—Hi Ruki! I know I'm super late for your birthday! But I swear I have a good explanation!
The little boy patted his own clothes and knocked out some dust, just like he did in his hair.
— You don't know what happened to me! I was playing normally, but then a bad boy pushed me and trapped me in an abandoned Boy Scout warehouse... I only managed to get out of there after DAYS! Good thing I'm a founder and I don't need food or anything like that to survive... But it was very scary...! Good thing... Carla is paranoid and found me there! He's outside waiting, I'm glad he let me stop by to tell you... HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I promise I'll make a card for you as soon as I can!
"Kauze...?" Ruki's gaze traveled up and down the little boy. "What on earth happened?" Worried about what had happened to Kauze, the vampire listened attentively to the explanation.
"That boy did what?" Ruki's voice was calm, but in his mind he was already looking for this filthy brat and imagining an appropriate punishment.
"I am sorry that happened to you. Good grief, I am just glad you got out of there safely. For once, Tsukinami Carla's paranoia was really useful."
Slowly, Ruki knelt down in front of Kauze and patted his head. "Do not worry about the card. That you are well is the only gift I want from you. Even if you are a founder, you must always be careful. Understood?"
Ruki's emotionless expression disappeared and a sincere smile spread across his lips. "Now go home and wash yourself. Just come over for dinner soon. Everyone is looking forward to your visit."
The vampire ruffled the boy's hair. "Thanks for remembering my birthday, Kauze. I really appreciate it."















