Eurobeat and BL enjoyer*✧ ✰ ｡*

After a couple more rounds, the fearsome vampire lord catches a break.

Who knew that his prized possession had so much hidden stamina to keep him long under his foot? Even Shiki could tell that Akira was doing his best to hold back from going full force.

Of course, it hurts the red-eyed vampire’s pride that his partner doesn’t take him seriously. On the other hand, even if it’s hard to admit, he’s secretly happy to learn that someone as reserved as Akira can be possessive and prone to jealousy.

However, his train of thought is interrupted when his lover throws his arm over his shoulder, pressing his body against his back. The vampire rolls his eyes and murmurs. “What is it? Are you still not satisfied?”

The silver-haired man only nuzzles his neck and closes his eyes. “Can we stay like this for a while?”

When he opens his sleepy blue eyes, he lowers his gaze and adds in a sensible, shy tone. “Besides, you’ve been snuggling like this with no issues in your panther form. So, it shouldn’t make any difference to you now, I think.”

Such a humble request pleasantly surprises Shiki… but he starts to get up nonetheless. “Don’t be a fool. I just don’t want to lie in this mess like an animal.”

Unfortunately for him, his attempt is utterly crushed when a pair of arms wrap around him and his needy partner pulls him close.

“Please.” is all Akira says, nuzzling Shiki again and refusing to let go.

After a brief pause, he adds in a slightly concerned tone, “How else will I know that you’re here and not throwing your life away again? Stay for just a second. That’s all I ask…”

When the dark-haired male turns his head, Akira’s blue eyes seem to be begging him. For sure, the ruthless vampire feels brought to his knees just by that gaze and unable to disobey it.

‘When did you become so clingy?’ The vampire wonders. But for now, Shiki silently groans and replies like a prideful feline. “Hmph. As if I have anything better to do… But only this time. So, don’t get used to it, understood?”

Relieved, the silver-haired male says nothing, and instead he presses a soft kiss to Shiki’s neck before resting his head on his shoulder.

In the end, Shiki returns to his thoughts while being trapped in his lover’s embrace. ‘I swear… Be grateful that I’m in this state, thanks to you. Otherwise, you might be singing a different song.’

After several minutes, Shiki tries to escape from the tight hug and, fortunately for him, succeeds. After escaping, he puts on and fixes his black bathrobe, walking on wobbling legs towards the door.

However, his partner’s voice makes him turn his head. “Wait.”

Akira’s laying on his stomach now, looking slightly concerned, “Will you be alright on your own? Just give me a moment and I’ll help you to walk.”

As the vampire leans against the door and feels the remains of their fight for dominance running down his thigh, he closes his eyes and fires back like a proud cat. “There is no need. Doing something useless like that would be a waste of breath.”

For sure, the blue-eyed male’s stubborn behavior makes him facepalm. After Akira brushes his hair from his face, he sighs. “But you may trip and hurt yourself.”

The dark-haired man’s poker face breaks when his prized possession stands up and picks up a white shirt lying on the carpet, not caring whether it belongs to him or not.

At that moment, the fearsome vampire, Lord Il Re, is like a cornered feline that doesn’t want to be petted. Akira can practically see his lowered panther ears and long tail curled around him, the tip twitching.

But for now, Shiki responds in a mildly irritated tone while his unbothered partner, wearing only a buttoned shirt, approaches him. “You worry too much, idiot. Just wait for your turn. Understood?”

After the silver-haired male takes his hand and throws his arm over his shoulder, he stares at him with demanding blue eyes and whispers. “Please.”

A moment later, the red-eyed vampire turns his head away and admits his defeat. “Do as you wish…”

Akira lowers his shoulders and nods before wrapping his other arm around his partner’s waist and leaving the bedroom together.

Meanwhile, a demon maid with green hair cleans the corridor, dragging behind her a vacuum cleaner whose body is an enormous skull with a hose made of spinal bones.

But she immediately turns it off as soon as she notices Shiki leaning on his lover.

For sure, that view alone bewilders the long-time servant of this castle. After all, it’s her first time in her life-span seeing a ruthless vampire that has never shown any weakness, now so vulnerable and fragile like a rag doll.

Nevertheless, it doesn’t leave the green-haired demon indifferent towards her master. Thus, when she turns off the vacuum cleaner, she addresses this couple with big, concerned eyes while resting her clenched palm on her chest. “Master, are you alright? Are you sick?”

When Shiki turns his head, his exhaustion and annoyance is evident as he narrows his eyes, glaring at the maid for a moment before turning away.

“Did Akira-sama do something to you?” The green-haired demon presses.

At that moment, the red-eyed vampire feels pierced by another sharp knife and lowers his head.

The demon tilts her head to the side and gives a questioning look at him. “Did you hurt him, Akira-sama?”

Akira senses the rising dark, murderous aura surrounding his partner. However, he remains calm and makes a request of the servant: “Can you send someone to tidy the bedroom and prepare the bath for us?”

“Y-yes! Of course!” The green-hair demon bows before running on her way.

After the couple is finally alone, the silver-haired male checks on his partner. Despite Shiki quietly growling, and his eyelid twitching, Akira closes his eyes and sighs. “Let’s go. Besides, weren’t you the one who wanted to go to the bath so badly?”

Thus, he prompts the dark-haired male before continuing the walk down the long corridor.

Some time has passed. Somewhere in the study room, deep in the dark Lord’s Il Re’s library, Akira comfortably rests in the armchair and reads another book from Shiki’s personal library while waiting for his return, unaware of the presence of the Evil One who tormented his lover for years.

Suddenly, the chill air and strangely familiar energy makes the silver-haired male freeze. As he lowers his book, he looks around, but there is no one aside from him, and that brief aura is nothing like Shiki’s.

After he closes his eyes and lowers his shoulders, Akira sighs. “Just be careful, you stupid vampire. I won’t forgive you if you die on me.”

Meanwhile, at the castle’s entrance, a loud banging on the wooden gate echoes through the room, awakening Il Re’s pet snake locked beneath.

The giant, black-scaled reptile lifts its head and opens its mouth, ferociously hissing at the intruders disturbing the peace.

“Silence!” his master says, immediately calming the snake.

The enormous snake lowers its body and flicks its split tongue while patiently waiting for its owner’s command.

Shiki lowers his sheathed blade and closes his crimson eyes, an arrogant smile crossing his lips. “… Not now. Why don’t I greet the guests first?”

When he lifts his head and opens his eyes, he orders the demon servants without looking back. “Take Akira to the underground caverns and make sure he doesn’t leave until I say so. Unlock Slyther’s room as well.”

The group of maids nods, some rushing to the library and a couple of them to the chained door that seals his pet.

‘Hmph. It’s been a while since I had so many human beings coming to my castle.’ The vampire ponders as he approaches the entrance gate with noble elegance.

However, when he opens the door, the smug look on his face fades away upon seeing a familiar couple: a red haired nun and a priest. Not only that, it seems they arrived not alone but brought an enormous group of men wearing white sacred hooded cloaks as well.

As the wind ruffles Emma’s sleeve like a waving flag, she politely greets the vampire lord. “Good evening. Ah, and what an honor we have earned to be greeted by Count Il Re himself.”

Wasting no time, the red-eyed vampire looks for a specific item in his pocket and upon finding it, tosses it at the redhead servant of God.

Fortunately, Emma’s reaction is quick, and she catches the cross at her and keeps it close to her chest while listening to the vampire’s indifferent speech. “If you came to pick up the boy you sent to take me down, leave. He was a waste of my time.”

Just as Shiki is about to shut the gate, a foot steps in, and the dark-haired priest holds onto the door without removing his eyes from the nocturnal creature.

Gwen narrows his eyes grip firm on the door.

“Father, you can let it go.”

Emma’s voice makes him turn his head. A moment later, she addresses the fearsome Count Il Re: “Not so fast, vampire. There’s something that you can do for us. So why don’t we talk?”

As she smirks like a viper, she adds, “Or would you prefer to be finished here and now, along with your servants, while we inspect this den of unholy creatures?”

Not even a second passes before the men in robes raise the holy relics, aiming at Shiki.

The noble creature of the night indifferently stares and respires. Hmph. They think they can threaten me with cheap toys? What a bunch of pathetic worms.

“Either way is fine by us. So what do you say, Count Il Re?” Emma continues.

However, the noble creature of the night keeps his stoic stance while leaning against the door. “Leave. I have no interest in fighting weaklings.”

“Neither we sending the Inquisitors to take care of one pesky, arrogant vampire. But there is someone else in this castle that must be retrieved dead or alive at any cost.” The stubborn, red-haired nun fires back with confidence.

Suddenly, the ice-cold and powerful presence of one certain dark entity, sends the bad shivers and makes Shiki widen his eyes. While he grips his arm, he wonders. ‘Shit… and of all times for him to show up. However, I won’t let him steal what belongs to me.’

He grips his katana and with his thumb pushes the sheath down, revealing the naked blade. He doesn’t remove his crimson eyes from the army of his enemies.

But Emma doesn’t give in to her opponent’s intimidation, “You aren’t leaving us much choice. If the only way to get to him is through you, so be it.”

Shiki takes another step and leaves through the door, he turns his head and gives a firm command to his loyal pet. “Slyther, come. Tonight, you can feast as much as you want on these vermin!”

And with these words, the large black snake bursts from its room and outside.

But before he or his snake can advance, knives from above cut through the air and stab one of the cloaked men. Shiki glances at one of the windows.

“Master, please let us take care of them!” The reserved blue-haired maid with the blue eye patch shouts from a window, another set of knives glinting between her fingers.

More so, there are several other demon maids on the roof with their folded wings, long sharp nails, and lashing tails that are ready to shred anyone who threatens their precious master’s life. On top of that, an army of armored knights surrounds the holy men.

As soon as the battle breaks out, Shiki rushes into the castle, sensing the Evil One getting close to the Inner Quarters. ‘He won’t run away this time!’

Meanwhile, in the study room, the sound of a door slamming in the distance makes the silver-haired male lift his head.

“Young Master, there is no time to waste! You must follow me!” the green-haired demon swiftly flies across the library without hiding her genuine concern.

Placing the book on the table, Akira stands and tilts his head to the side. “What happened?”

The concerned demon maid only folds her wings and presses her intertwined fingers against her chest with her lowered long pointy ears and big pleading eyes. “There is no time to explain. We have to hurry before it’s too late, Young Master!”

“Where is Shiki? Did something happen to him?” The silver-haired male asks.

The green-haired demon lowers her darkened face and immediately takes his hand. “Please listen to me. Master is fighting hard to protect you and everyone in the castle and told me to take you somewhere safe. I’ll drag you by force if needed.”

“Take me to him.” Akira orders shortly.

After a brief pause, he adds in a confident tone, “Your master may take more than he can handle and I cannot allow him to die. Or are you okay with whoever overthrows him and becomes your new master?”

“Akira-sama...” The demon maid only stares in disbelief. When she releases his hand, she softens her gaze. “As we speak, Master should be getting closer to the garden in the inner quarters.”

Akira closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. “Thank you.”

Wasting no time, he heads towards the exit of the library.

Meanwhile, the green-haired demon maid bows and bids farewell. “Please be careful, Young Master.”

‘... Because Master needs you more than ever.’ she thinks to herself while watching the blue-eyed male slowly disappear from her sight.

After several minutes, Akira reaches his destination. However, he is shocked upon noticing the distorted scenery of once flourishing flora, plant monsters, and the ruined wings of the golden goddess statue on the top of the center fountain. It was as if a powerful beast had been looking for something. Even the crimson full moon in the sky only observes and illuminates this scene for the final act.

A few moments later, after shaking his head and fixing his hair, he steps deeper into the ruined garden. Step by step, until he gets close to the enormous fountain, and sees an unknown male figure.

He was sure he had never seen this man before in his life, but Akira had a strange feeling that they had met before, if not in this world, then in another one and another time.

The blonde man might be another vampire hunter, but that doesn’t scare Akira. He instinctively approaches the mysterious stranger, as if is drawn to him by invisible strings.

However, the cracked tiny stone under Akira’s foot and the man immediately turning back alert him and make him step back.

Meanwhile, the stranger with pale skin silently stares at him with his glowing purple eyes and a calm, robotic look.

“Who are you?” The blue-eyed male asks carefully.

The man doesn’t say a word, and it’s impossible to read his face.

Undeterred, Akira continues his interrogation, “Answer me. Is this your work?”

The light-haired man only turns his head and lowers his gaze.

After slowly blinking, he returns his gaze to Akira, moving closer to him.

Just as he lifts his extended arm towards the blue-eyed male, the click of a blade makes them both look back.

The bloody, red moonlight illuminates the dark vampire lord and his trustworthy katana blade pointed at his enemy.

When Shiki bares his fangs and wrinkles his nose, he growls like a feral beast while his red eyes glow with the hellish fury. “You won’t escape this time, you bastard!”

Akira could swear he had never seen such pure rage in his partner. His cold, murderous energy alone could kill an ordinary person on sight.

Meanwhile, the purple-eyed male keeps his stoic look and lowers his arm.

When he presses it close to his chest pocket, he narrows his indifferent gaze and comments in a monotonic voice. “You are still alive?”

After closing his eyes, he turns his head towards the silver-haired male and comments. “You… You are also tainted by the same black color as him.”

For sure, his long-time arch-nemesis ignorance continues boiling Shiki’s primal hatred for the nocturnal creature that once stripped his pride. Even the scar on his chest aches by his sight alone.

When he prepares to launch himself at the light-haired male with the heavy slash, something small and sharp rapidly flies past him.

As the crimson liquid runs down the noble vampire’s cheek, he hisses through his bitten teeth and freezes into the same spot.

Suddenly, Akira’s arms drop, and he calls his partner’s name. “Shiki!”

Before he steps in, the same sharp item bounces off the wall and flies near him. But it doesn’t freeze him in the same spot as the stern male voice announcing. “Halt!”

Apparently, that voice belongs to the preserved dark-haired priest.

As he catches the ricochet gem in his gloved palm, the red-haired nun steps forward and holds the bullwhip close to her chest. “You can no longer run away from us. Give up now.”

Seeing two familiar faces from the past shocks the silver-haired male. All he can do is silently say. “You two…”

“Hand over to us Premier Nicole and Null Nicole and we’ll make sure the Ordinary will take care of them. Your death will be also instant, if you cooperate with us, vampire.” Gwen addresses the noble ruler of the night and ready to unleash his weapon at any moment.

“Hmph. There is no need of him, Father.” The redhead curves a smile like a viper.

As she points the whip at Akira, she narrows her gaze and explains. “Haven’t you sensed yet? He is no longer human. Besides, he already served his purpose of luring Nicole. That’s why I can finally put them down before the church gets them.”

Meanwhile, Shiki lowers his sword and studies this couple that he temporally forgets about his arch-nemesis, who is apathetic to what is happening.

Gwen’s poker face finally cracks, and he addresses his mission partner. “Emma!… That’s not what we agreed! Are you disobeying the given orders? Are you aware of what happens to you if they discover you betray them?”

As something painful stuck in his throat, he continues. “I knew something was off about you before this mission started… I should have reported about you to the Ordinary before it was too late.”

Suddenly, his words are interrupted by the crack of a whip, and he yells in pain. “Gaah!…”

After Emma unleashes another heavy strike, she kicks him until his body hits the ground.

When the redhead nun bites her lip, she closes her eyes and confesses. “As if I ever cared about it! These church fools can do whatever they want, but I won’t let anyone stand in my way. Not until I put these two out of their misery caused by these heartless religious freaks!”

“That’s too bad that you betrayed me as well. Good bye...” Emma says with a bitter smile, tightening her whip around Gwen’s neck until he finally gasps his last breath.

Loosening her trusted weapon and lowering it, she faced the purple-eyed male, approaching him with an unusually concerned tone. “I’m only doing this to shield you from those awful men who twisted you into a monster.”

Upon remembering their last encounter, she feels a phantom pain and grasps the hollow sleeve of her tunic. “That’s why, for your own sake, I have to end this here, Nano.”

Just when she gets close to the light-haired blond and lowers her shoulders…

Suddenly, she widens her eyes and groans as this man’s hand pierces her chest like a sharp blade.

After Nano withdraws his smeared with bright red blood elbow, he indifferently stares at the redhead nun falling on her knees like a rag doll with cut strings.

Emma looks at him with her pitiful big eyes while her trembling lips whisper a few mute words before collapsing and sinking into the world of never-ending darkness.

After an intense pause, Shiki breaks the deadly silence and fixes his hair. “Now, it’s your turn.”

With these words, he charges at his opponent, who only cracks a mocking smile.

However, the dark-haired male becomes alerted by slashing a thin air and his arch-nemesis standing behind him.

Fortunately for him, he dodges the fatal claw strike.

Calmly, Nano observes the dark-haired swordsman, who nervously gulps and points his trusty weapon at him.

“You have fangs and claws, but you still cannot use them. Creatures like you don’t survive long in nature. You are still -” The blonde comments.

His words are immediately cut off by Shiki’s aimed stabbing strike.

However, his attack is evaded.

A moment later, the purple-eyed male sends a powerful punch into his guts, making him gasp and twist his face in agony.

Meanwhile, Akira watches as the blonde grabs Shiki by the throat and lifts him as if he was a small animal captured by an apex predator.

Even so, his body starts moving on its own, and he sneaks to pick up his partner’s dropped weapon.

The red-eyed vampire narrows his gaze and hisses as the grip around his neck tightens, accompanied by a faint cracking noise.

Even if he understands his demise is near, he refuses to let this sadistic creature enjoy his suffering or struggle in vain.

Without removing his eyes from the vampire, Nano extends his sharp nails and aims at his target’s belly.

Lastly, he announces in the same monotonic, lifeless voice. “Do not fear. I’ll set you free from this pointless existence. You won’t even notice it, vampire.”

The very little that he knows, the real threat to him is closer than he thinks.

Without Nano suspecting him, the silver-haired male with flaring blue eyes right behind him with his shining blade reflecting the crimson moonlight.

One sudden move and Shiki’s katana penetrates his chest, making him drop the original owner of it.

Even so, Nano lowers his gaze and indifferently stares at how his brown coat soaks with a dark liquid and the tip of the bloody blade.

“Ah...” the light blond sighs as if it is a small inconvenience to him.

After Akira pulls out the katana, he tilts his head and declares with a strong determination. “I have no idea who you are or what you need from me. However, I will not care if you are a demon, human, or the god himself. Dare to touch this man, and I’ll send you to the netherworld.”

Nano slowly turns towards the silver-haired male and takes a step closer to him while his purple eyes start glowing in various spectrum colors.

In the meantime, Shiki picks up his other sword and addresses his long-time enemy. “It’s not over yet. So, face me, you coward!”

However, the purple-eyed male ignores him yet again and focuses on Akira.

Surely, it annoys the dark-haired swordsman, and he lowers his darkened face.

As the murderous aura grows stronger with each second that makes Akira step back, Shiki addresses his partner while containing his primal rage. “Stay back and do not interface. It’s between him and me.”

When he lowers his katana, he rushes at his opponent and unleashes the heavy upward slash.

At that moment, Akira observes this as if time had frozen around them and Nano facing Shiki and accepting his fate.

Hell, he can swear that he could hear Nano whispering while putting on a victorious smile. “I won...”

Slash! The blond man’s head flies into the sky and as the bloody fountain splashes from his neck, his body harshly hits the ground.

A second later, Shiki falls to his knees and, as he deeply breathes, he lowers his head. “It’s over...”

The red-eyed swordsman covers his face with his palm and his chuckle growls into laughter. “It’s finally over!”

As he holds the corpse of the fallen enemy, he lifts him by his upper arms and brings him close to him.

Even Akira feels the bad shivers down his spine when the madness glows in these red glowing eyes with madness.

However, when Shiki opens his mouth and reveals his sharp fangs, he is about to sink them into the cut neck...

Suddenly, the silver-haired male acts upon the instincts.

After clenching his palms into fists, he approaches his partner and bends down.

As the harsh, loud slap echoes across this area, he pushes the dead body away from the reckless vampire and roughly grabs Shiki’s shoulders.

While the red-eyed vampire is dumbfounded and feels his pulsating, aching cheek, he keeps his bewildered look and respires.

When Akira lowers his head and bites his lower lip for a couple of moments, he lashes out at his partner. “Look at yourself! You already won. You finally set your score. That man is already dead and you are still not satisfied? Just why?... WHY ARE YOU STILL OBSESSED OVER HIM AND WANT TO KEEP HIM LIVE INSIDE YOU?!”

After shakily exhaling, he confesses. “I hate it. You should have killed me while you could, you fool... However, now, I won’t let get dragged together to whatever hell that man went... Even if that will take an eternity, I’ll make you forget that man and look only at me, no matter what it takes.”

These words spark the excitement in the noble creature’s of the night eyes and he curves a satisfied smile.

“How are you... Nevermind. Do what you wish...” He closes his eyes and replies.

When he rests his palms on his partner’s shoulders, he opens his eyes and adds. “Let’s go. The battle is over, but there is a lot of work left, thanks to these pesky invaders.”

After both stand up, Akira follows Shiki to wherever he might lead him.

Yet the dark-haired male is briefly surprised by his partner holding into his hand and gently tightening his grasp.

In the end, he turns his head and listens to Akira’s full-hearty confession. “I’m not letting you go. Not this time, not ever in the future.”

Not only these words but also these blue faithful eyes make even a ruthless vampire blush and turn his head before his partner used it as his chance to either tease him or point out the obvious.

Nevertheless, deep inside, he wouldn’t mind it. After all, Akira keeps proving that he is more than worthy of standing by his side for the rest of eternity.

Notes:

Some time has passed. After reaching the Inner Quarters, Akira mentally prepares himself for the worst.

What if Shiki is not only disappointed in him when he lost in the Colosseum but might also lash out at him because of what he did to him earlier?

After all, who knows what hides behind the vampire’s calm face? Perhaps Shiki had, finally, enough of him, and before executing him, only gives him a false sense of comfort. The silver-haired hunter wonders as his body remains stiff and avoids looking at his partner.

Lastly, the dark-haired male opens the door to Akira’s room.

After Shiki carefully sits his partner on the bed, Akira turns his head away and lowers his gaze.

As the silver-haired male grasps the bedsheet, he addresses him. “You could have just killed me while we were in the Colosseum. So, I don’t understand why you keep wasting your time by bringing me there…”

At first, the vampire only gives him a questioning look. “What are you talking about?”

After closing his eyes and exhaling, he briefly orders. “Undress.”

As he leaves his partner’s side and starts looking for one specific item in the drawers, Akira removes his gloves and unbuttons his vest.

Soon enough, Shiki picks up a first aid kit and returns to his partner’s side.

Just before sitting down, he notices that the blue-eyed male is about to remove his underwear and gives him another command. “Keep it.”

Meanwhile, Akira only hugs his knees and keeps his hung head.

Such a behavior slowly gets on the nocturnal creature’s nerves. Nevertheless, Shiki tries to remain as patient as possible.

After he takes the silver-haired male’s hand, he examines his arm.

However, Akira’s question makes him lift his red eyes. “Why are you doing all this?”

As he fixates his eyes on the tensed silver-haired male, he listens to him further. “I don’t understand you. You saw what happened in the arena and you’re still doing this. You know, you should have spared that hunter and kept him instead of me.”

When Shiki cleans the wounds on his partner’s arm, he narrows his gaze and replies in an indifferent tone. “You mean that small fry that was nothing more than a waste of time?”

“But he was more powerful than me. So, you might have been more entertained by the SS-rank hunter than someone who is just A one at most.” The silver-haired male objects.

“That barely lasted a second? Hmph. Don’t make me laugh.” The vampire immediately responds as he puts on the medical plaster on the bruises.

As Shiki finishes treating one arm, Akira gives another one and argues. “Because you didn’t hold back against him, unlike when you fought me.”

The vampire closes his eyes and explains. “I’m not interested in weaklings that only know how to bark.”

A second later, he opens his crimson eyes while having a proud look on his face. “Besides, anyone who dares to touch what belongs to me is nothing more than disgusting insects that should be crushed.”

When Shiki finishes treating his partner’s arms, he asks him. “Show me your chest.”

As Akira sits on his knees and lowers his arms, he comments, despite feeling the vampire’s eyes on him while cleaning his bruises. “You sure care a lot for someone that you keep as food. However, you shouldn’t attach to what you eat.”

After he grasps the bedsheet and softens his gaze, he adds. “Have you ever considered what you are going to do when I’ll be dead? Are you going to hunt another prey?... Or are you going to starve yourself to death? If that is the case, then I would have to finish you first.”

Such an honest confession widens Shiki’s eyes and makes him freeze in the same spot. Yet, a second later, he gives a thrilling gaze while leaning closer and asking in nearly a purring voice. “How are you planning to do that?”

Despite being cornered and feeling the vampire’s palms on top of his, Akira swallows the saliva while keeping his determined blue eyes on him. “When I defeat you in the fight and this time I’ll make you take me seriously!”

While Shiki keeps a satisfied look on his face, he comments in a content tone. “How come you can still spit out such adorable words?”

“Hmph. Looks like I need to remind you again what happens if you keep doing that~” He adds while the flame of impatience burns in his eyes, stroking Akira’s neck.

In the end, the silver-haired male closes his eyes and sighs. “You stupid vampire… Keep doing that, and you’ll grow my desire to defeat you stronger.”

“As long as it keeps the stupid thoughts away from your head…” Shiki replies before bringing his face close to his partner’s.

A day has passed.

It is a late evening. Thus, the blue-eyed male already had a bath and changed into his gray pajamas.

Yet, he decides to stay up for a bit longer and kill some time by finishing reading the book that he picked in the library while waiting for one certain vampire to return.

Good hour has passed. No matter how long Akira kept waiting, Shiki hadn’t returned yet.

Is he busy in the arena or hunting for another prey? Who knows?… The silver-haired hunter wonders as he softens his gaze while staring at the crimson moon in the sky through the window.

Strange. Tonight, not a single star accompanies the barely visible crescent moon. On the other hand, perhaps it’s only because the new moon phase will begin soon.

Even so, Akira doesn’t like the lingering sensation of death and chillness in the air as he stares into the starless sky. But for now, he shivery respires and holds his arms.

No. Perhaps he is just cold and tired. Besides, that stupid vampire might come back soon in his true form or a panther one. So, he is on his way. That is one thing for sure. Or so the blue-eyed male convinces himself while getting up from bed and walking to the closet.

When Akira picks up the bathrobe, he widens his eyes and turns his head upon the crows’ loud crying and countless flapping wings.

“Shiki…” Akira whispers as he grasps this piece of clothing.

As soon as he puts on the bathrobe, he rushes through the door.

‘You better haven’t tried anything funny. Otherwise, I’ll finish you, you fool!’ the silver-haired male thinks as he hears his own heartbeat ringing inside his head and running in the corridor.

At that moment, he doesn’t even care if any of Shiki’s servants try to stop him. That can wait for later.

Soon, he reaches the exit gate and slams it open.

While Akira’s chest bloats and deeply breathes, he quickly looks around.

Unfortunately, the quiet leaf rustling and the streaming water are the only sounds that break the silence that surrounds this area.

Nevertheless, Akira refuses to leave.

Thus, as he lowers his head and bites his lower lip, he grasps around his heart before heading deeper into the inner courtyard.

Step after step, he approaches the familiar fountain that changes the water color upon one getting closer to it.

At first, nothing is unusual until he walks past by and notices something that freezes him in the same spot.

At that moment, Akira could only speak weakly through his trembling lips. “Shiki… What the hell happened to you?”

Apparently, the fallen nocturnal creature leans his back against the fountain’s wall while covered in blood and with his hung head without any response.

Judging from his torn in some places clothes, Shiki may fight someone who might have been out of his league.

However, it doesn’t matter if he fled away or barely won. Right now, his well-being is far more important than anything else. The blue-eyed male decides as he gets closer to his partner.

Just as Akira kneels and takes a better look at him, he nearly gets startled by the vampire slowly lifting his head and his groaning voice. “Why are you here? Go back to your room.”

For sure, just seeing Shiki’s blank stare in his dimmed crimson eyes pierces the hunter’s heart like a knife.

Suddenly, Akira grips his shoulders and lowers his head to scold him. “And to leave you like this? Are you even aware of how you sound?!”

Shiki only turns his head and closes his eyes. “If it bothers you so much, leave. I do not need your pity.”

Soon, the silver-haired male removes his hands from his partner and addresses him in a calm, but impersonal voice. “If this is what you want, it cannot be helped, then. I’ll leave you alone… But when I see you standing up and walking on your own.”

But for now, he moves away from the nocturnal creature and stands up without removing his eyes from him.

Meanwhile, Shiki cracks a bitter smile and picks up his sheathed katana. “Hmph. Have you always been that stubborn and stupid?”

As he places his hands on the handle, he relies on his trustworthy weapon as his support getting up.

Unfortunately, when the vampire leans heavily on it, his katana slips away, and he is about to fall harshly.

However, Akira’s reaction is faster, and Shiki collapses on his chest.

After wrapping his arms around his partner, the silver-haired male places his palm behind his head and softens his gaze.

As the vampire struggles in his embrace and silently groans, Akira only gently strokes his hair and comments in a worried tone. “You barely can do anything. Just how bad you’ve been injured to become like this? So, how do you expect me to abandon you and let you suffer alone?”

In the end, the silver-haired hunter temporally removes his arms from Shiki.

As he gives him a comforting look, he unbuttons a couple of buttons on his pajama shirt and exposes his shoulder and neck. “Here. You’ve used most of your energy to heal your wounds. So…”

“Don’t be a fool. Have you forgotten? I’ve already fed on you today.” The vampire backfires.

After Akira brings him close to him, he objects. “I know. However, you need it more than I do.”

When he presses Shiki’s face against the crook of his neck, he closes his eyes and explains. “And if you ignore your hunger any longer, your instincts will take you over and you’ll become a mindless beast.”

“I’ll rather die by your hand than fight and kill someone who is nothing more than a shell of his former self. As long as it will cease you from recklessly throwing your life and keep you safe, I’m ready to sin, kill or even sacrifice myself. So, do what you have to do, you stupid vampire.” Akira adds.

Such an honest confession surprises Shiki and only makes him more interested in this human.

However, instead of wasting time on unnecessary words, the nocturnal creature briefly withdraws his face before sinking his fangs into Akira’s neck, making him softly moan.

When he smells and tastes the hunter’s blood, his eyes glow in deadly bright red.

As the vampire feasts on him, Akira slowly feels drowsy, and his body grows weaker.

Nevertheless, he gathers all his remaining strength to keep Shiki in his warm embrace.

Soon enough, the nocturnal creature is about to withdraw his face.

Yet, the blue-eyed male keeps pressing his hand on his head, and as his vision darkens, he gently whispers. “Do not mind me. Just take as much as you need.”

Soon enough, Shiki gets alerted as the same palm resting on the back of his head and the surrounding arm loosens.

However, this time, he is the one who manages to catch his collapsing partner.

Even behind his poker face, he is bewildered by Akira shakily reaching for his face and placing his cold palms on his cheeks.

The silver-haired male gives him an exhausted smile. “You’re finally alright. I’m… I’m so glad. But why are you so upset? I’m just a little… a little tired. That’s all…”

Lastly, he slowly closes his blue eyes and drops his hands.

At that moment, if it wasn’t for the bleeding two spots on Akira’s neck, he would think that his human was only peacefully slumbering.

However, Shiki perfectly understands that he won’t open his eyes and call him a stupid vampire ever again.

But why? Why does he feel such a void inside him as something important and dear was snatched away from him?

More importantly, he knew already that Akira’s life was momentary, and he may have died from old age or eventually drained by him.

Yes. Shiki has accepted the harsh truth about mankind’s bitter fate. Yet, it doesn’t reduce heartache in the slightest, nor calms his howling heart.

In the end, he closes his gloomy red eyes and immediately pulls Akira into a tight hug, refusing to let him go.

A second later, his fingertips sink into the human’s soft, silver hair while he silently weeps.

A good amount of time has passed.

After the vampire touches his partner’s neck, he feels a weak and rare pulse.

Perhaps not everything is lost, then. Shiki hopefully wonders.

At first, he doubts if he should commit a taboo ritual that may give only a low chance of saving this human from being taken away by death.

More importantly, there is a high risk that Akira may become a broken doll who is not alive nor dead, only resembling his former self after slowly but painfully rejecting him.

Therefore, letting this human exit with dignity might be for the better.

But what if? What if he may accept him and become a noble creature of the night like him? Perhaps he is ready to accept him. No, there is no may. He has to. That human already has proven himself more times than needed. Shiki ponders as he brushes the hair from Akira’s face.

Lastly, with nothing to lose, he reveals his sharp fangs again, and they penetrate the blue-eyed male’s skin.

Suddenly, Akira widens his eyes and gasps as something hot flows inside his blood vessels.

“Shiki… what are you?- It hurts… It hurts!” The silver-haired male weakly speaks up in a scared voice while his face is paralyzed in fear.

However, as the unbearable heat spreads all over his body, he pushes the vampire away and falls while whimpering.

Meanwhile, Shiki only carefully observes how Akira curls into a ball and grasps his throat while desperately gulping the air.

No matter how it is difficult for the dark-haired male to resist the urge to shake his partner and make him get a hold of himself, he understands he cannot interface and should only patiently wait until it’s over.

Soon enough, every muscle in the hunter’s body trembles and twitches as his skin and hair become pale as paper.

More so, as he painfully groans, screeches, and droll, his eye color slowly switches from ice blue to bloody red eyes, and long, sharp fangs start to grow.

In the end, Akira lets out a prolonged loud hissing and stretches his body before he completely freezes in the same spot and blacks out.

At that moment, even the crimson moon completely disappears in the sky.

Finally, Shiki kneels and makes sure that his human lies on his back.

As he brushes his palm against Akira’s cold cheek and neck, he narrows his empty, sad, red eyes and exhales.

No response, no pulse, not a single weak respiration, no nothing. That human is dead, and he killed him twice. More importantly, there is no one to blame but himself for that. Shiki thinks to himself.

“However, you were so close to succeeding…” the dark-haired male comments in a gloomy tone as he brushes his palm down to close Akira’s crimson dead eyes.

Lastly, after he places one hand behind his partner’s shoulders and another under his thighs, he stands up. Thus, Shiki carries his partner to the inner quarters.

Some time has passed.

After washing Akira in his personal bath and carefully drying him, Shiki dresses him in the white shinishozoku¹ before lying him on the bed and covering him with the blanket.

The noble creature of the night understands that he should head to the catacombs and set his late partner on the journey to the netherworld without wasting time. However, deep inside, he still wishes to stay longer with him.

Even after his death, this human makes him act based on irrational emotions. The vampire wonders as he cracks a bitter-sweet smile.

However, Shiki sorrowfully narrows his gaze when he carefully strokes Akira’s cheek.

A second later, the red-eyed male covers his eyes with his palm and bites his lower lip.

A few days have passed.

It is late evening, and Shiki has spent another day in his panther form without bothering to return to his true one or leave the silver-haired male’s side.

As he rested his upper body on Akira’s chest, he remained so to this very moment.

Even when, time from time, the dark feline lifts his head and checks on him, he lowers his round ears and exhales through his nose while keeping his long tail pressed to his tensed body before narrowing his gaze and staring into the void.

However, the sudden knock on the door and the concerned voice behind it make Shiki lift his head. “Master, are you alright? You’ve locked yourself here for a few days.”

Soon, the red-eyed panther wrinkles his nose and growls like a wounded animal.

After a brief pause, the demon maid’s voice addresses him. “We understand you are still grieving over Young Master. However, you shouldn’t neglect yourself nor forget to take care of yourself just because of him. After all, he was only a human, and it’s not your fault that he died.”

Soon, another voice continues in a formal tone. “Master, please open the door. You must understand that it is difficult for us to see you upset and not letting us to help you. So, if that boy causes you so much pain, let us bury him for you. Please, just let him go already.”

Yet, after hearing these words, the panther roars and hisses to drive away anyone who dares to intrude on him.

“... Alright. We understood. We’ll come back later, Master. However, if you need anything, please let us know. Goodnight.” Another maid adds.

Soon, Shiki is left alone again, and with that, he licks his face and rests his head on Akira’s chest.

A couple of hours have passed since this restless night.

Suddenly, the black panther lifts his head and ruffles his fur upon sensing an awfully familiar dark energy.

More importantly, it’s stronger than before. There is no mistake - That Man is near, even if he wanders somewhere in the inner quarters.

But for now, the red-eyed feline jumps from the bed and becomes a liquid shadow.

A second later, Shiki reveals his true form and becomes a vampire.

However, after the vampire turns his head to the window side, he grasps his attached katana and grinds his teeth as That Man places HIS palm on the window and briefly stares into his eyes.

Soon, HE narrows HIS gaze, making the vampire slightly shrug and shake his palms.

At that moment, even if he cannot hear these words with his own ears, they ring in his head in that same monotonic, calm voice. “So, now, his soul is dyed in pitch-black? Fine. However, it’s still too early. The bud is only starting to spurt… I’ll return when the flower will fully bloom and scatter its seeds. Farewell.”

Thus, the pale figure with light hair and glowing purple eyes turns HIS back and disappears into the night.

Lastly, Shiki closes his eyes and hits the nearest wall. “… Shit. Why does HE always return to just mock me and leave?”

After he turns back, he removes the warm blanket from Akira and carefully picks him up like a wounded princess.

It doesn’t matter what HE meant by these words, the dark-haired male will try to figure it out later. However, one thing is for sure - he cannot let anyone else have somebody that only belongs to him. Therefore, he has to take Akira, where no one will reach him. Shiki decides as he leaves the room while carrying his partner.

A couple of weeks have passed since Shiki started to train Akira.

Despite such a brief period, the vampire is genially impressed by how quickly his human mastered the basics of swordsmanship.

Perhaps tomorrow he’ll take Akira to the Colosseum. Besides, if any pesky fool will survive long enough, he’ll allow him to face him as supposed-to-be Il Re. Or so Shiki decides as he watches the silver-haired male slashing down the armored knight.

Within the shattering metal noise, Akira puts his katana back into the sheath, attaches to his belt, and closes his eyes.

As he turns his head and opens his calm blue eyes, he addresses Shiki. “Is that all? Or did you pick low-ranked monsters because you’ll feed on me later?”

While the dark-haired male leans against the training arena’s wall and crosses his arms, he smirks like a feline. “Unless you want it so badly.”

Sure, it’s hard to keep his serious face, but Akira decides not to let the vampire tease him, and only silently exhales while approaching him.

After a brief pause, Shiki adds. “Let’s go. You need to rest for tomorrow.”

The blue-eyed male raises his eyebrow as he follows his partner. “What are you up to this time?”

Before Shiki opens the gate, he turns his head and replies. “You’ll see by then.”

Lastly, Akira rolls his eyes and remains silent.

A second later, he turns his head and gets prompted by the vampire. “What is it? Don’t just stand there.”

After the silver-haired hunter lowers his gaze, he opens the door and steps inside.

At the very least, he expected to see the walls covered in wooden planks and lighten up with small torches across the entire corridor.

More so, Akira strangely feels comforted by the light of countless warm flames surrounding them.

Even on their way, he can hear the faith sound of the streaming water that gets louder with each step.

Certainly, he hasn’t expected to see such spacious indoor hot springs.

On top of that, modern era style one, with oak plank walls and ceiling, and a stone floor.

In the corner of the room stands a beautiful white marble statue of a woman pouring water from a pitcher.

Even the buttons on her tunic, the necklace, bracelets, and her hair accessories are made from gold.

More so, the water runs down without rest from her held pitcher to the bath, which could fit at least a group of people.

Next to the statue, there are large shelves with rolled towels resting on them, bottles of massage and aromatic oils, and lightened votive candles.

Soon, Akira remembers he might be here not for nothing. After turning his back, he asks. “Why did you bring me here?”

However, the vampire only closes his eyes and replies. “That’s a stupid question.”

When he opens his crimson eyes, his chin points at the towel shelf and commands. “Undress and put it on. Or do you need a help with that?”

At first, the silver-haired male seems to listen to his partner’s demand.

When he approaches one shelf and picks a snow-white towel, he turns his head and slightly frowns. “Then what about you? I’m not going in if you’re going to just stand there and watch.”

Instead of saying anything, Shiki gracefully gets closer like a feline.

As he holds Akira’s chin, he narrows his gaze and smirks. After all, these indignant yet questioning blue eyes entertain him.

After a brief pause, he releases his partner’s chin and turns his back. Just before taking his leave, he replies. “Just make sure that I find you in the bath.”

In the end, Akira only closes his eyes and exhales.

No matter what that stupid vampire has in mind, it’s useless wasting time trying to guess what he has planned. Moreover, he will become bored quickly if he continues playing by the rules he has created. The blue-eyed swordsman decides as he unbuttons his black vest.

Some time has passed.

Akira is completely at ease in the hot spring, where the water seems to wash away all his troubles and stress.

At this point, he doesn’t even care to fall asleep or slide to the center of the bath and drift to wherever the current will take him.

Finally, he closes his calm blue eyes and listens to the streaming water while forgetting that Shiki has left.

Several minutes have passed.

Suddenly, Akira widens his eyes and sits by the sound of something poured into the water.

After he turns around, he notices Shiki only having a towel wrapped around his waist and holding an empty green bottle.

He was not confused by the dark-haired man standing over him, but by the spreading scent of lavender in the room.

“What is it with you?” Shiki asks before walking down the stairs and joining his partner.

Despite Akira moving further from him, the vampire keeps sitting closer to him.

After getting chased like this for a good circle, he gives up and allows the red-eyed vampire to sit close to him.

But for now, Shiki crosses his arms and exhales while his human looks away.

After a minute of awkward pause, the silver-haired male lowers his shoulders and turns his head towards his partner.

Just as he opens his mouth, he notices Shiki is peacefully sleeping. Or so Akira can assume from the vampire not responding to him.

In any case, it’s his first time seeing the fearsome ruler of the night exposing himself like this in his true form.

More so, Akira feels how the blood rushes to his cheeks by observing the slumbering nocturnal creature.

No matter how hard for him to admit it, he slowly starts admiring how a ruthless creature like Shiki reminds him of a beautiful, fragile porcelain doll with pale skin and silky hair and how even a single wrong touch could shatter him into tiny pieces.

At this point, the vampire might be easily mistaken for one by his doll-like face with the pretty eyelashes.

Unfortunately, when Akira lowers his curious blue eyes on his partner’s chest, he instinctively grasps his own and softens his gaze.

Apparently, there is a scar in the middle of his chest, as if he was stabbed by the enormous blade in the past.

As his fingertips are about to touch the vampire’s scar, he gets alerted by Shiki opening his eyes.

A moment later, the water splashes as Shiki grabs his wrist and pulls him close.

Even when his body is pressed against his partner’s and his hand thrown over his shoulder, Akira cannot comprehend how he ends up in this position.

However, the vampire’s voice makes him lift his head. “What were you thinking of doing?”

At that moment, the silver-haired male can only stare with his big blue eyes at Shiki, looking at him with his stoic face and waiting for his answers.

Soon, Akira returns to his senses.

After he closes his eyes and shakes his head, he places his palms on his partner’s chest and gently pushes him away.

To his surprise, Shiki only silently observes him as an annoyed feline whose sleep is disturbed for no reason.

After the blue-eyed hunter leans against the bath’s wall and lowers his gaze, he comments in a slightly gloomier voice. “I don’t understand… Vampires are known for their instant wound healing. You weren’t supposed to have that scar. So, why do you have it? Who done this to you?”

“Hmph. It shouldn’t concern you.” The vampire backfires as he crosses his arms and narrows his gaze.

Yet, Akira immediately responds while giving a questioning look. “Does it have anything to do with That Man you mentioned once?”

It makes Shiki widen his eyes and grasp around his heart area by remembering HIM and HIS indifferent changing color eyes looking down on him while his bloody palm twitched.

Meanwhile, the silver-haired male closes his eyes and sighs. “So, I was right…”

As he opens his eyes, he adds. “Just whom in the world have you fought? It’s not an ordinary monster, right?”

For sure, it’s the last drop patience of Shiki’s patience.

Suddenly, he corners his prey while his crimson eyes glow and silently growling at him.

Despite the nocturnal creature’s intimidation, Akira keeps his poker face without removing his eyes from him.

After a brief pause, he addresses the vampire. “Do as you wish. However, weren’t you the one who told me not to let the emotions control you? At least practice what you preach.”

When Shiki places his hand on the side of his human’s neck and slides it down, he rests it on his shoulder.

Meanwhile, Akira voluntarily turns his head and exposes the other side of his neck, impatiently waiting for the vampire to sink his fangs.

Besides, it’s not the first time when Shiki feeds on him. That’s why he has learned to make himself comfortable while Shiki feeds on him.

Despite that, he still cannot bring himself to look at how the vampire is about to sink his fangs, as if it were watching how a nurse is about to draw blood from him.

However, he is alright with Shiki feeding on him. At least he can be reassured that this stupid vampire is safe and not recklessly throwing his life.

Yet, he is still not fully get used to by Shiki’s fangs piercing his skin each time. Akira thinks to himself while mentally preparing for another ritual, which has become an inevitable part of his routine.

Meanwhile, such a gesture thrills the nocturnal creature, and he delightfully narrows his gaze.

“You are something else, Akira…” Shiki remarks in a purring-like voice while holding his partner’s upper arm with his other hand.

Lastly, the silver-haired male lets out a shivery sigh and closes his eyes when the vampire licks his neck.

“What I just told you earlier?” Akira whispers upon understanding that he has become a toy for this large feline. Nevertheless, he sinks his fingertips into Shiki’s hair and starts stroking them.

‘You stupid vampire…’ He wants to add but keeps it in his mind and closes his eyes.

It is the evening of another day.

Tonight, Shiki is supposed to show something important. Whatever it is, that vampire takes his time for what he refers to as preparations.

Either way, it must be something worth all that hype, then. Or so Akira decides as he checks the time on his pocket watch.

However, the sudden knock on his bedroom door and the polite voice behind it get his attention. “Are you awake, Young Master? Master Shiki would like to see you.”

“Yes. I’m coming.” The silver-haired male replies as he fixes his shirt.

After he opens the door, the demon maid with curly red hair closes her eyes and nods. “Please follow me.”

Thus, he closes the door behind him and follows this demon.

After a while, they leave the inner quarters and reach the same rusty elevator with metal bars that take them to the training arena.

When Akira expects the elevator to stop on the second floor, he is surprised that it’s still going up while the redhead maid remains calm.

When she notices the confused hunter, she gives a slightly concerned look. “Is everything alright, Young Master?”

A second later, she closes her green eyes and smiles. “Please do not worry. Just a little bit and we’ll be there.”

Upon the sound of the squeaking gears and rustling chains, the old elevator stops, and the metal bar door slides to let out the passengers.

After walking for a few minutes in the corridor, this couple is greeted by the spiral stone staircase lighting up.

For now, the demon maid politely points at it with her palm. “This way, Young Master.”

Meanwhile, he feels as having no choice but to follow the redhead until they reach the top of it. Or at least Akira believes so.

However, the silver-haired male stops climbing the stairs and widens his eyes as someone gently pulls his sleeve.

When he turns his head, the demon maid addresses him. “Where are you going, Young Master? That is the guests’ seats, and this is not where should we go.”

As she turns to the door next to her, she knocks on it. “Master, I’ve brought Young Master Akira as you asked. May we come in, please?”

After receiving the permission, the red-haired maid opens the door and allows Akira to go first.

After he takes a deep breath, he enters without knowing what to expect.

Upon observing his surroundings, Akira realizes he might be in the special room of the Colosseum reserved for important people.

After all, the tall throne facing the other side of the seats is the proof along the hanging opened curtains.

A second later, the vampire speaks up while sitting on the throne. “You can leave now.”

Meanwhile, the redhead bows before taking her leave and closing the door. “As you wish, sir.”

As Shiki stands up and leaves the throne, he receives an avalanche of questions from his partner. “You didn’t bring me here for nothing, did you? What did you want to show me so badly?”

“Come here and you’ll see.” The vampire replies.

No matter how much Akira doesn’t like being ordered by this arrogant fellow, he understands it is better to listen to him.

After he gets to the end of the room, he leans on the stone parapet.

For sure, from here, he can see the entire battle arena as it is on his palm.

More so, from the fresh blood traces on the walls and several weapons lying on the ground, he can guess that someone met their unfortunate fate recently.

Soon, he turns toward Shiki while resting his palms on the parapet and raising his eyebrow. “Is this what you wanted to show me? Or do you want just to show-off before you’ll kill another challenger?”

As the vampire steps closer, he closes his eyes and briefly explains. “Only if anyone lives long enough to fall under Il Re’s blade.”

After he opens his crimson eyes, he adds. “Tonight, you’ll be Il Re.”

“What do you mean?” The silver-haired male asks as he leans on the parapet.

However, Shiki remains calm and backfires. “Which part you do not understand? I’m lending you the Il Re title until you defeat your challenger.”

A second later, he takes Akira’s hand and adds. “Get up. A new challenger should show up any time. So, greet him properly.”

After the blue-eyed hunter allows the vampire to help him stand up, he gets to the throne and makes himself comfortable.

Yet, his guard is caught off by Shiki transforming into a liquid shadow that becomes a black panther with red eyes and a katana attached to his belt.

As Akira watches, the smug feline approaches him and sits next to him.

Lastly, Shiki wraps his tail around him and fixates his crimson eyes on the arena.

So, is he really taking this that seriously, huh? The silver-haired male wonders while staring at the serious panther and having a strange feeling of sitting as a new ruler of the demonic castle.

However, the loud rustling chains and the creaking gate alert Akira.

As the large gate lifts, the aloof challenger enters the arena.

It’s a man in his fifties with tied long curly dark hair and a beard wearing a long sangria color coat, crimson pants, and leather gloves.

More so, it’s one of the veteran vampire hunters, which Akira saw a few times in the Hunter Guild.

Even if hunters like him rarely visit the guild, each time they return, they bring an impressive S-rank or higher rank-worth monster with them.

After that man reaches the center of the arena, he picks up the bullwhip and points it at Akira.

While he keeps an unpleasant look on his face, he addresses the ruler of the castle. “Come out and face me, you monster! Or do you intend to hide like a coward?”

However, when the hunter takes a better look at the silver-haired male, he widens his eyes and lowers his whip. “It’s you!”

For sure, that man’s voice alone nearly makes Akira jump from his seat.

A second later, the veteran hunter asks. “What are you doing here? I come to defeat Il Re and not a stupid brat that cannot hold a weapon. Where is he, boy?”

Despite the dark-haired man’s intimidation, the blue-eyed swordsman keeps his new role and answers in a strict tone. “You are talking to one right now. However, I must congratulate you for making it this far.”

The hunter only cracks a smile. “Tsk. Don’t make me laugh. On the other hand… Perhaps the luck is on my side, after all. So, I’ll take that vampire’s head along with the traitor’s.”

Meanwhile, Shiki studies his human, and when he finishes his speech, he observes the challenger while narrowing his gaze.

Lastly, that man points at Akira. “Very well. I’ll take you down if that is the only way to summon that bastard!”

At first, the blue-eyed male checks on Shiki and gives him a confused look.

Yet, the noble creature of the night only keeps a straight face while exhaling through his nose.

At this moment, Akira understands he has to do what he has to do. Thus, after he stands up and takes a deep breath, he gets close to the parapet and jumps into the arena.

Surprisingly, he manages to land safely.

After he fixes his posture, he picks up the katana and points the tip of the blade at his opponent.

Meanwhile, the hunter keeps a proud look on his face and stretches his bullwhip.

Thus, the battle starts with Akira charging at his opponent.

However, the dark-haired man’s reaction is faster. And he unleashes several lower whip cracks.

Fortunately, Akira avoids each strike by jumping back. However, a strike after a strike, he nearly loses his balance.

Meanwhile, the veteran hunter takes to his advantage. Suddenly, he unleashes a powerful strike that hits his target, making him groan.

Yet Akira manages to kneel safely while his face twists in pain.

As long as he has the weapon in his hands, he can still fight. Besides, even if he cannot see right now, he’ll show Shiki that he won’t go down that easily. Or so the silver-haired male thinks while his blue eyes burn with determination.

Soon, Akira grips the handle with both hands and rushes at his opponent before releasing a diagonal slash.

That boy already lost. The hunter wonders as he cracks a mocking smile and jumps back.

A second later, he picks several knives from the bag attached to his belt and throws them at his opponent.

Suddenly, Akira twists the blade, reflecting most of the knives. After the hunter’s blades reach the ground, he uses the upper strike.

Yet, his attack is blocked by the older male’s stretched whip.

Just from what this whip is made of? The silver-haired male wonders as he widens his eyes and grinds his teeth by seeing how his sword doesn’t even scratch the enemy’s weapon.

“What’s the matter, boy? Did you chew more than you could swallow?” The veteran hunter mocks while unleashing another strike.

Unfortunately, Akira has no time to dodge the attack. Upon it slashes at him, he closes his eyes and gasps. A second later, he groans as he receives a kick in his guts. Yet, no matter what, he holds onto his katana.

Even while he roughly pants and leans on his trustworthy weapon, he keeps his ice-cold blue eyes on his opponent.

Meanwhile, Shiki only observes this fight while noting for himself what Akira’s flaws he should work on harder.

However, as the crimson-eyed panther lifts his paw, he freezes on the same spot by hearing his partner’s voice. “DO NOT EVEN DARE TO INTERFACE!”

At that moment, Akira shakily leans while grasping the handle of his katana with both hands.

While his lips tremble, he adds. “I’m not done yet… I can still fight!”

Surely, these words sparkle the excitement in the panther’s eyes.

After the dark-haired hunter bends, he grabs his throat and lifts him, making their eyes meet. “This is where you’re wrong.”

Yet Akira refuses to let go of his trustworthy weapon and gathers his remaining strength for the final attack.

In the end, the veteran hunter catches the naked blade with his gloved hand and throws it away, and he comments. “Too bad that the guild wants you alive. It can’t be helped then…”

After he finishes his speech, he aggressively tosses Akira to the ground and stomps on his back a few times.

A second later, he sends a powerful kick to the silver-haired male’s side, making him grunt and curl into a ball.

However, as he kneels and is about to tie his opponent’s hands behind his back, he immediately lifts his head by the panther’s roaring.

Apparently, Shiki jumps through the stone parapet and gracefully lands on his fours.

While the deadly feline approaches the arrogant human with his lowered tail, his red eyes flare with rage.

“The hell?… Did you finally decide to avenge your master?” The dark-haired male addresses the large feline.

However, Shiki only bares his sharp fangs and growls.

Just as the hunter stands up and aims his whip at the feral beast, he widens his eyes when the panther becomes into a liquid shadow and disappears. “What a?-”

Suddenly, the sound of the tearing flesh echoes, and the hunter lets out an agonizing scream.

As the blood splashes like a fountain from the hunter’s back, he collapses.

For now, the large feline bites into the same arm that had cracked a whip and tears it apart.

Meanwhile, Akira only leans on his elbow and silently observes how the large feline spits his opponent’s limb and the screaming hunter, begging to be spared.

However, Shiki goes for another limb as well.

The silver-haired male understands he has to stop the blood-thirsty predator before he’ll be overtaken by his blind wrath. Or so Akira decides as he shakily stands up, picks up his trustworthy weapon, and puts it back into the sheath.

Meanwhile, the black panther places his bloody paw on the fallen man and sinks his fangs into his nape.

One sudden move and Shiki rips down his cervical spine, silencing the dark-haired man once and for all.

Just before he starts tearing apart the corpse, he receives a hit by the handle into his head. “Enough!”

For sure, it gets the large feline’s attention, and he wrinkles his nose while hissing at Akira.

However, the beast’s threat doesn’t affect the blue-eyed swordsman, and he narrows his ice-cold gaze.

While Akira attaches the katana to his belt, the panther spreads his legs and lowers his back while fixating his eyes on him.

Despite that, he scolds the feline. “He is dead already… Just look at yourself! You are nothing more than a feral animal! Yes, I lost. So, what? It was my mistake to fight someone who is clearly more superior…”

After a brief, he turns his back to him. “Do as you wish. Kill me or whatever you want to do with me. I don’t care…”

When he clenches his hands into fists, he lowers his shoulders and exhales. “I do not want to see a feral animal playing with his food. I’m leaving.”

Meanwhile, Shiki lowers his ears and licks his face while keeping his lowered tail close to him.

But for now, the panther stands and approaches the hunter from behind.

Soon, he nibs on his partner’s sleeve and pulls it.

Such a gesture makes the silver-haired swordsman turn his head.

After noticing the large feline keeping his lowered ears and staring at him with big red eyes, Akira softens his gaze and sighs. “You stupid cat…”

Just before he lands his palm on Shiki, he immediately withdraws it when the panther transforms into a liquid shadow.

Soon enough, the blue-eyed swordsman sighs as he becomes into a certain vampire he knows.

Yet, when Akira notices a strangely sleepy look on Shiki’s face, he realizes it may not end well.

Instead of saying anything, he remains silent while Shiki wraps one arm around him and brings him close to him.

Even when the dark-haired male moves his arm around his shoulders while another one is on his hips, Akira only fixates his blue eyes on him.

After Shiki lifts his partner, he checks on him with a content expression and addresses him. “What’s wrong? I’ll just need to see your wounds.”

Lastly, the red-eyed vampire carries Akira as a wounded princess.

Notes:

It is the middle of the dark night. Somewhere in one old abandoned building site.

One tanned brunette watches how thick, large snowflakes slowly fall while he impatiently waits for his opponent to show up.

“Why ye taking so long? Or are you bold only by using words?” ‘Nagi says to himself and fixes his red scarf.

Suddenly, he widens his eyes and turns his head toward the direction of a familiar voice. “I finally found you!”

At that moment, Kusanagi’s crimson eyes sparkle with excitement, and he greets the redhead with spread arms and a wide smile. “Oh, look what we’ve got there~ Thank goodness, it’s you! I won’t lie - ya got me worried for a second that I would need to deal with that little whiny fool.”

However, his festive mood is ruined as soon as behind Iori’s back when he sees Kyo taking a step to the side to reveal himself.

But for now, Kusanagi leans on the side and frowns, addressing his rival. “Why a hell you’re staring at me like that? Do you have too many eyes or what? Stop using him as a shield! Or ye only know how to hide behind anyone’s back.”

As he gets step by step closer to Iori like an intimidating, large feline, his voice changes into a nearly thrilling tone. “In any case… How’s your wounds?”

When ‘Nagi stands close to the indignant redhead, he thrusts his chest and delightfully narrows his gaze. “Good. Did you miss me that much?”

Despite the sensation as if an invisible Kusanagi’s panther tail wraps around his thigh, Iori keeps a poker face.

Yet, such a reaction only makes ‘Nagi respire and deeply chuckle. “No? Then why are you here? Come on, you don’t need to be shy around me. And don’t try to deny it - I know you want it as much as I do~”

Unfortunately, just before he touches Yagami’s cheek, his hand is caught.

As Iori grips his wrist, he reveals his bare fangs. “For being a cheap knock-off, you are allowing yourself too much.”

“Oh~ Now that’s what I’m talking about. You’re finally into that mood,” Kusanagi backfires in a nearly flirtatious tone.

After he brushes off his palm, he raises the index finger and ignites it. As a little orange flame is reflected in both eyes, the dark entity suggests. “You’re going to take his place, right? Hey, let’s do it, already~”

However, the redhead nearly gets startled and turns his head when Kyo gently places his hand on his shoulders.

“Do not fall into his trap. It’s better if we team up and take him down together.” The Kusanagi heir warns him in a calm voice.

After ‘Nagi blows the small flame, he narrows his gaze and shows a middle finger to his original. “Do not interface, and just wait for your turn.”

Meanwhile, Iori closes his eyes and replies, ignoring his foe’s presence. “Just watch carefully and you’ll see what happens when anyone dares to touch who belongs to me, Kyo.”

For sure, such a response makes Kyo exhale. “And you better not try anything reckless or else this time someone will spend a night in hospital.”

Lastly, when the Kusanagi heir withdraws, he observes from the distance how these two keep a distance.

Thus, after ‘Nagi tosses his scarf, another fight between the dark entity and Yagami begins.

At first, the redhead patiently waits for his opponent to make a first turn.

After ‘Nagi ignites his palm, he launches a fireball at Iori.

Just as Yagami blocks the sent attack, Kusanagi charges at him with full force.

For sure, it was a close strike. Yet, Iori evades it.

A few more sent kicks and punches by the tanned brunette. Yet, Iori successfully blocks these attacks again.

After Kusanagi ceases his attacks, he gives Iori a mocking look. “Ya know, I wonder how long you gonna keep up like this~ Maybe I should motivate you a bit…”

Just as ‘Nagi raises his hand and aims at Kyo, Yagami rushes at him.

Before he reaches his throat, Kusanagi lowers his arm and dodges the strike.

A second later, the tanned brunette hits his back with his elbow. Soon, the redhead grunts as he hits the snowy ground.

Of course, Kyo cannot just stand there and do nothing.

Unfortunately for him, ‘Nagi’s reflexes are quicker, and his flame reflects his rival’s fireball.

As the fire submerges into the air, the tanned brunette’s eyes flare with rage, and he growls at him. “I TOLD YOU TO WAIT YOUR TURN!”

Meanwhile, Iori grabs his opponent’s shank and pulls him down.

After ‘Nagi hits the ground with a brief groan, the redhead manages to get up and stand up.

While Iori steps on his back, he bends down and grips his neck. As his nails sink into his skin, he narrows his gaze. “Any last words before I’ll send you to hell?”

Meanwhile, Kusanagi only cracks a mocking smile.

After a brief pause, Yagami lightens up his fingertips with purple little flames, and the loud explosion bangs all over the construction site, making Kyo instinctively cover his face with his elbows.

A couple moments later, the Kusanagi heir lowers his arms and observes how the dark smoke fades away, revealing the victor of the battle and fallen ‘Nagi.

After Iori removes the dust and ashes from himself, he comments. “What a bunch of wasted time.”

Meanwhile, Kyo gets alerted and stares at his partner.

But for now, Yagami only gives a questioning look to his partner and addresses him. “What is it? As if that fool would die that easily. Let’s go. Or do you prefer to freeze here?”

Apparently, the tanned brunette’s upper body and soon the rest of him raise as he is controlled by the strings.

“Do not underestimate me~” ‘Nagi speaks up as he fixes his shoulders while his arms are loose.

Lastly, he ignites his fist and charges at his opponent.

However, just a moment before the impact, the redhead turns and delivers a hefty kick into ‘Nagi’s stomach.

Thus, the dark entity’s flame is dimmed, and he is sent off flying.

Upon his body harshly hitting the ground, it slightly bounces before sliding on the frozen gravel.

But for now, Kusanagi shakily leans on his elbow while panting. “I’m... I’m not done yet!”

Instead of saying anything, Iori only closes his eyes and exhales.

Soon, he approaches his opponent and bends down.

After the redhead grabs Kusanagi by his t-shirt, he brings him close to his face.

Meanwhile, ‘Nagi doesn’t resist and keeps a smug face.

“Do not test my patience any further.” Iori warns him while keeping a straight face.

After he tosses down ‘Nagi, he adds. “However, if you still have your death wish, I’ll give it to you... But you have to earn it first. ”

When Iori turns his back, he declares without looking back. “So, you better do not disappoint me next time.”

As soon as he gets close to Kyo, he prompts him to leave.

On their way, the brunette is complaining while keeping his hands warm in his jacket pockets. “Why do you also have to instigate these things? You know, you’re only encouraging him.”

After a brief pause, he lowers his gaze and complains. “I swear, if I didn’t know you, I would think that you just have nothing better to do…”

“You worry too much. Or perhaps…” The redhead backfires.

However, when Iori makes a smug face, the brunette realizes something is off.

When Kyo’s poker face cracks, he asks in an unsure tone. “Wha-, what is it with you?”

“I just finally figured it out something,” Yagami proudly explains.

While his partner’s expressions entertain him, he concludes. “It seems the original is jealous of a mere copy and sucks so badly at hiding it.”

Suddenly, the heat rushes to the brunette’s cheeks, and he indignantly replies as if he is about to jump on Iori. “What are you!-”

However, Yagami only places his palm on his partner’s face and holds him back like a kitten trying to get food.

A few moments later, he ruffles Kyo’s hair and makes him briefly close his eyes.

After he withdraws his hand, he grasps the brunette’s scarf.

Besides, sometimes, it’s enjoyable to give Kusanagi a taste of his own medicine and tease him. Or so Yagami decides.

Lastly, he fixes his scarf without removing his eyes from Kyo. “Either way, you’ll catch a cold if you expose your neck like this.”

Meanwhile, the brunette only averts his blushing gaze and murmurs something under his nose, yet being secretly relieved that this time he didn’t need to drag the injured Iori from the battlefield.

It is a peaceful winter evening in Yagami’s apartment. However, one brunette comfortably sitting on the couch cannot find peace of mind.

When Kyo holds a warm cup of hot cocoa, he lowers his gaze and silently exhales.

It’s been more than a couple of hours since Iori promised to return. Knowing him, he would call and warn if he may take longer.

Of course, Kyo tried to call him an hour earlier. Unfortunately, his partner didn’t answer.

At first, he thought perhaps Iori was busy or on his way. Therefore, he didn’t bother to call back. However, even later on, he received the same response.

No matter how often the Kusanagi checked his phone - there was no new message or notification about a missed call.

But for now, Kyo turns his head to the side and says to himself in a gloomy tone. “Just where in the world are you, Yagami? It’s better to be nothing serious. Or else, what do you expect me to do with you?”

Meanwhile, when the tuxedo kitten notices how one of his dads is unusually upset, he lowers his triangle ears and wonders if these two fought again or if his other dad hurt him.

Therefore, little Oreo decides to cheer him up in the best way he knows. And thus, he jumps on the couch while letting out a brief trill.

After he approaches Kyo, he rubs his head and his body against his leg while his tail is lifted, trying to get his attention.

For sure, such an unexpected gesture surprises the Kusanagi.

When the brunette leans forward, he puts the mug on the coffee table and sits back.

As he strokes the kitten’s head and under his chin, Kyo softens his gaze and sighs. “Did you miss your dad as well? Let’s hope that he is fine and only decided to get something for you.”

After Oreo lies next to him and closes his eyes, and his beloved hand strokes his soft fur, his little motor engine activates.

However, his kitten’s presence and purring makes him lower his shoulders and feel how his heart aches.

In the end, he cannot help himself but irrationally worry about his partner without even knowing his whereabouts.

Several minutes have passed.

Suddenly, Oreo lifts his head and ears upon hearing something.

“What is it, Oreo? Is your dad already home?” Kyo asks as he gets up and heads toward the corridor.

After rushing to his destination place, he notices that there is no one inside.

However, a faint banging on the door and the sound of the lock moving caught the brunette's attention.

Soon, the mysterious culprit opens the door.

Fortunately, Kyo’s reaction is quicker, and he catches the redhead in his arms without both collapsing on the floor.

“Oi, you’re okay?” The brunette asks him while closing the door.

When Iori places his hand on his partner’s shoulder, he withdraws his lowered head and faces him while surpassing his groaning.

Suddenly, Kyo widens his eyes and becomes pale upon noticing Iori covered in blood. After a closer inspection, he scolds him without containing his emotions. “What happened to you? Who the hell did this to you?!”

While Iori’s face twists in pain and panting, he backfires. “I just tripped over and fell downstairs! That’s what fucking happened… So, move, and let me catch a break.”

After hearing these words, the brunette’s face darkens. “Fell downstairs, eh? Are you sure about that?”

“Tsk. Do not test my patience, Kyo.” The redhead warns through gritted teeth.

Unfortunately, his attempt to stand up on his own fails.

Thus, the sudden pain on Yagami's side makes him hold his palm into the aching spot, and he loses his balance.

After the brunette throws Iori’s arm over his shoulders, he closes his eyes and sighs. “Let’s go… Let’s get you warm and see your wounds.”

Lastly, he helps Yagami to walk to the bedroom while wondering who could have done this to him.

However, on their way, one person comes to his mind. Although, even if his guess might be wrong, it doesn’t matter. Right now, prioritizing his partner’s well-being is more important. Or so Kyo decides.

After he lies Iori in bed, he assists him with removing his outfit and spots that the redhead’s clothes are tattered and have holes with crispy burnt edges.

While silently exhaling, the brunette wonders how much Yagami suffered to become so passive and willingly accept any treatment from him.

“What’s wrong? If you dislike it so much, you can leave me alone. As if I need your pity.” The redhead comments as he observes his partner’s every movement.

When Kyo grasps the hemline of Iori’s t-shirt, he lowers his shoulders and head. As he cracks a fake smile, he replies in a cold yet calm tone. “You’re right… I guess it’s better to leave it in professionals’ hands.”

After he sits on the edge of the bed, he picks up his phone from his pocket.

However, as Kyo types a specific phone number, Yagami shakily sits up and gathers all his remaining strength into his palm.

Suddenly, the Kusanagi freezes in the same spot when the phone is hit out of his hand.

As soon as it lands on the ground, Kyo turns his head and stares at Iori.

Lastly, the redhead addresses him. “Don’t. I’m not that weak or ill.”

Meanwhile, Kyo remains speechless for a few moments.

Finally, the redhead breaks the intense silence. “Besides, who will feed Oreo if I’m gone?”

That’s it! It’s the last drop of the Kusanagi’s patience, and he lowers his head.

Suddenly, he roughly grabs Iori by his shirt and brings him closer. “Is that the only thing that concerns you?!”

A second later, he hung his head down while something stuck inside his throat.

Meanwhile, Yagami only narrows his gaze as he observes the trembling and stiff brunette.

“... You’re truly an idiot.” Kyo comments.

After he bites into his lower lip, he continues while holding back from sobbing. “You may have died and I wouldn’t even know that. What am I supposed to do then? Shrug my shoulders and say I had no clue that you died? Hey, you think no one would notice or care? But you’re so fucking wrong! How… how many times I’ve told that you’re not alone? It’s… it’s okay if you’re too stubborn and prideful to rely on anyone and I’m not forcing you to do so. … I never did or will do that.”

In the end, Kyo lowers his hands and buries his face in his partner’s chest. “But at least, … Please let me help you. That’s all I ask for.”

However, he widens his eyes when he feels how Iori’s palm rests on his head.

As Yagami closes his eyes, he sighs. After he opens his eyes, he gently ruffles his hair. “Who’s calling whom a fool? As if that will happen anytime soon. After all, who else will take care of Oreo and one stupid, nosy trouble-maker who worries too much? Listen. If I die, I’ll take you together with me into my grave. So, even after my death, you will still belong to me, Kyo.”

After hearing this confession, Kyo carefully wraps his arms around his partner and nuzzles his cheek against his chest while murmuring something gibberish.

In the meantime, Iori briefly bares his fangs as he explains. “Tsk. I’ve only dealt with one arrogant coward who dared to attack me. At least he didn’t show any interest in you and it’s all that matters. But I took longer than expected because out of nowhere he got the support and these two brats teamed up against me while that fool lied in his blood and laughed. That’s it.”

After a brief pause, he adds. “So, now when you know this, you can do whatever you want.”

Of course, such an answer is enough for Kyo, and he whispers. “Thank you.”

“Whatever. But keep in mind, you won’t drag me anywhere.” The redhead replies.

In the end, the brunette only silently nods.

No matter how much Kyo wants to stay like this, even if for a bit longer, he understands he cannot allow himself to rest. After all, he has become a temporary caretaker of two.

But for now, his first duty as a nurse is to examine his patient and wash him down. Or so the Kusanagi decides.

Some time has passed. After Kyo finally finishes treating Iori’s injuries and put him in warmer pajama, he manages to change the bedsheets without tearing them or tripping over for the first time.

Of course, it doesn’t help that Iori observes him as if he is his entertainment.

On the other hand, seeing Yagami cracking a smile or reminding him how to handle such a simple task despite his body being covered in bruises relieved the Kusanagi.

But for now, he can finally take a break. Or so Kyo ponders as he changes into a gray tank top and shorts and snuggles under the blanket like a feline.

As he watches over Iori, he softens his gaze.

“What is it?” The redhead asks.

“It can’t be helped that I have to check on my patient,” Kyo explains.

After Yagami turns to the side, he throws his arm over his partner and brings him closer.

For sure, such a gesture surprises the brunette. Yet, he doesn’t show any desire to lose to Iori and embraces his new role by adding in a slightly indignant voice. “Oi, what do you think you’re allowing yourself, mister? Don’t forget - you are my patient and I’m your nurse. So, you have to do what I say.”

“Then where’s your uniform, nurse?” Iori backfires while keeping a smug look on his face.

Suddenly, the heat rushes to the Kusanagi’s cheeks, and he averts his gaze for a few moments. More so, it’s difficult for him to keep a serious face when Yagami’s hand rubs and squeezes his buttocks.

Certainly, his partner’s adorable reaction amuses Iori, and he teases him a bit. “I wonder what kind of outfit you have in mind. It seems that I need to discipline my nurse for having naughty thoughts about his patient~ And, you know, medical scrubs are a thing too.”

Instead of saying anything, Kyo opens his big amber eyes and pinches his partner’s nose. “Right now, you are under a strict bed mode. And that also means - no sex for you until you get well, got it?”

“You’re such a young nurse, but already as strict as an old one…” The redhead comments as soon as Kyo lowers his hand.

“I wonder thanks to whom…” Kyo replies while keeping a poker face.

In the end, without Kusanagi realizing it, he becomes temporally distracted by his own play.

On the other hand, if Iori can joke around like this, then his injuries are not as life-threatening as Kyo expected.

Despite the Yagami’s attempt to calm down the tensed Kusanagi, the brunette shouldn’t take this situation so lightly and not forget about it as it never happened.

More importantly, his suspicious intuition is correct about who could have beaten Iori.

That’s why he must seek the same man, who is so desperately obsessed with Yagami, and settle it down. Or so Kyo is determined.

A week has passed.

As soon as the detailed examination results showed up, they were delivered to the commander. Thus, after the meeting, the commander decided that Kusanagi’s clones did not pose any threat to the Resistance Force.

However, while the female replica was safe to leave the Medical Unit, the male one had to remain under the supervision of the medical staff until he was ready to be trained as a soldier.

Starting today, the female Kyo’s look-alike has officially become a member of the Resistance Force and received the title of Private Kyoko.

Meanwhile, for Iori, it is a long-awaited day as well. After all, he can finally progress his plans further.

But for now, he finishes preparing for tonight’s departure.

“Hopefully, that idiot won’t forget about the meeting nor do anything reckless.” Or so the redhead murmurs when he picks up his light saber.

As he stares at it, he softens his gaze. “You better be not dead. So, wait for me for me, Kyo ... Just a bit longer, and I’m coming for you.”

Lastly, he attaches his trustworthy weapon to his belt.

Some time passes. It is already a late night. After a while, the redhead reaches the port. However, when he looks around, he notices that there is no sign of one certain brunette yet.

But for now, he leans his back against the nearest wall. After he picks a pack of cigarettes from his uniform jacket, he lightens one.

Another few minutes pass. Soon enough, one certain brunette shows up. “There you are. So, what did you want to show me so badly, Yagami?”

As Iori steps on the burnt cigarette, he states. “We’re leaving.”

Kyoko only widens her eyes and raises her eyebrow. “Where?”

“We’re going to visit your father and your original,” Yagami explains while keeping his hands in his pants pockets and approaching the nearest spaceship.

While she follows her partner, she objects. “What you mean by that? But what about Nii-sama? Dad might be upset if I won’t bring him.”

“That’s his problem.” Iori backfires.

‘If anything, he should be afraid for his life and god forbids it if he was one of these bastards who hurt Kyo.’ Or so the redhead thinks while clenching his palm into a fist and momentarily baring his fangs.

After exhaling and lowering his shoulders, he adds. “Your brother is still too weak to go with us. So, you can tell this to your father. Besides, if he is such a kind person as you claim, he should understand you. Don’t you think so?”

At first, the brunette steps back while giving a questioning look. Yet, she follows Iori and nods.

That’s right, during her stay in the Resistance Force, Yagami used to visit her in the Medical Unit every day. Despite these being short ones, it strangely brighten up her day.

Thus, eventually, she started to trust the redhead and noticed that he didn’t mind that much when she tried to tease him.

After getting into the spaceship, Iori allows Kyoko to sit in the pilot seat while she turns her head and stares at him.

As the redhead sits down next to her, he asks. “Why are you staring at me like this? You should know better where is your father than me. Unless he didn’t tell you how to return home and wanted to get rid of you.”

“You’re wrong! Dad would never do this. Just you wait ‘til you meet him.” The brunette indignantly replies.

Iori only rolls his eyes and points at the display panel with his palm. “Go on and prove to me I’m wrong.”

While Kyoko enters the needed coordinates, she complains. “But thanks to you, I won’t be able to contact him. So, how he’ll know that I’m coming to see him?”

When they finally depart from the Resistance Force, Kyoko sits back and frowns. “Besides, based on what I’ve seen so far, I’m surprised that you rely on a piece of clothing that has zero protection instead of having body armor. You also use such primitive weapons. And I’m not talking about the outdated technology in your base… It’s still amazing how you survived that long.”

Instead of saying anything, Yagami removes the sound transmission device from behind his ear and passes it to the female replica. “Here. Even if it’s an old model and not whatever you used, at least the Empire or anyone else won’t be able to listen to you.”

While Kyoko studies the small device, the redhead’s question makes her turn back. “What’s wrong? Now you can call your oh-so-precious father. Or you don’t know how to use it?”

“Of course, I know! …I think.” The brunette immediately responds.

“Let me give you a hint. You need to scroll the switches until you set to your wanted frequency. Then, if you want to hear anything, put it behind your ear,” Iori explains while he relaxes in the chair and crosses his arms.

Meanwhile, Kyoko carefully follows the instructions and remarks. “It’s a pretty primitive-looking thing. However, I saw something like this lying around in Dad’s room. In any case, hopefully, he is not busy...”

Lastly, Iori closes his eyes and exhales. For now, he waits until they arrive at their destination place, where Kyo is imprisoned.

At the moment, he isn’t much concerned that whoever created this clone would pick up their signal to lure them into a trap.

That’s right, someone bred these replicas for the Empire, and the one sitting next to him might have been not an exception.

More so, she is as naïve as a child creature who would betray him without any sense of guilt or a second thought and wouldn’t understand what she has done.

On the other hand, it’s not important right now. After all, Yagami’s determination to see his long-time partner is stronger than anything.

Even if they are greeted by the armed forces, Iori will unleash his blade and fight anyone until either he or the enemy remains on the field.

He’ll even challenge the Death itself or the entire world if that’s the only way to get to Kyo. Or so the redhead ponders while observing the vast of the never-ending universe through the front window.

A couple of hours have passed. Thus, the Resistance soldiers finally arrived at their destination place.

The only light source that touched this land was from the spaceship, which revealed a grim and neglected scenery by mankind for years.

Judging from the empty, spacious area surrounded by the dark mist, it was used as a parking area.

But for now, when they step on this strange land, Iori turns on the flashlight and passes it to his partner. “What are you waiting? Show me the way. Or did you think you would trick me into going to the middle of nowhere?”

“Why would I? Dad taught to me to never lie or hide anything from him. Besides, how else I would prove him that Nii-sama is alright? That’s why you need to stay close to me because dad warn me that if you get lost here, no one will help you.” The brunette replies while keeping an eye on Yagami.

As they go deeper into the never-ending darkness, Kyoko explains. “It shouldn’t be far from here. So, we should reach the backdoor of the lab facility where dad works for the evil people. However, I wonder if he is doing fine or if he knows that we’re here…”

Of course, the redhead could tell her why her oh-so-adored father didn’t bother to pick up the signal. However, it would be as pointless as asking the wind not to blow.

More importantly, it may be wiser not to agitate or to stress this replica and play along with her, no matter how ridiculous her world is painted by whoever made her.

For now, Iori closes his eyes and sighs. “I’m sure that he is doing something important.”

In the end, the brunette’s face lightens up, and she nods. “That’s right!”

A second later, she proudly adds. “Perhaps right now he is waiting for me. So, you better be prepared to show him no less than respect when you see him.”

Lastly, Iori only rolls his eyes. “Whatever.”

After a while, their path becomes brighter. As the female clone of Kyo promised, she kept her word. Thus, soon, they reached the poorly lightened iron gate.

Meanwhile, Kyo only crosses her arms and holds her chin while staring at the pin code panel close to the door.

“What’s wrong? Have you forgotten the password?” Iori asks.

For sure, the redhead’s question makes her turn her head. Yet, she lowers her gaze. “Dad never told me.”

Yagami only indifferently addresses his partner. “And what are you suggesting to do next? Wait until anyone will unlock for us?”

“That’s right.” The brunette briefly answers.

For now, Iori steps forward and pushes Kyoko to the side. “Move.”

A second later, he picks up and lightens his saber blade. After he turns his head, he adds. “Or do you wish to be sliced into pieces?”

“What are you?-” The brunette speaks up before her voice is cut off when Yagami unleashes a powerful strike.

A slash after a slash, and Iori kicks out the cut door.

As soon as the sirens howl and the white corridors flash in crimson, he grabs the stunned brunette’s arm and announces. “We’re going in. Stay close to me or else you’ll meet your father faster than you think. ”

In the end, Yagami storms in through the gateway to hell.

Meanwhile, in one of the researchers’ rooms. One silver-haired professor is about to doze out before finishing working on the papers.

Suddenly, his guard is caught by the loud sirens and the robotic voice warning. “EMERGENCY ALERT! EMERGENCY ALERT! A GROUP OF TERRORISTS ARE ROAMING FREE IN ISOLATION UNIT!”

After Professor Kurama pushes the chair away and stands up, he fixes his glasses and delightfully smiles like a fox. “My... it was a matter of time before the inevitable happens.”

Just before taking his leave, he adds. “Looks like Miss Fortune favoring us, Kusanagi-kun.”

Despite the midst of the panic and chaos, he walks with noble elegance until someone rushes into him.

“The hell you’re doing? Don’t just stand here!” The senior scientist yells at him.

While the silver-haired male keeps his hands in the medical coat’s pockets, he pulls the pistol and pulls the trigger.

With a bang, the middle-aged scientist’s life thread is cut, and his dead body hits the ground.

For now, Kurama squats and searches that man’s pockets. “Please, you do not need to worry about me.”

When he picks up a key card and puts it into his pocket, he stands up and addresses the corpse. “On the other hand, I would be very grateful for this.”

In the end, the professor heads towards the facility where one test subject is kept before he is sent off to the Imperial Army.

And thus, the great race with time begins in which only one side can succeed.

Meanwhile, in one room of the Isolation Unit. One certain Kusanagi is sitting in bed, and while he leans against the wall, he turns his head away from his cell door and stares at a blank wall.

It has been a couple of weeks since he was imprisoned by NESTS, and a few days since he learned about his mission partner’s tragic fate. However, he is slowly becoming accustomed to this place and doesn’t mind spending the rest of his life here.

At least, this is a suitable punishment for a criminal like him who failed the mission, and his mistake cost him Shingo’s life.

Therefore, perhaps he is kept alive to repent of his sins. Or so the brunette thinks as he closes his eyes and exhales as he sinks into a gloomier mood.

At this point, he is too exhausted to end his miserable life and has given up the hope of leaving this place. Even if he attempted to escape, he would have nowhere to stay. One worry is adopting a new identity, while another is the potential discovery of his involvement in the rebel movement.

Besides, Kyo does not wish anyone from the Resistance Force to see him deeply fall from his grace, especially Yagami. After all, his long-time partner will be disappointed if he discovers how easily he was defeated and marked by the enemy while submitting to these shameful acts.

“Whatever you are planning to do, please do not seek for me or come anywhere close. I don’t think that I could endure grieving another loss, Yagami. So, please forget me for your own sake. And do not try anything reckless, you fool…” The brunette silently prays while just imagining the redhead clenches his heart.

But for now, the sound of the automatic door opening startles him.

“How are you doing today, Kusanagi-kun?” The silver-haired scientist with glasses asks.

When he approaches Kyo, he notices that his test subject hasn’t touched his food or water ratio for two days. As he softens his gaze, he sits next to the Kusanagi.

After he wraps his arm around the brunette’s shoulder, who shows no reaction, he brings him closer. “I understand you are still not over your friend’s death. However, you cannot neglect yourself.”

“Not because you’ll grow weak and die, but I might get into deep trouble, and it would cost me my job, and we do not want that, do we?” Or so Professor Kurama keeps in his mind.

“Unfortunately, I’m afraid that this is the last day of your stay here. Starting today, you will be transferred to the research facility.” He adds in a chill tone.

When he presses Kyo against his chest, he ruffles his hair. “But you do not need to worry. You will be under doctor Makishima’s care. As long as you follow hers or the researchers’ instructions, you should be fine.”

At the moment, the professor’s words have no weight or meaning to him. It is just sweet nothing before he is sent to the deeper level of his own Avici.

After Kurama releases the brunette from the soft embrace, he kneels in front of him. As he holds his shoulder and stares into these dull amber eyes, he gives him a comforting smile. “The doctor is already waiting for us. So, shall we go?”

When he helps Kyo to stand up, he walks him through the door.

While on their way, the brunette hung his head.

Meanwhile, the blonde doctor fixes her glasses while keeping her hand in the coat’s pocket.

As this couple stands in front of her, she briefly cracks a smile. “It’s been a while, Kusanagi. How was your stay here?”

Yet, she receives no response from the silent brunette. “Either way, I assume that the professor Kurama informed you about your further plans.”

But for now, Makishima addresses the silver-haired male. “So, from now, we’ll take him over, professor.”

“You heard her, Kusanagi-kun? So, why don’t go with her?” Kurama speaks up.

After he turns his back to the blonde, he wraps his arm around Kyo. As he grins like a snake, he whispers into his ear. “Just wait for me, and will come to rescue you, Kusanagi-kun.”

For sure, it makes Kyo widen his eyes and freeze in the same spot as if being in the giant snake’s grasp, which flickers its split tongue. However, when he feels how gently the professor’s hand pushes him forward, he returns to this world.

In the end, as he walks with Makishima, he turns his head and notices that the silver-haired male closes his eyes and innocently smiles and waves while keeping his other arm behind his back.

A couple of days pass. The fluffy silver-haired male twice looks around his shoulder, making sure that no one follows him into his room.

Fortunately, none of the blonde doctor’s underlings are anywhere around.

After the brunette arrived in his new cell, he accidentally chirped too much for the doctor about the unauthorized test samples that Kurama took.

Even if the silver-haired male wasn’t aware of what Kyo had told, he was certain - Makishima wasn’t too happy about it.

Therefore, all the Kusanagi’s clones, which were not fully developed along the prototype and all documentation, were confiscated, and Kurama’s research ceased.

Even a few scientists who assisted him turned their backs on him and witnessed against him.

After Doctor Makishima reported the current situation to NESTS, instead of being shot, Professor Kurama’s every movement was monitored while working in the isolation unit.

However, his old friend still passed him a pair of communication devices, which signals cannot be tracked even by the NESTS or the Empire.

Who also knew that not murdering that defective, undocumented clone and keeping her locked in the closet during the investigation could be his key to retrieving Kyo and escaping from this place?

More importantly, showing decent behavior towards that replica brought a fine harvest. After all, that clone was blindly trustful and obedient, and she could do anything without questioning if Kurama just asked.

But for now, as the silver-haired male enters inside, the automatic door closes behind him.

After he reaches his bed and sits on it, he turns on the transmission device. Unfortunately, when he tries to dial one certain brunette, the blue holographic screen turns red, showing an error message.

At the moment, Kurama bites his nails and hisses. “Strange… She always picks it up. Don’t tell me she was killed. I knew I shouldn’t have expected much from a mere copy. How unfortunate...”

As he lowers his head and grids his teeth, he grasps the transmission device and tosses it on the ground.

When he lowers his head, he cracks a smile. “Well, even if my last hope has died, I will still find a way to how to get you out of there. So, wait for me for a bit longer, Kusanagi-kun.”

Back to the Resistance Force Headquarters. As soon as one couple of soldiers returns, Shingo hands over the slumbering male clone of the Kusanagi to the group of medics and leaves him under their care.

Meanwhile, the restrained brunette shrugs and steps back after seeing so many people in white coats in one place.

What if they are working together with the same person who imprisoned her dad and going to bring her back to the same white room and run tests on her? More so, this time nobody will ruffle her hair afterwards and praise her for enduring another experiment.

“Where are you taking Nii-sama and what are you going to do with him?” The female replica indignantly asks one of the medical staff while staying close to Iori and refusing to leave his side.

“We’re taking him to the medical unit, ma’am. However, we would also ask you to go with us.” One medic briefly explains.

“I’m not going anywhere.” The brunette backfires. After a brief pause, she continues, pointing in the redhead’s direction. “Unless he is coming together. How else I can be sure that you won’t trick me?”

For sure, such an attitude slowly gets on Iori’s nerves, and he rolls his eyes.

Yet, he tries to remain calm and addresses the remaining personnel. “Why are you still here? Don’t you have a job to do? I’ll take that woman to the medical unit even if I need to drag her, if that concerns you.”

And thus, after the medic nods, he rushes towards his team.

Lastly, he grabs this replica by her arm and prompts her to go.

Meanwhile, the brunette frowns and objects. “Oi, what do you think you’re doing?”

However, Iori only murmurs. “Why do you have to be so annoying?”

The female replica only raises her eyebrow. “Eh? Did you say anything? If you have anything to say, say it clearly, and not mumble like an old grumpy man.”

“Of all clones, why does this one have to have such an attitude?” Yagami wonders while hoping that the sooner he brings this Kusanagi’s look-alike, the sooner he can have peace of mind.

More so, no matter how he doesn’t want to admit it, he has to get along with this replica, because she might guide him where Kyo is.

Some time passes. On the way to the Medical Unit, the brunette realizes she is the center of everyone’s attention.

At first, she does her best to keep her pride and confidence despite being a prisoner in unknown territory.

Unfortunately, it becomes a difficult task when she can feel the male soldiers fixating their eyes on her with such morbid curiosity. For now, she gives a questioning look at Yagami. “Hey, why are they staring at me like that? Do I look that weird?”

Meanwhile, Iori only grids his teeth and gives a deadly glare to anyone who looks in their direction.

At the moment, he can swear that even one wrong gesture or word will be enough to send anyone flying across the hallway.

He's not interested in a fake version of Kyo or the attention of these men they are giving her, but he's just tired and frustrated. Or so Iori convinces himself.

But for now, he exhales. “Just don’t pay too much attention to it.”

“If you say so. However, they are not dad’s co-workers. So, why they are so fixated on me and can’t mind their own business? It’s not that they need to test or confirm something for the research.” The brunette honestly replies.

Instead of making unnecessary comments, Iori holds back.

After reaching their destination place the automated door opens, and both enter inside.

As Yagami makes his way through rushing medical personnel, he notices the staff gathered around one healing capsule.

“Hey, Kagura. I brought that pesky clone.” The redhead addresses the certain doctor.

When the ebony-haired woman turns back, she replies. “Welcome back.”

As she takes a better look at the tied-up Kyo’s look-alike standing next to him, she briefly gets confused. Despite that, she comments. “You do almost resemble Kusanagi as if you were his sibling…”

Yet, the brunette demands the answers. “I dunno who is Kusanagi, but all I know is that Nii-sama is here. So, where is he, and what have you done to him?”

“You can rest assured. Your brother is fine, and he just needs plenty of rest.” Chizuru reassures her and lets her get closer to the capsule, where the prototype peacefully slumbers.

“Nii-sama…” the female clone whispers in a nearly pitiful voice.

A second later, the dark-haired woman adds in a serious tone. “But for now, I would ask you to cooperate with us. At first, I would need to need to examine you properly.”

Lastly, she addresses Iori. “You can leave now… And thank you for what have you done.”

“Whatever… Just be careful and don’t be tricked by her. She might look weak and innocent, but she is as strong as Kyo.” The redhead replies as he turns back and raises his palm. Finally, he walks away while keeping his hands in his pants pockets.

Meanwhile, the female replica tries to over-talk Kagura. “Do I really I have to do this?”

“I’m afraid that this is the only way how can I can check if you are injured. However, later on, you can change into clean pajama.” The dark-haired doctor patiently replies.

“That is the very first thing that dad gave me. So, there is no way I’ll let you discard it!” The brunette objects while pointing out at her body suit.

“But what if I promise you I will keep it for you? And I’m sure that your father would be relieved knowing that you are alright or not sick.” Chizuru continues negotiating with the brunette.

At first, the female replica doubts her intentions, yet she lowers her guard temporally. “Alright. I trust you for now, I guess. Besides, you wear the same coat as my dad. So, you can’t be a bad person, right?”

In the end, Chizuru closes her eyes and ruffles the clone’s hair as a small sign of gratitude.

Several hours pass. It is the middle of the night, and everyone is already asleep in the bunkers.

Unfortunately, one redhead’s peaceful rest is disturbed by the sensation of someone sleeping next to him.

Suddenly, he widens his eyes and turns to check whether he is still dreaming.

Not only does he realize he is not alone, but he also has a weird feeling about who might be that fearless fool who asks for their death wish.

No matter how much he is tempted to kick out the sleeping brunette, he understands it will awaken everyone, and he’ll get into trouble.

For now, Iori nuzzles the female clone while whispering. “Hey, enough sleeping. Wake up.”

Yet, the brunette only frowns and replies in a sleepy voice. “What is your problem? If you can’t sleep, at least let the others, you know.”

That woman wants to test his patience limits, doesn’t she? Iori thinks to himself while facepalming.

Instead, he shortly instructs. “Get up. We’re leaving.”

“Where? I’m fine staying here.” The Kusanagi’s look-alike objects. When she climbs on top of Iori, she rests her arms on his chest and smiles like a feline. “And I could use you as a pillow.”

It might be pointless arguing with this pesky troublemaker any further. Therefore, he has to figure out how to make this creature leave without causing problems.

“How did you get there? And what do you want from me?” The redhead asks.

The brunette lowers her gaze. “I didn’t want to sleep alone, and dad didn’t mind it either when I was still in the lab because he told that it would be warmer. So, I don’t get why are you complaining?”

After a brief pause, she confesses. “Even if I had no idea that you were staying here, I just simply followed my intuition.’’

When she places a palm on her chest, she continues. “As if, deep inside me, there was a part of me telling me I should trust you and seek you despite you being such an idiot. Heck, just listening to that strong feeling, I also guessed the password of this room. So, now I wonder what kind of relationship you had with Nii-sama…”

After listening to these words, Yagami explains. “I have nothing to do with that cheap copy.”

Surely, it confuses this clone. “But dad shown me a photo of Nii-sama, and asked me to bring him. He even entrusted this task to me because he told me I was the only one who could do it.”

“Then your father tricked you. You two are nothing more dull replicas of Kyo.” Iori briefly replies.

The brunette only gets bewildered by this man’s words and speaks up. “You’re… you’re lying. Dad is a very kind person and why else he would have told me that everyone else who looked like Nii-sama were fakes and I shouldn’t feel bad for them? Or that a bad people, who are stole his hard work, made them?”

“If your father truly cared about you, why hasn't he reached out? You are just a tool for him or for whoever these bastards to kidnapped Kyo and made you. For fuck's sake, even after you reunited with your brother, you should have noticed any differences between that photo or him in person.” The redhead backfires.

The female clone hangs her head and remains silent for a while.

After receiving no answers, Iori asks while keeping his poker face. “What’s wrong? Does the truth hurt you?”

She only shakes her head in disbelief. “I… I don’t understand. Why dad wanted me to bring Nii-sama to him, if he isn’t Original? It makes no sense.”

“This is what I want to know as well, and you will help me find Kyo and rescue him.” The redhead replies in a calm tone.

Meanwhile, this replica remarks. “You seem to adore and care about my original a lot. Now, I kinda get it why that one part of me cannot help but feel attracted towards you. Maybe you are not that bad person if he feels that way.”

As the brunette genially smiles, she adds. “After all, dad mentioned to me once that I share not only Original’s skills but also his emotions and at some point his memories.”

Yet, when she notices the dumbfounded redhead, she raises her eyebrow. “Hey, what’s wrong you with you? Did I say anything wrong? Or didn’t you know this?”

After Iori turns his head and closes his eyes, he tries to remain calm. “And you are poking your nose into the others’ business like him.”

When he gets up, he addresses this replica. “Either way, let’s get you back to your room.”

Despite not comprehending Yagami's reaction earlier, the brunette still does what he asks.