If Only For A Night
"We'll handle things here, Mika. So take Yuu and go now!" Shinoa Hiragi commanded, her voice sharp and unwavering as she wielded her scythe to hold back the advancing members of the Demon Army.
Mikaela Hyakuya was astounded by his fortune; the very people he had battled to reach his beloved orphanage sister were now risking their own careers—and lives—to shield him, a vampire they barely knew, simply because he was the last thread connecting them to their squad mate.
"You heard her, Yuu. We need to move," Mika said, gently lifting his adoptive sister into his arms in a bridal carry, but not before stealing one last glance at Shinoa.
Words were unnecessary. Shinoa recognized the gratitude shimmering in his eyes and offered him a silent farewell wrapped in a warm smile before he turned away, departing the battlefield with his precious burden. Now that Mika had achieved his goal, there was no reason for him to linger. A twinge of guilt settled in his chest for leaving Yuu's comrades to fend for themselves, but deep down, he knew they were resilient warriors who could handle whatever challenges lay ahead. They had faith in him, just as he had faith in their strength and resolve.
With Yuichiro unconscious in his arms, Mikaela activated his supernatural speed, propelling himself far from the chaotic clash of humans and vampires. Despite being a vampire, he harbored no love for his own kind—his heart lay far from the brutal skirmish that defined their existence. All he wanted was to escape this war with his sister, indifferent to the fate of both factions.
Yet, Mika understood that evading destiny was easier said than done. Yuu was no ordinary human; she was a namanari, an experimental subject of the Demon Army's seraph project—the first successful embodiment of their ambitions. This made her a living weapon coveted by powerful figures on both sides of the conflict, from the Hiragi family to the most formidable vampire progenitors.
If only Yuu were simply human and Mika an ordinary vampire, they could have slipped away to a distant sanctuary, free from the endless cycle of violence, leaving both factions to their senseless feud without a second thought.
Alas, cruel fate had other plans. Mika, too, bore the seraph gene and was the cherished warrior of Queen Krul Tepes. His knowledge of her secrets made it unlikely she would let him go without a fight, just as the Hiragis would not give up Yuichiro easily. Krul had permitted Mika a temporary reprieve from the front lines, allowing him to vanish in the midst of the chaos—but only on the condition he retrieve Yuu and return her to Sanguinem.
Obeying that order was the last thing on his mind. He had no intention of fulfilling that promise, but he played along to avoid drawing Krul's suspicion. His immediate goal was to find Yuu a temporary refuge, where they could heal their wounds before formulating a plan for their next move.
Fortunately, Mika had just the place in mind: a modest house nestled in a secluded neighborhood—his childhood home, a haven from the world's decay where he had lived with his parents before everything fell apart. Cradling Yuu in his arms, Mika reached for the key he wore around his neck, unlocking the front door to his old home.
Unlike many houses in the area, his had not succumbed to neglect; he had diligently maintained it over the years. It served as his secret retreat during the rare breaks Krul granted him. She was content with that arrangement, knowing that as long as he relied on her blood, he would remain loyal to the vampire army.
The queen even trusted him enough to refrain from questioning his absences, so long as he returned to Sanguinem when duty called. And for that, Mika felt a flicker of gratitude; they would be unable to hide here for long if Krul had even an inkling of their whereabouts. Nonetheless, this refuge would grant them the precious time they needed to recuperate, a small chance against the looming threat of discovery.
As soon as he pushed the door open, Mika swiftly stepped inside, locking it behind him with a clumsy hand, still burdened by the weight of the unconscious girl cradled in his arms. If he were an ordinary human, exhaustion would have long since overwhelmed him, yet he pressed on, teetering on the edge of collapse due to the injuries he had sustained on the battlefield.
He carried Yuu to his parents' bedroom, laying her gently on the bed before making his way to the bathroom to inspect his wounds in the mirror. His once-pristine white uniform was tattered and stained with blood; although he was no longer bleeding, the injuries he bore were far from healed. Reaching for the pouch clipped to his belt, he discovered that only one vial of Krul's blood remained, enough to sustain him for three days at the most. After that…
Mika shook his head vigorously. No, I can't dwell on that right now…
The thought was a distraction he couldn't afford. His immediate priority was to care for Yuu, and to do that, he needed to regain at least a portion of his strength. Unscrewing the cap of the vial, Mikaela downed the last of the precious fluid, the lifeblood that kept him from succumbing to his injuries. Until now, the joy of finding and retrieving Yuichiro had masked the pain, but it surged back with a vengeance, demanding his attention.
Kicking off his boots and discarding his uniform to the corner of the bathroom, Mika stepped into the shower, opting for cold water to numb the persistent ache and wash away the dried blood, dirt, and remnants of combat. Before leaving, he had made sure to stash some soap in the bathroom, a small comfort he now used liberally; he wanted to greet Yuichiro properly when she woke up, not as a grimy specter of his former self.
Yuichiro Hyakuya stirred, her mind foggy as she grappled with a slight headache; the last thing she remembered was Kimizuki grabbing her and tossing her into a coffin-like box after her reckless attempt to confront Crowley Eusford, a formidable thirteenth progenitor, in a desperate bid to save her guardian.
What happened? Where am I?
As she sat up, Yuu observed her surroundings. She found herself in a king-sized, four-poster bed nestled within a clean, spacious bedroom furnished with elegant wooden night tables on either side, a long dresser, and a makeup table complete with a mirror. The ivory carpet was pristine, and a cozy fireplace with freshly cut logs crackled against the far wall. This place certainly wasn't her dorm at the JIDA headquarters; it felt almost like…
Someone's home.
The unexpected luxury of the room was soon accompanied by the sound of running water, indicating that someone was in the shower. Confused yet intrigued, Yuu hesitated to leave the bed, her curiosity piqued. Moments later, the shower was turned off, and the sound of someone stepping out reached her ears.
Deciding to stay put a moment longer, Yuu didn't have to wait long. The bathroom door swung open to reveal a pale, blond young man stepping into the bedroom. Water dripped from his chest, and his hair was wet and tousled, golden strands clinging to his forehead. When their eyes met, Yuu gasped in surprise, a rush of heat flooding her cheeks. Could it be…?
"Mika? Is that you?"
At the sound of his sister's voice, the young vampire turned, stunned to find Yuu awake and staring at him, her luminous green eyes wide and her cheeks flushed. The realization struck Mika like a bolt: he stood there clad only in a towel, a startling welcome for his sister. Yet, he was resigned to the moment and braced himself for the many questions he knew would follow.
"Yes, Yuu-chan, it's me. You don't need to be embarrassed; it's not like this is the first time you've seen me without a shirt."
To his dismay, Mika's attempt at reassurance fell flat; instead of easing her embarrassment, it only intensified it. What he said was technically true—when they were children, sharing rooms and bathrooms was a norm. But now, everything had changed. Mika had grown from the scrawny boy she once knew; his shoulders were broader, his arms, legs, and chest well-defined from relentless sword practice and years of rigorous training in the Vampire Army, and Yuu couldn't shake the effect his half-naked state had on her.
Trying her best to avert her eyes, Yuu quickly shifted the topic. "Where am I, Mika?" she asked, a hint of confusion in her voice. "Is this a dream?"
In response, Mikaela approached the bed, his warm hands gently cradling her face as a soft smile broke through his expression. The moment Yuichiro felt his tender touch, a wave of certainty washed over her—this was undeniably real.
"I assure you, it is not a dream. This is my home, my true home, and I've brought you here with me…" he replied, his voice imbued with gentle reassurance.
"You mean…?"
"Yes. This is the house where I grew up, where I lived with my parents before…" Mika trailed off, closing his eyes as if the weight of the memories became too heavy to bear. Yet he didn't need to finish; Yuu understood all too well.
"I see… and this room?"
"It belonged to my parents. My own room is rather small and lacks a proper bathroom. I was just a child the last time I used it, and the bed is tiny; I doubt you'd find it as comfortable as this one."
"But how…?"
Before she could finish her thought, Mika interjected gently. "I'll answer all your questions soon. For now, why don't you take a shower while I prepare something for you to eat? You look both famished and exhausted."
Yuu hesitated, wanting to argue, but the low growl from her stomach reminded her that she hadn't eaten since morning. Besides, her body was caked in dirt and debris from her intense duel with Crowley, and her uniform was a tattered mess. Thankfully, her sword had survived unscathed; Mika had taken great care in placing it atop the large dresser next to his own belongings.
Caught in the moment when Mika noticed her stomach growling and smiled in amusement, Yuu felt herself blush and realized she had no choice but to heed his advice.
"Okay, I'll do that."
"Good. There's an extra towel in the bathroom, and I'll have some food and fresh clothes ready for you when you're done." With that, Mika rose and exited, leaving Yuu to gather her thoughts and prepare.
The moment Mika left, Yuu climbed out of bed and made her way to the bathroom. Gazing into the mirror, she noted that, miraculously, she wasn't seriously hurt—especially given how Crowley had tossed her around like a rag doll before Kimizuki came to her aid. However, she still looked like a wreck, with strands of hair sticking out wildly from her ponytail and dirt smudged across her face.
After removing her hair tie, Yuu peeled off the remainder of her uniform and boots, tossing them atop Mika's neatly folded clothes. With almost two days since her last shower after departing JIDA headquarters for Nagoya, she could only imagine the unpleasant odor that clung to her. There was no doubt Mika, with his enhanced vampire senses, had noticed, but he was likely too polite to mention it.
Besides, he knew it was a soldier's reality—battling in the field often meant going days without bathing. As a member of the vampire army, Mika understood this all too well.
Stripping off her soiled uniform, Yuu stepped into the shower, adjusting the water to a lukewarm temperature—her preferred choice. The clean water cascaded over her skin, providing a soothing balm to her aching, fatigued body. Scanning the shelves, she noticed a generous bar of branded soap and premium shampoo and conditioner—an indulgence considering her usual experience with the bare-bones toiletries provided by the Demon Army.
Under the circumstances, it felt almost criminal not to indulge, and without hesitation, Yuu relished her time in the shower, lathering herself generously and applying ample amounts of shampoo and conditioner to her long, black hair. Back at headquarters, she had always been forced to conserve, using only the bare minimum to stay clean and presentable.
After finishing her shower, Yuichiro wrung the water from her hair, wrapped a towel around her body, and glanced at herself in the mirror. A wave of relief washed over her as she took in her reflection, pleased to see how much better she looked now that she was clean. As her gaze drifted across the bathroom counter, she spotted a make-up box and a few brushes encased in a transparent holder—likely remnants belonging to Mika's late mother. Oddly compelled to use them, Yuu felt an unfamiliar stirring within her, a stark contrast to her usual apathy towards make-up back home.
She recalled how Shinoa, acting on Guren's orders, would often have to rouse her from her bed at dawn back at headquarters, urging her to apply make-up to appear more presentable for duty. They recognized her indifference toward her appearance, knowing she wouldn't bother otherwise. The most Yuu would do for her personal grooming was to shower, cleanse her face, and gather her hair into a simple ponytail; she was utterly uninterested in the elaborate hairstyles favored by Shinoa, Mitsuba, and the other women in the Demon Army.
But this felt different. Before she could reconsider, Yuichiro opened the make-up box and retrieved the brushes, ensuring her hair was neatly pulled back. Inside the box lay a vibrant array of eye shadows, mascara, eyeliners, lipsticks, and cheek colors in various shades. This was Yuu's first attempt at applying her own make-up, yet she had observed Shinoa and Mitsuba often enough to grasp the basics. Memories surfaced of them complimenting her on ivory-colored foundation, pink lipstick, rose blush, and soft brown-pink eye shadows that enhanced her striking green eyes.
The most challenging part proved to be the eyeliner and mascara, but the rest flowed easily. Once satisfied with her handiwork, Yuichiro carefully put the make-up and brushes away before returning to the bedroom. She discovered a set of clean clothes laid out on the bed. Upon closer inspection, it was a delicate, sleeveless Victorian-style nightgown—a fitting choice, as the evening was drawing near.
After changing, Yuu contemplated exploring the rest of the house in search of Mika but decided against it. It seemed wiser to stay put and wait for him to return with dinner. She didn't have long to wait; soon, a light knock echoed on the door, and Mika stepped inside after she gave her permission.
Upon entering, Mikaela found Yuichiro sitting on the bed, clad in the nightgown he had chosen for her, gently combing her hair like a mermaid resting on the shore. He wore casual clothes—a simple button-up shirt, slacks, and slippers—with his blond hair finally dried and neatly styled. In his arms, he cradled a wooden tray adorned with a plate of food and a glass of cold water.
Seeing Mika brought an involuntary smile to Yuu's lips; it felt like ages since they had shared a moment together, especially after their brief encounter in Shinjuku when so much had gone unsaid. Questions bubbled in her mind, but she sensed it was best to take things slowly, particularly after noticing the wounds on his arms and chest when he had emerged from the shower earlier.
Just as she was about to inquire about his injuries, he spoke first. "I'm alright," he reassured her, "Don't worry about me; what's important now is that you eat something to regain your strength."
Looking at the food Mika presented, Yuu's stomach grumbled, reminding her of her hunger. It wasn't a grand feast—just a bowl of what appeared to be canned chicken soup, a small loaf of bread, and a glass of plain water with ice. Yet to a famished stomach, even the simplest meal felt like a banquet fit for royalty.
Curiosity nudged her to ask, "How did you manage to get food like this? There can't be a grocery store for miles."
Mika smiled as he placed the tray, which rested on a short stand, on the bed.
"I have my ways," he replied with a knowing glint in his eyes.
"I see…" Yuu replied, opting not to delve deeper into the matter, recognizing it was not worth pressing at the moment.
Taking the spoon next to the plate, Yuichiro began to eat while Mika moved to the fireplace. He retrieved some matches from a drawer in one of the night tables and soon coaxed the damp logs into a lively fire. Within moments, the flickering flames cast a soft glow and enveloped the room in a comforting warmth.
Noticing Mika's stillness by the hearth, Yuu turned to him and asked, "Don't you want any, Mika? Aren't you hungry?"
Mika chuckled softly. "No, it's all for you, Yuu-chan. For some reason, I really enjoy watching you eat."
A playful smile crept onto Yuu's face. "You know, food tastes better when shared, don't you think?"
With a grin, Mika left his post by the fireplace and settled beside Yuu on the bed. She couldn't quite understand why his proximity made her heart race, but when he gently touched her face, she was surprised by the warmth radiating from his hand, an unusual sensation for a vampire.
"I would join you… if I could," he said, his voice tinged with sadness.
Yuu's smile faltered as his words reminded her of the harsh truth: as a vampire, even an incomplete one, he could only survive on blood. Shinoa had mentioned this to her some time ago, but the weight of that reality had slipped her mind until now.
"I'm sorry," she murmured, her gaze dropping to the floor to escape her brother's eyes. "I didn't think…"
Mika shook his head, rising to pace by the window, lost in thought. As she observed him, Yuu finished her meal and placed the tray on the night table. It seemed the moment had come to ask the questions that had lingered in her mind since waking in an unfamiliar room.
"Mika… you brought me here, but how did this happen? How did you find me? And how long have I been out?"
Mikaela's expression darkened as he recalled the fateful encounter with the late Demon Army lieutenant, Aiko Aihara. She had revealed Yuichiro's location, though their meeting had been accidental as Shinoa's Squad made their way to Nagoya. He hadn't wanted to kill Aihara, but her stubbornness had forced his hand. If only she had played dead as he asked, she might still be alive. But the past was unchangeable, and he couldn't bring himself to tell Yuu the truth, nor could he lie outright.
"I… persuaded someone from the Demon Army to tell me where you were," he replied carefully. "She trusted me because she realized we were friends. You've been unconscious since this morning." It was a partial truth, neither wholly truthful nor entirely false.
Yuu regarded him with curiosity. "And what about you?" she pressed. "Won't your superiors notice that you're missing?"
Mika shook his head. "No. Queen Krul herself assigned me this secret mission. In the chaos of war, she created an opportunity for me to vanish and find you, on the condition that I return with you to Sanguinem and hand you over to her."
"What? Why? What does Queen Krul want with me?"
"The vampire progenitors have taken a keen interest in you since what happened in Shinjuku. I don't know if anyone ever told you this, but you are a bearer of the seraph gene. Years of experimentation have unlocked a power within you that could sway the outcome of this war for either humans or vampires, depending on who seizes you first."
Yuu stared at Mika, taken aback by his revelation. She realized she shouldn't have been shocked; back at headquarters, Kureto Hiragi had mentioned her guardian rescuing her as a child because he sought something within her, though he knew far less than Mika did. Her demon contractor, Asuramaru, had also hinted that part of her was not human.
While Yuichiro's heart swelled with joy at being reunited with Mikaela, she felt a bitter chill at the revelation that her rescue was merely a command from his queen, driven by the interests of the powerful vampire progenitors. Yuichiro Hyakuya had no intention of being wielded as a living weapon for either side. Her expression hardened as she fixed her gaze on Mikaela, her voice laced with icy resolve.
"So is that it? You've come to retrieve the seraph for your masters?"
Mikaela spun around, fury igniting in his ocean-blue eyes, although his anger was not directed at her.
"Never!" he shot back, his voice sharp as he moved toward Yuu, grasping her arms firmly but carefully, compelling her to stand.
The young ravenette winced at the strength of her brother's grip, aware that he could easily break her limbs if he wished. Yet, she noted with relief that he tempered his power, ensuring her safety—at least for now.
"I will never surrender you to anyone!" Mika hissed, her voice filled with fervor. "You belong to ME! Not the vampires, not the humans, nor anyone else! You are mine and mine alone, and I would rather die than turn you over to either side!"
Heat rushed to Yuichiro's cheeks, stirred by the fierce intensity of Mikaela's proclamation. He wasn't the first to stake a claim on her; Yuu had navigated a tumultuous love-hate relationship with her mentor, Guren Ichinose, who frequently reminded her of her debts.
Guren had saved Yuichiro and taken her in, raising her and teaching her to fight, but it came with strings attached—she owed him her life and therefore belonged to him. To him, she was no more than a treasured weapon, a tool for his ambitions, and whenever her loyalty wavered, Guren made it painfully clear to Yuichiro about the debt she owed him, especially whenever he sensed that her loyalty might falter due to tempting offers from others.
Such as the Hiragis. Kureto Hiragi, in particular.
Yet Mikaela was different. His desire to possess her stemmed not from a craving for power but a yearning for love.
"Mika…" she began, warmth flooding her cheeks as she searched his handsome face, the visage that had haunted her dreams throughout their four years of separation in Sanguinem. His once-icy-blue eyes now radiated a fierce light. "I would have never guessed… all those times you doted on me when we were children… I never realized this was how you truly felt…"
Their faces were mere inches apart, his breath ghosting over her cheek. The intensity in Mika's gaze penetrated her very soul, and before she fully comprehended the moment, his lips were on hers. The shock made her gasp, providing him the gateway to deepen the kiss, forcing his tongue past her lips.
This isn't how siblings are meant to kiss… Yuu thought, grappling with the thrill and confusion as she attempted to push him away but lacked the will to do so fervently.
When the desperate need for air finally broke the kiss, Yuu leaned back, astonished, staring wide-eyed at her orphanage brother.
"Why… why did you do that, Mika?" she panted, breathless.
"Because… it was the only way to convey my love for you, Yuu-chan. Not as a brother loves his sister, but as a man loves a woman…" His voice was soft yet filled with an aching sadness.
"Mika… I'm sorry. I had no idea. I'm elated to see you after all this time, but I can't remain here; I have a duty to my squad, to my guardian, to whom I owe my life. Please, take me back to them; they need me…"
"But I need you… just as much…" Mikaela's grip on her arms softened, his tone no longer harsh but laden with despair. His eyes, no longer filled with anger, pleaded with her, a stark contrast to the warrior she had known. He appeared on the verge of tears, fighting to uphold his composure.
"Yuu-chan… I won't stop you if you truly wish to return to the Demon Army, even after everything they've done to you. But remember this: I defied my queen and my vampire mother by refusing to return you to Sanguinem at the first chance I had. I brought you here, enduring great pain, risking my life for you. Does that mean nothing to you?"
With the weight of his words, Yuichiro Hyakuya felt a shattering inside her; she'd realized that she, too, was in love with Mikaela. She couldn't dismiss their feelings as mere sibling affection; it was clear they were something much deeper. How could she deny him anything after such a poignant confession?
"What would you have me do then, Mikaela?" Yuu asked quietly, a softness in her voice.
As if in response, Mika gently lifted her chin, compelling her to meet his gaze. Brushing his lips against hers once more, he whispered, "Stay with me… if only for tonight. After that, go where you must, do what you will; I won't stop you…"
Yuichiro was taken aback by his words. Just moments ago, Mikaela had declared he'd die rather than surrender her to the humans or vampires, yet now he was granting her freedom? With his strength, he could easily have forced her to remain by his side, but instead, he chose to let her go.
No, that was different. He had said he wouldn't give her to anyone, but he wouldn't stop her if she chose to leave on her own.
Once, someone had told him that the ultimate expression of love was letting go. As painful as it would be for Mika to watch Yuu depart, he genuinely wanted her happiness above his own desires.
"Yes, Mika… I will stay with you tonight… but please, will you come with me when I leave here tomorrow? I need to hear you say it."
Mika's eyes widened in surprise. "Go with you? You can't be serious! I can't trust the Demon Army; they're out to hunt vampires like me!"
Yuu shook her head earnestly. "I'm not asking you to trust the Demon Army, but to trust me. And my friends. They'll help us, Mika. Please, believe in them as you believe in me!"
Mika opened his mouth to protest, but then he recalled how Shinoa and her squad had bravely stood between him and the other Demon Army troops who were demanding his blood just that morning. Had they chosen to fight him instead, he wouldn't have stood a chance of escaping the battlefield alive, let alone with Yuu by his side.
"I understand…" he said. "But for tonight, let it just be the two of us; let's forget everything else."
Yuu's smile was radiant, illuminating the dim room. "Nothing would make me happier…" she whispered, her voice a melody of hope.
It was in that moment that Mika noticed for the first time that she had adorned herself with makeup, a thought that made his own lips curve into a smile.
"Yuu-chan… did you get all dolled up just for me?" he teased playfully.
Yuu's laughter tinkled like wind chimes. "I hope you don't mind, but I borrowed your mother's makeup. I couldn't resist; tonight is special."
Mika's expression grew somber. "It's fine; it's not like she'll be needing it anymore."
Yuu frowned, aware that Mika had never shared much about his parents. He'd always kept that part of his past under wraps, and she knew he didn't have the best relationship with them. The same could be said for her own parents, yet curiosity gnawed at her.
"Do you miss them?"
Mika hesitated, and for a fleeting moment, Yuu feared she had crossed a line. She opened her mouth to apologize, but he gently placed a finger over her lips, silencing her.
"It's all right, Yuu-chan, you haven't offended me. To answer your question, yes, I miss them sometimes, even if they weren't always good to me. We all cling to what's familiar, for better or for worse."
As he spoke, Mika turned and reached for what Yuu thought was a picture frame resting on the nightstand. He placed it in her hands, and as she examined it, she saw a photo of a young couple: a blond-haired man of European descent and a Japanese woman.
"These are your parents?" she asked, her voice softening.
"Yes. My father was Russian, grew up in Moscow, and my mother was Japanese, from Tokyo. They passed away when I was seven. My father was speeding while drunk one night, and my mother couldn't stop him. She threw me out of the car just before it crashed into a truck, killing them both. I was badly injured but survived, thanks to a passerby who found me and took me to the hospital. After I healed, I ended up at the Hyakuya Orphanage. That was a year before I met you."
"I'm sorry…"
Mika shook his head. "Don't be," he said firmly. "Nobody at the orphanage had it easy. Like you, I carry the seraph gene, and Krul once told me that those of us cursed with it are fated to endure tragedies. But I believe we can forge our own paths. That's why I refuse to be a pawn; I only follow orders that serve my own interests. And that interest was finding you."
"You mean…?"
"Yes. I didn't choose to become a vampire; Krul forced it on me as I lay dying at the gates of Sanguinem. I knew she saved me for her own purposes, but I also realized she did me a favor; had I succumbed to Ferid's attack that day, I would have never found you again. That hope kept me alive all these years. Without you, I would have willingly chosen death because I'd rather face mortality as a human than endure eternity as a vampire."
"Mika… I don't know what to say…" Yuu was overwhelmed.
The fact that he endured his existence as a vampire for her sake was astonishing, but she understood; if their roles had been reversed, she would have done the same.
Yuu placed the picture frame back on the table before enveloping Mika in an embrace, as though she feared losing him again. It was then she felt him flinch slightly against her, a flicker of discomfort.
"Mika, what's wrong?" she asked, concern knitting her brow.
"It's nothing you need to worry about," he replied, trying to inject confidence into his tone. But Yuu wasn't easily deceived.
"Please don't lie to me, Mika…" she urged, gently sliding her hands beneath his shirt.
He didn't resist as she examined the wounds on his chest, particularly the one where Shinya Hiragi had stabbed him earlier. The blood had clotted, and while he wasn't actively bleeding now, his injuries from battling the Demon Army hadn't healed as quickly as they should have.
Yuu's heart raced. She knew vampires, even the incomplete ones, could heal almost instantly unless infected by the cursed demon gear. Something was amiss, and her instincts screamed for her to find out what it was.
"Mika, when was the last time you fed?"
Mika's heart sank; he knew the direction this conversation was taking. He had already drained his last vial of Krul's blood, and it was becoming less effective; his wounds showed the telltale signs of it.
"Don't even think about it, Yuu. I refuse to drink your blood; I absolutely refuse to drink human blood."
"That's absurd! What have you survived on up until now?"
"I've relied on the blood of the vampire queen these past four years."
"But her blood alone can't sustain you anymore, can it?"
Mika paused, a heavy silence enveloping them, as if he were wrestling with his thoughts and ultimately deciding against answering. Yet, his silence spoke volumes. Yuu, keenly aware and sharper than he often acknowledged, sensed the weight behind his reluctance.
Recognizing that he wouldn't yield easily, Yuu leaned in and kissed him softly, her heart aching with desperation.
"Please, Mika, I can't bear to see you suffer."
Mika's body tensed momentarily before he reciprocated the kiss, though he gently pushed her away, a flicker of conflict clouding his vibrant eyes.
"You don't understand, Yuu-chan. If I drink human blood, I will become a complete vampire, an unchanging creature destined to live for eternity. There will be nothing left of the human I once was; I would transform into the very thing you despise most in this world..."
"So, you'd prefer death? After everything you did to find me? You need to know—I could never hate you, no matter what you become. You are still Mikaela, my friend… and my love."
In that moment, a spark ignited in Mika's eyes, momentarily distracting him from the weight of his predicament; a mischievous smile crept across his face.
"So, it's true… you do love me..."
"I do… and I always will. So please..."
This time, Yuu's gaze was filled with a potent mix of desperation and pleading, a silent call that Mika found impossible to resist.
"It might hurt a little. Are you certain?"
With a gentle tilt of her head, she offered him access to her elegant, swan-like neck.
As Mika lowered his head to the delicate space between her neck and shoulders, the intoxicating scent of her blood enveloped him, beckoning him closer. For nearly five years, he had fought the constant urge to drink from anyone but his vampire mother, Krul.
But she had warned him that he couldn't survive solely on her blood forever. Ferid, too, had exploited his weaknesses, always tempting him with the promise of human blood. Even now, Mika could almost hear Ferid's mocking voice echoing in his mind.
Why do you resist? Are you scared that your precious Yuu-chan will hate you?
You can't deny your thirst forever, Mika, dear! Do you know what happens to vampires who get too thirsty?
What's wrong, Mika? Don't you want to remain young and beautiful forever?
What's so exceptional about Yuichiro Hyakuya? Human beauty is fleeting, my dear Mika!
Mika clenched his eyes shut, striving to suppress Ferid's taunts. Within him, a fierce conviction blossomed; Yuu would never hate him for being a vampire. She understood that it wasn't his choice, and here she was, offering her blood willingly, promising to love him unconditionally, no matter the consequences.
Sensing his turmoil, Yuu reached up, her hand cradling the back of his head, gently urging him closer. That simple gesture melted years of torment and indecision, compelling Mika to surrender to his hunger. He opened his mouth, exposing his fangs, and sank them into the tender skin of her neck.
Yuu gasped, an unexpected rush of sensations flooding her. The bite was sharp yet strangely sweet, an odd blend of pain and pleasure that she had never anticipated. She had feared the agony would be unbearable, but she was willing to endure anything to save Mika's life. Thus, she was taken aback to discover that his bite was nothing like what she imagined.
As Mika's fangs settled in, a wave of bliss enveloped them both—a feeling so profound it coursed through every fiber of their beings. The taste of Yuu's blood surpassed Krul's in richness and allure; it was intoxicating, addictive, something he could never crave from another. Drinking from her felt like savoring the finest wine after a lifetime of mere water.
Yuu wrapped her free arm around Mika's back, her breath growing shallow as a dizzying euphoria washed over her. Had he truly consumed that much? She would have asked, but the world tilted, and her legs buckled beneath her. Sensing her predicament, Mika retracted his fangs, swiftly catching her before she fell. He cradled her in his arms, carrying her gently to bed and tenderly licking the blood from the bite he had inflicted.
This was his first time drinking from Yuu, but Mika was attuned enough to know she had given him all she could for the night. He didn't wish to hurt her further; he had absorbed all he needed, evident as his wounds from earlier healed seamlessly. Yet a peculiar stinging sensation flared in his eyes, forcing him to close them for a moment. When he opened them again, he found Yuu gazing up at him, her expression a mix of awe and wonder.
"Mika, your eyes!" she exclaimed in disbelief.
Curious, Mika turned to face the mirror on his mother's vanity. Instead of the expected ruby-red, he was astonished to see his eyes shimmering in a deep amethyst-purple hue.
"How could this be?" he murmured, but Yuu's gentle hand cupped his cheek, redirecting his attention.
"It's because of me… because I am not an ordinary human. But it doesn't matter as long as my blood can save you." Her smile radiated warmth, a reassurance in her gaze. "I love them; they're as beautiful as your blue eyes, perhaps even more so because you might be the only one in the world with them."
Yuu spoke with unwavering honesty; she had never seen anyone—human or vampire—possessing such strikingly exquisite purple eyes. Mitsuba didn't count; her contacts masked her natural hazel hue, and Guren's eyes, similarly hidden behind purple lenses, were a blend of bluish-green.
Mikaela grinned. "I'm glad you appreciate them. But more importantly, how do you feel?"
"Mmm… a little dizzy and light-headed, but it feels good; I just need a moment…"
As she waited for the dizziness to subside, Yuu fiddled with Mika's shirt, struggling to undo the buttons with mounting frustration. Noticing her impatience and sensing her growing desire, Mika couldn't help but chuckle, a wicked idea igniting in his mind.
Taking her hands, he gently set them back to her sides and began to unbutton his shirt himself, deliberately slow to tease and entice his raven-haired lover. Mika reveled in her reaction when she sat up and yanked it off his shoulders, her emerald-green eyes smoldering with desire as they roamed over his bare chest, appreciating the sculpted muscles and flawless pale skin.
Pressing her face against his shoulder, she whispered, "Mika, what have you done to me?"
Wrapping his arms around her, he replied, "Nothing different than what you've done to me, Yuu-chan. That nightgown of yours is quite provocative."
"No fair!" Yuu pouted, playfully indignant. "You were the one who picked it for me! I had no choice!"
Mmm… you're absolutely right. I wanted to see you in it, and I must say, you look exceptionally lovely," Mika purred, his voice laced with admiration as he reached down to delicately pull the hem of Yuu's nightgown upward. That's when he noticed, to his surprise, that she wasn't wearing anything beneath it.
That little tease, he thought with a grin, she's gone without panties…
"But for now," Mika continued playfully, "I think it looks far better on the floor." With a swift motion, he lifted Yuu's nightgown over her arms and head, tossing it aside with boyish enthusiasm.
As the warm air enveloped her bare skin, Yuu surrendered to the intoxicating thrill of being undressed by her blond lover. Realizing it was hardly fair for her to be the only one exposed, she began to unbutton Mika's pants, her eagerness mirroring the impatience she had shown earlier when trying to undo his shirt.
Mika was amused by her fervor and decided to indulge her, allowing her to inch him out of his clothing. Once their garments lay scattered across the floor, he seized Yuu by the arms and playfully flipped her over onto the bed, positioning himself on top. His gaze, filled with lust, roamed over her nude body, awakening memories of the tender twelve-year-old girl he once knew.
As he admired her, Mika noted how the baby fat had melted away, revealing the alluring curves of a woman. His eyes traveled along the graceful lines of her legs, waist, and hips, marveling at the contrast between his own milk-pale skin—borne from years in a subterranean vampire city and inherited from his Caucasian father—and Yuu's soft, light tan complexion reminiscent of alabaster.
Unlike other human soldiers, whose bodies bore the marks of battle, Yuu's skin was flawless, a testament to her seraph powers that granted her exceptional regenerative abilities, much like his own vampire gifts.
And her eyes… Yuu's emerald green gaze was the most captivating shade Mika had ever encountered, while her hair cascaded around her like a waterfall of black silk, echoing the beauty of a starless midnight sky. It was no wonder those were his favorite colors.
Yuu's heart raced, pounding in her chest as if it might leap free. Never had she dared to dream that she and her childhood friend would find themselves in such an intimate setting. He had always been handsome, but as a young man, his beauty had transcended to an entirely new level. The bi-racial son of a Russian father and Japanese mother, Mikaela Hyakuya embodied the finest traits of both lineages, his exotic features strikingly captivating.
If only Mika could grasp the irony of Yuu's thoughts, he might have chuckled. He had never considered his mixed heritage a blessing. Even as a child, he felt like an outsider among his peers in Japan, his wavy blond hair and icy blue eyes making him yearn for the acceptance of the pure-blooded Japanese children like Yuichiro, Akane, and the other orphans at the Hyakuya orphanage.
Mika often thought of his wavy hair as a burden to manage each morning, often wishing he had the sleek, straight black locks that framed Yuu's face. Despite Krul and Ferid's praise of his appearance, there was a subconscious attraction to Yuu's tanned skin, black hair, and vibrant green eyes—qualities that presented a different, yet complementary beauty to his own.
"My, aren't we quite impatient now?" he teased, a playful smirk dancing on his lips.
"I need you…" she whimpered softly, her voice filled with longing.
The bite marks on Yuu's neck throbbed, a reminder of their passionate past, yet somehow thrilling to her. Mika could see that blissful expression on her face, sparking his own desire to make love to her in that very moment. Yet, a shadow of caution lingered over him. He didn't want Yuu to act impulsively, risking a choice she might regret later. It was well known that the union of vampires and humans was frowned upon, and such relationships often cast both parties into disgrace. Mika, however, held little concern for the opinions of others; he had always felt like an outsider among vampires and could never return to Krul after having betrayed her for Yuu.
"Yuu-chan… are you absolutely sure? If anyone discovers us, you'll be cast out from the Demon Army in disgrace."
"I don't care… Do you care if you're cast out from the Vampire Army in disgrace?"
He didn't.
And that was all the consent Mika needed before his lips descended upon Yuu's once more. This time, she didn't resist; instead, she met his kiss with equal passion, a soft gasp escaping her lips as she felt the sharpness of his fangs brush against her skin.
Now that he had her exactly where he wanted, Mika tantalizingly explored the depths of Yuu's mouth with his tongue, a provocative dance reminiscent of lovers entwined. He skillfully captured both of her hands in one of his, pinning them gently above her head, while his other hand coaxed her thighs apart just enough to slide a finger into her warmth. Yuichiro gasped, her eyes widening as heat surged through her at the unexpected intrusion, her mind racing—since when had Mika become so audacious?
Where had he learned to kiss and caress with such expertise? she wondered.
As pleasurable as Mika's teasing of her body was, a flicker of jealousy crept into Yuu's mind, wondering how her lover had become so skilled in such intimate matters. But before she could voice her curiosity, Mika's lips left hers and found their way back to her neck, his tongue playfully tracing the spot where he had previously bitten her.
He pressed hot, open-mouthed kisses down her neck, struggling against the overwhelming urge to mark her once more. Releasing Yuu's hands, Mika's fingers glided over one of her breasts, teasing her nipple with a gentle brush of his thumb, while his mouth enveloped the other, his tongue swirling around the sensitive bud. As he slid a finger inside her, he probed deeper, searching for that hidden place of pleasure that would make her shudder with delight.
As Mika suspected, Yuu's defenses were as tight as a drum; there was no doubt she was still a virgin. Unfortunately, the same couldn't be said for him—he had lost his own virginity when Ferid took him on as both a concubine and a blood bag. If it weren't for the unmistakable look of pleasure and desire lighting up his love's face, Mikaela might have spiraled into self-loathing over his own sexual past. Everything he knew about the art of love-making had been drilled into him by his former benefactor. It was a bitter pill to swallow, but Mika found a glimmer of solace in it; if he could channel those experiences to bring joy to Yuichiro, then maybe it had all been worth it.
Mika jolted back to reality when he felt the soft caress of his lover's hands on his bottom, accompanied by her lighthearted giggle as she gave it a playful squeeze. Yuu was pleasantly surprised to discover that it was nice and firm, just like the rest of him, though it still couldn't compare to the most masculine part of him gently prodding her thigh, nudging as if seeking entry. In response, the ravenette propped herself up on her elbows, her lips finding his as she kissed him hungrily, teasing his mouth with her tongue in a sultry manner. She reached out, taking hold of his throbbing member, and began pumping him with an urgent rhythm, drawing a guttural moan from deep within him. If Yuu continued like that, Mika knew he'd be lost in a haze of pleasure before long…
Determined to prolong the moment, Mika skillfully grasped Yuu's wrist, urging her to release him. He then hooked his arms under her legs, spreading her thighs wider to make room for himself. Though this was his first time being intimate with a woman, the primal instinct inherent in both men and women since time immemorial guided him as he leaned in closer, gently pushing himself forward.
Yuichiro inhaled deeply and wrapped her arms around Mikaela as she felt him slowly enter her. She understood that relaxing would ease the discomfort, unlike remaining tense, a tip she'd picked up from the other female soldiers of the Demon Army who often spoke of their first experiences. Their chatter had been filled with hints of awkwardness and discomfort, and she'd assumed they spoke from experience.
Mika noticed the flicker of discomfort on Yuu's face and the beads of sweat forming there; he knew her first time would inevitably come with some pain. With a gentle kiss on her forehead, he whispered an apology before pulling back and swiftly thrusting into her, eliciting a startled scream. He paused, remaining still, allowing her time to adjust as her expression softened. Once she seemed more at ease, he took her left hand, intertwining their fingers as he began to rock his hips in a slow, steady rhythm.
Yuichiro, feeling emboldened, raked her long nails lightly along Mikaela's back, relishing the contrast of his toned muscles against her soft skin, prompting low groans of pleasure from him. Shifting positions, she wrapped her legs around his waist, inviting him deeper. Their lips collided again and again, the world around them fading as they became lost in each other's embrace.
"Please, Mika! More, harder!" Yuu urged with fervor, her grip on him tightening.
Once he released her hand, she encircled him with both arms, her nails digging fiercely into his back, drawing blood. Mikaela gritted his teeth, the sharp sting mingling with pleasure, amplifying the sensations as he drove into her with renewed fervor, her cries of ecstasy filling the air until everything erupted in a brilliant cascade of shimmery flames. Exhausted from their intense release, Mika collapsed atop Yuu, his breath warm and heavy on her neck. When he finally regained his breath, he smiled and playfully nibbled on her ear.
"My, who knew you could be this bold, this… lascivious, Yuu-chan?"
She laughed lightly. "Haha, the same could be said for you, Mika…" She was about to inquire about his newfound 'experience' but didn't want to dampen the mood. Besides, the aftermath of their passion had left her utterly spent, and she felt her eyelids growing heavy. Before surrendering to sleep, she murmured:
"Mika?"
"Yes, Yuu-chan?"
"I love you…"
"I love you too…" he replied, placing a tender kiss on her forehead, his captivating violet eyes the last thing Yuu saw before she drifted into a peaceful slumber.
Sometime later that night, after Yuichiro had drifted into a peaceful slumber, Mikaela found solace in lying beside her, watching her serene features as sleep enveloped her. Vampires, unlike humans, required little rest, but he chose to linger in bed, cherishing the moments he had with his beloved. By morning, he would embark on a journey to Nayoya with Yuu, a promise he had made to her. They couldn't afford to linger here, as Mikaela was acutely aware that Krul would undoubtedly dispatch her minions the moment she realized he had no intention of delivering Yuichiro into her grasp.
Yet, the young blond pushed those troubling thoughts aside; he yearned to savor the time they shared in this tranquil night. Once they stepped beyond the comforts of his home and reunited with Yuu's friends, he would contemplate their next steps. His mind began to race through possibilities when he suddenly caught Yuu's gaze, wide awake and admiring his newly changed purple eyes.
"Mika, aren't you tired?"
Mika offered her a warm smile. "Not really. I don't need much sleep, but I find joy in staying awake, especially to be near you…"
A blush crept across Yuu's cheeks as a fond memory surfaced. "Mika, do you remember how we used to laugh as kids about your parents giving you a girl's name and mine giving me a boy's? I still ponder that sometimes. Do you?"
"Well, I always thought my parents named me 'Mikaela' instead of 'Michael' because they saw me as a very feminine-looking boy. My mother mentioned it often; even Krul and Ferid confirmed it."
"Doesn't it bother you?"
"Not really. It's just a name. What about you?"
"I always believed my parents named me 'Yuichiro' because they wished for a son but were disappointed with a daughter instead."
Mika raised an interested brow. "Did you ever ask them?"
"The thought never crossed my mind; by the time it did, they were gone. Now I'll never know."
Yuu closed her eyes, falling silent as painful memories flickered in her mind. The last memory of her parents was hauntingly vivid—her father, shot dead by the police after he had attacked her with a knife, barely grazing her vitals. Her mother, in her own despair, had set their apartment ablaze before help could arrive. Had it not been for the paramedics, Yuu could have succumbed to her injuries, much like Mika, who had been sent to the Hyakuya Orphanage after recovering from his own trauma.
"I understand. But the past doesn't define us anymore. What matters is here and now."
"Here and now…" Yuu echoed, trailing off in thought. "Mika?"
"Yes?"
"When this war is over, I want to stay with you…"
"But what about your other friends?"
"Shinoa and the others hold a special place in my heart; that will never fade. But they can't compare to you. Once the war concludes, they will forge new paths, and I fear I won't find my place amongst them."
"So what are you saying?" Mika felt a stirring of apprehension but encouraged Yuu to continue. She smiled and gently cupped his cheek, her touch warm and reassuring.
"What I'm saying is… I want to be with you always…"
Mika gasped softly, his heart racing as he felt the weight of her words. So, it was as he had feared.
"Yuu-chan… do you truly understand what you're asking? You've always hated vampires, and now you want to become one?"
In response, Yuichiro kissed him again, her lips soft yet resolute. "I would become anything to be with you. If you live forever, I will too. If you regain your humanity, so will I, and we can grow old and die together."
Her words tugged at his heart, yet Mika struggled with the implications. How could he even consider subjecting the one he loved most to his curse? He had tasted the painful thirst for blood himself. Then there was the ever-present risk…
Krul had cautioned Mika that not every human successfully transitioned into their new existence. The likelihood of a successful conversion hinged on various factors, including age, health, and resilience. Moreover, the older the individual at the time of the transformation, the more agonizing the process would prove to be. It was tragically all too frequent for older, frail, or ailing humans to succumb to the unbearable pain before they could fully embrace vampirism.
Crowley Eusford was a rare exception to this grim reality; he had not undergone his transformation until after turning thirty and contracting the Black Plague—a merciless scourge that decimated over a third of Europe's population during his era. Yet, Crowley had possessed an exceptional resilience in his human life, granting him the fortitude needed to withstand the grueling ordeal of conversion.
Despite knowing Yuu was still young, vigorous, and healthy, the specter of something going awry lingered. Could he truly take that risk? Even if Yuu believed it was worth it, Mika remained uncertain. Yet deep down, he understood that if he didn't change her, he would inevitably lose her—her hair, once lustrous black, would gray, her smooth skin would wrinkle, while he would forever remain youthful and unchanging. Unless…
He could become human again, but he was haunted by the uncertainty of ever finding a way.
Mika pondered her words carefully before responding. "Yuu-chan… I love you and would do anything to see you happy, but you need to be sure this is what you truly want because once it's done, there's no turning back. Please take some time to think this through…"
Yuu considered his plea, then smiled and kissed the back of his hand.
"Okay, I will…"
Mika stifled a sigh of relief, feeling an ironic gratitude that she wasn't going to argue with him as she so often did over other matters.
"Thank you, Yuu-chan," he murmured, placing a tender kiss on her forehead. "Just sleep for now; I'll still be here when you wake up. Now that I'm with you again, I promise I'll never leave your side."
"Mmm… thank you…" she whispered, surrendering to sleep once more.
As Yuu's breathing grew steady and deep, Mika felt heavy eyelids beckoning him. In the four years they had been apart, nightmares had haunted him—visions of their family's murder at the hands of Ferid Bathory, and the darkest fear of Yuichiro perishing alone in a cold, desolate world. Though he hadn't appreciated how Yuu's guardian and the Demon Army exploited her powers, he had to admit it was their actions that had ultimately led him back to her.
Now, with her nestled in his arms again, he vowed he would never let her go.