WARNING:

MATURE CONTENT.

I DON'T OWN THE CHARACTERS IN THE FANDOMS I WRITE IN AND I DON'T MAKE A DIME FROM THEM. - in case I didn't make that clear in each chapter of all my stories.

11/21/2009: Too busy this weekend. I will update... another time.

11/15/2009: Hi! Thanks for the reviews!

I skimped on the lemon. I'm sorry. I write as if I am watching a movie so it seemed right to fade at that point and wake up the next morning to their cute pillow conversation: the reassuring but worried Kaname and the sore but happy Zero. It was those moments of bitter with the sweet where Zero was in such pain from something other people may take for granted; Kaname mindful it was Zero's first time and anxious to make sure he is okay, that he hadn't hurt him or forced him and, it was to be their last moments together. I wanted to expose want happened last night in their sweet, awkward conversation. I thought was sooo cute!

I do understand how poignant the first time should have been but nothing happened that was out of the ordinary - to my mind - so I didn't bother to put any detail. I found the next day more interesting. I have added more details since I first posted - and corrected numerous errors - but it is still in flashback so don't get your hopes up. I do have a full lemon planned where it is more interesting... but that is another chapter. I appreciate the comments from all of you who were disappointed and I will remember to make the next one more explicit to make up for this one.

Thank you for reading in any case.

LP

11/1/2009: November already!! Where does the time go?! My sister was singing a Christmas carol and I was giving her an evil stare because I felt like I just got through that madness last year. I don't mind getting presents, of course, but it the buying - hurt feet, dissatisfied faces trying to smile like they always wanted a toaster... GAH!! Plus, I am the type of person with dark tendencies who would definitely shoot a cute/roseate, fluffy, pink/red, dancing (especially dancing) bunny/Santa Claus on sight, so people smiling and saying "Merry Christmas" and looking all chipper... AAAHHHH!! I want to go to sleep and wake up in January 2010. Sigh... Besides, it is practically illegal to think about Christmas when we should care about Independance celebrations this month. But that's another rant.

Hi people. Those of you - you know who - that are checking for a new chapter this week will be disappointed. I am currently at work - yes it is Sunday and I am at work, all day - almost buried under preparation for my terrifyingly busy week. I simply can't. As much as I want to get down all the fluffiness in my head so it will stop swimming around in there, I can't. So you wonderful people who care, I will try for next weekend.

LP

10/24/2009: Taking a break this weekend. Will answer reviews, recover from busy week and generally think about what happens next. Later!

LP

09/29/2009: I'm sorry about the slight pause with the posting. Quite busy this week and... There's a difficult set of scenes so I need to focus for a long while which means I need to get most of this stuff off my desk so I can concentrate. Just a bit more of your indulgence I beg you.

09/20/2009: Someone asked about a "Subjugate"?

Subjugate? Actually it is a "familiar" - an assimilated human or pet human or slave used to do day things and appear normal. But I didn't want to use that word as that is ripping off someone else's work - yeah, laugh at the hypocrisy - and I couldn't think of a better name to call him. This pact though allows him to draw on Kaname's energy to stay youthful but I don't have all the details ironed out yet. Poor Kaname is debating his short term satisfaction over his long term need to have Zero choose him. As a subjugate Zero would be willing a ready immediately, if Kaname told him to undress and bend over he would. However, he would be just a pliable doll and where's the fun in that? At least he has Aidou.

LP

09/05/2009: I cannot post chapter-ette 15 for TS. Bummer...

09/04/2009 - Hi folks! If you are very unhappy with TS then it is perhaps you are expecting a quick K/Z smutfest and not a situation study. I am involved in seeing how these kids come to accept an extremely dangerous individual - and him them - and what happens as a result. I want to make it as "realistic" as possible so I get stuck from time to time thinking about each person's reactions and how that would affect the story... Well it is hard (for me). I also have quite a few subplots in the works... (sigh) Basically if you are looking for quick satisfaction it isn't going to come. There is no point starting a story with a goal in mind and not doing it. I would have wasted my time. But I am not remorseful as I did warn you in the beginning that the pace would be slow and it was a western with adventure, thrills etc.

I am sorry to see you leave, whoever was just looking for the smut and quick K/Z, Z/K. I am sure you will gain tons of satisfaction elsewhere - certainly the pickings are better from when I first started and there was only "The Mirror and the Mask" and "Secrets" to read. (There goes my hundred hits in a day ego-stroke) Meanwhile, those of you who see the promise of sweetness and tons of macabre humour can stick around - when I think of how Yuuki treats Kaname I just laugh, especially when he allows her to bully him, not to mention Ichiru (that boy is so mad)... Anyway, enough rambling and feeling guilty. I didn't twist anyone's arm... (grumble).

LP

08/20/2009: Mel - Yes. I do like making people cry. But most people who read me know that. The story is rated "M" for mature audience. Besides, saying its a "deathfic" would telegraph the story. Why would I do that? It is "bad" enough I have to say it is K/Z. Though, if you want a happy ending try "Strange AU". Thanks for your review!

LP

08/16/2009: s-m - Glad to see you are still enjoying the fic. I know what you mean. We had our dog - we are convinced she was the best dog in the world - for the last twelve years, no signs of slowing down and then in February she started growing these tumors in her breasts. We got her breasts removed but they said the tumors had spread to her lungs... She hung on until July when she wasn't doing much more that wagging her tail when we spoke to her, so it was time to call it a day. She was put down in July and we all miss her terribly. Luckily for the followers of my stories my escape is writing otherwise I wouldn't have felt like doing that either. I feel like the house is so much less cheerful.

LP

08/14/2009: On TS: I'm stuck, but you know that. I think I'm going to back away for a while and see what happens...

07/20/2009: You all know me so well! I have thought of solving the "Parent Mystery" in TS that way, but I've already done that in Pure Blood... (keeps repeating to herself "This is a sweet story!!" over and over to keep away the angst cravings...)

07/15/2009: I am too exhausted. I'll have to leave updating TS for the weekend. I'm sorry.

07/13/2009: I am having some performance anxiety. The big action scene... Sigh... Maybe midweek.

07/01/2009: Sorry! I could blame my schedule but really I am a bit stuck for direction. I beg for your patience and understanding. I will have a chapter this weekend, even if it kills me.

LP

06/19/2009: Just started new job. (YAY!!) But boss is making me come in on weekends. Well, I took the job knowing this. ;p So I'll be very busy. We'll see what happens with my stories.

LP

06/11/2009: I'm terrible. I haven't replied. I am so sorry. I will though! I want to thank you all again. I am obviously doing it right since I've gotta such a favourable response, so i will try to continue. Kaname's past? Was I going that far? Oh well, 'll think about it.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!

LP

06/03/2009: Is it June already? My, my how time flies! Hey, all you wonderful reviewers! Thank you for your reviews of TS. I still have to reply to each one of you but time escapes me. I will though.

Also, I am so thrilled that you all gave the little western a chance. Some of the wonderful reviewers had said it sounded odd but I guess the promise of K/Z or Z/K or both - I haven't decided yet, so those of you who can't stand the thought of anything other than you OTP better prepare now - lured you in. Again, I must say that I know nothing to very little about ranches or the wild west. So no making copious notes on anything I say and going out and purchasing your own farm or taking that history exam. Only my lawyer will be available for comment if it all backfires.

Now that I have painted myself into a corner in the last chapter, I have some thinking to do to get our love birds together in a plausible way. But I loooves me a challenge and I did say I will update this one more leisurely, so I have already covered my butt-usky.

Until later. Again, thanks!

LP

05/27/2009: s-m - Thanks! You know, Ichiru is sixteen as well as Zero. Zero is older in age - few minutes - and temperament. Yuuki is only eight. Zero will have that curious mix of man and boy because he is so young and because he is forced to be the grown-up.

I don't dislike my interpretation of Yuuki. She is in almost all my stories as Zero is in love with her. (You thought Doubt had only one threesome chapter? Which one?) It is just that yoai is my passion. Two hot men and a glass of mauby and I'm in business.

Glad you like TS.

LP

05/26/2009: nbs! Are you trying reverse psychology on me? First you butter me up with compliments and then you agree with me that DN may be too hard and the mangaka too intelligent for the rest of us, knowing I'd see a challenge a mile off? You... You! You're good... If only I actually liked Light. He's hot and everything by so lacking in personality. And what would L see in him? AAAAHHHH!! It would be an if L hadn't died scenario - I like L a lot - and he would try to catch Light on his own terms. Maybe I could give Light a personality L would shag, but then he wouldn't be cannon... Damn my overactive imagination!

LP

05/17/2009: I knew "dissemble" meant a lie, but... Damn, I wasn't sure and meant to look it up. SORRRRY! Changed it!

05/17/2009: Hello! Finished "Doubt" yesterday so I am very happy. It was a bit of a challenge for me as, well, you know, Yuuki isn't my thing. But I tried really hard to acquit her well. I will defend my going off on a k/z,z/k tangent by saying that there was no evidence in the manga of their love for each other like with z/y, so they required one, and I really love getting them together and I'm the author.;).

So that frees me to write other things. I am working on the "The Stranger" for now, while still taking a break from APFU - hey, I've been writing that for years, which is good from my standards, as anyone familiar with my writing can tell I have a short attention span. Don't feel bad if I'm neglecting it. When I continue it, you'll know you are in for a dozy of a ride! And more OC's. Lol.

Thanks to all of you who have reviewed. Those of you with accounts, I reply to in the messenger feature, as waiting for a public reply from me can cause neck strain. But you poor people with no accounts - why not? How do you keep your favourite stories straight and get alerts? Ah well, to each his own...

ZTK - Thanks! I don't know what to say... Thanks! And, I hope you continue to enjoy TS!

Wa - Thanks! NYT-bestseller-good?! Aww shucks, ah bet you say that tah all the authahs!! Lol. Hear that?! More of you should try reading them! Please... Ahem... Right... Thank you! I got all giggly on the bus home when I read that! Enjoy the others!

nbs - Sweetie! I love how far you've come from grumbling about my OC's and lack off K/Z, Z/K to liking whatever I do. I really appreciate your giving me a chance AND reviewing just about everything I write. Thank you. Of course, I can't get enough of the compliments. However, don't lose your edge. I like when people (try to) keep me on the straight and narrow. Don't be afraid to tell me what you really think. It's not like I can find you or anything...

Death Note? I know. Someone else mentioned that to me as well. It's just that, as I remember, it had detailed police/detective procedures and Machiavellian plot twists and structures - I am still in awe of how intelligent that mangaka must be. From what I can remember, it would involve research... And research takes time and effort... Time and effort I, well, loath to lose... I won't say never though. Once someone gets me thinking about something and the only way it will leave my mind is to write it down, I will.

s-m - Darling! I can always count on you as well for encouragement. You even feel bad if you have other things to do than review. You're a gem! Thank you very much for your comments and compliments! Fan-girl-inspiring? Really?! Thank goodness it's acceptable.

It is Chapter 5 really. (Oopps.) She was in her and Kaname's bedroom. There's a marital bed-suite and there is Zero's room. He can join them, they can join him, but a married couple should have some privacy, I think. And I love that they slip off when the other is sleeping to be with Zero. Feels so naughty...

Regarding TS, I supposed it is no secret what Kaname is. He is trying very hard not to scare the little children, mainly wanting to be accepted into their innocent existence. The shrewdest one there is Zero and he has a soft heart and not a self-serving bone in his body (maybe). It is a refreshing change for him... But, I am getting ahead of myself.

I love to write. Nothing like wallowing in my own twisted imagination. But I don't have a lot of patience. If I can't do a story in one go or I'm not in the mood, it doesn't get done. I get sick of seeing it and leave it alone. The chapters here I do in one go of five hours (more if I love where I'm going with it) on the weekend and then post it immediately after I finish, not wanting to see it again until the next day. That's not to say I don't plan the plot in my head first during the week.

Of course I will clarify in the the following chapters. No fear. But still ask if you are confused. Chances are other people are scratching their heads at the garbled mess I'd remitted to the page.

PD - Thanks! But, you read a threesome story for the Z/K, K/Z scenes? When you have your pick of YenGirl, Sagakure, Blackened Wing, Clue-Sama, IncaGold, Nightmare Remnant, umm, um... and others...? You have a strong stomach. I normally give up after two sentences if I don't like something - unless it's school work. (Groan). I'm glad you liked it, in a way, though. Lol. But go to Blackened Wing profile, find her blog and peruse the Z/K, K/Z titles. Also, chapter 5 has some Z/K if you are interested...

I think that's it for the anon replies. Until next we meet!

LP

05/10/2009: Was working all day on building an extension to house so am tired and irritable and not in the mood to be sexy. So I wrote "The Stranger" instead. (I know you are all probably wondering where LP get's these original-sounding titles). It will be sweet, with action and chills with some angst and of course some yaoi. I will update at a slower pace than the others so if the three of you that like it don't see an update in two weeks, don't panic.

Still working on the ending chapter to "Doubt". Someone said to take my time and make it hot, so I will.

LP

05/02/2009: Thanks to all of you that have reviewed "Doubt"! I think I see a pattern developing here. People don't like Yuuki, which is bad because it is a threesome fic (No, Zero and Kaname are not going to run off and leave her). I know that she isn't ordinarily my favourite character and I kind of favour the activities of Kaname and Zero, but I want to do her justice because they are all important, otherwise it is a normal m/m romance. (Scratches head). I will have to rethink how I am portraying her, or force more declarations of love for her from my male characters (Oh God!). I don't like that my biases are always showing...

LP

04/28/2009: Replies to the annon reviewers to "Doubt":

lv – Thank you! More soon!

s-m – Thanks so much! And you said you didn’t like KxZxY? Neither did I! Go figure. I guess when you can find a decent angle all things are possible. I think you have the same issues I do, so you won’t hear a word from me. Glad you liked the story.

nbs – Thanks! But you don’t know the production pains, the insecurity... But I know it must be good or you’d say otherwise. Thank you!

yu – Thanks! Um, let me see. Mpreg. I thought Aleydis Emma Jade’s story was cute, “9 months and a week”. It’s just that I’d have to find a plausible, plotline – I’ve tried silly and you all know how it turned out (Pure Blood), so I don’t know. It would be so cute though: a worried Kaname, all fussing, a stressed out hormonal Zero... God, I’m salivating. It could be so angsty... And the very tender sex between them because of the child/bump. Oh man!! (Cries because can’t think of a way to explain Zero’s being pregnant). What about Kaname? LOLOLOLOLOLOL. You kids are in so much trouble...

Flow – Thanks! You’ve read all my fics? You must like them then! Welcome!

04/28/2009: Happy Heroes Day from sunny Barbados! This Bank Holiday I will spend answering all these lovely reviews for APFU you all probably think I ignored but have been rereading like five or six times and showing to my sisters to their vast irritation. So here goes!

nev – Thanks for the review and the suggestion! I always wonder who these many, many people are that reviewers refer to. Or they say “We” a lot. Who’s “we”? Are you royalty? I mean I look at my stats and… well… lol!

Anyway I’m sure I would love to start a Ken story. (Never thought I’d get such a request when I started on him! You should have seen the comments!) I just have to think of a plot that grabs me – I know I tell all of you this when you suggest a story but it is the truth. Otherwise it’s a chore and I don’t get paid enough (anything) to create a chore for myself. I love the idea though. Ken deserves a happy ending, with Zero and not some other OC… and I’d love to create one. But Ken has to be Kaname’s son, otherwise he wouldn’t be Ken – both in name and character – so we’ll see. Thanks nev!

A F – Thanks! The ending? But APFU doesn’t have an ending, not in the traditional sense. It is a glimpse into their lives and their lives will go on for a long time. You can always imagine they’ll be always happy. But some day I will show up and put these characters through the wringer again and all I can suggest to you is to look away now… lol. Kaname and Zero have reached the end of the third arc alive and together and very happy, with poor Sara cowed into allowing Kaname more Zero time – really that man is so incorrigible. She really should leave him and marry her brother. But alas, I’d choose Kaname too, even under these terms. He’s so hot. Her brother couldn’t compare…

jx – Thanks! I too would like to see Sara pregnant again. Not only for the comic relief but because I’d like another girl in the mix. The only thing stopping me is that she’d be a girl – I rather like yaoi – but I can’t have all boys. It’s unrealistic. I just need to flesh that out a bit more in my mind. Maybe make her look like Yuuki… Hehehe… I also need to develop Kane and Kaori, so it can’t end here. However, when I think of something you’ll one of the first to know! Glad to see you want more of the torture! And thanks for the compliment!

Nau – Thanks for the lovely compliments! All this from a budding great writer. I will work on the next arc after a bit of a rest for ideas. I’m glad you still like Ken and didn’t think I was hitting you all over the head with a sappy OC. He really is something special to love like that. Of course, one wonders how long it will last before Zero finds out. He is a Kuran, strong will and all.

Poor Claude. He’s free. Completely. But he didn’t want to be. So sad. But knowing him, he’ll get right back into his lust for life and women. I liked that character too, but no-one is asking for fics about him… The twins’ story? Soon enough.

And I would love Xing Xi to visit Kaname some time. I love how she had him on the ropes. Lol. They’ll have to send Zero on vacation. Some-one like her would try to see what all the fuss was about, that Kaname’s forces couldn’t catch him. He may lose his... Oh! I love it…!

Thanks so much for your kind words and support! It really meant a lot, even if I’m only saying this now.

am – Thank you so much! You really did all that emotional upheaval? Surely it means that I succeeded in what I wanted to achieve: an entertaining story. I will try for a fourth arc soon or at least a series of interesting chapters until I can think of something even better. I hope you keep on reading and letting me know what you think. Thanks for your comment in the forum as well.

12n – Thanks for all your reviews! Prince of Tennis? Is there… tennis in it? Just kidding. I have heard of it but I’ve never watched it. If you swear it’ll be interesting to a sports ignoramus like me I will give it a whirl. Are there strong male characters in it I can ship?

ZTK – Thanks! Superior?! Best OC?! Maybe those who ran as soon as Ken was mentioned will come back. You don’t think it’s a bit much that everyone falls for Zero? My biases always show in my stories no matter what I do! ;) But I can’t see Kaname really being interested in anyone else like that so Zero is the candidate.

I am thinking of what’s next, no fear. Don’t worry about asking for it, no-one else does. Some even insist on it. Just kidding.

There you go with this: “super hit story a place for us”. Thanks, but in a world where Sagakure can get 5,000 hits in a month and a half, that’s fairly strong language. But thanks though, I kept reading that phrase over and over, believing it in my own little universe…

I am glad you were finally happy with Zero and you liked the story. Don’t be so hard on Sara. It’s what I would have said if I were her and it’s what I would have done if I was Zero. A very untenable position for everyone, made tenable by their love for each other. If I was Sara I would have said a whole lot more. I always picture Zero as a beloved dog when I am in her shoes – she’s been raised to think this way so I don’t blame her much – and Kaname goes to fetch this dog when her children were missing, when she was trying to find them, by herself. Hell, I would have at least tried to kill him… LOL. Kaname, I mean, not the dog...

Thanks for all your kind words, until next time.

s-m – Thanks! But you have nothing in mind? Nothing?! I am getting worried about you, love. Just kidding. I know what you mean. I’m stumped too. What haven’t I covered? Sure Kane has potential as an unintentional villain but if Zero’s happy, he is too, so I have to make Zero unhappy and thus push Kane over the edge and that is what’s killing my poor muse. sigh. I’ll sort it out though and throw in some man/man sex to boot. No, I haven’t forgotten what’s really important here. Lol. Did any of your theories pan out? I am sooo curious!

So hard on Claude! He’s right, you know, Kaname’s situation isn’t good for Zero. sigh. But I’m glad you liked the story.

Oh to live in Europe! You can just get up and go from country to country just like that (snaps fingers)… So jealous. I didn’t think you’d forgotten… Okay, I did. So I am glad you reviewed when you got back from AUSTRIA, in the MOUNTAINS!! So cool! Not to diss GERMANY or anything. (Okay, I live in Barbados, a tiny island that was settled because it was “flat”, so I think just being next to the Alps is like heaven, alright? Oh no! There is a singing blonde nun in my head for some reason…)

Names? Gee. I just pick the first English name that comes into my head that’s not John or Michael – too common – and as for Japanese names I go to a website and pick one that fits my character in meaning that my English ear can stand (No Fuc-anything no matter how cool the meaning). Ken is just short for Kaname, but also means strong in Japanese and is an amusing play on the Ken doll. Too much information? Kane and Kaori, I wanted “twinny” names and, according to this website, they both meant “manly”. Cool right? Then I found another website that said Kaori meant “sweet scent” and was a girl’s name. I am so stupid. I still like it though. I just hope I haven’t named anyone “dogturd” by accident. Xing Xi I totally made up because I liked the sound of the “X” when spoken in Mandarin. Now all my secrets are out…

The Kaname and Zero action/sex with Kane appearing afterwards to interrupt, was a product of Kaname’s imagination; his yearning for Zero. Kane showed up and read Kaname’s mind and interrupted the festivities. I’m sorry it wasn’t clear.

“Almost no typing mistakes and a really extensive vocabulary.” ß You dear, sweet woman. (ce44 better not see this.) Thank you very much for all your compliments! I hope you had a good Easter as well!

SGK – AHHHHH!! I nearly died when I saw a review from you!! And both were good! So happy! Oh, sorry. Forgot myself… Thanks for your reviews!!

Thanks for the compliments! I hope I can get more for you to read. It’s so boring if they’re just sitting there being happy. Soon though, when my muse comes back from her vacation.

Kaname was just teasing Zero, but if you enjoyed the image of Sara and him um, doing it… then that was a bonus. But no plans to flesh that out in the future. Sorry.

Here’s a cookie in exchange for the spilt popcorn -> (:).

set tesh – Thanks for all your reviews and encouragement! Don’t know how soon I will update, but I will.

oz – Thank you so much for you constant support through everything. It means so much to me!

I am thinking of your suggestion for Kane. I love that you feel for him like that. Like he really is very weak, which he is in some ways. He is quite pathetic by himself. But I love that everyone thinks so when I do think he is quite powerful. Maybe I should have him go “Carrie” on everyone. A few pure-bloods with awesome powers should do the trick. I still have to think of a power for Shirabuki-sama, Kane’s pet pure-blood. I want it to be cool but fairly non-threatening. After all, there is a reason Shirabuki hadn’t challenged Kaname to his face. But no more fire. I think I am so predictable that way. sigh.

But I digress. Thank you too for your compliments! “Never boring” is the best any author can ask for so I am very grateful. You know me: I will keep on with the K/Z, Z/K as long as I have an idea to share.

Kane in love with Zero? I won’t rule it out, but I don’t know… Zero’s already had one son and everyone must wonder why everyone is falling for Zero. I think I’ll just have him fiercely loyal to him, to the detriment of everyone else. Like a tiger with only one master… I still have to understand him better. Get into his head.

Ichiru? Gee, we know he was definitely human and this is almost two hundred years into the future. I’ll have to think about it, but don’t hold your breath.

nbs – Thank you too for all your support! Every chapter since you started to review probably has one. I am indebted. You helped keep me going. Thanks! And you are so enthusiastic!

Was the last chapter too fast? Sorry. I don’t mess around. In fact, people ask for more detail and less script, but that’s me. My attention span isn’t what it should be.

You consider Ken a hero!? You?! LOL. I am glad he grew on you Ms. I-don’t-want-anyone-but-Kaname-for-Zero. I am intrigued and honoured you lasted this long with the story. But it shows you have an open mind and I can always work with such people.

Everyone’s falling for Zero. I know, I know, but hopefully it was realistically done and not in a Mary-Sue fashion. What can I say? My boys are irresistible! One girl asked for Zero to lose his cherry and the logical person is Sara… You all just rolled your eyes at me didn’t you!!

You’ll see how Kaori is in the coming chapters. I’m sorry (again) for the lack of K/Z lemon but I had wanted to contrast the “submissive” Kaname to the one that would down a plane with several people and their families (children) on board. I wanted it to be a memorable (chilling) ending, even as I knew everyone was waiting for such a scene. I’m sorry. But I am planning a fic I promise a fan and they won’t even be a hint of Z/K in it anywhere. Promise.

You have some good ideas for the next arc. Certainly I don’t think Zero or the Vampire Hunter Association would take that lying down. And yes there is also Kane but he’s so sweet really when Zero is safe… So much to think about…

Was it my intention to see them cope away from each other? Yes, and no. I knew it would be angsty having them separate and even more so to have Kaname’s forces tracking them down. But I hadn’t planned all the way to the end like that, Kaname flaking out and Zero threatening to kill himself or leave. I leave a lot to what I think of on a particular day. I loved the story. I think each arc gets better and better as we understand them more. You’re right, actions and words tell us a bit more about who they are and they are never one dimensional. You came to like Claude too? Niiice…

You asked so many questions but I believe I answered most in the chapters. If someone asks a question it usually shapes how I write the next chapter. I like how you dressed down Zero and Kaname when they had that fight after Claude got “killed”. It showed my point had come across. It’s funny how people want to say the right thing, but in the end it’s not what they really want. They are selfish creatures really. So police get divorced from their spouses and people say long-distance relationships don’t last… And so, I thought it was time that Kaname and Zero finally hit the nail on the head. But running away? Oh dear. Not my strong manly Kaname. I would really lose interest in him then.

Oh! It’s a relief about the “dangerous women”. So you just don’t like when they threaten Zero. I can understand that. But that’s the fastest way to get Kaname’s attention: threatening Zero. He’ll just yawn and call security or explode their heads if they threatened him…

Make the most of Kane? Ahhh!! Okay… Still thinking…

nbs, I’m just teasing when I asked if you were satisfied. I know you are ranting and I like when people rant because it means they are invested in the story. So go ahead and enjoy yourself. I really did put you through the wringer. You’d even given up on a happy ending at one point. So I’m glad I was able to work it out for you plausibly. And I hope I can make the fourth arc even more worthy of your rants and my teasing you about them.

Enrapt – Thanks! I know I have tried to put more detail so I think I am progressing. Thank you for noticing. And what a fantastic compliment! The story leaves you emotionally raw? I’m so happy!!

PD – Thanks! Did you like the action? Kaname’s kingdom didn’t crumble but it almost did… And yes, the Vampire Hunters Association has vampires working with them. Remember Zero was too and he had mentioned it was part of the new alliance? They wouldn’t be nobles probably but level “C” and “D” vampires that are looking for a buck. I’d lay odds Quincy was a level “D”. He seemed a little clueless as to what pure-bloods are capable of.

vzd – Thanks! Well at least you weren’t indifferent to Ken. Lol.

YnZ – Thanks again for the heads up about my error!

pg217 – Thanks for the review! I am glad you liked the chapter, even if you seemed underwhelmed by the twincest.

ZSB – Thanks! Sorry you mistakenly read the twincest. I hope the other chapters made up for it. I don’t want it to end either but Zero had to go home. However, if you are game there will be a fourth arc. Sometime…

CT14ba – Thanks! Well I’d congratulated you on my milestone – 500 reviews – and had placed Zero at 167-ish in the chapter you were in. Kaname was to marry Sara in one hundred fifty years from his attaining adulthood and Zero would have been an old teen at the time. I wonder if it was one hundred and fifty from birth? Hmmm… Well he is quite old.

bb-90 – Thanks for you very encouraging reviews! I hope you liked the ending even after all of the wait! I (mostly) do what I say I will and I always finish, somehow or other, so don’t worry if I say I am on hiatus. If I don’t finish, and I haven’t said I won’t finish, then I’m dead and can’t.

cye78 – Thanks! But if Zero was more like a vampire then a lot of my angst would go through the window. Besides the pure-bloods need a “straight-man” or they wouldn’t be as intriguing. Their actions won’t affect anyone that truly cares and I am without an intriguing story. So I like Zero’s human sensibilities. I don’t want to change him and neither does Kaname.

But I hear you about Zero’s virginity. Lol. I like it as a running joke but I am working on it.

kino – Thanks! A professional writer? I can only dream of that…

Glad you liked the twincest. I did think it was so hot, their love for each other, their closeness. If Zero and Ichiru were lovers in a previous life then their relationship must have been, um, violently passionate. Lol. I would have liked to have watched that scene. Kaname could still get grandchildren, but as you say, the tragedy would play out again. But I have a feeling that such tragedies would be common in their world where obligation seems to win over matters of the heart.

Don’t fear, Kaname dealt with those horrible twin-shooting people for you. Even if it was more barbaric than diplomatic. I liked the lawyer cosplay you did, though.

Claude and Sara? Sure they’d make good siblings, but Kaname is the one that makes her crazy with longing and Zero is the one that makes Claude forget his good sense. Why be feel dead in an ideal relationship when you could feel alive in a flawed one? (Maybe Sara and Kaname will come back as at-odds twins…)

Oh, kino, how could you be so cruel to Sara? She’s been in love with Kaname and not he with her, true. But how was she to know she couldn’t make him love her? Kaname was there pretending this ex-human was a subject of his will and one day he would die, leaving Kaname available to do the natural thing with her. There are so few pure-bloods and there was the bargain of honour. They did as they were expected to do. She had no reason to decide to give up on Kaname, until Zero lived on and on. Also, is it entirely her fault? Kaname made promises to her that he would treat her as a wife and honour their family if she welcomed Zero, thus raising her hopes of a nearly happy union. She relied on this and was pulled in even more, bearing him children. Could she easily walk away now? Doesn’t she have a right to hold Kaname to his promises? I feel bad for her. I suppose the thing to do would be to leave, especially after Ken’s death, but she is a fighter. She doesn’t want to lose to an ex-human pet, she has the power she’s always dreamt of. And she loves Kaname more than her very life. I understand her. And I sympathise. I probably would do the same thing she is.

Kaname’s divorce? Well, he did fulfil his duty. He could divorce and live the rest of his days loving Zero. Zero isn’t going to die anymore. It could happen... Why don’t I like that deal? Something is stopping me from wanting that for them. I have to analyse my feelings on this. Maybe because he was born to be great and have a family and recreate his Clan. I dislike him doing the minimum and slinking off into the sunset with someone he shouldn’t have loved in the first place. By that, I mean that if he hadn’t let Zero bite him over a girl, we wouldn’t be having this conversation. I feel like he’d be more of a victim of his sacrifice. I want Zero to support what Kaname was born to do. Besides, he does love and respect Sara. Practically, she is the perfect half to him. It’s just that there is Zero who is Kaname’s soul-mate in actuality. God, I sound miserable. Maybe I will choose your way. I could just be making things too complicated.

Zero... I suppose he has no reason not to insist on having more of Kaname. Except he thinks he’s corrupted Kaname in some way himself – maybe it’s my feelings here but I do think Zero has many regrets that would stifle his sense of entitlement. Now that he is immortal he could be there for Kaname well into the future. So, why not decide that he is the best person now that Sara has her heir and spare? I think, because they have all become his family. He isn’t the bitter “outside man” as they say in Barbados. He was resigned and in his resignation he found a family he would die to protect. Even Sara. They have their differences but who doesn’t? I think Zero would be miserable if he insisted that Kaname leave his family and love only him. He’d just be kept awake by visions of the broken family’s sad faces.

Has it been a month? Not sure. But I hope you liked the ending and I hope you weren’t fully put off the story by the Z/K ending. Like I said I was going for a contrast so people got another Z/K scene. Ah well, but it was a happy ending none-the-less even with Kaname and Zero not running away together.

Samantha? I started thinking about Samantha when someone asked – I think s-m – who would wake Kaname. And then the story poured forth. I thought it would be cool to remind you all, in all this angst, that people still thought being a vampire was great. The lure of eternal youth. When Zero was trying to get rid of his, Samantha was waiting patiently for hers. Also I wanted to show Kaname’s kindly side, just before he went and blew up Claude without a second thought. And I wanted to show a glimpse of Kaname and Zero’s younger days when they were so much in love, to augur in the angsty “I hate when you’re gone!” bit. The scene with Samantha felt right at the time, although I guess many of you were thinking “Who’s she?” And it was more cool angst. Sorry kino.

Claude – such a tragic figure. He’s change so much in the time he knew Zero. Love can be both a liberator and a prison. But he is free. I couldn’t make myself go all “step-mother” on him.

Poor Kaname. When I did that desperate scene I thought it was time people realised what he was up against – including you, kino, who always blamed him for everything and doubted his love. I decided to show his inner turmoil to the only person he would show it to. He knows he’ll be labelled a coward and would probably be hunted but he desperately wanted to make himself an attractive option to Zero who seemed to keep going off with people that promised him themselves without encumbrances. He’s saying “Look! I can promise this too!” Silly man. And Zero heard him, suitably depressed to have driven Kaname to this.

Zero’s death? So dramatic! Besides that would mean Kaname’s death too...

Your fic ideas aren’t stupid or a burden. I like them. I actually consider them and I believe they are helpful, even if veto them because of a particular position I have.

Kaname said those words ("We should have killed you when we had the chance. You are nothing but grief to us...") to Kane to stop him from taking over his body. He is a vampire and will fight dirty if he has to. But he loves his sons. He just knows, as a father of powerful beings with similar abilities and aspirations as he, that he can’t be soft or turn his back for a second. Not an enviable position but Kaname does it so well. Also if Kane had been truly ready he would have ignored his father’s taunt about his being weak and worthless. Kaname exploited a weakness and was the rightful victor. Here’s to Kane getting over his insecurities.

I loved your analysis on why Kaname pictures Zero old. I have nothing to add. My fans are so smart; I wonder how I can keep up...

Ken’s issue was sort of resolved for the moment.

Oh, the K/Z lemon... Hasn’t happened yet. You could look at the ending as another attempt to have Kaname show his love. I am sure Kaname tops Zero all the time I just haven’t written an explicit one yet for reasons I have explained. sigh This lemon business is so hard...

Kaname wouldn’t at all upset if the twins listened to Zero. He is accepted as the enforcer. We can see this from Kaname’s words to comfort Sara.

Zero’s hair has grown back and I hadn’t noticed the colour of Zero’s eyes in the anime. Thanks for letting me know.

The Maritime Self-Defense Force of Japan? Opps, I almost called them the Japanese Coast Guard. Well, luckily I changed my mind about letting them get that far.

Again I apologise for any offense I have caused, but discussing Xing Xi has made her take on a life of her own in my head. She may get her own series. Just kidding.

So that’s it! Oh my God! That took the entire Bank Holiday, but I am glad I was able to answer and prostrate myself with gratitude for all your reviews. Will definitely reply at the same time from now on. Honest. 8)

Until next time!

LP

04/18/2009: While sitting down to do the review replies, my mind wandered to a neglected story I had started and I got an idea and the next thing I knew "Doubt" was posted. How did that happen? Enough!! I am going to do the replies now...

LP

04/13/2009: Chp 64 of APFU is up! The final chapter in the "Fugitive" arc. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves. I did.

I wanted to do a K/Z lemon finally but it didn't work out - like I wanted Zero to zone out and open a can of whup-ass and failed miserably. I wanted for dramatic/artistic/my purposes to make Kaname sweetly non-threatening just to usher in what happens in the end. "Yeah you think kaname is adorable? Well take that!" sort of thing. If he was on top it would have ruined my excitement. But if this is any consolation I am planning an honest to goodness K/Z story. I just need a plot and some time. Those of you who feel cheated will get to see Zero as a bottom. Yay!!

Later!

LP

04/06/2009: Oh no!! has it been three weeks already!! The to-do list is piling higher and higher! Thanks so much for the reviews!! I love them I'm just not as responsible as Kaname where duties are concerned. Let's see. How about I finish the arc - probably another two or three chapters - and then I'll reply and thank you all? Sounds like a plan. Instead of a story I'll do replies. I think the direct questions I answer in the next chapter of the story anyway. I'm sorry about the neglect. nbs, oz, s-m, kino, Pd, Nau, bb90 thanks! You all have been wonderful.

LP

03/29/2009: I know I have to review reply. I do... Thanks for all the support on the newest chapter. I really agonized until I got s-m's review and then the others reinforced it so I am now able to sleep. Will do replies. I will!

LP

03/29/2009: Oh man so sorry for the odd ramble at the end. I am so kicking myself right now. I had done an outline and forgot it as I finished it. So sorry.

LP

03/27/2009: Cross-over support? Are they serious?! I've been up nights anticipating CROSS-OVER SUPPORT?! Who's been asking for that?? WHO!? Gawd!! Here I was hoping for ground-breaking (ratings system. Being able to find decent stories without a twelve step process. Hell, I'd have settled for being able to log in more than three days.) But... Cross-overs?!

Okay, I know people feel the same way about yaoi the way I feel about Sesshoumaru and Naruto getting together, and vice versa but... but... They could have said what is was... Where's my rum...?

LP

03/25/2009: (sits here FILLED with disappointment that I don't know what is this mysterious The most requested feature).

Review reply: kino (you others will have to wait until weekend) -You wrote a long review for the previous chapter but you will have to wait with the others for the reply to that. This one addresses your last review for chapter 60.

I understand your feelings more than you think. I have heard the stereotyping of Caribbean people and I admit, when I first started, I had been worried that people may ignore my fics because of such delusions. But deep down I knew that people would really judge me on my story-telling and not on any prejudices or misconceptions. After all, we are quite the international community. I understand, though, that you have heard about the generalities people may place on China - huge place, People! They have a wall that is seen from space! - and are worried about my depiction of Xing Xi - a name I totally made up because I liked the sound. (Sorry.)

To insist that Xing Xi - brash, strong, uncompromising - is not typical of an entire people may be very insulting to the intelligent readership I know I am cultivating. So, how can I address kino's legitimate concern without being condescending to you all? Hmmmm... I really don't think you would look at a country of 1.3 billion people - we in Barbados think we are over-run with the quarter million we have - and decide they are all like Xing Xi and therefore you dislike Chinese. Just like I try not to judge the U.S. on George Bush or Australia on Crocodile Dundee (though that was close. Steve Irwin came along and I was nearly convinced you all were wrestling crocodiles in the Outback for kicks. LOL, just teasing oz). So, kino, rest assured, although I know I have heard all the crap, I have never heard it from readers of my stories and I believe, if anything, they are wondering if you can find Xing and slap her one on the head on behalf of all Kaname/Zero lovers everywhere.

I hear you, kino, I know the ignorance that is out there. I know what it is like battling it. I know you may be sensitive to it - I know people who have HUGE chips on their shoulders because of immersion in such ignorance. But I am sure my readers wouldn't do that to you or other Chinese based on Xing, or based on some generalised idiocy they read by some ranting nutcase - instead listen to Tyra who took "Top Model" to Beijing and raved about how "FI-ERCE" they are (I am kidding, kino! You know by now I love sarcasm). Besides they already know I slay their countries and culture mercilessly in my nuttiness. (I had no idea Malay was a specific people until I was put right. I thought they were all Malaysians in Malaysia. Instead they are Indians, Chinese and Malay etc... Oh never mind.) I am just waiting for the alert that challenges me on my "knowledge" of Japan. "What knowledge?" I'll reply... Sigh. I know nothing, ya'all. I'm just having fun. But, I am learning as well! I mean no disrespect.

I'm sorry if I caused offense or perpetuated a stereotype, kino. I suppose if I saw a fic with a rum-drinking, always partying, late-arriving, barely literate West Indian, I suppose I'd feel the same way. A little. Mostly I'd think he was an alcoholic with psychological issues who happens to be West Indian. There are a few of those here as with anywhere else.

Take care kino. As long as you love K/Z or Z/K, these people aren't worried about anything else.

LP (Yawning as tired of waiting up for The new feature. Will go to bed...)

03/22/2009: Oh my! So many errors during my love scene in chp 60 APFU. Sorry! Even had Kaname at one point! So disturbing. (giggle.)

Thanks to my wonderful reviewers - kino - your review is probably longer than my chapter! FF.net may soon warn me about having stories in my reviews! Just kidding - oz - love your suggestions on making Kane stronger. Oh good. Glad you liked it. You were always most curious about the twin - nbs - See? I do listen when you want something. Sometimes. Do you dislike ALL my "dangerous female" types? - Nau - glad you liked the chapter but does Zero really have to survive? (scratches head and sighs), Pd - you don't like Kaname? Draw your sword!! We duel to the death!! Just kidding - ZSB - you are the only one who doesn't want it to end. Quite out-voted. But I just meant the arc. I'm sure I can find something else to torture you all with if you stay tuned - s-m - All will be sorted, in a way. But how did you get that Z can come home? Sounds dangerous to do so to me...

This is just to let you all know I saw and appreciate all your reviews. Will answer more thoroughly later.

LP

03/15/2009: Hi! Finally updated APFU. Have an end to the arc in mind so don't fear that. I know it is complicated. To think I wanted it more so, but it all will be resolved. I hope you like the next chapters. And even if you don't I hope it won't be boring. Lata!

LP

PS. ChiTenshi14blood angel is the 500 reviewer! Welcome! And the answer to your question is: very old. Zero is about one hundred sixty-seven at that stage and looks the part.

The other reviews I'll answer when I'm not so sleepy. Thanks bb90, nbs and oz.

03/07/2009: ZSB – thanks! I will try to honour your request as soon as I can.

ztK – Thanks! Welcome! I like your commentary on the chapters as you read, especially the pleading for Zero to be young again even as we knew what you were in for! LOL. I always try to find angles that are interesting and compelling, whether plot or character. I want them all to be never boring, even if controversial. I loved the idea of them being so different: Zero old, dying and Kaname never aging yet their loving each other to distraction. It’s “true love” really and I liked that. Even with Ken. He, from a baby, though born to be an extremely powerful being, had the patience to accept, love and cater to Zero’s frailty and mortality. I love contradictions. But you got your wish. Except one. How are you going to get young Zero and Ken together except in a dream…? Opps…

Kzi – Thanks!! It is published! On FF.net! Free! Tell your friends! Just joking. I really shouldn't sell this or Ms. Hino, whose lawyers are probably more vicious than I am, will make it so I don’t ever write again. It’s better this way… Glad you enjoyed it.

PD – Thanks sweetheart! I sense you don’t like Claude. So the last few lemony bits must have been hard on you. I have to plan a K/Z moment next to remove the taste. Glad you liked the action!

s-m – And I am so sorry replying late! Don’t sweat it s-m! Better late than never at all. I like to see when my inbox gets some sort of alert especially during the drought periods towards the end of the week and my work has run me ragged. To get a nice long review is heaven.

Thanks for the encouragement on Zero’s character. It really means a lot to me. I really love his moody but vulnerable and conflicted personality in VK and tried so hard to resurrect it here. Thanks!

I like your ideas I may ste… be inspired by them. But alas I still am not cooking on all cylinders. I just need to be sure what the ending is likely to be then I can get there. But that is between me and my lazy muse. I am sorry you probably won’t get an update while you are away. But I’ll keep trying to.

I was just teasing about your leaving me hanging. Normally you give my plot away but you didn’t this time, so I was just pulling your leg. Never stop being a smart alec.

kino – Thank you so very much for all the lovely reviews. I would never ignore you, kino! That would be madness! I am just a lazy replier. Then FF.net login section went down for days and I just kept putting it off… What will you do with me?

Thanks for giving me such a morning pick me up to start my day! Okay here goes…

You are so hard on Kaname! He has so much on his plate. If I were under his sort of stress I would be up Black Rock – our local psychiatric hospital – all like now! This time he’s found out that his beloved first born son is trapped in a book. This distresses him. He comes from a ruthlessly practical line of people and he couldn’t make himself destroy the book and free his son thus acting from an emotional position, a sign of weakness. It irks him. And Zero’s appearance and the co-habitants inside him reminded him of why his son was imprisoned! He is raw! He can’t have it together all of the time. He’s allowed to lose it once in a while and Zero is there for him to lose his equilibrium around in that once in a while because he can be himself around him – as you say they’ve been together for two centuries loving each other, good and bad. (Wants K/Z happy ending though step-mother self still raises ugly head…)

Of course, knowing Kaname he probably regretted his emotional behavior as soon as he got home. Zero is very precious to him, you know. He’s probably planning to meet him again and be suitably apologetic for his behavior. Still, why are you so annoyed, kino! Especially after such a glowing tribute in your other review. Kaname could see Zero was alright. He’s alive. He was asleep when they found him! And Claude is with him. Besides if I were Kaname I’d say he shouldn’t have been there in the first place! Silly ex-human. (Ruthlessly practical standpoint.)

You coddle Zero too much. He went off by himself and into a house he must have known they were watching. He needs to acts more like Kaname and less emotional. (But then he wouldn’t be Zero. sigh.)

I love your ideas! You could write my story for me! But I don’t know… It is not that they aren’t brilliant. They are! It is just that when the right thing comes along I feel it in my chest, you know? I may sound silly but when inspiration or a really cool angle comes along it makes me excited and I just know I am onto the right thing. So even though I think your idea about proving the spell is good and/or using Kaname’s office to insist he have Zero back, it doesn’t quite “grab” me… I sound miserable don’t I? But please don’t think I don’t appreciate your suggestions! I do! I could come up with something that includes them! I just want something extra… Something else…

I know Zero’s eyes are a far more interesting colour in the manga, but I refuse to describe Zero with pink eyes unless he is “thirsty”. (In fact I believe that’s what Ms. Hino was going for, but I could be wrong) I like grey. I used grey first in ASR and I guess I am sticking with it. I don’t think there is any harm done.

I can never tell who inspired Claude. He was a hottie I saw in a “movie” once… Hehe.

Anyway, glad you liked the lemons! I still have a hard time having this Zero be a bottom. I don’t think it’s his personality. I can see the pleasure-loving pure-bloods being up for anything, so I can do that, but Zero…? Not so much. He keeps looking at me and saying “You want me to do want with my ass?! No way!!” Shoots me. I did it in Pure Blood as it was more AU, but APFU is based on the Zero in the manga – even if his eyes are grey – so I am still having trouble with it. Maybe someday. Oddly enough he has no trouble doing everything else… Okay you’ve put the idea in my head of Claude being tortured by his nudity. His firm bum just inches away… I like it! I’ll do more!

Ken! What to do about Ken! Arrrggghh!!

No ideas yet kino. Since your review I’ve put up the dreaded “ON HIATUS” tag. Maybe if I buy a different scent in shower gel… (Sound of LP grasping at straws…)

Glad the story gave you an incentive to finish your work and you enjoyed the new chapters.

I hope to have more for you soon. Crosses fingers

03/01/2009: Thank you for your kind reviews and favs! I have to reply to the reviews but haven't got my act together as yet. kino and newcomer ztk thanks!! Your reviews have been a balm through the FF.net downtime and my ever present writer's block. More later!

LP

Have decided to take some pressure off and see if that helps. Will go on hiatus with APFU. I am quite blocked and I really need to figure out a main character before I proceed. Hopefully I won't be more than two weeks - the likely happening is reluctantly putting up this notice and then getting inspiration two days later ( my luck), but maybe not. Sorry you folks that have been sticking with me. I hope I don't lose you and I will be back when I am happy with the storyline which means it'll be a treat!

LP

02/21/2009: Opps! Okay, it wasn't an accident but I did change my mind about publishing "Chosen". I guess the meds finally kicked in... Just kidding. Anyway I should also say that there is no more APFU until next weekend. I need to figure out where I am going with it. It's not fair to you good people to keep going like this without a plan! Kaname (I) has to think of a solution soon, even if he is grief-stricken and he can't even take it out out on Hanata.

LP

02/19/2009: Thank you for all the reviews! I have to answer for, like, two instalments now.

oz - Hey! The feeling emotions through the bond is BW's and IG's thing! Well Sara and Kaname can do that but only because they have the strongest bond of all - pureblood/pureblood. Zero hardly notices the bond unless he is being "located" really. But I am sure Kaname knows Claude is, um, getting the job done. Claude told him where to get off a couple chapters ago. It's just that Kaname has his son on his mind now and the fact that whatever's living inside Zero did that to him. Funny. He was fine when he thought Ken was dead...

Seiren is half pure-blood! But don't get excited. So are many, many people in their society - Initiation ritual, insurance of the race or their plain just being horny, you pick. They are more powerful than ordinary vampires but they aren't pure-bloods so... nothing. Depending on the mate with the pure-blood they can be very powerful - like Ichiou - or at the bottom of the noble class. Seiren's mother being an ordinary vampire - C class - may explain why she in the "service" like that. Or may not. I want to give myself some wriggle room. ;) But the initiation ritual was inspired by Shiki's being a son of Rido's but not acknowledged by Kaname as a relative at all. It got me thinking that maybe this sort of thing - pure-bloods having unacknowledged relatives in other classes - may be commonplace. Like a stud sowing his oats, as it were. Of course now I know Rido and Kaname were enemies... I like where it led me though. Bottomline, even though Kaname now knows Seiren is half-pureblood, it makes no difference to him. She is a norm in their society. It just makes Kaname more worried about Zero. Seiren may like it a lot though. Hehehehe.

yatomgs - You have it quite in order but I don't think you have to read ASR to read APFU. These are people struggling to love while the world goes on around them. I suppose it can stand by itself. But I just realised you'll need to get the bond rules from ASR and how K/Z got together in the first place. LIE just shows you about the initiation I mentioned and how my vampires get drunk only on chocolate but I show that in APFU to an extent - just love the idea of Kaname Kuran passed out on a couch with a Cadbury Dark bar in his hand. So funny. No-one has to read MK. It's quite disturbing. It just has Zero going to vampire hunter school. Sacrifices is my inspiration for APFU but is slightly different.

It's my fault really. I hate repeating myself and stating the obvious. And because I do, you all risk getting lost.

bb90 - A body for Ken? Um... Oh! I know!! But will you all forgive me...? I kind of like it though! You poor souls. hehehehe...

st - Ken? Sweet?! JK. Yes he is.

nbs - Knock me over. Nbs is cheering for Ken? Are you alright? You must really hate Claude. The enemy of your enemy must be your friend right? lol.

I am blocked! I am trying to think of a solution. Really. I want them to be a family again but I have to dig myself out of the hole I made for myself. How does Kaname do it? You are right, he should bend the rules for Zero. Kaname has bent them for less than that. But it's not just the rules he has to look out for. His subjects - especially the angry, blood thirsty ones - out number him and then we have the fact that Zero killed like twenty Vampire Hunters - okay I exaggerate - but they were many. They'll demand he be handed over and knowing Zero he'd probably go... Basically I have a challenge on my hands. (sigh).

Llvr1 - Thanks for the applause! (grins stupidly) You really don't care that ppl are looking at you funny when you speak to the computer? Nice! I wasn't sure Ken was even coming back until the morning of that update. I'm there lying in bed and it occurs to me where Ken is...

Nau - Nope that was all Hanata. He is a bit of a wimp. But the point is Kaname and Takahashi are appointing disposables and incompetents to that post so Zero never gets caught, though they appear to be trying very hard to do so. I keep toying with the idea of him getting his own back though. It is quite cruel of Kaname rescuing Zero and then shouting at his HOTF for not catching him. Man, did I just say that?

I know. It is very sad about Ken. All the more so when you think about when he chooses to act. He was trying so hard to not clue Zero in to his existence, sitting in a glass case looking at eternity. But Zero gets upset and he can't resist... That's a tortured soul. You know, I should probably show this in the story! Ah well...

"Consumed with curiosity"? Nice!! I'm doing quite well I think! But try to remember I love angst. May torture Zero and the others emotionally at any moment.

Bb7 - A Ken/Zero fic? I don't know. Nbs may disown me... But probably, if i think of something cool - sorry nbs.

s-m - I don't believe this! Just when my muse started depending on you and Nau to drive her you both flake out on me. What do you mean you are confused?! I won't hear of it. Make a guess. Go on!

I did try to not make it predictable. I mean, I want all of you to enjoy yourselves.

Did you mean it about Zero?! I'm so happy! I was sure he was too sappy and maudlin. I wanted him more like BW's but I fail miserably because I have to guess how would a tortured, two hundred year old act. Teenagers are impulsive and can draw guns at will, but someone two centuries old with much experience in most things - except women... I have to fix that - would act differently. Kaname doesn't change much because there is no competition really to force him to, but Zero is weaker. He had to adapt. It's been such a bone of contention with many of the first readers of this story that I really wondered if I was doing the right thing. He still has his temper though.

What do you have against Ken? Really? He is so sweet. But you are right. It would get complicated with all of them vying like that. Hmmm...

PD - I with you!! I like Ken for Zero. But... I like Kaname for Zero, in a way. Somehow I feel their love is stronger because of how they have been through hell together and still seem to survive. K/Z...

12nthg - thanks! How's yesterday for you?

nuc - Thanks! I guess you are new here! (giggle). Do check out if you want fantastic FF.net VK yaoi: Blackened Wing, IncaGold, Yumiii, Clue-Sama, YenGirl, Sagakure, Lawchan... Geez, I want to remember... Um... (Gives up as refuses to do research). Just put in the search terms in the VK fanfic site. Most of it is actually very good. Nineorchids!! Sorry! She just popped into my head.

Hey, did anyone notice I don't drive from chapter 58. No? Good.

LP

02/14/2009: Happy Valentine's Day Everybody! I am so late. It's already tomorrow for many people but still, it's the thought that counts.

LP

02/10/2009:r-k - thanks! No problem about the questions. It means actual interest! I am so flattered!!

Anyway, I had envisioned the twins to be about fourteen when Ken died. Ken was twenty-something - I forget now what exactly - when he challenged Kaname. He had finished school and was running the companies etc. Therefore Zero and he were "together" a long time. I probably didn't make it clear but I remember thinking it so I guess I went with that. I will reread and make sure.

I wrote Sacrifices a long time before I decided on APFU. The characters' motivations are different even if the setting is similar. I did borrow heavily from Sacrifices but they are separate stories. Kaname may have more children but at present it doesn't suit me to make him have seven.

Oh no! Kaname isn't attracted to Seiren and Seiren takes her job very seriously. They are like... Kaname and Seiren. Um... Well anyway, he put his hand around her waist to lead her to the window and lift her to somewhere where they can talk safely - the implication being that the office may have been bugged. I didn't intend for it to look too intimate. But they are in a way. Until a hundred years ago, Kaname sort of "owned" her...

Well, the last is an easy question. He's not fulfilling a duty anymore. Kaname is just plain having affairs. Look at him: he's hot, sexy and has women throwing themselves at him all the time. He's sensual and lives for pleasure. I portray vampires as very hedonistic, so while Kaname is a hero in the piece, I wanted him to be the ultimate vampire and a male of the species. I can just see him following someone he likes with his eyes and deciding to take it, simply for pleasure. Of course, he keeps all of that away from the very sensitive Zero, whose same sensitivity and weakness he exploits to keep him from straying himself. Yes, I still love him though.

Llvr1 - thank you! To be mentioned with the likes of BW is so cool. She has a wonderful imagination which she puts to very good use. Those of you in love with FF.net yoai should definitely check her out. And SGK and YG, and IG and... others that don't come to mind now...

I do love L. I was so annoyed when he was killed off and these two kids replaced him. I almost stopped reading - like I did with Naruto when they put Sasuke in a drum. But I got through it and loved Light's sticky end. In fact my name was from a rather grammatically silly chapter title "Light Pathetic!" of a scanlation of "Death Note". It just stuck with me after I was like "What did that mean?" even though I was struck by how dramatic it sounded. It was either that name or "Hot Gimmick". Lol. Another manga title that just sounded cool.

Thanks and I hope you are doing great as well! Glad you liked the chapter.

s-m - I was just pulling your leg, although that was what I had in mind. So just to make it interesting I pushed myself a bit and came up with something slightly different. I hope you don't see what's coming next - but you probably do (sigh).

Anyway, I will try to respect your wishes as far as length and excitement for the next chapter, but who said Claude wasn't another Ken? Who?? How did that rumour start?

dar - thanks!! Sorry about the cliffie but unfortunately when I get stuck, you do to. You all have to suffer along with me!!

Zero, a pure-blood mediator? Easily! He's lived among them for so long. Can you imagine breaking up a fight between Kane and Kaori? The poor guy must have lots of experience.

oz - thanks! So glad you are enjoying it? Hanata? You may have a point there...

PD - Thanks! I think your life is what you make of it. All that whining. Tsk, tsk. Maybe Zero needs a lesson...

Nau - Aaaahhh!! My plot!! Again!! Whyyyy! What is this? A conspiracy between you and s-m to make my brain fry?! I'm sorry, you'll just have to be bored to tears when you read the next chapter. Thanks for the review!!

nbs - All will be revealed, as they say. And yes Kane will be back. Patience grasshopper.

LP

Replies to reviews are now in the forum that isn't doing too much at the moment. This is best because the answers are archived and I don't have to erase anything. Did I mention I was lazy?

08-02-2008: Review replies are up in forum for APFU. Thanks you all again for your patience.

08-02-08: Hi. I wanted to say to ANON ("Tenderness") that Kaname doesn't pay for sex. He is one of few pure-bloods. He is much sought after (like groupies) and is fulfilling a natural drive. I know famous, gorgeous people do pay for sex but they are not one of the last men on this earth. I had to say that. I couldn't bear to not rebut that point. Also men operate differently - so I am told. They can have sex and see it as just an urge and pleasure and then make love and mean it. Kaname has sex with these women, but he makes love to Zero. The difference? He cares about Zero's pleasure and cuddles Zero afterwards... I will make that clearer in the story. Somehow...

I see your point about the imagery and onomatopoeia (words when pronounced sound the same way the sounds are made in real life e.g. "poof!!") - just don't take my suspension points away from me! I am a lazy writer. I rave over everyone else that does the imagery and detailed description and do the opposite myself.

Shout Out:

To all you very supportive people who bother to review. Thanks!

To nbs: Thanks for reviewing even if I drive you crazy sometimes. I really appreciate your kind words when I most need them. Thanks!

To ZD: I can't believe I haven't put something permanent here just for you until now. To you, who always review and make all the writers feel truly special for making the effort, Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. And thank you for the 200 review on APFU and the first on the new one TK - I was so nervous until you said it was good. Bless you.

To oz: Thank you very much for your continuing support. It is much appreciated!

To aoh: Thank you very much as well. I hope I can keep your interest well into the future.

To BW: I am still blushing. I am very touched by your words in the review. Thank you very much!

Sister swayed by my tears and allows me regular access to her laptop - she lives elsewhere. This one is for her. YAAAYYYYY SIS!!

To SG who immediately puts me at ease when I am so nervous about the reception of a chapter. Thanks!

To MPE who keeps me on my "realistic" toes. Thanks! - You want blood from a stone MPE. Zero/Yuuki doesn't quite inspire me the same way - if you get what I'm saying. I am keeping your request in mind though.

Finally got a review for "Reunion". And it was good! Yayyy!! So happy. Thanks SP.

Name:

lightpathetic - but you can call me LP.

Stories:

They are mostly - ok nearly all - VK fanfiction. Those two - Kaname and Zero - have really stolen my imagination. Well, when my imagination wants to be stolen. I am also dying to do something with Berserk - Griffith/Gutts - but a plot escapes me. Maybe, someday. Griffith is too yummy. I love strong, intelligent men.

I love the one story I did from BOTI but it would be simply too much research to continue it. Complete fiction and the future is one thing - anything goes - but history is its own headache... I'll probably have someone listening to the radio in the shower and it will go downhill from there. But I won't say never. I may get the inspiration to continue. Thank you to those of you who read and reviewed.

Story 1 - A Strange Relationship -- Would you believe this was going to stay a one-shot? Finished at chapter 18. Kaname/Zero!

Story 2 - Reunion -- Poor neglected story. At least I thought it was funny...

Story 3 - Strange AU -- Finished at Part V. Hope you all like it. Just superimpose it on what was the final scene in the the original story and there you have your happy ending.

Story 4 - Love Is Enough -- Third in the series. That is if you accept the alternative ending.

Story 5 - Mature Kink -- Finished at MK VII. Whew! I have to say that was the hardest K/Z fanfic yet. Don't forget: suggestions for improvements always welcome.

Story 6 - Sacrifices - I know but I thought it was interesting...

Story 7 - A Place For Us - Envisaged as a very long, dramatic piece offering a glimpse into Zero's life with the Kurans - Hopefully it will remain interesting to you all. If not, tell me please! I will try to think of something fresh meanwhile...

Story 8 - The Kindness -- An answer to a fan's request that intrigued me. I know, I was thinking about it for weeks and that is all I came up with, but it was hard, especially with writing lemon. Anyway I hope it is what you wanted!

Story 9 - Tenderness -- Kaname is very much in love with Zero and it shows.

Story 10 - ASR chapter 15 Revisited -- Terrible title but it says what it means.

Story 11 - Pure Blood -- It's evolving into a romance...

Story 12 - Moonlight -- Because I missed Ken so much, an excerpt from their life together.

Story 13 - Doubt -- An excuse for some threesome smut with Yuuki, Kaname and Zero. Blame Blackened Wing's teasing ending for FHM. Don't do it to yourself if it's not your thing.

Cool pairings:

Kaname/Zero, Anotsu/Rin, Gutts/Griffith

Confessions (not yet exhaustive):

- Am addicted to (good) manga and, once found, would exclude all else to read it.

- Can't get past that fire-ball mummies stage in Lara Croft - Angel of Darkness and feel like a loser.

- Am a terrible procrastinator. No deadlines, no hope.

- I am Lazy, Lazy, Lazy.

-Finished my first multi-chapter. Felt good!

-"A Strange Relationship" was the first story I have ever written outside of school assignments. I am so surprised at the result! Chapter 30 just inspired me so much. I think it was the chapter in which Kaname brought the cursed doll for Zero as a joke and I thought "Gee this boring kid actually has a sense of humour! Maybe considers Zero a friend - at least worth the trouble of teasing. Maybe there is more to him than meets the eye." And thats how it started. If it wasn't for the "cursed doll" present - not the bite because I was expecting that - there wouldn't have been this story. Funny huh.

Vampires 101:

1. There are five levels of vampire in their society: A - pure blood; B - nobles; C - normal vampires; D - ex-human; E - insane ex-human. Ex-humans are looked down upon by all the vampires in classes A-C as they are not true vampires and are made by the pure-bloods, mostly as slaves or accidentally after they were destined to be dinner. Ex-human "slaves" can be used for any purpose by the pure-bloods - for blood or other pleasurable pursuits and gender is according to whatever is the preference of the pure-blood - sexual preference, as well as certain interests, the mood of the pure-blood, boredom etc. It is perfectly normal in their society for pure-bloods to have such "subjugated" ex-human vampires that exist entirely for pleasure/blood. The ex-humans are like pets and are seen as such. The trouble occurs where an A-C class vampire falls for or maintains a "serious" relationship with an ex-human vampire. It is completely frowned upon and discouraged.

For vampires as long as something is pleasurable it will be done - so gender is not an issue. However it will be if an A-B class vampire is in a same sex relationship as the family would normally expect heirs. There would be familial/social pressure to conform to hetero-sexual relationships, maybe having the affair, with an equal, quietly on the side.

2. (My, this is late in coming S.G. Anyway here goes.) I have to admit that I envisioned Kaname as being deliberately obtuse when he talked about getting Zero children. They say love is blind and he wanted to be blind to the fact that just any child won't do. I also meant it to be slightly (? okay very) disturbing given Kaname's determination to get what he wants. So it was conceivable that our main vampire may have kidnapped, adopted, impregnated a slave, bought one, or had a surrogate to get any baby. In other words he would have been relentless and he would have been effective, knowing him as we do ( -- not the royal we S.G. lol), just to please Zero. But hey, don't hate him yet. It was during a "possessive" rant after all. We are all irrational during those...

Inconsolable:

I know H. I love Zero too, but realistically I feel he would lose, a lot, to Kaname's autocratic and powerful nature. At least he is getting (some) explanations for why Kaname chooses to do as he does - this definitely shows his high regard for Zero.

To MPE: I hear you girl! I will try for more Yuuki. But you must appreciate that I envisioned this as a short Shonen-ai piece with Kaname/Zero - the two that really hold my heart (yummy) - and Yuuki is essentially in the way of that! LOL. Anyway, it is true that they are both really in love with her - though Kaname, poor guy, doesn't really know what to think anymore with this blood-bond thing.

OOPPS!! Thanks AP. I reread and realised that the grammar was not cool in many parts of the chapters. I do get so enthused that I miss quite a bit. But some are just the flow of words in my head. So I begin sentences with conjunctions and throw punctuation and suspension points (ellipses) EVERYWHERE (lol) - kids don't try this at home. I will re-up...soon (see procrastination confession above).