《My Vampire》


 Chapter 1: Arrival Of The Vampire

    Chapter 1: Arrival Of The Vampire


    This is Japan, I left France toe here. There are so many people in Tokyo! But the smell of so many human beings makes me thirst for their blood.


    Now, I can suppress this urge, but who was it? Who was the one who said that Japanese people won''t make you thirst because they don''t have body odor?


    I relearned Japanese back in France.


    The Japan I had known was from the period known as the Warring States. I arrived here then with a missionary. There were many samurai and they had Japanese swords at their side. I used to go hawking with Nobunaga Oda, the reigning warlord, but he left this world, his castle along with him.


    Japan has changed so much since then. Thenguage that the samurai spoke in those days is no longer used.


    Japan is also popr in France. Many people want to travel here because of manga and anime. Well, I''m also one of them. I love Japanese manga and anime!


    And I also want to see with my own eyes how Japan has changed since then. Its economic development has been remarkable since its defeat in World War II. Europe has changed a lot too. We used to eat our meals by hand, but now we eat with a fork and knife.


    Who am I to know such things?


    I am an immortal vampire. Yes, I am what is called a vampire.


    Did they ever exist, you ask?


    We do. I''m here.


    First, I have to find a ce to live. I''ll be living in a hotel for a while... The apartment that my friend gave me to use was also his feeding ground, so I''m ufortable with it.


    I guess people in this country don''t care about appearances. Maybe it''s a national trait.


    Oh well.


    I went to a hotel, Tokyo Station Hotels, which was rmended by my friend. I check in and drop off my luggage. Let''s go!


    To a ce called Shibuya!


    The cabs are so nice. I get out of one and walk. So this is the Shibuya Crossing! I often see this ce in anime. I''m an otaku, after all!


    I''m a little excited, but there are so many people...


    Getting a little bit human-sick, I crouch down after crossing the intersection.


    "Um, are you all right?"


    It was a Japanese woman who approached me.


    "You don''t look so good. You''re swaying. Did you get disoriented because of the crowd? There are a lot of people here. Would you like to go to a nearby caf? Or would you like toe to my clinic nearby? I''m a practicing doctor."


    Oh yeah, this smell is specific to a doctor.


    "Well then, can you take me to your clinic?"


    "Okay. I''ll take you as a patient. Of course, you will be examined."


    "Oh, okay. I''m having a hard time standing."


    "Oh my! Well then, I''ll call one of my nurses. It''s close nearby."


    She told me that and called someone on her phone. A nurse came and helped me to the clinic. I arrive at the clinic, leaning on her shoulder for support.


    "Let''s get you on a bed first."


    I lie down on the clinic bed. The woman who said she was a doctor listened to my lungs and chest with a stethoscope.


    She asked me, "Do you feel any nausea?Are you feeling any pain?"


    There were many questions. She took my blood, saying that a simple blood sample would tell us the result immediately.


    The results came back.


    "You seem to be mildly anemic, but this level should be fine."


    Well, it has been 24 hours since myst drink. I''m going to need another one soon or I''ll have an attack.


    "You can rest a little longer," says the nurse who lent me her shoulder earlier.


    "Actually, I''m starving," I reply.


    I smile at her, and she giggles.


    "There are hamburgers for sale nearby. I can get you one. Do you have anything you like? Right now they''re offering a teriyaki burger set thates with an apple pie!"


    The female doctor and another nurse both heard that.


    "I want one too, so go get me one," they both said.


    "Then I''ll have one with you all, please."


    "Yes! Receptionist Riko,e with me! It''s almost noon!"


    "I''m off then, Doctor!"


    I''m a vampire, but I also eat normal food. There is no such thing as a blood-only diet.


    The girls came back and we ate hamburgers together.


    "Come to think of it, Marcus-san, your Japanese is very good," observes the woman at the reception desk, who they called Riko.


    "I''ve been to Japan before."


    *It was the Warring States period, though. I had a sly smile on my face as I replied.*


    Then suddenly:


    "Hey! Is Dr. Kashiwaga here?" Asks a man''s voice.


    Riko, the receptionist, goes to answer.


    "Oh, Inspector. Has something happened again?"


    Inspector? Japanese police?


    Why are the police here?


    "An autopsy?"


    With that said, thedy doctor takes a bite of her hamburger without pause.


    "Well, something like that, but... I need you toe to the scene first. I''d like to hear your opinion."


    Thedy doctor finishes the burger she was eating.


    "Mika-chan, let''s go get ready," she tells the nurse at the clinic.


    *Since I''m here...*


    "Do you mind if Ie with you?"


    Everyone looks at me. Of course, I''m not acquainted with them.


    "I''m embarrassed to admit it, but I''m also a licensed physician. Maybe I can be of some help."


    The policeman looks troubled, but I look him in the eye and use my power.


    The power of persuasion, of influencing the will of another party.


    "I really shouldn''t disclose this to civilians, but I think it''s a good idea this time. I''d like to hear what the other doctor has to say about this."


    My ability made it impossible for him to refuse. He allows me to apany him and Dr. Kashiwagi."

 Chapter 2: A Country Called Japan

    Chapter 2: A Country Called Japan


    Following the police officer, wee across a dead body with severe abdominal trauma. Kashiwagi, thedy doctor, puts on gloves to check the body.


    "What does this mean...?"


    Kashiwagi tilts her head and groans. I also checked the corpse along with her.


    *What is this?*


    I don''t believe a human being would do something like this. Only the liver is missing.


    I have seen many bodies in this state. The killer is not human. I don''t think they would understand if I told them though.


    "What do you think? It could be an organ collector, but they would have left the body alone if all they wanted were the organs. The wounds are too severe."


    "Yes, it could be something like that. I''m sure we''ll see more murders like this in the future."


    The policeman snarls.


    "This is troubling. These murders are really on the rise."


    "I knew it..." When I said that, thedy doctor, Kashiwagi, called out to me.


    "From the way you''re speaking, you either know something or you have an idea what''s going on."


    The way she spoke to me was sarcastic.


    "I understand that the killer is not a simple psychopath."


    With that, I left the police to do the rest.


    We returned to the clinic where we had just been.


    "Hey, Doctor, it''s your afternoon off. If you have no ns, why don''t you take Marcus-san out for a tour of Tokyo?"


    "I guess so."


    Dr. Kashiwagi considered this. I had just witnessed a crime scene a few minutes ago.


    "Well then, let''s all go together!"


    She''s in a good mood.


    "Yay! That''s our Doctor!"


    These people here are different.


    "Marcus-san! Shall we?"


    "Okay, then, I''ll be in good hands. Marc is fine though. That''s what my close friends call me, so you guys can call me that too."


    "Then you can call me Yuki, too," says Kashiwagi, thedy doctor, and the other women begin to introduce themselves.


    "I''m Satoko Nanase, the receptionist, and please call me Riko," the receptionist said eagerly.


    "We are Manami Kushima and Mika Fujino, the nurses here."


    "Please remember us as Mana and Mika,"


    says the pair of nurses. Mana has short hair, while Mika has her long hair in a bun. They are both cute, my kind of cute.


    The Japanese look so young and pretty!


    They haven''t changed since the old days, I bet their blood is delicious too. No, let''s not do that here.


    While I was thinking this, the four girls took me out and showed me around Tokyo. There really were a lot of modern buildings. But there were also shrines and other ces that reminded me of the olden days.


    I''m sorry to these girls who seem to be having fun, but I''m in desperate need of blood right now.


    Hm?


    There''s a department store. There''d probably be a lot of people there.


    I''m sorry girls, but I''m going to have to ask you to stay here.


    "I''m sorry, but I need to use the bathroom, so I''m going to go to that department store over there. Could you wait here for me?"


    With that, I entered the department store. It was crowded because there was a bargain sale.


    I pretend to stumble, grabbing onto a woman, and take the opportunity to sink my fangs into her neck. In this crowd, I was finally able to drink some blood.


    Oh, it''s been hours. It soaks into my body!


    "Sorry." With a kiss on the cheek, she forgets about me. Satisfied, I return to the girls.


    "Apologies. Where else are you taking me?"


    I think they were discussing where to go next while I was gone.


    "I''m thinking we should go to the Skytree next, so I hope you''re okay with heights."


    "I''ll be fine. It''s taller than the Eiffel Tower in France, right? I''m looking forward to it."


    We took the elevator up to the Skytree, and from there we could see the city of Tokyo. It really has changed a lot.


    The girls were excited about something. I''m certain it''s also the first time they''ve been here.


    "Wow! It''s amazing! I''ve never been here before. It''s always crowded and I didn''t have anyone to go with me..."


    Riko says, and the nurses smile.


    "Well, actually, us too."


    "I didn''t realize that! Mana-san and Mika-san seem so popr, don''t men often ask you out to ces like this?"


    The two of them replied, "We don''te because they would have asked us out."


    They spoke in unison.


    "A man who invites you to a ce like this must have ulterior motives," Mana and Mika said.


    "We are not so lucky with men. When we talked about our exes, we felt sorry for each other." They looked at each other and spoke in tandem again.


    "I see."


    "You had a surprisingly hard time."


    Riko looked at them tenderly, while Yuki gazed happily at them all."

 Chapter 3: Sushi is Delicious!

    Chapter 3: Sushi is Delicious!


    I go over to Yuki''s side.


    "Why don''t you go talk to them? You can chat, I''m going to enjoy the view for a while."


    "Yeah? Marc, let me know when you''re done. Let''s go to Asakusa next."


    With that, she went over to the girls.


    The view here is different from the one from the castle tower. From here, all I can see are buildings, though there is greenery in ces.


    It was strange to see trees visible in a city, perhaps it''s a park or not.


    Oh, this is quite an impressive ce. I remember Yuki mentioning Asakusa earlier, so I took out my phone and searched for it.


    Wow, it looks like an exciting ce. I love Japan.


    The girls, satisfied with their visit, came over to me.


    "How''s it going? Did you enjoy it?"


    "Yes, I think so. I was just now searching for the Asakusa that Yuki mentioned."


    The three girls chuckled.


    "Doctor, you lead us to some surprisingly simple ces."


    "No way! It''s so Japanese! let''s go then!"


    With that, I followed Yuki as she started to walk away,


    We arrived at Asakusa.We went to a ce called Sensoji Temple. Isn''t it so beautifully preserved?I''ve been to many temples, so I''d really like to see the more modern ces.


    Well, to them, I''m just a foreigner here.And the average foreigner would be pleased.I think I''ll stick with these girls for a while.


    After going around all the rmended spots, Yuki says,


    "Marc! Do you like sushi?"


    "Let''s go to Tsukiji."


    Thetter three are also thrilled.


    "Sushi! That sounds great! Of course, it''s on the Doctor, right?"


    The girls make a lot of noise, excited.


    "Sorry to interrupt the excitement, but could it be my treat this time? I don''t want youdies to pay for me," I tell them.


    Yuki chimes in.


    "I don''t mind, but these kids eat a lot despite their appearance."


    "That''s great! I like seeing girls who eat a lot."


    The girls are delighted to hear that.


    "Then let us spoil you too!"


    We picked up a cab and got in. I got in the passenger seat. The driver said he could speak both English and French, so we conversed until we reached our destination.


    "French is still difficult for me, so I''ll stick with English."


    We chatted in English, as the driver had suggested. And then, we arrived at Tsukiji. He was a good driver. I was pleased.


    I got out of the cab and gave the driver an extra tip, but he refused it.


    Yuki, who was watching this, spoke,


    "In Japan, we don''t have a tipping culture, so don''t worry about it."


    Come to think of it, I remember my buddy Rick saying something like that.


    "Come on! Let''s eat some sushi!"


    I begin to walk. It was amazing! There are many restaurants. All of them look like they serve delicious food. We enter one of them.


    "Wee!"


    We are greeted by the shopkeeper''s loud and cheerful voice.


    "Now, Marc, this is Japanese sushi."


    There were many people in the restaurant. It seemed crowded, but we were seated quite easily.


    "Is there anything you don''t like, Marc?"


    "Sushi is popr in France, too. Don''t worry, I can eat it."


    Yuki ordered several things from the chef. The sushi was lined up, artfully arranged, in front of us.


    "This is beautiful!" I couldn''t help but exim.


    The chef looked at me happily. The girls had already started eating.


    "Marc. Let''s eat."


    Yuki told me to eat.


    *


    Delicious!!*


    It''s like nothing I''ve ever had in France! I ate quite a lot too. It''s been years since I''ve been so satisfied with something other than blood.


    I can see why Rick rmended it.


    "You should go back to Japan. It''s so good there! You wouldn''t want to go back to France."


    I can now understand what he meant when he said that. I''m sure it will continue to be amazing every day from now on.


    "I''m full! I can''t eat anymore!" Thedies express as they sip their tea.


    "I''m full too. Marc, are you ready to go?"


    "I''m also full. The sushi was wonderful!"


    The chefs at the restaurant looked at us with delight.


    I paid the bill. It was pretty expensive. But with this many people, I guess it couldn''t be helped.


    "Thank you for the meal!"


    The girls tell me.


    *Not a bad feeling.*


    This might be a good time to stop living in a hotel and rent Rick''s room. I really want a different ce, knowing that he mentioned the room was a feeding ground.


    I have a job lined up here as well. It''s at the university hospital Rick referred me to. My doctor''s license is legitimate. I studied hard and have a good track record. Medical science is advancing at an astonishing rate, so I am very excited about this new job."

 Chapter 4: The Perpetrator of the Crime

    Chapter 4: The Perpetrator of the Crime


    I called Rick from the hotel and talked with him.


    "Isn''t Japan nice?"


    Rick on the other end of the phone chuckled, clearing his throat.


    "We can only stay for twenty years at most. Since we''ll look the same on the outside, they''ll begin to suspect us. Until then, enjoy. The room I was using has been remodeled, so you can use it as you like."


    "I''ll do that. Sorry about the job, too. You had to introduce me."


    "Don''t worry about that. But don''t do surgery, you might go wild."


    "I know. But their blood tastes so good."


    "Hey! You bit someone already, you''re quick."


    "I didn''t have a choice. I couldn''t take blood with me on the flight. Do you know how long it took to fly from the outskirts of Paris to Japan?"


    "Yes, I know. Well, I''m d you''re doing fine. If you have any problems, just let me know. And if you want blood, I''ll show you where you can get it easily."


    "Thank you. Oh, right! Rick, have you seen Jack the werewolf over there?"


    "What''s up? I just saw him yesterday."


    "Well... they''re in Japan, too. His people don''t really have the best dining etiquette. Thanks to one, it''s being investigated as a case over here. Tell him to stay out of trouble."


    "Well, that''s a disaster. I''ll let him know."


    I hung up the phone andid down on my bed. I had a busy day today, but it was fun.


    I begin work tomorrow. Rick said I''d better get there early or I''ll get lost. I think I''ll go to sleep.


    I gaze out the window.


    It''s bright even at night in Tokyo, and there are a lot of people.


    I guess I''ll get some blood before I turn in. I go out into the night.


    A woman calls out to me as I''m walking.


    She said, "You look great. Are you a model or something?"


    "No, I''m a doctor."


    "Oh! Then won''t you examine me?Every inch of me."


    And she grabs me by the arm.


    "I don''t mind an aggressive woman."


    With that, we went into a nearby hotel.


    "I''m gonna go take a shower."


    "Mind if I join you?"


    "I like aggressive men."


    With that said, we both take a shower together.


    *Oh, it smells delicious.*


    We get out of the shower and go straight to bed. I brush her hair and kiss her neck. Then I sink my kiva into it. It''s delicious!


    The woman looks euphoric. Apparently, it feels good to be bitten by us vampires. I knew that if I drank any more, she''d die.


    I got carried away.


    *Oh no!*


    The woman is unconscious, but it looks like she''s merely fallen asleep. Satisfied, I won''t starve for a while. I leave the hotel alone.


    I start work today.


    After an exnation from the office staff, I went to the outpatient clinic. This is a global hospital with many foreign patients. I can understand mostnguages. So they call on me for help when they are treating patients.


    I could be called an interpreter.


    The patientse from many different countries.


    I get my assignments in the general medicine department. Even if there is a patient, if I''m called to help, I go where I''m needed. When I''m not around, a nurse pays attention to their questions for me, which is a great help.


    Then one day, a few days since I began, I saw a face I recognized from somewhere in the hospital. It was Yuki, no doubt. She noticed me and came rushing toward me.


    "Marc! So you really are a doctor."


    Sheughs.


    I asked her, "Why are you in this hospital? I thought you were at the clinic."


    She then speaks, in a small voice. "It''s difficult to run a clinic by myself, so I sometimes work part-time like this."


    *Japan must be harsh. Are medical expenses insured?*


    The cost of medical care is unimaginably low in the U.S. because of insurance. Doctor''s sries aren''t that high either. I make more per year than the other doctors here because of Rick''s connections, and my achievements at academic conferences. Plus, I also trante for them. I''m doing a good job.


    "You must be having a hard time too."


    When I say that, does she look a little sulky?


    "No, it''s fine! I want to be free to do what I want, so this works for me."

 Chapter 5: A Date?

    Chapter 5: A Date?


    Yuki''s smile made my heart tingle.


    "Yuki... Dr. Kashiwagi, after work, would you like to go out for dinner?"


    "Sure. I''ll be waiting for you at the dispensary, so call me."


    Then she goes back. I''ve got a conference to go to, too, and it''s embarrassing when the other doctors stare at me if I''mte. Let''s hurry up.


    My work goes smoothly as nned, and I call Yuki. She seems to have finished her work too, so I meet her in the parking lot.


    She is surprised to see the car.


    "What''s this all about?"


    "I got it from a friend. He was in Japan, but he said he was returning to his country and wanted to give it to me."


    "I see. I thought it was too early for you to have bought one, but I see how it is."


    "Well, here you go, Princess."


    "Oh my! Marc can tell jokes like that."


    "How do I look from your point of view?"


    "I can''t get rid of the impression I had when I first met you. You looked like a lost puppy."


    Sheughs.


    Honestly, I did get a little human-sick. I probably looked like an unreliable and suspicious person as I wobbled around anemic.


    "So, I couldn''t leave you alone."


    Then she turns to me. I''m driving, so I can''t turn my head. But I can tell that Yuki is looking at me tenderly.


    "Did you know? You''ve be a bit of a celebrity in that hospital."


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about."


    "Not many people can speak so manynguages, and you''re so handsome, doesn''t that make you stand out even more?"


    "I''m d to hear that. I can''t believe they think I''m handsome. Is that how you see me, too?"


    ... I don''t get an answer. I''m a little worried, but I''m driving, and I''m still getting used to the roads in this country.


    Rick had told me to stay in the leftne, but... I don''t dare look away from the road.


    We arrive at the restaurant I had made a reservation at.


    "We''re here! Here we are!"


    Yuki started eximing, surprised.


    "What''s this ce? This is a pretty expensive restaurant!"


    "Yuki. Your voice is too loud."


    "Well... I don''t know if I''m dressed nicely enough."


    "I disagree. I''m sure as long as it''s not jeans, you''ll be fine. That outfit of yours looks great on you, Yuki."


    "Hmph, I don''t understand your money sense."


    She says with a sigh.


    "I wouldn''t invite a woman to a casual restaurant," I reply, smiling briskly.


    "You don''t need to be so careful with me," she says. "I wouldn''t mind going to a casual restaurant."


    "Come on, it''s weird for us to be standing here, so let''s go inside."


    The expensive-looking door opens and we go inside. A waiter greets us without a moment''s hesitation.


    I tell the waiter, "I have a reservation."


    "Marcus Weberin, correct? We are ready for you. Pleasee this way."


    As expected, this is a famous restaurant after all. They know the names of their customers ahead of time. It''s cute to see how nervous Yuki is. The waiter leads us to a private room.


    "You don''t have to worry about privacy in here, okay? Rx. Where did your usual energetic self go? You''ve be like a docile cat."


    I also clearly remember the time she took me to various ces with her energetic smile. I keep looking at Yuki with a grin on my face.


    The food arrives. Beginning with the appetizer, it is already a wonderful work of art. Rick highly rmended this restaurant. I''m sure it will please her.


    "Delicious!"


    Yuki smiles.


    "You finally smiled."


    "I can''t help it! I''m going out with you today. Do you have any ns after this?"


    She is back to her usual bubbly smile.


    "I guess. I just wanted to thank you for what you did for me. You really saved my life. It would have been very embarrassing if I had copsed in that ce."


    We eat for a while and listen to Yuki''s stories. Yuki''s parents are also doctors and run a big hospital. She said she would have to go back to that hospital sooner orter.


    "So I''m free to do whatever I want for now." She talks while eating savoringly.


    "Are you okay with that?"


    I ask her something I probably shouldn''t have.


    "I don''t have a choice. I can''t be as free as you."


    The meal is over.


    "Yuki, let''s move on. Will youe with me?"


    We leave the restaurant. I ask a driver to take my car. As we walk, I think back to what Yuki had said earlier.


    "Next stop, the lounge over there."


    "You really are an odd one, aren''t you? Well, that''s okay! I''ll keep youpany. Let''s go!"

 Chapter 6: Memories of Japan

    Chapter 6: Memories of Japan


    We enter the building and take the elevator to a trendy bar, where we can have drinks.


    Here too, a waiter shows us to our seats. We didn''t have to call the waiter to order drinks; an electronic ordering touch panel was avable.


    "You can pick whatever you want."


    I handed it over to her first.


    She looks at it and says, "Wow, they''ve got quite a variety of drinks. I''ll have a screwdriver then. Marc?"


    "Alright. I''ll have a Moscow Mule."


    We ce our orders on the panel.


    Then, Yuki, sitting in front of me, looks at me and says, "May I ask you something?"


    "Please, anything you want."


    "Why did youe to Japan? I know it''s amon question, but I''m curious."


    "A friend of mine rmended it to me. That Ie back."


    "You said you had been to here before. Did something happen at that time that traumatized you?"


    The cocktails we ordered are served at the table.


    We hold our sses, lightly tapping them against each other with a klink.


    "You''re right. I really liked my friend (Oda Nobunaga) at that time. His ideas seemed bizarre at first nce, but they made sense. I knew that his dreams would surelye true one day (unification of the country). In fact, it was a different person who made ite true (Tokugawa Ieyasu), but his subordinates betrayed him... and because of that, he sadly passed away (The Honnoji Incident). I went back to my own country after that."


    I remember Nobunaga at that time.


    "Oh, I see. A friend... You must have really appreciated him."


    "Oh yes, I was fond of him. After he was gone, Japan became nothing but a ce full of sad memories for me. But it''s been a while since then, so my friend told me I shoulde back, partly because I love manga and anime."


    I wink at Yuki.


    "I see. Then maybe Akihabara would have been better for you to visit?"


    "I''ve been there so many times since then! It''s great! I''ve been to maid cafes that I''ve seen in manga and anime! I had the best time."


    I remember those times! Oh, yeah! That was so much fun! I should go again!


    "I didn''t know you were such an otaku. But maybe you were happier with the maids."


    "Oh! You called me an otaku! I''ll tell you what. You''ve made a lot of enemies! I''m d to hear it, though."


    Yuki bursts outughing. Then the geek talk, which I had been holding back from,es into full bloom. I didn''t expect Yuki to know so much about this. Doujinshi? She said she would buy a book called doujinshi. When I asked to borrow the book, she turned red in the face and refused. I''m curious, but... well. I''ll ask again next time.


    Then Yuki says as if just remembering.


    "Marc. Do you remember that incident?"


    "You mean the time we went with the police?"


    "Yes! There''s another body just like it, and I was called in again."


    *Did Rick tell Jack about this? This is going to expose us. Eventually, witnesses woulde forward. It would be traumatizing to see a scene like that. Besides, there are security cameras everywhere. If we were caught on camera...*


    "What''s wrong? Is there something on your mind?"


    I made Yuki worry. I''m an escort, but I''m not


    being a very good one.


    "No, it''s nothing. I just feel sorry for the first person to find the body."


    "I know. I''ve been to many autopsies, but I''ve never seen a body like that."

 Chapter 7: Vampire Drinking

    Chapter 7: Vampire Drinking


    *I don''t know what to do at all. Should I find the werewolf?*


    Maybe I should call Rickter and discuss it with him. As I was thinking about it, I drank quite a bit.


    "Are you okay? Marc, you''ve been drinking a lot."


    "Cocktails are easy to drink, so I asked for too much. Let''s go get some water."


    "It''s on the order pad. I was going to order..."


    Yes, I was utterly wasted. My memory cked out.


    When I came to, I was back in my room. I''m so proud of myself. I''m back...


    ... Where''s Yuki?


    I left Yuki behind and came back on my own...


    And then...


    "Oh my, are you awake?"


    *Yuki!What are you doing here?*


    "Oh, that face. You don''t seem to remember any of it."


    *Did I somehow offend Yuki?*


    "I''m here because the waitress called a cab for you, and also because you''re inebriated. I told her the proper name of your apartment and we came here by cab, but I didn''t know what to do from there. I was surprised that you entered the room all by yourself."


    "I see... Yuki. I''m sorry, but can I have some water? "


    "Yes, yes, yes. I guess I shouldmend you for not throwing up."


    I take a drink of water and look at her face.


    "I''m sorry... I failed to escort you. Sorry for the trouble I caused."


    "Yes, I agree. I think I got a little carried away. But it was fun. Thank you."


    "Yuki. You can stay here if you want. There are no more trains, right? I have quite a few things for women, so feel free to use them."


    When I opened the closet, there were many women''s clothes. Yuki saw this and said...


    "What is this? What is this? Marc. You live here with a woman!"


    *Oh dear, that''s the kind of reaction I''d expected.*


    "Oh... well... It''s not really a problem because the guy who used to live in this room left it as is. Actually, the previous upant was a friend of mine, but he was a total womanizer and he used to bring them here. There are changing clothes for that."


    Yuki is surprised to see the clothes in the closet.


    "But they are all the same size, and some are even luxury brands."


    My head hurts. I haven''t been drunk in hundreds of years.


    "Marc. There''s even underwear. And they are all the same size... the former resident is amazing. It''s scary. Does he find the same type of women and bring them here?"


    "That''s his special skill. He can guess your three sizes even with your clothes on."


    I lie on the couch and talk to Yuki.


    "The underwear is brand new. He never sleeps with the same woman, so I''m sure he restocks them when hees home."


    "Then may I have it? It''s the same size as mine."


    *Eh!*


    "Go ahead. Please, take it... You can have them all if you want."


    I say as Iy there, unable to sit up.


    "Well then, may I take your word for it and use your shower?"


    "Please..."


    Suddenly... Sleepiness hits me... I can hear the water running in the shower. It''s like a luby.


    I don''t remember anything after that."

 Chapter 8: Hangover

    Chapter 8: Hangover


    I woke up. My head hurts. It really does.


    I waspletely inebriated by alcohol, I remember... And Yuki took care of me...


    *Why?*


    *Why is Yuki sleeping next to me in the same bed?


    NoI don''t remember this part, at all...*


    "Marc, are you awake?"


    She sleepily opens her eyes. *Oh, wow!*


    *What should I do!


    I am awake!*


    Yuki. Why are you sleeping here?


    "Oh, did you forget aboutst night?"


    Night...?


    ......! Yuki! Did I bite you?


    "Bite? Whats that?


    She''sughing. Thank goodness. It looks like I didnt suck her blood. First, I''m relieved, but now what do I do about this situation?


    When I got out of the shower, you were already asleep on the bed. This bed is a queen size, right? That''s why I also decided to trouble you here.


    *Oh well, that''s not a problem then. Oh, I reek of alcohol. And I have a terrible headache. I must be hungover*.


    "Yuki, I''m going to take a shower. You can get dressed and let yourself out while I do. I''m really sorry about yesterday. I''ll make it up to you, I promise!"


    I said this and went to take a shower. I can''t do this. I''m all out of sorts. But I''m d I got to see Yuki''s smile.


    *......?What is this feeling....*


    *This isnt good. I''m worried about Yuki.


    Shes a human!


    *


    I keep telling myself that. I have work to do today as well. I need to get a grip or Ill never get there on time!


    I p my cheeks between my palms. p, p, p. *Okay*. When I got out of the shower, Yuki was gone. *Good. Ive got to go get ready*. I looked at the table and saw that breakfast had been prepared. A note on the table read, "*Please eat well. Thank you for yesterday. Huh this got to me.*


    Rick''s words came back to my mind.


    It''s okay to love a human being. It''s not so bad to see them off.


    *No. Does he have any idea how long it''s taken me to get over feeling this way after Nobunaga left this world? It will be even more difficult if it was someone I loved. It would take me hundreds of years to recover. But I can''t seem to contain my own feelings. I''m in trouble.*


    That day at work was a disaster. The nurse pointed out both the test order error and my mistake in prescribing the medication and helped me out. She''s an excellent nurse.


    She said, "Dr. Marc, youre acting strange today. You usually don''t make mistakes like this. I think you should go home today, doctor!


    But the medical examination..."


    "Well then, Ill help you out today, doctor. Sounds good! You can sit right here!


    I was a little touched by what the nurse said as she was walking out of the examination room. She''s really good, isn''t she? Or maybe it was just to avoid more mistakes. I couldnt help it, my mind is acting weird. I stayed quiet as the nurse requested. Then the outpatient department hours were finished, and after that, I went to the foreign patients'' ward. There, too, I got scolded by the ward nurse for the various things I did."

 Chapter 9: Confession

    Chapter 9: Confession


    What''s wrong with you today, Doctor? Its not like you to make so many mistakes. Here, are you looking at the patients form? You said youd consider changing the prescription based on the results of this record. With this data, you''re going to change the prescription, right?"


    Even the ward nurses here have asked me,


    What''s really going on?"


    *Is she angry?*


    It''s nothing. Just a hangover."


    And I paste on a smile without the energy to keep it up.


    Then, would you like me to hook you to an IV to get the remaining alcohol out of your body?"


    I hear a voice from somewhere. I turn back to the owner of the voice. It''s Yuki.


    Haha, it''s you. No, I don''t need an IV."


    You''d better go home then.


    That''s what the outpatient nurse said.


    She hung her head.


    I understand. I''ll take care of the rest, so Dr. Marc, please report early and go home."


    When you say it so crisply, it''s hard to bear. In more ways than one.


    ... alright, then."


    I told Yuki so and decided to go. I feel like I''ll just be a nuisance if I stay.


    I thought to myself as I staggered back home.


    "Isnt Dr. Marc cool even when he''s hungover? Don''t you even feel a sense of mncholy when you look at his back?" The ward nurse said.


    All the staff at the ward nodded in agreement.


    I ended up going home after all and had a lot of time on my hands. *Yes!*


    I''ll have to talk to Rick about it.


    Whoa, what''s up?


    Rick. You made sure to tell Jack, didnt you? That weve got a problem with some roughhousing over here.


    That''s funny, I already told him, but I''ll check againter. But what about Japan? It''s a great ce to be! It''s the holynd of nerds!


    "Rick. More than that, I''m in trouble. I don''t know what to do."


    "Oh, man, this isn''t like you. Got a girl on your mind? Yeah.


    ...! Hey! Rick, howd you know?


    I don''t know how long you think we''ve been together, but I can hear it in your voice. You turned your back on everything you''ve ever done in this regard. Now face it. This is your chance. If that person finds out who you are and is afraid of you, you can just wipe their memory. You can do it. As a pureblood, you can make them your dependent and your dependent''s dependent, too. If you don''t want to see them go, so be it."


    *Face it*


    I guess so. I''ll try my best. I''m not sure, but... If they reject me, pleasefort me."


    You should be a little bit more confident. Youre a good guy. You''ve had plenty of chances in the past, but you didn''t ept them, and that''s how we got here. I''m rooting for you, man. Ill ask about the werewolves over here, too.


    I hang up the phone and think. Rick, you''ve always loved humans. I remember you smiling when you saw them off, and they all smiled with fulfillment. I''ve always envied you for that. Can I do that?


    Even for Nobunaga, it took me this long. To be honest, Im not that confident.


    I need blood. Come to think of it, I haven''t had a drink because I''ve been busy with work. I guess I''ll have to go out and look for it again at night. I''m also out of surplus transfusion packs, so I''ll have to secure those somehow. Hmmm!


    Then the inte rang.


    *Its Yuki!*


    No, it''s not. I''m bloodthirsty now. I''m not sure I can hold myself back if I see her at a time like this. I''ll have to use the answering machine, sorry. But then my phone rang... I answered it


    "Marc, are you okay?


    *It is Yuki after all.*


    "Yeah, I''m fine. It''s just a hangover. Once the alcohol wears off, Ill be fine. Sorry to worry you.


    When I said that and was about to hang up the phone, I hear Yuki''s loud voice boom from my phone.


    "Marc! Open this door!


    *Hmm... It can''t be helped, I''ll have no choice but to ask her to leave early.


    *


    "All right, just don''t talk so loud, it''s going to blow my brains out."


    I unlock the door. Soon after, the inte at the front door rings. When I open it, I take in Yuki''s worried face with my eyes.


    Marc, I''ming in.


    Shees in.


    Lie down there," she says, pointing to the sofa.


    She rummages through her bag and pulls something out.


    I brought something from my clinic.


    And there it was, an IV drip...


    "Um, Yuki, whats this?


    As you can see, it''s Solct.


    I understand that, but why is it here?


    I brought it for you. Quickly lie down and get in position, and let me use the bathroom first.


    And then she goes to get ready quickly.


    I give up andy on the couch.


    She says, "Yes! Your veins are as magnificent as ever.


    In the end, she puts an IV drip in me. During the infusion, Yuki was doing something in the kitchen.


    The room was already clean and tidy. I ended up going to the bathroom several times.


    She said, "You''re all right now. Yourplexion has improved.


    I kind of feel like I''m a patient being visited by a doctor.


    "This is a home visit. Don''t worry, I dont charge."


    She turns that dazzling smile on me. I feel like I''m about to lose all sense of reason.


    Thank you, I think I can handle the rest.


    I''ve prepared some porridge in the kitchen, so please eat it.


    I feel strange watching Yuki''s back as she heads for the front door. Im supposed to see her off at the door, but instead, Im hugging her from behind.


    Marc"


    She says my name, and her own lips meet mine. It''s not the first time I''ve kissed someone, but my heart is racing. Yuki stares at me in surprise.


    Yuki, I like you.


    Then I hug her again. My hunger and thirst react to her scent, and I kiss her neck. Then, with a thud, she shoved my body away from hers. I came back to my senses.


    I was about to bite her.


    I''m going home now. Take care of yourself.


    The front door closes."

 Chapter 11: Werewolf

    Chapter 11: Werewolf


    Werewolf


    Hmmm. I see," said the nurse, looking at me meaningfully.


    Ha-ha-ha! You nurses, especially the Japanese ones, are very observant and attentive with people.


    I''m d to hear that!


    Then the nurse approaches me and says, "Are you having trouble with your love life?


    I almost fell out of my chair.


    Bingo, the nurse says happily. She is really talented.


    Youre very popr, you know. I don''t think you need to worry so much. I''m sure the other person is also interested.


    I guess married couples are different. You can afford not to worry."


    My husband is also a nurse, so he understands me in regards to my work. It''s difficult to socialize with the general public when you work in this kind of medical field. Theres a lot of overtime, irregr hours, and night shifts. When ites to marriage, we have to think about that.


    I see. We''ve both got our feet nted in this business. Once you know how rewarding this job is, you can''t get out. On the other hand, it''s such a tough job that many people get mentally distressed and leave.


    While we were having a casual conversation, a call for help came in.


    I''m off. take care of the rest.


    I am called to the emergency room. The patient is a foreigner who could not speak Japanese.


    When I arrive at the emergency room, I find a screaming man who is likely a werewolf. The other staff members seem to be having a hard time dealing with the unruly patient. I go to him and speak in Italian.


    Don''t bother the Japanese. This is a hospital. Don''t worry, you can trust me.


    The patient, who had been acting up, calmed down. The people around him were relieved.


    You are the founder, aren''t you? I didn''t know you were hiding in a ce like this. Well... It''s easy for you to get blood, so it''s the perfect job for you.


    How did you get hurt so badly? You have the ability to recover, don''t you? Being rushed to the hospital is a bad idea, your true nature could be revealed.


    Thats why I keep saying I don''t need medical attention. I''ve been trying to tell them that I don''t need treatment, but I''m having troublemunicating.


    Well You know If you''re going toe to Japan, at least learn a little Japanese beforehand."


    "I''m sorry, but I can''t speak back.


    "Well, its alright. Act mature and get your treatment quietly. The doctors here are excellent. It won''t take long. You can call your friends to pick you up and take you home. I''ll tell them what they need to know.


    Okay.


    The patient is now docile, and he undergoes the procedure. The wound is not too bad even though it was covered in blood and only needed bandaging.


    The wound wasnt stitched, so theres no need to remove stitches. This shouldnt raise any suspicions.


    Finally seeing my name, the man says, Marcus Wembelin? Indeed... you haven''t changed your name. How did you manage to stay invisible for so long?


    I know some bigwigs in this country who are connected to our people, so it''s no big deal. I''d like to ask you a few questions. Can I contact youter?


    "It''s about the recent mysterious incidents, isn''t it? That''s what caused this injury. I''ll tell you more about itter. Thanks for your help.


    After the treatment waspleted, he was transferred to the observation room. So I asked the doctor in the emergency room.


    It seems he came to meet someone I know. They got into a fight over a minor altercation. I''ll call that acquaintance after this, so why don''t you let me handle this?"


    Youre rted to him, Dr. Marc? That''s good to hear. When he went berserk, I thought for a moment about calling the police. If so, please take care of the rest.


    He leaves me in charge. I''ll ask himter. I''m d they didn''t call the police.


    "

 Chapter 12: Leonardo the werewolf

    Chapter 12: Leonardo the werewolf


    Werewolf, Leonardo


    I call Rick after that and ask him to contact some of his friends who may be in Japan. With the contact info, I call and ask them to pick him up. Things are settled now, I guess.


    Its almost time to go to the clinic for the afternoon checkup. I need to have lunch first, because I dont know what time Ill finish after this. When I go to the cafeteria, the emergency room doctor is there. He calls out to me.


    "Dr. Marc, are you starting now, too? If we dont eat while we can, we wont know when well be able to go home. Im on duty, so I feel like I have to eat now even more, he said.


    We eat together at the same table. This doctor is young but very talented. He deals with emergency patients being brought in. I wonder how many lives he has saved.


    Why are you an EMT, Doctor Kamiya? Are you a paramedic?"


    Yes. Yes, that''s right. When I was a resident, there was a big disaster, and I was there when it happened. The scene was so bad that lives had to be exchanged. Normally, if I went to such a site, I would be so traumatized that I wouldnt even be able to do my job. There were many I couldnt save, but the lives of the ones I took care of were saved, and they thanked me. That made me very happy.


    As he spoke quietly, I sense a burning sense of purpose from him.


    Dr. Kamiya is a wonderful doctor.


    I really thought so.


    I heard that Dr. Marc was also active in Doctors Without Borders. I can''t do that. Just doing what I do in Japan is enough.


    I think I was able to do it because I was young. It was very demanding. I was there for about fifteen years, and I was able to learn thenguages of many different countries.


    I would have stayed there for decades more, it was a very rewarding ce. But I dont age, and I can''t stay in the same ce for long.


    You were young, you are still young enough now, aren''t you?"


    He tilts his head in wonder. Im in trouble...


    I might look like this, but I''m over forty.


    If I don''t tell them that, they will be suspicious of my past achievements. My research papers have been published in medical journals. I could be over sixty, but I look so young. That''s enough to make them suspicious.


    I see! I thought you were about my age, so I''m surprised.


    Oh, no! You look younger than me. I thought you were in your 20s. Japanese people really do look young. And now that you are married, you must be having the best time at work.


    Dr. Kamiya replies, a little embarrassed.


    Yes, thats right. I suppose so. It''s nice to have a family. I''m surprise Dr. Marc is single. Did you know? Youre now the darling of every single woman in the hospital."


    He says this with a smile. I had heard that from Yuki, but I didn''t know it was that big of a deal...


    It seems so. I''m puzzled by all the female attention Im getting. It''s not that I fancy men. I like women. I just haven''t had much luck with them.


    Its really true. I never had such feelings for another vampire, either. Ive never had feelings for a human woman, as Rick has. Until now After lunch, I head to the hospital wing as usual in the afternoon.


    Today was supposed to be Yukis part-time work day, but I dont see her. I finish my work and I''m able to go home, as usual. Yes, lets call that werewolf patient.


    I need to talk to him!


    Why is this happening? Weve been living quietly, trying to keep our identities hidden from humans, so we cant afford for them to make such a conspicuous move! I look at his contact info in the medical records. If hes not faking this, I should be able to reach him. I get in the car and make a call.


    It''s Marcus. Is this Leonardo?


    Yes, it''s Leonardo. You''re talking about that issue, right? I''ll meet you and we''ll talk. I can''t talk on the phone right now. Things are a little bit crazy over here.


    Okay.


    I''ll send you a message with the name and location of the restaurant. I''ll also set up a time.


    I''ll be waiting. Bye.


    "

 Chapter 13: The werewolf leader

    Chapter 13: The werewolf leader


    The Werewolf Leader


    I get in my car and arrive at the designated store. I go inside.


    Are you a vampire? This is no ce for your kind! Dont intrude on our territory!


    The werewolves in the store all stare at me. To make them feel my presence, I unleash my aura, in a kind of disy to show off my status as a founder. I have to show that I was more than just amon vampire; otherwise, I would be perceived as a threat.


    This is where Leonardoes in.


    You dont have to put on the aura so strongly, he says. The people here arent that hostile to vampires, so just be normal. Some of them will be scared, if you let off such a strong presence.


    I see, my bad.


    I reply and pull back on my aura. Then, I get down to business.


    So? Are you going to tell me how this happened?


    Its exactly what youre thinking. A leadership battle.


    Were not interested nor concerned about your leadership, but it disturbs us when you get so unruly. Cant you do it more quietly? We wouldnt want our true identities to be revealed.


    Leonardo lets out a loud sigh.


    Yes, Im sure thats true, but it seems that some of the guys are unhappy with the leader. So they caused a ruckus in frustration. Some humans have already fallen victim. I tried to stop them, and this is what happened. I knew I was outnumbered, but I couldnt ignore someone who was about to be attacked, right in front of me.


    Then he turns his head downwards.


    So? What does the leader say now? If you keep going on like this, youll be discovered sooner orter.


    ... the leader was killed. There is no leader now.


    Im speechless. Attacking the pack leader No. Ive never heard of something like this before.


    There is a fight for the next leader. Those who attacked the previous one are the militants who want more humans to eat. Over here, we dont want to eat people that badly, we have plenty to eat for now. And were content with that.


    Well, once you get a taste of something good, you cant go back.


    Leonardo, who seemed to be smiling a little, speaks again.


    And since humans have been supplying us with the bodies of the condemned for centuries, its not as if we cant eat them.


    I think. The absence of a leader is not a good situation. We definitely need someone here to keep the people under control.


    "Leonardo. You should be the leader.


    Thats what my friends here have been telling me. I want to maintain the same partnership with the humans as before, and I dont care if they call me a coward. The survival of our race is more important.


    Leonardo. I believe you are the right person for the job. We need to get along with humans. Least history repeats itself, we cant let another witch hunt happen again. Im going to leave, and Ill have to use the founders power. But it will be a quicker solution.


    Im sorry That we have to seek the help of another race to solve our problems when we really should be doing it ourselves


    Leonardos expression is grim. Surely, they must have discussed this many times. But the oue is more dire now.


    Its okay. This is better for us, too, so dont worry about it. The current situation is endangering us vampires, too. You can rely on me.


    If there are human casualties, the police will act, thats a given. Our existence is top secret, only a few bigwigs could know about us. This is called coexistence. If this bnce is broken, well be back in the dark ages.


    This is no joking matter!


    It is natural that the police will move if humans are harmed.


    Come on. Now, lets pay respects to the potential leader of this militant faction.


    Leonardo then contacts the other leader on the spot.


    "

 Chapter 14: The Leaders decision

    Chapter 14: The Leader''s decision


    The Leaders Decision


    I can feel my vampiric blood surging inside me. These things make my blood boil. Leonardo walks off with a few of his werewolf friends toward the other pack. He had contacted them.


    We arrive at the other packs hideout. Leonardo turns to me and signals the way in, so I open the door to the room and he enters first. It seems that he is talking to the other potential leader from this group.


    No one would want to follow a useless coward like you! Get out of here! The more powerful one should be on top!


    After being shouted at, Leonardo is kicked to the ground by several werewolves and shoved out the door.


    Oh dear, what trouble. Youre causing us a lot of problems,you know, what are you going to do about it?


    I walk inside, not giving off a founders aura. I want to know what these guys are really like first.


    Who the hell are you? Vampire, this is no ce for the likes of you! Get out of our business!


    What do you mean? We have a lot to do with this. Were all in trouble because of your horrid eating habits. We got along well with the humans, and the Japanese police arepetent. If this continues, youll eventually be discovered. Thats not good for us, either. Its actually a nuisance, to say the least.


    Some of the bloodthirsty wolves in the group are snarling, and some are raising their voices. One of them, who must be the leader of the pack,es toward me. He res me down, but then quickly backs up as if hed sensed something.


    You Are you the founder?


    Well, its amazing that you can even recognize me when I dont let out an aura. So? Does anybody elsel want toe at me? You cane on out.


    A couple of them try to stand in front of me, but cant get close enough. Yes, Im now giving off the aura of a founder.


    Now Im like, So much for that. I dont enjoy fighting, so I came here to say what I have to say. Your leader here shall be Leonardo.


    The leader of the other pack growls at me. I say,


    Leonardo is now my friend. And I agree with his philosophy. You cant lead a pack just because youre strong. A leader must also be prepared to protect the pack. This is why you arent a leader. You endanger your people. Youll all be exposed and punished like the witch hunts of the past. After all, youve attacked humans. Youre a danger to them. If you be leader, the werewolves of this country will be wiped out.


    At this, all the werewolves there quickly distance themselves from the man.


    If you want to attack humans, go ahead. But when they catch you, you better be in wolf form or youre all finished.


    The other werewolves gulp at my words.


    Wanna know something? The Japanese police are already on the move.


    I grin and look at the werewolves here. Then someone replies.


    You know, there has been a lot of cops aroundtely.


    I add after him.


    In this day and age, there are security cameras all over the ce, even in cars. I hope they didnt catch anyone in the act.


    The atmosphere is clearly different from before.


    The rest is up to you. If Leonardo bes leader, Ill help you guys, and listen to what you have to say. Thats all.


    With that, I left. I return to the car and check my phone.


    There is a message from Yuki. Just a simple, We need to talk.


    I send a reply right away, that Im on my way home.


    I asks her toe to my house if she wants. I hurry home.


    Im sure Leonardo will be the leader this time. There is nothing to be afraid of, with a vampire founder behind him. Were immortal, and some of us are powerful in the business world. I dont fear even the prime minister of this country, and I have connections to other heads of state and representatives from other nations. Of course, the same goes for the president; who has one of our own in his entourage.


    "

 Chapter 15: Coming out

    Chapter 15: Coming out


    Coming Out


    The case is now closed. The rest is just a personal matter. Hmmm


    Should I tell her who I am?  Rick always told them about himself. But he never turned any of them, he always sent them off. He loved seeing humans live their life to the fullest, not taking away their freedom to die. Rick is also a pureblood. I couldve made him my dependent But weve known each other for a long time. I think itd be best, to be honest with Yuki; she may fear me, but shell have figured it out eventually. If thats the case, Ill tell her. If she fears and hates me, I can erase her memory and go to a different ce. Thats all there is to it.


    I made up my mind to do so and went home. When I arrived, and was about to enter the apartment, I heard a voice.


    Yourete! I got here before you.


    And she gives me that amazing smile.


    Ah. I still love that smile on Yukis face.


    Im sorry. I was out checking on a patient that came in earlier today.


    Ah! I heard about that. I was surprised to hear it from the emergency room doctor.


    Well, what the heck why dont youe in, anyway?


    Right."


    We rode the elevator and entered the room in silence. We sat on the sofa in the living room, faced each other, and I started talking.


    Yuki, Im sorry about the other day. I apologize if I made you feel bad. But if


    I spoke while looking down. And then Yuki stands up and goes behind me, taking me into her arms?!


    I feel the same way, Marc. I like you.


    She spoke into my ear. What should I do? Im sure my ears will be bright red.


    Oh my god, your ears are red. Its not fair when you got to be so bold with me.


    You disturb and annoy me so easily. Youre the only person who has ever made me feel this way.


    Yuki pushes me back on the sofa, looks down at me, and says, I''ve realized how I feel since then. I realized that I like you.


    Im d. Yuki. I dont want to hide anything from you. I have something important to tell you. Will you hear me out?


    Yuki sits down beside me, turning to face me.


    Yuki, Im not human. Im what is called a vampire.


    ... Im sorry. What did you just say?


    I''m a vampire. That''s what I said."


    After a few moments of silence, Yuki said with her head in her hands,


    Wait a minute I cant catch up with my own thoughts. That word you just said, vampire, as in you know? Vampire?


    Who else is there? There''s no such thing as a vampire who isn''t a vampire."


    I smile and look at Yuki.


    ... so then, do you have fangs?


    Thats the first question you want to ask me?


    Im not sure if its a question that came naturally to her, or if its just because shes a doctor.


    Do you want to see it?"


    I ask her in turn. What do you think?


    I want to see it!"


    She says, her eyes sparkling like a childs. I think shes a little bit like him Nobunaga used to look at the ssworks from the West with glittering eyes. I remember when he looked at the embroidery on my cloak, sighing in delight as he said, What an unusual pattern!


    Well, at that time, I gave him some clothes; as I recall, it was because he looked at them so much.


    Look, here they are. They stretch a little when I suck blood.


    I show her my fangs.


    Wow! They really do have fangs. That''s interesting. But you eat normal meals, too, right? What does that mean? Can you eat normal food?"


    It''s not just that we need blood. Over the course of our long history with humans, we''ve learned to eat everything. We just need to take blood regrly, because our bodies need it. When depleted, we get terrible bloodthirsty urges and attack without regard. So I do take blood regrly."


    "

 Chapter 16: What is love?

    Chapter 16: What is love?


    What is Love?


    How do you take it?


    I get expired transfusion packs.


    Oh... so that''s why you asked if you''d bitten me.


    "Oh yeah... I did."


    I thought it was a strange thing to ask, but I see what you mean now.


    Mhm, I nod my head in agreement once.


    Yuki, aren''t you afraid of me?


    Why should I be afraid of you?


    Because I''m not human. I might attack you and drain your blood. I almost bit you that time.


    But it doesn''t matter what part of the body you bite, as long as you can drink the blood, right?


    Well, yeah, I guess. But I don''t want to sink my fangs into a mans neck... I''m having a normal conversation with you. Yuki, are you okay? Isn''t this strange? Wouldnt you normally be scared if you heard something like this?


    " Why should I be afraid? You''re still Marc, right? You wouldn''t attack and kill me, would you?"


    Of course not! There''s no way I''d kill someone I love!


    Then it doesn''t matter. I like Marc.


    "... Really?"


    I look at Yuki.


    I''m not sure why you''d lie about something like this. I''d rather hear it from you. Besides, you told me. You told me you liked me.


    Then, she looks at me with her usual bubbly smile. Yes, I wanted to tell you, I wanted to tell you how I felt and I hoped you would ept me for who I am, just like this.


    You epted me. Oh, how happy I feel. Now I can give Rick a good report!


    Hey, theres no transfusion pack in the fridge.


    ... I was just thinking about that same thing. When did you get there?


    "Oh yeah... I just ran out.


    What do you do in this kind of situation?"


    Oh, Yuki''s face is close....


    "Oh, I get it from friends.


    "Heh, I see."


    Yuki''s face looks like she is thinking of something bad.


    "Hey! You can bite me. You don''t be a vampire just because you got bitten, right?


    That''s true, but...


    Yes!


    She brushes her hair out of her face and bares her neck at me.


    I heard it feels good to be bitten. Is that true?


    Im craving blood now. As you just noticed, I''m out of transfusion packs and haven''t had a drink.


    So, here you go!


    "Yuki... the ecstasy of being bitten is as dangerous as drugs."


    I turn my face away from her.


    "I''d be happy to do it for you, my vampire.


    With those words, I embrace Yuki. Then I pierce my fangs into her neck.


    "Ah! Ahhh~!


    A sweet sigh escapes from Yuki''s mouth. I take off Yuki''s clothes as I drink her blood. The blood flows from the edge of my mouth, and I try to move carefully so as not to stain it. The blood soaks her underwear. I take off her underwear too. I have never been so excited to drink blood before. I retract my fangs and lick the puncture holes with my tongue. This way, I stop the bleeding. When I see Yuki''s face, I get excited in another way.


    Marc... its okay. Take me."


    I take Yuki in my arms and rest her on the bed. Yuki''s face is still euphoric. I don''t know how I can withstand this! The person I love wants me to take her.


    "Yuki, I''m not going to apologize. I''m going to take you.


    With an ted look on her face, Yuki replies.


    Dont apologize, silly. This is what I want.


    Tonight, we make love. We love each other I know how you feel. Rick, I understand. Your feelings.


    (It''s nice to make love to a human!")


    I can picture Ricks smile.


    When I woke up in the morning, Yuki was next to me. Obviously she would be, but I feel kind of happy.


    Yuki wakes up too, and we look at each other. She stares at me with that perky smile. Then, she suddenly changes her expression.


    Hey, Marc," she said. Do the fang marks remain?


    Oh, there they are...


    I think it will remain for the rest of the day.


    Okay. I''ll put a bandage over it, then no one would be able to figure out what it is."


    "Yes, yes, I''ll put it on you. Yuki, is your blood RH-negative by any chance?


    "

 Chapter 17: Rumor

    Chapter 17: Rumor


    Rumor


    Yuki replies.


    Yeah.


    I put a band-aid over it.


    That''s why it tasted soooooo good. I didn''t know you were the owner of such rare and precious blood. I''m surprised."


    Im surprised, too. It feels amazing to have your blood sucked. I thought it would hurt because of the bite.


    I told you. It''s as dangerous as a drug.


    "... Hey, Marc, have you ever bitten anyone other than me since you came to Japan?


    "... Well, yes. Yes, I have.


    "Just biting?


    ...! Isn''t that obvious? What are you talking about?"


    Marc, you must have been excited.


    "... I got excited because it''s Yuki. What are you making me say!"


    Yukiughs softly, am I being made fun of?


    I''m going to work today. It''s going to be a busy day.


    We eat breakfast and go to work together. Yuki''s working at her clinic today. I examine patients as usual. When there''s a short pause and the patient queue is cut off, the nurse says to me,


    Doctor!


    She pats me on the back.


    ?


    You''re looking good today! By the looks of it, you must have made up with your sweetheart. Congrattions."


    She looks at me with a big smile.


    You guys are as sharp as ever.


    You''re the object of every single woman''s affection. We have want to know.


    I won''t tell you because it''s personal information.


    I understand. But Dr. Marc is the type of person who can''t hide things, so I''m sure you''lle clean sooner orter.


    "I can''t beat the nurses here.


    They''re too good...


    At Yuki''s clinic.


    The nurses, Mana and Mika, are furiously approaching Yuki, and their faces are frightening.


    Director! I bet you found a guy and are having a good time with him right now, right?!


    Mana, one of the two nurses, asks.


    Oh, what are you talking about?


    Yuki brushes it off.


    The other nurse, Mika, also gets on Yuki''s nerves.


    She says, "Well your skin is glowing, and most importantly, look at that bandage! That''s definitely to cover up the hickey, right?"


    Then the two nurses approach Yuki.


    Who are you with? I''m surprised that anyone would take such a jaded horse for their own."


    "I think thats a little too much... you guys are..."


    I''ll tell you in time. Just wait a little longer.


    She replies with a smile.


    It''s not fair! One of us can''t just luck out! If this happens, I''m going to go on a bunch of blind dates!


    Mana says with a snort. Hearing this, Mika also adds.


    I want to find a good guy and make love too!


    Seeing this, Rico, the receptionist, lets out a sigh.


    What are youpeting with each other for? Isn''t this a matter of fate?"


    Hmph!


    And the nurse team looks at Rico.


    "Could it be! Rico. You too..."


    Yes! I have a boyfriend! Hes a guy who majored in the same department in college as me. He managed a bar where I went for drinks with a friend I hadn''t seen in a while. And then things got exciting... and we started going out."


    She says with a blush on her cheeks and a grin.


    You beat me to it..."


    They both drop their shoulders in disappointment.


    Oh well. Nurses are very popr, so dont worry. It''s fine. I''m sure you''ll find a good person sooner orter. Hey!


    The two stand there, not replying to Yuki''s words. They are staring at each other''s faces.


    I''m definitely going to find a good partner first!"


    That''s what my heart tells me.


    Yuki thought.


    "

 Chapter 18: Happiness

    Chapter 18: Happiness


    Happiness


    I get off work and go home on time today.


    When I reach home, I call Rick.


    "Hey, Marc. How''s it going?"


    Yeah, we got the werewolf thing sorted out. It was a dispute over the leadership of a Japanese pack, but it''s settled now.


    Well, that''s good to hear. It looked like Jack''s ce was contacted as well. I wasn''t worried. Jack said he took care of it. It seems you''ve got a hold on the rest of the pack over there, too. It''s hard to find a country that is totally untouched by you."


    I lean back on the couch and talk. Rick chuckles and clears his throat.


    "What''s so funny?"


    Nothing," he says. No, I''m just thinking that from the sounds of it, it went well. I''m happy for you. Isnt it nice?


    Hah. I can''t hide it from you. Yeah, I told them I was a vampire and they epted it. Rick. Now I understand your love for humanity.


    It''s good, right? Now, all you have to do is be prepared, so you can see them off, but you can take your time with that. If you make lots of good memories, you''ll both be able to smile at each other in the end."


    Yes, we will. Well make lots of memories together. By the way, I met a family member of mine here in Japan. Hes Japanese.


    "Ho! That''s a great coincidence. Your ce, unlike ours, doesn''t take the initiative to increase our number of dependents."


    Even dependents arent immortal, they just have long life spans. Eventually, goodbyes wille. And I''m sure my ce felt sad about that."


    I talk with Rick for a long time. We also talked about Yuki. Then, as night fell, the inte rings.


    She''s here. See youter, Rick.


    Have a good time. Love is immortal.


    Yeah, it is."


    I hang up the phone and answer the inte. She waves to the camera. Yukies in through the front door. I hug then kiss her. Yuki says,


    I''m so d I got home early today. My nurses are very sharp, and they were all over me, saying that I must have gotten a man."


    "It''s the same for me. The outpatient nurses said, Congrattions! I guess nurses are good everywhere.


    "Marc," she says, "women have good instincts. Don''t underestimate them.


    She looks at me with that smile as always. I want to protect this smile from now on, and I want to be by her side. I love the sight of her back, standing in the kitchen preparing meals. I thought it was impossible to feel this way about a human being, but what a feeling I have now. A warmth fills my heart. I wonder what this feeling is called.


    After eating and bathing, we sit down on the sofa and rx, watching TV.


    "Yuki...


    What?


    I''ve never had feelings for a human before.


    Have you ever had any feelings for another vampire?


    Well, I guess. But I want to be with you all the time like this, I''ve never wanted them to stay. I dont know what to tell you. I feel calm. I''ve never had this strange feeling of being wrapped up in something warm. Tell me, what is the word for this feeling?"


    "Marc... well, that''s... It''s called happiness. It''s happiness."


    "... happiness..."


    Yes. It''s the same for me, just being around you like this warms my heart. This is happiness.


    I see, Is this what happiness is? Yup. Not bad, this is good stuff. Rick''s to thank for this. He''s the one who encouraged me toe to Japan, and he''ll continue to guide me. I will stay in Japan... and... and... I''ll do whatever it takes to protect this smile on your face.


    "

 Chapter 19: Kannada

    Chapter 19: Kannada


    Kannada


    I''m working at the hospital again today. It seems me and Yuki''s rtionship has been exposed, and Im afraid of everyones staring


    The nurses at the outpatient clinic are the same as usual today, yet...


    "Doctor! I heard! You''re dating Dr. Kashiwagi, right? Youre very wise. Good eye. That''s wonderful."


    I never thought I would be praised here So? What am i getting praised for? The outpatient nurse sighs as I wonder.


    Oh my God, doctor! You don''t know the Kashiwagi Group do you?


    I don''t know anything about that!


    I''m sorry, but I haven''t been in Japan in a long time. And I don''t have that kind of "I''m going to make it in Japan" attitude. So I don''t understand why they call it a group.


    The outpatient nurse stares at me, amazed.


    I see, then, doctor. Where is that polo shirt you''re wearing under yourb coat from?"


    This one? I''m all about ease of wear. This is Unishiro. It''s reasonably priced but durable.


    I say with a smug look on my face. She must have thought I was a brand lover.


    All the nurses in the outpatient department let out a big sigh.


    "Doctor. Thergest shareholder of thatpany is the Kashiwagi Group.


    Thergest shareholder? What do you mean by that? Eee?! Its that big a group!


    I say to the nurses who look at me with dismay.


    "You mean everyone knew that.


    Of course they do! On the contrary, I''m surprised that you don''t know about it.


    I hear a pointed voice from behind me and turn around to find the head of the outpatient department there. When did they get here?


    "I heard a lot of noise, so I came to check what all the fuss was about... So thats what it''s all about.


    The head, with a dazed look on his face, says.


    Well, that''s not important. Dr. Marc. Help. I was asked toe from the CKD outpatient department."


    "Well, that''s an unusual ce toe from. Surely you see almost the same patients thereOK. Take care of the rest!


    I say, and head for the outpatient department.


    "Ah! Dr. Marc. Good. Here, go get that patient from earlier."


    The nurse brings a patient from the outpatient waiting room.


    He takes out a tablet and types something on it. I recognize the letters.


    I answered his question in his nativenguage, "Kannada.


    It''s all right. I understand thenguage and script of your country,


    I tell him, who looked rather anxious. He must''ve been relieved to hear that. He smiles happily.


    The CKD outpatient doctor asked me,


    "What do you think? This data. Maybe he needs dialysis, but I want you to tell him this. Theres fluid in his lungs. He must be in pain. I''m amazed he made it this far."


    I tell him that.


    "Why did you put up with it until your kidneys started functioning so poorly? There''s water in your lungs. Look here.


    He points his finger and says,


    "In my home country, I had proper checkups. I was seeing the doctor and being careful myself. But I''ve been working a lottely, and my meals became mostly junk..."


    I see. Dialysis here in Japan is the best in the world, although in your case, it''ll only be a temporary treatment. You should stay here and get treated until the water ispletely drained. If you eat right and get back to your original weight, that pain and lethargy will disappear. Besides, medical treatment in India is advanced. They can do organ transnts faster there, right?


    That was the n. I wasnt in need of money, but I just came here to help an acquaintance with his work. And..."


    He looks down shyly.


    I love the food in Japan!!! I just ate too much!"


    "

 Chapter 20: Kannada language cards

    Chapter 20: Kannadanguage cards


    Kannada Language Cards


    Right! I know what you mean! It was a shock to me, too!


    After talking for a while, I suddenly came back to myself. The cold stares of the outpatient nurses.... The doctor with a troubled look on his face. Oh no! The outpatient clinic had been stopped. This would push clinic hours off the schedule!


    I bowed my head deeply and said,


    I''m sorry! I got distracted from work and started chatting!"


    So? What did he say?"


    The doctor in charge of CKD asked.


    He''s already scheduled for an organ transnt, it seems. So he says hell receive treatment in Japan until he can return to his home country."


    That''s good to hear. Then, we will decide on the hospitalization procedure and future nster at the conference. Dr. Marcus, you should also be present at that time.


    Okay.


    When I replied, the doctorughed softly.


    "Im sure he was happy to be able to speak in his nativenguage. Please let him see you in the hospital ward.


    "Of course! Ill follow up on him when hes admitted to the hospital. You can count on me.


    I told him about the hospitalization and promised to make a card and give it to him so they could talkter.


    When I came back. My nurses were sessfully sending patients who came to the outpatient department to the appropriate departments.


    "How did it go? Doctor, They asked.


    It went off without a hitch. I''m sorry, for relying on you guys again. Our nurses and staff are excellent, so I wasn''t worried."


    We''re used to it.


    The smiling outpatient staff. I was supported by these people, I thought. I immediately start making cards.


    "Doctor? What are you making? Is it the usual conversation card? Even so, I''ve never seen those letters before.


    "That''s right. I''m going to give it to a patient who was admitted earlier. It would be a problem if they can''tmunicate during their stay in the hospital, wouldn''t it?


    The outpatient staff was very interested and came to take a peek.


    "This is Kannada, you see. It''s the officialnguage of the South Indian state of Karnataka, and They use a unique script called the Kannada script. For example, this one reads "" "Kannada."


    "Wow! I dont understand it at all!


    Screams in the outpatient department.


    Even the Japanese alphabet is the same for people from countries that use ABC. Chinese is difficult. But Japanese is difficult to learn for those who are hiragana and katakana, etc. And there''s lots of first person. I, boku, ore, watashi, etc, this is also strange for people from other countries.


    After everyone was satisfied, the clinic hours came to an end. Then, I went to the ward to give the patient the cards. He looks anxious, but when he sees me, he smiles. So I hand him the cards I made earlier.


    "What''s this?"


    He takes it and flipped through the cards.


    "With this, you should be able to manage the words you need to use in conversation while you''re here in the hospital. If you still have trouble, you can call me.


    Thank you."


    He held the cards I gave him with great care and tears filled his eyes with happiness. Later, he was safely discharged from the hospital and returned to his own country."

 Chapter 21: Vampire Hunters

    Chapter 21: Vampire Hunters


    Finishing up my work for the day, I finally arrived at home. Tomorrow''s my day off.


    I opened the front door and entered.


    "Wee home, Marc.


    Yuki''s smile was dazzling.


    Yes, I''m home!


    Tomorrow is your day off, right? Is there anywhere you wanna go? We can go to Akihabara. I have some books I want to buy."


    She was preparing dinner as she said this.


    While eating dinner, I asked Yuki.


    Don''t you have to go to your parents'' house? I don''t know much about those rtionships but you don''t have to hold back, you know."


    "Right now, my dad and his friends are on a luxury cruise. And Im having fun with you, so don''t worry about it."


    "Oh, okay. Well, that''s all right then."


    After dinner, I freshened up and checked my phone while drying my hair to see if I had any iing calls from Rick. No message was left on the voicemail, but there was an email with a coded message, warning of danger.


    Yuki. I''m gonna go call my friend in the bedroom. So, take your time."


    With that said, I called Rick.


    "... Rick, what''s going on? You sent an encrypted message that only we can understand as a warning. What''s wrong?


    "Marc... be careful. The vampire hunters are back and active.


    I thought we made peace with them, Why is thising up now?"


    The top management has changed. When the top management changes, the ideology and policies naturally change. It happens all the time, doesn''t it? I guess ghostbusters aren''t enough for the churchgoers. Let''s kill the legendary monster!That''s what they''re saying."


    And we''re the target?


    That''s right. We''ve already lost a couple of dependents."


    * !? What the hell!*


    The dependents are not immortal. Sure, they live longer than humans, but..."


    They areing to Japan, too. Be careful."


    Oh. All right, thanks for letting me know. I''ll let my friends in Japan know too."


    I''ll let the guy from the neon sign know. Come to think of it, I didn''t catch his name. I called out to Yuki in the living room.


    Yuki, I''m going out for a bit. I have something to discuss with my friends, dont worry if Imte.


    Well...


    She looked at me.


    I know you''re not cheating on me, so I''m not worried about that. Marc, from the look on your face...It must be dangerous. Be careful."


    Okay, I''ll be careful. I''ll talk to you when things calm down."


    With that, I went to the ce of the household. The city was still bright at night. There were many people, and among them, I was approached by that household member.


    What can I do for you today?


    I need to talk to you. I want you to show me a ce where we can talk, not in that room, and preferably with the others around so I can save time.


    Yes, sir. Ill call the others. They have been eager to meet the founder, and I am sure they will be pleased.


    I walked behind the man.


    By the way, I haven''t got your name yet, can you tell me?


    I''m not much of a name-dropper, but I will tell you my name for the sake of future reference. My name is Kuno Kazuya. Heres my contact information.


    He handed me his business card. Heh. Awyer, huh?


    Nice to meet you. Kazuya, I''m sure we''ll be in touch more often from now on. I''ll be counting on you.


    Okay.


    While walking, I asked him.


    Kazuya, have you heard anything about vampire hunters?


    I heard from my friends that the church guys are on the move."


    "Well...are our friends in Japan in danger?"


    Here in Japan, religion is not so important. People seem to be mainly concerned with Shintoism and Buddhism. Not many people are interested in the church.


    "

 Chapter 22: Marie Wembelin

    Chapter 22: Marie Wembelin


    **That''s right. I''d been doing missionary work here and it hadnt even spread that much. This country is interesting.


    I don''t think the idea that there is only one God and he is the absolute God will ever catch on here in Japan. In this country, there are far more people who believe that there is a God who inhabits all kinds of things.*


    *However, church people do exist. Yes, there are those who are against us. They are the ones who look at us as the enemy. From the humans'' point of view, we are monsters. But we don''t attack humans mindlessly. There was a time when we used to coexist with humans. *


    *They recognized that we were vampires and still stayed with us. But when did the gap between us start to widen....*


    *Rick has loved and seen humans off since that time. He once said, "I love the way a budding flower blooms beautifully, lives out its most beautiful moments with us, and then fleetingly passes away like petals falling.**


    I followed Kazuya and arrived in front of another apartment building.


    It was a big apartment*. Is it called a townhouse? How many floors are there? *I looked up in surprise.


    Many of my friends are living here.


    "Oh. Are there other family members here?


    Yes.


    There are only about ten of your family members in the world right now, including me. The Wembelin family does not have many dependents, so there are not many of them.


    He looks at me.


    You don''t have any dependents either, do you?


    "Dependents are no different from vampires, but they are not immortal. It is sad to say goodbye. In my family, we often take our loved ones as our dependents. Kazuya, you must have been loved by someone in my family......"


    Yes. I was loved by a vampire of the Wembeline bloodline here in Japan. It was a happy time for me. But she went back to her own country. It was because of Japan''s national seclusion."


    Kazuya said sadly.


    My family is very affectionate. We always kept our household members by our side, you know?"


    "Is it okay if we talk inside instead of standing here?"


    "Kazuya, you don''t have to be so awe-struck. At least call me Marc.


    Ok. But let me at least call you Marc-san


    "Well, it doesn''t matter. That''s fine.


    Kazuya entered the apartment. I followed him inside.


    I became a household member shortly after the beginning of the Edo period. She was very good to us in the foreign country.


    He said in the elevator.


    I became a dependent of my own volition because I didn''t want to leave her.


    What is the name of this vampire?


    "... Marie Wembelin.


    "Well, you''re my mother''s dependent... Marie is my mother. She is one of the few descendants of my ancestors.


    Kazuya was so surprised that he couldn''t speak.


    ....and so, Marie-sama...."


    "Let''s talk about that too. I have something I want to give to youter."


    I was talking and came across the door of a room. I rang the inte.


    "Come in, Marcus-san. My friends are waiting for you inside.


    He gave me a small bow and led me into the room.


    Oh! The founder is here!


    Everyone in the room fell to their knees.


    You don''t have to be so formal. Make yourselffortable."


    "So? How much information do you have on the hunters?


    They haven''t entered Japan yet. The church is preparing for them. They''re collecting a lot of silverware.


    Anyway. They''re probably making silver stakes or pistol balls.


    They think of such barbaric things, don''t they? But please no burning at the stake. It''s too hot and it''s hard to get out of the ashes. I had a few friends with mest time, so I could manage... but... I was naked."


    One of Kazuya''s friends said and some of themughed in response.


    *I see, some of you were involved in that witch hunt.*"

 Chapter 23: Family members

    Chapter 23: Family members


    *By the way, everyone here is beautiful. I know exactly what my mother, Marie''s, taste is. And all the other vampires like good looks too.


    Yes, I should give them that thing.*


    If any of you are one of Marie''s people, pleasee up to me. I have something to give you all.


    A few of them stepped forward. I held out a blue diamond ring and said,


    "Marie asked me to give this to you. She still remembered you.


    I handed it to each one of them.


    Kazuya asked,


    "Marie-sama......"


    Marie was beaten by hunters. They deceived her. All she wanted was peace. At the time of the discussion..."


    Kazuya copsed and sat down. Several others sat down in the same way. He clenched the ring in his hand. The diamond on the ring was the same color as my mother''s eyes.


    I took care of the guy who did this to her. They killed my mother. Of course they did. And she went alone, hoping for peace and trusting the humans. I can''t let that happen again.


    Kazuya, there is someone I want you to meet. Will youe?


    "Of course! Please let me apany you.


    With that, I left the room. I called Leonardo.


    It''s me. Leonardo. I have someone I want you to meet. I have something to tell you. Can we meet?"


    It''s about the Hunters, isn''t it? Then we can go to that karaoke ce my buddy''s got. It''s soundproof.


    Yeah, sure. I''m counting on you."


    Then Kazuya says.


    I don''t think it would be safe to leave her alone. It would be best if you brought her with you, and besides, I''d like to meet her."


    He says with a smile, seeing my surprised face.


    I''ve already looked into you. She will be escorted by my friends from now on. Don''t worry."


    I arrived at my apartment. Over the inte, I asked Yuki, "Why don''t we go outside for a minute?


    "Okay, I''ll be there in a minute. Wait for me.


    After a while, Yuki came downstairs.


    "Hey, we''re going to this ce called ''karaoke''. Is that okay?"


    Well! It''s been so long! I wonder if there are any of your people out there?"


    She was as perceptive as ever.


    This is Kazuya.


    "Is it you, by any chance? A vampire?


    Yes, I am. I''m a vampire, but I''m also a dependent.


    I see!


    As we were talking, we arrived at the Karaoke ce.


    This is the ce, right?"


    I tried to contact Leonardo. He was in front of the store.


    "Hey, Leonardo. How have you been?"


    "Well, you know. I''ve managed to learn to speak a little Japanese now.


    He said with a smile.


    "This...is my girlfriend, Yuki."


    "Wow! She''s very charming.


    Yuki shied a little.


    Oh no, Im nothing like that


    "Come on. Let''s go inside and talk.


    We went inside.


    "

 Chapter 24: Mother Marie

    Chapter 24: Mother Marie


    We walked into the karaoke bar. It was dim inside.


    You can use this room.


    Leonardo said.


    "It''s pretty dark.


    Yuki remarked.


    Then, how about this level of lighting?


    Kazuya flipped the switch with a practiced hand.


    We have good night vision, so we don''t have a problem, but how about you, youngdy?


    Leonardo asked. Yuki peeked at Leonardo, saying,


    "Are you a vampire too?


    She asks with sparkling eyes,


    "No, I''m a different race. I''m a werewolf."


    "Heh! I see. So you are in human form now. Will you transform when there is a full moon?"


    "Hey, hey, Yuki. It''s not polite to ask that question so soon after meeting someone for the first time.


    I shushed Yuki.


    You''re a strange youngdy. I can see why Marc fell in love with you, she''s not afraid of us. It makes me feel a little strange when someone stares at me with such sparkling eyes and smiles like that.


    Heyhey hey! Leonardo!"


    I got a little nervous.


    I''m fine. Don''t worry so much. I won''t take her. Besides, I have my own mate. If I cheat on her, I''m more afraid of what will happen afterwards.


    Oh! I didn''t know that. Well, as long as youre happy, there is no problem.


    Kazuya says to Yuki,


    Yuki-san. Why don''t you sing? We''re here for karaoke after all."


    "Yes, I''m sure we are. It''s been a long time since Ive done this!Let''s sing!"


    She seemed really excited.


    Kazuya made eye contact. He seems to be saying, Leave it to me to take care of Yuki. You should tell Leonardo what''s happening.


    How much information do you have over there?


    The hunters areing to Japan and theyre sending a professional. Our little squabble was the catalyst. I''m sorry.


    Leonardo bowed his head.


    It''s a trivial matter. They want to eradicate our species. There are human absolutists in every age. In fact, some races have been exterminated already. Half-breeds are one of them. We don''t see mermaids anymore. There used to be plenty of them in the sea.


    That''s right. They were not harmful to humans, but now we don''t see them anymore because they were over hunted, as if eating a mermaid would make you immortal.


    Satisfied with the song, Yuki asked Kazuya,


    What kind of person is Marc''s mother?


    "Hey, Yuki!"


    Kazuya smiled.


    Isn''t it okay? She is my beloved one whom I adored. I still love her.


    She was free to go wherever she wanted. She came to Japan because she liked the country. She took some of the family members with her, but that was also to take care of herself.


    I said.


    Yes, that''s right. From my point of view, that person was dazzling, and she adored me as a child. Her blonde hair was beautiful, and her eyes, like the clear blue sky, charmed everyone. She gave her love equally to her dependents. At that time, I didn''t know that they were her dependents, but I thought they were maids and butlers, the people who took care of her and her surroundings."


    Kazuya recalled."

 Chapter 25: Kazuyas past

    Chapter 25: Kazuya''s past


    Kazuya continued his story.


    "When I grew up, I fell in love with Marie-sama. It broke my heart to see her being so close to her caretakers, and I felt as if my heart would burst. One day, wild thieves came to the vige and attacked the vigers, killing them and taking away their food reserves. I, too, was attacked and went to Marie, covered in wounds. The people who were serving at her side were strong and they kicked the thieves out of the vige."


    "*Marie-sama, please run away. Run away."*


    When I said that, they let me into the house. When Marie-sama saw me, she said.


    *Kazu. You are badly injured. You will die at this rate. I love you and I don''t want you to die. I am a vampire. Kazu. Be mine. Will you stay with me?"*


    My heart trembled with joy.


    "*With pleasure! Let me be by your side!*


    "And so I became Marie-sama''s dependent.


    Yuki listened to the story with great interest. Kazuya was moved to tears as he recalled his past. It is amon story as a household member, but hes a certain initiate believer among the household members. Marie was very affectionate toward her dependents and protected them with her power. I was also loved by her, so I can understand how he felt. On the other hand, my father was aissez-faire (free spirited) man. After my mother Marie passed away, he said he was going on a trip with some of his household members and I haven''t seen him for hundreds of years.


    Kazuya, are you satisfied? By the way, Yuki? Why are you crying?


    "Because..."


    She wiped her tears with a handkerchief and said.


    I wish I could have met her. Marc''s mother."


    My mother was a very loving person. I think she was one of the most beloved among the ancestors. She was kind to us, her children too."


    Yuki''s expression changed. Hm?


    "Marc has siblings!"


    Of course I do.


    Yuki''s face inched closer.


    I want to know!


    It''s not something I want to talk about here... I''ll tell you when I get home. Have fun in the karaoke. Your singing is beautiful. Let me hear more."


    I said with a smile. Yuki was in a good mood and started singing.


    I asked Leonardo,


    "Do you know when the hunters areing to Japan?


    "I think they are preparing for something. They are not only looking for vampires, but also for us.


    Well... what about the other species?


    They don''t seem to be thinking that far ahead. Let''s just get rid of those vampires! They are saying. We seem to be the only ones whose existence they have confirmed so far.


    Well, you see, they call them UMAs and say they are just legends that don''t exist. But in fact, they do exist and we have been in contact with them. We''d better tell them to be careful.


    I''ve already told them. Our people are all over the world, so its been conveyed. We''ve told them toy low.


    *His Japanese is really improving. He must have learned it from his friends. After all, he is the leader in Japan. It''s not good if he can''t speak thenguage*."

 Chapter 26: Karaoke?

    Chapter 26: Karaoke?


    We talked through the whole thing and confirmed the information. Yuki was also having a fair amount of fun with Kazuya.


    He said, "I''m sorry for not introducing myself earlier. My name is Kazuya Kuno. I am awyer by profession, so if you have any problems , please feel free to contact me.


    He handed her his business card.


    "Yes, sir! It''s nice to meet you too! My name is Yuki Kashiwagi. I''ve been so busy with work that it''s been a while since I''ve been to a karaoke bar. Thank you for inviting me!


    She said with a smile that seemed to burst with energy.


    Indeed. Afterall you are the one who won over Marc-san. You really are a wonderful person."


    Yuki seemed embarrassed by those words. She knew it was nothing more than just ttery, but...there was a serious look on his face. Then Kazuya continued.


    Marc-san. It''s not just ttery. I really think so. If you don''t think you deserve it..."


    "Kazuya! Don''t interfere in our affairs. I will decide whether or not to create a household.


    "Okay. But Master Rick has his dependents with him."


    "Ahhh, he''s got a lot of dependents in a lot of countries. No wonder. He is capricious. He probably has his own retainers, and he probably has a lot of beautiful women of his choice as his dependents."


    I said it in a slightly dismissive tone. I didnt mean to be offensive, but I just didnt understand his love for women. He could suck their blood and then erase the memories of the person he''s sucking blood from. It''s just that. His dependents were excellent dependents who understood his temperament well and cleaned up afterwards. The family he kept by his side was always the same.


    Leonardo. If I get any new information, I''ll let you know. Let me know if you find out anything, too.


    I know. Our people have infiltrated the church. If there is any movement, we will be informed. Don''t worry. We aremunicating in words only we understand. Humans won''t understand it.


    Still, it looks like they are having fun. Today is Yuki''s one-man show. She even choreographed and danced. Kazuya is dancing with her.... *Is this a trend?* Before I knew it, even Leonardo was dancing....


    Look! Marc, try to imitate me! It''s fun!


    Yuki happily teaches me. Hmmm... It''s hard.


    "Marc! It''s so much fun!


    ...I can ballroom dance, but nowadays, everyone dances the same moves together.


    Then Kazuya took off his jacket and break danced. Leonardo danced too.....


    "Kyaaaah! This is so much fun! Amazing!


    Yuki eximed, and an audience gathered. The ce had be a little stage. *Oh God, Im so over it!*"

 Chapter 27: Father

    Chapter 27: Father


    We left the karaoke bar. I was tired......in a different way. Kazuya and Leonardo also surprised me.


    Today was fun!


    Yuki looked happy. She was humming as she walked along. Kazuya and Leonardo seemed to have hit it off and were talking happily with each other. It seemed to me that the difference in race was irrelevant when you see them like this. I think the only difference between them was the difference in their countries.


    *Once you understand each other, you be friends like this.*


    *Mother. The world you wanted to live in would be like this, a rtionship without the barriers of race and so on. I can understand that now. But I can''t do it like you.*


    Hunters were a group of professionals employed by the church. I have had many discussions with the head of the church before. Every time the times changed and the leaders changed, we had a meeting to discuss and exchange our opinions. My mother had convinced and charmed them with her strength of will and beauty. I was doing well...until now.


    I rode into the church in a rage over the murder of my mother and went on a killing spree. Of course, I took on the hunters. If my father hadn''t stopped me that day, it would have been a disaster.


    My father was special among the first ancestors, and he was called the Chief. He said that if he looked young, hed get drooled upon, so he tried to look his reasonable age. He was what today''s girls would call a hot uncle. All the dependents by his side were of different ages, but the main ones were mostly young. I had no idea what my father''s strike zone was, even though I''ve been around for such a long time!


    Come to think of it, there was a little girl in his household. We were all boys when it came to his children. I guess he wanted a girl. He loved her so much, so much......No. I just had a weird thought in my head!


    "Marc? What''s wrong? You''ve been acting weird since a while ago.


    Yuki said to me, and I came back to myself.


    I''m fine. I''m just a little confused because I was surprised by Kazuya and the others.


    I was totally confused. I was taken aback by their performance. Yuki seemed to be having a good time, though.


    The two of them were so cool. Our nurses would have easily fallen for them.


    "You like guys like that?"


    "Oh? Are you a little jealous?


    She peeked at me.


    Marc. I''m yours.


    *Oh.... Yuki really disturbs my heart easily. She says such things with straight eyes....*


    My face would be bright red as I turned over. Thank goodness it was night. Kazuya and Leonardo would be able to see it though.....


    When I nced at them, they were grinning at me. And so the night went on like this. Yuki and I were arm-in-arm. The two of us walked through the night streets together."

 Chapter 28: Doctors without borders

    Chapter 28: Doctors without borders


    After that, the four of us had dinner and parted ways. We came back to my room.


    "Yuki, you can go ahead and take a bath. I''ve been asked to give a lecture at another hospital tomorrow, so I have to prepare for that.


    Okay. I''ll go in first then.


    I gathered the materials and got them ready. I checked the USB on theputer and put it in my bag.


    Yuki came out of the bath and looked at the documents I prepared.


    What is this...?


    This? This is the material from when I was with Doctors Without Borders. I''ve risked my life in the field of medicine in war zones, too. After all, we didnt have enough supplies. We needed a military helicopter to send them to us. Don''t think that because you are carrying the Red Cross on your back that youll be safe. Its not out in the open, but there have been cases where medical facilities have been targeted, even though it is not public knowledge. Even when they knew there were injured people there. Most of them were civilians, but they were targeted anyway.


    That''s terrible..."


    That''s how it is with humans, isn''t it? How many world wars have we been through already? Theres even a chance that the next world war could be a nuclear war. If you look at Japan, they must not want to use nuclear weapons, so they will use different methods of terrorism and war, right? Civil wars are just a ce to make money. The higher-ups know what they are doing. They want to know how powerful the weapons they make are. They want to sell their weapons. It''s that kind of world. It is always the weak who are sacrificed.


    Well then. I guess I''ll take a bath too.


    I went to the bathroom and remembered what Leonardo had said. Yes. They''re going to make a move.


    *They are... we have to think of a countermeasure. I don''t want any more of our people to get killed......Father. Where are you? If you don''t get it together, who will!*


    Damn!


    I got agitated and hit the bath water.


    When I got out of the bath, Yuki was looking at a picture. It was a picture taken there. It was taken with local children.


    Wherever you go, there''s a sparkle in the children''s eyes. You don''t feel like you are in a war zone, right? It''s everyday life for them... Japan is peaceful.


    Oh, Yes. I think so too. Marc. From your point of view, humans must appear to you as foolish creatures."


    Yuki leaned on my shoulder.


    Not really. No race is perfect.


    When I was ready for tomorrow, Yuki looked at me. This face....


    "Hey! I want to know about your siblings.


    I don''t know much about you either.


    I am a member of the Kashiwagi group. My parents own a big hospital. They want me to be the director of that hospital someday. Lately I''ve been telling them that I like the field so much that I''d like someone else to do it for me. I''ve changed since I met you. If there is someone who can take my ce, let them do it. What I can''t rece, I will do it. Thats what I said.


    Did I say that to you?


    No, that''s not it. There are plenty of doctors. There are always recements. But there is no recement for you.


    ??? I don''t know what you mean.


    "There are doctors who can treat patients, but someone who can speak in their nativenguage and even makesmunication cards for foreign patients who may be anxious abouting to another country. There is no substitute for you.


    Yuki puts her arms around my neck as she says this.


    "Marc. I know you are about to get involved in something dangerous and I also understand that you are the one who is being depended on. But. For me, there is no substitute for you! I can never rece you! Thats why!"

 Chapter 29: Lecture

    Chapter 29: Lecture


    I quickly let go of Yuki''s body. We looked at each other.


    Yuki. Don''t think about it anymore.


    Why? I want to be with you. That''s why!


    No.


    I haven''t even said anything yet.


    I can tell by the look on your face what you''re going to say after that.


    My face might have been smiling. I pulled Yuki''s away from me and hugged her. Then I whispered into her ear.


    I don''t want to take away the freedom and the dignity of human life.


    Yuki swallowed the words she was about to say. .*Make me your dependent*."


    I could see that she was crying. I didnt want to hear those words from her. I knew the value of life......so I didnt want to hear such words from Yuki all the more. Human beings would die someday. That is why I think it is beautiful. Rick''s words go round and round in my head.


    That night I slept on the couch.


    In the morning, I woke up, prepared breakfast, and quietly left the house. I didn''t want to wake Yuki up, and also because I was somehow aware of her thoughts and wishes.


    The university where I would be teaching this time was a university hospital in Nagoya. It was arge hospital with a medical school. The content of my lecture was well received elsewhere, so I was asked to give one at this hospital as well.


    In arge auditorium, I took the stage to report on my activities with Mdecins Sans Frontires (Doctors Without Borders) and to express my wish for peace.


    On arge screen, doctors engaged in medical treatment in conflict zones and scenes of the medical treatment were projected on the screen.


    The doctors in the war zones are risking their lives to help. All the supplies we usually use are in short supply. We have to be creative in our treatment. People, even those who are considered refugees, walk for days toe to us, barefoot. The license to be a doctor is not magic. Some lives are lost. There are many situations where we have to send off people who could have been saved. Many doctorse to us with dreams and pride, but the current situation is different, and it is true that some doctors are returning to their home countries because of this gap. Who can me them? Things are happening all over the world that would be unthinkable in peaceful Japan."


    *We need your support!*


    "Give supplies to the hardworking doctors! Get the missing medical equipment to the field! Even if it''s just a little. Cant you help us? Even the smallest of things would be greatly appreciated on the field. We are not asking for donations. Everything is in short supply at the site. Infusion routes, needles, syringes, medicines. If you have items that are about to expire, please provide them. Please call out to me. To a doctor you know or a clinic near you! I''ll be responsible for delivering them!"


    The lecture was over, and the two hours flew by. The organizers told me that the lecture was worthwhile.


    How will you deliver the supplies you were talking about?


    Of course, by military helicopter." I said, It is the only way to get to an area where bullets are flying around.


    ...And that means you know someone who has ess to them?


    Yes, I do. I have contacts in a lot of ces.


    I answer with a smile. The other person seemed to understand that I was in a bad position.


    The other guy had a drawn look on his face.


    Let me help you to the best of my ability."


    We''re going to get a mountain of supplies from people who heard the lecture."


    I appreciate that!


    I replied with a smile."

 Chapter 30: Hunters on the move

    Chapter 30: Hunters on the move


    I was thinking about Yuki on the bullet train home. I think we should talk about the dependents.


    *Let''s talk about my family when I get back. How are my brothers doing I wonder? They must have heard that the hunters have started to move.*


    My outburst seemed to have calmed my brothers'' anger, but I think they would have really liked to have gone wild themselves. There were more of my mother''s blind followers than my father''s among the vampires. My mothers absence was a blow to our kind. The hunters knew that, and they targeted her. *Forgive! Such people!...... Mother.*


    *Marc. You are such a spoiled boy. Marc. Don''t bite people so easily. ''''Marc. I love you."


    *


    I still remember my mother''s voice. Someone held out a handkerchief to me for a tear ran down my cheek.


    I''m sorry, it''s okay.....It''s okay, my contacts just went out of alignment.


    I looked at the person who held out the handkerchief. Geez!


    Contacts? Hou! I didn''t know that."


    There was Kazuya with a smile on his face....


    Why are you here?


    "Are you reminiscing about your mother?"


    *Ugh! I can''t say no.*


    A hunter hase to Japan.


    Kazuya quietly approached me and said.


    *What!*


    Japanese dependents have been targeted.


    I looked up at Kazuya.


    Don''t worry. The Japanese werewolves have joined us.


    I hurriedly checked my phone and found that I had quite a few iing missed calls from Leonardo. I had turned it off because I was giving a lecture.


    *I forgot....sorry. Leonardo....*


    No problem. I told Leonardo-san the master is away for a lecture and will not be able to answer the phone."


    I see... hmmm? Did you just say master?''


    I am Marie-sama''s dependent. His son is also my master.


    Kazuya. If that''s the case, then my brothers are also your masters?


    I suppose so. But the one I follow is Marcus-sama.


    ..*..? Why is that so? Ah! I just remembered....I sucked his blood. I hold my head. I sucked a man''s blood......at That time, I was so excited....I did it. Only the owner of the dependent can suck the blood of the dependent. In other words, I have made Kazuya my dependent.*


    His original master was Marie. She was my mother, but she could also take blood rtives under her control. And now Marie isnt here. At that time, I sucked a lot of blood due to the excitement. I am sure I would have let Kazuya suck my blood.


    *Huh. Kazuya knows this, doesn''t he?* I raised my head and looked at Kazuya.


    "Are you sure about me? You could choose my father, or my brothers..."


    Kazuya smiled and said.


    I had your blood in my veins at that time. You didnt seem to realize it, though."


    Saying so, Kazuya licked his lips.


    "The guilty party."


    Please say whatever you want. I am your ''dependent'' anyway."


    *Jeez. You look so happy... I can''t really say anything, can I?*"

 Chapter 31: Targeted by hunters

    Chapter 31: Targeted by hunters


    I arrived in Tokyo and Kazuya went home satisfied. Well, he''s my mother''s dependent. I''ll take care of him. But still, it was a bit careless of him to take my blood in the confusion.... I should thank Leonardo.


    Then suddenly my phone began ringing!


    "Marc! Is Kazuya there?


    "No, I just left him."


    Go after him now! There''s a hunter in his office!


    I dashed after Kazuya''s scent.


    "Kazuya!"


    I found Kazuya standing there. And suddenly he copsed. Crikey! People started buzzing around him. No wonder. Blood was spurting out from Kazuya''s head.


    "Somebody! Call an ambnce!


    I shouted to the crowd. This was the work of a hunter. The bullet was lodged firmly in the side of his head. It was also made of silver.


    In the ambnce.


    "I''m a doctor. Call my hospital", I said to the paramedic.


    The paramedic heard this and called the hospital. The emergency doctor took over for me as I exined the situation.


    On the way to the hospital,


    "Kazuya. I''m sorry. I should have been more careful.


    I said to Kazuya apologetically, pretending to check his wounds and general condition.


    "Bite me! My blood will surely help you recover quickly. Wait for me, and I''ll get that bullet out of you.


    We arrived at the emergency medical center and he was transferred to the operating room.


    Dr. Kamiya was giving instructions.


    Kamiya Sensei! He was hit by a stray bullet and has a bullet lodged in his right temporal region.


    I understand. Leave the rest to me. We already have the operation room under control. Our brain surgeon is very good. He''ll be fine.


    He has gathered all the staff around him.


    Dr. Marc had told me about his condition, so we have an operation room ready. We can start right away.


    Then the police arrived. Naturally, they interviewed me. I used my power and told them that Kazuya was injured by a stray bullet in the midst of a gang conflict. There were no other victims and that the culprit has turned himself in.


    "No one else was hurt in the fight. I implied.


    Then Yuki arrived in a hurry.


    Is Kazuya-kun all right? I heard he was badly injured.


    Hes having an operation right now.


    if youre worried, do you want to see it on the monitor?


    Operations are recorded nowadays. If the patients family wished to, the video could be given to them. Such is the era.


    "No, that''s okay. For my kind, we don''t want to see an operation because the vampire blood in us will be running rampant."


    "...I see..."


    We spent a while in the doctor''s office in silence. Then the phone rang. It was Dr. Kamiya.


    "The operation is over. Two bullets. There is a brain contusion, but he said there will be no aftereffects.


    As soon as I heard those words, I rushed to the ICU. Yuki stared off behind me, bewildered.


    I called out to Kazuya, who was lying on the bed.


    Kazuya. I''d like to give you my blood, but youll be fasting tomorrow.


    Kazuyaughed. I guess the anesthesia was still in effect, because he fell asleep right after that."

 Chapter 32: Vampire weaknesses

    Chapter 32: Vampire weaknesses


    How did it go?"


    Yuki asked worriedly. I said softly.


    It''s fine. He''s a vampire. He''ll recover in no time.


    Oh thats good. I was worried.


    But were vulnerable to silver. We have no problem touching it, we just have a weak spot. If we were to be hit in that area with a sterling silver object, our lives would be in jeopardy.


    So.......oh?"


    Yuki''s eyes widened. Did she think he was immortal? I am immortal though.


    I''m tired today. I''m going home.


    *It was true, today was supposed to be my day off. I was really tired. Kazuya would probably recover by tomorrow, but I''d asked him to continue pretending to be a patient.*


    I''m going with you."


    And she started getting ready to go home.


    Isn''t it still working hours?


    I can''t leave you alone.


    The other doctors in the doctor''s office were looking at me warmly....I guess our rtionship has officially been recognized.


    *Then lets go home together.*


    I went home, took a shower, andid down on the couch.


    Hey. Can I ask you something?


    I''ll tell you what you want to hear. Just make me a cup of tea.


    Okay!


    I sat down at the dining table and faced Yuki.


    Yuki. I want to say something first.


    "Okay."


    About my dependents. Kazuya is now my dependent. Originally, he was my mother Maries'', but now he can be the dependent of anyone who is rted to her by blood. My mother is no longer with us. Besides, I made a blood pact with Kazuya.


    What is a blood pact?


    First, the master sucks the blood of the dependent, and then the dependent receives the master''s blood. The rule is that the one who bes the master must suck blood from his own household and not from others.


    Well I see. That means Marc sucked Kazuya''s blood, right? *I don''t like men!I don''t like men!* Didnt you say something like that?


    Ha.I was a little excited at the time. And because he said he was my family member..."


    "Hmmmand that''s why you sucked his blood?


    That''s right! Yes! I couldn''t suck the blood from the carotid artery, so I sucked the blood from the cranial artery.


    Suddenly, Yuki bit my arm.


    *Bite!*


    What the hell are you doing?! That hurt, you know?"


    You also sucked my blood , so if I could drink your blood, it means that I could be your dependent, right?"


    Yuki... you can''t be a dependent so easily. Besides, I don''t intend to make you one of my dependents."


    Why?


    I want you to stay human. I don''t want you to be a vampire.


    You mean you don''t want to be with me?


    That''s not it! I want to be with you all the time. But you have parents. I can''t take you away from them.


    Yuki turned her head to the side when she heard this.


    I want you to live as a human being. Yuki, please understand."


    After I said that, Yuki left the room mming the door shut. But for some reason I didnt hear the expected m, instead I saw a figure at the door.


    "Are you sure? You dont have to follow after her.


    There was Leonardo.


    Why are you here?


    Kazuya asked me to stay with you. if anything should happen to him, he had asked me to take care of you. Besides, the youngdy also has an escort. Your dependent is excellent. We''ve talked a lot about what happens after this while you were giving your lecture."

 Chapter 33: Yukis Whereabouts

    Chapter 33: Yuki''s Whereabouts


    Are you sure you dont want to go after her? That girl seemed serious.


    I know. She''s serious, isn''t she? Leonardo. Don''t just stand there,e in. Don''t worry about Yuki, I know she has an escort. Kazuya put them there."


    Leonardo sniffed as he came in.


    "You don''t smell like blood for a primitive ancestor. The first ancestor I''ve ever met smelled of so much blood that it was enough to make me gag.


    Is it possible that this founder was perhaps a rtive of mine?


    Yes, he is. I think he is the eldest son of your family. He came to Japan once, but he was very different from you. He had the aura of a founder.


    "Mikey... came to Japan."


    Leonardo looked at me and smiled.


    What the hell. Thats disgusting.


    "Marcus, you said I was your friend. For us Japanese werewolves, you are special. I told Jack too. From now on, the Japanese werewolves will join forces with the Japanese vampires to defeat the hunters.


    I didn''t know that. Are you sure? You could have objected. You don''t have to worry about what happens then."


    Leonardoughed loudly.


    We''re targets too, so It''s okay. It''s better for both of us if we join forces here.


    I see. Well then, thank you.


    We shook hands. Leonardo twists his head.


    Are you sure about this? Is she okay with it?


    "It''s fine. I don''t know what she''s thinking, but I''m sure she''s thinking of something surprising. Lets have some fun with that.


    After that, Yuki did note back for a while. Concerned, I went to Kazuya''s ce. He was moved to a private room, but there was no guarantee that no one was listening.


    Kazuya. How''s it going? How''s life in the hospital. Not so bad, is it? Besides, this is a special room."


    There are no listening devices or anything in here, Marc-sama. Is there something on your mind? Is it Yuki-san? Don''t worry. She''s just visiting her parents."


    Yeah? I''m pretty sure she said they were traveling on a luxury cruise ship at the moment...."


    "Marc-sama, she is a member of the Kashiwagi Group. She must have her own helicopter.


    "Wellwell. I guess so.


    Kazuyaughed softly and said, You are an interesting man."


    Perhaps Kazuya. Do you know where Yuki is and what shes talking about?"


    Of course. There is nothing I dont know about you. Dont underestimate my Informationwork. Ah! Yuki-san is on her way here right now in her private helicopter.


    Kazuya had something different from an earphone in his ear.....This guy is pretty good. I think it would be more appropriate to call him an informant rather than awyer. If I asked him to investigate a cheating affair, he would probablye back the next day with a report. Im sure hes in good with the bigwigs in the country too.


    Kazuya looked at me and smiled. I wanted to ask him a lot of questions, but I stopped myself from doing so."

 Chapter 34: Yuki goes to the war zone

    Chapter 34: Yuki goes to the war zone


    Yuki took a few days off. The clinic was also closed off for a week. I guess the clinic had consecutive holidays. I remembered the staff at that clinic. I wonder how they are doing. I will never forget the looks on the nurses'' faces when they found out that Yuki and I were dating. They were like "Are you serious?"


    When I came back to my room, there was Yuki looking at me with a big smile on her face. It gave me a bad premonition.


    "Wee back, Marc!


    You''re in a good mood, aren''t you? Is it because youvee home spoiled from seeing your parents?


    No, it''s not that. I''ve reported to my parents. Me. I''m going to Doctors Without Borders."


    ..Are you serious?!


    "What! Even you are saying that it''s impossible for me, who is a youngdy, to do it, arent you!"


    Is that what your parents told you?


    "...That''s right. That I can''t do it."


    She looked down and clenched her fist in frustration. I squeezed her hand back. Yuki clung to me.


    He said he would allow me only if it was far away from the war zone. Still I''m going! Marc, write me a letter of rmendation."


    It''s your decision and I respect your opinion. But I need you to promise me a few things. It''s a dangerous area. I know its not muchfort, but I need you to protect yourself.


    I had a serious look on my face.


    I understand. I''ll do whatever you say.


    "1. If you feel you are in danger, don''t hesitate to run away.


    2. Never be alone.


    3. Call me every day.


    Yuki, you will be guarded by a vampire. This is something I try not to let anyone know, so even you won''t know. That way I''ll be able to know how you''re doing."


    Then I guess you won''t need to contact me."


    I want to hear your voice. Is that bad?"


    No, Im d to hear it"


    And theres not enough supplies over there. We cant give priority to your zone. Be prepared for that.


    Yuki was happy and pleased.


    *I want to go with her! But for now, I need to be patient! We''ll gather supplies in a little while. I''ll show up then. I want to see the doctors over there too. They need to be rewarded for their hard work. I''ll bring them something sweet and if there''s anything I can do to help, I''ll do my best.*


    "Hey, Marc. I wonder what I can do to help those in need. I guess I''ll have to go over there to find out.


    I''m grateful for the help of even one person. But the reality is surely terrible. My friend over there wasmenting that the civil war was spreading.


    I told Yuki.


    Not all lives can be saved. Im sure youll see painful scenes. But thats just how war is."

 Chapter 35: Support supplies

    Chapter 35: Support supplies


    I know, I know. I was prepared for it in my own way. Is the current situation that bad?


    Aah. It''s worse than you think, Yuki. You might regret it if you did go. But you''re still going, aren''t you?


    Yuki''s serious expression made me think.


    I want to hear from you every day in the morning. Of course, it''s your call. But its dangerous at night and there are many attacks around that time. Thats why I want to hear your voice while its still bright.


    I kissed Yuki softly. She put her arms around my neck and said,


    I''m going to try my best to do what you experienced. I''m sure there would probably be times when Id feel like crying, but when I hear your voice, I feel like I can do my best.


    While hugging Yuki, I said,


    Okay. Just dont push yourself too hard. If you feel like crying, just cry over the phone. I can understand how you feel. Ive seen a lot of tragedies with my own eyes. I wont ask you to endure them, and I wont tell you to put up with them. There''s really not much we can do. There are probably many things to worry about in and not as fortunate in medical care as here in Japan. But, Yuki. There are people who can be saved with your hands. There are nurses and volunteers on site. Go learn English well.


    Well! Marc. You make it sound like I don''t speak english well!


    Your english is very gentle. You''ll be surprised when you go over there. Don''t fight, because there will be that much cursing."


    I know...Don''t say PLEASE so nicely.


    That''s right. If you know what youre doing, youll be fine.


    We both put our foreheads together and smile at each other.


    Good luck.


    *By the way, why was I being summoned here?* In front of me was the chairman of the hospital. Next to him was the hospital director. They both looked at me.


    Dr. Marcus. Weve got a lot of suppliesing our way. Can you do something about it? We can''t fit them in the warehouse, so we had to have them brought into the nearby dome, but...we''re gettingints from there as well. They cant fit in so its a problem if it overflows.


    So that''s how it is. I''ve given several lectures. It wouldn''t be strange if they came from all over the country. I''ll ask the military for help!


    I understand! I''ll contact the U.S. military now and have them airlift it to you. Don''t worry about the cost of helicopter transportation. I''ll be responsible for sending those supplies."


    At these words, the two men''s faces hardened.


    ......the American military?!


    Japan won''t be able to go to the conflict areas, so the US military will be fine!


    Well... that''s not what we meant.When ites to moving the army, there are certain procedures to follow, right? Im just saying. Besides, whos going to deal with them if they show up suddenly?


    They seemed flustered.


    I will take care of everything. I''ve done it in many other countries. In Japan, it would be the Self-Defense Forces. Let''s have them help us with the supplies!


    The two men were stunned. On the spot, I contacted my brother Mikey, who was in the US military.


    "Brother. I''m sorry, but I need your help again.


    Again? That''s fine, Ill let you decide where you want to take it.


    "You can use the military for that, cant you? As long as you deliver the supplies, I dont want anything else from you.


    Okay! I''ll contact the Japanese Self-Defense Forces. There will be plenty more, won''t there?


    Lots of stuff!"

 Chapter 36: Departure

    Chapter 36: Departure


    A helicopter marked with an American g and Self-Defense Force personnel gathered at the hospital. Patients and hospital staff looked out the window to see what was going on. In no time, supplies were piled up. Then, several helicopters flew away.


    Once they were all put together at the Self-Defense Forces base, they were loaded ontorge airnes.


    I don''t know for sure, but this action itself caught everyone''s attention. It sure was quite shy.


    "That''s my brother! He sure works fast."


    I was satisfied and reported to the chairman and the director of the hospital.


    "It''s done!"


    *...But there was no reply?*


    "Director! Are you listening to me? It''s over!


    ....did Dr. Marc do this in every country until now?"


    The Chairman asked, instead of the Director who remained silent.


    Yes! We get a lot of supplies after my lectures thankfully!"


    I see...."


    The two of them had aplicated look on their face, as opposed to my smiling one. I knew what they were thinking.


    *Who in the world is he? Who can move the Military of another country and even our own Self-Defense Forces...."*


    My brother Mikey was in charge of the American military. He was the boss behind the scenes. He was also the scariest of all my brothers when he got angry. Now that father''s whereabouts were unknown, he was the one we could count on. He also had friends in the Japanese Ministry of Defense. So, it was easy to move the Self-Defense Forces.


    Dr. Marc is amazing!


    I heard a voice from somewhere, and apuse rang out. I was surrounded by everyone.


    Sensei! Youre wonderful!


    It seems that they knew I was making a move.


    *Kazuya*


    The window of the private room in the special room was open and the curtains were swinging. I could see his grinning face.


    And then came the day of Yuki''s departure.


    "Did you forget something? There are no convenience stores there. And water is really precious, so you won''t be able to take a bath for days, don''t cry ok." I assured her.


    I''m ready. And I''m not the only one there, so I don''t mind.


    That''s all right then. If you have any trouble, call me. I''m sure you, who hates bugs, will think bugs are cute by the time youe back.


    Iughed when I said that.


    That''s all you have to say to your girlfriend whom you won''t see for a while?"


    She pretended to sulk and turned her head to the side. I caught Yuki''s arm and pulled her into a hug.


    I''m an idiot. Of course I''m going to miss you.


    I kissed the fang marks fromst night.


    This time it''s six months because it''s a testing period. There is no set time frame, so if you want toe back, you can."


    I don''t want to. I''m noting back. I''m going to work hard for six months!"


    She said that and showed that precious smile.


    I saw Yuki off as she was leaving the country. I really want to go with her!


    I can''t let her see me like that! But Im afraid Im going to be more upset than her.


    *Lonelinessis this what I feel?*"

 Chapter 37: Calls from abroad

    Chapter 37: Calls from abroad


    Yuki called me every day.


    Marc! What the hell! Is it safe to have a medical facility in a building that looks like it''s going to copse? And...the smell is terrible."


    You''ll get used to it.


    "I heard that this ce is away from the conflict areas. A lot of injured people are brought here."


    "...Yes. You can''t treat people in the middle of a war zone.


    ...And there is a shortage of anesthesia...


    "Yes, that''s right. Isn''t it amazing what people are capable of? We don''t have enough supplies. But there are volunteers to make up for it. I was surprised too. Some of them are paid, some of them are helping out for free.


    ......."


    What''s wrong, Yuki? You''re quiet.


    ... because...


    "Don''t you think Japan is an amazing country? Everyone has ess to medical care. That''s the norm."


    "I''m ashamed of myself....I said I wish there was something I could do, but here everyone is helping each other. Different countries, different genders. But everyone wants to help others. I was arrogant.


    Yuki. It''s different. Not everyone can do this. After a few days, people disappear without you even knowing it. I can''t stand it.


    ..... Marc, one more thing!..... I hate bugs! There are so many of them! They even came into the tent where I was sleeping. I''m going to cry..."


    She must be crying on the phone, her voice was trembling. She mes it on the insects, but she probably wants to turn away from the horrific scene. She was talking cheerfully on the phone, but I was pretty sure she was probably crying.


    *Oh, no! No, no, no!I can''t stand it! I want to hug her!*


    "Yuki. Dont strain yourself.


    Of course!


    So cheerfully came the reply.


    Some things have changed during our daily phone calls.


    In the beginning, she used to talk to me in such a painful way, but recently she seemed to have made friends with the local children, and we have been talking about them a lot.


    "Kids are so cute. I can understand why Marc wanted to take pictures with them."


    A child''s gleeful voice can be heard on the other side of the phone.


    At any given time, children are always the hope of a country. But there have been many deaths of children in developing countries and children of refugees. Yuki, please cheer them up with your smile."


    "Is that what you had been doing?"


    That''s right. Even nutritional supplements are in short supply. As you''ve probably found out after eating it, it doesnt taste that good. But for them, its like a lifeline.


    Well... yes. Yesterday we lost another infant. Coming here, I can really appreciate the value of food.


    Yuki''s voice has be stronger. Her energy and mentality have also be stronger. But what''s to happen when shees back to Japan... I''m a little worried."

 Chapter 38: Marcus is leaving Japan?

    Chapter 38: Marcus is leaving Japan?


    A few months, just a few months have passed.


    I''ve been away from Yuki for only a few months but it seemed like I hadn''t seen her for a long time now. She called me every day.


    I thought that six months would fly by quickly. But now...time seemed to move differently ever since I met Yuki.


    *What the hell is this....What''s wrong with me? This has never happened before. I want to see Yuki''s smile. I want to hold Yuki in my arms and embrace her tightly. Do I want to....drink her blood...? Is this the case? What is really going on! Oh!Yes!! Let''s talk to Rick!*


    I tried to call him, but I couldnt get through.


    Seems like I have no choice....I''ll have to ask Kazuya. He should be back from the hospital by now.


    Oh! Marcus-sama. What can I do for you? I wille to you. I have some news about Yuki-san."


    !I see.Okay. I''ll be waiting here."


    I hung up the phone and decided to wait.


    The inte rang and Kazuya, with a group of people who were probably Japanese vampires, came in. They knelt down to me.


    Its fine. Why don''t you sit on the couch? I don''t feelfortable if you all kneel down like this."


    "Then please excuse us."


    Kazuya and his dependents sat down.


    So, what did you find out about Yuki?


    Kazuya says with a serious expression


    The civil war is spreading. Soldiers maye to Yuki-san''s neighborhood sooner orter. I think we should call Yuki-san back to Japan..."


    "...I don''t think shes going to return to Japan so easily."


    "Yes, that''s true. The dependents I have attached to her have tried to persuade her to stay away from the civil war zone


    Kazuya shook his head.


    I know.


    I decided to go to Yuki''s ce.


    Kazuya. Im going to visit Yuki. There are other people I want to see too."


    Kazuya smiled and said,


    Is it your brother, kamil-dono? He is fighting at the forefront of the civil war. For the freedom of the people."


    I rubbed my forehead. Kamil loved war. I can''t begin to count how much money he had made from it. He thought it was a good thing that so many sacrifices were made in the name of war.


    Sure, kamil did some charity work, but he didnt think like me. They think differently than I do. But this time, the thought that Yuki might be in danger made me ufortable.


    *Let''s leave Japan.*"

 Chapter 39: Brother Kamil

    Chapter 39: Brother Kamil


    I came to the hospital director''s office to ask about leaving Japan for a while.


    Director. I would like to take some time off. I am thinking of going to Doctors Without Borders. The conflict is escting and the number of victims is increasing. I hear that the number of refugees is also rising day by day."


    The Director, with a difficult look on his face, said,


    I have heard of your aplishments. I heard you did a lot of good work over there. That you spent every waking moment treating patients.


    *We don''t need much sleep or food. And with my mothers incident and all, it was nice to have something to do in silence to take my mind off of things.*


    ...I hope you wille back. We need you.


    I understand. I promise. I will definitelye back.


    With the director''s permission, I went home to get ready, but the room was clean. My bags were packed. I hear a voice behind me.


    "Marcus-sama. I''m ready for you. What route are we taking to get there?"


    It was Kazuya.


    "I''m sure you have your own private jet, don''t you?"


    *I was lightly joking, but...*


    Yes! It''s ready. At this time of night, I think Osaka would be more convenient. I think you can take the Shinkansen. Japans bullet trains are wonderful.


    *That''s right! Bullet train! What a wonderful Shape it has! I love it! I mean, how does this guy know my taste? I''m not what they call a than in Japan, but I do like vehicles! I haven''t seen Doctor Yellow! I want to see it.*


    "Marcus-sama. Heres your ticket for the bullet train. Youll get to see good things.


    *Whoa, what''s this? This Kazuya, he must be up to something*. I say


    Alright, then let''s go.


    I''ll apany you there.


    Kazuya said while holding his luggage.


    "Arent you the leader in Japan? They wont mind if you aren''t around?


    My dependents are obedient to me. And to you, of course. So, no problem."


    Then I thanked him.


    I have to tell my brother kamil first. If there is a misunderstanding, things will getplicated. I''d like to contact him while I''m on the road.....Kazuya. Do you have his contact information?


    He smiled softly.


    "Yes, I do."


    *This guy is scary after all...*


    "Please contact him in the car."


    He handed me a note. I packed my luggage in the trunk and headed for the train station. On the way, I called my brother.


    ...it''s me. It''s Marcus. It''s been a long time, brother. Is it okay if we talk now?"


    On the other end of the line, I heard a gunshot.


    "Oh! No problem! It''s rare to hear from you, Marc."

 Chapter 40: Grand Class

    Chapter 40: Grand ss


    Brother. I''ming over there too. I got a girlfriend actually. She''s there. So I''ming to see her."


    "Well!I guess that means you''ve finally grown up in your own way!"


    He said happily.


    Sure, Im the youngest, and from your perspective, I may still be a kid. but I think I''m more solid than Liza, and I''ve got a decent job. I''ve decided to go for it this time, too.


    "Hmm You''re ying doctor again?


    "! I''m not ying doctor! I''m properly licensed and have a proven track record!"


    Yes, yes. You haven''t changed, have you? I don''t see what''s so great about being a doctor. You can do whatever you want. So? Where are you going? Were at war over here. You hate that, right? This ce.


    "My girlfriend is near there. Shes working hard with Doctors Without Borders.


    Ah! That''s where you want to goWhat? You miss the smell of blood?


    Didnt I tell you earlier? I have a girlfriend over there. That''s why I''ming to see her! So, please... Call a truce! I don''t want to put her in danger."


    That''s it? Easy. I don''t even have to do anything then.


    "Wellmore importantly. Brother, Did you hear? The hunters are on the move.


    I already know that. This fight also has something to do with it.


    Oh, yeah. Have there been any casualties over there? We''ve had a couple of our people get targeted over here in Japan.


    More importantly, how do you n to get here? You dont have a private jet, do you?


    Well, Mother''s people are in Japan. They have one. Thats how Ille.


    .......I see. Mothers dependents were in Japan? What a coincidence. They must be very happy. They got to meet the founder of a purebred species.


    While we were talking like that, we arrived at the station.


    "I''ve arrived at the station, Brother. I''ll call you when I get there.


    Kazuya said while carrying the luggage.


    I''m looking forward to this. I can''t believe I''m going to meet Marie-samas children!


    Kazuya looked happy as he held the baggage.


    "Marcus-sama, this way!"


    Kazuya led me to a room. The seats were reserved, but it looked like a special room. The seats were different from those of the Shinkansen I usually used. It seemed to be a special car called "Grand ss" on the Shinkansen.


    *Isnt this going in the wrong direction? I heard that it is bound for East Japan...... No way!*


    Kazuya smiled brightly.


    We''ve been allowed to run it specially.


    On the station tform, Than and others were taking pictures. I guessed so. It was impossible for it to run in this direction. I''m sure they''re on every tform.


    I let out a sigh."

 Chapter 41: At the airport

    Chapter 41: At the airport


    "Did your dependents make this happen as well? I''m fine a normal one."


    I said, a bit bored.


    Don''t say that. Just take your time to get to your destination."


    In no time at all, we arrived in Osaka.


    "Marc-sama, weve arrived.


    Kazuya woke me up. I was asleep the whole time, so it felt like it a waste of time. I couldn''t even see the scenery.


    "I will drive you to the airport. This way.


    He said and walked ahead of me. There was an expensive-looking ck car.


    *I guess we are going to get in that car, right?*


    I was worried about the stares around me. That''s right. They wondered who was going to get in the car. I walked around the car with the surrounding people''s eyes on me.


    "A regr car would have been fine.


    I whispered.


    It''s just a regr cab. Besides, they say there are golden cabs in Nagoya.


    *I didn''t know that! Last time I was in Nagoya, I wanted to take one of those! Kazuya smiled when he saw my face.*


    I''d like to ride in one if I ever get the chance.


    "Yeah, that''s right."


    *This guy will really do it...*..


    We arrived at the airport and walked through the lobby. There, Kazuya was targeted. I unionized the guy that was targeting him.


    Who are you?Why are you doing this?


    The man red at me and said,


    You vampire monster! You''re just like him!


    I guess he doesn''t know who I am. I asked him with more force.


    Who told you that?


    "Aaaaah!"


    The man screamed. A security guard came running.


    What are you doing?!


    He was about to attack mypanion, and I just stopped him.


    The de he must have been holding in his hand fell out. The guard saw this and was convinced.


    I''m so sorry! Are you hurt?


    I''m fine. Kazuya, are you alright ?


    Yes, I''m fine. Thanks to you.


    This guy. You knew it, didn''t you? Well, lets put him aside and see what this hunter knows. I''ll use my power to make him talk.


    "Who told you that?!


    Then, the guy suddenly went limp. I guess he was erased before he could say anything. Lets leave the rest to the security guards. Kazuya, perhaps sensing this, got up and started walking in front of me.


    This way, sir.


    After passing through quarantine, we entered the airport lobby and went into the salon. VIP seats, of course.


    Kazuya. How did they find out you''re a vampire? They didnt seem to know Im a vampire.


    Sort of. I was trying to expand my feeding ground and the other guy was a hunter. That''s what happened.


    You suck blood from men?"


    Yes. Humans are our food. Basically, I prefer women. I like good looking men too. There are more cute boys than girls these days.


    He says with a smirk."

 Chapter 42: Hunter and the Church

    Chapter 42: Hunter and the Church


    I boarded Kazuya''s private jet at the airport. There was someone else there, who was probably a family member. He bowed to me.


    We are in our space now. The hunter escaped.


    An inte in Kazuyas ear? I could see it.


    .....I see. You dont have to go too far.


    Kazuya let out a sigh.


    It seems that some Japanese Household members were killed by the hunters. They must have seen that scene. Marc-sama, there is a possibility that you will be targeted by hunters in the future.


    Kazuya said bitterly.


    Why are you making that face? You set all this up, didn''t you?


    I said.


    "So you''ve noticed."


    "There must be something in the fact that they dont dodge such close range attacks. I just cant figure it out.


    Propping myself up on my elbow, I looked at Kazuya.


    Marc-samas true identity will eventually be discovered. The Wembelin family is well known. The hunters will be after you."


    Well, you know~ I was pretty out of control at the time. Its not surprising that the higher-ups would have their eyes on me. But Im curious as to why the church members, who had never taken action before, have begun to move.


    Have you not contacted Rick-sama? It seems there has been some movement over there. I think it would be better to ask him directly."


    He said so and handed me a phone. Is this a direct-dial phone?! It certainly would be troublesome if our call was wiretapped.


    Now you can talk to him directly.


    Kazuya smiled...You! You''re too capable! That must have been how he took care of Marie, in a worthwhile manner. Competent and willing to.


    I picked up the phone and spoke.


    Rick?


    Yes, that''s right. By the way, your dependents are excellent. I hear they''re using a special satellite that can''t be intercepted by anyone. I don''t know how they acquired it. You must have spent quite a bit of money."


    He wasughing on the other end of the phone.


    *......I agree with you. Hes very capable*.


    So? How''s it going over there?"


    "There''s movement over here, too. The hunters are moving. They''re professionals, and they wont let us catch their tails.


    We caught a hunter over here, too, but he was erased before I could ask him anything.


    It''s the same here. I tried to get them to give me the name of their leader, but..."


    These hunters have been brainwashed by the church. They really believe that the earth belongs to humans and that the overgrown poption must be reduced. Only dangerous people think like that.


    "Reduce the poption! We''re of the same species!"


    Only a few people will benefit and live. They don''t give a shit about the rest. Your brother Kamil is fighting against people who think like that. I''d like to know how these hunters are brainwashed by the church. I don''t know what I''m dealing with because they keep trying to erase themselves off when I try to get them to talk."

 Chapter 43: Marcs brothers

    Chapter 43: Marc''s brothers


    I see, it''s the same everywhere......speaking of which. Mikey, right? Your eldest brother.


    What about Mikey?


    Hes moving troops to Kamils ce to support them. It seems he''ll being too, and this is just my hunch, but it could be a trap. The Wemberlin family is gathering. Liza is still with Kamil, right? When you get there, the whole family will be there. Youll be a good target for anyone with a grudge.


    I can tell he was worried about us. Then Rick continued.


    Ill head over there too. I''m still a licensed doctor, so I can help you.


    Are you sure? You also? Coming here?


    Im only taking a few people with me. Well keep a low profile.


    Okay. When we get there, Ill introduce you to my girlfriend. Shes working hard in the field right now.


    Im looking forward to it.


    Rick said happily and hung up.


    *I wonder how long its been since us siblings were all together. Ill introduce them to Yuki. It would save me the trouble of exining everything*.


    *Will they be surprised?*


    *Can they Imagine that I have a human girlfriend?*


    Even so.to send reinforcements to Kamils ce, no matter how much Mikey is leading the United Nations Forces. Besides, the multinational force is actually headed by my brother Kamil. What about those of us who have the power to influence the UN? The church is probably just as powerful. Now, will the devil or the snakee out? Let''s look forward to it. I remember Nobunaga used to say that before a battle.


    The Jet arrived at the airport.


    There, brother Kamils troops were there to pick me up. They must have been his or Lizas dependents. I could smell the stench of blood wafting from their bodies. They must have killed many of their enemies and sucked their blood.


    You guys are going to show us the way?


    Kamil-sama has asked us to pick you up! It is an honor to meet you. Mikey-sama is also waiting for you. Well show you the way now.


    "Yes. I''ll leave it to you. Please."


    We moved in surrounded by troops. We looked like prisoners of war. We proceeded in a military jeep.


    After a while, we were led to a magnificent building that didnt look like it belonged in a war zone. My brothers were there.


    It''s been a long time! Marc! You finally have a dependent, too?


    He nced at Kazuya and said so. Kazuya put his hand on his chest and bowed lightly. "Im"


    He used to be a dependent of mother''s. Now hes my assistant, a brilliant one at that.


    He then introduced himself to my brothers.


    Nice to meet you. I am Marc-sama''s dependent. It is an honor to meet you all."


    Kazuya said while bowing."

 Chapter 44: Marcs family

    Chapter 44: Marc''s family


    "So, what is the situation now? Brother Mikey, brother Kamil, and brother Liza are also here. Is there any new information?"


    Brother Liza, who was hiding behind brother Kamil, said.


    Oh God! Brother Liza? You should call me Sister Liza! Im a maiden at heart!"


    He puffed up. It was true that he looked more like a woman, with a thin body line, long hair, and a feminine face. His dependents were almost all male.


    "Yes yes. Liza is fine then, I''ll leave the brother out. We''re not that far apart in age anyway."


    "Well, that''s fine I guess. "


    And he looked happy for some reason. Then Kazuya says with a big smile.


    Liza-sama is beautiful. He reminds me of Marie-sama in some way.


    I know! I am the one who looks most like our mother!


    *I don''t think we are that different, Kazuya. Youre being a good sport about getting in Lizas good graces.*


    So whats the situation now? I have somewhere I want to go after this, so tell me quickly.


    Everyone grinned.


    Speaking of which, I heard you got a girlfriend. You''re going to go meet her, right? You''re going to introduce her to us, aren''t you? What do you say we go together?


    "That''s fine, but... Brother Kamil, there''s a truce at the moment, right? I won''t go to a ce where bullets are flying. I won''t take her to such a dangerous ce."


    "We have a proper truce. The other party must be resting now, too.


    Okay. There must be a lot of people then. It''s probably safer. She''s in the medical unit where I was. We''ll go there."


    We each get into our own car and head out. In the car, Brother Kamil says to me.


    We have not been able to ascertain the number of hunters employed by the church. The people we are fighting are also church-rted. They are terrorizing people all over the ce. It seems they are busy dealing with us right now and not making any progress on their terror n. Well. At the moment, reinforcements from the United Nations have arrived, and the other side is exhausted, so lets see how theye out of this situation.


    My older brotherughed when he said that and seemed happy. Hating the boredom of everyday life, brother Kamil goes to the battlefield in search of stimtion. War is always happening somewhere.


    *I will be providing medical care to the victims of that war. It is always the civilians who are in the weakest position. We often quarreled about it, but this is a matter between countries. We don''t get involved in national affairs, but many people in important positions are dependents. We understand the contradiction. The worlds situation depends on us. We understand that too. Time is a bore for us who live long. We are free to do whatever we want with it. We are happy to coexist with humans.*


    "

 Chapter 45: Brothers and Yuki

    Chapter 45: Brothers and Yuki


    Now the Wembellin brothers have gathered. Im sure the hunters have gotten the message. Ricks words came to mind as we drove away, *It could be a trap*. Then I would be the first to be targeted. In fact, Kazuya was targeted.


    *If the goal is to torment meYuki is in danger! I cant calm down if I dont see her face soon.*


    "Shell be okay, Marcus-sama."


    Kazuya, who is sitting next to me, said softly to me as I got more and more agitated.


    Yuki-sama also has an escort, and Ill be getting more information.


    Kazuya pulled his hair over his ears to show me what was in them. I knew that, but I still feel anxious. I feel again that Yuki has be such an important person to me. Brother Kamil looked giddily at me.


    Hmmm. I wonder what kind of person she is, the one that has brought Marc down to this level.


    Shes a very charming woman. Kazuya said.


    Kazuya says. I hide my face.


    *So embarrassing*


    I see! I''m looking forward to meeting her!"


    Heughed out loudly. I''m no match for my brother Kamil at all. I would say that he was probably the most honest to his instincts among my siblings. He had the most dependents as well. While we were talking like that, we arrived at our destination. I wanted to see Yukis face immediately, but there was an order to things. I went to the medical team and greeted the other doctors. Then Yuki spotted us and came running.


    Marc!


    She hugged me tight.


    You''re early! I thought it would take you longer.


    She still had that same bubbly smile on her face. She must have gone through a lot of hardship at the site, but


    Im so d youre here. Kazuya-kun is with you too!


    Yuki-sama. Its been a while. Have you tanned a little?"


    Yes, I did. Sunburn is the enemy of beauty, right? Im really concerned about it. When I go back to Japan, Im going to devote myself to taking the best care of my skin I can.


    I am relieved to hear that you are doing well. Yuki. My brothers are here. They would love to meet you.


    Is that so? Does the fact that they''re here mean they''re in the military? Or are they doctors?


    Theyre with the military.


    My brothers got out of the car. Liza looked at Yukis face and said,


    "I''ll give you a sunscreen that''s gentle on your skin. You should not get a sunburn on your pretty face. You have to take care of your skin even if you are busy."


    Yuki looked at him curiously.


    Im Liza, the third of four brothers. Marc''s the youngest.


    Brother? You are very beautiful. I am Yuki Kashiwagi. Nice to meet you.


    Oh, my! Youre an honest girl! I like you. I like that kind of girl.


    Liza seemed to be in a good mood.


    The stern one next to him is Kamil, my second brother. Hes in the multinational force. The other one is Mikey, our eldest brother. Hes in the U.S. United Nations Forces.


    Nice to meet you!


    Yuki greeted them with a friendly smile.


    "

 Chapter 46: Hunter information

    Chapter 46: Hunter information


    There, Mikey approached Yuki and smelled her. He smiled and asked her.


    You. Do you have a special blood type?


    Yuki was surprised at his words.


    Yes, I do. You can tell? Thats amazing!


    It smells delicious.


    I hurriedly separated Yuki and Mikey.


    Ha-ha-ha! I''m not going to take her blood or anything. Don''t worry."


    He put his arm around his waist andughed.


    One can never be too careful around you, brother.


    I stared at him.


    "Hey, hey, don''t look so scary. Do you really think Im that untrustworthy?"


    After all, youve got a record."


    I retorted back, miffed.


    Are you still holding on to that? That was hundreds of years ago. I did take your favorite person as my dependent, but okay, okay, Ill stay away from her.


    He raised both hands. Yuki looked at me happily.


    I envy you. Im an only child.


    I was somewhat embarrassed.


    If there are too many, itll just be too loud.


    Then Rick appeared.


    Hey, Marc! Marc!


    He tapped me on the shoulder and said.


    Youre here already? Youre early.


    Yuki nced at me happily.


    Its my friend Rick. He used to live in that room.


    Yukis expression changed.


    Marc? Why am I getting that look from your girlfriend?


    Uh-uh. Well, never mind!


    With that, he patted me on the back. Rick cleared his throat and chuckled.


    Its an amazing sight, isnt it? All the Wemberlin brothers together.


    I guess so. I havent seen them in hundreds of years. I was out of control after what happened with my mother, but it was my father who stopped me. Rick must have some information this time, and I could see the leeway on his face.


    Well, now that we''re all here, I have something to tell you. Let''s talk."


    *Rick has information?* I tell Yuki,


    Yuki, you go straight to treatment first, I''lle along with Rickter. He''s a doctor too!


    With that, I go inside the building with everyone else.


    The building is sturdy for something in the middle of a war zone. As we finish sitting down, Rick puts a bunch of materials on the table.


    Ive got the identities of the hunters. This should be everyone.


    I couldnt believe my eyes when I saw the documents on the table. Because there were members of the medical team there. Had they been mixed In with the doctors?! They are targeting me, no doubt. I turned pale. My brothers saw this and said.


    Im sure theyre targeting Marc. Does that mean theyre targeting that Yuki girl, too?


    My brother asked Rick to confirm.


    "Yes, they are after her. She is being targeted. But it seems that Marcs dependent is with her, and they cant touch her.


    *Kazuya? Thank you, youre always taking care of my worries. Im counting on you. But what are we going to do now?*"

 Chapter 47: Strategy meeting

    Chapter 47: Strategy meeting


    As everyone gathered, we decided on a strategy for what to do in the future. We didn''t want any harm to happen to civilian human beings and also how to deal with hunters.


    Brother Mikey said, Marc. You and Rick stay with her. We''ll split up. Is that clear?"


    With that, he looked at my other brothers. We all nodded.


    Sure. Thats fine. Leave the hunters from Ricks info to us. Well hunt them down. No one leaves this battlefield alive! Hey, Liza. This is where wee in.


    Brother Kamils face is scary. He had a faint smile on his face. Liza looked excited too.


    But, brother, what about the hunters who are probably in other countries? Ricks information is solid. I asked.


    Ill take care of that.


    Mikeys smile was scary, too. He gathered the materials and information Rick brought and made a phone call somewhere


    *Big brother*


    By any chance, are you going to call in the military!?


    Dont worry, we wont use the military; Im going to let a special agency like the CIA do the work for me. Then me and my dependents will finish the job. Ill decide whether to crush them before they do, or release ssified information. I wont let the hunters do whatever they want! And then well take down the church headquarters, too.


    Mikey looked me in the eye and said seriously.


    I want to know whos behind this. We have a peace treaty, and theyre the ones who broke it. But Marie wanted peace. She doesnt want to be at odds with the humans and neither do I.


    Mikey snickered at me for wanting to respect our mothers wishes.


    "This mamas boy"


    Well take your word for it.


    Is that a bad thing! I love my mother. And I would like to continue to convey that sentiment of hers! That''s what I''m thinking. What''s wrong with that? This is also to protect the other races!


    I said to my brothers.


    Were not saying theres anything wrong with it. Were just proud of you.


    Mikey said to me.


    *I wasn''t sure if I was just misunderstanding themor was I?*


    Im sorry forughing. You talk like mother so much. I was just admiring how our youngest, spoiled brat has grown up to be a full-fledged person of his own.


    He ruffled my hair and looked at me gently.


    Oh right! I have to go to Yuki''s!


    Go! Go to the one you love!


    My brothers pushed my back. Rick smiled as he nced at me.


    *Im going to take Yuki in my arms and hold her tight this time*.


    I leave the building with Rick.


    Kamil says,


    Liza. You go with your dependents also. Go and eat the hunters! You bloodthirsty glutton. Dont hold back. Just be sure to wear a disguise. They know our faces.


    "Fufufu. Okay, Then I''ll do just that."


    Lizaughed freakishly into the darkness and slowly walked away with his dependents."

 Chapter 48: Yuki Is in danger

    Chapter 48: Yuki Is in danger


    Rick and I headed to the medical team.


    *It should be fine. Kazuya is there*.


    I think so, but my heart still ached. I was getting worried and it felt like I was going to copse from anxiety.


    At that time, Yuki was taking a rest in her tent. Then, a man iming to be also be a doctor and a colleague in the medical team approached Yukis tent.


    There were cookies in the relief supplies that just came in. Would you like to join me for a cup of tea and a chat?"


    Saying that, he peeked into Yuki''s tent.


    Oh, did Marc bring them?


    Speaking of which, I heard that you and Dr. Marc were good friends...."


    Thats right. Were dating.


    The person forcefully entered the tent and grabbed Yukis arm.


    Why dont you go out with me instead of him? I was fascinated by your attitude as a doctor. He doesnt deserve you.


    Yuki was offended by his words.


    Are you really a member of Doctors Without Borders? No one here has anything bad to say about Marc!


    She red at the person who came in saying that.


    You dont know who he really is, do you?


    I don''t know what you mean.


    He is.


    As he was about to say, Kazuya came rushing into the tent.


    Doctor Kashiwagi! This ce is dangerous! A suicide bomber just blew himself up nearby and several people were injured! Please evacuate from here immediately!


    The intruder was surprised by Kazuya who had suddenly came in.


    Who are you? Were in the middle of a truce. Thats not true!


    The person said. Yuki asked the person.


    A truce? What do you mean? How do you know that? We were not told that! We treat the wounded and the sick. Isnt that our sole purpose?


    Kazuya intervened between Yuki and the person as if to protect her.


    You! You are his dependent!


    He quickly closed his mouth.


    How do you know Kazuya-kun here? It should be your first time meeting, right?


    The person who was in a panic opened fired at Kazuya. Several shots hit him. Yuki panicked, severely distraught.


    Its alright. Its an iron bullet.


    Kazuya turned back to Yuki saying so.


    Kazuya-kun


    But Yuki was still worried. Kazuya red at the person who fired the shots at him and said,


    Well what should we do with you now?


    He then rushed towards the person and pushed him into a corner.


    You monster! Get out of here! Get out of here and be gone!


    While screaming, the intruder fired again and again. The gun ran out of bullets, and all that could be heard was the click-click-click of the empty gun.


    It looks like youre out of bullets. What are you going to do now?


    The man looked to Yuki and said,


    I really respected you. Too bad.


    Saying that, he blew himself up."

 Chapter 49: Yuki’s resolve

    Chapter 49: Yuki¡¯s resolve


    The person who came to Yukis tent blew himself up. Kazuya dived to the ground to protect Yuki.


    We just arrived and were stunned to see the scene.


    Yuki!


    The ce where the explosion urred was said to be the ce where Yukis tent was located. I rushed to the scene.


    *I have a bad feeling about this, but there was no way Kazuya would silently allow this to happen without telling me.*


    The smell of burnt tent and scorched wood.


    I stood there for a while. Then something moved from the ground.


    How totally disrespectful to ady. Kazuya said.


    Kazuya crawled out of the tent. In his arms was Yuki.


    Are you all right? Yuki-sama."


    Yuki had still not grasped the current situation. Well, she was suddenly caught in an explosion. That kind of reaction was inevitable. But I was amazed that she survived.


    Kazuya. Are you okay too? Didnt you get hit by the st?


    My clothes are made of a special material that is used to make rockets. They are a little heavy, but they are tougher than bulletproof suits.


    He smiled smugly. So this is what he had in mind. Kazuya, my hats off to you.


    More importantly, Yuki-sama. Are your ears okay?


    You were covering my ears, so my eardrums are fine. The sound of the explosion was so intense. I still have ringing in my ears.


    Kazuya was also injured to a certain extent, but his wounds were gradually recovering. He was already back to his usual self.


    Im d.


    Saying that, I hugged Yuki.


    I''m sorry I wasn''t there for you  you scared me.


    Marc.


    Yuki also hugs me and calls my name. After checking each other''s warmth for a while, Yuki looks at me and says


    I was really surprised. I didnt have time to react. Now Im starting to get scared.


    Now there is one hunter gonebut what are you going to do, Marc? Its better to go back to Japan with her. Its not safe here.


    Rick said to us.


    Yuki. You go back to Japan. I dont want to put you in danger. Ill be fine. Back in Japan, Kazuya will be there to protect you. He will protect you from danger like he did this time.


    No!"


    Yukis reply was immediate.


    But.


    I dont want to. I want to stay with you. We just met, and now youre telling me to go home


    Her eyes began to water.


    I want to be with you too. But I''m being targeted by some people called hunters. Their goal is to torment me. Thats why, Yuki. You could be a target, just like you were this time.


    If thats the case! Then keep me close! With me by your side! It would be easy for you to take them out, wouldnt it?


    no problem. Thats why they wont aim at me directly.


    Well then. Its settled! Then the safest ce to be is by your side!


    *Yuki.... I think you may be right. On the other hand, I feel safer that way and I can protect you.*


    "Now let''s get ready to stay."


    Saying that, Kazuya left.


    He really is very capable. Marie must have loved Kazuya. There is no one who wouldn''t like to be treated so well. If I were a woman, I would have fallen in love with him as soon as he served me this well. And of course he was handsome. He had a sharp face for an oriental man, with double-lidded clear eyes, and a striking gaze, which could make most women fall in love with him. I couldn''t help thinking about it."

 Chapter 50: Liza

    Chapter 50: Liza


    We decided to remain at Doctors Without Borders with Yuki and continue our medical work.


    For some reason, we decided to stay at a hotel, although it was a bit far from the city, because it was a special asion. I was used to living in a tent, but felt sorry for Yuki, so we decided to stay at the hotel Kazuya had prepared for us. The Kashiwagi Zaibatsu is said to be providing arge amount of aid to this area as well. When the manager found out that Yuki wasing, he arranged a nice room for her.


    "Even if it wasnt such a beautiful hotel, I would have been fine in that tent.


    She seemed to be dissatisfied.


    Kazuya says There are manypanies associated with the Kashiwagi Group, you know. You are their daughter. I can''t just ignore that.


    How are you going to get to the site from here?


    I will be happy to drive you there. The owner of this hotel also asked me to do so. You dont have to worry about it.


    Yuki did not look amazed. This was just not just a normal medical treatment! She was angry with me, but I guess she also wanted this country to understand that the health care system in this country is fragile. It was obvious that she thought that arge group ofpanies would be willing to provide technical support.


    It was already dark outside the window.


    Yuki, why dont you take a long shower and wash off your sweat. You didnt get to take one in there right?


    Yes! I smell so bad!"


    Oh, well..."


    I said to Yuki with a smile. Kazuya chuckles too.


    Im used to it, so it doesnt bother me, but it bothered you, didnt it? It''s okay. Go in slowly."


    okay, Im going in.


    Then she went to the bathroom.


    Kazuya, Ill see you tomorrow.


    Yes, sir.


    Kazuya said with a light nod. Then he left the room.


    I looked outside and wondered.


    *Who is this mastermind who is targeting us from behind the scenes? There is a lot of resentment. Maybe the church people are just being manipted by that person. Who is behind it?*


    I didn''t want to think about it, but I had an idea of who it might be. I had to check with my brothers.


    There was a row of tents where the rebel soldiers Kamil was fighting against were resting. Liza called out to one of the soldiers.


    Hey. You must have a lot on your te, dont you? I can keep youpany.


    The soldier folded his arms and looked questioningly at Liza.


    Huh? Women arent supposed to be here. Where did youe from?!


    Oh, I may be a man, but I am a maiden at heart."


    Liza smiled at him, and the man extended his nose at her beauty.


    "If that''s the case, Ill be d to have yourpany. I am sick and tired of all these ugly men. I didnt know there were good-looking soldiers like you."


    Oh! Im d to hear that. I am told so quite often. Come on, lets go that way.


    Saying that, he leads him out into the woods. Liza puts his arms around the mans neck and whispered.


    Your body is so muscr. And you smell delicious.


    Then he puts his lips on the mans neck and sank his fangs into the flesh. The man looked ecstatic, but gradually his eyes turned white and he fell unconscious.


    Liza looked at the fallen soldier with cold eyes and said, Well thats not enough. Lets go to the next prey."

 Chapter 51: At the reunion with Yuki

    Chapter 51: At the reunion with Yuki


    After Liza left, his dependents disposed of the body.


    Next, that hunter.


    He sniffed to confirm the smell. Liza seemed to be familiar with the smell of hunters. And so in this way, he devoured the hunters one by one. In the dark, stealthily. Kamil watched this from a distance and said,


    "Whens my turn? Liza is a big eater after all. Hes going to eat all the hunters tonight!"


    Later that night, Yuki came out of the shower and hugged me from behind.


    Yuki, youll hurt my neck if you hug me so tight.


    mmm-but! I''m so happy!


    Im happy too.


    I took Yuki''s arm, who was hugging me from behind,


    Im really d I came here. Ive seen things that Ive never seen before. I am having a precious new experience.


    Im d that I could have the same experience as you, and Im very impressed with your skillful treatment. You know...everyone in the medical team praises you. They say you''re a wonderful doctor. It makes me very happy to hear that. And the locals say they have nothing but gratitude for Dr. Marcus.


    She said, her voice bubbling over.


    I guess. Weve known each other a long time.


    Speaking of which, how long have you really been here?


    "About 20 years, I guess. We dont change, so we cant stay in the same ce for too long.


    "Why not?


    "Think about it. It''s unnatural to stay young for so long. Twenty years is the time when a child is born and grows up to be an adult. And yet, it''s normal for people to think it''s funny that we stay the same."


    I see. So thats why youve been to so many war zones. No one seems to think its strange that you havent changed your name?


    Thats because Ivee here after a certain time. No one from that time is alive anymore. We also have our people in the office of Doctors Without Borders, who are registered toe here. So it doesnt matter. I like it here. I dont have to think about anything, I can just focus on treating people. My wounded heart has been healed in that way for a long time.


    .Hey. Marc, can I ask you something? Your mother died, right? Even though shes immortal and a founder?"


    I have told you before, we also have our weaknesses. My mother is a Founder, of course but she was killed by a hunter, the same people that attacked you today. I went on a rampage in the church that sent the hunter. I dont know if the targeting had anything to do with that, but I have no doubt that they are trying to use the hunters to destroy us vampires. Some of my friends have suffered casualties. Kazuya too. At that time, silver bullets were used. Only church officials would y such tricks.


    .Yuki was silently listening to my story and then said,


    It''s funny. When I was targeted, Kazuya saved me... but the gun he was using at the time was an ordinary bullet.


    *No way decoy.*


    "

 Chapter 52: A moving shadow

    Chapter 52: A moving shadow


    The next day. At the morning assembly, the number of soldiers was noticeably reduced. Themanding officermanded.


    Check the number of soldiers! Immediately!


    Themanding officer counted the men, but got agitated when the numbers didnt add up.


    *The ones who disappeared were hunters sent by the church. What''s going on*?


    When I got reports from the troops, it was still not enough. The multinational forces even came to support the UN forces. This is not good for us! What are those church people thinking?! I thought they were supposed to protect us from the monsters!


    The soldiers were upset by theirmander, who was clearly irritated.


    The battle is still in truce, but with these numbers... what are we going to do? And they''re bringing UN troops over there.......We need to gather our troops......"


    The soldiers tensed up.


    I know! Ill try to get in touch with someone else, get some men. Wait here.


    With that, he walked into what appeared to be a conference room. He used the phone on the desk to call somewhere.


    "... Please exin what this is about! At this rate, we''re at a disadvantage. The hunters sent from your side are gone! This is not the way things are supposed to go!"


    He mmed on his desk and yelled. A smallugh could be heard on the other end of the phone.


    Well... well... it looks like that family has gathered. Now we know they are all here. Ill use the hunters too. This time, instead of hunters like before, let''s send hunters who specialize in monsters to them.


    Okay, please do it. I''m counting on you. The war is now in a truce, so this wont reduce the poption! We need to expand the scope of the war, andunch a massive terrorist attack at the same time!


    Yes. Then letsunch terrorist attacks in various countries. Just ignore the United Nations. Over here we have a big organization called the Church. UN forces, for example, cannot move with so many hostages in our hands.The whole nation is a hostage now! Break the armistice treaty! Let the country perish! We who remain shall be the leaders of that country!


    After hanging up the phone, the manughed loudly for a moment. Then he turned to the soldier at his side and said,


    Let the battle begin! Dont worry about the citizens, you can attack the city too! Missiles and bullets are being sent. Start getting ready!


    Hearing this, the soldier quickly saluted and left the room.


    *This is not good. There will be many casualties. I have to tell them.*


    The soldier says to another


    Im sorry, but Im going to the bathroom. You go ahead.


    With that, he disappeared directly into the depths of the forest. No one noticed his disappearance."

 Chapter 53: Toward the decisive battle

    Chapter 53: Toward the decisive battle


    ....... I see. I knew they werent going to keep our promise, but it was sooner than I expected. I thought I had reduced the enemy''s forces, but it looks like they''re calling for backup too, and this time it looks like they''re nasty hunters.


    Kamil chuckled and called Mikey.


    Mikey. Let''s get this thing started. Evacuate the civilians and get them out of the country."


    Roger that. Then, well start counter-terrorism measures. Ive notified my dependents who are outside the country. I wont let them do what they want. The ones who are being controlled by the church are the ones who have been drugged into insanity. I can smell it. Im on it. Im sure that its just a diversion. Were the ones theyre really after.


    Yes, Im sure. Marc was talking about it. About the one behind the church."


    well I see. Hes probably right. Sadly.


    *I had called my brothers before and told them what I thought. The one behind the church*


    Then I got a call from my brother Kamil.


    They are going to break the ceasefire agreement. A War ising. Your ce isn''t safe. Go back to Japan now!


    Leave my brothers behind? We''re his target, right?"


    But your


    "Dont worry about her. My dependent is excellent.


    Well then were going to attack the church''s headquarters. I''m sure hell be waiting for us there."


    Got it. I''ll be at your ce when I''m ready. Mikey. With Dad gone, the only person we can count on is you. So, Im counting on you.


    I''m not that reliable of a brother. But I''ll do what I can. I''ve got all the counter-terrorism measures in ce. Each of my dependents is keeping a close watch on the hunters. I wont let them get away.


    I knew I could count on you! A-ni-ki.


    Phew! I''ll be waiting for you, Marc."


    Just then, the phone rang. It was Kazuya!


    Marc-sama. Are you going?


    Yeah, Im going. Take care of Yuki.


    Okay.


    I told Yuki that I was going to leave for a while, because the area where rescue is needed is going to be very extensive. She looked uneasy.


    Kazuya is here. Don''t worry. Besides, hell will be in touch with me."


    Saying that, I hugged her.


    I''ll be back here soon and stay with you."


    Yuki also wrapped her arms around my back and hugged me. I dont want to get her involved in anything dangerous.


    Im sure its going to be our fight from now on. Vampires.


    (TL note: aniki, elder brother).


    "

 Chapter 54: Assassin

    Chapter 54: Assassin


    I left Yuki with Kazuya and headed for where my brothers were waiting for me. I headed there with Kamil, Liza, and their dependents. We entered the United Nations Garrison base.


    Im here to see my brother Mikey. Im Marcus, a doctor.


    I said and showed my credentials. Kamil and Liza seemed to have face passes. They let them in without saying anything. I guess its easy to remember their faces because they stand out so much.


    We were led into the room where Mikey was.


    Youre here.


    Mikey looked happy. Then suddenly hisplexion changed.


    Who are you? How did you manage toe in here!


    He yelled at the soldier behind me.


    The man muttered.


    Oh, no. I thought I''d done a good job of sneaking in."


    He smiled wickedly.


    "I''m here to kill you monsters!"


    And he pulled out a pistol. The bullet was probably a silver bullet. He pointed the pistol at brother Mikey.


    Youre the eldest son, Mikey or something. Youre practically the head of the vampire n right now, arent you? And your dad, the chief, is missing at the moment, too, right?


    And then my eyes met the mans. Instantly, his expression turned grim.


    "You must be Marcus!


    The man red at me.


    "Thats right. Did I do something to offend you?


    I know that you went berserk in the church. Because of that, our family line has gone from nobility tomoners! You don''t even know what it''s like for your family to be ostracized! You have so many dependents, so how can you!


    The man kept staring at me.


    What is wrong with being an ordinary human being? Some of you don''t even have enough to eat or to seek medical treatment!"


    So what! I don''t want to live like that! I was a nobleman before, but because of you, I''m amoner now... I can''t allow that at all!"


    I guess that means the aristocracy of that time is still here. Look, arent you free now? Its better to be free than to be tied down by those ties.


    We cant break free from those ties. The church only thinks of us as pawns. I dont care about those church people! And I hate you for reducing my family from nobility tomoners! I know your weakness. Go join your mother Marie!


    He shouted and pointed his loaded pistol, this time with a silver bullet, at me. I screamed at the man. I was more than pissed off now!


    *You just say what you want to say*!


    ME! Do you know what happened to Marie, who was cheated out of her life by you church guys, happened right here in front of my eyes. I will never forget it! You pretended to shake hands with her, but then dove a knife through her heart! Thats not fair! She only came here to make peace with you people, to reconcile. That! That! I will never forgive you for that!


    A gunshot was heard. He fired his pistol at me."

 Chapter 55: Defeated the assassin. But..

    Chapter 55: Defeated the assassin. But..


    The bullets fired at Marc were repelled by Mikeys shield.


    How could such a soft substance possibly be a match for a shield made of diamond dust?"


    I don''t know when he came, but brother Mikey was in front of me.


    I know my weaknesses.


    !"


    I quickly shoved a cloth into the mans mouth.


    Ugh!


    I can''t let you die now. So tell me. Tell me what you know."


    I stared into the man''s eyes and manipted his thoughts. His eyes be lifeless as his eyelids half closed.


    ......I was told by The Master toe here. I was ordered by him to kill the vampire."


    The man talked in a daze.


    Who is behind the church!?


    I strongly asked.


    I dont know I dont know.. No one has ever seen The Master''s face. Rumor has it that he is also an immortal being who wants to rule over humans thats what the rumor says.


    After saying that, the man copsed.


    I guess we''ll just have to get in there."


    Mikey said, scratching his head.


    Seems so."


    Everyone else seemed to agree.


    So what about the countrys military?


    Kamil asked happily.


    Can I have it?


    Mikey says,


    I''ll go and talk to the representatives of this country. If they give me permission, Ill arrange for you to join the multinational force from the UN. Wait for a while."


    Oh, yeah! Ill leave that part to you! Im not good at these troublesome things. Ill be d to have more men under mymand though.


    So Ill be in the country for a while. You guys do what you want, Ill tell you when its time to jump in.


    Liza pushed me from behind.


    Shell be anxiously awaiting you. Marc.


    Mikey added, Well be together when we get in. In the meantime, go ahead and flirt.


    All right. So whos going to give me a ride?


    Ill ask my dependents. Mikey and the others will be busy from now on. Take care!


    Ill leave it to you.


    The dependents knelt down and lowered their heads to Liza.


    Youre still making them do this.


    Liza seems.are these guys happier than before?


    Oh well. Now I can be with Yuki, I am most happy about that. I know she''s doing well because I hear from Kazuya regrly. Although the sanitary conditions are not good in this foreign country, Yuki is in good health. That is encouraging. I was worried because Japanese people are fastidious about hygiene, and her stomach tends to get sick easily, butshe seems to be stronger than I thought.


    Then I called Kazuya on the phone.


    Kazuya, Iming back to your ce. The decisive battle will be a littleter.


    I understand. Im sure Yuki-sama will be pleased. I will let her know.


    Thank you! With you there, I feel safe leaving you in charge.


    Then, I will be waiting for your return.


    After this, it will definitely be a showdown. We have to settle this."

 Chapter 56: Dud

    Chapter 56: Dud


    I had Kamils people take me home.


    "Isnt it tiring dealing with Kamil?


    I asked Kamil''s dependent.


    No. Not at all. Ive been with him for a long time and I cant tell you how much his cheerfulness soothes me. Besides, he is very adorable. And of course, his beauty is beyond reproach!


    He said firmly. Its amon ancestor thing. I was a fool to even ask.


    .......I see. You can love him to your hearts content then.


    I was dropped off in front of the medical teams tent.


    Marcus!


    Yuki came flying in with a smile on her face.


    Kazuya told me you wereing home! I''m so happy!


    She eximed and hugged me.


    Im sorry for worrying you. But Ill be leaving again in a little while.


    You mean youre leaving the country?


    Yes. Im going to Italy this time.


    ... you''re taking me with you, aren''t you?"


    *Yuki*


    Ill stay by your side, I wont leave you!


    Tears welled up in her eyes as she said that. Children happily ran around us. Kazuya saw this and shouted loudly.


    Kazuya had found something and was trying to tell the children.


    Its an unexploded bomb! Get away from there!


    The children got startled by his voice and ran away. But just then, another small child approached the bomb. Kazuya and I ran towards the kid. Yuki also came running!


    *Why?*


    Yuki! **Go back**!


    My voice is drowned out by the st.


    Kazuya was badly injured while protecting the child. I covered Yuki, but her human body was weak against the st.


    Yuki!


    I watched as her figure got burnt by the st.


    .Yuki .


    Kazuyas wounds were already recovering, and so were mine.


    Why, why did this happen to you!?


    Marc  the child?


    Its okay. The kids fine. Kazuya covered them. Yuki, Im so sorry. I couldnt protect youI''ve hurt you so badly


    Marc


    She lost consciousness after saying that.


    Im sorry, Marc-sama. It was my carelessness.


    Kazuya said to me as he got down on his knees.


    I didnt expect to find unexploded bombs in this urban areaa dudwhy is it here? This ce is outside thebat zone


    I could see that man''s face in my mind. "To defeat the monster..." There was a hunter in this medical team. No way, Did he put it here on purpose?


    Kazuya says, Im just guessing, but I think these duds were ced here intentionally.


    I was not concerned about that! Only Yuki! I carried her in my arms and proceeded to enter the building with the medical team to treat her.......


    ... Dr. Marc... we cant do any further treatment in this facility..."


    The other doctor called out to me.


    Would you like me to call for a helicopter?"


    "They won''t make it in time."


    Yuki gently opened her eyes.


    Marc. Please


    I brought my face close to hers."

 Chapter 57: Yuki

    Chapter 57: Yuki


    Yuki whispered to me, MarcI wanted to be with you for a long time.


    She lost consciousness again after saying that.


    Im sorry. Please let me stay here with her.


    The other doctors knew what I was talking about and left the ce. I couldnt treat her. That was what it meant. Kazuya is at my feet. I''ve made up my mind.


    Kazuya. When Yuki gets out of control, hold her down with me.


    Saying that, I picked up Yuki and sank my fangs into her neck and sucked her blood. It tasted as good as ever. From there. Yukis body shook violently as her blood ran out, and then a voice which sounded nothing like hers came out.


    Geeaaa!


    She shot up and went wild. Kazuya and I held her down. I put my arm to Yukis mouth.


    Yuki, bite me! Bite me! And drink my blood!


    Yuki opened her mouth wide. There were fangs in her mouth that had never been there before. Then she bit down on my arm with her fangs and drank my blood, snarling like a beast. I know its not consciously, butYuki. She bit down hard and broke the bone in my arm. It hurt. But I had to be patient. The wound would heal eventually. But more importantly, now


    Hmm!


    Yuki said quietly and then became silent. Her eyes seemed vacant. I asked her,


    Yuki, how are you doing? How are you feeling?


    WellI... how... and this blood..."


    Then she looked at herself. Her injuries had healed. She looked at it curiously. There was a lot of blood around her mouth and on her cor.


    Im sorry. I had to do this to save you.


    I avoided her gaze. Then she seemed to understand.


    She got off the bed and hugged me.


    Yuki gently said, Dont apologize, its what I originally wanted. Im d. It means Ive be your dependent, doesnt it?


    Yes, thats right.


    I was anemic and couldnt stand, so I leaned against Kazuya.


    Marc-sama. Youve been pushing yourself too hard, soplease suck my blood.


    I put my fangs up on the arm that Kazuya put out. Kazuya himself seemed to be happy. Has it been since the first time we first met?


    I''m sorry. Thanks again.


    "Not at all! It''s been a while! This pleasure..."


    Kazuya shuddered happily.


    Kazuya. Can I leave the rest of this to you?


    Of course. I''m very good at creating a cover. I can easily prepare a body that looks like Yuki-sama."


    Yuki tilted her head as she listened to our conversation.


    Yuki. You died once as a human being. Therefore, there is no Yuki Kashiwagi in this world anymore.


    The one who is here is a vampire named *Yuki*. My precious."

 Chapter 58: Vampire

    Chapter 58: Vampire


    YukiYuki as a human is dead. We cant tell your parents the truth. Is that okay with you? A vampires dependent has a master-servant rtionship with their master. But its you. I want to be your equal.


    "Didn''t I tell you? I am yours. I''ll always be by your side."


    Kazuya says,


    Even though we are both Marc-samas dependents, Yuki-sama is still a very important person to him, and that will never change."


    Yuki looked happy.


    But how will you disguise it? Besides, if my parents find out about my death, their financial support to this country may be cut off. I dont want that.


    Kazuya then pulled out a recorder.


    Here, Yuki-sama, please record a message in your voice to your parents as yourst will and testament. You will not be able to see them again. So


    Yuki speaks with determination, microphone in hand.


    Dad. Mom. Im so sorry. If youre listening to this, it means Im gone. I dont regreting here. I came to this country knowing the risks and I am sure you are sadI am proud of my work as a doctor and I have met many people who are in need here. Please. Please keep supporting this country. Thank you...for raising me all these years!"


    She turned off the mic.


    "Is that okay? Isn''t there anything more you want to say?"


    I said.


    "Its okay. Im sure Mom and Dad will understand. Because theyre both doctors too!


    Yuki said with a smile. That smile made my heart tighten.


    Kazuya continued, Well then, I will disguise the body. Can you help me, Yuki-sama? I''ll make copies of your fingerprints, retinas, and dental molds. I''ll have to remove your eyeball. The pain will subside quickly, so please just bear with it for a bit.


    With that, he took out one of Yukis eyeballs. He then inserted the eye into a corpse, which I do not know where he got from.


    !.......What? It doesn''t hurt anymore and I can see!"


    Yuki seemed surprised.


    Vampires have excellent healing ability. They are better than any other race."


    Kazuya exined. Am I the only one who thinks her surprised look is adorable? Then he made copies of her fingerprints and dental molds and transferred them to the corpse.


    We ended up deceiving your parents, but you have be different from human beings. And thats not going to change.


    What is Yuki looking in the mirror and doing?


    Its true! I have fangs!


    There it is I remember it was the same with me when we first met. You looked at me curiously too.


    "Maybe I drank Marc''s blood... I don''t remember."


    For some reason, she said it regretfully.


    Well. I guess you were not conscious at the time. Yuki, you bit me so hard you broke my arm.


    I said while rubbing my arm.


    .... will I continue to do such cruel things?"


    No, not at all. Only in the beginning. From now on, you can drink my blood by sinking your fangs into my arteries and sucking my blood, just like I did to you."


    okay


    She made a slightly troubled face."

 Chapter 59: Vampires called ‘dependents’.

    Chapter 59: Vampires called ¡®dependents¡¯.


    Yuki-sama. From now on, I will teach you how to behave as a dependent and about vampires.


    Kazuya said to Yuki.


    Please do. I don''t know anything."


    From there, Kazuyas lecture began. I wonder if this was the right thing to do. To a human being.I think this was a selfish, self-serving act on my part. I didnt want to lose Yuki, so I turned her into a vampire.


    "I know! Just because Im a vampire doesnt mean Im immortal!


    Thats right. Even the vampires dependents have a limited life span. It is not clear how long the life span is due to individual differences. I became a vampire in the Edo period and have lived for over 400 years.


    Thats amazing. How long has Marc lived?


    Yuki looked at me.


    I was born during the reign of Philip VI of France (1328-1350), and my brothers were born even earlier, during the Capetian period, so I forget how long Ive been alive.


    Then! Youve seen a lot of history with your eyes! Amazing!


    Yuki was a little excited. She was strong even though she''s no longer human. No, she must have already made up her mind when she started dating me.......


    Well, you know. The retro era is nice, but when things are as convenient as they are now, it''s hard to go back to the old days."


    I agree. Even in Japan, it would be tough to live in an era before the widespread use of electrical appliances. It would be unthinkable to live in a time before the inte becamemonce.


    Kazuyas lecture continued.


    We left the tent and said goodbye to the doctors of the medical team. Marcus is heartbroken after losing his girlfriend. I guessed thats probably the picture. Thats fine. Kazuya deposited the recorded recorder with the body and arranged for it to be delivered to Japan. There werepanies that specialized in transporting people who have died outside of Japan. He entrusted it to them.


    Please take care of it.


    I kissed the eyelids of the corpse, Yukis. I left the ce and went to Kazuya and my brothers.


    Yuki. We are going to meet the real mastermind who started this war. You have Kazuya, and youre a vampire now. Im not that worried about you, butyou dont look like much of a fighter. So I want you to stay by my side and just watch. The real fight is about to begin!


    Kazuya had already finished packing up his things.


    Let''s go. Marcus-sama. Your brothers are waiting for you."


    Okay.


    We headed for the airport. Of course, Yuki was in disguise."

 Chapter 60: To Italy

    Chapter 60: To Italy


    "Hey, Marc. You said you were going to Italy now, but then that means the real enemy is there. Right?


    "Yes. I dont really want to meet him. I dont want them to be who I think it is.


    We arrived at the airport where Mikey was waiting for us. From there, we took a private jet to Italy.


    As soon as we arrived, Mikey sniffed Yuki''s scent and grinned.


    "Well It seems like youve be his dependent. I can smell Marcs scent on you."


    "Yes! please take care of me


    She put her hand on her chest and bowed lightly. It was a greeting to a founder as a dependent. Kazuya must have taught her that.


    Oh! Pleased to meet you too!


    My older brother smiled. Kamil and Liza smiled too.


    *Come on! We are now going to Italy! The Church headquarters. Thats where were going. I am sure they must be restless. They dont think wereing in*.


    The hunters are after us. Even now.


    What! Theyre heading this way?!


    The person making the call was clearly upset.


    "Absolutely! Useless hunters. Even though I prepared the tools for them..."


    Saying that, he tapped his fingers on the desk in irritation.


    "Our opponent is a founder, and with all the brothersing together, we dont stand a chance. Now what? I guess Id better talk to him. After all, he is a founder, too."


    And then he made a call somewhere.


    00-sama. They areing this way. What are we going to do? The hunters are more useless than I thought Im sorry.


    .......I see....... They''reing this way. Well, that''s okay. It''s been a while since I''ve seen them. Let''s look forward to it.


    On the other end of the phone, a man wasughing.


    "I cant wait to see the expressions on those brothers faces when they see me!


    "00-sama. Then may I continue?"


    The person making the call was in a cold sweat.


    ....... What are you scared of? You have me. Let those foolish humans scatter their lives in war. After that, well build our own world!


    00-sama am I going to be okay?


    Of course. Humans are stubborn, you know. I will leave you in charge of the remaining humans, and you can do with them as you like!


    The person holding the phone patted his chest in relief.


    I must not offend him.....


    He muttered to himself, putting down the phone."

 Chapter 61: Sightseeing in Italy

    Chapter 61: Sightseeing in Italy


    We arrived in Italy.


    "What are you guys going to do now? Were not going to go out today, are we?


    Kamil asked.


    Yes, thats right. Maybe we should go sightseeing? There''s no need to be in such a hurry to get on board. Im sure they know were here. We dont even know if its really him behind them.


    Liza continued.


    Its been a long time since weve been to Italy, so why not do a little shopping? Im sure youre staying at the usual hotel, right? Im off then. I''ll meet youter at the hotel."


    After saying that, he went into the city with his dependents. And the rest of us who were left behind....


    Liza has a point. Let''s go out for a bit until we head back to the hotel."


    The hotel was owned by brother Mikeys dependents. We had them take our luggage to the hotel. It was Yukis first time in Italy, so I nned to show her around.


    Yuki, is this your first time in Italy?


    Oh, yes. Ive been here a few times on vacation. Have you been here alot?


    "Yes. Ive been here a lot for conferences. I also lectured at the universities in this country


    No way! You were doing that here too!


    "Thats right. I''ve given lectures in most of the big cities. Thats why Im always indebted to my brother Mikey.


    Yuki looked at the townscape with sparkling eyes.


    "Yuki. Do you want to walk around there?That would be fine with my brothers. We can talkter at the hotel."


    It''s fine. Me and Kamil are going over there for military business. See youter at the hotel!


    With that, they were gone.


    Let''s go to the city too! Lets go sightseeing together, Kazuya!


    The three of us went downtown. I feel the hunters eyes on us, but I didn''t want Yuki to feel uneasy.


    *Lets keep quiet about it for now*.


    The mafia in this city was also under the control of my brother Mikey.


    For some reason, there were a lot of dependents in this country. I am sure that the hunters are after them too, but I dont think the hunters would risk a war with the mafia.


    But you can never be too careful. I could feel their presence, so it was better to stay on the streets.


    Yuki seemed to be enjoying walking through the city. Then suddenly she turned to me and asked.


    "Am I going to attack a human?


    "Were you worried about that... Kazuya told you, right? The urge to suck blood doesnte suddenly. As long as you take blood regrly, there will be no problem.


    I gently hugged her.


    "You can learn little by little from now on. We have plenty of time.


    Well... Okay."

 Chapter 62: The Church

    Chapter 62: The Church


    Italy. Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum. There were many pces, temples, and buildings to see. The Leaning Tower of Pisa was also famous.


    In particr, there were many churches called cathedrals. With so many tourist attractions, it was crowded with people. So Yuki was very happy.


    Wow! Its so beautiful! There are so many historical buildings!"


    Well, there are a lot of old buildings here. They''re not in a ce like Japan, where big earthquakes happen all the time, so they are well preserved.


    As we walked, Yuki enjoyed looking around.


    "I remember there was also a Ghibli anime that that was set in Italy.


    Ghibli anime.Great. Red Pig, Witchs Delivery Service, Castle in the Sky, Lapita!They are all masterpieces.


    I have heard that the building here was the model. I wanted to see it again when I get back! I thought to myself.


    Hey! How far is the Vatican from here?


    Oh. Yuki. Its a whole other country. We vampires are not allowed there. We made a treaty with that country a long time ago. We cant even go to Rome.


    "is that so"


    She replied sadly.


    "But only a few people know about it. That''s why even if we vampires unexpectedly enter, they won''t notice."


    I said this with a smile.


    No, You promisedyou cant do that


    I know. Thats why I donte here, to Italy, much. The church thinks were evil.


    Saying that, I stretched out.


    Are you hungry? They have great street food. Wanna try some?


    Food stalls! Nice!


    Yuki instantly smiled. That''s It. That smile suited her the best. We toured the stalls and tasted the food.


    I think it''s time for us to go back to the hotel."


    Kazuya said. I could certainly feel the hunters eyes on me the whole time.


    *I think it is better to leave this ce*.


    "Then, please take this cab.


    Kazuya quickly opened the car door. The driver was a dependent.. He looked at me with a huge smile, put his hand on his chest and bowed.


    Youre hereIt is an honor to meet you, Founder-sama!"


    He said, his voice trembling.


    We wouldn''t be here if it weren''t for something really bad. I appreciate the sentiment, but please drive carefully. Hunters are targeting us. You, too, be careful after this."


    I understand. I will see you safely back to your hotel!"


    The three of us sat in the back seat with Yuki in between us. It was a little cramped, but I was happy to feel Yukis body warmth. Kazuya pushed Yuki toward me.


    Marc-sama. Yuki-sama wo-"


    At that moment, a gunshot went off. The car window shattered.


    Kyaaa!


    Yuki screamed. A hunter had targeted me! What were they thinking. In the middle of the city?!"

 Chapter 63: Wemberlin Brothers.

    Chapter 63: Wemberlin Brothers.


    Hunters. You cant do this in the city. The mafia wont stand for it.


    The cab sped up on the road. We managed to reach the hotel.


    I''m sorry for wrecking your car."


    Luckily, just the window was broken, the rest of the car was fine. I gave him some extra money. The driver gently handed it back to me.


    Its all right. I''ll rece it. More importantly, be careful!


    Oh! You too!"


    And we parted ways with the cab driver.


    *The hunter got awayNo sign of him.*


    "Kazuya. Put some dependents in front of the hotel. Maybe Kamil''s or Liza''s."


    .......Marc-sama, did you forget? This ce is owned by Mikey-samas household.


    *Oh yeah...*


    Its okay. No other people, including ordinary guests, are allowed in our rooms. Its okay. Come on, lets go. Your brothers are waiting for you.


    Kazuya walked in front of us saying so.


    "Its like you know the insideyout of the hotel."


    Yes! I know the premises of this hotel. And even where everything is.


    Kazuya smiled.


    ".Did you do any prior research?"


    Marc-sama. There is nothing about the Wemberlin family that I do not know.


    I see. Im d to hear that.


    ...Then you know about Tyler Annalis, don''t you?"


    "Of course I do. I am Maries dependent. How could I not know that? I know very well.


    The tone at the end of his speech became lower. Im not sure if Kazuya was aware of it eitherYuki grabbed my arm.


    After opening several doors, we arrived at the room. When I opened the door, my brothers were all there.


    "Hows it going? How was the Italian tour? I heard the gunshots just now, were you targeted?


    Yes, we were. I feel sorry for the hunter. The Mafia might have spotted him. There''s no sign of him."


    Oh, well. he got what he deserved. He came into my territory on his own. My people wont allow it. Ha-ha-ha! Theyre my household, but the hunters dont know that.


    We all sat down on the sofa. Mikey propped himself up on his elbows and rested his chin on them.


    Marc. You were right. We got a call from one of the werewolves who was able to infiltrate the church."


    "They say no one has ever seen The Masters face


    I looked at my brother Mikey.


    He''s not going to show his face that easily."


    Mikey said.


    "The werewolf said that The Master will probably be here tomorrow.


    "I see. There will be a worship service tomorrow. Thats when theyll give them the drugs


    Liza said.


    I really dont like the smell of that medicine. Its too sweet. The blood of a person who has inhaled it doesnt taste very good."


    Kamilughed when he heard that.


    "Did you drink that much?"


    I have my preferences. Oh, right. Yuki, you say? I bet your blood tastes delicious."


    I red at him.


    Oh, my God. Marc, Im kidding."


    It didnt sound like a joke when you said it, Liza.


    So? I dont take what belongs to others without permission.


    He said so and smiled at Yuki."

 Chapter 64: At the hotel

    Chapter 64: At the hotel


    Marc, I know exactly how you feel. We dont either. We wont let him get away with this.


    There they were, the smiling faces of my dependable brothers.


    Tomorrow. I''m going to church. Before they give me the drugs!


    Everyone nodded. Mikey adds,


    "Until then, you stay in the hotel and rx. Well be fine here.


    Liza says, "Lets do that! The beauty salon here is really good. Yuki. Would you like toe with me?


    "But.are you sure?


    She nced at me.


    Go ahead. The spa and beauty treatments here are really great.


    Well then! Ill go! Please excuse me!


    After answering Liza, Yuki and the others headed straight for the spa.


    ......Marc. You said that that dependent there used to be Marie''s dependent. What are you going to do now, Kazuya? Marc is also your master. Mikey looked at Kazuya and said.


    For me, my master is the one I adore, Marcus-sama. And of course, his brothers, Marie''s sons, who are here with us."


    I see. So you have already made up your mind.


    That person left Marie-sama to dieI cannot forgive them


    Kazuya''s face contorted with anger.


    "... left her to die. Or rather, made it so. Im sure youre right.


    Mikey said quietly. I wasn''t too sure on what to make of that.


    "But why? I don''t understand why he''d do that!" I said as I stood up.


    "Tomorrow. I guess we''ll have to ask him directly."


    I looked down.


    "... I never thought that person hated us, on the contrary, he adored me... And yet... why did this happen?"


    Tomorrow. You will know the answer. So take it easy. Yuki or whatever you called her, go have fun with your dependent.


    Mikey and Kamil grinned. Even they had their favorite dependents...... I blushed.


    Whats the matter, kid? Still getting used to it? How cute.


    "Dont treat me like a child!


    Kazuya was looking to the side. His shoulders were shaking. This guyhes hesughing!


    ....... Yuki is my beloved and precious partner."


    Marcus-sama. Let me show you your room. Please wait there for Yuki-sama. I''m sure she''ll be polished up like never before with Liza-sama in the room with her."


    Right. I remember Liza used to transform women because he liked that kind of thing. I wonder how she will change?


    I found myself being a little excited. There was a knock at the door. I unlocked the door and opened it.


    "Um... Liza-san told me to wear this dress... I tried it on, but... the back is too open, isn''t it? It''s a little embarrassing."


    Lizas grinning face was frustrating, but Yuki.


    *Shes beautiful.*"

 Chapter 65: Cocktail Dress

    Chapter 65: Cocktail Dress


    "What are you spacing out about? Marc! Well? She''s a great model so I got really into it...ah..! Said a very delighted Liza.


    ....... This is what you call a cocktail dress, right? I dont know if its okay. You''re letting me wear such a nice dress.


    Yuki looked happy.


    "Actually, I really wanted to put you in a wedding dress, but next time. I''ll definitely make you wear a dress I designed!"


    He winked at Yuki.


    Yuki. You look beautiful."


    I said sincerely. Kazuya chimed intoo.


    Youre beautiful, Yuki-sama.


    After saying that, he pushed Yukis back. She bumped into my chest


    Well! Have fun tonight!"


    Liza and Kazuya closed the door. Im still a little nervous after all this time......I could also feel her heartbeat. How embarrassing.


    We embraced and kissed each other without a second thought. Many times. Her scent invited me in. She seemed to be thinking the same thing, and her face turned slightly red.


    Marc. Its alright. My blood, sink your fangs into my neck!"


    I sank my fangs into Yukis neck. She let out a sweet sound.


    Marc! Oh.


    We moved straight to the bedYukis blood was delicious.


    ''*Yuki, Yuki.*''


    I was a little surprised! Thinking that I may have drunk too much, I pulled out my fangs.


    Im sorry. I may have drank too much. Please tell me if it hurts. Yuki... but... you''re really beautiful."


    Marc. Im really happy. Not because I was bitten and became a dependent, but because you and your siblings are now one of the irreceable things for me."


    I''m d to hear you say that. My brothers seem to like you too, which is good. They have a strong habit, you know, and I was worried. I was worried that you might get scared of them.


    That''s not true. Theyre reliable, and beautiful, and Liza-san. Hes so beautiful, I can''t believe hes your brother. Hes like a big sister to me, and I-I''m so happy!"


    Oh, yeah...you did mention that youre an only child, didn''t you? But, you know, when we all get together, it gets noisy.


    Im having fun.


    That night, wey on top of each other.


    The dependents offer their blood to the master. I was really happy to hear that from Kazuya-kun."


    Saying that, she hugged me around my neck yfully.


    Yuki. From now on, We have more time than you think, and from now on, well be together forever. I''m happy too."


    The two of us spent the night together, talking about such trivial matters."

 Chapter 66: First bloodsucking

    Chapter 66: First bloodsucking


    During the night, Yuki was rummaging around opening and closing the refrigerator, fumbling with something. Then I heard the sound of water running from the faucet.


    What''s wrong? Yuki.


    I called out to her from behind. Yuki turned around and with pain in her voice said, "Im so thirsty, no matter how much water I drink, it doesnt help!


    *Oh, this is... This is*....


    Yuki. Drinking water wont quench your thirst.


    "Well then, what should I do?


    I exined to Yuki who looked troubled,


    Yuki. Even if you drink wateryou have to drink blood to quench your thirst. You havent been taught how to suck blood yet, have you? Kazuya told you all about it though, didnt he?


    it''s just  drinking blood  Im not reallyfortable


    Hmm. This ce is owned by Mikeys dependents, so they should have blood. Ill have them bring some for you.


    I ordered ''Blood'' from room service. Soon after, ''it'' was delivered to our room.


    "Yuki. Isnt it beautiful like this?


    The blood in the engraved ss looked like wine.


    Yuki, its your first time drinking. Its thin blood for beginners. It doesnt look like blood, and its chilled so it doesnt have a fishy smell, so even you can drink it. Come on.


    I said and handed it to her. No, no, no, hold the ss in your hand.


    Now, go ahead and gulp it down all at once!"


    I said with a smile. Yuki brought the ss up to her mouth. Then she drank it all at once.


    "Delicious!


    She seemed surprised. It was a symptom that manifested itself when her blood was depleted, so it would seep through the body.


    "Tastes better than you think, doesnt it?


    I want more


    She said sweetly.


    "Then why dont you drink my blood? Its also good practice for sucking blood.


    "...I can drink your blood?


    "It''s fine. It''s why some people have the power and ability of the master."


    power


    We, purebloods, can manipte the thoughts of others. I can put them in a sort of hypnotic state.


    "Thats a great thing, butif its abused


    Yes. If it is misused, the world will be a terrible ce. But more importantly, Yuki. Which artery would you like?


    I asked, bringing my face close to hers.


    the carotid artery is too difficult for me.the cranial arteryMay I?


    I put my arm out in front of Yuki.


    "You know where it is?


    "Yeah.


    Yuki''s mouth opened and she bit down on my arm. Yuki. You''re good at this, you are a doctor after all.


    "Oh right. At the end, lick it off with your tongue, and that will stop the bleeding."


    She lets go of my arm.


    Yuki. Youre good at this. We all end up drenched in blood our first time.


    "Your blood has a strange smell, Marc. But its delicious. Yuki added.


    Its purebred blood. Its special. Thats why some people can recognize us founders by smell. Like Leonardo."

 Chapter 67: Uncle Tyler Analis

    Chapter 67: Uncle Tyler Analis


    Oh yeah!"


    I said, surprising her.


    Yuki. Tomorrow, or maybe its already todaythe real work begins now. Im going to meet the person behind The Church.


    TodaytodayMarc. you look so pained. you know who that person is, dont you?


    I don''t have any proof. I don''t know what they are doing or what they want...but my hunch is probably right. I''m going to meet with that person and hear what they have to say!


    Yuki grabbed my arm firmly.


    I will not put you in danger!


    I said, hugging her tightly.


    We have a few more hours before dawn. The sunrise and the view from here are nice, too. Lets watch it together in a little while. Until then, lets rest in bed a little longer.


    We crawled into bed and cuddled with each other. It was a pleasant time.


    The sky started getting brighter. We got out of bed and sat on the chairs by the window.


    Its really beautiful. Yuki whispered, leaning on my shoulder.


    I have to protect this beautiful scenery. I know it sounds over the top, butits that important.


    We got dressed and gathered in the room where my brothers were waiting for us. Brother Mikey starts,


    Were going to settle this. I think you already know, but this is a family matter. So I have talked to the founders of the other families to a certain extent. I couldnt get everyone to understand, but many of them did.


    "Rick''s ce is fine. He says good luck."


    He smiled and added.


    Come on! Lets go!


    Us and a few of our dependents left the hotel. We headed to a certain ce.


    **Church of San Domenico**


    It was a modest Sicilian Baroque church, located on the street of Rome.


    *Rome. Rome Rome we cant reallye here without permission. But here he is*.


    It was still early in the morning, so there was no one there. We entered the church.


    Its still too early for Mass.


    Eximed the priest.


    Im here to talk to the man in the back. I''m sure he knows that, too.


    Mikey spoke to the priest. Then he moved toward the back of the room at a brisk pace.


    Mikey. You want us to wait here?


    Yeah. Theyll call us from over there.


    After a while, another priest arrived. I could tell he was a different priest from the one before.


    How did you know I was here? Its pretty low-key here," heughed.


    I saw his face and.I.,


    Bummer. Uncle Tyler.I never thought Id see your face here.


    Its been a long time since weve seen each other. Not since Maries incident, I believe?


    He spoke with a faint smile on his face."

 Chapter 68: Uncle

    Chapter 68: Uncle


    Uncle Tyler. Why did you make them do such a terrible thing to Marie, your own sisteryou killed her!


    The Annalise family has inherited the position of chief for generations. But when Marie married Romeo, the founding ancestors and their dependents who blindly believed in Marie followed Romeo. Actually, Marie did a good job. I''ve never seen so many vampires united. As expected, I was impressed that she had the blood of a chief in her veins. But just think about it. I am the eldest son of the Annalise family. I thought, *Of course I am the right person to be the chief.* However, my father chose Romeo, Marie''s husband.. I was so angry I almost went insane.


    *The face of my uncle, who had been so kind to me in the past, was not there*.


    I thought that once Marie was gone, the chieftaincy would be minebut its not going the way I want it to. Romeo doesnt even know where he is now that Marie is gone. Such a man is the chief! It makes meugh!


    We were all lost in anger and sadness, then suddenly Yuki started talking.


    Is your title so important to you? A chief is someone who can help and unite his people. You only think about yourself! Your fathers decision was not a mistake!


    She said with a fierce look on her face.


    You, little girl, cant understand!


    Yes, I do! You didn''t understand such an important thing, and that''s why your father didn''t give it to you, right?"


    My uncle stuttered.


    Do-dont you dare talk to me like you know what youre talking about!


    He sent a de of wind and attacked Yuki. We managed to dodge it.


    "Oh. The little one has grown up."


    The uncle I know isnt here. In his ce is a foolish man trying to gain power, who wants to wipe out mankind from this world. To be a new god, is that what you want!"


    "Marc. You''ve started to speak impertinently after not seeing me for a while, ha!"


    He lets out a sickening high-pitchedugh.


    My brothers attacked my uncle, but to no avail. They all got kicked off and mmed to the wall.


    Tsk!


    Damn it


    This is terrible!


    I couldnt resist taking a swing at him, because I really liked my uncle, and him...giving orders to kill his sister, my mother, Marie... I can''t forgive him!


    I really loved you Uncle! But..!You took my mother away from me!Ill never forgive you for that! I dont even understand why either!My mother, Marie, once told my father that she was going to give everything to you. I was a child at the time and didn''t understand it, but I do now! Now Im d she didnt.


    "

 Chapter 69: Father appears

    Chapter 69: Father appears


    Youre really starting to say that now. I loved you boys. Its true. I just hate Romeo."


    Inside the church, a familiar aura appeared in front of us as we were lying on the ground.


    *This is*.


    You''re getting beaten up spectacrly again, my sons. Pathetic.


    There he was, my father, whom I had not seen in a long time.


    If you want the title of chief so badly, Ill give it to you. The title was just an afterthought that came with her. I loved Marie, and thats that! Theres no one like her! You know that better than anyone. Humph! It must have been frustrating. When she confessed her love to me, It was like I was soaring.


    Father''s face was radiant.


    Im not the leader type anyway, so Ill give it up just fine. But not to you Tyler. You were going to endanger other species as well. I cant give the chieftaincy to someone like that. Were not supposed to be out in the open. Coexistence with humans. Thats what Marie always said. I will not let misfortune to befall all who live and breathe on this earth. Tyler, youve gone too far.


    How can you say that when you have done nothing! Uncle Tyler raised his voice.


    Its not that I didnt do anything. Ive met the races you drove away. I apologized. Like I said before, you went too far. It is your fault that we vampires have be the bad guys! Do you understand that?


    My father spoke without raising his voice.


    Let the other races perish! I will be the king of this world!


    My uncles face looked like a sculpted devil as he spoke.


    If you want it, you can take it. But even if you be chief, no one will follow you. I dont think Im the right person to be chief, either. There were many followers of Marie. When I was nominated, no one objected to me, the person she loved. They weed me with open arms. Youll never understand why.


    *What is my uncle doing*?''


    I made a face like that.


    Its your ideology. You think only of yourself. There are many creatures living in this world, but you dont think about them.  Marie had always been pained by that.


    Shut up, shut up, shut up!


    My uncle shouted loudly.


    Marie Marie Marie Everyone praises Marie. I never liked that. Not only that. She was my precious sister. The thought that she lovedyou and she said that It made my blood boil! You don''t suit her!


    My uncle red at my father.


    Really, lets do this you siscon bastard!


    The two red at each other.


    *Was that so? My uncle was a siscon. He must have been frustrated that my father took her from him. If you would rather give her up than to someone elseAren''t those thoughts distorted? I still dont understand. Why dont you wish for the happiness of your loved ones*"

 Chapter 70: Younger Sister Marie

    Chapter 70: Younger Sister Marie


    "I cant even.... how did you end up like this...Tyler."


    Father''s face looked really sad. Meanwhile, our wounds were healing. My uncles face was grim.


    My sweet Marie to......you! He said in frustration. My father grimaced,


    I knew you had a sisterplex, but I didnt know it went this far. It''s true that there was inbreeding marriages to protect purebreds, but these are not the times we live in now. Above all, we loved each other. Why did you kill Marie, who was so precious to you? Im the one you hate."


    I knew you two loved each other. If I killed you, Marie would follow after youin that caseI thought it would be more fun to watch your face as you suffered and grieved."


    His expression was insane.


    Well.even vampires have broken heartsWhen that happens it feels like the end. Get ready! Tyler!


    Father and Uncle Tyler fighting.? Will this church building be ok? It would be a battle between two founders, it wont just be a fight.


    To prevent others from getting involved, we put up a sign to the humans saying that the mass was cancelled due to construction. This way the noise will not be suspicious


    *But still, its so intense, its like a special effects movie*.


    As expected of your father. Look, did I mean Tyler? Your uncle doesnt have much strength left.


    Yuki said and looked at the two. I still didnt quite understand my uncles sisterplex that caused all of this. *To wipe out all the humans and build your own Nationwhy would you even think of that?*


    "Fuuu!! Marie only loved one thing. Arent you strong?"


    The two locked hands and were pushing each other.


    Well, you know. Thats what she must have fallen in love with!"


    Shut your mouth!


    Clearly, my uncle was being overpowered. He was sweating profusely. And then there was movement. My father put my uncle in a brace.


    "Lets... Let''s end this.... Marie is gone!"


    My uncle copsed on the floor. He was lying there on the floor, muttering something. Then the hunters attacked, there were so many of them.


    "Come on! You guys! Defeat the demons! After that, I''ll give you medicine! Who''s first?"


    With that, he searched in his pocket.


    "Is this the medicine youre looking for?"


    Liza said, plopping down a bag of white powder.


    .when did you


    "I was in pain when you kicked me, and then theres this smell! I hate it!"


    And with that, he burned the whole bag.


    ! What have you done!?


    The hunters flocked to the ashes of the drug."

 Chapter 71: Chief

    Chapter 71: Chief


    Making these kinds of drugs. Would any of them have followed you if you didnt use such a thing? It seems that you are not making any more dependents either. You are probably all alone now, arent you? I am sorry to see that you have lost faith in your own household. Youre pathetic.


    My father looked at my uncle sadly. The hunters were fighting over the ashes of the drugs. I couldnt help but feel sad that this was happening.


    From the looks of it, you were also using that drug too. We have a long life to live, you know. Each one of us has to find some meaning in our lives and live for it. And we must protect it gently. Vampires are the only immortal beings in this world. If you want to be a king, do it. Go to a remote country and help them, and you will easily be their king. Then, will you be satisfied?


    I will not be satisfied with that! I won''t let it end like this. I will surely take my revenge on you.


    With these words, he staggered out of the church. There was someone by his side to support him. *I see, hes a dependent, but he wont be around for long. I could tell by the sad look on my fathers face.*


    My sons. Its been a long time.


    Father turned around and said to us with a big smile.


    Mikey says,


    Come on, old man, at least send us a message. I know you must have your own messenger. And you have plenty of dependents, too.


    "If I use something like that, Tyler will find out. That won''t allow me to proceed with my n."


    What n? We asked.


    Ive been nting different things on thend where they grow the drugs and had the growers set them up. I had to do it little by little, too, because we didnt want them to find out. Thats why it took a long time. In the end, weve destroyed the drug production nts. There are no more drugs.


    Kamil sniffed around father.


    Hmmm. No Drugs. wait. But this smells a lot like that drug.


    A small box came out of my fathers pocket.


    This is a therapeutic drug. Its a new drug that hasnt even been tested yet. This is going to change the world. Im looking forward to it! I''m sure Marc will be interested too, so Ill tell you about itter.


    My father looked at Yuki next to me.


    You are Marc''s dependent. Hoh, you must have some rare blood.


    Yuki put her hand on her chest and bowed.


    Yes, sir. I have been made a dependent of Marc-sama. My name is Yuki. I am a neer, but I look forward to working with you."


    You have good eyes! Take care of him for me.


    Dad. Yuki is a doctor just like me. Can we ask about that drug with youter?


    "It doesn''t matter. As long as you can understand the technical terminology, there''s no problem. My other sons don''t seem to be interested."


    He said this andughed heartily. Then he looked at me, Marcus. You will be the next chief.


    !


    What? But Im the youngest, Mikeys the one you should be talking to.


    Suddenly I noticed the soft gazes of my brothers around me. My father said,


    Youve interacted with the other species, youve built trust with them. Youre the one best suited for this."

 Chapter 72: New Leader

    Chapter 72: New Leader


    "Youve interacted with the other species and have built trust with them. You are the best suited for this.


    That was what my father told me.


    My brother Mikey says,


    I dont need that title. Im happy with my current position. After all, the president has entrusted me with the military. Thats what makes it fun.


    And my brother Kamil also.


    I like my freedom. I dont want to be tied down.


    Liza added,  You are the best for this, trust me. We''re still the same siblings, and if you ever need help, you can talk to us!"


    Yuki says,


    "Marc. Your family trusts you so much. It''s the result of all the hard work you''ve put in. You also have werewolf friends. Im sure you will do well. You can unite all the races. And of course, with humans.


    Everyone


    "I''m sure Tyler wille to understand eventually. He will know what he has done"


    Father


    I think Im going to retire and go on a nice rxing trip. Marc. Its your time now. Take care of everyone. The session announcement will be held in the near future. Theres plenty I have to teach you.


    He smiled and looked at me. Yuki also looks happy. *But. I dont know if I can handle it. Im not sure if I can be the head of the family.*


    The conversation proceeded and it was decided that I would be the head of the n. The other races were informed. Leonardo congratted me! But I didnt really feel it.


    Next to me, Kazuya and Yuki were both looking at me happily. *Come on! Let''s go back to Japan. I promised the Director that I would. My base from now on will be Japan. I haven''t even been to a maid cafe yet. Ah, I want to go*!


    "I''m based in Japan. I''m get along really well with the Japanese werewolves."


    Okay. Well then, I guess were breaking up for now. See you guyster..Dad.


    Mikey linked arms with fathers arm and smiled. Kamil shook hands with him where as Liza hugged and kissed him.


    "Liza. You so much resemble your mother, it makes me feel weird.


    Dad looked embarrassed when Liza kissed him.


    Then, my father stared at Yuki. *?*


    Im a little curious, but maybe Ill figure something out soon.


    I dont get what youre talking about! Please say it so that I can understand it, Father. But I dont think he understands it either.


    Well then, Chief, we must get ready to go back to Japan.


    Kazuya said and was about to leave.


    Hey, Kazuya. Um. The wholeChief thing  please stop it


    I got an *aha* look.


    "Well then, Master. Shall we go?"


    *Thatll do.*


    "

 Chapter 73: Transformation

    Chapter 73: Transformation


    On the way back to the hotel room, Kazuya said, Yuki-sama. I will prepare you before we return home. Yuki Kashiwagi no longer exists. So you''ve been given an American citizenship. It is a country with many different races, It wouldnt be strange that there are second and third generation people. However, you appearance is well-known in Japan. Ill have to ask you to dye your hair and also change the color of your eyes. Modern medical care is wonderful. Unlike contacts, lenses can be inserted in the intraocr range, so this is a good time to do it. Lets put in colored lenses and make you a different person!


    Yuki looked anxious.


    Its okay. Rick-sama will take care of it, so theres nothing to worry about.


    Yuki nced at me. *Fufufu so cute*.


    Dont worry. He''s a great doctor who is highly sought after by people all over the world. It will be over shortly. Even cataract surgery is a one-day procedure. I assured her.


    I know that Japan is safe, so Im going back there. I also made a promise to the director. But.Yuki, wouldnt it be hard for you?


    Im happy just being by your side. So dont worry.


    Yuki smiled, but Its not that I dont feel guilty.


    Kazuya adds, After 50 years, there will be no one who remembers Yuki-sama. Then you can go back to being Japanese again.


    Yuki seemed surprised.


    I can do that!


    Its easy.


    Kazuya replied simply.


    I agree. It would be nice to be someone else. As long as I have you, I dont want anything else.


    *Yuki*.She gently cupped my cheeks.


    You are my lifesaver. You told me we would always be together from now on. Marc. I love you.


    Without thinking, I hugged her. Im an idiot, Yuki already knew what she was getting into. She had already made up her mind. Ill also make up my mind and act as the n leader.


    Then lets go back to Japan!


    Kazuya dered.


    Right! Lets go home!


    Well.before we do that, Yuki-sama will have to transform.


    Saying this, I took her to a beauty salon in the hotel.


    A few momentster. A blonde-haired Yuki appeared.


    You with blonde hair. Its kind of fresh.


    Yuki yed with her hair shyly.


    Rick-sama will be here in a few minutes, so please wait.


    We waited for Rick in the hotel room.


    I got beautiful blonde hair. Doesn''t it match yours, Marc?


    She turned to me happily.


    You could try being different races. Its great to see the evolution of medicine, and I look forward to whats toe.


    There was a knock at the door and Rick came in, bowing at me with a smile.


    Yo! Chief-sama


    Stop it. Rick, you know I dont like it when you talk like that.


    True. But youre still our chief. Proper Greetings are important.


    Yes, but youll still address me as you always have.


    "Alright. So? I just need to change her eyes, right?


    Yes, sir. She''s ready.


    Kazuya said, taking Yuki and Rick with him."

 Chapter 74: To Japan

    Chapter 74: To Japan


    I waited for Yuki and the others in the room. The operation simply involved making a small incision in the cornea, through which the lens is inserted. It was easy. Safer than LASIK. Ricks skill is probably the best in the world. He has performed an extraordinary number of surgeries. He is considered a great doctor in the field of ophthalmology. *Oh, it looks like its over*.


    Yuki opens the door and walks in.


    Its amazing, isnt it? I dont feel a thing. And I look better than before, she says happily.


    From where I''m looking, you dont look like Yuki Kashiwagi.


    Holding a mirror, he showed Yuki her face.


    She said, Wow! Its really amazing!Im a totally different person.


    She stared hard in the mirror..


    Kazuya, seeing her like that said, I hope you dye your hair regrly. The color of your eyes is also lovely. It suits you well.


    Hey. Is it really this easy to change the color of your eyes? I didnt know eye color could be changed so easily.


    She looked at me curiously.


    Were vampires. Were very good at recovery. Besides, its as easy as changing colors.


    Heh, I see!"


    Then Rick walked in.


    "What do you think? Pretty good, huh?"


    Truly, Youre a renowned doctor."


    He said with a smug look on his face, So? Youre going to live in Japan from now on. Im going back to Doctors Without Borders. Marc. Youll have to give a bunch of lectures again. The relief supplies would really help.


    Im on it. Ill get them to you in various countries. Besides there are ces that agree with my lectures and send them to me on a regr basis.


    You are doing well among humans. Im not worried, but Im worried about Tyler. I dont think that old man is going to be satisfied with the way things are in present.


    He said, looking out the hotel window, I''m sure the old man will use his power to force the hunters and followers who have been freed from the spell of the drug into submission."


    .will he though?


    "I understand how you feel. But my hunch is right. Be careful. You''re going to Japan tomorrow, right? See youter, Marc. Call me anytime."


    Im really grateful to you, Rick. If you hadnt pushed me to go to Japan, I never would have met Yuki. Plus, Im having way too much fun enjoying my otaku life!


    I see! Good, good, good!


    We turned to each other andughed.


    The next day, we returned to Japan and I went to greet the hospital director. They all knew about Yuki andforted me. I felt a little guilty, but Yuki Kashiwagi had passed away. The funeral seemed to have been a grand affair. Naturally, Yuki''s clinic was closed and the Administrative staff and nurses had been assigned to the Kashiwagi Group''s hospital."

 Chapter 76: Kazuya’s feeding ground

    Chapter 76: Kazuya¡¯s feeding ground


    Yuki and Kazuya greeted me when I returned home after work.


    Wee home!


    Well I know Yuki is here, but Kazuya why are you here?


    Do I need a reason to wee my Lord?


    You are the leader of the vampires in Japan, arent you? Im sure you have something to do.


    I brought you blood transfusion packs.


    "What''s going on? Theres so many. I''m notining though."


    Kazuya shook his head.


    "Yuki-sama just won''t drink them. Shes having a hard time..."


    Whats wrong, Yuki? You said it was delicious when you drank it at the hotel.


    "Its because this blood smells like vinyl and it makes me sick."


    But its still fresh blood. I got it from a blood donor van.


    Kazuya handed it to me. I enjoyed it, but Yuki was troubled.


    "If you keep this up, youll get depleted and it will be difficult again.


    I told Yuki this, *but*.


    but


    All right. Drink my blood. Then you wont have a problem, will you?


    I held out my arm, Kazuya avoided it.


    To partake of the blood of the master! The household offers their blood, not the other way around!


    Kazuya. Its okay. Yuki, youre really thirsty, arent you? Its hard isn''t it? See, drink my blood.


    Yuki drank my blood with relish. Kazuya looked on enviously.


    Exactly.......see?, Kazuya, you can have it too. Youre always taking care of me.


    Saying that, I put out my other arm.


    Marcus-sama, Do not give away your founders blood so easily!


    To a slightly angry Kazuya, I said, Who''s the one who drank my blood without my consent?


    Thatsthe dependent blood in me made me do it.


    He bes a little anxious.


    Thats too bad. I''m not trying to embarrass you. If you gain more strength, Ill be happy about that.


    Speaking of which, have you heard from Liza-sama?


    *Liza*?


    No. I havent heard anything from him. Is he at your ce?


    Thats right.


    Kazuya smileda little creepy.


    Yuki seemed to be satisfied after drinking my blood and lets go of my arm.


    Marc.Im sorry.


    She seemed disappointed.


    Thats okay. Theres nothing to apologize for. Ill have Kazuya prepare some anemic blood. Can you do that?


    Of course I can. How about it? Shall I take Yuki-sama to that ce?


    He said with a sly grin.


    .Ah. Over there


    *What should I do? Im not sure. Will it be good practice for sucking blood?*


    Yuki looked at me.


    I guess we can say its Kazuyas feeding ground, but there is a ce where there are people who enjoy having their blood sucked. I told you, knowing what that feels like, its a dangerous thing, like a drug."

 Chapter 75: Yukis first time sucking blood from a human

    Chapter 75: Yuki''s first time sucking blood from a human


    *I havent heard from Liza. I wonder what it was all about. After all, Im supposed to go to Kazuyas feeding ground now*.


    "Marcus-sama. It''s okay. I''ve changed the feeding ground, so I''m sure Yuki-sama will feel at ease.


    *Oh, he did mention that the hunters found out when he tried to expand the feeding ground*.


    With that said, he entered an apartment a little further away from that neon district.


    This is the room. Pleasee in. Come in, Yuki-sama. Dont be afraid.


    Kazuya said to Yuki, who was holding my arm tightly. There were a few young women there.


    Oh? So its not just you today, Kazuya. Is this youngdy also like you?


    *Wow, Her consciousness is clear. I guess shes not yet that addicted*.


    Hey. that handsome guy over there. Hes a vampire, right? He smells different. What is this?


    Kazuya said, You guys dont need to know. Its time for the reward. Now, who shall we start with?


    Just then, the woman from earlier came to Yukis side.


    Are you a vampire too? If so, I want YOU to suck my blood


    She brushed her hair out of her face. Yuki couldnt help but be taken aback by the sight of her bare neck. She seemed surprised by the vampire blood inside her.


    Come on. Stick your fangs in here and give me pleasure.


    Yuki moved closer to the woman. Then, she sucked blood from her. She was sucking blood from a human for the first time. The woman also seemed satisfied as Yuki sucked her blood. A sweet sigh escaped from her. But.Yuki stopped immediately.


    Whats wrong? I asked Yuki.


    I think it tastes better than the blood transfusion packsbut Marcs blood is more delicious. What should I do?


    Kazuya smiles and exins, "A founder''s blood is purebred blood, so it''s only natural that it tastes better. The blood of the humans here is normal, Yuki-sama, let''s get used to it."


    .Is that so


    Yes!


    Then, other women came up too.


    Hey, bite me, too! Bite me too!"


    Yuki drank their blood as well. Well we dide all this way. Kazuya also sank his fangs into the neck of the woman who approached him. He drank quite a bit too.


    The women seemed to be satisfied and their expressions were ecstatic. I pped my hands and erased the memories of everyone who was there in the room.


    Lets go home. Yuki.


    Yukis reaction was clearly strange. Vampires are often aroused by drinking human blood. But she''s perfectly calm. What is this strange feeling?.My fathers words came to mind, *Im a little concerned, but maybe well see what its all about in time*.


    Kazuya seemed satisfied and began heading home.


    "Well then, Marc-sama. See youter."


    He bowed and left."

 Chapter 77: Vampire Yuki

    Chapter 77: Vampire Yuki


    Yuki. How was it? Sucking blood directly is surprisingly exciting, isnt it?


    I was surprised. I realized that I really am a vampire.


    Oh, just now


    I gave her a smile. I came back to my room, took a bath, and rxed in the living room.


    Yuki, the love of my life, is next to me. *Ah. This is happiness. Im happy*.


    Then, Yuki, who had been thinking about something since we came home, finally says,


    MarcGive me your blood.


    Oh, youre not satisfied?


    "Well.......Its something different. I know your blood is special, but...I think I still need it. Because I''m still thirsty


    I gently hugged Yuki.


    Okay. Where do you want?"


    She replied in a sweet voice, the neck. From the carotid artery.


    I took Yuki in my arms and move over to the bed. Iid her down and asked, Yuki. Give me your blood too.


    "Marc. I need to check something for myself, can I have it first?


    Thats unusual, but okay. Would you like me to lie down on my side? Or would you prefer I sit up? Dont worry about getting the sheets dirty.


    Okay, then. Then, go ahead and lie down.


    *Hmmm*..


    Yukis face looked down at me, which was also quite intriguing. She buried her face in my neck as she hugged me. I could feel her fangs sinking.


    *This is not so bad*.


    I could hear the sound of her drinking my blood. Then she pulled away.


    I knew it


    ?


    I need your blood to quench my thirst.


    She looked down at me and said so.


    I see. Then you can just drink my blood from now on.


    She says apologetically, I have failed as a family member havent I?


    I looked down at her this time.


    "You''re an important person to me, more than just my dependent. That''s why you can just be yourself. Please just stay by my side. That''s all I ask."


    Saying this, I sank my fangs into Yukis neck. A sweet voice escaped from her, and we made love again this night.


    I woke up in the morning to a phone call.


    Marc! Good morning! Yuki is next to you, right?


    Liza.whats the matter, so early in the morning?


    Uhu! You know what? I finished it! So I want Yuki to wear it!


    What is it? Im not sure, but.


    So Im going to pick you up! That Kazuya? Was it? Ive told him, so hell be there soon. Get ready!


    He hung up the phone from his side.


    Is it Liza-san?


    Yuki seemed to have heard it too.


    It seems theres something he wants you to wear. Kazuya will being to pick us up soon, so I think Ill get ready.


    After saying that, the inte rang.


    Hes here already? Thats quick.


    When I opened the door, Kazuya was there.


    Liza-sama has asked me toe. Come on. Lets go together."

 Chapter 78: To France

    Chapter 78: To France


    We took Kazuyas car and headed for the airport.


    Kazuya. Where are you going? Where''s Liza now? Why was Yuki called?


    I asked him one question after the other.


    Liza-sama is in Paris, France, right now. The show will start soon. He is busy preparing for it.


    Yuki tilted her head curiously.


    Wellum Kazuya-kun. Liza-san.could it be


    Yes, thats right. He is the designer of the Liza brand. A mysterious designer who never shows his face. It is even said that it''s multiple designers. He has been at the forefront of the industry for decades and almost all of his employees are his dependents.


    *I have heard that Liza works in the clothing industry, but he''s a designer. I dont know if hes that famous. Im not really that brand conscious, so I dont have any interest in things like that, and I''m not sure, but is it really that famous*?


    Liza-sama uses human models. He himself chose them by audition. After all, the buyers are humans. Theyre concerned about the evaluation of those humans.


    Kazuya smiled. Yuki also looked happy for some reason.


    "Okay. We''ve arrived at the airport. Please board my private jet. We''ll be there in half a day. Would you like to watch a movie during the ride? I''ve heard that you share the same taste as Marc-sama, Yuki-sama... then, how about thetest anime movie? It hasnt been released yet.


    The title appeared on the big screen. *Ohhhhhh! This is! The legendary! ''**Turn to The Sun and Receive Your Punishment**!'' and pose*!


    Kya! I love it! I have so many merch for it!


    Yuki got excited. She likes it too! *Kazuya, you.well done! Youre the best*!


    While we were watching the movie like that and talking about our impressions, we arrived at the airport.


    When we got off the ne, a lot of people who were probably our dependents all put their hands on their chests and bowed their heads to us.


    One of them says, "We have been waiting for you, Marcus-sama. This must be Yuki-sama. Liza-sama asked us to take you to him. Pleasee this way.


    This time, we were put in a different car. The windows of the car were tinted, so you couldn''t see us from outside the car. I was sure this car was also bulletproof.


    It has been a long time since I was in France. Nothing has changed. For some reason, I felt relieved. The car seemed to have arrived at its destination and stopped. The door opened and I got out. Then Liza jumped on me.


    Kya! Long time no see, Marc! Yuki! And Kazuya. Thank you for always taking care of my younger brother.


    Kazuya seemed embarrassed of the praise. *Hee*~ Kazuya also had this kind of expression on his face. I felt as if I had discovered a slightly different side of him.


    "

 Chapter 79: Designer Liza

    Chapter 79: Designer Liza


    "Now, Yuki,e here! We have a lot of preparations to make. See youter, Marc."


    And he took Yuki with him. Why Yuki? She''s not exactly a model. Over the years, vampires have grown taller in height, just like humans, butYuki was an average Japanese woman. Now she had dyed hair and her eyes were a different color, butI couldnt understand what Lizas purpose was. There, Kazuya was also called by Lizas dependent.


    *So, does that mean Kazuya is also making his modeling debut? Thats not a bad idea. Well? Im all alone*.


    It seemed that the show had started, I could hear loud musicing from the venue. Then, Lizas dependant showed me a monitor. A man who must be Kazuya appeared in the lively venue.. Is that really Kazuya? Thanks to the makeup and the stylist, he was apletely different person. Oh, how things have changed. Then I was called this time. Liza was there.


    Marc. At the end, you will walk on stage with Yuki. The runway will be an aisle. That''s what I want."


    And there she was, Yuki, in a wedding dress. The dress was made ofce, with zirconia sewn into the generous amount ofce, and it sparkled in the light. While I was admiring the dress, I was made to wear a tuxedo.


    The stage music changes. The lights dimmed. When the lights came back on, the runway was covered with a bright red carpet. The spotlight shone on us as we walked down the runway together, which became the aisle for Lizas performance. The venue was filled with sighs. The song seemed to have been written just for this asion, and the audience was excited about that as well. Liza told us to walk slowly. Yuki and I walk one step at a time, arm in arm. The lighting was so bright that the camera shes were not distracting, and Yuki looked beautiful.


    Liza told me to lift up the veil on Yukis face when we reached the end of the runway, so I lifted it up *Yuki how beautiful she is*. I couldnt help but kiss her. It was a light French kiss, but the venue was filled with sighs. Behind the stage, Liza did a fist pump.


    Im sure were going to get a lot of orders for wedding dresses now. Its another great sess! This rush of emotion gives me jou. Now that Marc is here, I might as well get out there too!


    At that point, the lights go out and an announcement is made.


    Liza would like to say a few words to you. Please refrain from taking pictures, except for photographers who are allowed to report on the show. If you are seen, you will be asked to leave the venue and will not be allowed to enter the show at any time in the future.


    A spotlight shined on one spot. There, Liza, wearing a ck mermaid dress with a ck hat and ck veil hiding his face, walked down the runway, led by me, who yed the role of the groom. Liza, the designer shrouded in mystery, made his appearance! The venue was amazing. The shes from the cameras were blinding! The press gathered on the runway to get a close-up shot of Liza. But they were firmly blocked by Lizas dependents.


    Liza.youve been attracting so much attentionall the photographers are desperate.


    Since you are here, Im serving you today. But I wont be out in the public anymore because Im a designer who works behind the scenes. The true stars of the show are the clothes that are designed.


    After saying that and bowing slowly and gracefully to the audience, he slowly returned backstage with me.


    After that, it became such a big deal that multiple fashion magazines ran features on him."

 Chapter 80: Marriage Ceremony

    Chapter 80: Marriage Ceremony


    When we returned backstage, Yuki turned to Liza.


    Thank you so much. I never thought I would be able to wear such a beautiful dressI am so happy.


    Yuki shed a few tears.


    Yuki, its yours. I made it for you, so dont hesitate to take it.


    Yuki could not stop crying at those words.


    Yuki. You went to the trouble of putting on beautiful make-up...its going to get ruined!


    Liza looked at me proudly,


    No, no, no. I knew Yuki would cry with joy, so I put on makeup that wonte off. Fufufu. Im amazing, arent I?


    The dependents nearby were crying and pping softly. *Oh, thats just like Liza* Even so, the venue continued to erupt in apuse and cheers. It wasmon for wedding dresses to appear at the end of a show, but the performance was just like a wedding.


    This is your wedding. Thats what Ive been preparing for. Liza said something surprising.


    Come on! Now its time for the real thing! Everyone! Take em away!


    We were taken away by Lizas dependents. There was a small wedding chapel set up. My brothers, father, and Yukis parents were there. They must have manipted their thoughts to bring them here. Yukis parents must also be able to see her. Yuki hugged her parents.


    She said, Thank you for bringing me up this far. Dad. Mom. I''m happy.


    The chapel bells rang. Lots of flowers shower blessings on us.


    I told Yukis parents, I will make her happy. Thank you for bringing Yuki into this world and raising her!


    Saying this, I hugged Yukis parents by the shoulders. Then I pped my hands and erased their memories. The two who had copsed would be returned to their cruise ship by Lizas household.


    I I I dont know what to say....Marc. Your family is really wonderful!"


    Yuki clung to my neck.


    Weve been together for hundreds of years. Weve had our fights, but were a family. Seeing your happy face makes me happy.


    My father looked up at the sky and said quietly.


    Maybe I should have dressed Marie in it."


    I understood how my father felt, so it''s okay. The two of them were close, so maybe my father regrets it a little now. But I didnt think my mother, Marie, would''ve felt that way. She was a very outspoken person, so if she wanted something done, she would have said so herself.


    You look even more handsome today.


    Before I knew it, Kazuya in his usual attire was there.


    You! When did this happen?"


    Ive been here since the beginning. That was great. I am happy for you, Yuki-sama.


    Kazuya-kun, you looked so cool as a model!


    Kazuya got embarrassed by Yukis words."

 Chapter 81: Wedding Ring

    Chapter 81: Wedding Ring


    Dear Father-inw! Thank you so much for today!


    Yuki ced her hand on her chest and bowed. Seeing this, Dad sniffed Yuki again.


    "Hmm. Smells like Marc...But that''s not all. Marc, call me if you need anything.


    Saying that, he hands me his familiar owl without any expression on his face. *An owl?*... *What era is this? I''m sure there are other familiars as well*


    You don''t have to look so inly disgusted, Marc." Heughed at my expression.


    Come on. Marcus-sama. Yuki-sama. Lets go back to Japan. Kazuya said. Yuki bowed and greeted my brothers as well.


    On the way home, We watched TV on the jet ne. Everywhere was buzzing with excitement about Liza. There was no shortage of topics, such as the use of AI to monitor Lizas face from just a glimpse of part of his face. Its a mystery, which is why everyone is so interested, but some models and pattern makers do know what he looks like. So many staff members were being interviewed, but they all said nothing. I guess Liza has something that draws people to him.


    I heard someone asking what rank Liza stood at now or something like that. It made meugh. Yuki and Iughed while watching TV.


    Come on, Lets go back to Japan. Ive got work waiting for me. What about you, Yuki? If you want to be a doctor again, Kazuya will take care of it.


    "Yes, but I would like to spend some more time by your side. Waiting for you toe home is fun, just like being a newlywed family!"


    Then Kazuya pulled out a box.


    It''s a gift from Liza-sama.


    When I opened the box there were two rings


    *This*...''


    They''re wedding rings. From Liza-samas brand.


    He makes this kind of thing?


    Yes, he does! They are rare and precious. Liza-sama doesnt make many essories. Thats why they are priced so high.


    I put the ring on Yukis finger. She looked at me happily, her eyes moist. Shes been staring at the ring on her finger ever since. Seeing Yuki like that, I think to myself.


    *My brothers are awesome*


    Japan! Im definitely going to go to a maid caf when I get back!


    Yukiughed when she saw my face.


    Yuki was also excited to be back in Japan. The TV was still full of special programs about Liza. Yuki touched the ring carefully from time to time.


    *If shes so happy, I should have bought something else to give her as a gift. This is why Rick keeps telling me that*  I dont understand womens hearts!


    Are you that happy about the ring? You keep touching it. I asked.


    Of course! Im so happy! Its a gift from Liza-san, but Im most happy that you guys have epted me.


    I see. Im happy too, Yuki. I dont need anything as long as I have you."

 Chapter 82: Kazuya’s wish

    Chapter 82: Kazuya¡¯s wish


    For a while, I went back and forth between work and home, but I looked forward to going home knowing that my beloved Yuki would be waiting for me at the ce I returned. At work, everyone was kind to me as someone who lost his girlfriend, and every time I think about it


    *Im sorry! Actually, Im extremely happy right now! I want to scream*!


    *Wele to think of it, were going to run out of blood packs soon. Kazuya should be able to bring some, but the problem is Yuki. I guess she still doesn''t ept blood transfusion packs*.


    Im home!


    When I came home, Kazuya was there. He had brought me a blood transfusion pack. But, as I thought, Yuki didnt drink it.


    Is it still too much to ask?


    Yuki looked down sadly. Kazuya said,


    Do you want to go over there? There is a woman who likes Yuki-sama, and she often asks me when she ising. Yuki-sama was able to drink that womans blood, so Im sure shell be happy too. Actually.in fact, she is RH negative just like you. I think thats why it was easy for you to drink her blood.


    It is true that I could drink her blood, but


    Kazuya said worriedly,


    "It''s important for a vampire to have drinkable blood rather than blood transfusion packs that they can''t drink."


    Then I remembered. *What was that*?


    Huh? I thought I had erased their memories


    I thought so too, but it seems that they remember the pleasure of Yuki-samas fangs well.


    Iughed and said,


    "It''s true that Yuki''s way of biting is different from other vampires. Maybe...those whom she bites recognize her."


    Ehh! I dont like that. Yuki pouted a little.


    "...But, its important. For vampires..."


    Kazuya smiled and said, Yes! Thats right. Yuki-sama.


    Kazuyas smiling face seemed somewhat intimidating today.


    "Yuki-sama. You can''t keep Marcus-sama all to yourself."


    After saying that, he turned to me.


    I know very well that Yuki-sama loves Marcus-sama! But I also adore you, Marcus-sama!


    Then he looked at me with sweet puppy dog eyes.


    Ahhh I know. Ive always been indebted to you. So what do you want from me, Kazuya? The pleasure of sucking blood? My blood?


    Kazuya approached me.


    .then.the pleasure of bloodsucking.


    I lifted Kazuyas chin and looked at him.


    "Kazuya. Would you like it on your neck? Marie used to suck blood from your neck, right? She liked sucking blood from the carotid artery."


    yes yes


    "I see. Then Ill do what you want."


    I raised his chin and sank my face into his neck, setting my fangs on it. Kazuya''s breath tickled my ear.


    *Ill satisfy you. I really do owe you a lot*.


    As Im sucking his blood, drops of water started to fall on my face.


    *He''s crying!*


    "...Marcus-sama bites in the same way as Marie-sama.. slowly raising your fangs and slowly sinking it in...I''m happy."

 Chapter 83: Kazuya...

    Chapter 83: Kazuya...


    *Kazuya.You said you adore mebut you''re Maries dependent, arent you?


    I knew that.* He wears the blue diamond ring she used to wear on her pinky finger as a ne, and touches it from time to time.


    He doesn''t do it in front of me, of course, but Leonardo has told me about it. Since that karaoke, they have be good friends. It seems the Hunters who came to Japan were also able to eliminate us by working with the werewolves.


    *A werewolf is a werewolf after all*. It seems they sought them out by scent and drove them out.


    *No hunters or Drugs for that matter What will you do?e forth Uncle*.


    I finished sucking Kazuyas blood. He hid his face from me. It was flushed and he was still crying.


    Yuki looks on happily.


    *Hey, hey, heythis is not good. Yukidont look so happy about it. This is different from the stories youve read. I know. I know about that thin book that you have.Its not unusual. Nobunaga also had a partner. You cant take women into the battlefield with you. Besides in those days, it was considered sacred. But now it has be a pastime.. Im used to seeing gender ambiguity in Liza, so I dont have any prejudice. But still, Im troubled. I dont like the idea of taking Yuki to that ce, but*.


    Kazuya-kun, take her there.


    Okay, lets go.


    *I''m*....


    Ive got some business to take care of, so Ill pass this time. Yuki. If Kazuya is there, youll feel safe, wont you?


    "...All right. I''m a little sad about it, but I''m going with Kazuya-kun."


    With that said, the two of them headed out. Im sure Yuki wille back for my blood when she gets back. *Why is it only her*.


    On a cruise ship,Yuki''s parents woke up in bed.


    I  I had a very happy dream.


    We must have had the same dream. Maybe God took pity on us and showed us this.


    Yes, but Im sure shes really happy.


    Outside the window of the cruise ship, the blue sea and horizon were beautiful as they mixed with the color of the sky and reflected off the sun. Yukis parents stood shoulder to shoulder and watched forever.


    At Kazuya''s feeding ground apartment


    So youre here atst. Ive been waiting for you. said the woman as she approached Yuki.


    Yuki asked the woman, Hey, can I ask you something?


    What? You can ask me anything, I dont mind.


    what do you do for a living?


    "Oh, is that what you wanted to know? I''m a hostess at an exclusive club. It''s a very special members-only club."


    I see. Its a tough job that requires goodmunication skills and a wealth of knowledge.


    Oh! Im so d you understand. You know Kazuyas work too, dont you? He was my customer.


    Kazuya seems to have a number of jobs, so even though he''s awyer, he''s probably doing something else too."


    Thats right! Isnt he a mystery? And that''s whywhen I escorted him home, he told me he was a vampire. I was really surprised.


    Yuki was having a good time talking with her."

 Chapter 84: A vampire named Yuki.

    Chapter 84: A vampire named Yuki.


    Yuki was chatting with her happily. Kazuya also felt relieved when he saw this.


    The woman tells Yuki, .HeyBite me. I want you.


    She said so and showed her neck. Yuki sank her fangs into the womans neck and sucked her blood. Her sweet voice leaked out. The woman who approached Kazuya also got her blood sucked by him.


    And just like that, the vampire''s meal time ended, and the women fell asleep on the floor and bed, each with ecstatic expressions on their faces.


    Yuki-sama, you dont like this sight, do you? But this is what they want. This is still a new feeding ground, so the women havent be addicted yet, but


    Yuki remembers Marcs words. *The pleasure of being bloodsucked is as dangerous as a drug*.


    Kazuya-kun, what will happen to the girls from now on?


    ...When the symptoms of addiction be severe, she will lose her sense of reasoning and wander around. The pleasure that you have memorized cannot be forgotten. Marc-sama erased her memories, but she remembered. I don''t know why. It may be painful for you, Yuki-sama, but blood is necessary for us vampires as well.''''


    Yuki looked sad. Kazuya says with a difficult look on his face


    "... Yuki-sama. The girl you sucked blood from will live a normal life after this as if nothing had happened."


    Come to think of it, she said she was a hostess."


    That''s... that''s...Its just not possible. People who know the pleasures of the vampire stay close to the vampire or wait for them toe to ces like this


    Kazuya stared at Yuki.


    ......Yuki-sama. You  lets not go any further. The master will scold me, because I made you look like that. Come on, lets go home. Marcus-sama is surely worried about you.


    Thats right. Lets go home.


    The two left the apartment.


    The inte at home rang.


    *Theyre back...I''m worried about Yuki. Since Kazuya is with her, she probably won''t be in any danger*...''I opened the door.


    Wee home. Yuki. I greeted her. Yukis expression was gloomy. Just as I thought.


    Kazuya pleasee up too, I have something I want to ask you.


    We sat down in the living room.


    Kazuya. Tell me whats been bothering you.


    "Yes! The person whose blood Yuki-sama sucked leads a normal daily life. I''m sure they won''t be addicted."


    I see. I understand, Kazuya. Ill ask my father about it. Its my first time dealing with a vampire case like Yuki.


    Yuki-sama doesnt seem to like that ce very much. But we vampires need it.


    "If the blood transfusion pack doesn''t work, we''ll have to go there. Im sure Yuki understands that, right?"


    Yuki nodded."

 Chapter 85: The Messenger Owl

    Chapter 85: The Messenger Owl


    Yuki looked down apologetically.


    "There''s nothing to worry about. My father must have felt something about you somehow. That''s why he sent his familiar."


    I handed the letter to the owl and let it fly.


    Kazuya. Thank you for your help today. Ill be counting on you again.


    Yes, sir. He bowed and left the room. *I*


    Yukiyou dont have to hold back. Drink my blood. Where do you want?


    arm.


    I went behind Yuki and hugged her. Yuki sucked blood from my arm. Even a founder can suck blood too. Naturally, the pleasure of sucking blood for a dependent or founder is the same. But, with Yuki, I feel strange. Does my father know what this is? Well, let''s wait for his reply.


    Maybe Yuki is a special being among vampires.


    *I think so*


    Yuki seemed satisfied and removed my arm.


    Im sorryMarc. It cant always be like this!


    "That''s not true. I would dly give you my blood. The blood from the transfusion pack is enough for me. But it is true that your blood tastes better."


    She turned and looked at me happily.


    Ill get an answer from my father soon, so lets wait. I said as I held Yuki in my arms.


    Do you think well get an answer that quickly? She asked, surprised.


    The familiar will carry the message quickly. We''ll get a quick reply, too. Look, its back already."


    The messenger owl was perched on the window sill.


    Its true. Im surprised.


    And that was when the owl started talking.


    . Marc, I understand what you are saying. This is important. I think everyone should get together and talk about it. You should be prepared too. I will be waiting for you here.


    With that, the owl disappeared.


    Marc Yuki looked at me anxiously.


    "Did my father find something? Or did he know? Either way, it''s France again. Ill have to call Kazuya."


    Then the inte rang no way I looked at the cameraIts Kazuya.


    I opened the door.


    Where do you know all this from?


    Did you forget? I put a lot of things on Yuki-sama. Dont worry. Im not looking into your private life. Im not worried about you because you have our founder, Marc-sama, here."


    He said with a big smile....There was nothing more to say. If he had been asked about this or that night...Well, he did say he doesn''t look into her private life...


    I will confirm the flight route to France. Please wait a moment."


    Kazuya then called somewhere.


    "Marcus-sama. We can leave tomorrow. I think it would be a good idea to contact your workce."


    That''s right. There''s an academic conference over there, and Ive just been asked to give a lecture. I should ask them to extend my vacation."

 Chapter 86: Vampire

    Chapter 86: Vampire


    We were on our way to France again. On the ne, Kazuya showed us a pre-broadcast of a new anime. Yuki and I were glued to the screen with excitement. Then we took a short rest. Yuki was sleeping contentedly after that.


    Kazuya. You should be at the meeting too, Im worried about Yuki.


    I will.


    He nodded then adds,


    There is still time before we get to France. Please rest, Marcus-sama. You came here straight from work.


    I understand. Ill do that.


    And I fell asleep next to Yuki.


    Morning


    We arrived in France. Yuki was still sleepy. She must be worried about what will happen to her. My brothers dependents were there to pick us up at the airport.


    This way, please.


    *This is also...a huge limousine. It''s my father''s taste. He likes shy things. His clothes are also shy. I remember he only wore Liza''s clothes. Hes been sending our father clothes that he''d like*.


    I could see that Yuki was getting nervous. Of course she was. She was about to learn something about herself that even she didnt know.


    *Looks like I have to be prepared too*


    The car arrived at the mansion where my father was. Someone''s dependant was there to pick us up.


    Wee! We''ve been expecting you! Everyone


    *Whose dependent is this?Probably my fathers*


    Then my other brothers also arrived.


    Now were all here.


    Dad looked at us. Then to Yuki.


    Yuki. Come here.


    Yuki nced at me and went over to my father. Yuki put her hand on her chest and bowed to him.


    Liza. Come here, you, too.


    Liza happily went to father.


    Yuki. Suck Lizas blood.


    *Dad. What are you doing*.


    Yuki sucked blood from Lizas arm.


    "! What! This feeling!"


    Liza eximed. And he looked entranced. Yuki looked at Liza curiously.


    "...Hmm. I see...Then, Mikey, why dont you let Yuki suck your blood too?


    At my father''s request, Yuki sucked Mikey''s blood.


    Ahh! What the hell is this!


    Mikey eximed. His expression was the same as Lizas. Whats happening!


    I knew it I knew it. Marc. The people Yuki sucked blood from did not be addicted, did they?


    "...That''s right, Father. Do you know why?"


    "I''ve done a lot of research, but I don''t really understand it. But, how did we vampirese to exist in this world? Or any other species for that matter... In the beginning, vampires and humans lived simultaneously. Then, they crossed paths. I''ve never heard of a half-vampire, half-human, and I''ve never even met one..."


    My father rested his elbows on his knees and ced his face on it.


    But suppose the half existed and had been raised hidden....I wonder how it would be?"

 Chapter 87: Queen

    Chapter 87: Queen


    Everyone was surprised at my fathers words. I dont understand. What does it have to do with Yuki?


    There must have been a vampire somewhere in Yukis bloodline, and a strong one at that.


    .That''s.


    Everyone waited for father to speak.


    the Ancestors return. Marks blood must have awakened it.


    Everyone couldn''t hide their surprise. Father goes on to say, Yuki is a Vampire Queen. She''s the Founder of the first founders."


    No one spoke up. The founder of the first founders meant the first vampire, right? I asked my father with a head that couldnt wrap itself around the idea.


    What makes you think Yuki is the queen?


    "The existence of the Queen is clear from our literature. The Queen prefers to drink the blood of the founders. The founders. Yes, her own children. I''m sure some of them were also half-human. The Queens power was strong, and even if she was half-human, her child would have been a vampire.


    Father took in a breath and continued, "It was written that humans who were bitten by the Queen would not be addicted to pleasure. That''s why the Queen was able to live a long life among humans."


    Eh? Wouldnt the Founder of all vampires be immortal?


    "It''s strange, Isn''t it? We are immortal. The Queen may have been half human and half something simr to a vampire. She was the beginning of what we vampires are now. As a result of many years... my guess is she became a vampire like us.''''


    Were you and your ancestors... originally siblings?


    "Maybe so. It seems that the Queen left behind many children."


    *That''s why there are so many founder families...I feel like I''ve somehow figured out why Uncle Tyler is a siscon*.


    Yuki wobbled thereI supported her.


    I


    The hand that grabbed my arm felt stronger. She was also confused. Im sure thats true. We were surprised too, she must be even more confused.


    What are we going to do now? Father ?


    My father suddenlyughed and stood up.


    The Queen is back! I think we have to let everyone know.


    Heughed some more.


    "Now, Tyler won''t be able to do anything either. The Queen''s orders are absolute."


    Father summoned many familiars. He passed the message to them and sent them off.


    I was worried about Yukis appearance as I supported her.


    "Yuki. When did you dye your hair? It doesn''t look like dyed hair though..."


    "Now that you mention it, I don''t dye my hair..."


    Then Kamil approached Yuki and said, Bite me too, I want a taste of your fangs.


    With that, he held out his arm. Yuki sucked his blood.


    This is! Kamil also eximed.


    "Of course, I see. Ive never felt anything like this before. Queen, thats great.


    The stern Kamil stared at Yuki happily."

 Chapter 88: Transformation

    Chapter 88: Transformation


    Kamel said with a shy smile.


    The Familiars my father had sent out returned.


    Theyre back.


    The messengers disappeared into the darkness of the night.


    "Tomorrow, the founders will gather here. We will unveil the queen then. There are some of the founders who have their doubts. They''ll understand when they see it with their own eyes."


    Dad. Uncle Tylersing too, Isnt he?


    My brothers eyes turned to my father.


    "Of course. He''s also a founder. The problem is Yuki? I guess you dont understand whats going on, do you? Are you okay?"


    He said this to Yuki, who was being supported by me.


    What am I supposed to do, sir?


    "You don''t have to do anything. Just sit there. Yuki. I dont think youve noticed, but you''re clearly emitting a queen''s aura. That''s right, you should drink my blood as well. This should be exciting.


    Father quickly pulled Yuki away from me and hugged her close to him.


    "Marie liked the neck, but do you prefer arms, Yuki? I like it from the neck, so it doesn''t matter. Here, drink up."


    With that said, Yuki sucked blood from my fathers neck. She drank it with relish. She hasnt drank the blood of any founder other than meshe was sucking blood from my brothers earlier though.


    *What is going to happen now?*


    Yuki looked up with satisfaction. The aura from Yuki had changed! I could tell this is the aura of a higher being. *Yuki  you are definitely a queen*!


    Then Liza said happily, I guess it''s my turn now! I need to make sure you have a proper queen costume! fufufu! I''m so happy! What kind of design should I choose?


    *He''s so excited*!


    Are you going to make it now?


    I couldn''t help but ask.


    You know what? Ive been doing this for decades. Plus, I have some excellent dependents, so I can make it tonight.


    Liza got a little too bloated, but his dependents shushed him down.


    Im sorry. Im sorry, Liza. Please make Yuki beautiful again.


    Of course I will! Leave it to me! I remember her size.


    He winked at me. The problem now was Yukis mental state. She was suddenly told she was at the top


    Ill see you here tomorrow then!


    And my father left the room.


    *We should leave too*.


    Yuki, Kazuya, and I left the room as well.


    Yuki-sama, are you all right?


    Kazuya was concerned about Yuki.


    "Well... I''m panicking in my head. But I''m different from everyone else... What am I supposed to do?" She said, clinging to me.


    You dont have to do anything. Your existence itself is a miracle. You dont have to worry about it.


    Yuki nodded many times at my words."

 Chapter 89: Queen’s unveiling

    Chapter 89: Queen¡¯s unveiling


    Kazuya returned to the room and said, "Yuki-sama, your life will no longer be in danger. There''s no way one could go against the Queen."


    I agree, but who knows what will happen? You never know.


    Yuki was thinking about something else.


    Do you think I should make some kind of statement tomorrow?


    "Your words are important. Tomorrow is the unveiling, so you dont need to say anything. However, Yuki, if you have something you want to say, you can say it."


    Even if you are a queen, you are still important to me. And always will be.


    We looked at each other. Kazuya continued, I am not a founder. I wont be in the same room as all of you, but Yuki-samas voice will reach me, so if you are concerned, please whisper to me anytime. I will be able to help you.


    Thats right! You''re also protecting me, so I dont have to worry.


    *Hm? Yuki  you seem awfully happy  Im a little jealous*


    "Marcus-sama. It''s showing on your face."


    Kazuya smiled. *He got me.... This guy*...Just as I was thinking, there was a knock at the door. When I opened the door, Liza takes Yuki again.


    He put fabric on Yuki and tilted his head.


    "...Yes, I like this one!


    She was taken away. And Kazuya, too.


    Its just like Liza-sama. He neverpromises!


    The next day, It was the unveiling of the queen at my fathers mansion. Everyones gaze was scrutinizing and curious!


    Is it true? Why now?


    And the hall became noisy.


    The door of the hall opened. All eyes were on us at once. Then Yuki, d in a mysterious aura, appears. Her aura was even more intense.


    Lace decorations fluttered on a crimson dress. The founders bowed down to Yuki as she slowly walked along.


    .its the Queen!


    All at once, the room was quiet. My father says,


    Here is the queen revived! I think this is something that was imposed on vampires!


    "The chieftain has passed on to my son, Marcus. Beside him, the queen has reawakened! Well! Does anyone here have any objections?


    The founders bowed their heads deeply. It was an amazing sight. All the founders with their dependents were intensely looking at Yuki.


    *hey. Hey hey dont look at Her so much*. I thought to myself..


    As expected, Liza, its a masterpiece. The crimson dress looks great on her."

 Chapter 90: Queen Yuki

    Chapter 90: Queen Yuki


    Yuki sat on a chair higher than everyone else. Looking at it this way, the number of founders had also decreased. It could be because they were targeted by hunters,...


    Everyonees over to greet Yuki. They gently take her hand and bow to her.


    *Im not gonna let you kiss her hand*!


    They all looked at me. Did I look that scary? My brothers were also all lined up. In a way, this was also a rarity. Unlike me, my brothers were popr. After all, they ran the army and protected the humans. A bit of heroes, arent they?


    Then brother Mikey patted me on the back. *Every, every time this brother hits me.he always hits me*. He had no ill intentions. He thinks its just a greeting.


    "Don''t make such a scary face. Everyone knows that."


    He stroke a thumbs up pose... *This is why he became a soldier... It''s a little annoying*...


    Then Yuki got up from her chair.


    We are immortal vampires. There are many different species living together in this world. So I thought to myself, What can we do as immortals? We can serve as a bridge between other races and watch over them because we are immortnd coexist. Let us watch over them. Lets convey the way the world is changing. Preservation of species, and maybe even the birth of new species. Dont you get excited when you think about that? Everyone? Lets think about it.


    *Yuki I cant believe you were thinking about that I didnt know Im moved*.


    Maybe it was because of Yukis aura, but this was the power of the Queen. That day when we first met Dr. Yuki was so cool. I really.loved that short time.


    I never expected I would feel this way. Now she is a Queen. If Rick hadnt encouraged me to go to Japan at that time I would have forgotten that I was traumatized by Japan in the first ce. As for Nobunaga, now he lives in my heart as a fond memory.


    Just then, Uncle approached Yuki.Of course everyone was on alert.


    This is the queen. You are beautiful, I guess this is the second time Ive seen you like this. I was surprised to see how much that little girl has changed.


    For a moment, we were all seething with anger.


    Forgive me for being rude to the Queen.


    My uncle bowed his head...Gah! Suddenly he attacked Yuki with a knife.


    I can''t allow it! How can someone who was once human be a queen!"


    He shouted this and headed towards Yuki.but he seemed unable to move in front of her. Yuki stares at my uncle.


    Your ideology is iprehensible to me. You dont even know what it is to be superior!


    *Yuki.you are so powerful*


    Even I was being hit by her aura. My uncle cowered on his feet.


    "...Im sorry. Queen, please forgive me."


    Sweating buckets, he put his hands on the floor and bowed his head. That was the figure of my uncle."

 Chapter 91: Family (END)

    Chapter 91: Family (END)


    Thank you for waiting. Eh? Have you forgotten? Then please read this story again. And this is thest chapter.


    **Family**


    The Queen''s presence was bigger than I expected.


    *A being above the founders*.


    That''s amazing. My uncle received cold stares from the other founders who were watching the scene. This must have been even worse for him. Lying on the floor, he said to the other founders:


    "Don''t you guys think anything of it? She was a mere human!"


    My father contradicted him.


    "What does it matter that she was a former human? You should recognize the Queen in front of you, anyone can tell by looking at her. Still, why are you like this?"


    My uncle, who was drooping, muttered to himself.


    "I couldn''t even be the chief...I''m just a founder..."


    He was lowering his head again. Yuki quietly approached my uncle.


    "The founder is an important person who unites all the dependents. There is no need for a master-servant rtionship now. We are all vampires, right? It is true that I used to be human. Marc''s father said that there must have been a vampire somewhere in my family lineage. He said that I am a descendant of my ancestors. Among them, there must have been one with the Queen''s bloodline. Im sure this has some meaning as well.''''


    Uncle Tyler is moved to tears as Yuki smiles gently at him.


    *Its Yuki after all........ It''s amazing. Even my uncles heart has been captured by this*.


    With this. No one will ever doubt the existence of ***Queen Yuki***. All of the members of the founding order bowed deeply to Queen Yuki.


    My father had gone off somewhere again, taking his favorite dependents with him. It wasn''t like he couldnt be reached, but it was just like him to disappear at times.


    Ten long years have passed since then. Yuki and I had children together. She was currently giving birth to our fifth child.


    I still got nervous at times like this. We were immortal vampires. More of our people were killed by the hunters than we thought.


    Meanwhile, we were having a child. Each of our four children is taken care of by the founders. They take great care of their education and serve them like maids.


    Then I heard the sound of a baby being born. *Birth*!


    *Well done, Yuki!*


    The door opened and,


    Marcus-sama. Its a lovely girl.


    I let her hold the child in her arms.


    *Children are so cute, arent they?*


    Marc! Thats our fifth one.


    Yuki smiled happily.


    Thank you, Yuki."


    I held the child in my arms and gently kissed Yuki. She looked so radiant.


    There was a meeting among the founders to decide what to do next about our childs education. Did you know? Im really happy. Im so happy to have everyones blessing.


    "That''s right. The four older ones are also bing great, and the future looks bright for us vampires!"


    Then the older children burst into the room.


    Wow! I heard it was a girl! Shes so cute!


    The older four were all boys. Although they are mischievous, they are growing up well. They were very excited to have a little sister.


    What are you going to name her?


    The kids asked. I had decided.


    "It''s Marie. Call her Marie! Please protect her, big brothers!"


    Of course! Hey, guys!


    And the other three responded too.


    "Got it. Well protect Marie, we promise!


    They have be more dependable. Now the days will be lively and peaceful again. I also received congrattory messages from my brothers. I was happy.


    *Im happy*.


    Really. I will watch over you. If those who live in this world need help, we will lend a hand. It is our duty as immortal vampires to do so.


    Marie was in Kazuya''s arms. He wasn''t a founder. But, everyone knew that he was an excellent dependent. Therefore, with my rmendation, Kazuya was put in charge of Marie.


    Marie-sama. I will make you a splendid queen.


    Sleeping peacefully in Kazuya''s arms, Marie. He looked satisfied as he gazed tenderly at her.


    *I''m sure he will be a good instructor*.


    ***End***


    *Thank you very much for your feedback and encouragement so far. Finally, the series is over. Its a happy ending.


    There might be a vampire near you. Disguised among humans. You just have to look around you!*"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!