what to do. Should they tell him the truth? But the hunter seemed ready to explode, and telling him might have repercussions beyond their imagination.

Zero snarled at their furtiveness, stomping forward to gather a fistful of Aidou's shirt. Lowering his face until it was mere inches from the noble's, he snapped, 'Tell me or die, bloodsucker!'

Aidou growled at the ex-human's hostile actions. Unable to rein in his growing annoyance at the boy, he shoved him away roughly.

However, he was not expecting what happened next.

Instead of simply being pushed back a few steps, as should've been the case, Zero went flying across the room, landing in a sprawl in the kitchen area.

Shiki watched with widened eyes as Zero remained where he was, groaning lightly as he clutched at his head.

'Aidou! There was no need to use so much strength!' He quickly stepped forward, crossing the room to go check on Zero.

Bewildered, Aidou followed behind, all the while gawking down at the fallen hunter. 'But... but I didn't! I just pushed him away, is all! He should have been strong enough to hold his own!'

Unless... unless he wasn't at normal strength.

All of a sudden, Kaname's words from before came back to him.

"Also, past Zero seems to be unusually weak..."

Aidou gulped.

Oh crap. He had forgotten.

XXX

Sharp, blinding pain extended from where his head had impacted with the kitchen counter, something warm trickling down the side of his head. Zero shakily raised one hand to his wound.

Blood.

The stupid blonde had made him bleed.

His eyes narrowed as he glared up at the noble standing above him. He would make Aidou rue the day he ever laid a hand on the hunter. Zero was going to pound the leech into a bloody pulp, just as soon as he –

All of sudden, his heart started thumping painfully hard. Before he had time to wonder what was happening, his throat constricted, and he felt his fangs lengthen.

No, no! This could not be happening right now!

Aidou and Shiki stared in alarm as the hunter clutched desperately at his throat, panting harshly. His pupils had turned a deep, menacing red, barely a hint of lavender still present.

'Bloodlust,' breathed Shiki. 'What do we do now?'

For a few seconds, Aidou's eyes remained locked on the figure before him. Zero was gasping and wheezing, his body clamouring for blood. The whole kitchen reeked of the red sustenance, Kouya-san's, and now his, and it was clear that the vampire in Zero would not stay repressed for long.

No, get a hold of yourself, Zero!

Zero slammed his head back against the counter, hoping the pain would help to distract him from the sweet, cloying scent that was overwhelming his nostrils, shooting straight to his mind and gradually filling it a with a red, crazed haze.

However, his desperate act only resulted in more blood spilling forth from his open wound. He snarled in agony as he forced himself not to lunge for the two vampires in front of him. He could hear their blood rushing through their veins – warm, delicious blood that his parched throat was starving for. Just a little taste, whispered the dark beast within him. Let's just take one taste...

'No!' gasped Zero, startling the nobles with his sudden hoarse cry. 'I don't need it – I don't!'

He wrapped his arms around himself, as if trying to physically restrain himself. Sharp, vampiric claws tore through the clothes and skins at his sides, but he scarcely noticed, so caught up in his internal struggle.

Through gritted teeth, he hissed, 'Get out... of here... Leave me... alone...'

'Aidou, we need to get help,' said Shiki, turning worriedly to his friend.

But it was as though Aidou was stuck in a trance, unable to tear his eyes away. It was his first time ever seeing anyone he knew in such wild bloodlust, much less the usually cool and reserved Zero. Perhaps it was horror that kept him entranced, or perhaps morbid fascination. Whatever it was, it kept him rooted to the ground, gaze fixed intently on the shuddering hunter.

In frustration, Shiki grabbed Aidou's shoulder, turning him away from the hunter. 'Aidou, we have to go get Takuma, or Kaname-sama. They'll know what to do.'

'Uh, right...'

Broken out of the reverie he was in, the blonde vampire had to blink a few times before his mind would work again. 'No, wait, hang on a second.' He made his way over to the fridge, with Shiki staring after him in incredulity.

'Zero's in bloodlust, and you want to get a snack?'

'Of course not!' retorted Aidou. He rooted through the contents of the fridge, finally spying a few bottles of thick, red liquid. Grabbing one, he turned around and raised it to show Shiki.

'Kaname-sama thought that this might happen, so he prepared some of his blood for Zero. He told me to give it to him if there was a need to.'

The redhead nodded. It would come as no surprise to him, or anyone who knew him, that Kaname would do anything for Zero. Whether readily giving up his blood... or going back in time to seek him out.

Aidou knelt before the hunter, uncapping the bottle. Almost instantly, Zero's head jerked up, his nose recognising the smell of the pure, untainted blood. Narrowed red eyes locked in on the bottle in Aidou's hands, his throat constricting further as his body begged for the delicacy before him.

'Wh-what... is... that?'

Despite his overwhelming desire to murder the hunter after what had happened earlier, Aidou couldn't help feeling impressed by Kiryuu's stubbornness and self-control. Even with such a mouth-watering scent in the air, even while he was in such a state, the hunter was still somehow managing to stop himself from pouncing on Aidou and snatching Kaname-sama's blood.

Having the strength to resist such innate vampire instincts – not many vampires would be able to do that, noble or not.

'Kaname-sama, the one from this time, left this for you. Here, drink it, it'll help.'

Wild red eyes stared disbelievingly up at him. 'Ku...ran...?'

Kuran Kaname had bled himself to feed an ex-human blood? So that Zero wouldn't suffer through his attacks?

That was simply impossible. What benefit did Kuran gain from this? He had already achieved what he wanted, hadn't he? Right this moment, he was already reunited with the other Zero, as he had thus desired. Everything had gone perfectly to his plan – Zero had foolishly started to get swayed by the pureblood's actions, and that had allowed Kuran to carry out The Time Switcher Spell right under his nose.

So then, why? Why had Kuran bothered to leave behind his blood for him? He had absolutely no reason to do this for him, not when there was nothing more that Zero could do to mess up his plans.

It wasn't as though Kuran really cared about him, right?

Right?

A thumb roughly pushing his lower jaw down snapped him abruptly out of his thoughts.

'Stop fighting already, Zero,' snapped Aidou irritably. 'Just hurry up and drink.'

No longer having any patience to wait for the hunter's agreement, the noble pushed the mouth of the bottle past Zero's lips, tilting it so that the blood flowed out into his mouth.

Once the blood hit his tongue, whatever doubts Zero had been having vanished instantly. He grasped the bottle, gulping down the blood greedily. Unconsciously, his eyes fluttered shut, relishing every drop. Kuran's blood tasted so divine, a welcome salve to his burning throat and stomach. The beast inside him purred in contentment, pleased that it was finally receiving the prize it had hankered after. And such a glorious one, at that!

As he drank, the pressure on his chest started to lessen, his claws and fangs eventually retracting. The next time his eyes opened, they were clear and amethyst again, the red completely gone.

But all three of them knew that it was merely biding its time, lurking within hidden depths until the next attack hit.

XXX

Zero put down the bottle silently. He could still taste Kuran's blood in his mouth, and he cringed, filled with self-loathing. The way he had drunk so desperately, so pathetically – he had been nothing more than a monster. A vile, soulless beast. Kuran had been right earlier. How could Zero pretend he was any better than the pureblood? He was just as despicable, just as abhorrent. Perhaps even more so. After all, Kuran could at least quench his thirst using the blood tablets. No one had to get hurt. Whereas Zero, on the other hand... He had already drank from a live person once. Kuran Kaname might be no innocent, but it didn't change the fact that Zero had "attacked" him.

Aidou observed the uncharacteristically-passive hunter as he stared down at his hands, clenching them into tight fists. He could probably guess where Kiryuu thoughts had run off too. The hunter was rubbing the back of his hand repeated across his lips, viciously scrubbing off the remnant drops of blood, as if that would somehow erase the reality of what he had just done.

Despite how much he hated this version of Kiryuu, Aidou knew that Kaname-sama would have wanted him to try to comfort him.

The blonde vampire cleared his throat awkwardly. 'Kiryuu, uh, well... don't feel so bad about it. You couldn't help it, after all.'

Incensed, piercing eyes snapped over to meet his. 'I don't need your pretty words, Aidou! Just leave me alone!'

Aidou's eyebrow twitched. Here he was, specially going out of his way to try to offer the hunter some kindness, and thiswas how the ingrate thanked him?

Still, for Kaname-sama, he would swallow down his pride.

'Look, Kiryuu –' began the noble again.

'I said leave me alone, you stupid, pig-headed parasite!' snarled the hunter, his eyes flashing with anger and hatred.

Okay, that was it. Aidou was done trying to be nice. Zero could drown in his own dark pool of self-hatred for all he cared.

Without another word, the blonde spun on his heel, stalking out of the room. After a moment's hesitation, during which Zero glared daggers at Shiki, the redhead followed.

Once the two vampires were finally gone, Zero slumped back down, exhaling heavily. He ran a hand through his hair, unsurprised to find that his wound had long stopped bleeding. His gaze landed on the empty bottle beside him, and his eyes narrowed.

Kuran... Just what the hell are you really thinking?

XXX

'That's the garage,' pointed out Takuma, gesturing towards the low structure off to the side. 'It's big enough for two cars, but Zero refuses to drive unless he can't help it. He's pretty much always using his motorbike.'

Beside him, Kaname simply nodded, throwing his gaze across the wide expanse of grassy grounds. Having explored the house in its entirety, Kaname could understand why his future self had decided to settle down in such a place. It was secluded, quiet, and offered plenty of privacy. The property was well-guarded too, judging by the various security measures that Takuma had pointed out during his "tour". The interior was aesthetically pleasing, yet not too gaudy that it was uncomfortable to live with. On the contrary, Kaname could very easily imagine himself walking down these halls, relaxing on the plush sofas that resided in practically every room.

To think that he had actually managed to create such a comfortable, safe haven for himself... Kaname could barely believe it. No doubt it had been due to Zero that his future self had gone to so much trouble to create such a warm environment for both of them to live in.

But this house... he could just as easily picture Yuuki here, living contently alongside him.

'What my future self has with Zero... is it serious?'

Takuma blinked, taken by surprise by the unexpected query. But then he smiled.

'Yes, it is. Both of you went through a lot together, and that's what strengthened your relationship.'

The pureblood twitched at Takuma's use of the word 'you', but said nothing.

'Even stronger than his feelings for Yuuki?'

The noble's smile turned tender as he watch an unreadable expression cross his friend's face. He knew that despite the years that had gone by, both Kaname and Zero both had never once stopped loving Yuuki. Their love for each other had never changed their love for her.

'It's not like that, Kaname. It wasn't one or the other. The feelings that both of you had for Yuuki never changed.'

'Yet the future Kaname left Yuuki all alone at the Academy, without any protection. Rather than stay with her, he actually let her leave him... just like that.'

Kaname was doing his best to stay calm, but he couldn't help the trace of anger that laced his words. How could he have ever condoned something like that? How could he have ever left Yuuki alone and defenceless?

Perhaps it was weird that he was speaking of his future self as an entirely separate being, rather than the person he would eventually become. However, the actions and perspective of that pureblood were just too far detached from what seemed like logical to him. There was just no way he could reconcile the both of them as the same person.

Takuma stared out into the distance, green eyes deep in thought. 'The Academy was supposed to be the safest place for her,' murmured the blonde softly. He meant that, too. In a world filled with vampires lurking silently in the darkness, Cross Academy was the safest place for a human to be. Nothing should have been able to infiltrate the school's defences, especially not with both vampires and hunters on watch.

But the school had never been meant to be able to keep out purebloods. Especially not one of Nasser's age and power. What had happened to Yuuki – no one could have prevented that. The Kaname of that time had been no match at all for the scheming pureblood. Even if they had somehow managed to sense his presence on the school grounds, there was nothing that they could have done any differently. Nothing they could have done to stop Nasser from doing what he pleased.

The pureblood turned to observe Takuma thoughtfully. The noble's brows were furrowed, his troubled gaze no longer seeing their beautiful, peaceful surroundings, but rather, memories of dark times from long ago.

Yuuki whimpering in pain, her face pale and pinched. Both Kaname and Zero standing at her bedside, wearing twin expressions of worry and tension.

Takuma had thought that there could be nothing worse than watching Yuuki fading away day after day.

But he soon realised that there was.

Kaname and Zero had begun having more and more quarrels, over anything and everything. They made sure to hide their crumbling relationship from Yuuki, but the rest of the inner vampires were privy to the frequent fights that broke out in Kaname's room. Whether they wanted to or not, they were forced to listen to every single exchange, to every single insult and harsh word. It had broken Takuma's heart to watch his friends suffering thus much, to realise that their relationship was falling apart, piece by piece. Yet, he had been unable to do anything but look on sadly. Kaname had hardly been in the right state of mind to listen to his advice, not to mention Zero.

The tension between the two had only continued to worsen with time, until it had culminated in that fight, right after Kaname had tried to turn Yuuki and made everything worse instead. That night, right after the inner vampires had returned from class, they had heard the heavy thump of a body slamming against the wall, and then Zero's agitated snap, his tone showing how much he meant every last word. When Zero stomped past them on his way out of the Moon Dorm, Takuma had followed in concern, wanting to confirm that the hunter was unhurt. Kaname would have wanted that, he was sure. Even if he didn't, Takuma wanted to.

But Zero had only flared up at him, before turning and leaving.

'Takuma?'

The noble jerked out of the reverie he had unknowingly fallen into, blinking several times to clear his glazed eyes. He shot the pureblood beside him an apologetic smile.

'My apologies, Kaname. I was just recalling the past...'

'Yes, I could tell,' responded the pureblood wryly.

Takuma gave a short chuckle, but cocked his head questioningly when Kaname repeated his name again.

'What is it, Kaname?'

Kaname turned fully so that he was now facing his childhood friend. His expression had turned serious, his wine eyes seemingly darker than the shadows of night surrounding them as they stared straight at Takuma.

The noble swallowed, fighting back the urge to break eye contact with those knowing, soul-piercing eyes. He knew this gaze. He called it Kaname's trademark look. The one that made the target squirm uncomfortably until he was left with no choice but to confess his every wrong-doing. To do whatever he could to gain the pureblood's approval. Takuma had seen more than a few of Kaname's victims crumbling within just a few silent minutes under this gaze, but rarely was he ever the target.

Then again, rarely did he ever lie so blatantly, right to Kaname's face.

And then the pureblood spoke.

'About Yuuki...'

Uncharacteristic of him, the pureblood trailed off, his tone hesitant. He had been waiting for the right chance to ask about Yuuki, to demand the truth and only the truth, but now that he had the opportunity, he wasn't sure... if he really wanted to know. What if he couldn't handle it? What if he ended up being the one to do something so terrible that it affected everything – past, present and future? He wanted so desperately to know, truly he did, but at the same time, he was... afraid. So afraid of what he would learn.

Fear was a strange emotion for him, not one that he experienced often – or really, at all. But the thought of Yuuki's well-being having been compromised – that filled him with absolute mind-numbing, paralysing terror. That his beloved girl could have come to any harm; that there was absolutely nothing that he could do right now to reverse that... the thought filled him with so much dread.

Takuma said nothing, sensing Kaname's internal struggle. He knew all too well that had Kaname pressed him for the truth, he would not lie. And it would not be because it was a pureblood's command. Takuma just could not force himself to keep up a lie to someone he cared so much about. Not even for the sake of protecting that person's feelings. After all, Kaname had the right to know.

Fortunately for him, Kaname didn't seem to be able to voice the question. Nerve-wrecking seconds soon progressed into awkward minutes, the sounds of the rustling leaves, stirred by the light night breeze, filling the silence that seemed to stretch infinitely between them.

And then Takuma grinned, the unexpected action catching Kaname's attention and arousing his curiosity.

'Kaname, perhaps you would like to see the photos from Yuuki's graduation? There are a great many, of all of us, including you and Zero. I took them all myself, and I have to say, they all turned out pretty well. I know where they're being hidde– ah, kept.'

A corner of Kaname's lips turned upward as he regarded the cheery noble. Takuma had always had a certain... way with the camera, somehow always managing to capture a moment either during the wrong time, or from the wrong angle. He had no doubt at all that these would be no different. Why else would they have been hidden away?

Still, to be able to see some of their happier moments, of Yuuki – 'Kiryuu too', added his mind slyly – and all of them...

I suppose I can always decide later, the matter regarding Yuuki.

When the pureblood next spoke, both his expression and voice were soft.

'I would like that.'

XXX

Zero slowly slid down the closed door of his future self's bedroom, coming to rest on the carpeted floor with his knees drawn up. He was breathing hard, his face pale and tense.

Despite Kuran's blood, it had taken him a while to recover enough from his 'attack' to get on his feet again. His first stop after that had been straight to Kuran's room. Not caring about masking his invasion of the pureblood's privacy (the actual guy wasn't even here anyway!), he had thrown each and every drawer and cupboard open, messily rummaging through all of the previously neatly-organised belongings, narrowed eyes searching intently.

What he had expected to find, he did not quite know. He just needed something that would give any indication of the true nature of their future selves' relationship. A photo, a gift – it could be anything. All he knew was that he would know it when he saw it.

However, save for a tube of gel curiously placed at the fore of one of the dresser's drawers, his hour-long search had turned up nothing out of the ordinary. Exquisite furnishings decorated every inch of Kuran's room, just the type of excessively-lavish bedroom Zero would expect him to have, but the room seemed neutral and detached, as if refusing to give up any of its master's secrets. There were no signs of anything personal belonging to the pureblood's, his clothes and toiletries aside. It looked exactly like one of those designer showrooms that furniture companies often installed – beautiful (if a little tacky), but impersonal and barely lived in.

Zero had exhaled in frustration. How was he supposed to find any clues if there weren't any in the first place? Either Kuran was simply not the type to leave any tokens of sentimentality lying around, or else he had done a bang-up job hiding it all just before he left.

Just when the exhausted hunter had decide to give up and search elsewhere, he had tripped over one of the piles of clothes he had earlier upended unceremoniously on the floor, and landed up in a sprawl on the ground. It was a good thing that the floor was carpeted. Otherwise, he probably would have ended up with more than just mild carpet burns and a bruised pride.

However, while he had been on the floor, his face had landed mere inches away from the tube he had carelessly thrown aside earlier. If not for the fact that he noticed it was almost empty, indicating how much Kuran must have used it, Zero would have paid it no mind. As it was, however, Zero had picked it up as he got to his feet, simply out of idle curiosity. The tube had been the only thing in that drawer, and it had struck Zero as a little odd at the time.

He had turned the tube over in his hands, eyes easily making out the tiny print despite the pitch-darkness of the room. (One of the perks of being a vampire, after all.) It described the product as a sterile, multi-purpose lubricant gel, for a whole bunch of uses that it then proceeded to list down. Zero had quickly skimmed through the list, all the while wondering what exactly the pureblood needed this for. He was hardly using it for its medical purposes, considering how his vampire nature took care of that way more efficiently that anything of human science could.

Then, perhaps to lubricate the joints of rusty hinges?

Zero had scoffed aloud. Yeah, as if Kuran would do that!

Quickly growing bored of the enigma of the stupid gel, his gaze had just skipped down to the bottom of the list, his fingers loosening their grip on the tube as he prepared to toss it aside.

But then he had frozen, his shocked, widened eyes locked onto the last few words.

May be used to decrease friction during vaginal and anal intercourse.

He had dropped the tube instantly, his face colouring up. Without a word, he had run out of the room, straight into his future self's room, where he now was.

Zero pressed a fist hard against his mouth, fighting to keep the contents of his heaving stomach down. It couldn't be, it couldn't be! He was just thinking too much, wasn't he? After all, the product company had flaunted the gel as being 'multi-purpose'. There were so many, other reasons why Kuran would keep something like that so close at hand. Right? He was just jumping to goddamn conclusions here! Conclusions that could turn out to be nowhere near the truth.

And yet...

His gaze travelled across the floor to where, a short distance away, an identical, half-empty tube lay.

Future Zero has one in his dresser too...

And that's it for this chapter! I'm sorry it turned out to be so Yuuki-oriented. However, I thought that was the way it had to be, considering the fact that she is the top priority for the young KZ. Thank you so much for reading, and I hope you enjoyed that. Please tell me your thoughts about it J

I'll do my best to get the next few chapters out more quickly, since I'll have more time during the next few months! Until the next chapter! *waves*

Replies to my dear reviewers:

BlackAbyss/Abyss Baskerville: I haven't heard from you in some time, my friend. I really do hope that things have gotten better for you? I just hope you know that i'm always glad to listen if you need a listening ear. It sounds like you've been through much despite your young age, and I know it's hard, but please do keep fighting! You're a wonderful person and you deserve to live a happy life J Thank you for your review on the last chapter, and this one helped you forget your troubles for a little bit. :P)

gleish26: Oh my, another long review! *jumps about in excitement* Hahah I'm so happy you liked the last chapter! My first time writing an M scene *blushes* Hmm well, I don't want to give too much away about Yuuki's involvement, but just to calm your fears, I'll just reveal that there won't be time for any "dirty" threesomes between them. Their relationship will be pretty mild… At least based on what I've planned so far. But I doubt that will change, so… I hope that helps J Oh my THANK YOU SO MUCH for the suggestions! I love hearing them because they all will help influence my thinking and the plot in some way. So thank you very much for them, you're AWESOME. Please don't apologise at all! You are most welcome to send more long reviews, because I just love them all haha. Oh thank you so much for those kind words! I hope you enjoyed this chapter! :)

kanamexzero fan: I'm glad you liked it! :) Haha yeah, the ending seemed kind of ominous, didn't it? I wonder how things will proceed from here *cackles* HAHAHA. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review! :)

Shane: Whoa your comment seemed so ominously intimidating but I LOVED IT ANYWAY. I like how the fic is making readers wonder at what will happen next haha. But it's true what you said, about them being a little too arrogant. Still, I believe they're trying their best to do what they think is right, so there's that! Anyway, thank you so much for leaving a review and I hope this chapter was enjoyable! :)

BleedingJoyfulInsanity: Thank you for your review :) I really appreciate the compliments! Hope you enjoyed this chapter!

kuroh: Continued! Haha. I hope this chapter was enjoyable for you :) Thank you for the review!

c0c0ly: I'm so sorry I took such a long time to update! And it really warms my heart to know that fans of BW have become my fans too haha :) Sometimes I get so worried I don't do her amazing stories and characters enough justice... In fact, I know I don't. She's beyond amazing. Still, thank you :) I hope you enjoyed this chapter.

KZLover: Thank you for the compliment! I'm sorry this took quite some time in coming, but at least it's finally here, I guess *sheepish, guilty look* SO SORRY T.T Thank you so much for waiting, and I hope you enjoyed this! :)

Feathers: I went to listen to the song, and I do agree with you! It's such a beautiful song too :) And yes, I'm really glad that they have much more trust in each other than they did back in the past. Their relationship has progressed so much :) I'm am so relieved that you find this enjoyable, and thank you so much for saying so :) I hope you enjoyed this chapter!

Alexa: Oh wow... Your words are unbelievably AMAZING. That's some really awesome praise right there, and I thank you so much for even thinking that I can be on the same level as those amazing writers. The lack of reviews thing kinda bothers me sometimes too, but then I remind myself that I started this story for myself, and I'm continuing it for myself. So I try not to get discouraged though they seem fewer than for other fics. Besides, when readers do review, they leave such wonderful comments, like yours! I'm really grateful for your kind words, so THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES. I hope you continue to support Switched, and that you enjoyed this chapter as well:D

snap56: THANK YOU FOR YOUR ENTHUSIASM HAHA! I'm so sorry it took some time for an update, but here it is! I hope you enjoy this :) Thank you for the review!

ItachiNoTenshi: Wow 3 reviews in a row! *sighs in contented bliss* Firstly, thank you so much for saying that I am doing BW's stories justice! I'm trying my best, but sometimes I feel as though I'm not capturing certain aspects the way she would have done. Still, I'm really glad you think it's not too lacking :) Haha was that an indirect compliment? If so, thank you so much for that:) it made me really happy hehe :) I do wonder why some fics get more reviews than I do, but... I'm trying not to let it bother me, I guess. I want to complete this for myself, so I don't want to let myself get discouraged :) Besides, I have all you guys leaving me such wonderful comments, so what do I have to complain about? :) And oh, I'm glad the summary was able to attract you here! I was thinking maybe it sounded a little... boring? But it would appear not, yay! HAHA I understand what you mean about the switching of perspectives! But I really love leaving my readers on a cliff-hanger XD (Even though I know how cruel it is to be subjected to it...), because it keeps them intrigued and wanting to find out what happens next :) Oh, thank you for saying that about Aidou and Kain! Ever since I got into KxZ fanfiction, I can't really bring myself to watch the anime again, not while both boys are so obsessed with Yuuki (instead of each other, as they should be!) And because of that, along with the fact that the last time I watched VK was YEARS ago, I'm sometimes pretty worried that I'm not really portraying the characters right, especially those other than KZ. I'm pretty much basing them off of the other fics I read, so it's a relief that they seem in character. (I'll have to thank all those other fics now XD) And yes, I'm so glad the two of them were finally reunited! It's been 15 long chapters of separation, even though it was only over such a short span of time in reality. It was amazing to be able to write them together as I've been longing to for 15 chapters LOL. And I'm so happy you liked Kouya-san! It's true what you say, that many OCs do turn out to kinda... 'spoil' the main gist of the story. But I'm glad Kouya-san didn't seem that way to you! OH NO, THANKS FOR POINTING THAT OUT. I put 'Present' where Zero was lazing about in the lake, when it was supposed to be 'Past'. I'm so sorry for the confusion. Thank you! Oh my goodness, I realise I've been talking to you quite a fair bit, and this huge chunk must look pretty intimidating to read. Still, I really enjoyed hearing all your thoughts (and compliments XD) and I feel like I got to discuss VK and the fandom with someone for the first time (since I don't know anyone in real life who has this same interest), so thank you very much for your reviews, and for all the points you've raised. I had a great time replying to you (as I'm sure you can tell from the sheer amount I've written, and am continuing to write...) Please tell me more of your thoughts, and thank you again! Hope you enjoyed this chapter! :)

I think I spent more than half an hour replying to all the reviews, but I LOVED IT. Feel free to send as many as you want hahaha. And I hope I didn't miss anyone out. If I did, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to!

I'm so thankful to everyone for their responses and favs and follows. All your support helps to keep me going :) I hope you all enjoyed this chapter as well, and see you in the next! :D