Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Heavy flakes of snow flurried relentlessly, laying upon the untouched Earth a blanket of ice, cold, death. Unlucky souls caught in the flash blizzard quickly became lost in her harsh grasp. Fear clung to the air, thick with the uncertainty following the weather that had been brought upon so suddenly. Superstitious rumblings hypothesized that something terribly evil would soon rear its head in concession with the horrible weather. A direct sign from God, warning all to take heed of an unholy newborn’s arrival. 

Soft cries filled the stone walls housing a quaint family in hiding. Safe from the harsh touch of the snow outside, the bearer delicately wraps the irritated infant in a plush blue cloth. Gently, she strokes the infant's forehead, disturbing the thin strands of white hair tickling the baby's forehead. 

"Hush my sweet Touya, Mommy’s got you~" Her voice, like the rocking motion of her arms, is soothing. The cries are lost to the calming nature of the woman. "Such a sweet, delicate angel~" He stirs, eyelids raising slowly to gaze upon the comforting voice. Vibrant azure orbs, a reflection of the blue moon that glistened above, searched her expression curiously. 

"Oh honey~" Her voice lighthearted and excited with the prospect that she was holding the most precious, beautiful being in the world. "He has your eyes~" Standing menacingly behind her, was the current king. A brash man with no sensibility towards others, no empathy, and no pride to share with anyone besides himself. However, standing here, gazing upon the small being in his wife’s arms, he couldn’t help but smile. 

"So he does." Delicately taking the baby in his arms, the king proudly held the infant like a trophy to brag about. "Welcome to the world my son. My Touya Todoroki."

Blessed with the immortal blood of royalty, Touya advanced at an accelerated rate compared to other children. Mastering the concepts of speech and physical movement, harnessing the medial tasks conjoined with daily human activity quickly became second nature to Touya. However, these weren’t the skills Enji desired to imprint upon him. Touya was destined to rule a species that thrived on consuming the blood of others. While necessary for their prolonged existence, taking something so valuable by force proved dangerous by design. Therefore, in Enji’s eyes, the only skill Touya was required to learn as a budding leader, was the necessary skill to survive. 

"Concentrate." Pacing behind Touya in an irritated fashion with his arms folded behind his back was Enji. Having been training Touya’s senses for the past few hours, he was growing fed up with how little progress the young prince was making. "Focus your hearing on the sounds surrounding you." Halting his movements to keep from disturbing the prince’s trial. "What do you hear?" The prince, keeping his focus on the echoing sounds, cleared his mind of all other infractions. 

"I hear…." Vibrating with a delicate strumming, Touya chased the oscillating wave. "Your heartbeat." Furrowing his stern brow, Enji’s harsh gaze tore through Touya’s conscious mind. 

"What else?" Asked with an impatience that Touya couldn’t ignore, the prince fell into his instincts, letting the superior sense guide him.

"I hear a bird taking flight…thirty meters to the south. Four feathers have fallen from its body, raining onto the crunching leaves below." Enji couldn’t hide the pride thrumming in his heart. "Your heart rate increased, father."

"Quit focusing on me." The stern delivery of the demand quickly wipes the smirk from Touya’s face. "Focus your energy on scoping out potential prey, or more importantly, threats." Releasing a deep breath, Touya honed in to every vibrating oscillating around him. Each sound was so uniquely different. The rate at which they rippled through the air, how delicately or roughly they crashed down upon him dictated how easily he discerned the source. With each wave touching his eardrums at different accelerations, not only did he find it easy to separate each sound, but the rate of forced entry greatly deafened Touya’s ability to focus. Straining his attention, the prince’s brow knit together in pain.

"Touya, keep your focus." Clenching his jaw tightly together, Touya tried to see past the excruciatingly loud vibrations surrounding him. "Don’t lose sight of your goal." Feeling the growing pressure weighing upon him, Touya let out the stress he was harboring in a heavy breath.

"Father, I can’t do it." Shamefully surrendering to his weakness, Touya shifted in defeat to face his father. "I will never be able to hear as well as you can." The king, disappointed with how quickly his son gave up, bore down upon him with his signature stern glare. "I’m sorry father…" The weight of Enji’s glare forced Touya’s head down in despair. The king eyed his son, feeling the hesitant beating of the prince’s heart. The fear that he’d disappointed his father affected the usually calm rhythm of the organ. Shaking the stern expression from his face, Enji replaced his disappointment with a smile.  

"Do not apologize." Carrying a little more weight than he intended, his command forced Touya’s muscles to jolt with uncertainty. "You will get there, do you know why?" Delivered in a much softer tone. Touya’s head rose to meet the proud expression on his father’s face. "Because you are my son." Playfully ruffling Touya’s white locks, the prince’s disappointment quickly vanished with his delighted giggles. "You are destined to conquer this world and until you’ve mastered your powers, I’ll be right by your side cheering you on." The indescribable glow that filled Touya’s eyes lightened the feeling in Enji’s heart, the organ feeling warm from Touya’s wide smile that followed. 

"I’ll make you proud, Papa!" With how excitedly Touya jumped into his arms, Enji knew there would be no further training today. His son, although adept, had emotionally decided to discard any remaining focus on the matter. 

"I know you will." Extending his hand out, he graced Touya with another rare genuine smile. "Now, let’s go home." 

While Enji was focused on making Touya perfect by his standards, Rei had another agenda. 

"Touya, my dearest angel, come and sit with Mommy." The prince, who was entertaining himself with his toys in front of the burning fireplace, groaned in detest. 

"Now?" He asked with a roll of his eyes, missing the temperature drop in the room.

"Yes, darling, Mommy’s going to teach you more about humans." Shifting on the spot, his icy gaze met hers. 

"I don’t want to." Taking hold of his gaze, a vibrant crimson hue buried the natural blue of his iris. "Father says that I am superior to them, therefore I see no need to lower myself to their level." Despite the anger she felt growing inside of her, she remained calm.

"Touya, you must learn to assimilate, else you’ll die." Her threat took the red from his eyes, bringing him back to his calm teal.

"Why? Can’t I just-"

"Dearest Firefly, although they are simple, weak creatures with no active means of defense; they are dangerous." Questioning her statement, he raises his eyebrow. "Human beings are fickle, selfish creatures. They separate themselves based on their differences, segregating and snuffing out those who the “privileged” deem unfit for their utopian society. How much stronger you think you are in comparison will mean nothing when you’re alone, staring down a mass of humans poised and ready to crush your light beneath their feet." Unintentionally, her honesty made his heart rate skyrocket with fear. He scrambled to his feet, sliding into the chair next to her, eager to consume the knowledge she intended to pass down.

"How do I survive them, Mother?" Grabbing a book that she had written based off hundreds of years of observation and sliding it over to Touya, she delivered a simple answer. 

"You learn when to fight and when to hide."

Housing the knowledge passed down by his parents, Touya studied humans on his own accord. He waited, maturing into his teenage years by mortal standards, observing from the shadows for the perfect time to strike. Remaining docile for one hundred years, Touya finally gathered his strength, releasing his subordinates to wreak havoc upon the human race. 

Crimson eyes alight with blood soaked determination peered down upon the battlefield, hungry for victory. White locks, inherited from the late queen cascaded down Touya’s forehead like a frozen waterfall. Spiked and flowing without purpose, the borderline translucent locks were longest in the front while remaining shorter at the sides and the back of Touya’s head. Brushed lightly to the left side, they accentuated the blood soaked orbs like a feathered frame, metaphorically encasing the perfect vision like a sealed photograph. Resting with poise among the spiked locks, glistening under the light of the moon, was a singular black crown. Simple in design, yet still prominent in dictating his status, the crown was spiked, circling the entire circumference with no extra jewels, filigree, or flare present. Delicate skin, pale like the purest porcelain, was dressed with a long black coat whose coat tails swayed with the slightest movement of Touya’s body. Beneath the coat hid a neatly pressed white long sleeved shirt, a pair of black trousers that fit tightly against Touya’s legs, and a pair of long leather boots that rested mid shin. Dressed for battle and retaining the knowledge necessary to win, Touya was certain they would be triumphant.

However, just as his mother had predicted, the humans stood with the intention to snuff out his light. Despite inhabiting the Earth for one hundred and eighteen years, Touya’s years of consistently burning bright, like the blue flame he was born to be, couldn’t prepare him for the destruction the humans would cause in retaliation.

On the eve of the red moons rising, crimson tears will stain the ground. Messily, they will scatter across the barren Earth in a horrific display of dominance. Screams of anguish will paint the wind with a symphony of terrorized melodies. Inescapable sounds linked to the realization that to quake in submission would mean defying certain doom. Stubborn with the resolve of victory, the conflict will tear the planet at her seams. The Earth will bleed with the dying life force of its inhabitants, a silent cry for the senseless slaughter to cease. Passive at heart, the Earth hadn’t meant for conflict like this to break out on her behalf, especially not to this degree. 

"Hold the line! We cannot let any of them through!" Branded with blades of shining silver, mortal men stood tall in defence of everything they held sacred.

"Archers, prepare thy arrows!" Twinkling under the light of the red moon, the silver tips pointed threateningly towards the advancing enemies. Weapons become taught with the desire to strike and thin out the forces ahead. 

"Hold." Fingers itched with anticipation to set flight to the docile arrow, throbbing with anxiety from the decreasing range of the incoming targets. Vibrating with the thundering rhythm of footsteps, the Earth trembled with fear, shaking her mortal inhabitants with one final, but poor, attempt to surrender. 

"Fire!" Silver tipped arrows strode across the sky, painting a rainbow of directed, synchronized assault in their wake. What minor fleeting beauty they may have held, quickly became consumed by their violent hunger. Waves of approaching enemies slunk to the Earth, feeding the planet their most sacred crimson juice. 

"Attack!" Sharpened blades rose in defiance, hungry to taste the immortal blood of the opposition. Disturbing the calming nature of the planet in an equivalent manner, the mortals advanced. Hungry for retribution, their blades danced under the red moonlight, striking down enemy after enemy. 

"Advance!" Hearty commands echoed out over the roar of the battlefield.

"For freedom! Advance!" Metal clanged against metal, interlocking enemies into a forced dance of skill and accuracy.

"Don’t let your guard down!" Forces from either side folded to the Earth, soaking her in mass with depleting life energy.

"Keep pushing! For victory!"

Poised at the receiving end of the bloody conflict stood a strong, stone structure. The bowels of which housed the inherent target of the mass destruction. An immortal king born from fire and ice. Forged from birth to lead his subjects with the strength and intensity of the harshest element harnessed by man. A pure blue flame. Captivating to gaze upon, but hungry for destruction. An idea that bloomed from the previous king, and the rightful heir to the Todoroki legacy. Touya Todoroki. The man charged with leading the assault, and the only soul present on the battlefield that would survive this fight regardless of the outcome. The king’s loyal assistant, Kurogiri, would ensure it. 

Having witnessed the prince blossom from a fledgling vampire into the king he was currently, Kurogiri pledged his protection to the young Todoroki. Promising to care for the king until his life expired, he would do whatever it took to keep the king from harm's way. 

He was by no means a fighter, his talent fell in transportation and service. Touya, knowing this, stationed his most loyal comrade at the centre lookout tower. Leaving the wiser vampire tasked with observing the battle, strategizing if necessary, but most importantly; his sole purpose was to pull Touya from the field in the event things got sketchy.

Rivalling the glow of the moon above, a pair of calculating yellow irises swept over the chaos unfolding. Ignorantly glistening with the optimistic belief that victory would be clenched in favour of his king, the visionary’s belief quickly drained from his gaze. With the miscalculation of an unexpected advancement, he watched in painful silence as ally after ally fell to the opposing forces. 

"Not good." A leader with the personality of two bathed the Earth with his immortal blood, his subordinates quickly following suit at the hand of the mortal invaders. 

"Another down." Teeth, sharpened at birth with the sole purpose of piercing the flesh of the innocent, drug across his bottom lip anxiously. Losing two factions of an army in a pittance of time would not bode well with his king.

"Do not give in! Use any force necessary to push back!" His command held no authority, it was uttered only to keep the morale of his allies raised. Retreating after administering the command, he rushed away from the conflict. Maneuvering from his station at the watchtower, he burst into the stone castle stronghold they were fighting to protect. 

"My lord!" Rushing frantically to his king’s side, Kurogiri knelt against the stone floor. Without sparing the lesser vampire a glance, the king folded his arms over his chest. Deep, red gaze locked with the scene unfolding outside his castle, the rush of violence sent his instincts into a flurry of sensations, eager to tear through the enemy lines at the drop of a pin.

"My lord, they’re advancing at a much faster rate than we expected! They’ve disbanded warriors brandishing silver weapons!" Sending a threatening glare back at the kneeling vampire, Touya’s brow knit together. 

"How is that possible? The human’s had no access to silver weaponry of any kind. We made sure of it." Gaze returning to the war outside, Kurogiri got back to his feet. 

"I couldn’t fathom an explanation my lord, but I fear that a full retreat is in our cards. Bubaigawara and Kenji’s units have fallen. Himiko Toga’s unit is taking massive casualties as we speak, and general Shigaraki is wounded. What say you my lord, shall I order a retreat?" 

Thinking logically, Touya considered each of his comrades like a piece on a game board. His front lines were fortified by a wall of fighters, these were the blood thirsty vampires. Vampires who would binge on human blood simply because they could. They were savage, held no remorse for other lives, and were, for lack of a better word, expendable to Touya. That’s not to say that he didn’t feel guilty over their sacrifice, it was his sole mission to ensure his species walked away with close to the same population as he’d entered the battle with. These vampires were led by the powerhouses that Touya trusted most. They were logical, yet ruthless. Where the savage vampires were more akin to acting before thinking, these vampires would consider every option before leading the charge. They were deadly intelligent, and they held slightly more power than the other vampires. 

To name a few, these vampires consisted of Tomura Shigaraki; a general in Touya’s army, who was currently being dragged off the battlefield because of his injuries. Another was Atsuhiro Sako, a magician of sorts who could whip up contraptions, medicines, and potions to help aid the combat. Touya would ensure that most, if not all, of these souls would leave the battlefield alive. They were his best friends after all and the human’s would certainly pay a toll for taking two of them from Touya. 

"Master Touya?" Kurogiri had no idea how heavily the weight of tonight's casualties weighed upon Touya’s shoulders. Missing the twitch of his king’s lips, he was unfamiliar with how painful the king’s heart thrummed with the news that two of his comrades fell to mortal hands. However, looking at the pieces left on the board and considering how heavily armed the mortals appeared, Touya let his mother’s wisdom shower over him.

"You must learn when to fight and when to hide."

Accepting her terms, the king glanced back at the patient man behind him. Gracing Kurogiri with lavender irises only royalty were blessed with, he delivered his command.

"Order a full retreat. All vampires are required to muster at the shelter. Keep them there until I arrive." Having made his point, the king’s dangerous violet eyes returned to catch the final moments of the battle unfold.

"My lord, what are you to do? Shall I stay to assist?" With a shake of his head, Kurogiri took a step back. The immense blood lust stemming from his king began pooling at the bottom of his feet.

"That’s not necessary, go and deliver my order." Shadows, hungry for vengeance swirled dangerously at Touya’s feet, lapping at his shins with an excitement that forced Kurogiri to retreat from the king. "I will end this war. Mark my words." With a final bow of understanding, Kurogiri fled from the growing darkness his king would unleash upon their enemies, eager to pass on the command administered and retreat from the battlefield before Touya consumed them all. 

Nonchalantly, the king wandered out onto the battlefield, ensuring his comrades had enough time to flee from his growing power. Stepping onto the blood soaked ground, Touya ignored the pre victory celebration the mortals engaged in. With a raise of his arms, he let the overwhelming darkness spread. Rolling over the battlefield, the shadows consumed everything like a sweeping fog. It crept over the land, biting at the mortal’s ankles, slowly creeping up their shins, eager to devour their fear and add to its mass. 

"What is this?!" Wide eyes remained locked on the growing darkness, a few mortals trying to physically shake the illusionary shadows from their bodies. 

"What’s happening?!" Choosing to retreat, a group of mortals tried to flee from the darkness, only to have it grow like a wall behind them, capturing them in a ball of shadows. 

"Light! Someone produce a light! It’s the only thing that can expel shadows!" Frantically, the mortals searched for their equipment. Fumbling objects into the darkness, they panicked, their frustrations fueling the growing fear around them as they desperately tried to light a fire. 

"Got it!" A small flame lit, only to be snuffed out as quickly as it had sparked to life. 

"It’s no use, it’s too dark!" The exclamation made the shadows dance with delight, eager to feast upon their never ending fear. 

"What do we do now?!" Terrified of the impending outcome, mortals began to group together, seeking some sort of comfort from their allies.

"How quickly the mighty fall when there’s no light to guide them~" A lone human hit the ground, being pulled aggressively into the swirling darkness. His screams instantaneously muted with how quickly Touya devoured him.

"Oh merciful God, please save us from-" Another man fell to the shadows, his precious blood draining onto the ground, while the murderer ran his tongue sensually along the length of his index finger. 

"Group together men! He can’t harm us if we’re large in numbers!" Another man commanded the humans seeking protection by sticking as closely together as possible. Shaking in fear from the voluptuous laughter carried through the darkness, every mortal trapped within the confines of Touya’s heavy darkness felt no reassurance that their strategy would prove effective. 

"Look at yourselves!” Touya mocked. "Your feeble attempt at bulking up will be no match to the strength of my darkness!” Irises now ablaze with crimson hunger, Touya dove through the thick wall of shadows. Mercilessly, he tore through the weak flesh of the mortal's throats. Laughing evilly as blood splattered over his body, a sick testament to each life he took. Within seconds, a group of five fell to the Earth. Their blood eagerly lapped up by the soil below, seeping deep into the Earth’s veins like an unwanted dosage of reality. 

"Brace yourselves men!" Someone shouted, hearing another man wail in defeat from the swift strike of Touya’s claws. 

"Raise your weapons and prepare yourself to counterstrike!" They foolishly yelled, wincing as another comrade fell to the shadows grip.

"Foolish mortals." Touya spat, stopping his charge momentarily. A human, desperately clinging to his last thread of life, in his grip. "The only way that you will survive my counter strike is by surrendering to me." Grip wavering on the human’s neck, the man fell symbolically to his knees in front of Touya. "Surrender now, bow before me and I’ll spare your lives." Focused entirely on the petrified soul kneeling before him, Touya missed the approaching mortals. Despite how shakily they held their weapons, the silver blades were pointed threateningly at the vampire king.

"We will never surrender our humanity to the likes of you." One of the leaders spat back.

"Very well…" Any light that was present within Touya’s eyes quickly vanished. "Don’t say I didn’t warn you." With a swift movement of his hands, followed by the unmistakable cracking of bones, the human’s head twisted inappropriately to the right. Mistakenly, Touya relished the corpse dropping to the Earth, unaware that he was under siege. 

"Attack!" Swiftly turning to face the incoming charge, Touya had nary a moment to block the first strike with his arm. 

"Got him! Keep pushing men!" Ignoring the sting in his arm, Touya pulled away from the silver blade, his sacred blood trickling down his forearm with a beauty akin to an untouched waterfall hidden away in a secret grove.

"Tch-" Touya danced backwards, eyeing the brash movement of the other jabs coming his way. 

"Charge him!” Intelligent enough to face Touya with a group of about twenty, the humans bravely ran forward. Despite the swirling darkness surrounding them, the silver blades still shone with the holiest light. The sparkling divinity strummed at Touya’s nerves for only a moment, tasting his uncertainty before the vampire king swept it deep under the metaphorical rug. No mortal would ever force him into submission. Inhaling a deep breath, the king led his own charge against the advancing mortal forces.

Blood painted the Earth, splattering the organic canvas with a painful, heart wrenching, portrait of stolen emotion. Cries of pain and sorrow clung to the air, rivalling the darkness with its thick, pleading, indirect echoes for mercy. Bodies thumped against the ground, melodically decreasing the longer the battle went on like a gross reflection of the dying strums of each mortal heartbeat that came to an abrupt end. Weapons quickly lost their sheen, now smothered with the sublime blood belonging to the immortal king. Feeling his edge slipping away with each fresh cut, the shadows that had obediently followed Touya’s command began to retreat to the safety of his feet. 

"Tch-" Feeling the tension of defeat weighing upon him, Touya spun backwards away from the conflict. 'I won’t be able to take them all on by myself…' Stealing a quick glance at his crimson soaked body, the vampire king grimaced at the sight of his own blood leaking mercilessly from his veins. 'They proved to be much more resilient than I expected…' Carefully calculating every option available, rouge irises swept over the wall of mortals standing firm before him. ‘I must consider the safety of my people…’ Waiting patiently for Touya’s next attack, every set of eyes remained focused intently upon the vampire king. Unaware that their investment in Touya would lead to the end of the war. 

‘You must know when to fight and when to hide.’ The silent words crossed Touya’s mind, forcing the violet hue to overtake the bloodthirsty crimson. Without understanding the symbolism of the colour, the humans obediently gazed upon Touya’s hypnotizing glare. 

"I must commend you mortals. I didn’t expect such bravery from such a feeble species." Touya praised, albeit rather backhandedly. "To stand up to an immortal king and survive is a feat in itself." Taking a few steps forwards, Touya brought the volume of his voice higher, ensuring that his command would fall upon every mortal ear in range. "To commend you on your bravery, I hereby surrender on behalf of all vampires." The humans under the weight of Touya’s hypnotic spell, blinked dully at the approaching vampire. 

"This battle has been won by the brave human soldiers standing here today. I command thee to return to your villages in celebration of your victory over vampire kind. You will relish your triumphant victory for generations, passing down stories detailing how you overcame this malicious threat. Humans will no longer feel the need to hunt or fight against vampires, for that is a battle you have already won." Grabbing his throbbing bicep, hating the wet sensation upon touching the bleeding limb, Touya asked for understanding from the mortals. Earning their unconditional agreement, the vampire king stepped past the wall of soldiers. Accepting his defeat, he retracted his power, the lavender hue washing away to reveal the natural, docile blue. With each step he took, the shadows diminished, eager to dive back under the safety of Touya’s feet. Feeling the sting of his loss ache across his body, Touya disappeared on the horizon, taking his darkness with him and leaving the humans to celebrate under the light of their victory. 

Limping into the hideout, Touya tried to leave the weight of defeat behind him. Desperately, he tried to shrug the intense pressure from his figure, but he couldn’t shake the guilt that had knotted itself so selfishly in his chest. 

"My lord!” Kurogiri exclaimed, rushing to the king’s side. "You’re wounded! Come with me, I’ll wrap your wounds." The lesser vampire hastily moved to usher Touya further into the hideout, desperately seeking privacy for the hurt king.

"Kurogiri, enough." Despite feeling the fatigue washing over him from the massive loss of arterial juice, Touya still held commanding authority. The lesser vampire took a hesitant step back, eyeing his king with a level of concern akin to the amount of blood he’d lost. "I must make an announcement." Timed perfectly with Touya’s words, a hushed silence fell over the hideout. Anxious gazes landed on Touya, silently anticipating his news. However, the king stumbled, giving in to the weakness his body was succumbing to from the blood loss. 

"Master Touya!” Kurogiri exclaimed, moving to catch his king, who was already bracing himself against the wall behind him. "I’ll get the bandages!" Running off to retrieve the necessary equipment, another vampire chimed in during Kurogiri’s absence. 

"What happened to the mortals?" feeling the guilty knot tighten in his chest with how small their voice sounded, Touya swallowed his pride. 

"We surrendered." In time with Kurogiri bursting back into the room with his arms filled with medical supplies, the room erupted with anger. 

"What do you mean we surrendered?!" Someone exclaimed, while Kurogiri rushed to Touya’s side. 

"How could you let them win?!" The sound of someone’s fist hitting the wall echoed through the room. However, while Touya remained still for Kurogiri to frantically wrap his bleeding wounds, he didn’t react. 

"We could easily tear their species apart! How could you give in so easily?!" Whispers between lesser vampires carried throughout the room, their uncertainty with Touya’s charge surfacing like unwanted acne on the skin of a young adult. 

"Should we trust King Todoroki if he’s going to surrender to a lesser species so quickly?" Kurogiri’s gaze shifted only briefly towards the roaring voices, returning to the task at hand, his capable hands tying off another bandage while ignoring the protests from his subordinates. 

"I think we should consider our options for leadership…" Choosing to finally intervene, Touya let the violet hue take over his gaze. 

"Silence." With the commanding authority akin to the frenzied outburst that the room had erupted in, the room hushed under the weight of Touya’s voice. Flinching from the tense tone of Touya’s voice, Kurogiri paused momentarily before finishing healing the king’s wounds. While patiently waiting for his assistant to complete his task, Touya’s harsh violet gaze swept over the numerous lesser vampires in front of him. Silently he assessed the wounds received by the humans, mentally calculating the total losses he’d acquired from the battle. 

"Take a look around." While still holding the authority he possessed, his tone had softened to become more suggestive than commanding. "Consider how many of our comrades were lost to the mortals tonight." Silently he relished the way his follower’s eyes softened, how their expressions twisted to show their remorse. The silence weighed heavily with their assessment that they could have all been slain by an inferior species had Touya not intervened. Despite their uncertainty with his leadership, he granted them, the survivors, the blessing to walk away with minor cuts and bruises. 

"Do you fully comprehend the loss we experienced tonight? Do you understand now why I made the decision to surrender? Despite how much I hate to admit it, I fear we would have all perished tonight. Surrendering was necessary for our survival." The room vibrated with hushed whispers, curious of what Touya’s next move was to be. The king’s assistant, now finished with wrapping the bleeding wounds, set aside the medical supplies. Without hindering Touya’s presentation, he slipped off to pour the king a helping of blood, promptly returning to Touya’s side. 

"My lord." He quietly addressed, holding the thick liquid out towards Touya. Eager to replenish his energy, Touya accepted the blood offering, chugging it and handing the emptied glass back to Kurogiri.

"My lord, forgive me for speaking out of turn, but I believe we all wish to know; what are we meant to do now that we’ve surrendered to the humans?" A brave soul asked, standing up for the entirety of the vampire race. Touya, having licked his lips clean of any remaining blood, simply shook his head in response. 

"We assimilate." Immediately the room erupted in an explosive hiss of objection. Angry with Touya’s passive strategy, the room became ablaze with a glowing crimson hue. Irritation flooded from the massive amount of irises glaring at him, streaming upon Touya in a manner similar to the light of the blood moon that hung precariously above. However, despite their intense display of physical objection, Touya remained unaffected. Deafening their rebellious outburst with a single, yet authoritative violet glare, Touya sent his allies back into a state of submission. With the lesser vampires settling under his command once again, the king continued. 

"Obviously, I’m not asking you to give up your vampiric culture. Nor do I expect you to fully assimilate into human kind. Despite surrendering, we will never fully give up who we are." The uncertainty in the room began to seep out with Touya’s reassuring words. "I thought I made it clear that we must blend in to survive. I expect everyone to hide themselves among their ranks and go about their lives under a mortal guise. I will be doing the same." Glances were stolen between members of Touya’s army. “You may still devour human blood, however, this act should be done in secret and we must be more cautious with how we pick and consume our victims. Getting caught consuming blood or killing innocent humans, will risk the survival of the rest of our species. We must be strategic and passive moving forwards. Therefore, we either live among their kind or go into hiding."

Strumming an unfamiliar chord, the room vibrated with anxious mumblings revolving around the future Touya was actively painting for them. They questioned how long his plan would transpire. How quickly they could assimilate and become accepted by the mortals, but most importantly, how patient Touya would be when his power was metaphorically stripped from him.

"I trust you will follow my orders." The command rang out, burying the uncertain noise under its authority. "There will be no more unnecessary losses for our people…" Like the authority in his voice, the violet hue depleted from Touya’s gaze. Overtaken once again by the natural teal-blue, the king’s softened gaze swept over the questioning expressions reflecting back at him.

"Besides, as we learned, humans are obtaining more powerful weapons. We cannot afford to lose ourselves to the likes of them." Feeling the majority of the mass uncertainty lifting from the air, Touya released a deep inhale. Muscles finally feeling comfortable with the idea of relaxing. A delighted feeling of confirmation that he’d not only made the correct decision, but his subordinates were mostly on his side, washed over him. Silently thanking his mother for her advice, Touya ignorantly missed the muffled objections quietly being muttered among the lesser vampires. 

Not entirely sold on the idea that they’d have to go into hiding, hushed whispers rejecting the order to remain cautious while hunting, started to resurface. However, Kurogiri, understanding the validity and serious nature of Touya’s order, dropped to his knees. Completely accepting the king’s order on the basis that Touya, the king of all vampires and the strongest immortal in the room, had returned severely wounded. That was symbolic enough for Kurogiri to understand and accept the severity of the situation. If Touya couldn’t handle the human’s with his strangling power of darkness, he couldn’t begin to imagine how strong in comparison they’d become given time to develop their arms. 

"Of course your majesty. Your word is law." Touya, showering Kurogiri with verbal praise, was pleased to watch the other vampires follow suit like a wave washing over an untouched beach. They respectfully bowed to him, physically accepting his terms and conditions, despite their simmering concerns. 

"Please rise." Touya commanded the lesser vampires eager to get back to their feet. "Our assimilation starts tonight. From this moment forward, I will be in hiding. Live your life however you wish, but the consumption of blood is hereby ordered to be discrete and for survival only. Binge eating is hereby banned." Motioning for Kurogiri to follow, Touya took a step towards the exit. "If you need anything from me, please seek out Kurogiri. For your safety as well as mine, he will be the only person aware of my location." Pushing the door open, The king and his advisor stepped out into the cool night air. 

"Oh, and one more thing…" Sparing the immortal army one final commanding glance back, Touya’s final words clung to the air, freezing the particles with the icy delivery. "Just because I’m out of the picture, doesn’t mean I will miss anything. Keep that in mind~" Retracting the kingly violet from his gaze, he walked off into the night with Kurogiri hastily nipping at his heels. Anxious eyes followed the king’s retreating form, the weight of his words increasing as his form decreased upon the horizon.

Feeling the tension hang in the air long after Touya’s figure had disappeared on the horizon, the lesser vampires began to understand the crushing reality Touya had left them with. He was right. He’d been right all along. Assimilate or succumb to the crushing pressure.

Chapter Text

With the passing of two lunar cycles, the vampires hid in the shadows. Surrendering themselves to the light and succumbing to mortal life, just as Touya had commanded. For most, the transition came without issue. Realizing the difference between mortal and immortal life was a thin margin, the majority of Touya’s subjects eased into their new life. 

On the other hand, overcoming the insatiable bloodlust was a complicated matter on its own. However, with Atsuhiro concocting a substitute to curb the craving to consume the desirable hemoglobin, Touya’s subjects had no excuse. There was no active reason for any creature of the night to break the silence on fang to flesh extraction. Touya was no exception to this rule, but unlike the others, he had a different reason for not partaking in the direct extraction of human blood. 

"Foul." He would hiss, the smell alone wrinkling his nose in disgust. "Borderline inedible." Heaving a sigh, he would force the thick liquid down his throat, reflexively gagging even well after he’d consumed the life nectar. "Disgusting." Suffering from the lingering taste of defeat, Touya couldn’t ignore the excess amount of pride seasoning the blood pumping through mortal veins. Indirectly, he’d handed them a complex in succession with their victory over Touya and his species. Having done that, he allowed the mortals to stew in their asinine idea that they were untouchable. They clung to the idea that they were the greatest species inhabiting the Earth, and it was that arrogance that left a bad taste in Touya’s mouth. Due to the rapid spoiling of human blood, in Touya’s opinion, he found no active desire to consume the liquid. Atsuhiro’s substitute could not come at a faster time.

"Master Touya!" Entering with confidence, Kurogiri strode into the common room of Touya’s quaint home. "I brought you some supplies!" Enthusiastically, he set a fabric satchel down upon the wooden table. "I brought you a bunch of produce and some meat." Meticulously, he put each item on the table for Touya’s viewing pleasure. "I’ve also acquired some more blood for you, my lord." Feeling his gut churn with the violence of an angry sea, his gaze twisted into a glare. 

"I hope you followed my instructions and acquired it from a different population." While entirely backhanded, Kurogiri understood the anxiety behind the king’s request. He was afraid to poison himself and Kurogiri couldn’t blame him for being cautious with what he consumed. 

"Of course, sire. I safely required it from a village a fortnight away from here. As per your instructions, I was discrete and took only the necessary amount to satiate your hunger for a while." He explained, setting half a dozen bottles of blood on the table.

"Wonderful, thank you Kurogiri." Touya praised, curiously opening one of the fresh bottles. Without moving the neck within range of his olfactory sense, Touya recoiled with disgust. Promptly slapping the lid back on to contain the smell, he replaced the bottle with the rest. Apparently, it didn’t matter the village, humans were infected with their vile, righteous, pride. Noticing his king's apparent disgust, Kurogiri’s expression dropped, searching the room for an apology. 

"I apologize master Touya, I specifically chose targets whose scent delighted my senses…I ask for your forgiveness with-" The king held his hand up, silencing the lesser vampire.

"I don’t blame you, Giri." He quickly replaced his disgust with a smile. "It is not your fault that the blood doesn’t agree with my tastes." From a smile that could light the darkest of rooms, Kurogiri felt warm with relief. 

"Thank you sire." Returning the king’s smile, the lesser vampire resumed his delivery. "Oh! Before I forget…" Digging another bottle out of the fabric bag, Kurogiri handed the translucent liquid to his king. "Atsuhiro has a prototype for his blood substitute ready, as per your request." Touya curiously turned the bottle over in his grasp, watching the clear liquid swish internally with each movement of his hands. 

"Have you tried it?" He asked, removing the lid and letting the sweet scent trapped inside flood his nose. 

"One of Atsuhiro’s subordinates has been testing each trial batch. Atsuhiro exclaimed that I could not be his guinea pig out of fear that if something were to happen to me, you would be left defenceless." Nodding in understanding, Touya swirled the liquid inside the bottle, silently contemplating on consuming the translucent beverage. "Atsuhiro is adamant that this batch has made strides compared to his other trials. He described the effects as being positive, and halting the craving or built up bloodlust for a slightly longer period of time."

"How long?" Touya asked, eager to cease the consumption of the foul blood surrounding him. Shifting on the spot, Kurogiri brought his finger to his chin, jogging the memorized instructions to the surface of his mind.

"I believe Atsuhiro said that this current batch would last three to seven days depending on the intensity at which you crave blood." Watching the liquid ripple in the bottle, the king swirled the bottle one final time, deciding a weekly time frame was enough for him to accept the incomplete concoction into his body. Rushing down his throat like an avalanche rumbling down a mountainous slope, the liquid pooled in Touya’s stomach. Spreading over his body like ice concealing the calm waters of a pond, the artificial concoction chilled every nerve in Touya’s body. Sealing off any underlying feeling related to an unconscious desire to gorge himself on the mortal nectar of life. Letting a chilled breath slip past his lips, he graced Kurogiri with a sweet smile.

"Give Atsuhiro my thanks." Handing the now empty bottle back to Kurogiri, who promptly stashed it safely back into the satchel as Touya continued. "The taste is delightful and it feels like it’s taking effect. I will update you on its success when you return with your next delivery." Deciding that his conversation was finished, Touya gathered up the materials Kurogiri brought him, taking them into the other room for storage. 

"Of course, master Touya. I look forward to hearing your results." Giving a slight bow, Kurogiri slipped the satchel back on over his shoulder, following his king into the other room. "Pardon me master Touya, but there’s something more I must pass along to you." The king didn’t spare the lesser vampire a glance, keeping his focus on correctly storing the perishable items Kurogiri brought him. "I received word from Tomura Shigaraki that a few of our allies were hunted by humans." His words caught the king off guard, forcing a seizure of every one of Touya’s muscles. Losing active control over his senses, the bottle of blood in Touya’s grip slipped to the floor. Shattering against the hard stone with an audible crash, subpar blood sloshed over the floor, splattering Touya’s feet and staining the fabric over his skin red. 

"Come again?" The king asked, the tone in which he posed the question striking Kurogiri with a sense of terror the lesser vampire hadn’t experienced since the war. 

"I…I said that Tomura Shigaraki informed me that a few of our allies were…" Deadly crimson irises shifted towards the other male. The deep violence swirling beneath the glowing red hue chilled Kurogiri to the bone and forced him into a hesitancy to continue. With an awkward clearing of his throat, the lesser vampire stuttered out an answer. "Sire…our allies were hunted…by the humans…" Nervously swallowing the growing fear in his throat, Kurogiri took a cautious step backwards in response to Touya’s menacing approach.

"How?" The king asked, his threatening form towering over the fearful vampire, who could only shake his head with uncertainty. "I will not accept that as an answer. What led the humans to raise their weapons against us? I hypnotized them into believing we were gone and no longer a threat to their kind. How could they break through my hypnosis?" Mustering the strength to respond, Kurogiri cleared the cobwebs from his throat, thumbs twiddling unconsciously to divert his overwhelming anxiety. 

"It appears that the vampires in question went on a binge resulting in the humans' retaliation. Now they’ve brought back hunters out of fear that our kind will strike again." Shrinking further under Touya’s looming shadow, the lesser vampire spit out his final response. "They’re now suspiciously cautious towards strangers and lack any reasonable amount of trust…" Any bravery that was present in Kurogiri’s tone quickly drained with the growing pressure of Touya’s anger. 

"Give me the names." The king commanded, blood thirsty shadows swirling menacingly around Touya’s feet. 

"S-Sire?" The other male squeaked out, shrinking further under the harsh weight being exuded upon him by his king.

"The names of the vampires who broke my law. Give them to me." With the shifting of Touya’s eyes from a violent crimson to the commanding royal lavender, Kurogiri released his apprehensive senses.

"Mustard, Moonfish, and Goto Imasuji." Recognizing the three names as low level vampires, the king dignified their deaths with a roll of his eyes. Feeling betrayed by the blatant disregard of his rule, Touya refused to acknowledge the loss any further. If his followers were going to disrespect his rule of law, he would ignore the sanctity of their lives in return. After all, disrespect went hand in hand. Touya was only returning the favour.

"Kurogiri." Hearing his name roll from Touya’s tongue in such a heavily stern expression, chilled the lesser vampire’s blood to an exceptional new low. The king’s assistant couldn't find the strength to tense his muscles, let alone squeak in response to Touya’s call. "Pass along my word to the others…" Letting the blood thirsty red consume his irises, Touya uttered his newest statement. "If I catch word of any of my subjects acting on their own accord again, I will personally punish them. There will be no more senseless disrespect of my law." Nodding in anxious understanding, the lesser vampire dropped to his knees respectfully in front of Touya.

"Yes, my lord. I’ll pass along your message promptly." Accepting Kurogiri’s obedience, the king retracted the swirling darkness at his feet. Stepping away from the lesser vampire, Touya resumed stocking the fresh materials brought to him by his assistant. Feeling the pressure lift from his shoulders, Kurogiri jumped to his feet, frantically crossing the desolate home to the door. Fumbling with his belongings, the lesser vampire struggled to open the door. His frantic and panicked movements disturbing a forgotten object out of the depths of his coat pocket. Dropping lightly to the floor with a thud, shaking yellow eyes moved to the discarded item. Realizing what he had dropped, the terror returned to his heart. Stabbing the already anxious organ with another dose of focused, concentrated fear.

"M-Master T-Touya?" He shakily called out, saving the item from the cold stone floor. "There’s one other thing before I go." Earning only a hum in response from the king, Kurogiri cautiously returned to the doorway of the room in which Touya stood. Shifting uncomfortably on the spot, the lesser vampire mustered all and any remaining courage he had left. Opening his mouth with a shaking breath, he uttered the words that seemingly brought Touya’s heart beat to a grinding halt.

"I received word from your father."

Living for an extended period of time, such as Touya has, has not left the vampire unscathed. He’d experienced pain in many forms during his inhabitation of the Earth. Touya had been struck in the gut, He’d been bashed upside the head, broken bones, and taken a score of cuts to decorate his body with a private symphony of pain. He’d experienced fear, felt the nauseating sensation attributed with weakness. However, this was different. Kurogiri had verbally, yet indirectly struck him square in the sternum. Feeling the strong central bone metaphorically break from the force, Touya gasped desperately for air. The one element that was readily available to him had vanished with the surprise announcement. Unconsciously, the king gripped his chest, searching frantically for any semblance of the element he’d lost. Anxiously, Touya’s gaze shifted around the room, afraid that the man in question was hiding somewhere in plain sight. Waiting patiently to make his presence known before crushing Touya under his impossible pressure. 

‘No!’ Mentally crying out for any semblance of safety, the king shakily wrapped his arms around his body, frailly protecting himself from the invisible force that was his father’s expectations. ‘Anyone but him!’ Shrinking beneath Enji’s non-existent glare, Touya sought solace from the floor. Folding his body closer together, the king made himself as small as possible, trying desperately to hide from his father’s deafening power. ‘Please, stop!’ Tears formulated from years of stress induced trauma strode down Touya’s cheeks, eager to claim the untouched territory with their salty trails leading from Touya’s despair. It was truly an awful feeling and no matter how hard Touya tried, he couldn’t run from this war, no matter how many times he waved the white flag.

"Master Touya?" Bringing the king back from his internal turmoil, shaking blue orbs shifted towards the calm tone.

"Sorry? You said you received word from my father?" Despite how weak the king felt, his tone remained stagnant and unchanged, addressing Kurogiri with the stoic tone he’d recognized naturally from his king. 

"Yes, he sought me out after hearing of your surrender to the humans." Already recognizing the news as inherently negative, Touya swallowed his pride and accepted the outstretched scroll offered to him by the lesser vampire. Repressing the growing desire to crumple the parchment, Touya thanked Kurogiri from the delivery, walking the vampire to the door and bidding him farewell. With the absence of the other vampire, the king cursed Enji’s name, his anger crumpling the paper beneath his grasp. 

"How dare he." Stomping childishly through the empty home, Touya’s feet led him to the burning fireplace located in the heart of the home. "How dare he rear his unsightly face after one hundred years of silence." Pacing angrily in front of the burning hearth, Touya vomited his anger onto the burning flames. "Does he think that by revealing himself to me, I will alter my law? Does he take me for a fool?!" Grabbing an already chopped log, The king thrust the dry wood into the raging flames. Eagerly converting the fuel into undefined energy, the bursting heat exploded upwards akin to the anger emanating off Touya. 

"If he thinks he can step on my reign after removing himself from the board, he’s dead wrong." Watching the flames sway melodically through his icy glare, the hot element lapped up the remaining anger housed within the king. Despite how destructive the orange wisps were, they unconditionally elicited a calming sensation within the hot headed king. Perhaps it was the comforting warmth the fire provided. Unconsciously reminding the king of his late mother and the calming effect she had on his fiery temper. Releasing a heavy sigh, Touya felt collected enough to unroll the parchment from the ex-king. Enji’s words, despite crumpled from Touya’s anger, remained clear and concise with their blatant disappointment in his son.

Touya,

I wish I was reaching out to you under better circumstances. However, word has reached my ears regarding your recent battle against the mortals. Are you proud of the outcome? I can say for certain that I am not.

The immortal should never bow to those lesser. By admitting weakness to them, you’ve single handedly shamed our entire species. Never should we have to kiss their boots, or hide from who we are. 

I am ashamed that my son of all people is responsible for such a disgraceful outcome. I thought I raised you better. Did all of my effort teaching you and helping you hone your skills mean nothing? Perhaps, all this time I was wrong with my decision to forfeit my rule to you.

Therefore, I, Enji Todoroki, invite Touya Todoroki to a dethroning ceremony at the fallen castle on the night of the new moon; whereby the title of king will be stripped from the reigning king and returned to the prior ruler. 

Attendance is mandatory. Do not disappoint me more than you already have.

Enji Todoroki

Letting the burning anger consume Touya, he fed the letter mercilessly to the flames. Glaring at the dancing flames with crimson, rage filled irises, the king gladly observed the parchment turning to ash before his eyes. Smiling delightfully, soft chuckles vibrated from Touya’s throat as what remained of the letter melted entirely under the hot heat. Touya couldn’t help but think that had his father come instead of the written letter, his house would be echoing with more than his soft chuckles. The naturally quiet safe haven would be filled with a symphony of anguished screams as the flames unrelentingly devoured the immortal man's soul. 

With the rising of the new moon, Touya found himself standing bitterly facing his father. Eyes knit into a narrowed glare, they feasted upon the face of the man who conveniently slipped out of Touya’s life for the better part of a century. 

"You look good, Touya." Delivered solely as a cushion for Touya to fall back onto once he selfishly took everything from the younger Todoroki, Enji reinforced the statement with a smile.

"I wish I could say the same to you." Touya spat, despite Enji’s features and aura remaining unchanged since Touya was last in his presence. His father was still as sick and vile as Touya remembered and that gut wrenching feeling of disgust would plague him forever. Enji knew it. He relished the effect he had on his son. How could he not? Despite Touya holding all of the power and authority over their kind, Enji would always have the final say. He ensured it by becoming the gnawing feeling of inadequacy in the back of Touya’s mind. Enji would indirectly, and eternally, remain in control.

"Gloat all you want boy, you’ll receive your comeuppance soon enough." Sharing one final, silent, threat towards Touya using the sheer force of his glare, Enji shifted his attention to the mass gathering behind him. 

Congregated on the grounds of the abandoned Todoroki castle, as requested by the previous king, stood the surviving vampires. Enji made a point to position himself upon the throne, obvious foreshadowing for what was about to transpire. His throne, of course, was placed on a landing that was five steps above the actual floor. It symbolically placed him above everyone else and forced him to look down upon those lesser in comparison with the condescension he desperately couldn’t, nor didn’t want to, contain. Touya, because of his predicament, was standing on the third step from the floor. Keeping him above the undesirables, yet below Enji, where in the king’s eyes, he’d belonged since he betrayed vampire kind with his decision to surrender. The lesser vampires, being no more than pawns in Enji’s game, huddled together in mass on the floor of the throne room. They watched silently like lambs to the slaughter, eagerly waiting with pure ignorance for a wolf to lead them.

"Thank you for heeding my summons to this event." With the address to his soon to be subjects, Enji’s bitter feelings towards Touya diminished. His emotions now elated with the prospect of what was about to occur. "As detailed in the letters I sent, You have been invited to witness a shift in power." A few uncertain whispers rippled amongst the lesser vampires, unheard and unbothered by the two greater vampires, who remained poised over the large grouping of vampires. "Touya Todoroki, your loyal king, has been charged with being unfit to lead. His recent actions of surrendering to the mortals is proof enough of his negligence and inability to make wise, and calculated decisions." A chorus of mumbled agreements played out over the crowd below, their immediate disloyalty fueling the rage ignited inside Touya’s heart. Enji, who had been pacing in front of his subjects, stopped in front of his son. Ignoring the sharp, ice cold glare being sent from Touya’s eyes, Enji smirked down at the boy.

"Therefore, I Enji Todoroki, rightful king of the vampire race; hereby strip the current king, Touya Todoroki of his position and authority of leader." Eyes alight with glowing condescension, the irises shifted to reflect his royal status. Meeting Touya’s deep glare, Enji forced the hypnotizing violet power to overtake his son’s vision. 

"Touya Todoroki, starting today and for the next one hundred years, I forbid you from using the dark power you harness, or the hypnotic power bestowed upon you from birth. Your title of prince will remain and you are free to consume blood and utilize any other powers gifted by being born a vampire. Only until the hundred years expires can you harness your full power as a royal vampire." The command swam around Touya’s eyes, glazing the teal-blue irises with the verbal spell. A spell that would sit unconsciously in the back of his mind, restricting any conscious thought of utilizing the power until the hundred year time out expired.

Expectantly, Enji held his hand out towards Touya, fingers eagerly flexing to accept the crown that rested among the sea of white locks. Touya, who had to refrain from crushing the weak metal beneath his strength, obediently handed over the symbolism of leadership to his father.

"For the next century, I will accept rule over the vampire kind. This will allow for my son to take a much needed step back, to reflect and grow where he failed; and when the hundred year probation is over, he will resume command as king once again." Finishing his statement, Enji accepted the title of king once again by firmly setting his crown back upon his head. Touya, accepting his defeat, shot Enji one final warning glare. Silently, he threatened his father with the promise that once he regained his power, Enji would pay for any losses that transpired during his temporary rule. Having made his point, Touya turned on his heel, the crowd dispersing for him to leave with whatever pride he still carried. 

Watching who he considered to be the true leader leave in shame, Kurogiri’s eyes softened with sadness. There was an overwhelming tightening bunching up within his gut for every step Touya took away from the scene. 

"Master Touya…" Breathing out the name with concern, Kurogiri felt his senses itch with apprehension. Familiar with the prince’s temper, the lesser vampire screamed at his muscles to take after the retreating figure, to reassure that everything would be fine beneath Enji’s rule. Yet, when a symphony of applause erupted from his comrades, Kurogiri found his body hesitant to support Touya. Centuries of trained obedience took over his apprehensions, forcing him to turn back and praise the ruling monarch in sync with the other sheep.

"The dawn of a new era is upon us! No longer will we bend to those weaker than us! We will take back what was ours! Mark my words, this world will experience fear!" With a confident raise of Enji’s fist and the resonating boom of his voice, the mass of vampires excitedly lapped up his proclamation. Ignorant to the underlying outcome that Touya had indirectly been protecting them from.

With Enji in command, Touya remained in hiding. The last thing he desired was to be involved with whatever affairs his father was stewing. Learning purely from observing his father’s rule the first time, Touya understood that there was no amount of soap capable of washing his hands of the copious blood and sin the king would surely introduce to them. It was best for Touya to heed his mother’s words and remain incognito for a century. Especially with Enji lifting the ban on binge eating and encouraging the vampires to come forth from hiding. It was in Touya’s best interest to stay out of the conflict, even though his body itched to step in and protect his comrades. 

However, sacrificing himself to reach no immediate solution would be asinine to say the least. As much as Touya wanted to fight, he was grounded to his father’s law. Unable to produce his overwhelming power in a crisis would certainly put the nail in his coffin. That was a risk he couldn’t afford to take. Reluctantly, he sat back and prayed that with his absence, everything would be peachy for his gallant return in a century. Or so he hoped. 

Touya’s lack of attendance didn’t stop Kurogiri from checking in on him every week, partially out of guilt, but mostly because he was bound to the prince’s bloodline. Despite not wearing the crown, Touya was still royalty, and therefore, Kurogiri’s responsibility. 

"How are things, Prince Touya?" He would ask, despite reading the melancholy on the boy’s face.

"Oh you know…" Touya would answer with a roll of his hate filled eyes and a sigh to release the pent up anger from within. "I could be doing worse by all standards, so I can’t complain."

Kurogiri didn’t believe his words for a second. The prince most certainly had a list extending to the length of the longest road in the region, detailing every complaint he harbored regarding his predicament. He’d known the prince for years, sticking by his side longer than anyone before. Completely aware of every hidden tell and guise the boy tried to adorn, he could pick up on Touya’s silent remarks faster than any of his verbal ones. Despite the trust bond he shared with the prince, the advisor found himself lacking enough courage to voice the statement out loud. Being that Kurogiri could read Touya like a book, a feat that even the wisest scholars couldn’t reach. 

"Sire, it’s rather unbecoming of you to lie." Partially teasing the prince, Kurogiri would flash him a smile, a silent request for Touya to keep his demeanor high and to smile through the pain. However, finding it rather difficult to uncover any sense of joy from the unnecessary actions ordered by his father, Touya neglected to smile.

"Have you ever known me to lie, Kurogiri?" With a tone lacking any sense of playfulness, the advisor quickly bowed in respect to the prince, retracting his joke with a swift apology. 

"Forgive me Master Touya. That was a feeble attempt at lifting the mood." Scoffing at the answer, Touya would signal the end of the interaction by promptly jumping to his feet. Eager with the idea of shutting himself off from the world for a few hours, he’d leave Kurogiri alone by disappearing into the designated bed chambers. The advisor would simply collect his irritation, releasing it with a deep sigh. He then would deposit any necessary materials for Touya’s week in solitude, leaving with one final attempt to make Touya smile. 

"Have a good day Master Touya, next week I’ll bring you letters from the others to cheer you up~" However, the prince didn’t smile. He wouldn’t, despite how infectious Kurogiri’s positivity was. Touya’s immunity to the uplifting feeling only increased as the months bled into years, and years bled into decades. Decades that seemed to lengthen Touya’s solitary confinement despite their length not extending in the slightest. However, with the passing of time, Touya was cursed to learn of the evolving times around him, without having any strength or ability to alter or prolong the events unfolding before his tied hands. 

"My lord, your father is ordering a massive attack upon the humans. He wishes to reclaim that which you gave up."

Indirectly, he was forced to experience the loss of comrade after comrade under his father’s bloody rule.

"Master Touya! I come bearing news! Himiko Toga has been slain by the hunters!" 

A rule that would stain Touya’s hands well after Enji stepped down from the throne. 

"I’m sorry your highness, but we lost Tomura Shigaraki to the hunters…"

Cruelest of all, was that Touya couldn’t do anything to stop him.

"I wish I had better news, but Chizome Akaguro was brutally hunted by the mortals." Forced by his father to sit back and witness each life be captured by the human’s, Touya’s only recourse was to stoke the burning rage within him.

"I come with sad news once again. We took massive casualties at the most recent battle…many of our factions have fallen to the humans…only a few of our kind remain and Atsuhiro has been wounded greatly…he surrendered an arm during the battle…" With each message, Kurogiri indirectly passed Touya a fresh can of fuel, which eagerly fed the burning fire in his blackened heart. Reaching a burning inferno that would certainly consume his body along with any unlucky souls within a set radius, Touya compressed the violent flames. Pressurizing the anger and hatred he felt towards his father, ignoring all of the warning sirens while remaining adamant with the concept of releasing the pressurized hatred upon the king. Enji was certain Touya would get his comeuppance, but he was very, very, wrong. Enji would feel the pain he’d indirectly inflicted upon his friends. Every loss, every wound, every sacrifice that had been unnecessarily cashed in, Enji would experience it. Ten fold. Touya would ensure it. Once he gained his power back, Enji would get his. In due time, Enji would achieve everything he rightfully deserved by Touya’s standards.

"Master Touya~" Raising his eyes from the novel that had captured his attention prior to the advisor’s arrival, the prince greeted him with a heavy sigh. "Oh your majesty, don’t sound too excited~" The lesser vampire teased.

"What do you want, Kurogiri? I’m not in the mood for any more negative information regarding my friends." Regretting the way in which he greeted his trusted friend, Touya quickly recomposed himself. "Forgive me, this “time out” has taken a toll on my patience." Shaking his head in objection, Kurogiri flashed him an innocent smile. 

"I understand that what you’ve gone through over the past century has been difficult, so I don’t take anything personally." Feeling a sense of relief wash over him, Touya set the book down and met the lesser vampire halfway.

"I appreciate your patience with me, but please tell me you have some good news…I don’t think I can handle any more negative outcomes." Eyes alight with joy, Kurogiri flashed the prince another heart warming smile.

"That’s why I dropped by, to deliver some good news." Pulling out a sealed envelope, he handed the invitation to the prince. Hazarding an idea of what was written inside, Touya ripped the envelope open with a single swipe of his nail. Unfolding the parchment inside, the prince scanned the inked words, bringing a smile to twitch across his lips. 

"This is good news…" He commented, a light returning to his eyes that Kurogiri had missed for the better part of a century. "This is good news indeed." Folding the parchment back up, the prince tucked the invitation safely into the confines of his pocket. Delighted teal-blue eyes swimming with the excitement of a looming victory on the horizon, met Kurogiri’s patient yellow gaze. “We depart at sundown."

Touya Todoroki,

I, King Enji Todoroki, formally invite you to your coronation ceremony to be held at the Todoroki castle on the night of the new moon. 

I look forward to your attendance.

Being updated in succession of the unfolding current events, Touya had been acutely aware of the casualties they had surrendered to the opposition over the course of his century-long time out. However, when he arrived at the Todoroki castle he was shocked and appalled with what he saw. Not only was the stone structure in disrepair; a glaring symbolism of their crumbling authority over the weaker species, but the sickening amount of vampires that gathered for the ceremony knotted Touya’s gut into a tight mess of guilt, pain, and regret. Glancing over the remaining members of his once thriving species, the prince couldn’t help but feel the metaphorical blood dripping from his hands. Despite having no authority over the past one hundred years of action, he couldn’t help feeling like this was all his fault. 

"Is this everyone?" The prince casually whispered to his advisor, who only nodded shamefully in response. 

"Unfortunately yes. They almost wiped us from existence, but we’re still proudly standing." Delivering a bit of an understatement, Kurogiri’s frail attempt to sugar coat the fact that literally thousands of vampires had been mass murdered, fell on deaf ears. Heavy teal-blue eyes moved from figure to figure, feeling their forlorn aura’s emanating off of them. Most likely from the terrors experienced through Enji’s tyrannical lead, yet still weighing on them and knotting Touya’s gut further in regret. 

Regardless, Touya counted eight survivors in total. Of course there was Enji, himself, and Kurogiri. Then, at the end of the line was Tomoyasu Chikazoku, a shut-in that most likely survived the same way Touya had; by putting himself in solitary confinement and only eating when necessary. Next to him was Rikiya Yotsubashi, his strength was the reason he still stood because Touya had always considered him a huge target. Luckily for Rikiya, the man could stand his ground. 

The next survivor didn’t surprise Touya in the slightest. His attendance was secured through Enji’s protection on behalf of his late queen’s dying wish. Geten, Touya’s envious cousin. Who most definitely harbored a grudge towards the Todoroki family over Rei’s untimely passing. The ice cold male shot Touya a harsh glare, silently accusing him of the outcome that had unfolded. While Touya simply smiled, waving condescendingly in response. 

The last two remaining vampires were a sight for sore eyes. Two of Touya’s most trusted allies and the only ones who would understand that he wasn’t at fault for the mass genocide of their species. Shuichi Iguchi and Atsuhiro Sako. Shuichi looked a bit worn out, but that was to be expected being a brawling type. However, it wasn’t until Touya laid eyes on Atsuhiro’s missing limb that he felt the fire being stoked from within. Fully aware of the circumstances in which the man had sacrificed the limb, it was the shock of reality, of witnessing personally what his friends had given up for him that made every loss, wound, and drop of spilled blood decide Touya’s next action. Letting hatred swim in his eyes, he met Enji at the broken throne, just as he had one hundred years prior. 

"Father." He greeted with an icy tone that could rival Geten’s glare. 

"Touya~ My boy~" Possessed with fake enthusiasm, the king moved to embrace his son, who actively took a step away. Raising his eyebrow in a more than sarcastic manner, the king lowered his arms. "What? No hug?" Stabbing Enji with his glare, Touya said nothing. His eyes, swimming with fiery rage were enough. "Harsh. I thought after a century of being alone, you’d want your dear old dad to comfort you~" Finding it harder to contain the seething flames burning within him, Touya redirected Enji back to the tracks. 

"Can we please get on with the ceremony?" Delivered through grit teeth, Enji’s lips twitched upwards in a smile. Relishing how easily he’d molded Touya into a vengeful leader, without lifting a finger he’d shaped his son into the man he desired him to be since birth. Someone who would act first and think later. Someone who would take lives for the good of his cause. Someone to be feared. Enji had created a super villain, and the humans would rue the day they stood up to the vampires. Enji could feel it.

"Of course~" Bringing forth the violet hue, he removed the spell placed on Touya. "With the ending of the century-long hiatus, I hereby resign my position as leader." Removing the crown from his head, the king held it proudly out towards Touya. "Touya Todoroki, do you swear to lead our people with honor and equality under our rule of law? Do you promise to uphold all customs of the vampire kind with respect to your rule?" Kneeling in front of Enji, only for the purpose of the ceremony, Touya placed a hand over his heart. 

"I do." He answered with honesty, while his eyes glowed with evil anticipation.

"As the rightful heir to the throne, I hereby give you this symbol of your leadership. May your reign be righteous and strong." Placing the crown back upon Touya’s head, Enji’s proud smile addressed the remaining vampires, ignorant to the surging violence flowing beneath his son’s feet. "All hail King Touya Todoroki!" The pathetic chorus of applause and cheers that had erupted after Enji’s announcement quickly petered out. Shifting immediately into a symphony of terrified whispers mixed with backhanded comments all directed at the ex king. Decorated with Touya’s malicious laughter, the swirling shadows that had been lying dormant for a century struck their target. Gripping the ex king’s throat with a tightness akin to the guilty knot in Touya’s gut, the hungry shadows subdued the red headed male, grabbing his wrists and forcing him down to his knees. Fueled by revenge, Touya got back to his feet. Poetically looking down upon his father with the glowing purple hue he’d inherited as a birthright, Touya’s lips formed into a malicious snarl.

"Enji Todoroki." He hissed, feeling excitement coursing through his veins as his raging darkness swirled dangerously around his authoritative figure, eager to unleash all of Touya’s pent up aggression. "Abiding by our sacred law, I accuse you for the mass genocide of our people." Peering into Enji’s prideful teal-blue eyes, Touya’s glare was anything but soft. Sharpened over years of resentment and pain, Touya’s glare blinded Enji with one glance. "How do you plead?" Asking only in accordance with their customs, Touya awaited for a response that he’d most certainly overrule. Hearing the surviving members cheering for Touya’s bloody solution in the background, Enji swallowed his growing fear. Yet, unable to accept the terms of his imminent fate, he opposed the king’s will.

"Not guilty." The hungry darkness crawled up Enji’s body, consuming the ex king under the immense pressure of Touya’s hatred. "You are aware that killing me won’t bring them back…in fact, it will only thin out your numbers more~" Tightening the grip on Enji’s throat, Touya only chuckled in retort.

"I hereby sentence you to death." Encouraged by the whoops of the remaining vampires behind him, Touya raised his hand. Flashing under the light of the moon, sharpened nails sent a silent message of their own to the bound figure. They glistened with the promise that the last thing Enji would feel would be the unfiltered pain associated with their sharpened points tearing through his immortal flesh. Receiving no remorse from them, they tore through the fortified structure of Enji’s ribcage with one pinpoint strike. Ensuring that with one swift movement, Enji’s fleeting life was symbolically and physically in Touya’s hands. Gripping the still beating organ, the tips of Touya’s nails hooked into the muscle while the king proudly held the symbol of life up for the others to behold. Sacred blood pumped from the organ, staining Touya’s hand with its desperation in seeking the safety of its calcium cage. 

"As you are aware, it’s customary for me to consume your heart as a possession of power and authority over your life. A true testament to me overtaking your legacy." Letting his condescension and pride show on his face, Enji silently urged Touya to devour his heart. Knowing he was currently a virus in the back of Touya’s mind, a constant reminder of his inadequacy as a ruler, but consuming his heart would become so much more of a curse for the boy. Eventually, Touya would overcome the mental distress Enji imprinted on him, however, when Touya consumed his heart, he’d linger forever within Touya as a constant reminder of everything Touya failed to achieve. He’d manifest as a trauma, a scar on Touya’s body that his son would never be rid of. No matter how hard he tried. Enji willed it. 

However, when Touya’s violet eyes flashed with a sickening glee that made Enji’s heart stutter with realized fear, the ex king watched his victory slip through Touya’s capable fingers. 

"I will not be following this custom." The still beating heart hit the stone floor with an uncomfortable squish. "Under my observation, I deem your heart undesirable." Firmly, Touya planted his foot upon the organ. "Detestable." Exerting pressure, he squished the heart under his foot. "Inedible." Pressing harder against the heart, Touya’s foot smeared the ground with Enji’s last remaining breaths of life. "A blight on vampire kind." Smudging the slow beating muscle under his foot, Enji forced the building crimson liquid out of his lungs. Splattering onto the ground, the blood trickled down Enji’s chin like a dying waterfall of glacial runoff meeting a sudden end. The shadows restraining him retracted, returning to Touya’s feet to let the feeble vampire drop to the ground. Hitting the ground with a thud, Enji groaned weakly, feeling his strength ebbing away under each stomp of Touya’s foot. Chuckling lightly, Touya let off the pressure of his foot. Taking a few steps towards Enji’s still body, the ex king shakily turned his head to look up at his son’s towering form.

"How the mighty have fallen." He mocked, relishing the weak expression pleading back at him. "I’m feeling merciful." Touya began with a chuckle, crouching down to be on Enji’s level. "I’ll grant you your last words, speak them now." Heaving a shaking breath, Enji weakly spat out an answer. 

"What…would your….mother think…?" Expecting the king to stutter over the question, Enji was thrown by Touya’s reaction. Erupting in a fit of malicious laughter, Touya stood up straight. Eyes now a blazing crimson, gazing down upon Enji with an absurd amount of delight. Feeling frozen under Touya’s haunting smile, Enji’s expression twisted to reflect the terror he felt coursing through his veins. Reality struck him in accordance with the bottom of Touya’s foot striking his head. Touya’s hatred had consumed any remaining rationality housed within. Enji had pushed him too far and there was no turning back, nor mercy left for the ex king.

"You want to know what she’d think?" Touya asked, tone hauntingly deep with the rasp of Touya’s victory. Resting the sole of his boot against Enji’s temple, the king bent down closer to the bruised face of his father. "She’d be cheering with the rest of them." Relishing the fear glazed over Enji’s eyes, Touya released another fit of laughter, pressing his weight down against the man’s skull. Weak to Touya’s inhuman strength, the bones crumbled beneath Touya’s foot. Squishing the remnants of Enji’s skull along with the matter protected by it into the stone floor. The king relished the uncomfortable sound mashing beneath his foot. Drawing out the execution until he was satisfied, Touya ground his boot into the bloody mess, squishing the soft tissue until it was an amalgamation of blood, tenderized brain matter, and pieces of broken bone and teeth. When all was said and done, Enji’s face was unrecognizable by any means. The only impression left behind was the pattern from the underside of Touya’s shoe. A decorated example of Touya’s position above the filthy being. 

With the death of his father, a rushing sense of accomplishment and relief flooded Touya’s senses. He couldn’t help but release all of the pent up anger he’d been harboring in the form of a heavy sigh. For a century, the only thing Touya felt was pain and suffering from Enji’s rule, but now with his father’s battered corpse lying at his feet, all he felt was elation. Pure, unfiltered retribution. Collecting his emotions with a few calming breaths, the king let his natural blue overtake his irises. Wiping the excess remains of his father from his boot, Touya turned around to address the loyal subjects behind him. Widening from the shock of what he saw, Touya’s gaze washed over the kneeling forms before him. Poetically, they knelt with their heads bowed and their hands over their hearts. Delivering onto Touya the utmost respect and silent confirmation that they devoted themselves entirely to his lead.

"Please stand." Touya calmly requested, watching each vampire get back to his feet in what seemed like synchronicity. Joining the lesser vampire on the main floor, Touya brought forward his first demand.

"The last century has been dreadful for our kind. We’ve lost too many of our comrades to risk carelessness with our actions moving forwards." Receiving a few nods in agreement, Touya continued. "It is pertinent that we follow through with my initial order: we must assimilate with humankind or go into hiding. Otherwise we will face extinction." Without giving the lesser vampires an opening for objection, Touya extended his law. 

"Furthermore, after spending a century to myself, I’ve come up with a solution that I think will help with the survival of our species. I would like all of us to spread out over the globe. By de-concentrating our population, I feel we will have less issue with humans snuffing us out and finishing us off. Until we can safely increase our population, this is how we will be living." Bowing in agreement, the lesser vampires accepted his will.

"Pardon me your highness." Shifting his gaze towards the voice, Touya nodded at Atsuhiro with approval to speak. "Will you designate our locations, or shall we choose them ourselves?"

"Decide amongst yourselves. I don’t care where each of you decide to go, so long as you’re not inhabiting the same city or are within one hundred miles of each other." 

"How are we expected to remain in contact with one another?" Iguchi chimed in, earning Touya’s stern gaze to fall on him.

"Kurogiri." The lesser vampire stiffened with the exclamation of his name. "Kurogiri will be the connection between all of us. He will know where everyone is located and will be in charge of keeping communications with everyone." Bowing in understanding, Kurogiri accepted his role with honor. "Atsuhiro." The king’s gaze moved back to the other vampire. "Please ensure that everyone has a surplus of the blood substitute." Nodding in understanding, Touya directed his next comment to the entire group. 

"Make sure that if you are in need of a refill of anything, Kurogiri has plenty of time to meet you for a delivery. I trust that you will make this transition smoothly and without incident. I look forward to our future." With that, Touya stepped past the line of vampires, content on being done with the conversation.

"My lord?" Stopping long enough to entertain the question, Touya glanced back at the lesser vampire. “Where will you be residing?" Truthfully, he didn’t know. The only thing he understood was that in order to keep himself and his remaining allies safe, he had to disappear.

"I will be in a disclosed location. To prevent putting any unnecessary heat upon you, I will dissociate from the rest of you. Purely as a precaution. I will remain king and will still be working in the background as best as I can to make things easier for you lot. However, only Kurogiri will know where I am. Moving forward, if you need anything from me, ask Kurogiri." Taking a few steps with the intention to leave, Touya found himself halting for one final message. 

"Oh, one more thing." To assure the severity of his final word, the purple hue reared its authoritative appearance. "Unless there’s an emergency or dire situation that calls for a congregation like this, I see no reason for us to be congregated like this again. We must live like humans to survive. Anyone who goes against my word and risks the rest of our survival, will meet a fate worse than my father’s." The lesser vampires’ attentions shifted back, taking one final uncomfortable glance at the deceased male behind them. Accepting the fear along with every possibility of what Touya could do to them, they anxiously turned back to face their king. Moving in pure synchronicity, the lesser vampires dropped to their knees, bowing in acceptance with Touya’s law. Satisfied with his subordinates' loyalty towards the situation, Touya spun on his heel, walking off in the darkness. 

Feeling the immense pressure of their king dissipating, the remaining vampires got back to their feet, catching the flowing coattails of Touya’s coat being the last thing they saw before the king disappeared into the darkness of the night. 

Fingers danced across the keys, inputting a few final mental thoughts upon the illuminated screen. With the placement of the final period, the author’s eyes roamed over the freshly typed words. Backtracking, he fixed a few small mistakes he’d missed while being intently in the zone. Satisfied with the current work on screen, he promptly saved his work, watching for the confirmation that his work was secured before the screen of the laptop came crashing down against the keys. 

Setting the laptop down upon the table, he brought his hands to his eyes to give the teal-blue orbs much needed reset. Rubbing away the stress and fatigue, a calming sigh slipped from his lungs while his hands moved from his eyes to his hair. Pushing the disheveled locks from obstructing his view, he proceeded to stretch the kinks from his muscles. 

"Okay…" He breathed out, feeling the tightness slip from his arms with the extended stretch. "That’s enough for tonight." Fully relaxed and satisfied with the work he’d done, Touya got to his feet. Collecting any garbage and dirty dishes from the common room table, he turned in for a restful sleep, leaving the past to stew for the remainder of the night. 

Chapter Text

Dawn, a period of awakening, rejuvenation, and the bestowing of a creeping warmth brought upon with the rising sun. Some considered the pure light of dawn to be a spiritual symbol, refreshing the body and soul as a symbolic reset for the body. While others cursed the glowing orb of gas for rising again, dreading the start of a new work day.

Touya was no different. However, cursing the dawn of a new day for a different reason entirely. While his kind was more inclined to rest with the rising sun and wake with the soft glow of the moon, he’d become accustomed to following the mortal routine after centuries of forced practice. Since establishing the law to assimilate with human kind, set over three hundred years prior, the notion had become nothing more than routine to blur the lines between mortal and immortal life.

Despite the rational reasoning behind the shift, along with years of following the laid out routine, Touya still hated it. Feeling fatigued, he would rise with the harsh rays, groaning in detest while stretching out the built in kinks and knots that tightened his body. Sighing heavily, he would run his hand through his thick, white locks. Locks that had remained unchanged over centuries of consistent change. Wild and unruly, they swept lightly over his head. Spiked naturally, the white locks cascaded in front of Touya’s face like a gentle avalanche, tickling the pure turquoise orbs beneath. Orbs that sparkled under the light of the moon. Rare like a sparkling blue topaz gem, they glistened with beauty, silently unleashing hidden emotion from deep within. Yet, despite their outward beauty, these eyes harbored a secret. Hidden deep beneath the pure blue, lay a blood soaked ruby red. A hue that hadn’t reared its violent edge for the better part of the passing tri centuries. There was no need for it, nor was there any need to bring forth the amethyst hue lurking beneath. 

Losing any and all desire to consume human blood since that time, Touya had more or less sold himself entirely to mortal life. Which was fine by his standards, there was no need to crave the crimson liquid, nor put himself in danger by recklessly taking from the living around him. 

Especially with Atsuhiro’s blood substitute at hand. Perfection in a bottle, Atsuhiro had been supplying the surviving vampires with the inhibitor for years. It tricked their predatory senses into believing they’d partaken in human blood by acting like a placebo for the body. Their senses went on believing they were consuming the desired hemoglobin for a set length of time, normally a period of bi-weekly, but could curb the desire for up to a month depending on the user's bloodlust. Any other nutrients they needed they got from human food. 

Cracking open a fresh bottle, Touya threw back the sweet tasting clear liquid. Feeling the liquid freezing over his nerves, he released a deep sigh. Chilling his senses into submission, Touya tossed the bottle away, moving into the living room. 

Residing in a western style country for little over a century now , the interior reflected the modern décor of the inhabited country. Majority of the room was taken by a large black, leather sectional couch. A tall lamp resided on the left of the couch, while a large window and sliding door were to the right, covered of course by black out curtains. Touya may wake with the sun everyday, but that didn’t mean he welcomed it into his home by any means. Across from the couch, mounted on the wall was a large flat screen tv, while a rectangular glass table sat between the couch and television. 

Sparing the table a quick glance, Touya dreaded returning to the mess of papers that littered the clear glass top. Strewn about with no particular order, was a plethora of notes, quotes, and questions written on loose leaf paper. Random in design, they held no meaning to anyone besides Touya. Each written passage was reminiscent of a shared memory between himself and a past figment, buried deep under Touya’s memories. The likes of which were sketched messily by a local artist based on Touya’s recollection alone. Accurate to every detail, Touya couldn’t bear to look at the sketched portrait, thereby leaving it to drown amongst the pile of disjointed history. Painful as it was to look upon however, Touya couldn’t bring himself to discard the drawing. It was the closest thing he had to an actual photograph, the only physical reminder of the person in question. This one piece of paper, a fragile object prone to tears and smudges, silently craving to be recycled and used again; meant more to Touya than even his own immortal life.

Obsessed with clinging to this invisible being, Touya had inadvertently allowed an overwhelming feeling of heartbreak to dictate the future for himself and his species. The pain kept him from choosing a suitable partner, thereby forfeiting any chance to revive his dying species. Not only that, but with how rapidly the human race evolved and reproduced, there was no active opportunity for the vampires to retaliate with repopulation of their own. Left to dwindle with what pitiful immortality they had left, the remaining vampires focused on their own hobbies to make an eternity of defeat feel a little less disappointing.

Touya, being as seasoned as he was, tried his hand as an author. Having witnessed everything in human history for the duration of his five hundred and sixty three year life span, and counting, he had more than enough stories to tell. Touya’s novels, while based on historically accurate events, were dramatized and twisted with a fictional narrative. Majority of which hinted towards the existence of mythical creatures of some kind. A hint that would inevitably leap over the reader’s head under the guise that the novel was, for all intents and purposes, fictional. They lured the reader in with a false sense of safety, familiarity and reality. Providing them with characters, too real for Touya, forged into fictional and relatable beings for his readers. While surprising them with a gripping and intense conclusion, Touya stripped any semblance of reality from the written pages prior. Readers were left in awe, falling in love with his written characters and drawn into the fictional world by Touya’s smooth tongued narrative. 

At the end of the day, they were just stories to Touya, a way to pass the time and keep his mind active and focused, but to the mortals who avidly followed him; they were much more than that. These stories, while mind numbingly dull in the opinion of the author, had made him famous. Or rather, had made his current alias, Tyler Tortorelli famous. For obvious reasons, introducing himself to others with a name belonging to someone who should be long since deceased, Touya changed his name in accordance with a human's passing lifespan. Choosing a name fitting for the time period and country he resided in, Tyler was nothing more than a passing phase. Much like the novels he’d invested himself in, they were nothing more than a way for Touya to accept the passage of time and move past the obstacles that burdened his conscience. A suggestion born purely from Kurogiri’s concern for the king, Touya had never expected this mere hobby to become therapy.

“Your publisher is waiting for your next masterpiece, your highness.” Setting down a freshly brewed cup of tea, the lesser vampire took an open chair across from his master, who was currently brooding with his head resting against the table.

“That’s nice." The king groaned, refusing to turn his attention onto the lesser vampire, who sipped at the hot beverage with a cock of his eyebrow.

"You’re stuck." Catching the king’s muscles tense under the statement, Kurogiri chuckled. Setting his cup down, he leans against the chair with a sigh. "Have you at least started the new one?" Touya shakes his head, lifting himself from the table to finally meet Kurogiri’s gaze. 

"No." With a heavy sigh, he leans against the chair, looking to the roof for guidance. "I don’t see any appeal in writing another story with no substance. It’s monotonous." Peering into Touya’s eyes, Kurogiri could see the emotions haunting the swirling pools of teal blue. Locked in a permanent waltz with heartbreak, the king had yet to break himself from his terminal funk.

"Master Touya." Shifting with the call of his name, Solemn blue orbs locked with bright yellow ones. "Have you considered writing about Kei-" Feeling the weight of Touya’s threatening purple glare pushing down upon him, a hue he hadn’t seen in centuries, Kurogiri quickly retracted his statement. Awkwardly clearing his throat, the lesser being anxiously shifted his gaze around the room, nervously picking up his tea. "Ah- Never mind- I just thought your readers might be interested in a romance novel from you…But if you’re-"

"I should." Forcing his gaze back towards his king, he was relieved to see the blue hue returning to Touya’s eyes.

"Y-Yeah?" Feeling his heart wrench upon seeing the heaviness weighing upon his king, Kurogiri watched with bated breath as Touya folded his arms over his chest.

"Yeah." He softly agreed. "I should address what happened between him and I…perhaps if I do…" Wet pools of blue found the roof. "I’ll finally rid myself of this cursed feeling plaguing my heart."

Thinking it a walk in the park to discuss his past, Touya had accepted the gauntlet bestowed upon him from Kurogiri. However, the more time he spent trying to piece together the scrambled pieces of his past, the more he seemed to forget. As if suspended in a thick fog, the memories in question required some coaxing before Touya could access them.

Flopping down onto the leather couch, the king intended to do just that. Casually flipping through the channels, Touya mindlessly searched for a source of inspiration to pull the locked away memories to the surface. Stopping on a documentary, Touya set the remote down, trading the electronic device for a notepad and pen. Resting the pad of paper lazily atop the cushion next to him, the bored tapping of pen against paper mixed with the dull commentary of the documentary, filling the room with a symphony of monotony. What unfolded on the screen didn’t matter to Touya, he could care less about some teenager who went missing years prior to the filming of the show. Invested entirely in the formula, the vampire king jotted down a few prompts on the pad of paper.

A.) Introduce yourself, what were you doing before the incident.

B.) Who was involved? What is their story?

C.) What led to the initial incident?

Thinking briefly, Touya stuck the pen between his teeth, leaning forward to retrieve the closed laptop from the table. Resting back against the couch, the laptop hinges cry out softly with the movement of the lid being pried open. Clicking open the last used document, Touya took the pen from between his teeth. Promptly scratching off the introduction on the pad of paper, Touya dropped the pen. Letting the cylindrical ink capsule roll off the paper, the pen purposely lodged itself in the crack of the couch, choosing to reside there until Touya decided to utilize the wet ink again. Scrolling down to the last written paragraph, the king continued his narrative.

Constant with the flow of time, the world continued to move forward. The humans, safe from the threat of vampire kind, seemed to accept their privilege as a token to evolve, expand, and eventually overthrow any other species residing on the Earth. They made strides towards a new future, a better future, while Touya and his kind seemed to remain stagnant. Dealt with no other choice, they accepted their position as an invisible minority. Graciously accepting each passing year as a blessing of renewed life. 

Touya, having spent the last three years cooped up inside an old farmhouse, was no different. While the village, a mere five minute walk from Touya’s abode erupted with the hustle and bustle of daily life; Touya remained untouched by their stressful routine.

Choosing to live each day thrilled with the challenge of mastering a new hobby that Kurogiri would introduce to him, he felt a sense of renewal. Perhaps it was the peaceful wave of serenity that washed over him as he sat like an elderly mortal in a wooden rocking chair, trying his nimble hand at sewing; while a calm fire danced safely within the confines of the hearth. For a royal vampire, ripe at the age of two hundred twenty one, this was not how Touya saw himself living out his “glory days”. Yet, somehow, he didn’t mind.

It was hard to deny that the monotony of mortal life had indirectly calmed the nerves that resided within his body. Nerves that were hardened from years of forced conflict on the belief that they must always be ripe for battle. Regardless, without the pressurized responsibility to lead, which was abruptly dumped upon him by his father, Touya felt at ease. With no active reason to leave the safety of the place he’d inevitably call home for the next forty two years, the king of vampires found solace in his new routine. 

Little did he know, however, that during his time sequestered from the outside world, a force unlike any other would soon threaten the very fabric of everything Touya held dear. Stripping any semblance of remaining authority held by the vampire king, it would selfishly confiscate everything from Touya without actively realizing the lasting impact it would leave behind.

Despite everything, sand still falls from the hourglass. Time ticks on, the grains hitting the pile of collected sand below with a subtle yet noticeable crunch. With each passing tick of the clock, a life is taken and new life is given. Time halts for no one. Trudging onwards, time pushed relentlessly forwards, charging through the next twenty one years with an invisible force that seemingly brought forth a new king.

Birthed only twenty one days before Touya’s two hundred and forty second birthday, melodic cries akin to the sweet chirp of a bird filled the walls of the stone castle located a mere ten minutes from Touya’s sanctuary.

"It’s a boy!" A doctor, with hands bloodied by the new heir’s arrival, announced. Standing with the now silent infant proudly in his capable hands, he clipped the last real connection the baby would have with his mother before handing him off to a chambermaid to be cleaned. Rising what remained from the exchange in a nearby water basin, the doctor proceeded to gather the necessary materials to finish mending the queen back together.

Sauntering across the room with the freshly cleaned prince, the young chambermaid eagerly approached the side of the queen’s bed.

"Your majesty, would you like to hold your son?" Flinching under the queen’s irritated glare, the maid took a justified step backwards.

"I carried him for nine months, I see no need, nor desire, to hold that leech any longer." Swallowing the knotting anxiety within her chest, the maid simply bowed, turned on her heel and sought out the reigning king.

"Have you played?" Laced with subtle authority, the tone, while soft, still forced the child’s muscles to tense.

"Yes, sir." Voice barely above a whisper, he hesitantly seats himself in the chair being offered by the king. Sitting quietly, the child observes the king’s movements as he places the final pieces on the board.

"Your father tells me that you have started studying medicine." Nodding, the child moves a piece strategically across the board. "You’re how old now, six?" Retaliating, the king moves his own pieces in a strategic fashion, keeping the child on his toes.

"Yes sir." He answers, this time with more confidence, the edge from the king’s authority long gone. "Father wanted me to start learning basic practice and properties early in order to prepare me for more complicated matters in the future."

"Your father is wise." The king praises, taking one of the kid’s pieces from the board, neglecting to see the opening he left for his opponent. With a smile, the child doesn’t hesitate, taking a final piece from the board.

"Checkmate, your majesty." The king leans back into the chair, taking in the confident smile on the young boy’s face.

"Well played, Kai." He praises. "You’re a quick thinker. Very intelligent. I look forward to hearing of your progression to take over your father’s position." Hearing the king’s kind words caused a wave of confidence and pride to crash over Kai Chisaki. Any sort of uncertainty towards the king vanishes with the statement, leaving Kai feeling warm with delight. 

"Thank you, your majesty." He says with a respectful bow to the king, who can’t utter a response as a gentle knocking raps against the door.

"Enter." Filled with the booming authority that Kai recognized from the man, the king’s attention turns towards the door as the wooden slab creaks open. 

"Pardon the intrusion, but I-" Seeing the bundle of fabric in the chamber maid’s arm pushed the king from his seat. Rushing across the room with a sense of urgency and excitement, he whisked the newborn from her arms, holding the baby gently and with an absurd amount of care in contrast to how roughly he had moved across the room. Taking in the innocent beings' features, he couldn’t help but smile at the soft blond locks that swirled atop his head. How curious and innocent the child’s freshly formed solid gold eyes were against the prominent bird like markings that curved his eyelids.  Faint freckles dotted the flush cheeks, painting the young prince with a permanent sun-kissed pattern.

"Marvelous." Booming with authority, yet softer than the infant’s skin, the king’s tone vibrated the room. The sound stilling the baby's expression momentarily until a gummy smile overtook his face. Delighted by the sound of his father’s voice, the baby squealed with excitement, filling the room with his warble like laughter.

"How precious~" The king purred, gently pulling the fabric down to uncover the smiling expression beaming at him. "Look at you~" With a touch softer than the blanket, he pushed aside the soft locks of hair that crowded the baby's forehead. "A true Takami~ My son~" Gazing into the glistening gold orbs that stared up at him in awe, the king read the silent words bubbling up from underneath the infant’s silent gaze. As if passing a message to the king through his gaze alone, the child indirectly led his father to utter his decided name. "Prince Keigo." Accepting the name, Keigo kicked his legs with glee filling the room with his delighted chirping once again. 

"I’m glad to hear him being vocal since leaving the birthing room." With the new voice, everyone’s attention turned towards the door.

"Father!" Kai exclaimed, running over to the seasoned doctor, immediately attaching himself to the man’s leg.

"Why? Was there a complication?" King Takami asked, a hint of panic seasoning his voice as Dr. Chisaki crossed the room with Kai in tow. 

"Well, not really. The prince just wasn’t very vocal, so to hear him making sounds is like music to mine ears." Dr. Chisaki explained, standing confidently next to King Takami, stealing a glance down at the wide eyed infant. "He’s beautiful, your majesty." The doctor praised while the king gestured with a subtle raise of his arm.

"Would you like to hold him?" He asked, earning a shake of the head from Dr. Chisaki. 

"No, but I know someone who does, but is too shy to ask~" He teased, crouching down to be at eye level with his son. "Would you like to hold the little prince, Kai?" He asked softly, the young boy giving a hesitant nod of his head. Kneeling on the floor, Dr. Chisaki positions his son on his knee, ready to brace the newborn baby if need be. Once the young boy is comfortable, King Takami carefully hands over the princely burrito, the baby slipping effortlessly into Kai’s small arms.

At first, Keigo’s a little wary, unsure of the boy cradling him, but once he sees the soft smile spread across Kai’s lips, he chirps in delight. The sound flutters on the wind like the beat of Kai’s heart. He’d never heard such a melodic sound, let alone felt warm under its symphony of innocence. Like the blanket that was wrapped snugly around Keigo’s small form, the sound lulled Kai into a comfort he couldn’t describe. Despite being only a baby, Keigo had an indescribable charm, an excellence that could only be described by the invisible kindness he exuded, yet had no authority in yielding. He was special indeed. 

"Kai? Are you listening?" Bringing the young Chisaki from his trance, the brunette boy blinked away the fog from his gaze. 

"I’m sorry?" He whispered out, silently pondering if he’d done something wrong with coddling the prince. 

"Do not apologize son." King Takami said softly, kneeling in front of the boy. Placing a gentle hand upon Kai’s shoulder, soft gold eyes peer into nervous yellow ones. "Being that you are Dr. Chisaki’s son, I have a request for you." He began, catching an anxious gulp traveling down Kai’s throat in response. "If something is to ever happen to myself or the queen, will you promise to look after my son? Be his friend, a peer to guide him when necessary. Just like what your father does for me. Can you do that for Keigo?" Searching the king’s eyes, Kai felt the honesty stemming from the older man. Somehow in his six year old mind, he understood that the reason he had come along today was to accept this role. However, it wasn’t until he looked down at the fragile being in his arms that he realized the importance of his role. Keigo, weak and unsure, needed a wise hand to guide him and Kai Chisaki would be next in line to do it.

"Of course." Answering with a confident smile, the king ruffled the brunette locks that had sat so neatly atop Kai’s head. 

"Thank you, son. Keigo will be in good hands with you at his side." That much Kai knew for certain.  However, what Kai didn’t realize was how much of a handful Keigo would grow to be.

"Young master, I fear if you climb any higher, you will sustain an injury." Kai warned the young prince, who was no more than five years old, yet carried the bravery of a seasoned soldier. Having grown up directly raised by the king, Keigo had no fear. He trusted that his father would catch him when he fell. Otherwise, if King Takami wasn’t there to catch him and guide him, Kai most certainly would. 

"Don’t worry Kai~ You can patch me up!" He would ignorantly reply, disregarding the older boy's warning as he reached for a higher branch in the tree. 

"Your majesty, I beg you to climb down! Your father will-" Interrupting Kai with an annoyed sound, Keigo climbed onto the higher branch, simply to prove the brunette wrong. 

"See Kai~" He teased, sitting on the branch, legs swinging listlessly and free through the air. "Everything is fine~"

"That may be, but I don’t want to explain to your father what happened to you if you fall. Please come down." Catching the defiant glare from the prince, Chisaki changed directions. "Kei, if you come down, I’ll ask your dad if I can take you to the festival in town~" Hiding his smirk upon seeing the twinkle in Keigo’s eyes, Chisaki knew he had convinced the young prince to follow his word. Eagerly, the blond clambered down from the tree, landing softly on the grass below. 

"Okay, let’s go ask dad!" Excitedly, he grabbed Kai’s hand, leading the eleven year old back into the castle. Keigo senselessly called out for the king, the glee heavy with his tone, leaving him ignorant to everything unfolding around him. When they entered however, Chisaki felt something weighing on the air almost immediately. Hushed whispers crawled across the castle walls, shifting Chisaki’s concentrated glare to sweep across the gossip stones. 

"Is it true? Did the queen really do that?" 

"It’s true, she’s been spreading for anyone besides the king."

"Really? Why?"

"Jealousy."

"Authority."

"It’s true, they’ll do whatever she wants because she’s the queen."

"What’s King Takami going to do about it?"

"I heard he was-" Silenced by Keigo’s innocent voice, Chisaki brought his focus back to the young prince. 

"Father! I finally found you!" Bursting into the library without so much of a knock, Keigo happily crossed the room, missing the tension he had cut with his voice. 

"Uh, young master, I think we should-" Kai tried to say upon seeing the harsh glare from the king and queen. 

"Father! Kai and I want to ask you something!" Keigo began, stopping just shy of his parents. 

"Hummingbird, now is not a good time. Mommy and Daddy are a little busy." With as soft a tone as he could muster, the king stepped between his wife and son, moving to usher the young prince out of the room.

"Then I’ll be quick! Kai and I want to-" Ignoring his son’s request, the booming authority returned to the king’s voice, landing heavily on Kai’s shoulders. 

"Kai, take Keigo into the playroom and occupy him for a couple of hours." Feeling the weight of the request, Kai gave Keigo’s hand an authoritative squeeze.

"Yes, your majesty." He said with a slight bow, pulling Keigo obediently away from the king. "Come along your highness, we can ask him later." Kai sweetly, yet strongly assured, grabbing the prince’s interest long enough to pull him from the situation and safely tuck him away in the playroom as requested. Easily occupying the prince’s mind with a few toys, Chisaki found an opportunity to slip away with the promise of bringing back a snack for the young blond. However, his true agenda lied in sorting out the truth of what the castle walls were harboring. 

Stealthily, he edged his way closer to the library. Pressed flush against the wall, the young brunette stood just shy of the wooden door. Pushing open the door using the pads of his fingertips, he eased the barrier ajar just enough to let the sound waves oscillate through the crack. Chisaki leaned in, welcoming the touch of the aggravated tones against his ears. 

"Final chance Tomie, tell me the truth or I’ll be forced to take drastic measures."

"You want the truth?" Flinching slightly with the abrupt sound of her fist hitting the table, Chisaki bit his bottom lip to keep from exuding a sound. "I’m tired of nor receiving any attention from you! You spend all day catering to your son’s needs and not mine! For God’s sake, when was the last time you actually touched me?!" Chisaki guessed the king had opened his mouth to speak, but Tomie beat him to it. "I’ll tell you, it was five years ago! As soon as you got your heir, you had no use for me! That’s why I found pleasure in the arms of another." Covering his mouth with his hand, Chisaki’s eyes widened with the revelation.

"You. Did. What?!"

"I sought out pleasure from one of your servants, since you-" Flinching with the sound, Chisaki’s muscles tensed, eyes shaking with the growing fear while he silently hoped the king had slapped his hand and not the queen.

"How dare you defile our marriage?! With a servant no less!! What were you thinking Tomie?! How am I supposed to cover this up?!"

"I’m not asking you to cover this up, I want everyone to know that you’ve neglected your wife! They should be aware that you single handedly pushed her into the arms of another because you weren’t man enough to satisfy her! That, due to your negligence, the queen, your wife, is carrying the baby of a servant!"

"Kai…?" The voice, despite being innocent and quiet in comparison to the voices beyond the door, shook Chisaki to the core. Frantically, he spun on the spot, staring wide eyed at the feeble young figure in front of him.

"Keigo…" He breathed out.

"What’s going on? I thought you were bringing me a snack?" Moving to comfort the young child, the brunette’s muscles seized with terror in succession with the door bursting open. 

"FINE! I DON’T NEED YOU!" Stomping out of the room with an anger that forced Chisaki back to Keigo’s side, was the queen. Trying to hide Keigo from the anger emanating off of the queen, Chisaki wrapped his arms protectively around the prince like an older brother would. However, upon seeing the familiar figure, Keigo pushed past Chisaki’s protective hold. 

"Mommy?!" Stopping her crusade out of the castle only to spare the source of the voice one final glance back, the glare that she shot him could have killed the poor child. Despite not saying anything to the boy, her message was loud and clear. 

‘Never speak to me again, wretched child. I’m not your mommy.’

It was the curve of her brow, leading to the crease in the bridge of her nose that defined her anger. Her eyes, normally vacant of any emotion, were darkened with malice and hatred, all of which was directed towards the spitting image of the king. The uncanny flare of her nostrils, symbolically diverting her emotions, warned the young boy to stay away. Yet, it was the snarl, the aggressive curve of her lips that solidified her honesty. She hated Keigo, simply because he was the spawn of the man who neglected her. Spinning on her heel, Tomie disappeared like dust in the wind, while a trail of Keigo’s sobs followed desperately after her. Seeking her motherly comfort only to be lost, forced to mingle with the other sounds swimming in the vast atmosphere. 

Looking back on it, Chisaki wished he had stepped in between Keigo and his mother. Protecting the prince was his job after all, but that day, he couldn’t find the strength to absorb Tomie’s anger. 

Confused over the loss of his mother, Keigo clung to his father. Afraid that if he let the king out of his sight, he’d disappear in the same manner as his mother. The king, finding the newfound reliance a blessing, took the opportunity to mold Keigo into the leader he wanted to leave behind, while indirectly leaving Chisaki with the knowledge necessary to keep Keigo on track.

"Remember, always smile. You can hide anything with a smile." Spending hours in front of the mirror, Keigo perfected a smile that would not only charm, inspire, and comfort others, but would confuse enemies and retain authority for Keigo.

"Try to look at every angle. Considering every point of view is vital for making the wisest and effective decision." Attending hearings for hours, Keigo heard more than enough problems from the servants and villagers alike, but no matter the problem, he had come up with a solution to every single one; leaving both parties satisfied and delighted with the solution. In the eyes of the king, Keigo was the perfect heir, which made his passing easier to accept.

"Father…Don’t go…" Ripely fifteen years of age, Keigo kneeled next to the bed. Clutching the cold, clammy hand of the dying King. "I’m not ready…" Unable to contain the flow of emotion, salted droplets poured down his cheeks, staining the prince’s sun kissed skin with the reality that the only remaining family he had was about to be taken. Cold fingers twitched against the warmth of Keigo’s comforting hold.

"You…are." Although it pained him to expel the words, the king spoke anyway. "You will…do amazing…things." Gripping the king’s hand a little tighter, Keigo brought the limb closer to his face. 

"I will father…I will." Agreeing between sobs, he laid a gentle kiss to the back of the king’s hand. 

"I know…you will…" Dim gold eyes, draining quickly of life, shifted to the figure behind Keigo. "Look after…my son…Chisaki…" Blinking the wetness away from somber yellow eyes, Chisaki nodded his head. 

"Of course, your majesty." Accepting that everything would be looked after, the king let his eyes close, relaxing himself into submission to death's icy grip.

"Father?" Keigo choked out, feeling a pang grip his heart when the man’s hand went limp against his own. "Father!" Moving to cradle the man’s face, every one of Keigo’s pained feelings dropped from his eyes onto the lifeless corpse below. "Father! Please! Please don’t leave me…please…" Folding under the weight of loss, Keigo rested his head against the man’s chest, crying in objection to the event. 

"Your majesty…" Shaken by the king’s death, the usual stoic tone of Chisaki’s voice danced with sadness. Unable to contain his emotion any longer, the tears that plagued the prince, now strode down the doctor’s cheeks. "Prince Keigo…" Gently, Chisaki rested his hand upon the prince’s shoulder, forcing the blond’s tear stained expression to meet his. "It’s time to go…" Expecting the prince to defy him, Chisaki was pleased when Keigo bid his father one final farewell before getting to his feet.

"Chisaki…my father…" Gripping his arm for comfort, Keigo slowly spun to face the doctor. Expression wet with mucus and tears, the prince couldn’t find his voice to speak. "My…family…they’re…" Bursting down his cheeks in an uncontrollable fit of sadness, Keigo succumbed to his emotions. Letting his weakness guide him, he sought comfort from Chisaki’s extended arms, unable to find the strength to formulate any further verbal response. 

"I know…" Softly the brunette consoled the crying prince in his arms. "I’m sorry…" Carefully, Chisaki’s capable hands guided the sobbing male away from the corpse behind them. "But trust me your majesty, everything will be okay…I promise…" Latching the door with a soft click, Chisaki led the prince to his room to retire the poor boy from the events of the day.

"I will take care of you like I promised…I will help make everything better. You have my word."

Sticking to his word, Chisaki stuck by Keigo’s side. Until the prince turned eighteen, Chisaki indirectly ran the kingdom at Keigo’s side. Being six years older than the heir, the kingdom felt more at ease with an older male at the helm. However, Chisaki hadn’t once put his hand in the pot to run the show, he’d only been present to ease the conscious minds of the villagers and aid Keigo if need be. Keigo Takami had always been, and always would be the rightful ruler. At least in Chisaki’s eyes. Proven himself time and time again, there was no arguing with Keigo’s exceptional prowess as a leader. 

Therefore, when the prince took on the title of king on his eighteenth birthday, Chisaki took a step backwards. Remaining within arms reach only as an intellectual perspective for Keigo to volley with if need be. He preferred it that way. After all, Kai Chisaki’s hands weren’t meant to indefinitely lead and guide, their sole purpose being the town doctor, was to heal and occasionally tear apart. Keigo was more suited for the role of heroic leader, not him.

However, no matter how hard Keigo fought to overcome every obstacle thrown his way, he still found himself face down in the dirt. Fighting for what felt like hours, days, and years, to heal the mental and physical scarring that coated his heart; the world still found a way to beat him down. Shortly after the young king’s twenty-first birthday, the world delivered its most cruel, poorly timed joke upon the young blond. 

"Lean forward for me." The movement, although slight, disturbed the king’s lungs enough to force any undesirable substances onto the handkerchief in the king’s hand. "Apologies, my lord." Eyes softening to match the tender tone of his voice, an unfiltered pang struck Chisaki’s heart. Chuckling softly, Keigo wiped any excess discharge from his mouth.

"There’s no need to apologize Chisaki." Folding the handkerchief neatly, Keigo rested the soiled fabric against the mattress. "It’s not your fault." Trying to flash the brunette a reassuring smile, the king’s pale face was anything but. Lacking all luster, his golden orbs were dull, fatigued, and exhausted from the expenditure of energy. Blond locks, normally flowing like fabric caught in the wind, stuck to the king’s face; damp with sweat and heavy from uncleanliness, the mop of blond locks made Keigo look filthy . Appearing like a common villager, the king’s appearance was the furthest thing from itself. His normally flushed face was pale, accentuating the heavy bags under his eyes and pronouncing the cheek bones from underneath. Despite his appearance, it was the weak smile that hurt Chisaki the most. Twitching desperately into formation, the king’s muscles seemingly expelled any stored energy to force the man’s lips to curve. Pathetic in form and unconvincing in spirit, Chisaki hated this smile. It didn’t belong to Keigo and he never wanted to see a smile as weak as this one his king’s face ever again.

"I know, I just don’t like seeing you in such a state." Slipping the ear pieces of the stethoscope into his ear, Chisaki positioned the end gently against Keigo’s back. "Take a deep breath." Listening to the garbled sounds popping through the stethoscope, Chisaki tried not to obviously wince. Moving the piece across Keigo’s back, the doctor gathered as much auditory knowledge as he desired before removing the device. 

"You can relax yourself, your highness." Tender with his command, the doctor neatly folded the stethoscope, placing it safely in the confines of his bag. Keigo, now leaning back comfortably against the wooden headboard of the bed, eyed Chisaki curiously. Acutely aware of the brunette’s learned phobia of germs and distaste of general physical contact, he fully expected Chisaki’s actions; relishing the opportunity to tease the older male. Smirking as the doctor discarded what he considered to be soiled gloves, promptly sealed his bare hands with fresh ones; Keigo let his mocking thoughts slip. 

"That bad, eh Chisaki?" Joking lightly, the small trail of chuckles that followed the question quickly erupted into a painful coughing fit. Tensing with each expelled sound from Keigo’s lungs, Chisaki’s muscles yearned to speak that which the doctor didn’t want to. Concerned yellow orbs landed on the king’s jerking body, jaw clenching in what felt like rhythm with Keigo’s coughs. He’d delivered bad news before, but never to someone as special as Keigo; and it became obnoxiously apparent to Chisaki that he didn’t have the strength to tell the king that which he desired to know. When the king cleared what he could from his windpipe, anxiously glazed gold eyes locked with Chisaki’s.

"You’re being awfully quiet…what did you hear in my lungs?" Following Chisaki’s gaze shifting around the room, the pit in Keigo’s stomach seemed to tighten. 

"Based on my previous check ups with you, along with the tests I have run over the last few days, I believe you are sick with pneumonia…" Afraid to deliver the rest of the diagnosis, the doctor let his voice trail off with the wind. Catching the auditory dodging, Keigo’s brow furrowed in skepticism. 

"What else?" Losing any remaining playfulness, Keigo’s patient tone forced the doctor to gather his courage. 

"You’re also showing early signs of leukemia…" Sinking in his chest like a rock thrown mercilessly into the ocean, Keigo’s heart fell with the revelation. Eyes, already glazed over from the illness, widened with shock. Any remaining light dimmed over Chisaki’s words, leaving Keigo to appear more of a shell of himself. Pale hands, shaking with realized fear, gripped the blanket that rested over his lower body. "Keigo…I’m so sorry." Folding his hands politely in front of his form, Chisaki’s solemn gaze remained on the king. Anxious with how the blond would inevitably react, the doctor refused to take his eyes from the boy. Keigo’s life, whether Chisaki liked it or not, was left to his capable hands and he’d be damned if he let the king’s fleeting existence slip through his fingers so easily. 

"How long…?" Keigo breathed out, unable to formulate the rest of the question. Bringing a gloved hand to touch his forehead in thought, the doctor’s gaze found the floor. 

"Hard to say." Lifting his head to meet Keigo’s stoic expression, a sigh fell from Chisaki’s lungs with his answer. "It depends on your health. If you rapidly decline because I can’t treat your illness…I’d say a few weeks to a month. However, If I can clear up that pneumonia and keep you healthy, it could be a few more years." Silently comprehending the doctor’s words, a small smile twitched across Keigo’s lips. 

"I trust you." Expelling the first smidgen of confidence Chisaki had heard from the king, a small light seemed to ignite in Keigo’s bold gold eyes. "I’ll do anything you say, if it means I can live another day." Intoxicating as always, the king’s positivity forced a smile to crawl across Chisaki’s lips. 

"Of course, my lord. I’ll concoct medicine for you over the next couple of days." Packing up his belongings, the doctor finished his diagnosis. "In the meantime, please try to relax, keep your stress minimal, and try not to work too hard. Lots of rest, water, and healthy food is what you need most." Slinging his bag over his shoulder, the doctor crossed the room to the door. "I don’t have to tell you, but any unnecessary strain on your body could perpetuate your illness…perhaps hiring more staff to help ease your workload could do you some good." Pushing the door open, Chisaki spared the king one final glance back. "At least until you’re cured. Give it a thought."

Setting the laptop aside, Touya’s hands found his face. Rubbing the growing fatigue from his eyes, he pushed a sigh past his lips before forcing himself up from the couch. Feeling an incessant tingle sparking his nerves over the recollection of the past king, Touya had to isolate himself from the narrative. Disturbing the scar that had formed over his heart three hundred years prior, the burning sensation he thought had long since been sealed, began to resurface. Letting his feet guide him back to his bedroom, the uncomfortable feeling seemed to increase the longer he ignored the silent message from the life giving organ. Unconsciously holding his chest, Touya sought to comfort the frantically beating heart cowering beneath the safety of his concealed ribcage. Throbbing in protest with Touya’s feelings, the vampire’s heart pumped the solitary desire that its host had tried so desperately to hide through the network of veins tangled within his body. 

"A drink. I need a drink." Muttering softly, he cracked open the mini fridge residing in his room. Ignoring the shakiness of his other hand, he stole a cold beverage from the small cooler, letting the door swing shut behind him. Feeding the itch that surfaced within his fangs, the king tossed back the second inhibitor he’d consumed that day, the effects of which normally satisfied his bloodlust for a month’s time. Satiating the sudden phantom hunger that awoke with the revival of what his instincts could only describe as being sublime, Touya released a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. Feeling the cold chill of the substitute freezing over the buzzing nerves, the king ran a hand unconsciously through his hair as if to physically reset himself from the encounter. 

"This may be more complicated than I imagined." He whispered to himself, stepping into the kitchen to discard the now empty bottle. "Especially if this is how my body reacts to his name on paper alone." Shifting his icy blue orbs around the empty room, Touya gave his body a few moments to relax. Returning to the couch with a silent affirmation that he was emotionally fit to finish off the narrative for the evening, Touya picked up the laptop, carrying off where he ended. 

While the human king comprehended the devastating news dumped upon him by his closest ally, the vampire king sat peacefully in the main room of his farmhouse with a novel in his hand. Without a care in the world, the two hundred and sixty three year old relic lost himself in the fictional narrative. Having no interest in the other hobbies Kurogiri had brought to him, Touya sought his current entertainment from written words. However, despite having access to every narrative and fictional world at his fingertips, Touya had grown bored. Despite accepting the monotony of mortal life, the lack of action was beginning to eat the king alive. Sighing deeply, the vampire king set the book face down upon the side table. Rubbing his temple in irritation, Touya leaned back against the chair. 

"How dreadfully dull." Groaning to himself, Touya let his arms drop to rest over his lap while his icy blue orbs sought guidance from the roof. "What am I expected to do with my immortality without a kingdom to lead? Certainly, this isn’t how my people are destined to live for an eternity…have I made a mistake?" Silently wishing for a divine answer, Touya’s thumbs danced around each other in awkward contemplation. "Please…send me a sign…any sign…"

"Master Touya~" Bursting through the front door as if on cue with a beaming grin on his face and a twinkle in his yellow eyes, was Kurogiri. "I brought you another case of substitute~" Slamming the case casually down upon the kitchen table, the lesser vampire joined his king in the main room, greeting Touya’s solemn expression with his toxic smile. "How are you doing on this fine day, my lord~" Trying to raise the king’s dampened spirits, the upbeat tone of Kurogiri’s voice was only capable of raising the king’s eyebrow. 

"Can’t you tell?" Flashing a deathly glare towards the lesser vampire, a mocking grin twitched across the king’s lips. "I’m just peachy~" Chuckling with the mocking tone of his master’s voice, Kurogiri took the seat next to Touya, politely crossing one leg over the other before resting his neatly folded hands atop his thigh. 

"Master Touya~" Swinging his foot lightly in the air, the lesser vampire leaned back with a mocking tone of his own. "I think this is the first time you’ve lied to me~" Catching the king’s expression sinking back to reflect his stoic demeanor, Kurogiri’s tone drifted to take a more serious edge. "Care to tell me what’s on your mind? It’s my duty to look out for you after all, and I can’t help but notice how you seem…not quite like yourself." Releasing any pent up irritation in the form of a heavy sigh, Touya’s dull gaze locked with Kurogiri’s. 

"I’m bored." Putting it as simply as he could, Touya left his response with little to behold. Which only made Kurogiri click his tongue. 

"I gathered that…" Running a hand through the wispy black locks that swirled atop his head, Kurogiri’s gaze shifted around briefly seeking an answer for his king. "Perhaps it would be healthy for you to venture into town. You could explore the village, meet some people, perhaps something will come along to occupy you for a while?" Processing the idea momentarily, Touya let the thought settle within his mind. Kurogiri wasn’t wrong. Getting out of the house would relieve his cabin fever. However, as the king pushed himself up from the chair and waltzed over to the stone mantle, he couldn’t ignore the gnawing feeling chewing him up from the inside out. 

"It’s not just the boredom that’s bothering me." Leading his hand across the rough surface of the mantle, Touya’s hand threateningly passed every pointless object residing on the stone shelf. Decorations that were made by his hand, others procured by Kurogiri as a heartwarming gift. They served no immediate purpose, save for one. Touya’s cold hand stopped in front of an hourglass. Picking up the still object and holding it in front of his gaze, icy blue eyes followed the curves of the glass. Inevitably diving into the center, the king found himself lost amongst the pile of grains resting inside. Buried, like the light that died within Touya, the king desperately sought a way out of the darkness. A way to revert the effects of his father’s rule and free himself and the other’s from their unfair life sentence. Frozen in time, imprisoned with the stilled sand, the king flipped the device over, trying to metaphorically restart his motivation to live freely with the flow of time. 

"I feel no desire to consume blood." Feeling a wrench in his heart before the organ dropped deep within his chest, Kurogiri gripped the arms of the chair anxiously. 

"Master Touya…" Overwhelmed with the uncertainty of Touya’s next action, Kurogiri got to his feet. "You don’t intend to starve yourself, do you?" Taking a cautious step towards the king, the lesser vampire was prepared to intervene at the drop of a pin. "For if you are, I’ll have no choice but to-"

"Simmer down Kurogiri, I’ll rephrase." Setting the flowing hourglass down against the cold stone, Touya turned to face his subordinate. "I have no intention of starving myself. What I meant to say was that I feel no active attraction to the blood of the villagers." Crossing the room to retrieve a fresh bottle of Atsuhiro’s blood substitute, Touya raised the drink up to be level with his face. "Even the blood procured by you and Atushiro is not appetizing to me." Swirling the clear liquid around the glass container, the movement of the thick liquid led nothing to be desired by the king. "I find the idea of devouring it…repugnant. The smell, the taste, the feeling, it’s foul and dissatisfying to my senses." Setting the bottle back with the other’s, Touya’s weighted attention fell back on Kurogiri. "I need something fresh…" Pondering the desire that lingered beneath the fangs currently throbbing behind his lips, the thirsty red hue reared its crimson gaze. "I want something sublime~ Kurogiri, I need special blood~" 

Witnessing the king’s first genuine smile in years, Kurogiri couldn’t help but feel a little uncomfortable beneath the expression. Deprived of any remaining rationality, Touya’s expectations were anything but. Treating the request with relation to a printed shopping list, the king certainly expected Kurogiri to find and supply him with a specimen harboring the desired hemoglobin. However, Kurogiri couldn’t begin to fathom where to find such a specimen. 

"Special how, my lord?" He asked, feeling the weight of Touya’s hungry glare pushing down upon him with the question. 

"Come now Giri, do I really have to explain my cravings?" Crossing the room to seat himself back in the comforting hold of his chair, Touya crossed one leg over the other. Menacingly pressing the pads of his fingertips together, his heavy rouge glare swept back over Kurogiri. "I want something rich in flavour. Something sweet to taste, pure with honesty that thickens with passion as I consume it, I want blood that is untouched by any negative human qualities…perfect blood that will startle my senses with its sublime flavour." Unconsciously running his tongue over the set of fangs that were excited from Touya’s verbal description, a shuddering sigh slipped from the king’s lips. "Find that for me." Understanding the severity of the king’s request, Kurogiri pondered a solution for Touya. Thinking briefly on what it was Touya was seeking, Kurogiri mentally pathed out an answer for the king. 

"Rich in flavour?" Whispering the description to himself, Kurogiri’s eyes flashed with an idea. "Master Touya, I think I know where you can find that special blood." Perking the king’s eyebrows upwards, the lesser vampire delivered the option with a smile. "While I was on my way to you, I happened to pass by a proclamation posted by the king of the nearby village. Turns out he’s looking to hire some new staff to work in the castle. Perhaps you should consider applying." Retracting the red hue from his eyes, Touya’s bored, natural blue gaze squinted at Kurogiri with suspicion. 

"Why would I serve a king? I’m royalty, not some peasant looking for validation. Why would you dare to suggest such a thing to me?"

"A king’s blood could be exactly what you’re looking for." Wiping the boredom from Touya’s eyes, the king’s gaze quickly became intrigued with Kurogiri’s thought process. "I mean, take your blood as an example…" Taking a bold step towards Touya, Kurogiri knelt in front of the king. Taking one of Touya’s hands within his gentle grasp, the lesser vampire brought the pale limb closer to his face. Hiding his gaze from the king, Kurogiri’s eyelids fluttered closed. "Your blood…" Bringing his lips down to touch the back of Touya’s hand, the lesser vampire took in the sublime scent of the rich liquid coursing through Touya’s veins. Shuddering with delight, Kurogiri raised his eyelids. Having let the crimson hue overtake the natural yellow of his irises, his blood thirsty gaze locked with Touya’s. 

"Your blood, my dearest king, is divine~ Rich with flavour~ Unlike anything my olfactory senses has had the pleasure of smelling~ What I wouldn’t give for just a taste…" Dressing his fangs with a sample of thirsting saliva, Kurogiri’s tongue regretfully retracted back behind his lips. Knowing that tapping into Touya’s sacred veins and consuming the expensive nectar would be grounds for treason, Kurogiri held back his blossoming desires for the sake of his life. Smirking at the intrigued expression etched across Touya’s face, and wishing to push aside the itching desire to break open Touya’s skin, Kurogiri released Touya’s hand. 

"Perhaps you should seek out this king, just to see~" Getting to his feet, the lesser vampire pushed away the thirsty red hue, bringing back the docile yellow. "Who knows~ He could harbor the blood you’re looking for~" Shrugging his shoulders with a smirk, Kurogiri turned with the intention to leave. "Besides, even if he doesn’t have the blood you desire, you’d still be out of the house and giving your mind some much needed stimulation~ Something to think about, your highness~" Leaving Touya with the thought, Kurogiri disappeared through the front door. Blinking at the closed door in thought, Touya silently admitted to the truth behind Kurogiri’s words. Being royalty, Touya’s blood was by far the most delectable. Having been sought out by many for its flavour and ability to grant immortality to those who consume it, Touya would be ignorant to disagree with Kurogiri’s statement. However, a human king’s blood would be a crap shoot in comparison. Depending on the host, the blood would either be as sublime as Touya’s, or it would be spoiled, corrupted by the selfishness stemming from human power. 

"The only way to know…" Whispering to himself, Touya leaned forward. Placing his fingers over his chin in thought, the king’s fangs throbbed with curiosity. "Is to examine the integrity of the specimen myself."

Chapter Text

Accepting Kurogiri’s premise on the matter, the particular king found himself sifting through a closet of untouched clothes. Having no active need, nor desire to step out under the warmth of the deadly ball of gas hanging in the sky, Touya’s outerwear remained an afterthought. Brandishing a plain black long sleeved shirt and a pair of black trousers that seemed a little loose against Touya’s body, the vampire king left nothing to behold. In fact, after years of isolation and self deprivation, he appeared ragged, daresay peasantry by his standards. 

Despite his weight or muscle mass not drastically changing, Touya had shed a few pounds. His body, still taught and fit for a vampire’s standards, had decreased a pant size. Thinking that consuming more human food would fix the loss of muscle in substitution of blood, the king knotted the pants, fitting the fabric uniformly upon his hips. Huffing a sigh, long fingers tipped with claws thirsting for violent action combed through the thick locks that wove across Touya’s head. 

Up kept through the years by Kurogiri’s skilled hand, the king’s hair remained unchanged since the bloody massacre of his people all those years ago. Commanding the unruly stands sufficiently back into place, the sweeping avalanche of white strands hung gracefully over Touya’s glistening teal-blue iris. Iris’s that still glowed with life, clinging desperately to the remaining will to live that swirled deep within Touya’s eyes. Forced to waltz forever with the notion that Touya no longer “lived”, he simply existed to survive. 

Set against untouched porcelain, the distracting blue hue seemed to be the only tone present against Touya’s skin. Lacking any current flush of colour, the king’s skin was nothing more than bland in comparison. Its only redeeming quality was its unblemished nature. Being a homebody seemed to take a toll on more than Touya’s mental state. Sighing, he slides his arms into the clean sleeves of a long, dark, navy coat. Positioning the coat comfortably against his body, nimble fingers slip each shining button into place with ease. Satisfied with the security the fabric provided, Touya carefully set the thick hood over his head, shielding everything save for a thicket of free falling strands of hair. 

Accepting the precautionary measures taken, Touya spun on his heel. Billowing behind him with each movement, the coattails flowed threateningly behind Touya, reflecting the authority he silently held. Stopping only briefly, the king slid his feet into the pair of leather boots. Boots that were stained deeply under each layer of fabric with the weight of each loss, now held the king proudly a set separation of an inch from the ground. Hand shaking with built in fear of what lay beyond the door, Touya’s breath seemingly fled with the push of the door. Squinting with disgust, the vampire king blocked the harsh rays beating down instantly upon his form with his arm. Securing the door behind him, Touya promptly hid his already stinging hands under the safety of his coat pockets, braving the deadly walk into town. 

Feeling the weight of the harsh heat above him, each muscle unconsciously tensed under the silent threat. Hunching his shoulders, Touya found himself regretfully shrinking under the sun’s life force, silently cursing the ball of gas for forcing this vulnerability upon him. Fighting the urge to crawl back into the safety of his darkness, to be held by the shadows that would forever protect him, the king found himself boldly crossing over the invisible line separating the town from the countryside. Releasing a breath that had been unconsciously held, Touya was anything but relaxed. Muscles quickly became taught, tying themselves into tight stress induced knots with the widening of their master’s eyes. Rushing towards Touya was what could only be described by the vampire king as a stampede of mortals. 

"Get out of the way!" Someone angrily shouted at the fear induced king, who had nary a moment to stumble out of the way. 

"Watch out!" Hitching in his throat, Touya couldn’t muster a gasp as another group of pushy humans nearly trampled him. 

"Holy-WHOA!" Catching a second to see the large animal practically charging towards him, Touya could only stand in frozen terror as the mud caked hooves reared themselves at the petrified king. Finding enough strength to bring his arms up as a feeble attempt to block the massive weight the animal would certainly bear down upon him, Touya could only grit his teeth in response. Accepting the stinging kiss from the sun, left unapologetically against the back of Touya’s hands, the king waited with silent acceptance for the hooves to slam down upon him.

"MOVE OUT OF THE WAY! ARE YOU CRAZY?!" Pulled with a strength that made Touya feel weak in comparison, a passerby grabbed him by the arm, dragging the king from death’s grip. Slamming down into the Earth, the hooves mercilessly stomped the ground where Touya stood only a moment ago. 

"Idiot! Watch where you’re walking!" Impatient with the situation that unfolded, the driver cursed Touya, commanding the horse to continue its pathing. Held securely by the shade of the overhead awning, Touya eyed the retreating contraption with a curious, yet offended glare. Whatever that thing was, he never wanted to face it again. 

"Are you okay?" Asking with a tone soft in comparison to the hectic environment unfolding around Touya, the villager retracted their limb from Touya’s arm. "You’ve got to be careful walking these streets, pal. People have no regard for others." Shifting his attention to the voice of his savior, a wave of disbelief washed over the muscles still vibrating in a terrified symphony under Touya’s skin. Frail in appearance, the man before Touya appeared to fold under the weight of Touya’s gaze alone. With enough power, a gust of wind could easily finish this skeletal man’s life. Long, thick blond hair spiked itself messily over his head. Two long wavy strands hung to frame his face like curtains on either side of an open window. Yet, this window left nothing to behold. Clear blue eyes sat deeply against the man’s face, while teeth, although impossibly white for his status, stood prominent against the frown that curved his lips. Lacking any visible muscle, Touya eyed the man incredulously. Silently questioning the capability of the mortal to have performed a physical feat of that degree without strain. Despite feeling apprehension towards the stranger, Touya spoke. 

"Thank you." Addressing him with as much sincerity he could muster, Touya pulled his hood back over his head. "I’ll keep that in mind." Ignoring the inquisitive expression from the man, Touya assessed the redness that plagued his hands. Throbbing with the heat of a fresh burn, the hue stung every nerve within range. Sending a vibrating reminder to the host, silently mocking Touya for his obvious fragility in comparison to the frail man next to him. Which, in Touya’s opinion, hurt more than the burn. Permanently fractured across his mind, he would never shake the fact that he, and his people, were still weak in comparison to the mortals. 

"You’re not from around here, are you?" Feeling an overwhelming sense of anxiety flow through his veins, Touya eyed him suspiciously. 

"Why do you ask?" Losing the calm edge to his tone, Touya’s hands hid themselves in the safety of the coat’s pockets. As if they themselves had something to hide from the human, they twitched with nervous anticipation, eager for Touya to utilize their violent tendencies. 

"Never seen you around before, I’d think I’d recognize a face as unique as yours." Answering with a shrug, a weak, but prominent smile spread across his lips. "No problem though, we invite all walks of life! Welcome to our town!" Gesturing to the bustling streets, he steps closer to Touya’s side. "My name is Toshinori Yagi, I’m a retired captain…can’t physically do the job anymore…" Catching a glimpse of something solemn swimming under Toshinori’s eyes, Touya hummed in response, seemingly shaking the mortal from his recollection. Quickly replacing his sadness with a smile, Toshinori continued. 

"Hey! Are you looking for anything in particular, I can direct you!" Placing a gentle hand upon Touya’s shoulder, the king had to refrain from pulling away. Settling for a twitch of the shoulder in response, Touya shook his head. 

"I don’t have a set destination." Lying through his teeth, Touya tried to smile while taking a purposeful step away from the man. 

"Ah! Sightseeing? May I recommend a spot?" Stepping into the sun, the man points off in the distance. "Beyond the castle, a few miles into the forest, lies a hidden gem. A pool of natural spring water fed from the mountains and warmed by the thermal heat of the Earth’s core, it’s said to have curative properties." Turning to face Touya with that pathetically infectious smile, his hands proudly rest upon his hips. "Those who soak feel refreshed, relaxed and renewed. Perhaps it would do you some good?" Slapping away the insinuation laced through his words, Touya simply nodded. 

"Thanks for the advice." Boldly stepping out from the safety of the cool shade, the king hid his grimace, sending Toshinori a small smile of gratitude, a silent promise that he would pay Toshinori back. "Thanks again for saving my life." 

"My pleasure." Watching the hooded stranger walk away, the frail blond man raised his hand as if to halt his movements. "Oh, and stay out of the middle of the street!" Without justifying the advice with a wave, Touya vanished among the bustling figures impatiently pushing their way down the street. 

Huddled against his own body, the vampire king, who had lived over double the life of any mortal around him, had never felt so scared. Overwhelmed by the bustling population pushing past him, he clung to himself afraid that the rush of the crowd would steal the rest of him away. Forcing himself out of the crowd, Touya stumbled to occupy the dead shoulder of the road. 

'Have I really been in isolation for so long?’ Surprised with how quickly the human’s had advanced and grown, wide blue orbs watched the world pass by in awe. ‘So much has changed…’ Eyeing the taller, more intricate structures that lined the street with interest, Touya felt small. Mixed with the large population of mortals bustling past, the king felt utterly defeated by the human race. There would be no resurface for his people and he had to finally accept that. Shaking the gnawing feeling eating away internally, Touya set his sights on the looming castle in the distance. 

‘Remember what you came here for.’ Feeling an excited twitch in his fangs, determined teal-blue irises swept across the busy streets, eager to find that which Kurogiri informed him about. Despite not utilizing their visual prowess for years, the teal-blue orbs held just as much authoritative sight as before. Granting Touya with the superior ability to see further and more clearly than any mortal, he scoped out the parchment with ease. Safely crossing the street to stand before a nearby message board, Touya eyed the nailed document curiously. Outlined in bold black ink, scrawled across the crinkled parchment, was a declaration of employment. 

Wanted:

Seeking employment?

King Keigo Takami is actively seeking to hire new employees to work at the castle. His majesty is looking to fill the following positions;

Chef

Butler

Housekeeper/cleaners

Soldier

Landscaper

Lead staff in every position available.

Apply at the castle.

Mentally scratching off the positions that would endanger his life, them being landscaper and soldier, Touya considered his other options. 

"Technically, I could easily do all of these monotonous tasks…" Thinking briefly on the outcome, Touya mentally decided his impending role. "However, if I want to gain the favour of the king…" Feeling the unmistakable blood lust itching at his fangs, Touya pulled the fabric of his hood further down to conceal the crimson hue that forced itself over his eyes. "If I want to get close to this Keigo Takami, to taste his supposed sublime blood, I’ll have to take over command of his entire castle~"

Turning on his heel, the king, led by determined steps, marched with dark intentions towards the royal abode. Each step whispering with the desire of the swirling, thirsty shadows beneath; eager to surface and wreak havoc once again.

Having sufficient time to calm the growing hunger, looming iron bars stood strongly before Touya. Expecting the barred gate to be a formidable obstacle, the king was surprised when the gate opened with a squealing cry of protest in response to Touya mentioning the parchment. Following the waving gesture from the guard, Touya accepting the invitation, stepped past the threshold. Without nary a moment to put his entire foot down upon the stone steps leading up to the castle door, a servant came rushing to greet him.

"Thank you for coming. If you’ll follow me, I can take you to the designated room." Barely giving Touya time to utter a response, the servant ushered him hastily into a small room off from the entrance. Fighting the urge to wrinkle his nose in disgust, Touya awkwardly thanked the servant, who left hastily with a bow. Positioned mostly in the center of the room, in a mixture of sitting and standing positions, were about ten to fifteen men. They spared Touya nothing more than a glance before returning to their menial conversations. 

Without uttering a word, Touya slunk off away from the group, poorly hiding from the rancid smell wafting up from the other villagers. Spoiled with copious and unwarranted amounts of pride, the scent of their blood left less than nothing to desire. Lacking any notable reason to let themselves become so seasoned with pride, Touya found his arms crossing over his chest. Leaning against the wall, Touya’s gaze shifted to peer out the window. A silent plea to rescue him from the drowning sensation swelling in his lungs, induced by the egotistical flow of crimson liquid filling the room. 

Tucked away in the bowels of the castle, feeble legs struggled to carry the tired body of the king. Leaning mostly against the capable strength of his closest friend, the doctor carefully guided the king into the privacy of the library. Inside, the walls were lined with bookshelves. Stacked from floor to ceiling with varying degrees of knowledge, the shelving units ran the perimeter of the room, only leaving the leftmost wall open. Painted red, the wall featured a large stone hearth. Hot with dancing orange flames, the crackling of the dry wood gave the room some desired life. Set in front of the fireplace were two plush white chairs outlined delicately with golden filigree, their decor a subtle nod to the king’s wealth and privilege. Accompanying the set of chairs on contrasting sides were two small, yet elegant side tables. Resting in wait on the second table was a cold glass of water. 

"Easy your highness." Bracing the weak form of the king, Chisaki eased the male delicately into one of the chairs placed purposefully in front of the burning fireplace. Settling into the plush white chair with a heavy sigh, Keigo thanked Chisaki for his efforts. 

"Are you certain about this, your majesty? You’re still rather ill. I haven’t finished concocting your medicine yet and I-" Sending Chisaki a silencing glare, Keigo simply leaned back against the chair. Fighting the urge to expel that which resided in his lungs, Keigo sent the concerned brunette a reassuring smile.

"That’s why I asked you to help me." Moving to object, Chisaki’s hands waved exasperatedly through the air.

"Your majesty, I hate to disagree, but I feel that my time would be better allocated in producing the medicine to clear away your illness. I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if-" Holding his hand up to silence Chisaki, Keigo hastily covered his mouth. Unable to contain the fit aroused by his uneven breathing, the king coughed out an abnormal excess fluid into the white fabric. Yellow eyes, already swimming with concern, seemed to dampen further under the weight of the sounds emanating from the king.

"My lord…" Breathing out the title, Chisaki waited for the king’s sounds to expire before continuing. "Must we do this today?" Folding the nasty contents safely into the white fabric, Keigo dropped the reusable handkerchief into the waste bin next to him. Sitting silently, he took breath after raspy breath until his glossy eyes finally locked with Chisaki’s. 

"I’m only following your orders, Doctor~" He teased, keeping himself from laughing at his own joke. Gesturing towards the door, Keigo wiped the playful edge from his tone. "I promise you, I won’t over do it, but please Chisaki, I am asking you as your king and your friend, to go to the sitting room just off from the foyer and bring me the first applicant. I will be waiting, thank you." Resting his hand against his folded lap, Keigo watched the doctor fold under his order. Symbolizing his submission, a heavy sigh slipped past Chisaki’s lips, moistening the interior of the black plague mask covering his mouth and nose. Closing his eyes in annoyance, Chisaki only shook his head with silent disapproval, but still crossed the room to the door. 

"Very well." Swinging the door open with one swift movement, the doctor sent a bold, yet harmless glare back. "However, as your physician, I will dictate when you must retire for the day." Agreeing with a limp, yet authoritative wave of his hand, Keigo watched with a smirk as Chisaki disappeared through the door. 

"When do you think the interviews will start? I’ve been waiting here forever." Growing eager with impatience, the room filled with uncertain mumbles.

"I know, I have a family waiting at home. I hope it doesn’t take much longer." Ignoring their incessant squabbles, Touya focused on the incoming steps echoing down the hall. Each step, while purposeful and in haste, vibrated softly like the pad of a cat. A true wolf in sheep’s clothing. Whoever was approaching, Touya silently vowed to keep an eye on. Their oscillations waved to Touya with a dangerous note, bringing sharp azure eyes to the door well before the heavy wood had opened with a gentle creek. The motion took the voices from the room, sending them to fade away like dust on the wind. Carrying himself with a toxic amount of pride, enough to have made Touya vomit had he tapped these veins, entered a brunette man. Eyes cold with condescension and a darkness that could rival Touya’s, they swept across the figures in the room, tensing the weak mortal muscles with their yellow glare. 

"Greetings." Tone deep and thick with what Touya would describe as being a lazy rasp, the man spoke mostly using his hands. Waving the gloved limbs dramatically through the air to compensate for the lack of facial expression being blocked by the mask, the brunette continued. "For those of you who don’t know, my name is Kai Chisaki. I am better recognized in white robes and occupying the town medical building. However, I’ve also grown up in this very castle under the teachings of the late King Takami to fulfill the role as the current King’s loyal advisor. Having filled this position for the better part of six years, his majesty King Keigo Takami has entrusted me with starting these interviews." 

Strumming like an incorrectly struck chord on a guitar, the uncertainty began to arise throughout the room. Quietly, no higher than a low whisper, the mortals judged Chisaki’s integrity, the words lost to the brunette, but collected unapologetically by Touya’s ears. Majority of the rumblings questioned how a doctor could be trusted with such a pivotal position. 

"His majesty has requested a one-on-one interview with each applicant, however, due to circumstances that will be revealed in private, I will also be present for the interview." Waking the symphony of uncertainty once again, the room sang with judgmental whispers this time directed at the state of the king. Unsure with Chisaki’s meaning, they hypothesized the worst. Accusing the king of sexual indecency, inability to lead, immune system deficiency, and going as far as accusing Chisaki of stealing the throne in secret. 

"If the defined procedure is clear, then let us begin." Gesturing to a single male, Chisaki volunteered the first interviewee, taking the man to face the king. Remaining on the sidelines, Touya watched with absurd satisfaction as participant after participant left the castle with their tail hanging lowly between their legs. 

‘Inferior.’ The only word present in Touya’s mind with each passing human. Smirking from behind the pane of glass, Touya uncrossed his arms preemptively accepting his victorious hiring as the final applicant shamefully left through the front gate. Pushing himself away from the wall, the vampire king let his hood drop lightly against his shoulders. Turning with a subtle smile gracing his lips, he faced the door, ready to greet Chisaki before the mortal even placed his gloved hand on the door.

"Seems you’re the last one, are you ready?" Letting the smile creep further across his lips, Touya crossed the room with an enthusiasm he himself was unfamiliar with. 

"More than ever." Although the statement was said calmly, he could sense the apprehension growing within Chisaki. 

"Very well, follow me." Keeping a solid foot away from the doctor, Touya obediently followed the man through the stone walls of the castle. Stopping at a closed door, the brunette knocked lightly, pushing the door open on command. Without entering the room, Touya’s olfactory sense caught wind of exactly what was going on. Thick and distinguishable, the heavy scent clung to the air like a thick fog the king was most definitely trying to find his way out of. Without any active guidance however, King Takami would remain suspended in the sickening fog, forced to carry the weight of his illness until such a time as a solution would be administered. An inevitable obstacle that every human had to overcome, Touya shook it off as merely a blip in King Takami’s week. 

Yet, when Touya finally pushed his body to enter the infected space, he felt remorse for the human king. Meek under the strength of the plaguing illness, a glass with only a quarter of water remaining inside was too much for his shaking hand to handle. 

"Allow me." Aiding the king with a capable tilt of his hand, Chisaki carefully let the chilled liquid pour down the king’s throat. Refreshing the fatigued body, the doctor set the now emptied glass down, verbally checking with the king for confirmation of his well being. Keigo, who simply waved Chisaki away, turned his glossy attention towards Touya. Struck immediately by Touya’s appearance, the king remained in awe. Falling to the floor with a metaphorical, soft, thud was Keigo’s jaw. Certainly, weaseling his way to the king’s side wouldn’t be this easy. Concealing his smirk, Touya took a bold step into the middle of the room, respectfully dropping to his knees. 

"Your majesty." Cooing softly like a dove, Touya’s voice sang across the room, capturing Keigo in its gentle hold.

" Oh my…" Certain that no one had heard the statement whispered from his lips, Keigo missed the brief display of Touya’s teeth poking out from behind his condescending smile. Quickly retracted to hide behind his lips, the vampire king simmered his growing ego upon hearing the human king shakily getting to his feet. 

"Sire, you mustn’t-" Without raising his head, Touya understood the silencing gesture Keigo sent the doctor upon hearing an irritated sigh following the interrupted statement. Remaining still beneath each slow slap of Keigo's bare feet touching the cold stone floor, Touya’s eyes remained fixated on the approaching feet. Clean, despite touching the direct floor, his nails were perfectly manicured, shining with an invisible gloss that reflected the soft glow of the sun filtering in through the windows. A small, yet notable sign of his status. 

"What is your name?" Hearing the sick rasp underlying Keigo's tone, Touya lifted his head slightly, stopping at the hem of the silk robe that unprofessionally covered the majority of the king’s body. 

"Touya Todoroki, your highness." Offering his hand towards the king, Keigo chuckled. 

"You don’t want my hand." Hoping for an excuse to scent Keigo’s blood, Touya was disappointed with the informalities. Unable to distinguish the tempting smell from the thick weight of the sickness fogging the air, a closer look was all the vampire desired. Yet, despite the loss, he lowered his hand with a smile, eager to make his next move. "Please rise." Obeying Keigo’s weak command, Touya slowly got back to his feet, now standing at his full height bringing him about a foot above Keigo. 

Granted the permission to look upon the king, Touya took in the man’s disheveled appearance. Blond hair flowed messily around his face, the golden locks damp with sweat and sticking mercilessly to the king’s face. Eyes matching the hue of the locks were glossed over by the illness. Wet with the desperation to shake the sickness from his body, they appeared fatigued not only from the day’s events, but from fighting the virus plaguing him internally. Despite looking ragged, Keigo still smiled. Lips, slightly pale in response to his condition, were curved in a slight, yet powerful, smirk. Devoid of any flushing tones, the pale tint of his skin rivalled Touya’s own. However, Touya found him intriguing. Easy on the eyes and harboring a roguish personality that the vampire king was interested in pulling out further.

"You’re not from here are you?" Keigo finally asked, having pulled himself from the alluring whirlpools that were Touya’s eyes. Glistening like a set of rare, untouched, sapphire’s, they shown with untapped excellence. Intrigued by the teal-blue flakes that mixed perfectly with strokes of white, while blending with hints of deeper blues, Keigo would dip into these crystalline waters forever. Alluring as the hue was, there was something deep seated under the surface of the calm blue pools. Lurking well beneath the teal-blue ripples, Keigo saw heavy devotion swimming in these eyes. Dancing in sync with something indescribable, Keigo looked forward to pulling it out from behind the watery surface. 

"I am not." Ringing out with a symphony of smooth tones that touched Keigo’s ears like a comforting melody, Touya’s voice held Keigo softly, assuring him of his sweet natured intentions. 

"Where are you from?" Restraining himself from reaching up and twirling his finger around the bouncy, plush locks hanging in front of Touya’s face, Keigo forced himself back to his chair. Once seated, with Chisaki’s aid, Keigo gestured for Touya to take the empty seat across from him. 

"I was born and raised in Flamores." Answering while taking the offered chair, Touya ignored the harsh glare beaming down upon him from Chisaki, who was stationed protectively behind Keigo. 

"Flamores..." Keigo began, rubbing his chin in recollection. "That’s quite the distance, why have you come to Fehrin?" Sensing the suspicion rising with the question, Touya replaced any playfulness present on his face with sincerity. 

"Truthfully, unfortunate circumstances have forced me to move from my hometown." Catching a glimpse of intrigue across both Keigo’s and Chisaki’s eyes, Touya let his voice shake with vulnerability. "My father was murdered…and my mother died very young…" Letting his eyes wander, he buried his pride for the sake of the performance. "After the incident involving my father, I couldn’t bear to live in that town any longer…it was emotionally too much for me. My…guardian…and I left town in search of a new beginning." Bringing his falsely wet eyes back to meet Keigo’s, the vampire continued. "We tried to settle in many other towns, but none of them seemed a good fit, until I was recommended to Fehrin by a travelling merchant." Catching a stutter in Keigo’s heartbeat, Touya bit down on the interior of his lip, forcing the manipulative smirk to accept patience before appearing. 

"I’m sorry to hear that…" Answering Keigo with a shake of his head, Touya quickly forced the king back on topic. 

"I appreciate your condolences." He lied, leaning forward with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "However, forgive me your majesty, but I came here to prove my use to you, not receive your pity. Let me show you how valuable I can be by your side. Give me any task, I will complete it for you." Catching Chisaki’s hand twitch against the top of Keigo’s chair, Touya silently challenged the doctor, with nothing more than a commanding shift of his eyes to interject on his authoritative advance against the king. While remaining still, Chisaki's hand radiated anything but safety. Giving off a sense of crumbling destruction, Touya could feel the threatening oscillations stemming from the limb. A silent reminder to remain as far away from those hands as possible, otherwise risk losing a limb.

"How pretentious~" Accepting Touya’s outward confidence, Keigo leaned back with a smirk. Running his index finger and thumb thoughtfully over his chin, the king chuckled. "Very well~ Colour me intrigued~" The doctor’s hand gripped at the chair, the subtle movement threatening a verbal outburst in rejection to Keigo’s answer, yet went unanswered as the king continued. "I desire a soothing bath for my feet, complete with a massage. My glass must be refilled with chilled, filtered water, and I’m feeling rather peckish." Sending Touya a commanding grin of his own, solid gold eyes flashed with the silent dare to accept his challenge. "Bring me that which I’ve requested and I’ll consider talking further on the subject." Moving to his feet without any sense of haste, Touya flashed the king an assured smile. 

"A simple task, I assure you." Letting the male take a few steps towards the door, Keigo carefully lined up a sharped nail with the metaphorical wooden planks surrounding Touya. With the clearing of his voice, he hammered the nail into place, seemingly trapping the other male into a box fit for his created demise. 

"Oh, Touya~ One more thing~" Snapping his fingers, he urged Chisaki to retrieve a silently requested object. Curiously, Touya turned on his heel, watching with questioning eyes as Chisaki carried an object that had been previously resting on the mantle to Keigo, while not removing his cocky gaze from Touya, Keigo held his hand out accepting the requested device from the doctor. "Since you’re so confident in your skill, there’s a time limit~" Flipping the hourglass over, Keigo set the now ticking hourglass down upon the side table next to him. "Good luck~" Dismissing the male with a wave of his hand, Keigo could only chuckle as the door closed softly with Touya’s departure. 

"He’ll fail." Said with certainty, Chisaki lightly stepped around Keigo’s chair to sit across from the king. "You’ve dismissed every candidate today my lord. Why did you obviously give that boy an impossible task to complete?! You know how important it is for you to have extra help right now, I don’t understand why-"

"Chisaki, what makes you so sure he’ll fail?" The cold tone that Keigo presented the doctor with chilled the man’s bones, warning him to steer away from the approaching iceberg. Yet, despite the argumentative promise in Keigo’s tone, Chisaki took the bait. 

"What makes you so sure he won’t?" Hating the confident smile on his king’s lips, the glimmer of hope that crossed Keigo’s eyes was anything but comforting to Chisaki. 

"I saw something in his eyes…" Looking off into the distance as if fawning over something Chisaki couldn’t see, A tender smile formed across Keigo’s lips. Glossy eyes sparkled like the king had an animated crush, while a faint pink dusted his cheeks. "He has the heart of a true leader, a dependability that I didn’t see in any of the other applicants." Not justifying Keigo’s childish attraction to Touya with a verbal response, the doctor simply raised an eyebrow. Every nerve residing within Chisaki vibrated with quick oscillations in response to his irritation. Not only had Keigo’s actions struck him with the frustrations of dealing with a child, there was something odd about this Todoroki that shook Chisaki’s nerves to the core. However, he wouldn’t voice his opinions yet, the kid would fail before Chisaki had a chance to tell Keigo everything amiss with Touya Todoroki. 

"Sire, you neglected to inform him of where anything was located. How do you expect him to be able to find anything you requested within the time limit?" Unaware of how easily Touya could get into people’s heads with a simple glance of the eyes, Keigo tapped his chin in mock thought.

"I suppose we’ll have to see what he does." When the sand pooling in the bottom of the hourglass was no higher than a quarter past time, the door to the room surprisingly swung open. While Keigo’s expression was easy to read, Chisaki hid his surprise under the black mask. Mouth agape with an equal expression of surprise similar to Keigo's, the two men watched in baited awe as Touya confidently crossed the room. Impossibly balancing everything Keigo requested in arms much too small to justify Touya’s strength, he joined the seated figures with a smile. 

"Gentlemen." Kneeling slightly, Touya set the silver tray balanced skillfully on his right hand, gently upon the side table next to Chisaki. Arranged neatly on the tray was a pitcher filled with ice water, a small plate decorated artistically with cut fruit of varying types, and a stack of neatly folded and pressed handkerchiefs. With a hand now free, Touya braced the wooden basin that was resting uncomfortably on his left shoulder, being held carefully in place by his left hand. Slowly, he knelt completely against the ground. Removing the basin, Touya took extra caution to not let a single drop kiss the stone floor below while placing the basin purposefully in front of Keigo. Lifting his feet, Keigo hesitantly dipped a toe in the perfectly warmed water. Finding the water delightful against his cool skin, Keigo sunk his feet entirely into the basin with a deep, relaxed sigh, while sinking fully against the chair. Getting to his feet, Touya grabbed the pitcher of water, slinking mockingly around Chisaki’s chair before smoothly picking up Keigo’s empty glass.

"H-How did you accomplish all of this?!" The mask, despite doing its best to hide the impression Touya left upon him, could not hide the weight of surprise in Chisaki’s tone. The sounds tilted Touya’s lips into a higher smirk, granting the vampire the silent confirmation to brag. 

"It’s as I said~" Skillfully pouring the liquid into the glass, the cold beverage swirled against the glass walls, rising towards the rim where Touya cut the rising liquid off about an inch under. "I can complete any task you wish of me~" Setting the newly filled glass back within reach of the king, Touya promptly returned to be on the other side of the two men. Cockily, he lifted the plate of fruit, offering it mockingly to Chisaki. "Care for a snack, Doctor~ I cut enough to satiate your needs as well~" Condescending blue orbs squinted into a challenging glare, daring Chisaki to oppose him. While the shadows tucked neatly under his feet itched with anticipation for the opportunity to come out and play, having remained docile for far too long. Gritting his teeth behind the mask, Chisaki growled in detest. Brewing like a storm, an unsettling feeling began to churn within Chisaki’s gut. Nobody was this perfect, Touya was hiding something and Chisaki was going to find out what. 

"Touya?" Hearing a gentle splash, a rippling cry made by the water from the movement of Keigo’s feet within the basin, the contending pairs of eyes switched back to the most important figure in the room. "What is this surprise addition that you’ve mixed into my water?" Swirling the water with his foot, Chisaki caught sight of the green tinged liquid. 

"Your highness if I may interject, Touya has gone against your orders and should-"

"It’s nothing more than green tea." Hearing Chisaki’s nails digging into the wooden arm of the chair from behind his gloves, Touya could only smirk harder. Without trying, he’d found himself crawling under Chisaki’s skin. Forming an uncomfortable itch that Touya wouldn’t let the doctor scratch. 

"Green tea? Whatever for?" Smoothly placing the plate of fruit next to Keigo’s glass of water, Touya knelt in front of the basin. 

"Green tea is beneficial for your feet to soak in." Removing a tightly rolled towel and bottle of moisturizing lotion from his coat pocket, Touya accepted Keigo’s left foot into the now unrolled towel. "It helps aid inflammation, eases and relaxes the skin, and reduces odors…" Drying Keigo’s foot, the vampire king sent Keigo a teasing grin. "That’s not to say that your feet smell, my lord. This is only a benefit of the soak." With swift movements, Touya had a helping of lotion in his hand, eager to massage it into Keigo’s foot. 

"How thoughtful~" Musing over the gesture, Keigo picked a strawberry from the plate, relishing the flavor as the fruit popped delicately into his mouth. Moaning over the taste of the fresh sugar, but mostly from the pinpoint pressure of Touya’s thumbs against the tight muscles at the bottom of his body, Keigo practically melted beneath Touya’s nimble fingers. Working out the kinks in Keigo’s foot, Toyua accepted the other one, following the same rhythm as the first, stopping only when the vampire king felt the muscles submitting under his pressure. With each task completed, Touya lifted the basin back onto his shoulder. 

"Please excuse me your majesty, once I clean this basin, I will return." Waiting for the soft click of the door following Touya’s departure, Keigo’s bright eyes landed on Chisaki.

"I want him." Leaving a score of anger against the wood of the chair with the drag of his nails, the doctor leaned forward in disbelief.

"You can’t be serious." The unsettling feeling, like the opening of floodgates, raged uncontrollably in Chisaki’s gut. "Your highness, I beg you to reconsider…there’s something not quite right with Touya…I can feel it." Sensing a hint of envy filling the air, Keigo’s gaze squinted into a challenging glare. 

"What evidence can you go off of, Chisaki? I see nothing wrong with him. In fact, He seems quite dependable." Crossing his arms over his chest, the doctor spares a glance at the hourglass that had long since emptied. 

"The time limit! He failed the test, just as I said!"

"A minor detail." Waving the accusation away with his hand, Keigo devoured another piece of fruit. "He more than pleased me, I’d be foolish to not hire him." Sensing an uncanny certainty that he’d lose his king to this wretched stranger, Chisaki took on a more desperate tone. 

"Keigo, I’ve tried to stay out of your affairs being that I’m not of royal blood, but this time I can’t step away." Expressing his concern through the solemn shape of his calm yellow eyes, Chisaki unfolded his arms, clasping the gloved limbs together to further express his prayer on the matter. "I’m asking from the bottom of my heart to dismiss Touya. Feelings aside, I keep getting an uneasy feeling from him and I fear he’s here to harm you in some way…please your majesty…consider my words, at least." Reading the honesty rising above the envy that had plagued the doctor’s eyes only a moment ago, Keigo couldn’t ignore the desperate request. 

"Relax yourself Chisaki." Softly assuring the doctor with a genuine smile, Keigo picked up the glass of water. "I’ll keep an eye on him if you’re that worried about me." Refreshing his parched mouth with a generous helping of the perfectly prepared water, Keigo continued only after the glass was set back down upon the table. "I promise you I will expel him if your ravings happen to be right, but for now I’ll be hiring Touya, at least until I’m better." Catching a glint of victory flashover Chisaki’s eyes, Keigo brought the authoritative tone back to his voice. "However, mark my words, if Touya proves more than useful to me, he’ll be a permanent fixture in this castle whether you like it or not. Understand?" Forcing himself to take a knee in front of Keigo, the doctor sighed in defeat. 

"Yes, your highness." hearing the king’s hum of approval, Chisaki returned to his feet. "Don’t take my leaving as an offence however, I want to finish your medicine." Parting from the situation, Chisaki moved towards the door, sparing a glance back at the king. "Promise me you won’t strain yourself too much for the remainder of the evening." Nodding, Keigo agreed to focus solely on showing Touya around. Accepting the king’s premise, Chisaki gripped the door handle, pulling the door open only slightly. 

"Your majesty, just know that although I disagree with the outcome, I ultimately support you . You are my responsibility after all and I will abide by anything you decide so long as you are in good spirits and healthy at the end of the day."

"Of course Chisaki, get home safe~" Pushing the negative thoughts away, the doctor bid Keigo farewell, closing the door gently behind him.

"Going so soon, Doctor~" Feeling a chill rush down his spine from the oddly cold rasp underlying Touya’s playful tone, Slightly wide yellow eyes shifted towards the voice. 

"Yes, I have work to finish." Without dignifying Touya with any further response, Chisaki slipped his hands into his pockets, mistakenly turning his back to Touya. 

Echoing out a silent message across the stone walls, Chisaki’s retreating footsteps were anything but confident. Their fear, while small and undistinguished by the mortal ear, fed the shadows swirling hungrily beneath Touya’s feet. Eagerly, they lapped up the terror and uncertainty flooding from the doctor’s retreating form, growing larger from the belief that Touya was a force to be reckoned with. The vampire king, while standing calmly in the empty hallway with a prominent smirk on his lips, relished the power Chisaki gave him. Feeling an explicit sense of dominance related to his absent reign over an inferior species, Touya felt elated. Indirectly, Chisaki had brought the spark back to the docile king, reawakening the long deceased desire to overcome those weaker than him. Releasing a throaty chuckle, Touya let his darkness out, commanding the thirsty shadows to install a reason upon the doctor to be afraid of him.

Chisaki could feel it. The moment he’d turned his back to the odd stranger, he could sense those cold, calculating eyes judging his every move. However, as unnerving as Touya’s observant gaze was, there was something much more disturbing in the air. Thick with malice, the weight of the feeling threatened to drown Chisaki with its bloodlust. 

Extending from the dangerous man behind him, the pressure grew. Taking on the uncanny appearance of the male in question, it rose from the ground menacingly. Deep eyes, rouge with evil intentions glowed intensely in the back of Chisaki’s mind. Claws, sharpened from years of tearing through flesh, extended threateningly at the end of the shadows, long, slender fingers reaching eagerly for Chisaki’s untouched figure. Most frighteningly however, were the set of sharp, glistening fangs that protruded from the dark figure looming eerily behind him. 

Erratically, the doctor’s heart screamed at him to run, yet, the only course of action he could bring himself to complete was to stop. Feeling the immense pressure enclosing around him, Chisaki gathered his courage. Spinning abruptly on his heel, eyes drowning in fear locked onto the figure behind him.

"Have a good night, Doctor~" Waving suspiciously with a smile that was anything other than its sweet appearance, was Touya. Nothing else. Skeptically, Chisaki’s eyes washed over the hallway, coming up with no logical explanation for the overwhelming fear he experienced only a moment ago. Relaxing his heart, the doctor shakily bid Touya farewell, eagerly slipping out of the castle without further incident. 

Chapter Text

Erratically, the doctor’s heart screamed at him to run, yet, the only course of action he could bring himself to complete was to stop. Feeling the immense pressure enclosing around him, Chisaki gathered his courage. Spinning abruptly on his heel, eyes drowning in fear locked onto the figure behind him.

"Have a good night, Doctor~" Waving suspiciously with a smile that was anything other than its falsely sweet appearance, was Touya. Nothing else. Skeptically, Chisaki’s eyes washed over the hallway, coming up with no logical explanation for the overwhelming fear he experienced only a moment ago. Relaxing his heart, the doctor shakily bid Touya farewell, eagerly slipping out of the castle without further incident. 

Chuckling softly at the doctor’s disappearing figure, the vampire king turned his attention to the door. Knocking gently, he pushed the door open on Keigo’s command. 

"Apologies for taking so long." Said with a simple bow, Keigo could only chuckle, dismissing the need to apologize while offering Touya the seat across from him. Watching Touya settle in, Keigo sat in silence. Observing the other male based on Chisaki’s critiques, he searched the aura emanating off of him. Exuding a wealth of authority, confidence, wisdom, and honesty, Touya was bold, resilient, and trustworthy. Keigo could understand Chisaki’s apprehensions by challenging Keigo’s authority. However, there was nothing in Touya’s personality nor spirit that claimed he was there to overthrow the king. Chisaki must have misread the situation. Keigo was certain, by the pleasant expression carved across Touya’s face, he knew this man posed no immediate threat to him.

"Touya Todoroki of Flamores…" Perking his head slightly from the call of his name, he eyed the king with silent curiosity. Hiding his excitement, Keigo’s expression said what his tone did not, hinting to Touya of his victory well before the words were even uttered. "You’re remarkably adept for a man of…" Waving his hand in a gesture for Touya to fill in the blank, the vampire king curved his lips into a teasing smile. 

"Two hundred and sixty three." Answering honestly, Touya ate the surprised expression that unfolded across Keigo’s face. Mouth agape, the king read the playful expression hiding the truth behind Touya’s statement, quickly twisting his surprise into laughter. 

"Certainly you jest~" Silencing his laughter to keep the chorus of coughs from erupting, the king cleared the cobwebs from his throat. "You don’t look a day over twenty five." Wiping the honesty from his smile, Touya sat back against the chair with a mischievous glint in his eyes. 

"Caught me red handed, your majesty. I’m twenty four." Lighting a spark of excitement within Keigo’s eyes, Touya, hiding his intrigue, curled his toes beneath the security of his boot. Never had he expected to read the human king with such ease. Perhaps, he was more seasoned than he gave himself credit for, or Keigo was toying with him.

"Twenty four…interesting…" Crossing one leg over the other, Keigo knit his fingers together resting the knotting limbs professionally against his thigh. "As I was saying, you are incredibly adept for a man so young. I would be remiss to not offer you a position here." Eyeing Touya’s unchanging expression with certainty, Keigo continued. “Despite your age and lack of experience, I see a leadership role within you. As such, I’m prepared to offer you a position as my head servant." Discarding the insulting change from the king to servant, Touya’s voice remained falsely joyous while addressing the king. 

"I appreciate your kind assessment however, I find myself confused on what this position would entail?" Despite knowing the details of the job based on years of observing Kurogiri, Touya was ignorant to Keigo’s expectations. 

"It’s quite simple really." Uncrossing his legs, the king shakily got to his feet. "You must direct the other servants, ensuring that everyone is doing their job efficiently and effectively. Essentially, I am entrusting the entire command of this castle to you." Without offering an opportunity to interject, Keigo motioned for Touya to follow him. Obediently jumping to his feet, Touya patiently trailed behind the sluggish king. 

"However, most importantly…" Pausing with a hand resting patiently on the door handle, Keigo glanced back at the shadow behind him. Without speaking, Touya understood the authoritative proclamation uttered solely by the king’s eyes. Ignorant to Touya’s undeclared equality of status, he’d blatantly understood Touya to be his lesser. Despite openly sharing the responsibility to lead with Touya, Keigo would always be higher on the food chain. Accepting the role allowed to see the truth plain as day in Keigo’s eyes; Touya had undeniably granted Keigo ownership over him. 

"You must come to me when I call for you." Hating the weakness forced upon him by the mortal king, Touya felt nauseous with his decision to kneel before Keigo. Deciding to submit solely on the premise that he found Keigo Takami tantalizingly enticing, the spoils of his efforts would certainly be worth every drop of sweat. 

"As you wish, your majesty~"

Accepting Touya’s loyal gesture, Keigo, unaware of the lurking shadow he’d willingly invited into his presence, ignorantly led Touya through the castle. Detailing every aspect of his safe haven, the vampire king was quick to learn of the castle’s inner workings. Daily routines, hierarchy of employees, scheduled outings, and meetings with other lords, Keigo fed every aspect of his life to Touya. Most of the knowledge was purposeful, required for the successful integration of Touya into the workplace. 

However, there was one aspect the king tried, yet failed miserably to hide from Touya. His illness. Being fully aware of Keigo’s temporary ailment from the start, the declining stamina of the mortal had not surprised Touya in the slightest. However, with the prolonged elapsed time spent showing Touya around, Keigo depleted what little energy had remained. Making his illness more than prominent. 

Breathless, the king leaned with a clammy hand pressed against the cold stone wall. Sensing the weight of each breath inhaled, Touya couldn’t ignore each rasping breath filling Keigo’s lungs. The visual haze that fogged over the pure gold orbs solidified the intense fatigue weighing upon Keigo. Concerning Touya’s senses most however, was the heat stemming from Keigo’s body, despite how cold the human felt under the gentle touch of Touya’s hand upon his back.

"Forgive my unbridled touch, your majesty, but I would be remiss to not offer you my strength to lean on." Observing the labored rise and fall of Keigo’s shoulders with each intake of air, the king’s soft expression turned to greet Touya. With a smile that Touya certainly would grow to hate due to its illustrious false nature, Keigo shook his head. 

"I’ll be fine." Forcing himself away from the wall, Touya hesitantly removed his supportive hand from Keigo. "Excuse me Touya, but while you get situated, I’ll be in my study. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask." Leaving in order to rest his weary body, Keigo disappeared into the privacy of his study, submitting full command of the castle to Touya. Certain that the king was out of the picture, the rare purple hue reared its authoritative prowess. Allowing his learned sense of leadership to overtake his body, the vampire king easily took charge over the caste. Commanding each internal faction with an authority that had been greatly lacking, the required work found itself completed well before the setting of the sun upon the horizon. Remaining fair and kind despite his newly established power over the others, Touya found himself being praised with the end of the work day. 

"Thank you for the advice Master Touya. Your insight on how to move through the castle made cleaning much faster!" Smiling in response, Touya set a silver tray gently upon a nearby stone counter top.

"Good work today."

"Your expertise in the kitchen is unrivalled. Where did you learn to cook like that?" Neatly organizing the silver tray with a clean, white tea cup, Touya accepted a freshly brewed pot of tea from the head cook.

"A good friend of mine taught me." Indirectly praising Kurogiri, Touya swirled the pot of tea in his hands, carefully setting it on the silver tray adjacent to the cup. 

"You’re incredible Master Touya, and so young too. His majesty struck gold finding you." Wiping the smirk from curving at his lips, a container of chilled milk and a bowl of cubed sugar was placed upon the tray. 

"You’re too kind." Sweetly uttered through his smile, Touya lifted the tray from the counter. "Excuse me, but I must be off." Departing with a chorus of lighthearted farewells in his wake, Touya sought out the elusive king. 

Having witnessed the air of his castle changing, Keigo couldn’t hide the genuine upward curve of his lips. Born purely from the satisfaction of Touya’s presence uplifting the castle, Keigo couldn’t stop his heart from expressing that which his smile could not. Warming his body by pumping unbridled affection through his veins, the king’s cheeks outwardly expressed the spoils of his heart's efforts. Flushed with the first dusting of pure expressive colouration, Keigo’s blush only deepened when the smooth rasp of Touya’s voice touched his ears.  

"Enter." Failing to hide the sparkle in his eyes with Touya’s entrance, Keigo perked up with more energy than he had expended the entire day. 

"I’ve come with your evening tea, your majesty." Noting Keigo’s excitement, Touya set the tray skillfully down, pouring and preparing Keigo’s tea according to his liking. Accepting the steaming beverage, Keigo held the cup near his face. Letting the swirling steam curl into his clogged nostrils, relishing what little he could smell of the leaf juice. Sighing in delight, Keigo relaxed against the back of the chair. Fluttering his heavy eyelids closed, the king invited a sip of tea to slide down and ease the soreness of his throat. 

"Thank you Touya." Gently setting the cup down, the king opened his eyes, the tired orbs falling on Touya; who despite having worked all day was re-shelving discarded books. "I must praise your work ethic. You are brilliant and efficient." Without removing his attention from the bookshelf, Touya’s smirk was anything but humble.

"Is it not normally like this around here?" Intending to only razz the king with the statement, Touya didn’t expect the blond to shy away from the accusation.

"W-well, n-no, I…it’s just that I-" Sensing the embarrassment rolling from the king in accordance to his indirect admittance to neglecting his responsibilities, Touya did the king a favour. 

"Pardon my interruption sire, but what is the significance of the hummingbirds? I’ve seen them recurring throughout the castle without explanation." Not gaining an immediate response from the king. Touya found his attention turning towards the blond. Expression lacking the previous luster that appeared with Touya’s initial presence, Keigo looked drained. More so because of the sickness however, bringing up the hummingbirds seemed to strike a different note within the king. Arousing a sad pitch that hadn’t been sung in the castle for years, the internal melody seemed to burn him more than the question itself.  

"I’m sorry for bringing it up, I just thought-"

"It was my nickname…from my father. I had them embroidered on cloth and tapestries to remind me of what I lost." Sighing heavily to force the solemn feeling from within, yet unable to shake the sadness from his gaze, Keigo moved to meet Touya’s attention. With that fake smile, too weak to hide his true feelings, Keigo’s expression told Touya the truth his words could not. "I thought I’d gotten rid of all of them years ago…if you see anything with a hummingbird on it, please dispose of it." Knowing that the king was purely trying to act strong in his presence, Touya shook his head. 

"I will not." Relishing the shock that crossed Keigo’s face purely from Touya’s disobedience, he was quick to divert the growing irritation within the king. "I wouldn’t dare dispose of something so beautiful, not to mention a symbol carrying the weight of comforting nostalgia." The curve of Touya’s lips, while challenging the king to oppose him, was soft. Wrapping Keigo sweetly in the soothing tone of his voice, the king leaned into Touya’s words seeking solace from the uttered expression. "Will you tell me about it?" Asking purely to gain Keigo’s trust, Touya was delighted when the king agreed. 

"He called me hummingbird for many reasons. Mostly because of my unrelenting energy, but also because my father saw me as a resilient, loving, and beautiful leader." Looking off into the distance, Keigo appeared lost in recollection. Head resting in the palm of his hand while being held firmly by the prop of his elbow on the table, the king’s glazed over eyes fondly remembered the bestowing of the nickname. Cheeks pink with joy, the skip in the rhythm of Keigo’s heartbeat was hard to miss. 

"A fitting name~" Struck by the intense wavelength that vibrated from the off rhythm strumming of Keigo’s heart, Touya, hiding his satisfaction, could only face the bookshelf in response. "Pardon me, that was outspoken, wasn’t it?" Refusing to let the king realize his intentions, he promptly returned to slotting books neatly back on the shelf as a poor diversion from Keigo’s feelings. Lifting his head from the security of his hand, Keigo found his gaze locked curiously on Touya.

Never had an outsider been so forward with him. Afraid that challenging his status would lead them to the end of the rope, the majority of people who crossed Keigo’s path morphed unapologetically into sheep. Eager to lick his boots for a miniscule dose of appraisal in return. Peasant mentality sickened Keigo. However, with Touya everything was different. Exuding a confident air, he was unafraid to address Keigo with casual affirmations. While remaining professional, Touya understood most of the boundaries between him and Keigo. Yet, the king didn’t mind how blunt the other male was towards him. Appreciating the honesty and friendly nature of the unfamiliar man in his study, Keigo accepted Touya on the same level he would Chisaki.  

"I like you, Touya." Although uttered barely above the volume of a whisper, the confirmation touched Touya’s ear with the outburst of a scream. Crackling like a bursting flame through the network of veins tangled under Touya’s skin, the affirmation sparked a sense of warmth to transpire throughout the vampire’s still body. Freezing under the quiet compliment, Touya let the warm feeling of Keigo’s voice spread over his body. Warming the uncertainty away with the tenderness of the king’s soft voice, Touya couldn’t help but smile. Breathing out a sigh that meant no ill will, he slid another book into place on the shelf. 

"Firefly." Said randomly, but with an absurd amount of tenderness, Keigo perked his head up.

"Firefly? That’s so random, what does it mean?" Asking while Touya slid the final book on the shelf, Keigo remained still as Touya turned to grace him with a sweet smile. 

"That was my nickname, my mother gave it to me." Painting intrigue over Keigo’s expression, the king’s eyebrow raised with interest. 

"Firefly? Whatever for?" Wandering around the room, Touya’s eyes searched for a string of words capable of explaining the birth of his nickname.

"My mother always compared me to a firefly because like the glow of the firefly, I shined the brightest at night. I would guide others through darkness with my unique power, while remaining fleeting like the rise of the moon. Just like a firefly." Ignorant to Touya’s evening activity being a vampire, Keigo considered the validity of the nickname.  

"I don’t want to disagree with your mother, she seems like a sweet lady, but Firefly doesn’t seem like a very fitting name for you." Although Keigo had uttered the statement with as much tenderness as he could muster, the observation brought an insulted raise to Touya’s eyebrow. 

"Oh?" Shuffling across the room, Touya kept his hands busy by organizing and straightening objects in a display type shelf to the left of Keigo. "What nickname would you bestow upon me instead, your highness?" Concealing the urge to drop a universal term of endearment upon Touya, Keigo thought momentarily on a proper name. Considering Touya’s outwardly attractive appearance along with the qualities observed by the king, Keigo bestowed Touya with a new title.

"Snowflake." Fighting the urge to scowl, Touya shook the mental image of his mother away. Hearing an obvious reminder to the late queen, a name his father bestowed upon her, now passed to him felt like the hardest strike to the face received. Calling Rei “Snowflake” was not a term of endearment for his father. Enji aptly named her after the fleeting ice particles not only because of the cold properties associated with her powers, but mostly because he saw her as such: Dainty, small, and fleeting. Compared to him, she would melt every time beneath his iron grip and it was her weakness against him that he relished most. Biting back the hissing tone that threatened to bubble up with his voice purely on the grounds that Keigo was ignorant to the hidden meaning of the word, he politely questioned the reasoning for the title. 

"You consider me dainty?" Stopping himself before saying anything further, Keigo’s chuckle seemed to hurt more than the word itself. 

"Of course not." Hearing the subtle sip of steeped tea slipping past Keigo’s lips, Touya waited patiently for the gentle clank of ceramic against ceramic for Keigo to continue.

"I’ve always admired the intricate design of a single snowflake. Complicated to perfection, and completely unique, they’ve fascinated me since witnessing my first snowfall." Without turning to face the king, Touya understood the sincere smile that adorned Keigo’s face simply from the affectionate tones dancing with his voice. 

"I find you quite fascinating. Never have I met someone with such a unique appearance, nor ability to thrive under pressure…" Lured by Keigo’s sultry tones, Touya found himself directing his attention to the king. Erupting from the earned attention from the male in question, arousal painted the king’s cheeks unapologetically with a rose hue. "You shimmer with the same crystalline appearance as a snowflake. I’ve never been blessed to witness eyes so clear with honesty before…and your hair is incredibly white like a fresh snowfall. Touya, you’re quite the anomaly, just like a-"

"Snowflake~” Hitching Keigo’s breath with the smooth delivery, Touya bit back the commanding smile threatening to surface. "Your majesty, I appreciate your compliments and I’ll grant only you permission to address me as such. However, I can’t help but feel this…sudden attraction is being dictated by the exhaustion from the day’s events." Accepting Keigo’s empty cup, Touya placed the ceramic dish neatly onto the tray from whence it came. Delighted with how quickly Keigo’s cheeks swept the pink hue that had previously dusted the surface away, Touya lifted the silver tray from the desk. "Excuse me, I’m going to return this to the kitchen, then I will return to help you into bed." Feeling the king’s eyes on him, even well after the door had closed behind him, Touya leaned against the heavy wood with a sigh. 

‘It’s purely a transaction, Touya. No strings attached. You’re here to drink his blood, not pick out curtains. Remember your objective.’ Mentally pasting the reminder within his cranium, Touya disappeared into the kitchen. 

Alone in the study, Keigo could only glare at the closed door across from him.

"A result of fatigue?" Mumbling the words with distaste, the king felt the weight of Touya’s truth pulling him closer to the desk. Yawning in agreement, the king rested his head on newly folded arms. "Do not tell me how to feel…I know my body…and I…know what…I like…" Captured immediately by sleep’s delicate hold, Keigo’s soft snores filled the room with their unconscious symphony. 

Returning with a gentle knock to announce his arrival, Touya wasn’t surprised to find the king asleep at his desk. Juvenile in form, Keigo’s upper body was folded over the desks surface. Resting purposefully in the crook of his elbow, Keigo’s head was tucked neatly into the folded space. Seeing peace etched across his facial expression for the first time that day, Touya couldn’t stop his lips from curving softly upwards. However, it was the steady rise and fall of Keigo’s back that eased Touya’s conscience. Releasing its heavy grip from the mortal’s lungs, the illness seemed to take a merciful step away from Keigo, easing the king into a peaceful slumber. 

"Time for bed, your highness." Whispered softly, Touya carefully maneuvered the unconscious figure out of the chair and into the safety of his arms. Cradling the king like an infant, Keigo’s head nestled itself comfortably against Touya’s chest. Inhaling the unfamiliar scent wafting delicately from Touya’s figure, the king shuddered with delight. Smiling, he leans into Touya’s trusting hold, whispering the man’s name through the exhaled breath of acceptance. Ignoring the inert proclamation, Touya carried the king safely into his bed chambers. Skillfully, the vampire king slid Keigo’s body under the comfort of the plush bedding that decorated the large mattress. Taking care to adjust the king’s body, Keigo’s head was propped perfectly by the fluffy pillows beneath. While his body was held tightly by the purposely tucked blanket, reflecting the comforting hold of the vampire’s arms only moments ago. 

Certain that Keigo would sleep as soundly as his illness would allow, Touya stole a quick glance towards the slightly ajar door. Confirming the room to be secure, the vampire king invited himself onto the plush surface. Disturbing the mattress as little as possible, he positioned himself to sit next to the king’s sleeping form. Lifting Keigo’s hand smoothly into his grasp, the cold chill that vibrated down Touya’s spine could rival the touch of his mother. Cold as death, Keigo’s hands were anything but inviting. 

"You’re not just sick are you?" Rubbing his thumb lightly across the back of Keigo’s hand, Touya altered his grip. Clutching the pale wrist firmly, but remaining tender to touch, he pressed the pads of his fingers against the purple veins running beneath the protective skin. The pulsating oscillations of Keigo’s blood throbbed against the warmth of Touya’s fingers, silently speaking to him in a language misunderstood by most. Slowed by the inherent drop of body temperature, the blood struggled to deliver oxygen properly through the network of veins. Misunderstanding the natural flow, the rhythm at which the tired organ produced the life nectar was off a beat. Touya could feel the silent desperation of the hemoglobin in seeking any semblance of stamina to relieve the overwhelming exhaustion. Weakened by the illness, the volume at which the dying pulse screamed for help was no higher than a whisper, but for Touya, the message was loud and clear. 

"I wonder how much longer you truly have…" Hating the thought of tapping into infected veins, Touya still brought the king’s hand closer to his face. Tempting his senses by pressing his lips cordially against the back of Keigo’s hand, Touya’s eyes drifted closed. Swirling unapologetically into Touya’s nostrils like the steam rising from a freshly brewed cup of coffee, the vampire king welcomed the scent to touch his olfactory senses. Metaphorically stumbling with the speed at which Keigo’s scent was leading him in their imagined dance, Touya had never felt more chaste. The scent was unfamiliar, unlike anything ever experienced by the heightened senses, indescribable was becoming the best description. 

Unable to actively relate the scent to anything previously sought, he could only pick apart each swirling flavour and describe the components individually. Following the savoury flow defining the blood was a distinct smell that reminded Touya of a spiced meat dish. Cooked to perfection, it promised the palette a tangy flavour that would leave the host thirsting for more. Aided by hints of sweetness, the scent lured Touya effortlessly into its clutches with the promise of a comforting honeyed thickness whose taste would stifle memories of homemade desserts. Familiar with the first two aspects, it was the third that struck the vampiric senses to resurrect. Forgotten to him from the forced consumption of tainted blood, this scent was rejuvenating. Like the clean scent of dew laden on a garden, or the clean mist that swirls up after a spring shower, it blossomed within Touya’s nose with the affirmation that this host was pure. Untainted with the poison plaguing previous victims, Keigo lacked any semblance of the toxic pride. The alluring scent locked unapologetically in Touya’s nose, sealing the mortal king’s fate deep within the vampire king’s olfactory memory. Raising his eyelids to reveal the blood soaked hue, Keigo’s hand was placed gently back against the mattress. 

"Divine~" Gaze twisted with hunger, Touya led his body to capture Keigo’s unmoving figure. Straddling Keigo’s waist, he leaned down. Firmly planting his left hand against the mattress next to Keigo’s head, his right delicately took the king’s still face within his grasp. "Kurogiri was right~" Tracing the intricate curve of Keigo’s jaw, the tips of Touya’s claws left a light score of invisibly defined ownership against the pale, untouched skin below. 

"A sublime host carries sublime blood~" Tilting Keigo’s head ever so slightly, he leaned in. Wetting his lips with a stroke of his moistened tongue urged the docile fangs to protrude from behind the pink gatekeepers. Breathing hotly against the exposed skin of Keigo’s neck, Touya’s heart screamed in a thunderous roar for him to take the plunge. 

"You were a fool to trust me so easily~" Pressing his lips against the open skin, the throb of Keigo’s blood coursing down the jugular, made the threatening fangs explode with pent up excitement. "Now, every drop of your sacred blood is mine~" Inhaling another dose of the unique scent, every nerve residing within Touya’s body shuddered with arousal. Shaking with desperation, crimson eyes swirled endlessly with the lusting desire to eat. Synching with the erratic excited beating of his heart, Touya’s fangs throbbed heavily with the craving to puncture the untapped skin. Parting his lips, the sharpened teeth glistened under the pale light streaming in through the window, a silent warning to the victim of the events about to unfold. Inching closer, the expelled breath tickled the cold skin, spreading a pattern of goose pimples to cover the slumbering form beneath. 

"I just need a taste…" Touching the sharpened tips of his fangs against Keigo’s neck, vibrated every instinct within Touya. Oscillating with newly awakened excitement, each singular nerve urged their host to press down, to go all the way and take that which is being so foolishly offered. Reviving the lost desire to puncture and consume from the source directly, it pained the king to hold back. Pulsating against the exposed skin, his fangs yearned to complete the transaction, to feed their listless desire built up from the mere scent of the human’s blood. Yet, despite the painful craving and mental urging, he couldn’t. Regretfully, Touya pulled away, a sudden wave of performance anxiety overtaking the desperate attraction brought upon him by the specimen below. Tucking the still aching fangs safely behind concealed lips, glowing crimson eyes washed over Keigo’s peacefully sleeping form. 

Selling himself wholly to trust, Keigo’s conscience didn’t stir under any of Touya’s physical advances. Remaining serene and peaceful, Keigo was currently wrapped and presented to the vampire in his most vulnerable state, but the predator, despite accepting the gift, couldn’t strike. Discarding the moral ambiguity, Touya found his halted movements confusing. Keigo wasn’t the first person he’d taken from without consent. Most humans were more than protective of their lives, not entirely open with sharing specific bodily fluids, gaining consent to drink one’s blood wasn’t even written on Touya’s agenda. If it was, he’d starve. Simple as that. However, there was something specifically about this specimen that forced his instincts into submission. 

That horrid smile. Strong, and genuine, Keigo’s real smile warmed any room it had the pleasure of gracing. Not only that, but the implications behind the simple confession left to him earlier that evening seemed to bind Touya to the mortal king. 

"I like you, Touya." Gripping Touya’s heart mercilessly, the exclamation held a silent power over him. Leaving him unable to justify stealing from the only mortal willing to trust him, Keigo had inertly saved his own life by uttering the words. However, the confession would eventually lead to Keigo’s downfall.

"I can’t…" Feeling a pang left by the uncurbed blood lust, Touya found his body retracting from Keigo’s with the silent promise that every drop of the rare crimson liquid would be inherited as soon as an appropriate amount of trust was acquired. "Not yet~" Calming the buzzing excitement plaguing each nerve, the blood soaked rouge became washed away by the natural blue of the vampire’s iris. Ignoring the increasing rhythm of his heart, Touya’s tender hand brushed aside a few stray blond strands of hair. Clearing the king’s face of the obstructing hair, Touya regretfully brought his hand down to cup Keigo’s pale cheek.

"I’ll let your feelings for me fester and grow and when you’re ripe with these passionate emotions…" Moving to brace the mattress, the vampire king found himself at Keigo’s jugular once again. Leaving a wet trail, a physical confirmation of his imminent return, his tongue strode up the length of Keigo’s neck. A shuddering sigh touched Keigo’s ear, the simple touch arousing the still vibrating instincts once again. Half lidded red eyes locked onto the peaceful expression below, while dangerous lips whispered a deep, rasping promise into the sleeping auditory canals. 

"I'll take everything you have to offer~" Settled on the future promise, Touya forced himself away from the king. "Sleep tight, your majesty~ I’ll be here to take care of you in the morning~" Swiftly slipping out of the room, the vampire king vanished into a nearby vacant room. During the tour, Keigo had designated the unoccupied room to Touya for the duration of his employment under the argument that he wanted the capable male close to him at all times. Behind the safety of the door’s soft click, Touya slunk against the heavy wooden slab. 

"Curse this wretched feeling." Clutching his chest in pain, he slid to the floor. Huddled like a scared child hiding from the harsh reality surrounding him, shaking hands trailed up to hide the embarrassment etched across his face. Crimson orbs peeked out from behind thin fingers, desperately seeking answers to the unfamiliar feeling churning within his chest. "Why did I stop? I wanted to devour him…so why?" Reminding him of what he gave up, the rhythm of his heartbeat increased. Pumping an unfiltered pink to dust his cheeks, Touya couldn’t ignore the words strumming from his heart despite how desperately he tried. 

"How could a single mortal have led my feelings astray so easily…" Struck by the phantom pain of the blood lust stirring internally, the king’s hands returned to coddle the ache in his chest. "If this…exchange…continues, I won’t be able to hold myself back…"

Slamming the lid of the laptop down abruptly, the device was carelessly tossed aside, landing safely on the plush cushion of the couch. Beads of sweat rolled down Touya’s forehead, leaving a trail of anxious desperation across the king’s face until they dripped mercilessly onto the couch below. Eyes shaking with undeniable hunger were red and unforgiving with their silent pleas to fill the starvation rumbling from within. 

"Fuck-" Hissing in pain, his hand responds by clutching his chest. " Not again -" Muscles tense with anxiety shakily pulled Touya to his feet. Each step felt heavy, clunky even, like they didn’t belong to Touya as the discombobulated limbs led the king back to the privacy of his room. Snatching another bottle from the mini fridge, the contents rushed quickly down Touya’s throat. Tossing the bottle unapologetically to the floor, his now free hand ran anxiously through the damp locks cascading over his face. 

"Not enough…" Feeling the radiating hunger pulsating with the heavy beat of his heart, another bottle was taken from the fridge. Consumed at the same pace as the first, the second went down just as smoothly. Unfortunately, copying the effects of the bottle consumed prior, nothing changed. The intensity by which the blood lust stemmed from the mere mention of the mortal king’s blood seemed to be foreign to Atsuhiro’s concoction. Unable to contain the overwhelmed instincts, the drink proved less than useful. Gasping desperately for relief, Touya clutched his still aching chest. 

"This feeling…I can’t take it." Churning roughly, the liquid stirred like a tropical storm. Clashing with the uncurbed craving swirling violently within, the king forced himself into the bathroom. Ungracefully kneeling in front of the porcelain throne, everything previously devoured forced its way back out. Expelling the remaining contents into the bowl, the undesired liquid swirled out of Touya’s life with the push of a lever. Groaning in discomfort, the king found himself crumbling to the floor beneath the crushing weight of specified starvation. Balled up against the cool tile floor with his arms wrapped protectively around his midsection, Touya reflected the vulnerable state of a female teenager inflicted by a monthly nemesis. 

"When will it end…?" Kicking the door closed, a still shaking hand struggles to fish the cellular device from the security of Touya’s back pocket. Through hazy vision, blackening from ignoring the blood lust, weak fingers tapped messily against the screen. Bringing the electronic screen near his ear, the soft hum of the phone trying to connect, rang out across the silent room. Forced to wait only a few seconds, the call connected with the only person Touya trusted to dig him out of this hole. 

"Giri..." Breathed out with hardly enough volume for Touya to hear his own words, the lesser vampire didn’t have to understand the situation to accept its severity. "I need help…"

Chapter Text

"Giri…" Breathed out with hardly enough volume for Touya to hear his own words, the lesser vampire didn’t have to understand the situation to accept its severity. "I need help…"

Losing any remaining strength, the phone slipped from Touya’s capable grip. Falling to the floor with a clatter, the king couldn’t find the strength to answer the panicked questions erupting from the lost device. Currently, his mind was preoccupied on keeping the blood lust from overwhelming his senses completely. With one hand clutching the aching pain spreading with every stutter of his beating heart, the other ran senselessly through the dampened locks flowing from his head. Gripping the thick white locks, one regretful movement of the shaking hand threatened to remove clumps of the illustrious hair. 

"MASTER TOUYA?! ARE YOU THERE?! IS EVERYTHING OKAY?!" Lips flexed to speak, but the only sounds touching the air were the deep huffs of exasperation. Pulling his legs tightly to his curled body, Touya fought back against the deafening hunger eating him alive. 

"Giri…" Feeling weaker with the expulsion of the name, Every ounce of remaining stamina seemed to dissipate along with the rest of the plea. "Keigo…blood…now…" Falling into what was meant to be the comforting hold of the blood thirsty shadows vibrating beneath him, Touya almost missed the proclamation from the lesser vampire. 

"Sit tight your majesty, I’m on my way!" Despite only wanting what was best for their host, the cradling hold offered by the darkness was anything but comforting. Feeling cold, authoritative, and savage, they threatened to crush Touya’s weakness with ease. An outcome from the desperation to quell the unique hunger, they’d go so far to overwhelm their host and acquire the required nectar by force. 

"Please…Giri…" Feeling the pain stemming from unquenched thirst throbbing against every inch of his body, red eyes brimming with tears sought relief from the empty room. "Hurry…" With the expulsion of the salted droplets, the hungry shadows rose, disguising their feeble master well beneath their aggressive thirst. 

Running into the familiar apartment building, Kurogiri never felt slower. Trying, but failing to get back in touch with his king, the anticipation rose dangerously with every passing second. 

"Come on…Come on…" Shifting anxiously, the hasty movement of the lesser vampire’s feet seemed to stall the movement of the elevator. Stopping at each floor on its descent, the stairs most definitely would have been faster. Pushing past the slow moving, metal doors, chirps from other civilians were ignored with the frantic push of the illuminated numerical button. Closing with no haste, the chime of the elevator left no comfort in Kurogiri’s soul. 

Leaving a nervous imprint against his bottom lip, Kurogiri’s teeth were more than familiar with the rut they scored into the soft flesh. A physical declaration of the care he provided, the marks were a permanent manifestation of the stress induced by his king. However, as the elevator doors slid open, the negative implications were pushed from his mind. Touya’s safety quickly pushed its way to the surface, magnetizing Kurogiri’s actions and pulling the lesser being quickly down the empty hall to the closed apartment door. Choosing to forget formalities, a replica gold key was thrust into the lock, swiftly clicking the lock open with a single turn. Slamming the door abruptly with his entrance, Kurogiri frantically called out for his master. Eerily quiet, the deafening silence of the apartment drowned the already panicked organ with an overwhelming dose of anxiety. 

"Master Touya?!" Stealing a quick glance at the empty common space to his left, Kurogiri rushed to the right. Upon approaching the sealed bathroom door, the affirmation of his king’s location touched Kurogiri’s approaching form. Intense, the pressure of his bloodlust weighed heavily on Kurogiri’s shoulders as if the king was next to him, despite the obvious barrier between. Stopping at the closed door, Kurogiri removed a tucked away bottle residing in the confines of the fabric bag hung from his shoulders. Inside of the bottle swirled a deep, rouge liquid. Perfected by Atsuhiro, the effects of which mimicked the clear substitute, however, at a much higher concentration. Overdosing the predatory nerves with a chemical inhibitor, this solution would actively deny a vampire’s bloodlust from stirring for up to three months of time. Effective to the last drop, this harder substitute proved successful, in great moderation. Used in excess, Atsuhiro found the liquid left permanent damage upon a vampire’s nerves. Excess consumption left the host’s instincts and nerves confused. Fried from the large concentration of inhibiting juice, they became unable to sense when the body became actively hungry. Leaving a vampire at risk of starvation or overeating. This formula, by strict order of its creator, was only to be used in emergency situations. 

Accepting the terms involved, Kurogiri popped the lid off, letting the metal cap hit the floor with a clang. Knocking gently on the door, he announced his entrance to Touya. 

"Master Touya, I have the inhibitor." Reaching for the door handle, the lesser vampire tried to shake away the growing pressure stemming from beyond the door. "I’m coming in…" Forced away by the abrupt appearance of the overwhelming shadows, Kurogiri took a step back.

"No!" Swirling dangerously, but protectively, Touya’s darkness waved in protest to Kurogiri’s unauthorized entrance. "Don’t come in!" Afraid of releasing his ravenous desire upon Kurogiri, the attack was merely for show. 

"How will I administer the solution?" Waiting patiently for a verbal response, Kurogiri watched as the shadow sank to the floor. Seeping back under the door’s frame, the physical representation, although gone, still left a heavy hanging pressure in the air. 

"Come here." Muffled by the door, Touya’s voice lacked any confidence, but Kurogiri still took a step forward. Forcing himself to crawl across the tiled floor, A shaking hand reached for the metal handle. Exerting only enough pressure to turn the handle and open the door a sliver, Touya snaked his pale, trembling limb through the gap. Despite the gap being wide enough to accept Touya’s hand, the pressure seeping out threatened to choke Kurogiri. Suffocating with the resolve to consume everything in a set radius, the exerted strength oscillating from the darkness hadn’t been felt by Kurogiri for centuries. Although terrifying to witness the uncontrolled strength, alone, and in an enclosed space, the natural feeling associated with Touya’s desire was somewhat refreshing to the lesser being. At the moment, his king was the closest thing to himself he’d ever been in years, but no matter how hard Kurogiri tried to feel good about the semblance of normality, he could only imagine the degree of suffering Touya was going through as he handed off the open bottle to the expecting limb.

Snatching the glass container quickly beyond the door, the obstacle was latched shut once again, the sound forcing an instinctive step backwards from the lesser vampire. Without hesitation the red liquid rushed down Touya’s parched throat. Thick and flavourful, the chemical substance was quick to deceive the vibrating nerves. Concealing every craving dwelling within the internal digestive system with a thick layer of nullifying hormone, relief was quick to wash over Touya. With every gulp, the hunger quickly dissipated, leaving the king to feel more than satisfied as the bottle dropped into the waste bucket with an echoing thud. 

Now on his feet, having the strength returning to fortify the muscles that were previously shaking with uncertainty, Touya gripped the bathroom counter. Breathing unevenly, his reflection reminded him of the disheveled outcome that starvation had left upon him. Turning the sink tap, cold flowing water soaked Touya’s hand before the cool liquid was splashed onto his face. Feeling the heat melting away under the cold spark of the water, Touya turned the tap off. Letting the clear liquid drip senselessly from his chin, each drop collected into the sink below. Pooling together into a symbolic discarded pile of Touya’s emotions, the cleansing water trickled down the drain taking the empty desires with it. Breaths now calmed under the thickened inhibitor, Touya straightened himself out. Running a hand through damp white locks, the king reorganized himself before finally returning towards the door. Easing the door open, the king emerged. With one arm clutching the other awkwardly, he greeted Kurogiri with a shameful bow of his head. 

"Forgive me, Giri." Tone still lacking any notable volume or energy, Touya’s delivery of the apology struck Kurogiri harder than the heavy pressure he’d felt only moments ago. 

"No need to apologize, your highness." Boldly, he gently reassured the king by placing his hand upon Touya’s shoulder. Dismissing the informal gesture, Touya’s head raised. Blue eyes now heavy with fatigue searched the optimistic smile that shown across his friend’s face. Warmth from the grin touched Touya’s heart, easing the weight that had been dropped abruptly upon the organ from the uncontrollable darkness. Without lifting a finger, Kurogiri stripped the king of any lasting effects of the pained blood lust, refreshing him completely with the simple, yet intoxicating curve of his lips. 

"Thank you, Giri." Before the lesser vampire could deny him, Touya’s arms wrapped around Kurogiri’s form. Despite how tenderly Touya was holding him, every muscle rippled with surprised tension in reaction to the king’s advance. It wasn’t unheard of for Touya to seek comfort from him. Having been the boy’s guardian, he was the only paternal figure present and was more than comfortable acting as such. Whether it was from stress, emotional distress, or a hormonal need for physical contact, the king would summon him just to satiate the universal need for physical contact. Never crossing the bounds of sexual intimacy, Touya sought Kurogiri solely to hold, comfort and melt the woes plaguing his mind. However, each time prior had been initiated by Kurogiri’s observations of the king’s wellbeing. Offering to hold Touya until he fell asleep, or massage his muscles, he was merely filling the void that Keigo had left behind. That was his job after all, to care for Touya. However, this time, Touya fell into his arms.

"You’re welcome." Relaxing long enough to hug Touya a moment longer, the king peeled himself from Kurogiri. Watching the king’s retreating form, Kurogiri finally spoke what he’d been thinking since receiving the distress call. "I’m glad to see that you’re trying to move past…him." Following Touya, yellow eyes drifted off to the coffee table. "You…are trying, aren’t you?" Careful not to step too far over the line, questioning yellow orbs washed over the mess littering the glass table top. Noting the physical distress the past was causing to the king’s living space, Kurogiri could only imagine how disorganized his master’s brain was in comparison.

"Yeah…" Flopping onto the leather couch with a deep sigh, Touya cleared off an open spot for the other male. "But, will I ever truly be capable of moving past him if he keeps coming back to haunt me in this way?" Pointed entirely at the bouts of blood lust spurred by the phantom image of a soul long lost, the question left no open answer. From years of dealing with Touya and his bouts of tempered angst, Kurogiri was more than familiar with the trap he’d unconsciously set. Touya didn’t want a logical answer, all he wanted in response was an agreement. He yearned for Kurogiri to agree that Keigo was more than a memory and to discard him like he’d been trying to was the reason for his suffering. However, even an outsider could easily tell that moving on was necessary. Repetition was the quickest way to learn a skill, and Kurogiri understood that for Touya to overcome these bouts of intense bloodlust, he had to repetitively acknowledge Keigo. Eventually, the monotonous reminder of the sublime specimen would turn his rarity into commonplace. Yet, Kurogiri knew better than to touch the already vibrating nerves oscillating from the king. Telling Touya the harsh truth would only result in another conflict brought about by the darkness he’d harnessed only moments before. That was not an interaction he wanted to face. Instead, he settled for a different question. 

"How is your memoir going, besides the…obnoxious interruptions?" Seating himself on the newly opened cushion, Kurogiri waited for the king to reply. Rubbing the fatigue from his eyes, a sigh heavy with joking implications slipped past Touya’s lips. 

"It’s not a memoir." Letting one arm rest casually on the back of the couch, while the other lay limply at his side, the king addressed Kurogiri with a smile. "It’s a fanfiction where a vampire falls in love with a human." Choking back on the need to make a reference to another popular book series, Kurogiri chuckled lightly at the statement. 

"Not to disagree my lord, but it’s based on your life during the 1700’s and therefore is a memoir." Waving off the observation with little more than a sigh, Touya’s expression was anything but enthusiastic. 

"Whatever you want to label it, it’s going just as well as it can. You can tell the publishers that I’ll have it done in a couple of weeks." Choosing to finish the conversation, Touya picked up the remote. Clicking on the television was enough of a sign for Kurogiri to gather himself and go. Although he meant no ill will from the playful observation, he still pushed himself to his feet with a sigh. 

"Well, I wish you nothing but luck." Refusing to send Kurogiri off with so much of a glance of his eyes, the lesser vampire took a few steps towards the door. "Is there anything else you’d like me to bring to you over the next couple of days?" Flicking through the different channels, Touya’s attention remained solely on the large screen. 

"I want a case of that stronger substitute." Feeling the concern knotting itself tightly within his chest, Kurogiri forced down his apprehensions, defiantly speaking against his king.

"Your highness, I cannot in good conscience allow an excess of that chemical to be in your midst. The side effects are too great and I wouldn’t-" Shifting his eyes, which were surprisingly still blue, the weight of Touya’s gaze was enough to freeze the man with a single glance. 

"I know what it can do. I know how dangerous it is, you don’t have to explain it to me like I’m a child." Shakily raising his hands in defence, the confidence which had just been threaded through Kurogiri’s voice had all but left, leaving his tone with little to behold. 

"Forgive me, that’s not what I meant. I’m simply concerned about-"

"I’ll only drink one in a dire situation such as this, if and only if, the lighter stuff proves ineffectual. Since you’re so concerned about my well being, which I deeply appreciate, I’ll even space out my writing to let the effects of the substitute settle before thinking about cracking open another. You have my word." Leaving Kurogiri’s form, Touya’s gaze shifted back to the television. The weight implied lifting immediately with the switch, leaving Kurogiri an opening to calm his nervous heartbeat with a few deep breaths. Clearly, he’d have to indulge Touya’s want to have the inhibitor within arms reach, despite the gnawing anxiety that cried at him not to. Bowing in forced acceptance, Kurogiri agreed to Touya’s terms with the promise of fulfilling his request as promptly as Atsuhiro could make it. Bidding the king a pleasant farewell, Kurogiri disappeared as swiftly as he came, leaving behind just as much uncertainty as he’d had upon entering the apartment. 

With the apartment now empty, and the events of the afternoon still processing internally, Touya was less than eager to pick up his laptop. Instead, he pushed himself from the couch. Leading his feet into the nearby kitchen, the untouched cupboards weren’t safe from Touya’s prying hands. Infiltrating the stocked storage containers, nimble hands dug through the bowels of the kitchen in search for sustenance. Removing a plethora of different boxes, an individually wrapped package was taken from each one before returning the chosen boxes back to the safety of the cupboard. Snacks in hand, the king promptly returned to the plush hold of the couch. Sinking into the cool leather, the pile of snacks quickly made their home comfortably upon Touya’s chest. Grabbing a package of soft cookies with his right hand, Touya brought the top of the sealed plastic to his teeth. While inputting a specified command on the remote, the packaging was torn open with ease. Sharp teeth ripped through the weak plastic like the most delicate of flesh, while still yielding an equally satisfying result in comparison. Ungracefully spitting the chunk of plastic towards the floor, Touya finished setting up the motion picture on screen. Once the remote touched the surface of the couch, his now free hand dove into the open plastic pouch, eagerly removing and devouring the sweet confection. Crunching peacefully on the junk food, Touya let himself get carried away by the narrative unfolding on the drama series on screen. Invested entirely in the intense characterizations and problematic plots that touched their lives, Touya was content on spending the rest of the evening wallowing away in mortality. 

However, after the third episode viewed in concession reached the inevitable credits roll, the availability of new episodes reached an end. Feeling betrayed by the obvious cliffhanger, Touya was less than pleased by the weekly ending of the series. Hating the thought that he’d have to wait another seven days before seeing how the current plot wrapped up, Touya flicked the television off with a deep sigh. Realizing the glaring symbolism stemming from the written cliffhanger, Touya’s eyes shifted to the still closed laptop. Sitting almost mockingly on the cushion next to him, the sleek device, while silent, called out to him. Teasingly, it toyed with Touya’s resolve, invisibly claiming the king didn’t have the courage to finish what he started. Too afraid to spiral from the written words, the laptop seemed to know that Touya, just like the drama series, would neglect his novelization for a distinct period of time. 

However, despite how coldly he felt on the subject, Touya would never allow his father’s dead accusations to be correct. He’d see this “therapy” through to the end, even if it killed him. Sending a sharpened glare to the silent device, Touya wiped the mess of empty wrappers carelessly onto the floor. 

"Fine." Picking up the electronic, which sat so easily on his thighs, the king pried the lid open. "You win, I’ll keep working."

Following a predetermined schedule, Kurogiri found himself arriving two days after his prior visit to the old farmhouse. With arms full of supplies, he entered the private abode just as he had many times over. 

"Your majesty~ I apologize for my early arrival, but I got my hands on some fresh supplies~" Earning no active response, The lesser vampire attributed the silence with the rising sun. Selling himself to the mortal regime didn’t include waking with it in Touya’s eyes, Kurogiri knew that. 

‘I’ll just put the restock away and leave him a note~' Nodding with the thought, Kurogiri traipsed across the old creaking boards, taking extra caution to not disturb the rickety old wood beneath his feet. Successfully crossing the house with the light steps akin to a cat’s pad, Kurogiri set the supplies gently on the wooden table. Moving to remove the objects inside the leather bag, Kurogiri’s movements halted. Catching a glimpse of a mysterious piece of parchment left on the table’s surface, yellow orbs eyed the object curiously.

Lifting the thin paper between nimble fingers, the curious yellow gaze examined the integrity of the left message. Determined relatively fresh by the smudges of black ink that decorated the slightly crinkled surface of the parchment, Kurogiri guessed his majesty had left the note the night prior. Flipping the paper over to determine only one side contained written instructions, Kurogiri guessed the message was left in a bit of a haste, or wasn’t greatly important. Committing himself to read the inked words, yellow orbs scanned over the short message, squinting in silent judgement the further along his eyes travelled. 

Giri,

As per your request, I sought out the king of Fehrin to taste his exquisite blood. To no one’s surprise, he was immediately taken by me and has hired me to uphold authority in his castle. Don’t wait up for me…I’ll be a while~

P.S. Please give a basket full of delicacies to Toshinori Yagi, a retired captain in the village. He saved my life the other day and I wish to give my thanks.

-T

Admiring the king’s willingness to not only accept Kurogiri’s suggestion, but excel at it, outweighed the anxiety building from the written note. Feeling a smile twitch across his lips with the realization that his majesty was taking an active opportunity to better himself, Kurogiri unconsciously pushed away the fear that Touya could be slain. Ignorantly trusting the human’s to care for Touya to the same degree he had, Kurogiri quickly accepted Touya’s strength to be enough to lead him away from any situation without so much of a scratch. However, as he slung the bag of supplies back over his shoulder, he neglected to realize how scarred his king would return from his current affairs. Keigo Takami, to everyone’s surprise, would prove to be more powerful than even the king of vampire kind. A hard truth that Kurogiri had not considered as he left the farmhouse with an innocent smile. 

Deciding to not waste some of the supplies intended for Touya, Kurogiri decorated the aforementioned gift basket with the excess supplies, along with a vast selection of mortal delicacies. Tying a decorative fabric around the entirety of the gift, Kurogiri set out to discover this mortal hero. 

Carrying the basket carefully down the already bustling streets, despite the sun having just peeked over the horizon, the lesser vampire tracked down the designated male based solely on word of mouth. Having asked more than enough passersby about this elusive man, Kurogiri finally caught a clue. Navigating the residential streets with more ease than he’d like to admit, the lesser vampire found himself standing in front of a rather quaint, yet clean, looking home. Taking a cautious step towards the door, gloved knuckles rapped against the wooden door. Hearing muffled curses as the inhabitants shuffled through the home, questioning who was disturbing them so early in the day, Kurogiri put on a smile. Hesitantly, the door creaked open. A man, who appeared frail and withered stood precariously in the crack of the door, greeting Kurogiri skeptically. 

"Good morning, are you perchance Toshinori Yagi?" Sensing the blip in the man’s already uneven heartbeat, Kurogiri understood his success in locating the man before he’d even confirmed it to the vampire. 

"Who’s asking?" Strangely enjoying the anxiety building in the mortal’s voice, Kurogiri’s smile only widened. 

"My name is Kurogiri. I was sent by my master to gift this basket to Toshinori Yagi on behalf of him." Holding the wrapped basket out towards Toshinori, Kurogiri finished his explanation. "His majesty, Touya Todoroki, would like to give thanks for the life saving deed you acted upon him." Eyeing the offering and Kurogiri skeptically, Kurogiri was beginning to develop feelings of uncertainty towards the man’s identity. Yet, when the door slowly opened and the blond man took a step into the sunlight, his feelings retracted. 

"I had no idea he was a king….I was just doing a good deed." Gesturing for Toshinori to accept the basket by moving the object closer to him, Kurogiri flashed the mortal a heart warming smile.

"Master Touya likes to…blend in…when he’s in public. It’s an image thing." Said with a nonchalant shrug of his shoulders, Toshinori replicated the smile scrawled across Kurogiri’s lips. Missing the double entendre behind the vampire’s statement, the mortal simply agreed. 

"That makes sense." Holding his hands out, he graciously accepted the gift basket into his clutches. "Thank you for taking the time to stop by and bring this gift, it means a lot to people like me, the little guys who don’t seem to matter much." Taking a step back from the man, Kurogiri delivered a final bow of gratitude. 

"No, thank you for saving my master’s life. Master Touya has nothing but gratitude for your act and he appreciates those who show him kindness in response." Straightening himself out, the vampire flashed Toshinori one final genuine smile. Winking at the male, yellow orbs twinkled with honesty setting Toshinori’s mood ablaze with delight. 

"Take care~" Sending Kurogiri off with a wave, Toshinori sealed himself back in the safety of his home.

"Who was at the door, my love?" The voice of an angel, calling him from the kitchen, brought the man to rejoin her in the room. 

"His name was Kurogiri." Setting the wrapped basket on the wooden table, he began to untie the knot fastened at the top. "Apparently the man I saved from the carriage the other day was a king and Kurogiri is one of his servants. He was sent here to deliver this on his majesty’s behalf."

"Oh, how thoughtful~ What did he gift you?" Shrugging in response, the knot gave way beneath Toshinori’s nimble fingers. The fabric dropped to the wooden surface below, revealing the expensive contents inside. Mouth agape with surprise, neither of the mortals could find the words to describe what they were seeing as they lifted and examined the various bottles, packaging, and objects in the basket. 

"Inko, this is…"

"Incredible, what luck…" Separating the fresh produce and basic supplies from the delicacies, Inko wrapped her arms tightly around her husband’s thin frame. "Now we don’t have to worry about Izuku going hungry. We can eat for another month at least! You’re my hero, Toshinori~" Realizing the truth behind her words, Toshinori silently thanked Kurogiri for gracing their lives after giving silent thanks to whatever God would listen to for sending Touya to the village that day. 

Elsewhere, disgruntled and fatigued, bare feet touched the cold stone floor. Cursing the vibrant orange rays streaming in with the sun’s waking, the vampire king got to his feet with a painful, yet satisfying stretch of his body. Reminding himself of the delectable prize waiting at the end of the rainbow, he pushed himself to get dressed and ready for another day. Walking the hallways with built up confidence, the day started when Touya entered the kitchen. Prompting the servants with a list of expectations, Touya lent his hands to aid in the castle’s awakening. Prepping not only Keigo’s breakfast, but food for the entire day, Touya left the kitchen after an hour of solid work. Confidently leaving the rest of the required tasks in the hands of the other servants, the vampire king made his way to Keigo’s closed door. Noting the lack of auditory sounds oscillating from Keigo’s bed chamber’s, nor observing the active rising of the mortal king, breakfast in bed seemed inevitable. Balancing the tray, which proudly displayed a delicately prepared meal by Touya’s hand, pale knuckles tapped lightly against the door. 

"Your highness?" Letting a teasing smile adorn his face, he sang out the next greeting. "It’s me, your snowflake~" Unable to discern the verbal response uttered by Keigo, Touya took the auditory confirmation as a ticket to enter. Easing the door open, the thick scent of sickness struck him well before the door had opened more than a sliver. Pushing away the urge to crinkle his nose, fake enthusiasm forced its way across Touya’s face. 

"Good morning~ I brought you breakfast~" Without taking his gaze away from the lump on the mattress, the door latched behind Touya. Remaining statuesque, Keigo’s silence and lack of movement knit a scarf of concern across Touya’s brow.

‘He’s breathing…’ Thinking to himself, Touya easily picked up on the faint breaths expelled from Keigo’s lungs. ‘Heart rate is still labored…’ The oscillations, while missing every other timed beat, eased Touya’s consciousness slightly. Understanding the weakness was drawn on by the perpetuating illness, Touya shook the concern from his gaze. 

"May I approach?" Without untangling his curled up body from under the comforting warmth of the bedding, Keigo’s pale limp hand made an appearance. Waving weakly in approval, the king’s hand retracted immediately after the gesture, returning to the safety of the blankets. Crossing the room to be at the king’s bedside, Touya’s smile, while infectious, didn’t lift the king’s spirits. 

"How did you sleep?" Asked while setting the tray gently upon the bedside table, Keigo hummed in response. Clogged by the thick phlegm overflowing from his lungs, it was the only sound he could produce. "Mmm~ That good, eh?" Curving his lips back into a teasing smirk, Touya boldly continued. "I also dreamt of you last night~ It was arguably the best sleep I’ve ever had~" While referring to the delectable liquid flowing through Keigo’s veins, the remark wasn’t completely false. Unaware of the hidden meaning, Keigo’s breath hitched in his throat. Getting caught under the truthful accusation Touya sparked upon him, he found embarrassment quickly rushing to his cheeks. Sensing a stiffness arousing within each individual muscle sculpted beneath Keigo’s skin, Touya had to hold back his laughter. Fighting the weakness plaguing his body long enough to roll over, the glare he shot Touya was anything but deadly. While sharpened to make his point, the pink hue that decorated his cheeks openly agreed with Touya’s statement. Feeding the vampire’s ego, Touya could only chuckle at the flustered man huddled under the blankets like a child pouting in anger. 

"I’m only teasing, your majesty~" Picking up the teapot, nimble hands prepared the king his morning tea. "I rarely dream and even if I did, it wouldn’t be pleasant." Choosing to ignore the curiosity that crossed Keigo’s glossy eyes, Touya offered the steaming ceramic cup to the king with a sweet, welcoming smile and a lightness in his eyes that tried to purify the ailment afflicting his body with no effect. Unable to control the network of muscles that became lax under his skin, Keigo remained still. Raising an eyebrow, Touya’s lighthearted gaze quickly shaded with concern. 

"Your majesty, are you feeling alright?" Despite his gaze remaining fixated on Touya, Keigo didn’t dignify the male with a response. Instead, Touya caught the labored breaths sputtering out of the king’s lungs. Squinting at the portion of Keigo’s face that was uncovered by the red fabric of the velvet blanket, heightened vision followed the small beads of sweat trailing down the king’s forehead. Tracing each path of deposited sweat found his gaze landing onto the white satin sheets below, before returning to the host above. Setting the ceramic cup gently down upon the tray, Touya’s hand moved unapologetically towards Keigo. 

"Forgive me." Uttering the request tenderly, Touya’s hand forced the blanket down to uncover Keigo’s face, revealing how deeply flushed the king’s face appeared. Ignoring the subtle flinch of Keigo’s head from the pale hand’s approach, Touya lightly brushed aside a few stray strands of hair. Pressing the back of his hand softly against the now exposed forehead, The vampire king didn’t need to linger against Keigo’s skin to realize what was wrong. 

"A fever…" Retracting his hand, Touya moved to exit the room in search of something to relieve the king of the growing hotness plaguing his body. "I’ll be back." Without being granted the opportunity to abscond, a tightness gripped at his wrist. Vibrating in shock beneath the sudden touch, Touya’s nerves tingled with excitement as blue orbs shifted back to the mortal figure behind him. Extended weakly from the bed, what remained of Keigo’s strength was forced into his hand. Quickly losing his grip, the shaking hand fell from Touya’s wrist. Saved quickly by Touya’s reflexes, Keigo’s hand found itself cradled delicately in Touya’s grasp. Turning to kneel in front of the fatigued king, reassuring caresses were left across the back of Keigo’s hand while soft blue eyes waited patiently for an order. 

"Ch-" Stopping to clear his throat, the blockage seemed unperturbed by the motion. "Ch-Chi-"

"Chisaki?" Saving the king’s breath, Keigo nodded meekly.

"M-M-Medicine." Forcing the word to the surface of his throat, the verbal exclamation brought upon a merciless coughing fit. Physically shaking with every contraction of his diaphragm, Touya seemed to wince with each expelled sound. Harsh, loud, and unrelenting, the string of coughs only seemed to worsen the longer he tried to clear his lungs. Feeling an unmistakable wrench strike his heart, hammering the beating organ in concession with the hacking sound, Touya’s expression softened. Unfamiliar with the obvious pain Keigo was experiencing, the immortal being couldn’t help but sympathize with the mortal male. 

"Shhh…" Patting the back of Keigo’s hand tenderly, the soft tones of Touya’s voice seemed to settle the rasps emanating from the king. "Relax yourself my lord." Returning the tired limb to rest peacefully against the mattress where it had laid moments before, Touya’s hand roamed back up to Keigo’s face. “Don’t fret, your majesty~" Returning the disturbed locks of blond hair to rest out of the king’s visual, the cold touch of Touya’s hand felt refreshing against Keigo’s hot skin. "I’ll take care of you~" Boldly trailing down the curve of Keigo’s face, the pale limb lightly cupped the king’s cheek. Fitting effortlessly into the palm of his hand, Keigo unconsciously leaned into the cool touch, accepting the gesture for everything it symbolized. 

While simple, the gesture screamed a larger meaning. Intimate with honesty, Touya’s touch was anything but harmful. These hands were determined to hold, care for, and heal Keigo without any desire to wound him in any way. Feeling the resolve threading from the simple touch, the tingling sensation rushing to excite every nerve residing within Keigo’s body, confirmed Chisaki’s mistaken read of the boy. With a touch as unmistakable as this, Keigo discarded the apprehension left by the doctor, selling his unbridled trust to the man holding him so tenderly.

Touya, feeling the unguarded throb of Keigo’s heartbeat, eagerly accepted the silent loyalty being passed from the king. Offering another stepping stone on his path to consume the mortal’s blood, Touya eagerly aligned Keigo’s unrelenting trust with the king’s developing feelings, putting him one step closer to the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. 

"Sit tight your highness. I’ll retrieve your medicine for you~" Wishing the cool temperature of Touya’s hand had never left his face, Keigo watched the other male’s figure shrink as he approached the door. Disappearing from sight, Touya selfishly left the king to listen to the incessant thrum of his heartbeat. The sound, representing the stifling attraction to the fleeting snowflake, haunted the king until the rhythmic oscillations lulled him back to sleep.

Chapter Text

Arriving at the entrance of the castle, Touya pulled the hood of his coat promptly over his head. Pushing the door open, the sun was eager to rush past the threshold of the door, attempting to lick at Touya’s bare skin. Cursing the light silently, bare hands buried themselves deep inside the darkness of the coat’s pockets as Touya charged relentlessly into the brightened exterior of the stone castle. Following through with Keigo’s request, only to save the sublime specimen from expiring, Haste touched Touya’s legs like never before. Refusing to be outside for longer than necessary, the walk into town was brisk and short lived. Finding the bustling state of the village surrounding him within minutes, Touya navigated through the crowd messily, but with more coherence than the first time he’d stepped foot in the busy streets. 

Uncertain of where his destination actually resided, the vampire king followed a whim. Caught in the wind by his olfactory senses, a chemical scent filtered through the air. Dancing lightly with a touch of herbs, the wafting formula, being the only solid lead, directed Touya to a building. Scoping out the familiar shape of the doctor’s ghastly mask, shaped into a wooden sign that hung adjacent to the building, Touya smirked in success. Crossing the road quickly, he stopped up to the closed door. 

Granting the sun a swift opportunity to leave its mark against the back of his hand, Touya hastily pushed the door open. Slipping inside the safety of the building, the door was latched promptly behind him. Glaring at the redness that was quick to paint his skin, growing apprehensions were shook away with the reminder of what was waiting for him. Unconsciously wetting his lips over the thought of tasting the liquid gold that coursed through Keigo’s veins, Touya brought his hands to his hood. Revealing himself to the empty shop, curious, yet excited azure orbs washed over the interior of the room.

Placed in the center of the room, stood a strong, expensive, wooden desk. Atop the desk rested a few stray pieces of parchment, a lamp, and finally, a bottle of ink and a quill pen. Behind the desk, on either side of the room, two fabric curtains hung from the roof. Assuming they were set for private interactions between Chisaki and his patients, Touya imagined a chair or bed were set behind each curtain along with other medical equipment. Between both privacy curtains was another sealed door. Guessing that an operating room laid beyond the door, based solely on the understanding that Chisaki harbored a phobia to germs, there was no logical way the door may lead to living quarters. Accepting that it was the latter, Touya’s gaze shifted to the right where a cabinet filled with books resided. Separating the clusters of knowledge were a few pieces of décor; including an hourglass, potted plants, and a few outdated medical tools for display only. Washing his gaze to the left, Touya’s intrigue peaked. 

Another cabinet sat against the wall, this one was closed off by a set of heavy wooden doors. However, Touya had a sneaking suspicion of what resided behind the closed doors. Stealing another glance for any sign of Chisaki, light steps carried him towards the cabinet. 

"Hmmm…" Gently pulling the latched door, Touya resealed the cabinet door with a thud. "Potent…" Pinching his nose from the strong scent that wafted out of the cabinet, Touya braved opening the door once again. Confirming his suspicions, various bottles filled with mixed liquids as well as herbs, lined the shelves of the cabinet. Sifting through the bottles with his free hand, Touya reached for a sealed bottle. Examining the contents through the glass, azure orbs squinted into a glare. 

Letting curiosity guide his movements, Touya released his nose, allowing the overwhelming medical smells to flood his nose. Ignoring the scents, the lid of the bottle was carefully popped off. Turning away from the cabinet, Touya brought the rim of the bottle to his nose. Lightly shaking the contents of the bottle, welcomed the internal scent into his nose. 

"Oh…" Toxic to taste, organic in form, and sweet in aroma, the scent lingered a moment longer against Touya’s olfactory sense before the lid was slapped back upon the bottle. "This is hefty stuff…" Holding the bottle back up at eye level, the plant inside seemed to stare back. "Lethal to humans…" Redirecting his attention to the cabinet of medicinal ingredients, the toxic container was set back where it was found. "Why would Chisaki need this?" Catching a glimpse of another bottle, curiosity led Touya’s hand back towards the shelf, eager to examine more shady content being produced by the doctor.

"Have you forgotten your manners?" Slamming the wooden door shut, Touya turned to face the unbridled glare belonging to Chisaki. "It’s rather rude to handle property that doesn’t belong to you. Didn’t your mother teach you to keep your hands to yourself?" Placing his own gloved hands delicately against the surface of the wooden desk, Chisaki’s glare was anything but soft. 

"My apologies, but I-"

"Get out." Straightening himself out, those precarious hands left the desk, arms wrapping around Chisaki’s chest with irritation. 

"I beg your pardon?" Holding back the urge to rip the doctor to shreds, Touya promptly pressed his jaw back together. Chisaki would never earn the satisfaction of seeing Touya surprised. 

"I said, get out. You are not welcome in my practice." Iced with hatred, the words chilled the length of Touya’s spine. Touching him with unyielding distaste, each nerve tangled under Touya’s skin, popping with growing annoyance. Every individual instinct nestled within him urged their host to kill and devour the being in front of him; simply out of spite. The desire only solidified when the doctor unfolded his arms. Erect and pointed, the gloved index finger decided Touya’s next destination. That being the door, Touya’s chilling blue eyes challenged Chisaki’s glare with a sharpened curve of their own. Searching the harsh lemon orbs glowering back at him, Touya was desperate to find anything stemming from the gaze that he could use against the brunette male. Yet, no matter how deeply Toyua inserted the shovel, the blade never struck gold. Reminding himself that Keigo’s life was left to the precarious man in front of him, Touya stood down, only on the terms that he needed Keigo alive to enjoy his delectable nectar. Raising his hands in defeat, the hateful curve of his brow dissipated, leaving Touya’s expression calm and submissive. 

"Very well, I’ll leave." Turning to accept Chisaki’s offer, light footsteps carried Touya towards the exit. "I guess I have no choice but to return to his majesty empty handed." Feeling Chisaki’s eyes widened, Touya refused to hold himself back now that he had the advantage. "I wonder how disappointed Keigo’s going to look when I tell him that Kai Chisaki, his most trusted friend and advisor, refused to administer the medicine that will save his life~" Stopping himself from glancing back to view the personality shift occurring across Chisaki’s face not hidden by the mask, Touya settled for a possessive smirk. 

"I wonder if he’ll cry~" Slapping Chisaki with the taunting pitch of his voice, Touya could only relish the nervous stutter oscillating from Chisaki’s heart. Holding the vibration victoriously against his own ego, The king wiped the smirk from his lips at the call of his name. Spinning to address the doctor, who had slid open one of the desk drawers, Touya sauntered back to stand in front of the desk. Setting a sealed bottle on the surface of the desk, Chisaki addressed Touya with more sentiment and apologetic tones than he’d wished. Purely born from the fear that his actions would reach Keigo, he gestured to the bottle with a smile prominent behind his mask. 

"Take this for his majesty." Lifting the bottle from the desk, Teal-blue orbs washed suspiciously over the external integrity of the bottle. Noting the lack of outward damages along with the clean condition Chisaki had ensured upon the bottle, Touya accepted the pristine condition of the vessel. Popping open the lid, a regretful intake of the wafting scent touched Touya’s nose, prompting the lid back down to seal away the intense medicinal smell. 

"What ingredients are in it?" Raising his gaze to meet Chisaki, Touya’s stare reflected the serious nature of his tone. He was done measuring himself next to the brunette. 

"It’s antibiotics for his pneumonia." 

"That’s not what I asked. What did you use for the ingredients?" Forcing Chisaki’s brows to kiss, any semblance of civility fluttered away from the doctor.

"Excuse me?" Hissing the response, Chisaki’s arms coiled angrily in front of his chest. "I hardly see how that’s any of your concern. This tonic will-" Flinching subtly with the swift movement of Touya’s hand, Chisaki had to recollect his courage beneath the sharpened glare stemming from Touya’s eyes. Pointing accusingly at the sealed cabinet to the left, Touya spat back. 

"I saw what you have in reserve, Doctor. How do I know you didn’t put any of those poisons in the mixture?" Scoffing over the accusation, yellow orbs shot their own glare back with an equal amount of intensity. 

"How dare you assume I’d tamper with his majesty’s medicine?" Neglecting to include the population as a whole, Touya wondered how many lives Chisaki had experimented with. With his knowledge and capability, human experimentation certainly was second nature for the doctor. Why wouldn't it be? Take while the taking is good, and considering humans were pleading for his medical expertise, he had an endless supply of guinea pigs. Had they met under different circumstances, Touya would have considered him a powerful ally, but currently, Chisaki was nothing more than an itch he couldn’t bury. 

"If you’re being truthful, what’s keeping you from telling me the ingredients?" Diving deeper into the blue pools challenging him from behind the authoritative glare, Chisaki tried to uncover some semblance of weakness behind Touya’s gaze. However, the further down he swam, the darker the water became, until all he could see was his own fear reflecting back at him. Rushing over him with the temperature of a glacial pool, the water surrounding Chisaki quickly began to suffocate him. Blinding him beneath the weight of the heavy shadows, every muscle in his body froze from the chilling fear that was aroused within Touya’s eyes. Desperately trying to swim out of the swirling darkness, Chisaki only seemed to fall deeper beneath the overwhelming pressure Touya exerted upon him. Admitting his weakness to Touya, Chisaki’s screams were consumed by the suffocating darkness, lapped eagerly up by the host in a fit of victorious dominance. Releasing the invisible magnetism drawn upon Chisaki with a simple blink of his eye, Touya watched the brunette physically shaking himself out of the trance. 

Sighing in defeat, the doctor proceeded to list every ingredient, including the amount, effects, and instructions on how to administer the medicine to the king. Smiling in victory, Touya dropped the bottle into the safety of his pocket. 

"Was that so hard~ Thank you, Doctor. I’ll ensure the king is taken care of~" Pulling his hood protectively over his head, Touya left for the door with the intention to end the interaction. However, when he placed his hand upon the handle, the darkness beneath his feet stirred. Urging their host to leave behind a final warning regarding the health of the king. Opening his mouth to speak, Touya’s tone took on a harsh edge.

"Oh, Doctor, one more thing…" Feeling the bloodlust waking internally with the cursed thought of Keigo expiring from Chisaki’s dishonesty, crimson soaked the calm blue of Touya’s eyes. "If I find out that you’re lying and he dies because of you …" Eyes reddened by the morning’s first light glanced back at Chisaki with a menacing turn of the head. "I will show you no mercy. You will experience first hand what happens to those who betray me."

Releasing the built up intensity of his power, the verbal exclamation seemed to consume any light present in the room. Growing uncomfortably cold, the air vibrated around Chisaki touched the mortal’s spine with a jolting surge of fear. Sharp particles sliced through Chisaki’s airway with every frantic breath inhaled by the scared male. Captured mercilessly by Touya’s unrelenting darkness, every muscle tensed in unison. Feeding the darkness copious amounts of fear unapologetically ebbed away any stored strength remaining in the mortal’s body. Losing any means to run, or even scream, Chisaki could only remain still to greet the looming threat across from him. Familiar from the encounter at the castle, the monstrous shadow lurked ever closer to the doctor. Glowing with satisfaction, its red orbs hungrily ate the fear emanating from Chisaki’s eyes, doubling the size of the shadow, the looming monster hovered dangerously above Chisaki. Arms, extended out to block the doctor from fleeing, were poised with sharpened claws ready to tear through Chisaki’s weak flesh. Hearing Touya’s haunting laughter echoing through the darkness, the doctor could only stare in terrified submission as deadly white fangs reared their unsightly head. Dripping with saliva, the shadow excitedly relished how quickly Chisaki became uncomfortable with the thought of the bodily fluid touching his skin. 

‘Please!’ Uttered mentally, Chisaki silently wished the threat away. ‘Please, leave me alone!’ Feeling the pressure of the shadow exerting itself upon him, Chisaki buckled beneath the weight. Submitting to Touya’s overwhelming authority and power, the doctor metaphorically dropped to his knees. ‘Please, God, make it stop.’ Fleeing back to the safety of Toyua’s feet, the menacing feeling left as quickly as it had appeared. Touya, now delighted, bid the doctor a sweetened goodbye. 

"Take care, Doctor~ Thank you for your cooperation~" Hating the toothy grin spread across Touya’s lips, Chisaki could only agree, sending Touya off with the same type of farewell. When the door latched, securing the departure of the menacing figure, Chisaki crumbled under the pressure. Catching himself against the desk, he sought heavy doses of oxygen to quell the disturbed nerves vibrating beneath his skin. 

"What…the…" Anxiously removing his mask from his face, unfiltered air flowed desperately into his lungs, refreshing the deprived organs. “What the hell is wrong with that guy?" Filling his mouth with the distinct taste of iron, Chisaki became aware of the damage his teeth had done to the interior of his mouth. The doctor rubbed the fear from his eyes, still feeling the haunting effects of the darkness around him. "I can’t shake the feeling…" Despite being alone, the uncanny feeling of being watched plagued Chisaki’s mind and body. "There’s something wrong with Touya…" Imagining the innocent face of his king, Chisaki’s hand gripped his chest, trying to comfort the aching beating of the organ beneath. "His majesty is in danger…I can feel it…" 

Promptly returning to the castle, Touya entered Keigo’s room with the newly acquired medicine as well as a fresh tray adorning hot lunch. Carrying the objects to the king’s bedside, Touya invited himself onto Keigo’s mattress. Careful to not disturb the slumbering figure, Touya positioned himself on the edge of the mattress. Reaching with a gentle hand, he lightly prodded the king’s figure, cooing to him tenderly until the fatigued eyelids fluttered open. Mouthing the vampire’s name, but lacking the strength to utter the syllables verbally, Keigo adjusted his body to better see the figure smiling down at him. 

"I have your medicine~" Watching Touya skillfully open and pour a syrupy liquid onto a spoon, Keigo lost himself in the man’s appearance. Framed delicately by the golden warmth streaming in through the nearby window, Touya appeared angelic; aptly fitting with his deliverance of the life saving liquid. His hair, caught under the warm rays, glowed like a translucent flame flowing softly with his movements. Keigo’s eyes followed the dancing tips, landing softly against Touya’s cheek. Reflecting the first semblance of colour against the man's pale skin, Touya’s porcelain skin seemed to shine beneath the gentle touch of the soft light. Yet, it was his eyes, the very thing that drew Keigo to Touya in the first place, that set Keigo’s heart ablaze. Swimming with tender loving care, the blue orbs shifted to fall on Keigo’s form. Under the gentle warmth of the sun, the azure pools sparkled like the ocean beneath an anticipated sunset. A scene the king would be delighted to share with his lover, he’d lost himself completely in the glistening waters swirling within Touya’s irises. 

"Say ah~" Shaking the king from his trance, glossy orbs shifted to see Touya holding the filled spoon out towards him. Rushing red with embarrassment, Keigo’s cheeks warmed with the obedient parting of his lips. Inserting the spoon carefully into Keigo’s mouth, the king ingested the thickened liquid. Pulling the empty spoon from Keigo’s mouth, Touya couldn’t help but chuckle at the expression carved across Keigo’s face. Outwardly expressing his distaste of the medicine, his nose scrunched, one eye clenched shut in detest as he forced the liquid down his throat. Setting the spoon on the tray, Touya proceeded with taking the next item from the tray. Mixing the hot bowl of soup with a clean spoon, his attention fell back on the king. 

"Now that you’ve had your medicine, would you like me to feed you your lunch?" Lifting the spoon out over the bowl, the contents were dumped back into the bowl to demonstrate to the king the consistency of the food. Feeling the cool, powerful effects of the medicine rushing down and easing the clogged pipes, Keigo cleared his throat. 

"I’m more than capable…" Forcing himself upright, he leaned against the headboard, holding his hand out towards Touya. "I can do it myself, thanks." Falsely displaying annoyed tones within his voice purely as a cover, Touya only sent the king an understanding smile. He wanted to keep as much of his dignity as he could, Touya could respect that, even though he considered the idea of feeding Keigo to be a treat~ Handing off the bowl, Keigo thanked him softly, taking a few bites of the lunch with slow, calculated movements. Touya, accepting the independence as a sign to depart, stood from his spot on the mattress. 

"Well, if you’ve got everything covered, I will leave you to-" Feeling Keigo’s authoritative gaze land on him, Touya’s muscles froze beneath the silent order. 

"Certainly you don’t intend to leave me here alone, do you?" Blinking incredulously at Keigo’s stern expression, Touya felt a wave of uncertainty wash over him. 

"Sire, I-"

"What if I were to choke? Or burn myself?" Struck by the underlying playful tone in Keigo’s voice. Touya found his muscles relaxing. "I’m still rather ill, perhaps mid consumption I lose my strength…" As if to make his point, Keigo purposefully twitched his hand, intending to let the bowl drop down as an “accidental” response by the illness residing within. Realizing the king’s point, Touya’s reflexes acted. Bracing the bowl immediately, saving the contents from spilling a single drop, his other hand cupped Keigo’s on the underside of the bowl to ensure the lunch indeed had nowhere to go. Eyes, subtly filled with surprise over how childish the king was being, met a pair of condescending gold orbs. 

"You’re terrible, your majesty~" Said with a smirk, Touya eased himself back onto the mattress. With Touya obediently at his side once again, Keigo smirked in response. 

"I believe I ordered you to come to me when I called. I haven’t dismissed you. By leaving, you will disobey my orders, do you intend to disappoint me?" Overflowing with a teasing edge, the accusation brought a twitch to Touya’s lips. 

"Of course not~" Certain that Keigo had a hold on the bowl, Touya removed himself from the king, sitting properly on the mattress. "Forgive my rudeness, I wasn’t thinking." Catching the soft chuckle emanating from Keigo’s throat, Touya understood the severity had left.  

"I’ll forgive you." Dipping the spoon back into the bowl, Keigo raised the now full utensil out of the hot liquid. "On one condition." Feeling his heart wrench with concern, the intense serious tones dancing beneath Keigo’s gaze left Touya with chills. "Tell me about your dreams." Nightmares was the technical term for what filled Touya’s head when his eyes closed, however, he wouldn’t share that detail with Keigo. 

"My dreams?" Nodding, the king swallowed another helping of his lunch. "Do you perchance mean my aspirations?" Hoping to lead the king astray, the question only added to his monologue. 

"Tell me those as well. I want to know everything about this…fascinating snowflake that has fallen into my life." Hating the stutter that hit his heart from the soft delivery of the request, Touya swallowed the growing anxiety building in his throat. Only a handful of souls had access to his personal information, none of which were mortals. Those who found out too much about Touya, found themselves six feet beneath the Earth’s surface. Safe from leaking any intimate details about the immortal king, loose ends would always be tied back to the cold soil below. Out of sight, out of mind. However, Touya didn’t have that option with Keigo. Killing the king would cause more trauma than his mortal death was worth. If Touya wanted both of them to walk away from this interaction, he’d have to be wise with his choice of words.

Peering into those sharpened golden eyes and seeing the authority patiently swirling within, he knew he couldn’t disobey the blond either. Deciding to share his biography with Keigo, Touya neglected the potential harm telling the story could do as he cleared his throat. 

"As you wish…" Choosing to shift his gaze away from Keigo, Touya sought guidance from the roof. "Let’s see… Touya Todoroki was an only child, born on a cold winter's evening. He grew up under the care of his mother and father, they taught him everything he needed to know. As a young boy, Touya always dreamed of filling his father’s shoes, to be dependable, strong, and understanding, just like his father. However, when mother’s life was brutally taken following a surprise attack by a group of intruders...there was a shift in father’s demeanor. Losing her took a chunk of his strength away it seemed…’ Furrowing his brow in empathetic understanding, Keigo gently set the empty bowl on the side table. Never had he imagined finding someone who had experienced a similar upbringing as he.  

"From then on, father seemed to push Touya harder and harder to become the man he wanted his son to grow to be. Feeling stressed, the weight of his father’s expectations seemed to follow him wherever he went. Seeping into his dreams, Touya could never shake the feeling of disappointment stemming from his father, even when his mind was unconscious. They took over every aspect of his life and eventually every sense of imagination left Touya. Ultimately leading to endless dreamless or sleepless nights." Pausing only momentarily, Keigo took the opportunity to weigh in. 

"What was your father’s role in society? Why did he put so much pressure on you? You aren’t royalty after all, surely whatever it was he wished you to master couldn’t have been that demanding?" Thinking briefly for an answer, Touya released a breath to hide the lies being spun by his lips.

"Father was an executioner." Catching the blip in Keigo’s heartbeat, Touya knew the false statement caught the king by surprise. Understanding that the given role was passed on by birthright, Touya should have been severing heads, not waiting on Keigo’s every need. 

"Then…why are you not wearing the hood?" Meeting Keigo’s gaze for the first time since starting the conversation, the painful emotion painted behind Touya’s glistening orbs hitched the breath in Keigo’s throat. Overwhelmed with a sadness Keigo couldn’t quite understand, the blue orbs had never looked more sincere or soft. 

"Because I don’t like taking lives." Bending the truth only a little, the reason seemed to settle Keigo’s suspicions. "I know I was born into it, but that life isn’t for me…that’s not who I am anymore." Shifting his gaze away from Keigo, the vampire missed the sympathetic smile that the king tried to give him. “Eventually, my father was murdered when they revealed his face. The peasants in the village rose against him and killed him publicly for taking lives so senselessly." Misunderstanding Touya’s upbringing, Keigo interjected again. 

"I don’t understand Touya, it’s an executioner’s job to-"

"My father killed the innocent, your majesty." Seizing Keigo under the harsh tone of his voice, Touya relaxed his temper. Swiftly apologizing for speaking out of turn, he adjusted his body to face Keigo. "He went against the king of Flamores and slaughtered people who had yet to be tried. My father was a prime example of letting power dictate your actions." Letting his expression soften in concession with the ending of his fabricated biography, Touya wrapped up his life story. "I left Flamores with my guardian after that and since witnessing my father’s death, all I wish for myself and my friends is a fulfilling life filled with peace and happiness…that’s all I want…no more senseless murder or conflict." Absorbing the tragic path Touya travelled to get to him, Keigo could only blink at the male in silence. Never would the king have guessed that someone who carried himself so well, had been groomed by someone so bloodthirsty. 

"I’m sorry…" Finally able to breathe out a response, Touya shook the apology away.

"It’s not your place to apologize." Feeling the weight of his past pushing on Keigo’s shoulders, Touya wiped the sadness from his face. He wouldn’t let his darkness plague this divine specimen, not until that sublime blood touched his lips at least. Replacing the solemn mood with a genuine smile, the sparkle that twinkled in Touya’s previously darkened eyes lit up the room. 

"Oh well, c'est la vie~ That’s behind me now~" Boldly taking Keigo’s hand within his own, Touya brought the limb bravely up to his lips. "Besides, I couldn’t be happier~ I have a new purpose now~" Catching the intrigue across Keigo’s eyes, the spark returned to the king with the playful twitch of his lips. 

"Oh yeah~ What would that be?" Chuckling, Touya had to push the crimson hue away. Keeping the bloodthirsty hue from overtaking the natural blue of his irises after the scent of Keigo’s blood left a tempting caress against Touya’s olfactory sense. 

"To please you, obviously~" Pressing his lips gently against the back of Keigo’s hand, the king couldn’t hide the flutter of his heart from Touya. Relishing the heat stoking Keigo’s cheeks, the fire Touya indirectly ignited within Keigo’s heart burned intensely with the growing passion for the male. He could feel it. The king’s emotional attraction towards him was malleable and eager to be manipulated by Touya’s hand. At least, he’d thought. 

"Is that so?" Retracting his hand after the separation of Touya’s lips, Keigo inched his body closer to Touya. Adjusting himself to be on his knees, the position shift brought Keigo to be at least a head taller than Touya, setting him back at the top of the hierarchy. Smirking down at Touya with condescension colouring his eyes, Keigo took Touya’s chin into his grasp. Holding Touya’s face primarily with his index finger and thumb, the king’s face inched dangerously closer to Touya.

"Describe to me in detail how you intend to please me." Despising the aching throb pulsating from his heart, the pink hue that touched his cheeks was unwelcome, but forced its way across Touya’s pale cheeks regardless. Bathing Touya sensually under the hot, sultry tones of his voice, the lustrous glow that overwhelmed the sick gloss of Keigo’s eyes overfilled the vampire’s heart and instincts with the painful desire to pin Keigo to the mattress and take exactly what he wanted from the king. Overtaking his auditory sense, the throb of Touya’s heart screamed for its host to listen to its demands, but was left unfulfilled.

"I’m waiting, Touya~" Unfairly running his thumb over Touya’s quivering bottom lip, the king overloaded the vampire’s senses with the seductive delivery of the request. "Tell me how you intend to please me." Forcing his teeth into the soft tissue of his cheek to divert the racing desire overwhelming every dwelling sense, Touya finally spoke. 

"You’re awfully cruel, your highness." Gaining the opportunity to retract himself from Keigo’s wavering grip, Touya promptly got to his feet. Symbolically standing to put Keigo in his place, Touya ignored the questioning quirk of Keigo’s eyebrow. "I wouldn’t dare sully your reputation, even at your request." Humbling himself, Touya dropped to his knees to share his genuine respect for Keigo. "I couldn’t in good conscience taint your royal body with my…lesser form." Keeping his head down, Touya missed the disappointment that crossed Keigo’s eyes. Lasting only a moment however, the king’s loss was quickly replaced by a smile. Seating himself on the edge of the bed with his feet hanging innocently in front of Touya, Keigo took dominance once again.

"Touya, raise your head." Hesitantly obeying the command, azure eyes were apprehensive to return to Keigo’s gaze. Yet, when they did, they were greeted by a tender visual. Replacing the lust with sincerity, Keigo’s eyes dumped their honesty upon him well before the king uttered the words himself. 

"I’m aware of my feelings. They’re the only thing in this castle that is solely under my control. Everything else has some other external or internal factor affecting it that is out of my authority." Pausing momentarily, Keigo’s hand approached Touya’s face. Instead of dominantly holding the vampire, the king gently brushed aside strands of white hair. Revealing all of Touya’s expression, the king could clearly see how hard Touya was fighting against himself. Eyes, usually strong and bold, were vibrating with a mixture of excitement and fear. Assuming the male was delighted by his confession, Keigo could only guess the fear was from denying the acceptance of his own feelings. It was obvious that Touya was afraid to admit he felt something for Keigo. Partially true, Keigo was unaware of how hard Touya was fighting against the notion of piercing the king’s neck and drinking him dry. 

"I know what I want and I know what I like." Feeling his heart stutter along with the growing pink that highlighted Touya’s porcelain cheeks, Keigo’s hands moved to tenderly cup Touya’s cheeks. "Status doesn’t matter to me." Swiping over the pink hue that decorated Touya’s cheeks with his thumb, Keigo missed the stressful clench of the other male’s jaw. "If I’m asking for intimacy, it’s because I feel so strongly for my partner that I want to share those feelings." Holding Touya a moment longer, Keigo eased the aching throb plaguing Touya’s heart and fangs by retracting his touch. Getting shakily to his feet, the king’s feet led him confidently towards the door. 

"I’m not an open book Touya, not everyone can access these pages. Only those with permission can check this novel out." Pulling the door open, Keigo’s sly eyes stole a final glance back at the kneeling figure. "Keep that in mind next time the moment rises~" Leaving Touya alone to drown in the feelings he’d desperately tried to avoid, Touya’s fist struck the stone floor in irritation. 

"Curse him." Growling through girt teeth, the red hue that’d been fighting to surface with every touch or auditory caress from Keigo’s voice, glared menacingly at the floor. "How dare he be so tantalizing!" Crossing his mind, the mental image of Keigo’s innocent, yet alluring features stirred the attraction from within. "Why can’t I resist him? Blood aside, why does Keigo Takami install these mortal feelings of attraction within me? He’s not even that attractive…" Obviously lying to himself, Touya shook the mental image of the king away before pushing himself to his feet. 

“Stay focused Touya." The thought being quickly smothered by Keigo’s sweet smile, brought the pink hue back to his cheeks. "Keigo Takami is the end game and you will have him, one way or another." Discarding the specification of Keigo’s blood being his goal, Touya regretfully let his emotions guide him…

Tapping the tip of his nail impatiently against the wrist support of the laptop, Touya’s eyes wandered from the screen. Drawing a blank on what transpired next, twitching fingers hovered above the keys. Eager to input a consecutive string of words, the pale limbs were left unsatisfied. Relaxing his hands against the laptop, tired eyes shifted to the clock in the bottom right of the screen. Reading a quarter past two in the morning, the king released a sigh. Representing his surrender to writer’s block, Touya saved what had been documented. Touching the screen to the keys, the sleek device was set nicely to the side. 

Releasing the built in tightness with a stretch of his tired limbs, the king pushed himself to his feet. Lazily detouring through the apartment, electronics were shut off, garbage was thrown out, and dishes were loaded into the dishwasher to be forgotten until the sun rose again. Finding himself in the bathroom, Touya prepared for the slumber ahead. Leaving the bathroom with freshly cleaned hands, face, and teeth, Touya stepped into the privacy of his bedroom. 

Simply laid out, a king sized bed resided in the middle of the room. Dressed with black sheets and a blue duvet, the colour scheme reflected the blue flame he’d been symbolically referred to as a fledgling vampire; while the bed itself symbolically referred to how lazy he’d become since losing his light. Tucked in the corner of the room to the right of the door was the mini fridge. Stocked full with only the vampiric substitute, the fridge only served a purpose when necessary. Next to Touya’s bed sat a small nightstand, whose sole purpose was to hold his cellular phone during charging periods. Black out curtains covered the singular window on the right wall and no lamps were present. Touya’s eyes were more than capable of seeing in the dark, electricity was simply a perk.

Stripping himself of the day’s clothes, the king replaced the old clothes with a fresh pair of blue plaid pajama pants. Satisfied with his routine being finished, he climbed under the comforting hold of the heavy blanket. Resting himself against the soft hold of the pillows cradling his head, azure eyes refused to give in to the residing fatigue. Lying his arms over the blanket, bored thumbs quickly found each other. Swirling around one another in a dance of forced thought, Touya’s eyes searched the blank roof for an answer. 

"What happened after Keigo got healthy?" Chewing unconsciously at the inside of his lip, the past events in question seemed too lost in the thick fog of Touya’s memory to resurface. 

"Why can’t I remember?" Reaching into the thick mist, Touya tried and failed to recover any repressed memories, let alone the one he desired. His hand, now wet with the suspended moisture, only mocked him over his decayed recollection of the only thing that mattered to him. Sighing in defeat, Touya submitted himself to the exhaustion of the day. Letting his eyes flutter closed, he breathed out a final question to the silent fog holding his memories captive, before drifting off to sleep. 

"What purpose does it serve keeping him from me? He’s already gone…just grant me this one final interaction…that’s all I want…another chance to say goodbye…properly this time…" Falling into sleep's unconscious hold, the moon hanging above took no pity upon Touya’s sleeping form. Filling his head with unnecessary, horrible, thoughts and images, the kind had no choice but to accept another sleepless night. Something he’d sadly grown accustomed to, but would never blame Keigo for. How could he, when Keigo was the only mortal capable of silencing the nightmares. Now, they were free to roam and consume Touya endlessly, just as they had prior. An eternal punishment for Touya’s neglect over Keigo’s fleeting life.

Chapter Text

Letting just under a week’s time slip through Touya’s capable fingers, the king found no inspiration to continue his work. Having misplaced the required memories to continue, Touya sought recollection from outside sources. He tried to jog his memory watching tragic rom coms, but after watching three films that ended too close to reality, he only felt sick. Trying to wrack his brain, he flipped through magazines and brochures, hoping to find an ad or event that could point him in the right direction. No such luck. Listening to music only gave him a headache. Perhaps it was the genre of choice, but the smooth tones associated with jazz only seemed to bury the memories deeper. Discussing things with Kurogiri only annoyed him. While trying to help, the lesser vampire’s suggestions were purely asinine and didn’t help Touya in the slightest. 

"Why don’t you put yourself in a situation similar to what you were doing when you met Keigo? Maybe repeating those actions will unlock your memories?" Discarding the suggestion as an insult towards Touya’s status, he disagreed with Kurogiri’s premise on the grounds that lowering himself to take on a monotonous job as he had in the past wouldn’t satisfy to the same extent. There was no reason for him to do it, with no end goal besides his memories, which he blatantly pointed out wouldn't resurface from filling a servants role again. Resting on the argument that he could act out those tasks in the privacy of his home, the idea of publicly shaming himself would push him further from Keigo as his focus would rest primarily on the task and not the man in question. Kurogiri chose to stay quiet after that. 

Currently, Touya was sorting through the mess of paper occupying his table. Sitting eagerly on the edge of the couch, his movements were less than excited as they sifted through random scripts. 

‘Strawberries or pineapples?’ Tossing the question aside, another piece of paper was grabbed. ‘His eyes were like a sunset. If I was Icarus, I’d fly into that sun over and over again.’ Chuckling softly, Touya crumpled up the cheesy saying, carelessly tossing the ball aside and grabbing a new piece. ‘Reminder, he liked it when you played with his hair. Used to chirp when you lightly trailed your claws across his scalp.’ Smiling weakly at the written memory, the paper was set delicately back in the pile. Finding no immediate signs to direct him, Touya slunk back into the comforting hold of the couch. Sighing heavily in defeat, white locks were disturbed by long fingers raking through them. 

"It’s so obvious, I guarantee the events that occurred are ridiculously obvious." Gaze shifting to the table, they landed on the partially uncovered sketch. Tracing the rough lines that defined Keigo’s jaw, bored eyes stopped at the edge of a covering piece of paper. Recovering no active recollections from half of the drawing, Touya refused to uncover more. Feeling no desire to look upon the face of the deceased, Touya’s gaze wandered away from the table. 

Losing himself in the fabric void of the hanging curtains, a thought crossed his mind. Sauntering lazily to the closed curtains, the black fabric was pulled neatly to the side. Welcoming the deadly warmth of the sun into his safe haven, blue eyes squinted in distaste. Letting his feet carry him a safe step away from the touch of the golden light, Touya cast his now adjusted gaze upon the worldly view. Alive under the hold of the light above, the streets below raged with the passage of pedestrians and vehicles alike. Birds soared by without a care, flying delicately in contrast to the massive airplanes that copied their abilities so carelessly. 

The world, despite being shut off by Touya, continued to turn, passing by him like yesterday’s news. Yet, there was something refreshing about the liveliness surrounding him. A far-cry from the corpse Touya chose to invest himself in, the decision to venture into the out was merely aroused through suspicion that the change of scenery would clear his head. Considering the idea that the fresh air mixed with the opportunity to observe those around him, Touya imagined a walk would free the clogged juices in his brain. Certainly with his head refreshed, he’d regain unfiltered access to his memories. 

Changing into a pair of  black jeans, a black shirt with a bold graphic was pulled over his chest. Slipping on a thin navy blue sweater, the hood of which was unapologetically pulled over his head, Touya finished off the ensemble with a reflective pair of aviator sunglasses. Burying his phone, notebook, and a pen into the front pocket of his hoodie, Touya slipped his feet into a pair of black high top shoes. Tying off the laces, the apartment was locked and left to dwell without its internal leech. Following the descent of the elevator, Touya’s hands shied away from the warming sun above as the king stepped past the threshold of the building. 

Already hating the heat of the midday light, Touya grit his teeth, bearing the uncomfortable temperature only to satiate the writer’s block within. Following the paved sidewalk to a nearby park, the immortal being sought refuge beneath the large foliage of a prominently growing oak tree. Rivalling even Touya’s life, the tree was thick, its trunk carrying more than enough scars from weathered interactions and rowdy teenagers alike. Unlike Touya, the tree eagerly sought the life beaming down from the sun above, its branches were thick, wild, and touching the sky in praise for years of equivalent exchange with mother nature. Leaves, still green with the season, danced delicately with the passing breeze. Had the circumstances been different, Touya might have enjoyed sharing a meal with another being under the umbrella of shade. 

Shaking the dream away, Touya sat casually against the cool grass, the blades eager to tickle the bare skin of his hands for the brief moment they touched. Leaning against the solid wood of the trunk, Touya boldly brought the fabric of the hood down to rest against his shoulders. Finding the visuals surrounding him too bright, the sunglasses remained protectively over his eyes as the notepad was brought out of hiding. Clicking open the pen, the cylindrical ink container tapped unconsciously against Touya’s bended knee. 

Running her discreet fingers through the available white locks, the hair succumbed with ease to the soft caress of the passing breeze. Flowing delicately like the leaves above, illustrious colourless locks danced with the wind while cooling off the rising temperature of their host. Inhaling an unfiltered breath, the fresh oxygen eased the stuffy feeling in Touya’s lungs while also introducing him to a plethora of scents around him. Passing chemical mixtures of artificial odor concealers wafted by, touching his nose briefly and fleeing with the wearer as they passed. The overwhelming stench of an unclean infant swirled unapologetically against the strong olfactory sense before being replaced by the unmistakable rot of a wet canine. Uncontrollably suspending the scent in his nose, even the sweet alluring touch of a nearby food truck couldn’t overpower the musty scent of the dog.

Unconsciously rubbing his nose as a physical reset, the sense became neutralized, leaving Touya’s olfactory sense clear and ready for more unwelcome, infiltrating smells. Arousing no immediate inspiration, The king shifted his crutch, relying more on his visual capabilities. Jumping from one passing figure to the next, Touya’s gaze sought out the answers he’d been seeking. 

Flashing by on dual wheels, a human peddled by on a bicycle. Focused entirely on the winding road ahead, they held no care for the world around them, going as far as ringing the bell to announce their approaching figure and warning others they took precedence. Stirring no dormant feelings, Touya led his gaze away, finding the quick motion of a woman jogging by. Tied around her waist was a rope, which kept the canine behind her at a set pace. Curiously watching the animal run in time with the human, Touya easily picked up the quick oscillations of the small heart beat. Crying out desperately for a break, the organ had hit its peak and wouldn’t take much more forced physical activity. Yet, the animal strode on. Tongue hanging out without a care, his long ears flopped nonchalantly through the wind. Despite how hard his body was working, he seemed happy.

Feeling his lips twitch upwards, Touya’s mind went back to Keigo. Carrying the same resolve as the canine, the blond followed a similar carefree lifestyle despite how quickly his body was shutting down. He didn’t care, he was happy living in the moment. Ultimately, Touya loved Keigo the most for his optimism despite the circumstances and it took the loyalty of a dog to remind him of that. How shameful. Shaking his head with a soft chuckle over the comparison, Touya’s eyes shifted to a new figure. Figures, to be exact.

A group of children ran freely across the grass. Brandishing colourful kites attached only by string, two of the children led the light designs to fly delicately in the air while the other two spun melodically with wands in their hands. Releasing the captured soap by the movement, spherical bubbles floated casually through the air, popping on contact with any solid object, their life was fleeting, but beautiful.

‘ I find you fascinating, just like a snowflake~ ’ Brought on abruptly by the momentary beauty of the bubbles, Keigo’s voice echoed loudly within the confines of Touya’s mind. Hearing the words plain as day, the king swiftly turned his head, expecting to see the blond seated next to him, but faced nothing. Shaking away the disappointment with a sigh, saddened blue eyes found a new observation. 

Following the shape of a decently sized pond, the walking paths surrounding the area promised a waterfront view for the entirety of your visit. Occupied by waterfowl of varying types as well as pre-stocked fish for recreational purposes only, the pond was as active as a large sized shopping mall. Families were drawn to the area to engage in water activities, share a picnic, or simply take in the view. Yet, it wasn’t the water that drew Touya’s eye. Posted religiously around the perimeter of the pond were signs that asked patrons not to discard food of any type into the water. Despite the multiple warnings, a small family crowded by the waters edge were dropping pieces of rolled up bread into the water in hopes that a passing duck would take the offering. 

The action, while hardly informal, reminded Touya of how lawless Keigo was. When it mattered, he followed every rule, expectation, and formality to a T. However, behind closed doors, or under the right conditions, Keigo was more unhinged than the family disobeying the written word of the sign. The thought struck a chord against the sullen rhythm being played in Touya’s chest. Forcing an out of tune key, the organ skipped with excitement and forced the king to avert his eyes from the scene. He couldn’t risk another outburst over something so menial. Especially having just controlled the violent urges, an outcome like the last would be less than ideal. 

Shaking away the thoughts, Touya’s gaze lowered to the blank notepad on his thigh. Having regained no new memories of the late king, the only thing he retained from observing the menial interactions were pieces he’d already put into the puzzle. Resting his head against the back of the tree with a heavy sigh of defeat, the immortal king prepared to surrender to the writer’s block indefinitely. Moving to get back to his feet, Touya found his muscles halting. Catching movement out of the corner of his eye, he relaxed against the tree, turning his attention towards the source of intrigue. 

Two teenagers waiting awkwardly amongst the lineup of people standing by for frozen treats. Unable to maintain any semblance of conversation, small talk had never been so non existent. Clearly the loudest members of their respective friend groups, alone together they were anything but. Awkwardly, the male ran a hand through his spiked red hair, clearly dyed as Touya caught the subtle black roots peeking underneath. As obviously as he was trying to look at her, his eyes couldn’t find the courage to gaze upon her. Blushing as hotly as he, her head was tilted shyly to allow her pink curly hair to hide her blush. Her mood was quick to shift however, when he handed her a neatly scooped strawberry ice cream cone. Knowing her favourite flavour, the gesture brought a smile to her face. The treat easing the awkwardness between them, he hesitantly offered her his hand, which she graciously took. Lacing their fingers together for the first time, she let him lead her off down the sidewalk for a romantic stroll around the glistening pond. 

‘Oh…’ Whispering the realization, Touya flipped the pen skillfully between his fingers. Quickly jotting down the observed prompt, he clicked the pen closed. Deciding he’d experienced enough vitamin death for the day, the notebook was flipped shut and stored back in the hoodie pocket. With the hood pulled safely over his head, Touya slipped his hands back into hiding before making the hot trip back home. Focused entirely on the narrative unconsciously writing itself mentally, the immortal king’s distracted senses mistakenly missed a passing diamond. Left to be discovered another day, the rough would have to keep the diamond for now. 

While Touya nonchalantly fled from the warmth of the sun, another patron was eager to scoop up the comforting rays. Running casually down the paved path, white sneakers with red accents thumped methodically with each paced step. Legs, peachy with blond hair were proudly on display, being cut off by a pair of form fitting black shorts. Resting loosely over his upper body, in comparison with the shorts, sat a grey muscle shirt. Damp with sweat around the neck, the grey fabric left nothing to behold at first glance. Beneath the concealing fabric was a perfectly fit abdomen. Trickling with sweat, the untouched skin glistened like a freshly glazed ham. Tempting any viewers with indescribable beauty, the man’s torso, like the rest of his body, was tanned perfectly. Each curve of defined muscle offered a pleasurable journey for wandering fingertips, guiding them to a sacred bodily treasure hanging obviously between his legs. Under different circumstances, the view would be deliciously arousing.

Strapped to his right bicep was a cellular device, connected wirelessly to the yellow and black earbuds nestled comfortably in the man’s auditory canals. Pumping energizing music to feed the mortal’s motivation, the sounds pushed him to do his absolute best for the duration of the recreational jog. Face flushed from the workout, the redness of the man’s cheeks buried the sun kissed freckles that normally dotted his face. Eyes outlined boldly by a permanent sharp outline, rivalled the sun’s caramel hue. Remaining focused ahead, pin point ocular senses kept him from accidentally impacting other people. Bouncing lightly with each timed step, medium length blond locks flowed effortlessly behind the male. Following the push of the wind and held in place by a thin black headband, the locks were sculpted to remain perfectly out of view.

Yeah, Keegan Tierney was the poster boy of perfection. Having just turned twenty three, his youthful appearance was sought after by men and women alike, however, this vessel was oddly particular in courtship. Never allowing anyone to take more than a kiss, there was a silent promise lingering internally that denied every past partner anything further. Uncertain with the phantom feeling, Keegan couldn’t offer anything more than an apology hand in hand with an excuse following each heartbreaking departure. When asked about the outcome, he’d simply shrug and deliver one of the following;

‘Didn’t feel a spark.’

‘There was no emotional connection.’

‘I don’t know, I just wasn’t feeling it.’

‘They’re not my type.’

Selling himself completely to the underlying promise, he’d remain chaste until he could better understand the chains that imprisoned his heart. While being entirely metaphorical, the heaviness that weighed on Keegan’s heart was prominent. Relating to the uncanny feeling associated with loss, the organ was desperate to find the obvious missing piece to its vessel and finally relieve itself of this solemn emotion. However, after being left empty handed from years of failed relationships, he’d more or less given up on searching for a solution. If this weight wanted to be lifted, the cause could find him.

Slowing his pace, Keegan came to a brief hiatus at a nearby bench. Choosing to take a five minute breather and give his muscles a stretch, sensory awareness became averted to focus on relaxing the erratic throb of his heart and muscles. Turned away from the bustling recreational area, Keegan allowed himself to be blind to any incoming or passing figures. Breathing rhythmically with one foot on the bench while the other was stretched out behind, he counted internally. However, the numerical sequence was abruptly interrupted.

Unexplainable and overwhelming, intense pressure struck him like a blow to the back of the head. Heavy with darkness, the feeling pulsated unfiltered fear through the network of veins with each throb of the man’s heart. Silently willing each vibrating nerve into submission beneath its authoritative power, Keegan couldn’t keep his eyes from widening. Planting both feet firmly on the ground, he spun defensively to face the scene behind him. Gasping now from fear rather than fatigue, anxiety ridden orbs shifted around, seeking what stoked the unbridled fear to rise within. Suspiciously, there was nothing. People were going about their daily business without the thought of sending him so much of a glance. There was no active reason to be afraid and despite how threatening the looming darkness felt, he understood his safety. 

Being nothing more than a phantom feeling, the pressure dissipated almost as quickly as it came, leaving behind an odd sense of familiarity to travel over the blond’s frozen figure. Somehow, a part of him recognized the cold touch of the shadow. Lingering in the back of his mind like a long forgotten memory, the nostalgia associated with the darkness stirred like a recollection of a childhood experience. Yet, despite feeling the eager thrum of his heart rattling the chains in desperation to seek out the aforementioned shadow, he couldn’t trace the origins of the feeling. Discarding the experience with a shake of his head, Keegan let his feet carry him away from the experience. 

Returning to the apartment with a sigh of relief, Touya promptly stripped down to lighter clothing. Feeling the cooling touch from exposure actively lowering his body temperature, the king grabbed a cold bottle of water before sinking into the plush leather couch. Flipping open the notebook, the inspired words were set neatly beside him, eager to bleed into the electronic screen now poised and ready on Touya’s thighs. Prompted by the inked words, Touya’s fingers danced listlessly across the keys, bringing to life the observed inspiration: Where did you go on your first date? How did he feel after and how did it make you feel?

Keeping things steady at the Takami castle, Touya easily kept his grip on the servants while Keigo actively recovered under the guided consumption of Chisaki’s medicine. Giving the king a solid two weeks of recovery time, Touya’s time was spent working. Purposefully trying to keep his distance from Keigo to simmer the aching bloodlust overpowering his senses, he had only been in the king’s presence long enough to administer the medicine and leave. Departing with an excuse every morning, Touya would slip away from Keigo, remaining elusive until dinner time when the king would inevitably call on him. However, Touya wouldn’t allow himself to linger the way Keigo requested. 

"Apologies my lord, but there are preparations I must attend to." Slipping away again despite the poor attempt made by Keigo to halt him, Touya disappeared again. Bringing the outstretched hand to rest against his desk, Keigo eyed the closed door suspiciously. 

"Preparations?" Pondering the excuse, the king’s brow furrowed. "For what?" Feeling uncertain, Keigo often tried to follow Touya, eager to catch the male in whatever scandalous acts he was brushing Keigo off for, only to find him doing exactly what he described. Whether it was preparations for tomorrow, an upcoming meeting, or lending a hand to whomever needed it, Touya was too busy to cater to the king’s boredom. 

Despite how proud it made Keigo feel seeing his castle being so well taken care of, he didn’t like it. More specifically, he didn’t like how blatantly Touya was offering his attention to anyone besides him. Feeling a sting of jealousy touching his heart upon seeing the auspicious man openly interacting with anyone else, while shying away from him, forced Keigo to take charge of the envious feelings brewing from within. 

Touya, acutely aware of the king’s stare lingering on him, hadn’t realized how greatly his neglect had affected the mortal. Assuming Keigo to be emotionally stronger than he led on, the vampire king never expected the young blond to be so clingy. When the sun rose the next morning, Keigo, having finished off the remaining amount of medicine, actively sought out his snowflake. Knowing that the elusive male would be hiding in the kitchen until breakfast was finished, Keigo’s feet led him to the bustling room. Entering without so much of a knock, the first servant who realized his presence dropped suddenly to his knees, spilling the container of milk in his haste. Touya, groaning with annoyance rushed over in question.

"What are you doing?! We needed that milk for the next couple of days and you’ve delivered it to the floor!" Without raising his head, the servant whispered his response, a shaking finger pointing off behind Touya. 

"K-King Takami." Following the pointed direction of the finger, Touya’s eyes landed on the cocky expression carved across the king’s face. 

"Please go back to work, pretend I’m not here~" Said smoothly with the placement of his hands upon his hips, bright gold eyes shifted, following the organized chaos of the kitchen until finally landing on Touya. "A word." Said politely with a nod of his head towards the door, Keigo’s request appeared innocent. However, the bitter tones swimming deep within his eyes and the offset beat of his heart said otherwise. Touya couldn’t help but feel a little anxious as he obediently followed Keigo into the hallway. Once the door latched behind them, Touya preemptively dropped to a kneel. 

"Your majesty, if I’ve disappointed you in any way, I not only apologize, but I humbly ask for your forgiveness." Bathing under Keigo’s throaty chuckle didn’t ease the anxiety swimming in Touya’s chest. 

"Quite the contrary actually." Catching the delight in Keigo’s tone, Touya found his muscles relaxing. "Please stand, I despise talking down to you, my dear snowflake~" Ignoring the possessive title associated with the given nickname, Touya rose. Showering the king with his unbridled gaze, the envious tones that had coloured Keigo only moments before, vanished. Washed away by the cool, calm, blue of Touya’s gaze, a smile overtook Keigo’s lips. 

"That’s better~ Now I can praise you directly." Hating how close Keigo got after taking a step forwards, Touya couldn’t hide the pink hue that touched his cheeks with the close proximity of the king. "You’re doing amazing things here, and I’ve grown quite fond of you~" Backed up by the obvious advances made by Keigo previously, the statement was purely reassurance. "I trust you wholeheartedly Touya, not many people can say that." Peering into the crystalline blue orbs a moment longer, Keigo’s cheeks matched the same affectionate tone as the man in question. "That being said, it appears my usual bodyguard is unable to accompany me today. Therefore, I am in need of a replacement, someone to escort me into town." Following the deliberately laid out path, Touya’s brow twitched upwards in question.

"You’re asking me?" Not particularly keen with the idea of spending all day under the harsh glow of the sun, Keigo’s smile left Touya unable to decline. Without agreeing, the curve of the blond’s lips had found that genuine spark. Soft with excitement, pearly white teeth greeted Touya sweetly, capturing him under their promised positivity. 

"You are capable, aren’t you?" Already knowing the answer, the king simply needed consent. Sparkling with anticipation, golden orbs blinked up at him expectantly, daring Touya with each innocent bat of the eyes to turn him down. Feeling the thrum of his heart increase, the immortal being let himself slip into the palm of Keigo’s hand. Sending back a smile equally as genuine, he accepted Keigo’s terms wholeheartedly and foolishly. 

"For you, I would be happy to oblige." Dialing back the sensual delivery he’d intended to bestow upon his majesty, Touya answered the king with more honest enthusiasm than anticipated. Already excited under Touya’s undivided attention, the joyous confirmation seemed to spark the energy hiding within the king. Clasping his hands together in victorious exclamation, Keigo took another invasive step into Touya’s personal space. Putting himself only a few inches away to ensure that he was the only thing in view for the male, Keigo’s delighted expression glowed affectionately with suspense for the day ahead. 

"Wonderful~" Carrying smooth velvety tones, the king’s voice was anything but subtle. Eager to separate Touya from the castle, the reddening of Keigo’s cheeks couldn’t hide how deeply he desired the impending alone time with Touya. "It’s a date~" Turning to leave without specifying the details or deeper meaning of the outing, Keigo left Touya with one final remark. "Come to my bed chambers in ten minutes I’ll be waiting for you~" Seeing Touya off with a wave of his hand, Keigo disappeared down the stone hallway, leaving the vampire to blink incredulously at the empty corridor. The vague description of his freshly planned day weighed heavily on his fast beating heart. Uncertain of the implications of this “date”, Touya couldn’t help but feel anxious. 

"What did I just agree to?" Shaking his head with a sigh, Touya silently hoped the king was being platonic with his choice of words. Losing control of his instincts in a public setting most certainly wasn’t on his to-do list for the day, he’d have to guide Keigo’s emotions as best as he could without breaking them.

Despite the growing apprehensions linked by the scheduled date with Keigo, Touya found himself obediently at the king’s bedroom door, as requested. Touching the door lightly with the rhythmic rap of his knuckles, Touya announced his arrival. Accepting entry through Keigo’s melodic coos beyond the door, the wooden barrier was pushed slowly open. Entering hesitantly, uncertain what state Keigo would present himself with, Touya had to metaphorically catch his jaw before it fell to the floor. 

Having witnessed Keigo sporting a less than professional red silk robe for the duration of his illness, seeing him wearing something new caught Touya’s breath. Fully dressed in royal attire, the king had fully stepped into his role as royalty. While appearing simple, the attire still radiated elegance. Replacing the robe with a black coat, trimmed with gold and set by a gold fabric sash that accentuated his lean figure, Keigo looked dashing. Matching the coat to a degree, red pants covered his legs with a singular black stripe running up the length of the side of the fabric. Completing the ensemble was a pair of white fabric gloves, protecting Keigo’s hands, while a set of clean leather shoes covered his feet. Twinkling under the light of the infiltrating sun, Touya caught a glimpse of rare, ruby earrings pierced through the king’s earlobes until the sparkling jewels were interrupted by the movement of Keigo’s hand. Running a comb through his hair, the hygienic device fought to give the wavy blond locks any semblance of order. It was a simple gesture, monotonous honestly, however, the daily task aroused something within Touya that glued his eyes to the king. 

Glowing incredulously beneath the warmth of the sun, the golden strands flowed like a rich silken river. Raked lightly by the teeth of the comb, the silk locks bounced delicately against Keigo’s head. Falling like a gentle ripple in a pond, a few shorter strands moved gracefully to frame the king’s face. While longer waves of golden hair flowed behind him impossibly under the invisible, yet permanent guidance of an unclear wind. Neatly spun like golden thread, the expensive implications of the golden strands were heavily implied despite the product being simply hair. However, it wasn’t until the king turned to meet Touya’s figure that the vampire’s heart stuttered. Moving in what felt like slow motion, the wind swept the blond locks lightly, bringing the tips to wave smoothly in front of Keigo’s face. Touching Touya’s presence under the brilliance of his gaze, the tender weight applied from the king’s ocular sense vibrated each nerve residing within Touya. Showering Touya beneath the attractive radiance of his kind stare, the vampire had never felt more invested. Overflowing with trust and loyalty, all of which pointed to Touya, Keigo’s gaze boldly asked for one thing in return:

‘Keep your eyes on me, Snowflake~’ Succumbing to the silent request, Touya couldn’t retract his gaze from the king. Magnetized to the ethereal appearance of the mortal, the finishing touch to his appearance made the vampire melt completely into the palm of Keigo’s hand. Twitching his lips upward into a smothering, genuine smile, the honest curve of delight sent the immortal man’s heart into a frenzied recourse. Weakened purely by the arousing appearance of the mortal, Touya buried his fangs into his bottom lip. Forcing away the instinctual thoughts, the pain emanating from the cannibalistic bite distracted the overwhelming lust whispering in his ear to defile the trusting bond shared with the king. Biting back the literal desire to take everything from Keigo, Touya forced himself to avert his gaze from the tantalizing mortal. The visual exchange, having aroused feelings of attraction within the vampire, clarified the effects the illness had plagued the king with. Springing to life with the radiance he had lost to the temporary sickness, Keigo appeared purely as himself for the first time since meeting and the visual rebirth was somehow refreshing to the vampire. 

"Something wrong?" Hearing the teasing implications residing under the king’s tone, Touya hated how quickly Keigo pounced on the opportunity to pull a confession from him. Purposely dragging his teeth over his already sore lip, the induced pain was quick to replace the burning attraction being stoked by the king. 

"Not in the slightest." Stepping respectfully out of the way, Touya found himself bowing to hide the hotness of his cheeks. "After you, my king." Throwing the obvious possessive title back in Keigo’s face, the response returned by the king unexpectedly struck Touya’s body with surprise. 

"I believe I asked you to escort me." Raising his head with the authoritative clearing of Keigo’s throat, regret over accepting Keigo’s proposal washed violently over Touya’s body. Waiting expectantly for Touya to offer him an arm, Keigo’s smile now felt patronizing. Repressing the throbbing bloodlust pulsating unapologetically within Touya’s fangs, Touya forced a smile to cover his lips. 

"Certainly, where are my manners?" Offering his arm, Keigo eagerly snaked his limb around Touya’s. Resting his left hand softly against Touya’s arm, the right quickly followed suit. Grabbing the limb almost possessively, Keigo’s touch, while tender and soft against Touya’s arm, dared anyone to try and intervene. Smiling greatly like a child who had been promised the world, Keigo pulled gently on Touya’s arm. 

"Let’s go~" Without having much choice, Touya fell into step with Keigo, walking casually with the king to the castle’s entrance. Without slowing the king’s pace, Touya’s hood was pulled over his head. Tucking his free hand safely into his pocket, the other was left to receive a hot kiss from the sun. Wincing under the burning sensation, Touya tried to cover up the pain distributed from above. However, feeling the taught muscles in the limb that had been relaxed prior, the action didn’t escape Keigo. 

"Are you okay? You look hurt?" Presenting the king with an unconvincing smile, Touya lied through the weak grin. 

"Yeah, I suffer from sunburn easily because my complexion is so pale. I’m fine." Reading the obvious hurt scrawled across Touya’s face, Keigo retracted his grip from the male. Guiding Touya under the shade of the castle’s awning protecting the entrance of the extravagant abode, the king took Touya’s hand within his own. 

"Your majesty, I-"

"You lied to me." Tenderly holding the burnt limb, Keigo’s eyes ran over the blistering skin. "You’re not fine." Shifting to lock with Touya’s gaze, the curved expression framing the saddened gold orbs shook the vampire, awakening the guilt from within. "Why didn’t you warn me that your skin was so sensitive?" Averting his eyes, Touya tried to find an excuse to fill the question. 

"I didn’t want to disappoint you…" Forcing his gaze back to the king, honesty seemed to take hold of Touya’s vocal cords. "You were so excited for this “date” I didn’t have the heart to tell you." Reading the truthful emotions swirling in Touya’s eyes, Keigo’s concern slowly wiped away from his eyes. Softening with a sigh that meant nothing, Keigo released Touya’s hand. 

"Had I known…" Meticulously pulling at his gloved fingertips, the king removed the protective fabric from his hands. "I could have prevented you from being hurt~" Offering the gloves to Touya with a smile, the stuttering oscillation of Touya’s own heartbeat mockingly resonated with his auditory canals. Vibrating with the accusation to trust his emotions over his instincts, the uneven heartbeat cried out melodically to finally accept that he was wrong. Forced to visually devour the sweet expression painted across Keigo’s face, Touya couldn’t keep the red hue from spreading across his face. Innocent and temporary, the hue that scorched his cheeks somehow touched his skin with an uncomfortable warmth in comparison to the burn aching across his hand. Born from an equal mixture of attraction for the king and distaste for his own weakness to the mortal, the blush that coloured his skin felt toxic by Touya’s standards. Brought upon by the uneven stutter of his heart, the vampire king couldn’t ignore how unnatural his body felt. Submitting his feelings so easily to a mortal was not natural. Keigo should be in the palm of his hand, not vice versa. He hated how weak the blond made him feel, how incapable he was controlling his bodily functions in the man’s presence. However, as Touya accepted the worn fabric from Keigo, the warmth that touched his body disagreed. Relishing the feeling associated with Keigo’s sweetness, Touya’s body craved more from the blond. Wanting more than just his blood, the vampire king repressed the arousing feelings in a desperate attempt to keep focused on his goal. Drink Keigo’s blood. Don’t get attached. 

"Thank you." Slipping the fabric over his hands, Touya silenced the incessant urges, forcing his focus back to his original plot. 

"Of course~ I’ll have your hand taken care of when we return, but for now, I apologize, but you’ll have to cope with the pain. We’re already late…" Taking hold of Touya’s arm without warning the king drug the un-expecting male across the courtyard. Bringing Touya to a waiting carriage hooked to two majestic white horses, the immortal man eyed the contraption with a mixture of awe and fear. Remembering the unrelenting assault attempted upon him in the village, he was apprehensive to get near. Feeling the tug of Touya’s denial with the apprehensive backwards movement of his arm, Keigo stopped. 

"Touya?" Glancing back at the male, it was easy to read the hesitancy emanating off of the male. "Are you certain you are capable of escorting me?" Sensing how anxious the other male was, Keigo, while disappointed with the current outcome of his date, didn’t want to force more discomfort upon his partner. Touya, despite his uncertainty, refused to be weak next to the transportation device. He was the king of vampires for crying out loud, to be defeated by this thing...well, he could only imagine what his father would have said. 

"I’ve never been around one of these things…the concept is new for me, that’s all." Swallowing his pride, the reassuring smile Keigo sent him was enough to lower his apprehensions. 

"It’s okay~" Guiding his hand down to hold Touya’s gloved limb, the king’s fingers laced protectively with Touya’s. "It’s a short ride into town and I’ll hold your hand the entire time. Everything will be okay, Trust me, Touya." Seeing the unbridled honesty beaming from Keigo’s eyes, Touya found it hard to say no. Relaxing the anxious beating of his heart with a deep breath he found his hand squeezing the king’s in acceptance. Nodding the response in Keigo’s promise, the king climbed into the regal carriage before making good on his promise and helping Touya in. 

Sitting next to Keigo, the click of the door behind him reawakened the burning apprehension. Locked in the carriage, the realization that he couldn’t run struck like lightning. The feeling of Keigo’s hand still laced with his own barely eased the anxiety that was set into overdrive when the carriage sprung to life with the crack of the reins. Regretting his decision to follow Keigo into the rattling death trap, Touya gripped the bench. Nails, threatening the integrity of the fabric gloves clung desperately to the plush bench, seeking some semblance of safety as the gentle rock of the carriage churned the nauseous storm raging within Touya’s stomach. 

Understanding the internal struggle Touya was silently fighting against, Keigo opened his mouth to speak. 

"Do you prefer strawberries or pineapples?" Asked purely as a tactic to distract the other male from the incessant anxiety gnawing at him, Touya shot the king an irritated glare. 

"Huh?!" Keigo, not losing his smile despite how weighted Touya’s response was with anger, sent the glowing gesture Touya’s way.

"Do you prefer strawberries or pineapples? I myself prefer pineapples, however, any confection made with strawberries will always take the cake~" Choosing to ignore the terrible pun, Touya eyed the king incredulously. 

"Pineapples? You know they’re rather acidic." Nodding, Keigo continued to divert the male, noticing the anxiety lifting from Touya’s shoulders with the extended conversation. 

"Is that your way of choosing strawberries then?" Blinking at the king’s blatant avoidance to answer his question, Touya found his grip lifting from the bench. Speaking dramatically with exaggerated motions of his free hand, Touya argued for the latter. 

"Of course that’s my way of choosing strawberries. That’s the superior fruit between the two. Strawberries are not only easier to obtain in comparison to a pineapple, but the flavour is arguably better. Sweet and tart, the flavour of a strawberry is expressive like the rarest of candies." Missing the glint in Keigo’s eyes brought upon by the proud raise of his eyebrow, Touya continued. "Also, strawberries typically work for any type of food such as jams, syrup, desserts, ice cream, the list goes on. You can’t argue the same for a pineapple. People don’t use pineapples for much besides baking and even then, some lunatic ruined that by putting it on a pizza pie! They’re hardly the fruit to compare to a strawberry, the contest is unfair." Giving Touya no active response, blue eyes scanned the condescending expression scrawled across the king’s face. "What’s that look for? Was it something I said?" Tone quickly losing its argumentative notes, Touya’s gaze searched the cocky gold orbs for an answer Keigo refused to supply. Chuckling softly, Keigo’s index finger left a teasing tap against the tip of Touya’s nose.

" You’re rather easy to distract, Touya~ It’s cute~" Stunned, the vampire could only blink at the king who rose to his feet. "We’re here, you survived the ride. Just like I promised." Losing the condescension, Keigo’s expression shifted back to the tender smile Touya was familiar with. 

"I…You…the question-?" Unable to contain the statement with the sudden light pressure of Keigo’s index finger against his lips, Touya could only stare into the king’s golden irises. 

"It was merely a way to take your mind off the anxiety of the carriage ride~" Lingering against Touya’s lips a moment longer to allow the king a lengthier dip into the glistening azure irises, Keigo retracted both of his hands. Taking a step towards the door, which was opened by the coachman, Keigo’s voice lost its playful edge. 

"Jokes aside, I need you focused, Touya. We’ve come to town to celebrate the festival, it should be a fun day without incident, but don’t let your guard down. I’m a pretty tempting target to some people, so if you notice anything suspicious that could lead to me getting hurt, act immediately. I would prefer if your methods were as passive as possible, the less chaos the better, but sometimes it’s unavoidable." Handing off control to his senses, Touya’s face twisted to express Keigo’s serious nature, while his tone still carried a hint of playful reassurance. Keigo had ensured his safety with a simple verbal distraction, the least he could do for the king was give him the day he wanted. 

"Don’t worry your majesty~ Nothing, and no one, will come between you and your date with me~” 

Chapter Text

"Don’t worry your majesty~ Nothing, and no one, will come between you and your date with me~” Accepting the confidence with a smile, Keigo nodded in approval before directing his smile outside. Announcing his arrival, the coachman took Touya’s response, while the king who was greeted with an eruption of cheers and applause. Welcoming the crowd's greeting as an invitation to follow Keigo, the vampire king rose to his feet. Following Keigo with an innocent crack of his neck, Touya fell into pace behind the king. Looming protectively like the blond’s unconscious shadow, his presence didn’t go unnoticed. Catching every mumbled question and verbal declaration of gossip from the villagers, Touya could only shake his head. 

"Wow! King Takami! How cool that he made an appearance today!"

"He’s looking well, and so handsome too!"

"Seeing him up close is refreshing~ He has such a nice smile~" 

"Who’s the man with him?"

"A bodyguard perhaps? I’ve never seen him before." 

"Perhaps the king’s side piece?"

"I doubt it, King Takami wouldn’t parade around town with one of his paramour’s, especially at such a popular event."

"I guess you’re right, he wouldn’t want people to talk. That guy must be a bodyguard." Contradicting their own logic, Touya couldn’t stop his eyes from rolling. A throaty chuckle rumbled within his throat. Keeping the volume low for only his ears to hear, the villagers couldn’t be more wrong, but he’d let them believe in their reasoning. Missing all of the directed whispers, Keigo proudly stepped onto the small wooden stage the villagers had prepared for the occasion. Keeping in line with Keigo, Touya followed suit. Remaining a step behind the king, aware azure eyes swept over the crowd. 

Hundreds of villagers had come out to celebrate the festivities. Gathered in one place, the opportunity to go against his own law and strike violence upon the mortals presented itself neatly in front of him. Their heartbeats, while pumping inedible blood tainted heavily with pride, oscillated loudly with an intimate rhythm for the privacy of Touya’s auditory sense. Exclamatory with life, the thought of silencing every thrumming oscillation excited the docile darkness beneath his feet. Buzzing excitedly, the shadows, aroused entirely through the instinctual predatory desire to slaughter, threatened to rear their head. Touya, biting back the urge to comply, lowered his head. Clenching his eyes shut, the honed senses focused entirely on the smoothing tones of Keigo’s voice.

"I am honoured to be standing here with all of you today! We’ve truly been blessed by the Gods this last season. To have such cooperative weather that will yield a bountiful harvest that will more than compensate for the bare winter months ahead, we must celebrate our gratitude. Today, we give thanks to everyone’s hard work, so please; eat, play, and dance in celebration of our towns efforts to a fruitful future!" Erupting into a fit of cheers and applause, the crowd praised Keigo’s confident words. Calmed by the gentle hold of Keigo’s voice, Touya raised his head. Greeting the king with a smile, he crossed the stage to join Keigo at his side. 

"What did you think of my speech?" Offering the king his arm unconsciously, the delight that crossed the golden irises warmed Touya’s heart. 

"Well said." Keeping the praise short, Keigo snaked his limb back through Touya’s. Holding him in the same protective manner as before, Keigo gently pulled Touya along with him. 

"I thought so too. My father always said; Keigo, when you don’t know what to say, keep your speeches short and sweet. I thought he gave me the advice because he wasn’t a people person, but now I know better. Less is more, people don’t like to listen to you prattle on and on." Interrupting the king before he went against his own advice, Touya’s velvet tongue touched Keigo’s ear. 

"I don’t know who those people are, your highness, because I could listen to you talk all day~" Loving the break in the smooth oscillation of Keigo’s heartbeat, Touya’s smirk widened. "Your voice is so calming to me~ I think it’s one of the nicest sounds I’ve ever had the pleasure of hearing~" Feeding Keigo’s attraction with the compliment, the honest statement was meant to drive Keigo into Touya’s arms. To allow the vampire king the opportunity to finally cash his cheque. However, the blush that crossed his cheeks pointed out Touya’s blatant lie to himself. The compliment was genuine and meant more to the vampire king than a feeble attempt to take the king’s blood; and when the glistening orbs belonging to said male fell on him, the stutter in his own heart solidified the infernal feeling’s he’d been trying to push away. 

"You flatter me, Touya." Chuckling lightly, Keigo unconsciously rested his head against Touya’s shoulder. "You’re so sweet and you always know what to say~" Taking a deep breath to purposely inhale Touya’s scent, Keigo’s head lingered a moment longer before straightening himself out. "Let’s check out the festivities~" 

Walking with the king into the crowd of people, Touya took the opportunity to take in the decorated village. Missing the subtle differences before, cerulean eyes took note of how the town had changed for the event. Stands offering various services, goods, or munchies lined the designated main street. Hung above the street, extending from rooftop to rooftop were strands of string brandishing coloured flags. Cut into triangles of equal size, patterns of purple, yellow, and green fabric flowed down the length of each strand. Larger decorations were featured in the streets, some of which were beautiful displays made of various flowers, while others were sculpted from wood or marble if the owner was particularly wealthy. Wearing their most festive fabrics, the townsfolk came out appearing clean and more well off than they truly were. While the food being served were both the unhealthiest and greatest concoctions to grace the lips of the villagers. The festival, under Touya’s understanding, was a time for everyone to forget their woes while indulging in food that most certainly would kill them faster. 

"Touya! Look!" Bringing his eyes to follow Keigo’s pointed finger, cerulean eyes fell on a stand offering various candies, cookies, and other confections. "Let’s get a treat!" Dragging the vampire over to the stand before he could protest, the king eagerly marched up to the stand. Greeting the merchant with a smile, shining gold eyes sifted through each option. Ultimately unable to decide, Keigo turned his attention to the man at his side. 

"I can’t decide. What do you think, Snowflake?" Biting his tongue in response to the sweet delivery of the given nickname, Touya pushed away the hotness creeping across his cheeks.

"Uhm…" Sparing the table a quick glance, Touya pointed at the first thing that looked delectable next to Keigo. "That one." Choosing sugar coated caramel coloured spheres, Touya was ignorant to what he selected. However, the glow from Keigo’s smile confirmed the validity of the choice. Purchasing a number of the candy, the shopkeeper handed off a bag of the confection to Keigo. Thanking him, Keigo led Touya away from the stand. Separating themselves from the crowd under the shade of a nearby awning, Keigo removed himself from Touya. Digging a sugared ball out of the bag and holding it carefully between his index finger and thumb, Keigo held the sugary treat up towards Touya’s face. 

"Say ah~" Inching the sugared candy closer towards Touya’s face, the vampire had no choice but to comply. Hesitantly parting his lips, the king slipped the confection into Touya’s mouth. Popping the candy carefully onto Touya’s tongue, the movement of Keigo’s departing fingers held no haste. Slowly, almost sensually, retracting his hand, his finger grazed against Touya’s teeth. Forcing the vampire’s head back from the tingling sensation of Keigo’s skin touching his fangs, azure eyes sealed themselves shut out of fear that the thirsty crimson hue would rear its bloodstained head. Unconsciously bringing his hands to cover his mouth as an extra barrier to keep himself from attacking Keigo, Touya focused every burning instinct to the flavour currently touching his tongue. 

"What? Is it gross? Do you not like it?" Shaking his head, Touya dug his teeth into the soft surface of the candy. Melting immediately under the hot moisture of his mouth, the caramel dissolved against his tongue. Tingling from the sugary sweetness, the artificial flavour of the candy seemed to distract the hungry nerves vibrating throughout Touya’s body. Focused entirely on the buzz of the confection, they sought the sweet flavour of the candy, forgetting momentarily about the mortal confection in front of them. Quickly losing its round shape, the candy slid down Touya’s throat, settling the internal rage with its deposit. Relaxing himself, protective hands lowered from his face, while eyelids raised to reveal calm blue eyes. Reading the concerned expression covering Keigo’s face, Touya searched for an excuse. 

"I’m sorry…that gesture was a little embarrassing…and the sugar was a little too strong for my liking." Sending Keigo a reassuring smile, the concern dissolved nearly as fast as the candy. 

"If that’s the case…" Tilting the opening of the bag towards Touya, Keigo’s smirk was anything but sweet. "You can pay me back~" Touching Touya’s ears with the sensual tones that his smile could not, the male wasn’t sure he wanted to follow through with Keigo’s offer. 

"Okay…" Hesitantly removing the glove from the hand untouched by the sun, pale fingers accepted a candy from the bag. Mimicking Keigo’s movements, Touya brought the candy to the king’s already parted lips. "Say ah~" Slipping the candy past Keigo’s lips, a wave threatening to arouse the already calmed instincts, washed over Touya when the king’s lips sealed around his fingers. 

"Your majesty!" Capturing the pale fingers in the wetness of his mouth, Keigo held the limbs hostage under the sucking pressure he was applying. "Your highness this is not-" Biting his bottom lip upon feeling the king’s hot tongue wrapping around his finger, the jolt touching each nerve threatened to bring out the stored bloodlust. Keeping his eyes locked on Touya’s flustered expression, the king curled his tongue around the finger, sucking harder against the limb that was trying so desperately to vacate the wet cavern. As if challenging Touya with his dominant stare, Keigo dared the vampire to pull away. Biting back the moan bubbling up in his throat, a shuddering breath slipped out instead. 

"My king…please…" Burying his teeth deeper into his already throbbing lip, forced upon him by the sensual flick of Keigo’s tongue over the tip of his finger, Touya had to catch his breath to continue. 

"We’re in public…your image-" Releasing Touya’s finger with a loud, uncomfortable, pop, Keigo preemptively wiped any drool from his lips. The candy, long since dissolved, didn’t bring nearly enough satisfaction to Keigo’s vibrating nerves. Unlike the satisfying outcome received by visually devouring the flustered expression spicing up Touya’s face, the shuddering shake of his body beneath the arousal, and the hot breaths that were desperate to cool the rising temperature of the male. Touya’s reaction satiated the hunger lying terribly dormant within Keigo and the condescending sparkle that overtook Keigo’s eyes was enough to confirm Touya’s apprehensions were true. 

Yet, despite the blatant intimate advance, Touya didn’t mind. Opening himself to Touya in such a way was nothing more than an invitation for the vampire king to follow through with his secret urges. Under the throes of passion, Keigo would be none the wiser that his blood was being taken~ Besides, Touya’s body more than craved the same outcome. 

"What about it? I was simply enjoying a delectable treat~" Without giving the vampire time to heal his arousal, Keigo rolled the opening of the bag closed, tucking the remaining treats safely in his coat pocket, before his arm immediately took its place wrapped around Touya’s. "Come on Snowflake~ Let’s see what else the festival has for us to explore!" Dragging the male out of the safety of the shade, Touya had nary enough time to slip the glove back over his hand as Keigo led him to the next thing that piqued his interest. 

Intrigued by a stand displaying various weapons, Keigo eyed each shining blade curiously. Touya, taking a calculated step away from the sharpened blades that silently threatened his life, could only stray so far before the tight leash of Keigo’s arm pulled him back.

"Touya look at all the amazing swords! Some of these must be foreign, we don’t have blades shaped like this in Fehrin." Attracted by the shining silver, Keigo was eager to hold and view each forged blade, while Touya was eager to leave. 

"I have some sandbags and targets set up if you’d like to test anything out." Peaking his interest further, Keigo set the sword held by his hand gently down upon the wooden surface.

"Really?" Nodding, the shopkeeper motioned behind him. Having a booth on the edge of the festival grounds meant he had a lot of open space to work with. Having set up around five targets, their material ranging from wooden slats painted with a red target, to sandbags like he’d said, they were set an equal distance apart from the next, extending back to about fifty meters in distance. 

"I always say it’s good to get a feel for the weapon before you buy it. What better way to test its integrity than to take aim?" Contemplating the premise, Keigo’s eyes shifted back to the threatening display. Ultimately deciding what he wanted to try, Touya folded his arms over his chest prepared to divert the king’s attention. 

"Can you even handle a weapon of this caliber, your highness? I’ve seen you use a butter knife at the castle and there is no contest there~" Dripping with more daring condescension than he’d intended, the way Keigo’s pupils dilated over the question shot through Touya unexpectedly. Knowing the king to be mostly passive, daresay docile, the predatory glare overtaking his eyes said otherwise. Deadly, sharp, and commanding, the stare alone forced Touya’s hand to raise in defence. Saying nothing, Keigo’s eyes shifted back to the weapons display. Pointing to a spread of about five small knives meant for throwing, his surprisingly soft voice despite his deadly stare, addressed the man. 

"May I?" Collecting the knives like a deck of neatly stacked cards, the man gestured for Keigo to step behind the stand. 

"Of course." Sending Touya a challenging glare that simply ordered the male to watch closely, Keigo took his position behind the stand. Accepting the knives, the king took one into his right hand. Tossing it lightly in his grasp as if to test its weight, Touya wondered if Keigo was teasing him. Acting like he’d never held a knife a day in his life, Keigo’s curious observation of the weapon spoke for the latter. However, once he’d calculated the weight by simply holding the weapon, something within clicked. Easily keeping up with the quick movements of the king, Touya took a candid step backwards. Twirling methodically on the spot with each release of his hand, knife after knife flew skillfully through the air. Striking each laid out target with impossible accuracy, each sharpened tip lodged themselves dead center, burying into each target without remorse. Swallowing nervously, Touya could feel small droplets of fear running down his face from the display as he silently reminded himself not to anger the blond further. 

"Amazing…" Ignoring the praise from the merchant, Keigo shot a prideful glance back at Touya. Without saying anything, Touya got the message loud and clear from the cocky glint in the king’s eyes. 

‘Was that enough proof of what I can handle? Or would you like me to demonstrate again?’ 

Leaving Keigo to collect the knives and assess the accuracy of each impacted mark, the shopkeeper's absence gave the king an opportunity to return to Touya’s side. Waiting for an apology or compliment, The innocent fluttering of Keigo’s eyelashes didn’t ease the aroused fear within Touya from the deadly display presented by the king moments before. 

"W-Where did you…uhm..." Clearing the fear from his throat, Touya sought his confidence to continue. "W-Where did you learn to throw like that?" Curling his lips upwards into a smile, the response uttered felt more teasing than settling. 

"Don’t be nervous Touya, you aren’t a target~" Chuckling at how quickly the male’s expression twisted to reveal his obvious terror, The gentle touch of Keigo’s hand upon his shoulder only forced the shaken muscles to tighten further. "I would never intentionally hurt you. I feel like that should be obvious." Sensing the shift in Keigo’s voice, cerulean eyes lingered against golden orbs. Overflowing with soft honesty, the gentle expression that had taken over the painted pride, released the tightly woven fear from Touya’s muscles. Feeling his body relax beneath the reassuring vibrancy of Keigo’s smile, the gripping alarm departed from Touya’s voice. 

"Is this the part where I should kiss your feet and ask for forgiveness?" Following the question with a joking chuckle, the blush that dusted Keigo’s cheeks was anything but. Removing his hand from Touya’s shoulder, the limb wandered up to the male’s face. Brushing aside the avalanche of white hair, the warm limb pressed itself tenderly against the newly exposed cheek. Stroking Touya’s face with his thumb, the king delivered an answer. 

"You can kiss any part of my body, Snowflake~" Stuck gazing into Keigo’s lust driven stare, the emotions swirled like a violent whirlpool, and Touya couldn’t find a break in the current to swim out. Blushing deeply, he parted his lips to respond, only to have the gentle slap of Keigo’s palm tapping playfully against his face fill the air. 

"But, if it’s my feet you want, by all means~" Taking a step backwards, the king teasingly gestured to his feet, letting the embarrassment wash over Touya’s expression in doing so. Determined to keep the disappointment from touching Keigo again, Touya buried his dignity. Not expecting his snowflake to follow through with the asinine request, The choice to stop Touya came when the male moved to kneel. 

Bursting into a fit of laughter, Keigo’s lack of control seized the man on the spot. Smooth and hypnotizing, the chorus of laughs was unlike the chuckles that poured out a moment before. Touching his ears with a lighthearted melody unheard from the king prior, Touya’s heart, while embarrassed over his obedience, melted under the sweet tones. Wrapping him unapologetically beneath the delighted sound, the uplifting chorus filled the vampire with a comforting feeling like no other. Reminding him of the tender embrace of his late mother, the vampire king selfishly held the pleasant sounds against his heart. Silently wishing the king’s laughter would never end, the petering out of the joyous oscillation left the vampire king feeling a little more than empty. 

"You’re delightful, Touya~ Certainly you must have known I was joking with you~ I like to tease you, but I wouldn’t degrade you in such a way. Especially in front of all of these people." Choosing to laugh awkwardly in response to Keigo’s accusation, Touya finally spoke. 

"Of course I did, I was simply playing the part." Despite how unreadable Keigo could be, Touya shook off the embarrassment, silently accepting the king’s reasoning with a soft smile. Taking in the familiarity of Touya’s calmed expression, the king accepted the other male’s tenderness as an invitation. Boldly taking Touya’s hand within his own, careful not to grab the burnt limb, Keigo’s fingers laced eagerly through Touya’s. 

"Is that so?" Denying Touya an opportunity to decline his advance, Keigo’s other hand rested tenderly against Touya’s bicep. "I have a different part for you to play if you’d like~" Leaving a guiding squeeze against Touya’s arm, the king ushered Touya away from the stand. Feeling the heat emanating off of the touch alone, The feeling of Keigo’s head resting itself against his shoulder stoked the burning embers within. Rising like steam, the burning fire in his chest warmed his cheeks, pulling the vampire’s attention to gaze upon the nest of blond hair residing against his shoulder. Finding it more difficult to resist the mortal’s charms, Touya let his other hand roam up to the king’s head. Running lightly through the wave of golden locks, Touya brushed aside the disheveled locks of hair with a genuine smile before resting his arm against his side once again. 

"If you don’t mind, your highness, I think I’d rather be myself around you~" Unaware of the double entendre behind Touya’s request, Keigo was elated over the thought that there was somebody who was not only willing to disregard the status hierarchy, but it also seemed he was making strides with Touya. Releasing a comforting breath, the reassuring squeeze left against Touya’s bicep was enough confirmation of Keigo’s agreement. 

Following the flow of foot traffic, Keigo’s interest shifted from the festival to the man next to him. Keeping his head resting peacefully against Touya’s shoulder, he’d never felt more comfortable. As if the space had been carved specifically for him, the way the other man’s body curved to accept his, reflected the unmistakable click of two missing puzzle pieces finally joining together. Although the way he was currently fit against Touya wasn’t special by any means, the tender exchange, the silent promise to comfort and heal, left a resonating buzzing sensation to vibrate against Keigo’s heart. Touya felt like home and after losing every semblance of his family, this feeling had been highly sought out by the king. To have it again meant more than the world and he’d be foolish to let it slip through his fingers. 

"I never answered your question." Bringing Touya’s gaze back to his resting form, Keigo could feel the raise of Touya’s eyebrow in response. "My father hired the best swordsman in the area to train our army. When Kai wasn’t around to occupy me, I’d sneak off to intrude on their training sessions. Eventually, the captain gave up on trying to shoo me away and taught me how to fight. Throwing knives was one of my specialties, but I never engaged in the activity for anything more than recreation." 

"I see." Fingers, twitching against Keigo’s hold, Touya’s gaze washed over the upcoming stalls. "Thank you for telling me." Unsure of how to proceed, Touya’s awkward answer brought the curve of Keigo’s lips higher. 

"Of course~ I’ll tell you whatever you want to know~" Inviting Touya to take the next step with him, Touya’s lips parted to speak, only to have Keigo’s voice fill the void instead. "Oh my, Touya, look at that!" Raising his head, the king, with his hand still clasped tightly with the vampire’s, drug the male over to another stand. Stopping excitedly at the stand like a child in a toy store, Touya brought his eyes over to share in the visual that excited Keigo. Presented on wooden easels set at different heights depending on the size of the canvas, beautiful portraits, landscapes, and still lives were presented in eternal oils. 

"Anything catching your eye?" The artist, surprisingly female, ran a hand through her long, midnight black hair. Her dress was less than tasteful, exposing more skin than the portraits she displayed. Her work used moody tones to accentuate the tragedy imposed on everyday objects, highlighting the looming shadow of death that threatened every breath of life that touched the Earth. Skipping over the portraits, Keigo’s gaze fell on the landscapes. Feeling connected immediately to a smaller square canvas, the image lured him in with an undistinguishable sense of familiarity. Painted in the middle of the canvas was a vibrant blue flower. Poised above the prickly green leaves attached to it, the flower strived under the challenges of adversity, as outlined by the dark toned background to showcase the glowing strength of the plant. 

"That one." Glancing at the image in question, her eyes lit up with excitement. 

"Ah~ The flower that blooms in adversity is the rarest of all~ Good eye~" Taking the canvas off the easel, she meticulously wrapped the painting with brown fabric, folding the material purposely to keep the canvas sealed safely inside. After accepting payment, she handed off the wrapped painting, thanking the king with a bow as the pair departed from the stand. Taking a few steps away, Keigo stopped suddenly, pulling Touya off to the side away from the bustle of the festival. Eyeing the king incredulously, Touya remained still as the mortal stepped to face the other figure. Washing his gaze over the wrapped painting as if to silently part ways with the object, his arms extended out towards Touya. 

"Here. For you." Furrowing his brow questioningly, Touya was hesitant to accept the neatly wrapped gift. 

"Not to be rude, but why are you giving this to me? I thought you liked it?" Shrugging while appearing awkward, Keigo answered with pure confident, honesty. 

"I bought it because it reminded me of you. I was drawn to the beautiful blue tones portrayed in the painting because they reminded me of the ethereal beauty of your eyes…the prettiest eyes in the world~" Feeling the bloodlust stirring in his heart, Touya held his breath. "I’m aware that the flower depicted is actually a weed, a thistle to be exact. Kai taught me all about them when I was little. I always thought that despite the sharp appearance of a thistle, it birthed one of the prettiest, unique, flowers to flourish in the castle garden…but that’s besides the point. I remembered you telling me about the adversity you’d overcome to get to Fehrin…how shut off you appeared after losing your family. Not to mention, how your father forced you to have such a prickly exterior in order to fill his shoes. I couldn’t help but compare you to this image. Protecting yourself from harm, you rely on the sharpness of your tongue, the hard exterior you present yourself with to keep from experiencing the same pain as before. Appearing harmful, even deadly at times, you truly don’t intend to hurt anyone, that’s just how you were made. However, once you let people see past your threatening exterior…" 

Meeting Touya’s gaze, the way Keigo cocked his head to the side ushered the growing bloodlust to rise within the vampire’s body. Drowning him beneath the honeyed curve of Keigo’s smile, the sweetened delivery of Keigo’s words tipped the overflowing glass, washing the intense thirst over Touya’s body. 

“They get to experience the real you. Sweet, honest, and breathtaking, a rare blue flower rests behind your protective leaves. A true testament to the thriving beauty lurking underneath~"

Chewing nervously at the soft interior of his cheek, the warmth that covered Touya’s face was becoming too familiar. 

"You remembered all of those details about me?" Voice weakened under the heavy emotion stifling the quickly beating heart, Touya could feel the bloodlust threatening to take over. Keigo, still adorning the surgery sweet smile, nodded lightly.

"Of course I did…" Shifting awkwardly on the spot, the intense oscillations buzzing from Keigo’s heart struck a chord within Touya. Warning the male of the impending lightning about to strike, his body reacted before Keigo could finish his thoughts. "Touya, I l-" Hastily pressing his index finger against Keigo’s supple lips, Touya, feeling the throb pulsating hungrily in his fangs, leaned in towards the king’s surprised expression. 

"I hate to interrupt you, your highness, but I urge you to save your words for the time being." Remaining cryptic, while keeping his finger against Keigo’s lips, Touya put his own face next to the king’s ear. Becoming overwhelmed by the vicious hunger swirling within, Keigo’s safety would have to be compromised momentarily in order for Touya to ease the painful aching hunger. Burying the natural blue irises beneath the royal lavender hue, hypnotic sultry tones flowed out of Touya’s mouth. "Save your confession for a more private moment, your feelings are too important to be shared with all of these people, don’t you agree?" Touching Keigo’s ear with hot desire, the heat touching Keigo’s cheeks flared intensely with pent up passion. Nodding in agreement, Touya retracted the purple hue, bringing forth the natural blue as he removed himself from Keigo’s face. Smiling at the king, gentle hands pushed the painting back towards the blond’s chest, to be held safely there for the time being. 

"While I accept your gift, I can’t take it right now, hold onto it for me?" Moving to step past Keigo, Touya’s fangs urged him to disappear. "I need to step away to…relieve myself. Please remain here until I return." Furrowing his brow at the blatant command, Keigo’s foot stomped childishly in protest. 

"Hold on! Touya, You can’t leave me here unprotected! What am I to do if-" Despite feeling guilty over using his power on the king, Touya let the hypnotic hue consume his irises again. Purposely delivering the promise to Keigo using as many terms of endearment to make up for the abandonment, Touya knew he’d soon regret the sweet way he addressed Keigo. However, the paramount requirement to slip away and curb his hunger would override the decision for the time being. 

"Keigo, my darling~" Spinning on his heel, the vampire king smoothly took the human king’s face tenderly in his grasp. Cupping the blond’s cheeks with a touch speaking to the amount of love he was pouring into the male through his hands alone, Keigo fell easily into the lulling hold. "Every second that I’m apart from you will feel like an eternity, but my king, I must step away for a few minutes." Stroking his thumb lightly across the hot skin, the accelerated symphony erupting from Keigo’s heart was welcomed eagerly by Touya’s ears. "I promise you that I will return as promptly as I can~ In my absence, I need you to patiently wait for me here~ Can you do that for me, my dear H ummingbird?" Nodding obediently under the smooth rasp of Touya’s voice, the blush already plaguing Keigo’s cheeks deepened greatly when the other male showered him with praise. 

"You’re so good for me~” Leaving a tender kiss against the king’s forehead that excited the throbbing bloodlust thundering in his fangs, Touya gently led the king to the closest stall. While keeping a protective hold on the human positioned in front of him, Touya’s spell easily pulled the merchant under his hold. 

"Pardon me good sir, do you mind watching his majesty for a few minutes while I step away to take care of something?" Nodding, the man rose to meet the pair. Before handing off his precious cargo, Touya’s hands moved to seal Keigo’s ears. Pulling the king as close to his chest as physically possible, Touya’s dangerous expression shot past the blond’s form, looming closer to the merchant. Sharpening the hypnotic purple gaze into a pointed glare, the verbal command struck a physical chord of resonating fear within the man. 

"If anything happens to him in my absence, you will experience unrelenting fear that will consume you mercilessly until there’s nothing left of you but skin and bones. He is not to leave this stand until I return, and no one besides myself is allowed to lay a finger on him, under any circumstances. Understand?" Dropping to a kneel, the man obediently accepted Touya’s threat, promptly returning to his feet by Touya’s instruction. Feeling the hungry shadows threatening to rise, Touya retracted his power, quickly replacing his malice with an innocent smile. 

"Thank you kindly~" Handing Keigo off to the shopkeeper, Touya bid the pair a hasty, yet temporary farewell. Keigo, hugging the oil painting against his chest, nervously watched Touya’s figure disappear with the crowd. Feeling a small inkling of uncertainty churning within his heart, Keigo’s hold against the painting tightened. Despite feeling the honesty of Touya’s promise from the gentle touch of his lips, trauma selfishly led the king to believe the opposite. 

"Your highness, come and sit. He will surely return in due time." Patting the empty stool next to him, the kind offer averted the lingering uncertainty from the king, who accepted the seat only to curb the growing uncertainty aching in his heart. 

Disappearing into the quiet of a nearby alley, a lone human found himself an easy target for the thirsty king. Held tightly in Touya’s grasp, the king’s unaffected hand clamped with restricting strength over the man’s mouth. Cutting off any chance to scream, the other hand, weakened by the burn, snaked around the man’s torso. Forcing the weak mortal body flush against Touya’s own, further movement became quickly restricted. 

"Shh~ This will be over soon~" Tilting the man’s head to the side, eyes stained crimson red ran the length of the freshly exposed neck. Visually tracing the pulsating jugular, the lively oscillations aroused the throbbing bloodlust plaguing the king’s fangs. Giving in to the burning instincts, soft lips parted to reveal glistening white fangs. Breaking the verbal contract outlined lawfully by their host, predatory canines pierced the soft flesh. After years of remaining docile, the action, while entirely natural, felt virginal to Touya. Surging with forgotten arousal, the sensation of his teeth gliding easily past the organic barrier touched his spine with shuddering excitement. Witnessing the resistance of the mortal quickly shifting to obedient submission under the pleasurable sensation of Touya drawing blood, delivered an uncanny excitement to the king. Arousing the dormant dominance from within, the overwhelming feeling of power urged the instincts to take more than necessary.

However, despite enjoying the feeling associated with direct consumption, the taste left nothing to be desired. Taking the required amount to curb the hunger instilled by Keigo’s uncanny feelings, Touya released the male. Weak from the donation, the mortal dropped to the street below with a thud. Disgusted by how desperately he sought and devoured blood that couldn’t hold a candle to Keigo’s, Touya wiped away the crimson liquid staining his lips and chin. Thought of as a last resort due to the fair distance away the substitute was, Touya wouldn’t bring himself to choke down more of the disgusting flavour. He was already reeling from the taste, throwing up would be less than ideal. Since this tainted snack couldn’t begin to fill the void, it would at least tie him over until he had ample time to return home. 

Finding the strength to roll over, the man, who fought to keep his focus on the looming shadow above him, had nary a moment to concentrate before his vision was corrupted by Touya’s gloved hand. Uttering a melodic command under the guise of the lavender hue, the man felt the uncanny urge to forget the encounter. Inducing a temporary nap upon the human, the buzzing nerves were calmed with a deep inhale. Resetting his vision to the natural teal blue, Touya casually left the scene, mixing back with the crowd as if he’d never left. Following the flow of the group, the movement led Touya back to Keigo. Perking up upon seeing the familiar figure approaching, Keigo jumped excitedly up from the stool. 

"Touya~ You’re back!" Rushing to be in front of the male, Keigo showered the vampire under the delighted sparkle popping in his gaze. 

"I promised you, didn’t I?" Sending back a smile as equally delighted, the joy was quickly replaced across Keigo’s expression. Twisting into playful anger, the glare shot at Touya was less than harmful. 

"How dare you leave me alone like that! Why I ought to have you serve a punishment for your disobedience!" Hearing the sarcasm underlying the fake angry tones of Keigo’s voice, Touya shook his head with a chuckle. Placing a hand over his heart, the smooth acceptance from Touya’s voice more than lifted the false anger from Keigo.

"So long as you keep smiling at me, I’ll accept any punishment you can dish out~" Hating how quickly Touya flipped the script on his still throbbing heart, Keigo couldn’t find the strength to fight back. Lost completely under the refreshing glow of Touya’s eyes, the king settled for sentiment instead. Setting the painting gently at his feet, Keigo’s arms wrapped tenderly around Touya’s unexpecting form. Tensing only momentarily, Touya was hesitant to reciprocate the intimacy. However, sensing unwanted fear plucking at the stuttering oscillations of Keigo’s heartbeat, Touya let his arms wrap protectively around Keigo’s form. Surrendering himself completely to the comforting hold bestowed upon him, Keigo let his eyes flutter closed.  

"Please don’t leave me alone again." Said barely above a whisper, the words pierced Touya’s ear with the volume of a scream. While not feeling the sting of the words, it was the delivery that stirred the guilt. Clearly upset with Touya’s need to leave, Keigo’s voice had never shook so intensely before. Thinking the king might cry, one of Touya’s hands moved to pet the soft blond locks adorning the king’s head. Leaving behind comforting tender strokes, the vampire only ceased his movement when the accelerated vibrations of the king’s heart simmered. Resting the gloved limb gently against Keigo’s head, Touya purposely held the human’s head against his chest. Easing the king’s fear with the rhythmic beating of his heart, Touya left the man with a promise that only he could be capable of fulfilling.

"As long as my heart continues to beat, you’ll never be alone." Indirectly handing Keigo an eternity, he never expected that their time together would be anything close. Yet, feeling the calming rhythm of Keigo’s heart resonating unconsciously with his own, Touya silently pondered the merit of the idea. Mistakenly brushing off Keigo’s life as fleeting, the immortal being let the king linger against his chest a moment longer before pulling away. 

"We should continue with our date, we’re running out of daylight." Softly suggesting the transition, the soft disappointment overtaking Keigo’s eyes from the retracted physical intimacy was quickly covered by his familiar smile. 

"Yes, of course." Bending to pick up the painting, Keigo was surprised to see Touya’s hand being offered to him. Eyeing the gesture for nary a moment, the king’s hand quickly took its place within Touya’s. Fingers lacing naturally together, Keigo had never felt more sure of himself as he fell into step with Touya. 

Proceeding to observe the remaining booths that lined the streets, the pair found themselves returning to the carriage. Lying in wait with the setting sun, the coachman greeted the pair with a slight bow. 

"Evening your highness, I’ve prepared your ride home as requested." Gesturing towards the open door, the king’s acceptance to the offer hesitated. Catching the rhythmic sounds of jaunty music dancing on the wind, Keigo’s attention shifted back towards the party. 

"Your highness?" Golden orbs witnessing the synchronous movements of the townsfolk quickly glistened with excitement to join. Showering the desire over Touya, the other male recognized Keigo’s request before the question was uttered. 

"Touya~ I want to dance~ Can we stay a little longer?" Had his hands not been occupied by the painting, the limbs most certainly would have clasped together in a begging fashion. Unable to decline the pleading smile scrawled across Keigo’s lips, Touya nodded in agreement. Celebrating his victory, Keigo forced the painting and the bag of sugary treats into the arms of the coachman. Urgently instructing the coachman to deliver the objects back to the castle, Keigo’s hand grabbed Touya’s with the intention to whisk the other male away with his excitement. Remaining in place, Keigo’s eagerness came to a grinding halt when Touya’s unmoving figure pulled him back.

"Touya, I thought we were-" Bringing the king into the calming hold of his arms, Touya simmered the overflowing elation flooding from the king. 

"Hummingbird, relax a moment~” Chilling himself beneath the smooth rasp of Touya’s voice, Keigo released a calming breath while submitting himself to Touya’s will. 

"Should I wait around? Or?" Sending the coachman a gentle shake of his head, Touya filled the shoes Keigo blatantly shed in his elation. 

"If you don’t mind, could you take those gifts back to the castle and put the carriage and horses away for the evening? I’ll take care of his majesty, expect us home an hour after the moon rises." Earning a nod from the coachman, farewells were bid before Touya followed the enthusiastic lead of the king. 

Joining the mass of dancing townsfolk, Keigo’s fingers slipped out of Touya’s grasp, leaving the apprehensive male on the sidelines. Releasing the pent up energy, Keigo’s body was quick to jive with the fast melody of the tune. Falling into step with the choreography silently shared between him and the other townsfolk, Keigo appeared in his element. Face alight with delight, the smile infecting his lips seemed to ignite the lanterns hung above the street. Hair, flowing along with the synchronized movements, waved at Touya like a golden ocean touching the shore for the first time. Reddened from a mixture of the physical activity and the overall delight of the day, Keigo’s sun kissed cheeks flourished with the pink glow of attraction. 

Observations made regarding the king left a stutter to thrum against Touya’s heart. Following the joyous movements of the dance, the vampire relished the liveliness projecting from the king. Having witnessed him sulking around, more than sluggish from the illness affecting his body, watching Keigo dancing was a nice change. Cleared of the illness’s effects, Touya could only smirk with the realization that Keigo’s blood was ripe for the taking. Lasting nary a moment, the realized smirk was stripped from his face when the king literally pulled Touya from the fantasy. Grabbing Touya’s hands, the king moved to bring the other male into the dance. Quick to resist, Touya stood his ground. Heels dug into the ground, a shake of the head attempted to deny the blond.

"Your majesty, I can’t-"

"Come on~ A dance under the stars would be the perfect end to our date~" Breath hitching, the satiated bloodlust itched under the surface of the predatory fangs. Despite being only a waking feeling, the apprehension of the outcome weighed heavily on Touya’s heart. Afraid that the imminent physical exchange between him and Keigo would initiate a loss of control, Touya shook his head adamantly, turning the king down. 

"I’m sorry, but I can’t dance." Cocking his eyebrow, the excuse wasn’t enough for the king. Without freeing Touya’s hands from his grasp, Keigo closed the gap between them. Leaving his face mere inches away from Touya’s, shining gold eyes challenged the male to decline him again with an innocent flutter of his eyelashes. 

"Please dance with me, Snowflake~" Stunned by the tender delivery of the request, Touya’s stuttering lips couldn’t produce a reason not to oblige. Caught under the innocence of the king, Keigo’s hands shifted to properly hold Touya for the dance. With one hand planted firmly against Touya’s waist, the other remained laced with Touya’s hand. Guiding Touya’s other hand to his shoulder with verbal direction, the vampire tried again to object, only to have the blond pull his body closer to his. 

"Relax Snowflake, I’ll lead~" Carrying Touya smoothly onto the makeshift dance floor, the king upheld his promise. Guiding Touya with his movements, the vampire found himself swaying, twirling, and stepping along with the tune of the music. While his movements were considerably sloppy compared to his partner’s, the elation growing in time with the dance outweighed the messy performance he was certainly giving. 

Keigo, admiring the smile overtaking the apprehensive expression that had molded his partner’s face, let the quickened pace of his heart touch his cheeks. Colouring the skin with confirmed arousal, the soft glow of the lanterns above could barely hide the affectionate tones swimming in Keigo’s eyes. Mentally capturing every detail of Touya’s face, Keigo silently wished the song would never end. He loved how tenderly the delight touched the other man’s face. Acting like dancing with Keigo was merely an inconvenience, the enjoyment was genuine. Thanking the melodic movements for shaking the concealing hood from Touya’s head, the soft glow of the lanterns warmed the colourless hair dripping from Touya’s head. Unlike under the stagnant glow of the sun, the flickering flames brought the hair to life. Flowing in a dance of their own, the illustrious white locks danced devilishly with the flickering shadows produced by the fire light. Moving almost naturally with the darkness, the blatant symbolism was missed by Keigo as he moved to fall into the divine blue irises across from him. Calmed by the subtle light, Touya’s eyes had never appeared so tender. 

Thinking it an effect of the limited light, Keigo had missed the way Touya’s eyes had flickered across his figure. Taking in his appearance in a similar manner as Keigo had him, the tender look in Touya’s eyes was pure, calculated love. Directed only at Keigo, the silent expression overtook all previous apprehensions. Unable to avert his eyes from the honey glow of Keigo’s cheeks, or ignore the resonating heartbeat thumping in time with his own, Touya couldn’t hide it any longer. Falling under the hypnotic curve of Keigo’s lips, the lustful stare received from the gold irises above that intoxicating smile only lured Touya closer. Without trying, the mortal king had unlocked every subconscious feeling the vampire king had desperately tried to hide. Finding himself lost in the sublimity of the mortal specimen, Touya missed the timed ending of the song. Floating dreamily on a cloud suspended by his own elation formed under the silent understanding that his instincts were right, he’d missed the shift of his partner’s position. 

"Thank you, Touya." Bringing the male down from his emotional high, Touya’s gaze shifted downwards. Now flush against his chest, the king’s arms were wrapped tenderly around his body. Head nuzzled in the crook of his neck, Keigo smiled against the exposed skin. 

"For what?" Acutely aware of how quickly his heart was beating, he still reciprocated the intimate hold. Inhaling a breath to hold the familiar scent drifting from Touya’s body within his nose, Keigo, while completely relaxed against Touya’s body, seemed to hold the man tighter. As if he was afraid his confession would scare the male away, the opportunity to run wouldn’t be granted, nor considered by either party. 

"For indulging me. I know you weren’t keen on escorting me today, but I want you to know that today was the best day I’ve ever had." Lightly trailing the length of Keigo’s back, the movement of Touya’s hands was comforting. Meant to ease the king’s mind of gnawing apprehensive thoughts regarding Touya’s own hesitancy, the feeling lulled more than his conscience. 

"For the record, it wasn’t spending time with you that I was wary about." Humming into Touya’s neck, the soft tones vibrating out of the vampire’s vocal chords mixed with the lulling motion of his hand, aroused the fatigue buried under Keigo’s excitement. “I’m more than happy spending time with you, but I’d prefer if-" Despite finishing the medicine and feeling more than healthy with the effects, exhaustion from the day was still very prominent. Submitting to the tired wave washing over his body, Keigo slipped off into an unconscious slumber. "Your highness?" Weighing against Touya with the limp inconvenience of sleep, soft snores touched Touya’s auditory senses with their gentle oscillations. Replacing his surprise with a tender smile, Touya skillfully adjusted Keigo’s body. With one arm supporting the king under the bend of his knees, the other cradled his shoulders. 

"Come on~" Rolling his shoulder purposely, the movement tipped Keigo’s head safely to rest against his chest. "Let’s go home~” 

Navigating around the crowd of people still enjoying the festivities, Touya sought the emptying streets to guide him back to the castle. 

Feeling safe in the cradling hold of Touya’s arms, Keigo slipped into sleep's tender embrace. Floating, the elation buzzing inside whisked him away, leading him to witness the most pleasant images his mind could conjure. All of which unsurprisingly featured the wolf innocently carrying him home. 

"Touya…" Shifting down to observe the still face, azure eyes responded to the call. 

"Yes, what is it?" Thinking the king had stirred awake, he answered, however, hearing no audio response led Touya to realize the opposite. Observing the calm breaths oscillating from the limp body, Touya shook off the exclamation as an unconscious reaction. 

"Mmm, Touya…I think…I’m…" Trailing off with the rasp of a snore, the rest of the statement was lost. Regretfully prodding the unconscious figure for closure, Touya expected some ridiculous answer to devolve from the unconscious conversation. Drawing a smirk across his lips, he smoothly pulled out a response from the king. 

"What are you thinking, Hummingbird?" Seeking intimacy from him, Keigo’s head nuzzled further against Touya’s chest. Smiling widely like a drunk patron, the blush that coloured his cheeks buried Touya’s smirk with regret. 

"I think I’m falling…in love...with you…my snowflake…" 

Stinging his cheeks with the salty touch of a broken heart, Tears unapologetically created from the revelation, tore down Touya’s cheeks relentlessly with the perpetual motion of a river. Droplets, large with emotion, dripped from Touya’s chin, soaking the man’s collar with the broken feelings. Growing uncomfortable under the moist trials, shaking pale hands reached for a tissue. Setting the laptop aside, the vampire king gave himself over to the comfort of the leather couch. Wiping the expressed sadness from his eyes, the puffy orbs sought solace from the roof above. 

"He fell in love with me that night…" Expelling mucus into the tissue, another disposable handkerchief was acquired following the disposal of the first. "And I…" Wrenching in pain, the aching stutter of his heart pushed more tears to spill down Touya’s cheeks. "I remember exactly how I felt that day…" Bringing a shaking hand to comfort his heart in the only way he could, the pale limb gripped at his chest. "I can feel it in my heart right now..." Sobbing with the flowing arousal painfully aching with each thrum of his heart, Touya bit back the wailing cries threatening to scream from his lungs. "I never forgot the pain loving Keigo brought…the regret… fuck -" Crumpling up the disposable tissue, the relentless flow of salted droplets was too much for the cheap white square to handle.  

"Why am I doing this?!" Sitting forward, Touya’s head sought structure from his hands. One hand promptly supported his forehead, while the other gripped mercilessly at the freshly disheveled white locks. "Why am I forcing myself to relive all of this again?! It hurts so much …I don’t know if I can take it!" Unable to stop himself from crying out in his distress, the apartment echoed with the hurt symphony of the immortal king. Releasing pent up emotions, Touya collected himself long enough to straighten back out against the plush backing of the couch. 

"I have to…" Wiping the remaining tears with the crumpled tissue, a shaking inhale was introduced to the king’s lungs. "I have to, in order to move on, like Kurogiri said…" Calming his nerves with a string of deep breaths, Touya felt himself relax enough to regain his concentration. 

"Okay…let’s do a little bit more…" Exhaling a shaking breath that disagreed with his confidence, Touya shifted his gaze to the laptop. The screen, still illuminated with the recently typed words, struck Touya’s heart. Refilling the organ with the distraught feelings expelled prior, the words reopened the floodgates. Soaking his cheeks under the influence of the emotional distress, the tears fell with less restriction than before. 

Slamming the laptop shut, the weight of his sadness brought the king to a vulnerable fold. Curling into a tear soaked ball, Touya gave up on recollecting his past. Unable to shake the heartbroken distress plaguing his being, the agreement to move past Keigo was lost to the meek sobs rising from Touya’s throat. Weighed heavily down by the emotional grip the man still held over his heart, despite the obvious amount of time that had slipped by, Touya’s still beating heart refused to give up the only thing he had held dear. 

"I don’t know how I’m going to get over Keigo when Keigo has made such an everlasting impression on my heart…"

Chapter Text

Chilled by the icy caressing grip left behind by the mortal king, the phantom hold stroking Touya’s heart lingered. Submitting completely to the overwhelming weight, Touya found no energy to continue. Lacking the desire, nor ability to stretch out the narrative, his memoir was left forgotten. Buried beneath the rest of the scribbled past, the laptop found itself purposely covered by the loose papers decorating the glass coffee table. The words last typed were too emotionally overwhelming for the author. Finding the mere sight of the text enough to override the feelings he had long since calmed, the visual left Touya a tearful mess. Unable to clear the watery flow long enough to even flex his fingers over the keys, the author chose to leave the past in the past. 

While the laptop remained buried under the documents messily strewn about the table, Touya sought comfort from the plush leather cushions of the couch. Wrapped securely under the soft fleece of a black blanket, the king had never appeared so small. Legs bent and pulled flush against his chest, the rim of the blanket was held tightly up to the underside of the man's nose, leaving only the top half of his head visible. Luggage, heavy and grey, sunk under the dull hue of his teal-blue eyes. Hair, greasy, and lacklustre, the white locks would have been inviting to any curious birds looking to nest. Tangled and knotted, the pain of running a hairbrush through the nest of white hair would most definitely not be worth the neat appearance to comb over. 

Under the blanket, clothes, well past their wash date covered the king’s body. Stained with sweat, food spills, and tears, the clothes more than stunk with the desperation to be cleansed. Leaving the comfort of the couch only to use the bathroom and obtain food, the common area more than reflected the depression plaguing the inhabitant. Littered with empty food containers, dirty dishes, and bottles of substitute, the mess covering the floor was the makings of a hoarder's paradise. Resting on the cusp of introducing a new micro organic culture into the apartment, the uncleanliness littering the floor crawled with potential infestation. However, despite how uncomfortable the filth made his skin tingle, the desire to deal with any rising problems was swept well under the rug, just like his past. The apartment, along with Touya, desperately needed a deep clean, but with the king in remission, no cleanse would be completed anytime soon. 

"Master Touya~" Timed suspiciously with the silent need to better his situation, Kurogiri strolled into the stagnant apartment with a bright smile. "I brought you a new delivery~ I informed Atsuhiro of your situation and he included twice the amount of regular substitute along with two extra bottles of-" Having removed his shoes and entered the common area, the state of the usually neat living space, struck him suddenly. "Your majesty…what has happened?!" Setting the sealed cases down, concerned yellow eyes washed over the mess in front of him. Appalled with the state the king had left his living quarters, Kurogiri’s gaze landed on the man in question. 

"Have you fallen ill?!" Moving to assess the unbothered figure, the unusual rasp of Touya’s voice paused the lesser being’s movements. 

"I’m fine." Disbelieving the statement, Kurogiri questioned the king further. 

"With all due respect my lord, you look less than fine. I’ve never seen your apartment like this, let alone you. At least, not since…" Feeling the weight of Touya’s glare, Kurogiri purposely trailed his voice off. Recollecting himself with a clearing of his throat, Kurogiri tried a softer approach. "Is there something I can do to help?" Pressing the pads of his fingertips together, the lesser vampire waited patiently for a response. Stirring only slightly, Touya’s hand slipped out from beneath the safety of the fleece barrier. Pointing meekly at the table, Kurogiri’s eyes fell on the corner of the exposed laptop. 

"Delete the last portion I wrote." Confused, black eyebrows furrowed together. Uncertain with the severity of what had been typed, Kurogiri was hesitant to follow through with the request. However, the authority and sincerity swirling in his king’s eyes urged the vampire to brave the landmines ahead of him. Stepping carefully around the piles of garbage, Kurogiri occupied one of the only open cushions of the couch. Delicately lifting the laptop from under the confines of the past, Kurogiri forced the lid open. Crying in protest, the hinges creaked into place, the movement bringing the screen to life from its induced slumber. Illuminating the document resting on screen, the typed words touched Kurogiri’s vision with the sting of a flick. While not pained in the way his master found himself, the effect left by the words was enough to hurt him. 

Having never met Keigo, Kurogiri was unfamiliar with what Touya was truly feeling, however, he more than understood the lasting effect the blond had left. Selfishly producing an empty void to swallow up his master’s feelings, Keigo had unconsciously, but with certainty, ensured that he’d be the last real connection made with Touya’s heart. Without intention, Keigo left Touya a shell of himself, a wallowing pile of pity that Kurogiri now had to dig out, brush off and present anew. Cursing Keigo’s unconscious effect, the laptop was closed with a sigh. Sympathizing with Touya, the choice to not delete the past sentiment left Kurogiri to accept whatever punishment his disobedience would dish. 

"Kurogiri." Setting the device back upon the table, yellow orbs were hesitant to meet his king’s gaze. 

"Yes, Master Touya?" Falling on eyes that were surprisingly still blue, the lesser vampire’s heart stuttered. 

"Delete it." Swallowing anxiously, shaking hands folded politely across Kurogiri’s lap. Inhaling a shaking breath, the defiance slipped from the lesser being’s lips. 

"I will not, Master Touya." Objecting to a further response besides the angry curve of Touya’s brow, Kurogiri was quick to defend. "I think it’s beautiful. You really captured his essence in your writing." Deciding to start with the transformation to revive his master’s dead motivation, Kurogiri started collecting the dirty dishes from the floor. 

"I know how much Keigo meant to you and I know how hard it is for you to be revisiting these moments again, but you can’t discard something so dear to your heart like this." Taking a pile of dishes into the kitchen, the dishwasher eagerly accepted the filthy ceramics while Kurogiri continued. "Giving up, deleting things that mean the most to you, won’t help you move past him." Pulled into a sitting position by the challenge in Kurogiri’s words, Touya eyed the male curiously. 

"What if I don’t want to move past him?" With a garbage bag in hand, litter was collected promptly from the floor. 

"If that were the case, you wouldn’t have agreed to write about him~" Hating the correct smirk drawn across Kurogiri’s lips, Touya’s arms crossed in protest. 

"I didn’t agree to discuss my ex lover on the terms that I’d move past him. I did it for the entertainment that you suggested." Tying off the small garbage bag, Kurogiri couldn’t help but chuckle. 

"False~" Relishing the spark of intrigue popping behind the king’s eyes, the garbage was deposited promptly into the larger kitchen bag, ready for the final disposal. "You said, and I quote: I should address what happened between him and I…perhaps if I do…I’ll finally rid myself of this cursed feeling plaguing my heart. In layman’s terms my king, you want to move past your heartbreak~" Holding back the triumphant expression threatening to overtake his face, the look stunning Touya’s face was enough to solidify his success. "Now, as much as I sympathize with you, it’s time to stop moping around and get back to it." Folding his arms with an authority that Touya didn’t appreciate, Kurogiri’s commanding stare didn’t waver. Facing the defiance of the king, the lesser vampire refused to fold. 

"No, I don’t want to. I have no desire to work on my novel right now." Seeking protection from the couch, Touya flung himself back against the cushions. Pulling the blanket over to conceal himself from Kurogiri’s demands, Touya hoped the thin layer of fabric would send his advisor away. 

"I wasn’t asking." Forced to fill the shoes he hadn’t worn since Touya’s age was in the single digits, the blanket was stripped mercilessly from Touya’s body. "Get up, take a shower, and get dressed." Pointing harshly towards the bathroom, the intensity behind Kurogiri’s usually calm yellow eyes made Touya shrink in comparison. 

"But Giri, I’m not in the mood to-"

"Touya Todoroki, if you’re not in that shower in the next thirty seconds, so help me I will put parental blocks on all of your streaming services. Do not make me ask again." Scoffing in annoyance, the king left the couch. Leaving a directed glare with Kurogiri as he passed, the words mumbled in response only described the king’s immaturity level. 

"This is bullshit. I’m five hundred and sixty three years old. I’m not a child, Giri!" Actively disagreeing with his own statement, Touya slammed the door childishly. Shaking his head with a chuckle, the lesser vampire chose to discard the indisputable fact that compared to him, Touya was a child. Doubling Touya in age, the only reason he bent to his will was Touya’s undisputable status as a higher being. Of all the remaining vampires, Touya was the most childish and actually the youngest, but Kurogiri would let that detail slip for the purpose of the argument. 

Following the advisor’s demand, Touya emerged from his bedroom refreshed from the shower and adorning a clean set of clothes. Appearing more like himself, the king’s up kept appearance clicked effortlessly with the now cleaned apartment. Working tirelessly while Touya took care of his hygiene, Kurogiri swept the mop over the last portion of the unwashed floor. 

"You didn’t have to clean my apartment, you know." Keeping out of Kurogiri’s way, Touya let the lesser being finish the voluntary work. 

"Oh, but I did~" Chuckling, the cleaning supplies were put neatly back in the designated storage closet. "The germs were developing their own societies~" Clicking his tongue in response, arms folded over his chest to portray his annoyance. 

"Giri, I’d love to do this back and forth shit all day, but get to the point. Why are you doing all of this?" Ignoring the question initially, Kurogiri collected his things. Leading the king towards the front door with his movements alone, Kurogiri slipped his feet into his shoes. 

"We’re going out. You need to clear your head." Adamant on rotting indoors, Touya shook his head. 

"Why? I don’t see the point."

"Your highness, you’ve clearly exhausted your imagination and motivation as reflected by the state of your apartment. I think it will do you some good to get out. Let’s head to the mall, we can shop around, maybe changing your appearance will give you a new outlook on what’s going on. Plus, you can observe the world around us and maybe gain some inspiration." Considering the merit behind his friend’s suggestion, Touya was apprehensive with the idea. While getting out of the house before had given him the required information to continue his narrative, he didn’t see how dressing himself up would inspire his vision. 

However, seeing the lighthearted glint twinkling in Kurogiri’s eyes, the decision to trust the male came easily. Kurogiri did have more experience with social protocol from his active role communicating between the other parties. Considering the introverted lives of the other vampire’s, Kurogiri was the most knowledgeable regarding the situation, therefore, Touya had no reason not to trust his reasoning. Besides, Kurogiri’s purpose was always to look out for Touya’s best interest, to steer him wrong now would result in the deliverance of a less than ideal punishment. Unfolding his arms, Touya sighed in defeat. 

"Fine." Flipping his hood over his head, Kurogiri pulled the door open with a smirk. 

"Dress accordingly, the sun is hot today~"

Buying into Kurogiri’s premise completely, Touya found himself indulging in a fast food meal with the other vampire. Lacking any self control upon stepping into the capitalist trap, Touya embraced Kurogiri’s idea of self image improvement. Virginal white locks now flowed with the darkness of charcoal. Dyed black and cut to form the hairstyle he carried centuries ago, the darkened locks fall like a thick, but delicate curtain in front of freshly outlined eyes.

Caught by a merchant at a beauty stand, her persistence resulted in Touya’s eyes becoming her next art project. Sharpened by the liquid black outline that reminded Touya too much of an ex king, sapphire eyes unapologetically adorned a set of fierce eyeliner wings. Extending a few centimeters past the corner of his eye, the black line delicately followed the curve of the blue orb before coming to a very obvious point just off from his nose. Scammed by her marketing, Touya not only walked off with a makeover, but a tube of the liquid eyeliner was purchased and residing in his pocket.  

Bringing an almost perfectly salted fry to his lips, freshly manicured nails pushed the carb stick into his mouth. Dusting excess salt from oily fingertips, disturbed the new bracelets hanging from pale wrists. Varying between thick black cuffs, some of which adorning falsely sharp spikes, and bracelets strung with beads or charms, the king’s wrists had never been more decorated. Despite never expecting to display his status in such a juvenile way, the accessories somehow jived with his personality.

Adding to the ensemble, the king purchased a fresh set of clothes to replace his other ones. Now wearing a set of rebellious black ripped skinny jeans, that he’d most certainly only wear on overcast days, the king’s torso was brandishing a new band shirt. In the style of a baseball tee, the sleeves of the black shirt were white, while the front displayed a graphic announced loudly by white, graffiti letters belonging to a band who wrote songs based off of horror movies. Replacing a set of worn out converse shoes with a sleek, unjustifiably expensive pair of Doc Martens, Touya’s less than permanent look had been refreshed.

Feeling bold enough to take the pressured transformation a step further, the king, despite Kurogiri’s objection, let a stranger stab him with a needle. Choosing to go for the less permanent option in the tattoo parlour, three golden studs were inserted into the side of his nose, along with a set of three golden hooped helix piercings in each ear. The piercer, thinking Touya psychotic for putting his body through so much trauma, was delightfully surprised when the king sat patiently and took each stab without so much of a wince. 

Despite feeling indifferent with the physical alterations, the change didn’t go unnoticed by passing humans. Catching every whispered compliment and flirtatious comment directed at, but not directly spoken to, Touya couldn’t hide his bought confidence. Sipping casually at the carbonated beverage, Kurogiri found it hard to miss the delighted curve of Touya’s lips against the plastic of the straw. 

"See? Don’t you feel better, your highness?" Bringing his gaze back to the smug expression across from him, Touya set the disposable cup against the table. 

"Eh, maybe." Neglecting to share the buried feelings dwelling within his heart, Touya simply agreed with the other man’s premise. Despite enjoying the showering confidence from the female humans, the true testament of what Touya considered to be his worth would go untested. Dressing up meant nothing if Keigo wasn’t here to bask in his appearance. 

"I think you pull off the alternative look quite effortlessly." Burying Kurogiri under the casual state of his gaze, Touya could only agree. "You know that was a compliment, right?" Choosing to stick the straw back between his lips, Touya nodded, chewing on the plastic while Kurogiri continued. "I imagine if the other’s were here, they’d agree." Diverting his attention, Touya desired an active distraction from the topic at hand. Despite being their leader, the monotonous life updates of each of his subservient followers was less than interesting to him. Unless the details pertained to an urgent matter or emergency, there was no need for his attention to be spared. 

"Master Touya, did I tell you that Geten recently got employed at an ice rink? It’s a funny story actually…" Tuning the smooth auditory wavelength of Kurogiri’s voice down, Touya purposely focused his senses on the happenings around them. Seeking a conversation or interaction that would inspire his writing, waves of varying oscillations touched his ears. Unfiltered and jumbled, Touya narrowed the sounds down to those closest to them. Ignoring the gossiping ramblings of a table occupied by teenage girls, Touya jumped to another table. Catching the heated argument about a pop culture hobby, the conversation was quickly left behind. Touya didn’t care to listen to the ramblings of opinionated fans, especially when those opinions were decisively incorrect. Leaping into another conversation, the heightened auditory canals caught a sweet interaction between lovers. 

"Thank you for accompanying me today…it means a lot." Her voice, while soft and moody, carried the weight of all of her emotions. Vibrating in the wavelength were feelings of sincerity, delight, and most powerful of all; attraction. Her face pulsated with a pink warmth, the sensation throbbing from the rhythmic beating of her heart. 

"Of course~ I wouldn’t leave you hanging, babe!" While she was collected, her partner was wild in contrast. Oscillating at a much quicker resonance, the wavelength of his tone touched Touya’s ears with a volume he wished he could turn down. Obnoxious, friendly, and less than intelligent, the vibrations felt rather immature. Warm under the same pretenses as hers, his face throbbed with just as much undisputed emotion.

Feeling the bass like thrum of her heart beat, Touya tilted his head subtly to the side. Curious to observe more of their interaction, ice blue eyes invaded the private interaction. Seated at a table behind Kurogiri, the couple was breaking from their day with a desired beverage. Poised on the table, their hands were laced together, sculpted into a romantic model of their compassion. Faces touched by the warmth of their hearts, their eyes dove deeply into each other’s souls. Reading the expressive intent swimming in the opposite coloured eyes, pushed the intensity of their individual rhythmic beats to quicken. Touya guessed, based on the youthful attachment to one another, they only recently agreed to be a couple. Based on how erratic their heart beats were thrumming, Touya hypothesized he would observe a first for the couple.

"You want to know a secret?" His thumb rolling unconsciously over hers, he curiously leans in to close the gap. 

"Yeah?" Softened by the movement, his voice, while still lit with passion, had calmed under the showering love raining from her eyes. 

"You’re the sweetest guy I’ve ever known." Thrumming like the deep bass of a guitar planning a private chord only she could hear, her heart resonated clearly with the tune of her feelings. Catching him by surprise, the electric oscillation vibrating from his heart stuttered. Blinking obviously in surprise, his shock was quick to devolve into a soft smile. 

"It’s unfair when you say stuff like that~" Catching a subtle flex of her fingers against his, fluttering eyelashes danced in front of black eyes. 

"Why’s that?"

"Because, that’s my line~” Bravely touching his lips against hers, the motion took her by surprise. Stunned, the feeling aroused the already bass like vibrations drumming from within. Relaxing against the soft movement of his mouth, her eyes fluttered closed. Gently, his free hand cupped her face, stroking her pale cheek purposely in expression. Intrigued, focused blue eyes followed the flow of the wavelengths stemming from the couple. Despite thrumming with different baselines, they resonated with synchronicity. While hers drummed to follow the private concert she’d written, his was erratic, static, like a shock wave. Yet, they danced unequivocally in rhythm, divulging into an invisible sound that burst like a firework, showering the pair under invisible sparks of hot passion. Feeling a sense of familiarity touching Touya’s soul, the exchange let a smile touch his lips. 

"My lord?" Magnetizing the distracted blue orbs back to him, dark brows furrowed with concern. "Are you okay? You’ve barely said a word and you’ve made…great…work of your straw." Consciously aware of how terribly he’d chewed the cheap plastic in his daze, Touya set the long empty drink upon the tray. 

"I apologize." Pulling the trusted notepad out of his pocket, a quick note was left behind with the smooth glide of his pen across the paper. "I got lost in the background." Smiling at the written words prompting his next chapter, the book was closed and tucked safely back into his pocket. 

"Did you find inspiration?" While teasing, the lesser vampire’s tone remained sincere, hoping their outing had cleared his king of his funk. 

"Something like that." Deciding to get to his feet, the lunch tray was lifted from the table. "We still have a bit of time before the sun sets, let’s hang out a bit longer." Feeling accomplished with the mood shift overtaking his king’s demeanor, Kurogiri couldn’t hide his smile. 

"Sounds great!" Following Touya’s lead, the pair disposed of their lunch, determined to distract themselves, stalling until the threat from above sunk to a more comfortable height in the sky. 

"Then, get this, Izaiah told me that Kingsley’s parents have a vacation home in the mountains and he’s taking Izaiah there next weekend. Don’t you think it’s too soon for them to be going away like that for a weekend?" Talking mostly with the dramatics of her hands, the active limbs found solace against the defined curve of her hip. On display because of her choice of wardrobe, that being a white tennis skirt and matching crop top; the tanned, toned, but most importantly, exposed skin actively brought thirst to any passing gazes. Tied tightly into a long ponytail, white hair rained down her back with a few strands straying to rest over the front of her figure. Thick, muscled legs brandished a pair of purple high socks. Cut off at her knees, the purple fabric led to a pair of worn white sneakers. Accentuating the defensive concern that an older sister might carry, her expression dared the male next to her to oppose her thinking. However, the authoritative pose didn’t phase the man at all. 

"No." Accepting his change from the cashier, he promptly joined the female off to the side, ready to defend his taken position. "Izaiah and Kingsley have known each other since they were kids. They’ve been dating since grade seven, and now they’re in their graduating year. I’d argue that it would be weird if they didn’t go away for a private weekend." Clicking her tongue, harsh maroon orbs squinted into an innocent glare. 

"You’re far too relaxed, Keegan. Izaiah is far too innocent and Kingsley is way too immature to be trusted, alone, in a cabin more than six hours away." Shrugging, Keegan’s smile, while situationally awkward, distracted her long enough to change the subject. 

"I don’t know what to tell you, Riley. I’m optimistic to a fault and you’re not their parents~" Opening her mouth to speak, the interruptive whirr of the blender stole the mumbled response from reaching Keegan’s ears. Waiting out the untimely interruption, Keegan let his gaze wander from his friend. Choosing to watch the smoothie blend into a whole viscous liquid, the action of turning his attention away from the food court behind him invited the shadowed touch of familiarity to strike. 

Sharing the same vicinity, the docile darkness easily picked the familiar vessel from the crowd. While their host remained ignorant to the presence, they loomed across the food court, hungry for the blond’s attention. Mixing indiscriminately with the human’s shadow, the foreign darkness washed over the mortal’s unsuspecting body. Feeling the intense weight of pressurized fear weighing on his shoulders, the uncanny nostalgia knotted so tightly with the feeling struck a chord against the settled nerves. 

Perking his head up, the silent call to turn around pulled Keegan’s gaze away from the blending liquid. Heeding the intuitive feeling, the sight of a patron across the food court caught his eye. Seated at a table across from a man who appeared more lively in contrast, was a man who could only be described as being the front man to a punk band. 

Opposite to his aesthetic, the mysterious appearance of the stranger intrigued Keegan. Pale like a porcelain doll, his skin seemed to shine under the fluorescent illumination above. Straying from the rainbow, the only shade covering the porcelain surface were muted fabrics. Sparing no specific detail for the man’s choice in wardrobe, curious gold eyes found interest in the blackened avalanche of hair falling over the stranger's face. Cut short over the surface area of the boy’s head, save for the top and front. Extending down the right side of his face, the black locks fell stylistically over his right eye. Layered perfectly and spiked to his liking, the hair seemed to flow naturally like an onyx waterfall. Glinting under the bright lights above, Keegan caught the sparkling of a set of golden piercings in the boy’s ear. Pure like the observer’s eyes, the gold hoops provided the only warmth to the otherwise dark aesthetic. 

However, it was the eyes that hypnotized the mortal. Too far to actually distinguish the orbs, a silent magnetic attraction seemed to awaken with the visual observation. Sensing an uncanny throb of Deja vu brewing within his chest, a buried sense of recognition overtook each of Keegan’s docile nerves. Vibrating with the excited need to engage in conversation with the attractive male, nerves shaken by a feeling long lost urged their host to cross the food court. Hearing the pleas from the vibrating system tangled beneath his skin, the increased beating of his heart pushed his body to move. Thrilled with the uncanny feeling that they had found something long lost, the shiver coursing over Keegan’s tanned skin left behind a pimpled pattern of nostalgic arousal. Somehow understanding a sense of familiarity over the visual of the strange figure, Keegan took a purposeful step away from the pick up counter. 

"Keegan!" Pulling the blond from the induced hypnotic daze, now aware gold eyes shifted back to the female next to him. 

"I’m sorry?" Physically shaking the tingling sensation from his body, he followed her pointed gesture back to the smoothie stand. 

"Your drink! They’ve been calling your name!" Apologizing softly, the discombobulated male accepted the beverage from the worker. "Jeez, what’s gotten into you?! It’s like you completely checked out!" Drink in hand, Keegan’s attention drifted back to the bustling food court. Jumping from table to table, his eyes, while calm, seemed to desperately seek out the man from before. However, losing him in the crowd of other patrons, they came up empty. Feeling a weight of disappointment pressing on his heart, unsure of its origins or reasoning, Keegan sighed in defeat. 

"Keegan? Are you sure you’re okay? You don’t seem like yourself." Taking him from the assumed fantasy, eyes lacking some sense of delight fell on Riley’s concerned expression. 

"I’m sorry, I thought I saw someone I knew, that's all." Shrugging away the weighted feeling, a crooked, but convincing smile crawled across his lips. "I’m fine, honest. Let’s go, we don’t want to miss our shift."

Touya, now in the safety of his abode, rushed to be in the presence of his laptop. Flinging the screen open with more haste than intended, nimble fingers moved deliberately across the keys, eager to dump the collected inspiration from the observed prompt; our first kiss…

Chapter Text

With the passing excitement of the festival, Touya had hoped the king’s feelings would pass like a phase. However, like the growing strength that came with clearing the illness from his body, the attraction only grew. Now fully on the mend from the sick bender, Keigo was more than active around the castle. While the presence of the king was meant to reduce Touya’s workload, Keigo’s active need to cling to the vampire only increased the amount of stress weighing on Touya’s shoulders. Finding an excuse or reason to be in his presence constantly seemed to be second nature to Keigo. Whether it was to ask a question that he clearly knew the answer to, or to simply check on Touya in increments of what felt like five minute intervals, Keigo was there. Like clockwork. 

"What’s on the menu for dinner?" Finding Touya in the laundry room folding freshly pressed linens with the maids, Keigo stepped casually to Touya’s side. Swaying lightly on his feet, hands were clasped childishly behind his back, while a silent, but glowing smile patiently awaited an answer. 

"I believe the chef is preparing a pot roast with cubed vegetables and strawberry shortcake for dessert." Adding a neatly folded sheet to the pile of clean linens, Touya turned to find Keigo inserting himself in between his work. Taking a candid step backwards, which was muted by Keigo’s step to invade his personal space, sparkling gold eyes blinded Touya’s sight. 

"Shall I expect you at the table as well?" Flushing red embarrassment swept his cheeks from the curious glances of the female maids surrounding them, forcing Touya to swallow nervously. 

"I imagine I’ll be around…" Hating the smirk crossing Keigo’s face, the king didn’t leave Touya’s private bubble until he’d gotten the answer he wanted. 

"I’ll leave an open chair for you~" Tapping Touya’s chest expectantly, Keigo’s smile left behind a throbbing impression within Touya’s fangs. "Don’t disappoint me~" Leaving the other male to drown under the gossiping whispers from the maids, Keigo disappeared behind the stone walls. 

Unable to disobey the command of the blond, Touya reluctantly found himself pulling a chair out at the table. Under specific instructions, the seat to the king’s right was occupied by Touya. Chewing hesitantly at the interior of his cheek, Touya eyed the human food in contemplation. The rumbling in his stomach more than urged the consumption of the meal. However, the uncanny throb pulsating from his fangs argued the pointed desire to eat. Sitting in close proximity to Keigo more than stirred the bloodlust previously settled at the festival. Unconsciously scenting Touya’s instincts, tempting the vibrating nerves with the alluring flavour easily overpowering the distinguished savoury smell swirling up from the mortal dish, Keigo’s blood stripped the vampire of any remaining inhibitors concealing his desires. Alive with the lusting thirst to turn against the blond who had handed his heart so easily to Touya, the vampire’s teeth sunk unapologetically into the soft tissue of his cheek. 

"Something wrong?" Bringing his attention to the desired meal arousing the hunger growling in his stomach, Touya shook his head. " If there’s nothing wrong, I implore you to eat." Invited with a smile, the blood seeping into Touya’s mouth from the puncture in his cheek barely quenched the throbbing desire. Lifting the fork with a shaking hand, the command was answered. Silent for nary a moment, Keigo kept control of the conversation. 

"Oh, while you’re here, I wanted to request that you prepare my evening bath." Grinding the already tender meat into a paste, Touya forced the wasted nutrients down his throat. 

"Is there something wrong with how Kaoruko has been prepping it?"

"Not at all." Picking at the food on his plate in an almost patronizing way, the glint in Keigo’s eyes was as unsettling as the food. "I’ve asked her to take care of other tasks, will you fill her spot? Only for tonight and I won’t ask you to do anymore than prep the water." Knowing full well that anything more would set his instincts ablaze, Touya silently thanked Keigo’s prudent restraint. 

"Of course." Loving the quick response, the pink hue that crept across Keigo’s cheeks churned the rumbling hunger in Touya’s chest. 

"Wonderful~ When I’m finished bathing, I will be expecting you to join me in the sitting room for tea~" Finding the inability to decline the genuine delight beaming from Keigo’s smile, Touya simply nodded. 

"As you wish."

Surviving the dinner, Touya prepped the king’s bath, catering the relaxing soak to his every liking. With the king submerged in privacy to ease his aching muscles, Touya found himself preparing a tray for the aftermath. While considering an excuse would have sufficed with avoiding the situation, the thrumming rhythm of his heart argued that spending further time with Keigo was inevitable. Understanding that his feelings were as real as Keigo’s, the indulgence in one another’s company was caused mostly by Touya’s agreement to the date. While feeding Keigo’s attractions was purely for the eventual consumption of the divine blood, Touya never expected he’d rise to the same conclusion as the king. 

Despite the gnawing apprehensions from the churning bloodlust, he truly didn’t mind, and honestly wanted to be in Keigo’s company as well. Shaking away the warming pink hue, the smile touching Touya’s lips accepted Keigo’s infatuation. Pushing away the drumming thirst vibrating against every nerve tangled under the surface of Touya’s skin, the vampire lifted the full tray from the counter. Entering the sitting room with a greeting smile, Touya felt the joy sparking from Keigo’s figure before reading the expression on his face. Warming the approaching form with the honeyed glow of delight, Keigo’s smile easily complicated the swirling deception overwhelming Touya’s senses. 

"My bath was delightful by the way~" Setting the tray gently down upon the small table between the two plush white couches, Touya acknowledged the compliment with a smile while nimble hands prepared the king’s tea. 

"I’m glad." Biting back the urge to tease the king with a phallic remark under the hesitancy of losing control, Touya kept the flavour of the conversation vanilla. "Your tea, my lord." Offering the steaming cup, Keigo was hesitant to accept. Eyed suspiciously by the golden orbs, Keigo’s gaze shifted to meet Touya’s patient expression. 

"You only brought one cup?"

"Yes, is that a problem?" Despite being unhappy with Touya’s results, Keigo accepted the steaming beverage from the outstretched hands. 

"I did ask you to join me, but I’ll let the miscommunication slide." Relishing the slight irritation tangled in Keigo’s tone, Touya boldly sat himself on the open couch across from Keigo.

"I am joining you, Hummingbird~" Crossing one leg over the other, Touya’s arm snaked its way along the back of the couch. "I wasn’t feeling any particular desire to drink tea at this time, but I’m more than happy to indulge you~” Bringing the ceramic rim to his lips, the brown liquid rippled subtly against the vibrating exhale of Keigo’s breath. 

"I admire your boldness, Touya." Sipping at the beverage, Touya couldn’t help the teasing smirk from growing. Resting the ceramic cup safely against his lap, with both hands still bracing the dish, Challenging gold eyes shot into Touya’s gaze. "I can’t recall giving you permission to call me that. Not even Chisaki uses that name with me." While flooding Touya’s ears with a playful edge, There was a sense of authority underlying the accusation. 

"If I may, I’d argue that it would be odd for Chisaki to use such a name with you." Purposely running the hand not resting against the back of the couch through his white locks, Touya’s half lidded gaze tore through Keigo’s heart with directed arousal. "I consider it a term of endearment after all, just like Snowflake is for you~" Lost in the disheveled flow of the illustrious white locks, gold orbs found themselves following each individual flowing movement. Dropping lightly back into place like a gently blown curtain freely dancing in the wind, the hair naturally covered the lust filled sapphire gems peeking from underneath. Teeth, white and sensually biting at Touya’s bottom lip, challenged the king to oppose the statement made. Attracting him through the simple gesture of his hand and twist of his facial expression, Keigo fell further into the palm of Touya’s hand. Feeling the pointed warmth spreading eagerly across his cheeks, Keigo awkwardly averted his gaze. 

"Well, That being said, I-"

"Besides, If I can recall, you didn’t have a problem with me using it at the festival~” Pulling Keigo’s attention back with the sultry teasing of his voice, the king could only blush harder. 

"I was distracted that day. Little details were easily missed." Uttering the first excuse he could muster, Keigo waved away the accusation with his hand. Choosing to silence himself before more embarrassment could occur, the ceramic cup found itself back against the king’s lips. 

"If you say so~" Letting the unconscious confession be swept under the rug, Touya changed the subject. "May I ask you a question?" Answering with the raise of his eyebrow, any notes of playfulness left Touya’s voice. "You speak a lot about your father, and you’ve suggested that he’s passed away, but you never speak about your mother." Catching the stiffening of each individual muscle holding Keigo’s body together, Touya sent the king a look of concern. "What happened to her?" Swallowing the tea swishing unconsciously around Keigo’s mouth, the king cleared his throat. 

"I’m unsure." Setting the empty ceramic cup gently upon the tray, Keigo’s shaking hands folded neatly over his lap. "My father divorced her and banished her from Fehrin when I was five." Intrigued, Touya’s eyebrow raised in question. 

"Do you know why?" Shaking his head, Keigo’s sigh carried as much weight as Touya’s initial question. 

"I remember Chisaki and I playing together. Kai had left me to get a snack, but he didn’t return. When I got up to find him, I caught my mother rushing out of the castle after an argument with my father." Dropping heavily under the pretense of his sadness, Keigo’s attention shifted away. Eyes, clouded with swirling neglect, hurt, and most painful of all, Heartbreak; the sparkling gold orbs lost their luster. "She left without a word, but her face…" Feeling the quake of Keigo’s voice touching Touya’s spine with the cold touch of a shiver, the outbreak of goose-pimples littering Touya’s skin couldn’t be stopped. Shifting to meet Touya’s gaze, the pressurized hatred shot from Keigo’s eyes stung Touya’s heart. While he appreciated seeing a more malicious stance being taken by the passive man, he despised the look of hurt that was infecting Keigo’s expression. 

"I’ll never forget the way she looked at me. Mother’s aren’t supposed to hate their children, they’re supposed to love, cherish, and protect them. But her? She couldn’t wait to get away from me." Welling with salted emotion, a quick blink of his eyes shut down any chance of Touya experiencing his vulnerability. "I haven’t heard from her since, so I couldn’t tell you what happened to her." Leaving the answer with a more soft delivery that Touya had become accustomed to, an unconvincing smile replaced Keigo’s heartbreak. "I apologize for dumping that on you, I should have warned you that she was a touchy subject. Forgive me, Touya." Despite feeling like he’d witnessed the first real emotional transition besides the obvious attraction towards him, Touya accepted Keigo’s apology. Prodding further would certainly unlock a plethora of buried emotions that Touya was more than interested in seeing. Keigo’s anger could certainly be harnessed as a weapon for Touya’s entertainment, and with how malleable the king was in his capable hands, the action would come with ease. However, catching a blip, a disturbance in Keigo’s oscillating heartbeat that Touya could only accept as a plea to stop, he dropped the idea. 

"I should be the one apologizing for asking initially." Gracing Keigo with a softness in his tone that the blond king desired to be wrapped physically around him, Touya’s smile promised comfort. "Thank you for sharing, despite how much the topic bothers you." Shaking his head to clear away the lingering distaste, the curve of Keigo’s lips became more genuine. 

"I did say I’d tell you anything you desired to know~" Burying the disjointed oscillation with the familiar accelerated beat of arousal, Keigo’s shifted demeanor painted his face with a casual pink hue. "My turn to ask a question." Crossing his legs to mimic the man across from him, the glint in Keigo’s eyes washed Touya over with uncertainty. "You said that you came here with your guardian after you lost both of your parents. I can’t imagine that the person who was responsible for your upbringing could be normal. Who are they and what do they do?" Suspecting a question similar to the one he’d asked, Touya hadn’t guessed that Kurogiri would be under the spotlight. Touya had hoped that Keigo would have prodded for more information regarding his father’s death, or even his mother’s untimely demise, however, focusing on his unmentioned guardian was an interesting topic. 

"I’m surprised you remembered." Fully aware that Keigo’s infatuation had mentally jotted every detail shared by Touya, the comment was purely transitional. "His name is Kurogiri. My father obtained Kurogiri from an overlord when I was an infant." 

"You were raised by a slave?" Thinking the situation highly unlikely, Keigo was trying to find the honesty behind the story, despite every word being a fabricated truth. 

"Kurogiri wasn’t a slave, he was…a gift." Either word was appropriate in describing Kurogiri. Born a slave to the other empire, he’d become a gift to the Todoroki family. Promising to remain at the bottom of the totem pole, Kurogiri expected to fill the shoes he had prior. However, when authority over Kurogiri was passed to the young prince, the title was dropped. After all, Touya didn’t consider him to be anything less than his friend. Choosing the right words to steer the conversation, the vampire king tried to string together a response that would make sense. 

"Kurogiri is a highly intelligent man who specializes in transportation and leadership. Despite his abilities, he’d been working alongside another overlord as a militia captain and strategist. However, he hated every minute of it and my father recognized Kurogiri’s potential. Rescuing Kurogiri from the other leader, my father was set on letting him go with the hopes that Kurogiri would one day repay his kindness. However, when my mother revealed himself with me in her arms, Kurogiri said he’d found his purpose." Purposely leaving out the uncanny fact that his father had brutally murdered Kurogiri’s first master along with all of his followers, Kurogiri had been left with no other choice. Using the unique hypnotic prowess to seal the deal, Despite the reek of loyalty emanating off of the man, Kurogiri was forced to swear his allegiance to the Todoroki family. 

"While utilizing Kurogiri for his uncanny abilities, my father noticed how adept he was at caring for and guiding me when my parents weren’t around. Eventually, he entrusted my well being wholeheartedly to Kurogiri. My mother’s and father’s deaths followed shortly after, but by that time I was more or less learning everything from Kurogiri. He’s the kindest man I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and I consider him my best friend because of everything he’s done for me." Releasing a throaty chuckle over the thought, the sparkle in Touya’s eyes was anything but humble. Kurogiri had been the rarest spoil from war, and while his words were spoken in honesty, the choice to be free was never an option. Kurogiri was bound to be Touya’s guardian and friend for eternity. His chains would never be severed and Touya’s grip would never waver, for the prize in the end was too precious to let go.

"Huh…" Bringing his hand to portray the thoughts occurring internally, the limb stroked Keigo’s chin purposely. "You and Kurogiri sound very similar to myself and Chisaki." Uttering the obvious connection out loud, Keigo’s internal thoughts erupted with excitement. Realizing that there was someone who could relate to his upbringing elated the king. Not only had Touya’s parents been removed from the picture in a similar manner as his own, but he was excited to be able to bond with the male over their shared advisor experiences. 

"I suppose so." Agreeing with the statement, Touya’s words deepened the blush touching Keigo’s cheeks. "Anyways, it’s quite late. I think it’s time to turn in." While Touya saw no symbolic reasoning to dwell on the realization, Keigo saw the parallel as an invitation to become closer to Touya. Watching the other male disappear with the silver tray in hand, Keigo was determined to introduce Touya to the possibility.

While the rising sun typically brought Touya grief on the premise that the lively warmth could bring about his demise, Keigo challenged the preset uncertainty. Stalking Touya like the crack of dawn, the king intercepted the male before said prey even left the comfort of his bed. 

"Touya! Good morning! You’ve done a lot of good for this castle, kept things organized, and have overall impressed me. Therefore, I have decided to promote you~" Discombobulated and fatigued, it was hard to deny the absurd request from the over ecstatic blond. "I want you to be my personal assistant!"

"Huh?" Rubbing his eye with a yawn, Keigo, who had invaded the other male’s mattress, crawled across the soft surface to be proximal with Touya. 

"It’s very simple really, you’ll work alongside me all day. I’ll ask you for advice on certain things, you’ll fulfill my requests, join me for meals, and if need be, will act as my bodyguard! What do you say?" Blinking tiredly at the sparkling gold orbs excitedly awaiting an answer, Touya accepted before he could consider the repercussions. 

Despite greatly enjoying Keigo’s company, the physical reminder that overexposure to the king could kill him became very prominent. Being in Keigo’s presence for an extended amount of time heightened the vulnerability of Touya’s restraint. Instincts, now buzzing with impatience stirred with every sudden touch, suggestive glance, pointed compliment, or worst of all, genuine smile. Finding it harder to keep himself from losing control, the expenditure of excuses came naturally to Touya. Finding an edge to step away to relieve himself, obtain food, or distract Keigo with a task was the only grace period to calm the aroused instincts within. However, with each excuse to step away from Keigo for a much needed breather, the length at which Keigo held his metaphorical leash shrunk. Ignorant to the aching pain established within Touya from his presence alone, Keigo refused to let the other male out of his sight.

"Someone else can take care of that, stay." standing quietly next to the throne, Touya nervously chewed at his inner lip while Keigo dealt with peasant matters. Sore from extensive biting, the vampire’s bottom lip pleaded for relief. 

"I’ll have our dinner brought in by another servant, wait with me." Moving to pick at his nails rather than disturbing his already throbbing lip, Touya sought a new distraction from the overwhelming bloodlust crying to take over. 

"Touya, would you mind giving my shoulders a rub? They feel a little stiff." Unable to deny the request, hands mottled with uneven nails, torn skin and a few self-inflicted nicks, groped Keigo’s shoulders. Applying a safe amount of pressure, capable hands worked out the knots tangled in the king’s muscles. Relaxed completely under the trusted grip, not only did a symphony of moans slip past Keigo’s lips, but the king seemed to purposely tilt his head in response. Openly tempting the predator behind him with the freshly exposed skin, the inviting pulsating rhythm of the prominent jugular struck Touya’s instincts with an unforgiving pressure. Hearing every arousing beat of Keigo’s heart lured Touya closer. Smelling the insatiable scent of the flowing hemoglobin beneath brought out the indistinguishable red hue of his eyes. Dangerously close to Keigo’s neck, every nerve dwelling within urged the nonconsensual extraction of the liquid gold. Fighting to keep the desire at bay, Touya tried to force his mind away from the situation. Yet, it was the subtle moan of his name dripping from Keigo’s tongue that pushed him to drown in the overwhelming bloodlust. Fangs, protruding without remorse, Touya's lips parted with a shaking breath of anticipation. Heart throbbing with accelerated excitement, Touya inched his face closer to the king’s indecent neck. 

"You know, you’re one of the few people in this world who I can wholeheartedly trust." Freezing entirely in his tracks, Keigo’s words struck the instinctual nerves vibrating within Touya. Awakening his mortal senses and realizing the inherent need to restrain himself, the vampire king swam towards the surface of the overwhelming bloodlust. "I would trust my life to you Touya…You’d never hurt me or use me like others would. I think I like that most about you, your honesty." Ignorant to the imminent danger he had inadvertently put himself in, Keigo leaned into Touya. Feeling the lighthearted tone of Keigo’s voice pulling him from his stupor, Touya shook himself out of his instinctual daze. Forcing his teeth unapologetically into the soft tissue of his tongue, the surging pain buried the current desire to devour the mortal in his grasp. Whimpering subtly, red eyes clenched shut while shaking hands retracted from the king. 

"Touya? Are you alright?" Nodding while humming a meek response, pale hands moved to cover his mouth. Turning to examine the integrity of the situation, Keigo’s raised eyebrow didn’t seem certain. 

"I…bi…my…ongue." mouth filling with blood, the answer was pained and mumbled mostly through grit teeth. Excusing himself before Keigo could worsen the situation, Touya rushed out of the castle to feed the itch in his fangs. 

With Keigo keeping Touya at his side, close call situations only seemed to reoccur. While acutely unaware of Touya’s real objective with him, Keigo seemed to unconsciously offer himself inadvertently to Touya every chance he got. Fighting constantly to keep the raging bloodlust at bay, more than enough nocturnal trips were taken out of the castle. Whether to find a lonely soul wandering the dead streets under the pale glow of the moon, or return to the farmhouse to down a bottle of substitute, the nightly intake of liquid barely began to quench the undeniable thirst. Despite consuming a record amount of nutrients in periodic succession after centuries of preferred starvation, the incessant itch still lingered in his fangs. Polishing off another bottle of Atsuhiro’s substitute, Touya thrust the empty glass into the dead hearth. Shattering against the stone fireplace, glass shards decorated the interior of the hearth. 

"Fuck-" Wiping his mouth of any spilled excess, the broken glass was quickly forgotten and left behind by the king who promptly left the quiet farmhouse. "I don’t know how much more of this civil restraint I can give before I lose myself entirely." Stepping out into the safety of the night, Touya followed the familiar pathing back to the castle. "Eventually I’ll have to bite him, consensual or not, because if I don’t…" Throbbing with aching hunger, Touya gripped his chest in pain. Easing none of the pain or hunger overtaking every nerve within his body, sharp teeth grit together in detest. "The bloodlust will kill me."

Unsatisfied, but loyal to Keigo, Touya returned to the castle. Padding lightly through the quiet halls, stealthy footsteps carried the nocturnal predator towards the safety of his designated room. Occupying the room merely two doors from the king’s bed chambers, Touya’s breath stilled with his approach. Afraid to wake the king, every movement became entirely calculated. Each step was careful not to thud against the cold stone floor. Exhaled breaths were calm and slowly deposited into the quiet air. Touching the door handle lightly, the knob was turned with as little haste as necessary. Heightened auditory canals caught every click of the tumbler as the knob turned, the sounds while excruciatingly loud to Touya, most certainly went missed by anyone else. Hearing the knob reach its designated end, the wooden door swung with ease over the floor. Opening with meticulous precision, the anxious drumming of Touya’s heart threatened to burst the organ from its ribbed confines. Sensing the flirtatious proximity with safety, the king’s bedroom door creaked open. 

"Touya?" Whispered quietly, the sound fell on Touya like a searchlight catching him partaking in illegal activity. Releasing the door and accepting his defeat, Touya’s halfcocked smile fell on the partial figure of the king. 

"Your majesty, it’s late~ Why are you still awake?" Hoping the king was experiencing a rare bout of sleepwalking, the suspicious glare shot at him through the darkness snuffed out the idea. 

"I could ask the same of you." Mumbled under the thick darkness of the castle, the accusation struck Touya harder than the directed glare. Raising his hands in defence, a pleasing smile crept across Touya’s face. Ready to accept whatever request Keigo had for him, the soft tones dancing in his voice seemed to ease the suspicions arousing from the king. 

"I couldn’t sleep so I stepped out for some fresh air, why? What’s troubling you, Hummingbird?" Slapping himself mentally, Touya regretfully watched the pink hue overtake Keigo’s cheeks. Relishing the endearing nickname, the king’s gaze shifted across the floor in search of an answer. Almost embarrassed to share his thoughts, the awkward shifting of his body indicated that whatever was keeping him awake, Touya wouldn’t like. 

"This is rather awkward…" Catching the unusual rhythm strumming from his heart, Touya cursed the way he’d greeted the king. "I had an awful nightmare and now I’m too afraid to be alone…" Finally finding the courage to meet Touya’s gaze, innocent blond orbs locked on their target. " I need someone to hold me while I sleep." Blinking at him through the darkness with eyes as wide as saucers, comparable to those belonging to a puppy, challenged Touya to refuse. However cute the king may be, Touya, knowing that an opportunity to lie with Keigo behind a secured door would most certainly lead to a loss of control, was quick to deny. 

"Okay, I’ll fetch one of the serv-"

"No!" Lowering his voice after the interruptive outburst, Keigo’s pleading gaze kept Touya in place. "I only trust you to lay with me and comfort away the darkness. I will only accept you in my bed." Already stirred and gnawing at him internally, cravings supposedly quenched by the artificial inhibitor awoke. Clenching his jaw together, throbbing teeth ground out the itch brewing over the request. Lacking the ability to respond, Keigo’s shaking voice touched the already shaken nerves tingling beneath Touya’s skin. 

"Please Touya…I’m scared…" Weak and vulnerable, the pleading display was unfair. Unconsciously offering himself as the ideal prey to the incognito predator, Keigo was ripe for the taking. "Please…" Threatening to well with tears, saucer-like gold orbs begged Touya to save him or kill him, the line was practically nonexistent. Stuck on the premise that Keigo looked tantalizingly delectable in his state of vulnerability, the vampire king fell for the luring puppy dog stare.

"Okay…I will join you once I change into my sleepwear." Wiping the fear from his expression, Keigo quickly thanked him with a smile before rushing off to his bed. Sighing deeply, one question weighed heavily on Touya’s mind while he changed into his sleepwear. 

‘What did I just agree to?’

Now dressed to receive the night's periodic slumber, Touya closed Keigo’s door behind him with a gentle click. Poised and waiting on the bed, Keigo was sitting upright. Pillows were propped neatly behind him while the large red blanket was draped over his lower body. Appearing giddy while not moving his body in any significant way, his fingers played unconsciously with the edge of the blanket in anticipation to pull the fabric back and let Touya in. Already regretting his decision, Touya found himself at the edge of Keigo’s bed. 

"How do you want me?" Flipping the blanket open, Keigo scooted across the plush surface. 

"Just lay on your back." Patting the open space next to him, the knot that Touya forced down his throat felt heavy as it sunk into his chest. Climbing onto the mattress, Touya followed Keigo’s instructions as he rested his head hesitantly against one of the pillows behind him. 

"Now what?" Shifting his gaze to eye the figure who was adjusting his body to lay on his side, Keigo inched closer. 

"Lift up your arm." Raising the limb slowly, the hasty way Keigo moved in comparison felt magnetic. Filling the space against Touya’s side almost instantaneously, Touya could barely catch his breath before the blond was resting his head unapologetically upon his chest. Snuggled up against Touya, Keigo’s body was pressed flush against Touya’s. Fitting himself perfectly against Touya, one arm draped itself protectively over Touya’s upper body. Hugging him like a teddy bear Keigo had lost, the king’s legs tangled themselves with Touya's, effectively trapping the vampire against Keigo’s body. 

"Thank you, Touya." Smiling softly, gold eyes closed under the relaxing lull of Touya’s heartbeat. Struggling to keep the rhythm of the beating oscillations calm, Touya was hesitant to rest his arm against Keigo’s body. Touching Keigo’s skin, the soft caress of his hand against Keigo’s arm sent the blond’s resonating heartbeat to ripple with excitement. Strumming oddly, the stuttering vibration forced Touya’s eyes closed. Certainly flooding red with hunger, the shivering arousal touching Touya’s ears was overwhelming to his senses. Feeling the bloodlust swishing mercilessly, waving at the metaphorical shores of Touya’s stomach with the consistent rage of a storm, nausea washed over the vampire’s still body. While meant to be calming, the gentle trailing of Keigo’s fingertips teasing his exposed skin was not helping. Teeth clenched as tightly as his eyes, the focused breathing expelling from Touya’s lungs was the very thin veil keeping Keigo from being attacked. Lying still under the quiet darkness enveloping them, Touya was afraid to admit he felt at home. 

"Hey Touya?" Humming in response, the soft melody of Keigo’s voice excited the vibrating nerves threatening to explode within the quiet male. "Have you ever laid with another person like this before?" Falling into old memories, the recollections of the past sparked across his mind like fireworks decorating the sky. Intimacy for him was second nature. The fingers on his hands couldn’t begin to count all the times he’d partaken in late night debauchery. Courted by his subordinates, it wasn’t unusual for Touya to lay with multiple partners at the same time. Pouring crimson liquid over each other's nude bodies, hot, wet tongues would run up the sticky skin. Satiating his sexual and physical appetite, slick bodies would crash together in heated expression of thirst and desire. Lesser vampire’s were eager to please him, catering to his needs at his beck and call simply because he wished for it. Not only had Touya expressed himself with other vampire’s, victims had their fill of pleasure from the king. Extracting blood directly was a very passionate exchange. When pierced by a vampire’s fangs, an insatiable warming pleasure courses down the victim's body. Flooding their senses with a euphoric high that can only be described as orgasmic, the feeling was just as pleasurable for the initiator. Sensitive to the dominant sensation of their fangs sliding easily into the soft flesh of a mortal, to hold another’s life so easily in their palm was sensual enough. However, the added lust from hearing their victims struggle, moan, and submit under their grasp aroused even the puritan vampires. Attracted to the taste, experience, and feeling, more than enough blood transactions ended rather spicy. Touya certainly wasn’t estranged to the act of pleasuring his victims as he took their life. However, developing an acute distaste for human blood led him away from acting on such juvenile impulses, but for Keigo, he’d easily make an exception. Shaking away the intimate recollection, Touya admitted his ignorance to Keigo. 

"No, Never." While not entirely truthful, the tender, domestic position Keigo had forced him into felt virginal. Having an appetite to over indulge on explicit relations left no time for meaningful emotional connections such as this. Which pointed to this encounter being the first time Touya had actually laid with another person in such a way. Sensing a candid skip in the rhythm playing from the musical organ beating a private tune within Keigo’s chest, Touya understood how important this exchange was to the king. Feeling the weight lift from his chest, while physically gone, the heaviness was still felt under the pressure of Keigo’s gaze. Blinking at him under the veil of darkness, the heavy breathed response evacuating the king’s lungs felt relieved. 

"Truthfully, I joked with you about my prowess with physical intimacy, but Touya…you’re my first." Excited to share a common ground with him, the rippling vibrations thrumming from the mortal’s heart accelerated. Eager to reach Touya and envelope him under the same emotional umbrella surrounding him, the excited rhythm was painfully ignorant to the truth. Yet, Keigo still smiled, silently accepting Touya’s fabricated honesty as he laid back upon the other male’s chest. Holding Touya tighter against his form, the action, while considerably small, sent Touya’s fangs into a flurrying throb of attraction. While still thirsting for the divine liquid flowing through Keigo’s veins, Touya couldn’t deny the way he longed for Keigo in general. Never had another being, let alone a mortal, made him feel this way before. Keigo loved him, and for once it wasn’t for his immortal capability or status. Unaware of either aspect, the mortal king had based his feelings purely from Touya’s personality alone. 

"Good night, Touya~" Uttered sweetly in a tune that would certainly play on repeat in Touya’s mind, the vampire king couldn’t help but smile. Bringing his arms to hold Keigo with a tightness akin to how he was being held, a response just as sweet slipped from Touya’s lips. 

"Sleep well, my Hummingbird~" 

Thriving in darkness, Touya had never feared the all consuming void. Acting as a metaphorical protector, the surrounding shade hid him from danger, while giving his heightened sense an advantage over potential attackers. Relishing the undeniable strength the shadows fed him, Touya was eager to embrace the periodic light strangling substance. However, lying still against the plush surface of Keigo’s mattress, said male sleeping peacefully in his arms, Touya had never felt more weak beneath the pale light of the moon.

Following the synchronous snores symbolizing the king’s unconscious state, red eyes revealed themselves to the darkness. Staring silently at the stone roof above, mental pleas for relief cried out from the bloodthirsty orbs. Waging mentally, the emotional war fought within kept the fatigue from washing over Touya’s body. Submerged too deeply into the ruse projected upon him by Keigo, the reminder that he was in too deep weighed heavily on his mind. Recognizing his original purpose which was to see Keigo as merely a transaction, the situation quickly became complicated. 

‘What’s stopping me from just taking a little bit now?’ Spoken internally, the question cued Keigo’s movement. Rolling over as if scripted, the king left Touya’s tender hold. Lying with his back facing Touya, the opportunity seemed too good. 

‘He’s practically asking for it.’ Thinking with logic that would grow out of trend, looming shadows awoke. Swirling around Touya, they crept across the mattress. Licking at Keigo’s still figure, the darkness crept over his body. Mild in manner, the darkness gently caressed the slumbering figure, sending an unconscious shiver vibrating down the length of his spine. Holding him without intent to harm, despite their history of violence, the shadows only acted as a beacon to lure their host closer. Remaining relaxed despite the menacing darkness consuming his body, Keigo’s vulnerable state served to spark the hunger pulsating in Touya’s fangs. 

Following the distinct attraction, Touya shaped his body against the curve of Keigo’s back. Snaking one arm around the small of the king’s waist, the other slipped casually under the king’s head. Folding to wrap in front of Keigo’s face, pale fingers tangled themselves lightly, but purposely through the sea of golden locks. Positioning the king’s head, the throbbing beat of the exposed jugular made the shadows dance with excitement. 

‘Come on, just a little taste~’ Presenting the vessel like a neatly wrapped gift on Christmas, the obvious way the shadows decorated Keigo’s figure tempted Touya’s resolve to follow through. Allowing the pale light of the moon to highlight the tantalizing length of the bulging vein teasing the vampire with every throb pushing the diving life liquid. 

‘You know you want to~’ Guiding his hand to shield the king’s closed eyes, a subconscious decision to poorly veil the innocent being from the heinous act about to be committed. Pressing his lips against the bare skin, the excited beat of Touya’s heart only seemed to accelerate under the consistent pulse luring Touya with every rhythmic beat of Keigo’s relaxed heart. 

‘Go on~ His heart is beating for you after all~ Take what’s yours~’ Lingering in the back of his mind, the shadows fogged the morality restraining Touya from acting on every prior tantalizing impulse. Imposing a score of tender kisses against the exposed area, the guise of innocence lifted from Touya’s eyes. Crimson orbs, driven by the maddening temptation of his thirst, saw Keigo for what he was. A meal. Soaking his lips with a sensual glide of his tongue, the supple barriers parted to reveal glistening white fangs. Dripping with saliva, the impatient fangs were moistened with the decision to reap the vessel of its reward. 

‘Go on~ Take it~ You know you have to~’ Touching the sharpened tips of his fangs against the throbbing vein, the incessant coaxing of the shadows urged Touya to insert himself fully. Longing to taste the liquid that had been clogging every sense and nerve with desire, pressure touched the pulse beneath. Heart thundering with anticipation, the soft touch of Keigo’s flesh against quivering fangs, forced a rippling shiver to course down the length of Touya’s body. Pulling away slightly to discard the excess moisture flooding his mouth, freshly wet tongue glided across the eager set of fangs, moistening them for their inevitable entry. 

‘Do it. You’re so close~ He’s yours for the taking~ Satisfy your bloodlust~’ Vibrating with impatience, the shadows swirled around Keigo’s body. Waiting to consume the unsuspecting vessel beneath the heavy pressure of bloodthirsty darkness, they eagerly licked at Keigo’s still figure. Relishing the pure taste well before their host, their excitement didn’t go unnoticed by Touya.

"I’m done waiting." Falling into the convincing hypnotism of his darkness, the grip around Keigo’s waist tightened. Ensuring the king’s imprisonment against the tight hold of Touya’s body in the event the transaction stirred him into consciousness, Touya repositioned himself against the feeble skin of Keigo’s neck. Drowning out the excited whispers from the darkness, Touya moved to puncture the untouched vessel. 

‘I like you, Touya.’ Hearing the soft, recognizable melody, Touya felt his body stiffen. ‘I trust you wholeheartedly.’ Uncanny, the sweetened tone of Keigo’s voice touched Touya’s ears. Pulling away, the uneven rhythm oscillating within his own chest forced the vampire king to adjust his hold again. Migrating, his hand moved from the blond’s eyes to muffle the sounds slipping past Keigo’s lips. 

"How ironic~" Whispering into Keigo’s ears, the sultry tones vibrating from Touya’s throat would safely keep the king beneath sleeps heavy grip. "Your blind trust…" Hot and wet, Touya ran his tongue along the shell of Keigo’s ear. "Your undeniable feelings for me…" Leading the moist muscle down the length of Keigo’s neck, the blip in Keigo’s pulse from the hot touch only excited Touya’s fangs further. "Has led me to take everything from you." Breathing hotly against the king’s neck, Keigo remained calm, lying still in the jaws of the beast. "I can’t wait any longer~ Your blood is mine~" Fangs protruding without restraint brought the looming shadows to celebrate in victory as Touya moved to strike. 

‘I think I’m falling in love with you, Touya.’ Halting suddenly, touched only by the tips of his fangs, predatory teeth pulsated against the king’s neck. Retracting himself entirely from Keigo’s form, Touya adjusted himself into a sitting position. Crimson eyes washed over the unconscious form incredulously. Sensing no change in Keigo’s state, the subtle snores breathed out only confirmed the slumber induced upon the mortal. 

"How did you-?" Expecting Keigo to answer, the disbelief that his own internal thoughts had restrained his actions was swept away. Unable to respond however, the uncanny acceleration of Touya’s heartbeat seemed to say what Keigo could not. Forcing his darkness back into the passivity of his morality, the weakened state of their host only sickened the hungry instincts. Starving for relief, Touya foolishly wiped the thirsty hue from his eyes. Heart aching over the perpetual disregard of his own well-being, tears began to form in the realized blue orbs. 

"Even if I wanted to…" Leaving salted trails to glide down his cheeks, the tears slipped unapologetically from Touya’s eyes. "Even if I had the resolve to…I couldn’t." Finding himself forming against the curve of Keigo’s body, pale arms snaked tenderly around Keigo’s form. Cradling Keigo flush against his body, Touya found his face closing into Keigo’s neck once again. Resting just behind the blond’s head, wet blue eyes closed, any harmful intentions were nonexistent. Crying softly, Touya’s shaking breath touched Keigo’s ear, spilling every buried thought and emotion residing within the vampire’s heart. 

“I was wrong…" Squeezing Keigo like a heartbroken teenager seeking solace from a stuffed bear, the pain throbbing in Touya’s heart urged him to continue. "What I’m feeling isn’t transactional…" Caressing Keigo’s side with the gentle touch of Touya’s hand, eyelids lifted to reveal the honesty swimming in the sapphire pools. "I love you, Keigo…I didn’t want to admit it, but I’ve fallen for you and I…" Clenching his eyes shut, a purposeful kiss was left against the still exposed skin of Keigo’s neck before the vampire king found himself resting against the pillow behind him. "I can’t take your blood without your consent…no matter how much it hurts me…I love you too much to hurt you…" Clinging to the lulling symphony beating within Keigo’s chest, Touya let the soft melody carry him off to slumber.

With the warming touch of the morning sun, Keigo stirred. Rolling away from the streaming light, the king tried to bury his aroused consciousness back into the sweet grip of slumber. Yet, despite any exhaustion that may have touched his body, Keigo found his eyelids lifting. Excited awake by the refreshed feeling of being well rested, the king sat up with a yawn. Rubbing the excess fatigue from rich golden orbs, now free hands fell lightly to the mattress with the intention to evacuate the bed. However, landing on a solid object, Keigo turned his attention towards the feeling. 

Curious gold orbs fell on the sleeping body occupying his bed. Recognizing the features belonging to the rarest snowflake to drift into his life, the intimate request from the night prior touched Keigo’s brain. Delighted to see that the man had stayed through the night, despite having no obligations to, a heartwarming smile crept across Keigo’s lips. Carefully adjusting his body, acutely aware of every shift he caused in the mattress, Keigo came to be kneeling next to Touya’s figure. Eyes sparkling with joy, followed every line detailing Touya’s face. 

Peaceful under the guise of sleep, Touya’s expression was soft. Carved out of the purest slab of marble, his skin remained unblemished and seemed to glow under the soft touch of the sun. Twitching subtly, plush pink lips parted slightly. Expelled softly, snores that Keigo hadn’t caught at first, slipped from Touya’s mouth. Disheveled, but still naturally falling over his face like an avalanche of untouched snow, the distinguished white locks smothered half of Touya’s face with their sultry beauty. Warmed by the sight, Keigo’s cheeks flushed pink with the familiar attraction. Leaning over the unconscious figure, tender fingers lightly swept the colourless strands of hair from Touya’s face. Revealing the hidden half of his expression, his eyes, while closed, still appeared beautiful to Keigo. Perfect in length, a full row of lashes followed the subtle curve of Touya’s eyelid. Touching the pale skin of his cheeks, the eyelashes provided one of the only points of contrast to the man’s sleeping expression. 

"It’s like you were carved by angels." Whispered softly and meant for only his hearing pleasure, the distinct sound aroused the sleeping figure from his unconscious state. Recognizing the situation as the oscillations of Keigo’s heartbeat touched his ears, the vampire king remained still. Letting Keigo believe he was still under the nocturnal clutch, containing himself from flinching under the warmth of Keigo’s hand caressing his cheek proved the hardest challenge yet. 

"Stunning." Running his thumb gently across the defined cheekbone, Keigo’s blush only deepened. "I wonder if you realize how beautiful you truly are." Unable to contain himself any longer, parted lips curved into a teasing smirk. 

"According to your assessment, I’m exceedingly attractive." Retracting his hand as if he’d been physically shocked by the words, Keigo’s blush shifted from attraction to embarrassment. Raising his eyelids partway, condescending blue orbs relished the hasty way Keigo averted his face. 

"I’m sorry if I woke you, I didn’t think you could hear me and I was talking to myself about something completely unrelated. I must-" Chuckling softly, Touya’s sudden grip, while gentle, pulled Keigo unapologetically into his arms. Falling abruptly against Touya’s chest, Keigo’s legs extended diagonally across the bed. Forcing his arms out from under him, the limbs ungracefully tried to push himself out of their confines. 

"Touya! This is-"

"Shh, it’s too early for excuses~" Uttered purely in a playful tone, Touya’s protective hold refused to release the king. Keeping Keigo’s chest flush against his own, the blond, while being more than okay with the proximity, still fought for relief.

"Touya-" Grunting, the king bent his knees in an attempt to weasel his way out of Touya’s commanding grip, only to find himself face first into the nape of the man’s neck. "Touya, I demand that you release me this instant!" Muffled against the porcelain skin, Touya still heard every word expelled by the king clear as day. Letting the king struggle to free himself a moment longer, the irritated symphony filling the air only made Touya chuckle more. 

"Touya, I’m warning you, I-"

"Do you actually find me attractive?" Seizing the king’s movement with the question, the weight of Touya’s arms lifted. Allowing the king movement that wasn’t taken, Keigo laid still against Touya’s chest. Replacing the sounds of the room with silence, the only wavelength captured by heightened auditory sense was the uncontrollable beat of Keigo’s heart. Hearing the accelerated thrum in his own ears, Keigo’s only movement was to turn his head to face away from Touya’s neck. 

"What if I do?" Catching the distinct rhythm of uncertainty and embarrassment strumming from the mortal’s heart, Touya tried to ease the broken wavelengths with a gentle caress of his hand. Tenderly stroking the king’s back, knowing that Keigo was woefully unaware that Touya already knew the truth, the gesture was coaxing him to continue. Tender and comforting, the feeling of Touya’s hand running the length of his back in perpetuation seemed to loosen the tightness gripping at Keigo from the confession. Becoming relaxed against the calming touch, Keigo refused to speak. Either wishing or thinking the chosen silence would change the subject, Touya took the plunge for him. 

"I think you’re stunningly attractive, Keigo." Ignoring the fact that Touya had willingly used his first name without authority, Keigo pushed himself away from Touya to meet the brazen man’s gaze. 

"You’re only saying that because I’m your king and you’re trying to avoid a punishment for disobeying my orders." Shaking away the accusation with the subtle movement of his head, bright blue eyes struck Keigo with overwhelming honesty before the words could leave Touya’s lips. 

"No, I’m not. Being transparent, your status means nothing to me." Admitted in part to the fact that he was Keigo’s equal, the statement was true. King or not, Touya would fall for Keigo simply because of who he was, not because he held the same, or more, authority as he did. "During my time working here, I’ve learned the real you. I’ve seen how you are with people and I’ve truly relished our time together." Moving disheveled locks of blond hair out of Keigo’s eyes, Touya couldn’t help but smile as his soft hands held Keigo’s face. Naked and vulnerable, the golden pools shown with brilliance. Falling deeper in love, the warmth of Keigo’s gaze brought the undeniable hue to touch Touya’s cheeks. Wrapping himself purposely under the loving gaze, the way Touya’s eyes glistened in return was proof of his honesty. 

"Keigo, I might be out of place for saying this, but I’ve fallen in love with you." It was subtle, but the king’s pupils dilated. "From the moment I saw you dancing so beautifully at the festival, how completely natural and happy you looked at that moment, I knew you were the one." Taking a moment to observe the quickened vibrations stemming from the king, the accelerated rate fell into resonance with his own. Matching the rhythm of Keigo’s heartbeat, the melody produced by the pair of dancing waves was loud, passionate, and pleading for acceptance from the other. Leaving a gentle stroke against Keigo’s cheeks, Touya retracted his hands. Bringing the limbs to rest upon his chest, Touya’s gaze, like the fleeting touch of his hands, departed from Keigo. 

"I will understand if you don’t see me the same way considering you are a king and I’m-"

"The person I’ve fallen in love with." Breathing out the objection, the exhaled remark magnetized the averted azure eyes back to the male. Eyes now locked on the flushed figure above him, the shaking tone touching Touya’s ears brought the tingling sensation to touch his spine before the king moved to make physical contact. 

"I love you, Touya." Stealing the opportunity to object, Keigo’s lips sealed Touya’s shut. Tensing beneath the surprise sparking across his body, teal blue eyes widened with pleasant astonishment. Hesitant to reciprocate with the undying bloodlust swirling within, the warm, reassuring movement of Keigo’s plush lips eased the anxiety infecting Touya’s conscience. Slipping into the feeling, Touya’s eyes closed while pale arms draped themselves around Keigo’s neck. Submitting himself completely to the exchange, the added movement ignited the dwelling emotions. Setting the sensations ablaze, the feelings erupted across their bodies like fireworks dotting the sky. Burning like a well stoked fire, the heated sensation was passionate. Thundering with the natural clap of a summer storm, resonating heartbeats boomed loudly with the roar of affection. Tingling with anticipation for more, the exchange aroused every docile nerve buried beneath the skin. 

Unfamiliar with the coursing sensation, Keigo desperately clung to the chilling feeling. Grasping at it with as much fervor as he shared with Touya, the wish to contain the feeling blossoming in the back of his mind.

Touya, having experienced the intimate fever prior, was unable to describe the sensation Keigo left sparking across his body. Unlike any relational exchange before, the intensity felt fresh, undefined, completely narrated for his pleasure. Similar to the initial puncture of fang to flesh extraction, the arousing sensation could only be described as such. However, despite the wild craving to satiate his bloodlust, the overflowing, unfiltered passion flooding from Keigo without the act of extraction, was more than enough to feed the feeling. Pure, strong, and meant only for Touya, Keigo’s emotions certainly couldn’t starve Touya, no matter how hard they tried.

Chapter Text

"I love you, Touya." Stealing the opportunity to object, Keigo’s lips sealed Touya’s shut. Tensing beneath the surprise sparking across his body, teal blue eyes widened with pleasant astonishment. Hesitant to reciprocate with the undying bloodlust swirling within, the warm, reassuring movement of Keigo’s plush lips eased the anxiety infecting Touya’s conscience. Slipping into the feeling, Touya’s eyes closed while pale arms draped themselves around Keigo’s neck. Submitting himself completely to the exchange, the added movement ignited the dwelling emotions. Setting the sensations ablaze, the feelings erupted across their bodies like fireworks dotting the sky. Burning like a well stoked fire, the heated sensation was passionate. Thundering with the natural clap of a summer storm, resonating heartbeats boomed loudly with the roar of affection. Tingling with anticipation for more, the exchange aroused every docile nerve buried beneath the skin. 

Unfamiliar with the coursing sensation, Keigo desperately clung to the chilling feeling. Grasping at it with as much fervour as he shared with Touya, the wish to contain the feeling blossomed in the back of his mind.

Touya, having experienced the intimate fever prior, was unable to describe the sensation Keigo left sparking across his body. Unlike any relational exchange before, the intensity felt fresh, undefined, completely narrated for his pleasure. Similar to the initial puncture of fang to flesh extraction, the arousing sensation could only be described as such. However, despite the wild craving to satiate his bloodlust, the overflowing, unfiltered passion flooding from Keigo without the act of extraction, was more than enough to feed the feeling. Pure, strong, and meant only for Touya, Keigo’s emotions certainly couldn’t starve Touya, no matter how hard they tried.

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Compelled to separate by command of his lungs wanting compensation, Keigo pulled away. Breathing heavily, half lidded gold orbs searched equally aroused blue ones for a response. Without uttering a word, Keigo grasped the deep seated stimulation pooling in Touya’s eyes. Clearly expressing the multitude of allure he felt for the king, Touya needn’t respond. Factoring in the heavy blush on top of the frantic beating of his heart, Keigo understood he’d made the right move. Smiling in delight, the king brought his head down to rest against Touya’s chest. 

"I’m sorry." Breathed out along with the soft tone of a chuckle, Touya raised an eyebrow. 

"Why are you apologizing?" Adjusting the pillow behind him to prop his head a height higher, questioning eyes fell on Keigo’s form. Bringing his arms to bend across Touya’s chest, the king lifted his head only to rest the limb in the crook of his left arm. Admiring the other male, the way Keigo’s gold orbs sparkled across Touya’s appearance, brought a timed skip to the rhythm playing in Touya’s chest. 

"I should have told you how I felt sooner, we could have done that a while ago~" Taken aback by the bold statement, the shock striking Touya’s face was quickly wiped clean by a chuckling smirk. 

"Don’t be too hard on yourself, it’s difficult to tell when something is genuine." Agreeing with a snort, boundless fingers reached casually for the long strands of white hair cascading down Touya’s face. 

"Isn’t that the truth." Said with a smile, Keigo’s fingers made easy work of Touya’s hair. Twirling the locks senselessly around the limbs, the simple act seemed to take the king from the conversation. Silently observing Keigo’s juvenile need to play with his hair, Touya was unsure with how the king intended to proceed. Clearing the building cobwebs from his throat, which didn’t perturb the king from playing with his hair, Touya spoke. 

"So, now what? What happens now?" Intrigued, Keigo gave the white locks a subtle tug proceeding the retraction of his hand. 

"What do you mean?" Blinking up at Touya with an innocence that would’ve been easily devoured by his instinctual darkness, the cute admiration emanating off the king was patronizing to Touya’s senses. Having calmed the aroused hunger, the blatant vulnerability teased the predatory instincts to come out to play. Collecting the scattered pieces of his nerves, Touya calmed the touched senses with a deep exhale. 

"Well, it’s probably not wise for you to be in a relationship with someone like me." Hitting Keigo with a double entendre that would certainly be missed by the king, the accusation forced Keigo to push himself away. Assuming that Touya was pointing towards the fact that he was currently a servant in his castle, Keigo couldn’t begin to fathom that the accusation went much further. Basing his question around the secretive racial difference between himself and the mortal king, Touya understood the unlikelihood of keeping a solid relationship with Keigo. Having learned from experience, their differences were too lengthy to last. Eventually, like every other mortal, Keigo would brand him a monster and would exile, or murder him, like every other member of his species.

"Snowflake, you literally pointed out that status doesn’t matter to you." Eyeing Touya incredulously, the sharpened glare brought Touya to sit up. Now level with the king, who was in the midst of repositioning himself, sat next to Touya with his legs crossed in front of him. Comfortable, Keigo’s arms folded over his chest. "Do you honestly think that your status will stop me from loving you?" Averting his gaze, the ability to find an appropriate excuse slipped from Touya’s grip. Eyeing Touya’s random shift of character, Keigo couldn’t ignore the reek of insecurity wafting off of him. It was obvious that whatever Touya had come to realize bothered him more than he could openly admit to Keigo. Hinging on the bet that Touya would eventually find the strength to tell him what ailed his mind, Keigo dropped his defensive stance. Softening his expression, Keigo found himself shifting into a kneel. Grabbing Touya’s attention, warm hands slipped into place against Touya’s face. Tenderly holding the man’s face, the way Keigo smiled down upon him was like experiencing a first sunrise. Genuine, warm, and soft, Touya found himself becoming wrapped safely beneath the honey glow of Keigo’s expression.

"Do you want to be with me, Touya?" Finding it hard to separate his senses from the warming touch of Keigo’s smile, the answer uttered by Touya, while genuine, felt slightly hypnotic. 

"Yes, more than anything. I love you, but I-" Pressing his index finger lightly against the hesitating lips, Keigo’s face inched closer to the stunned expression before him. 

"Then, as your lover, I want you to stop worrying about the minor details. If you want to be with me, then be with me. I will take care of everything when the time comes, trust me. Can you do that?" Nodding obediently, Keigo retracted his finger. Turning serious, the tone Keigo spoke with seemed to hold less authority than intended. Spoken like a man caught in an illicit act, the request felt more like a bribe, but it didn’t bother Touya in the slightest. 

"Wonderful~ However, for the time being, let’s keep this between you and I." Arousing Touya with the secretive exchange, mischief covered the smirk spreading across his lips.

"How naughty~" Initiating the intimate expression, Touya hungrily captured the blond’s lips. Moving with more fervour than before, the motion took the king by surprise. Quickly relaxing against Touya’s swift movements, tanned arms snaked casually around the other man’s neck. Pushing the intimacy further, careful movements maneuvered the king down to the mattress. Fully intending to carry on the exchange, Keigo’s body reacted appropriately. Shaping to let Touya fill the space between his legs, the limbs willingly moved to wrap around Touya’s waist. Hands, eager to explore, moved to tangle themselves amongst the cascading white hair dripping towards his face. Completely willing to let Touya continue, despite having only kissed the other male once, Keigo’s submission aroused the aching bloodlust raging inside. Keigo, unaware of the thrumming pain afflicting his partner, nipped expectantly at Touya’s bottom lip. Anticipating the intimacy would stretch on and reach the next level, the conformational moan that rumbled up from Keigo’s throat signalled Touya to stop. 

Pulling away nearly as quickly as he’d connected, the sudden departure left Keigo reeling for more. Sensing a tidal wave of uncertainty crashing over his partner, Keigo eyed Touya’s retreating movements incredulously. 

"What’s wrong? Was it something I did?" Shaking his head, Touya was quick to replace his hesitancy with a smile.

"On the contrary, that was quite steamy and if it were any other time I would’ve loved to draw our exchange out further." Sitting up, the raise of Keigo’s eyebrow would have kept the other male from retreating under normal circumstances, however, the growing anxieties infecting Touya’s heart pushed him towards the door. 

"However, I really must slip away before someone comes to check on you, or sees me leaving your room~" Adjusting to Touya's absconding form, Keigo was quick to object. 

"Where are you intending to run off to exactly? Last I checked, I promoted you to be my assistant and I’m currently in need of assistance right here~" Moving to lay purposely on his stomach, bent legs swayed freely through the air while the king’s more than condescending expression rested against the support of his hand. Propped up by the fold of his elbow against the mattress, the way he physically longed for Touya reminded the vampire of a teenage girl fawning over her crush. 

"Everything is currently being taken care of by the other servants, there’s nothing that needs your attendance at the moment. Besides, nobody is going to interrupt us~ It’s your job to check on me first thing in the morning, remember~" Hiding his hand from view, what remained of his nails picked incessantly at the already peeling skin. Trying to divert the stirring feelings, the sensual wave of Keigo’s finger drove Touya’s racing bloodlust off a cliff. "Come and check on me, Snowflake~ I’m feeling rather hot at the moment and I need you to take care of me ~" Questioning where Keigo’s sudden appetite came from, Touya swallowed the tightened knot clogging his throat.

"Forgive me, Hummingbird, but I have to remind you of the errands you asked me to run today." Eager to rush out of the castle and ease the gnawing hunger dissolving internally, the wooden door was pulled open. "I really must be off to town before the day slips me by." Slipping out of the room before the king could object, the click of the door latching in Touya’s haste, left a frown to curve over Keigo’s lips. 

"How disobedient." Twisting his body to become at the edge of the bed, the mumblings erupting from his lungs were anything but harmful. "I’ll have to punish him for leaving me disappointed, especially after I offered him my heart on a silver platter." 

While Touya rushed to grace the deathly grip of the overbearing sun, Keigo dressed himself for the day. Wearing a casual set of black trousers along with a white ruffled, long sleeved shirt, the king wandered off to consume his prepared breakfast. Without Touya present, breakfast was standard. Left alone with his thoughts, simply because the attending servants were too hesitant to stir a conversation, the king mentally paved his day ahead. Recalling that Touya’s excuse was legit, he had intentionally assigned the male to venture into town. Knowing that Kai Chisaki was scheduled to arrive at the castle today, Keigo chose to remove Touya from the situation. Assuming his meeting would be less rocky without the two large personalities clashing, it seemed like the best course of action. Although, he was silently kicking himself for using logic against himself following the events of the morning. 

"Your highness?" Taking him from his mental process, Keigo’s attention directed itself towards the voice. 

"Yes, what is it?" Shifting subtly on the spot, the servant's eyes refused to fall on his figure. 

"Kai Chisaki has arrived, shall I direct him here?" Looking down at the unfinished meal in front of him, Keigo shook his head. 

"Early as usual~" Redirecting his attention back to the servant, a sweet smile shot from the king their way. "Please show Chisaki to the sitting room. Inform him I will join him shortly, while he’s waiting please offer him refreshments. Thank you." Dismissing the servant with a wave of his hand, Keigo returned to his breakfast. 

Finishing his meal at a rather slow pace, the decidedly slow movements allowed for preparation time for Keigo. Originally inviting Chisaki to complete a follow up appointment, the ever changing status of his health was the least of his concerns. Gnawing at the back of his mind, the uncertainty revolving around the future of his kingdom weighed heavily upon him. Having no surviving heirs or members remaining to the Takami family, the disruption or unification of the thriving kingdom would hinge on Keigo’s decisive nature. Yet, despite the heaviness pressurized against his shoulders, Keigo entered the sitting room with a smile. Chisaki, already inside and waiting, rose with Keigo’s entry. Bowing in greeting, Chisaki only stood long enough for Keigo to take the open seat across from him before resuming his sitting position. Waiting patiently for the servant to wrap up serving the requested tea, the doctor waited for the door to latch before opening his mouth. 

"You’re looking rather well, there’s an inherent glow about you that you greatly lacked during my last visit." Choosing to keep Touya off of the table for the time being, Keigo sweetly agreed. 

"Thank you, the medicine you concocted did wonders~" Easily accepting the praise, Chisaki’s capable hands began sifting through his bag. 

"I’m glad." Brandishing the required materials, stoic yellow eyes fell on the king. "Shall we begin?" Unbuttoning his shirt with an exaggerated sigh, the white fabric was shrugged lazily from his shoulders. With the delicate fabric dropped purposely onto the couch, bare arms extended out, welcoming Chisaki with a more than teasing smile. 

"Do what you must." Starting his assessment, the doctor slipped the earpieces of his stethoscope into his ears. 

"How are things?" Asked while touching the end of the scope to Keigo’s back, the king answered between heavy breaths. 

"They’re good. Things are moving quite smoothly here." Taking a silenced moment to let the auditory waves oscillating from Keigo’s lungs to touch his ears, Chisaki hummed in response. 

"Perhaps I should have specified…" Switching tools, Chisaki attached a band to Keigo’s arm. "I meant, how are things for you health wise. Any issues or concerns I should be aware of?" Pumping the cuff erect with air, the doctor measured the king’s blood pressure. Thinking briefly, Keigo shook his head. 

"Not that I can recall." Releasing the built up pressure, Chisaki jotted a few quick notes in his book before switching to a new tool. 

"Wonderful." Running a few more tests, the doctor sorted through the compiled notes while Keigo re-dressed himself.

"Alright Chisaki, how bad is it~" Fully dressed, Keigo leaned against the back of the couch. Crossing one leg over the other, the playful smirk drawn across his lips hid the anxiety dwelling while he waited for Chisaki’s results. 

"Well…" Sorting through the written results while considering past knowledge and old records, Chisaki cleared his throat. "Although, you’ve cleared out the pneumonia, I fear that the leukemia is still progressing." Feeling the king’s lighthearted glow dying out, Chisaki was quick to divert the negativity. "However, it’s progressing at a rather slow rate. Given your current lifestyle, if you keep active and continue to eat and remain healthy, I estimate that you should have more than a couple of years left." While clearly defeated by the inevitable results, Keigo tried to send Chisaki a reassuring smile. 

"That’s…certainly…better than I expected." Not entirely convinced by his own optimism, the quivering smile while desperate to remain curved across Keigo’s lips pained Chisaki’s heart. Watching the light slowly, but surely, die from the kindest, purest star in the night sky happened to be the most difficult observation made by the doctor. However, he couldn’t let his sadness pile onto the king more than it already was. Lifting the long chilled cup of tea from the table, Chisaki sought support from the plush couch behind him. Mimicking the relaxed pose of the blond across from him, Kai boldly removed his mask. Placing the mask neatly next to him on the couch, a much needed sip of the lukewarm leaf juice was consumed. 

"Tell me your highness, how is Touya doing?" Catching the king by surprise, the intrigue that sparkled against the golden irises, brought a smile back to Chisaki’s lips. Although he respectfully didn’t care about the other male’s well-being on the belief that Touya truly was no good, the topic would undoubtedly make Keigo happy and that’s what mattered in the end. 

"What’s made you transition to talking about him? Aren’t you against his existence entirely?" Relishing the hasty recovery of the king’s playful edge with the indirect slap of Keigo’s growing smirk, Chisaki set the cup gently back upon the table. 

"Well, given your declining condition, I’d humbly suggest keeping Touya around to aid you." Waving his hand casually through the air to support his words, yellow orbs shifted into a challenging glare. "Unless of course he’s crashed and burned and has failed at upholding your expectations entirely~" Chuckling at the familiar envious stench diffusing off the doctor, Keigo was quick to let his condescension take over. 

"On the contrary, he’s excelling far better than I expected." Unable to contain the unfiltered warmth from touching his cheeks, leaving out the details of Touya’s excellence remained short lived. Easily picking up on the changing hue of the king’s face, Chisaki pried further. 

"Oh? Do elaborate."

"Why? I hardly see how that’s your concern."

"Your majesty, as your advisor I should be made aware of the trials and tribulations within and around the castle so I can better assist you."

"I’m inclined to argue your statement, Chisaki." Losing a sense of playfulness, Keigo leaned forward in argumentative defence. "With your less than present attendance in this castle, you’ve become more of a full time physician than my advisor." Feeling the growing anger emanating off of the normally collected blond, the pressurized hatred felt familiar. Encountering the weighted darkness on more than one occasion, the uncanny need to check behind him lingered in the back of his mind. Unlike the dangerous shadows that teased him, Keigo's anger, while just as threatening, was unable to hold a candle in comparison to the powerful darkness that surrounded Touya. Yet, despite the light touch of hatred stabbing Chisaki, the silent threat chilled the length of his spine. Realizing the repercussions that would certainly explode in his face if Keigo’s temper wasn’t simmered, the doctor was quick to retract. 

"You’re right." Forcing the knotted pride down his throat, he continued. "I haven’t been present and I shouldn’t have been so quick to abandon you at your weakest." Relaxing beneath the sincerity of Chisaki’s apology, Keigo leaned comfortably against the couch. "Would you prefer to have me present every other evening to better assist you?" Patiently waiting for a response, the silence weighed heavily against Chisaki’s heart. Uncertain that his apology worked, the rippling anxiety spread like a terrible rash. Frozen under the harsh, searching gaze of the king, Chisaki remained as stoic as possible, only finding the strength to smile when Keigo delivered a reassuring smile initially. 

"While I appreciate your willingness to help, that’s not necessary." Waving away the angst like it was nothing, the chuckles emanating from Keigo’s throat felt unsettling. "Actually, to be more specific, your services as my advisor will no longer be required." Answering with a raise of his eyebrow that more than outlined the offence taken by the statement, Chisaki leaned forwards in interest. 

"Have I done something to upset you?" Shaking his head lightly, Keigo was quick to touch Chisaki under the comforting tones of his voice. 

"No, not at all~ Let me explain." Repositioning himself to take on the visual of a CEO delivering career ending news to an employee, Keigo didn’t speak until the pads of his fingers touched together. "With your chosen absence, Touya was quick to fill the position. He made quick work of my castle, making sure everything was moving smoothly and ensuring that I was taken care of. I am thoroughly impressed by his leadership skills and capability to fill my shoes." Understanding that Keigo was set on delivering his termination, Chisaki accepted his fate. 

"Your highness, you needn’t say more. I would be remiss to remain in Touya’s way any longer. You seem confident in his capabilities and presence of mind, I would be honored to let him take my place." Forcing the envious vomit back down, Chisaki, while understanding Keigo’s reasoning, felt disgusted by his false acceptance of Touya’s ability. 

"Thank you for understanding Chisaki." Sealing the deal with a smile, which didn’t reassure the doctor in the slightest, the next string of words uttered by the king forced a pin through Chisaki’s heart. "Oh, while we’re on the topic, there’s something more I need from you." Relaxing his posture, Keigo leaned against the back of the couch. Snaking one hand along the back of the furniture, the other rested against his freshly crossed legs. "Would you mind preparing a will for me?" Intrigued, Chisaki’s posture reflected the king’s. 

"Forgive me for being so deflective, but why can’t Touya accomplish this?" Quickly averting his gaze, the hesitancy to respond from Keigo inadvertently gave Chisaki his answer. "You haven’t told him, have you?" Catching the drop in Keigo’s expression, the answer came without discretion. Picking up the pieces of the broken king, Chisaki accepted the task with an exaggerated sigh. "Yes, I will get a last will and testament prepared for you. I’ll even keep it discreet out of respect for your secrecy with Touya." Receiving a soft smile in return, Keigo’s gaze returned to the doctor. 

"Thank you, Chisaki, but there’s something else I need as well." Mentally wracking his brain for an explanation, nothing came to mind. Unaware of the evolving developments regarding his king, the uttered request gripped Chisaki’s heart with a pressurized force of envy and regret. 

"I require the necessary documentation for a marriage." Breaking Chisaki’s sanity like a mirror, the words tore through the doctor with the ease of a hot knife through ice cream. Fearing the worst, Chisaki pried further. 

"Marriage? To whom?" Shifting his gaze away, the unfiltered pink hue touched Keigo’s cheeks. Appearing awkward and stricken by the obvious question, Keigo’s embarrassed demeanor was quick to answer the doctor. "Touya?" Bringing the king’s love struck visual back to him, the subtle nod of his head forced Chisaki to object. 

"You cannot be serious. You’ve known him for little over a month, how can you be so quick to marry him?" Stunned completely by the revelation, Keigo’s defensive stance hardly affected the doctor. 

"I don’t need to explain myself to you Chisaki. I love Touya and Touya loves me, that’s all that matters. Besides, I won’t be around for much longer anyways. How can you argue against my fleeting happiness?" Knowing he was fighting a losing battle, Chisaki’s words would certainly fall on deaf ears. However, the obvious guilt that would’ve risen with his silence would actively be ignored. 

"I wouldn’t dare argue with your happiness, however, it would be negligent for me to not beg you to reconsider the haste in which you want to follow through. How can you be certain he’ll accept your advances so quickly?" Choosing his objection wisely and with direction to not hurt the king’s already fragile feelings, the question seemed to arouse Keigo’s thoughts. Considering the implications, Keigo’s shifting faze only met Chisaki when he’d drummed up an answer. 

"Being with Touya, I’ve grown to understand that timing doesn’t matter. He’s openly admitted to me his feelings, including when he fell in love with me and how he only wants to be with me. He’ll accept me and my love whenever I’m ready to give it." Stunned by Keigo’s confession, but mostly disgusted by the unrelenting hold Touya had over his king, Chisaki tried one final time to stall the king. 

"But your majesty, I still feel as though there’s a hidden agenda with Touya. Are you absolutely certain he isn’t using you for some underlying means?" Preparing a fresh cup of tea for himself, the king’s silence only seemed to prove Chisaki’s point. Motioning towards the doctor with the ceramic pot, the purposeful way Keigo was avoiding the question stirred Chisaki’s concern. 

"More tea?" Nodding, the doctor watched the king top up his cup before setting the pot against the tray. Waiting for Keigo to prepare the tea to his liking felt monotonous. Purposefully testing every aroused nerve for their patience, Keigo drew out his response until the hot liquid touched his tongue. "Refreshing." Said while setting his cup against the tabletop’s surface, when calm gold eyes landed on Chisaki’s form the doctor realized his answer would come. "A hidden agenda you say?" Rather mockingly, the king stroked his chin in thought. "Please elaborate, I’m curious to understand what you’ve witnessed that could point to that conclusion." Vibrating with concern, each individual nerve came to a grinding halt underneath the weight of Keigo’s question. Without any solid evidence, the accusation hinged on a whim and Chisaki found himself in check. 

"Well…nothing in particular…I only wanted to confirm your resolve is all." Not particularly convinced by the statement, Keigo’s eyebrow raised was more than skeptical. 

"I’ve never been more serious. I love him." Raising the tea cup back towards his face, the tone that touched Chisaki’s ears was enough confirmation that Keigo had him in checkmate since he sat down. “I want Touya forever and when the time comes, he’ll be the rightful heir to the throne. He’s proven himself to me on more than one occasion and Touya is the only person capable and trustworthy enough to be running this kingdom in my stead. Is that convincing enough for you?" Submitting under the pressure of Keigo’s pointed gaze, Chisaki’s hand laid itself gently over his heart. 

"Of course, your highness." While completely despising the idea that Keigo and his legacy would be left to the bloodied hands belonging to Touya, Chisaki accepted Keigo’s premise. "I’ll get those documents to you as soon as I can." Showering Chisaki beneath the sweet glow of his smile, the doctor’s blessing seemed to exorcise the temperamental feelings from the blond’s form. Replaced quickly by his usual sunny demeanor, the remainder of the conversation resumed with the familiar lighthearted banter Chisaki had become accustomed to. 

Having completed his analysis of the king and thoroughly enjoyed a sitting of afternoon tea, Chisaki found himself on the path home. Hands, protected by white fabric barriers swayed nonchalantly at his side, while the black mask found itself secured naturally over his nose and mouth. 

"How absurd." Mumbled to himself, the lingering thought of his king’s future sat undeniably in the back of his mind. "His feelings couldn’t possibly be real. There’s no logical explanation to explain how he could have fallen for someone like him." Diving deeper into the internal hatred flooded the tangled web of nerves within. Drowning in pointed anger, yellow orbs consumed by the reddening visual of his temper blinded the doctor to the approaching threat. 

"That wretched being certainly has brainwashed his thoughts. How can he be so blind to the obvious threat overthrowing him?! It doesn’t make sense! He’s stupidly throwing everything away to a low life wretch!" Steering his thoughts down a darkened path, the ramblings quickly took a malicious turn. "Keigo deserves better than anything Touya can offer him…I should take matters into my own hands…" Smirking fondly behind the protection of his mask, the chuckle slipping from his throat more than expressed his intentions. "If I can remove Touya from the situation, perhaps Keigo will come to his senses…oh yes~ Dismembering that wretched man will be easy~"

"You would be wise to not utter your threats so carelessly in public, Doctor~" Struck suddenly with the invigorating jolt of surprise, Chisaki’s entire body rippled with tension. Biting back the urge to verbally react in response, startled yellow orbs landed on the cause. Brandishing a satchel full of the day's spoils and wearing a more than confident smile, stood Touya. "Your victim could hear you~” Sensing the brunette’s anger a mile away, the meeting had become inevitable. Lured towards the expressive fountain of hatred by the swirling shadows beneath his feet, the gluttonous urges of the hungry darkness would soon become satiated. Learning that he was the source of Chisaki’s anger was the icing on the cake, teasing the man would be a treat. 

"Tell me Doctor, how do you intend to dismember me?" Taking a candid step towards Chisaki, the unnerving curve of Touya’s smirk chilled the buzzing nerves tingling across Chisaki’s skin. "Oh~ And please be explicit~" Excited by the proximity with the seasoned anger, the docile shadows woke. Merging unconsciously with the doctor’s still shadow, hunger driven darkness fed off of the fear and anger dripping from the male. 

"Stay away from me, filthy being. I needn’t explain myself to the likes of you." Trying to separate himself from Touya, the pressurized darkness consuming the shape of his feet cemented him in place. 

"Filthy being?" Faking his offence, the hurt drawn across Touya’s expression was purely rhetorical. "That hurts me, Doctor~ I’m no different than you~” With the inability to move, Chisaki shot his glare through Touya with the accuracy of a bullet. 

"How dare you compare yourself to me. I’m nothing like you. You’re a distasteful, manipulative, liar." While each word was unconditionally true, hearing them uttered from Chisaki’s mouth seemed wildly unfair. Crossing his arms authoritatively over his chest, the distinct way Chisaki leaned into Touya’s personal space was meant to make his point, but only excited the dark instincts further. "If it weren’t for the king’s weakness, I would have had you banished that day. I know there’s something wrong with you and I’m going to find out what it is. When I do, you can bet his majesty will be the first to know. Your presence is a blemish on King Takami’s life and I’d sooner die than see him waste it on you." Offering his fleeting life to Touya on a silver tongued platter, the vampire king didn’t hesitate. 

"That can easily be arranged~" Certain there were no prying eyes invading the exchange, Touya let his darkness loose. Restraining the doctor with ease, the hungry shadows gripped at the man’s exposed neck. "Would you like me to detail how I’d dismember you?" Wrapping mercilessly around the man’s torso, the relenting darkness held Chisaki tightly like the straightest of jackets. "It would be painfully easy for me to take you apart, but I wouldn’t let you off so easily. Our fun would last for hours, beginning with my filthy hands touching every inch of your body…" Disgusted, the brunette male tried desperately to shake the heavy nightmares from his body, only to have the threatening pressure increase. 

"Shut up! You wouldn’t dare-"

"I can taste your fear~" Chilled by the haunting tone overtaking Touya’s voice, shaking yellow orbs fearfully realizing the changed appearance across from him. Eyes, violet with overwhelming authoritative power, seemingly stripped Chisaki of any and all remaining confidence. While pale hands littered with self inflicted cuts and nicks selfishly robbed Chisaki of his remaining security blanket. Tossing the signature black mask aside like discarded waste, the discomfort swelling from the doctor elicited a chorus of sultry chuckles to erupt from Touya’s lungs. 

"What’s wrong Chisaki? Don’t you want to play? You were so confident a moment ago, what happened?" Trembling with uncertainty, the glint in Touya’s eyes only deepened the realization that he wasn’t going to walk away from this encounter. Submitting silently to seeking relief from a higher power, the desperation only fueled Touya’s descent into violence. Picking up on the silent prayer using means impossible for Chisaki to comprehend, Touya was eager to collect the agitated oscillations beating from the Doctor’s heart. 

"For someone so unclean with pride, your fear is quite delectable~ Please keep feeding my ego Chisaki~" Reading the unbridled fear and discomfort etched seamlessly across Chisaki’s face, Touya’s heart accelerated with excitement. "Mmm~ That face~" Pushing the brunette’s boundaries further, Touya’s hands moved to cup the grimacing expression. "If you keep looking at me like that, I won’t be able to handle it~" Speaking in a tone dedicated to his arousal, the usage was purely for theatrics. Chisaki excited nothing within him besides the predatory instinct to slaughter the weak and wounded. By Touya’s standards, he would be doing Chisaki a favour. Fueled by the unrelenting terror flooding from the brunette, Touya’s senses led the attack. Purposefully running his tongue across the prominent white fangs, Chisaki’s heart fell into the shadows. 

"Y-You’re a…" While the realization struck the doctor with the force of a stampeding animal, the hasty pressure of Touya’s hand against his mouth bothered him more than the revelation. 

"Shh~ That’s not important~ My heritage is a minor detail that you will soon forget~" Remaining certain he’d carry the detail with him if he had the opportunity to depart from the encounter, Chisaki remained obediently still beneath Touya’s unwanted guiding hand. Closing the gap between himself and the doctor, Touya’s face became uncomfortably close to the brunette’s. 

"Listen closely to my words Kai Chisaki for I do not intend to repeat myself." Locking his hypnotizing gaze with the terror filled, wide yellow orbs, Touya left his command with the doctor. "While I’d be foolish to separate you indefinitely from Keigo, I can, however, limit your time with him. I will allow you to keep your scheduled appointments with him and if Keigo calls for you, answer his summons; but your conversation will be kept strictly in accordance with the appointment. Avoid talking about me with Keigo, if he brings me into the conversation, divert him. I don’t care what you do, but there’s no reason for your incessant apprehensions towards me to opportunely fill Keigo’s head with lies. You may keep your conspiracy theories about me, however, if I find out that you’re trying to meddle in my affairs again, I won’t be so forgiving." Gripping Chisaki’s jaw, pale fingers were certain to leave behind a pattern of bruised skin as a reminder. 

"Keigo Takami is mine and I won’t have your developed envy take him from me." Squeezing the man’s face harder, violet eyes searched through the glazed over orbs pleading for relief. "Do I make myself clear?" Whimpering under the hurtful pressure applied to his cheeks, the weak response was more than convincing of the human’s obedience. Lingering against the brunette’s face, the vampire’s grip loosened while he retracted his shadows from Chisaki’s body. Fed and thriving from Chisaki’s fear, the shadows tucked themselves safely beneath Touya’s feet. Removing himself entirely, Touya finished off the exchange. 

"I want to hear you say it, Chisaki." Lacking any physical control of his bodily movements, the doctor dropped to a kneel. 

"I understand, your highness." Letting his victory show on his face, the smirk touching Touya’s lips showered the other male with its demeaning appearance. Despite challenging him at every turn, Chisaki’s spirit was just as fragile as any other mortal’s. The fact that he was obediently kneeling without Touya’s command, was proof enough of his inferiority compared to the immortal king. 

"Very good~" Dripping with patronizing descent, Touya guessed that had the brunette had any sense of control, he probably would have felt the repercussions of his actions through Chisaki’s fist. Chuckling softly over the thought, betting that even if the Doctor’s temper had flared to the point of physical violence, his mysophobia wouldn’t dare distribute harm. Kneeling to be on Chisaki’s level, the king spoke. 

"Raise your head." Meeting Touya’s gaze, the vampire was quick to induce a memory wiping nap upon the man. Ensuring the mortal would forget Touya’s secret, as well as suspending the initial argument in an untouchable, thickened fog, his demands would lay fresh in his head. Falling unconscious, Chisaki fell back against the dirt below while Touya straightened himself out. Securing the violet hue behind the calming blue of his eyes, the vampire moved to retrieve the doctor’s discarded mask. Casually wiping dirt from the surface, Touya turned in time to Chisaki’s awakening consciousness. 

"W-What the-What happened?" Groggily sitting up with a soiled glove holding his forehead, Touya approached with the newly acquired mask. 

"Doctor Chisaki, are you okay?" Laced with false concern, Touya crouched down to aid the man. 

"Touya? What’re you…what happened?" Offering the mask to the discombobulated figure, Touya strung together a web of created lies. 

"I was on my way back to the castle from running errands when I came across your unconscious form." Despite the filthy implications of the mask, the dirty leather was fastened promptly over his face. Inhaling dirt seemed more appropriate than whatever foreign viruses Touya may be carrying. 

"Unconscious?" Wracking his brain, which was throbbing painfully for a figment of recollection, nothing came to mind. 

"Yes, you must’ve been struck by something or hit by a fleeing object or animal. I’m unsure how long you were out for. When I arrived I found your mask was just over here…" Pointing in the general direction he’d tossed the object, Touya brought his hand to offer for the Doctor. "Here, let me help you up." Feeling hazy, like he’d overdosed on an illegal substance, Chisaki couldn’t help but hypothesize the asinine thought that his mind had been tampered with. Unable to access any recent memories besides that he’d just left the castle after checking in with the king, the events bringing him to an unconscious state remained forgotten. However, noticing no immediate items missing and feeling no external wounds, he was prepared to let the confusion slip. Yet, when his eyes fell on the outstretched hand extended in front of a malicious, yet tame smile, something told him to run. 

"Thank you, but I’m fine." Verbally slapping the offer away, Chisaki slowly got to his feet with Touya following suit.

"Are you sure, I can walk you back to the clinic if you-"

"I don’t need your help, besides, don’t you have somewhere to be?" Gesturing towards the satchel strung over Touya’s shoulder, the doctor took a shaking step past Touya. "You wouldn’t want to keep his majesty waiting, would you?" Ignoring the general implications of the statement, Touya understood the success of his hypnotism.

"No, I suppose I shouldn’t make him wait any longer~" Smirking devilishly at the doctor’s retreating form, Touya threw one final subtle threat at the brunette. "Get home safely Chisaki~ The king would be heartbroken if something happened to you~" Without dignifying the farewell with a wave, Chisaki disappeared down the path. Chuckling softly over the malleability of the mortal man’s mind, Touya spun on his heel, returning to the castle without another incident. 

Avoiding Keigo with his return, the vampire focused on putting the obtained materials away as well as finishing up any remaining tasks. With the falling of the sun below the horizon however, Touya couldn’t hide from the hawk-like eyes of the king. 

"I should’ve guessed this is where I’d find you~" Finding him alone in the kitchen at the end of the evening, Touya expected the king to be more annoyed with his purposeful ignorance of the man. "It’s my own fault for not checking the one place you can find a snack~" Hitching in his throat, Touya’s breath found itself trapped beneath the weight of sensuality dropped on him by the king. Expecting a less flirtatious response, the greeting caught Touya completely off guard. Yet, turning to see the young blond sitting expectantly on the island’s clean surface, he didn’t mind losing his guard to the king. 

"You’re looking for a snack?" Chuckling, Touya freed up his hands to be in front of Keigo. "Then, honey, you should look in the mirror because you’re the only snack here~" Complimenting Keigo in a way the mortal would have yet to understand, warm hands slipped onto the king’s waist. 

"Is that so?" Wrapping his arms loosely around Touya’s neck, the king’s knees departed in opposing directions. Letting Touya slip casually in between the dangling limbs, the daring squint of Keigo’s eyes set Touya’s instincts ablaze. "Are you feeling peckish? Perhaps you should have a taste~" Unaware of the offer he’d just handed Touya, the power to restrain himself dwindled greatly. Biting back the compulsion to act on Keigo’s words, Touya settled for something lighter. 

"If you insist~" Inviting Keigo’s lips into a passionate dance, Touya set the pace with his cautious movements. Aware of how close he was to surrendering to his instincts, the fluid movements remained borderline hesitant. Touching Keigo softly, he’d pull away for a second before lingering a little longer against the king. The act, while generous to his own needs, left Keigo starving for more. Hands, wandering up Touya’s neck, tenderly, yet firmly held Touya’s face in a position fit for his liking. Keeping the man from pulling away, Keigo proceeded to step on Touya’s toes. Selfishly taking the lead from his partner, the pace hastened to feed Keigo’s hunger. Eating at Touya’s apprehensive lips like the other male was an all you can eat buffet, Keigo’s movements quickly became overstimulating. While enjoying every sparking touch of the sensual exchange, the overwhelming pressurized hunger welling in his own stomach urged him to separate from the innocent king. Finding an opening to smother Keigo with a fitting excuse would be a challenge in itself as the blond’s movements became more obsessive. Attempting to take the dance to the next degree, the king leaned unapologetically backwards, only giving Touya a quick second to brace his hands against the surface of the countertop before both of them fell. 

"Hummingbird-" Mumbled between the hasty smack of Keigo’s lips, the blond hummed in response. "Hummingbird, stop-" Feeling the objective pulled from Touya’s retreating form, Keigo disappointedly put a halt to his advances. 

"Why? What’s wrong?"

"I thought I heard something…" While not entirely lying, the faint shuffling of someone moving about the bowels of the castle had been picked up by Touya’s auditory sense. However, being the furthest thing from an interruption, the sound was simply an excuse to keep himself from hurting Keigo. "I’m actually pretty tired from the day, could we turn in for the night, maybe cuddle a bit in private?" Considering the king’s request to keep their antics a secret, the suggestion wasn’t intended for continuation. Truthfully, Touya hoped he could get the king comfortably alone to induce slumber on him. Keeping Keigo conscious for much longer would certainly lead to a conversation Touya wasn’t ready to have, or he’d kill him by accident. Neither outcome was desired by any means, sleep was the only positive option at the moment. 

"Maybe you’re right…" Glancing towards the closed door as if expecting someone to walk in at that moment, Keigo’s eyes filled with a sense that only challenged Touya’s mysterious intentions. "Let’s go to my chambers, we can lay together, and~" Walking his fingers up the vampire’s chest, the sensual way the roaming fingers came to trail the underside of Touya’s chin, didn’t lift any apprehensions from the vampire’s raging thirst. “If we want to pick this up, we won’t have to worry about any sudden interruptions~" Etching a smile across his lips with shaking movements, Touya awkwardly agreed. Moving to head towards the door, the restraining grip from Keigo’s arms stopped him. Eyeing the king incredulously, the twist of Keigo’s lips increased the velocity at which Touya’s nerves were already shaking with anxiety. 

"Love, I thought we were-"

"Carry me~" Blinking at the king for nary a moment, Touya’s shock quickly became replaced with a tender smile. Saying nothing, Touya lifted Keigo into his arms. Sweeping an arm skillfully under the king’s legs, his other braced the blond’s back. Chuckling softly, the king’s arms moved to wrap around Touya’s neck while his head nestled itself against Touya’s chest. Despite being actively carried away by the man, it was the rhythmic beating of Touya’s heart that held Keigo so tenderly. Wrapped up metaphorically in the sweet symphony, each thrumming note touched Keigo’s sense with the silent affirmation that the organ worked purely for him. While obviously not the case, the resonating melody of Touya’s heart beating in time with his own said otherwise. 

Arriving promptly to the king’s chambers, Touya pushed the door softly closed with his foot. Carrying Keigo to the mattress, Touya gently deposited his precious cargo upon the plush surface. Letting Keigo move across the mattress, Touya followed after. Taking the position he had the night before, the king eagerly curved against Touya’s body. Wrapping his arms easily around the mortal, the feeling of Keigo’s head resting against his chest became natural. Even though the close proximity was driving him crazy, he liked the comforting feeling Keigo brought upon him. 

"Hey Touya, can I ask you something?" Humming in response, Touya’s hand freely roamed the disheveled blond locks falling over the king's head. Leaving comforting pets across the mess of golden hair, Touya was careful to not leave any locks obstructing the king’s peaceful expression. "What kind of future are you seeking for yourself?" Thinking the question rather sudden, Touya guessed the king was testing his commitment. While keeping the relaxing pace of his hand, Touya’s answer was just as soft. 

"Like any dreamer, I thought I wanted to live a lavish lifestyle, one where I held all of the power. I could do as I please with whomever I pleased, while receiving all of the gifts and praise I fancied." Sensing a dip in Keigo’s rhythmic heartbeat, Touya was quick to correct the disturbance with his honesty. "However, after realizing that I’m the happiest and most comfortable living a rather tame, domestic life, all I want for myself and my future is to spend my remaining time with someone who wants to give me theirs in return." Despite the glaring flaw in Touya’s statement, his answer wasn’t false. Truthfully, putting his thirst aside, he wanted to spend every minute with Keigo. If his body would allow it without incident, there would be no question of his commitment. Keigo was fascinating, kind, and overall a delightful person to be around. How could he not want to spend every waking minute with the blond? The eventual consumption of his blood quickly became a perk. 

"I think you’re being modest." Hiding the fact that he was delighted with Touya’s response, Keigo’s voice remained calm. Elated that his lover sought the same thing as he, moments after admitting his intentions to Chisaki, felt reassuring. Touya was a sure thing, despite all of Chisaki’s objections, and Keigo would be a fool to let him slip through his fingers. Relaxing under the soothing petting motion of Touya’s hand, the king’s eyes slipped closed. 

"I assure you that I’m not, I’ve witnessed enough corruption to understand that what I have with you is what I want." Placing a sealing kiss against the top of Keigo’s head, the lulling vibrations that eventually followed, signaled the slumbering state of the king. Safe under the clutches of sleep, the vampire slipped out into the welcoming night air with the urge to satiate the gnawing hunger eating him alive. 

Touching the lid of the laptop against the keys more harshly than he’d intended, the device was quickly discarded against the open surface of the couch. Stricken with a wave of nauseating phantom pain, the decision to stop was inevitable. Aching with every life distributing beat of his heart, the reminder of how painful his bloodlust was after years of docile activity, spread infectiously through his veins. Plagued by the ancient feeling stirring up long forgotten memories only worsened the painful effects of the tantalizing thirst. Yet, avoiding Keigo’s impression seemed impossible. Arousing the dormant bloodlust from the narrative was obvious, but it seemed to easily awaken with passing symbols, smells, or sounds that pointed towards the deceased mortal. 

Cracking painfully over his already broken heart, the starved bloodlust took no pity upon its host. Constantly reminding its host that the specimen in question was unavailable to quench his itching thirst, the phantom feeling only served to grind salt unforgivingly in reopened wounds. Unfairly suspending Touya in an endless cycle of torment without any chance of relief, the stirring bloodlust weighed more heavily than the regret of losing Keigo. 

Trying to distract the stirring senses, the king lifted the remote from the table. Flipping carelessly through the channels until a movie caught his attention, the king tried to divert the aching pain by immersing himself in the images on screen. However, as the movie drew on, the script became too familiar. Set to follow the lives of a romantically involved couple, the movie set the audience up with the opportunity to cry. Diagnosing one of the characters with a terminal disease early in the plot, the movie was spent by the couple relishing their fleeting time together. Emotionally gripping in every way, being forced to witness the actor die on screen in a suspiciously accurate way, hit too close to home for Touya’s liking. Flicking the screen off, shaking hands swept a few pained tears from his eyes. While the scene was obviously targeting his own deep seated guilt over his inability to save Keigo, the outcome inspired him. Switching his attention to the notepad next to him, the next prompt was scrawled quickly across the paper. 

How did he react when you told him your secret? How did you feel after? What happened with the relationship after?

Content with the decided direction of his narrative, but too emotionally distraught to continue for the evening, the notepad was tossed down atop the mess of paper littering the coffee table. Slapping unconditionally against the lightweight material, the disturbing whirlwind expelled by the notepad upset the still papers enough to reveal the forbidden image beneath. Uncovered by the gust of unforgiving wind caused by Touya’s deposit of the heavy object, Keigo’s unmoving expression stared lifelessly ahead. Eyeing the paper with freshly wet azure orbs, a shaking hand carefully picked the article out of the pile. Purposely avoiding the etched image, the drawing felt forgotten. 

While more than familiar with every metaphorical inch of the man’s body, the sketched lines did nothing to refresh his broken feelings. Following each sketched feature, calm blue eyes quickly became soaked with tears. Shaped perfectly to reflect the round shape of Keigo’s face, the subtle point of his chin was frosted lightly with the uncanny inability to grow hair. What little facial hair the king grew was compensated greatly by the thick frond of unruly windswept blond hair flowing around his face. The feeling of said locks was instilled permanently under the sensory pads of Touya’s fingertips. Smooth like the finest silks, the king’s hair was a reflection of his status. While supple and shiny, the locks of spun gold couldn’t hold a candle to the solid gold poured to fill Keigo’s irises. Pure, honest, and capable of lighting up a room beneath the sparkle of their lustre, the king’s eyes were the rarest of all. Viewing them in this dead format did nothing to capture neither their essence nor beauty. 

In fact, despite the glaring accuracy of the sketch, nothing on the page struck Touya with the familiar comfort typically provided by the vessel. Drowned beneath the sudden tidal wave of sadness, Touya’s hands were quick to crumple the image. Tossing the only surviving visual of the king across the room, the vampire king found himself curling up against the plush surface of the couch. Folding his body tightly into the comforting shape of a ball, relentless tears slipped down his face. Crying out solely for any sense of relief from the persistent crack cutting across the surface of his heart, not even the still image of Keigo could ease the pain left behind by the living version. 

Chapter Text

Choosing to neglect the continuation of the written narrative was quickly becoming second nature for Touya. Acutely aware of what would transpire in the novelization following the last stoppage, Touya purposely decided against writing. Admitting his vulnerabilities was a detestable mortal weakness that he’d unfortunately learned from his ex lover, however, that didn’t make the discussion of said weaknesses any less difficult. Finding no desire to remember the fragility he’d fought so hard to contain three hundred years prior, the apartment and laptop were left behind. Following Kurogiri’s advice, the immortal king took a break from being a hermit. 

"Would you like to know what I think?" Casually transitioning the previous conversation, which unsurprisingly was a polite argument over Touya’s resolve to continue writing, Kurogiri left an order with the angsty king. "I think every time you direct yourself into a wall, you should literally walk away from your memoir. Go outside and force yourself to spend some time in the real world. Every time you do, you seem refreshed, eager to face the obstacle you couldn’t climb before." 

Accepting his advisor's wisdom, Touya found himself under the heat of the sun. Tucked under the protection of a navy blue sweater, only the darkened tips of his dyed hair touched the sunlight. Covered by the rest of the fabric, Touya’s upper body, while hot beneath the heavy fabric, was concealed. Long, thin legs were safely encased by a pair of black skinny jeans, while the expensive shoes purchased a few days prior, stomped casually against the cement below. Ignoring the eyebrow raises from passing strangers, carefully outlined sapphire eyes kept trained ahead. 

Finding inspiration wasn’t the purpose of this outing, therefore, he didn’t care where he ended up. All Touya required was a moment away from the stifling pressure of the past. With no set destination in mind, they locked onto the first shop that intrigued their host. Without removing the vulnerable hands from their hiding spot, Touya pushed the glass door open using the force of his shoulder. Under the protection of the store’s air conditioned interior, the king was quick to pull his hood down. Greeting the inanimate objects with his full appearance, Touya stepped further inside. 

Admittedly, he’d never been inside, but he was aware of the goods frequently purchased from the establishment. With a symbol as obvious as the spinning record mounted above the door, it didn’t take a genius to hypothesize the main selling point was music. What Touya didn’t expect as he actively explored the store was the availability of other multimedia. One half of the store was lined with bookshelves. Filling the shelves in an organized fashion were movies and television series. Avoiding the films like the plague, Toyua flocked to the other side of the store. Displayed using a mixture of bins and shelves were CD’s, records, and even the odd cassette tape. Organized in the same fashion as the films, Touya found himself sifting through a mixture of punk, metal, and some older rap artists. Thinking these genres would deliver a more tasteful distraction from his ex than other forms of music he’d listened to, Touya was uncertain with his choices. Basing his decision solely off of the album covers that intrigued him, Touya could only hope the sounds were as interesting as the visuals. 

In one of his hands was a very simple looking vinyl. Mostly black in colour, the picture depicted a couple facing each other. They appeared painterly with simplified features that still held an intimate feeling of passion between them. Splattered with blood, the red that decorated their faces were the only notes of colour on the cover. The font at the top was inconsistent, but boldly scrawled across the top in white ink. Obviously reminding Touya of Keigo, there was something about the intimate gap between them that magnetized him to the picture. He was interested to hear the story of these two to say the least. 

In the other hand, Touya was holding an album that was crisp in contrast to the painterly design of the other.  Symmetrical in format, this one featured an overhead view of a coffin. Featured dead centre, a priest stood at one end of the sleek wooden box, while a grieving man stood at the other with his hand placed over the top of the casket. Laid on the center of the coffin was a larger bouquet of white flowers, set poetically to contrast the muted tones surrounding it. Additionally, four bouquets of white flowers were placed a measured distance around the coffin as if framing it in a picture of peaceful remorse. Patrons huddled under concealing black umbrellas watched on without giving us access to their features in any way. White font, typed in all capitals, sat perfectly at the top. Drawn by the obvious symbolism, the cool tones featured along with the pleasing symmetry easily captured Touya’s interest. Caught between the clear contrasts of each record, the distracted king missed the approach of a nearby mortal. 

"My Chemical Romance and The Amity Affliction, two very different sounds, but similar in message. Good eye~" Recognizing the familiar dry rasp in his voice, Touya’s fingers twitched against the painted cardboard in his hands. "I find that because of their sound, The Amity Affliction is more aggressive compared to MCR, so if you’re into heavy screaming I’d recommend them over MCR. However, if you’re wanting the same vibe, but toned down, definitely give MCR a listen." Clenching his jaw together, shaking azure orbs drifted towards the source of the recognized voice. "Or~ If you’re not keen on either, try…" Sifting through the records with black painted nails, nimble fingers lifted an album from the lot. Holding the object in two hands, he presented the item to Touya. "Give this a listen." Purposely holding the album between his thumb and middle finger, the action, while small and easily dismissed, spoke to the familiarity already touching the king. Due to the immeasurable strength of the man in question, Touya witnessed the birth of the displayed habit centuries prior. Out of fear of crushing objects or people to dust, the general of Touya’s army was meticulously careful to limit the points of contact he applied when holding objects or touching people in general. 

"Tomura…" Whispering the name without resistance, the realization of who was standing beside him spoke out. Easily recognizing the distinct facial features of his closest friend, dropped his heart into the depths of his chest. Medium length hair, dark like midnight, unlike the teal blue he’d known it to be from respectively four hundred years ago, was tied back into a messy ponytail. Furrowing in concern, thin, practically non existent black eyebrows curved over maroon eyes. Showing concern for the male staring at him in utter awe, they still swam with locked malice. Touya guessed that in this time, this vessel had never unlocked their blood soaked potential, if there was any left. 

"Tomura?" Lowering the record, chapped lips, a flaw that only consuming blood could heal, curved into an awkward smile. "No, my name is Turner." Pointing obviously to the nametag pinned to his uniform, Touya shook his head. 

"Oh…sorry, you remind me of someone I once knew." Awkwardly stacking the records together in his hands, Touya averted his eyes. Feeling the thread of hope drift away on the wind, eyelids made quick work blinking away the welling tears. 

"Hey man, it’s alright, I’ve been mistaken plenty of times. I’m used to it by now." Still not earning Touya’s attention, Turner’s fingers drummed against the record. "If you need a moment, I can-"

"No, I’m okay, thank you." Flashing him a genuine smile, Touya motioned towards the album in Turner’s hands. "What was it you were saying about that one?" Eyeing the album as if searching for his previous thoughts, Turner’s eyes lit up with the question. 

"Oh, right. Here, give it a listen if you’re into the other two bands. The last track will blow your mind~" Accepting the record in Touya’s stack of sounds, Turner pointed towards the register. "I can ring you up if you’re ready?"

"Sure." Following the man over to the register, Touya’s observant gaze followed every calculated movement made by Turner. His mannerisms, the way he occasionally itched his neck, even the enunciation of words, reflected Tomura to an uncanny extent. Had the man not corrected him moments before, Touya could’ve sworn he was interacting with his long deceased friend. However, when Turner handed him the plastic bag containing the albums, a sweet grin spread across his lips to bid Touya farewell, he somehow understood Tomura wasn’t in there. Rather, he would need time to reach the real Tomura who appeared buried well beneath this modern version. Bidding Turner adieu, Touya left the shop with his hood secured over his head, hands tucked in his pockets and the bag hanging limply from the fold of his elbow. Following the path home, Touya couldn’t shake the interaction from his mind. Thinking to himself in a way too frantic to discern, the idea that reincarnation was possible remained very prominent. Fixated on the probability of having a potential second chance, he was determined to flush the idea out further. He did have a promise to fulfill after all~ 

Discarding the idea temporarily upon arriving at home, Touya popped one of the new records into his record player. Letting the fresh sounds fill his apartment, the solemn music motivated him to pick up his laptop and address his past head on. 

How did he react when you told him your secret? How did you feel after? What happened with the relationship afterwards?

Since admitting his feelings to Touya, time spent in the castle seemed to move at an unprecedented speed for Keigo. Blaming the implied time skip on the accelerated beating of his heart, the past two months felt like a blur. Acutely aware of everything going on around him, there was something about Touya that seemed to inadvertently speed up the passage of time. Knowing full well that Touya couldn’t possibly alter the consistent flow of time, Keigo chalked it up to the idea that time slipped through his fingers simply because he was enjoying himself. Being with Touya made him forget the inevitable and that’s what mattered at the moment. 

Sharing every meal he could with the man was enough for outsiders to question what they had. Keigo would take the opportunity to converse with Touya in a general manner, fighting to keep all flirtatious comments and heart pounding desires off the table. When prodded why Touya, an active servant in the castle, was actively present at the table, Keigo had a lie ready behind his smile. 

"What if I choke?"

"We must discuss matters for tomorrow."

"Everyone’s got to eat~"

Somehow each excuse was enough to let Keigo off the hook. With the king out of the hot seat, he was ready to direct the heat onto Touya. Taking his lover by surprise, the king had mastered the craft of sneaking around the castle to fulfill his own intimate appetite. Like a predator on the hunt, his ability to locate Touya with ease became a growing concern for the immortal being. Grabbing Touya unexpectedly, Keigo would often pull the older male into nearby closets, empty rooms, or secret hiding spots that only the king was aware of, simply to express his hunger with Touya. When Touya started working at the castle, the other servants actively compared Keigo to a hawk. At the time, the vampire couldn’t make the connection. Keigo was much too sweet, too innocent to be compared to a bird of prey in such a manner. However, experiencing the swift, stealthy precision of Keigo’s metaphorical talons repeatedly snatching him at random intervals without his senses picking up his presence, he understood the comparison too well. 

"Hummingbird, I-" Pressing his lips hastily against Touya’s, the king was quick to respond. 

"Shhh~ Someone might hear us~" Despite how incredibly hot Touya considered the secret exchange to be, he never let Keigo step beyond kissing. Finding a convenient excuse in a similar manner as Keigo, Touya would always slip away whenever the king tried to push their intimacy further. 

"I need to relieve myself."

"I hear someone coming."

"I have to help the other’s, we’re short today." 

Leaving Keigo thoroughly disappointed each time, the gnawing question as to why Touya wouldn't express himself fully, continued to fester and grow in the pit of his stomach. Fearing Chisaki’s words rang true, each time he was snubbed off only fueled the aching fire burning in his chest. Completely unaware of how close Touya was to harming him, Keigo never guessed the timed abscond from his partner was for his own good. 

However, despite his growing uncertainties with Touya, he still found himself curled up next to the male every night. Safe from prying eyes, being in Touya’s arms at the end of the day quickly became second nature and naturally was when Keigo felt the safest. Warmed by the tender touch of Touya’s roaming hands, the feeling of his hair running unconditionally around Touya’s fingers was soothing. Holding Touya’s body tighter against his own, the lulling resonance beating from Touya’s heart quickly wiped away looming apprehensions. Soothed under the comforting reassurance of his partner’s touch, the belief that everything would be just as pleasant in the morning quickly burned away with the rising heat of the sun.

Finding the bed unmistakably cold each morning, Touya’s lack of presence pointed directly to Chisaki’s very obvious red flags on the matter. Approaching his other half on the subject, Touya would always fall back on the reason that he woke early to prepare Keigo’s breakfast special for him. Somehow, Keigo always found Touya with a personalized tray in hand, however, even after shaking off the innocent excuses, it was catching the male slipping out in the middle of the night that stirred Keigo’s uncertainty further. 

On more than one occasion, Touya would disappear in the dead of night thinking the king had fallen asleep. Watching the male’s figure disappear with the gentle click of the door, half lidded gold orbs squinted into a sharpened glare. Knowing there was no need for the sudden departure, Chisaki’s wisdom lurked menacingly in the back of his mind. 

"Your majesty, there’s something wrong with Touya. He’s using you." 

Fearing the worst after witnessing the secret abandonment, Keigo built up the courage to finally address the situation. Deciding to approach the other male under the assumption he wasn’t fulfilling Touya enough romantically, Keigo stepped into the kitchen. Aware that Touya would inevitably wind up in the kitchen, whether it was to bring Keigo his tea or otherwise, his message would be safest left with the head chef.

"I have a special request for you, would you mind fulfilling it?" Sensing a dip in the man’s demeanor, Keigo was quick to explain. "It’s nothing serious, I was hoping you could prepare a basket for me." Raising his eyebrow, the man pried for further details. 

"A basket? Whatever for? Filled with what?"

"Surprise me~ I was thinking about various snacks, like perhaps fruits, small sandwiches, cheeses and meat, something like that? Oh! Definitely a bottle of wine too!" Nodding, the chef put a couple of cooks to work to fulfill the request. Stepping out to retrieve a final touch, Keigo returned to the kitchen to retrieve the freshly prepared basket. Accepting the object, the king left one final command with the head chef. 

"One final thing, when Touya returns from wherever he has disappeared to, please send him to the courtyard on my orders~” Leaving Keigo with a bow of understanding, the king left the chef to finish their duties for the evening. With everything he desired in hand, Keigo navigated through the lush landscape behind the castle. 

Upkept daily, the castle garden and courtyard were a sight to behold. Trimmed to perfection, hedges shaped to lead the visitor around the vicinity proudly grew over the whole area. In designated beds, Keigo ensured flowers of each shape, colour, and size grew without issue. His favourites, in no particular order, were the tulips, sunflowers, and the delicate orchids. Present in the middle of the spectacle was a three level fountain, whose spraying hydration left glorious rainbows against the caress of the sun. Other notable features included a few statuesque figures that decorated parts of the courtyard, some of which were commissioned by famous artists, others, gifts to the prince as favours for his coronation. Yet, the thing Keigo liked most out of every spectacle in his garden was a weeping willow. Growing tall, voluptuous, and off in the furthest corner of the yard, it proudly sat next to a manmade pond. Built on Keigo’s request as a young boy, he’d often wander to the small pond with Chisaki to feed visiting waterfowl, catch frogs, or on clear nights, fireflies. Lining most of the perimeter of the still water feature were rocks of equal size and smoothness, while cattails, lily pads and reeds grew casually in and around, adding some much needed life to the scene.

While being such a small fraction of the yard, fond memories of picnicking under the tree with his father rushed over his mind as he neatly spread out the familiar blue fabric. Ensuring each corner was flat against the short cut grass, Keigo took his place on the blanket. Sharing more than one personal conversation under the tree with Chisaki or the late king, the spot would serve as a mediator for another one. Waiting patiently with the closed basket of food propped next to him, Keigo awaited Touya’s imminent arrival. 

Stumbling into the castle in time with the setting sun, Touya ungracefully caught himself against the nearest wall. Huffing in response to the depleted energy, despite consuming more than enough nutrients from villagers and artificial substitutes alike, Touya felt winded. Keigo was taking more out of him than he’d like to admit. Fighting consistently against his instincts, the desire to drink every drop of blood coursing through Keigo’s veins was quickly overpowering the remaining threads of restraint. Sneaking out two to three times a day just to curb the perpetual itch in his fangs seemed mute. No matter how much he drank, the thirst remained. Haunting him like the uncanny itch of an addict, the king quickly realized he’d have to admit his craving to Keigo, or accept death. 

Forming his shaking hand into a fist, the revelation was silently accepted through grit teeth. Regaining the strength to walk, Touya pushed himself from the wall with a heaved sigh. Mentally preparing his words for Keigo’s ears, Touya entered the kitchen with the intention to deliver the king his tea. However, before he could think about reaching for a tray, the chef blocked him. 

"Excuse me, I was-" Raising his hand with a shake of the head, the man smiled softly at Touya’s confusion. 

"Apologies Master Touya, but his highness has asked that you meet him in the courtyard." 

"The courtyard?" Folding his arms skeptically over his chest, Touya eyed the man skeptically. "At this hour? Whatever for?" Simply pointing towards the door, adamant on Touya taking the direction, the man answered with a shrug.

"His majesty said there was a job waiting for you there, you’ll receive more details from him personally." Shooing Touya politely away with the gentle wave of his hand, the man ended the exchange. "Go on~ Best to not keep King Takami waiting~" Eyeing the chef incredulously, Touya took a hesitant step towards the door. Pausing briefly to read the unchanging oscillations vibrating from the man, Touya left with a touch of anxiety spreading over his person. Uncertain of the implications of this sudden summons, the looming sense that this was a trap infected his mind. Trying to convince himself that the meeting was an innocent act of intimacy, Touya stepped out under the pale light of the rising moon. 

‘Get a grip Touya, Keigo wouldn’t harm you…would he?’ Swallowing nervously, azure eyes remained acutely aware of every little movement as soft footsteps led him through the empty garden. ‘He loves you, there’s no way…I’ve been cautious…he can’t know…can he?’ Following the laid out path, the deeper into the garden he wandered, the greater his uncertainties rose. ‘What if he does know…how would he have found out? Should I kill him? I have to kill him…I knew this was a bad idea.’ Mind, whirling with the unbridled rage of a natural disaster, the noise fogged his mind like unrelenting static. Unaware of the ground in which he currently stood, the sweet, melodic tune of innocence pulled Touya free of the storm.

"There you are~ I was wondering when you’d show up~" Shifting to fall on the source of the voice, the honeyed glow of Keigo’s smile quickly discarded the raging suspicions challenging Touya’s opinion of the king. 

"What…is this…?" Fully aware of himself, cerulean eyes quickly washed over his surroundings. Finding the king seated cross legged upon a blue fabric blanket under the tangled branches of a weeping willow, Touya quickly understood the scene. Noting the basket next to Keigo and the obvious romantic setting surrounding him, every lingering apprehension rose with the flight of the glowing fireflies. 

"I wanted to do something to show you how much you mean to me, my love~" Thrumming loudly over the use of the possessive pet name, Touya bit back the instincts clawing to emerge. "Come, join me~" Patting the empty space next to him, Touya obediently found himself on the blanket. Unable to ignore the thunderous pounding of his heart, Touya watched in silent awe as Keigo unpacked the contents of the basket. 

"Thank you for accepting my request, darling~" Sinking the tips of his throbbing fangs into the sore tissue of his inner lip, Touya silently regretted taking the seat. If Keigo kept showering him with these rose coloured names, he’d lose all sense of restraint. 

"It’s been a while since we had a proper date, so I thought sharing a midnight snack under the stars would be delightful, don’t you agree?" Nodding, Touya hoped Keigo couldn’t see the sweat running down the side of his face.

"How thoughtful, thank you." Swallowing the shaking vibrations threatening his voice, Touya accepted an empty wine glass from the king. 

"Of course~" Pouring the red liquid into Touya’s glass, the swirling crimson vortex teased the vampire king of that which he couldn’t drink. Distracted by the obvious symbolism of the drink, Touya missed Keigo filling his own glass, finding himself returned to the situation with the soft thud of the bottle being deposited in the basket afterwards. 

"You know I’d do anything to make you happy…you are all that I care about, well, besides of course my obvious responsibilities…" Chuckling as if to clear the welling sadness from his voice, eyes that had just sparkled with delight fell on Touya with a weight of dejection that physically hurt the man to observe. "Touya, you mean the entire world to me, but somehow I get this feeling that you don’t feel the same way about me…" Lowering the glass carefully to rest in the safety of the basket with the bottle, Keigo reached for Touya’s damp hand. "Please tell me I’m wrong." Asking for an answer with the pleading shake of his eyes, the way Keigo’s hand searched for affirmation through the uncertain flex of his fingers forced Touya’s eyebrows to furrow in objection. 

"Keigo…" Setting his own glass next to Keigo’s, the king’s other hand was grasped by Touya’s now free hand. "You’ve never been more wrong. I love you more than anything, you know that. I’ve expressed to you multiple times that you’re all I want." Leaving reassuring trails against the back of Keigo’s hands with the calming roll of his thumbs, azure eyes dove into the emotional swirling pools of gold. "I’ve never wanted anything more than to have a future with you, you know that…" Hating the break in Keigo’s rhythmic wavelength, Touya pried for an answer. "Why do you think I don’t love you?" Averting his gaze to find the words, the wetness that threatened to fall with the return of Keigo’s gaze, stung Touya’s heart. 

"You seem to avoid extending our intimacy…plus you disappear at random with no explanation in the middle of the night…I keep getting these awful thoughts that you’re using me for-"

"My love, I promise you, it’s not what you think it is. I’m loyal to you and I always will be." Never had Touya imagined that keeping his secret from Keigo would hurt the blond to this degree. Admittedly, telling him the truth would break his heart to the same extent, if not further, but Touya had honestly thought he was doing Keigo a favour by remaining incognito. However, searching through the ruptured waves vibrating from the beating heart, he knew he was very wrong. He had inevitably hurt Keigo regardless of the outcome and that bothered him more than the fact that he now had to be openly honest with the man. 

"Then, what exactly is going on?" Blinking away the tears threatening to plunge down Keigo’s cheeks, the king patiently waited for an explanation. Retracting his hands, the damp limbs ran the length of Touya’s thigh, leaving behind a trail of salty betrayal in their wake. 

"There’s something I need to tell you, but I haven’t been able to find the courage to bring it up." Catching the rate of uncertainty increase with each strum of Keigo’s heart, Touya knew it was time. When he was done, either Keigo would be killed, he’d be dead, or, by some stroke of luck, Keigo would accept him. The coin was in the air, fate held all of the power now.

"I have a story to tell you that will explain everything, so bear with me, it’s rather long…" Keigo, unconsciously picking up the plate of neatly cut fruit, locked in to hear the secret tale. 

"Two hundred and sixty three years ago, a baby was born on a cold winter’s day. This wasn’t an ordinary baby though, he was a very special prince, we’ll call him…Dabi. Dabi grew up the heir to a throne that would eventually become lost to the world. However, that didn’t stop him from taking advantage of his royal status and power. Knowing he was far superior than the people around him, when he reached the prime age of one hundred and eighteen, he took advantage of others weakness and waged war against unsuspecting villages. Causing destruction in his wake, countless innocent lives were slaughtered by his hand and order. Mercy was rarely given at Dabi’s hands because to show weakness was unforgivable by his father’s standards and the traditions of his people. Eventually, however, the amount of blood soaking his hands left a distinguished trail for his victims to follow. Leading them directly to him, they gathered in numbers and began snuffing out his followers one by one, like the flame of a candle. Realizing his defeat, Dabi surrendered to the opposing force. In order to keep himself and his followers safe, he issued a distress command for his people to assimilate into society. The purpose was to decrease the rising fear received from the other side, but also to ensure that his species would thrive for years ahead. However, when the previous king, Dabi’s father, heard of his decision to hide, he reclaimed the throne from Dabi. Sentencing the prince to a century of solitude and stripping him of his authority, Dabi hid himself away. Thinking he’d escaped from his blood soaked path, the repercussions of his failure still found him. Hearing updates of his father’s leadership over the passing century, informed the prince of the uncountable number of losses their side experienced. Under his father’s rule, Dabi witnessed the unlawful genocide of his species. Every single one of his closest friends, allies, and even those he considered family, were murdered during the conflict. Except for eight surviving members, who sacrificed everything they had to stay alive and there was nothing Dabi could do to remedy the situation." Switching out the plate of fruit for the glass of wine, Keigo sipped intently at the alcoholic beverage, intrigued with the trip Touya was taking him on. 

"When Dabi finished his century long time out, his father passed the crown back to him. Regaining his power and authority, Dabi executed his father for the blatant genocide of their people. Without mercy, he ripped his father’s heart from his chest. Crushing the feeble organ beneath the sole of his boot was only the beginning, as his father’s head met the same gruesome fate as his heart. While not solving any of their immediate problems, the elation Dabi felt after the ordeal seemed to lift the guilt of each sacrifice from his shoulders. With the crown back on his head, Dabi reordered the remaining survivors to follow his previous assimilation order to ensure their survival. Releasing his followers across the globe with the strict order to conceal their power and never directly take from the humans again, everyone was left to merge unnoticed with the rest of society. While Dabi…" Trailing off with a sigh that seemed to hold every regret within Touya’s body, azure eyes shifted down to gaze upon the pale shaking limbs resting against his thighs. 

"Dabi tried to forget his sins, he tried to wash himself clean of all the pointless blood spilled over his hands." Flipping his hands to be palm up, the visual of red liquid splattered across the clean hands crossed Touya’s gaze. Decorating his hands with the image of each mortal and immortal life he’d taken, the blood was dark. Stained from years of consistent mistreatment towards the fragility of life, the reminder that he would always be a monster rang true. Hearing the long since silenced screams of his friends echo through his auditory canals, even now, years after the escapade, Touya couldn’t escape the eternity of torment. 

"Yet, no matter how hard he tried, how often he cleaned his hands, he couldn’t hide who he was. Trying to be as caring, king, and truthful as possible, nothing could wash the guilt from staining his hands." Clenching the limbs shut, Touya felt every deep seated emotion pricking at his eyes. "Eventually, Dabi came to realize that you can’t run from your past. No matter how nice you think you are, your sins will always find you…nothing ever changes and you can’t forget who you are by becoming someone new…" Clenching his eyes shut, the pressure sent the salty droplets to run down Touya’s cheeks. "I haven’t been truthful with you…I’m not entirely who I said I was…" Focusing on the pain diffusing from his lover, Touya’s story quickly became lost to the wind. 

"Touya, are you okay?" Moving to console the man in any way he could, the quick swipe of Touya’s hand seized Keigo on the spot. 

"Don’t touch me, I don’t deserve your kindness! Weren’t you listening to a word I just said?!" Blinking through the thick veil of confusion, the tears that dripped onto the fabric of Touya’s pants, stung Keigo’s heart. Only wanting to ease the pain afflicting his partner, watching in silence as Touya metaphorically pushed him away, sent a rippling crack to cross the surface of his heart. 

"I did, but I think I missed the point…please, let me help you…I didn’t mean to make you cry…" Hesitantly reaching to grasp Touya’s shaking hand, the warm, comforting touch expelled from Keigo sent an unfiltered pulse to throb against the awakening fangs. 

"Keigo, let go of my hand before I hurt you." Cutting through him with the edge of a sharpened blade, Touya’s voice had never been so cold. Sensing the danger swirling around Touya’s figure, the king found his body obliging. Retracting his hand, he held the limb anxiously close to his chest like he had been seconds away from losing it. 

"Hurt me? Touya I’m confused…what does this have to do with our relationship?" Struck by the naïve innocence enveloping the question, Touya found himself chuckling. Vibrating with the shivering tones associated with his darkness, the sound brought a rippling sense of fear to touch the king. "Touya…you’re scaring me…" Thrilled by the fearful state of his prey, Touya’s fangs throbbed with excitement. Eyes, still wet from the cascading tears, shifted to display the gnawing hunger he’d been fighting so diligently. Deep, red, and aching for comeuppance, they shook with anticipation of what was to come. Feeling the unfiltered resolve of their master, shadows, strong and thriving under the light of the moon, rose to partake in the midnight feast. Watching in absolute disbelief, Keigo couldn’t take his eyes away. Frozen beneath the weight of malice stemming from Touya, Keigo couldn’t move if he tried. Yet, despite how threatening the active darkness appeared, Keigo could feel no radiating danger from the dancing shade. Swallowing the built anxiety, the king tried to reach his snowflake again.

"Touya, please stop this…this isn’t you…" Boldly extending his hand towards Touya, the action was quickly halted with the sickening laughter expelling from Touya’s lips. 

"You just don’t get it, do you?!" Bringing the shadows to a more tame height, Touya’s hand placed itself obviously over his chest. "This is me. This is who I am. That story I told you was my life, for you see…" Finally raising his head, tear stained crimson eyes greeted Keigo for the first time. “I am Dabi." Struck by the revelation, Keigo knew with every fiber of his body to run, but he didn’t. 

"You’re a…?" Moving with inhuman speed, Touya’s pale hands grabbed Keigo from behind. Forcing the mortal flush against his body, one arm snaked its way around the blond’s chest, while the other formed perfectly beneath the king’s chin and jaw.  

"You wanted to know why I couldn’t commit to you? This is the reason~" Positioning his head next to Keigo’s ear, hot breath forced a rippling sensation to wash over the blond. "I’m a vampire, but not just any vampire my dear Keigo, I am their king~" Remaining still, Keigo shifted his eyes towards Touya. "It hurts, doesn’t it? Knowing you gave your heart so eagerly to someone who only saw you as food~ I tried so hard to be the lover you desired…every time I stopped your advances, or disappeared at the drop of a pin, it was to feed my instincts." Too distracted by the luring wavelength pulsating from Keigo’s exposed jugular, Touya missed how obviously relaxed Keigo was in his arms. 

"You drive my bloodlust absolutely carnal with desire~ No one has ever done that to me, consider yourself special~" Running his tongue over the smoothness of his teeth, Touya, while desperate to finally have a taste, tilted Keigo’s head with the utmost care. "I don’t think you realize how close I was to killing you during every private exchange, or at night, when you presented yourself so meekly to me in your slumbering state~ Now that you know my secret…" Inching towards Keigo’s neck, the unconscious tears that had been perpetually, but silently, falling the entire time, splattered against Keigo’s skin. 

"I’m going to devour you like I initially intended, but don’t worry my precious hummingbird~ It’ll only hurt for a moment~” While every word resonated with the truthful note Keigo had grown to recognize through all of Touya’s sarcasm, they meant nothing. Touya hadn’t realized it himself, but Keigo caught it from the moment the tears started to fall. He was fighting with himself. The drumming splash of the still running tears only proved it. Obviously afraid of what Keigo would think of him, the truth of his heritage struck more harm internally against Touya than it did the mortal king. Struggling against his natural instincts, the sultry coos meant to terrorize Keigo, only brought a curve to Keigo’s lips. 

"Go ahead." Feeling the light touch of pale fingers twitch against his jaw, Keigo brought his gaze back to face forward. "You can’t, can you? Even after I gave you permission? Why do you think that is, Touya?" Stunned under the calming tones of Keigo’s voice, the vampire king couldn’t find the strength to resist as the blond carefully removed himself from Touya’s untethering hold. "I’ll tell you why." Adjusting to face the male, the genuine smile greeting Touya, struck the vampire’s heart with a pained symphony of attraction. 

"It’s because you love me, despite everything you said, you can’t bring yourself to kill me, you don’t even want to try~" Caught under the accusation like a rat in a trap, Touya’s lack of response led Keigo to snake his hands to tenderly cup Touya’s cheeks. "I said it before and I'll say it again, this isn’t you. You may have been that guy in the past, but I’ve never witnessed anything like that from you. I can tell you want to move past that version of yourself, you’re trying to be the Touya that I’ve fallen in love with. That’s why you’re hesitating." Dropping to a softer tone, the tenderness dancing beneath Keigo’s words fell in sync with the gentle swipe of the king’s thumb across Touya’s face. 

"Why are you still here? I’m a monster, you should be afraid of me." Expelled weakly under the calming gesture of Keigo’s touch, Touya’s voice paled in comparison to the threatening display his darkness was presenting. 

"I should be. I should be livid over the fact that you openly lied to me for so long. I should execute you for threatening my life, but I also can’t act on my instincts." Blinking at the king, the only response capable of being produced by Touya was to stare in awe. "I love you so much Touya, your heritage doesn’t bother me…actually, I should be thanking you for telling me."

"Why…?" Breathed out forming a barely audible wave, Keigo inched closer to the still tearful vampire. 

"You trust me enough to know your secret, that shows me that you are loyal to our relationship indefinitely." 

"I will kill you…" Not believing the words himself, Touya was checking Keigo’s sanity by hitting him with every outcome. 

"My love, considering you yourself admitted to having ample opportunity to do so, I’m standing on the premise that despite having the perfect opportunity, you never once tried to harm me. The fact that I’ve never felt safer in your arms speaks the truth of your feelings. We love each other despite our differences and at the end of the day Snowflake, I’d trust my whole life to you." Confirming his honesty by sealing their lips together, the way Keigo moved against Touya felt different. Moving at a slow pace, the deep, sensual massaging sensation was meant to communicate all of his honesty with Touya. Struck by Keigo’s acceptance, the beating attraction that had long since taken over the sound of Touya’s beating heart, ushered him to relax. Calmed by the tender hold of the king’s warm hands, the stroking motion of Keigo’s thumbs told him everything was okay. Most importantly of all, the sweet way Keigo’s lips danced intentionally against the stillness of his own, translated how deeply Keigo felt for him. Unable to grasp the entirety of Keigo’s feelings in one sitting, Touya understood how important his immortality had become by one simple motion. A lifetime would never be enough to appreciate Keigo and his feelings. Something and someone this special had to be cherished for eternity. Making his point, Keigo pulled away. Lingering only inches away from the vampire’s shuddering lips, an equally aroused breath slipped from Keigo. Touching the quivering pink lips across from him, the indirect touch forced an aroused tingle down the length of Touya’s spine. 

"Do you believe me enough to commit yourself to me now?" Raising his eyelids with slowed movements, golden orbs searched through freshly revealed crimson orbs. While unfamiliar with the red hue, everything he’d grown accustomed to seeing in Touya’s gaze remained. Despite his form changing, Touya was still Touya. Kind, suave, and loyal, everything that wove together to form the man Keigo had grown fond of. 

"I’m sorry…" Expecting an excuse to leave, Keigo was pleasantly surprised when a smile overtook Touya’s lips. "I’m sorry for doubting you…You’re right, I love you too much to treat you that way." Bringing his hands up to mimic the hold Keigo had on him, Touya’s touch remained as tender as usual. "Keigo, you are so very special to me and I promise to spend eternity proving that to you." Starting by pulling the king in for an intimate kiss, the feverous way Touya moved sealed his verbal promise to the king. Apologetic, almost begging for forgiveness, his movements were quick to please. Sliding his tongue easily into Keigo’s mouth, Touya was quick to slither his tongue around Keigo’s. Twisting sensually around the other wet muscle, the deep circles left behind by Touya’s tongue ushered a response of their own from the king. Moaning in delight, Keigo pushed Touya down against the thin fabric of the blanket. Separating only to readjust, Keigo was quick to recapture Touya’s lips. Picking up their passionate exchange, Touya’s hands merged automatically with the wild blond hair above him. Tugging Keigo closer, the heat of the king’s body pressed flush against him aroused the aching desire within. Throbbing at a record breaking intensity, the pulsating desire thrumming from the instinctual need to bite the king, physically hurt. Cracking over his heart with the magnitude destruction of an Earthquake, Touya’s bloodlust reached its inevitable limit. Flooded by the carnal desire caused by Keigo’s feelings alone, the sensation was overwhelming and it forced Touya’s hand. Pushing Keigo away with as little ferocity as he could muster, the gasps escaping his lips described the pained desperation of his feelings.

"What’s wrong?" Instinctively obstructing Keigo’s view of his mouth using his hand, Touya averted his eyes. Despite standing on the border between life and death, he still couldn’t act on the impulse. After everything he put Keigo through, it would be unfair to assume. 

"I need a minute." Reading the embarrassment warming Touya’s face, Keigo removed himself from Touya. Making room for himself to lay next to the male, patient hands folded themselves naturally over his chest while calm gold orbs sought the ethereal beauty of the stars above through the tree’s dainty foliage. 

"The stars sure are pretty tonight." Unable to fully comprehend the level of distress Touya was undergoing, Keigo did understand how to distract the male from his whirring anxieties. Dampened with sweat, Touya could only swallow nervously. Any further response would have been incoherent and shaky. The noise caused by the thunderous drum of his heartbeat quickly overwhelmed every sense in his body, producing a hum in response seemed to be the only capability of his vocal chords. 

"You know, I find stars quite fascinating as well. Perhaps I should have given you a nickname related to the stars instead of a Snowflake~" Feeling Touya’s eyes shift towards him, Keigo’s gaze and sweet smile remained directed towards the sky. "Given your circumstances, I think I chose correctly though." Twiddling his thumbs waiting for the silence to be filled, Keigo filled the designated spot when it became clear that Touya couldn’t. "While a snowflake is fleeting in nature, I can preserve it using the right materials. Whereas, the starlight I’m admiring currently is already dead." Rolling onto his side to face Touya, the smirk that greeted the vampire didn’t ease Touya’s pain in the slightest. "I imagine the only thing I have to do to preserve you, is to keep your secret~ Isn’t that right, Snowflake~" Keeping his eyes trained on the playful, but obviously haughty expression next to him, Touya gathered the strength to respond. 

"Basically." Chuckling softly at Touya’s awkwardness, despite just having his tongue down Keigo’s throat, the king pried further. 

"I’m guessing you weren’t lying to me when we met and I asked you your age, to which you said two hundred and sixty three?" Shaking his head, while a completely viable answer, wasn’t good enough for the blond. Grabbing Touya’s hand, Keigo forced the limb away from the other male’s face. Lacing his fingers purposely with Touya’s, the tight restraint Keigo forced upon him kept the limb in place. 

"Keigo, I had that there for a reason." Innocently glaring at the smug expression etched across the king’s face, Keigo only smiled more. 

"I don’t care, I want to hear your voice and it was in the way~" Raising his other hand, Touya sent a challenging smirk back. 

"You realize that I have two hands, right?" Moving boldly closer to Touya, the way Keigo’s gaze challenged the vampire to follow through with his threat, only excited Touya further. 

"I’ll just have to hold that one too, then." Dropping the threat innocently on Touya, the king chose to settle the playful argument by nuzzling himself in the crook of Touya’s neck. "Love, I know it’s a new feeling for you, but you have to get used to me seeing you like this." Resting his eyes on the top of Keigo’s head, the raised hand lowered to rest casually over his own hip. Releasing Touya’s other hand only to allow for the male to comfortably adjust into their natural cuddling position, Touya let his gaze wander towards the sky. Settled in silence, the accelerated rhythm playing from Touya’s heart led the king to speak. 

"Will you tell me more about you?" Sensing the softness strumming from the mortal’s internal rhythm, Touya complied. 

"What do you want to know?" Reaching for the hand not currently draped over his body, the knotting of their fingers together seemed to pass on a response before it could be uttered by the king. 

"Everything." Breathed out with a fluttering delight that made Touya’s heart skip in response, the smile that followed was genuine. 

"I should have guessed~" Chuckling to break up his thoughts, Touya continued. "I’m sure you’ve heard all of the stories; like how we can’t go out in daylight, can’t eat garlic, burn when something holy touches us, and can only be killed by a stake to the heart. You’ve also probably heard that we sleep in coffins, turn into bats, drink a human's entire blood supply when we feed, and don’t have a reflection. Most of those are spoon-fed lies that you lot came up with to try and understand something you can’t." Settling his tone from becoming too argumentative, Touya continued. 

"Sunlight will kill me, and truthfully, unless you’re a binge eater, we only take what’s necessary when we eat. The rest are made up. Although, the stake stereotype is close, anyone would die from a sharpened object piercing their heart. However, unless it was silver, I’d be incapacitated, but would bounce back with enough blood." Hearing Keigo breathe out an “oh” in response, Touya remained silent to let the king speak.

"So, the day you went to the festival, that sunburn on your hand was…"

"Yeah, the sun was literally burning me alive." Feeling Keigo shift to meet his gaze, the squinted glare pointed towards him itched like the targeted burn from the sun.

"You risked your life to go to a stupid festival with me?! Are you insane?!" Furrowing his brow to reflect his defensive stance, Touya’s crimson irises had never looked at a mortal with such tenderness before. 

"I risked my life to see you happy. I don’t think you understand how much impact your joy has on me, so yes, if it’s insane for me to put your feelings above my well-being; lock me up because I’m criminally insane." Finding himself lost in the bloodied pools staring back at him, the king found himself at a loss for words. Holding an inherent glow, the rouge orbs shown like the rarest of rubies. Unique, genuine, and filled with more lust than malice, Keigo could understand how beautifully tragic it would have been to meet Touya under different circumstances. Seeing their beauty up close without repercussion was a rare experience only he would live to remember. 

"Your eyes are beautiful…" Sidetracked by the ethereal visual stunning him, Keigo’s mouth uttered the words his heart wanted to scream. 

"You’d be the first to think so." Moving to gently brush the cascading white locks from obstructing Touya’s face, Keigo stared intently at the crimson orbs like a bird attracted to a shiny object. 

"I’m so lucky~" Dusting both of their expressions with the familiar pink warmth, Touya averted his eyes awkwardly away from the king. "There’s a whole new side to you that only I get to appreciate~" Bringing his eyes back to meet the admiring golden orbs, Touya couldn’t help but chuckle at Keigo’s innocence. “Appreciate” was not the word Touya would use for how the king would inevitably feel towards him. 

"I do have to ask something that’s been drawing my attention, though." Pulling the vampire from his thoughts, the patient blink of his eyes gestured for the king to finish. "Why have your eyes remained red? Is there a reason they aren’t returning to their natural colour?"

"I was wondering when you’d ask that…" Trailing off, Touya inhaled a breath. "It’s because of my bloodlust." Intelligent enough to piece the meaning together, Keigo still found himself questioning the statement. 

"Bloodlust? Are you thirsty?" Holding back the outburst of laughter, Touya could only smile in response. 

"Essentially, yes, but it’s not that simple." Letting his gaze wander away from Keigo, he let the explanation flood out of him. "A vampire’s desire to drink blood is not only gauged by his need, but by his feelings. Typically if a vampire develops a strong emotional connection with his victim, his bloodlust will increase. Alternatively, and often more commonly since our victims either die or forget the exchange, a vampire’s bloodlust will increase if he finds the scent of the blood exceptionally tantalizing. Like humans, the meal we seek usually caters to our specific tastes. Some vampires prefer sweeter blood, others savory, it’s preference really. Regardless, if a vampire’s bloodlust goes unfulfilled for extended periods of time, it will eventually kill him." Wandering back to Keigo, the subtle flash crossing Touya’s eyes pointed to the hunger gnawing at him internally. 

"For obvious reasons, my bloodlust is exceptionally high because of you. For one hundred and forty five years, I have despised the taste of human blood. Finding it too…bland…for my liking, I acquired sustenance from an artificial inhibitor my friend concocted. However, I never stopped searching for something different, something divine~" Unconsciously soaking his teeth with the stroke of his tongue, Touya’s voice dipped in sensuality. 

"I wanted to find blood so sublime, like nothing I’ve ever tasted before, and then I found you~" Relishing the subtle twitch of Keigo’s eyebrows, Touya couldn’t hide his fangs any longer. "The scent of your blood was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. It awoke my desires to pierce your flesh like never before…my instincts vibrate incessantly when you’re around and I haven’t even tasted the exquisite liquid flowing through your veins…to top it off, my feelings for you have increased the intensity of my bloodlust substantially." Pushing aside the stray locks hanging in front of Keigo’s face, Touya laid a gentle hand against the side of the king’s face. 

"I love you so intently that I can no longer hide how deeply I thirst for your blood, that’s the long answer to why my eyes are still red." Remaining quiet, Keigo sought a further response through Touya’s expression. Calculating the explanation along with what he could read written across his lover’s face, the king found himself sitting up. Adjusting himself to be kneeling next to Touya, he purposely pulled the collar of his shirt down. 

"Bite me." Stunned by the nonchalant command, Touya pushed himself into a sitting position. 

"I want to, but-"

"What’s stopping you, I want you to do it." Sheepishly, Touya avoided the question with a rub of his neck. "Touya, do you think I’m ignorant to the self-inflicted wounds you’ve caused yourself in my stead?’ I recognize the pain you’ve put yourself through to protect me, all the cuts, bruises, and bite wounds you’ve inflicted to divert your mind. Obviously, this is something you have to do to ease the aching starvation you’re feeling so…" Grasping Touya’s hand under the comforting hold of both of his hands, Keigo brough the pale limb closer to his being. Holding his lover’s hand suspiciously like he had a proposal to offer, the smile behind the gesture urged Touya to accept Keigo’s offer regardless. "Please, bite me. I don’t want to see you suffering any longer." Blinking at the king in awe, Touya shook his head with a genuine smile curving over his lips. 

"We best go inside then." Taking Keigo’s smile momentarily from his expression, The questioning cock of the king’s head asked for an answer. "When a vampire bites a human…" Replacing the playful edge written over his face with driven lust, the way Touya looked at Keigo set off a chain of bursting fireworks to erupt down his spine. "The feeling is incredibly pleasurable~" Seeing him fully as his lover, any semblance of restraint quickly dissipated from Touya’s body. Adjusting his body into a similar kneel, Touya purposely put himself a head taller than the blond. "With our shared feelings of love…" Taking Keigo’s chin tenderly into his grasp, Touya inched his face towards the king’s. Tilting his lover’s head back to shower Keigo under his formed lust, the accelerated longing vibration thrumming from Keigo’s heart nearly pushed him over the edge. "The pleasure we’ll feel from the extraction will be orgasmic~" Touching Keigo’s lips with the sensual heat of his breath, Touya’s tone dropped. "I can’t have anyone else seeing you like that~" Running his thumb along the line of Keigo’s chin, Touya continued to tease the king by not making a move. Taking the initiative in his own hands, Keigo’s lips quirked into a tantalizing smile. 

"Well, what are you waiting for? Take me to my room so I can satiate your carnal desires~" Stunned only momentarily under the demand, Touya left a chaste kiss against Keigo’s lips. 

"As you wish, my love~"

Shuddering beneath the heat of a dancing flame, each gentle caress ushered in a symphony of rippling pleasure. Senses overtaken by the heightened stimulation made even the lightest brush of physical contact feel like an intense grip. Tangled together in the throes of passion, the feeling of skin on skin contact had never felt so hot. 

"Touya~" Producing the only sound besides the subtle rustling of the fabric beneath and the purposeful smack of Touya’s explorative mouth against his skin, the king’s moans were like music in the air. Sparing a glance upwards at the king’s squirming reaction, Touya pressed his lips lower against the exposed chest. Moving downwards from the prominent clavicle he’d already claimed by leaving a trail of expressive love bites, a delicate trail of hot kisses led Touya down to the king’s exposed breast. Becoming less gentle, Touya took one nipple into the wet cavern of his mouth. Sucking against the easily excited bean, his hand made quirk work of the other. Massaging the firm peck, his touch shifted. Becoming lighter, a gentle swipe of his thumb over the nipple easily stirred it into arousal. Nipping playfully against the other, careful not to draw any blood, Touya rolled the second between his index finger and thumb. While not praising the feeling with a verbal compliment, the way Keigo’s body writhed beneath him was enough for Touya. Hands freely roaming the silk sheets searched for anything to process the level of stimulation. Excitedly, they gripped at the silk barrier, relaxing only when Touya wasn’t working hotly at his body. Gasping in response to the slick trail left by the swirling motion of Touya’s tongue, the vampire couldn’t help but chuckle. 

"Do you want more?" Low, like the streaming light of the moon trailing in through the small window, Touya’s sultry rasp touched Keigo’s spin with an arousing shudder. 

"Y-Yes~" Breathing out his desperation, the feeling of Touya’s fingers trailing across the bare skin of his thigh took the rest of his response. Setting off distinguished fireworks to ripple over his body, the bursting excitement only increased as Touya’s hand neared the inner thigh. Touching him lightly, the teasing way Touya’s fingers lingered momentarily against the sensitive area, left Keigo unsatisfied. 

"Touya~" Tracing the entire length of the throbbing area with the tip of his finger, the gasp that followed his name forced Touya’s smirk to widen. Wanting to hear more pleasing sounds from his songbird, Touya shifted gears. Bringing his own body closer to the kings, he boldly pressed himself against Keigo’s form. Gasping with the sensual rock of Touya’s erection against the underside of his own, the king gripped the sheets for release. Taking both erections into his grasp, Touya pressed the nude skin flush against each other. Rocking lightly, his thumb swiped over the tip, spreading pre cum between both parties with the sensual humping of his hips. 

"Ah~ Touya~" Relishing the desperate cries from Keigo, the gentle movement of Touya’s hips lasted only a moment longer. Separating himself, Touya moistened his fingers with a slick mixture of bodily fluids. Bringing his hand lower on Keigo’s body, lusting crimson eyes sought permission from the flustered male beneath him. 

"Should I keep going?" Lifting his legs to rest around Touya’s hips, the king needn’t reply, but Touya would be remiss to turn down the desperate melody of Keigo’s voice. 

"Yes~ I want this~ I want you so badly~" Dexterous fingers spread the slick juices, tracing Keigo’s rim before they slowly pressed their way inside. Feeling Keigo’s body reeling from the touch, Touya pushed his fingers deeper. Moaning under the pressure heating across his body, the sensation of Touya’s nimble fingers curling inside was quick to thrill. Working his fingers around the tightness of Keigo’s body, Touya pressed a third finger past the barrier when he felt it right. Hearing Keigo cry out in delight, the hot curve of his fingers would soon finish their steamy session. 

"Touya~ Please~" Pausing momentarily, the vampire left one final stretching motion with the king. 

"Please, what, my love?" Pulling his fingers out, Touya reached for a nearby bottle. Squeezing his thighs against Touya’s hips, the desperate grip the king had on the sheets spoke to the fleeting time Touya had remaining for their passionate exchange. 

"Please make love to me~ I can’t wait any longer~" Covering himself with the designated oil, Touya leaned his body closer to Keigo’s.

"As you wish~" Bracing Keigo’s thigh with one hand, the other sought balance from the mattress. Lining himself up carefully with the king, a gentle push of his hips eased himself inside. Stopping following the insertion, Touya released the king's thigh to let himself relax fully against Keigo’s body. Gasping through the pulsating explosions dotting each of their visions, Touya was hesitant to move. Wrapped tightly by the warming hold of Keigo’s body, the throb of his walls against his cock was stimulating enough. Keigo, feeling a wave of pleasure wash over him from the adjacent feeling of Touya throbbing inside, sent a pleasurable curve to his spine. Moaning with satisfaction, when Touya found the strength to begin rocking his hips, Keigo urged him to stop. 

"Are you okay?" Searching the flushed expression of his lover, Keigo’s arms wrapped unconsciously around Touya’s neck. 

"Yes, I just don’t want this to end so quickly." Leaning down to touch his lips against the blond’s, even the sensual feeling of Touya’s lips sent a flurrying heat to rise in Keigo’s stomach. Feeling Keigo’s body unconsciously tighten around his throbbing member, Touya’s heart ached. Thrumming loudly with the desire he could no longer ignore, he accepted his instinctual need. Pulling his head away, the vampire spoke between labored gasps. 

"Keigo…I’m sorry…I can’t fight it any longer…can I…?" Adjusting his arms to slither around Touya’s ribs, Keigo clung to the man’s exposed shoulder blades. Tilting his head as best as he could, the king showered the predator above him with a genuine smile. 

"Of course my love, take as much as you need, just promise not to kill me~” Bracing his arm against the soft hold of the mattress, Touya’s left hand tangled itself in the mess of blond locks. 

"I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if something happened to you by my hand…" Unaware of the glaring foreshadowing he’d cast upon the mortal, Touya eased Keigo’s head into a more pleasing angle. Dipping his face near the succulent pulsing vein, hot breath sent a moistened warning against the nude skin of what was to come. "I will try to be gentle…" Parting his lips, the resonating tune beating from the king’s neck lulled the vampire closer. Exhaling with heavy anticipation, the protruding fangs grazed the tantalizing skin. Sending a jolt of electricity to course down Touya’s body, comparable to the tingling objection an elbow screams out after being struck, the simple touch forced a reaction from the vampire. Sinking his teeth suddenly into the soft flesh, Keigo gasped in response. 

Clutching Touya’s back to divert the sudden impacted pain away, unforgiving nails left a score of red trails across the bare skin of Touya’s back. Shuddering beneath the intimate sucking pressure applied by Touya, the localized pain quickly shifted into a rushing wave of heat. Pleasure, indescribable by Keigo’s standards flooded his body. Igniting every nerve within his body under an intense blanket of tingling arousal, the feeling of Touya’s mouth on his neck couldn’t compare to any other delight. Pressing his body flush against the vampire’s, his grip tightened. Never wanting to let go of the indescribable bliss, Keigo’s relaxed hips unconsciously bucked in response to the heating warmth caused by Touya. Gracing his partner’s ears with a melody of moans, toes curled beneath the building pleasure. Like a pressurized system, the growing heat quickly erupted across his chest. Exploding like a choreographed fireworks display, the sensation, like the metaphorical pops of colour, dotted the entirety of Keigo’s body. Leaving behind a simmering sensation of elation, the dying feeling ushered one final rippling spark to touch the king. Like static, the feeling vibrated against every nerve, impressing them with the everlasting elation left behind by Touya. Feeling lightheaded from the excitement, Keigo tapped his lover’s back, seeking attention from the male. 

Touya had been lost the moment his fangs sunk into Keigo’s untouched skin. Excited initially by the delectable flavour touching his tongue, the volume at which his instincts vibrated with delight became overwhelming. Arousing the long deceased delight associated with direct extraction, the taste of Keigo’s blood felt familiar. Unable to describe each individual sweet, savory, and rich note dancing over his tongue, the feeling was uncanny. Nostalgic, the flavour took Touya back to a time long ago. Wrapped comfortably in a plush blanket, his younger self cuddled up innocently in his mother’s arms. Sharing a story with Touya, her voice calmed every anxious nerve, lulling Touya like the gentle sway of the flames dancing in the fireplace next to them. Consuming more of the infectious feeling, the nostalgia quickly shifted with the flowing arousal spreading from the vessel. Shocked from the delighted memory with a surging jolt of pleasure, the increasing heat building in his stomach urged Touya to drink more. Satiating the pressurized bloodlust with a final intake of the sweet nectar, elation quickly spread over Touya’s form. Like a damn opening, the rippling heat of aroused passion expelled, crashing internally over Keigo like a torrential storm. Relishing the sweetened delivery of physical feelings, only the disturbing tap of Keigo’s hand against his back could pull him out of the satisfying sensation. 

"T-Touya….?" Awakening his consciousness, Touya promptly separated from Keigo. Moving backwards on the mattress to give the king much needed space to readjust, Touya sent his focus to the figure in front of him. Looking down upon the king with his vision still sparking from the encounter, teal-blue eyes read the danger he’d put the mortal in.

"I’m sorry, are you okay?" Crawling across the plush surface to be at the king’s side, Touya placed a gentle hand against the pale of Keigo’s face. "I took too much…I’m sorry…" Concerned by the lack of colour and the deepened breaths struggling from the king’s lungs, Touya frantically thought up a quick solution to ease the man’s weariness. Yet, despite his avid weakness, Keigo still found the strength to smile up at his lover. 

"No, I’m okay~ Honest~" Reaching with a shaking hand, which Touya was quick to grab and hold, the softness behind Keigo’s voice didn’t ease Touya’s conscience in the slightest. "It felt so good~ I didn’t want to stop you~" Pausing to wet his mouth, Keigo’s shaking finger directed itself towards the concerned expression of his lover. "You missed some~" Glancing down at the pointing finger, Touya swept his thumb curiously over the surface of his chin. Now wet with excess blood, the crimson hue forced its way forward with the sensual flick of Touya’s tongue over his thumb. Shuddering over the small taste alone, the labored chuckle that escaped Keigo’s lungs was quick to return Touya to reality. 

"I’m relieved that I could take away your pain…" Relaxing against the pillow with a sigh Touya softly thanked Keigo, reassuring the king he’d ease the weariness he instilled upon him. Leaving a few heartened pats against the back of Keigo's hand, the limb found itself resting against the soft mattress once again. 

"Don’t try to get up right away, I’ll be back with something for you to eat." Scrambling out of bed, Touya pulled his previously discarded pants on. Promptly rushing over to the door, he urged Keigo to stay awake until he returned. Slipping away for a short time, the vampire hastily returned with a towel hanging limply over his arm, a glass of chilled water, and a small snack in hand. Keigo, hearing Touya’s hasty footsteps, ungracefully pushed himself into a sitting position. Setting the nourishments on the nightstand next to the king, he offered the towel for Keigo to clean himself off. Finishing with the clean up, Touya handed Keigo his night wear, helping him into the clothes when necessary. Now dressed and feeling less weak, Keigo retrieved the water from the nightstand. 

"Thank you, Touya." Rejoining Keigo back on the mattress, Touya laid himself in the open space next to the king. On his side, the vampire’s head was propped up by his arm while he silently admired the man beside him. 

"Of course." Taking an intermission between his words to let the mortal take a much needed bite of the offered food, Touya cleared his throat. "Besides the obvious feeling caused by my selfish desires, how do you feel?" Letting Keigo finish off the food, the sly smirk that eventually found its way to Touya made the vampire’s heart stutter. 

"I’m not sure I could describe it if I wanted to~" Moving to take his position in Touya’s arms, Keigo didn’t continue until he was lying comfortably against Touya’s chest. "Touya, you made me feel something I’ve never felt with another person before…I felt like I was floating high above the clouds and I never wanted to come down." Lacing his fingers with Touya’s, the comforting stroke of his lover’s thumb across the back of his hand only seemed to confirm his feelings. "It was absolute bliss and I never want to lose that feeling." Thinking the king was speaking about the intimacy shared, Touya couldn’t help but smirk. 

"Well baby, now that you know my secret, we can make love whenever you-"

"Touya, will you marry me?" Breath hitching in his throat, Touya couldn’t keep his muscles from twitching against Keigo’s body in surprise. Feeling the beat of his heart thrumming in his ears, a thought couldn’t be found to explain the proposal. 

"...What?" Whispered at a register barely audible by Touya’s standards, he wasn’t expecting Keigo to readjust and answer him face to face. 

"I know it’s only been a few months since we agreed to be together, but I don’t want anyone else. I want you to be mine forever~ Touya, you’ve made me so incredibly happy since you entered my life, no one else has been able to make me feel this way before. I literally can’t stop smiling when I’m around you…" With how loudly both organs were beating, Touya wasn’t sure he was hearing the king’s confession at all. Wavelengths beating in perfect tune to each other tangled together into a resonating harmony that Touya hoped would play on repeat forever. He openly followed the lulling tones, metaphorically waltzing with Keigo to the soft melody. When the fantasy came to an end, the vampire found himself holding the soft vibrations selfishly against his heart like it’d be the last time he experienced the symphony. 

"We wouldn’t have to act right away, there’s no rush to be married. I just want to know that you want me as much as I want you." Certain he’d missed half of the king’s heartfelt confession, Touya could only blink in awe as Keigo’s patient gold orbs searched him for an answer. 

"What do you say? Will you marry me?"

‘Staring into the soft gold pools waiting longingly for an answer, Touya saw himself looking back. In the depths of Keigo’s serene irises, all he could see was the same desires he had buried within. That being the uncanny want to share an eternity with someone who wanted nothing more than to give the same back.’ 

Typing frivolously as if the recollection would fade if Touya didn’t document the interaction fast enough, pale fingers danced across the keyboard.

‘Running mentally through every interaction with the king, every feeling Keigo installed upon him, and recalling the moment he realized Keigo was more than a simple meal, Touya moved to sit up. Forcing Keigo upright in his adjustment, the pair now sat facing each other. Directing his attention back on Keigo’s patient form, Touya slid his hands to gently cup the king’s face.’

Feeling his heart wrenching before he could type the words, Touya’s now shaking fingers paused. Hovering over the still keys, a growing knot was pushed down his throat. 

‘Falling back into the clear pools of gold, the stutter in Touya’s heartbeat spoke before he could get the words out. Accepting Keigo to be his future came easily for the vampire king, for never had a single mortal accepted him the way Keigo had. Denying the one person who saw him for more than his immortality, or rather, saw him to be more than a monster; would certainly become a bigger regret than the indirect sins of his father.’ 

Feeling his clear blue eyes swimming with tears, Touya kept on.

‘Leaving gentle strokes against Keigo’s face, Touya’s expression softened to express the deep emotional response his heart was urging him to say.’

Typing the final sentence of the chapter, the words slipped shakily from Touya’s lips with the synchronous movement of his fingers.

“Yes, I will marry you. I’m yours for an eternity, my darling Hummingbird~” Trailing down his cheek, a single tear encasing all of the king’s heartbreak cascaded from Touya’s eye. Dropping onto the black fabric of his pants, the small, yet mighty explosion of emotion spread infectiously over Touya’s body. Forcing his hand to close the screen of the laptop, the electronic device quickly found itself shoved off to the side of the couch. Overwhelmed by the painful crack spreading with impossible precision over his heart, Touya grabbed his chest searching for relief. 

"Why…?" Unable to stop the unrelenting flow of his tears, the king’s still shaking hand moved to the collar of his shirt. Reaching down the fabric, trembling fingers fished a singular piece of jewelry from behind the thing barrier of fabric. Hanging from a gold chain was a silver ring. Meticulously caring for the shining metal over three hundred years filled with heartbroken misery, the shining circle was the last remaining piece of Keigo he had left. Wearing it close to his heart was partially decided by the fact that the organ was metaphorically where he’d always kept Keigo, but to wear it on his hand like it was intended to be would bring a constant visual reminder of his loss; and that visual was too much pained stimulation for Touya to bear. 

Regardless, he’d never taken it off from the moment Keigo slipped it initially on his finger and now, as he cried out in pain for his long gone lover, he brought the ring to his lips. Laying a drawn out, but tender kiss against the smooth material, the ache in his heart brought the ring back to rest against his chest. Leaning against the back of the couch, shaking, wet orbs looked to the roof for guidance while both hands cupped the ring. Intentionally pressing his hands over the item resembling a protective, yet loving manner, he held the object dearly as if it was Keigo himself. 

"Why did you have to go?" Heart wrenching in his chest over the weakened sound of his tear filled voice, Touya breathed out a final plea for relief. "An eternity is too long without you, my love…Please come back to me so I can end this infernal suffering I can't escape without you…" 

Chapter Text

The next day when Kurogiri let himself into Touya’s apartment, he was pleasantly surprised to find the young vampire eating. Although, it wasn’t in any means their source of sustenance, seeing him at least making an effort to exist was heartwarming. 

"Sire, are you feeling okay?" Setting a handful of grocery bags on the surface of the countertop, Touya’s heavy gaze fell on him for nary a moment. 

"Not particularly." Filling his mouth with a spoonful of sugar cereal bits, the choice to drop the conversation was obvious. Shifting his gaze to observe the rattled appearance of his master between unpacking the bags, Kurogiri couldn’t help but smile. While looking unhealthily ragged, each distinguished problem present on his king’s body was a good sign. The knotted mess of black hair tangled on Touya’s head said more than his master intended verbally. Knotted into a symbolic message that Touya had obtained a good night’s rest, the shine of the delicate locks under the artificial illumination told Kurogiri the king had neglected to wash the gel out of his hair from the day prior. Hinting at the fact that he had most definitely passed out on the couch from over exhaustion, Kurogiri guessed the real reason for Touya’s induced slumber was because of the dark stains decorating his face. Smudged and trailing down his face, the black makeup lining his eyes easily pointed to the emotional roller coaster Touya had rode. Hungover emotionally, the degree at which the king had expressed his sadness looked terrible physically, but Kurogiri guessed had felt transcendent in other forms. 

Without asking what specifically caused the king’s distress, catching a glimpse of a small shining object hanging around Touya’s neck, the advisor could easily surmise the cause. Watching the circular hoop twirl casually with Touya’s movements, the man set a box of cookies down with a sigh. 

"I see you reached that part in your memoir." Hearing the metal of the spoon clatter against the ceramic of the bowl, the obvious clearing of Touya’s voice was a lame attempt at diverting his surprise. 

"What of it?" Purposely adjusting his chair to grace Kurogiri with his back, Touya leaned lazily, as if he really was hungover, over the table. Head now resting against his bicep, he curled his arm to rest limply over his head, while the other stirred the spoon freely through the milk of his cereal. 

"That’s good." Hearing the motion of the spoon pause for only a moment, the careless stirring picked up only to show Kurogiri his clear disinterest on the topic. "Do you feel better?" Sliding designated boxes into their assigned cupboards, the lulling sound of metal scraping against the ceramic didn’t cease. 

"No." Depositing the final food item into storage, Kurogiri prepared a pot of coffee. 

"I assure you that you will. Eventually." Grabbing a set of cups from the cupboard, each cup was prepared to satisfy the individual tastes of the two vampires. "You’ve addressed your past, expressed your feelings, and are working to move out of the funk you’ve been in for three hundred years." Caught in his own delight over Touya’s progress, Kurogiri missed the timed silence of the spoon’s movement. “Perhaps we can start planning towards a new future for our kind…" Adjusting his body to see a damning smile carved across Kurogiri’s lips, the violet hue forced its way to the surface.

"I’m stretching of course, but I truly think you’ll start to feel uplifted very soon now that you’re actively allowing yourself to grieve over-"

"Stop talking." Freezing Kurogiri beneath the frigid temperature of Touya’s voice, shaking yellow orbs relocated to the fuming expression of their master. “I’m tired of hearing you telling me how I’m supposed to feel and how I’m supposed to live. Drop the conversation before I lose my temper." Raising his hands in defence, Kurogiri stepped down. 

"Of course, your highness. Forgive me." Dismissing the statement with a wave of his hand, Touya excused himself from the room. Hearing the bathroom door slam, Kurogiri released his own annoyance with a sigh. Understanding the emotional distress his king was suffering through, he was trying to be lenient with every little outburst, but part of him couldn’t ignore the fact that after all he’d addressed, Touya arrogantly refused to accept Keigo’s vacancy. The lingering fear festering in the back of Kurogiri’s mind was that after Touya put himself through this stress, he would remain tied to the long deceased figment, never getting over the heartache infecting his entire being. 

Alone behind the safety of the sealed door, hands shaking with anger gripped the smooth porcelain edge of the sink. Restraining the building strength from crushing the breakable material, the king reigned in his annoyance with a deep exhale. Raising his head to gaze on his dishevelled appearance, Touya silently forgave Kurogiri’s rambling positivity. Ignorant to the entire situation, the advisor couldn’t begin to fathom how important Keigo truly was to him. Seeing the mortal simply as a partner was only the very tip of who Keigo Takami was, but Kurogiri refused to see past the first layer. 

Turning the tap on, Cold water rushed over Touya’s face. Washing away the blackened streaks from his expression, Touya mentally reminded himself of everything Keigo was. 

Keigo was an ally, the first human to accept his darkness. Strong willed, Keigo was the first mortal to tame and earn the trust of said darkness. Not to mention, his intelligence and quick wit kept Touya on his toes. Selfless, Keigo cared more about everyone else’s well being over his own…the mortal’s only damning quality in Touya’s selfish opinion. Of course, there were more obvious qualities such as his rich blood, physical appearance, and honesty. All qualities that Kurogiri didn’t have the pleasure or patience to understand. Having felt and experienced everything Keigo had to offer for a blissful period of time, and losing it almost suddenly, the forced extermination of these harbored feelings is extremely difficult to abolish at the rate his advisor urged. 

Knowing he wasn’t intending to act in such a selfish manner, the king took Kurogiri’s ignorance regarding Keigo’s impact into account whenever the lesser vampire’s inability to comprehend the loss took charge of his opinions regarding the matter. Reaching for a towel, the remnants of last night's tear stained evening were wiped away. Now clean of physical heartbreak, Touya, now cooled by the refreshing cleanse of the liquid, left the bathroom with an object secured in his pocket. 

Remaining obediently silent with Touya’s return to the kitchen, Kurogiri could only hope his looming anxieties of the king’s inability to move past Keigo were fabricated as he handed off a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Joining Touya at the table, the older vampire waited patiently for Touya to take a candid sip of the beverage. Sensing the rattled nerves tangled beneath the weight of Touya’s angst settling, Kurogiri cleared his throat. 

"I’m sorry for not respecting your feelings. I want you to overcome your heartache, but I should let you do it at your own pace. I know that now…"

"Giri, can you do me a favor?" Expecting another silencing command, Kurogiri was stunned when Touya pulled a fine toothed comb out of his pocket. "You’re more gentle." Accepting the plastic comb with a chuckle, Kurogiri took his position behind Touya’s chair. Relishing the habitual way Touya adjusted himself to be sitting cross legged on the chair, the elder vampire found himself looking at a nostalgic version of his king. Remembering all of the times he had forced the young Todoroki to sit still in the past, all of the fights and tantrums he had put up with to simply brush the young prince’s hair, this obedience was a nice change. Working gently at Touya’s mess of locks, the only sounds present in the room were the subtle flick of the comb against the black hair and the consistent whirr of the refrigerator, until Touya filled the silence. 

"Hey Giri, can I ask you something?" Humming in response, the offbeat of Touya’s heart left a concerning note against Kurogiri’s own wavelength. "You spend a lot of time out in the world, and having lived twice as long as I have, I have to know…" Pausing momentarily to wince beneath the pull of the comb, Touya continued in time with the smooth running of the comb's teeth through his hair. "How knowledgeable about reincarnation are you?" Feeling Kurogiri’s fingers twitch against his head, the movement of the comb only wavered for a moment. 

"Why do you ask?"

"Do you think it’s possible?" Considering the reason for the question being tied around Touya’s neck, Kurogiri thought it wisest to simply agree out of avoidance of another outburst.

"I’ve heard a lot of theories and mortal beliefs describing the possibility, yes." 

"Can you explain further?" Sensing the topic of conversation not shifting any time soon, a sigh slipped from the man’s lips as he worked out the final knots of Touya’s nest of hair. 

"Well, there’s a belief that when people die they are reborn again. Some religions teach that depending how you live your life will dictate how you are reborn in another. For example, if you suffer in one life, you will be rewarded in the next, but if you’re cruel and cause suffering you are punished by being reincarnated into something hideous or weak." Letting the black locks flow smoothly through the teeth of the comb, Kurogiri set the comb down upon the table after retaking his seat across from the king. 

"Humans also believe that you can recollect pieces of your past lives by experiencing things in your current life, or through dreams. There are a few studies on this idea where people observed old photographs and could recollect memories and share stories of what happened during the era the photograph was taken; without having any prior knowledge of the event. I feel like in a lot of situations this sort of thing is a strange coincidence or phenomena, but I digress. It’s a rather undefined theory though, hard to prove since you can’t actively ask a person who died what happens beyond the grave." Observing the immense thought emanating off of the king, Kurogiri pried for an answer of his own with the cock of his eyebrow. "Where did your interest on the subject stem from, your majesty?" Bringing his calm gaze to meet Kurogiri’s, Touya reached for his cup of coffee. 

"Yesterday, I ran into a boy that looked exactly like Tomura Shigaraki." Letting the revelation settle with his advisor, Touya took a needed sip of caffeine. "Not only that, his tone of voice, mannerisms, even the habitual way he touched and held objects, it was uncanny how alike he was to Tomura." Resting his eyes against the subtle ripple disturbing the surface of the brown liquid in his cup, Touya seemed hesitant to meet the yellow orbs searching his figure. Perhaps he felt anxiety towards being rejected by the wise man, or, he was simply embarrassed by how defensive he had gotten over the mention of his ex. Regardless, although he didn’t see Kurogiri eye to eye, he continued the conversation. 

"After witnessing that, I considered the possibility of life after death. That after all of these years, with a stroke of luck, it would be possible to find all of my fallen comrades." Tapping the manicured edge of his nail against the ceramic, Kurogiri knew Touya was waiting for confirmation of his hypothesis. Dragging out the silence, the advisor purposely consumed the majority of his beverage before gracing Touya with the knowledge that he was correct. 

"I imagine that it is possible." Feeling the obvious stutter interrupting the rhythmic beat of Touya’s heart, the underlying hypothesis driving the king’s theory touched Kurogiri’s ears before the words themselves were mumbled by the young vampire. 

"Which means…it would be possible for Keigo to be reborn in this time as well..." Unconsciously reaching for the silver hoop, nimble fingers flipped the circular object as if the random juggling would arouse a response from the universe. Observing the weight of juvenile hope filling the king’s eyes, Kurogiri set his coffee cup down with a sigh. 

"My lord, I don’t intend to rain on your fantasy…" Finally gaining Touya’s attention, the lesser vampire was relieved to see the natural hue of his eyes visually calculating him as he addressed his concerns. "However, even if Keigo was reborn, you don’t know where in the world and when in time he could be. Additionally, I know you said Tomura had an uncanny lookalike, but perhaps Keigo is reborn as a woman? For all we know, he could be a completely different person with zero recollection of who you are or what you had." Knitting his brow together to show the deep seated worry he held for his king’s future, Kurogiri let his town soften to express his sadness on the matter. "I fear that if you keep holding onto this small thread of hope, you’ll be looking forever for something utterly unattainable." Expecting the young Todoroki to argue his statement in some manner, the silence that followed the rational wisdom was deafening. Recognizing the accuracy behind his advisor’s premise, Touya couldn’t ignore the phantom feeling telling his heart otherwise. As if Keigo himself was whispering in objection to Kurogiri, urging Touya to follow his gut feeling, the king waved off the logical explanation. 

"It’s a good thing I have all the time in the world, then." Ending the conversation by removing himself from the table, Touya carried his nearly empty cup of coffee over to the sink. "If you happen to run into anyone who appears to be a reincarnation of a past comrade, I ask that you gather information on them." Dumping the rest of the caffeinated beverage into the sink, Touya’s hands placed themselves against the edge of the sink after gently setting the cup in the empty basin. "I want any and all information you can dig up. Including if they hold any memories of their past selves." Purposefully neglecting to share the reasoning behind the hunger for knowledge, Touya guessed Kurogiri already had a clue for the sudden interest. The king wanted, or rather, needed to know if obtaining another version of his lover that held stored memories of their time together was possible. Not only that, but he desired to know the difficulty level of reaching said memories within the reincarnated vessel. 

Dismissing the fact that Touya was the logical candidate to pull information out of unsuspecting humans because of his birthright power, Kurogiri easily was the best person to do the job. Being actively out in public compared to the other surviving members of their race, he’d be the most likely to interact with a doppelganger. Not to mention, being the oldest and wisest person meant he knew how to verbally navigate any social situation. You don’t live as long as Kurogiri by being foolish. 

"Yes, your majesty. I will compile anything I find and deliver it to you." Leaving the kitchen with a bow, Touya followed the lesser vampire to the door. 

"Thank you for feeding my curiosity, Giri~ It means more to me than you know~" Sending the man off with a genuine, kindhearted smile, Kurogiri could only smile in return. 

"Of course, anything to see you smile again~" Choosing to accept the king’s phantom attachment to a figure that was nothing more than a thought, the joy it brought to the emotionally defeated vampire was reason enough for Kurogiri to act. While he couldn’t understand the metaphorical wall Touya had built between himself and moving on, the king’s happiness was the only thing that mattered in the end. Vowing to care for Touya’s well-being for an eternity, he’d feed this hyper fixation until the king discarded the theory in his boredom. Kurogiri only hoped Touya would come to realize that the past would remain in the past before any substantial discoveries could be made on his end. Despite loving the joy touching Touya’s demeanor, the lesser vampire wasn’t certain of how patient he’d be with the young king if a repeat of the last three hundred years occurred again. 

Closing the door following Kurogiri’s departure, Touya’s feet selfishly led him back to the couch. Feeling a weird bout of inspiration to continue writing, despite knowing what would transpire in the narrative, Touya picked up the laptop. Settling himself comfortably against the cool leather, the electronic device sat open and ready to receive the calculated movements of Touya’s fingers. Starting a new chapter, the king regretfully mapped out the flow of the next section of the narrative. Typing the new prompt at the top of the digital page, Touya let himself sink into the depths of despair he called his past. 

How does a life altering change affect your evolving relationship?

Remaining steady like the consistent arching of the sun across the sky, Touya and Keigo’s relationship moved at a similar pace. Keeping all other aspects the same, that being sleeping, dining and spending extended time together, the only difference in their relational actions over the passing months were the sexual intimacy and eventual verbal announcement of their upcoming union. Keigo could no longer find an excuse for how flirtatious and physical Touya had become with the passing time, which meant coming clean about his secret affair with the male. 

Noticing Keigo’s growing anxieties regarding the impending announcement, Touya whisked the male away from the castle for an evening alone. Taking him away from his responsibilities, pale fingers gripped the king’s shoulders protectively. Obscuring the gold irises with a fabric blindfold, Touya’s grip served as a leading guidance for the male. 

"Step slightly to the right, that’s it. Careful now, take smaller steps starting now." Carefully easing Keigo down the forested path, the king couldn’t hide his smile. 

"Where are we going?! Are we almost there?!" Arms raised, the curious limbs tried to find the mysterious surprise. 

"Almost~" Guiding Keigo with the squeeze of his hand, Touya directed the male to take the final steps towards paradise. "Careful baby, one small step to the left. Okay, stop." Releasing the king’s shoulders, Touya untied the blindfold. Adjusting to the evening tones painting the scene, gold orbs lit up in awe. Shimmering under the dying peach tones of the setting sun was a thermal oasis. Welcoming steam curled up from the waters surface, fogging the lush green foliage that grew proudly around the perimeter. Moving closer to the untouched water, the clear surface waved softly against the Earth, beckoning Keigo to enter. 

"This is amazing, how did you know there was a hot spring so close to the castle?" Turning in time to see Touya stripping his shirt from his body, the warm temperature rising from the natural pool only deepened the growing blush spreading across Keigo’s cheeks. 

"A local told me about it, I thought it might ease your stress." Touya explained, dropping his pants around his ankles. Unable to tear his gaze from the nude figure striding past him, Keigo watched in awe as Touya waded nonchalantly into the water. "Are you going to join me, or are you content on standing there catching flies?" Chuckling lightly over how quickly Keigo clenched his jaw shut following the comment, Touya found a seat against the smooth surface of a submerged rock. Stripping himself of the fabric barrier, Keigo waded in an almost embarrassed fashion into the water. Carefully stepping through the mud, the king awkwardly found Touya’s side. 

"For the record, I’m not stressed." Finally finding the nerve to respond, Keigo slid easily onto Touya’s lap. Sitting sideways, his head nuzzled comfortably in the crook of Touya’s neck while the vampire’s arms snaked their way naturally around the king’s form. 

"The frequency at which your nerves are vibrating says otherwise, but I’ll pretend like I can’t hear that~" Completely teasing the king, the playfulness was quick to abscond. "What can I do to help you?" Knowing that Keigo was afraid of how the public would receive his image following his announcement, Touya understood the possibility that there was nothing he could do to ease the king’s nerves. 

"All I ask for is your support." Leaving a reassuring squeeze against Keigo’s body, Touya’s lips pressed themselves gently against the top of Keigo’s head. 

"You have that whenever you need it, you know that. I’ll always be there to carry you, I won’t let you fall." Listening to the reassuring strum of Touya’s heartbeat, Keigo let his eyes close with a smile. 

"I know you won’t."

Enjoying the rejuvenating thermal bath until the moon rose high in the sky, Touya left the pool to grab the towels he had folded neatly and tucked safely inside of a satchel. Accepting the plush fabric from his partner, the fabric found itself clinging tightly around the king’s waist. Seating himself on a nearby rock, nimble hands sorted through the bundled up clothes he’d deposited hours before. Stealing glances at his partner, who conveniently had his back turned towards Keigo while he dressed himself, the king retrieved an object from the pocket of his shirt. Securing the item beneath the curl of his fingers, the accelerated rhythm oscillating off his heart couldn’t hide from Touya’s superior senses. 

"Hummingbird, is everything okay?" Turning to face the flushed figure, blue eyes knit with concern trailed over the king’s form. "You’re not light headed from overheating are you?" Moving to inspect the temperature of the blond’s hot body, Keigo was quick to shake the concern away. 

"No, no~ I’m alright, I’m actually feeling a lot better thanks to you~” Replacing Touya’s concern with a smile, the vampire backed down. 

"Wonderful, I’m glad I could settle your nerves~” Nodding in agreement, Touya turned away from the king to pull the remaining articles of clothing over his body. While fastening the last piece of fabric over his form, Keigo cleared his throat. 

"Actually, Touya, there’s something else you can do to help me…" Earning his attention with a curious cock of his eyebrow, Keigo got to his feet. Stepping to be in front of the vampire, Keigo took the object from behind the safety of his fist. Holding the shining metal into view between his thumb and index finger, he offered the binding circle to the man. "Would you accept this ring as a symbol of my undying love and commitment to you?" Glinting under the soft glow of the moon, a silver object had never looked so tantalizing to Touya, nor had the vampire king accepted the dangerous metal without apprehension. Strictly keeping all silver a safe distance away from his body, Keigo slipping the circular object onto his finger was the only exception he’d make. Admiring the threatening shine of the jewelry, Touya couldn’t keep his lips from crashing against Keigo’s. Returning to the castle in what could only be described as hasty, Touya was quick to express how much the simple offering meant to him. 

Despite accepting Keigo's proposal prior to receiving the ring, there was something about having a physical manifestation of their love that solidified their future. Like the infinite shape of the circle, the future he was building with Keigo would follow the same formula. 

Following his official proposal to Touya, King Takami bit the bullet and released his statement regarding his future affairs. Introducing Touya as his fiancé and husband to be, he formally invited the villagers to share their happiness by attending an upcoming engagement party at the castle. Personally making an appearance into town to hang parchment detailing the specifics, there was another reason for the surprise venture to the bustling village. Making a specialized invitation for his closest friend, Keigo shocked the doctor with his untimely arrival at the clinic.

"Your highness, what has brought you to my practice?" Crossing the room to meet Keigo, the subtle tilt of his head sought the appearance of a looming shadow following the king. "Unattended no less, what’s the occasion?" Greeting Chisaki with a smile, Keigo offered the formally sealed envelope to the doctor. 

"I was in town announcing an upcoming event and I wanted to deliver your invitation personally~” Accepting the envelope, gloved hands tore easily through the sealed paper. Already knowing what the invitation detailed, the quick shift of Chisaki’s eyes following the settling of the paper against the surface of his wooden desk, couldn't cover the fake smile curving over his lips and couldn’t hide the distaste rasping against his voice. 

"I see that you got what you wanted." Shaking off the disgust dripping from the brunette’s lips, Keigo nodded. Leaning against the edge of the wooden desk, Chisaki’s arms folded quizzically over his chest. "Did you tell him yet?" Averting his eyes from the judgmental yellow orbed stare, Keigo’s sheepish actions spoke with the volume of a yell. "How cruel, your majesty. I sincerely hope you tell him before he takes your last name, the last thing you need to leave behind is a corrupt ruler infected by heartbreak. You saw what it did to your father." Stopping under the sharp edge of Keigo’s glare, the king’s words were tightened with the unbridled clench of his jaw. 

"Don’t worry about him. I’ll handle it when the time comes." Relaxing his rising temper, Keigo addressed Chisaki using a softer tone. "Getting back on topic, I stopped by for another reason on top of the invitation." Quirking his eyebrow in intrigue, Keigo continued. "I need you to perform a quick check up on me." 

"Here? You don’t want me to come to the castle?" Shaking his head, Chisaki had a feeling he knew the answer by the awkward way Keigo rubbed his arm. "You don’t want to worry Touya?" Meekly nodding, Chisaki unfolded his arms with a deep sigh. "Alright, so your surprise visit is obviously serious enough to warrant a meeting, but not entirely an emergency." Gesturing for Keigo to follow him behind the privacy of the hanging curtain, he motioned for Keigo to fill the designated patient chair. Sitting himself on his stool, the folding of gloved hands together signaled his readiness to absorb Keigo’s issues. "What’s troubling you, my lord?" Twiddling his thumbs to allow himself an opportunity to come up with a verbal delivery for the dip in his health, Keigo strung the symptoms together into a fitting explanation. He couldn’t outright tell Chisaki that Touya was consuming his blood after all, they’d both look insane. 

"Well…for the last couple of weeks, I’ve been experiencing an increase of lightheadedness, along with increased fatigue and occasional weakness in my muscles and movement." 

"When did these symptoms begin?" Bringing his hand to his chin, Keigo thought back. Noticing the obvious change occurring the night Touya first bit him, the effects from Touya’s casual consumption of his blood only seemed to increase with the flowing consistency of passed time. Tapping into his veins a couple times a week, the increased rate of which the vampire fed off of him unfortunately seemed to perpetuate the side effects of his terminal illness. At least, as far as Keigo could surmise that was the causal link. He could only hope his intuition was wrong and Chisaki could find a different hypothesis for the sudden fluctuation. 

"A couple of months ago."

"Has anything changed significantly in your lifestyle since I last saw you?" Shrinking beneath the question, Keigo couldn’t find an answer that would make sense. Opting to stutter out any excuse he could actively grasp, the blunt way Chisaki’s eyes challenged him through their stare, didn’t leave the excuse feeling convincing in the slightest. 

"N-No, I’m still following my regular routine, drinking lots of liquids, and I’m eating the right foods…" Clearly not buying it, The subtle raise of Chisaki’s eyebrow spoke to the silent suspicion manifesting internally. Gnawing at the back of his mind, the looming shadow indirectly tormenting him now affected his king, just like he’d initially surmised. Knowing that Touya somehow was the cause, but Keigo was too awkward to admit, Chisaki unfolded his hands. Reaching for nearby equipment, the doctor addressed the king with a submitting sigh. 

"Well, whatever it may be , I’ll run a multitude of tests to cover all the bases. Does that sound good?" Nodding, Keigo relaxed against the chair, opening his body to let the doctor in. Running different tests, the last one Chisaki settled on was taking a few samples of Keigo’s blood. Extracting six small vials from the king, Chisaki finished the initial process with the tying of a bandage around Keigo’s arm. 

"There, that should do it." Giving his hand an obvious flex, Keigo slid out of the chair. "I’ll run a few tests on these, if you want to come back in an hour?" Stretching out his muscles, Keigo bid Chisaki a smiling farewell. 

"Of course, see you in a little bit~ Thank you, Kai~"

Giving the doctor the requested time, Keigo returned to the clinic. Immediately, the atmosphere upon entering felt heavy. Hitting Keigo with the weight of negativity before Chisaki’s solemn gaze could direct itself upon him, the king feared the worst. Swallowing nervously, Keigo tried to lighten the mood with a smile. 

"What’s the damage?" Shifting anxiously, Chisaki flipped through previous notes he’d compiled on the king. 

"It’s not good…" Pulling out the first record of the king’s biometrics, Chisaki slid over the newest sheet along with the original, towards the king. "Your levels have dropped substantially…along with a rapid decrease in your natural white blood cell production…the disease is overpowering the reproduction of white blood cells with an enormous amount of irregular cells…" Scanning over the numbers written between both sets of parchment, Keigo’s face dropped. "I can’t explain how…it’s so sudden, as if something is depleting you of your hemoglobin regularly and the resulting reproduction by your heart is unable to keep up with the rapid decline." Lifting his shaking orbs from the parchment, Keigo’s voice trembled like the abrupt shake of an Earthquake. 

"W-what am I to d-do?" Taking the papers from Keigo’s shaking hands, Chisaki could only shake his head. 

"I can prescribe you with vitamins to help alleviate the shifting levels in your blood, but there isn’t anything I can do to increase your declining white blood cell count…" Tucking the information safely in Keigo’s designated folder, yellow orbs threatening to flood the room with their sadness found the king’s stunned form. "I’m sorry, your majesty, but with how vulnerable your immune system has become, it’ll be sooner than I originally estimated…" Crumbling beneath his words, Chisaki watched in pained silence as the remaining threads of hope unstitched themselves from the king’s heart. 

Losing the binds that tied him, the king’s heart sunk to the floor. Crashing against the solid wood, the delicate organ shattered beneath the revelation. Splitting into thousands of tiny pieces, the possibility of repairing the king’s heart quickly became impossible. Making an exception for his lord, Chisaki moved to do the next best thing. Wrapping his arms lightly around Keigo’s shaking form, the doctor did his best to console the buzzing nerves infecting Keigo’s thoughts. 

"If there’s anything you need from me, don’t hesitate to ask." Clearly fighting his own discomfort from physically expressing himself with another person, Chisaki’s gentle pats, despite contacting the king through the barrier of his gloves, came off rather awkward. Soothing Keigo in no way at all, the king was too distraught over his own racing thoughts to correct the uncomfortable touch. 

Realizing his original hypothesis had indeed been correct, the lingering thought of how Touya would react, hurt more than the inevitable. Having months to prepare for his timely demise, Keigo had more or less accepted his mortal fate. However, if Touya were to find out that his instinctual actions had substantially sped up the king’s inevitable decay, he’d certainly overreact. That darkness that Touya had worked so hard to contain would overflow, consuming everything in their wake, Keigo’s legacy along with any humanity Touya had left would be gone. For the sake of his kingdom along with Touya’s feelings, Keigo decided that his fiancé would remain ignorant to the truth. When the time came, Touya would only know what he needed to know, the rest would go to the grave with Keigo. 

"Would you like me to walk you home?" Having removed himself from the king moments before, Keigo brought his attention to the voice. 

"No, that’s okay…" Turning to leave, the cold touch of the door handle against Keigo’s shaking hand paused the king’s abscond. "Chisaki, promise me that you’ll look after Touya when I’m gone. He’ll need your support when all is said and done." Not particularly fond of being left to Touya’s devices, Chisaki accepted the request with a bow. Reassuring the king that everything would be taken care of was all he could offer and after looking out for Keigo’s best interest over the last twenty one years, he’d be a fool to deny him now. 

Following the devastating meeting with Chisaki, Keigo returned to the castle. Sweeping the news promptly under the rug, the decision to keep things running normally came easily. While slowing himself physically down in order to preserve the dwindling strength residing within, Keigo tried to keep up appearances as best as he could. 

Touya, however, noticed right away. With each passing day, Keigo moved a little slower, appeared to eat less, took extensive breaks, or was caught slumbering at odd hours. Walking in on Keigo sleeping at his desk on more than one occasion, Touya had tried to ignore the small action. However, when it became recurring for Keigo to faint unexpectedly, Touya couldn’t ignore the consistent fatigue. 

"My love, are you feeling alright? Should I fetch Chisaki?" Waking in Touya’s arms following each incident, Keigo was quick to wave away the request with a different excuse. 

"I’m fine, It’s just low blood pressure."

"I’m sorry, I’m a bit tired from the preparations." 

"I didn’t recover enough after our intimacy~"

"I haven’t eaten, I’m just a little lightheaded, that’s all." 

"The sun is awfully warm today, my body feels a little hot because of it, no need to worry~” 

With every excuse, Keigo would pick himself up, dusting away the apparent exhaustion and carrying on with his tasks like nothing had happened. 

Chalking it up to the fact that the king was stressed over the upcoming celebration, the vampire took it upon himself to ease the load bearing down on the blond. Reassuring his lover that he’d take care of everything, Touya urged Keigo not to lift a finger unless necessary. Ensuring that everything was in order, Keigo, under Touya’s request, would only make appearances to eat, use the facilities, and authorize any legal documentation or foresee civilian issues Touya couldn’t. Otherwise, the king spent the majority of his day resting in bed. 

By nightfall however, Keigo was more than eager to offer his built up strength to Touya. Disregarding the fact that he was willingly shaking the remaining grains of sand residing in his hourglass to fall into the pile of sand below, Keigo couldn’t help himself. With whatever time he had left, all he wished was to see Touya’s smile and feel happy. Gaining both from the undisputed love offered to him by the vampire, would ultimately make Keigo’s fleeting decision to offer himself as a thirst quencher easy. As selfish as it was, he wouldn’t stop Touya from satiating his bloodlust, despite how weak he felt after every session. He couldn’t. Not only did he feel incredibly good each time they made love, but the way Touya looked at him after made it impossible for Keigo to say no. 

Gazing upon him like he was the most precious, but highly fragile being in Touya’s life, the fear that he would inevitably break Keigo had never been more real. Afraid to hurt him, Touya’s concern would always direct itself at Keigo’s well-being. The damning bloodlust affecting his own body always was an afterthought to the vampire. Love came first in Touya’s eyes and it was this unconditional commitment that led Keigo to allow himself the continuation of easing the vampire’s internal struggle, even with the cost of his own life on the line. 

Neglecting to consider that his life in itself meant more to Touya than the instinctual feeling stirred within his gut, Keigo’s choice to die indirectly by Touya’s hand would undoubtedly weigh the heaviest against the vampire’s heart. Harder to carry than the weight of every death prior, choosing to keep the burden of his illness to himself would eventually tear Touya apart, but in the moment Keigo could only focus on how good Touya made him feel. Gasping beneath the feeling and holding it against the shattered pieces of his heart, Keigo wished he could stay like this forever. 

"Baby, I swear, making love with you gets better every time~” Lingering overtop of the king’s flushed form, lusting blue eyes swam over their lover’s face. Eating up the pleasure induced expression etched across the king’s delicate features, the smile that curved over Keigo’s gasping lips only moved to excite the male above him further. 

"You make me feel so good, Touya~ I love you so much~” Cupping the vampire’s face with a hand pale in comparison to its regular tanned appearance, Keigo pulled the male down for a kiss. Melting immediately, Touya found the gentle way Keigo’s lips moved to be rather tantalizing. Normally expressing himself through his hunger for passion, the tender way he moved felt intentional. As if he was prolonging their contact out of fear, afraid that if he separated, Touya would float away. Kissing back with an equal amount of tenderness, the moment quickly dissolved when an irregular blip stroked Touya’s senses. Harsh, uneven, and rather painful to his senses, Touya could only imagine how the random heartbeat felt strumming in Keigo’s chest. Pulling away, eyes knit tightly with concern searched through the slow blink of Keigo’s golden orbs. 

"Darling, are you sure you’re feeling alright?" Focusing intently on the natural rhythm of Keigo’s heartbeat, the irregularity seemed to vanish as quickly as it had come. 

"Yes, my love, I’m fine. Why?" Carefully picking apart every wavelength drumming from Keigo’s body, the intent way Touya’s eyes searched his form, delivered a senses of discomfort over Keigo’s exposed body. "Babe, it was just my excitement, I’m fine~" Said while adjusting himself to be free of Touya’s prying eyes, the movement forced the vampire to separate. Watching silently as his fiancé prepared himself for sleep, Touya couldn’t shake the strange feeling from churning his gut. Whispering at the back of his mind, his instincts urged for Chisaki to be brought to the castle. Silently considering everything he’d witnessed affecting Keigo, Touya moved to retrieve the mortal doctor. However, when Keigo’s honeyed smile lured him back into his arms, Touya mistakenly swept the feeling under the rug. Dressing himself for the night, he joined Keigo under the warmth of the blanket. Holding the blond flush against his body, a soft peck left itself against the king’s forehead. 

"Good night my Hummingbird~ I love you and I’ll see you in the morning~" Keeping a protective hold against Keigo’s body, Touya held the king close. Relishing the feeling of his warmth like it’d be the last, the vampire drifted off to sleep.

When morning reared its awakening light, the rising sun brought with it the day of the engagement celebration. Waking before Keigo had become normal for Touya after spending months avoiding the king to hide his instinctual bloodlust. This morning was no different. Stirring awake, soft blue eyes fell on the slumbering figure next to him. Deep under the hold of sleep, the symphony of snores rumbling from Keigo’s nose told Touya the king would not be waking anytime soon, but the vampire didn’t mind. Keigo obviously needed his rest after fighting the exhaustion induced from planning his engagement. Welcomed to sleep longer, Touya would ensure everything went smoothly while Keigo rebuilt his strength. 

"You are too precious my darling Hummingbird~ So beautiful~" Unable to hide the affection twisting across his expression, a gentle hand placed itself against Keigo’s head. Brushing aside the mess of blond locks, Touya left a tender kiss against his partner’s forehead. 

"Don’t worry my love, I’ll take care of everything~ You can sleep in~” Admiring the soft expression touching the king’s sleeping features a moment longer, the tender stroke of Touya’s hand lingered momentarily before he crawled out of bed. Stealing a final glance back at the sleeping figure, Touya left the room with a soft click of the door following his departure. The sound, strangely resonating like the obvious tick of a clock, seemed to indirectly warn Touya that the peaceful moments he had left with the king were counting down. Ignorantly letting Keigo’s time slip through his fingers with every passing minute, the vampire continued on, woefully unprepared to face the inevitable outcome ahead. 

Taking charge of the castle, Touya directed every aspect of the day. Cleaned from top to bottom, every inch of the soon to be occupied rooms were spotless. Shining from the very tip of the crystal chandeliers hanging delicately from the roof, to the glossy floor below, Touya urged even the anal doctor to find a speck of dust in the room. 

Tables were placed against one of the perimeter walls, one for beverages, the other for food. They were draped with black and red table cloths while various decorations were brought in by the servants. Delicate streaming fabrics were hung artistically from the roof, while large flower arrangements were set on small podiums placed around the remaining perimeter of the banquet hall. Various food dishes were currently being prepared in the kitchen, ensuring that tastebuds of every craving were considered. 

Everything was moving smoothly despite the organized chaotic appearance of the castle, the only thing missing from the scene was the king. Still to arrive with the passing of over half of the day, Touya’s concern began to grow. 

"Master Touya?" Pulling his attention from the chaos surrounding him, a maid brandishing a silver tray stood anxiously in front of him. "Excuse my interruption, but I prepared this tray for his majesty, would you prefer I take it to him?" Eyeing the contents of the shining surface, Touya shook his head. 

"No, I will, thank you." Accepting the tray of vitamins, tea, and a light snack since breakfast had long passed, the maid ran off with a bow. Leaving a few final remarks with the other servants, Touya slipped off to Keigo’s room. Knocking lightly, he pushed the door open to see Keigo still under sleeps heavy grip. Ensuring the door was latched securely behind him, Touya’s eyes knit tighter with concern the closer he got to the bed. Noting how Keigo had barely shifted since his departure hours before, the sinking feeling returned to his heart. 

"Hummingbird?" Setting the tray gently upon the nightstand, Touya eased himself on the plush surface of the mattress. "Hummingbird, it’s midday, I think you should get up." Responding with a twitch of his finger, the only response the king could muster, Touya’s teeth found the inside of his cheek. A nasty habit he’d forced upon himself from initially avoiding taking Keigo’s blood, now he found the actions a valid solution to filter his anxieties. 

"Baby?" Lightly brushing aside a few obstructing blond locks, the pale hue of Keigo’s face didn’t ease the gnawing concern eating away at the vampire. Losing all of the familiar golden tan that separated his skin from the pale tint of Touya’s, the realization that something was very wrong struck like lightning.

"Keigo, honey, I need you to wake up." Nudging the unconscious form anxiously, Touya’s gaze shifted towards the door. Contemplating on whether to fetch Chisaki, the hum rumbling from Keigo’s throat lured the weight of Touya’s concern back. Rumbling in a tone that could only be described as objecting, Touya tried reaching Keigo again. 

"Baby, I know you’re tired, but I need you to wake up and talk to me…" With no active response from the king in any form, Touya focused intently on the sounds his body unconsciously made. Light, like the dying hum of a solemn violin, Keigo’s heartbeat cried with the high pitched while for relief. Playing a note much too high for far too long, the slow beating organ begged for a breath. Wincing while the sad caress from the wavelength touched his auditory canal. Touya pressed his hand against the king’s forehead. 

"Cold…" Catching the shallow vibrations exhaling from the king’s lungs, Touya was appalled with himself for not noticing sooner. "I should get Chisaki…" Stealing another contemplative glance at the door, Touya shook his head. Resting on the idea that he would try and solve this problem himself, he did something he actively despised to use against Keigo. 

"Hummingbird~" Cooing softly, the hypnotic tones of his voice aroused Keigo’s sleeping conscience. Digging deeply within the king’s consciousness, violet eyes searched methodically for the mortal’s ability to respond. "My dearest Keigo~ Please wake up~" Following the sweet lull of Touya’s voice, Keigo’s eyes fluttered open. 

"Touya? Is it morning?" Leaving gentle caresses against Keigo’s smiling expression, Touya pried for answers while he still had a grip on the king’s consciousness. 

"It’s late afternoon my love, but that’s not important." Trying and failing to reach for Touya’s body, the king’s hand fell weakly against the mattress. 

"You’re so far away…" Breaking with the meek delivery of Keigo’s voice, Touya’s heart ached the longer he drew out the exchange. 

"I’m right here, baby." To prove his point, Touya scooped up Keigo’s clammy hand. "Please focus on my voice, I need to ask you some very important questions…" Blinking slowly, glossy golden eyes locked onto Touya’s luring form. "Can you tell me what’s going on? What’s causing you to be in this state?" Flexing his fingers against Touya’s hand with as much strength as he could muster, Keigo’s response came out following a rather labored exhale. 

"I’m feeling weak and very tired…" Neglecting to share with Touya the real reason, Keigo’s general explanation wasn’t good enough for the vampire. 

"Are you sick, my love? Shall I call Chisaki?" Letting his eyelids fall tiredly over his eyes, another pained wavelength slipped from Keigo’s heart. 

"I thought…we were celebrating…our engagement tonight?" Surprised at how Keigo’s unfathomable mental strength broke through his hypnosis despite his exhaustion, Touya pressed further. 

"We are, but my darling, your health is more important than some party. I will cancel the evening and call Chisaki to take care of y-"

"No." Physically recoiling by the strength behind Keigo’s objection, while the golden irises weren’t visible to Touya, the glare was heavily implied. 

"But my love, I-"

“I want you to be happy…celebrating our engagement will make you smile…the party stays on…I’m fine…" Hiding the fact that he was sacrificing everything for Touya’s fleeting happiness, Keigo gave Touya’s hand a reassuring squeeze. Frozen beneath the sudden resolve, Touya knit his brow together. 

"Are you sure? We can postpone…" Raising his eyelids, while glossed over by his sickness, Keigo’s eyes had never looked so clear. 

"You can’t postpone this…I want to celebrate our love tonight just like we planned…just let me sleep a little longer, okay?" Fighting the conflicted rhythm of his heart, Touya found himself submitting to the king. 

"Very well, I will come get you when the guests arrive. Get some rest Hummingbird and I’ll see you in a couple of hours~” Retracting the violet hue from his eyes, the speed in which Keigo slipped back under was unsettling. Falling quickly without Touya’s hold for support, muscles that were capable of movement mere seconds ago went limp almost instantaneously. Feeling the exuding wavelengths oscillating from the king’s sleeping form, Touya preemptively released a sigh of relief. Pressing a chaste kiss against the back of Keigo’s hand, Touya hesitantly left the bed. Trained on the still figure, the hesitancy weighing against his heart pressured Touya to act against the king’s wishes. Unfamiliar with the weakness plaguing his partner, an inkling of doubt began gnawing at the confines of Touya’s stomach.

"Something’s not right…I should get Chisaki…" Shifting on the spot, the vampire weighed the urgency of the issue. "Keigo’s been stressed…maybe he hasn’t been sleeping and I have been drinking his blood more often…perhaps he is just recovering…" Forcing a smile to curve across his lips, Touya observed the king’s peaceful figure a moment longer before shaking the doubts from his mind. 

"It’s fine Touya…Keigo wouldn’t hide anything from you…he’s fine…everything is fine…"

Chapter Text

Removing his fingers from the keyboard, the limbs promptly rubbed away the tears pricking at his eyes. Clearing the sadness and regret from spilling over, a shaking breath found its way from Touya’s lungs. 

"I don’t want to do this…" Letting his gaze rest against the neatly typed words awaiting for their narrative to continue, Touya’s heart thrummed in pain. “I can’t do this right now…" Feeling too emotional to recollect further, the screen of the laptop found itself pressed tightly against the keyboard. Easing the disturbed nerves with a few deep inhales, Touya left the comfort of the couch. Deciding to follow his new formula of leaving the apartment whenever a wall erected itself, the vampire slipped out under the sinking light of the sun. Dying to slide below the horizon, while preparing for its timed slumber, the warming rays still posed a threat to the man’s health. Keeping the designated walk short, Touya chose to clear his head by entering a nearby café. Craving the comforting touch of a properly made cup of hot chocolate, no other drink would serve to calm the emotional distress his nerves were currently experienced. 

After ordering the sweetened hot beverage, Touya slipped into a booth situated next to a window. Safely out of range of the streaming rays of light, the hood of his hoodie found itself resting limply against Touya’s back. Propping his head up with his hand, Touya unconsciously leaned towards the clear glass pane. Sipping at the beverage, azure eyes watched the golden light of the sun make its nightly disappearance below the horizon. Remembering the evenings he’d shared with Keigo, enjoying a sunset wasn’t a new feeling. However, he did miss the obvious warmth of having the mortal king sitting beside him. The feeling of Keigo leaning into his body while Touya draped his arm around the man’s small shoulder, it was home. Now, that which he called home was gone and Touya only had the comforting sweetness of a hot drink to ease his heartbreak. 

Releasing a sigh, the silent thought that Keigo may be enjoying the same sunset as him lingered in the back of Touya’s mind. Understanding Kurogiri’s logic regarding reincarnation, the possibility that Keigo was within arms distance was too good to give up. The only thing stopping Touya from accessing a refreshed version of his past was his inability to remain under the sun for prolonged periods of time. Attending book signings or events regarding his newest novels were the only times where he spent majority of the day in public, but even then he was safely obscured by an air conditioned roof. 

Regardless, he was determined to find the answers he sought through Kurogiri’s meticulous research and strangely enough, his immense luck. Refusing to drop the idea that his lover could be once again walking the Earth, sharing in the same delights, and most importantly, looking for him, Touya had no idea how close to the truth he truly was. Woefully unaware of the curious set of eyes drawn to him, had Touya entered the café a mere five minutes later, he would have come face to face with his answers.

Leaning over the counter with one hand cupping the nearly empty to-go cup of coffee, the other propped a longing expression up with a casual bend of his elbow. Having just returned from his designated break, Keegan felt the familiar attracting pull the moment he crossed the threshold separating the employee’s back room from the store front. Hearing whispers urging him to follow their lulling sounds, gold eyes shifted towards the ominous feeling. Finding the mysterious figure he’d experienced at the mall behind the curious feeling, the stutter in his heart was unexpected. Catching a drift of familiarity while passing his gaze over the man, the uncanny desire to cross the room and join him at the table vibrated across the tangle of nerves within. Filled with the same uncanny magnetism that was felt at the mall, a strange sense of longing erupted over his body. Somehow, every sense vibrated with the same understanding that Keegan knew this man, that this was the person he’d been metaphorically looking for. 

Yet, despite the incessant push to draw near, Keegan remained behind the counter. Ignoring the phantom desires, Keegan chose to admire the figure from afar. Fawning over the highly attractive appearance of the male, gold orbs seemed to eat every detail of the man’s figure. While the cascading black locks obscured the man’s face, when painted black nails ran unconsciously through the onyx waterfall, the small gifted visual was enough for Keegan’s heart to trip again. Skin, fair in pigment, glowed under the warmth of the sunset. Under the hot tones of the sun, his glistening blue eyes were like a drop of moonlight in an ocean rippling under the sunset’s gentle caress. Sighing unconsciously, the casual shift of weight between knees pointed to the accelerated increase of Keegan’s heartbeat. Feeling metaphorically lost in the set of azure orbs that he had yet to fully appreciate, the sense that he’d taken a previous dip in the visual pools stimulated the senses. Somehow, Keegan knew he loved those eyes…oddly enough, the longer he admired the man’s features, the more familiar he felt. 

Recognizing the mortal vessel with ease, the darkness tried to attract the valued human over to their master again. Clearly dissociated from his surroundings, Touya’s inability to sense Keegan’s presence didn’t go unnoticed by his shadows. Taking matters into their own hands, the bold decision to leave their master came easily. Sneaking across the empty establishment, they merged effortlessly with the human’s shadows. Crawling effortlessly up the length of the blond’s body, the shadows wrapped themselves lightly around the blond’s form. Innocently caressing Keegan’s senses with the gentle reminder of who Touya was, the darkness tried to awaken the lost sensibility of the reincarnated vessel. 

Experiencing a weird sense of Deja vu, a striking urge that he did know the man coursed over his body like a cold caress from the night. 

‘Hummingbird~ ’

Hearing the voice echo across his mind, Keegan couldn’t hide the blush from crossing his face. Stuttering under the phantom sound, the already accelerated beat of his heart longed to be showered beneath the sultry tones of that voice again. 

‘Come here, Hummingbird~’

Echoing at a louder volume, the words touched Keegan’s ear with a chilling closeness that sent a surging chill down his spine. 

‘Come back to me~’

Trailing down the shell of Keegan’s ear, the chilling touch of the darkness moved purposely towards the blond’s entranced gaze.

‘ Come on Hummingbird~’ Obscuring Keegan’s gaze with their tempting shade, the lulling tone vibrating across Keegan’s mind had never felt more convincing. ‘I’ve been waiting for so long to see you again, don’t leave me in the darkness~’

Stuttering at a volume equal to the sultry voice infecting his head, the push from his heartbeat brought Keegan to straighten his body out. 

‘ That’s it~ Come to me~’ Eyes trained on the figure across the café, Keegan swallowed nervously. Despite sensing the innocence of starting a conversation with the man, an inkling of embarrassment kept Keegan in place. Overwhelmed by the impossible explanation of the internal feelings popping over his body, the explanation he’d certainly try to deliver to the man over why he was conversing with him sounded foolish. He couldn’t, in his right mind, waltz over there and tell the stranger that he’s been dying to meet him simply because an inner voice told him to. That would be absurd, wouldn’t it?

"You’ve been looking off into the distance for some time now, K. What is distracting you?" Receding back beneath the safety of Touya’s feet with the approaching voice, the docile darkness silently cursed the woman for stepping on their metaphorical toes. Shaking the trance-like feeling from his body, Keegan awkwardly fumbled for an answer. 

"N-Nothing Riley, I was just thinking!" Trying to hide the fact that he’d been ogling a customer for what felt like an eternity, his coworker didn’t buy it. Placing her hands assertively on her hips, calculating maroon orbs followed the trail of desperation left behind by her friend. Landing on the tantalizing cause for his distinguished flushed demeanor, her lips curved into a smile. 

"Oh I see~" Nudging him playful with her arm, the way her voice dropped didn’t ease any of the embarrassment infecting Keegan’s face. "Go and talk to him~" Clearly stricken by the fabricated appall, Keegan tried to hide behind the display of sweet confections. 

"What?! No way, do you see how attractive he is?!" Stealing a glance at the figure in question through the glass display housing various sweets, the mere sight of the delectable man brought the blush back to Keegan’s cheeks. Watching in awe while a casual sip of his drink ran down the length of his throat, even the action, while painfully simple, was oddly hot. "There’s no way he’d even look my way, let alone talk to me." Sympathizing with the heart wrenching drop in Keegan’s tone, Riley lost the teasing edge in her voice. 

"You need to give yourself more credit, K." Leaning against the counter, her smile tried to ease Keegan out from behind the display case. 

"What would I even say?" Chuckling at his painful innocence, her finger nonchalantly began to twirl her long silvery hair. 

"Oh, I don’t know, you could try hello ." Sensing his hesitancy, she offered another suggestion following a sigh. "Or, if that’s too complicated for you, I have an easy one liner that always grabs people’s attention~" Catching his intrigue, the roll of his eyes following her statement spoke before he could. "Ask him if he wants a refill~ Works every time~" Chuckling following the playful nudge of his arm, he folded his arms promptly over his chest in annoyance. 

"Very funny. You are not helping." 

"And you’re overthinking this. Just go over there. Pretend he’s just another customer and flash him that sweet smile of yours~ He’ll definitely look your way then~” Trying and failing to hide the blush dusting his cheeks, Keegan’s face lit up.

"You think so?" 

"Keegan, I don’t think you realize how many people you attract with the curve of your lips~ Trust me~" Leaving the conversation with a cheeky wink of her eye, Keegan felt his heart flip. Shifting his gaze back to the embodiment of sculpted perfection, anxiety touched every nerve. Overwhelmed with the apprehension that the man was simply out of his league, Keegan found it hard to follow Riley’s confident advice. However, this familiar draw magnetizing his inherent feelings towards the man argued otherwise. Something told Keegan that his greeting wouldn’t matter, he simply needed to walk over there and let the man’s undivided attention do the rest. 

Yet, despite the silent affirmation that rejection wasn’t even in the deck, Keegan couldn’t find the confidence to move. Caught in a rift of denial and urgency, the command simply couldn’t connect with his muscles. Having no will to act, the moment left when the sun dipped entirely beneath the horizon. Leaving the café to disappear into the shadows of the evening, the man took any chance of Keegan acting on his impulse with him. Sighing with the soft thud of the door closing following the man’s departure, Keegan folded over the counter in defeat. 

"Nice going, Keegan." Groaning over his own cowardice, Keegan straightened his defeated form out. "You missed your only shot, idiot." Running a hand through the disheveled blond locks, the motion was meant to swipe the frustration from his mind. However, while the man departed with ease, the feeling of regret only seemed to fester and grow within Keegan’s gut. Unable to explain the emotional fixation with the stranger, dwelling on the loss suddenly became an important detail he couldn’t let go. No matter how hard he tried to shake the emotional distraught following the casual abscond of the man, the imagery that a very unique snowflake had become lost during a white-out storm remained very prominent in his mind. 

Enjoying the crisp night air a while longer, Touya found himself stumbling into his apartment later than he intended. Rekindling a lost appreciation for the twinkling stars above, a necessary detour to admire their dying light was gladly taken. Letting the twinkling light refresh the emotional distress from his mind, the silent meditation beneath the vast sky above oddly rejuvenated the vampire to a new degree. Realizing that, like the stars glistening above, despite being long deceased, Keigo’s light still illuminated his life. Like the dying light of the stars, while Keigo was unable to be physically held by Touya, the vampire could still admire and relish the glowing effect Keigo’s light had on him. Finishing his story and addressing his heartache didn’t mean discarding Keigo. Keigo would never truly be gone so long as Touya remembered the warm feeling Keigo’s light left upon him. How could he, in good conscience, forget the only man capable of taming his darkness?

Ready to finish that which he started, the dread he felt regarding the upcoming ending of his narrative felt less daunting. While still emotionally heart broken by the events, the eagerness to address said incident was impossible to ignore. 

"It’s now or never." Mumbling the mantra to himself as he slid comfortably onto the plush leather couch, grabbing the laptop, Touya flipped the screen open. Inspired by the stars, pale fingers danced over the keys like the twinkling lights popping off over the sea of darkness above. 

"Something’s not right…I should get Chisaki…" Shifting on the spot, the vampire weighed the urgency of the issue. "Keigo’s been stressed…maybe he hasn’t been sleeping and I have been drinking his blood more often…perhaps he is just recovering…" Forcing a smile to curve across his lips, Touya observed the king’s peaceful figure a moment longer before shaking the doubts from his mind. 

"It’s fine Touya…Keigo wouldn’t hide anything from you…he’s fine…everything is fine…"

Pushing away the gnawing thoughts within, Touya made quick work of the final preparations for the evening. With the castle now in perfect condition for the party, and the guests arriving promptly on time, the only thing missing was the king himself. Returning to Keigo’s bedroom, Touya was prepared to find the blond still asleep. However, when he pushed the food open to find a partially dressed Keigo leaning on the wall for support, although rather small, Touya counted it as progress. 

"Hey~ How are you feeling?" Rushing over to brace the male, Keigo was quick to fall into Touya’s supporting arms. 

"I’m still really lightheaded…but I’ll make it through tonight if you’ll help me." Catching a reassuring note behind Keigo’s words, the apprehensions preemptively fled Touya’s body. 

"Of course, I told you I’d always be there to support you~” Slipping his arm around Keigo’s body, Touya led Keigo to sit on the edge of the mattress. Ordering the king to remain seated, he promptly returning with the rest of the king's ensemble. Adding the remaining pieces of clothing, jewelry, and giving the wild blond locks a taming comb through, Touya helped Keigo back to his feet. Immediately falling against Touya’s chest for support, the arm that slipped around Keigo’s form seemed nonsensical. At the rate Keigo’s strength was visibly deteriorating, Keigo would be better off if Touya carried the king like a baby all night. Despite how incredibly demeaning the action would be, he selfishly considered the outcome. 

"Hummingbird, are you sure you don’t want to spend the evening in bed? I can still turn everyone away if-"

"Snowflake, I already told you that we’re celebrating our engagement regardless." Finding a bit of strength, Keigo adjusted his body. Leaning the majority of his body weight against Touya’s side, the gentle push of Keigo’s arm against Touya’s back urged the vampire to fall in step with the king. "I don’t care what it takes, I want to experience this with you…" Limping awkwardly next to Touya’s slow stepping form, the vampire silently considered his next option regarding Keigo. Carrying Keigo would be highly informal, and when the king bounced back from his temporary funk, he’d certainly kill Touya for making him look so weak. He could disobey Keigo’s wishes and force him back to bed, but Keigo was adamant on joining the party, so much so that he broke his hypnosis to do so. Which left one final option. 

"Hummingbird?" Stopping just shy of the stairs, Touya brought himself to brace the king’s sinking shoulders. "Hummingbird, look at me." Raising his head, the glowing violet hue overtaking Touya’s eyes caught the blond’s head from dropping beneath the weight of extensive movement. Swallowing the remaining guilt building from what was about to transpire at his hand, Touya accepted all of the inevitable consequences. After all, he was doing it for Keigo’s happiness, that was a good thing, right?

"Keigo, my darling, I need you to forget your weariness for the next couple of hours. The people you lead cannot see you like this. If you need to lean on me all night, so be it. I will hold you up until the night is over, but you cannot be stumbling around like a drunkard." Cupping the king’s face, Touya’s expression softened. "Honey, please let me know when the night becomes too much for you and I will take you to bed. I don’t want you to push yourself more than your body will allow, it would break my heart if something happened to you." Stroking the curve of Keigo’s cheeks, Touya leaned his face closer to Keigo’s. "Can you promise me that?" Feeling the hot breath of his fiancé against his lips, Keigo nodded. 

"Yes."

"You’re so good for me~" Leaving a tender kiss against the king’s lips, when Touya pulled away, blue eyes searched through the golden sunsets staring back. "I love you, Keigo." 

"I love you too, Touya." Retracting his hands from Keigo’s face, the vampire offered his arm for the king. Snaking his arm around Touya’s limb as he had done many times prior, he braced the firm bicep with his other hand while his head found the comforting hold of Touya’s shoulder. Smiling softly at the natural response of the blond, Touya shook the apprehensions still lingering at the back of his mind. Reminding himself that everything would be fine, Touya descended the stairs with an entranced Keigo in tow. Not knowing that with every passing minute, the remaining threads of Keigo’s strength were quickly unravelling. Being held together by the illusionary strength of his hypnosis, Touya had no idea how close to collapsing Keigo truly was. 

Joining the party following the pleasant introduction, Touya greeted the guests with a smile, wave, and short speech thanking everyone for celebrating their engagement. Urging the guests to enjoy themselves, Touya sent everyone to mingle before leading Keigo into the crowd to do the same. 

While Touya engaged in conversation with questioning citizens and lords alike, Keigo could only blink and smile in response. Feeling like he had been physically stuck beneath a dense mass, the king felt like a chunk of fruit suspended in a mold of gelatin. Unable to twitch even a finger, the frozen state he found himself felt rather terrifying. 

‘What’s happening to me?’ Considering the thought to be quite obnoxious, the understanding that someone had also heard the question seemed obvious to the king. However, when no response came, the king urged his lips to part. 

‘Touya? Where am I?! What’s going on?!’ Coming out as nothing more than another thought, the sultry rasp of Touya’s voice replying came as a surprise. 

"I imagine the wedding will be taking place sooner than later~" Chuckles that carried the same soft rhythm of Keigo’s heartbeat followed the statement. 

"Awfully eager, don’t you think?" That voice Keigo didn’t recognize, but whoever it was seemed to intrigue Touya.

"Well, when you find the person whom you want to be with for the rest of your life, it’s hard to be patient." Feeling a tension shaking the thickened walls surrounding him, the feeling of Touya’s fingers gently brushing away his disheveled locks had never felt so foreign. Disturbing the weighted walls holding him in place, the movement seemed to eat away at the security holding Keigo in place. 

"Well, I wish you and King Takami all the best." Followed by the gentle clink of a champagne flute, the sound, while not particularly threatening by any means, cut through the vibrating gelatin walls with the sharpness of a knife. Edging away the thick comfort of the suspended solution, Keigo’s heart rate quickened as the protection around him slowly melted away. 

‘Touya, I’m scared that I’m going to fall…’ Being granted minimal movement, the king flexed his fingers, trying desperately to grasp at anything that could save him from dropping out of the suspended state. 

"Thank you, I know we’ll be very happy together." Placing an unconscious kiss against Keigo’s forehead, the action, while painfully delicate, seemed to be the final push Keigo needed to be free of the hypnotic suspension. Falling from Touya’s less than commanding grip, the king’s silent screams whirred through his mind as he slipped senselessly back into consciousness. Thrown back into functional control of himself, the overwhelming fluctuation of his body temperature sent his nerves into a gasping flurry. Desperate to cool off, the sweat that pooled at his hairline was nothing compared to the hot flush overtaking his face. Panting heavily like a dog, lungs desperate for some semblance of relief cried out for a healthy intake of oxygen that Keigo just couldn’t deliver. Unconsciously squeezing Touya’s bicep, the action actively seeking some sense of support from Touya, but also trying to alert the vampire of his weariness. 

"Touya…" Unable to catch the whispered name himself, Keigo was certain the heightened sense of his fiancé easily heard the call for help. "I don’t feel good…" Leaving his body as quickly as it initially washed over his form, the heat dropped from Keigo like the rhythm of his heart. Caressed by the cold hand of death, shivers shocked Keigo’s body into a frigid state of unconsciousness. Rolling backwards to hide from the commotion around him, the disappearance of the golden irises seemingly lulled the king’s body backwards with their motion. Untethering his hold from Touya’s arm, the last thing he heard before the pained throb of his heartbeat filled his ears was Touya screaming his name. 

"Your majesties." A man, Touya guessed must have been another royal based on his attire, bowed slightly in greeting. "I wanted to congratulate you personally on your engagement."

"King Takami and I thank you." He answered simply, not wishing to drag the conversation out. 

"I’ve known King Takami’s family since the young king was learning to walk, and I have got to say, I never imagined he’d be married so soon…struck me as the type to remain single." Dodging Touya’s pointed glare, the man shot the vampire with a teasing smirk. " When can we expect to hear wedding bells?" Knowing Keigo wasn’t particular on when they were to be wed, Touya answered in such a way to force this man to bite his opinions back.

"I imagine the wedding will be taking place sooner than later~" Chuckling in direct disagreement to Touya’s sentence, the man pried further. 

"Awfully eager, don’t you think?" Threatening to break the feeble stem of the champagne flute, Touya bit back his temper. 

"Well, when you find the right person whom you want to be with for the rest of your life, it’s hard to be patient." Solidifying the statement with a tender, but protective, sweep of Keigo’s hair from his face, the smirk Touya shot the man could’ve killed him. 

"Well, I wish you and King Takami all the best." Trying to remain civil, the man offered Touya his blessing with the raise of his glass. Tapping the delicate crystal, the resonating sound brought Touya’s expression to relax. 

"Thank you, I know we’ll be very happy together." Despite having made his point, the kiss left against Keigo’s forehead was reassurance that the king was off limits. They’d have to pry Keigo from Touya’s cold dead hands if they wanted to get near him. Leaving Touya to entertain the next mortal that approached, the rapid decline of the precious being latched to his arm went completely missed by the vampire. Mixing with the delighted oscillations of the music, voices, and other miscellaneous sounds filling the room, the dying rhythm of Keigo’s heart was unconsciously swept under the rug. Only when the blond’s faint voice touched his ear did Touya turn his attention to the king. 

"I don’t feel good…" Slowing the Earth with the light breath of his withering voice, wide blue eyes watched in slow motion as Keigo fell from his grip. Flooded by the intense fear strumming from his heart, the noise of the room dulled to a painful silence. Hearing only the sound of his fear as the feeling of Keigo’s arm slipped from his own, the slow movements of the king’s falling form urged every buried apprehension to rise within Touya’s body. Unconsciously reaching for Touya as gravity pulled him closer, the vampire moved with what seemed to be painfully slow movements. Throwing himself towards Keigo’s descending body, the shock of his knees hitting the hard stone floor seemed minuscule compared to the implied weight of Keigo’s declining health in his arms. Outstretching one arm to brace the king’s back, the other moved to save the king’s delicate head from striking the ground. Adjusting Keigo’s body in his arms, the blond’s body came to rest against Touya’s bent knees, while shaking hands cradled the stilled expression overtaking Keigo’s face. 

"Keigo?!" Desperate to arouse the king, hands trembling with fear roaming over every inch of the chilled expression. "Keigo?! Baby, wake up…" Tapping him lightly, brushing his hair from his face, even stroking his cheek, nothing aroused the sleeping figure. "My love, please…" Roaming down Keigo’s body to feel the slowing pulse throbbing from the king’s neck, panic swirled relentlessly in the welling wetness of Touya’s blue eyes. "Keigo…please…" Finally able to sense the withered wavelength oscillating from the slowing beat of Keigo’s heart, Touya understood his mistake. Going against his gut feeling was a hefty price that Keigo was about to pay, unless an intervention could be made. 

"Chisaki…" Whispering the name at first, the rising panic took over every sense of collected rationality Touya had left. "WHERE IS KAI CHISAKI?! GET HIM HERE, NOW!” Rushing off to get the doctor in question, guests scrambled to find the elusive brunette while Touya lifted Keigo’s body into his arms. Carrying the king through the crowd of people, the descent of his heartbreak waited until the vampire ascended the flight of stairs. They would never see him cry. 

Slipping Keigo under the light warmth of the red blanket, the vampire promptly loosened the restricting clothes adorning the king’s body. Reading the faint wavelengths strumming from Keigo’s pained heart through the thick wall of tears cascading down Touya’s eyes, the rhythm cracking over Touya’s heart fell into sync with the king’s. Kneeling next to the bed, a shaking apology slipped out of the vampire’s lungs. 

"Oh Kei…I’m so sorry…" Sandwiching the king’s cold hand between the protecting hold of both of his, the pale limb was brought to Touya’s face. "This is all my fault…I shouldn’t have forced you out of bed." Pressing quivering lips against the cold temperature of Keigo’s hand, the wavering stutter of his heart forced more tears down his cheeks. "I shouldn’t have been so selfish…" Bringing his forehead down to rest against the tangle of limbs, salted droplets fell mercilessly upon the mattress below. "Then you wouldn’t be suffering…" Twitching against his hand, the subtle movement of Keigo’s fingers tried to object to Touya's statement. 

"It’s…not…" Gasping heavily for relief, Keigo’s lungs fought to push out the words he desired. "It’s not…your fault…" Raising his head, shaking azure eyes tangled with the half lidded dull gold orbs shifting towards him. "Forgive me…Touya…I n-neglected to t-tell you…" Pausing to fill his lungs, the tight way Touya’s eyebrows knit together didn’t stop the emotional sadness from dripping down his eyes. Holding Touya under paused silence, the king wet the interior of his mouth. Flexing his tongue unconsciously to reawaken the muscle, the verbal task of speaking seemed much harder than he remembered, or he was still afraid to admit his illness to his fiancé. 

"I have leukemia…I’m terminal…this was inevitable…" Shattering like the fragility of a mirror, the broken pieces of Touya’s heart flitted to the floor like sparkling shards of glitter caught in the wind. 

"No…No…it can’t be…" How could he accept that the love of his life was dying in his grasp? How had he not noticed prior? Touya, with the strongest sense in the room, had missed this very obvious flaw in the person he was closest to. 

"I’m sorry…for not telling you…sooner…" Leaving a calming stroke against the back of Keigo’s hand, Touya couldn’t bring himself from the whirlwind of thoughts flooding his mind. Connecting the evidence like pieces of a puzzle, the facts fell into place creating the picture Keigo refused to share with him. 

First, Keigo needed extra hands around his castle because of his illness. However, while he was temporarily ill at the time of hiring, he was looking for someone to replace him when the terminal disease claimed his mortal life. Finding a respective replacement in Touya, Keigo made a point to train Touya to become the next king. Everything was thoroughly planned out, everything except falling in love. The one variable Keigo hadn’t accounted for, unfairly happened to be the thing that sped up his demise. Neglecting to tell Touya about his condition, he guessed, was because Keigo hadn’t fully accepted his illness himself. Now, he was leaving everything on the table to not depart with a guilty conscience. While it broke Touya’s heart to a painful extent, Touya couldn’t fault Keigo for hiding his illness. After all, keeping life altering secrets seemed to be the norm between them. 

"Hummingbird…" Breathing the name through the shaking tones of his voice, a soft interrupting knock against the wood door, cut Touya’s words short. Turning to see the familiar doctor pushing his way into the room, Touya rose quickly to his feet. 

"I came as soon as I heard." Rushing over to Keigo’s bedside, Touya stepped away from the scene to allow the doctor room to complete his assessment. Following each individual movement with eyes flooded with worry, Touya’s shaking hands were clasped anxiously in front of his quivering lips. Silently praying that Chisaki had some kind of miracle power stored in the touch of his hand, the speed at which the doctor completed his assessment didn’t ease the gnawing anxieties within Touya’s nerves. Whispering a soft proclamation to Keigo, Chisaki’s gloved hand left a comforting caress against the pale of Keigo’s face. Holding the king momentarily, Chisaki turned his attention towards the anxious man behind him. Motioning for Touya to follow him, the vampire kept in step with the doctor as the pair slipped out of the room. Standing in front of the king’s closed door, Chisaki cleared his throat. 

"I’m sure you’re aware of his condition." Swiping his thumbs across his cheeks, Touya momentarily halted the raining flurry of tears that had been falling from his eyes.

"He just told me." Closing his yellow eyes to hide the sympathy he held for Touya, the doctor’s heart felt heavy following the intake of breath. 

"It’ll be a matter of minutes." Without the cold edge normally edging his voice, the soft delivery of Chisaki’s voice only served to sink Touya’s heart deeper into his chest. Staring blankly at the doctor, unconscious tears resumed their descent down Touya’s face. "I’m so sorry…" Shaking under the emotional build up in his own eyes, Chisaki’s expression became wet in the same manner as Touya. "It progressed much faster than I originally diagnosed…there’s nothing I can do…" Falling in sync from the shared heartbreak, Touya had finally found a common ground with the doctor. Chisaki only wished that their mutual agreement could have been under different circumstances, but the cruel hand of fate disagreed. Running a trembling hand through the flow of white locks, remaining stray tears dropped to the floor below with a thundering thud. Collecting his emotions with a quivering inhale, Touya finally spoke. 

"Would you mind giving me a moment alone with him?" Pulling a handkerchief out of his pocket, the emotional wetness was wiped promptly from yellow orbs. 

"Of course, take all the time you need. I’ll wait for you in the sitting room when you're done." Thanking the doctor softly, Touya watched the doctor’s figure disappear down the stairs before he slipped back into the king’s room. Crossing the room swiftly to be at Keigo’s side, Touya sat himself carefully on the edge of the mattress. Taking Keigo’s chilled hand back into his grasp, the blue hue of his eyes became buried by the predatory crimson. 

"Keigo." Stirring the king, weak visuals shifted towards the voice. "Let me save you." Thundering in his chest, the frantic beating of his heart indirectly reminded Touya of the metaphorical countdown transpiring before his eyes. "Please, let me save you." Filling Keigo’s ears with the desperation thrumming from his heart, the king couldn’t even muster a smile in response. 

"How…?" Politely quieting Keigo in order to save the ebbing strength from the blond, the reassuring strokes left against the back of Keigo's hand seemed to answer the question before Touya could explain. 

"I can turn you. Becoming a vampire would heal your ailments and you’d be able to stay with me forever…just like you wanted…" Wiggling the finger that proudly displayed the silver ring, Touya squeezed Keigo’s hand tighter. "We could have the future we wanted…all you have to do is say yes…" Unable to control his tears, the salted droplets splashed against the mattress below. Indirectly washing Keigo with guilt from the wet display of heartbreak, the king tried to reciprocate the grip Touya had against his hand, but could only muster enough strength to twitch his fingers.

"Touya…I want you forever…" Feeling a ray of hope touching the vampire’s agitated nerves, the next words breathed by Keigo shattered the hope nearly as quickly as it formed. "But, I can’t accept that offer…this is my fate…I can’t mess with it…I’m sorry…Snowflake…" Wishing to erase the pain affecting his fiancé's expression and most certainly his heart, Keigo wanted to retract his objection. However, as he relaxed himself against the plush hold of the pillow, Keigo knew he couldn’t avoid the inevitable. Even if Touya tried to turn him, the weakness overwhelming his body would deny the transformation. Choosing to die naturally would leave Touya with less guilt than if Keigo died mid transformation. Ultimately, he was making a selfless decision even though it broke Touya’s heart in the process. 

"Hummingbird, I can’t let you go…" Choking on the words, the twitch of Keigo’s fingers couldn’t begin to ease the cracking sensation cutting across his heart. "Baby, you’re my whole world, the only person I trust enough to know my heritage…what am I supposed to do without you?! You saved me from the darkness…I can’t go back there…Keigo…please…I can’t…" Raising slowly, the gentle way Keigo’s eyes fell on Touya tried to caress the sadness from him, but the pained rasp of his voice only made the vampire’s heart ache more. 

"It’ll take some time…and it’ll be extremely…difficult…but, you’ll be okay…I know you will…" Biting back the rush of tears after hearing the obvious stutter affecting Keigo’s heart, Touya could feel time slipping through his fingers. Frantically trying to grasp at the last remaining minutes of Keigo’s life, Touya clenched his eyes shut. Pushing salted droplets down his cheeks with the action, the king’s hand was set gently against the mattress. Struck by the painful plea crying from Keigo’s heart, Touya knew it was time. 

"Keigo…there’s something I want you to see…" Raising his eyelids, violet irises locked with the painfully dim golden irises that had been so lively hours before. Catching the king under the hypnotic veil, Touya held the blond under the manipulative strength of his power. Having only used his power in this way one time prior, Touya could only hope that it showed Keigo what he intended. Hoping the fabricated dream would ease Keigo’s passing in the same way it had his mother, he reached a tender hand towards the king’s forehead. Lightly stroking away the blond locks interrupting the smooth skin beneath, Touya’s hand moved to obstruct Keigo’s eyes. Easing the king’s eyes closed with the purposeful movement of his hand, the induced dream took over the dying consciousness of the king. Leaving Keigo’s eyes, the warmth of Touya’s palm gently caressed the cold surface of Keigo’s cheek, leading the king to lean into the comforting touch. 

"I love you so much…I can’t express how much you mean to me…or how badly I wish you would stay…" Choking back the sobs threatening to overwhelm his voice, the delivery of Touya’s words shook like the unexpected quake of the Earth. "I wanted you forever…you’ve done so much for me and everyone around you…I don’t think you know the impact you have on people, my love…" Wiping the single tear that slipped from Keigo’s eyes away with a tender stroke of his thumb, Touya moved to be closer to the king. 

"You’re tired…I know…" Unable to contain the sadness, tears fell relentlessly from Touya’s eyes. With one hand still cupping the king’s face, the other held Keigo’s limp hand in its trembling grasp. Soaking Keigo’s still expression with the falling heartbreak, Touya moved to rest his forehead lovingly against Keigo’s.

"I have to let you rest now…" Stroking Keigo’s cheek, Touya’s soft cries played like a painful symphony across the silence of the room. "But…I promise you, my love…I’ll find you…" Taking a moment to breathe through the storm of tears, Touya pressed his lips against the king’s forehead, lingering against the dying warmth of his body before he pulled away. "In another life, I’ll find you…I promise you, we’ll be together again…" 

"Keigo…there’s something I want you to see…"

Lured under Touya’s spell by the soft tone of his voice, every sense became alleviated by the vampire’s gentle hypnosis. Losing all concept of his surroundings, the gentle caress of approaching darkness consumed his body. Whisking him away like a leaf floating down a river, Keigo submitted to the sudden transportation. It wasn’t like he had the strength to fight it in any way, besides, wherever Touya was taking him he was certain would be better than his current circumstance. Feeling the darkness slip away from his form a few moments after its initial caress, Keigo eyed his surroundings curiously. 

"Where-?" Turning confused on the spot, the eternal voice surrounding him seemed incorrect. "Touya?" Seeking the guiding hand of his lover, no response came. Taking a calming breath to ease the nerves shaking within, the lack of pain on the inhale surprised the king. Fighting with his body to accomplish something as natural as breathing or blinking, this ease of movement felt rejuvenating. Taking another breath only to relish the easy intake into his lungs, Keigo found himself relaxing. 

"Is this a dream?" Being the only logical explanation for his alleviated pain, the unexpected answer stirred Keigo’s dying excitement. 

"If this is a dream, then I never want to wake up~" Perking up with the sound, Keigo turned towards the familiar voice. 

"Touya?" Shining through the darkness like a beacon of hope, Touya’s sweet smile lured Keigo closer. "It is you." Moving towards the glowing figment, Keigo’s lips curved into a hearty smile. "I’m so glad you found me, I was alone and lost without you." Extending his arms to accept Keigo’s hunger for comfort, Touya’s arms wrapped tenderly around Keigo’s form. 

"Found you?" Chuckling softly while a comforting hand stroked the back of Keigo’s head, Touya seemed slightly confused. "Darling, I don’t want to take all of the credit, I think we found each other, but if you want to praise me, perhaps you should save it for later~" Pulling away to look into the familiar set of azure eyes, Keigo could only blink in question. Able to distinguish Touya’s features not that his vision had adjusted to the light around him, Keigo shook his head. 

"Touya, what’s going on?" Noting how formally dressed his fiancé was compared to the lax appearance he always adorned, the black royal attire was a tantalizing change. 

"Oh honey, don’t tell me you’ve forgotten what day it is~" Completely teasing the king, nimble hands roamed down Keigo’s chest to straighten out the lapels and sash decorating Keigo’s chest. 

"Forgotten what? Is today important?" Eyeing himself incredulously to see himself dressed in a similar format as Touya, the way his fiancé chuckled in response didn’t relieve the king’s confusion. 

"Hummingbird, you’re too adorable~" Dodging the question, the arrival of a servant save Touya from answering further. 

"Your majesties, it’s time." Thanking them, Touya moved to face a large set of intricately carved wooden doors. Just now noticing the unfamiliar interior he stood in, the vague explanations only served to confuse the king further.

"Well, shall we go?" Offering his arm for Keigo to take, the soft smile crossing Touya’s face didn’t help the growing anxieties in Keigo’s chest. 

"Time for what? Touya, what happens when we walk through that door?" Assuming the worst, Touya’s laughter felt patronizing. 

"Hummingbird, what’s gotten into you? Everyone is waiting for us, we’re getting married today." Letting the realization wash over him like a rogue wave, the pieces began to fall in place. He was in a church, he was about to be bound to the love of his life, was this real?

"Is this real?" Clicking his tongue, Touya grabbed Keigo’s hand. Guiding the limb to hold his arm, Touya’s other hand braced the hesitant limb, keeping the king from fleeing.

"It’s real~ Now, let’s make it official~” Opening strangely with his words, the doors slowly creaked open. Wincing slightly from the flooding light touching his eyes, the scene quickly adjusted around Keigo as Touya led him down the aisle. The pews were filled with people, but Keigo couldn’t recognize any of their faces. As if purposely shadowed, only their approving smiles touched his eyes. Mesmerized by the details, Keigo hadn’t realized he’d made it to the altar. Now standing facing Touya, the gentle swipe of his thumbs across the back of Keigo’s hands pulled the king from the background. Blinking at Touya’s affectionate display etched over his features, the loud beating of his heart drowned out the words of the priest before them. Hearing only Touya confess his undying love for him, Keigo barely uttered the words in reciprocation before Touya’s lips were on his. Applause and cheers filled the room around them as Touya’s hands roamed up to cup Keigo’s cheeks. Tilting his head back, the vampire deepened the intimacy. Sliding his tongue desperately into the confines of Keigo’s mouth, the delighted cheers surrounding him quickly divulged into silence. Hearing the soft moans of his own voice filling the air, a rippling sensation of pleasure vibrated every nerve with the intense undeniable feeling of lust. 

"Ah~ Touya~" Crying out in delight as Touya’s tongue swirled over the fresh bite marks left against his neck, the vampire pulled away to meet the king’s gaze. 

"Are you okay? Did I take too much?" Watching the oddly sensual movement of Touya’s tongue over blood soaked lips, Keigo unconsciously wrapped his arms around Touya’s neck. 

"No, keep going~” Submitting to the pleasurable touch of Touya’s body moving with his own, the growing heat in his stomach quickly shifted to an intense pain. Instinctually gripping the bed for relief, the pain didn’t cease. Shifting around him, the background altered its appearance following Keigo’s screams of agony. Gripping a hard wood railing instead of the plush sheets, a less than comfortable bed held his body up. Legs mimicking the missionary position they had been in only seconds prior, were now braced by a set of stirrups. 

"That’s it, you’re doing great~" Recognizing Chisaki’s deep rasp, Keigo looked down towards the voice. Gasping heavily for air, the sweat rolling down his face felt too real. 

"Chisaki? What-? AH!" Interrupted by the timed cramping of his lower abdomen, the ripping pain that followed took every ounce of energy from the king. Reeling from the lightheaded fatigue, Keigo’s head hit the propped pillow behind him.

"Your highness, you’re so close, one more push ought to do it." Push? Lifting his head impromptu with the cramping sensation urging his body to deposit the heavy pressure, Keigo’s grip increased against the railings while his body complied with the natural process. Screaming while the cramping pressure left his body, the relief that washed over his senses after was greatly welcomed. 

"It’s a boy!" Gasping for breath, the white around his knuckles rescinded with the removal of his grip from the railing. Falling on Chisaki’s delighted voice, half lidded golden orbs assessed the scene divulging in front of him. Holding up a newborn baby like a prized trophy, Chisaki was quick to lower the baby from view. Cutting the umbilical cord, he handed the infant to a chambermaid to be cleaned. 

"Where’s Touya?" Asked between panting breaths, Keigo’s eyes searched the room for the man. 

"You know where he is, your majesty." Remaining vague, Chisaki knelt back down to be between Keigo’s legs. 

"I want him here, now." Grabbing a set of tools, Chisaki’s hands moved towards Keigo’s body. 

"I’ll call for him once I get you stitched up, you don’t want the twins to walk in and see this." Quirking his eyebrow, Keigo tried to sit up, only to be forced down by the depleted energy. 

"Twins?" Sensing the raise of Chisaki’s eyebrow under the obvious tone of his voice, the mask covering his face couldn’t hide the clear sigh from the over-explanation of a minor detail. 

"Yes, your highness. Your daughters, ______, and _______. Can someone lower the dosage of anesthetic please, the king seems to have lost his cognitive thought." Censored behind a distortion that he couldn’t discern, the names of the children were lost in translation. 

"My daughters?" Breathing out the revelation, Keigo couldn’t help but flush with delight. ‘He had children with me~’ Excited by the prospect, the chambermaid returned with the freshly cleaned and wrapped baby. 

"My lord, would you like to hold your son?" Without hesitation, Keigo accepted the baby into his arms. 

"There, that’s the last stitch. I’ll go and get Touya." Removing the soiled gloves from his hands, Chisaki left the room with a fresh set of gloves covering his hands. Keigo, ignoring the departure of the doctor, couldn’t take his eyes away from the infant in his arms. Adorning a round face in reflection of Keigo’s own, the delicate pink dusting his cheeks flushed in the same manner as the kings. Taking the same bird-like shape as his eyes, Keigo was pleased to see Touya’s teal-blue hue painting the child’s irises. Thin and lightly swirling over the baby's head was the king’s unruly mop of hair. Shining beneath the light of the lanterns hanging in the room, the delicate strands glowed with the purest tone of platinum blond Keigo had laid eyes on. He was a perfect combination of both Keigo and Touya and there wasn’t anything more that he could ask for. 

"Hey Hummingbird, can we come in?" Bringing his gaze to the slightly ajar door, the sight of Touya’s soft smile set Keigo’s heart ablaze. Nodding, the door opened fully to reveal Touya holding the hands of two identical twin girls. Appearing a little shy at first, Keigo guessed that they couldn’t be no more than five years in age, but when they recognized the face of their father, their shyness fled. Rushing across the room, they eagerly stood at his bedside, excited to meet their baby brother. The girls, unlike the boy, took the majority of Touya’s qualities. Brandishing Touya’s narrow shaped face, their eyes also shaped themselves like their immortal father’s. Tame white hair avalanches down their backs, a reflection of the cascading hair falling over Touya’s face. Taking only one aspect from Keigo, miss-matched eyes shimmered with joy as they examined the fresh life in Keigo’s arms. One eye blue, the other gold, standing side by side like this, they appeared to be a mirror reflection of each other. 

"So beautiful~" Pulling him back to his husband, Keigo couldn’t object as Touya took the baby from Keigo’s arms. "Such a handsome boy, our little ____." Censored this time by the loud drum of his heart, Keigo winced in pain as an overwhelming ache struck the beating organ. Falling out of the fantasy, the supporting hold of Touya’s arms caught him before he hit the ground. 

"Whoa, Hummingbird, careful~" Feeling his knees growing weak, Keigo collapsed against Touya’s chest. "I’ve got you, it’s okay~” Soothing him with the soft tone of his voice, Touya carefully helped Keigo back onto his feet. Keeping his arms draped around Touya’s neck, curious gold eyes searched the new scene around him. 

"Where are we? Where are my children?" Calming Keigo’s growing anxiety with a soft shush, the gentle hold Touya had against Keigo’s hips eased the blond into a set of choreographed movements. 

"Honey, you know where we are. We’re on a private trip, just you and I. The kids are safe with Kai, Remember? We took a little vacation from the kingdom and we are currently dancing under the stars." Hearing the music after his explanation, Keigo’s nerves relaxed as he swayed effortlessly in time with Touya’s movements. 

"Oh…" Roaming up to hold Keigo’s face, the smile crossing Touya’s lips couldn’t ease the aching feeling overtaking Keigo’s chest. 

"God, I’d forgotten how beautiful you look under the moonlight~” Wishing to say something similar, the heat of Touya’s lips against his only stoked the burning stutter cracking over Keigo’s heart. Wincing again from the induced pain, Touya’s brow knit into concern. 

"Keigo, my love, are you okay?" Wanting to remain with Touya in this fantasy for a lifetime, Keigo knew the final grains of sand were unfairly falling from his hourglass. Knowing he was slipping away, that Touya was slipping away, Keigo pressed himself flush against the undeniable heat of the vampire’s body. 

"Don’t let me go." Momentarily shocked by Keigo’s sudden action, Touya’s arms snaked protectively around the king’s form. Hands trailing the length of Keigo’s back, while the movement was soothing, it didn’t ease Keigo’s fear in the slightest. 

"Don’t worry baby, I’ve got you. I won’t let you go." Squeezing Touya a little tighter, the shaking delivery of his words pointed to the obvious fear weighing him down. 

"You’re a terrible liar…" Bringing a comforting hand to rest against the back of Keigo’s head, Touya held the king purposely against the lulling heartbeat strumming from his chest. 

"Is everything okay, my darling?" Breath hitching in his throat, Keigo was surprised he hadn’t started crying. 

"No…I’m terrified…" 

"Of what? You know I’ll always protect you." Still trembling beneath the calming tones of Touya’s voice, the quiet delivery of Keigo’s voice shook with uncertainty. 

"I don’t want to lose you…and I’m scared of what’s to come…"

"Dearest, there’s no reason to be scared." 

"But, Touya, I’m-" Silenced by the calm shush from Touya, the vampire’s hand tenderly stroked the back of Keigo’s head. 

"I’m here. I’ve got you. You’re safe in my arms, you know that. There’s no reason to be afraid, my love. Relax. Everything’s going to be okay. Trust me." Thumping with another aching pang, Keigo felt himself growing weaker. 

"What if…I never see you again…?" Limbs beginning to shake under the inability to carry his weight, Keigo felt himself leaning more against Touya’s supporting strength. 

"You will." Carefully easing himself and Keigo safely down to the ground, Touya tenderly adjusted Keigo’s body. Sitting with his legs splayed out, Keigo was tucked safely between the limbs. Resting the king carefully against his chest, Touya found himself unconsciously rocking his body. "I’ll always find you, in the next life and the life after that. We’ll always be together, I promise you." Now cradling the king in his arms, Keigo’s head still rested against the beating rhythm of Touya’s heart. Feeling too weak to reach for any part of Touya’s body, heavy arms rested limply upon his lap.

"Touya…I’m tired…" Breathing the observation out, the weakness present in Keigo’s voice brought a wetness to Touya’s eyes. 

"I know…" Keeping one hand to brace against Keigo’s upper body, the other lightly swept away a few stray blond locks from the pale of Keigo’s face. “It’s okay…Everything is going to be okay…" Shocked abruptly by the touch of sadness falling from Touya’s eyes, Keigo’s eyelids rose to see the vampire above him crying. Trying to raise his hand to wipe away the streaming tears, the limb didn’t comply. Separated from individual movements of his body like a disconnected circuit, Keigo was forced to blink slowly at his lover’s pained expression until his eyelids lost their strength to remain open. Listening to the shaking words slipping from his husband’s mouth, not even the soothing words could ease the aching pain slowing the beat of his heart. 

"You’ve done so much….and it’s going to be hard to let you go…but…" Feeling Touya’s hand cradling his head against his chest, Keigo relaxed against the comforting hold. "You can rest now…" Feeling the ebbing strength lift from his body, the calming lull of Touya’s heartbeat washed peacefully over Keigo. Reminding him with every beat that Touya had given him everything he wanted, Keigo let the lulling sound whisk him away. Carried off by the acceptance that Touya had granted his every wish, a single tear slid down Keigo’s cheek as the king’s body fell limply in Touya’s arms. 

Stung by a sharpened pain following the silenced beat of Keigo’s heart, Touya’s eyes emptied themselves of tears. Crying mercilessly, he raised Keigo’s hand to his lips, leaving behind one final kiss against the cold limb. Lingering a moment longer to hold Keigo’s faint scent in the olfactory sense of his nose, he removed the limb from his face. Resting the hand gently beside the unmoving body, Touya slid off of the mattress. Sparing one final glance at the still expression of his lover, tears were promptly wiped from sore azure eyes while Touya turned away from the disheartening image. 

"To say I’ll miss you is an understatement…" Bringing a hand to rest intentionally over his heart, Touya took a shaking inhale. "But, you’ll always be with me here…I’ll never let you go…" With nothing more to say, Keigo was left to rest. 

Emotionally collected enough to meet Chisaki in the sitting room, the brunette perked up following Touya’s entry. 

"Is he?" Closing the door behind him, Touya nodded. 

"He’s gone." Remaining in front of the door, heavy blue eyes fell on Chisaki. "He left me the throne, didn’t he?" Cutting right to the chase, the cold tone of Touya’s voice didn’t sound too reassuring. 

"He did. Will you stay and lead?" Turning away from the brunette to grasp the doorknob, Touya’s hand held every intention to leave. 

"No." Hearing the doctor stand in objection, Touya could feel the shadows growing antsy with irritation. 

"But, your highness, he-"

"Don’t call me that." Warping the metal of the door handle beneath his anger, Touya took a candid breath. "I can’t stay here if he’s absent. You have to understand how hard it would be for me to remain in a place where I’ll see him everywhere I go."

"We can remove-"

"It wouldn’t matter, the memories we shared fill these walls. I can’t stay here, but I won’t leave Keigo’s legacy out to dry. I’ll find a suitable replacement to take Keigo’s spot and then I’ll disappear." Leaving out a snide remark directed at the doctor, Touya glanced back at Chisaki with as much confidence as he could muster. "Trust me." Blinking at the man briefly, Chisaki bowed in respectful understanding. 

"Okay, his majesty trusted you, so I will do the same." Accepting Chisaki’s loyalty to be the end of the conversation, Touya pulled the door open. "Wait, before you go, is there anything you need from me in the time being?" Standing in silence, Touya’s harsh glare remained fixated on the bland stone wall before him. 

"Yes." Stepping past the threshold, Touya’s words felt like the cold tip of an icicle slicing through fragile flesh. "Dispose of the body." Leaving the conversation with an obnoxious slam of the door, Chisaki could only sigh. With a shake of his head, yellow orbs wandered over to an oil painting of the young king hanging proudly on the wall. 

"You really did keep him tame, didn’t you?" Washing over the still expression of his king, Kai’s solemn gaze wandered back to the closed door. "I fear you left us too soon, your majesty, and in hands too corrupt." 

Folding the screen of the laptop to greet the keys, Touya carelessly tossed the device aside. Landing against the plush cushion of the couch, the laptop was quickly forgotten as a shaking hand reached for a nearby tissue. Clearing the induced clog from his nose from the streaming sadness slipping from his eyes, Touya leaned against the back of the couch in agony. Crying just as heavily as he had three hundred years prior, the pain of experiencing Keigo’s death cut just as deeply. 

"I thought I was ready…." Attacking his heart with an unfiltered pang of regret, the feeling of heartbreak flooded every dwelling sense within. Unable to shake the weight of Keigo’s death, the vampire found himself curling against the couch for comfort. "I thought I could accept that you are gone…" Wiping a trail of tears from his cheeks, the break in his heartbeat only seemed to usher in more wetness to replace the liquid recently swiped by the tissue. 

"I was wrong…" Crumbling under the weight of sadness, Touya brought his knees closer to his chest. "Nothing can compare to the real you…I can’t move past that…and I don’t think I ever will…it hurts too much to think about…." Drumming against the surface of the couch like rain dripping relentlessly from the sky, tears continued to soak the leather. 

"I shouldn’t have let you go…"

Chapter Text

Occupying the Earth for over twice as long as any mortal, Touya wouldn’t consider any mortal task or hobby to be challenging. Monotonous was the word he’d describe for the majority of a mortal’s life span. Having observed humankind for long enough, he knew that they’d eventually work themselves to death or become enslaved by an intelligent digital entity. However, the task he was left with by King Takami’s departure was easily the most challenging thing Touya had ever attempted. Finding a suitable replacement that he could trust to run the kingdom felt impossible. Deeming the citizens vastly impure, every bit of the population that served under Keigo’s authority was quickly taken off the table. Aside from Kai Chisaki, who refused the position adamantly, there was no way Touya would leave the throne to these people. 

Expanding his search to nearby towns and villages didn’t seem fruitful either. Every mortal that answered the open invitation to interview for the throne was immediately denied by Touya. He could smell it on them. Their pride, desperation, but most disturbing, their hunger for chaos. These people didn’t care about Keigo’s legacy, their lust for power was the only quest in mind when they walked through the castle doors. 

"Thank you for coming. Show yourself out." Growing impatient with the same results, the gnawing thought that he’d have to take the throne quickly became more prominent. 

"Touya, I think you’re being too hypocritical. That last man was a promising candidate." Sinking into the plush fabric of the chair, pale hands rubbed away the growing headache in his temple. 

"No. He wanted power, I could see it in his eyes." Failing to hide the exasperated sigh, Chisaki’s heavy gaze landed on Touya. 

"You’ll never find someone who doesn’t thirst for an inkling of power. I think you should consider someone who fits the bill, but could easily be manipulated into doing what you want." Remaining still, Touya’s gaze searched the roof for an answer. He wasn’t entirely against Chisaki’s statement, however, leaving Keigo’s legacy to a cheap bout of manipulation seemed unfair. After everything Keigo did for him, Chisaki’s way felt wrong. 

"What I need to find is someone who is like Keigo. Not an outsider who wants to be like Keigo who’ll never measure up." Deciding to end the conversation and all following interviews, Touya stood from his chair. "Find me someone like that." Leaving Chisaki with a departing wave, Touya slipped out of the castle without another word. Standing from his own seat, sympathetic yellow orbs followed the departing form of the temporary king. Although he could understand the undesirable feeling associated with staying in the castle, Chisaki would never agree with Touya’s uncanny need to reside so far from the abode. Being the temporary king meant his presence would be needed in an act of emergency. Yet, as his figure disappeared on the horizon, Chisaki imagined that if the moment aroused, Touya would be less than available. Expelling the thought with a heavy sigh, the doctor departed from the window. 

"Someone like Keigo?" Muttering the request, the words coming from his own lips felt rather impossible. "There’s no one in this world like Keigo." Collecting his things, Chisaki made his own presence in the castle scarce. "Where would I even begin to look for someone like Keigo?" Following the familiar path back home, thoughts of the late king swirled relentlessly across the mental chaos of his mind. How could he replace something that was one of a kind? It wasn’t like Keigo had any siblings, or surviving family members that could-

"Wait…" Stopping abruptly, a figment of the past touched the chaos plaguing Chisaki’s mind. Disturbing the storm like a calming drop in a pond, the recollection of that fateful day resurfaced conveniently. 

"Due to your negligence, the queen, your wife, is carrying the baby of a servant!"

While he clearly forgot the minor detail of the queen’s adultery, the heartbroken expression etched across the innocent face of the prince would pain Chisaki forever. As eternal as Keigo’s impression had been with the doctor, the realization that there could be someone like Keigo struck Chisaki just as intensely. 

"Holy shit." Metaphorically dropping everything, the doctor veered off course, rushing to the clinic rather than returning home. Locking himself in the confines of his practice, the brunette spent the quiet hours of nightfall sifting through various documents beneath the excited flicker of candlelight. By morning, Touya would have an answer. Whether he liked it or not would entirely be left up to fate. 

Following the previous day of monotonous interviews, Touya returned to the castle with the rise of the sun. Greeting the servants with a forced smile, he took his place in the sitting room, less than eager to continue with the task left cruelly by Keigo. However, when Chisaki stumbled into the room out of breath, the curious quirk of Touya’s eyebrow felt promising. 

"What’s gotten you so frazzled? Did a piece of dust touch your skin?" Retorting with a roll of his eyes, Chisaki practically fell on the couch across from Touya. 

"No, but I did find something I thought you’d find intriguing." Collecting himself, the doctor promptly pulled out a stack of research he’d dug up the night prior. Handing the stack of disorganized documents to the king, Chisaki took a much needed breath. "Your request to find someone like Keigo kept me up throughout the night, but I think I finally found a worthy candidate to take your place." Remaining vague, Chisaki’s unclear answer left Touya’s gaze to sift through the records without direction. Over the various pages were medical records belonging to the royal family. Outlining the intimate details of King Takami, Tomie Takami, and most painful of all, Keigo Takami, Touya was uncertain what the individual assessments and personal information symbolized. 

"How do the medical records of the deceased solve the current coronation problem?" Dropping the stack of parchment upon the table, Touya watched as Chisaki’s nimble hands sorted through the papers. 

"They’re not relevant." Finding the desired documents, Chisaki handed the parchment to the king. "However, this is." Leaving the revelation to be seen by Touya’s eyes, when the light sparkled in the cold blue orbs across from him, Chisaki felt his lips twitch into a smile. 

"What…is this…?" Turning the paper over, the words, although being read multiple times, refused to settle as believable in Touya’s eyes. 

"I’m sure you’re aware that Keigo’s mother, Queen Tomie, was expelled from the castle when the prince was young." Nodding subtly, the shock in Touya’s eyes refused to leave the page. "This is the reason why. Fumikage Tokoyami, the illegitimate child Queen Tomie had with a servant." Struck by the answers that Keigo couldn’t produce, the truth felt more painful than Touya could’ve ever guessed. Keigo had told him that his mother had been expelled, but couldn’t recall why. However, knowing that she left because he wasn’t good enough for her, felt like a twisting knife in an already sharp wound. How could someone so sweet be burned by so many people? Moreover, how could eyes as innocent and soft as Keigo’s harbor the amount of pain, grief, and unacknowledged trauma the king was burdened to carry without Touya noticing? Had Keigo really hidden that much from him?

"Touya?" Sensing a dip in the king’s demeanor, the soft call of his name brought the stunned blue orbs to fall on Chisaki’s form. 

"Sorry, I’m…it’s a lot to take in…" Returning his gaze to the parchment for one final pass of information, the papers were set neatly on the table between them. "I’m assuming you never met this Tokoyami?" Answering with a shake of his head, Touya’s arms folded over his chest. "Then, how can we know his integrity? I’m not basing my decision on a whim or assumption. You should know that." 

"There’s only one way to know." Gesturing towards the door, Touya could feel the smile forming from under the doctor’s mask. "Let’s go meet him." 

"You know where this kid is? I thought Tomie was banished from Fehrin, how could you possibly know where they are?" Watching with a skeptical glare as Chisaki pointed to a specific section on the medical document, the excitement in the doctor’s voice felt foreign. 

"Tomie happened to come to my practice when Tokoyami was still a fetus. She wanted all of her information sent to her new residency." Following the point of Chisaki’s finger, Touya muttered the name out loud. 

"Ka Rhoads? That’s nearly two days' travel." Nodding, the doctor relaxed against the back of the couch. 

"Yes."

"You want to spend four days total cramped in an enclosed carriage with me?"

"Not particularly."

"Great. We’re on the same page." Unfolding his arms with a sigh, Touya let a smirk touch his lips. "This kid had better be worth the torture I’m about to endure."

"I agree." Standing oddly in sync, the glares shared between yellow and blue eyes were purely rhetorical.

"I hope you know I’m doing this for Keigo, not for you." Walking in step with Chisaki to the door, the soft chuckle that slipped from the doctor’s lips felt refreshing. 

"I could say the same to you." Catching the subtle falsity in Chisaki’s voice, the hidden message that he had found Tokoyami to ease the weight on Touya’s shoulders, Touya opened the door with a chuckle of his own.

"Awe Chisaki, you do care about me~ I knew I’d eventually grow on you~" Letting the doctor depart first, the playful shift of his eyes discarded the cold temperature coating his voice. 

"Like a tumor." 

Despite the playful teasing and dread of spending an extended amount of time in an enclosed space without the calming touch of Keigo to ease his anxieties, Touya found the ride to Ka Rhoads tolerable. Chisaki, having stayed conscious for the night prior, slept for the majority of the trip. Which left Touya to indulge in the peaceful serenity of loneliness, something he’d eventually grow accustomed to over the coming centuries. 

Following their arrival into Ka Rhoads, Touya and Chisaki found themselves standing before a rather shabby looking structure. Moss crept up the rotting planks of wood, giving the Earthen structure the only sense of life and colour. Holes decorated the roof, the openings covered poorly by a mixture of thin fabric and unfastened wooden planks. Housing no windows, the only other opening on the shake was a broken stone chimney which was releasing a constant swirling smoke into the air. 

"You’re sure this is the place?" Glancing over the written destination, Chisaki nodded. 

"Unfortunately." Heaving a sigh, Touya raised his fist. 

"Let’s get this over with." Tapping gently against the hard wood, the pair was left with silence for nary a moment. Creaking open, the door slowly edged open to reveal a shy teenage boy. 

"Can I help you?" Hiding partially behind the concealing wooden slab, what Touya could see of the boy struck him in awe. Catching the minor resemblances to Keigo, Touya noted how similar in appearance the boy was to his fiancé. Flowing wildly, locks that carried the same unhinged, waving bounce as the late king’s. While these locks were pitch black and styled into a spiking flow away from the kid’s face, the uncanny way the tufts of hair bent and cut at the ends was undeniable. His eyes, maroon in colour, blinked at Touya with the same bird-like sharpness Keigo’s did. Outlined flawlessly with the same charcoal shaping, Touya felt like he was staring into the blood soaked orbs of his fiancé. Where the kid and Keigo differed however, was in the shape of his face and nose. Pointed and sharp, the soft round edges of Keigo’s features were lost to the boy. 

"Excuse us, but are you Fumikage Tokoyami?" Chisaki, noticing the blank expression on his cohort's face, spoke up. 

"Who’s asking?" The question was uttered softly while pushing the door protectively between him and the two strange men. 

"Apologies for not introducing ourselves, my name is Kai Chisaki. I’m a doctor from Fehrin and this is the acting King of Fehrin, Touya Todoroki." Dropping into a habitual kneel upon hearing Touya’s temporary title, the haste in Tokoyami’s voice became obvious. 

"Forgive me for being so rude. Yes, I am Fumikage Tokoyami, how can I be of service?" Holding back a chuckle from slipping out of his lungs, Touya finally spoke. 

"For starters, you can stand. There’s no need to be so formal." Shooting back to his feet, the awkward way Tokoyami tried to find anything to look at, besides Touya, was quite cute. "Do you mind if we come in?" Pulling the door open fully, Tokoyami’s head remained dipped while he gestured for the two men to enter. Sharing a glance between each other, Touya thanked the boy while accepting his offer. Relishing the protection of his mask, Chisaki let his grimace crawl across his face. Worse than the exterior, the interior of the shack was filthy with waste, dirty clothes, rodents that scurried away from their approach, and the undeniable smell that something had died. There was little light, the only source of illumination came from the small fire burning in the cracked and crumbling hearth. 

"I would offer you something to eat, but…I unfortunately don’t have anything to give…" While Chisaki unconsciously itched away the invisible tickle of germs touching his body, Touya eyed the place curiously. 

"That’s fine, may I ask where your guardian is?" Sensing no other life besides Tokoyami’s, the lack of Tomie’s presence was unsettling. Especially since the kid was no older than sixteen years of age. 

"My mother left years ago and hasn’t returned…" Shifting awkwardly, Tokoyami grabbed his arm nervously. "Is that why you’ve come here? For her? Because I can’t tell you where she-"

"We came here for you." Hearing the nervous gulp travel down Tokoyami’s throat, Touya kept a smile on his face. "Your mother is Tomie Takami, correct?" Answering with a nod, the quick vibrations strumming from Tokoyami’s heart urged Touya to continue. "How much has your mother shared with you regarding her history?"

"Nothing. All she said was that she regrets leaving home." Sharing a silent conversation with Chisaki, the hasty nod of the doctor’s head urged Touya to wrap up the entire conversation. His gloves certainly wouldn’t last if he kept scratching at the rate he currently was. 

"Tokoyami, this may come as a surprise to you, but your mother used to be a queen. She ruled Fehrin with her husband King Takami about sixteen years ago." 

"Why did she leave?" Shifting away only for a moment, the serious touch of Touya’s eyes quickly became replaced with a sugar coating that would certainly feel better than the truth he could have alternatively hit the child with. 

"She didn’t have a choice. Her heart wanted something more than her husband could give, so she sought the touch of another man. When she became pregnant with you, in order to protect you from the scrutiny of King Takami, she left." Processing the lie, Tokoyami breathed out an “oh” in response. "I imagine the reason she never told you was to avoid causing drama in the kingdom, but the past isn’t important right now." Clearing the lies from his throat, the serious tone returned to Touya’s voice. 

"Unfortunate circumstances have taken the reigning King, your half brother, Keigo Takami from the throne. Since I never completed my marital binding to Keigo Takami, the throne technically goes to the next heir of the Takami family." Serving Tokoyami a plate of fabricated truths, the subtle way Tokoyami’s eyes widened didn’t go unnoticed by Touya. "Since Keigo has no full blooded siblings or surviving relatives, that makes you the next ruler of Fehrin." 

"M-Me?" Stricken with disbelief, the nod of Touya’s head didn’t seem convincing enough. "But, I wouldn’t know the first thing about being a king…besides I’m only sixteen, is that even allowed?"

"Don’t worry, you won't become the king until you turn eighteen, which gives you two years to train under the guiding hand of Kai Chisaki." Gesturing towards the doctor, who dropped his uncomfortable scratching to lend a reassuring smile exhibited only by the delighted curve of his eyes and brow, Touya pulled Tokoyami’s attention back to him with a gentle rest of his hand on the young kid’s shoulder. "He raised Keigo to be a great king and I know he’ll do the same with you." While Touya’s smile was certainly more convincing than the half visual of Chisaki’s, Tokoyami still found himself unsure. 

"I’m sorry, but I couldn’t accept such a pivotal position such as this. I just don’t think I’d be a good fit…I mean look at me. My mother was banished for adultery and I’m a peasant with nothing. I couldn’t possibly run a kingdom…perhaps you should remain king…" Sensing the authenticity behind Tokoyami’s lack of certainty, Touya understood he’d made the right choice. This kid would reign with the same honesty, kindness, and loyalty that Keigo had and that was enough for him. Giving Tokoyami’s shoulder a gentle squeeze, the sweet delivery of Touya’s words seemed to seal the deal. 

"Tell you what, why don’t you agree to come back to Fehrin for a couple of weeks. You can observe and get a taste of what life would be like along with the expectations you’d be required to uphold." Retracting his hand, Touya crossed the room to be next to Chisaki. "If at any point you still feel apprehensive or overwhelmed in any way, I will bring you back to Ka Rhoads and will take the throne in your place. How does that sound?" Catching the uncertain shift in Tokoyami’s wavelength Touya was quick to interrupt the rippling apprehension with a final pitch. "If you’re nervous, just know that Keigo took rule of the kingdom at fifteen, with Chisaki’s help of course." Gesturing for the doctor to follow, Touya pulled the door open, leaving Tokoyami with one final reminder. 

"Tokoyami, had Keigo known about you, he would have offered you refuge in the castle. He was a very kindhearted, selfless person that would have cared for you regardless of his mother’s actions. That’s the type of person he was…and that’s the type of kingdom he grew…just remember that." Leaving with the doctor in tow, Touya could only hope his final plea would let the chips fall into his hands. 

"Ugh, thank God we’re done with that. I wasn’t sure how much longer I could have lasted in that filth trap." Unconsciously wiping the invisible residue from his body, Chisaki missed the pointed glare from the king. 

"Lower your voice." Pausing to allow the coachman an opportunity to open the carriage door, the need to get Chisaki out of earshot was prominent. "For the record, no one was forcing you to stay inside. You could’ve waited outside." Hastily offering Chisaki the first seat inside the carriage, the doctor didn’t hesitate on climbing inside. 

"Certainly, and leave the fate of the kingdom entirely to you? Keigo’s will aside, that would be irresponsible of me. I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I-"

"Excuse me, King Todoroki?" Turning to see the shy shift of Tokoyami’s small form, Touya preemptively let a smile twitch across his lips. 

"Yes, what is it?"

"I think I would like to accept your offer…I want to experience the kindness you’ve described…can I still join you?" Feeling the confidence strumming from Tokoyami’s heartbeat, Touya understood the chips had fallen delicately into place. Fate had touched Tokoyami’s intuition, leading him purposely into the designated role Touya had laid out for him. 

"Of course, come aboard. We’d be happy to have you." Helping the kid safely into the carriage, the vampire king couldn’t stop smiling under the understanding that he was one step closer to leaving Keigo’s legacy behind to a set of very capable, trustworthy hands. Keigo himself may not approve of Touya’s blatant disregard towards his request, but Touya knew that he was making the right decision by passing the role to Tokoyami and eventually, with enough passing time, Touya would feel the deceased King’s forgiveness. 

After arriving at the castle with Tokoyami, the next couple of weeks blew by like a breeze. Tokoyami’s apprehensions quickly lifted after meeting the staff. Their welcoming attitudes were more than he could’ve asked for and their support gave him the edge to metaphorically wear Keigo’s shoes. As if Tokoyami had been trained by the previous king himself, he took the helm like second nature, ruling with the same moral integrity as his brother before. Of course, like with Keigo, Chisaki was the temporary face of law until Tokoyami’s eighteenth birthday came around. However, Touya didn’t doubt that over the next two years, Tokoyami would only grow to be everything Keigo was. Everything was working perfectly in Touya’s favor and he couldn’t be happier. 

With Keigo’s kingdom sufficiently taken care of, he could finally rid himself of the painful reminder of his loss. Now able to fully step away from the Takami castle, the prospect of being alone somehow excited the vampire king. While he thoroughly enjoyed every minute being with Keigo, sealing himself away from human contact seemed appropriate. Never again would he offer his time to someone, only to have it stolen so quickly. Experiencing a lethal pain such as the wound Keigo left across his heart was not something he was eager to rush back into. Mentally reminding himself of that, Touya pulled his hood to rest over his head, determined to leave the castle without further interaction. 

However, despite the immense luck he had with finding Tokoyami, Touya wasn’t so lucky with having an easy departure. Passing by Keigo’s office, a room that had been ordered locked by Touya’s command, a familiar object caught the vampire’s retreating eye. Diverting his path to enter the empty office, Touya curiously approached the object. Hanging on the wall behind the king’s desk was the small painting purchased from the festival. Standing in front of the small framed canvas, Touya couldn’t help but smile remembering the day.

"Here, for you. I bought it because it reminded me of you…the tones remind me of the ethereal beauty of your eyes…the prettiest eyes in the world~"

Ringing out clearly like the king was speaking to him all over again, Touya breathed out a chuckle while carefully lifting the painting from the wall. 

"A thistle…" Recalling the intricate comparison Keigo had delivered to him that day, Touya couldn’t help but laugh. "Of all the flowers in the world, you picked a thistle…and I picked a delicate orchid that I couldn’t take proper care of…how ironic…" Enamored by the painting, the approaching figure was missed by the vampire. 

"You can take it with you if you want." Turning to see Chisaki leaning casually against the doors frame, Touya was quick to blink away the prickling tears. 

"How long have you been standing there?" Crossing the room to be within arms reach of the doctor, Chisaki’s smirk was obvious beneath the protection of the mask. 

"Long enough to know of your secret infatuation with flowers." While completely teasing, the solemn expression in Touya’s eyes was enough to strip Chisaki of any further jabs. "I’m sorry, I was only teasing you. The painting’s yours if you want it."

"It’s fine, but I can’t accept this." Moving to offer the framed canvas to the doctor, the sadness was wiped from Touya’s eyes. "If I take it, it’ll give you a reason to have me executed for theft~" Hearing the teasing present in Touya’s tone, Chisaki pushed himself off of the door frame with a furrow of his brow. 

"Even if I wanted to have you executed for such a petty crime, I couldn’t. The painting belongs to you. It’s hardly stealing."

"Keigo bought it because it reminded him of me. It’s not mine. Take it." Shaking his head, Chisaki simply pointed at the object. 

"It’s a gift to you. He wanted you to have it, so take it with you."

"How could you possibly know-"

"Turn it over." Regretfully following Chisaki’s advice, when teal blue orbs fell on the paper sealing the back of the frame, pale hands nearly dropped the delicate object. Written in smooth script, a testament to the melodic tone of his voice, was one final message from Keigo. 

For my Snowflake,

With love, forever and always, Your Hummingbird~

Being only a few words in length, the impact was greater than Touya could describe. Indirectly twisting the knife still stuck in his heart, the magnetizing desire to re-read the message only drove the knife deeper into the aching tissue. Yet, he couldn’t pull his eyes away, no matter how much it stung. 

"He wrote it shortly after returning home from the festival knowing that you’d eventually inherit the painting. He wanted to leave you a physical piece of the memories you shared together…please take it…for Keigo." Letting one tear slip from his eyes, Touya flipped the image back over. Silently relishing Keigo’s last words, holding them painfully against the ache in his heart, he shook his head. 

"No." Forcing the object into Chisaki’s hands, Touya pushed past the objecting doctor. 

"But Touya, he wanted you to-"

"Burn it." Struck by the sudden cold delivery of Touya’s voice, the shiver that followed touched the doctor with a familiar measure of fear. 

"Burn it? But, Touya, his majesty-"

"Chisaki." Slapped by the commanding hypnotism dripping from Touya’s tone, the shift of Touya’s violet eyes was enough to overwhelm the doctor’s malleable senses. "I said to burn the painting. Must I repeat myself?"

"No, of course not." Giving the man a slight bow, Touya kept his command over the brunette while turning his attention away from the man. 

"Good, while you’re at it, I want you to remove any trace of me from this castle and the kingdom. All physical traces should be destroyed and I request that Touya Todoroki effectively be forgotten. Forget my presence here, do not speak of me again with anyone, erase me from your mind. Understand?"

"Yes, of course." Without uttering a farewell, Touya retracted his power and slipped out of the castle. Refusing to look behind him as he departed from the structure, the castle and its inhabitants disappeared from Touya’s life as the vampire king’s retreating figure disappeared on the horizon. Returning to the hermit lifestyle he’d obtained prior to meeting the mortal king, the vampire king easily accepted an eternity of hiding. Without an active need to be social or leave the safety of his home, regardless of where he resided, the passing of three hundred years were familiar, uneventful, and solitary. Touya came to accept ultimately being the way he liked it. 

Closing the laptop lid gently against the keys, Touya set the device down with a sigh. Finally moving past Keigo was supposed to feel refreshing, yet it didn’t. Touya felt comparatively as heavy as he did three hundred years prior, but at least he wasn’t crying this time. That counted as progress in his eyes. Shifting his gaze to the mess of paper decorating the table in front of him, another sigh slipped from his lungs. Leaning forward, pale hands casually collected every piece of history neatly into his grasp. Sifting through the scattered memories for one last sweet recollection, the papers were sent promptly through the shredder. Buying into Kurogiri’s premise, Touya knew he’d have to discard the physical copies of his memories eventually, and may as well get it over with before the advisor came back with another lecture. 

"Now there’s only one thing left to do." Shifting blue eyes back to the closed laptop, the ending of the story was beckoning for him to finally close off the narrative. Yet, as much as he wanted to finish the deal, he couldn’t find the motivation, at least not in this setting. Choosing to take the ending of the story elsewhere, Touya gathered himself along with the laptop and notepad. Leaving the apartment behind, black boots thumped down the sidewalk, carrying their vessel back to the nearby café. Eager to enjoy another well made cup of coffee, the free wifi was an added bonus. Not to mention, the vibe at the café was certainly better than the solemn mess Touya had made his apartment to be. The change of scenery would definitely motivate Touya to bring the narrative to a pleasing close. Ordering a latte, Touya occupied a booth in the corner of the café. Taking a sip of the hot beverage, Touya opened his notebook writing a quick prompt on the page before prying the laptop screen open. Letting pale fingers flow over the keys, Touya finally brought a close to the narrative. 

Final prompt: Write a conclusion, Touya. 

Remaining in self induced solitary confinement, Touya, with Kurogiri’s support found the strength to carry on. While Keigo remained a very prominent figment in his mind, dwelling on this loss wouldn’t solve any lingering issues. In the same way a scar eventually heals itself, the heartbreak Keigo left behind would eventually fade away like a sound on the wind. Touya would eventually forget the unique way Keigo made him feel and it would be okay. At least, he kept telling himself that because despite feeling defeated, life still goes on. Especially when you feel like you can’t carry on, or worse, don’t want to, the world still moves. The planet will still turn and revolve around the sun, there’s no stopping time. However, after years of wishing to empty his own metaphorical hourglass of eternal sand, to effectively stop his time, Touya learned that it's better to move with the flow than against. Giving up on obstructing the consistent flow, Touya submitted himself to flow with the ticking current. After all, a very special person taught him that in the end the quantity of time didn’t matter, it was how you chose to spend it that mattered most. A lesson he would cherish forever…

Lost in the tying ends of the narrative, the ring of the above doorbell was missed by the vampire. Gracing the interior of the café with a glowing smile, Keegan slipped behind the counter for the start of his shift. 

"Good afternoon, Riley. What’s the foot traffic like?" Tying a knot in the designated apron, Keegan fastened his name tag promptly to the front. 

"Pretty steady." Removing her apron and hanging it with the rest, she let her hair fall from the hair tie's restricting grip. "I have no doubt that you’ll be okay on your own, but if it gets really busy or you need help, you can call Izaiah." Running a taming hand through his disheveled blond locks, Keegan slipped a simple black headband into place over the wild strands. Restraining the hair from obstructing his vision, a confident smile was sent Riley's way. 

"I wouldn’t want to disturb him while he’s with Kingsley, I’m sure I’ll be fine." Giving Riley the opportunity to sneak her face next to his ear as the male washed his hands for the start of his shift, the sultry tone touching her voice sent a surprised jolt down Keegan’s unsuspecting spine. 

"Oh, there’s one more thing before I go~" Snaking her arm around his shoulder to keep him from straying away out of reaction, the sensual drop in her voice didn’t ease Keegan’s surprise nor discomfort in any way. "That mysterious crush of yours drinks the same thing you do~ He’s been here for some time now, better fill his cup Keegs~ Have a good shift~" Feeling her wink as she departed, Keegan shot her retreating form a playful glare before turning his attention back to his job. 

With hands now freshly cleaned, Keegan let his eyes wander around the café. Only a few patrons were currently residing inside the store. At one table, a pair of women were gossiping and sipping their tea. Another table hosted an elderly male who casually dunked a donut in his coffee while catching up on current events through the black and white narrative of the newspaper. The final patron was tucked away in the corner, from his current position, Keegan could only see the tips of his black locks and a laptop resting on the table. Black painted nails ran over the keys, pausing momentarily to lift his coffee cup and take a final sip of his drink. Feeling his heart urging him to fulfill Riley’s request with a timed stutter, Keegan nervously tucked a notepad into his apron’s pocket before boldly crossing the café to the corner table. Approaching quietly, each breath he took couldn’t begin to calm the vibrating nerves within. Nearing the table, the closer he came to the alluring figure, the more intensely his heart pounded. Warming his face with a pink dusting of affection, Keegan cleared the knot from his throat. 

"Can I get you another coffee?" Hating how anxious he sounded, Keegan was relieved when the man didn’t spare him a single glance. 

"Caramel latte, please." Without taking his attention from the laptop, his pale hand nudged the empty cup towards Keegan.

"Of course, coming right up." Hastily disappearing behind the counter, nimble hands carefully prepared the fresh latte. Decorating the foam with his signature artwork, that being a simple feather that curved delicately over the latte’s surface, Keegan found himself smiling as he carried the drink back to the customer. 

"Here you are, one caramel latte~ Enjoy~" Lingering a moment longer, gold eyes drifted down to the notepad resting next to the laptop. 

"Thank you." Lifting the cup to his lips, the hot beverage slipped down the man’s throat. 

"You’re welcome, Touya." Touched suddenly by the electrifying shock of hearing his actual name uttered by a stranger’s lips, the hot liquid found itself sucked down the wrong tube. Choking on the beverage, the cup promptly found itself resting back against the table while Touya struggled to breathe through a fit of reflexive coughs. 

"Oh my- I’m so sorry, are you okay?! Let me help you." Moving to aid the man in any way, Touya’s raised hand halted any further movement from the waiter. Shaking his head while a final chorus of coughs forced their way from his lungs, Touya’s voice came out shakily and rather labored. 

"No, No, I’m fine, thank you…" Face reddened by the stress induced upon his body by the coughing fit, the man cleared his throat. "What did you call me?" Asking with a hint of surprise present in his voice, the man brought his teal blue eyes towards the cause. Falling on the concerned expression belonging to the waiter, the moment azure eyes swept over the man’s appearance, his heart seemingly stopped. 

"I do apologize, I glanced down at your notebook and saw the name written there. I made an assumption, I’m sorry if I offended you in any way." Continuing to apologize, the pleas for forgiveness fell on deaf ears. Strumming too loudly to comprehend the verbal mutterings from the male, Touya’s heartbeat screamed what he could not. Falling into the rhythmic chorus of attraction strumming from his heartbeat with the flow of his gaze over the figure, Touya couldn’t take his eyes away from the waiter. 

Flowing naturally over his head like an untouched ocean of gold, medium length locks waved at Touya. Beckoning him to run his pale fingers through their untouched waves, the silken way they fell down and over the man’s head was like watching an expensive fabric dance in the wind. Blinking at him with concern, pure, innocent gold irises remained locked on his shocked figure. Glowing with the same selfless, heartwarming kindness, these eyes looked at him the same way they had three hundred years prior. Shaped precisely by the intricate black outline that gave the beautiful irises their fierce, hawk-like appearance, Touya felt his heart stutter the deeper he dove into the glistening pools. Average in height, the blond was built in a similar way as Keigo, but with more apparent, but tastefully subtle, muscle present in his biceps, legs and chest area. 

Transitioning from the male’s physical appearance, the melodic tone of the man’s voice, while frantically trying to earn Touya’s forgiveness, rushed Touya’s senses with a calming sense of familiarity. Gracing his eardrums with a pleasant song, which he internally knew every note, excited the vampire’s senses to life. Awake and eagerly taking in every sound, scent, and visual around him, the heightened senses were quick to catch the wafting scent swirling off of the waiter. Dancing in a symphony of sweet, savory, and rich tones, the familiar and highly arousing scent of divinity trapped itself mercilessly against Touya’s olfactory sense. Recognizing the vessel as Keigo, the excited vibrations stirring from beneath his feet unconsciously aroused the sleeping desire to eat. Throbbing with the uncanny need to pierce the male’s flesh, fangs that had remained docile for three centuries pulsated with their urging message of thirst. Unconsciously raising a hand to separate the throbbing teeth from the waiter, the sweet sound of the man’s voice pulled Touya from his attracted trance. 

"Excuse me? Sir? Are you okay?" Physically shaking his head to divert the growing desires stirring internally, Touya lowered his hand, delivering a reassuring smile before speaking. 

"Yes, sorry about that. I’ve been a little too invested in my work, I got a little mixed up when you called me Touya. Everything’s fine, I assure you." Letting a lighthearted chuckle slip past his lips, an unconscious hand ran through the onyx waterfall of locks. Truthfully, Touya’s heart was stuttering at an immeasurable amount. It’d been so long since someone other than Kurogiri had used his name. Hearing the name verbally spoken again felt refreshing, especially coming from his lips. 

"Oh, okay. Well, I apologize again, I didn’t intend for you to choke like that." Sending another smile the waiter’s way as insurance, Touya spoke with the sweetest tone he could muster. 

"There’s no need to apologize, honest~" Shifting his gaze momentarily towards the name tag adorning the man’s chest, the name alone made Touya’s heart stutter. "Keegan?" Similar to his name prior, even the resemblance to Keigo’s name phonetically excited the shadows beneath Touya’s feet. Glancing at his chest as if in confirmation, Keegan was quick to send an awkward smile back. 

"Oh, yes, sorry, I should have introduced myself. I’m Keegan." Extending his hand out towards Touya, the vampire was hesitant to take the offer. While purely innocent, the lingering fear that the mere touch of Keegan’s hand would stir the growing lust within was very prominent. However, seeing that honeyed smile seemed to ease the apprehensions for only a moment. 

"Tyler." Touching Keegan’s hand for nary a moment, Touya was quick to retract himself. Shocked by a jolt of electricity that surged over each vibrating nerve, the intense recollection of every stored memory of Keigo rushed over his body like a rogue wave. Pulling him back into the comforting heat of Keigo’s affection, the tingling sensation left against his hand was quick to spread. Like a virus, the sensation targeted the weakest part of Touya’s body. Touching the calmed fangs with the throbbing desire to taste this vessel’s blood, the pounding throb that drummed from Touya’s heart was eager to awaken his satiated darkness. 

"It’s nice to meet you, Keegan." Giving himself an excuse to close his eyes and a second to calm the gnawing buzz in his fangs, Touya sent the waiter another candy coated smile. Melting beneath the sweet way Tyler’s lips curved towards him, Keegan couldn’t hide the delighted twinkle in his eye, nor could he cover the dusted pink on his cheeks. Despite completely fumbling the introduction with the man, Riley had been right. Apparently, all he needed to do was smile in order to earn Tyler’s attention, but he wasn’t mad about it. They’d only spoken for a short period of time, but there was something about Tyler, something familiar that Keegan hadn't placed yet, that made the whole situation rather comfortable. 

"It’s nice to meet you too, Tyler. Oh, Hey! While I’m here, can I get you anything to eat?" Resisting the flirtatious urge to suggest Keegan offer himself as a snack, Touya shook his head. 

"I’m not overly picky, why don’t you bring me your favorite dish?" Nodding his head with a delighted measure of enthusiasm, the action, while small, flared the vampire’s instincts. Finding the action adorable, the unconscious raise of his shielding hand felt appropriate. 

"Of course, coming right up~" Teasing Touya’s instincts with a direct wink of the eye, Touya’s hand couldn’t hide the growing blush touching his cheeks. Watching Keegan disappear behind the counter, the smile meant for the blond wouldn’t leave Touya’s lips. No matter how hard he tried, the joy he felt from finding someone so similar to his hummingbird wouldn’t leave his face. While his muscles were rather sore from the over extension of his usually relaxed lips, he didn’t mind. To have the mere opportunity to rekindle that which was lost with the only person he unconditionally trusted was worth the small infliction of pain. 

‘Smelt just like him too~’ Leaning against the back of the booth, azure eyes shifted from Keegan’s figure to the roof. Still lingering against his nose, the undeniable flavour forced the red hue to the surface. ‘Weird…maybe it is him…’ Squinting in thought, the conversation held between himself and Kurogiri replayed in his mind. Shifting to the commanding violet, royal lavender orbs wandered back to Keegan and brought a sly smirk to draw across Touya’s lips. ‘Perhaps I can pull Keigo back out…’ Fishing the silver ring out from under his shirt, pale fingers twirled the shining object unconsciously before bringing the hoop to his lips to leave behind a chaste kiss. ‘Or, perhaps I just need to remind him of what we had~’ Sensing the approach of the waiter in question, the violet hue settled beneath the natural azure while the ring dropped safely against Touya’s chest.

"Here you are~" Setting a small plate down in front of Touya with a rather large piece of cake presented on it, Keegan stood back with a smile. "You requested my favourite option, but you look like a guy who might crave something sweet~" Certainly, Keegan was messing with him. Soaking Touya with a honeyed delivery of the explanation along with another wink of the eye, the vampire could barely hold himself back. “I brought you our house special~ Enjoy~" Slipping away in time with the stirring bloodlust threatening to overwhelm the vampire’s senses, Touya’s eyes remained fixated on the confection.

Angel food cake, a fitting choice delivered by Keegan’s hands. This piece was decorated intricately with swirling whipped cream and cut strawberries. Arranged neatly on top of the slice, placed purposely on a swirl of whipped cream, was half of a strawberry cut intentionally into a heart. Ignoring the obvious blip interrupting his heartbeat, Touya picked up the fork. Cutting into the end of the cake, the moment the sweet confection touched his tongue, delicious memories of Keigo infiltrated his mind once again.

"Do you prefer pineapples or strawberries? I myself prefer pineapples, however, any confection made with strawberries will always take the cake~"

"I was simply enjoying a delectable treat~"

"You can kiss any part of my body, Snowflake~"

"Are you feeling peckish? Perhaps you should have a taste~" 

Each bite of the sugary treat left Touya craving more. Familiar and comforting the cake left a sweetened score against his nerves. The buzzing excitement that followed the consumption of the cake felt oddly refreshing, like a factory reset of sorts. Holding the sweetened memories against the rhythmic strum of his heart, the now empty plate left the vampire feeling oddly cold. It was strange how a single piece of human food could remind Touya so much of Keigo. Sitting back against the booth with a delighted sigh leaving his lips, the lingering taste of strawberries made his heart flutter. He’d forgotten how good something so small could make him feel. 

"How was the cake?" As if on cue, Keegan’s glowing smile found itself back at the table, showering Touya beneath its genuine delight. 

"It was…" Wracking his brain for a suitable word to describe the taste’s effects on his mind, Touya settled for the first word he could conjure in discussing Keigo. "Unique." Considering Keigo along with all the shared memories to be a one of a kind experience, the word fit perfectly. 

"Unique? Hmm, I’ve never had it described like that before. I hope your use of the word is positive?" Nodding, Keegan’s beaming smile only served to warm Touya’s cheeks further. "I’ll take it! I’m glad you enjoyed it!" Lifting the emptied plate from the table, Keegan moved to leave Touya to his devices. "I’ve probably distracted you from your work, so I’ll get out of your hair. Do let me know if there’s anything else you need from me though." 

" In another life I’ll find you. I promise we’ll be together again."

Unconsciously inviting himself into Touya’s life, the vampire called for Keegan to wait. Letting his promise to Keigo sit on the back burner for far too long, he’d be a fool to let the opportunity slip through his fingers. 

"This might be incredibly odd and considerably out of bounds, but could I maybe…buy you a coffee sometime?" Observing the awkward delivery of the question, Keegan couldn’t help but blush over the way Tyler’s eyes shifted anxiously looking for confidence. He couldn’t help but admire the way the man ran his hand through his onyx hair as if to divert the nervous vibrations gnawing at him internally. Mostly, it was the subtle shrug of his shoulder followed by the uneven quirk of his lip that made Keegan’s heart stutter. Had he known it would have been this easy to score a date with the highly attractive male, he would have tried to kill him sooner. 

"Are you asking me out, Tyler?" Asking in a deeper tone, one slightly playful, but clearly holding a sensual edge, the smirk that crawled across Keegan’s lips served to deepen the blush warming Tyler’s cheeks. 

"I suppose I am, what do you say?" Blinking at the cute way Tyler was looking up at him, Keegan couldn’t resist. There was something in Tyler’s eyes, a mutual affection that he couldn’t ignore. Besides, a date with Tyler couldn’t possibly be bad. Could it? Without a word, Keegan clicked his pen open. Scrawling something across the open page of Touya’s notebook, Keegan left the vampire with a click of his tongue and another wink of his eye. 

"Call me sometime~" Returning to work, Keegan left Tyler to stew over his success. Eyeing the paper with a joyous sparkle in his eye, the written name followed by a string of ten digits quickly became the greatest accomplishment of Touya’s life in over three centuries. All of his successful novels, praise from strangers, prizes in literature, they all meant nothing compared to this simple gesture. Smiling at the written digits, Touya closed the notepad, unconsciously holding the book against his heart. 

"I told you I’d find you, that we’d be together again." Finishing his narrative along with the delicious latte Keegan prepared for him, Touya gathered his things after leaving a wealthy amount of money on the table for Keegan to collect. Waving to the blond as he left for the evening, Touya couldn’t stop smiling. Evan at his weakest, under the dangerous rays from the setting sun above, his smile remained. Finally, after years of pain and regret, he had something to live for again. Returning home, Touya kept himself from texting Keegan until after he’d cleaned up from his dinner. Giving the blond hopefully enough time to get home from work, and ultimately giving his own heart a moment to calm its beat, the vampire king pulled out his phone. Inserting Keegan’s number into the device, he opened a message to the boy. 

Hey, It’s Tyler. I must look really desperate to be texting you so soon after meeting you, but after how awkward the interaction went earlier…I couldn’t leave that as my first impression lol...are you still interested in going out with me?

Rewriting and re-reading the text multiple times, it took a nervous gulp and a shaking thumb to finally send the message. Hearing the confirming swoop of the message being sent, Touya felt sweat building unnecessarily at his brow. Hating the level of anxiety affecting his body over something so minuscule, Touya couldn’t ignore the gnawing insecurity that Keegan would reject him on the premise that he was just being nice. For all he knew, the number he received could very well belong to someone else entirely. The damning thought was very prominent in the back of his mind, however, when the cellular device screamed at Touya over the incoming message, the vampire’s heart swelled with excitement. 

Hey! Don’t be too hard on yourself, I thought you were rather cute…yes, I would like to go out with you, I’m free on Friday if that works?

Friday would be fantastic, do you want to meet at your work around noon?

Sounds good to me, see you then! Good night, Tyler~

Can’t wait! Good night, Keegan~

Clicking the device off, Touya ungracefully released his excitement in a series of cheers and celebratory fist pumps. Finally, the fruits of his grief were ripe and paying off. Slipping  into bed for a night of assured rest, the excitement of Friday swept away any lingering nightmares. Keegan had no idea the real impact of his smile, but by simply agreeing to see Touya again, he had inadvertently cleared the three century long depression from the man’s body. Closing his eyes off from the world, Touya let a final exhaling chuckle slip past his lips. 

"Would you look at that, Kurogiri was right after all. Addressing Keigo’s death did make me feel better, who would’ve guessed?" Relaxing completely against the plush surface of the mattress, Touya expressed one final thought before slipping off to sleep. "I just have to make sure I don’t fuck this up a second time…my heart can’t handle another massive break."

Chapter Text

Nervous couldn’t begin to describe how Keegan was feeling. Thundering loudly, the unusual rhythm of his heartbeat screamed out every possible mishap the date could bring. 

What if you spill food on yourself?

Taking into account the clumsy state of his unyielding hands, Keegan stripped himself of the originally chosen white shirt. 

Your face gets unusually red if you cough, try not to choke.

Easier said than done, the choice to stray away from food was obvious. Pulling another clean shirt over his chest, Keegan left a mental reminder with himself to time his inhales to be separate from his intake of any sort of beverage. 

Don’t laugh too loud, your banshee howl will turn him off.

Glancing over the tight fit of the black t-shirt, Keegan’s gnawing insecurity forced his hands to strip off the tight fabric. 

Learn to shut up, he’ll get bored if you talk his ear off.

Switching into a casual grey t-shirt, Keegan settled on the upper half of his body looking complete with the stringing of a simple necklace around his neck. Decorated with a singular charm of a red feather, the flash of colour added a tinge of delight to the muted tone of Keegan’s shirt. Metaphorically linked to the excitement he felt in comparison to his anxiety, the small feeling tried to overwhelm the gnawing fear. 

He asked you out~ He’s interested in you~

Switching out of the initial pair of knee high length black shorts for a pair of loose fitting black jeans, Keegan eyed his figure over and over in the mirror. 

It’ll be fine~ Tyler thinks you’re delightful otherwise he wouldn’t want to see you again~

Shifting his gaze towards the mess of blond locks, a hairbrush was lifted from the nearby dresser. Combing through the unruly tufts of gold for the eighth time that morning, Keegan silently wished the strands would stay neatly in place for once as he slid on the restraining black headband. Following the addition of a few bracelets to each wrist, Keegan accepted his appearance as finalized. Slipping on a pair of comfortable converse shoes, Keegan left for the café. Purposely showing up early to hopefully extinguish the butterflies fluttering around each nerve, Keegan entered with a smile. Perking up with a half cocked smile following the ring of the door, Riley’s hands promptly found her hips. 

"What brings you by on your day off, K?" Meeting her at the register, the shaky extension of his smile wasn’t missed by her keen eye.

"I happened to score a date with that guy~" Punching in his order, he handed her money in comparison. 

"Great~ Then I can keep an eye on you and bail you out if things get dicey." Keeping his smile, the quirk of his eyebrow spoke to the uncertainty he felt following the statement. 

"Dicey? I don’t think I’ll fumble that badly. He seems interested in me at least." Making his drink, she handed the steaming beverage to him. 

"I meant more so if he turns out to be a closet weirdo, I wouldn’t want you to be snatched by some piece of eye candy." Shaking his head with an awkward laugh meant to clear away the growing anxiety, Keegan kept his optimism high. 

"I don’t think that’ll happen. He seems okay…a little awkward, but who isn’t at first." Shrugging off her statement, Keegan moved to find a table. "But, to ease your conscience, I’ll send you a signal if things start feeling out of place." Nodding, she left him to pick a table near a window. Seating himself in one of the chairs, calming sips were taken of the beverage while Keegan eagerly waited for Tyler’s arrival. 

Throughout the entirety of Touya’s lifespan, only three events overwhelmed his nervous system to a trembling degree. The first being his acceptance of defeat to the humans. While that event hadn’t made him nervous, it was the blood soaked aftermath that touched each nerve with the harrowing anxiety of his initial choice. The second of course was telling Keigo who he was. Never had a mortal disrupted his being quite like Keigo had, until now. Pessimistic with the possibility that this date would blow up in his face, shaking nerves refused to settle. Afraid that this date opportunity would be lost nearly as quickly as it had been found, Touya sought comfort from the silver hoop hanging from his neck. Twirling, rubbing, and unconsciously holding the symbol against his lips, each action slowly began to stifle the gnawing anxiety brewing. Silently easing Touya’s flurrying conscience, the vampire found himself settled enough to ready himself for the fateful meeting. 

Wearing newly bought clothes from his outing with Kurogiri, tight fitting black jeans latched over his hips with the click of a belt emblazoned with colourful squares. Pulled over his chest was a black t-shirt with a graphic image printed on it. Slapping some colour around his wrists, the black and blue bands somehow managed to make his skin look more pale than normal, but Touya liked the aesthetic so the bracelets remained. Slipping into the bathroom, a hand that was trembling mere moments ago collected itself to apply a set of fierce black wings artistically around crystalline teal-blue eyes. Face and body now decidedly perfect, nimble fingers ran purposely through the tangle of black locks cascading from Touya’s head. Forcing the larger knots out with the motion of his hand, Touya proceeded to run the comb through, teasing the locks to spike decisively on his head. With everything in place, Touya’s gaze shifted over his reflection. Nodding at the synchronous image, the confidence that everything would go well rose up while the vampire left the bathroom. Gathering the necessary objects for the outing, Touya crossed the apartment to the front door. Sitting on the floor like a child, the pair of recently purchased Doc Martins were slipped on over his feet. While tying the laces, the front door clicked open following the timed entrance of Kurogiri. 

"Master Touya, I-Oh, you’re already awake…" Seeing the unusual sight of his master in the front entrance and not sulking somewhere in the apartment, the quirk of Kurogiri’s brow was unmistakable. "What…are you doing….?" Eyeing Touya’s seated form, Kurogiri closed the door gently with his foot before stepping nonchalantly to the side. 

"I’m tying my shoe, what does it look like?" Ignoring the clear attitude in his voice, Kurogiri stepped into the kitchen with the additional supplies. 

"I gathered that, I meant to ask where you’re going at this time of day?" Getting to his feet, Touya grabbed a hoodie from the front entry closet.

"I have a date~" Careful not to mess up the flow of his hair, the protective fabric was pulled safely over his body. Hearing a blip in the unloading of supplies, Touya imagined Kurogiri’s muscles tensed with surprise. 

"A date? With whom and where?" Chuckling at the skeptical excitement fighting within Kurogiri’s voice, Touya pushed a set of sunglasses up the bridge of his nose. 

"I met a guy the other day named Keegan~ We’re going for coffee together at the café a few blocks from here~” Discarding the completion of the delivery in progress, Kurogiri stepped into the front entrance to prod for further answers. 

"You met someone and didn’t tell me? What makes him so special that you’d willingly try to be romantic again?" Hiding the awkward shift of his eyes, the reflective view of the shades remained trained on Kurogiri while the blue orbs behind him sought confidence elsewhere. 

"Because…I didn’t want you to freak out…" 

"Why would I freak out…?" Catching the subtle yet highly awkward shift of his master’s weight, an exasperated sigh slipped from Kurogiri’s lungs. "Master Touya, do not tell me…" 

"He looked and smelled exactly like Keigo! How could I not be interested in consuming that tantalizing blood again?!" Trying and failing to disguise the truth behind the date, Touya’s outburst only fueled the pointed roll of Kurogiri’s eyes. 

"That’s what I was afraid of…" Letting his lips twitch into a soft smile meant to reassure the king, the uncertainty present in Kurogiri’s tone didn’t help the advisor’s case in the slightest. "Just…don’t get your hopes up on him having any of Keigo’s memories, okay?" Nodding, Touya pulled the front door open. 

"I’m not expecting anything, if that’s what you’re wanting to hear." Moving to leave, the timid call of Kurogiri’s voice halted the vampire’s abscond. 

"Master Touya, I’ll respect your decision, but please don’t get overly attached too quickly like last time…I don’t want to witness you get burned to the same degree. You’ve gone through enough trauma, I don’t want you to suffer again." Blinking at the blatant concern written across his features, Touya accepted the terms with a sweet smile. 

"Believe me Giri, I don’t want to experience that again any time soon. I’ll be careful, I promise~" Departing with a wave of his hand, Touya closed the door in his stead. Leaving Kurogiri to nervously mull over every outcome of this sudden date, the possibility that he’d be reliving the previous three hundred years was a very prominent ache in the back of his mind. Hopefully, Touya will have the peace of mind to end things before they shatter the already broken pieces of his heart more. At least, that was all Kurogiri could hope for. 

Braving the scorching heat above, Touya’s arrival to the café was eagerly greeted by Keegan through the clear glass of the window. Waving at him through the honeyed glow of his smile, the direct itch left against his fangs couldn’t hide his excitement. Smiling back and risking a burn against his hand, a short wave was sent Keegan’s way before the vampire entered the café. Stripping himself of the protective hood and glasses, Touya slipped into the seat across from Keegan. 

"Hey, thanks for agreeing to this date, I’ve been looking forward to this all week~” Mentally slapping himself for sounding too eager, Touya dialed back his excitement. 

"Honestly, me too. I never get to do stuff like this, so I appreciate you asking me~" Hating how incredibly awkward his delivery sounded, Keegan cleared his throat. "Want me to call Riley over to order?" Nodding, Touya remained quiet as the motion of Keegan’s hand brought the female barista over. Submitting an order with Riley, the barista left with the air at the table remaining as awkward as before. Scratching the back of his neck in search of a topic of conversation, Keegan’s eyes searched the café for anything to discuss with Tyler. 

"So…" Feeling just as itchy with embarrassment, Touya eyed the obstacle course of broken eggshells laid out before him. While he knew everything about Keigo, Keegan had yet to display any significant relations to Keigo besides his appearance and scent. The progression of this conversation would need to skillfully avoid any recognition regarding Keegan or his past in order to get any solid information from the blond. Tip toeing around the delicate information, Touya put the clean slate metaphorically on the table. "Tell me about yourself." Pausing to thank Riley for the newly prepared drinks, a quick sip of the caffeinated beverage fueled Keegan’s response. 

"Well, I’m twenty three. I’ve been working here for a year now, trying to save up for college." 

"What do you want to take?"

"Promise you won’t laugh?" Obviously receiving judgement from friends and family alike, Touya quirked his eyebrow in interest. 

"Why would I laugh? You’re obviously passionate about the course you want to take. Your happiness isn’t a joke." Sensing a stutter interrupting the consistent flow of rhythm beating from Keegan’s heart, the blond wrapped his hands around the surface of the cup seeking its warming comfort as he spoke. 

"I want to take photography." Eyeing the way Keegan refused to meet his gaze, Touya’s lips twitched into a genuine smile. 

"That’s amazing! I admire the art of photography, it’s quite the innovation. I’ve always admired people who have an eye for the craft." Bringing the delighted look of Keegan’s attention to him, the smile drawn across Touya’s lips seemed to lift the veil of uncertainty from the mortal’s form. 

"You’re being modest~" Playfully slapping away the compliment, the chuckle that followed urged Touya to praise him more. 

"No, I’m being serious. I don’t get to…experience…the world through the same lens as other people, so I never got into photography as a photographer, but I do quite enjoy seeing the outcome. Then I get to see places that I can’t visit normally…" Trailing off, Keegan picked up where Touya could not. 

"Why can’t you explore the world?"

"I…" Scratching his neck with embarrassment, Touya’s expression looked as awkward as he felt explaining his condition. "Have really sensitive skin…the sun and I don’t agree…it’s not that I can’t explore the world, but I can only do so at night time. Which is fine, but enjoying certain experiences are only available during the day...it's just not the same." Bringing the confident smile back to his face, Touya was quick to reset the light air of the conversation. "That’s why I admire photography, cheesy I know." 

"I don’t think that’s cheesy at all." Pausing to take a sip of his drink, Keegan’s smile felt reassuring. "That’s why I love photography, it gives me the opportunity to share my passion for the world with everyone. If you want, I can show you some of the pictures I’ve taken. It'll be like going on a trip together." Touya liked the sound of that, not only had the suggestion sounded delightful in theory, but there was a twinkle in Keegan’s eye, a pitch in his voice, that resonated purely with Keigo and it brought an undeniable tint to Touya’s cheeks.  

"I’d like that." Straying from the more accurate word, love, the soft chuckles that followed devolved into Keegan’s next topic of conversation: Tyler. 

"Wonderful, but hey listen to me ramble about myself, I want to know about you. Tell me about yourself, Tyler." Refreshing his senses with his own intake of the caffeinated beverage, Touya cleared his throat. 

"Well, I’m twenty five. I’m unemployed, but my hobby, which is writing, is technically my job. I like to occupy myself by learning new things. I tend to stay indoors because of my skin which has led me to keep to myself, leaving me to spend a lot of my time alone…Yeah, there isn’t much to Tyler honestly…" Shrugging with an awkward smile, Touya didn’t expect Keegan’s response. 

"I feel so lucky…" Admiring Touya with the same smitten expression Keigo used to shower him with, Keegan’s eyes glistened with attraction. 

"Why do you say that?" Diverting his own feelings with another sip of his drink, which didn’t ease the uneven strum of his heart, Keegan’s explanation only fueled his admiration further. 

"You said you spend your time indoors, alone, so for you to ask me out on a date means that I must be pretty special~" He had no idea. Special was only the tip of the iceberg for describing the meaning behind this date and meeting someone like Keegan. Touya couldn’t begin to explain what his opportunity meant to him because it truly meant everything. 

"Maybe I’m the one who’s lucky because you agreed to go out with me even though we met randomly." Sensing a shift in Keegan’s heart rate, even the subtle vibrational warning wasn’t nearly enough to prepare Touya for the verbal confirmation slipping from Keegan’s mouth. 

"It’s true, our initial meeting was very brief and a little awkward…and, you’re going to think me weird for saying this, but I had a feeling like I’ve known you for years…I don’t know…it’s hard to explain and really stupid, just pretend I didn’t even bring it up." Boldly resting his hand atop Keegan’s to dispel the nerves shaking the limb, Keegan’s surprised gaze fell on the soft smile drawn across Tyler’s lips. 

"I don’t think you’re weird at all." Leaving a reassuring stroke against the back of Keegan’s hand with his thumb, Touya held Keegan delicately beneath the tenderness of his tone. "I wasn’t sure how to bring it up, but I got the same feeling…maybe it’s the kindness in your eyes, or the honey in your smile, but you have a very familiar air about you. I’d describe it as…comfortable." Easing the awkward tension from Keegan’s nerves with the subtle cock of his head and the light pink dust framing the sweet curve of his lips, Keegan found himself smiling back. 

"Thank you, Tyler. You’re so sweet and understanding. I’m glad I agreed to this." Spending a comfortable couple of hours at the café, the conversation shared rolled smoothly like a ball. Learning each other’s likes, dislikes, hobbies, and selected personal details were quickly exchanged like second nature. Clicking like two cogs in a machine, Tyler and Keegan’s shared interests pushed them easily back into place. Despite the date starting rather awkwardly, the ending was more than delightful. Apprehensions regarding their feelings lifted from the pair as they left the café hand in hand, more than comfortable with the prospect of what would come. 

"Thank you again, I had a really great time~” Thanking the blond with a smile, Touya pulled Keegan beneath the protecting shade of a nearby awning. 

"Me too, but I should probably get home before my guardian starts to question me."

"Yeah, it’s a little too soon to have an awkward talk with your guardian~" Chuckling softly, Touya boldly reached for Keegan’s other hand. Holding both hands gently in his grasp, the itch arousing in his fangs promptly got pushed to the back of his mind as he curved his lips softly into a smile. "Before I let you go, can I see you again?" Laughing lightheartedly at how polite Tyler was being, Keegan nodded excitedly. 

"Yes! I would love to go out with you again~" Boldly shifting his weight to his toes, Keegan left a quick kiss against the pale of Tyler’s cheeks. Flaring the pale skin with a pink hue that pulsated his fangs with thirst, the removal of Keegan’s hands from his own was silently welcomed by the vampire. "Text you later, Tyler~ Get home safe~” Bidding the blond farewell with the wave of his hand, Touya watched the boy disappear down the street before returning home himself. Keeping a daily conversation through text open with Keegan, the haste in which the pair found themselves falling for one another seemed to approach the speed of gravity. 

Absorbed into their daily routine, sending and receiving texts, some vanilla, others rather flirtatious, was like breathing. Their conversations, no matter how silly, seemed to ease any building stress or anxieties forming, as if the respective other half was the metaphorical cure for the other. Never crossing the boundary of intimacy however, the pair remained strictly as what could only be described as very familiar friends. Going a few hours without hearing from one another felt rather empty, lonely, and boring. Touya, while understanding Keegan’s responsibilities as an employed member of society, dreaded the eight hours he had to himself while Keegan worked. Sleeping was different not only because of the unconscious state of his body during the night, but his dreams were coded to his tastes, which were in a word: Golden.

However, while Touya would respect Keegan’s work, he did make a point to be with the boy as often as he could. Scheduling outings whenever Keegan had availability and wasn’t too fatigued quickly became a regular thing even if they were only a couple hours long. Going for evening walks, or watching a movie together were a standard, but when a day off arrived, Touya didn’t hesitate to make the day as special as he could. 

After conversing with Keegan for a couple of weeks, the mannerisms and personality that he associated directly with Keigo became obvious to Touya. Thinking that events or experiences may pull more of the familiar mortal out of Keegan, Touya purposely planned out specific dates for them to enjoy. One evening about a month into seeing each other, Touya took Keegan to a carnival that happened to come to town for a weekend. Stepping onto the busy fair grounds, flashes of the past festival struck Touya’s memories with the hope that they’d do the same for Keegan.

"What do you want to do first?" Feeling an unconscious squeeze against his bicep, the warmth of Keegan’s hand sought the open bicep to dispel the anxiety of the crowd, bringing Touya’s attention back to the present. Adjusting his arm to tangle his fingers securely with Keegan’s, a smile flashed towards the blond. 

"Let’s ride some rides!" Dragging the blond into the crowd in a similar manner as Keigo had centuries before, Touya let his inhibitions free. Taking Keegan on every ride that the blond hadn’t adamantly denied, along with playing every cheap game, the vampire had never felt so young. Never experiencing a theme park such as this before, each gravity defying twist, flip, and spin of the mechanical devices thrilled Touya’s senses. Cheering, screaming, and laughing in delight with each movement, the anxious strumming oscillating from the quickened pace of Keegan’s heart rate nearly went missed by Touya’s senses. Realizing the fear prominent in his friend’s emotional network, Touya reached a calming hand over to rest against the whites of the mortal’s knuckles. Feeling the tensing stress vibrating from Keegan’s nerves from the touch alone, Touya’s thumb circled a calming pattern against the back of the tightly clenched fist wrapped desperately around the metal of the handle. Silently telling Keegan he was safe, the swirling motion slowly eased the blonds muscles to relax. 

Shifting his head to look at the figure next to him, the sweet smile painted across the mans lips seemed to extract the remaining apprehensions from his body. Remaining locked on Tyler’s calming appearance, the face he’d fallen in love with had never looked so…ethereal. Perhaps it was the visual of seeing Tyler’s whole face without the obstruction of the onyx locks blocking one of his eyes. Or maybe it was the way the wind was pulling the dyed hair away, caressing the black locks like they were leaves flowing delicately through the wind, pulling them from his face in a way that looked artistically divine. Yet, despite the noise of the carnival, Keegan couldn’t hide the loud throb of his heart. Glistening under the artificial coloured lights flashing along with the rhythm of the ride, undeniable flecks of blue popped within Tyler’s eyes. Shading his irises with crystals of teal, navy, sky blue, and white, Tyler’s eyes looked raw like an uncut diamond held meticulously against the sky. Flushed by the dancing hues of the lights, the porcelain of his skin had never appeared more alive. Dancing with the bright strokes of each pop of colour, Keegan missed the blush hiding beneath the distracting lights. Shining against the illuminated colour, the piercings decorating his nose and ears twinkled like stars dotting a painting. Yet, it was Tyler’s smile that made his cheeks warm. Soft, like the round swoop of a cloud, the curve of Tyler’s lips could melt even the coldest of hearts. It was welcoming, honest, and held him when Tyler’s arms could not. He loved that smile, or to be more accurate, he loved all of Tyler. 

"Keegan?" Blinking away the distracting fog from his vision, Keegan’s attention shifted to see that the motion of the ride had ended. "Are you okay?" Released from the holding safety mechanisms of the ride, the blond rushed unapologetically into Tyler’s arms. 

"Please don’t make me ride another one." Protectively wrapping his arms around Keegan, Touya carefully led the blond off of the ride’s designated area. 

"I’m sorry, I didn’t know you didn’t like them…why didn’t you tell me?" Holding him a moment longer, Keegan pulled away. 

"You looked so happy, I didn’t want you to stop smiling…" Feeling his own heart flutter before the blip of Keegan’s beat touched his ears, Touya’s hands moved to gently cup the blonds face. 

"Keegan, you’re so terribly selfless~" Chuckling at the questioning quirk of the blonds eyebrow, Touya’s thumbs left a reassuring stroke against the flushing colour of Keegan’s cheeks. "I’ll always smile as long as I’m with you, regardless of what we’re doing~ You don’t have to do something that scares you just because you think it’ll make me happy because…" Tilting Keegan’s head gently back, the fluttered closing of Tyler’s eyes unconsciously parted Keegan’s lips. "I’m already happy just being here with you~” Pressing his lips unexpectedly against Keegan’s exposed forehead, when Tyler pulled away, Keegan’s brow furrowed in confusion. 

"I thought you were going to kiss me?" Chuckling, Touya slipped his hands nonchalantly into his pockets. 

"I did kiss you." Spinning on his heel, Tyler started off towards the section of the fair designated for the food vendors. 

"What? Tyler, wait!" Jogging to catch up, Keegan’s arm snaked itself through the loop of Tyler’s arm. "That’s not what I meant." Pouting, Touya couldn’t help but laugh at the annoyed expression overtaking Keegan’s features. 

"Hummingbird, surely you don’t want our first kiss to be because you were scared~ Sounds a little desperate if you ask me~ Besides, what do you think Riley would say when she found out~" Purely teasing the blond, the skip in Keegan’s heartbeat went missed by the vampire. 

"Hummingbird?" Repeated at a volume nearly drowned out by the sounds echoing out around them, the unconscious squeeze of Keegan’s hand against his bicep gathered Touya’s attention to the softening expression replacing the playful annoyance. 

"Yeah…You’re just as beautiful and most definitely as spunky as one…is it okay if I call you that?" Resting his head against the cradling hold of Touya’s shoulder, the action answered before verbal confirmation could be uttered. 

"As long as I’m the only one you’re calling that, I don’t mind~" Pulling his hand from his pocket to hold Keegan’s in reassurance, Touya’s head rested gently against the blonds.

"You’re the only one I wish to call my Hummingbird~"

"Mmm~ So possessive~ You know we’ve only been hanging out for a month, aren’t you moving too fast?" Lifting his head upon feeling Keegan’s motion to leave his shoulder, Touya sent a side-eyed smirk to the blond. 

"Not at all~ I was merely assuring you of our exclusivity." Quickly distracting Keegan with the sudden point of his free hand, Touya’s voice, while still excited, lost the flirtatious tone. "Hey, look! That stand has candied apples, mini donuts, and corn dogs, let’s go there for something to eat!" Feeling the tug of Tyler’s hand, Keegan unconsciously obliged. Feeding Tyler’s childish desire to eat every sweet thing offered at the stand, Keegan sat across from the male casually snacking on Tyler’s order of nachos with questionable cheese. Observing the wondrous excitement flooding the teal blue eyes following each tasting of the sugared treats, Keegan couldn’t help but smile. Always considering Tyler to be collected, intelligent, and admirable, seeing him unhinged like this brought a flutter to his heart. It was a personalized visual that only Keegan was trusted enough to see and that was enough for the blond, while Tyler was freshly introduced to the various foods with each taken bite that made him gush in delight. 

"These are so good~ And you have to try these~ Oh, but the sauce on this is incredible…it’s all so good, I can’t decide what I like best!" Not expecting a question in the mixture of praise, Keegan found himself on the spot suddenly. "Which one is your favourite, Hummingbird?" Shifting startled gold eyes over the array of half eaten desserts and savoury dishes alike, Keegan shrugged. 

"Uhhh, that one." Pointing randomly at the nearest dessert to him, Tyler’s eyes lit up with sugared excitement. 

"Yeah~ The mini donuts are pretty good~ Especially when you’re sharing them with someone else~" Lifting a deep fried ring from the pile, Tyler’s wet tongue ran the length of the treat before pulling the circular dessert intentionally between his lips. Keeping half lidded eyes on Keegan, the sensual way his fingers lingered inside his mouth, lit Keegan’s cheeks ablaze. Watching Tyler purposely suck against his index finger, pulling the limb from his lips with a loud pop before meticulously flicking his tongue suggestively against the tip of his finger to lap up every cube of sugar left behind, Keegan was quick to avert his eyes. Taking in that image any longer would result in something further he wasn’t keen to experience in public. Landing on the visuals behind Tyler, Keegan observed the slow movement of the mechanical ride before clearing his throat. 

"Hey Ty, can we ride one more ride before we go?" Following Keegan’s gaze, Tyler sent a sweet smile Keegan’s way, finishing what he wanted of the purchased food before granting Keegan's wish. Sitting next to Tyler with only a loose fitting seatbelt and a bar separating him from the inevitable pull of gravity, Keegan found his nerves flaring as the large circular ride began its motion. Holding the bar for dear life, Tyler was quick to wrap his arm around Keegan’s waist, pulling the blond safely against his side. Following two calming rotations of the Ferris wheel, Keegan found himself relaxing against the calming warmth of Tyler’s body. Resting his head against the curve of Tyler’s shoulder, a relaxing breath slipped from Keegan’s lips. 

"This is nice, thank you for bringing me."

"I’m glad you enjoyed yourself."

"I did, I always enjoy my time with you." Relishing the rhythmic strum of Keegan’s heartbeat for a few silent rotations, Touya’s eyes shifted nervously. 

"Hey Hummingbird, this is a weird question, but have you ever…experienced anything like this before?" Feeling the quirk of his eyebrow, the confusion in Keegan’s voice was expected. 

"Do you mean the fair? Or riding a Ferris wheel with someone? Because I’ve been to the fair before, but not as a date…this is my first time riding a Ferris wheel with a prospective romantic partner." Not the answer he was looking for, Touya accepted the explanation regardless. 

"Oh, me too…this is my first time too…" Catching the accepting blip oscillating from Keegan’s heartbeat, the subtle shuffle of the blond’s body moving closer to Tyler was easily accepted as the Ferris wheel brought the pair to a halt at the top of the circumference to let passengers off. 

"Damn…" Whispering the curse as shifting eyes took in the darkness of the night sky, Touya shifted enough to look at the top of Keegan’s head. "Watching the sunset up here with you…I would’ve loved to see that~ It’s unfortunate we had to miss it…" Feeling the unmistakable heat of Keegan’s hand caressing the length of his thigh, Touya swallowed the pulsating attraction building within his fangs. "You could have had a better kiss than with my forehead~" Chuckling, Keegan gave Touya’s thigh a tantalizing squeeze that set the docile fangs ablaze with hunger. 

"Y-Yeah…" Swallowing nervously, the habitual action of chewing at the interior of his lip promptly took over Touya’s teeth. “I’ll watch a sunset with you yet, but it will be on the ground, safely under the shade of a tree~ I promise~" Touched by the melodic laugh slipping from the blond’s lips, the sound drove the throbbing fangs to bite deeper into the soft tissue of Touya’s lip.

"I’ll hold you to it~" Returning to the ground after the ride, Touya took Keegan home. Bidding him farewell with nothing further than a hug and a promise to text tomorrow, Touya rushed home to consume a bottle of inhibiting liquid. Aroused by the tantalizing shows of affection, along with the familiar scent of rich flavour swirling off of the mortal, senses that had been neglected for years had never felt so alive. Yet, as Touya polished off a bottle of thick liquid, he didn’t mind. Actually excited by the prospect of tasting Keigo’s blood again, along with how quickly Keegan was falling for him, he accepted every self induced bite mark and wound with confidence. 

A week following the carnival, Tyler arranged another evening with Keegan. Meeting him at a fancy restaurant, when the blond got out of Riley’s car, he was quick to object. 

"Tyler, this place is too much…" Eyeing the chic exterior of the building was enough to designate Keegan as being too lower class to attend. Appearing to look like a modern home priced at no lower than high six digits, the exterior was daunting. Separated into three levels; main, upper, and roof, the building was not symmetrical in any way. Working down, the roof was flat, overhanging the upper level only with half of its surface area. The upper level of the building extended a few feet width wise to the right, balancing the left extension of the roof and the rest of the building. Flowing down from the roof were meticulously painted black tiles, swirling with red strokes depicting designs flourishing with acanthus leaves leading the viewers eyes down to the second level of the building. Large glass windows made up about half of the exterior, the upper panes supported and separated by black beams that crisscrossed in a random but articulate way. Warm lighting from the interior gave the clear glass a sense of life, showing Keegan the filled interior of guests that already occupied the extravagant tables. On the main level of the building the restaurant’s bar could be seen through a wall of glass located to the right of the door, while more tables were on the left of the building where another glass wall revealed them selfishly to the world. Inside of the bar, a bartender dressed neatly in a pressed suit meticulously mixed a set of cocktails that certainly cost more than a month’s worth of wages at the café. Outside, a small, lit, cement staircase led up to a set of large glass doors which were framed by neatly cut spiraling trees. 

"Shall we?" Holding out his arm, which was just as severely underdressed as Keegan, Tyler’s smile didn’t feel reassuring at all.

"Tyler, we can’t go in there, it’s way too extravagant and we’re both terribly underdressed Not to mention, expensive, I can’t afford this-" Pressing a finger to Keegan’s lips, the glint crossing Tyler’s blue eyes only churned Keegan’s gut further. 

"It’s fine~ I’ve taken care of everything~" Guiding Keegan’s hand to wrap nonchalantly around his arm, Touya led the blond towards the door. "As for your attire, don’t fret, no one will say a word about it~" Unclear with his explanation, Tyler pushed the glass doors open without further clarification. Shrinking immediately under the judging eyes of the hostess, Keegan silently wished Tyler had told him to dress fancier than his casual clothes. Certainly, with Keegan looking like a high school student and Tyler looking like a Hot Topic employee, they’d be thrown out. This place was definitely too high class for a couple of-

"Right this way, Mr. Tortorelli." Hanging in awe, Keegan’s jaw dipped in surprise as they followed the hostess to an elevator near the bar. Taking the elevator to the roof, when the doors slid open, Keegan remained in utter awe. Twinkling lights were strung over the area hanging from one end of the roof to the other. The perimeter was protected by a waist high glass paneled barrier, reminiscent of an edging frequently seen on a condo’s balcony. Potted plants were spaced around the perimeter, but only one table was present on the roof. Its designation was laid out by a velvet red carpet rolled meticulously from the elevator doors to the table. The table itself was round, draped with a blue table cloth, which Touya had intentionally picked out to match as closely to the one Keigo had spread out for him. Off center to the middle of the table was a rather out of place picnic basket modified to be a wine cooler, sporting a bottle of what Keegan guessed to be, rather expensive wine. Otherwise, three large cylindrical candles of differing heights were set in between the opposing chairs. The candles were surrounded artistically by a neatly woven wreath featuring the delightful colourations of tulips, orchids, and sunflowers. Compared to the table, the chairs were a simple plain black, with plush leather supporting the bottom and the backing of each chair, Keegan guessed they were brought up from inside. 

"Your table as requested, Mr. Tortorelli." Gesturing towards the destination with a slight bow, Tyler thanked the hostess before leading Keegan to the table, who couldn’t help but wonder how many pieces of furniture were moved to accommodate Tyler’s vision. Separating from the blond long enough to pull out and push in his chair, Tyler joined the still surprised male at the table. 

"You really should close your mouth, otherwise you’ll fill up on flies~" Sending a teasing smirk to close the gap between Keegan’s lips, adjusting eyes washed over the elegant location of their third real date. 

"I can’t….how did you manage to put all of this together?" Folding his hands to create a platform for his chin to rest on, Tyler’s elbows rested against the table while his head promptly found the support of his hands. 

"I wanted to picnic with you under the stars, but felt like a simple picnic wouldn’t be enough to show you how much you mean to me." Smiling through the smitten expression drawn across his face, Keegan’s blushing response only fueled the accelerated rate of his heart. "Besides, The owner of the restaurant is a huge fan of mine, he likes to read my stories to his daughter; so when I called and asked if he could accommodate me, he didn’t hesitate to answer my every request…in exchange for a few signed copies of some of my novels of course~" Blinking in awe at the admiring expression across from him, Keegan shook his surprise from his face. 

"I sometimes forget you’re famous…you’re always so real with me…it just slips my mind." Pausing momentarily upon hearing the elevator doors open, the pair watched a waiter stroll over with a set of wine glasses and two menus. Running through the specials for the evening and pouring out a glass of wine for each male, the waiter left to give the pair time to decide their meals. 

"Yeah, well, it helps that most people don’t know what I look like outside of my narrative. I would hate it if swarms of people interrupted our time together~" Lifting and swirling the red liquid in the clear glass, Keegan couldn’t help but chuckle. 

"That would be awful~ It’s already stifling enough knowing that I’m going to be interrogated by Riley tonight, I couldn’t image a complete stranger bombarding me with question about our situation~" Touching the red liquid to his lips, the alcoholic beverage seeped casually past Touya’s lips. Lingering in his mouth before flowing down his throat, Touya didn’t speak until the clink of the glass bottom echoed out from touching the table. 

"Can I ask you something, Hummingbird?" Nodding without averting his eyes from the neatly scripted menu, Touya continued. "How many people have you dated before me?" Oddly flickering in time with the question, the flames of the candles threatened to go out on the evening. "I’m not asking because I’m bothered by your past, I wouldn’t care if you dated one hundred people or none at all, I’m just curious because with how attractive you are, I truly didn’t think I’d have a shot…" 

"Why do you say that?" Lifting his eyes to meet Tyler’s, the vampire was quick to dig his grave deeper. 

"Well, forgive me for assuming, but I imagined that you would have been off the market…people like you don’t stay single for long."

"People like me?" Hearing the irritated growl of his shadows over his blatant misstep, Touya knew he had to put out the flames being stoked by his stupid comments. 

"I’m not explaining myself right…" Pausing, Touya awkwardly searched the darkness for a better explanation for this question. "It’s just that…I think you’re so incredible…I love how kind, selfless, and honest you are, not to mention how stunning you look, that I just assumed that you have people asking you out all the time…" Feeling the squint of Keegan’s eyes increasing the irritated beat pulsating off the blond’s nerves, Touya quickly interjected before the mortal could let out an outburst of anger. "What I’m trying to say is that I’m afraid I’ll lose you to the next nice thing that comes along…that you’ll grow bored of me because you’re amazing and I’m just…Tyler." Reading the insecurities bothering the usually calm features of Tyler’s face, Keegan leaned against the back of the chair. Crossing his arms over his chest, glaring gold eyes shifted towards the twinkling stars above. Tyler was afraid he’d leave him for someone else? Keegan could understand the feeling more than anyone. In his eyes, he viewed Tyler in the same way; as a magnificent, kindhearted being, who had more to offer than Keegan himself did. Truthfully, besides the list he was just given, Keegan hadn’t fully figured out why Tyler was still with him, he was just Keegan. 

"Tyler Tortorelli, the famous writer, is worried about me, Keegan Tierney, a barista, growing bored of him?" Feeling an easing sensation showering down from the dead balls of gas above, a silent reminder of the indescribable sense of familiarity he felt whenever Tyler was around, Keegan chuckled, releasing the built up anger in a delightful melody of forgiveness. 

"You’re cute, Tyler~ I knew you were different when I met you~" Unfolding his arms to reach for Tyler’s hand, Keegan’s warmth quickly surrounded the pale limb. "It’s true, people ask me out all the time, but I rarely say yes and even if I do, it never goes past the first date. Technically, you’re the first person I’ve really dated." Leaving reassuring strokes against the back of Tyler’s hand, Keegan’s smile eased the remaining stress from Touya’s shoulders. "I’ve told you before, I feel like I’ve known you for a really long time…I trust you wholeheartedly and I met you just over a month ago…you’re special to me Tyler, even if I don’t quite understand it yet, but I wouldn’t give you up for anything." Feeling the anxieties of his shadows settle beneath his feet, Touya sent Keegan a soft smile as thanks. 

"I’m sorry, it was stupid for me to bring it up in such an accusing way, but I appreciate you telling me, even though I should have trusted you to begin with…" 

"It wasn’t stupid, you do have a right to know things about me, especially if we’re going to be together." Laughing away the remaining weight of awkwardness, the timed return of the waiter paused the conversation momentarily. After taking the table’s order, Keegan, swirling his own wine glass with his free hand, patiently waited for the elevator doors to close before speaking. 

"So, Ty~ Tell me, how many people have you dated before me~" Expecting Tyler’s gaze to shift around in recollection of all the partners before him, Keegan was shocked by the man’s answer. 

"Just one, and I’m looking at him~" Disregarding any previous sexual relations he’d been involved in, Touya could really only count one instance of “dating” through all of his intimacy. Keigo Takami was the only vessel he’d actively dated, and while Keegan was identical to Keigo, but not entirely Keigo himself, he was similar enough to the deceased king for Touya to ignore the minor differences. 

"I’m not the type to date multiple people in succession. I like to find one person who I can fall in love with, who I can laugh with, cry with, but most importantly, share my time with for as long as I may have…" Raising the back of Keegan’s hand to his lips to place a delicate kiss against the warm skin, Touya’s eyes flashed with desire as he set the tangled limbs back against the table Waiting for Keegan to take a sip of wine, the way the blond exhaled in relief brought a questioning quirk to Touya’s eyebrow. 

"I’m glad…" 

"For what?" Bringing his soft gold eyes brimming with admiration to meet Touya’s gaze, Keegan’s voice gently caressed Touya’s ears with its tender delivery. 

"That you wanted the same thing as me…" Holding Keegan’s answer against his heart, Touya blinked away the brimming wetness crowding his eyes as Keegan set his wine glass down, promptly replacing the glass stem with Touya’s other hand. "And…it seems we’ve both found it~" Agreeing with a simple verbal confirmation, Tyler remained relatively quiet in response. While he wanted to shower Keegan with terms of endearment, conversations about their future prospects, and promises made long ago, he couldn’t. Knowing, and hating, these attempts to restore Keigo’s memories had yet to work, Touya simply sat back and listened to Keegan gush about whatever he wished while they ate. Despite thoroughly enjoying the blond’s company, along with the delectable food, Touya silently wished some part of Keigo would resurface soon. 

With the meal finished and the night growing later, Touya took Keegan safely back to his place of residence. 

"That dinner was amazing, thank you for taking me~” Holding Tyler’s hand for the entire journey from the restaurant to Keegan’s front porch, the blond retracted his hand to shift his position against the other male. Wrapping his arms around Tyler’s form, Keegan held himself flush against the man’s chest. "I had a really great time tonight…you have no idea how much these dates mean to me…" Cradling Keegan’s form just as tightly with the snaking of his arms around the small of Keegan’s waist, despite the objecting throb of his fangs willing him to devour the mortal’s life force, Touya smiled. 

"You stole the words right out of my mouth." Taking in a tantalizing inhale of Keegan’s scent, when the blond pulled away, Touya hadn’t expected him to linger against his form. Usually shying away shortly after touching him, the mortal remained in place. Arms still wrapped loosely around Touya’s neck, gold eyes searched through the blue irises looking back.

"Tyler…" Breathing out the name, Touya, through the heavy longing strums from Keegan’s heart could guess what the human wanted, but was uncertain of his resolve to grant the silent wish. Internally fighting with himself over the stirring desires whirling in his chest, Keegan was hesitant on making a move. Feeling the timing to be too soon, he didn’t expect Tyler to feel the same way he was. Not receiving a kiss from the boy at the carnival, the expectation for tonight was also low. However, something internally, or rather someone, an inner voice of sorts, was urging him otherwise. 

"Go on~ It’s okay~ Kiss him~ He wants you to~ Tyler has wanted to kiss you for a while now, trust me~ He’ll love it~" 

While there was nothing showing on Tyler’s face or in his actions that could argue the inner voice's urgency, Keegan couldn’t bring himself to follow through. Shaking away the desperate thoughts, the blond hoped Tyler could feel his apprehension just as well as his inherent affection. 

"Keegan…" Pounding in rhythm with the silent pleas strumming from the blond’s chest, Touya’s heart urged him to grant Keegan’s wish with just as much intensity. Feeling his desires swimming, circling his chest like ravenous sharks eager to devour their next meal, Touya’s hands roamed up the length of Keegan’s sides. Accepting the cries from his heart to express himself physically, the heat of passion thrumming from the organ coloured his cheeks with a deep red hue. Trailing up Keegan’s still form to cup the male’s face tenderly, even the simple stroke of his hands against the warmth of Keegan’s face disrupted the already thunderous beat of their hearts. Ready to share his feelings with the blond, red lips parted as the vampire leaned in. Releasing caresses of hot breath from Touya’s lungs with each exhale, the tantalizing touch of heat expelling from Tyler’s lips brought Keegan’s lips to part in acceptance of what was to come. Lingering mere inches from Keegan’s lips, Touya’s eyes closed. Heart throbbing in ecstatic anticipation, Touya couldn’t ignore the desire any longer. 

" Master Touya, it’s too soon! You promised me you wouldn’t get overly attached! Kissing him now is much too early. You’ve only been seeing each other for over a month, he hasn’t even asked you to be his boyfriend officially. You mustn’t go through with this." 

Halting his movements, the incessant objection of Kurogiri’s voice paused the throbbing rush of desire. 

" Besides, if you kiss him now, you’ll kill him. Can’t you distinguish your bloodlust from your affection? Or have you lost your senses completely? What you’re feeling is hunger not desire! Get a grip, master!"

Arousing the senses to the surface, the painful ache from the bloodlust struck Touya just as Kurogiri said. Fueled by every longing beat of Keegan’s heart, the massive throbbing hunger should have been the first thing Touya noticed. How had he missed it? Perhaps Keegan’s feelings mixed with his own had effectively tuned it out? Regardless, Touya silently thanked the internal voice of his advisor as he pulled Keegan gently against his body. Holding the blond’s head almost protectively against his chest, Touya opted to kiss the tangle of blond locks swirling atop the human’s head instead. 

"Good night, my Hummingbird~" Feeling Keegan’s arms squeeze him in silent thanks, the smile that followed eased the regret from Touya’s heart. He’d made the right choice, even though it pained him greatly, his restraint seemed to please Keegan.

"Good night, Tyler~" Lingering against Tyler’s form a moment longer, Keegan finally pulled away. "Until next time~" Trailing his fingertips methodically down the length of Tyler’s arm, Keegan’s fingers hooked against Tyler’s outstretched hand as if silently telling the boy that he yearned to stay. However, when the heat of Keegan’s fingers left Tyler’s and Keegan’s departing outstretched hand found its place against the blond’s side, Tyler knew his night was done. 

"Sleep well, Hummingbird, I’ll be dreaming about you~" Catching the indistinguishable smirk of Keegan’s lips as the blond glanced back before disappearing indoors, Touya’s heart throbbed in response. 

"I’m so close…" Spinning on his heel to return home, pale hands slipped into his pockets. "I can feel it…if I can kiss him, I think I’ll be one step closer to Keigo…I know he’s in there, I just need to jumpstart his memories somehow…"

Considering how well things were going for Touya, the inevitable had to happen eventually. 

Hey Ty, I’m sorry, but Izaiah broke his arm and is off from work for a couple of weeks. I have to cover his shifts until he’s back, so my schedule is a little more busy than normal…we won’t be able to hang out for a bit, I hope you understand.

While this disaster was in no way as heartbreaking as the last, the lack of Keegan’s presence was greatly noticed by Touya. Despite texting the blond every day when Keegan had a moment, the whole vibe surrounding Touya had dropped. As if the sun itself had moved permanently behind the clouds, Touya lost any immediate joy or want to do anything. Spending the majority of his days moping about the apartment, only when Keegan’s name flashed on his screen did he find any excitement in his day. 

Unfortunately for Kurogiri, Touya had inadvertently broken his promise to the advisor. Without Keegan’s physical presence in Touya’s life, the vampire felt deeply empty. Yeah, he’d become undeniably attached to the blond over the quick pace of two months. However the forced hiatus didn’t seem to last as long as either party thought. Receiving a text one morning, Touya’s entire being lit up with the stored measurements of excitement. 

Good news~ We hired a new girl today and they asked Riley to train her~ I have tonight free if you want to do something~

Without hesitation, Touya’s thumbs were quick to accept the invitation. Now, the next problem Touya had to sort out was what they’d be doing. Until now, he’d been methodically planning outings with Keegan that were similar to the dates he had with Keigo. However, the next notable thing he remembered doing with the mortal king was sleeping with him. Considering Keegan was too shy to even kiss, getting intimate and proposing seemed a little too premature. Although, the look on Keegan’s face would certainly be a sight for Touya to relish in the event he felt bold enough to suggest such an activity. 

Regardless, Touya contemplated on suggesting a trip to a local hot spring, but the thought quickly vanished. Touya had never considered his trip with Keigo to the natural spring to be a date, he’d always seen it as a mental health trip for his lover. Despite it ending with a ring on his finger, he never saw it as anything more than a break for Keigo. Besides, while the soak under the moonlight was largely romantic, the hot springs in their area of residence couldn’t hold a candle in comparison. Having strict hours of operation in which the baths closed around 8pm, Touya would have to soak under the sun and with Keegan in his life, he wasn’t interested in cooking both internally and externally. Taking the past suggestions off the table, Touya was left to find something new to experience with Keegan. 

Running through various options in his head while scrolling through various threads discussing the best places to take your significant other, an intriguing advertisement appeared on screen. Promoting the opening of a new art exhibit at the local museum where the spotlight was on a well known photographer, Touya unconsciously followed the link. Taking him to the museum’s homepage, Touya scrolled through the website. Learning that the exhibit happened to be opening tonight, the museum was hosting an opening gala. Since it was opening night, the exhibit and museum were opened later than usual, closing around one in the morning, and the artists were on site to meet and answer any questions patrons may have. 

Easily deciding to cater their fourth official date to Keegan’s interests, Touya sent a text to the blond. Leaving out the details of the date, all Touya asked was if he’d be available around 7pm and to dress a little formal. Agreeing to meet at a park close to the museum, Touya bought the tickets and prepared himself for the upcoming outing. 

When the time came, Touya entered the designated park to find Keegan already there waiting. Meeting him with a wave, Touya’s heart jumped with excitement. He hadn’t seen Keegan in so long, his senses were quick to awaken with the approaching visual of the human’s honeyed smile. 

"Hey~" Stopping in front of Touya, the innocent way Keegan swayed on his feet was tormenting the vampire’s senses. Even though he was wearing a deep red dress shirt and a pair of black dress pants, the casual air he carried with him lingered heavily. No matter how formal Keegan tried to appear, he’d always appear sweet and innocent to Touya, it was his nature and Touya loved it. "You know, when you said dress formal, I didn’t think we’d be hanging out at a park~" Shaking himself of the alluring visual of the mortal, Touya casually stepped past Keegan, starting off in the direction of the museum. 

"We’re not." Falling in step with Tyler, Keegan’s curious eyes blinked at the figure next to him. 

"Am I allowed to know where we’re going then, Mr. Mysterious?" Shaking his head, Touya smirked playfully. 

"Naw~ I think I’ll keep it a surprise~" Sighing in defeat, Keegan’s eyes drifted from Tyler’s figure for a moment before promptly returning. 

"How come you didn’t dress formally?" Taking in the very familiar attire that Tyler made his image, the ripped jeans and oversized hoodie seemed unfair compared to what Keegan was instructed to wear. Chuckling, Tyler glanced at Keegan’s questioning expression before offering his hand to the mortal. 

"Hummingbird, I assure you that if I was royalty, this would be attire fit for a king~" Ignorant to the double entendre, Keegan accepted Tyler’s hand within his own. "Now don’t complain too much, I told you to dress formally so you didn’t feel self conscious. You should be thanking me really~" Dialing back the cocky edge in his voice, Touya replaced his condescension with honesty. "Jokes aside Keegan, you look stunning. Red is a very nice colour on you." Indirectly adding his own touch of red to Keegan’s profile, the heat pulsating off of the blond’s cheeks only made Touya’s smile wider. 

"Thank you." Feeling Keegan’s fingers twitch against the pale of his hand, Touya couldn’t form a thought as the eager point of Keegan’s hand interrupted his vision. "Hey! Is that where we’re going?!" Following the point of Keegan’s finger, Touya’s gaze fell on the museum. With how early the evening was, he wasn’t surprised to see the gala was in full swing. People were already crowded inside, balloon arches with gold and black balloons were featured around the door, and a faint symphony of music could be heard in the air. 

"Surprise~" Unsure of what to say otherwise, Touya settled for something simple. 

"Wait, actually?!" Feeling the delight swirling off of Keegan’s form, Touya simply looked at the blond with a smile and nodded. "Tyler, you-" Glancing between the excitement of the museum and the tender smile on Tyler’s lips, Keegan threw himself at the male. "Tyler, you’re amazing~" Taken aback by the sudden force of Keegan’s body against his, Touya’s arms wrapped quickly around Keegan to keep him from falling. 

"I’ve wanted to come to this exhibit since they announced it a month ago!" Pulling away, gold orbs lit up Touya’s face with the glistening warmth of the sun "How did you know I wanted to see this exhibit?" Blinking away the shock from his eyes, which was replaced hastily by a spreading pink warmth on his cheeks, Touya simply shrugged. 

"I didn’t. I wanted to do something with you tonight that was based on your interests and I came across an ad for the opening tonight. I figured because you’re into photography, you might be interested in going." 

"Interested? Tyler, I’m elated~" Separating from Tyler, Keegan eagerly grabbed the male’s hand. "Come on! I don’t want to wait any longer!" Dragging Tyler to the venue, the vampire barely had time to present their tickets as Keegan led him unapologetically through the venue. Taking in every piece of artwork and enjoying each event the exhibition had to offer, the pair found themselves seated on a bench in the middle of the photography exhibit. Hands still intertwined, Keegan found his head resting against Tyler’s shoulder. 

"That one’s my favourite." Pointing to a medium sized photograph hanging framed on the wall, the smitten laced sigh that followed flared every one of Touya’s nerves. "It’s the most beautiful picture in the set." Seeing the picture across the gallery clearly with ease, Touya felt his eyes unconsciously widen with the stutter of his heart. 

"That one?" Pointing to the one he thought Keegan had mentioned, the squeeze of his Keegan’s hand silently agreed. 

"Yeah, the blue flower~”

"Why?" Partially curious if Keegan was drawn to the image in the same way Keigo was, or if there was an artistic reasoning for his pick, Touya stared at the image in anticipation. 

"The imagery is overwhelming, but in a good way."

"How so?"

"It’s composition. The picture was taken with such an intense zoom that all you see is the intricate details of the flower. Things that you couldn’t see with a naked eye are incredibly clear and open for our viewing pleasure. Look at how close up there’s purple mixed with the shades of blue, and look at the delicate shape of the pistils. The imagery is supposed to show us how not only can you learn more about something by getting intimately close with it, but also that something can be intricate and complicated beneath a beautiful façade. Or, in layman’s terms, looks can be deceiving." Sitting up, Keegan turned his attention onto Tyler. "Kind of like you." Unfairly reminded of the oil painting of another blue flower long dead, Touya blinked at Keegan in question. 

"Me?" Nodding, the set of soft gold orbs remained trained on Tyler’s face, searching his gaze for some deep seated feelings that weren’t showing outwardly on the male’s expression. 

"Yes, you. Tyler, you’re a senior citizen’s nightmare. You look like the quiet kid who sits in the back of the classroom and doesn’t say a word to anyone. People probably see you in the street and immediately associate you with criminal activity. Hell, even I was intimidated by you when I first saw you." Feeling Keegan’s thumb rolling reassuring circles across the back of his hand, Touya couldn't keep his cheeks from warming. "But, you’re the sweetest guy I’ve ever met. You’re so caring, honest, and a little bit mysterious, but you’re nothing like the stereotypes surrounding your image make you out to be. You have the same intricate beauty just like the flower in the picture and I’m lucky that you let me get close enough to see it~" Unconsciously leaning closer to Tyler, Keegan, with his face flushed as red as his partner’s, finished his explanation. "Just like the photograph, you’re the most beautiful person in the gallery~" 

Silencing the bustling noise surrounding them, the synchronous beating of their hearts intertwined. Like the tight connection of their hands, the symphony created when Keegan’s heartbeat touched Touya’s felt inseparable. Smooth with the intimate notes of jazz and boisterous with emotions like the most heartfelt ballad, the sound was beautiful. Welling in Touya’s eyes, tears filled with the familiar memory danced on the edge of his vision in time to the personal symphony. Twirling across Touya’s auditory canals in a duet meant only for him to appreciate, the pain associated with his bloodlust stirred. Aroused by the sound of Keegan’s affection, Touya unfortunately shook the intimate sound from his senses. 

"Excuse me-" Reacting in the only way he knew how, Touya retracted his hand from Keegan’s. Slipping away and through the crowd with a haste that left Keegan in pained awe, only the raise of Keegan’s hand in objection moved to stop Tyler. 

"Tyler, wait!" Following the absconding figure with greatly knit concern in his eyes, the cooling touch from the crisp night air did nothing to ease Keegan’s growing anxieties. "Ty-" Rushing over to the figure standing beneath the artificial illumination showered down from the street light above, Keegan stopped beside Tyler’s flustered form. "Ty, I’m sorry…I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I was just-"

"I’m not uncomfortable…" Taking a few deep breaths, Touya turned to face Keegan. Tears dyed black from the eyeliner rolled down Tyler’s pink dusted cheeks. Leaving darkened trails against the pink tinted hue of his skin, the wet trails looked a little haunting in comparison to the soft curve forming across his lips. "I’m not uncomfortable at all~ You explanation was just so beautiful…it touched my heart and made me emotional…I didn’t want them to see me cry, but you can…" Feeling his own emotions swell from the genuine tenderness laced in Tyler’s tone, Keegan could only blink and hope he wouldn’t cry himself. 

"You’re right about that photograph in so many ways…that I just became overwhelmed…Keegan, I trust you to see the parts of me that no one else can…which makes you the most significant person in the whole gallery because you’re the only person I can be vulnerable like this around." Finding himself at a loss for words as every coherent response was drowned out by the thunderous beating of his heart, Keegan’s response was less than fantastic compared to his previous verbal poetry in the gallery. 

"I didn’t intend to make you cry, I was just being honest." Struck by the obvious explanation, Touya’s tears quickly melted into laughter. 

"You’re too cute~" Wiping the wet streaks from his face, Touya offered the blond his hand with a smile. "Come on, I’ll take you home~" 

Fumbling the exchange with Tyler outside of the museum, Keegan found himself back on the front porch of his home. He didn’t remember much from the walk, his mind had been too preoccupied to focus. Whirring with the rage of a storm, thoughts regarding the emotional exchange clouded Keegan’s mind. Agreeing with the beating ache of his heart, the pressing thoughts of the melodic inner voice that had made itself known a night prior, urged Keegan to admit to Tyler his feelings and take things that crucial step further. 

" He handed you a golden invitation on a silver platter and you passed it up with an apology?! Can’t you realize that he feels the same way you do? Accept your feelings, fall into his sweet embrace~ Trust your heart~ Trust me~"

"Well, I guess this is good night…?" Blinking back into reality, gold eyes focused on the figure before them. Shifting awkwardly with his hands in his pockets, Tyler’s gaze wandered through the night as if looking at Keegan would bring their night to an abrupt conclusion. Pulling his phone briefly out of his pocket to see that the time was just before 10pm, Keegan, not entirely happy with the way the date ended, gestured towards the door. 

"It’s not late, do you want to come in for a bit? I can show you the photographs I’ve taken if you’re interested?" Leaning into the suggestion of his inner voice, the way Tyler’s eyes lit up made Keegan’s heart flutter.

"What about your guardian?" Unlocking and pushing open the door, Keegan moved to the side. 

"He’s out of town until tomorrow, do you want to hang out a little bit longer?" Needing no further invitation, Touya stepped past the threshold into Keegan’s house. Flicking the lights on while Touya removed his shoes, Keegan slipped his own footwear off before disappearing into the kitchen.

"Would you like anything?"

"No, I’m okay, thanks though." Hearing a brief set of rustling from the kitchen, Keegan returned with a bottle of water in hand. Gesturing for Tyler to follow, the blond led Tyler into the basement. Expecting Keegan’s room to be separate from the basement itself, when they finished descending the stairs and Keegan instructed him to make himself comfortable, Touya was pleasantly surprised. 

"You got the whole basement? That’s cool." Sitting on Keegan’s bed in a way that could only be described as small, blue eyes curiously shifted around the space. The basement appeared to be a large square area with two doors located to the right of the staircase. One door was left open, showing Touya part of the interior of a bathroom, while the other door remained closed. Touya could easily guess that it was a furnace room based on the sounds whirring from beyond. The basement itself was carpeted, including the stairs and the walls were a boring shade of modern slate grey. Keegan’s bed was placed perpendicular in the middle of the wall to the right of the doors. It was neatly made with four pillows propped up against the dark brown wooden headboard, while a red comforter was tucked neatly over the mattress itself. Directly across from his bed was a waist high, long, black dresser. On top of the dresser was a fairly large flat screen television with a variety of gaming consoles filling out the rest of the open space on the dresser. To the left of the bed was a nightstand with a lamp, Keegan’s phone charger, and a larger metal water bottle that Keegan refilled with the plastic bottle in his hand. A large black book case was set against the left wall furthest from the stairs. Games and movies displayed in alphabetical order lined the shelves along with a few anime figurines that Touya didn’t recognize. Otherwise, Keegan had a few posters hanging on the walls of hockey players that Touya was familiar with, but didn’t care to know otherwise. 

"Embarrassing, I know~ I’m twenty three and live in my dad’s basement~" Chuckling at his own joke while kneeling to retrieve a box from under his bed, Touya could only shrug.

"I never said that, but take it how you will." Joining Tyler on the bed, Keegan meticulously wiped the lid of the box before handing it to Tyler. 

"Promise you won’t judge me too harshly." Hearing a subtle nervous twinge hiding beneath the calm delivery of his words, Touya sent the blond a reassuring smile. 

"I’m sure they’re not as bad as you think." Lifting the lid off the box, the immediate view of the photographs piled inside struck Touya in awe. Setting the lid beside him while silently obsessing over the printed images, Touya carefully lifted a handful of pictures from their confines. 

"You took these?" Asking while cycling through the images currently in his grasp, Keegan answered quietly.

"Yes." Most of them were landscapes, or close ups of objects taken at extreme perspectives, but they were intriguing all the same. 

"Why do you keep them in a box?" Setting the sifted through images aside, Touya lifted another set out to view. 

"Where else would I keep them?" Pausing to spare the blond a glance, the awe written over Touya’s face took Keegan by surprise.

"Keegan, these are really good, they should be in frames and on display for people to see." Shifting his attention away from Tyler while a delicate blush spread across his cheeks, Keegan scratched his neck awkwardly. 

"You’re just being modest…"

"No, I’m not. I’m being honest." Holding up a photo of a round leaf floating calmly against the gentle flow of a river, Touya persisted. "Look at this, how can you say this is anything but amazing! I look at your photos and I’m in awe..." Sifting through another stack of pictures, Keegan’s gold eyes wandered back to Tyler. "I mean honestly, these are just as good, if not better than the pictures we saw in the museum~" Finding the end of the pictures, a single image remained in the box, but it was the most powerful. "Especially this one~" Carefully lifting the picture out into the light, Tyler’s eyes showered the still image with affection. "This one is my favourite~" 

Holding the only picture featuring the artist as the subject matter, Keegan was photographed seated in a pillowed leather chair. Wearing the same casual set of black jeans and grey t-shirt he’d worn on their first date, the pose he was depicted in spoke to his casual nature. His right foot rested against the floor, cut off by the coffee table in front of him, while his left ankle rested casually above the bend of his right knee. Draped casually over the bend of his left knee was his hand and arm, which adorned a few random rings and bracelets. His right elbow was propped against the armrest of the chair, leading to a wrist that was dressed with bracelets as well as a larger silver linked watch, while his right hand adorning a couple more rings covered his mouth. Purposely posing with his thumb and index finger subtly more prominent than his other three fingers, the soft touch of his hand against his face was nothing compared to the intimate look in his eyes. Shifted just shy of the camera’s lens, gold orbs formed purposely by the sharpened curve of Keegan’s eyes, stared off into the nearby distance. Portraying a level of sexual tension behind his gaze that Touya wished hadn’t been contained by the photograph, the vampire was curious to know exactly what it was he was looking at that made his gaze so intimately intense. Tamed to the best degree possible without the aid of the headband, the wavy blond locks sat neatly on Keegan’s head with only two strands dripping in front of his forehead. The lighting of the picture was somber, with an evening or morning glow streaming in from the window. While the light made the background appear moody, the glow that touched Keegan’s eyes made Touya’s heart stutter. Already intense from their shifted stare, the soft touch of the light seemed to bring them fully to life, making Keegan’s eyes the obvious focal point of the image. 

"You really are something else, you know that?" Focusing only on the thundering beat of his heart, Keegan could only formulate a response through the awe of his blinking eyes. "How can someone with such an artistic eye for the world around him think that he or his work is anything less than stunning?" Keeping his eyes on the photograph of Keegan, Touya’s lips unconsciously curved into an affectionate smile. "I really do love this picture of you…Hummingbird, you look so gorgeous in that lighting, you could model and I bet millions of people would agree with me~" Missing the shift in Keegan’s heartbeat, how quickly it accelerated following Tyler’s compliment, the blond’s response caught Touya off guard. 

"I don’t want the opinions of millions of people…" Fully accepting the swelling feeling in his chest, Keegan swallowed his fear. "I only want yours." Observing Tyler’s reactions to his photographs he realized the underlying truth. He wasn’t just attracted to Tyler any longer, he’d fallen completely in love with him. Everything about Tyler, Keegan loved. From his personality which was unhinged and blunt, but also quite compassionate and charming, to his looks, to the comforting warmth of Tyler’s hand against his own. He was everything Keegan ever wanted, someone to call home and Tyler…felt like his home. 

"You’ll always have my opinions Hummingbird, I was just saying-"

"Tyler…" Shifting his body to face Tyler, Keegan’s hand boldly took Tyler’s within his tender grasp. "I know we’ve been spending a lot of time together and have gone out on a few dates here and there, but we never explicitly agreed to be a couple…" Setting the photo safely back in the box, Touya set the box on the bed next to the rest of the photos as he readjusted to better face Keegan’s flushed expression. "At the time I was too nervous to take things to the next level with you, but I’m ready now if you’ll have me…" 

"Are you saying-"

"I like you, a lot, and I want to experience more things with you…will you be my boyfriend?" The soothing roll of Keegan’s thumb across his hand had no calming effect on the fireworks sparking across his nerves. Without processing the possible repercussions to follow his actions, Touya answered with a quick, calculated movement. Shifting at a speed that Keegan couldn’t describe, the sudden feeling of Tyler’s hands against his face was quickly overwhelmed by the hot sensation of Tyler’s lips against his own. 

Tensing briefly under the astonishment of what had transpired, widened gold eyes quickly fluttered closed beneath the pleasant stimulation tingling down his spine. Having kissed only a couple of people, this feeling was unlike anything felt before. Tyler’s lips aroused every docile nerve sleeping beneath Keegan’s skin. Shocking them to life with a pulse of stimulating heat that burned with the anticipation for more, Keegan let himself fall into the feeling. Clinging to the arousal with the unconscious wrapping of his arms around Tyler’s neck, the sensation wrapped itself around each tingling nerve. Buzzing with a magnetism that pulled just as strongly within Tyler’s body, Keegan leaned into the confident flow of Tyler’s lips. Worried that he might throw off the other male’s groove, Keegan’s reciprocation was soft, slow, and borderline apprehensive, but despite how lightly he was pushing back, the feeling he was leaving against Touya’s body was just as intense as his first kiss with Keigo. 

Tilting Keegan’s head slightly back, Touya let his reignited feelings glide unapologetically past Keegan’s lips. Letting the hot warmth of Touya’s passion boldly infiltrate his body, a moan strummed from the docile vocal cords, only stoking Touya’s flame hotter. Burning within his gut, the hot feeling coursed over his body, lighting every nerve with tingling arousal that popped off like fireworks. Sparking across their bodies, the sensation roared with affection, leaving each person hungry for more when Tyler disappointedly separated.

Feeling the interrupting stir of his bloodlust igniting the already burning fire in the pit of his stomach, Touya had to stop. Afraid he’d lose control and kill Keegan, Touya left the blond panting for breath. Keeping his eyes closed until the throbbing hunger dissolved in his fangs, Touya’s forehead rested gently against Keegan’s. For a moment, neither of them spoke. Filling the room with a symphony of reclaimed breaths, the pair lingered against each other, letting the dying elation release from their bodies over the silent affirmation of pent up emotions. Touya, feeling the bloodlust settling with each calming breath, unexpectedly gasped when Keegan’s hands roamed boldly up his neck and through the short black hair on the side of his head. Biting his lip to keep any further arousing sounds from escaping, the chuckle that slipped from Keegan’s lips felt reassuring. 

"Is that a yes?" Lips twitching into a smile, Touya let his eyelids slowly raise. 

"I’m sorry…" Putting some distance between their faces, Touya moved a slight distance away. “I let my feelings dictate my response before I could answer you." Keeping his eyes locked with Keegan’s, Touya’s thumbs unconsciously ran over the dusting of pink he left against Keega’s cheeks. "Yes, I will be your boyfriend." Holding back the urge to point out the obvious behind Tyler’s acceptance, Keegan found himself lost in the soft blue orbs across from him. Diving into the crystalline waters making up Tyler’s eyes, Keegan felt a comforting warmth holding him. Taking in the ethereal beauty of the orbs, the subtle way they sparkled with affection sent a rippling wave of familiarity to touch Keegan’s skin. Lightly brushing the styled onyx waterfall of locks from Tyler’s face, Keegan couldn’t help but smile. Tender, emotional, and directed only at him, the indescribable way Tyler looked at him assured the blond of the home-like feeling stemming from Tyler. He could feel it, beating deeply within his heart, he’d been waiting forever to be showered by the pointed affection dripping from these eyes once again. 

"It’s weird..." Breathing out the words with the timed skip of his heart, gold orbs remained locked with the sea of blue fondness before him. "But I feel like I’ve been waiting forever for someone like you to come into my life…" Seeing his own feelings reflected in the shimmering blue irises, Keegan knew he’d found what he was looking for. "Nobody has ever made me feel the way you do…you feel strangely…like home." Catching the excited blip of his own heartbeat before feeling the intimate oscillation buzzing from the rhythm of Keegan’s heart, Touya left a chaste reminder against the blond’s lips. 

"Baby, you have no idea how much it means to me to hear you say that. I’ve been looking for my respective home for a very long time, and I think, by some stroke of luck, we’ve both found it~"

Chapter Text

Feeling a weighted depression forced upon his existence since losing Keigo, the flow of time had reflected Touya’s sluggish state. Dragging on and on and dripping at a rate of one grain of sand per minute, the passing three centuries seemed to suspend Touya in a metaphorical timed halt. Forcing him to experience an aching slow burn of the fleeting passage of time, Touya never expected to free himself of the slowed time cycle. Until he met Keegan. Harboring the same blissful magnetism as Keigo, Touya desired to spend every waking minute with the blond. Just as he had Keigo. While the concept and consistent flow of time hadn’t actually changed, being with Keegan seemed to lift the slow burn affecting Touya’s internal clock. Healing him of three hundred year pause, Keegan’s presence pressed play on Touya’s life once again. 

Falling into time’s passing flow, the passing six months felt like a blissful blur. Touya hadn’t realized it himself, but he had been dating Keegan for half of the year. The passage of time signified only by the washing of black dye from Touya’s hair, the only physical proof that an extended amount of time had passed. Returning to the natural white, only the tips of the locks remained black with angst. A minor detail that Touya didn’t mind, he actually quite liked the bleeding effect of his hair. It was symbolic of the resurrection he felt in his heart.

While Touya’s hair changed, his relationship with Keegan remained steady. Continuing to see each other since the night of the art gallery exhibition as an official couple, sharing a passionate physical exchange that night had only strengthened the developing bond between them and set them off on a shared path of relational expression.

Keegan, being fairly new to the dating experience, followed Tyler’s lead respectively with everything. Remaining hesitant in some aspects, Keegan had designated a few distinct boundaries for Tyler to follow for the time being. Being more than comfortable with hand holding, cuddling, and kissing, sexual intimacy of any kind remained strictly off the table. While he was certain Tyler was the person whom he’d give his body to, Keegan’s heart wasn’t entirely sold on the idea and Tyler respected that. He’d waited years to see Keigo’s smile again, he could wait a little longer to experience everything Keegan had to offer.

Respecting Keegan’s defined boundaries, Tyler kept the blond entertained in other ways. Keeping their routine to see each other whenever Keegan had time off from work, Tyler planned more than enough outings for them to enjoy. When Keegan couldn’t step away from work, Tyler would hang out at the café for an hour or two just to see Keegan's smiling face. 

Of course, by sacrificing his safety and braving the sunlight above, agreeing to be Keegan’s other half meant Tyler had to develop a relationship with not only Riley, but also Keegan’s guardian. Expecting a challenge in forming a connection with Riley, Touya hadn’t imagined that he’d get along with her so easily. She had a twisted sense of humor that he eagerly picked up on. After one afternoon, Riley accepted him as Keegan’s boyfriend and whenever he stopped by the café, they would share just as much conversation as he and Keegan. Clicking with Riley immediately, the female barista, while outwardly more expressive, was less intimidating than Marek. Meeting Keegan’s guardian for the first time was easily more stressful than any of the wars he’d waged in his younger years. The man held a pretty powerful position in the city’s government and that knowledge left Touya feeling like a keen set of eyes were observing his every move. Aware of the power associated with such a prestigious position, with all of the city’s authority at his fingertips, Touya understood that one slip up with Marek could mean the worst for him. Losing Keigo again was not on the vampire’s current agenda, especially not because he couldn’t make a good first impression. The metaphorical crown on his head would mean nothing if he flopped this exchange. 

Having been invited over for dinner one night, Tyler nervously followed Keegan into the familiar home. Finding the man responsible for raising Keegan in the kitchen, Touya didn’t know what to expect when his teal blue gaze fell on the figure. 

"Dad, this is my boyfriend, Tyler!" Awkwardly introducing Touya to the man, whose tired grey eyes couldn’t be bothered to meet Touya’s figure, The vampire still waved. 

"It’s nice to meet you sir." Disguising the shakiness in his voice with a smile, the feeling of Keegan’s hand against his own didn’t ease the tension in the slightest. Taking note of Marek’s bland, greying hair, the collected subtle waves that framed the man’s face reminded Touya of a fishing hat. Silently he wondered if Marek chose to style his hair like that or if his hair was naturally thickened around his head in such a way. Moving down to the man’s expression, the bags prevalent under his eyes were checked in and ready for their impending flight while following every shift of Marek’s eyes. Despite how comical he appeared, Touya could sense the authoritative aura surrounding him. Marek’s fragile and fatigued appearance was a red herring, disguising his true capabilities and intelligence underneath the misleading first layer. Under different circumstances, Touya would’ve been interested to observe this man’s prowess on the battlefield. Regardless, when the dull grey of Marek’s eyes finally graced Touya’s form, their greeting was less than extended. Taking in merely a shifting examination of his form, his eyes were quick to return to the task at hand. 

"Tyler, was it?" Voice raspy, Touya would argue groggy from sleep or lack there of, remained rather monotone. 

"Yes, sir. I’m Tyler, it’s an honor to meet someone who works tirelessly to keep our city in top shape~" While despising the idea of putting his metaphorical lips against Marek’s behind, Touya extended his hand on the grounds that he needed Marek to like him. What he didn’t expect was how disinterested Keegan’s guardian was. Ignoring Touya altogether, Marek’s sluggish form addressed the only bubbly personality in the room. 

"Keegan, set the table please." Nodding, Keegan left Tyler stranded while he decorated the table with necessary utensils and pot holders. Getting the sense that speaking more would disinterest Marek further, Touya felt that the only logical response for the time being was to shift awkwardly. Being a leader, he recognized when to pull back his troops and now was not the time to charge ahead. Yet, despite accepting his backseat on the matter, when Marek’s intimidating gaze fell on him, Touya couldn’t help his temperature from dropping. 

"Take a seat." Needing no further invitation, Touya claimed the closest seat to the door. Having a clear exit in case he absolutely fumbled this meal was an obvious plan B. Sitting silently, Touya waited until the other two seated themselves at the table. Filling their plates with food, the awkward clank of silverware against ceramic filled the air. Sensing the awkward pressure surrounding the table, Keegan cleared his throat. 

"Hey dad, did I tell you that Tyler is a famous author?" Humming in what Touya could only describe as indifference, Keegan ignored his guardian’s attempt to slap away the comment as he continued. "Yeah, he writes a lot of fantasy novels~ I’ve read a few, they’re really good!” 

"Is that so?" Raising his gaze to direct the conversation to Touya, the skepticism in his voice was very apparent "How did you meet my son again?" Taking a second to clear the food from his mouth, Keegan’s untimely interruption stole Touya’s answer. 

"I almost killed him~" Chuckling softly, Marek’s boring gaze remained fixated on Touya, who nearly choked all over again. "He came into the café months ago and I accidentally made him choke on his drink while he was working on a novel~ It was so embarrassing, but he asked me out to make me feel better and we’ve been seeing each other since~" Making the thick tension in the air worse, Keegan cutely wrapped his hand around Tyler’s bicep. Resting his head against the curve of Touya’s shoulder, the beaming smile carved across his face couldn’t clear away the threatening air surrounding them. Curving his eyes slightly, Touya could feel the heavy judgement from the man across from him. 

"Oh really, and I’m just hearing about him now?" Trying to remain calm, Touya scratched the back of his neck, while an awkward smile shakily overtook his lips. "I hope you’re using protection." Feeling Keegan’s hand twitch against his arm, Touya nearly choked on the tension in the air. 

"Dad!" Sitting upright, Keegan retracted himself from Tyler, who was flushed with embarrassment. "Even if we are intimate with each other, this is an inappropriate time to bring it up!" Picking awkwardly at his food, Touya couldn’t bring his eyes back to the stone cold expression across from him. "Besides, I’m twenty three, you can’t expect me not to engage in that sort of stuff and I certainly don’t need you to give me the sex talk."

"Oh my God…Keegan…please change the subject…" Mumbling the words, Touya brought his hand to hide the embarrassment on his face. Despite not engaging in any sort of intimacy as Keegan had implied, the uncomfortable stare stemming from Marek’s form didn’t make the situation any less explainable. Without trying, his boyfriend had made him look like a horny degenerate, which wasn’t too far from the truth, but it’d been literal centuries since he’d partaken in any sexual activity with another person. The way Touya saw it, he was practically in the same boat as Keegan.

"I couldn’t care less what you two are doing behind closed doors, I just don’t want to see you get hurt." Catching the first semblance of emotion present in Marek’s voice, Touya slowly brought his attention to the man. With his attention on Keegan, the man’s voice softened, delivering the next string of words in the sweetest way he could muster. "You’ve been in and out of relationships since you were seventeen, but this is the first time you’ve brought anyone home." Without Touya’s heightened visual prowess, he certainly would have missed the twitch of Marek’s lips. Subtle couldn’t begin to describe how faint the movement was, but the smile was still there whether Keegan noticed it or not. "My hope is that this doesn’t end like the rest, but I digress. You’re happy and that’s what matters to me at the end of the day." Thanking his dad, the remainder of the meal went smoother than Touya thought. Near the end, Keegan excused himself to use the facilities, leaving Touya alone with Marek. 

"A writer, huh?"

"Yes, sir."

"How long have you been an author?" Shifting his gaze awkwardly, Touya sought a number that would make sense. 

"Five years."

"How old are you?"

"Twenty five." 

"Writing since you were twenty? Are your parents authors too?"

"No sir, my parents are deceased. I should be more specific, I’ve been writing all my life, but have been successful at it since I was twenty." Nodding, Marek folded his hands in front of his face. For a moment, his gaze said more than his mouth while he silently measured Touya’s integrity. Understanding the skeptical way his grey eyes washed over Touya’s less than humble appearance, the vampire somehow knew he wasn’t gaining any favor with Marek. In his eyes, Tyler was trouble. Practically unemployed and appearing to be some rebellious phase Keegan thought tantalizing, Marek wasn’t keen on the idea of Keegan, a growing success story, to be actively dating this deviant.

"What exactly do you want with my son?" Striking him suddenly, Touya shifted on the spot.

"I’m not sure I understand your question…?" 

"Keegan has done nothing but praise you this entire evening. It’s clear that you’re some hotshot celebrity in his eyes, but you haven’t once retaliated with praise of your own. If you’re using him for some kind of publicity stunt, I politely ask that you leave at once. My son has worked too hard to be crushed by the likes of you." Ignoring the blatant insult to Touya’s character without bothering to know him, the vampire withheld his anger while setting his utensils gently against the rim of his plate. Taking control of the conversation without rearing the manipulative purple hue of his eyes, Touya shook his head as he pulled a genuine answer from the beating rhythm of his heart. 

"I assure you that publicity has nothing to do with our relationship. I stray from the public's eye like the plague. I’m dating your son because when I look at him, I see my future. His smile brightens my day like the warm embrace from a perfectly prepared cup of coffee and his laugh plays on in my head like the most wondrous song." Catching a blip in Marek’s heartbeat, Touya dove further. “Keegan is the reason I wake up every day. He saved me from a darkness that no one else could understand. For that reason alone, I would walk the ends of the Earth to make Keegan happy. He means more to me than anyone can comprehend and I want nothing more than to be with him and experience everything that life offers, together." Locked with Marek’s unblinking stare, the resolve in Touya’s eyes flowed with a level of honesty that Marek couldn’t ignore. Interpreting Touya’s words, Marek lowered his hands with a clearing of his throat to follow. 

"All that I ask is that you take care of him. His heart is too fragile to break." Letting a smile twitch at his lips, Touya smiled genuinely for the first time that evening. 

"We’re in agreement there~" Unaware that a set of prying ears had heard the entire conversation, the pair continued to carry the small talk. Having heard everything Tyler said, Keegan leaned against the stairwell wall with a smile on his face and his hand over his heart. Face flushed red with attraction, the erratic beating of his heart confirmed the dormant feelings he had for the boy.

‘I had no idea I meant that much to him~ I mean, he makes a point to tell me how special I am, but I thought he was just flattering me~’ Feeling the apprehensions lifting from his body, Keegan fully accepted the inevitable probability that their relationship would reach another milestone by the end of the night, so long as he played his cards right. Taking a few calming breaths, Keegan returned to the table with a smile. 

"Sorry that took me so long, what did I miss?" Slipping into his chair, Touya’s beaming smile showered him in greeting while Marek pulled his phone out of his pocket. 

"Nothing at all Hummingbird, just small talk~” Standing from his spot without a word, Marek shoved his phone back into his pocket before walking around the table. 

"I’m heading to bed, I have an early day tomorrow. Do you mind taking care of the clean up?" Leaving a gentle squeeze against Keegan’s shoulder, the blond nodded in response. 

"Of course, good night Dad." Sharing a silent, parting glance with Touya, Marek departed from the room. Hearing the signifying latch of the man's bedroom door, Touya released a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. 

"He likes you." Said while clearing the table of the leftovers and dirty dishes, Touya’s curious gaze followed Keegan’s domestic movements. 

"You think so?" Hearing the blond clattering away in the kitchen, the hum in response nearly became lost to the overwhelming clanking sounds of Keegan tidying up. 

"Yup, he didn’t chase you out with a shotgun and I even saw him smile~ He only smiles on special occasions and around people he likes~ You’re in the club Tyler~" Feeling an undeniable wave of relief wash over Touya’s form, The vampire departed his chair with a smile. 

"That’s good to hear." Crossing the area to lean casually against the kitchen’s door frame, pale arms crossed nonchalantly over his chest. "On a side note, since your dad has turned in for the evening, do you still want to hang out for a bit, or would you prefer I head home?" Knowing Keegan had to work in the morning, Touya was asking only out of respect for his boyfriend’s responsibilities. 

"Actually…" Pausing to stash away the remaining dishes from the evening, Keegan’s honeyed smile addressed Touya with a beaming warmth. "Riley asked to switch shifts with me, so I have the day off now~" Eyelids rising subtly, Touya eagerly jumped on the opportunity to extend their time together. 

"In that case, do you want to come to my place and watch a movie? You know, so we don’t risk waking your dad." Shrugging off the underlying innuendo, Keegan nodded with delight. 

"Yeah, that sounds good. I just have a few things to take care of first if you want to meet me by the door?" Pushing himself from the door frame, Touya sauntered over to the front door. Waiting patiently for Keegan to join him, when the blond joined Tyler’s side with a backpack strapped to his back, Touya didn’t question the addition as they made the walk to Touya’s apartment. Despite being with Tyler for six months, Keegan had never stepped foot in the man’s apartment. Tyler had always made a point to meet up elsewhere. It wasn’t like he had anything to hide, but Keegan wouldn’t be lying if he said he had expected to come to Tyler’s house a few times prior to tonight. Regardless, when they stepped foot into the apartment, Keegan was in awe. Remembering Tyler’s career, the sleek interior of the apartment clicked nonchalantly into place following the flick of the artificial illumination, which made him feel wildly out of place against the rich scenery.  

"Make yourself at home, I need to take care of something real quick." Gesturing towards the large leather couch taking up the majority of the living room, Keegan glanced at Tyler’s absconding form before following the suggestive wave of Tyler’s hand. Slipping off into his bedroom for a much needed thirst quencher, Touya grabbed a chilled bottle of inhibitor. Leaning against the solid surface of the door as an added precaution, Touya popped the lid off the bottle. Promptly chugging the thick liquid, a string of much needed gasps followed the emptying of the glass. 

"I hoped this feeling wouldn’t have resurfaced so quickly…" Preemptively wiping any missed droplets from his lips, the stirring bloodlust within churned impatiently with the undeniable desire to devour the human in the room over. "It’s just as powerful as it was the first time…I don’t know how long I can go without satiating the thirst either…I doubt he’ll be as understanding as Keigo either…navigating my situation with Keegan will be a new challenge I need to overcome…" 

Hearing a door down the hallway latch, Keegan sat awkwardly against the cool leather of the couch. Sitting on the edge of the plush leather, the backpack was discarded at his feet while anxious fingers tapped nervously against the bend of his knee. Surfing the modern décor of Tyler’s apartment, Keegan’s gaze shifted from object to object. 

‘The TV is larger than the mirror in my bathroom, not to mention this couch…’ Running an unconscious hand across the soft texture, the limb promptly returned to his knee. ‘It’s double the size of my bed and probably four times the cost…Damn…’ Drifting to the clear glass coffee table in front of him, only a few objects rested on the translucent surface. Tyler’s laptop rested closed on the left end of the tabletop, while a single novel sat on the right. Coincidentally placed in front of Keegan, the blond’s curiosity reached for the book. Turning the book over in his hands, gold orbs wandered over the hard covering of the novel. Not recognizing the cover art, Keegan assumed the book was a recent publication. 

"I shouldn’t snoop…" However, holding the symbolic artwork in his hands, Keegan couldn’t put the publication down. Printed on the front centered before a moody toned background of black and maroon was a single blue flower. Keegan was certain it was a type of thistle by its appearance, but it still looked delicate with an outward beauty. Tainting the pure blue of the flower were a few drops of blood, some of which had fused together to form a wet, crimson heart that threatened to drip off the edge of the flower’s surface. The title, Keegan thought, needed work, but it was cute all the same. 

Midnight’s Crimson Caress

Under the image was Tyler’s full name and the back of the sleeve contained a few gripping quotes from the novel followed by notable mentions to other publications of Tyler’s. Curiously flipping the cover of the book open, a brief summary of the novel’s contents were typed neatly on the inner sleeve. Flipping to the back of the book, Keegan expected to see Tyler’s headshot, but was only greeted by a small biography. Small wasn’t the right word, Tyler’s biography was brief and barely scratched the surface of who Tyler was. Striking him as odd, Keegan turned his attention to the crisp pages filling the book. Flipping casually through the untouched pages, Keegan’s golden orbs washed over a few paragraphs of text as the motion of the turning pages waved him onward. 

"How pretentious~" Accepting Touya’s outward confidence, Keigo leaned back with a smirk. Running his index finger and thumb thoughtfully over his chin, the king chuckled. "Very well~ Colour me intrigued~"

"I’ve always admired the intricate design of a single snowflake. Complicated to perfection, and completely unique, they’ve fascinated me since witnessing my first snowfall. I find you quite fascinating…"

"Describe to me in detail how you intend to please me." Despising the aching throb pulsating from his heart, the pink hue that touched his cheeks was unwelcome, but forced its way across Touya’s pale cheeks regardless. Bathing Touya sensually under the hot, sultry tones of his voice, the lustrous glow that overwhelmed the sick gloss of Keigo’s eyes overfilled the vampire’s heart and instincts with the painful desire to pin Keigo to the mattress and-

Lifting his eyes from the page, an indescribable wave of nostalgia touched every one of Keegan’s senses. Pulling him under the familiar touch of recognition, Keegan’s brow furrowed in confusion. 

"Huh…weird…" 

"Please don’t leave me alone again…"

"As long as my heart continues to beat, you’ll never be alone." 

"You know, you’re one of the few people in this world who I can wholeheartedly trust." 

"Have you ever laid with another person like this before?"

Skimming through another set of random instances printed in the novel, Keegan couldn’t shake the undeniable feeling that he’d experienced these moments before. Like a rogue sense of Deja vu, the mysterious feeling infiltrated every emotion dwelling within. Confusing Keegan’s body with the uncertainty revolving around the written words, the blond couldn’t begin to understand the feeling swimming in his gut. 

"I feel like…I know this story…" Flipping to one final section of the novel, gold eyes briefly took in the inked words with unbridled surprise. 

"Touya, will you marry me?"

Hearing the swish of Tyler’s door swing across the floor, Keegan slammed the book shut. Promptly setting the novel against the glass tabletop, Keegan sat back against the plush cushions of the couch with casual intention. Calmly entering the room, Tyler nonchalantly joined Keegan on the couch. 

"Sorry for taking so long Hummingbird." Grabbing the remote that was resting on the armrest of the couch, Touya brought life to the TV. "What would you like to watch?" Opening the first streaming app on screen, Touya waited patiently for Keegan’s input. 

"I’m open to anything, why don’t you pick this time?" Stealing a mischievous glance at Keegan’s adorable form, Touya picked a horror movie. Hoping to lure the blond into his arms with the terrifying scenes, Touya set the remote down with a smirk. Braving the movie for as long as he could, Keegan eventually sought the protection of Tyler’s arms. Cuddling up to the male about halfway through the film, Keegan found himself curled up against Touya’s body. Resting his head against the rhythmic beat of Tyler’s heart, Keegan’s body curved naturally against the side of Tyler’s form, just as it had three centuries prior. 

Now lying on his back, Touya’s hands gently left calming trails along Keegan’s side. Occasionally tangling his fingers in the golden flow of locks waving from Keegan’s head, Tyler left reassuring pets against the soft texture of his boyfriend’s hair. Comforting Keegan further by leaving a gentle trail against the surface of Keegan’s scalp, the tingling sensation spreading down Keegan’s body from the gentle caress alone sent the blond’s heart into an undeniable frenzy. Smiling against the warmth of Tyler’s body, the violent images on screen quickly disintegrated beneath the arousing touch of Tyler’s fingernails. Falling under the mesmerizing sensation left from Tyler’s light impressions, Keegan relaxed against the lulling beat of Tyler’s chest. Familiar with the sensation, Keegan let the trusting hold caressing him whisk him away. Carrying him off with the same nostalgic feeling from earlier, Keegan had never felt closer to Tyler. Something about the way they were intimately tangled together brought the undeniable feeling of home to nestle against the vibrating nerves aroused within Keegan’s body. 

This is where you belong. With Tyler, like this. This is your home. Forever and always~

Hearing the inner voice softly whispering in his ear, Keegan nestled himself closer to Tyler’s body. Sighing deeply in agreement with the voiced exclamation, Keegan silently wished the movie would never end. 

Letting the credits roll across the screen, Keegan remained prominently in Tyler’s arms. With no intention to move, even the preview for a similar movie couldn’t arouse him from his position. While loving every second of their physical intimacy, Tyler knew that their evening was about to wrap up just as it had every night prior. Even though Keegan had the day off tomorrow, the blond would certainly want to return home and leave Tyler indirectly thirsting for more. Playing hard to get seemed to be second nature for Keegan, but Tyler respected his innocence and would keep playing along until Keegan was comfortable with extending the intimacy. 

"Hey babe, it’s getting late, do you want me to walk you home?" Enjoying the rasp of Tyler’s voice as it rumbled against his ear, Keegan remained still. Deciding to trust the inner voice, the soothing beat of Tyler’s heart brought a stimulating sense of love to envelope his body. Comfortable and safe with taking the next step, Keegan finally sat up. Adjusting his body to straddle Tyler’s hips, warm hands placed themselves gently against the man’s chest. Gazing down into Tyler’s glacial irises blinking back, the reassurance of Keegan’s feelings left a pink dusting upon his lips while his fingers traced invisible nothings across the surface of his boyfriend’s chest. 

"I was thinking…since I don’t work tomorrow…if you’re okay with it…I kind of want to spend the night…?" Struck with surprise like the sudden pluck of a guitar string vibrating against his senses, Touya’s eyes widened. Not at all opposed to the idea, he hadn’t expected Keegan to be the one to suggest staying the night. Which Touya understood didn’t necessarily mean what he was thinking, but Keegan had been hesitant to extend their dates past their initially expired time, so this was new. He wondered what changed as he parted his lips to speak. 

"You…want to stay?" Delighted by the nod of Keegan’s head, a small itch in his fangs brought back the underlying realization that losing control was a great possibility. Besides kissing, Touya hadn’t been brave enough to go any further and Keegan hadn’t been open enough to allow him. Further stimulation would certainly spiral his senses into a flurrying symphony of carnal desire, especially with how inexperienced Keegan was. Everything would feel so new for Keegan, and taking that which no one had before was arousing enough for Touya’s fangs to throb in excitement. 

"If you’re okay with it…yeah, I’d like to stay with you~” Feeling the undeniable arousal oscillating from Keegan’s heartbeat, Touya could only blink in process. Accepting the stimulating rhythm from Keegan’s heartbeat and letting the melody merge with the accelerated beat of his own heart, The sounds intertwined into the familiar soundtrack of their love. Filling his ears with the initial longing portrayed by his heart, Touya reached up to gently hold Keegan’s face. Without warning, Touya’s tender hold pulled Keegan towards him. Molding their lips together into a passionate, but chaste dance, Touya’s kiss was short lived, but it said enough. Melting over Keegan like butter, the feelings that spread from Tyler’s touch warmed every nerve within his body. Pulling away, the lack of stimulation left Keegan feeling cold and hungry for more. 

"Keegan, you are welcome to stay for as long as you want whenever you want." Lingering against the soft caress of Touya’s thumbs against his cheeks, Keegan kept his face mere inches from Touya’s. Lost in the illustrious orbs searching through his own eyes, Keegan nearly missed the man’s confessing promise. "I love you and I will always welcome your company~" Remembering the private confession Tyler had shared with his father earlier that evening, a stutter interrupted the consistent rhythm of his heart. Letting his eyes widen in realization, Keegan found himself pulling away from the proximity of Tyler’s face. Readjusting to the sitting position he’d been in prior to Tyler’s infatuation spreading over his lips, Keegan blinked down at the male in awe. 

"D-Did you just say what I think you said?" Feeling the blip in Keegan’s heartbeat, Touya searched the stunned expression with confusion. The term had come so naturally with Keigo that a lapse in judgement left Touya forgetting that he’d never admitted his feelings to Keegan using the forbidden word. Embarrassment overtook his expression as he became hasty to back peddle. 

"Oh fu- I’m sorry, I was lost in the moment and it slipped out! I didn’t mean to put that on you s-"

Showering over him like broken glass, the word had taken Keegan purely by surprise. Feeling the shards of glass twinkle against his skin, he’d fully expected the apprehensions associated behind the commitment to sting, but as the sparkling bits showered around him they tingled with ecstasy. Enveloping every sense of Keegan’s body beneath what could only be described as magic, hearing those three words come from Tyler’s lips felt right. No, they felt natural. Like the final piece of a puzzle slipping into place, the verbal confirmation from Tyler forced Keegan to interrupt the hasty apology rambling from Tyler’s throat. 

Smashing his lips against Tyler’s, Keegan initiated the dance with the sensual movement of his lips. Pulling Tyler into a passionate expression of his feelings, the way Keegan was moving struck Tyler with more surprise than the interruption. Hungry, like he was trying to taste the truth behind Touya’s words, Keegan moved in desperation to communicate his feelings. Relaxing against the sudden ferocity, Touya let the blond take what he wanted. Snaking his tongue past Touya’s parted lips, Keegan’s tongue coiled eagerly around his partner’s. Stroking, rolling, and flicking his tongue over Touya’s tongue, each step in Keegan’s dance was meant to ease the apologies out of the muscle, to reassure Tyler that he agreed with the uttered statement. 

Falling into step with Keegan’s feverish display, Touya’s hands tangled themselves in the mess of gold falling from Keegan’s head. Leaving behind his own trail of relief against Keegan’s body, Touya’s hands gently massaged the blond’s scalp. Moving in time with the sensual movement of Keegan’s tongue, only when the blond pulled away did Touya’s hands shift to cup the flush of Keegan’s cheeks. Staring lovingly into Tyler’s half lidded azure orbs, Keegan’s thumb left a reassuring stroke against the pink hue colouring the pale of Tyler’s face. 

"I love you too, Tyler." Relishing the low rasp of Keegan’s voice, Touya couldn’t help but smile. "I’ve loved you since the night you took me to the gallery, but I was too afraid to say it…I didn’t want you to think I was coming on too strong since we hadn’t actually agreed to be together until that night…Silly I know…" Chuckling softly, Touya pulled Keegan down to leave a reassuring peck against his lips. 

"I never said that~ If you know what you want, then your feelings aren’t silly in the slightest~ Besides, Hummingbird…" Keeping Keegan mere inches from his expression, Touya’s hot breath caressed the plush red of Keegan’s lips. "I’ve loved you for what feels like centuries~" Sealing his affirmations with the sensual press of his lips, Touya initiated another passionate dance with the blond. Now familiar with Keegan’s feelings, while Touya’s tongue left sensual rolls against Keegan’s tongue, pale hands were eager to roam. Starting small and tangling their pale fingers back among the blond tresses, playful tugs were left against the silky golden strands. Twirling the wavy locks around his index finger, Touya eagerly ate the soft moans rumbling from Keegan’s throat. Moving down to the blond’s exposed neck, Touya’s hands lingered for a moment before straying off down the expanse of Keegan’s back. Still protected by the thin fabric of his shirt, black nails trailed lightly down the arched surface. Exploring every dip and curve of Keegan’s back, the light caress of Tyler’s fingers left a rippling shudder of pleasure to wash over his body. Speckling over his skin with a tingling arousal that left his body shivering for more, Keegan’s back twitched in response while another rumbling moan fed Touya’s hunger. Taking the sound as an invitation to go further, the enticing touch of Touya’s hands roamed further south. 

Following the curve of Keegan’s side, the pale limbs took a momentary break against the pleasing shape of Keegan’s hips. Shaping to the rounded curves, pale hands moved with the form of the blond’s hips. Rubbing the slight protruding bone with a sensual caress of his hands, feeling Keegan’s hips buck in response fueled the moan lodged in Touya’s throat. Easing out another grinding slide of Keegan’s hips with the caress of his hands, Touya let the sounds of his affection mingle with Keegan’s. Vibrating through the air with the growl of sensual longing, the rhythmic hum excited the sleeping thirst previously buried in Touya’s fangs. Satiated by the artificial inhibitor, the symphony of lust rippling across Touya’s auditory sense chipped away at the constructed barrier. Itching with the pointed throb to pierce through Keegan’s remaining barrier, docile fangs vibrated with the urgency to taste the validity of Keegan’s emotions. Following the leading urge of his senses, Touya found his hands roaming boldly onto Keegan’s thighs. Caressing the taught limbs, all sense of tenderness left Touya’s thirsty advances. Unconsciously gripping Keegan’s thighs, the exuding pressure spread dangerously proximal to the untouched fruit resting between Keegan’s legs.

Purely acting out of reaction to divert his senses, the altered sensation expectedly forced Keegan away. Gasping in surprise at Tyler's pressurized movements, the uncomfortable curve of Keegan’s brow gazing down upon him forced Touya to push away the thirsting desires itching beneath his darkness. Fully aware of the situation he’d forced upon his other half, the haste in which he apologized had never felt more sincere. 

"I’m sorry baby, I wasn’t intending to go that far with you until you’re ready. Something just…took hold of me when you said you loved me…I lost sight of your feelings in the heat of the moment." Accepting Tyler’s apology with a shake of his head, Keegan’s awkward gaze sought confidence from the swooping curve of Tyler’s collar bone. 

"No, it’s okay, I just wasn’t expecting that." Playing nervously with the hem of Tyler’s shirt, Keegan continued. "I want to. I want to experience that with you, but I…don’t know how…" Refusing to meet the soft blue of Touya’s eyes, the vampire let a reassuring smile curve his lips. Finding Keegan’s hips, Touya’s hands gently held the man’s side once again. Running the length of the hip bone, pale hands moved tenderly to ease the gnawing anxieties churning in Keegan’s core. 

"That’s okay." Having already taken Keigo’s innocence once, Touya was more than prepared to do it a second time. "You don’t have to know how to be intimate with me. I can guide you every step of the way. If it becomes too much and you decide to stop at any point, I won’t pressure you. I’ll wait for you as long as I need to~" Bringing Keegan’s gold irises to dive into the tender azure pools below, the sweet expression overtaking Tyler’s face made Keegan’s heartbeat stutter in delight. 

"You would do that for me?" Melting beneath the assured glow of Tyler’s smile, the feeling of Tyler’s warm hands interlacing with his own swept away the lingering apprehensions in Keegan’s heart. 

"Of course I would. I love you Keegan. Your feelings and comfort mean more to me than getting laid." Overwhelmed by the sincerity of Tyler’s statement as well as the realization that there was hard truth behind everything Tyler had shared with his father earlier that evening, Keegan had to blink away his tears. Never before had he met someone so genuine, someone who cared so much about his well being before his own. Tyler was extremely special and this was proving to Keegan everything he felt towards Tyler was accurate. Tyler was his friend, he was the person he always wanted to return to, and most importantly to him; Tyler was his soulmate. 

"Tyler…?" Hearing the shakiness present in his tone, Touya’s eyebrows twitched to reflect his concern. 

"Yes, my love, what’s wrong?" Feeling Keegan’s thumbs rolling circles over the back of his hands slowly eased the concern from his face. 

"I trust you." Losing the uncertain edge from his voice, the soft glow of Keegan’s smile showered over Touya’s still form. Warming him with the realization of what Keegan was implying, Touya quirked his lips into a soft smile. 

"You want to?" Nodding, the affirmation led Touya to sit up. With Keegan still predominantly in his lap, Touya retracted his hands from the blond’s. Now moving to brace Keegan’s lower back, Keegan’s free hands sought further support by wrapping themselves lightly around Tyler’s neck. Icing the cake with a layer of affectionate confirmation by resting his forehead gently against Touya’s, the smooth tones that vibrated from Keegan’s throat touched the buried sense in Touya’s fangs. 

"Yes, I love you. I want to do this, I want to make love with you." Pulsating with the burning desire to take everything Keegan had to offer, Touya unconsciously bit his lip. Chewing away the need to pierce the delicate veins tangled beneath Keegan’s soft skin, Touya chuckled softly in response. 

"Alright~ Let’s go to bed~" Lifting Keegan suddenly from the comfort of the couch, the blond’s legs wrapped securely around Tyler’s waist while his upper body leaned against the warmth of Tyler for support. "I should warn you though…" Nudging his bedroom door open with his foot, Touya gently deposited Keegan onto the plush mattress below. Climbing on top, Touya’s face hovered above the already flushing expression beneath him. "I’m a biter~" Pulling Keegan into another fervent choreographed dance, Touya’s lips eased his partner into the primal stimulation he’d yet to experience.

Kissing Tyler many times before this instance, Keegan never expected the feeling to differ in such a way. Erupting over his body with the molten heat of volcanic magma, every tantalizing touch left by Tyler’s body elicited a rippling shiver to course over his skin. Speckling across the surface of his body like the sparkling explosion of fireworks colouring the sky, nerves vibrated with the hot intensity of arousal. Moaning hungrily beneath the wet sensation of Tyler’s tongue tangling dominantly around his own, Keegan’s body unconsciously pressed itself against his partner’s. Desperate to feel the man’s touch, Keegan’s arms wrapped around Tyler’s neck. Roaming through the avalanche of Ombre hair, Keegan gripped mercilessly at the locks of white hair while the pressure of Tyler’s tongue swirled powerfully around his own. Feeding Tyler with another rumbling moan, the hot sensation of Tyler’s tongue departed shortly after the man satisfied his craving with the dominating exploration of Keegan’s mouth. Leaving Keegan thirsting for more, watching the tantalizing stroke of Tyler’s tongue over his bottom lip released a shuddering breath from Keegan’s lungs. 

"Want to keep going?" Pulling Tyler back down for a chaste, but feverish kiss, the mischievous glint sparking across Keegan’s eyes awoke the previously curbed hunger in Tyler’s fangs.

"Yes~” Touching Keegan’s ears with the sensual rumble of a responding growl, Touya sat up. Keeping the affectionate glow of his cerulean eyes trained on the flushed expression beneath him, white teeth bit sensually against the plush red of his bottom lip as pale hands stripped the black shirt from his body. Tossing the light fabric aside, Touya relished the affectionate stare of Keegan’s curious gaze as it took in every detail of Touya’s bare chest.

Blessed by the hands of angels, Tyler’s body was sculpted with the pure artistry of the God’s. Serene like the pale light of the moon, the skin of his chest was pure and glowing like the symbolic illumination cutting through all the world’s darkness. Without a trace of a single blemish, hair, or flaw, only a few notable, but faint scars ruined the sculpted perfection of Tyler’s body. The sight left an unbearable sensual stroke against the tingling nerves beneath Keegan’s skin. Biting his own lip to try, and ultimately fail, in hiding his blatant arousal, the abrupt melodic jingle emanating from Tyler’s chest pulled him from the sculpted fantasy. Disturbed by the upward motion of the protecting fabric, a silver ring flopped delicately against the pale of Tyler’s chest. Clinging desperately to a gold chain hanging from Tyler’s neck, the sparkle of the silver metal flashed across Keegan’s gold irises. Focusing on the binding circle, a sense of familiarity touched his mind. Bursting in recollection like the infiltrating pop of a camera’s flash, Keegan’s mind wandered from the intimate situation before him. 

Holding the shining metal into view between his thumb and index finger, he offered the binding circle to the man. 

"Would you accept this ring as a symbol of my undying love and commitment to you?"

"Mmm~ Baby~ You look absolutely delectable~” Blinking away the random fog that had infected his mind, Keegan could only ponder what the symbolism of the binding circle meant as his sense awoke to realize he was now shirtless beneath Tyler. Missing the unconscious stripping of the first barrier, Keegan could only blush as Tyler’s eager eyes took in every curve of his body. Sinking his fangs into his lip, the sight of Keegan’s tanned body sent a wave of nostalgia to churn in his vision. Tanned, toned, and defined by the same curves and ridges that had built Keigo’s body, the sight nearly brought tears to Touya’s eyes. Despite sharing the same face and mannerisms as his departed fiancé, Touya had expected some details to differ in comparison, but even the oval shape and pink hue of his nipples were the same. Not a single scar or blemish tainted the picturesque body beneath him, not yet at least~

Unconsciously running his tongue over his lips, Toyua leaned down to claim the untouched canvas below. Resting his body against the welcoming shape of Keegan’s, the warming press of his bare skin against the blond’s struck him with familiarity. Stoking the burning heat of arousal, the mere contact of their half nude bodies seemed to share a silent message of its own. Flushing Keegan’s form with an unfamiliar affection, his arms sought to hold Tyler’s figure once again. Urging him to lap up the undeniable warmth from the body above him, eager hands roamed down the bare of Tyler’s back, sharing the stimulation he felt with the affectionate trailing of his fingers over the pale surface. 

While the flush of pleasure emanating from Keegan’s body forced the blond closer, Touya drew out the foreplay with a smirk. Trailing down every inch of Keegan’s body, the tender path blazed by the light brush of his lips quickly diverged into a dotted path of rose speckled ownership. Sparking a tingling pop of sensation following each light peck along Keegan’s jawline, the gasp he pulled from Keegan’s lips sounded like music in the air. 

"Ty~" Singing for him again, the moan of his name fueled the burning fire within as Touya’s lips moved ever so sensually onto the open skin of Keegan’s neck. 

"Yeah baby~" Growling the response just shy of Keegan’s ear, the playful nip Touya left against the sensitive cartilage forced the press of Keegan’s body flush against his own. Gasping his name again, Tyler played a few more keys with the glide of his tongue along the shell of Keegan’s ear to hear the passionate cries singing from the blond’s lungs. Smirking with satisfaction, Touya’s lips moved boldly towards the exposed skin of Keegan’s neck. Touching the exposed skin with the light brush of his lips, fireworks popped over the sensational nerves beneath the plush surface of Touya’s lips. Awakening the attracting impulse associated with his hunger, senses quickly became overwhelmed by the pulsating throb of the tantalizing jugular. Flooded by the passionate heat throbbing through the artery, Touya let the crimson hue of his gaze flash boldly into view. Lingering against the alluring pulse, hot breath touched the shivering skin, warning the exposed neck before eager lips latched unforgivingly against the tender flesh. Sucking intently against the area, the symphony of pleasurable moans twirling off of Keegan’s tongue sparked the intruding crimson hue to linger against Touya’s eyes. Disguising the natural blue and flushing the pale of his cheeks, Touya fell into the instinctual fever aroused by his body as his tongue swirled around the tender mark left against Keegan’s neck. Throbbing with undeniable excitement, the accelerated thrum oscillating off of Keegan’s heartbeat invited Touya’s fangs to indulge themselves. 

"Tyler~" Fueling the dormant desire further, Touya nipped at the tender spot. Teasing himself with the chilling sensation of Keegan’s vulnerable flesh beneath the point of his fangs, the heat of Keegan’s body bucking against his own kept himself from piercing the fragile flesh. Roaming fingers seeking their own form of stimulating relief trailed senselessly across the bare of Tyler’s back. Lightly passing the pads of his fingers over the smooth surface of pale skin, gasps desperate in comparison soaked each vibrating nerve tangled beneath Touya’s skin. Biting the sensitive skin while being careful not to insert his fangs into the tender surface, the reacting insertion of Keegan’s nails clawing down his back forced away the thirsting hue through the diverting pain spreading thankfully across his back. Releasing the sensual bruise with a resonating pop, Touya respectfully sat up.

"I told you~ I like to bite~" Harboring the deep seated craving to indulge in the sublime liquid coursing through Keegan’s untapped veins, Touya restrained his need to eat. Hinging on the painful recollection that Keegan would ultimately taste richer with consent, Touya disregarded every instinctual scream to follow through. Knowing that like the most expensive wine, the longer he let Keegan’s feelings sit and grow for him, the greater the payoff would be for his bloodlust when he did pop the cork. Lunging for the blond’s exposed collarbone following another sensual glide of his tongue to soak his lips, Touya left another defined mark against the untouched skin. 

"It's fine~ I like it~ It feels good~" Weak to the affectionate tones of Keegan’s pleading moans, cerulean orbs fell back into the blood soaked pools of hunger. Burying his face against the soft of Keegan’s neck to hide the hungry crimson overwhelming his vision, Touya extracted another symphony of moans with the localized suction of his mouth. Littering Keegan’s body with the physical testaments to his restraint, Touya unconsciously reached the remaining barrier secured around Keegan’s waist. Drowning beneath the obvious vibrational arousal thrumming from every nerve of Keegan’s body, Touya pushed the predatory desire from his vision. Sitting up to shower the flushed figure beneath the lustful glow of azure eyes, nimble fingers slipped beneath the hem of his own pants. 

"You’re sure?" Running a hand through the disheveled blond locks sticking to the wet of his forehead, Keegan nodded. Losing every prior apprehension to the resonating beat of his heart, the lulling rhythm cradled the inherent desires dwelling within, reassuring him with every beating stroke that everything would be okay. 

"Yes, I want you." Biting back the threatening hunger stricken by the glowing sunshine of Keegan’s smile, Touya got off the bed. Departing only long enough to discard his pants to the floor and retrieve the necessary objects from the nightstand, Touya’s absence from the bed was short lived. Kneeling back on the plush mattress, Touya ripped open the condom’s package, pulling the rubber from inside. Rolling the protective rubber layer over the length of his erection, Touya set his sights on his partner. Peeling the final layer between himself and Keegan, Touya’s warm hands roamed purposely up the length of Keegan’s bare thighs. Taking in the slick, throbbing erection poised between Keegan’s legs, Touya bit intentionally into the soft tissue of his cheek. Reigning in his instincts, Touya lifted Keegan’s legs to rest against his hips. Leaning down, Touya’s body bravely dove to press against Keegan’s. Moistened already with lubrication, the slick glide of his erection against Keegan’s sent a coursing pulse of electricity between their bodies. Sensitive to the stimulation, the gentle rock of Touya’s hips against the underside of Keegan’s cock couldn’t prepare for the light, sweeping touch of Touya’s fingers. Gently stroking the length of the sensitive skin, the delighted gasp from Keegan’s lungs pushed Touya to wrap the tender touch of his hand around the two throbbing limbs. With the control of his hand, the pressure and speed of his hips increased slightly. 

"Ty~" Gripping the sheets for any sense of relief, the building ecstasy flooding Keegan’s unaware sense was quickly becoming overwhelming. Jolts of electricity popped over his nerves with each teasing touch of Tyler’s hand. Tingling across the aroused nerves with the heat of a flame, Keegan’s body had never felt so hot. Unconsciously his legs clung to the support of Tyler’s hips, while toes curled and uncurled in procession of the stimulating warmth spreading over his body. Biting his lip, the purposeful drag of his teeth over the soft flesh could barely divert the explosive warmth radiating from the swipe of Tyler’s thumb over the tip of his erection. Lingering dangerously a moment longer against the dripping tip, the sensual roll of Touya’s thumb nearly ended the intimate escapade. Pulling away in time with the low moan of pleasure drawing from Keegan’s lips, the wet representation of his feelings were spread intentionally over Touya’s fingers. Slick with bodily fluids, Touya adjusted himself for better access to the rest of Keegan’s body.  

"You’re still okay?" Grasping the sheets desperately seeking any semblance of a pleasurable conclusion, Keegan’s nod was just as frantic. 

"Yes~ Keep going~" Hearing the confirmation sing through his auditory canal like the echoing cry of a songbird, Touya had to bury his instincts into the aching tissue of his cheek again. Too close to the melodic song of Keigo’s voice, the familiar sound drove the already buzzing shadows crazy with the recognized sounds. Ignoring their incessant whispers, Touya’s moistened fingers traced the curves of the small opening. Easing their way inside, the infiltrating touch left Keegan reeling in response. Pausing to let the blond regain his relaxed composure, Touya pressed his fingers deeper into the warmth of Keegan’s body. Starting slow, the curling and uncurling of the seeking limbs struck a chorus of moans and gasps from the blond. Singing his name when he eventually found what he was looking for, Touya couldn’t help but smirk. Pumping his fingers methodically, Touya’s movements worked against the tight walls surrounding the pale limbs. Relishing the buck of Keegan’s hips with each pleasurable thrust of his hand, he couldn’t wait to see the flushed expression on his lover when he switched gears. 

"You’re so good for me, baby~" Distracting Keegan with the praising rasp of his voice, Touya slipped a third finger inside. Feeling Keegan’s legs clench in response, Touya’s free hand stroked the bare surface of his thigh to divert the pressurized pain. "Relax my love~ You’re doing great~" Growing impatient with his own desires, Touya spread his fingers over the tight warmth.

"Ty~ I can’t-" Catching the accelerated oscillation of Keegan’s heart, Touya swirled his fingers around the hot cavern one final time. Retracting his fingers, Touya grabbed the bottle of lube he’d previously retrieved from the nightstand. Popping the lid open, a cold helping of the gel was squeezed onto his fingers. Promptly rubbing the moisture over the protected erection, any leftover juice was swirled purposely over Keegan’s entrance. Readjusting his body as well as Keegan’s hips, Touya’s soft gaze fell on the flushed, but nervous expression below. 

"Ready?" Lining himself up with the tantalizing entrance, Touya held himself against the opening while he leaned down closer to his partner’s body. Wrapping his arms around Tyler’s neck, Keegan nodded. 

"Yes." Feeling the pressure of Tyler’s body with the slight push of his hips, Keegan’s nails preemptively dug into the nude skin of Touya’s shoulders.

"I’ll try not to hurt you, but please tell me if it’s too much." Whispering in response, Keegan’s acceptance led Touya to push his hips a little harder against Keegan’s. Easing himself past the untouched barrier, the hot sensation of sliding into the tight enclosure nearly tipped Touya over the edge. "Holy fuck-" Curving perfectly with the thrust of his hips, Keegan’s spine molded to the pleasure throbbing over his body. Pulsating with the heat from the stimulating slide of Tyler’s erection against the tight throb of his walls, explosions of ecstasy dotted Keegan’s vision. Gasping Tyler’s name, the intense pressure warming in his gut churned with the subtle movement of his partner’s body. Stopping to recollect himself, Touya’s half lidded gaze fell on the flushed expression below him. 

"Are you okay?" Feeling the pressure of Keegan’s nails recede, the nod following pointed to the obvious. 

"Yes~ Keep going~" Setting the pace with the slow rock of his hips, Touya’s face boldly nestled in the tantalizing crook of Keegan’s neck. Swimming in the pleasure building from the stimulating hold Keegan’s body had against the sensitive touch of arousal, each sensual roll of his hips brought Touya closer to the heat beneath him. Lured in by the symphony of moans and pleasurable cries singing from Keegan’s lips, the succulent throb of the blond’s exposed jugular had never looked more tantalizing. 

"Yeah~ Tyler~ Just like that~" Vibrating in rhythm with the confirming moans of ecstasy, the attracting pulse of the sublime liquid pulled the crimson hue back to the surface. 

"Fuck~ You feel so good~" Growling the statement into Keegan’s ear, the sensual dip in Touya’s voice forced the blond’s head to tilt. Unconsciously allowing Touya to dip his face next to the already claimed neck, Touya pressed his lips against the tender skin. Fueling the thirst of the shadows around him, the vulnerable, yet pleasing cry that slipped from Keegan’s lips nearly drove Touya’s fangs into the un-pierced skin. Latching onto a clear patch of skin, Touya’s mouth made relentless work of the area. Sucking intently against the sensitive skin while keeping the pace of his hips, the loud moan of his name showering over him sent a wave of undeniable thirst to cross the blood soaked hue of his eyes.

"Tyler, please~" Swirling his tongue sensually over the tender area, the feeling of Keegan’s nails raking across his back forced his hips to thrust deeper into the tantalizing warmth. Moaning loudly, the tight clenching of Keegan’s legs around his hips squeezed another deep pressure against the blond’s body. Fueled by the chorus of pleasurable cries, protruding fangs foolishly grazed the hot flesh following the wet pop of Touya’s lips leaving Keegan’s skin. Thrumming with uncurbed hunger, the aching throb in his teeth rivalled the painful beat of bloodlust spreading from his heart. Urging every instinct dwelling inside to sink into the sublime river coursing below, the throbbing pulse of desire had never felt more convincing. 

"Fuck-" Drowning out the underlying feeling of guilt associated with taking without consent, Touya parted his lips. Poised and ready to taste the blissful flavour of Keigo’s blood once again, the tips of his fangs rested ever so gently against the tantalizing beat of Keegan’s neck.

Completely ignorant to the imminent danger he was in, the feeling of Tyler’s body against his own had carried Keegan away. Flushed with the rippling sensation of heat coursing over his body, everything around him seemed to burn away under the passion of their fire. Floating on a cloud of temporary bliss, the sparking sensations exploding over every nerve felt incredible. Hot with the feverous flame of arousal, the feeling excited every part of his being like never before. Burning across his form with the silence of everything he couldn’t verbally express to Tyler, the warm pressure churned in his chest. Desperate to release and exclaim every pent up thought or expression, the burning pressure increased as the localized stimulation of Tyler’s mouth stoked the dancing flame within. Tingling like the disturbing buzz of static, the exploding sensation of elation that aroused every sense in Keegan’s body awoke something buried deep within. Pulling out a recognized sense of thrill, the impression that Tyler’s arousing movements left against Keegan’s body somehow felt familiar. Despite never experiencing intimacy in this way before, the undeniable warmth that wrapped protectively around every inch of his body vibrated with a recognized resonance. Like the comforting support received from an extended pair of arms to embrace you at your lowest, the obvious impression left by Tyler’s love was just that. An undeniable feeling he trusted and had yearned for centuries to feel again. Falling into the affectionate movements of their choreography, the settling release of emotions brought Keegan back to the hot reality before him. Painted by the expression of his love, Keegan felt the hot, sticky, white substance spread relentlessly over his chest. Disturbed by the fluid movements of Tyler’s body, the physical expression of his feelings stuck unapologetically against Tyler’s bare chest. Moaning in climaxed delight, Keegan uttered the only thing that came to mind following the elated feeling coursing over his body. 

Feeling Keegan’s body unconsciously tightening around his throbbing heat, the building pressure within stirred with the whispered confession dripping from Keegan’s lips. 

"I love you, Tyler~" Resonating over the resounding bloodlust driving his senses, the statement brought a grinding halt to the predatory movements. Sensing an undeniable relation to Keigo’s tone of expression, the confession left the grainy taste of guilt in Touya’s mouth. Accepting that he’d never be capable of taking from Keigo or Keegan without consent, Touya buried his predatory instincts away. Retracting his fangs from the tender flesh of Keegan’s neck with the raise of his head, lovestruck azure eyes drifted to the flushed expression beneath him. 

"I love you too, Keegan~ With all of my heart~" Finding his own ending to their story, the hot sensation of affection flowed out of Touya’s body. Filling the protective layer between them, the sweet rush of stored feelings still found a way to crash over Keegan’s body. Flooding his senses like a crashing wave against a shoreline, the affectionate glow swimming in Tyler’s eyes brought Keegan’s hand to cup his face. Staring into the glistening sapphire surface of the gems sparkling back, Keegan’s heart fluttered with delight. Pulling Tyler down to express how deeply he appreciated the man above him, the sensual touch of his lips against Tyler’s somehow felt more reassuring than the blissful intimacy. Every touch left a magical tingling sensation sparking across his lips that silently told Keegan he’d found it. Whoever he was looking for, the person he’d been so patiently trying to find, was right here. Tyler had been right, they were meant for one another and just like he’d said, by some stroke of luck they’d found each other again.

Pulling away, Tyler’s orbs searched silently through the half lidded gaze searching back. Saying everything he could with the tender view of his eyes, Tyler removed himself from the mattress. Disappearing through the doorway, he returned promptly with a damp towel. 

"I’m going to step into the bathroom if you don’t mind waiting. You can use this in the meantime." Accepting the towel with thanks, Touya slipped off into the washroom to take care of his side of the aftermath. Wiping himself off, Keegan deposited the towel in Tyler’s nearby laundry basket in time with the male returning to the room. 

"Bathroom’s yours~ Help yourself to anything you may need~" Taking the invitation, Keegan disappeared into the washroom after retrieving his backpack from the common room. Hearing the audible click of the door, followed by the streaming flow of water raining from the shower head, Touya grabbed another bottle from the mini fridge. Chugging the inhibiting contents for the second time that evening, the cool liquid, while barely curbing his thirst, quenched enough of Touya’s instinctual hunger to ensure Keegan would live through the night. Tossing the empty bottle into the nearest trash bin, Touya slipped into a comfortable pair of blue plaid pajama pants. Hearing the timed end of the cleansing shower beyond the closed door, Touya climbed beneath the warmth of the blankets. Waiting only momentarily for Keegan to return from the bathroom, Touya greeted the approaching blond with a smile. 

"Hey~ How are you feeling~" Welcoming the freshly cleaned, half dressed blond, now adorning a plain black pair of pajama pants, into his arms, Keegan found himself nestled up against Tyler’s body. Resting his head against the bare of Tyler’s chest, a smile formed across Keegan’s lips following the delighted exhale of breath.

"Amazing~ You made me feel so incredible…I can’t describe how much I’m in love with you right now~" Lightly trailing his hand across the exposed surface of Tyler’s chest, the timed skip of his heartbeat rang out loudly against Touya’s ears. Trailing his own hand along the curve of Keegan’s hip and up the length of his side, one hand rested protectively around the blond’s ribs while the other reached across his body to trail up the bare skin of Keegan’s arm. 

"I’m glad I could make the experience memorable for you~" Stroking Keegan’s bicep, Touya left a reassuring, but light squeeze against the blond’s muscle before letting his arm relax against the surface of his chest. Chuckling in response, Keegan’s wandering fingers unintentionally strode over the cold silver of the ring. Shocked by the chilled metal surface, the sudden shift in temperature sent a rippling wave of uncertainty to wash over his form. 

There was something about having a physical manifestation of their love that solidified their future. Like the infinite shape of the circle, the future he was building with Keigo would follow the same formula.

While small and insignificant in Keegan’s eyes, there was something unmistakably familiar about this particular ring that he couldn't quite understand. Fingering the small object, the distinct way the metal rolled over his fingers seemed to arouse something buried within the fog of Keegan’s memories. Resurfacing like an object floating to the surface of a pond, flashes of the pale light of the moon kept obstructing his vision.  

"Hummingbird, is everything okay?"

Deep, raspy, and laced with concern, the tone of the echoing voice sounded wildly familiar. The silhouette of a man’s figure appeared beneath the streaming light of the moon above. Foggy from recollection, any distinguishing features belonging to the figure were blurred by the confines of Keegan’s memory. 

"I’ll always be there to carry you, I won’t let you fall." 

Flipping the silver ring delicately between his thumb and index finger, the internal voice resonated against the strumming beat of his heart. Intertwining with the oscillating strum, the voice held the fragile rhythm of Keegan’s heartbeat. Wrapping itself around the strumming wave, the sounds intentionally tangled together, forming into a symbolic silver circle. A representation of their shared hearts, whose meaning Keegan couldn’t quite grasp it its entirety. 

"Hey Tyler?" Eyeing the glistening jewelry a moment longer, the rising recollections seemed to sink back beneath the dark waters of Keegan’s memories following the hum of Tyler’s voice. "Why do you wear this ring? Is it important to you?" Feeling Tyler’s fingers twitch against his arm, the clearing of his boyfriend’s voice felt rather awkward. 

"Sort of…" Searching for a logical substitute for the possession of the binding circle, Touya said the first thing that came to mind. "It’s a family heirloom. I’m not keen on wearing silver, it gives me a rash…I didn’t want to disrespect my…family…so I wear it around my neck instead." Feeling the subtle honesty behind Tyler’s words, Keegan let the silver ring rest gently against Tyler’s chest. 

"Oh I see." Dropping the question with the relief that Tyler wasn’t wearing the ring because of someone else, Keegan let his eyes flutter closed. Resting himself against the comforting drum of Tyler’s heartbeat, the lulling sound carried away the looming apprehensions clouding Keegan’s mind. "I know I’ve said it before, that I feel like I’ve known you for years…but I truly think I’ve met you before…sometime long ago…I can’t explain it, but I feel like maybe you’re my soulmate…" Letting the words fill Touya’s ears with the shared realization, Keegan was quick to back pedal. "I’m sorry, that was so random and probably a bit too much. Forget I even said it." Delighted by the clear resurfacing memories appearing through the fog of Keegan’s mind, Touya couldn’t help but smile at the awkward deflection. 

"No, that’s okay, no need to apologize, my love~ I strangely feel the same way, like we met initially many years ago…There’s something oddly familiar about your smile~ The way the sun shines from the honest glow of your lips, I feel like I’ve basked in its warmth, and have let your light snuff out the darkness around me~" Leaving a reassuring caress against Keegan’s side, Touya unconsciously held the blond closer to his body. "Besides, if you are my soulmate like you think, I’m happy to have found you again in this life~ You’ve brought me so much undeniable love and joy, how could I be mad about our fateful binding?" Holding the delightful strum of Tyler’s heart against his own, Keegan smiled softly while his hand snaked its way into the pale grasp of Tyler’s. Intertwining his fingers with Tyler’s, a sigh of relief slipped from Keegan’s lungs. 

"I don’t think it, I know it. You solidified those apprehensive feelings for me with your shared confession." Stroking the back of Tyler’s hand with the gentle stroke of his thumb, Keegan’s heart skipped intentionally with affection. “You’re my soulmate Tyler. The love beating from my heart assures that. I love you and I always want to love you, no matter where in the world we are or when in the world we are. I want to feel your love always~” Pressing a soft kiss against the mess of blond locks waving over Keegan’s head, Touya gave his hand another reassuring squeeze. 

"Forever and always, my sweet Hummingbird~" Drifting off to sleep in the comfort of Tyler’s arms, Keegan’s unconscious state left Touya stewing in silent success. Listening to the even rhythm of snores slipping from the fragile beings lungs, the previously uttered words kept replaying in his head. 

‘I truly think I’ve met you before…sometime long ago…You’re my soulmate, Tyler…I love you and I always want to love you, no matter where in the world or when in the world we are. I want to feel your love always~’

Rubbing his hand along the curved length of Keegan’s body, Touya smiled up at the roof with affirmation. 

‘Oh yeah~’ Bringing his hand up to the tangle of blond locks, Touya tenderly held Keegan’s head protectively against the lulling beat of his heart. ‘After all of this time, I’ve found my Keigo once again~’

Chapter Text

Mornings for Touya were not only a nightmarish routine he’d inherited from the humans, but they were considerably cold. Keeping the thermostat at a set temperature, the apartment sat at a comfortable degree of warmth. Even without the heavy blanket draped over his bed, Touya could justifiably sleep through the night without a single shiver touching his spine. Yet, without the relational warmth of Keigo’s body next to him, the last three centuries felt rather frigid. Growing reliant on sharing a bed with the sweet being, his lack of presence left Touya feeling empty and cold. 

However, when the sun’s golden rays touched the sky bringing about the dawn of a new day, Touya didn’t feel cold. For the first time in three centuries, he felt indisputably warm. Rolling over to greet the comforting form inhabiting the bed, Touya’s arms wrapped around the fragile being, pulling him flush against his chest. Molding his body to shape against the curve of Keegan’s sleeping form, Touya nestled his head carefully next to the swooping curve of the blond’s neck. Resting his arm protectively against the bare skin of Keegan’s chest, heavy legs tangled purposely though his partner’s. Feeling Keegan stir beneath his infiltrating touch, the movement ceased as the human relaxed against Touya’s body. 

Resting blissfully in each other’s presence for what felt like a peaceful eternity, lasted only half an hour longer. Stirred awake by the churning thirst itching in his fangs, Touya woefully left the sweet embrace he’d tangled himself against. Quietly taking another bottle of substitute from the mini fridge, Keegan was left to his slumber. Chugging the inhibitor while entering the kitchen, when the itch in his fangs was expelled, Touya set to work. Fixing breakfast for Keegan, just as he did every morning for Keigo, Touya found himself knocking at his own bedroom door shortly after leaving the quiet room. Pushing the door lightly open, the sight of Keegan still unconscious, sent a rippling wave of fear to flood Touya’s senses. Images of his late fiancé flashed painfully across his mind.

"I’m feeling weak and very tired…"

Aching with the recollection of Keigo’s unconscious state prior to his untimely death, Touya’s heart sank with the undeniable fear that Keegan had stumbled onto the same fateful path. Listening intently to the calm rhythm strumming from Keegan’s heartbeat, the knot forming in his throat was forced down. Sensing no disturbing wavelengths or blips affecting the consistent rhythm, Touya held onto the fear, pushing it boldly to the back of his mind. Stepping lightly across the room, the bed dipped gently beneath Touya’s weight as he sat carefully next to the sleeping being. 

"Hummingbird~" Balancing the tray holding a plethora of prepared breakfast foods against his lap, a tender hand reached out to stroke the slumbering expression. "My sweet Hummingbird~ It’s time to wake up~" Groaning in what Touya could only describe as objection, Keegan tried to bury his face beneath the blankets. 

"What time is it…?" Groggy and irritated from being woken up, Touya’s light touch continued to caress the golden blond locks waving across the plush pillow beneath. 

"It’s almost nine in the morning my love." Adjusting his body in a responding irritated roll away from Touya, Keegan buried himself further beneath the blankets. 

"Tyler, it’s my day off! Let me sleep in!" Despite the angry way he directed the words, there was no hatred in his tone, in fact the request came out more like a whine. Like a kid who didn’t want to wake for school, Keegan was no different, but Touya knew how to coax his lover into better spirits. 

"If you insist~ I guess I’ll have to eat these chocolate chip pancakes that I made for you~" Catching the excited skip in his heart beat, the abrupt fling of the blankets that followed was expected. Chuckling as Keegan forced himself into a sitting position, Touya simply sat back and watched as the blond gave his arms a needed stretch. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes with a yawn, when the tired golden hue of Keegan’s eyes graced his smug expression, Touya lifted the tray from his lap. 

"Good morning~" Holding the tray up for Keegan to see, any sense of irritation or fatigue was wiped from his expression. 

"Breakfast in bed?" Clearly missing the obvious intention behind Touya making him breakfast to begin with, Keegan accepted the full tray of food to rest against his lap.

"Of course~ I knew you wouldn’t be keen on getting up right away, I figured this would make you happy~" Eyeing the arrangement of different foods, Keegan couldn’t hide the blush dusting his cheeks. All of his favorite things decorated the tray. Chocolate chip pancakes sat neatly stacked in the center. Chunks of fruit cut into bite sized portions filled a small bowl to the left of the pancakes while the foam of a homemade latte jiggled to the right. A small dispenser of syrup resided next to the latte with a dessert bowl of butter next to it. Tyler also went out of his way to include a small helping of bacon and eggs as well. Keegan couldn’t fathom how much time it took for him to do all of this, not to mention how much he cared to remember every detail of Keegan in order to cater to his likes in such a way. Swelling with love from Tyler’s offering, the accelerated beat of his heart served to deepen the pink hue that graces his expression. 

"Tyler, you didn’t have to do this for me." Uttered with a tone completely stricken in awe, Touya could only chuckle at the modesty of his boyfriend. 

"Nonsense~ Everyone has to eat~ I just made sure you were taken care of, that’s all~" Knowing he wouldn’t win the battle based on the beaming expression overtaking Tyler’s face, Keegan accepted the food with a smile. 

"Well, thank you for doing this for me~ Everything looks amazing~" Picking up the utensils laid neatly on either side of the middle plate, Keegan prepped the pancakes to his liking before cutting into the fluffy cakes. Forcing down the reactionary moan that threatened to slip from his throat when the sweet taste spread over his tongue, Keegan let his blush deepen instead. Inhaling the bite of food without much help from his teeth, when his mouth was emptied, a beaming smile showered over Touya. 

"Ty, this is really good! You should cook more often~" Devouring another piece of the sweet confection, Keegan’s glistening orbs followed Tyler’s movements as he crawled further onto the bed. 

"Is that so?" Resting on his side next to Keegan, Tyler propped his mischievous smirk up with the bend of his arm. "Perhaps you should stay over more often then~ Give me a reason to cook~" Melting over him like the butter dripping from his pancakes, the low tone of Tyler’s voice brought Keegan’s thighs together. Squeezing away the arousal dripping from the tantalizing tone of Tyler’s voice, Keegan hastily washed down the partly chewed food to save himself the embarrassment of choking in front of his boyfriend. Setting the half empty cup against the surface of the tray, the remaining obstruction from his throat was cleared. 

"You wouldn’t want that." Shifting his gaze away, the serious tone surfing over his words brought a curve to Touya’s brow. 

"Why do you say that?" Genuinely concerned that his words had offended Keegan in some manner, when the lustful glint sparkled across the golden irises, Touya nearly lost his senses.

"Baby~ If I stayed here all the time, I wouldn’t be able to keep my hands off of you~" Running his tongue sensually over the glistening surface of his lips, the drop in Keegan’s tone brought Touya to sink his teeth desperately into the sore flesh of his lip. Wincing from the painful diversion of his instincts, he silently cursed Keegan’s ignorance to his heritage. Under familiar circumstances, he would have easily lunged for the human’s form and satiated the bloodlust brewing in his fangs, but he couldn’t. No matter how tempting the blond was, or how seductively he was offering himself, Touya couldn’t act on his impulse. 

Catching the self inflicted pain initially, the diverting drag of Tyler’s teeth over his swollen bottom lip couldn’t hide the action from Keegan. Ignorant to the reason for the self harm, the blond did the only thing that felt logical in the moment. 

"Here." Cutting a piece off of the stack of pancakes, he offered a bite of the meal to his other half. "If you want to chew on something, take this instead." Eyeing the sticky offering with shaking azure eyes, the soft tone of Keegan’s voice led him to accept the food. Leaning closer to the fork, Touya took the pancake into his mouth. Understanding Keegan’s reasoning, not even the distracting action of eating the pancake could bury the swimming blood lust fighting within. Admittedly making the thirst worsen, Keegan released a sweetened chuckle to fill the silence of the room.

"You know, if you were hungry, you could’ve told me~" Halting the movement of his jaw, soggy bits of pancake sat precariously against his tongue. Certainly, he had misinterpreted Keegan’s meaning, there was no way he was implying what Touya had been fighting internally this whole time. Swallowing the contents of his mouth anxiously, Touya found himself sitting up slowly. 

"You’re meaning…the breakfast…right?" With eyes filled largely with skepticism, he met Keegan’s gaze. Losing their playful edge for only a moment, the brief curiosity that read across Keegan’s gaze left as quickly as it came. 

"Of course I mean breakfast, what else could I be talking about?" Shifting his gaze around the room, Touya pondered if this silly misunderstanding was actually how he’d inform Keegan of his secret. Leaning into the circumstance, Touya took the leap knowing that he had something to fall back on if the ground happened to come into view. 

"You, of course~" Relishing how deeply the blush dusting Keegan’s cheeks reddened, the intimate pause that filled the air while Keegan cleared his mouth was almost deafening. 

"Me?" Washing the remaining bits of food from his windpipe and setting the tray of food safely upon the nightstand’s surface, Touya waited patiently while the mischievous glint in his eyes showered over his partner. "You wouldn’t want to eat me, I’m far too stringy. I wouldn’t taste nearly as good as your cooking." Pushing the implication a step further, Touya ran his tongue suggestively over his lips. 

"Honey~ Delectable couldn’t begin to describe how magnificent you’d taste~" Crawling over Keegan’s still body, Touya kept the blond in place by positioning his legs on either side of Keegan’s thighs. Pushing himself upwards with the bend of his knees, Pale hands braced the headboard behind them while the lusting expression carved over Touya’s face dripped over Keegan’s relaxed features. "I would wager that you would taste just as sweet as your personality~ One bite of you and you’d have me begging for more~" Wetting the glistening pearl white teeth aching behind his lips, Touya leaned closer to Keegan’s face. "Let me have a taste of your rich flavour and I’ll tell you which tastes better~" Dropping his tone like a hot plate out of the microwave, the sensual sound of Touya’s voice rivalled the power of his hypnosis. 

"Come on baby~ Let me indulge in you~ It’ll feel just as good as last night, I promise~" Pounding like the boom of a drum, Keegan’s heartbeat mercilessly filled Touya’s auditory senses. Screaming at him like the loud clap of thunder, the sounds communicated how exhilarating the suggestion truly sounded to Keegan. Yet, it didn’t read on his face. Twisted into confusion, Touya could see the hint of uncertainty disguised behind the curve of his brow. Clearly, like Touya, Keegan was fighting something internally that he couldn’t understand and unfortunately for Touya, his external consciousness was winning. 

"Awfully eager, aren’t you~" Realizing the joking implications behind Tyler’s suggestions, the uncertainty expressed on his face quickly twisted into a smirk. "I love you Ty, and last night was amazing, but just because I slept with you doesn’t mean I want to have sex all the time." Hitting him with the same teasing tone Keigo used to challenge him with, the sudden touch of Keegan’s index finger against his nose made Touya physically flinch. "Besides, I hear it feels more intense the longer you wait between sessions~" Surprised entirely by Keegan’s slight shift in personality, Touya could only watch in awe as the blond slipped out from beneath him. "Sorry to disappoint you, but Keegan is off the menu this morning~" Leaving him with a teasing wink of his eye, when the bathroom door latched shut, Touya wiped the shock from his face. 

"How cruel. Keigo would’ve let me." Throwing himself in melodramatic defeat against the mattress, Touya took a pillow into his arms. "I can tell he’s starting to grasp some of his memories, but they’re not clear enough for him to fully remember." Rolling over to be on his stomach, blue eyes rested against the closed door between them. "I thought out of all of them, he’d at least pick up on my meaning considering he’s noticed my diversions…I could feel his heartbeat…he’s in there, but I guess I need more time." Shaking the disappointment away with a sigh, Keegan returned from the bathroom fully dressed and smiling. 

"Hey Ty, I meant to ask last night, but that book on your coffee table, is it new?" Admittedly, Touya had forgotten he’d left the novel out in plain sight. Truthfully, he didn’t want to publish it. That story was strictly for himself. Therapy, as Kurogiri had labelled it, Touya never intended to share his intimacy with the public’s eye, but his publishers had been adamant after reading the heartbreaking words. Touya did however, convince them to only print one copy for the time being, he’d keep that story to himself for as long as he could. 

"It is." Sitting up following the excited glint in Keegan’s eye, the pillow remained protectively in Touya’s arms as Keegan remained precariously at the end of the bed. 

"Would you be open to lending it to me? I haven’t seen that title anywhere in stores and I really want to read it." Initially considering denying Keegan’s request, the quick objection of his thoughts hastily changed his mind. 

‘Let him read it~ If he’s already grasping at memorable straws, maybe having some established format of his past self will be the guiding hand he needs to remember fully~’

Blinking in thought at the anticipated smile glowing before him, Touya got to his feet without a word. Slinking off to retrieve the novel, Touya returned to his bedroom with the object in his grasp. Holding the book like a sacred idol, the hesitant way he handed the object off to Keegan forced the blond’s eyebrow to quirk. 

"I’ll lend it to you, but you have to promise to be careful with it. This is the only copy I published, they’ll rip my head off if something happens to it…" Stretching the truth a little bit, Touya left out the fact that the book meant just as much to him as the human standing before him. Taking the book into his care with the same protective attitude as Touya, Keegan held the object securely against his chest. 

"I’ll protect it with my life." Securing the printed words in the confines of his backpack, Keegan showered Touya beneath the honey glow of his smile while slinging the bag over his shoulder. "Thank you for trusting me with it, I can’t wait to read this one, it looks interesting~" Letting his lips twitch upwards in response, Touya stepped back towards the main door of the apartment. 

"You’re the first person to read it besides my publishers, so I look forward to hearing your review." Disguising his true meaning, the melodic sound that slipped past Keegan’s lips struck Touya in awe. Expelling in tune with the warble like chirp of a bird, his delight flowed through the air like a song. The sound, while brief, forced a skip against the rhythm of Touya’s heartbeat. Painting the light canvas of his face with a pink hue, when Touya turned to greet the delighted smile beaming from Keegan’s face, he nearly melted to the floor. 

"I can’t believe you’re letting me read it before anyone else! This book must be really special if no one else has touched it besides me~" He had no idea. 

"Yeah…" Scratching awkwardly at the back of his neck, Touya averted his eyes. "Something like that…it’s very different from my other work, so I’m hesitant on sharing the contents…" Moving to be in front of Tyler, Keegan’s warm hands eagerly encased Tyler’s free hand in a prison of affection.

"Well~ I’m sure I’ll like it regardless because you wrote it and I like you~" Staring up at Tyler with an unusual note of idolization, the foreign expression fell from Keegan’s face nearly as quickly as it had appeared. Showering him freshly with the usual sweetness of his smile, Keegan’s hands departed Tyler’s. Moving instead to wrap around Tyler’s body, Keegan pressed himself flush against Touya’s body. 

"As much as I’d like to stay, I should probably get home. Dad most likely left me a list of chores and I need to get ready for work tomorrow, but I appreciate you for letting me stay last night~" Slinking his arms around Keegan’s form, Touya buried part of his face in the silk waves of golden hair. 

"Of course~ You’re welcome to stay any time~" Feeling Keegan’s arms squeeze his frame slightly, Touya brought a hand up to tenderly brace the back of Keegan’s head. Letting his hand roam through the soft locks, Touya left comforting pets against the back of Keegan’s head. Holding him like it would be the last, he let the blond linger against the warmth of his body a moment longer until he ultimately pulled away. Moving only enough to dive into the clear blue water of Tyler’s eyes, Keegan let himself sink beneath the crystalline surface. Rippling with what felt like years of stored love, Tyler’s soft gaze showered him with everything he couldn’t say out loud. Verbal affirmations of every feeling, honest opinion, and future expression poured silently out of Tyler’s eyes like the thunderous downpour of a summer’s storm. Everything Tyler wanted to share with Keegan swam within these eyes, eyes that only wanted to look at him. The most beautiful eyes in the world~ Letting the silent feeling of Tyler’s affection wash over him as the blue orbs searched through his own gaze, the pink that touched Keegan’s cheeks brought his hands to cup Tyler’s face. Lured in by the magnetizing beauty of his partner’s ethereal vision, Keegan’s soft lips pressed tenderly against Touya’s. Lingering against the plush warmth of Tyler’s lips, Keegan poured every responding affection back into his partner’s body. Reassuring him of everything Tyler silently shared with him, the retraction of his lips left Touya shivering with that undeniable cold. 

"I love you." Breathing out the confession, the accelerated beat of his heart nearly drowned out the three words, but Touya still caught them and held them selfishly against his own heart beat. 

"I love you too." Pressing his lips tenderly against the open skin of Keegan’s forehead, Touya made the unfortunate move to separate. “Text me when you get home, okay?" 

"I will~" Slipping his shoes quickly over his feet, Keegan slipped out of the apartment with a departing wave. Following the walk back home, Keegan promptly informed Tyler of his safe arrival. Taking care of the requested chores left by his guardian, when all was said and done, Keegan retired to the comfort of his bed. Wrapping himself under the comforting warmth of his blankets, the spine of the novel cracked open.

Blinded by the rush of white light enveloping his figure, the curving squint of his eyes temporarily hid away the forming narrative surrounding him. Settling against the casual drift of Keegan’s eyes, the intense white light died out to reveal the warm interior of a stone cabin. Adjusting the strained vision, gold orbs curiously took in the setting written across the page. Stone walls stood proudly around him, protecting the interior with its reinforced strength. Creaking beneath him, wooden planks cried in protest to Keegan’s shifting weight. Burning in the nearby hearth, a dancing flame offered its warmth and illumination to the residing inhabitants. Baring the surface of the stone, the walls carried no decorative features and only selected furniture occupied the space. 

Seated just shy of the warming flame in one of the few wooden chairs was a woman. Her hair, silken and white, cascaded messily around her shoulders while her grey eyes fell softly upon the bundle in her arms. Made invisible by the blue fabric she carefully wrapped around him, the infant in her arms only became distinguished to Keegan by the sound of his cries. Moving to peer past the plush barrier, Keegan’s curious advancement was silenced by the light grip clutching immediately upon his wrist. Turning to face the halting feeling, Keegan’s heart stuttered. 

Facing the familiar figure of his lover, only a few minor details set this man apart from Tyler. Diffusing like a drop of blood in the ocean, a deep crimson hue spread hungrily where the crystal blue irises should have been. Sparkling in similarity to Tyler’s sapphire eyes, these blood soaked gems glistened like expensive rubies. Keegan could only stare in awe at the alluring sight. Captivated by the flecks of maroon, scarlet, and even the rare stroke of white, the silent caress from the bloody visual reminded Keegan of a red rose sparkling with the fresh dew of the morning. Framing the rouge hue was an avalanche of white locks. Cascading down the left side of the man’s face in the same manner as Tyler’s, the locks differed in length around his head. Long in the front, the spiked and flowing locks shortened drastically at the sides and back of his head while maintaining the light feathered appearance throughout. Resting with poise among the spiked locks was a black crown. Plain in appearance, the circular shape of the crown had distinct points curving the circumference. Lacking any filigree or jewels of any kind, the formed metal appeared cheap in comparison to the symbolic representation of the man’s authority. Dressed in a long black coat, the light fabric of the coattails swayed with the retraction of his hand from Keegan’s wrist. Following the movement of the retreating arm, Keegan’s wandering gaze ate the rest of his ensemble. Pressed and fit snugly against his chest, a white shirt contrasted the pair of black trousers that wrapped his legs. Leather boots roamed up the man’s legs and rested midway up his shins, reflecting the alternative style Tyler was known to adorn, but drastically out of style for the author. 

"Ty-" Starting to whisper the name of the man in question, the symbolic raising of his pale index finger against his lips stole Keegan’s voice. Pressing the delicate porcelain limb against the soft pink hue of his lips, the curving smirk forming behind his silencing finger sent a coursing ripple of attraction surging across Keegan’s form. Remaining still, the figure lowered his hand from his mouth. Smiling softly at Keegan’s stunned form, the luring curl of the man’s index finger brought the human hypnotically closer to his imaginary form. Now standing mere inches from the crimson eyed doppelgänger, Keegan felt his heart stutter loudly with desire. 

Bewitched by the alluring aura of the man, every nerve tangled beneath his skin screamed for him to close the gap. Uncertain with the striking urge, Keegan remained still. Swallowing nervously, shaking lips parted to speak. Closing the parted gap, the movement of the figment’s body brought an acceleration to drive Keegan’s heartbeat. Saying nothing, the crimson eyed man stalked menacingly behind Keegan’s frozen form. Afraid of what the man was to do, every sense stiffened within Keegan’s body when the light weight of pale arms slinked casually around his neck. Resting almost lovingly around his frame, the warmth of the man’s breath against his ear sent a chilling ripple coursing over Keegan’s body. Tensing every muscle upon feeling the warm pressure of the man’s body against his back, the sultry tones dripping from his mouth seized Keegan entirely beneath its deep, sensual, rasp. 

"Welcome home, Hummingbird~ Allow me to show you around~" Falling completely against the smooth rasp of the fluent tones of his voice, Keegan found himself lost in the flow of the narrative. Following the guiding hand of the figment, the written story bled smoothly before Keegan’s eyes. 

Turning page after page of the novel, Keegan found himself falling deeper into Tyler’s narrative. Intrigued by the mysterious allure of Touya Todoroki, the further he read, the deeper his heart ached for the vampire. Praying that each turn of the page would offer the vampire king any sense of relief for the heart wrenching trauma aching over his heart, Keegan refused to put the book down. Invested in the violent dialogue surrounding Touya, the mesmerizing façade came crashing down around Keegan the deeper he fell into the narrative. Reaching the introduction of the mortal king, gold orbs strayed from the written pages before him. 

"Kai Chisaki…" Breathing the name out, a tight curve of his eyes pointed the question of his gaze silently across the room. "Why does that name sound familiar…?" Drifting back towards the fictional story, questioning orbs glazed over the written description of the brunette doctor. Processing the character’s descriptive appearance, a spark of familiarity ignited within Keegan’s mind. Trying to illuminate memories buried deeply in the recesses of his mind, the fizzling flame failed to resurface the recollection in any meaningful way. 

"Hmm, maybe I’m overthinking…" Continuing to drift over the words, gold orbs slowly eased their vision back into the narrative. Finding Touya waiting patiently for him within the written maze of the novel, the blond easily accepted the vampire’s hand. Following the figment’s lead across the flowing words, Keegan found himself relaxing a second time against the vampire’s comforting guidance. Following Touya blindly into a new chapter, what laid beyond the metaphorical door struck Keegan with the blunt force of surprise. 

"You’re also showing early signs of leukemia…"

Pulled abruptly from the fictional narrative, an invisible weight pressing against Keegan’s chest forced the book closed. Dropping the printed words into the plush hold of the mattress below, desperate gasps for air filled the silence of the room. 

"What…is this…?" Shakily, his hand gripped at his chest. Clutching the phantom weight spreading across his lungs, trembling gold orbs frantically searched the room for an answer. "What is this feeling…? This pain…" Beating with the ferocity of a thunderstorm, the anxious acceleration of Keegan’s heart brought hot tears to well in his eyes. 

"Why does it feel like I’ve…experienced this before…?" Sliding beneath the security of his blankets, Keegan’s body folded in response to the quaking tremors rippling across his nerves. Striking a match in the deep recesses of his memories, the flickering illumination chased away the fog thickening around Keegan’s memories. Revealing old fragments of recollected experiences, the images flashed across Keegan’s mind. Dusty and covered in cobwebs, the details of each image were lost, but what he couldn’t see, he felt deeply within his heart. Feelings of comfort, fear, and unfortunately pain, flooded the consistent flow surging through his veins. 

"Please…not again…" Overwhelmed by the indescribable sensation of a buried consciousness taking control of the flurrying senses, Keegan could only whimper in protest. Hugging his knees tightly against his chest, deep breaths attempted to ease the phantom weight pressing against his lungs. "I don’t want to…experience that again…" 

Letting the novel sit for the prolonged periods of time between each session, Keegan took longer to read the story than he wanted to admit. Balancing his time between work, being with Tyler, and actually sitting down to read, the ending of the novel found Keegan after about a month of procrastination. Truthfully, every time his vision graced the written words, something churned within his stomach. 

Overwhelmed by a lingering sense of Deja vu, the further he explored the supposed fictional story, the more the written narrative haunted his mind. Arousing a deep seated feeling of familiarity, the unbridled sensation that this story was written for him lingered dangerously in his mind. Fighting internally over the implications of the written story, uncertainty involving the composed narrative whirled relentlessly across Keegan’s mind. Weighing the symbolism behind the narrative, Keegan struggled to find any clear answer regarding the suspicious sense of recollection washing over him. 

Asking Tyler what inspired him to write the story was out of the question purely because of the embarrassment surrounding Keegan’s explanation. He’d already surprised Tyler with enough randomly uttered statements of odd recollections, he didn’t need to accuse the man of stalking him on top of everything else. 

"Hold on…" Flipping through the pages of the novel, Keegan lent a brief amount of time to revisit specific parts of the book. Reminding himself of four specific events laid out in the novel, he followed the written path with a clear intention to find the truth. Stepping metaphorically on the scene of Keigo and Touya’s first date, the echoing sounds of the street festival filled the air. Reminded of the obvious similarities between what was written in the novel and what he experienced with Tyler at the fair, one specific moment stood out in Keegan’s mind.

Keigo’s arms wrapped tenderly around Touya’s unexpecting form. Tensing only momentarily, Touya was hesitant to reciprocate the intimacy. However, sensing unwanted fear plucking at the stuttering oscillations of Keigo’s heartbeat, Touya let his arms wrap protectively around Keigo’s form. Surrendering himself completely to the comforting hold bestowed upon him, Keigo let his eyes flutter closed.  

"Please don’t leave me alone again." Said barely above a whisper, the words pierced Touya’s ear with the volume of a scream. While not feeling the sting of the words, it was the delivery that stirred the guilt. Clearly upset with Touya’s need to leave, Keigo’s voice had never shook so intensely before. Thinking the king might cry, one of Touya’s hands moved to pet the soft blond locks adorning the king’s head. Leaving behind comforting, tender strokes, the vampire only ceased his movement when the accelerated vibrations of the king’s heart simmered. Resting the gloved limb gently against Keigo’s head, Touya purposely held the human’s head against his chest. Easing the king’s fear with the rhythmic beating of his heart, Touya left the man with a promise that only he could be capable of fulfilling.

"As long as my heart continues to beat, you’ll never be alone." 

Recalling the fearful way he rushed into Tyler’s arms after riding one of the amusement park rides, the scene felt accurate to his reaction. Certain he’d pleaded for Tyler’s security in the same manner as Keigo, the only difference between reality and fiction were Tyler’s words of encouragement. 

"I’ll always smile as long as I’m with you, regardless of what we’re doing~ You don’t have to do something that scares you just because you think it’ll make me happy because I’m already happy just being here with you~” 

Aware of the obvious mortality that Tyler carried in comparison to Touya, offering Keegan the same promise would be unlikely. However, the way Tyler had shooed away Keegan’s fear felt very similar to Touya’s methods. Their mannerisms and sultry hypnotic expression were growing concerningly comparable as Keegan flipped ahead in the book. Stopping at the next instance that felt too real, recollections of the night at the gallery flashed across his mind. 

"I bought it because it reminded me of you. I was drawn to the beautiful blue tones portrayed in the painting because they reminded me of the ethereal beauty of your eyes…the prettiest eyes in the world~" Feeling the bloodlust stirring in his heart, Touya caught his breath in his throat. 

"I’m aware that the flower depicted is actually a weed, a thistle to be exact. Kai taught me all about them when I was little. I always thought that despite the sharp appearance of a thistle, it birthed one of the prettiest, unique, flowers to flourish in the castle garden…but that’s besides the point. I remembered you telling me about the adversity you’d overcome to get to Fehrin…how shut off you appeared to become after losing your family. Not to mention, how your father forced you to have such a prickly exterior in order to fill his shoes. I couldn’t help but compare you to this image. Protecting yourself from harm, you rely on the sharpness of your tongue, the hard exterior you present yourself with to keep from experiencing the same pain as before. Appearing harmful, even deadly at times, you truly don’t intend to hurt anyone, that’s just how you were made. However, once you let people see past your threatening exterior. They get to experience the real you. Sweet, honest, and breathtaking, a rare blue flower rests behind your protective leaves. A true testament to the thriving beauty lurking underneath~"

Poetically typed, Keegan’s explanation of the photograph was staring him dead in the face. Altered to fit the narrative of the time period, the minor differences could be overlooked, but what disturbed his heartbeat the most was how much of his speech Tyler remembered. Practically taken from his mouth, even Touya’s reaction was accurate to how quickly Tyler fled. Obviously not experiencing the same blood lust as Touya, Tyler’s hasty retreat that evening was only symbolic in relation to the internal struggle Touya was fighting. Changing the very real abscond he initiated to flee from his feelings to fit the vampiric narrative, the similarities were becoming too real for Keegan’s liking. Flipping ahead a few more pages, the next scene laid open ready for Keegan’s assessment. 

"I think you’re stunningly attractive, Keigo." Ignoring the fact that Touya had willingly used his first name without authority, Keigo pushed himself away from Touya to meet the brazen man’s gaze. 

"You’re only saying that because I’m your king and you’re trying to avoid a punishment for disobeying my orders." Shaking away the accusation with the subtle movement of his head, bright blue eyes struck Keigo with overwhelming honesty before the words could leave Touya’s lips. 

"No, I’m not. Being transparent, your status means nothing to me." Admitted in part to the fact that he was Keigo’s equal, the statement was true. King or not, Touya would fall for Keigo simply because of who he was, not because he held the same, or more, authority as he did. "During my time working here, I’ve learned the real you. I’ve seen how you are with people and I’ve truly relished our time together." Moving disheveled locks of blond hair out of Keigo’s eyes, Touya couldn’t help but smile as his soft hands held Keigo’s face. Naked and vulnerable, the golden pools shown with brilliance. Falling deeper in love, the warmth of Keigo’s gaze brought the undeniable hue to touch Touya’s cheeks. Wrapping himself purposely under the loving gaze, the way Touya’s eyes glistened in return was proof of his honesty. 

"Keigo, I might be out of place for saying this, but I’ve fallen in love with you." It was subtle, but the king’s pupils dilated. "From the moment I saw you dancing so beautifully at the festival, how completely natural and happy you looked at that moment, I knew you were the one." Taking a moment to observe the quickened vibrations stemming from the king, the accelerated rate fell into resonance with his own. Matching the rhythm of Keigo’s heartbeat, the melody produced by the pair of dancing waves was loud, passionate, and pleading for acceptance from the other. Leaving a gentle stroke against Keigo’s cheeks, Touya retracted his hands. Bringing the limbs to rest upon his chest, Touya’s gaze, like the fleeting touch of his hands, departed from Keigo. 

"I will understand if you don’t see me the same way considering you are a king and I’m-"

"The person I’ve fallen in love with." 

Differing the circumstances slightly, this one wasn’t as obvious for Keegan to pinpoint. However, holding the distinct way Tyler had affectionately complimented him based solely off of a singular photograph the night they shared their first kiss, the way Touya confessed to Keigo wasn’t too far off. Sharing the same rambling description of their feelings, even the quick way that each pair had expressed themselves physically for the first time was relatable. While the roles had been reversed between fiction and reality, each setting described the same surprising capture of the other male’s lips. After refreshing his mind of the written novel, the pointed glare of Keegan’s eyes questioned the words before him. 

"He even captured the exact feeling that we shared when we first kissed…like he can feel every intimate detail of our physical expression…" Knowing that Tyler was just as much a part of the exchange as he was, the detail wasn’t as prominent as the other’s, but Keegan wasn’t completely dropping the idea that Tyler had masterminded their entire meeting. Flipping to one final section of the book, the most intriguing entry of all sat before him. 

"What…is this…?" Fully aware of himself, cerulean eyes quickly washed over his surroundings. Finding the king seated cross legged upon a blue fabric blanket under the tangled branches of a weeping willow, Touya quickly understood the scene. Noting the basket next to Keigo and the obvious romantic setting surrounding him, every lingering apprehension rose with the flight of the glowing fireflies. 

"I wanted to do something to show you how much you mean to me, my love~" Thrumming loudly over the use of the possessive pet name, Touya bit back the instincts clawing to emerge. "Come, join me~" Patting the empty space next to him, Touya obediently found himself on the blanket. Unable to ignore the thunderous pounding of his heart, Touya watched in silent awe as Keigo unpacked the contents of the basket. 

"Thank you for accepting my request, darling~" Sinking the tips of his throbbing fangs into the sore tissue of his inner lip, Touya silently regretted taking the seat. If Keigo kept showering him with these rose coloured names, he’d lose all sense of restraint. 

"It’s been a while since we had a proper date, so I thought sharing a midnight snack under the stars would be delightful, don’t you agree?" 

Smacking Keegan with the unbridled strength of realization, the aching sting from the rush of emotion pained his heart with its aggressive touch. Stuttering beneath the learned awareness of Tyler’s inspiration, each beat of his heart pumped an aching feeling of fear through his veins. 

"It is about me…" Shaking violently with comprehension, the dots connected easily in his mind. The festival, painting, picnic, their first kiss, even the love making, Tyler had written it all down. Even the symbolic silver ring that Touya received from Keigo had been true to life, hell Tyler wore it like a trophy. Which led Keegan to question the authenticity of Tyler’s explanation behind how he received the item. How many other things had he lied about? Most concerning of all however, was the odd details Tyler had acutely been aware of regarding his upbringing. Never once sharing what had transpired involving his parents with the author, Keegan pulled the only logical explanation from the rushing flood of fear coursing over his body. 

"Oh my God…" Seeking support from the bed frame behind him, Keegan’s back slunk heavily against the hard frame. "He stalked me…" Grasping at the red herrings swimming before his eyes, each assumed statement pointed him unfairly in the wrong direction. "He knew I worked at the café, that’s how he made note of my appearance…he purposely came in the day I was working alone because he knew that he’d get to talk to me…" Feeling the fear increasing with every false conclusion being uttered from his lips, Keegan’s legs bent nervously to meet his chest. 

"Everything Tyler did with me…he documented in this book…as his very own sick fantasy…that’s why he only published one copy…he wanted to keep all the intimate details of my life and body to himself…" Hugging his knees tightly against the anxious beating of his heart, the built fear rushed to leave his nerves. "I thought I could trust him…I thought he loved me…what am I supposed to do about this..." Hot with the aching realization that everything he’d experienced over the last seven months had been fabricated, tears slid relentlessly down his cheeks. 

"I thought he was the one…" Burying the heart wrenching expression of betrayal against the bend of his knees, tears dampened the surface of Keegan’s pants. "How could he do this to me? Why would Tyler want to hurt me like this? Why…after everything he did, why had he willingly given me this book knowing what was inside…? Did he think I wouldn’t figure it out?!" Filling the dead air around him with the whimpering heartbreak singing from his lungs, the pleading sounds sought answers of their own. 

"Why don’t you ask him?" Smooth and melodic like the sound of a song, an unfamiliar tone challenged the sadness in the air with the delighted expression of his voice. Perking his tear stained expression upwards, curious gold orbs wandered around the room in search of the source of the voice. 

"Huh? Who said that?" Thinking the question out loud, eyebrows quirked into a questioning curve. Surfing over the empty space of his room, nothing occupying the same space could offer an answer to the quiet question Keegan uttered. 'Hearing things…' Mentally deciding he was overwhelming himself during his mental state of vulnerability, hearing the sweet chord vibrate over his mind a second time sent every muscle into a tensing action. 

"Ask Tyler about the book~ You know he would never lie to you~" Feeling an unconscious lightness easing over his shoulders, the invisible touch of an angel rested gently against the shaken nerves. Leaning next to Keegan’s ear, soft melodic tones vibrated tenderly against his auditory sense. Soothing the anxiety rippling over his nerves, the sweet voice enveloped his form like a hopeful source of light in the darkest of nights. 

"You may not see it right away, but everything Tyler’s done has been for you~ You’re the most precious thing in his life, he’d never hurt you like you think~ Text him, ask him about the book~ He’ll explain everything to you~ Trust me, everything will be okay~" Feeling the warmth of the light leading down his arm, the invisible touch left a tingling sensation rippling against each nerve. Lifting the weight of apprehensions from the taught muscles, the warming rays of reassurance glowing across his skin led Keegan to extend his legs over the surface of the bed. 

"What do I do if you’re wrong?" Speaking the question out loud, fully expecting the voice to respond, only the flutter in his heartbeat was left behind as reassurance. Skipping with the silent consolation that Keegan’s trust in his feelings would catch him if he stumbled, the blond lifted his phone from the bed. Shakily, the sloppy movement of his thumb sent a text to the man in question. 

Hey Ty, I’m…having a bad day…can I come over?

Gaining immediate acceptance from the other side of the phone, Keegan gathered up his things, including the questionable novel, and made his way into the lion’s den. Arriving shortly after sending the text, Tyler’s wide grin greeted him at the door. Welcoming the blond excitedly into his apartment with a smiling expression that Keegan argued bordered on deranged, the giddy energy swirling off of the usually collected man plucked at the uncertainties still buried beneath Keegan’s skin. 

"Well hello my love~ I’m sorry to hear that you’re having a bad day, but I’m prepared to make it better any way that I can~" Trying to hide the hesitancy with a shaking smile, the odd way Keegan’s heart was strumming became very apparent to Tyler. 

"Thanks Ty… I appreciate it." Latching the door closed lightly following Keegan’s entrance into the apartment, Touya’s calculating gaze sharpened into a curious glare. 

"What happened? Why are you feeling this way?" Uncertain what could have caused the fluctuation in the sunny demeanor of the blond, Touya could only hope that it had nothing to do with him. 

"I’m…unsure…can we have some tea and talk?" Reading the misstep running the beautiful symphony playing from Keegan’s heart, the pace in which Touya’s heart fell to the floor below could’ve caused a crater against the pristine flooring. Metaphorically picking up the sinking organ, Touya followed the departing rays of sunshine into the kitchen with a calming breath. 

"Of course~ Anything to eat?" Shaking his head, the thud of the novel landing against the table struck Touya’s already vibrating nerves with an unwelcome jolt of surprise.

"You read it~ What did you think?!" Trying to keep up his impression that nothing was wrong with them, Touya’s capable hands prepared two cups of tea. 

"It was good…definitely different from your other stories…wildly different." Hating how loudly Keegan’s uncertainties were plucking against his auditory sense, Touya inadvertently bit his lip. If something was in fact wrong with their relationship, would he be able to handle the repercussions? Could he willingly let Keegan go after three hundred years of searching? Or, would he hinge on stacking the deck against the human. After all, manipulation and taking what he wanted was in his nature~ Letting the violet hue overtake his irises simply as a physical reminder of the safety net he could rely on, Touya hid the kingly hue with a smirk. Lifting the cups of tea from the counter, he strode to the table with a genuine smile printed over his lips. 

"Well, I’m glad you liked it despite its differences~" Leaving the double entendre with Keegan while placing the ceramic cup gently against the table, Touya took the seat across from the blond. Sitting back and letting Keegan take the reins, he’d wait until he saw what cards Keegan was holding in his hand before he played his own trump card. 

"Thank you for the tea." Slapping away Touya’s previous attempts to lighten the mood, the precarious shift in Keegan’s personality brought Touya’s teeth to the soft tissue of his cheek. Chewing nervously against the interior of his cheek, he remained outwardly silent while flurrying thoughts of insecurities stormed relentlessly around his mind.

Taking Tyler’s silence as an invitation to gather his thoughts, Keegan brought the steaming cup to his lips. Sipping carefully at the hot beverage, the intent analysis of Tyler began. Sweeping over the familiar appearance of his other half, the uncanny similarities between Tyler and Touya became clear like the settling surface of a pond. Maintaining the argument that the only difference between the two men were the sharpened set of teeth, red and violet irises, and the fact that Tyler had piercings in his face and ears, the similarities were too loud to ignore. Tightening within his chest, the knot that formed following his realization regarding the narrative, physically hurt. Gripping at his chest like an unwavering threat, the sinking feeling instilled upon him left him nauseous from being in the same room as Tyler. He couldn’t fathom what would transpire after the accusation was made, and ultimately, he hated how quickly he folded to the golden voice from earlier. Feeling betrayed, scared, and mostly confused over the whole ordeal, the churning sensation only worsened as he parted his lips to seek out an answer. 

"Who is Keigo?" Asking the only question that seemed to matter most to Keegan, the identity of the fictional character needed to be confirmed. Whether or not Keigo’s similarities to him were a coincidence or not fell onto Tyler’s hands now. 

"Keigo?" Wrapping his hands casually around the exuding warmth of the cup, Touya kept his voice as steady as possible. Hearing the importance of his answer on Keegan’s voice, what happened with their relationship hinged on how well he could sell his honesty. "He’s the character in my book, why?" Disappointed with Tyler’s answer, Keegan shook his head. Setting the cup down, the pointed glare of Keegan’s eyes prodded for a further explanation. 

"No, you’re hiding something from me, I can feel it. He’s not just a character in your book, is he?" Under better circumstances, Touya would have been elated to answer Keegan’s questions. Filling Keegan’s ears with every intimate detail of who Keigo was and how Keigo saved him would have come easily for Touya, however, feeling the grit in Keegan’s voice rubbing mercilessly against his skin, the friction of his tone left an unpleasant rash of uncertainty. Hitching in his throat, Touya couldn’t find his breath to argue for the latter as Keegan’s argumentative tone split through the air. 

"Did you base him off of me?!" Caught beneath the accusations flooding from the blond’s mouth, the weight of Keegan’s anger easily overpowered Touya’s weakness towards the human figure. 

"Well…uh, I-" Swept away by the impatient stream of irritation flowing from the mortal, the vibrating strike of Keegan’s hand against the table seized any opportunity for Touya to try and collect an explanation. 

"I feel like it’s a yes or no answer, Tyler. Just answer me honestly, did you or did you not stalk me to write this book?!" Throughout all of their interactions, Touya could only recall one other instance when Keigo looked at him in such a disheartening way. 

"Touya, you mean the entire world to me, but somehow I get this feeling that you don’t feel the same way about me…please tell me I’m wrong."

While the expression on Keegan’s face was coated in anger and most importantly confusion, the dejected wavelengths oscillating from his heartbeat touched him the same way Keigo’s expression had that night. Somehow, after three hundred years, he’d managed to corner himself in the same predicament, but unlike with Keigo, Keegan was one inconvenience away from releasing his anger over Touya. Remaining calm, Touya lifted his hands from his cup with a heavy sigh.

"No, I did not stalk you. I did not base Keigo off of you, and I did not document our intimacy for the public’s eye." Sensing that the breach in privacy was a main factor for the outward anger scrawled across Keegan’s face, the small way his facial muscles relaxed after receiving the honest confirmation, began to settle Touya’s own insecurities. 

"If you didn’t base him off of me, how is his appearance and experiences so similar to mine?!" Picking up the torch where the book dropped it off, Touya accepted the burden of telling Keegan the truth with another heavy sigh. 

“The easiest way I can explain the situation is that Keigo is not based on you, you are based off of Keigo." Earning a questioning quirk of his eyebrow in response, Keegan leaned against the back of the chair while his arms folded skeptically over his chest. 

"What?! How does that work? He’s a fictional character and I’m a real person. I think you have it backwards." 

"No, I’m honestly not trying to fabricate an excuse for you Keegan. Keigo is a real person…well, was…" Bringing his hand to his forehead with another deep sigh, Touya swallowed the knot in his throat. Biting the bullet, his hand lowered to rest casually back against the surface of the table. "I knew him personally many years ago because you see this story…" Lifting the book from the table as if the physical object itself would offer him the strength he needed to follow through, Touya held the novel up on aid with his honesty. "This story is a memoir of my life." Glancing between Tyler and the book, Keegan’s brow curved in question. 

"A memoir…?" Searching between the invisible lines separating Tyler and the narrative, Keegan couldn’t find anything currently pointing at the author that said otherwise. Not only did Touya and Tyler share an uncanny physical appearance, but Tyler was prone to diverting himself in the same harmful ways Touya was. On top of that, Tyler strayed from the sun like…it could kill him…

"Hold on…" Connecting the pieces of the puzzle while Tyler gently set the book down, golden eyes squinted at the form across from him in disbelief. "Are you?" Watching Tyler’s lips twitch into an awkward curve that pointed Keegan towards the truth, the blond quickly shook the asinine idea away. "Okay~ You almost had me~ Jokes over Tyler, quit messing around~" Laughing uncomfortably, Keegan’s pleading tones couldn’t chip away the solemn honesty carved across Tyler’s face. No matter how desperately he wished for this interaction to return to any sense of normalcy, the genuine weight of Tyler’s eyes couldn’t alter the outcome to appease the anxiety buzzing across Keegan’s nerves. 

"If you stalked me, just admit it…it’ll make this situation a lot easier for me to deal with. Hell, I’ll even let it go and give you a second chance, just…please, stop trying to convince me of something that isn’t true…" Trembling under the pressure of his anxiety, the rate at which the shaken nerves vibrated against Touya’s ear brought his eyebrows to kiss in concern. 

"Keegan, I swear to you that I didn’t stalk you." Trying to keep his voice as even as possible, even the lulling tones rumbling from his throat couldn’t ease the fear trembling off of the mortal. "Everything in the book is real. Yes, I’ll admit, I did try to recreate a few events with you, like our dates, but I didn’t mean any harm from it. I love you, Keegan, and everything I did was to try and unlock your memories. That’s why I gave you the book because I hoped it would-"

"Wait a second." Leaning forwards in suspicion, the skeptical way Keegan’s gaze washed over him pulled Touya further from his goal. "Memories? Of what exactly?" Sensing no end to the monotonous back and forth, Touya tried to ignite Keegan’s memories with one final movement. Scratching casually at his collarbone, painted black nails hooked easily around the gold chain of the necklace. Fishing the binding hoop from beneath the obstructing fabric, the glinting silver ring dropped casually against Touya’s chest. Dangling beneath the artificial illumination above, the shining sliver flashed over Keegan’s eyes with the lowering of Touya’s hand back to the table. 

"Memories of your time with me three hundred years ago." Stating the remaining explanation he had left in his hand, the confusion only deepened on Keegan’s face. Blinking in silent awe at Tyler, the rippling sensation of confusion washed over his body. Unsure with how to proceed, Keegan didn’t know how to comprehend the answers offered by Tyler. Obviously, there was no truth behind anything Tyler was saying, and even if there was, there was no way he could prove his honesty. Vampires aren’t real and Keegan had never loved one in the past. However, despite how evident Tyler’s dishonesty was, part of Keegan believed every word. Maybe it was the lull of Tyler’s voice that sweetly reassured him, or it was the undeniable fact that Tyler had never lied to him. Whatever it was that was plucking at Keegan’s heartstrings, had left him swimming in a whirlpool of uncertainty. Anxious with his inability to grasp at any semblance of truth, Keegan’s jaw dropped in awe. 

"Tyler…surely you aren’t trying to imply that…" 

"Yes." Running his fingers casually though the avalanche of white, silken locks, azure eyes flashed with honesty. "My real name is Touya Todoroki and I am five hundred and sixty three years old." Slowly unfolding his arms, shaking hands moved to grab the edge of the table. 

"So…you’re a…?" Playing with the idea of pushing the table aggressively against Tyler and making a direct dash for the door, the anxious tapping of Keegan’s fingertips resonated with the accelerated beating of the mortal’s heart. Impatient for Tyler’s answer, the incessant tap of Keegan’s foot against the floor brought Touya’s eyes to slowly close. Sighing heavily with the acceptance that the only way he could salvage Keegan’s feelings was to show him the truth, Touya swallowed the knot in his throat. 

"I had hoped the circumstances revolving around this would have been different…but it seems I have no other choice." Sensing the fear rising in Keegan’s chest, the steady raise of his eyelids graced the mortal with his crimson sight. "I am Touya Todoroki, the ruling king of the vampire kind. Everything I’ve said, including everything in the book, is accurate and true. Including the depiction of myself, I am as I’m written: A monster." 

Sparking with jolts of shocking surprise, every nerve within Keegan’s body twitched in seizure to the revelation. Beating loudly like the hum of a drum, the screaming symphony of his heartbeat urged him to run. Staring into the blood soaked eyes of a cannibal, Keegan’s flight response became overwhelmed with the magnetizing desire to seek immediate safety. Tensing his death grip against the edge of the table, the screaming urge of his muscles to react had never resonated so intensely. Desperate to shake the chilling stare of the predator locked onto his tantalizing shape, Keegan’s body trembled with the urge to scream to help. However, with every sounding alarm alerting his senses to respond, Keegan couldn’t move. Frozen in place, the heaviness of his body quickly became encased in an invisible glowing sensation. 

"It’s okay~ Relax~" Enveloping the vibrating fear aroused from Touya’s secret, the angelic caress simmered the growing fear plaguing Keegan’s body. "Touya won’t hurt you~ Trust me~ He’d sooner starve than harm you in any way~" Pushing against the reassuring tone, the unbridled anxiety swirling within Keegan’s mind attempted to swallow the comforting sensation beneath the weight of its force. 

"Keegan, I’m incredibly sorry for deceiving you for so long. I wanted to tell you who I was from the very moment I met you, but I didn’t know how and I couldn’t risk scaring you away. I’ve been searching for my long lost lover for so long, that when I stumbled across you at the café, I had to keep my true self hidden in order to give you the partner you always desired. I know, it’s stupid and wrong of me to manipulate your feelings in such a way, but…Keegan, I couldn’t go another minute without having someone so similar to Keigo in my life. I hope you believe me when I say that I truly do love you and I would never do anything to endanger your life or anyone around you…"

Losing the auditory lull of Touya’s voice to the drowning rhythm flowing from his heart, the world around him deafened. Blinking dully at Touya’s expressive actions to help explain his situation, not even the ethereal shine glowing in his ruby irises could bring him back. 

Caught in an internal argument between his fear and a secondary force, Keegan couldn’t fully comprehend anything happening around him. Finding the only logical solution in remaining still, Keegan unconsciously sat directly in the center of the argument. Pulling his knees tightly against this chest, shaking hands raised to silence the echoing whispers. Clamped tightly over his ears, Keegan’s hands failed to snuff out the incessant voices while he buried his face against the bend of his knee. 

"Why are we questioning this?! He’s a fucking vampire! Not to mention an otherworldly king, if Touya isn’t using us for sustenance, he’d likely keep us around as some kind of mortal pet." 

"Touya hardly considers his status relevant. He would never degrade you in such a way."

"Use your head Keegan! This guy tricked us into offering him everything! Get up and run. Don’t look back!" 

"Wait! Stay here! Touya never tricked you over anything. He did everything in his power to make you happy, can’t you see that?"

"He lied about who he was, that’s a pretty hefty thing to fake! Imagine what else he’s lied about!" 

"Touya is the most honest person we know! Remember when we first met, he told you his real age! It was our own mistrust that led us to take his honesty as a joke!" 

"Do you hear yourself?! How can you sit there and argue for this monster?!"

"A monster? Need I remind you that the monster you accuse Touya to be, hasn’t laid a single finger or fang on a human in over three centuries? He’s the safest member of the vampiric race for us to be around!"

"Take off those stupid rose coloured glasses. Look at him without the emotional arousal obstructing your vision, then you’ll see him for who he really is." 

"Oh yeah, and who exactly would that be? I don’t see Touya being any different than-"

"The person who I love unconditionally." Differing from the two arguing tones, the angelic sound interrupted the raging whirlwind with a gentle caress of its words. Raising his head, Keegan slowly lowered his hands from his ears. Glowing before him, the pure gold light of a star twinkled before him. Staring in awe, the glowing light lowered its twinkling form closer to the floor. Hovering mere inches above the ground, the light erupted into an illuminated explosion. Blinded by the pure intensity, Keegan clenched his eyes shut while the light morphed into a physical manifestation. Taking on a reflective appearance of the huddled form before him, the angelic light died out to reveal a mirror image of the mortal blond. 

"Do you feel it?" Luring his attention back to the majestic form, Keegan slowly raised his eyelids to gaze upon the divine figure. Stricken by his own expression softly smiling back at him, Keegan’s jaw dropped in awe. "Can you understand your feelings now that you know who he is?"

"He? Do you mean Tyler?" Nodding, the chuckle vibrating from the beings throat sounded vaguely hypnotic. 

"Yes, Touya Todoroki, our one true love~ Can you remember anything about yourself or your feelings for him at all?" Glancing around the emptiness surrounding them, Keegan awkwardly sought for an answer to deliver upon the divine reflection. 

"I’m unsure where to look…" Hearing the sweet melody of the angelic chuckle grace his ears, the mortal look alike moved closer to Keegan’s huddled form. 

"Dearest Keegan~" Reaching for Keegan’s figure, the smile shining across his doppelgänger's face eased Keegan’s legs away from his chest. "They’ve been here all along~" Unconsciously offering the angel access to his chest, the serene light inched closer to the mortal’s heart. "Allow me to offer you the key to the answers you seek~" Touching the flesh barrier between the glowing appendage and the beating rhythm beneath, the angelic reflection of himself left one final smile to brighten the room before the warmth of his light seeped into the soft tissue of his chest. Hitching in his throat the flow of oxygen stilled momentarily as the timed skip of his heart beat brought a welling heat to fill his eyes. Expecting the merging warmth to ache, the sensation that tingled across his body felt tender in consolation. 

Streaming down his face, hot trails of emotional discovery glistened against the tan skin. Drowning out the incessant arguing within his soul, the thunderous boom of his heart told him that which he couldn’t understand. Indirectly handing him the key to his happiness, the rhythmic sounds lifted the lingering apprehensions present against Keegan’s nerves. Snuffing out the irritating buzz of static affecting his cognizant thought, the metaphorical twist of the key released the sensational feelings he’d been struggling to grasp. Flooding his senses with the renewing recollection, Keegan’s heart stuttered with the memorable association of the man across from him. Clearing away the fog obstructing the stored images residing in the dark recesses of his mind, the past brightened before him like the sweeping light of the morning. Seeing everything from the past sitting idly in waiting, Keegan finally understood the feeling coursing over his skin. He remembered everything about himself, who he was, what happened to him, but most importantly, he remembered Touya. 

"Touya~ My everlasting snowflake~ I finally found you~" 

Strolling down his cheeks with a consistency he longed to quench, the silent cry of his tears screamed for Touya’s attention. Dripping against the ground below, every cascading drop of his tears flooded his senses with the overwhelming amount of stored emotions. Overpowered by the pent up feelings, Keegan’s body adjusted to compensate for the wealth of stress acting upon his form. 

"Keegan?" Blinking at the silent, unmoving figure seated across from him, the concern washing from Touya’s crimson eyes showered over Keegan’s body. "Are you okay?" Reading the odd shift in the consistent wavelengths oscillating from the mortal, Touya was on his feet well before the sudden drop in Keegan’s heartbeat touched his senses. 

Rolling backwards, the golden irises became consumed by the unconscious whites of the mortal’s eyes. Closing shortly after, the sealing of Keegan’s eyelids forced Touya’s heart to sink with despair. Losing any remaining strength to the depleting oxygen departing his body, Keegan’s weight fell from the security of the chair. 

"Keegan?!" Moving with impossible speed that had surprised Touya considering he hadn’t partaken in the physical consumption of blood for years, hasty movements lunged for the falling body. Landing painfully against the bend of his knees, extended arms gently caught Keegan’s unconscious body, just as he had three centuries prior. 

"Keegan?!" Burying the hungry crimson with the deep sadness of the natural cerulean, wet orbs fearfully searched the lifeless expression cradled in his arms. "Hummingbird?! Hey…can you hear me…?!" Carefully swiping a few strands of blond hair from the dampness of Keegan’s forehead, the aching skip of Touya’s heart pushed a couple of salty droplets to fall onto Keegan’s face. "Keegan?! Answer me…please…" Stroking the same unconscious expression he’d been tormented with before Keigo's life departed from the world, the gentle caress of Touya’s hand attempted to coax Keegan’s consciousness awake. "Please…wake up…come back to me my sweet Hummingbird…please…"

Chapter Text

Cradling the unconscious fragility lying limp in his arms, pale limbs had never felt so weak. Weighed down by the unprecedented weight of uncertainty, even the gentle stroke of his shaking had against the stillness of Keegan’s face felt ineffective. 

"Keegan, please…" Calling out into the suffocating depths of unconsciousness surrounding the thin veil of angelic light, the silence following brought a pricking rush of emotion to sting Touya’s eyes. "Wake up…" Tapping gently against the stone cold expression, the gentle roll of Touya’s bracing arm shifted the fragile form to rest securely against his chest. Overwhelmed by the insurgence of anxiety rippling over his nerves, the shakiness of his free hand promptly wiped the salty droplets from his eyes.

"Fuck-" Placing his hand, now wet with his tears, back against the still of Keegan’s cheek, Touya’s exhale was anything but calming. "Come on Keegan, wake up…I can’t do this again…" Aching with the unsettling fear that Keegan had been lost to the darkness, the crack that infectiously spread over Touya’s heart pushed more tears to his eyes. "Oh God…what do I do?!" Beating through the painful crack, the panic spilling from the rhythmic thrum quickly flooded every sense with urgency. 

"I need to bring him back…but how…?" Shifting over Keegan’s unmoving form, azure eyes quickly assessed every point of the blond’s body. "I can feel his heartbeat, he’s still alive…" Focusing on the quiet oscillations, a calming exhale slipped from Touya’s lips. "It’s faint, but it’s not changing. It sounds relaxed like when he’s asleep…that’s good…" Moving to address the still expression, Touya’s brow curved intently. "It’s hard to focus on because my panic is deafening, but I can catch a glimpse of a vibration beneath his eyelids…he must have been overwhelmed and his blood pressure took a dip…" While his own words were comforting to himself, they couldn’t ease the gnawing anxiety that he could be wrong. Keegan could never wake up, Touya was hinging everything on a whim. "If that’s the case, then…" Falling into the securing hold of his otherworldly power, the violet hue overtook the natural blue. 

"Sweetest Hummingbird~" Cooing the nickname, Touya’s hypnotic grasp reached blindly into the thick darkness surrounding Keegan. Shivering from the cold touch of apprehension, Touya braced himself as he dove further into the heavy darkness. 

"My dearest Hummingbird, can you hear me?" Hearing only his own voice echoing back, Touya focused on the faint strum of Keegan’s heart. Grasping the thin threads of sound, legs weighed down by the pressurized weight surrounding them trudged onward. 

"Keegan~ If you can hear me, follow my voice~" Wading deeper into the consuming anxiety left Touya feeling colder. Dropping drastically in temperature, the rising fear stemming from Keegan’s subconscious touched Touya’s skin with the burning heat of frostbite. "Tch-" Grimacing through the pain, Touya pushed further. 

"Come on~ Come back to me~" Feeling the sting of fear piercing his skin incessantly the closer in proximity he came to Keegan’s subconscious, the more intently he focused on the warm vibrations strumming beyond the heavy storm. They were the only thing anchoring him to the blond after all, if he lost his grip, Keegan’s fear would devour him alive. "Shit-" Raising an arm to shield his face from the needle-like precision of Keegan’s storming anxiety, Touya charged ahead, determined to pull Keegan from the nightmarish feelings whirring around his mind. 

"He Lied- Run! Don’t look back!" 

"He would never degrade you-"

"How can you argue for this monster?!"

"He loves you, you’re precious to him! He’d sooner starve than hurt you!"

Deafened by the disruptive arguments mercilessly fighting over Keegan’s mind, the sharpened needles of anxiety tore protectively through Touya’s flesh. Cutting him relentlessly with the urgent intention to keep him away, Touya fought just as intensely against the flurrying fear. 

"Hummingbird~ It’s okay~ Just follow my voice and everything will be fine~" Striking Touya with a deafening force, the weight of Keegan’s anxiety slammed against the vampire’s form. Gasping for breath beneath the harsh weight, shaking legs buckled beneath the harrowing pressure. 

"Dearest Hummingbird~ Please listen to me~ Listen to my voice~" Finding himself forced into a submissive kneel beneath the weighted darkness, Touya kept his focus on the warm wavelength oscillating quietly through the darkness with one final push to reach Keegan. 

"That’s it, come to me~ I’ll save you~" Sensing the small vibrations louden, Touya grasped at the invisible sensation, eager to keep it from slipping back beneath the distressing uncertainty. "My love~ I’m here~ Come to me~" Reaching for the pulsating light, Touya’s lips twitched unconsciously into a curve of delight. "I’ve got you~ Don’t worry~ Just come to me~" Feeling the warmth from Keegan’s light enveloping his finger tips, Touya moved to grab the imprisoned consciousness. "That’s it~ You’re so close~ I can feel it~ Just a little bit further~" Grazing the angelic light with the light sweep of his fingers, the intrusive touch caused the light to explode in reactionary defense. Flinching from the blinding light, Touya felt himself being flung effortlessly from the situation. Gritting his teeth, the sheer force of the underlying consciousness expelled the vampire from the confines of his mind, leaving an emotional rash of failure in its wake. 

Blinking in awe at the still body in his arms, Touya shook his head in disbelief. 

"How…? How did you overcome my power?" Lingering on the shocking outcome for nary a moment, Touya buried the violet hue beneath the natural azure. Keigo had been the only human capable of shaking off the hypnotic weight of his power. To this day, Touya couldn’t fathom how he had done it because even the wisest men had fallen victim to the manipulative tone. Regardless, under the current circumstances, Keegan should have responded. Yet, nothing but static answered Touya’s beckoning call, which meant something was affecting Keegan internally in such a way that was forcing Touya out. 

"Something’s wrong…" Realizing that he could no longer help Keegan, the darkness hiding beneath his feet rose. Remaining silent, Touya simply held his hand expectantly out as the tame shadows retrieved and deposited his cellular device into the expecting palm of his hand. Keeping a secure hold on Keegan’s body, Touya’s free hand quickly inputted the emergency number to dial. Clicking the call button, the device found itself promptly against Touya’s ear only for the tremble of Touya’s thumb to disconnect the forming connection before the phone could ring a single time. Falling quickly to the floor, the device landed against the hard surface with an untimely clatter that made the still expression in his arms wince in reaction. Stirring suddenly, a rumbling groan of discomfort vibrated against Keegan’s throat as the blond fought to pull himself out of the darkness. 

Strumming at an impossible intensity, the quickened pace of Touya’s heartbeat easily refills the wetness absent from his eyes. Realizing that it’s now or never, he hastily brings his now free hand back to cradle Keegan’s face. Azure eyes, soaked with tears remain locked on the twitching expression below.

"Keegan?! Keegan?! Are you okay?! Open your eyes!" Hastily pushing the disheveled blond locks from Keegan’s forehead, Touya can only utter the blond’s name in one final desperate attempt to stir his consciousness awake while his emotions soak the physical appearance below. 

"Touya~ My everlasting snowflake~ I finally found you~"

Delighted by the resurgence of happiness flowing through his mind, Keigo found himself travelling deeper down the memorable road laid out before him. Following the metaphorical path laid out before him, still frames depicting his life followed the winding road like billboards. Unlike the advertisements that lure passing drivers, these images made Keigo’s heart swell with affection. Ordered in succession of Keigo’s introduction to Touya, the further along memory lane he travelled, the louder his heart pounded. Stopping to gawk at the stilled image of Touya’s smiling face, Keigo brought an unconscious hand up to stroke the captured memory. 

"The rarest flower of all~" Taking in the pearly shine glistening off the pointed fangs, Keigo couldn’t help but chuckle. "A dangerous man, with the most beautiful smile~" Relishing the pure symmetry of Touya’s frozen expression, wandering eyes bled upwards to meet the familiar set of sapphire orbs. Even beneath the snapshot of his memory, the orbs still glistened like the rare jewel. Sparkling with white highlights, the tones of blue swimming in Touya’s eyes rippled like the clear blue waters of a tropical ocean. Humming in awe at the ethereal visual, Keigo took a step closer to the image. 

"So pretty~" Resting his forehead lights against the flat surface of Touya’s forehead, Keigo graced the image with a smile of his own. "The prettiest eyes in the world~" Lingering against the unmoving image, the fluttering beat of his heart sent a sensational warmth to dust his cheeks. "Touya~" Breathing out the name following a delighted skip of his heart, the unusual touch of emotion pulled Keigo from the image. Blinking in question at the wetness streaming down Touya’s printed form, the cock of Keigo’s head couldn’t begin to display his confusion. 

"Huh?" Standing back in awe, Keigo watched his lover’s expression twist to distress. Crying before him like the day Keigo had woefully departed from Touya, the streaming sadness spilt Keigo’s heart with an aching sting. "Touya?" Stepping forward, a feeble attempt to wipe away Touya’s heartbreak was made. Soaking his hands, the gentle motion seemed to coax more tears to drip from Touya’s eyes. 

"What’s wrong my Snowflake?" Asking as if the image could offer a response, the echoing tones of Touya’s distress touched every nerve within Keigo’s body with surprise. 

"Keegan?! Keegan?! Are you okay?!" Shifting towards the frantic expulsion of words, gold orbs blinked in silence at the swirling vortex above him. 

"What is…this?!" Furrowing in question, golden orbs remained locked quizzically upwards while the swirling image beckoned him closer. 

"Keegan?!" Showering down from the rippling void above, the clear voice of his fiancé drifted down like the comforting hold of a warm blanket. Enveloping Keigo’s small form beneath the luring tones, the sounds carefully lifted Keigo from the safety of the ground. 

"Touya?" Hearing the reassuring voice echoing out again, Keigo reached out an offering hand. "Touya, is that you?" Floating nearer to the blurring void, a blinding white light bled over the swirling darkness. Deflecting the streaming spotlight of ethereal illumination with one hand, Keigo reached for the brightness raining above with the other. "Don’t worry~ I’m coming baby~"

Catching his breath at the back of his throat, the hesitant flutter of Keegan’s eyelids sent a rippling wave of fear coursing over Touya’s nerves. While the arousing movements of the blond’s eyelids were a sight for sore eyes, the uncertainty of how he’d react when he met Touya’s expression lingered in the back of the king’s mind. 

"Keegan? Are you alright? Can you hear me?" Cradling the human’s head like it was the most precious thing on the Earth, the rumbling groan resonating from Keegan’s throat sent a skip to Touya’s heart beat.

"Nng-" Watching in stunned silence as the obstructing eyelids raised, Touya’s tears spoke for him. Dropping against Keegan’s skin with the emotional outburst of his concern, the shocking wetness stirred the slumbering consciousness awake. 

"Why are you crying, Snowflake?" Asked through the grogginess of his tone, the heavy rasp flowing around the question vibrated each of Touya’s nerves like a freshly plucked guitar string. Snowflake? No one addressed him using that name except for one person. It couldn’t be possible…could it? Remaining still, shifting azure eyes searched through the freshly opened golden orbs staring back. Clearing away the blur disturbing his vision with a few cleansing blinks of the eye, the clear sight above him nearly brought him to tears. Having been forced into a hibernation for centuries, the ethereal visual of the love of his life felt like a refreshing first look. Laying the soft touch of his gaze upon Touya’s expression, Keigo felt his lips twitch into a smile just as tender as his gaze. 

"Wow~ You haven’t changed a bit~" Ignoring Touya’s objections to remain lying, Keigo slowly pushed himself into a sitting position. Kneeling patiently before Keegan, Touya waited in silence as the blond brought his readjustments to close with the crossing of his legs. Now positioned a few inches in front of Touya, calculating gold orbs washed over the stunned form of the vampire. 

"I knew you wouldn’t change much in the time that I’ve been gone, but damn~" Taking Touya’s stunned expression gently into his grasp, Keigo’s tender caress sent a rippling chill of sensuality to touch his nerves. "You’re exactly how I remember you~" Wiping the salted trails from the porcelain surface of Touya’s face, Keigo could only chuckle affectionately as he let his words rush over Touya’s form. "God, I’ve missed how your eyes glisten like a pool under the moonlight~ Or how tenderly you smile at me with teeth that would threaten another." Bringing the other hand to brush aside the cascading locks of white hair obstructing Touya’s face, the tender hold of Keigo’s hands cupped the vampire’s shocked expression. 

"I’ve waited so long to see you smile at me again~ God how I’ve longed to hold you, feel your warmth beneath my skin~ I love you so much my Snowflake~" Listening to the verbal expulsion of feelings, Touya couldn’t formulate a response. Pounding too loudly for him to cognitively process the meaning behind the sweet confessions, the rhythmic strum of his heart drowned out any relevance of logic. Understanding nothing regarding Keegan’s shift in personality, Touya could only stare in awe as the blond showered him with affection. 

"I can’t wait to experience worldly pleasures with you once again~ I’m so lucky to have this opportunity to be with you again~" Gushing with delight, the haste in which Keegan’s smile faded, approached like a sudden summer storm. Retracting the warmth of his touch, Keegan’s arms folded angrily over his chest. Glaring at him with the sheer intensity of a hailstorm, the irritation dancing through Keegan’s tone shook every one of Touya’s nerves into a state of uncertainty. 

"By the way, how dare you make me wait for three hundred years?!" Unfolding his arms to accuse Touya with the reprimanding point of his finger, Keigo continued. "I mean honestly, three hundred years?!? You promised to find me in every life! Why did it take so long?! How could you leave me alone for three centuries after offering me an eternity, Touya?!" Slapped by the verbal accusations, azure eyes could only blink in awe. Processing the challenging reprimand, the gears cranking in Touya’s mind fed the vampire the missing pieces of the puzzle. Dropping the facts clearly into the missing slots, the freshly created image of his late fiancé lit up in his mind like a bright idea. 

"Kei? Is that really you…?" Breathing out the name with a quizzical furrow of his eyebrows, the click of Keegan’s tongue felt patronizingly reassuring. 

"Of course it’s me, don’t tell me you’ve forgotten the face of your fiancé? Has three hundred years aged your mind more than your face?" While admittedly hating the teasing smirk drawn across Keegan’s face, the excited blip of realization jostled the uncertainty clouding Touya’s heart. Shaking free the restricting bindings caging the organ, the overwhelming pulse of desire flooded his veins. Coursing with the magnetizing force of attraction, the rhythmic symphony strumming from Touya’s heart lured the vampire to the maestro conducting the sweet symphony of sound. Capturing the source between the gentle caress of his hands, Touya’s lips crashed desperately against Keigo’s. Inviting Keigo into a feverish dance with the fervent movement of his lips, Touya carefully eased Keigo backwards against the floor. Accepting the invitation to dance with his partner, Keigo’s arms wrapped unconsciously around Touya’s neck. Falling easily into step with the heat of Touya’s passion, the world seemed to melt away beneath Keigo. Floating in a pool of ecstasy, every sensational touch left by Touya’s body aroused the already vibrating nerves with the tingling burn of fiery passion. Awakened fully by the recollection of his past, the sheer intensity at which the sensations exploded across his skin overwhelmed Keigo’s heart with immeasurable carnal lust. Like tasting the first bite of a savory meal after starving for over three days, he desired to partake in everything Touya had to offer him. 

"My God-" Breathing out the exclamation between fervent, sloppy, smacks of his lips, Touya let one of his hands roam through the wavy blond locks. "I’ve missed you-" Feeling the force of Keigo’s hands holding him purposely in place, the slick intrusion of Keigo’s tongue sliding past Touya’s lips answered for him. Roaming around the warm cavern, Keigo made himself familiar with that which was his. After reminding himself of every detail of Touya’s mouth, the wet muscle wrapped possessively around his lover’s. Telling Touya how much he’d missed him through the sensual glide of his tongue, the symphony of moans pulled from Touya’s throat were enough for Keigo to keep going. Rolling a trail of passionate circles along the length of Touya’s tongue, Keigo’s fingers tangled themselves through the silky white locks. Forcing the vampire to bend to his will with a sensual tug of the colourless hair, Keigo prolonged the hot exchange for a moment longer. Taking Touya’s breath away with the light flick of his tongue over the tip of Touya’s, a much needed intake of air separated the heat of each other’s touch. 

"I hope that translates how much I missed you~" Gasping for breath, the lustful way Keigo was smirking up at him nearly drove Touya’s senses mad with desire. Vibrating with an intensity rivalling his bloodlust, the aroused nerves couldn’t take much more coaxing. "You know, you could’ve done that with me sooner, had you not waited so long to find me~" Chuckling softly, Keigo’s fingers played unconsciously with the soft tufts of white hair falling from Touya’s head. Smiling in defeat, the magnetizing need to feel Keigo’s heartbeat pulled Touya to rest his head innocently against the blond’s chest. 

"I know, my love and I’m sorry that I kept you waiting for so long…" Letting the consistent rhythm of Keigo’s feelings serenade his ear, Touya could only smile as the warmth of Keigo’s hands trailed down his body. Lingering against his shoulder blades, the reassuring touch returned to cradle Touya’s head against the strum of his heart. "I was so lost without you, I couldn’t find the strength to fulfill my promise out of fear of forgetting you forever…" Sensing the dip in Keigo’s eyebrow, Touya was quick to explain. 

"I was in my head a lot…and I was afraid that if I couldn’t find you or I moved on from the past, I would lose you all over again….I know it’s silly, but I couldn’t risk going through that heartbreak again…" Holding the comforting wavelength strumming from Keigo’s heart against his own, Touya readjusted to greet Keigo’s gaze. "That’s why it took me so long, but just know that I’ve been just as lonely without you. After all, you were my whole world~" Pressing a chaste kiss against Keigo’s lips, Touya sat up. 

"It’s fine, I was only teasing you after all~" Sliding back to give Keigo room to sit up, Touya’s arms wrapped loosely around Keigo’s neck while Keigo’s warm hands braced Touya’s hips for support. “We have each other now and that’s what matters~ Besides, you can spend an eternity making it up to me because I don’t plan on leaving you any time soon~" Uncertain with the implications behind Keigo’s confession, pale hands migrated to tenderly cup the flush of Keigo’s cheeks. 

"Do you mean that?" Feeling the warmth of Keigo’s hands depart from his hips, Touya found his own grip unconsciously flowing down to rest against Keigo’s shoulders. Grabbed by the soft jingle playing from his neck, azure eyes drifted downwards to the metallic source. 

"Of course, my love." Fingering the silver hoop dangling from Touya’s neck, Keigo’s soft gaze remained locked on the binding object. Observing the pristine condition of the ring, the washing shift of his eyes took in the symbolic representation as if admiring the integrity of their eternal bond. "That’s why I gave you this ring. To make you mine forever." Letting the symbol slip casually from the pad of his finger following Touya’s bodily movement, Keigo sat silently in observation. Watching the calculated movement of Touya’s fingers undoing the clasp of the chain, the shifting weight of the gold length led the silver hoop to slide easily into the palm of Touya’s hand. Wasting no time, the binding circle slid into place on his left finger. Feeling the cold metal ease onto the base of his finger, a shivering reminder of the night he’d obtained the ring coursed over his skin. Feeling the warmth of the hot springs mixing with the purity of the moon's light, reassurance pimpled over his skin. Coursing with a wave of tingling consolidation, every nerve danced with the recognition that everything had finally fallen into place. As if picking up the narrative where it abruptly ended, the next page of their story finally reached a point to turn. Offering Touya a glimpse into the upcoming chapters of their future, he couldn’t help but smile. Finally, everything he wished for was back and within arms reach, but this time, he was determined to not let it slip away. 

"Hummingbird?" Shifting the sparkle of his gaze to gloss over the tender expression of his lover, Touya wove his fingers through Keigo’s. "Will you let me “propose” to you as well?" Catching the awkward way Touya uttered the word propose, Keigo cocked his head questioningly. 

"Why did you say it like that?" Leaving a reassuring swipe against the back of his hand, the authenticity from Touya’s smile glistened with the explanation. 

"Well, vampires don’t have a traditional form of proposing, or ceremonial exchanging of vows by your standards, but I'll fill you in on those details later. Like animals, we mark our territory by claiming our respective mates with a distinguished sign. Typically, a lesser vampire would choose one or two partners, while a royal could have up to ten prospective mates, but that’s neither here nor there." Taking Keigo’s other hand into his grasp, the slight movement of Touya’s upper body inched the gap between them closed. 

"If you’ll let me, I want to brandish you as mine in order to let the others know to keep their fangs off of my king~" Flushing red with affection, the heat swirling from Keigo’s cheeks spread easily over Touya’s. Relishing the accelerated stutter of the beating rhythm pounding within Keigo’s chest, Touya gently rested his forehead against Keigo’s. 

"How possessive~" Raking the glistening surface of his teeth sensually across the plush red of his lips, Keigo’s hands departed Touya’s. Cupping the flush pink of his lover’s face, the gap closed between them. Moving with drastically tender motions compared to earlier, the intimate press of Keigo’s lips communicated everything Touya expected to hear. 

‘Yes, I love you~ I want you for an eternity, Snowflake~ You can make me yours by any means necessary~ My heart, body, and soul are yours for the taking, so long as I get the same in return~’

Pulling away, the tender caress of Keigo’s lips quickly became replaced with the hot exhale of breath. 

"Yes, I will accept your proposal." Smiling against the hot sensation left from the physical contact, Touya could only chuckle in response. Saying nothing, the hasty way he got to his feet left a quizzical reaction to touch Keigo’s face. "Touya, what-?" 

"Come with me." Pulling Keigo to his feet, the quick movement of Touya’s body forced a surprised gasp from Keigo’s lungs. Lifted from the ground in one swift movement, Keigo’s arms sought immediate support from the cause. Wrapping securely around Touya’s neck, the motion brought Keigo to lean safely against Touya’s chest. 

"Touya, this is not necessary! I can walk!" Feeling the nostalgia from the mortal king’s melodramatic reactions wash over him, Touya’s heart stuttered wildly with affection. 

"I know, but isn’t it more romantic when I carry you~" Taking the remaining arguments from the blond with the sweet comment, Keigo found himself sinking delicately into Touya’s plush mattress. Embracing the gentle weight crawling over top of him, any shreds of questioning intent quickly became stolen by the tender press of Touya’s hot lips against his own. Melding quickly beneath the sensual massaging sensation rolling over his lips, Keigo’s body was quick to shift against Touya’s. Rubbing his thighs slowly along the length of Touya’s body, the limbs relaxed naturally against the welcoming curve of his partner’s hips. Freely roaming back around the pale of Touya’s neck, warm hands tangled themselves back amongst the tresses of white hair. Replicating the tender motion of their lips, Keigo’s hands left a sensational pattern of caressing delight tingling across Touya’s scalp. Earning a deep moan from the vampire, the abrupt separation left Keigo hungry for more. Sitting up long enough to strip the top layer of clothing from each body, Touya resealed the distance between them. Bracing his weight against the mattress with his right arm, his left hand molded delicately against the flush of Keigo’s cheek. Leaving tender strokes across the tan surface with his thumb, the vampire’s lips drifted affectionately away from Keigo’s. Touching the smooth surface of Keigo’s face, the soft press of heat trailed sweetly along the curve of Keigo’s jaw. Popping with the excitement of a firework exploding across the night’s sky, each nerve tingled with delight beneath the light touch of passion left behind by Touya’s lips. Aroused by the sensational outburst screaming from his nerves, Keigo’s body pressed itself eagerly against Touya’s. Urging him to shift into a more intimate gear, the soft moan filling the air from the gentle caress of Touya’s lips brought the crimson hue forward. Aroused by the melodic sounds signing from the sublime host below, the churning lust stirred. Aching with the long starved desire to taste the sublime flavour flowing through Keigo’s veins, Touya’s heart stuttered with impatience. Dotting the exposed skin of Keigo’s neck with a soft trail of heat, Touya’s hot breath grazed the open skin.

"Can I bite you?" Rippling with the texture of a feverish tingle, the bare skin stood acutely at attention beneath the arousing heat of Touya’s breath. Trailing the warmth of his hands to brace the pale of Touya’s back, Keigo parted his lips to speak. 

"Of course my love, you can take from me whenever you need~ I am yours~" Lured by the magnetic attraction pulsating from the throbbing being, every lingering apprehension fled from the crimson pools. Accepting Keigo’s consent as the final barrier lifted from his instinctual need, Touya readjusted his hold. Moving up to tangle his fingers carefully through the wavy gold locks, the gentle guidance of Touya’s hand tilted the mortals’ head for better access. Hovering tantalizingly over the throbbing vein, the thundering urgency of Touya’s heartbeat buried the crimson hue of his irises. Bringing out the kingly violet, the glistening throb of sharpened fangs sunk themselves deliberately into the soft tissue of Keigo’s neck. Gasping from the stimulating pressure, the sharpened edge of Keigo’s nails ran senselessly through Touya’s back. Pressing himself flush against the rushing warmth of Touya’s figure, the pleasurable sensation of Touya’s fangs left nearly as quickly as it came. Imprinting the deep sensation upon Keigo only long enough for the king to leave his mark symbolically against the untouched skin, Touya pulled away. Sitting up, the wet glide of his tongue eagerly lapped up the small amount of blood dotting his lips, while eyes glowing with violet dominance proudly washed over the symbol of ownership formed on Keigo’s chest. 

"Touya?" Blinking through the confusion at the otherworldly hue of Touya’s irises, Keigo hesitantly moved to sit up. "Is something wrong, you barely took anything from me." Smiling softly, the warmth of Touya’s hands gingerly captured Keigo’s confusion in their grasp. 

"I didn’t take anything yet, I didn’t want our intimacy to end so quickly without even starting~" Overwhelming the violet hue with the bleeding predatory red, Touya left a reassuring kiss against Keigo’s lips. "With that bite, I offered you my life." Separating from Keigo to remove another layer of clothing, Touya nonchalantly directed Keigo’s confusion to glance at his chest. Following the guiding gesture of Touya’s fingers, gold eyes fell over the fresh imprint emblazoned against his skin. Bold, dark, and appearing like a fresh tattoo, a notable symbol presented itself proudly upon the left breast of the mortal. Like the shadows that swarmed Touya’s aura, the dark wisps swirled unmoving over Keigo’s skin. Raising upwards like the heat of a flame, the dark swirling lines unapologetically took the shape of the hot element. Symbolically formed over his heart, the curving lines burned innocently over the beating organ with the same feverish passion that the pair shared for each other. Curiously running his fingers over the brand, the light sweeping touch distributed a rippling wave of stimulation sparking over Keigo’s nerves. 

"It doesn’t hurt…" Breathing out the initial thought brewing in his mind, Touya’s chuckles drowned out Keigo’s surprise. 

"Of course it doesn’t hurt, I would never do anything to intentionally hurt you. You should know that by now, Hummingbird~" Through Keigo’s curiosity of the vampire’s imprinting proposal, Touya had enough time to prepare his body for the impending intimacy. 

"I know, but I didn’t know what to expect regarding the feeling." Lying back and letting Touya remove the remaining barrier from his body, Keigo welcomed the warmth of Touya’s body to mold against his. 

"Well then~" Dripping with deep sensuality, the wet caress of Touya’s tongue across the glistening surface of his fangs accelerated the ecstatic beat of Keigo’s heart. "Why don’t I give you a feeling that you will expect~" Bringing the bracing hold of his thighs back to Touya’s hips, the quick twist of Keigo’s expression overwhelmed Touya’s senses with a flood of nostalgia. Smirking up at him with the challenging sparkle in the curving glare of his eyes, the stimulating dip in Keigo’s tone challenged Touya’s dominance entirely. 

"Don’t hold back~" 

Gripped senselessly by centuries of stored lust, the physical expression of love flooded the room with a suffocating intensity. Drowning beneath every tantalizing touch, bite, and rocking motion, even the lightest touch left the pair gasping for more. Burning hotly with the passion of a wild blue flame, the spreading warmth of desire smothered the long drought of thirst plaguing either male. Satiating the long unquenched hunger, the overwhelming expulsion of stored emotions depleted either party of any lasting energy. Falling tiredly into the plush hold of the mattress, heavy gasps sought to reclaim any sense of stability within their lungs. 

"Holy fuck~" Wetting the interior of his mouth, flushed azure eyes shifted to the figure lying breathless next to him. "Baby, that was euphoric~" Chuckling between breaths, Keigo ran a hand through the nest of damp gold locks tangled on his head. 

"Yeah~" Rolling over to meet the flush of Touya’s expression, soft lips curved into a sweetened grin. "Three hundred years really makes a difference~ Who knew waiting so long would make our love making feel so much more intense~" Breathing out a soft agreement, Touya left the soft embrace of the bed long enough to deal with the aftermath of their physical expression. Returning to find Keigo already dressed and awaiting his presence in bed, Touya couldn’t stop the flood of emotions from wetting his eyes. Sitting upright with the blanket pulled loosely to his hips, Keigo’s hands rested patiently upon the warming fabric. Directing the softness of his gaze to Touya, the sunny glow of his smile brought an unconditional skip to the vampire’s heartbeat. While the fresh puncture wounds dotting his neck sparked a thread of prideful excitement to jostle the freshly satiated hunger lingering behind his fangs. Reminded of the innocent clinginess of the mortal king, past nights of frequent induced suffering twitched Touya’s lips into a curving smile while the quick blink of his eyes dried the azure orbs of their emotional expression. 

"God, Kei, you’re so adorable~" Slipping into his pajamas, Touya joined the embodiment of sunshine beneath the covers of the blanket. "I can’t control myself when you look at me like that~ You look so sweet and innocent, I want to eat you up~" Slipping into the comforting warmth of Touya’s hold just as he did centuries before, Keigo rested his head lovingly against the rhythmic strum of his fiancé's heartbeat. 

"Is that a promise?" Catching the challenging skip of Keigo’s heartbeat, Touya’s smirk touched the blond’s ear through the darkness of nightfall surrounding them. 

"Be careful~ I might succumb to my bloodlust and accidentally indulge in all of you~" Trailing across the bare surface of Touya’s chest, each sweeping motion of Keigo’s fingertips across the exposed surface encased the still buzzing nerves in a rippling sense of affection. 

"You wouldn’t." Drawing an invisible image of senseless devotion across Touya’s skin, the trailing motion of Keigo’s fingers moved to capture the warmth of Touya’s pale hand. Weaving his fingers tightly through Touya’s, the sweet roll of his thumb across the back of Touya’s hand gently reassured the mortals’ words. "You wouldn’t risk throwing away our future together after suffering alone for so long." Squeezing the blond’s body tightly with the arm draped securely around Keigo’s upper body, the reassuring press of Touya’s form against his own was response enough. Yet, the sweet assurance falling from the vampire’s soft grin soothed Keigo’s ears with their lulling tones. 

"You’re right. I don’t plan on giving you up so quickly like last time." Falling softly against the securing hold of Touya’s words, a deep, relaxing exhale fell from Keigo’s lips. Calming every nerve with the expulsion of air, the delight that had etched its way across Keigo’s face slowly melted away. 

"Hey Touya?" Taking a notable serious edge, the subtle shift in oscillations brought Touya’s nerves to stand preemptively in warning. 

"Hmm?" Hiding the clear worry rippling the calm of his nerves, the string of words following the soft rumbling in question only agitated the anxious churning further. 

"Will you turn me this time?" Flexing unconsciously against the tight hold of Keigo’s fingers, the expression of uncertainty reached Keigo before the words themselves could question him. 

"What brought you to ask that so suddenly from me?" Acutely aware that he himself had offered immortality in a fit of panicked desperation three centuries prior, there was a slight complication this time that made Touya hesitate. Keegan was not terminally ill. An abrupt death without explanation would certainly raise eyebrows. Not only that, but Tyler’s close relationship with the boy would complicate the process of leaving afterwards. Awfully suspicious for the boyfriend of the deceased to run off unexpectedly without rhyme or reason and so hastily after losing the supposed love of his life. It doesn’t take a genius to surmise something amiss in that situation. Adjusting himself to straddle the vampire’s relaxed hips, Keigo retracted his grip from Touya’s hand. Trailing lightly over the exposed pale of Touya’s collarbone, the gentle caress of Keigo’s fingers slowly eased away the spreading anxieties burning over Touya’s nerves. 

"Snowflake, I’ve been without you for three centuries. They were the darkest years of my life and I don’t want to go back into the darkness. You are my light, my shining beacon of comfort, and I don’t want to lose your warmth again." Leaving Touya’s chest to cradle the porcelain of his cheeks, Keigo leaned in to close the distance between them. "Will you please turn me so I can be with you for an eternity like we promised?" Bribing Touya with the intimate press of his lips, the soft movement of Keigo’s heat massaged the remaining anxieties clouding Touya’s mind. However, it was the motion of pulling away that sealed the deal. Gazing longingly into the affectionate glow coating the golden orbs made Touya’s heart melt. Searching through the calm azure eyes with the uncanny authority he knew Keigo to have over him, the soft caress of Keigo’s silent desire stroked the lingering need resting beyond the surface of the crystal pools. Pulling on the selfish desire to fill his own void aching in his heart, Touya’s gaze averted from Keigo’s. 

"It’s not out of the question…" Bringing the serious nature of his gaze back to the golden orbs, Touya brought his own gentle caress to cradle Keigo’s face. "But Darling, you have to realize that in becoming a vampire, you must give up your humanity. Including everything that goes with it; all of Keegan’s friends, family, current affiliations, aspirations, all of it has to die with Keegan. Which, simply put, means you have to die again and give yourself wholly to a life in the shadows of society. Are you prepared to do that?" Interrupting the responding part of Keigo’s lips, Touya continued. "You also need to remember that I am still their king, and while my responsibilities are arguably non-existent, I do have to hold the position in the event that something does happen. My position remains at the head of the table until I can conceive an heir, which sounds straight forward, but times have changed for my people. Raising a family as special as ours will admittedly be tough. Guiding our children through the complication of living incognito among mortals when they are aware of how different they are will be a challenge on its own. There is no lifeline to fall back on and certainly no safety net of numbers to shield us, considering how few of my people survived. Are you prepared to face these adverse conditions moving forward?" 

For a moment, no one says a word. The silent stare of Keigo’s eyes leaves the vampires in what could only be described as dejection. Sliding his hips down Touya’s body, the blond repositions himself comfortably against the strength of Touya’s chest. Placing his ear against the rhythmic strum oscillating from Touya’s chest, gold orbs hid behind the concealing eyelids. Listening to the steady lull resonating against the welcoming opening of his auditory canal, Keigo released a calming breath. 

Following the calming notes speaking from Touya’s heart, Keigo silently considered the verbal warning delivered. Considering everything that Keegan achieved, all the delightful people he’d met through work or school, the kind faces of Riley, Isaiah, and even Kingsley flashed across his mind. Losing a strong willed friend like Riley, someone who could give you the business without bias, that would be tough. She could see perspectives in a conversation that he just couldn’t, her wisdom would be greatly missed. Another heart broken by Keegan’s death would be Marek’s. The only semblance of a father figure Keegan had, would certainly crumble beneath the crushing loss. While his face rarely showed it, Keegan was the only consistent thing in Marek’s life that made his aura glow with positivity. Taking away his sunshine would be a heartbreaking blow for the overworked man.

On the other hand, Keegan himself had nothing to lose. Remaining out of reach of his own aspirations, giving up on something he had yet to apply for wasn’t a loss at all. Keigo could pick up on those goals in the future if he desired, thereby making the part time job at the café the only thing left abandoned by Keegan. Touya had shown him a glimpse of what the future would look like for them. Taking into account the minor differences between now and three hundred years prior, the loss of untouchable status and privilege could easily be ignored. Happily ever after never involved his crown anyhow. Marriage, Children, everything Keigo sought for himself was presented delightfully on a very tempting platter. All he had to do was accept Touya’s terms. 

"Hummingbird, I’m sorry if I hurt your feelings in any way. I’m just being transparent." Reassured by the light stroke of Touya’s hand along his bicep, Keigo hummed in response. Letting the pounding strum of Touya’s heart overwhelm the vampire’s verbal expression, Keigo fell back into the flurry of thoughts whirring across his mind. 

Realizing that the only contributing factors he had to consider on the matter were Riley, Marek, and the adversity he’d have to face moving forward, Keigo flipped over the metaphorical coin in his hand. Choosing to remain a mortal meant that nothing would charge between him and Touya. They’d still date, Touya would indulge on the sublime flavour of his blood, and Keigo would keep his everlasting snowflake. Everything would move as it had. Keegan would continue to work at the café until he could afford post secondary education. Tyler would continue to write until he grew bored of that hobby, moving onto the next thing that peaked his interest. Perhaps marriage and children were still in the cards, but the outlier still remained. Keigo would eventually die and Touya would repeat the horrendous cycle over and over again. 

Ideally, Touya would recover his lost Hummingbird in every lifetime, just as he had this time. However, there was no guarantee that the next vessel would retain any of Keigo Takami’s memories, let alone love Touya or accept him in the same way Keegan had. Not only that, but if Keigo had been blessed with Touya’s children, Touya wouldn’t be the only one suffering from a loss. Completely confident in Touya’s ability to be a single father, the loneliness of growing up with only one parent, especially one that offered his time elsewhere, was enough for Keigo to drop that reality from the table. If a family was undoubtedly in the cards, not even death could pry Keigo’s protective grasp from the potential reality. 

"Baby? Will you please answer me, I didn’t mean to make you upset…"

Considering how emotionally distraught Touya had been the first time Keigo passed, the blond could only imagine how many pieces his heart would shatter into with the next one. By choosing to remain a mortal and accepting the inevitable cold hand of death, Keigo was certain that Touya’s immortality would only last until his heart couldn’t repair the deep aching cracks deforming its surface. 

"Keigo?" Feeling the sadness weighing against Touya’s voice, Keigo set the coin decidedly upon the table. Stirring from the silence of his thoughts, the blond adjusted himself to straddle Touya once again. Blinking down at the concerned expression below, only the hard serious edge of Keigo’s blinking eyes cut through the silence of the room. Hearing the deafening concern oscillating from the hard beat of his heart, Touya could only find strength in swallowing his pride. 

"My love, I’m sorry for-"

"Yes." Taken aback by the abrupt interruption from the mortal, the twisting confusion overtaking Touya’s face offered Keigo the floor to speak. "Yes, I am prepared to accept your terms." Grabbing the questioning visual between the tender hold of his hands, the upward curve of Keigo’s smile leaned closer to the expression carved in awe. "I want to experience everything with you. Everything you showed me, everything you promised to give me, I want it forever and always Touya~" Leaving a quick tender caress of reassurance against Touya’s stunned parted lips, Keigo continued. "You are my soulmate and I wouldn’t have it any other way, it’s you and me against the world forever, Snowflake~"

Paralyzed, Touya could only blink in contemplation. Hearing the adamant resolve tangled among the vibrations oscillating from Keigo’s heartbeat, Touya understood his predicament. Truthfully, part of him knew Keigo wouldn’t deny the opportunity a second time. Nothing meant more to him than their narrative, that much was obvious. However, what he didn’t expect was the thoroughness at which Keigo weighed his options. Hypothesizing a quick answer from the blond, miscalculating the amount of apprehensive thoughts was a blatant error on his part; but it did ease the guilt churning in Touya’s conscience. Knowing that the blond sorted through every possible outcome and ultimately came to a decision based on solid reasoning rather than an emotional outburst, Touya could easily wipe the blood from his hands. Besides, if Keigo consistently discovered Touya to be the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, how could he willingly deny his Hummingbird of its spoils?

"Okay." Finally breathing out a response, the stunned expression shifted into soft delight. "I will turn you." Catching the excited spark accelerating the beat of Keigo’s heart, Touya verbally snuffed out the electricity threatening to overwhelm. "But, not right away or anytime soon." Dropping like the wavelength of his heartbeat, Keigo’s face overflowed with sadness. 

"Wait, Touya, that’s not fair. You said-" Silencing the disappointed objection with the light press of his finger against Keigo’s lips, the smirk crossing Touya’s lips only curved Keigo’s eyebrows into a deep knit glare. 

"Don’t fret my love, I will uphold my end of the deal~" Bleeding over the blue irises like a drop of blood over an uncut diamond, the alluring crimson ate away the natural blue of Touya’s eyes. "I want to relish the divine taste of my fiancé's blood for a little longer~" Chilling Keigo’s annoyance with the sensual glide of his tongue over the dull throb of his fangs, the implication left a smile upon Keigo’s lips. Reaching up to remove the silencing gesture from his lips, soft chuckles slipped from Keigo’s throat as he tangled his fingers tightly with Touya’s. 

"Very well, I’ll be patient." Lying back into the familiar comfort of Touya’s arms, Keigo let his eyelids slide closed. "I love you Touya, but just know that while I accept that you are wearing the crown this time, I hold the deciding authority of when to die." Feeling the underlying teasing sensation plucking at his nerves, Touya chuckled in response. 

"Yes, of course, my king~" Smiling against the soothing rhythm of Touya’s heartbeat, Keigo let himself relax against the strumming lullaby. Nestled safely in the arms of the only being that granted him the uncanny warmth associated with safety and affection, Keigo’s consciousness slipped away for the first time in years without the gnawing fear of waking to the familiar cold accompanying the darkness of being alone.

As long as my heart continues to beat, you’ll never be alone.