I might write some oneshots and start on another story I have in mind to make up for the current lack of KaZe and no smut in this story. The romance is coming I promise! Just a few more chapters before they're in a chapter together. I have ending planned, now its time to fill in the gaps. If the characters seem to be a bit OOC, it's because they are not the same person as they were 10 years ago. Like us in reality, we change and grow after experiencing shit and getting back up again to face more shit. With every losing battle, you gain wisdom. You are always changing. It's a part of being an advanced intelligent organism.

This will most likely be a long story. Also, there will be a lot of foreshadowing and symbolism in this story. I hope y'all can catch them

Dawn breaks as she casts her spell upon Undarum. Her sunlight penetrates the floor-length windows, enchanting the minimalistic room with illumination. An expanse of white marble and lapis lazuli strands flooring gleams, reflecting an abundance blend of colors. Upon a queen- size bed lays the inhabitant snoozing away into the dreamscape. A puddle of drool pools near the silver tufts of hair peeking from the cocoon of blankets. As the city awakens, the prince sleeps away.

A knock from the double doors sends echos throughout the room. "Zero, are you awake yet?" The rustle of sheets and a groan is the answer. A sigh comes through the wood. "I'm coming in." A turn of the handle and the door swings open revealing Sayori in her usual Crownsguard fatigues. She huffs in irritation at the dismantled cocoon of blankets and walks over to the bed to loom over Zero. She shakes what is assumed to be a shoulder.

"Zero, wake up. It's time to go." A twitch is her reply. With a bit more strength, Sayori backhands Zero's head. "I said, it's time to wake up. You've slept long enough." She places her hands on her hips as she waits for a response. Another groan and rustling from body movements before eyelids slowly open to give a soft glare at his awaker. In a raspy morning voice, Zero asks "Was it really necessary to slap me?"

"More necessary than it should be. I shouldn't have to be your alarm." Sayori tugs the blankets off, leaving the cold to attack Zero - who is only wearing boxer briefs and a t-shirt. He shivers and curls into a ball to save the small amount of warmth left from the blankets. Unaltered by his nightwear, Sayori grabs his fatigues hanging on his desk chair and throws them at his face. "Now get your butt up. Your grandfather wants to see you before we leave." With that, she walks out of the room. Zero sighs "And I was looking forward to going back to sleep the moment I woke up." As lays for a few more moments. Today is the day his journey of the Continent will commence.

The Grand Tour. A tradition of leaving his kingdom to visit the prominent cities and nations of Elpis. A time to have fun, socialize and mingle with upper-class people and rulers before coming back to take his place as the 125th Regis. Almost everything Zero does NOT want to do. He knows he is ready to ascend the throne; however, socializing is not his thing. 'I'll need a leaf blower, but for people'. On the flip side, the tour will require traveling thus will expand his culturally as he sightsees the cities, learn the cultures and food. Food is always good.

The thought of food brings enough motivation for him to get off the bed and into the restroom to do his daily morning routine. Afterward, he throws on his Prince fatigues and brings his hair into a top-knot, leaving his bangs down. Standing near the body length mirror he checks his appearance once more. Hair the color of the moon, eyes like lavender petals, and unscathed skin as white as a pearl. Nearly identical to his image a decade ago. Out of habit, Zero touches the left side of his neck. The cool temperature of the metal fingers stings the area where the Hunter Seal shows no presence on his neck and the charming piercings long gone. Almost physically and mentally, his old life became unimportant once his birthright and heritage came to light.

Looking back at him is Prince Astrum Alhena, Prince of Luneres and the next Regis of his nation. For the past decade, he became familiar to his original birthright. He had to learn what was expected from someone in his position as if he knew Astrum for the whole 28 years of his life. Once confirming his location and background it was the beginning of the end for his old life. One day he was Zero Kiryuu, the walking paradox of vampire and hunter. The next he was declared to be a prince and no longer a Level-D. To know his former identity was a lie was strenuous, yet relieving. It's still mind-boggling. His opportunity to leave and forget those past four terrible years at Cross Academy.

Pain.

Manipulation.

Bloodlust.

Betrayal.

Discrimination.

The Game.

Them.

Growing from the experiences than dwell on the past was a mature decision on his part. Zero placed those memories in the back of the file cabinet of his mind. It's best to disconnect and focus on more important things. Zero sighs and puts on his black jacket to hide the merge of metal and skin on the upper portion of his arms. He grabs the black gloves off the desk and slipping them on the metal fingers. The sacrifice of his arms is worn as a medal of the fights he and his friend had to endure during the journey home. But, that's a thought for another time.

Zero walks through the elaborate halls of the citadel. His footsteps mix with the whispers of stories echoing among the decorated architecture of high relief sculptures of former Regises. As he reaches near the entrance to the throne room, he notices a figure standing at the last Regis sculpture. A middle-aged woman wears a peach sheath dress and a platinum, lunar moth necklace with a crystal crescent talisman around her neck and white elegant heels. Long, wavy black hair with a silver streak frames the left side of her elven-like face, aged by wisdom and the harsh power of reality. Soft baby blue eyes gaze over the sculpture in fondness, a bit of sadness and wonder of what could have been. A gentle hand caresses the stone face in front of her and smiles solemnly.

Zero clears his throat, "Grandmama."

The woman, startled, drops her hand and turns to Zero. " Ah Astrum, I didn't notice your presence."

Davina smiles at her grandson as Zero walks up to stand next to her. A man of few words, yet powerful in silence. She looks back up at the statue of a man with a cheeky grin and eyes of determination. "Your father left on his Grand Tour around your age, you know. I remember that morning when he left." She chuckles. "He was a cheeky little shit. Basil slept in and didn't have anything prepared for the trip. Corvin was like a chicken with his head cut off, running around trying to get everything your father forgot to do."

Zero stares at her quietly as she continues. Her rose stained lips transform into a toothy grin "He claimed the trip would be 'The Ultimate Bachelors' Tour' for him and his Crownsguards." She said in a funny deep voice. "He made sure to leave his mark at every social event. Word of his mischief reached us. We were beginning to doubt whether he would be ready to ascend the throne. Yet, ironically he arrives home with a woman - vowing to marry her no matter our opinion and ready to take his place as Regis."

Zeros felt a pinch in his heart, directing his eyes to the feet of the statue. "Mom."

Davina looks at him, her eyes reviewing the memories of long ago. "Yes, your mother. She put him in his place. Without her, I doubt Basil would've never calmed down." Her eyes twinkled. "Oh, that pair. If true love was a god I'd assume your parents would be its deities. I've never met a couple who shared the same bond as those two." A hand rests on Zero's cheek, a thumb gently grazing under his eye. "Then their love came in the form of you and your brother."

She bows her head in a pang of hidden guilt that's rested with her for years. "I have many wishes for the past. But more importantly, I wish we found you and Sidus in time. I wish your parents entrusted us with the knowledge of your birth. I wish... you and Sidus didn't have to go through those painful experiences."

Zero leans into her hand for comfort and encases his hand over her delicate one. "Grandmama, without those experiences I wouldn't be the man I am today. The trauma I endured prepared me to be stronger for worse obstacles I will have to face. Unfortunately, Ich- um Sidus chose his path separate from mine that led to his downfall. Mom and Dad didn't tell you anything for reasons we don't know. But, please do NOT place any blame on yourself."

Zero's compassion gave Davina a feeling of contentment. "You are your parents' child. Confident and altruistic." Zero huffs, slightly moving away from his grandmother's hand and narrow his eyes in annoyance towards the last characteristic. "I'm only altruistic towards my loved ones, the kingdom, and those who impress me. Everyone else can fuck it." He says matter-of-factly. Davina laughs and playfully slaps his arm. "Language!"

"But really," Davina pinches a piece of Zero's hair to twirl. "You look so much like Basil. But you have the soft complexion and kind personality of your mother. A true foreign flower. I hope you find a person to share the same love as your parents did." Zero grimaces at the last part. He's never been one for romance.

"Oh trust me dear boy. Even a grump like you can find love out in the ocean of life. Who knows maybe down in the dark abyss someone will capture your heart without you realizing it. Or maybe you might have already met them." Davina says with a wiggle of her eyebrows and more twinkles in her eyes.

Zero gawks, slightly blushing "G-Grandmama -"

A booming laugh."I'm just humoring you!"

She turns her attention back to the statue of her son. That mischievous smile and the twinkle in his eyes interpreted by the stone. She smiles, pleasingly. "I know your parents and Sidus are proud of you, my dear boy. They will be there for you when you need guidance."

"But they're dead," says Zero, indifferently.

Davina slaps the back of his head, "Astrum, respect!"

"Ow quit hitting me, woman!"

Davina places a hand on his shoulder and stares at him intently. "Now listen here. Legends say the spirits of the Ancestors will appear when a member of the Alhena family needs guidance. Even though you are much wiser and mature than your father was at your age, you are one who still needs plenty of guidance."

"Have you ever experience this phenomenon?" Zero asks, showing his disbelief.

"Well no, but I believe your grandfather gained a visit one or two times during his life. Ancestors do not reveal themselves that easily, Astrum." She replies confidently. Suddenly, she is struck with a realization. "AH, I forgot! You need to see Porfirio! I can't believe I let myself ramble on. Whoops! Silly me!" She laughs out. Zero just stares at her blankly, wondering how he can be related to this woman even after she compared him to his parents. As they walk towards the throne room a trail of illumination and the sounds of fluttering follows behind them in the shadows.

The remainder of the hallway guides the path to a wide, spherical room decorated with ornate architecture. A wide staircase attaches to the imperial styled stairs leading up to the throne and majestic balconies on the second floor. Sunlight glistening the crystal material of the dome ceiling, illuminating a rain of rainbow colors to enchant the room with its spell of dancing lights.

On the throne Zero's grandfather in all his glory. His infamous genes of the Alhena family stikes resemblance to Zero's features, barring his beard and age withered from his reign. Zero stops after the first staircase as Davina continues up one of the imperial stairs to take her place by her husband's side. Zero glances to his right to see Sayori and Kaito posing in stillness near a man with short black hair and sharp maroon red eyes behind rectangle glasses. His fathers' former Crownsguard and Hand of the Regis, Corvin.

"Astrum," The baritone voice diverts Zero's attention to his grandfather. Porfirio bares a piercing stare. While his features are delicate his eyes show a man of great political sagacity throughout the years. "Apologise for my lateness, your Majesty." 'I got here as soon as I wanted to.'

Porfirio nods in acceptance of the apology. "The decreed hour has come. Now, is the time for you to make your appearance in the world. The Grand tour will allow you to cross paths with our allies. The time of introduction as heir to the throne is critical as you must uphold the tile as Ambassador and prince of Luneres. The gates of our city and the blockade of our ground trade routes have been lifted for the occasion." Brows furrow. "The Tour will begin in the kingdom of Chiya no Kuni for Kaname Kuran's coronation." Zero's semblance of calm and level-headedness secrete his inner turmoils and suffering within the confines of his consciousness.

'Thou must not stress over irrelevant bastards with thumbtacks for teeth.'

"Astrum, you must take great heed. Many will provoke the question of our seclusion and your status. Our reasons must not be revealed as pure trust is not graciously common. I have faith in your interpersonal skills."

'Damn, I will have myself a fan club. I hope I packed my trusty GTFO pen.' Zero bows. "Yes... Your Majesty."

"Now take your leave with my blessing and may the Ancestors grace you with guidance."

The pressure of his departure affects the hesitance in his voice. "Of course." Zero hastily leaves before any of his guards registers his exit. "Uh..." stammers Sayori. Kaito quickly recovers and bows towards the Regis before walking swiftly to follow the footsteps of the Prince. Sayori follows suit leaving Corvin in perpetuation for the group as he watches them leave.

"That went well. I think." chips Sayori once the group arrived outside heading towards the car below.

"It's never easy to accept such responsibility under the guise of a pleasurable trip," says Kaito. "At least you didn't have to give a royal speech, Zero"

Zero shugs.

The group is halfway down the stair when a call from behind alerts them. "Astrum!"

Porfirio saunters down to his level with Davina and Corvin trailing next to him. "Yes, Grandfather?"

"I've placed a great burden upon your travel and those who bear with you. The Grand Tour's purpose is to release one's youthful exhilaration before becoming Regis, yet the influences of its duty attach to you ahead of its time."

"Experience assists the novice's performance to excel in the position," Zero replies.

Porfirio chuckles and pats Zero's cheek. "My dear boy, wayward cannot describe you. A leader of integrity." A strong, gentle hand lands on Zero's shoulder while the eyes of his grandfather change into an intense stare of hidden conversation. "Now, as your past with the Kuran's, I trust you will handle the reunion professionally." - 'They threw you to the wolves. Now show them who leads the pack.'

Zero returns the intense gaze. A gaze of an equal savage. "Yes, best leave the past behind and solely focus on business relations between our kingdoms." - 'Don't worry, Grandfather. The Kurans are dead to me. I already had their mental funerals a long time ago. The after-party was lit though.'

Porfirio strokes his beard gaining the power of wisdom through the hair fibers. "Ah, a brilliant strategy." - 'Just be yourself. If people don't like it, well, give them big 'fuck you' smile.'

"This apple didn't fall far from the tree." - 'Trust me, if they treat me like a joke, I'll leave them like it's funny.'

"Indeed." - 'The game of modern-day politics. I am proud of you, grand-offspring.'

Davina can't help but chuckle at her two loved ones. Grandfather and grandson, two sides of the same coin. "Now, Kaito I hear you have a niche for photography. Would you happen to have your camera?"

"Yes, Your Grace."

"May I query a request?" She askes.

"Of course."

"I'd love a picture of Porfirio and me alongside Astrum. A memory token for this momentous time!"

Zero groans. "Do we have to? I really don't like pictures."

"Oh hush boy! Let me have my last wish before you leave. Who knows when we'll take another picture of us together."

"It would be wise to give her what she wants," Porfirio warns.

"Back straight, Astrum!"

After much groaning and trying to figure out the perfect photo-worthy poses, Kaito captures several photos. Some which captured the family off guard and more natural. While some photos show more forceful poses and painful fake smiles, thanks to Zero.

"I look like I'm in a hostage situation." scoffs Zero as he looks through the wallet-sized photos.

"Are you sure you're not the one holding the hostages?" Kaito snorts. Sayori grabs Kaito's shoulder for support and laughs, and Zero sends a death glare to his friends. "You're lucky my middle fingers are too tired to give a fuck."

The smiles of Porfirio and Davina shine brightly upon the Crownsguards. Their hearts can rest a bit more easily knowing these two souls are everlasting companions. Porfirio looks up behind at Corvin, who is standing a few stairs above them. "You did well with them. Your teachings and loyalty flow in their beings. Take great pride in your pupils." Corvin slightly bows, hand over his heart. "Worry not, Your Grace. I am proud that my students have the abilities to surpass me."

"I ask that you do not guide my urbane grandson, but to simply stand by him," Porfirio says to Sayori and Kaito.

"We will make sure to get him to Yūgure and the other cities safely," reassures Sayori. "The prince is in good hands. At least, according to the Crownsguard insurance policies." Kaito jokes.

"Hate to break the moment, but we have to get a move on. Lord Thumbtacks is waiting for my royal presence to grace his crowning party." Zero shuffles the photos together, all except one. "I'll choose this one," One of the more natural photos of Zero and his grandparents. Porfirio is standing on the right, laughing at Davina's attempt to groom Zero's loose strands and Davina on the left pouting at her failure when a strand was not cooperating. Zero is between showing small, yet loving smile and trying to shoo Davina's failing hand away from his head. During this shot, she was complaining about how Zero needs a hair cut.

He gives the rest to his grandmother and takes out his wallet, inserting the new photo into an empty slot next to another aged photo. A photo with a man leaning over a woman in a bed with two newborn babies wrapped in her arms. Zero puts the wallet back into the pocket and starts to walk down to the car. "Corvin, I leave them in your hands."

"One more thing! Do have enough healing equipment?" Davina asks.

"Full to the brim."

"What about rest areas in case you're on the road when night falls? What about camping supplies?"

"Rest points are saved on my phone and packed nicely in the trunk, Your Grace." pipes Kaito.

"Did you pack your suit? What about your books? Do you have enough underwear?"

"Yes, Zero do you have enough underwear? We can BRIEFLY stop by a store to get some." laughs Sayori.

"Grandmama, we will be fine," Zero reassures. From behind, Zero awakens his middle finger to Sayori. 'You just love waking things up for some reason.'

"And another thing," Davina reaches down and wraps Zero in a tight hug. "Do be careful, dear boy. I love you very much. We will always be with you." A kiss plants on his temple and another pair of arms wrap around the two. "From here to the constellations to the last galaxy in the universe. We love you, forevermore," says Porifiro. Zero blinks aways the tears trying to escape, burying his head into their chests and tightly hugs his loved ones close to his body.

"I'll make you proud. I promise." He sniffles. No, a tear did not escape. He is just sweating from the heat of his grandparent's love. The hug breaks and Porfirio turns Zero by the shoulder to be face to face. "Astra inclinant, sed non obligant." Zero nods in acknowledgment. "The stars incline us, they do not bind us. The Alhena line aphorism." He interprets.

"Always remember, Astrum. While fate – whether determined by the stars, our Ancestors, or something else entirely – might nudge us in a certain direction, we are never forced in it, that free will exists and the decision of what to do in any circumstance is ultimately our own." He adjusts Zero's jacket and straightens the creases out. 'Shed self-definition and always be who you really are. Be you...Zero.'

"Always remember... Now," His hand grasps the area where skin and metal merge under the cloth of Zero's jacket. Enlightened lavender eyes focus on their youthful counterpart.

"Stand tall, young man."