Chapter 161 – The Queen's Table
It was supposed to be a quiet morning.
Until Alex stood in the hallway with a calm expression and said, "Everyone get dressed. I'm teleporting us."
Ciel, ever graceful, smiled and adjusted her sleeves. "To Mircella's castle?"
"Yes."
Airi froze mid-step, comb pin in hand. "…You're serious."
Hanabi choked on her juice. "You're insane."
Alex gave a slow nod. "Also prepared."
Within the hour, Ciel had tied her hair in a smooth braid with golden thread, Airi was in a deep indigo formal kimono with embroidered sakura petals, and Hanabi had chosen her sleeveless red battle dress — because "if one of them tries something, I'm drop-kicking someone off a balcony."
Alex wore simple black: coat, shirt, boots. No weapons. Just quiet power wrapped in composure.
They stood in the garden.
The wind was calm.
The sky open.
And with one breath—
Alex teleported them.
The air changed instantly.
Stone. Twilight. Roses.
They arrived inside the outer chamber of Castle Nocturne, the royal sanctuary of the Crimson Court — where mortals rarely walked and none did so uninvited.
Massive windows framed distant mountain peaks bathed in silver moonlight. Thick velvet banners hung from spiked rafters. The scent of blood roses floated in the air — dark, rich, and dangerously sweet.
Hanabi looked around, frowning. "This smells like a perfume ad for immortal temptation."
Airi stepped forward, every muscle coiled. "This is a trap. I feel at least five seal layers around the walls."
Ciel smiled softly. "It's beautiful."
Alex simply said: "They're coming."
And then—
The double doors opened.
Two figures entered together.
First, Mircella — dressed in flowing black and crimson silk trimmed in white lace. Her heart-shaped hairpin matched her sharp gaze, and she wore her usual smug expression... until her eyes locked on Alex.
Then she ran.
"MINE—!"
She launched straight at him, ignoring every ounce of royal decorum, and tackled him into a hug that nearly knocked him over.
"You came!" she beamed, burying her face in his chest. "I've been thinking about you every night. I even tried to recreate your soup!"
"It nearly killed three servants," came a voice behind her.
Queen Ileana Draculesti walked in like a goddess sculpted from dusk — pale skin, long obsidian hair trailing behind her, a black crown resting lightly on her head. Her crimson gown flowed like liquid satin, and her presence filled the room with impossible weight.
She stopped a few paces away.
And smiled.
"I didn't expect you to arrive with guests," she said smoothly, eyes trailing over each girl beside Alex. "But I'm pleased you've come."
Airi stepped forward first, posture flawless. "We came to talk. Not to surrender."
Hanabi cracked her neck. "I'm here to make sure nobody drinks anyone."
Ciel simply bowed, serene and glowing. "We thank you for receiving us. This is not a challenge… but a beginning."
Queen Ileana's eyes lingered on her.
"You're the one I haven't met."
"I am."
"…You're the most dangerous one here."
Ciel smiled. "Only if necessary."
Mircella poked her head up from Alex's arms and scowled at the group. "You brought your entire harem, didn't you?"
Alex sighed. "That's why we're here."
Ciel nodded. "To prevent bloodshed. Future misunderstandings. Emotional catastrophes."
Queen Ileana turned to her daughter. "You'll behave."
Mircella huffed. "I am behaving."
"You tackled him."
"Respectfully."
Ciel stepped forward. "We'd like to propose a gathering. A proper one. With expectations, boundaries, and truth."
Alex added, "No games. No politics. Just honesty."
Queen Ileana studied the group in silence.
Then… she smiled.
"I accept."
She turned and gestured toward the throne hall.
"Come, then. If we are to speak as equals—"
She looked at Alex.
"—let us see if your heart can handle royalty, rebellion… and reason."
Mircella skipped ahead.
Hanabi followed, muttering, "Try anything weird and I'm summoning fire."
Airi stepped with poise.
Ciel walked like a breeze.
And Alex…
Alex followed them all.
Into a future more terrifying than war.
A harem negotiation. In a vampire queen's castle.
What could possibly go wrong?
Chapter 162 – The Harem Negotiation Begins
The throne hall of Castle Nocturne was nothing short of intimidating. Massive pillars rose like obsidian trees, draped in crimson silks that moved without wind. At the far end stood two thrones—one regal and towering, draped in black and silver—and beside it, a smaller but equally ornate seat carved in deep rosewood and stained with ritual marks.
Queen Ileana Draculesti sat on the greater throne like a shadow of law incarnate.
Mircella, legs swinging gently, sat beside her—less queen, more mischievous royal cat.
Alex stood at the center of the grand floor.
And before him, in a line facing the thrones—
Ciel. Airi. Hanabi.
The three girls stood like an envoy of contrasts: light, steel, and flame.
The hall was quiet.
A ceremonial servant stepped forward with a long scroll, bowed, and announced:
"Proceedings of Shared Claim and Mutual Affection for Alex Elwood will now begin."
Alex nearly choked.
Hanabi whispered, "You owe me ten lives for this, Elwood."
Ciel remained serene.
Queen Ileana gave a nod. "Let each candidate speak their truth. No lies. No bloodshed. No interruption."
Mircella leaned on her elbow. "Unless it's funny."
"Ciel," Alex said quietly. "Would you begin?"
She stepped forward, barefoot, with grace that calmed the entire hall. Her voice was soft but unwavering.
"My name is Ciel, born from the World Frontier, reborn into form by Alex's will.
I am not human, but I have chosen to live among them—because of him.
I do not seek to dominate or possess.
I only wish to remain by his side.
If others love him, I will not deny them.
I offer peace, understanding, and unwavering care.
What I ask… is only a place where I may continue to walk with him, to love him, and to help those who love him not fall apart."
She stepped back.
Silence.
Queen Ileana's eyes narrowed slightly, as if trying to read past her words.
Mircella whispered, "She's like a cup of warm light. Annoying."
Alex nodded once. "Thank you, Ciel."
He turned to the next.
"Airi."
Airi stepped forward. Her expression was poised, but her voice carried steel.
"I am Tachibana Airi, heir to the Tachibana exorcist family.
I am human—and yet, I am willing to stand against monsters, gods, and fate itself for him.
I do not offer comfort. I offer protection.
I will not share blindly, nor will I yield my heart without reason.
But if I must walk among others who love him, I will not run.
I ask only for clarity—never to be a shadow.
I love him. And I intend to marry him."
She bowed once and returned to her place.
Hanabi grunted softly.
Ciel gave her a tiny approving nod.
Ileana studied her. "A blade made into a woman. Cold, but tempered."
Mircella whispered, "She's hot when she's angry."
Alex didn't respond.
His ears were already pink.
"Hanabi," he said next.
The fox-tailed girl strutted forward, fiery-eyed and proud. She didn't bother with deep bows or old words.
"Name's Fushikawa Hanabi. I burn things. I kiss him. I sleep in his bed.
I don't have a noble title, but I've bled and laughed and fought beside him.
I'm not polite. I'm not delicate. But I'm real.
I love him like wildfire. I want to wake up beside him every day.
I won't lie and say I like sharing. I hate it.
But if I must… I'll fight beside you, not against you—so long as you don't forget that I'm here first.
I offer him passion, loyalty, and the promise that if he falls… I'll burn down the world to bring him back."
She stepped back, arms crossed, tail twitching.
Mircella gave a low whistle. "I like her."
Queen Ileana's eyes glinted. "Raw. Undisciplined. But true."
Alex took a breath.
Then turned to the dais.
"Mircella. Queen Ileana. Would you like to respond?"
Mircella stood, straightening her ribboned dress and adjusting her heart-shaped hairclip.
"I'm not here to ask permission," she said brightly. "I'm here to announce: I love him. I've kissed him. I've tasted his blood. I plan to marry him when he turns eighteen."
She smiled wide. "I don't care if I'm first, second, or last. I'm staying."
Queen Ileana rose next.
And the entire hall dimmed slightly under her presence.
She spoke like velvet stretched over iron.
"I am Ileana Draculesti, Queen of the Crimson Court, devourer of nations, daughter of night.
I have ruled for centuries.
But in all that time, no blood has ever moved me—until I tasted his.
I do not desire children's games.
I wish for power, legacy, and eternity.
He has all three.
I will wait until he is of age.
Then I will offer my hand, my throne, and my fangs.
And if he refuses—"
She paused.
Then smiled faintly.
"—I will still protect him. Even if it means loving him from the dark."
The room was quiet.
Ciel bowed.
Airi lowered her head respectfully.
Hanabi folded her arms tighter and exhaled slowly.
Alex stood tall at the center, the weight of five hearts around him.
But no swords had been drawn.
Not yet.
Ciel spoke softly.
"Now we begin."
The throne hall remained quiet after Queen Ileana's declaration.
The echoes of each girl's vow still lingered — fierce, elegant, and heartfelt. Even the servants had withdrawn, sensing the gravity of what was now unfolding. What began as an awkward confrontation was becoming something else: an agreement of hearts, drawn like lines in an ancient contract.
Ciel gently cleared her throat and stepped forward once again, her presence luminous, calm.
"We've all stated our intentions. But intentions without understanding still lead to war." She unfolded a small parchment — one she had prepared ahead of time, of course. "We'll now proceed with boundaries and questions. Everyone will answer honestly. We'll respect all responses."
Hanabi muttered, "This is starting to feel like a group therapy session."
"You need it," Airi replied flatly.
Mircella whispered, "What's therapy?"
Ciel smiled as though she didn't hear them and continued, "First question. What level of affection is acceptable in public when others are present?"
There was a beat of silence.
Then Hanabi raised a hand lazily. "Kisses on the cheek and forehead: fine. Full mouth kissing? Not in front of me unless you want to be tackled."
Airi nodded firmly. "Agreed. I don't need to see tongues. That's private."
Mircella pouted. "But he's cute when he gets flustered."
Queen Ileana spoke coolly, "Then cherish the memory privately. There's a difference between seduction and sabotage."
Ciel turned to Alex. "And you?"
Alex sighed. "No kisses during meals. Or sword training."
Hanabi: "Wait, who was kissing you during sword training?!"
Mircella raised her hand proudly.
Airi looked away. "Disgraceful."
Ciel jotted notes. "Conclusion: light affection is allowed. Deeper affection requires privacy or consent from everyone present."
"Why does it sound like we're forming a magical contract?" Hanabi muttered.
Ciel smiled serenely. "Because we are."
She continued, "Next question. If a new girl appears and claims past affection—"
Alex groaned. "Why is this about me again?"
"Because it always is," Hanabi said.
"—do we accept her immediately, or vote as a group?" Ciel finished.
Airi raised her hand. "I vote for a background check, soul scan, and interrogation first."
Hanabi nodded. "And a duel."
Mircella grinned. "I volunteer as executioner."
Ciel clapped her hands once, politely. "Proposal passed. New girls must undergo a verification process."
Alex muttered, "So now I need a passport for romance."
Ciel flipped to the final parchment.
"Last question. What do we fear most in this arrangement? No jokes. Honest answers."
The mood shifted.
Hanabi leaned back, arms folded, but her voice was low.
"…That I'll be forgotten. That someday, I'll wake up and he won't look at me the same."
Airi was quiet for a long moment.
"…That I'll always feel second. That I'll give everything, and it'll never be enough."
Mircella stared into her lap, ears pink.
"…That I'll wait, like I promised. But by the time I can be with him, he'll have no space left for me."
Queen Ileana, surprisingly, answered as well.
"…That loving him will weaken me. And I'll let it happen anyway."
Ciel looked at them all.
Then smiled softly.
"…I fear that I'll hold everything together for too long… and someday, no one will notice when I start to fall apart."
They all fell silent.
Even Alex.
He stepped forward quietly, until he stood between them.
And said — not loudly, but clearly:
"I won't let any of you be forgotten."
He looked at Airi. "You're not second. You never were."
He turned to Hanabi. "I've seen the way you love. And I'll never unsee it."
To Mircella. "You waited for me. I'll wait for you too."
And to Ciel.
"You were the first. You're still holding me up. But when you fall, I'll catch you."
Ciel smiled — eyes warm, lashes soft with emotion.
For once, no one spoke.
No teasing.
No quips.
Just quiet hearts beating in shared understanding.
Then—
Hanabi sniffed. "Okay, if one more girl shows up, I swear—"
"I'm setting fire to the next one," Airi said immediately.
"Dibs on first blood," Mircella added cheerfully.
Ciel nodded. "I'll bring extra chairs."
Alex sighed.
Again.
Deeply.
But this time… with the faintest hint of a smile.
Chapter 163 – Under a Sky That Knows No Rivalry
Later that night, after the throne hall had emptied and the last formal words faded into memory, Alex stood alone on the upper terrace of Castle Nocturne.
The sky above was a mirror of endless stars, silent and ancient, unmoved by thrones, bloodlines, or declarations of love. The wind was cool, carrying the faint scent of roses, stone, and midnight.
He leaned on the railing, hands relaxed, gaze turned skyward.
He had faced gods. Rewritten souls. Ended legends.
And yet tonight, surrounded by love he didn't seek but couldn't ignore…
He felt tired.
Not defeated.
Just full.
Of decisions. Of hearts. Of weight.
A soft rustle behind him broke the quiet.
He didn't turn.
He didn't need to.
Ciel stepped beside him, barefoot, the hem of her robe brushing marble. Her presence didn't disturb the wind — it folded around her like it was grateful she existed.
"You held yourself well," she said gently, eyes also on the stars.
"I felt like a deer in a summoning circle," Alex muttered.
She smiled faintly. "You only looked like one once. When Mircella called you hers."
"She said it too easily."
"She meant it," Ciel replied softly.
He exhaled, slow. "They all meant it."
"Yes."
He glanced at her, just once. "And you?"
She didn't answer immediately.
Instead, she leaned gently against his arm, letting the side of her face rest against his shoulder.
"I meant it first."
Alex didn't respond right away.
But his hand rose instinctively, fingers brushing through her hair — slowly, tenderly, like he was afraid she might vanish again if he touched her too strongly.
"You never asked anything from me," he said.
"I didn't have to."
He looked at her now, properly — her face lit by moonlight, gold eyes shimmering faintly. There was no jealousy. No demand. Just peace.
And something deeper.
Devotion.
"But that doesn't mean I don't want anything," she added softly.
His hand paused. "Then ask."
Ciel's voice was almost a whisper. "When the others fight… when they claim pieces of you… I don't mind."
She looked up at him, gaze glowing.
"But when you're tired, when you're unsure… when the weight gets too heavy—I want you to fall into me."
She placed a hand over his chest, just above his heart.
"I want to be where you rest."
For a long moment, Alex said nothing.
Then he leaned forward.
And kissed her.
Not with fire.
Not with confusion.
But with quiet.
With clarity.
Ciel's breath caught — and then melted into the kiss, arms wrapping around his waist, fingers curling into his shirt. She tilted her head slightly, deepening the contact just enough to let him know:
I'm still here.
When they finally broke apart, she leaned against him once more.
"You're not alone, Alex."
He closed his eyes.
"I know."
And above them, the stars — countless, patient, and unjudging — watched over them both.
The morning light in Castle Nocturne was silver, not gold — filtered through cold clouds and enchanted glass. It bathed the meeting room in a soft, near-luminescent glow, as though the world itself was holding its breath.
A long, round table had been prepared in a quiet side chamber. No throne. No dais. No guards.
Only cushions. Teacups.
And five girls.
Ciel, seated in the center, as always — calm, composed, and gently smiling.
Airi, crisp and regal, her hands folded neatly on her lap, her sword sheathed at her side like a final word waiting to be spoken.
Hanabi, arms crossed, one leg draped over the other, tail twitching behind her in subtle impatience, eyes sharp but… not hostile.
Mircella, draped in soft velvet, kicking her legs playfully beneath the table, but watching everyone with hidden calculation behind her bright expression.
And finally—
Queen Ileana, seated with perfect posture, her presence somehow both unassuming and crushing. A goddess in a black dress, sipping blood-laced tea like it were the morning dew.
Alex stood at the doorway, silently watching.
Not joining.
Because this moment… wasn't his.
It belonged to them.
Ciel was the first to speak.
"Thank you all for coming."
"Was it optional?" Hanabi muttered.
"Emotionally, yes. Strategically, no."
Ileana smirked. "She's sharp. I see why you trust her."
Ciel inclined her head, then looked at each of them in turn.
"We are no longer guessing. The truth is known. We all love Alex."
Airi's jaw tensed slightly.
Mircella nodded. "Obviously."
Hanabi looked away. "…Yeah."
Ciel continued, voice steady.
"But love without clarity becomes a weapon. It cuts us. Or him. Or both."
She placed both hands on the table.
"So let's define it. Right now. What are we? What do we want to be?"
Silence.
Then—
Airi spoke.
"I won't lie. I didn't want this." Her voice was firm. "I wanted to be the only one. His one and only. But that's not the world we live in anymore. And I can't ask him to erase hearts he's already accepted."
She turned to Hanabi, then to Ciel.
"I won't compete blindly. But I will stand beside him. Proudly. And if this is a family… then I'll act like it."
Airi met eyes with Mircella. "Even if it includes you."
Mircella blinked, then smiled. "Generous. A little cold. But generous."
She stretched her arms behind her head.
"I already said I'm not leaving. But…" she looked at Ciel. "I respect you. All of you. Even if I don't like sharing, I'd rather be in a room with rivals I can laugh with than one where I'm alone on a throne."
She glanced toward the window, quiet for once.
"I don't want to be the only one who loves him. I want to be the one who loves him longest."
Hanabi sighed. Loudly.
Then leaned forward.
"Fine. I'll say it. I hate this. I hate planning affection. I hate scheduled kisses. I hate calling rivals sisters."
She looked directly at Ciel.
"But I hate the thought of losing him more."
Her voice softened.
"I'll fight with you. Not against you. Just don't ever… forget that I love him like it's the last thing holding me together."
And then—
Queen Ileana set her cup down.
Her voice, smooth and regal, filled the space.
"I am not mortal. I have seen kingdoms fall and eras turn to dust. I do not yield. I do not beg."
She looked at them all.
"But I love him."
That alone stunned the room.
She continued, voice lower.
"I do not love easily. And I do not love many. But what I feel for Alex… is not political. It is not tactical. It is mine. And if he allows me… I will stay by his side for eternity. As Queen. As wife. As something more."
She paused.
Then added, with quiet grace:
"But I will not destroy what he values. So if this is the form love must take… I will learn it."
Ciel nodded.
Then looked around the table.
And said:
"Then we are agreed."
She reached out, her hand open.
Slowly—
Airi placed hers atop it.
Then Hanabi.
Then Mircella, grinning.
Then Queen Ileana, her fingers pale and cool.
A harem pact.
Not sealed by magic.
But by choice.
By love, restrained and reshaped.
By the understanding that Alex did not belong to one of them — he belonged with them.
Together.
Alex watched from the doorway, unmoving.
And for the first time in a long while…
He didn't feel trapped.
He felt trusted.
Chapter 164 – A Strange, Beautiful Harmony
The castle felt different.
Not colder. Not darker. But quieter in a way that felt full — like the deep breath before music begins.
The harem negotiation had ended. No one had stormed out. No swords had clashed. No flames had been thrown.
What lingered in the halls now wasn't tension.
It was peace.
A strange, delicate peace.
But real.
In the rose garden that afternoon, Ciel sat beneath a canopy with a small teapot beside her, gently pouring cups for everyone present. She moved slowly, gracefully — like someone used to holding together fragile things, even when she herself was tired.
To her right, Airi sat in a navy yukata, reading quietly, her sheathed blade resting beside her on the bench. Every now and then, she glanced up and listened — not with suspicion anymore, but genuine interest in the conversations around her.
Across from her, Hanabi leaned on the table, slurping a fruit soda and tossing cherry stems into a nearby cup. Her posture was lazy. Her smile was real.
"So," Hanabi said, nudging a plate of sweets forward, "how do vampires feel about daifuku?"
"I prefer fresh blood," said Mircella, lounging nearby in a red-velvet dress, "but this is acceptable." She took a bite and blinked. "Very acceptable."
Ileana, seated with eerie elegance at the far end of the table, crossed one leg over the other and sipped red tea from a bone-china cup. "I can admit, it is… delightfully chewy."
Hanabi grinned. "Welcome to carbs, your majesty."
Ciel giggled softly. "Would you like to try a croquette next?"
Queen Ileana blinked. "Is that the one with potato and... meat?"
"Yes."
"…Very well."
Airi looked up from her book. "If you put ketchup on it, I'm leaving the room."
Hanabi leaned over with an impish smile. "Is that a boundary?"
"It's a law."
Mircella grinned. "You're all weird. I love this."
They weren't friends yet.
Not exactly.
But something was happening.
They laughed. They shared. They listened.
Even Airi passed Ciel a page in her book and asked for her thoughts. Even Hanabi offered Mircella a ribbon "because it matches your royal brat energy." Even Ileana offered to teach Airi how to reinforce barrier wards — and Airi didn't refuse.
There were no passive-aggressive jabs.
No venom behind the smiles.
Just… comfort.
Mutual recognition.
Even when they spoke of Alex — and they did, often — it was no longer a battlefield.
They spoke of how he overcooked the miso sometimes.
How he stared too long at the stars.
How he'd stop mid-step if someone looked sad.
"I watched him once from a roof," Mircella admitted. "He didn't notice I was there. He helped a child find her lost ring for twenty minutes."
Hanabi smiled. "He once let me nap on his shoulder during a field mission. Didn't even shift."
"I was sick last year," Airi said quietly. "He brought me soup at school. Said nothing. Just left it on my desk."
Ciel didn't speak.
She just placed a hand on her chest and closed her eyes.
They all fell silent.
Not awkwardly.
But with shared warmth.
Queen Ileana looked over the rim of her teacup.
"…Perhaps," she said, "we will not tear each other apart after all."
Hanabi shrugged. "Depends. You try to bite him in front of me, and we'll see."
Mircella raised her hand. "Can I bite his arm?"
Airi deadpanned, "Only if we're allowed to slap yours in return."
Ciel poured another round of tea.
"Let's not bite anyone today."
They all nodded.
Almost in sync.
That night, when Alex returned to the room they now shared, he expected tension.
Instead, he found five pillows arranged neatly on the bed. A handwritten note rested on top, in Ciel's delicate handwriting:
Tonight, no fighting. No rules. Just sleep.
You're safe. We're learning. We're still here.
And beside the note:
Five hearts, drawn in a circle.
Alex walked the length of Castle Nocturne's eastern wing with silent footsteps, the corridor lit only by distant blue flame sconces and silver moonlight filtering through stained glass.
He was tired.
Not from battle. Not from spellwork. But from… diplomacy.
His footsteps paused when he reached the ornate door at the end of the hallway.
His room.
Or, rather, the one Queen Ileana had assigned him for his stay — "fit for a consort or a king."
He sighed, pushed it open—
And stopped.
The room was grand. Quiet. The fireplace glowed softly. Velvet curtains fluttered like shadows in motion. But none of that held his attention.
What did… was the bed.
It was massive.
Easily enough space for six people, layered in black silk sheets and fluffed with crimson pillows. Rose petals had been scattered across the top like someone had confused this for a honeymoon suite.
And at the center of it all… a small note.
He walked over and picked it up.
"Shared territory. One night only. No fighting. Love, Ciel."
Before he could groan—
The door creaked open behind him.
He turned.
Ciel entered first, in a soft, pale robe with gold trim, her silver hair brushed and tied loosely. She walked in like starlight made human and offered a peaceful smile.
"I told them. No drama tonight."
Before Alex could respond, the next one appeared.
Hanabi, dressed in red sleeping shorts and a black tank top, carrying a pillow under one arm like a weapon. Her hair was down, tail swaying lazily behind her.
"I'm sleeping on your right," she said firmly. "Touch me and you die. Unless I touch you first."
Then came Airi, clad in a midnight-blue nightgown with a sash tied precisely. She said nothing, but the faint pink in her cheeks betrayed her calm expression.
"I'm sleeping on the left," she announced, walking past him. "I brought my own blanket. Don't touch it."
Behind her, Mircella entered with absolutely zero hesitation — wearing frilly lace-trimmed pajamas and no shame. She jumped straight onto the bed.
"Middle is mine," she declared, sprawling. "If anyone wants it, fight me."
Alex blinked. "You can't take the middle. That's where I sleep."
Mircella grinned. "Then I guess we're sharing~"
And finally—
Queen Ileana stepped in last.
She wore a sleek black nightdress that revealed nothing but suggested everything. Her hair was tied loosely to one side, and she moved like shadow incarnate.
"I will take the window side," she said simply. "I do not snore. But I may hum ancient hymns in my sleep."
Alex turned in slow disbelief.
"Five people. One bed."
Ciel smiled. "Neutral territory, remember?"
Hanabi flopped back and stretched. "Ciel said if anyone starts a fight tonight, she's kicking them out with a spell seal on their mouths."
Airi muttered, "She's serious, too."
Alex exhaled and rubbed his face. "Fine. Fine. But no grabbing, biting, or whispering weird things into my ear at 2 a.m."
Mircella smirked. "That feels targeted."
Ciel patted the center pillow. "Come on. We're waiting."
He looked at them.
Five beautiful, terrifying, affectionate forces of nature.
And one enormous bed.
"…I'm going to die," he muttered.
And climbed in.
Ciel curled to his right, head on his shoulder.
Airi lay on his left, hand resting lightly over the blanket they both pretended not to notice.
Hanabi pressed into his side, tail flicking behind her, already mumbling something about "better than sleeping alone."
Mircella latched onto his arm like a vine claiming a tree.
And Ileana? She didn't touch him. She didn't need to.
Her presence alone radiated through the room like a shield.
For the first time in weeks, no one argued.
No one claimed anything.
They just… rested.
And as Alex closed his eyes, five heartbeats quietly surrounded him.
Not as enemies.
Not as rivals.
But as something strange and peaceful.
Family.
Chapter 165 – Morning, Soft as Forgiveness
Morning arrived in Castle Nocturne like a dream you didn't want to wake from.
The silver-veiled curtains let in soft light from a sky that knew neither sun nor storm — just endless peace. The scent of warm roses drifted through the air, mingled with faint perfume, night-cooled stone, and the unmistakable warmth of breath shared in sleep.
Alex stirred first.
Which, under normal circumstances, would have meant a quiet exit, maybe a stretch.
Not today.
He blinked—
And realized he couldn't move.
Ciel's arms were wrapped gently around his chest, her head resting just below his chin.
Mircella had somehow curled against his right arm again, like a smug little dragon coiled around her treasure.
Airi's fingers lightly grazed his shoulder from his left side, her expression still calm even in sleep.
Hanabi was tangled near his feet, hugging a blanket and mumbling something about "noodle soup and fireballs."
And Queen Ileana?
She sat already awake at the edge of the bed — hair brushed, lips painted, regal even half-wrapped in silk. She was watching him.
Silently.
Alex blinked.
Ileana smiled.
"Good morning, my dear," she said, voice like velvet on morning glass.
He groaned softly. "How long have you been watching me?"
"Long enough to consider it a devotional act."
Before he could answer, Ciel stirred.
She blinked slowly, golden eyes warm and sleepy. Then, wordlessly, she leaned forward and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek.
"Morning," she whispered.
Then a second kiss — this time, the corner of his lips.
"Ciel—"
"I wanted to be first today," she said gently, as if explaining the weather.
Mircella wasn't having it.
She popped up like a jack-in-the-box, hair a little messy, eyes glowing faintly.
"Unacceptable. I was holding him all night. I demand my rightful tribute."
She pulled herself into his lap before anyone could stop her, grinning like royalty.
Then leaned in—and kissed him on the lips.
Soft. Bold. A little too long.
When she pulled back, she licked her lips.
"Still my favorite."
Alex blinked rapidly.
"Next," said Hanabi, sitting up suddenly with tousled hair and a pillow mark on her cheek. "I'm awake. I'm jealous. I'm fixing it."
She crawled over the blanket mountain like a sleepy fox, grabbed his face in both hands, and kissed him squarely. Her kiss was warm, playful, and just a touch possessive.
"There. Now I'm good."
Airi exhaled sharply from his left.
"…This is absurd."
Then she leaned in.
Took his chin gently in her hand.
And kissed him.
Not too soft. Not rushed. Just… precise.
When she pulled back, she didn't say anything.
But she was blushing.
Deeply.
All eyes turned to Queen Ileana.
She stood slowly, stepped to the side of the bed, and looked down at him.
"You've been tasted," she said, brushing back a strand of her hair. "Claimed. Cherished."
Her eyes softened — just slightly.
"May I?"
Alex hesitated.
Then nodded.
And she leaned in.
She didn't rush.
Her kiss was cool — deliberate — and full of centuries of restraint gently undone.
When she pulled back, she whispered in his ear:
"Happy morning, beloved."
Alex lay back against the pillows, stunned.
Ciel curled beside him again, humming softly.
Mircella reclined proudly across his lap like she'd won a game no one else was playing.
Hanabi grinned and gave him a pillow to hold.
Airi buried her red face in the blanket and muttered something about "emotional ambush."
And Queen Ileana sat beside the bed, sipping her tea.
Alex finally whispered:
"…I'm going to die from affection."
Ciel giggled softly. "Not today."
Later that morning, after clothes were changed and pillows straightened, Alex stood at the main gates of Castle Nocturne, mentally preparing himself for what was ahead.
Not a battle.
Not a spellcasting duel.
Not even a marriage proposal.
Worse.
A group outing with five powerful women who all had kissed him within the past thirty minutes.
"Where exactly are we going again?" he asked, adjusting the black high-collar coat Mircella had insisted he wear because "he looked too civilian."
"Crimsonlight District," Ciel replied, adjusting her parasol just so. "It's the cultural quarter. Open market. Royal garden. Public blood fountain."
"Don't drink the fountain," Airi muttered.
Hanabi groaned. "Can we at least agree to no more kissing in public? I need a breather."
Mircella gave her a devilish grin. "No promises."
Queen Ileana, standing at the back with an elegant black sun-shielding veil and two magically projected attendants, raised a hand. "Try not to burn anything."
Alex gave her a sidelong look. "That for me or them?"
"Yes," she replied, stepping forward. "Let's walk."
Crimsonlight was unlike anything Alex had ever seen.
Ancient gothic spires blended with sleek alchemical storefronts. Vampires of all classes walked alongside lesser spirits, bat familiars, and highborn nobles dressed in scarlet, midnight, and moonlight tones. Enchanted lanterns floated above every street, casting no shadows but shimmering against the cobblestones.
It was beautiful.
Strange.
And vaguely dangerous.
Perfect.
First stop: The Velvet Rose Market.
Airi found a black ceremonial dagger with a runed sheath and spent five minutes debating whether buying it would seem "too intense for a date."
Hanabi bartered with a fruit seller over spicy ghost peaches, tried one, and instantly coughed fire. She insisted she was fine. She was not.
Mircella bought Alex a silver-lined collar pin in the shape of a bat wing. "So they know you're mine," she said, loudly.
Ciel browsed books and ended up helping a lost child find their father, because of course she did.
Queen Ileana watched the crowd silently, but Alex noticed something: she smiled more often here. She wasn't just a ruler. She was… at home.
Second stop: The Crimsonlight Garden.
It was breathtaking — red and black roses that shimmered like gemstones, fountains that poured translucent crimson mist, bridges of boneglass arching over mirror-still water.
Ciel walked with Alex across one such bridge, her parasol resting lightly on her shoulder.
"I'm glad we came," she said.
He glanced at her. "You're not worried?"
"Of course I am. But I'd rather face the chaos than hide from it."
Below, Hanabi and Mircella were arguing over who got to sit beside Alex during lunch, using blood-petal counting as if it were dice.
Airi stood nearby, pretending to be above it all — but very clearly guarding her spot with eyes sharp as knives.
Ileana just floated slightly behind the group, radiating silent threat to anyone foolish enough to approach.
"...They're trying," Ciel said.
Alex nodded slowly. "Yeah. That's the part that scares me."
Final stop: Blood & Bone Café, a fusion restaurant with immortal aesthetics and surprisingly good tempura.
Somehow, the staff didn't flinch at the sight of the vampire queen, a fox-eyed girl, a divine spirit, a sword maiden, and a spoiled princess all sitting at one table beside one extremely exhausted-looking man.
"Table for six?" the host asked.
"No," Hanabi said. "Just five. He belongs to us."
Mircella added, "He's not paying either."
Ciel bowed politely. "We'll tip well."
Alex exhaled as he was gently herded into a booth between Airi and Ciel, with Mircella immediately stealing his jacket and Hanabi stealing two shrimp tempura off his plate.
Queen Ileana ordered one of everything and left no crumbs.
For a few hours, they weren't heirs or monsters or queens.
They were just people.
Arguing over garlic oil.
Bumping knees under the table.
Stealing bites of dessert from Alex's plate without permission.
Laughing. Together.
As they walked back toward the castle under a sky that had just begun to turn deep violet, Alex looked over the group.
Ciel smiled at the sunset.
Hanabi was chewing a stick of sugarroot and pretending not to skip.
Airi looked straight ahead but walked in perfect sync with his pace.
Mircella looped her arm through his and rested her head on his shoulder.
Queen Ileana walked in silence, trailing behind them by just enough to be present… but not imposing.
He sighed.
"...They're getting along."
Ciel nodded beside him.
"For now."
"But it's real, right?"
"Yes," she said. "It's becoming something real."
And for the first time in a long while, Alex smiled.
No curses.
No war.
Just warmth.
And the terrifying, beautiful truth that love, when shared right, doesn't have to be broken.
It just has to be honest.