Chapter Text
Kirei pov
"But Yukino, you and I both know that Yuu is never gonna ask Shinoa on a date."
I explained with wild gestures to my best friend, Yukino, my plan to get Yuu and Shinoa on a blind date with each other. She walked alongside me, laughing at my preposterous ideas, putting her input wherever she deemed required. I will admit, there were a lot of holes in my plan.
"No Kurei, we can't have Yuu show up on a horse- No! Why? Because it's ridiculous!" She shook her head fondly, smiling. This was why she was my best friend.
Suddenly, she looked up with an incredibly loud and obnoxious gasp, grabbing my arm like she was about to give up the ghost. Shaking me vigorously, she pointed. And I saw exactly why.
Guren Ichinose, the hottest guy in the Moon Demon Company.
Yukino and I were both part of the Moon Demon Company, but oddly enough, we never actually got to see the legend himself. He was talking to Yuu, and, to our surprise, smashed his head in with his foot.
Falling on his butt, Yuu rubbed his head, glaring up at the dark haired man towering above him. And grumbled even more when Guren bent down to ruffle the kid's hair.
We were too far away to hear the conversation going on, unfortunately. But we were both frozen in place, jaws comically and obliviously on the ground.
That was, until Mikaela appeared behind Yuu, and pointed in our direction. My jaw snapped shut, and I smiled, waving to the adorable blonde vampire. We were a few years older than the two trouble-makers, and have come to see them as family. Their previous family consisted of children younger than them, so it was a new experience for them to have two older sisters. I took that role lovingly and firmly. Keeping all those kids on track was basically my new job.
Kimizuki, Yoichi, Shinoa, Mitsuba, Yuichiro, and Mikaela. And then Yukino. My family. The thought made me beam as Mika and Yuu made their way over to us. Glancing over at Yuki, I gently closed her mouth with my finger. Didn't want THE Moon Demon Company Hottie to see that now, did we?
"Yo, Rei! Yuki! How are ya?" Yuu called before coming to a swift halt in front of us. Being 5' 7", he towered over me quite a bit, but that didn't bother me. I may be petite, but I could beat him in a fight any day.
"Hiya Yuu, Mika! I'm just dandy, thank you." Yukino, still stunned by the authoritative presence 5 metres away, just gave a stuttered nod. I chuckled, shaking my head.
"Yuu," Mika spoke. A questioning, "hmm?" escaped Yuu's lips before his emerald eyes widened in understanding at the unspoken statement.
"Right, duh! How could I forget? Guren wants to meet you two!"
I blinked. He what? Guren wanted to meet us? Like, us - us? Why-
But before my brain could conjure up any possible reason, be it good or bad, that Guren Ichinose would want to talk to US, Yuu had grasped my hand, grabbing for Yuki's with his other, and dragged us in the direction of Guren.
Mika giggled softly behind us, bright red eyes alight with humor. Apparently we were funny.
Finally, we were face-to-face with the tall dark and handsome man himself. His raven hair blew gently in the breeze as he stared somewhere off into the distance. He was a picturesque view of authority and beauty. And then he looked in our direction, calculating gaze shifting to meet my own.
Goodness I could stare into those violet eyes all day.
Before I knew what was happening, I was falling. From my peripherals, I could see that Yuki was falling too. Why were we falling exactly? I had no idea. My mind couldn't register. I just heard Yuu yell my name, sensed Mika lunge for me, before all faded to black.
~♡~
Warmth. That was all I felt as I blearily opened my eyes. Soft hazel eyes met with concerned violet as I gazed above me. A firm grip was gently wrapped around my shoulders. I appeared to be sitting on the ground, while the upper half of my body was leaning against the dark fabric of Guren's uniform.
Wow.
My face grew red.
"Well, it looks like Sleeping Beauty One is awake." I felt the deep rumble of his voice vibrating through his chest. That alone was enough to make my heart beat ten times faster than it should, and I scrambled up out of his hold.
Too fast, might I add.
My vision blurred as I swayed, and I brought a hand to my head. Guren reached forward alarmingly, before Mika grabbed my elbow, preventing another humiliating tumble.
"Woah, careful there Rei, take it easy ok? You must have fainted. Yuu went to get you and Yukino some water. Here, sit down." He took both my hands, guiding me to an upturned box to sit on.
"Wait, Yuki! Is she OK? The last I saw of her before I- well, before I fell, she-"
"Relax, she's fine. I got her right here." Guren spoke, jerking his head down to the motionless figure curled in the crook of his right arm.
A motionless figure that, upon closer inspection, was not so motionless. She began to stir, and I exhaled a relieved breath I didn't even realize I was holding. Thank goodness he caught her too.
I groaned, dropping my head into my hands. "How embarrassing. Lieutenant Colonel Guren, I apologize for my, uh, abrupt behavior."
"Don't worry, it was an accident. And not the first time a young lady has fallen for my charm."
Did he just-
I blinked. Huh. Guess this guy had a sense of humor. Even more attractive. Woah, Kirei, stop it! Don't think like that! He's your superior, not some highschool romance.
I groaned, dropping my head to my palms once again.
Guren looked at me with quizzical interest before shifting his attention to the groggy form rubbing her eyes below him. She blinked, took in her surroundings, shrieked, and fell.
Luck was not on her side, as Mika was currently stationed at MY side. Away from Yukino. Poor girl.
But on the bright side, Yuu arrived with water, and assisted the troubled woman to her feet, setting her down beside me. I took the water graciously, smiling up at the black haired trouble maker. Sipping my deliciously cold water, I gently nudged Yuki with a devious smirk, causing her to swallow - but not without trouble - and look at me with murder in her eyes.
I grinned mischievously. But, the Lieutenant Colonel was present, so the games would have to wait.
"Special Private Kirei Kirishima, and Special Private Yukino Nakamura." We stood from our crates, at attention.
Guren gazed down at us fondly.
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you." Wait, us? He wanted to meet me and my partner in crime? This couldn't be good. But by the way his amethyst eyes looked at us with adoration rather than spite, I relaxed.
"I've heard much about you two. I'm surprised you managed to get Yuuichiro and Mikaela to warm up to you so fast." An offended gasp and nervous chuckle sounded behind us.
"The youngest member to ever have joined our ranks, Yukino Nakamura.” He turned in her direction. “I'm surprised someone so young had reached the caliber you had in record time, great job. The Moon Demon Company is lucky to have had you within its ranks all these years." I smiled at the faint blush that crept up Yuki's cheeks. Then he turned to me.
"Kirei Kirishima. The She-Wolf on the battlefield. Accepted into the Hyakuya family as their oldest sister, and adored by all who come in contact with her smile. Or so I've heard. The smile part I can see is true. However, I'd like to test the She-Wolf part myself someday. I have no doubt you'll live up to my expectations."
Bright hazel eyes grew wide as my lips parted in awe. Upon hearing Yuu's adorable grumbling behind me, I whirled, laughing while reaching up to ruffle his hair. Granted it was fairly hard considering my short height...
Never in my life have I received such a compliment. And as I playfully lunged towards Mikaela as my next victim, I heard Guren's angelic laugh behind me. I was going to like this man. He made me feel safe, secure, worthy. Like family.
~♡~
Author pov
"Guren~ I have some exciting news!" Shinya Hiragi pushed aside the opening flap of the tent Guren was residing in, gazing down at a battle plan.
The snowy haired man - Guren's best friend - was taking a bite of toast while waving a small white envelope in his hand. That envelope had the head of the Japanese Imperial Demon Army seal on it, so it must've been important.
Upon further inspection, Guren found out that it was indeed important, and called for a small meeting. Yuuichiro Hyakuya, Shinoa Hiragi, Yukino Nakamura, and Kirei Kirishima were all called to the big white tent in the middle of their camp. The battle plan tent. (I know, lame title. But that's what it is so…).
Kirei pov
Guren stood before the four young and eager soldiers to discuss the plan given to them by the head of the Vampire Extermination Unit. Mikaela was there too, but he technically wasn't part of the Company.
"Alright soldiers, you're probably wondering why I've called you all here." I did find it odd how they called just us four exclusively. Especially since we were all part of two different groups. But I guess that didn't matter, as it was the Unit’s head who had made the order.
"You have been given a special order to go on a recon mission. However, this mission is incredibly dangerous, and might result in a battle. That is why I have called my four, five with Mikaela, best fighters for the job." Ohhh, that made sense. We did work amazingly well as a team too. I just hoped that Mitsuba, Yoichi, and Kimizuki were OK with it, as well as Yuki's and my team. However, it seemed to already be taken care of. Guren never misses a beat, does he.
After a quick run-down of the mission, we were all sent to our tents to prepare. Except me.
"Special Private Kirei Kirishima." I halted, turning around to address him.
"Yes, Lieutenant Colonel Guren?"
"I have a very special job for you." Oh? What kind of job, I wondered. By the look on his face, I figured I'd like it.
"My, Guren. You sure do have quite some body-guard women,” a smooth voice interrupted from behind me. “Sayuri wouldn't stop crying when I told her we were going on a top secret mission without her."
"Ugh, you weren't supposed to tell her in the first place, how many times do I have to tell you Shinya?"
Shinya? My heart skipped a beat.
"I know, but they cornered me. You know how intense Shigure can be. And don't get me started on Mito, even Norito wouldn't let me go without an explanation."
"Oh Shinya, you're too soft." Guren chuckled lightly.
It was then that Shinya noticed my presence. He strode in my direction, bending forward in a charming way. He stopped slightly ahead and to my left, gazing at me intently. Calculating stare, analyzing demeanor, this guy was definitely of a higher caliber than me. And where had I heard that name before?
But oh, his eyes. His intense, stormy blue eyes. They gazed into my soul, delving into the very window of my heart. I faltered, breath hitching as he spoke.
"Oh my, is this the legendary She-Wolf of the battlefield, Kirei Kirishima? What an honour it is to meet you." He took my hand, gloved fingers gently holding mine as he brought it to his lips. Heat rose up my cheeks as I stood there in shock.
"Shinya, this isn't the 15th century, you don't have to act like that." Guren's voice rang out above the beat of my heart pounding in my ears.
Shinya shifted slightly to the side, looking over his shoulder, still holding my hand.
"Aww, but Guren, you couldn't possibly say I can't greet this lovely angel in such a manner. Her beauty and grace precedes the legend."
As he looked back at me, his sapphire blue eyes held such passion and warmth, so much curiosity, that I lost my grip on the world.
My eyelashes fluttered, as once again, my vision faded to black.
~♡~
"Ngh, wha-?" I tried to sit up, but was promptly held down by a gloved hand. And then a low voice sung in my ear. Even with my eyes closed I recognized that faint gravel in the nether tone to be Guren's.
"Easy now princess, we don't want you getting up too quick again." Again? My eyes cracked open, revealing a bright and blinding light above me. Guren stood at my left side, gloved hand gently pressed to mine as I lay in- wait, mid-air? Since when could I float?
I forced my eyes open more, and as I gained my senses back, I felt strong and careful arms looped under my knees and around my shoulders. Somehow, they felt even more gentle than when Guren had caught me, two days earlier. They held me like a porcelain doll, as if even the slightest move would put a crack in my fragile skin.
But if Guren wasn't the one holding me then…
"Oh dear, don't tell me this has happened before."
Shinya. His smooth, intoxicating voice lacing over me like a warm blanket on a cold night. My head resting gently against his chest, I could hear the soft beat of his heart.
"It appears our She-Wolf isn't as tough as they make her out to be." Was that a bit of a mocking tone I could hear in Guren's voice? Well I never! If I wasn't suspended in the air - and if my head would stop spinning - I'd sock him in that pristine perfect face of his.
Once again that delicate voice sounded above me as Shinya spoke. An immaculate voice that held such passion and adoration.
"Ah Guren, don't be like that! She may be mighty, but even a wolf isn't made of armour. We need to protect this diamond crown just as much as she can protect us."
A diamond crown.
Impossible to break, but coveted by all.
Hmm. What a thought.
Shinya set me down gently, after making sure that I was okay to stand on my own. Guren made well sure that I wasn't going to faint on him yet again. He needed me for a very important mission, after all.
And then once again, I stood before Guren awaiting my instructions. This time, Shinya was placed at Guren's side.
"Kirei. As you know, we are going on a recon mission to gather very important Intel on the vampires' next strike location. However, things could very well go south. Especially with Special Private Hyakuya present…" He added in a whispered grumble. "You already know that Shinya is our sniper, the best of the best." Shinya playfully swat Guren's shoulder, mumbling something about him flattering him again. The corners of my mouth tilted upwards.
"I'll need you in charge of covering Shinya while he’s taking down any possible threat. A sniper is a valuable asset to have, but when in action, they’re vulnerable to attacks from behind. Don’t look at me like that Shinya, you said it yourself.”
"So basically, you're asking the diamond She-Wolf to be my body-guard? Guren, why do you treat me so~".
Diamond She-Wolf? Now that's new.
Ignoring Shinya's remark, Guren continued. "Your kusarigama is a long-range weapon that is also capable of close-combat. The perfect weapon to prevent any harm from befalling Shinya. I don’t need this idiot dying on me."
Ahhh, so that's what this is all about. Guren needs me to make sure his closest comrade doesn't die. I'm honored.
"Of course, Lieutenant Colonel Guren." I reply with courtesy.
"Guren~" Shinya’s question was met with an exasperated sigh. "Yes Shinya?"
"You know I’m more careful than you let on. I’m not dying anytime soon-"
Shinya was interrupted by an abrupt swish of cloth signaling the tent flap being opened. Norito Goshi appeared in the doorway. And he let himself in.
"Major General Shinya Hiragi and Lieutenant Colonel Guren have both been requested to join the strategy team to discuss further plans regarding the recon mission. I hope all is going well in he-" he stopped as his eyes landed on me. Down, on me. Really down. I'll admit, my height sometimes caused me to get overlooked.
"My my Guren, what do we have here?" I looked up at Goshi, taking in his strong features and masculine jaw. Definitely a ladies man.
"My what a cutie, you didn't tell me you had such a lovely lady companion." I gaped as my face went red.
"Or is she possibly a friend of Shinya?" He wiggled his eyebrows up at the snow white haired gentleman beside Guren.
"I'm afraid she belongs to no one," Shinya shrugged. “The famed She-Wolf isn't so easily tamed." He smiled at the tall blonde. The blonde who looked incredulously down at me. His eyes became alight with curiosity and wonder.
"You mean this angelic being before me is the one and only She-Wolf of the battlefield? The one who's slain dozens, captured the hearts of men and vampires alike? Who's skills precede that of our finest soldiers?"
I had that many titles? Goodness men were odd.
"Yes Goshi, that is she." Guren seemed so done with all the added dramatics; however, I caught the hint of amusement behind his eyes.
"Well then Miss She-Wolf, it is a pleasure to meet you."
"The pleasure is all mine," I replied with a curt nod.
Goshi struck a hand over his heart. "She speaks to me! Oh, what an angelic voice she has! We have truly been blessed with a wonderful gift of heaven. Guren, Shinya, I'm afraid I can no longer live in this world! Please, say good things at my funeral." Ever the dramatic type I see.
A surprised squeal escaped from Goshi as Guren moved forward to roughly grab him by the shoulders, spinning him towards the door, pushing until he was all the way out.
"Yes yes, I do believe you have flattered our guest quite enough, don't you think? You've delivered your message, Shinya and I will be right there. Good bye."
Task done, Guren dusted off his gloves and turned towards me.
"So, Kirei. Do we have an agreement?"
I glanced over at Shinya, who had his chin resting on the back of his hands expectantly. Looking back over at Guren, I nodded.
"I'd be honored." Guren smiled. That oh-so sweet smile of his. I turned around to hear Shinya lightly chuckle into his hand, pure joy and excitement alight in his graceful features. Happiness danced along mine.
~♡~
Making my way back to the tent that Yuki and I shared, I couldn't stop thinking about those beautiful blue eyes, the perfect snowy-white hair, that fine-tuned voice that held so much fun yet, so much authority.
Major General Shinya Hiragi.
Wait-
Maj- HIRAGI!?
I stumbled into my tent, swiftly shutting the flap behind me. Breathing hard, I turned to Yukino. THE Lord Shinya Hiragi. Goodness I was so blind! So stupid! How did I forget? The Hiragis were the most powerful people ever, and I was…
I was now essentially the protector of one of them. My breath hitched, and I sat down.
Yuki hurriedly made her way in front of me, asking question upon question upon question.
"So, what did he want? Are you OK? You seem to be sweating a lot right now. Is Guren happy with you? Did you do something bad? Tell me girl, tell me!!!" She began shaking me aggressively.
"Okay, okay. I'll tell you everything. Now would you please stop shaking me? I'm gonna throw up." I laughed.
And so I told her everything.