A quick note for everyone. Some of you may have noticed I have switched on the mature settings for this book. I think it should have been done for a while now but never got around to it. I finally did it since this chapter has some mature content.

Also, the future arcs will take a turn into a more mature and dark route so placing the mature system on the book will be wise. Don't want to get into any trouble! :P

Enjoy the latest chapter, Readers! ^.^

Ashen forest, a haunting location that many don't dare to enter for reasons being of the evil and powerful specters that lurk around. The wood is covered with tall and dark trees that sprout gray leaves, just like the color of ash. The reason how its infamous name originates. The forest is dense and rarely does sunlight shines into the area. Which produce this dim and dark place that's become the standard norm of the forest, the perfect place for spirits to wander around, seeking out any poor souls that stumbled into these woods.

One soul can be seen lurking through the dangerous forest. This person is none other than the Pureblood Vampire, Sayomi Dracul. The tall woman strides through the field without fear, her glowing red eyes cuts through the misty area. The specters and other evil souls didn't dare to confront with the Dracul. All the supernatural creatures living in the forest felt the Pureblood's mana and fears it. Even spirits didn't dare to step fort against Sayomi Dracul.

Walking silently to the end of the Ashen Forest. Sayomi's eyes lurk only forward, trying to search for something. Her eyes glint when it sets on a deserted and near broken-down, cabin. It stood right there in a middle of nowhere to be hidden for all eternity. Judging by the appearance and condition it is in, it looked like the place hasn't been touch in a very long time.

Sayomi stops right in front and stares at the rusty doorknob before averting to look at the whole cabin. "Magic must be at a play" she utters "Millennium since this has been touched... Normal cabins would be rotted to nothingness by now." Sayomi looks at the cabin without love in her eyes but instead disgust, revulsion even. This place holds no love or reminiscing memory for her.

With a lift of her right leg, Sayomi blast the entrance open with a kick, sending the door bursting to the inside. Thick clouds of dust produce all over the place, but with a glint of her eyes, Sayomi pushes them all away from her, before entering the cabin. Inside is filled with nothing but mold woods, dusts, and cobwebs. The furniture has all been rotted to near nothingness, and the stench is vile that could knock a dog out.

Sayomi's expression turn grimace by the smell "Even now this place still gives me pain," she grunts and begins to look around. Her sight stops at a rusty metal hatch door that used to be hidden underneath a cabinet. Sayomi sinks her claws into the door the pulls her hand back, ripping the door open before tossing it away. Nothing but darkness greets her from beneath. An ominous and dangerous aura leaks into the room. Sayomi didn't flinch and without hesitation, jumps down to the darkness.

In a narrow passage, torches suddenly lit up, orange flames come to life and shows the way forward. Sayomi opens her eyes and strides onward, heading deeper into the ancient crypt. The passage is linear, with no rooms to display at the sides. It is only a straight path forward.

"Hehehe," a sound of a chuckle erupt, belonging to a young voice. Sayomi freeze still, her serious expression cracks to alert, knowing the sound of that chuckle very well. "Ah! There you are!" emerging from the far shadows is a young Nawin, who looks to be around nine-years-old, wearing that adorable and innocent smile. Sayomi knows well that this isn't real, she is aware this is a challenge to test her mentality.

But, seeing the boy in front of her, wearing that smile. Sayomi's face breaks away from the seriousness and eases. A soft smile form on her lip. Nawin giggles and rush toward her side, stopping right in front. "Whoa!" he muse, looking up at the woman "You've grown tall, Sayomi!" "I have... my dear." The Pureblood kneels to the boy's level and cups his cheek "You are looking well" "Hehehe, nothing can hurt me!" he boasts proudly "I need to stay healthy! That way I can protect you!" "I know," Sayomi replies, smiling lovingly, remembering hearing those words uttered many times.

Nawin tilts his head "So, Sayomi," he looks around "Why are you here?" "I need to pick something up" Sayomi answers, using a soft tone that only reserves to the boy in front of her "Is it important?" "Yes, it belongs to me. It is time for me to retake it." Nawin returns to Sayomi and looks at her; his expression turns to concern "Sayomi... Are you happy?" he asks, and the question takes the Pureblood by surprise. After a minute, Sayomi regains her smile, but this one is a more solemn one "At times my dear... At times" "When?" "When I am with you" "I make Sayomi happy?" Nawin asks, his expression brightens "You were and will always bring me joy, my dear" Sayomi whispers then lean forward to give a soft kiss to the boy's forehead to break the illusion.

Opening her eyes, Sayomi sees Nawin starts to slowly fade "Please stay safe, Sayomi!" he exclaims with that bright smile before completely vanishing. The soft smile on the Pureblood's face grow by the boy's last word, but when her sight turns to the abyss forward, it twists to a frown "I expect nothing less of you to leave that kind of mind games... Father" she utters with disdain before standing up, resuming down the passage.

When reaching the end of the corridor, a thick stone door stood in the way. With a glint shining in her eyes, Sayomi blasts the obstacle into smithereens and enters the room. Inside holds a stand made of stone, the bottom of it shows cracks and cut layers, but it still stood strong. On top of it contains a thick and old book. A steel chain can be seen wrapped around it, locking it tightly and the chain glint for a moment in magic. Two torches in the room suddenly lit up in red flames, ridding of the darkness.

Sayomi stops in front of the stand and examines the book with keen eyes. The book doesn't hold any text in front because it is a one of a kind, no copies of it ever been produced. It is written by one man and kept secret by him. Sayomi reaches down with her right hand and grasps the book. When touching it a sudden surge of magic enters the Dracul's body, causing her to gasp in pain but she keeps a tight hold on the book, gritting through the pain. "Ahh!" Sayomi's shouts in rage, her eyes glow and glare at the chain to watch it snap to pieces.

The pain disappears the moment the chain is broken, and Sayomi brings the book up, sighing in content. "One step at a time," she mutters, staring at the book "My goal will come together."

Emerging from the old cabin, Sayomi has the book firmly in her right hand. When Sayomi is a few meters away, the shelter suddenly detonates in a dense explosion, demolishing everything its radius. Sayomi halts and glances back to see nothing but thick smoke, and the secret passage is now forgotten, and the crypt buried.

Sayomi's attention snaps to the east when sensing a familiar magic signature enters her range. A moment later a sound of a crash hits her hearing. Sayomi's expression shapes to intrigued, and she teleports the book away to her pocket dimension then begin strolling toward the source of the crash.

It took the Pureblood only a few minutes before arriving at the sight, and her expressions grow to amuse when spotting a beaten down Nawin laid inside a crater. Looking like he has just come crashing down from the heavens. "Oh dear," she whispers and heads to the hole then sits at a large boulder resting near the edge. Resting her right elbow on the thigh, Sayomi leans her chin down on the palm then looks down at the boy.

Sayomi's eyes gleam in knowing when spotting a baseball size hole on the Makasha's right shoulder. A sudden twitch appears on Nawin's face, showing signs of awakening. Slowly, his eyes open and when the blurriness clears, he sees Sayom looking down at him, wearing that smirk of hers. Nawin's eyes shoot wide and in instinct, summons a long sword and strikes it up but it gets deflected by the Pureblood's left index finger.

Sayomi raises an eyebrow "You are starting to hurt my feelings, my dear" she speaks with amusement "Waking up to see me then greet with a sword" "..." Nawin doesn't reply and instead, dispel the sword and slowly push himself to a sitting position. The hole in his right shoulder slowly shows the process of healing when he is awaked. With a grunt, Nawin pushes himself to stand up, stumbling a bit forward before standing straight.

Now getting to his footing and feeling his body gradually healing. Nawin turns around to face the Pureblood, his eyes flash with curious "What are you doing here?" he asks "Taking a little stroll," Sayomi replies nonchalantly, which raise a doubt look from the Makasha. "Tell me," Sayomi speaks, changing the subject as she eyes the injury "How did you receive that?" "Marius Tepes," Nawin answers with venom in his tone while the Pureblood didn't look surprised, it was the answer she expected but want confirmation.

Nawin looks at Sayomi in the eyes "Do you know this ability?" "Telekinesis, my dear" "I never thought telekinesis could do things like that" "Us Vampires are the curator of the technique. Some gifted vampires can use it in more dangerous ways other than lifting an object. With precise concentration, you can burn a hole through flesh and even metal. Marius's ability must have been increased exponentially when he acquired the holy grails" "How do you know that?" Nawin asks.

Sayomi smirk and slides down the boulder, landing on her feet. "I met with him earlier today" she answers, surprising the Makasha "For what reason?" "He sent me an invitation, and I accept" Sayomi pulls a strand of locks behind her ear "He wanted an alliance and shockingly enough wanted me as his betroth" she answers.

Nawin is surprised by the last comment before a smirk breaks on his lips, followed by a short chuckle that escape. Sayomi blinks and her eyes gleam in amusement "Oh, why that reaction?" "I just find it funny that he thinks you'd accept that idea. That guy is out of his league" he replies then halts, realizing what he just said and goes a bit flustered while Sayomi smirk widely "Oh, are you telling me you know my type, my dear?" she asks in a teasing tone which causes the faint blush on the Makasha's cheek to become more noticeable.

Nawin cocks his head to the side to look away then lets out a cough before opening his mouth "That guy is way too arrogant and has a huge ego. Which I believe would pissed you off and warrant you killing him without a second thought..." "You are most certainly right," Sayomi says, striding toward the Makasha then stops in front of him "Though tell me... What do you think my type is?" she asks slowly "U-um," Nawin for the rare time stutters before opening his mouth again "Probably someone younger... And not arrogant..."

Sayomi lets out a melodic laugh at the answer which has Nawin's lip twitch upwards before he is surprised by a soft pat on the cheek. "You aren't exactly wrong, my dear," Sayomi says before walking past him "We should move now." Nawin opens his mouth but it shuts, he knows he can just teleport out of here, but something inside of him told him to stay here for now and try to learn more about the Pureblood which can ultimately lead him to discover more about his past. With that in mind, Nawin wordlessly turn and follows.

Carmilla Castle

Gasper lets outs a sniff, signs of dried tears shown underneath his tired eyes. In front of him, laid on her bed is Valerie, who remains unconscious and doesn't show signs of improving. Ever since returning to Carmilla Castle, Gasper has stayed by his childhood friend's side. He is afraid that she could get kidnapped again and refused to be moved from her side. But, that's not the only thing that has the Dhampir in a frails state. When they returned to the Castle, a panicked Akeno greeted them and informed of Nawin staying behind to fight against Marius. Right now, everyone is worried for the Makasha's wellbeing, scarred that Marius may end up victorious and has either captured Nawin or worse, killed him.

Akeno is forced to be restrained by the group when she planned to head back to the Tepes Castle which was a dangerous and naive strategy considering Marius will no doubt have the entire castle defenses doubled or even tripled for another infiltration. Fortunately, Rias was able to calm her Queen down when pointed toward the bracelet that the Himejima wore, telling her that the crystal still shined black, signaling that Nawin is still alive.

Currently, there is an audience held in the meeting room. Rias and her group are attended along with the Queen of Carmilla, Captain Stan, and Elmenhilde. Though, with Gasper in a frail state and Nawin missing, the group morals have been crippled. Furthermore, another person is missing from the group. Akame has disappeared after being patched up, no doubt heading out to search for her King.

Rias wasn't thrilled at Akame leaving so unannounced. But there wasn't much she can do and even if she did saw the Knight before the departure. Rias is powerless to stop Akame since she isn't her King. Akame is Nawin's Knight and only answers to him.

"Let's begin," Stan throws a sizable map made of cloth on the table. The map shows the border separating Carmilla and Tepes. Examining it thoroughly indicates there are two massive mountains called Twin Peak formed on the sides of the border, which created a perfect barrier almost between the two factions. But, there is still a significant passage for the two factions to set foot on each other's turf.

Stan place his index finger down on the map, directing towards the clear area between the border "My scouts have caught Tepe's soldiers examining the area. From the reports I've got, it looked like they are setting up for something." Stan turns to his Queen "Your Majesty, this Civil War is reaching its breaking point. With the success of obtaining Valerie, no doubt Marius will begin with his plan, which is a full out war!"

Rias sees the troubling expression on the Queen's face. It's no secret that the woman doesn't want this to end up in a bloody war, but with how things are progressing. It seems an all-out war between the two factions is inevitable. With the success of returning Valerie to her home, Marius now has nothing to withhold his advancement. His intention is clear as day. He wants the Queen's head and the destruction of Carmilla, including slaughtering its people.

Elmenhilde, the Queen's retainer steps forward. "You want the Queen to give you permission to march our soldiers to Tepes?" she asks, not hiding the distastefulness of the idea. Stan glance at the woman "Do you have a better idea?" he asks in a challenging tone "The Queen has got what she wanted. Valerie is back here and is safe. Now nothing is holding us back!" "It still doesn't change the fact that the Tepes still holds a larger sum of military force than us!" "Tepes's military is nothing compared to us! They care more about the quantity than quality! Ten of my men together can take out a battalion!" "That's not the way to engage this! The Queen can't take your pride into account! Especially at a time like this!"

Elemenhilde and Stan bickering doesn't help with the situation, and the heavy air surrounding the room turns even heavier. Rias sees Issei and Koneko getting a bit restless, they have never been in this kind of tense environment which presented when discussing a possible outcome of a full-out war breaking. When seeing them getting nowhere with the bickering, Rias place her hands on the table and stands up to speak.

"Please stop with this argument," she starts, which have the vampires stop, and both face her "Bickering isn't going to get us anywhere." Elmenhilde exhales, calming herself and gives a firm nod "You are right, Gremory." "Do you have any ideas you want to shine?" Stan asks, crossing his arms which cause the armors to create a clinking noise.

The Queen opens her eyes and sets it at the Gremory as well "Please speak if you do, Rias" she asks kindly. Rias opens her mouth "I'm afraid your Captain ideas may be the best course of action, your Majesty" she starts but continues before Elmenhilde or Stan could speak "But, I do have an idea to minimize the casualties and improve your chance of victory." The Queen's eyes gleam in intrigue when hearing this ", Please continue" she ushers and Rias nod "It is a simple method really but effective. Take out Marius and the Captains that are leading the army then the morals of the soldiers will plummet. Some will retreat while others surrender. But, the best way to ensure victory is to eliminate Marius as soon as possible and display his head. That will surely cripple the enemies' morale, and victory will be yours. Instead of wasting time with the minions, go for the leader, and soon the others will bend down and surrender."

Issei and the rest are at awe by the scene unfolding. Seeing Rias going full commanding mode just like how a King should act. It is something they rarely see, and it is cleared that Rias has matured a lot in this field of war after the invasion in Vesarima. Akeno's smile silently at this, proud of her dear friend. The same reaction can be shared with the rest and quickly, the morale of the group rose by the strong display of their king/friend.

Stan looks surprised by the idea until it shifts to intrigue. The same expression can be shared by Elmenhilde and the Queen, who bores a smile. "Any plan that provides low casualties for my people I will take it... Even though I hoped it never comes to this, I know it is unavoidable" "Yes," Rias nod "So the next best thing to do is to minimize the casualty in this upcoming war, your Majesty. And," she provides a bright smile "I along with my friends will be on your side!" "Hell yeah!" Issei exclaims, pumping his right fist in the air then stands up beside his lover "We'll help you win this war, your Majesty!"

Rias grins at her boyfriendn's support, always appreciating it. "That is a good strategy," Elmenhilde speaks up, impressed by the Gremory "But, you are still missing a person" "Yes," Rias's expression return to serious "And, the truth is if we want this plan to have the highest rate of succession we will need Nawin-kun on the battlefield." "The Black Flash," Stan utters "Nawin-kun is one of if not the fastest living being in the supernatural world" Akeno state "If there is a person that can eliminate the Captains in the rapid speed we want, it will be him." "I also have seen him taken out a battalion in a blink of an eye" Koneko insert "We will need him."

The Queen nod, seeing how valuable the missing member of the group is for the plan. "Very well," she speaks and shifts toward the Captain "Stan, please send a group of scouts to Tepes to find Nawin Makasha" "... Understood," Stan gives the nod without complaint. Even though his pride hates the idea of needing help from outsiders, Stan will overlook it because the safety of his home and people come first before anything else, if requiring an outsider help to minimize casually in his army and guarantee tremendous victory for the war, then Stan will swallow his pride and push forward.

The Queen lets out a smile when seeing her Captain agreed to help in the search. Happy to see him coming around and realized that they need the cooperation of the devils. "I'll depart immediately to the barracks," Stan says and turns to the Queen to give a respectable bow before exiting the room. "Well..." Issei crosses his arms behind his head "At least he didn't storm out like last time" he comment which garners a giggle from the Queen while Elmenhilde lets out a faint smirk.

The meeting comes to an end for the current time. The parties agreed it would be best to go through the plan in a thorough manner when Nawin and Akame have returned. With the Queen and Elmenhilde already left. Rias and the group exited the room and now stood in the hallway.

"You were awesome, Rias!" Issei says, grinning at his lover "Yeah," Riser nods in agreement "You were like a real leader there." Though everyone pauses when seeing Rias hasn't turned toward them for a reply, her back remains facing them, then her shoulders start shaking ever lightly. "Rias," Akeno calls, concern for her friend. RIas suddenly turn around, and tears can be seen streaming down her eyes "W-why is it every time I a-act like a leader my sweet little brother is never present!" she cries out. Immediately, everyone either facepalm or sweatdrop by the Gremory's words. Not a moment ago she acted like a true leader, and now she has reverted to a girl who has a brother complex toward their missing member.

Issei chuckles in amusement and wraps his arms around the Gremory "There, there" he says soothingly, giving soft pats on the back as Rias buries her face on his chest "One day he'll be able to witness your awesome leader moment." The other just smile at the scene, all feel much at ease for the moment thanks to Rias's childish but lovable persona.

Tepes Castle

The full white moon shines through the windows of the bedroom belonging to Marius Tepes. It creates a beautiful illumination on the wine-red carpet and the onyx color walls. The room is occupied by two souls that are laid in bed. Sensual moans emit from there and bounce around the room. A cracking sound from the bed can be heard, produced by a violent movement.

On the bed shows a naked Marius holding a beautiful silver-haired woman down, the two in the heat of intercourse. The woman moans audibly in pleasure at every thrust given by Marius, feeling him inside of her and going wild. Her red slit eyes are closed but her mouth wide open, showing those two fangs. Marius has his hands on the woman's shoulder, keeping her down on the bed, displaying his dominance.

Marius's eyes burn in anger and frustration. Currently, as he looks down at the woman that he is using for his pleasure. He does not see her, but a picture of Sayomi, wanting to imagine she is in this position. Then, her words from their previous meeting begin to seep in. 'Just because you hold the power of immortality doesn't warrant you to become cocky, Marius' 'There won't be any alliance between us because there's nothing you can offer me' 'He'd beat you until that cocky attitude of yours is obliterated and what's left is a sacred and cowardly man.' Marius grits his teeth, his eyes flashing in rage. He begins to grip the woman's shoulders tighter; his thrust becomes more vigorous which cause the woman to scream out in pain and pleasure.

An image of Sayomi's sadistic and powerful smirk appears in Marius's head 'You and him... there's no comparison.' "Ahhh!" the woman screams out as she climaxes in bliss with Marius following next, ejecting inside the woman's womb without care. His mind elsewhere while the bangs of his hair cover his eyes. The woman smiles in bliss, her hands release the now tattered bedsheets and moves to Marius's cheek "That was lovely, my lord" she whispers in vexing tone.

Marius snaps to reality by the contact, and he looks down at the woman. His eyes flare in disgust when realizing that this woman is nothing like Sayomi as he believed. Lust has played with his mind. This woman's eyes are paler compared to Sayomi's beautiful and dark red eyes. Her skin, not the same milky cream complexion that Sayomi possesses. The woman's hair is nowhere as brilliant as the Dracul's bright silver hair, which is so clean and magnificent that it appears to almost sparkle. Then there's her face, nothing compared to Sayomi's out of the world beauty. This woman's breast is small and ugly compared to Sayomi's supple and voluptuous ones, just thinking of them would make Marius lick his lip.

Marius slowly slithers his hands away from the woman's shoulders and creep to her thin neck. A menacing smirk cracks on his lip as he begins clamping down on the neck and starts squeezing it. "Guahh!" the woman's eyes shoot up, and she begins to choke. Her eyes go frantic and begin to bulge, her legs flailing wildly around to escape, but Marius's whole body is press down on her, proving the task impossible. "Kukukuku!" Marius chuckles darkly and ignores the woman's fruitless punches toward his chest and marvel in watching the life being suck away from her eyes. "L-lo-kaah!" the woman can't utter a word out and chokes more, tears start forming on the corner of her eyes as she looks up at the Tepes with a helpless expression. Adding more strength, Marius squeezes harder on the neck and hear an audible crack. The woman's arms and legs instantly freeze then drops on the bed, her head falls to the right and hangs limply, the light of life in her eye's fades.

With a massive grin, Marius rips the woman's head clean off her torso, causing a torrent of blood to explode and coats him along with the bed in red. "Stay dead, you wench" Marius utter looking at the woman's head before tossing it to the ground, then kicks to bloody corpse down to the floor.

Marius slides off the bed and grabs his clothes on the ground. With a flick of his fingers, the blood painted on his body slowly evaporates from existence. When done dressing, Marius emerges from the room and turn to the guards stationed outside "Get rid of the corpse," he orders "Right away, my lord!" the two men replies with a salute then enters the room. Marius turns to the right and makes way to his office.

When entering his office, Marius spot a man standing in front of the desk with his back facing towards him. A smirk splits on Marius's face as the door shuts behind him. The seven-foot newcomer slowly turns around to face the Ruler of Tepes. The man possessed a charming beauty with his long dark silver hair that reaches to the waist and his sharp facial structure. His complexion white as snow and the slit pupil eyes are red as blood. He holds an agile and lean figure. His attire consists of a plain brown long-sleeve coat with steel chainmail worn underneath. Long black combat pants with many pockets and study brown leather boots with black soles.

"Cadell," Marius utters the name of his captain that oversees the Military Forces of Tepes and the second strongest fighter in Tepes just behind Marius himself. "I came when receiving your message," Cadell replies in a light and soft voice, watching Marius marches past him and stop in front of the window, looking at the night skies. The Captain opens his mouth to continue "So we are advancing tomorrow?" "Yes," Marius says with eagerness "Will your men be ready?" "They will... I'll make sure of it" "Perfect. By the end of tomorrow, I want Carmilla to perish and obtain the last piece of the grail from my sister's corpse!" Marius exclaims, grinning with excitement before bursting into laughter "After our victory, I'll go after you, Sayomi Dracul!"

Ashen Forest

As the night descent further, the mists in the Ashen forest thickens ever more. Creating an unsettling atmosphere that has Nawin on his feet while Sayomi remains unaffected, looking calm as a person can be. The feeling of being spied at falls on Nawin, his eyes darting to all directions and can see white figures floating in the distance, going tree by free like it is playing hide and seeks.

"Calm down, my dear" Sayomi speaks up, kneeling under a fallen tree "As long as you are near me the spirits in this forest won't bother you." Nawin stands back up after passing the three and looks forward to the Pureblood "They are afraid of you?" "By sensing my mana, they know I'm not someone to approach. Even spirits hold fear" Sayomi says, wearing a smirk.

The two continue moving forward through the mist. Sayomi opens her mouth "How are your injuries?" she asks, striking up conversation "Healed, but I'm not exactly a hundred percent" Nawin grab his right shoulder, an expression of grimace cross his face "The pain is still there, and this place feels heavy that it is straining my body" "Lots of spirts live here. It is not an ideal place for a living being to be walking through this place. The air and gravity here are heavier than outside" "You sure know this place well," Nawin points "... Because I once lived here."

"Tell me," Sayomi throw a glance back "How did your bout with Marius fair? Judging by how I found you it didn't go as you planned" she asks, switching the topic. "... He was stronger than I expected, and his telekinetic ability caught me off-guard. Plus," Nawin sighs "The mission was to rescue Valerie, not to take down Marius, so I wasn't prepared for a full confrontation" "However," Sayomi looks forward "If you were to use your full power you'd be able to overpower him and come out victories." Nawin is surprised by the comment, hearing how confident the Pureblood holds toward his ability "You're stronger than him by lightyears, my dear" Sayomi continues, pulling a strand of her behind her ears "Remember that." Nawin remains silent and continues to follow the Pureblood, but now, his posture is relaxed compared to before.

'This just doesn't make sense,' Nawin thinks, watching the Pureblood 'Why is it like this? How is it possible for us to be this civil together? I-I should treat her like an enemy.' Memories of the dinner the group had before departing to Transmere, remembering just how senes the atmosphere was. It was an utter opposite compared to now. When it is just the two of them, it is different. 'You're stronger than him by lightyears, my dear' Sayomi's words repeat, and by her tone, it was a sincere comment. Nawin grits his teeth in frustration, it's like the more time he spends with her, the more complicated it gets and his feeling for the Pureblood becomes strange.

With his mind elsewhere, Nawin fails to notice a small rope on the ground. One step forward he snaps it to activate an audible mechanism sound. Sayomi's ears perk up, and she immediately glances behind to spot two arrows flying through the bushes and heading toward the Makasha's head. "Nawin!" Sayomi shouts which snap the teenager out of his thoughts and immediately hears the arrows from the right. But, before he can do anything, Sayomi appears in front and grab the first arrow by hand while the second one punctures her arm. Sayomi hiss by the burning pain she did not expect. Nawin is left stunned to see the Pureblood just saved his life, he turns his head to the right and realizes the arrow's head is made of pure silver.

"Purest of silver," Sayomi utters, wincing in pain as she retracts her arm, releasing the first arrow and about to with the second one "Wait," Nawin interject, raising his right hand "Let me do it," he says and gesture toward the log on the right. Sayomi raises an eyebrow but decides to go along and takes a seat on the log. Nawin kneels and grasps Sayomi's wrist, bringing it in front of him. "It's not wise to just yank it off" Nawin utters, "Just like in the movies?" Sayomi asks, smirking in amusement "May look cool, but it is actually a stupid way to solve the problem" "Hmm." Nawin brings his right arm up while having the left still holding onto the Pureblood's wrist. He grabs the arrow "Consider it is silver and the arrow looks like ancient. I need to be careful when ridding it. If not then that head made of silver will be stuck in your body" "Please proceed, my dear" Sayomi replies, grunting slightly in burning sensation in her arm. Pure silver can do great harm toward Purebloods such as Sayomi.

Slowly, Nawin begins to pull back, getting the feel of the arrow is near the bones. Sayomi hiss in pain and her right arm goes up for a moment, a result that causes both Nawin's and her hands to touch together. Without realizing, the two now clench each other hands together, getting through the task. Nawin is relief to find that the arrow didn't enter too deep, which makes things much more manageable. "Alright, take a deep breath," Nawin advice, and Sayomi does as told. The Makasha begins pulling more at a steady pace, blood gushes down from the wound. When seeing the arrow's head through flesh and blood, Nawin swiftly yanks it back and successfully pull the whole thing out.

Throwing the arrow away, Nawin teleports some bandages from his pocket dimension on his left hand. "U-um," he speaks, noticing that his right hand is occupied "Can you let go for a moment," Sayomi release his hand and smirk a bit when seeing a faint blush on the Makasha's cheek. Using both hands, Nawin pulls the bandage roll, but before he wraps it "Do I need to clean the wound?" he asks "No," Sayomi shakes her head "Petty infection like those won't affect me. My blood will take care of it" "Alright," Nawin continues and wraps the bandage around the wound to stop the blood. With the arrow being made of silver, he deems that Sayomi's regeneration will take longer to heal it, so a bandage should be placed on it to help her.

Sayomi looks intently at Nawin's face, seeing that concentration in his eyes. "... There," he says, tying the bondage at just the right pressure and retracts his arms, satisfied with his work. Sayomi looks at her arm and sees the bandage is done masterfully in a way only an experienced person could. "Not bad," she says, moving her arm around before placing it down, turning to look at the Makasha "Ever thought of being a doctor, my dear?"

"... Doctor," Nawin repeats, his expression morph to a distance look, his mind remembering memories he'd rather left forgotten. With a sigh, Nawin stands up and turns his head to the side "Once I did... But now... There's no point," he whispers. Sayomi looks stunned by the answer, almost like she didn't expect that sort of reply. In instinct, Sayomi opens her mouth but words didn't come out and slowly, it shuts.

Sayomi returns to her feet and walks past the Makasha, resuming their direction "Let's move on." Wordlessly Nawin follows, shoving his hands in the jean's pocket. Nawin looks up "Sorry..." he utters which have Sayomi pause and glance at him "Pardon?" "Sorry... I was careless, and you suffered an injury." Sayomi raises an eyebrow at this unexpecting apology. Nawin is surprised when a stunning and sincere smile form on the Pureblood's face "It's fine..." she replies before turning around and resumes walking. With a small smile of his own, Nawin resume following, the air around them settles more comfortably.

For the next five minutes of walking, the two emerges from the tall bushes and enter an empty field. Nawin looks around in confusion, wondering why this specific place is empty compares to the rest of the forest. "Uh," Nawin snaps his head forward and sees Sayomi drops to one knee, grunting "Sayomi!" Nawin rush to her side and kneels on the right, holding her shoulder "What's wrong?" "This area," Sayomi opens her eyes and look around "There's some kind of restriction seal here... My power just been decreased" "Really?" Nawin asks "I'm not affected by it" "Because you're not a vampire," Sayomi reply with a smirk before slowly returning to her feet after taking a couple of long breath.

"This place must've been a war zone once... A former battlefield for both clans" Sayomi utters and looks to the right to see Nawin tracing his hand on the ground "You might be right," he replies "The ground is rough, and I can see slash marks and even faint dents of bodies on the earth." Nawin stands up and looks at the Pureblood "So a limitation seal from an old battle is still left activated?" "Seems like it," Sayomi replies with a shrug "The seal must be ancient by now so its field-range shouldn't prove bothersome. We just have to move on" "Alright."

"Huaaaaaa!" a high-pitch shriek explodes from the sides, and two white figures blaze from the right and left, speeding toward Sayomi. Nawin sees this and immediately acts, teleporting in front of Sayomi and carries her on his arms then jumps to the air. Sayomi looks down to see two glowing red eyes looking at her. These spirits appearance resembles that of an old lady with dead-white skin. Their arms are like long, sharp scythes. They wore a long white cloak that is long enough to cover their legs and waver around in an unearthly way like it is made of liquid.

"Great," Sayomi sighs "The moment the spirits sensed my power had been weakened they come out like hungry werewolves" "You'll be ok?" Nawin asks, slowly descending "You worried?" Sayomi retorts with a tease and gets a blank stare from the Makasha. "Don't worry," Sayomi replies and stare down at the spirits, her eyes, and the specters' midsection is suddenly severed and they disburse into a puff of white smog "Even with my power weakened I'm not some helpless damsel."

Nawin lands on the ground and looks around for any more enemies. Fortunately, for now, it has gone quiet, it seems those two were tailing them for a while, waiting for an opportunity to strike. "My dear," Sayomi speaks to gain Nawin's attention, making him turn down to look at her and sees that teasing smirk on her face "You can release me now." Nawin blinks and notices one of his hand is rested on her thigh, and even though the jean covers them, he can feel the suppleness of the woman's thigh. With a blush, Nawin quickly but still mannerly set the Pureblood on her feet and take a few steps back.

Sayomi cracks a grin at the Makasha's embarrassment, always finding it an enjoyable sight when seeing that blush occupied his face. "Huaaaaaah!" more familiar shriek erupts from what sounds like all direction and not a moment later, more of the same specters emerge from the shadows of the rest, floating into the open area from all directions. "Damn," Nawin cuss at the number of the specters while Sayomi remains unfazed by the different odds "They are just spirits, my dear. Don't be wavered."

"I'm not exactly a hundred percent here, Sayomi," Nawin informs and is surprised when feeling his back is touch against Sayomi's "Then let's dispose of these fools together," she says. Slowly, a smirk makes way to the Makasha's face "Alright," he says and Sayomi's smile twist into an exciting smirk.

"Huaaaaaaah!" simultaneously, the spirits release an earsplitting shriek that causes both Nawin and Sayomi to flinch. At once, all of them rush towards the two with their arms raise. Shaking her head, Sayomi glare darkly at the group in front of her and obliterate them with her telekinetic ability. The ten spirits shreds into pieces before dispersing in a puff.

"Red Flamming Cannon!" Nawin exclaims, lifting his right arm and discharge the red ball to the group at his side. The ball penetrates through one of the specters then, with a mental command from the Makasha, ignites in a sizable explosion, taking the whole group out.

The group from the left comes speeding to Sayomi, all a mere meter away from her, but, the moment the Pureblood's eyes are set on them, they are vanquished into a harmless white puff. Smirking in satisfaction, Sayomi fails to notice one of the specters creeping behind her, arms raised.

Done discarding the last group, Nawin turns around and sees the spirit behind the Pureblood. "Sayomi!" he shouts and in a burst of instinct, teleports in front to take a blow. The spirit arms come down and slash the Makasha's chest. "Gaahh!" Sayomi's eyes sharpen when hearing Nawin's painful grunt and she turns around to catch him, then glares venomously at the spirit to cuts it into dozens of pieces that have it shriek in pain before dispersing away.

"Uhhh," Nawin grunts as Sayomi examining the two-deep cut marks on his chest. Before she got the time to act, four magic signatures appear from the sky. "Shit," Sayomi cuss and quickly carries the Makasha on her arms before bursting to the north, out of the open area and into the forest.

The group of Gargoyles comes bursting from the fogs and crash land on the clear field. When standing straight, all of them goes still for a moment, using their bio sonar to listen for any noise. When the forest silence is all returns to them, the gargoyles' tone eyes glow yellow, and they begin to search for any negative emotions. Spirits possess no emotions, but living beings do.

One of the stone creature's head snaps to the north, sensing a linger emotion of anger in the distance. It starts marching toward the direction, and the rest follows it in a square formation.

Sayomi gently leans Nawin on the trunk of a tree. She examines the deep cuts and sees it slowly begins to heal, but it'll take longer considering the harsh air in the Ashen Forest that's already straining the Makasha's body. Nawin's expression grimaces and bite his lip to stop himself from grunting, the cuts from the specter feel just as painful as being struck by a Fallen Angel's light weapon. It's like boiling water being poured onto his open flesh, burning it into oblivion.

The Gargoyles stood a dozen meters on the left; all four stopped to again search around for any noise or emotions. Seeing the painful expression on Nawin's face have Sayomi grits her teeth, her eyes flash in anger. The raw emotion has one of the Gargoyles turn to the right, tilting its head to the side.

Nawin shakily opens his eyes and looks up at Sayomi to see her looking at him with that angry expression. Her eyes sharpen and those red eyes glows with intense anger. Her lips twist into a vicious sneer. This image cause Nawin's eyes to widen and an image of a younger looking Sayomi with a familiar expression flash over her. Suddenly, a lost memory of the past resurfaces.

Memory

"Thanks," a twelve-year-old Sayomi says, paying the man then takes the two cups filled with two large scoops of ice cream from the counter "Come again!" the man shouts and waves goodbye as the Pureblood head back into the park. Smiling in peace, Sayomi looks around and many families that are laid on the blanket, enjoying a lovely weekend picnic. Children are running around playing together while laughing joyfully.

When reaching her destination in the park, Sayomi's smile falters when spotting a ten-year-old Nawin standing in front of their picnic area, looking slightly scared by the two taller boys standing in front of him. Being a vampire, her hearing senses can pick up what the two boys are saying.

"What the hell?" the taller one on the right exclaims "Are you having a picnic here alone?" he asks, his lip twist into a mocking smirk "That's so lame, ahahaha " the left one insert laughing tauntingly. "S-shut up! I-I-m not alone!" Nawin protest, trying to look strong by glaring at the two but with his big brown eyes and adorable slightly chubby cheek, the sight just makes him look cute. The older boys laugh even more at the pathetic afford "Ahaha, you really are a loser! Go home and cry to your mommy" "Y-you're the loser" Nawin retorts but gets a wicked smile from the boy on the right "Oh yeah, can a loser do this." The boy on the right sends both his arms forward and push Nawin in a vicious manner that sends him tumbling down on the foods laid on the picnic blanket. The drinks and sauces come flying by the impact and lands all over Nawin. Seeing the sight of coke drench the Makasha's shirt and ketchup smear on his face, the two older boys points and proceeds to laugh "Ahahahaah! Loser!"

Sayomi's eyebrows twitch, her head tilts to the side to process what just happened. Slowly, her thin line lip twist into a sneer and her eyes glows in utter anger. Dropping the cups of ice cream to the ground, the Pureblood march toward the boy with menacing intent. "Ahahah-" the boy on the left suddenly feels a hand grabs his shoulder and pulls around. A slap comes smacking to the side of his face that creates a wincing sound and sends the boy smashing to the ground.

"W-what" the other boy looks to see his friend on the grass, clenching his face and sobbing loudly in pain. Turning his head to the left, he sees Sayomi standing there, glaring at him darkly that cause him to immediately takes a few steps back in terror. "Ehh!" he screams when seeing those eyes glows in evil intent.

Nawin quickly wipes the ketchup from his eyes when hearing the sound of the other boy crying. He blinks and is surprised to see Sayomi protectively standing in front of him, glaring darkly at the other boy. "You'll pay for that," Sayomi hiss and start taking steps toward the boy, which have him squeak and quickly takes steps back in fear. "N-no, Sayomi!" Nawin stands up and stops in front of the enrage Pureblood. Seeing this opportunity, the other boy quickly turns around and runs away. The boy on the ground shouts for his friend before shakily gets up and pathetically runs away too.

"They are getting away!" Sayomi shouts and about to step forward, but Nawin reaches up to grab her shoulder "Please calm down! You will get in trouble!" he replies, trying to calm down the Pureblood. Sayomi looks down at the boy "They hurt you!" "I am fine" Nawin replies, looking up at her and give a bright smile "See?" but that wasn't enough, Sayomi glances up and glares heatedly at the retreating boys. Nawin, getting afraid that Sayomi will do something reckless acts quickly by slinging his right arm behind her neck and pulls her down for a kiss.

Sayomi's eyes widen fully by the unexpected act before it softens. She slowly kneels to the grass and wraps her arms gently around the boy in a protective manner. Nawin slowly pulls back and grins brightly, looking up at the Pureblood "Better?" he asks, and Sayomi can't help but smile at the innocent and bright boy "Yes, thank you, my dear" "Hehe, if Sayomi is angry I will kiss you to make you happy!" Nawin replies, puffing his chest forward like a proud soldier. Sayomi bursts into laughter and brings the boy in for a tight hug "You are so sweet, my dear" "Hehehe," Nawin giggles before whole-heartedly wraps his arms around the Pureblood, smiling happily, with the previous event that transpired moments ago is all but forgotten.

Present

"Please calm down..." Sayomi snaps down when hearing the Makasha's whispers and is stunned to silence when feeling his lip meet with hers. Sayomi feels his arm wraps around her neck to pull her in. Her once enrage eyes soften by the gesture and seeing Nawin's eyes looking at her with that gleam that shows he is conscious of his action. Closing her eyes, Sayomi leans in to deepen the kiss, holding the Makasha by his sides to push him on the tree firmly.

The Gargoyle that was staring at the right begins tilting its head, noticing the emotion of anger just abruptly vanishes. The creature's eyes glow brighter and try to find the trace of the negative emotion, but there's no trace of it left. Concluding that it was a fluke, the gargoyle turns around and resume following its pack to further north.

Unable to stop each other, Nawin and Sayomi kept their kiss for almost a minute before slowly separating. Their breath panting ever slightly while their eyes stare at one another with many wild emotions, confusion, surprise, but also bliss. Nawin remains silent to look at the Pureblood's face, slightly taken aback by her beauty when her expression softens with faint rose blush occupying her cheeks, just like him. Her beauty is beyond the supernatural world.

A teasing smirk suddenly forms on the Pureblood's lip "Starting to get addicted to kissing me, my dear?" she asks and causes the blush that's already on the Makasha's cheek to brighten. "If you keep being this assertive then you might get more, my dear" Sayomi comments with a sultry wink which serves to embarrass Nawin furthermore.

Giggling, Sayomi finishes with the teases and raise to her feet. She takes a glance past the trees to see the gargoyles have already left the area. Nawin looks down and notices his wounds slowly nursing, the pain receding. "Come on," Nawin looks up to see Sayomi offering a hand, and without hesitation, he takes it and allows her to pull him to his feet.

Retracting her hand, Sayomi takes a step back to scan around, her eyes scanning to all directions until it halts at the northeast. She notices the mists there is much thinner compared to the other region. "Come on," Sayomi utters and strides toward the destination "The exit isn't far now" "Good," Nawin grunts in response and follows her.

It was silent when Sayomi and Nawin walk to the exit. Neither said anything because both of their minds are occupied with the event that just transpired between the two. Nawin was in a way happy that he received a shard of his pasts, but it also frustrates him, since it leaves him confused even more. Cloud on his relationship with Sayomi, who is still his enemy. But, with each time they spend together, Nawin starts to find it hard in himself to see this woman as his enemy. He knows it isn't right with what she has done. His mind screams enemy while his heart cries in differ.

"Happy to get out of here, my dear?" Sayomi asks, glancing back with a smirk plastered on her face "Yeah," Nawin gives the nod "I need to know how well Valerie is doing... Last time I saw her... She wasn't in good condition" "..." Sayomi response with silence, her expression turns to confusion by the answer, wondering the reason to Nawin being so concerned over a person he barely knows. Sayomi didn't press on it and instead turns forward to continue making a way out of the Ashen Forest.

After ten more minutes past, the pair comes to a stop, seeing the outside world just mere meters away. Both go silent, almost hesitate to step forward because they know if they leave this forest it means they will depart from each other.

Sayomi's eyes flash in annoyance and turn it to Nawin "Why do you seem obsessed with helping the Carmilla faction and this Valerie girl, Nawin" she asks, unable to detain the curiosity in her. Nawin is surprised by the question before his eyes soften and his posture slumps. "Tell me, Sayomi..." he speaks, staring at the distance "Is there a moment in your life that you will always remember?" "..." Sayomi didn't answer, instead, a look of uncertainty plastered on her face. Nawin opens his mouth to continue "Years ago... There was this girl that I cared. I loved her more than the entire world, and I cherished her more than my own life. I would gladly sacrifice almost everything to make her happy. However, sickness always played her, and I tried to save her, but I failed. I watched her died in the hospital bed and watched the life vanquished from her eyes."

A hollow breeze blow past. Sayomi stares at Nawin with wide eyes, frozen in place. With a sad smile, Nawin turns his head to stare at Sayomi "That sin will haunt me for the rest of my life. Now, Gasper is placed in a similar position. He wants to save Valerie, a person that's truly dear to him. I know firsthand what it feels like when failing and I won't allow Gasper to go through it as I did. I will do whatever it takes to stop him from experiencing that nightmare I have gone through."

Sayomi is left utterly stunned by the Makasha's words. Her eyes hold wild emotions in them that's impossible to decipher. Nawin's eyes widen when sensing a familiar magic signature blazing toward his location. A small smile graces his lip as he looks up to face Sayomi "I honestly don't know why I told you that," he admits in truth "But... It felt good too."

All the Pureblood can do is give a soft smile, pulling her hair back as the breeze continues to blow past them, enchanting her beauty in the Makasha's eyes. "Go," Sayomi speaks, "Defeat Marius and win this war, my dear" "I will," Nawin replies with his smile before turning around and exit the forest with haste.

When leaving the misty Ashen Forest, Nawin blinks to find himself in a clear grass field and standing a couple of meters away from him is Akame. Instead of greeting her King with a sign of relief, Akame's expression shows hostile and her red eyes glares straight past Nawin and into the forest, where Sayomi reside.

Stopping in front of his Knight, Nawin gently places a hand down on her shoulder "It's fine," he says with a reassuring smile "Let's head back." Akame turns to look Nawin in the eyes before swiftly turning around and takes off to the air. Nawin grows concern, seeing the Knight is in a foul mood, which is something extremely rare. With one last glance at the forest, Nawin shoots up to the air to follow his Knight.

The four Gargoyles suddenly comes rushing out of the forest and ready to take off until all of them abruptly combusts into harmless rocks. Leaning on the tree, Sayomi looks at the pile of pebbles with her glowing eyes before averting them toward the retreating Makasha. A small smile form on her lip. "Guess I can stay a little longer to see how you fair, my dear" Sayomi whispers before dispersing in a swarm of bats and head to the south.

Nawin wasn't oblivious to the tense air currently occurring between him and his Knight. Akame hasn't uttered a single word since taking to the sky. Not wanting this to continue, Nawin stops "Akame," he speaks and immediately, the other stops and turns around to face him, expression as ever stoic but her eyes show steady anger in them.

Nawin opens his mouth through didn't have time to speak as Akame talked first "What do you think of Sayomi?" she asks, stunning the Makasha and his expression turns conflicted, words weren't able to form in his mind. Akame's eyes narrow "Then answer this... Do you hate Sayomi?" "... She has attacked the group on multiples occasions and me... She cursed Asia to become blind, and I hate that she has done that." Akame didn't look satisfied in the answer. She out of everyone in the group knows most about this relationship happening between Nawin and Sayomi and to her, his response didn't tell a whole lot.

Akame takes a step forward, her eyes harden "Nawin-kun, I don't know if you realized this, but you said you hate her past actions. You cannot bring it in yourself to say that you hate her." Nawin is left stunned by Akame's words, knowing it is absolutely true. He cannot bring it in himself to say those words. Unlike the pasts when he could have said it with such venomous and hateful tone.

Akame raises her sword, holding it by the sheath. "Remember this, Nawin-kun. I will do whatever it takes to protect you. Your safety became my priority the moment you have given me this sword and given me the honor to become your Knight. To me, Sayomi is still the enemy, and she is the most dangerous adversary you ever had because she holds an ability that none of your previous adversaries holds." Akame looks deep into Nawin's eyes "She possesses this ability to have you drop your guard whenever you two are together. If I ever feel a malicious intent from her, I will attack her to protect you, Nawin-kun, even if you are against my action. Your life is the most important thing to me."

Teleporting the Black Thunder away, Akame lowers her arm "Whatever the reason is, you, Nawin-kun no longer possess the hatred you once had for her. As to how far that goes, you will have to figure it out yourself."

Nawin doesn't speak and stops in front of Akame. He looks at her for a moment before a small but grateful smile form on his lip. Placing a hand on her shoulder, giving it a soft squeeze "Noted. Thanks, Akame, for being a person I can trust with absolute certainty" he whispers before retracing his arm and resume flying to Carmilla. Akame remains in place for a moment, and her eyes soften by the Makasha's word for a moment before returning stoic. She turns around and follows her King. The tense air around them disappears and replace with a warmer kind. But, the looming feeling of conflict did not go absent to the King and his Knight. Both knew when they return to Carmilla. A war will be brewing.

Since you requested a shout out! I wish you a Happy Birthday, Edgehog95! Hope you have a lovely one. 

Next Chapter: Faction War Begins!