Author's Note: (´∇ﾉ｀*)ノ Look who's updating on schedule for once! （ﾉ｡≧◇≦）ﾉ That's me! Okay, let me go to that corner to reflect on my actions. ＿|￣|● Like always, I have so many things to apologize for and I... I'm just so sorry! _:(´□`」∠):_

Also, sorry if this is a bit confusing. (｡•́︿•̀｡) Please don't look for me for confusing and cool battle tactics or schemes! (*´･人･*) My bones and insides are made of fluff and more fluff! Σ（ﾟдﾟlll） I'm not made for dark elements! If I could, I would have skipped all this fighting and go with ｡(*^▽^*)ゞ 'and they lived happily ever after.' Alas, the plot (or whatever little there is) demanded for it _:(´ཀ`」∠):_ and so you would have to bear with me. Σ(ノ°▽°)ノ If there are any inconsistencies and unexplained foolishness here, I ask for your kindness and ignore them. (*´･人･*)

（ﾉ｡≧◇≦）ﾉ Thank you for those who waited for this to finished. Alas, I can't promise I would be able to update next week because I'm relocating to another country and would be starting work at the new company so hectic! (๑•̀ㅂ•́)و But I would try my best (●≧ω≦)9 since the next two chapters would be shorter and I think I can wrap this up in the next 4 chapters. So, here's to hoping! (((( ﾉ´3｀)ﾉ ･･･Σ(ﾟдﾟ;;ﾉ

(≧∇≦) … (〜￣▽￣)〜 ….. *:.. o(≧▽≦)o ..:*….. (〜￣▽￣)〜… (≧∇≦)

Chapter 30

Amaranthine

The lively and cheerful evening that started with such promise for most of the attendees of the Winter Solstice was ruined in a blink of an eye. Soon, dread filled the nobles dressed in all manners of luxury and grace as the atmosphere turned darker and heavier when the absolutely unpleasant presence of thousand fallen creatures made itself known. The giddy feelings of the naïve younger generation who were merely looking forward to the introduction of the most talked of future consort and little royals and the opportunistic ones from the older vampires wishing to establish more favorable connections were replaced by panic and fear as the horrible realization of their current precarious plight registered in their mind.

However, despite the tense atmosphere turning graver by the second, the little royals and their aunts and uncles still excluded calm auras having already perceived their presence since earlier and have merely been waiting to finish stealthily searching the surrounding grounds using their auras to prevent being attacked by hidden armies in the future.

It seems that a concentrated attack from the front will be made by the hordes of level Es while wayward hunters take the rear. Not to mention the nobles that are in their granduncle's pockets and the Council of Ancient now standing in a group in front of the vampire king himself, it seems that they found themselves surrounded. But at least proper measures were made and all those who know found themselves ready for the impending attack and unperturbed by the thick intent that can be knifed in the air.

But had they known how the night would have turned out, they would have made more in the way of countering the dark elements trying to ruin their lives.

It was just a moment, a sound, a shout and a burst of aura but it was enough to break the thin ice under their feet and send them all toppling down to a confusing and intense pandemonium.

Kaname had felt it the moment things turned awry. The unpleasant feeling throbbing in tandem with his mate's sudden increase of pulse through the bond. He already had one step forward towards his mate and eldest child when the gigantic double-doors leading to the Grand Hall opened to reveal the repulsive appearance of some of the most influential figures of authority in their society. His eyes narrowed in distaste at the untimely arrival of the Council of Ancient for he knew it was by designed. He really should have ended them while they were still outside, bidding their time, regardless of the consequences and the blow it would land on the royal family's reputation.

He knew of the filth that has taken roots deep inside the degraded senate but his position prevented him from doing as he pleased. If not to protect the family that his parents had given their lives to conserve and shield, he would have long gotten rid of these leeches that keeps on trying to suck more power. Now with this many witnesses, he can finally remove the rotten flesh tainting their race. He just wished that it's worth the risk.

As the imposing figure of the pureblood king turned to face their unwanted guests, a look was exchanged between him and his heir and without even a glance, the Night Class arranged themselves. However, just as Kohaku took a step to retrieve his otou-chan and eldest sister, a glimmer of shinny short silver locks bypassed him with undetectable speed. He knew that silver blur came in a package and his body reacted to intercept the other short figure in crimson trying to copy and follow her twin. Together with his own twin brother who also perceived the same, they managed to contain the would-be runaway, internally cursing their slowness in preventing their baby brother from going where the danger is the highest. Too late, they can only trust in their little silverette. They knew that nothing can stop him when it comes to protecting their otou-chan.

Kohaku sent an apologizing look to their father which he received with an indiscernible sigh of resignation and nod before hoarding his twin and younger sister towards the crazed army of horrid creatures. Followed by all his aunts and uncles except for Taku-ji and Hana-jiji who stayed to protect aunt Yuki and Ichiji who are still confused regarding the recent development, while carrying a struggling Suiren, they swiftly went to annihilate the restless army.

"We'll be going first, chichiue!" Akira even had the gall to energetically bid farewell as if they're going somewhere cheerful. How he wanted to smack his tactless twin.

Haku, instead of succumbing to the temptation of kicking his twin brother, sorted out his priorities as he should, being the more responsible one, and calmed their baby sister, "Now, now, Sui-chan. Why don't you help your big brothers first so we can go help otou-chan and nee-chan?" he effectively coaxed while on their way, silencing her childish squirming. While it's normally unthinkable to bring a small child to battle with hundreds of insane monsters, they knew that their sister is safer with them, fighting monsters that are so beneath her powers instead of facing their fearsome granduncle. They knew it's naught but wishful thinking to ask her to obediently stay with their aunts and uncles inside the Grand Hall, specially not when there's Rido-ojiisama near their father.

At the thought of their errant youngest brother, worry started to gnaw at them. They knew he's strong but against someone with much experience and bloodlust, the ultimate winner is still unknown. Somber burgundy eyes met equally worried burgundy orbs.

"I'll go to him if you wish or I can hold the fort for you while you go." Akira offered, sounding serious for once. It can only be them or their father for normal nobles would only fall prey to the power of the pureblood and the last thing they want is one of their own held hostage with their granduncle controlling them and tying their hands and feet.

As much as the Kuran heir wanted that, he shook his head. The level E army is larger than they have expected and moving far too fast for their liking, if they're short on people, it's highly likely that some will slip by and attack the people left behind in the castle. Even if some of the nobles annoy them so much, they're royalties who are supposed to protect them. They're their people and annoying as they can be, their loyalties must be returned in kind. Not to mention their servants and family. They cannot depend on the hunter's help in subduing the current mess, not when a part of them are trying to stir things up and make things worse. They can only rely on themselves and simply exterminate the opposition as fast as possible.

"Let's eradicate these pests first. Let's believe in Nao." The young brunette firmly voiced, earning a sober nod from his twin. At this, their two companions spoke.

"We're at your service, Haku-sama, Aki-sama." Seiren spoke in her normally impassive tone, her usual expressionless face containing a smidgen of steely determination to help her liege. The rest of the nobles in their current party voice their agreement.

"Thank you, aunties, uncles." Haku managed to reward them a smile even while travelling in their inhuman speed. He shouted his orders to make sure that all the areas with level Es will be covered and that none will slip out of their fingers.

With a last glance at the castle, they hurried as they call for their weapons. With a strike of lightning from the little Kuran prince, the battle began.

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Burgundy eyes followed the retreating figures of his little angels and that of his most trusted followers, ignoring the cold greetings and false politeness of the new arrivals. He hated their current situation and was loathe that he must watch as those small figures leap in order to protect him when it should have been him shielding them from all the vileness and dirt trying to sully them with their dark colors.

He can't help but remember that heartbreaking moment so many years ago, of a father's voice as he talked to his son who's trying to shield him from harm, of the warmth from those arms embracing his small body from behind.

'Don't shatter my pride as a parent by covering for me.'

It was said in that same warm and tender voice, as if the speaker is not seconds from his death. Back then, he couldn't understand his meaning nor his feelings as he said that, as he embraced him for all his mind could echo was the need to protect that little family they so generously bestowed upon him despite him merely a devourer of their son.

But now he knew. How his father must have hurt being powerless not to stop the evils trying to taint the only love he managed to attain in his long life. How he must have cursed his own lack of ability to protect his children and wife.

Immense frustration filled the vampire king to the very core. Anger for all the malicious being threatening their peace and for himself for being tied down to this inability to get rid of that ultimate evil. He hungers to destroy all those greedy mongrel.

A journey of a thousand miles start with a single step as they say, so he must take the first step at last.

"At the very beginning of everything, I found myself slowly sinking into a pit of despair about the condition of vampires." Kaname said in a somber tone, finally turning to the new arrivals but disregarding formal etiquettes as if he didn't hear their earlier pleasantries. He didn't even acknowledge the absence of their leader, the one he wanted to kill the most out of all these old coots that gathered. His eyes reflected none of the present people but of a time so long ago, thinking, and even after being awoken from a slumber that lasted many ages, I still find you all still building that same invisible cage, without having essentially changed one bit. While he wished to speak of this, he didn't given the current audience and instead said, "I believe I have given you enough time to change your ways. Unfortunately, I'm disappointed by the result of this mercy bestowed upon you all."

One of the dignified looking elder spoke, "Kaname-sama… What in the world are you talking about?"

Burgundy orbs turned darker and grim at their insistence to play the fool. It's as if their stance is not obvious enough even with the monsters they brought with them, "Your ability to act even during this situation impresses me. The decision I had taken in the first period of despair, I initially changed my mind about it and held back but now, the time has come for me to do it. You are going to be the first ones to go."

One respectable blonde step forward, her stance dignified as she addressed the king of their society, "Please, enough with your jest, your majesty."

"Kaname-sama, we realize that you are rejecting the council but the council is a necessary system to allow vampires to go on existing by maintaining the balance between us and the others. This is why the council exist." Yet another one of the members spoke, his tone not betraying the hints of their intent.

One more brave soul said, "Your own grandfather, the respectable last king of the Kuran had said so himself."

"A system that can no longer tell good from evil is a system that can no longer be used, is it not the case?" Having heard enough of their useless prattle, he added, "Furthermore, you won't be able to convince me of your sincere wish to celebrate this event with me when the stench of that traitor's pungent blood is still present in your mouth."

A definitive change instantly occurred within the venerated council of elders as the members' stance and countenance turned sharp and challenging. They quickly realized that there's no need to put up with the farce. Within the fast and agitated murmurs of the other attendees, a cold voice resounded, containing the buzz of the clueless aristocrats, "We wished that things would not end this way, your majesty. We have long begged you to change your mind but clearly, you have been corrupted by your foolish love of humans. Your ideals no longer aligned with the vampire society's wishes, we have no choice but fight for the betterment of our own race."

The declaration was met with uproar from the other guests who didn't know what to do. Evidently, a fight will soon erupt. It was so sudden that they do not know who to side. Many of the attendees are closely or at least distantly related to a council member. But their natural instinct to love and fear the figure of power that currently holds the throne and the knowledge of his immense power prevented them from making a swift decision. Those who were loyal to the Kuran family firmly glared at the senate who so boldly turned their backs on their king while the rest were currently calculating the options presented to them which will be more advantageous. However, before some of the more indecisive individuals were able to make their decision, the vampire king had already step forward, completely silencing everyone.

"I see that you've found yourselves a new king."

"Rido-sama has made us an offer we cannot refuse. We apologize that things have turned this way." The blonde female calmly said, not betraying the turmoil bubbling inside her as the pressure of the vampire king descended upon them. Fervently, she prayed that their new lord will appear now or soon just like he promised. They had hope that the attendees would take their side but they have obviously underestimated some families' loyalty. They've been assured by their head that plans have already been set in motion to get people to join their side. She didn't know if they failed in the end. However, despite the slowly building panic, she bravely looked at the young king, trusting Rido-sama with her life.

Kaname smiled slightly, cheerless and hollow, his russet orbs slowly turning carmine as if to reflect the color that will soon paint the pristine floors of the banquet hall. He had no trouble reading all the things the old noble tried to conceal, slightly impressed that his uncle would be able to garner this much trust and amused at their foolishness at not being able to figure out their true purpose in appearing before him now. "You seem to be waiting for someone."

"Rido-sama will soon come to take back what is his."

Crimson eyes turned darker, he really can't waste any more time playing games with these buffoons, "What a fool… You can't even see that you've already been discarded." It was all he said before a head rolled on the floor and screams of horror erupted. Kaname couldn't control them for his dear uncle had made sure that he won't be able to swiftly end them all by simply controlling them to end their own life.

He turned to his sister, glad that to see that his trusted aid was there to shield her view of the gruesome sight. Kaname didn't have the patience or time to dally and so begin administering punishment by himself. The fools had already declared themselves as traitors so he didn't have to make any effort to scrupulously get rid of them. This would also serve as a warning. Heedless of the audience to the execution, he swiftly and easily cut off one head after another, using merely his hands and aura. Even before the other members launch an attack, set up defenses or make their escape, their heads left their bodies and soon turned to ashes.

Just as the screams and shouts of some noble guests begging for mercy filled the large space of the Grand Hall, Kaname was very glad that his lover and his children were not there to witness this act of violence. He is under no illusion of his children's knowledge of blood and gore nor his mate's knowledge of his own dark demons, but still, it relieves him that they're not there to see this ugly side of himself and the vampire society.

The pureblood king was just finished dismantling the last of the elders, not giving any mind to the sobs and sound of awe and fear from all the nobles present. He didn't even spare a glance to all who are currently on their knees, swearing their loyalty and allegiance or those relatives of the council outright groveling in fear and muttering their innocence. He didn't care for them. He knew who his enemies are.

He turned to immediately followed his youngest son without another word for things seems to be turning unpleasant in his lover's side, trusting Takuma to contain the situation inside the hall when things took a turn for the worst.

The sound of breaking glass, a scream and the scent of a familiar blood were Kaname's only warning before turmoil descended upon their whole party.

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On one of the garden paths stood the vampire king's mate and his daughter. Their stance vigilant and wary of the intruder who brought only malice and darkness with him. Yet, despite the grief he's bringing with him, the beautiful monster in billowing long black trench coat had the gall to cheerfully addressed the two younger vampires.

"Fufufu, you really are special, my Zero-kun. Medea's poison would have knocked any vampire down the moment it was ingested but your body is clearly fighting it." He watched as the hunter struggled, cruel auburn orbs crinkling happily at the obvious sight of trembling and weak knees, "It would kill a noble but I knew that your powerful blood and bond with my nephew will save you from it and will only weaken you temporarily. It would be enough for me to finally take you."

"S-shut up, y-you sick bastard." The silverette growled despite the tremors of his body. Cold sweat through the expensive fabric of his suit and his complexion turning paler and ashen by the minute. Fuck, he can see dark spots clouding his increasingly hazy vision but he knew he couldn't lose consciousness. Not now. Not when any attempt to contact his mate through their bond was made difficult by whatever the fuck he was fed. Just his luck to not be able to use that intrusive connection when he needed it!

Distantly, both father and daughter pair can hear gunshots being fired and curses being shouted. Without looking, they could tell that more hunters have joined the fray and while enemies multiplied, it seems that the few hunters that the chairman trusted also came to aid the young hunter, slightly relieving some of the fears infesting their hearts. In another part of the courtyard, they can both feel the chairman unleash his own weapon, undoubtedly suffering inside to have to fight his own kin.

When the familiar aura of their little silverette came nearer only to be stopped by some vicious creatures in the form of hunters that should have been patrolling the outer grounds, the task given to them knowing they're untrustworthy, fear gripped Anne and Zero's heart. The silverette can only growl through gritted teeth, trying to keep the worst of his body's tremors at bay.

Anne knew that they must come back inside the castle where Rido-ojiisama won't be able to touch them and where a barrier able to give her father complete dominion over every creature inside the perimeter was placed. Should her chichiue wish it, not one will be able to move a muscle inside the building giving him absolute advantage. Even if the nobles wish to make untoward attacks, it will be easily thwarted by the vampire king. Yet it felt like her heart sprouted shackles to pin her exactly where she stands. Not only because of the obvious threat smiling poisonously at them. She can't seem to move a muscle away from the hunter she knew is still parrying attacks from his traitorous comrades.

The little princess couldn't contain the apprehension contaminating her little heart. The infernal army has finally moved, the unwanted guests have arrived, the hunters made their move and Rido-ojiisama has revealed himself. She knew that she should do her utmost to bring her otou-chan back in the castle specially when he's obviously suffering from poison but fear kept her feet still. While there's fear of the creature currently able to overpower her useless self and her family being in immediate danger, more of it was fear for the hunters' lives behind them that are currently outnumbered. Her heart didn't know which direction to turn to.

Fate being such a heartless bitch, both weren't given the luxury to think of countermeasures. Rido disappeared only to appear behind Zero which triggered a series of attacks. The old pureblood knew that his distractions won't last very long. He must get what he needs, drink the blood he requires, obtain the power he covets and clean the world as he envisioned.

Zero was caught off guard what with his reactions a tad slower given the indescribable ache travelling through his whole body, but just his lavender eyes widen at the hand intending to fully incapacitate him, a burst of Akira's aura and comfortable warmth came from his ear. A translucent barrier of powerful magic coming from one of the earrings he received from his children prevented Rido from coming closer.

Said pureblood hissed as he staggered back whilst holding his burned hand. Before he can proceed with another move, he jumped to dodge an attack coming from behind. "A sneak attack? Not very noble of you, little princess." He irately growled.

"All is fair in love and war, Ojiisama." Anne replied, in no mood to humor the older man.

Wasting no more time, Zero summoned Bloody Rose but just as the cold exterior made contact with his equally cold hands, the metal melted as if it morphed and before Zero can stop it, it was totally absorbed into his body. His mate's mysterious words about his weapon came back to him giving birth to the desire to punch a certain handsome face. Damn it, Kaname!

However, the silverette hasn't even started the litany that he wanted to throw his bastard of a lover before he felt a powerful tug inside him which was unfortunate given his current circumstances, his vision saw only darkness for a moment before returning to their current blurred ones. Swallowing the metallic taste of blood threatening to spill from his mouth, Zero tried to get a hold of the persistent tremors and inner havoc tormenting his insides.

"Otou-chan!" Anne uncharacteristically screamed, just as she summoned a bloodstone to throw violent winds to their adversary, hopefully to tear him to shreds or at least delay another advance. "Calm down, otou-chan. Bloody Rose is just inside of you but please don't use it. It would draw power from your strength and feed off your blood. You're poisoned and if Rose took poisoned blood, it would only hurt you!" the small brunette explained in a rush. Rose normally wouldn't hurt her otou-chan what with his power and bond with her father but given that her dad's special blood is poisoned, he's incapacitated.

The hunter barely heard his eldest child's warning, only the thought of the poison and Rose's turbulent power affecting the life inside of him occupying him. He knew he needed to calm down. It's not the brightest idea to let his greatest flaw of losing his temper get the best of him but as he steadily loses control over the power struggle happening inside his body, he can't help but curse the damn old bag of bones that just refuses to die. How dare that fucking bastard! He tried steadying his breathe, the sight of his daughter's back trying to cover for him giving him the strength to hold on for a bit longer. If that freaking blood is really that fucking special, surely it should already be working in cleansing the poison out of his bloodstream. He willed it to work faster because damn it, his daughter won't be the one to cover his ass and protect him. Protecting his children is his damn job!

Resilient will and determination were one of Zero's strengths. The sight of the little body in front of him meeting the taller creature's attack with her pure white katana fueling his desperation but just as he thought that he's ready to pull his child behind him and get on to doing what he should be doing as her father, an overpowering scent of blood hit him like a wayward sledgehammer. Something painful gripped his heart like a vice. He could feel the heat gathering in his irises and without looking, he could tell his daughter's eyes had turned to crimson too.

A momentary lapse of control was all it took for the power inside him go berserk as he sensed the slowly diminishing life inside the castle. Without meaning to, metallic silver thorny vines erupted from within his body, simultaneously sapping what remains and whatever he recovered of his strength. Yet, despite of it all, the only thing he could focus on was the scent present in the very air they breathe.

No!

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Before the banquet turned into hell incarnate, all eyes were trained on the confrontation between the venerable members of the Council of Ancient and the powerful vampire king, the quiet and focused members of the remaining Night class were clustered together, waiting and observing for any malicious attack that may come their way.

Vigilant eyes of the Aido family were ever watchful, ears open for any command that their king may have for them, countenance readying to attach with just a word from their sire. However, despite their family's bravery and overflowing loyalty, one Tsukiko Aido is still trembling in fear and awe. She's but a young, confuse woman after all, one who was simply dreaming of the resplendent Winter Solstice in the Kuran Castle and is still indulging in childish fantasies. Never in her wildest dreams had she thought of ever bearing witness to such a frightening encounter. How could the dreamy event that she's been waiting for the whole year turn into such a nightmare?

"It's going to be alright, Tsukiko-san." Came the reassuring voice of her brother's handsome boyfriend.

Light cerulean eyes fell on the back of Ichiru Kiryū and somehow, some of her fears were appeased, but the slight trembling of her body still refused to abate.

"If anything happens, just stick to me and Hana. I'm sure that everything's going to be fine." The silverette added, smiling reassuringly at the woman behind him. He didn't know what's going on to be honest but he felt that he's the only one among their group who didn't know (maybe, Yuki too. That girl is always clueless. He refused to believe that he's the only one kept in the dark.). Based on the little royals' and the others' actions, they were expecting something like this to happen. He felt a prick in his hunter's pride. He knew that no matter what, the others' and Hana would only be doing things if only to keep them safe.

He knew that. But it didn't quite stop the insult to his pride as someone with a hunter lineage. He could so take on some level Es, damn it! However, being a somewhat sensible individual, he refrained from showing his dissatisfaction at the dark secrets so obviously withheld from him. It's never late for a gentleman to chew his boyfriend for it in the future. If he learned that Zero knew about it, he's so going to be so pissed at him too. Instead, he chose to assure the innocent creature with him.

To Aido family's credit, the older ones, despite being noble ladies, stood their ground despite the growing ominous aura from Kaname-senpai. He can see from their paling complexion that they're also afraid of the monstrous strength that lays beneath the calm façade of the charming brunette but as if to show where their loyalties lie and prove their innocence, they refuse to cower like those with ill intent. They know that their king wouldn't return their faith with death. Only the fairly naïve maiden is having difficulties standing up.

"Remember the story I told you?" Ichiru continued, trying to distract the young lady and in order to calm his own anxiety.

"T-the Day class students' riot?" Tsukiko asked, successfully distracted.

"Yeah, I was not harmed even after that. Don't worry, just stay calm okay?" he said. He was in the middle of recounting the eventful Day class stampede when they were so rudely interrupted by the arrival of the senate.

Remembering the unfinished story, Tsukiko asked the question that she never quite got to voice earlier, "How did you even manage to?"

"Ah, it's because of this hair tie." Ichiru explained, turning his back to the beautiful blond to give her a better view of the said hair accessory.

"Oh, this bell?" Tsukiko asked with great curiosity, her young mind successfully diverted from drearier prospects. Now that she gives complete focus on the small trinket, she can tell that it was quite special.

"Yes, thi-," the silverette was quite unable to continue what he wishes to impart for upon facing the direction of the floor to ceiling windows, a most disturbing sight caught his amethyst orbs. He turned just in time to see a hunter who'll surely be part of his succeeding nightmares raise a gun in the direction of his lover.

Everything else turned to nonsensical background images and noises.

No thoughts came to him, only the horrible realization that an anti-vampire weapon was poised to snuff out his light. His body moved on its own, uncaring of the startled gasp of the gorgeous creature still holding his hair ornament thus liberating the longish silver hair from its confines, the bell left clasped around the surprised blonde's grasp.

Maybe the thought that an anti-vampire weapon will bring no harm to humans and hunters made him complaisant and robbed the fear for his own safety or it's simply the thought that something monstrous wishes to deliver death to someone he'll exchange his own life to save but before he could deliberate the best course of action, the sound of breaking glass where the window pane got smashed because of a bullet's impact resounded in his head. Suddenly, the pressure that followed when something shocking pierced his chest hit him with full clarity, making him stumble two steps backwards.

He was already falling before he even realized, numb to the surprise of the company of people around him. Something sticky was fast covering his expensive clothes. His pale hand which he didn't' realize had already covered his chest unconsciously rose and daze lavenders blankly fell on the crimson liquid marring its now chalky complexion.

He couldn't feel anything, not even the pain of the impact his back received when it made contact with the cold marble floor. He was blind to the lights from the chandeliers that steadily blurred by the spots in his vision and the overall chaos that immediately tipped the precarious scale. He didn't even hear the roar of the vampires in the assembly as the sudden explosion of aromatic scent of delicious blood in the air, not even the tumultuous cry of the only voice that mattered in the crowd.

"Ichiru!"

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The father and daughter pair froze when a familiar sweet scent hit them, instantaneously morphing amethysts to crimson but more because of hackles being raise at the indication of a loved one being hurt rather than the painful stab of bloodlust.

Anne could tell the moment her father's control slipped as the distorted aura of her silverette parent wreaked havoc together with Rose's uncontrollable vines unleashing around them.

"Otou-chan!" Anne worriedly exclaimed, unafraid of the silver vines coming from her beloved father but rather agitated knowing his lack of control caused by anxiety. Despite the worry and fear taking a painful grip around her heart and the urge to run to the scent and examine the undoubtedly tragic scene behind the scent of blood, she was unable to turn her back from the villain that appeared just behind her when she jumped to avoid hindering the silver vines. Just as a hand reached out to her, several deadly vines moved and tore at it eliciting an angry growl from the pureblood. Yet, despite it, the little princess can only feel madness from the powerful weapon that's robbing the last of her father's strength, "Otou-chan!" she anxiously turned to the silverette once again even though she knew that control at that point is too difficult to regain.

The little creature in crimson dress almost reached her father when another bullet of fear shot at her in the form of a certain hunter's blood in the air. She knew the moment Takamiya Kaito was struck and the knowledge of the injury she can glean from the amount of blood that the princess can instantly smell in the air give her pause. Involuntarily, her body froze as something quite monstrous and violent tugged her being. Distracted, it was too late when her beloved silverette's agitated screams finally registered.

"Anne!" Zero hollered at his inattentive child, desperately trying to control the unruly vines to attack the shadow that suddenly appeared behind her, while keeping the worst of the tremors at bay and preventing the dark spots from pervading his entire view. He fought to keep his consciousness, especially given the knowledge that one of his closest ally is currently in a perilous condition. Damn it!

When a dark shadow loomed behind her, she immediately struck her white katana but her previous distraction had proven fatal. Before her father's scream registered, a glint of something that wasn't on her ojiisama's hand before caught her eyes. It was already too late when she finally recognized it.

An anti-vampire weapon.

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There was no other word for it.

He was horrified.

He didn't know that such fear is possible.

There was only the sound of gunfire, the shattering of glasses, metal hitting the marble floor and something fast and heavy being embedded on soft flesh before wide cerulean orbs watch the form of his lover fall. Instantly, the luscious and sweet scent of thick and ancient blood and the startled gasp and exclamation of his friends and family filled the whole hall.

He didn't know what happened and even before his genius mind can completely comprehend the horror meeting shocked sapphires, he was already on his stomach as did every other vampire in the room. The overwhelming and forbidding aura of their vampire king flattening them to the ground as another scent of blood with a strong tang that's mostly present in hunters got tangled but easily drowned by the ambrosial scent of the Suzaku's blood. It curbed the attempts of many nobles and the few purebloods who lost to their instincts to taste the blood steadily pooling around the silverette. Yet, despite the fear warning his vampire senses and the hurtful pressure threatening to shatter his bones to pieces, a different and colder fear stole the forefront of his focus. His angel, his darling Ichiru, is suffering an agonizing and slow death. His blood painting the floor crimson while tempting the fragile string of control and sense of the other vampires in the room.

For the first time in Aido's life, the allure of the sweetest blood in existence didn't manage to sway his aching heart. Despite the honesty of his body and the natural craving eliciting vampiric urges in him as evident by the heat around his irises and the excited shiver in his mouth where his fangs have lengthened, even with the ominous and heavy pressure of the vampire king in the very air, all his mind could focus on is the weakening beat of the heart that he swore to protect. Not even the delicious thick blood now covering the marble floor was enough to steal his gaze, all his cerulean orbs can see was the way his lover's face turned paler and paler by the second while soft lips tremblingly parted to pant.

No. This is not happening.

After everything he did, after all the sleepless nights he suffered, after willingly tainting his hands to protect the most important person in his life, still the fallen form before him exists.

How can this be?

Where did he go wrong?

As the intent of the hypnotized vampires grew stronger in the air, so did the pressure from the pureblood king. It was heavy enough to render unconscious most of the vampires in the gathering but even with the weight of an enormous power on his head, the blond noble still lifted it, not willing to let the object of his undying affection's visage out of his sight. And, as if struck by lightning, an idea hit him more heavily than the pressure crushing his body and the ache ripping his heart to pieces.

"K-Kaname-sama! Kaname-sama, p-please! Ichiru! Please!" Hanabusa shouted, unable to really articulate what he wishes his king to do and prayed to all the gods in existence that his frantic voice is enough to communicate his outrageous request.

He loudly called for his king. The same name he had uttered a million times before, with reverence and awe, sometimes with skepticism and confusion but never with this much fear and desperation. And certainly never quite so undignified or tremulous. Yet, even with the presence of his family who no matter how bedraggled with bloodlust will still note his disrespect, he can't quite summon the concern to be refined or proper.

Even if he's to face punishment for daring to ask something of their liege, even he's to face hatred from the hunters or Zero, even if he's to be convicted for wishing his lover to be changed, so be it. Just as long as his Ichiru lives, nothing else matters.

The only thing that filled his mind was how his light is slowly being snuffed out. How his darling Ichiru is chasing his last breaths. How his angel is hovering at the edge of life and death.

No. Anything but that. He didn't think that he'll be able to continue on without the silverette in his life. He won't be able to stand being under the same sky without him.

So he continued on to shout for the vampire king to save the only creature that mattered to him, uncaring of the existence and noises of the skirmishes that were drowned by the pressure smashing them on the marble floor. He didn't know how long he croaked his liege's name and begged inarticulately, maybe an eternity or a few seconds, but finally the stately figure of his lover's savior fell on one knee before the diminishing silverette and with ease and fluidness that doesn't belong in the midst of hell incarnate inside the room, long fangs pierced the pale wrist of his lover.

Unblinking cerulean orbs watched the display before him as he took deep breaths as if he was deprived of air for the longest time, unaware that an unseemly stray tear had already marred his handsome face. He knew he might have to face wrath from all directions later on and that he should apologize to his lover for doing something so rash without his express permission, but even with the frightening power giving all the other vampires in the room grief and fear, the only feeling bubbling in his core was unadulterated relief.

However, even before he can bask in the joy of having averted a great disaster, the irresistible scent that stirs uncontrollable thirst that is natural in their race suddenly permeated the air. To have the ability to instill bloodlust in vampires as strongly, if not more, as a Suzaku's blood, it can only come from another special being.

A hybrid.

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"Whew!" Akira sighed in relief once the scent of an ongoing transformation hit them. He was just about to run back to the Grand Hall when the unmistakable scent of his uncle's blood filled the air, further exciting the leeches far gone to even feel fear in the presence of superior beings or realize the certain death that will fall upon them and restlessness of the assembly left in the hall. The terrible clarity of the tragedy that must have befallen their Ichiji and the possible violent reactions from the, no doubt, seriously tempted nobles was quickly followed by the monstrous aura of their chichiue.

The younger of the brunette twins glanced at his cute sister when he heard her squirm concernedly and certainly not because of the level E she just dismantled using Hakushi but because of the desperate screams coming from their uncle Hana. He sent her a reassuring russet gaze after embedding bullets right between the eyes of the four fallen vampires in front of him. He knew that their father wouldn't let their uncle die and sure enough, the scent of change immediately reached their senses just as another wave of level Es turned to dust before them.

"Well, that takes care of it." Akira breathed in relief, quickly firing his gun that instantaneously killed seven vampires, his back resting on his doppelganger's who easily slashed the vampires in front him. When auburn orbs fell on another wave of staggering creatures before them, he sighed. He wanted a distraction. He really did but when he asked the heavens for one, he didn't mean this. Ah, he really needs to be careful of what he wished for, he internally mumbled as he sent five columns of fire to incinerate the new batch which caught some of the trees around. Damn it.

"Be careful, nii-chan!" Suiren's high childish voice piped in as a small waterfall extinguished the fire.

"Sorry, Sui-chan. Thanks!" the brunette sheepishly shouted, finally remembering why he didn't use fire to exterminate the enemies in the first place and why his twin, despite the building ire he can feel through the back plastered on his, was not delivering his wrath by copying the awesome sight in the village of Kifuka. It will be quite easy to start a forest fire and without their nee-chan's power to reverse the damage and with only a pouting Nao who would absolutely refuse to work for extended periods of time to repair the what-will-most-assuredly-be-charred castle grounds, the results will be simply criminal. While they're sure that their chichiue will overlook any damaged that the melee will cause, they'd rather avoid creating some in the first place. After all, they're all quite fond of their kind gardeners and groundskeepers.

More importantly, they're not desperate.

At least that was what they thought before the unmistakable scent of their sister's blood permeated the air. The irises that had just returned to their normal colored immediately morphed into fiery pools as the three finally unleashed their power, landing destructive attacks and ruining the once beautiful palace grounds. Unheeding of the collateral damages being made here and there, all thoughts of being scrupulous flew instantly out of their minds as their little minds echo one figure.

"Onee-chan!"

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Zero had experience and witnessed many nightmarish events in his life but nothing could have prepared him from the dreadful and terrifying sight of a sword running straight through the small body of his daughter. He didn't even realize that the anguish scream he can barely hear from the background came from his own sore throat and that the uncontrollable veins that adamantly refused to listen finally had the collective intent to attack the only creature he wishes to destroy at that very moment.

The ambrosial scent of blood blooming and soaking the crimson gown of his eldest didn't even distract him. His only thought was to kill that beast who dared impale his little treasure using his own kin's weapon. His vines clamored to save the now unconscious figure in red, her white katana lay forgotten on the ground, the sword still piercing her tiny body while the vile bastard in black victoriously danced away from the violent silver vines.

Despite feeling weakness creep over his prone form on the ground, his power rapidly getting sapped by his own weapon, Zero still refused to abate his attacks. He roared as if his own body was not feeling faint. Adrenaline and anger were the only things powering his attacks but slowly, he knew that he has reached his own limit. "Rido!" No! His mind continuously screamed as darkness slowly swallowed his vision, yet despite it, his silver vines continued its attacks.

"There, there, Zero-kun." Rido smiled despite having difficulty avoiding the erratic attacks, aware that the silverette has reached his limit and he'll be able to retrieve his ultimate prey soon, the unconscious body of the small princess still held carelessly under his arm like a very beautiful porcelain doll. "You have my word; I'll give her back to you." He continued on, pretending to be unconcerned but knowing perfectly well that his time has already run out and so he moved to give out one last invitation, "If you come with me now, I'll make sure that-,"

Before he could finish, however, another set of vines came from the ground together with another powerful aura. A small figure of silver swiftly appeared behind the older pureblood, cutting off his unwelcomed invitation as Rido immediately avoided the slash of a katar that aimed for his back. The deadly aura and killing intent going horribly in contrast with the silver child's angelic feature, "Give my nee-chan back!" Naoto growled in his boyish voice. His unleashed aura and the continuous attack of dark green vines succeeded in intimidating the older vampire where his growl and glare failed.

Tsk! His nephew's spawns are as troublesome as their father, the pureblood though irately. If only he has just one more minute!

Though his expression betrayed nothing, the pureblood growled internally when he had to dodge a series of gunshots aimed at his side. His blood red eyes finding the injured form of a familiar brown-haired hunter. Pests, the lot of them!

"Fucking bastard! Give her back!" Kaito growled even as the metallic taste of blood threatened to fill his whole mouth.

Rido knew his time is truly up but know that it was enough. He smiled knowing that at least part of his plan was successful and he had obtained enough leverage so all is not lost just yet. With composure and confidence that no vampire in danger of getting attack from all sides has any right to possess, Rido smiled tauntingly and addressed the little cherub while ignoring the wounded hunter. He knew which one is the bigger threat, "Are you sure you want to fight me, little boy? Don't you care about your dear otou-chan or will you let that hunter shoot him?"

Wide reddish-lavender eyes turned towards his father, expecting a horrible sight of an enemy hunter with his gun pointed at him only to find his silver parent's lone figure as they left it. Several loud gunshots and Kaito's very colorful curses resounded in the dead of the night. An uncharacteristically loud gasp and Naoto turned to where their granduncle was holding his sister captive but found them gone, his Kaito-jichan pressing on his wound, his other hand was still raised where he shot his last rounds to prevent that slimy bastard from escaping but obviously to no avail. Trembling lips and wide eyes displaying utter disbelief at the truth suddenly presented to him, the little boy shook his head. His silver head darted here and there, trying to find his sister but found only the darkness of the night. Shocked, it slowly dawned upon him the fact that he had failed, his small body shook at the realization. His blank mind sluggishly identified the emotions assailing him to be fear. "Onee-chan!" his loud wail was heard throughout the whole Kuran Castle. And as if reverting to a child befitting his appearance, forgetting his own abilities and leaving only his instinct to cling to his parents in times of desperate need, he ran to his unconscious father, shook him and cried desperately, "Otou-chan! Otou-chan! Nee-chan is! Nee-chan is!"

"Brat." Kaito tried to calm the bawling child as he dragged his bleeding body towards the pair of father and son. Rage filled him at his inability to stop that creature from escaping, his trembling hand still tightly clutching his gun. Damn it! Damn it! Damn it all!

When the rest of the royal family were finally able to rejoin the other two, they found the two silverettes, one unconscious and the one uncharacteristically showing his emotions, surrounded by several dead and wounded bodies. With Rido and a certain young princess nowhere in sight.

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One young hunter could be heard shouting bloody murder, demanding all those who are trying to patch up his still bleeding wound to release him so he can fucking shoot that bastard Rido. With the remnant of the chaos that fell on them like the deadliest calamity still present in the dead bodies of the hunters and ashes of the fallen vampires and traitors, with the blood of their enemies and allies still thick in the air they breathe and with the captured, hysterical humans in need of strong brainwashing, no one can really pay attention to the death threats spouted by one indisposed, crazy hunter.

It's not like they don't understand his feelings. The Night class and most specially the royal family feels the rage of having taken hostage one of their own, but with all the mess that needs to be cleaned up, with the royal consort and his brother still unconscious, with possible traitors from other noble families still lurking in the dark, it's hardly the time to embark on a fool's journey.

Rima, Seiren and Ruka, the ones unfortunate enough to be task to tend to the hunter's injuries, can't even find the strength to tell the loud brunette to shut the fuck up. The atmosphere in the castle are even heavier than during the fight. With the servants tending to the guests, ensuring that they're installed in their respective rooms, not to leave until further notice, the other trusted aristocrats that allied with the vampire king busying themselves in examining the remaining nobles to exterminate the remaining rats, especially those who are in relation with the Council of Ancient. Their king is by the consort's side while his children are trying to calm the little twin silverettes' nerves, especially Nao who was last seen crying in his older brother's arms, drowning in guilt for being unable to save their older sister.

The three maidens' gloomy musings came to a halt when the hunter they tending to suddenly stood up.

Ruka, who was readying to bellow at the troublesome assistant teacher, promptly closed her mouth at the frightening expression displayed on his handsome face. Without words, Kaito marched towards one of the taller bushes and instantly fished what looked like an older man. A brief scuffle ensued where in several punches were thrown and while the injured hunter should have been in a disadvantage, adrenaline and overpowering frustration kept him alert and energetic, earning him a rather easy victory.

Takamiya didn't have much of an impression of this Hiromu Kaede but there's one thing he can remember clearly, "You're that bastard Ken's partner!" he growled, pinning him in a chokehold. That fucker was one of the reason why their plans were ruined.

"I-I am. B-but I d-d-don't know anything!" he shouted in response, fighting for air.

"If you're innocent then why are you skulking like a rat?!" Kaito knew that the older man might be telling the truth but he doesn't give a fuck. Even some of the hunters they trusted ended up betraying them. Given the givens and what he knows of this sneaky bastard's nature of desiring more money and luxury than what their measly hunter paycheck can afford, he's sure that he'll bite whatever bait that fucking dog in drag dangle in front of his slobbery face. "What would the association get by collaborating with that fucking leech? Talk!"

Knowing when the battle was lost, the older hunter chose the option of confessing. Seeing that he's surrounded, he thought he'll have a higher chance of living if he gives out the information. With the vampire king and the Cross Academy's noble and upright personalities, surely they won't kill a willing informant. "I-I'll t-talk! I-I-I'll talk! P-please let go!"

"Takamiya-sensei." Seiren called out in her usual cold tone while holding on to the hunter's arms.

"We'll secure him, so please let him go so he can speak." Rima said in an equally toneless voice.

Ruka and Seiren was able to pry the brunette away from the older hunter, long enough for Hiromu to hack, clutching his throat, and finally answered, "We were promised insane amount of money. We'll be set for life."

Seiren hold on to their assistant teacher, preventing him from jumping on the pitiful hunter on the ground. "The hunter Association is still one of the largest organization in the world. Surely your president won't throw away his pride and dignity as a hunter for mere money." If the president of the Hunter's Association had any brains then surely, he could have simply gone to sell this information to Kaname-sama. Not only can he get more, the tide of power is overwhelmingly in their favor. Unless of course, the real reward is something the vampire king and headmaster would be unwilling to part with.

Swallowing audibly, Hiromu responded in barely a whisper, as if wishing that they won't hear it, "The president was promised a different reward."

Kaito managed to break the two ladies' hold on him and made to grab Hiromu by his neck. He growled dangerously and he shook the other hunter, "Reward? What fucking reward?"

Hiromu choked and with difficulty, answered, "T-t-t-t-the b-b-blood o-of a h-h-hybrid!"

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