Chapter 1: A Fleeting Peace
Disclaimer: I do not own Rosario + Vampire or High School DXD. This story is made purely for fun, not profit.
Tsukune Aono shunted backwards as his opponent's fist smashed the wall behind him, trying to catch his breath as a kick collided with his shin. The blow sent him sailing through the air, his resistant body hitting the ground repeatedly with a series of bone-shattering cracks. It was only his first week of intense training with a true master, yet the man's fighting skill and phenomenal power were easily on par with the enemies who had come close to taking his life some months ago. After the fall of the criminal syndicate Fairy Tale, Youkai Academy had entered a time of celebration that everyone wished would last forever.
Unfortunately, the demise of Alucard and the three Dark Lords had created a dangerous power vacuum in the underground world of monsters, and the biggest target was bound to be Tenmei Mikogami's successor. Tsukune never imagined that he would be forced to accept such a responsibility, but here he stood, looking down from the top of a mountain he hadn't even known existed a few years back. It was a terrifying prospect, but Issa Shuzen was teaching him so that he could be able to protect the school from assassins that would no doubt be coming for him soon. It was the fate of a person who had pledged their life to keeping world peace.
The newly christened Shinso stared into the skies of Mikogami's "paradise" as these thoughts floated across the surface of his mind, quickly snapping back to reality as a familiar hand seized him by the back of his neck and tossed him into a field of boulders. His stiff body smashed clean through one of the rocks, causing chunks of stone debris hurtling into the air along with a light cloud of dust.
"Letting your guard down in the middle of a battle can lead to a premature death." Moka's father caught a rock in his hand and crushed it into pebbles with a squeeze, his calm demeanor sending a small chill down the boy's spine.
The elder man noticed this, realizing that for all of Tsukune's accomplishments, he was still a boy. In a way it was admirable that the former human had managed to endure so much horror and emerge without any serious mental damage, although it also proved that he had a lot to learn before accepting the monumental responsibility that would one day be his. In addition to this, he could not possibly entrust his daughter to someone who lacked the power necessary to protect her. To a vampire, this was one of the most important things in potential mates.
"Stand up." he ordered in an even yet firm tone, eliciting a low groan from his student.
"Working on it..." the injured teen replied through grit teeth. Tsukune gathered his bearings before removing the giant slab holding him down, hurling it several meters away with a one-handed toss and a bewildered blink.
"I see you haven't grown accustomed to having so much power. Not so surprising, considering you were once an ordinary human."
"In a way, I still consider myself to be human." he answered with a cheerful smile. "Humanity is something that I would never give up, unless there was no other choice."
Issa Shuzen's eyes widened menacingly, causing his apprentice to shrink back. "Are you saying there's something wrong with being one of us!?" he leered directly into the boy's pupil.
Tsukune shook his head rapidly before wiping the sweat from his brow, gently snapping his shoulder back into place in an attempt to relax. "I'm sorry if you misunderstood me. It's got nothing to do with that... Just that I take pride in my humanity, the same way any monster takes pride in who and what they are." he replied sheepishly. "I am who I am regardless of how I look, or what I can do."
The boy prepared to receive another blow, but was surprised when Moka's father wrapped an arm around his shoulder. "That is certainly true..." he replied, stepped past his future son-in-law so that they were back-to-back. "The reason my daughter fell in love with you is because of who you are, not the circumstances of your family. Such a thing was always irrelevant to her."
"You really understand, then?" the younger man slowly turned to face his teacher, only to find Issa staring him down once more.
"Several of my brethren throughout the ages have focused on purity of bloodlines within vampire clans, only allowing their children to marry those of the highest birth. They viewed the blood of other creatures as an insult to vampire pride, thus the laws of our people state that only one of our own is a suitable mate."
Tsukune recalled the time he met a monster pretending to be a male vampire in order to claim Moka as his own. The imposter had cited this part of their species doctrine to dissuade the Newspaper Club from trying to help her, and yet Inner Moka had managed to expose his own hypocrisy by dismissing the rule as relic of the past while besting the phony in a heavily one-sided battle. At the time he had been relieved to hear this, but listening to her father's tale brought back painful memories from that encounter.
Issa casually placed a cigarette in his mouth, using his opposite hand to light it. "I take it you've heard this story before now?" he glanced down at the younger man.
"Once..." he replied dismally, his gaze lost in memories. "Though, Moka claims that no one follows the rule anymore."
"Many of the younger generation do not heed the old ways... Even so, the Shinso is the ultimate creature in the world of monsters, and you possess not only its power, but also that of the revered Shuzen Clan." he took a moment to exhale, trails of smoke wafting away with the wind. "My four daughters are free to marry any worthy man regardless of bloodlines. I too judge people by the strength of character, not the size of his wealth, or the glory of his ancestry."
Tsukune felt the atmosphere lighten considerably despite having already received the elder vampire's approval during their previous meeting. "Glad to hear it!" he blurted out, nervously realizing the casualty of his tone.
To his surprise, Issa pat his shoulder again. "There are still many who stick to the old ways, but it should not be up to the parents to decide their children's fate. I decided this after seeing the irreparable damage such foolishness can cause."
Despite having admonished the Aono boy earlier for allowing his mind to wander, he found himself remembering his own wife's treatment of their daughters, his thoughts returning to Kalua. She had been such a sweet girl, but Gyokuro had taken advantage of that to turn her into a cold-blooded killing machine. Their family had made a career taking jobs that required the touch of an assassin, yet seeing what she became made him question forcing such a life on her, one of the many regrets that he was hesitant to speak of due to his pride as the family head. Even so, he vowed not to make the same mistakes with his other daughters.
The young Shinso dusted off his clothing before hesitantly striking a fighting stance despite every aching bone in his body screaming otherwise. "I really messed up earlier. Should we start this over again?"
"Once more." Issa nodded in agreement, the two men returning to the center of Mikogami's field.
The monstrous aura blazing from the two vampires kept most of the resident creatures at bay, although their presence added an extra challenge that made training here all the more convenient. Tsukune had been terrified during his first time in the "paradise", but he had come to accept it as a crucial part of his regimen.
Without warning, the elder monster closed the gap and thrust his hand forwards like a knife stroke, forcing the teenager to shield himself by protecting the center. Tsukune focused all of his power on that single spot and moved his hands in a clapping motion, catching his attacker's fingertips in the middle and pressing outwards to stave off the attack.
"You read my attack speed and chose to block it. I can say you picked the correct response."
"I couldn't dodge it, so I did the next best thing!" Tsukune buckled slightly as his opponent bore down, jumping back as he penetrated his guard with sheer force. Despite lacking the Jigen-Tou, the older man's power was equal to that of his eldest daughter.
For the umpteenth time since the training began, the young student found himself outmatched by his teacher, being forced to retreat and guard just to stay in the fight. In their earlier sparring matches Tsukune had tried clashing with him head on with disastrous results, but more recently, he had taken a more tactical approach to counter the difference in their experience. Issa had a habit of teaching through experience rather than words, which made things painful to say the least. If it weren't for Ruby's immediate medical treatment after each session, it would've been an unbearable strain on his body.
Tsukune ducked another blow and continued backing away, propelling himself upwards with a downwards kick to avoid getting pushed into a corner like last time.
"Taking into account your surroundings and planning accordingly... It seems you have learned something." the Shuzen patriarch surmised, noting the stone walls littering the field.
A shadow of satisfaction flashed across the master's face, but another lesson was needed. Instead of imitating the boy's move to catch him midair, Issa tore a slab from the nearby ruin, heaving it at his opponent's airborne body. Unable to properly counter, Tsukune shuddered as the wind was knocked from his lungs, his body rolling across the meadow until he ploughed into an especially large tree. Finally yielding to exhaustion, the teenager lay abused in the uprooted dirt, his near-immortal body now covered in gashes and his clothes torn beyond repair.
"You can't leave yourself open like that in a serious fight." he warned, folding his arms with a disappointed look. "While jumping can be an excellent way to add some distance between yourself and the enemy, an inexperienced fighter who does not adjust well will take the risk leaving himself open to further attacks from below."
"I'll have to remember that." Tsukune breathed in suddenly before letting out a series of violent coughs, finding it difficult to maintain his usual positive spirit.
The elder vampire watched his student for a moment before clapping his hands together, the sheer force sending a ripple through the air. " This morning's lesson is over!" he declared with a note of authority, slowly turning his back to the high school student. " My daughter would never forgive me if I were to cause any permanent damage."
"Thank goodness for that." the younger combatant replied good-naturedly.
"He's your responsibility now!" Issa called out into the distance, his eyes scanning the endless field for signs of their overseer.
Suddenly a black-winged shape darted through the air above their heads, taking the form of a familiar woman moments later.
"Oh, hey Ruby..." The young man pushed himself into a sitting position with a weak smile which became more pronounced when he saw her outfit. "I like the new look."
"You really think so!?" the witch questioned excitedly, twirling around to emphasize the short cut skirt and form-fitting material of her nurse cosplay. "I made this outfit for just such an occasion, especially with all the stuff you've been going through, lately."
"Tell me about it." he spoke quietly so that only she could hear, not wanting to insult his combat tutor. "Anyway, I think the nurse look really suits you. And... It's pretty appropriate considering the circumstances."
Diving into the role, Ruby seemingly pulled a glass bottle out of mid-air, pouring the liquid down his throat. "My poor little Tsukune! Don't you worry, I'll make it all better!" she replied, humorously unaware of his obvious discomfort.
Once she was finished, the unwitting patient began gasping for air. It took him a moment to find his voice again, but any annoyance he had with her was quelled by the sight of her eager, yet innocent expression. He burped loudly, a red gas issuing from his throat. "I don't mean to be rude, but what on Earth was in that bottle?"
"Just a new medicine I whipped up for just such an occasion!" she explained matter-of-factly. "The potion temporarily speeds up the body's natural healing process. Even though vampires already have some of the fastest healing rates among monsters, I figured you wouldn't want to go to class looking like that."
"Oh my God, what time is it!?" Tsukune glanced at his wrist, forgetting for a second that he had discarded his watch before the lesson.
Ruby bent over his bruised form, waving her finger like a mother comforting a child. "Don't worry, Tsukune. As your personal assistant, I wouldn't let the future headmaster of Youkai Academy be late to class."
"Well that could explain why I had to get up so early for this..." he admitted, gently grasping at his injured stomach to find his wound almost entirely healed. "Wow, I guess that stuff really does work."
"The ingredients are pretty rare, so you'd better make it worth it." She fell to her knees by his side with a dreamy expression that was all too familiar for those who knew her. Tsukune found himself blushing, yet at the same time he couldn't help but feel awkward. "Would you like to compensate me now, or... ... ..."
Ruby's masochistic desires were usually beyond his comfort zone, but at the same time he really didn't have anything against her for it. While Moka was doubtlessly the love of his life, he couldn't deny feeling more than friendship for the other girls at times. The witch sitting beside him was no exception. Despite making him feel uncomfortable, she was a very beautiful caring woman who would do anything to help others. And when not immersed in her brutal fantasies, she was a very level-headed and pleasant source of conversation.
"Is there something on my face?" Ruby blushed, looking away from his pensive stare.
"No, I was just thinking." the young vampire saw her red face masking the primal desire behind those pink eyes, and panicked. "Uh, that's not what I meant!" he blurted out, causing her to look strangely disappointed, yet somehow relieved. In some ways she was just as innocent as the younger girls in the group.
"Oh, okay..." The witch straightened her medical cap with a concerned expression before helping him stand, using a stethoscope around her neck to listen for his vitals. "So, where exactly does it hurt the most?"
"To tell you the truth, that stuff you gave me really helped deal with the pain, too." he bent down to whisper in her ear. "Anyway, I haven't really mastered the Shinso blood yet, so it's not like I could re-grow my limbs, or something crazy like that."
The beautiful witch let out a sigh of relief before straightening up, her more serious demeanor returning. "Since Master Shuzen hasn't been able to seriously injure you in a fight leads me to believe that you have improved. I doubt there's anyone out there with the power to serious overwhelm a Shinso vampire, especially someone as determined as you."
"Wish I had as much faith in my own abilities as you did... Things were always tough for me."
At this, Moka's father appeared beside them with superhuman speed, looking as composed and regal as ever. His gaze settled onto the boy with scrutiny before softening ever so slightly. "You are right to express uncertainty, Tsukune Aono."
"Guess I deserved that one." the new vampire ran a hand through his messy locks.
"Do not misunderstand me, for you have shown signs of growth. In truth I could have severely injured you had it been my intention, but incapacitating the man whom I have been tasked to train would have been counterproductive."
A look of uncertainty crossed the young witch's features, as if she herself felt a mix of discomfort and insult. "I mean no disrespect Lord Issa, but is it possible that there exists power greater than that of the Shinso blood?"
The venerable assassin seemed to stare off into the distance, his eyes seemingly unfocused on anything within the realm of the former headmaster's paradise. "This world we live in is only a small part of the greater whole." he spoke in a weary voice, sounding older than he appeared. "There exists many other realms beyond our sight, and happenings that fledglings like you have scarcely begun to see, let alone comprehend."
"You speak of Alucard? I do understand, but Fairy Tale is in ruins, and it's members are scattered and leaderless." Ruby rationalized calmly.
"They were but one of many groups who desire to plunge existence into chaos. Others like them remain, and there will always be more waiting in the shadows to emerge." His words created an uneasy silence between the two young charges.
"You mean there's more people like them?" Tsukune questioned worriedly.
"Countless more, and some with hearts blacker than the ocean's depths..." the older gentleman looked towards the sky. "Some seek war, while others desire oblivion. No matter how many perish in pursuit of these things, there will always be more to take their place."
The Shuzen Clansman's words left his student with a soreness in his gut, but he couldn't deny the truth of the matter, especially to one who was supposed to be his student. At the same time, the younger vampire couldn't help but agree with the statement, yet he found it somewhat preposterous as well.
"What about all the good in this world?" he asked suddenly, causing his master to face him once more. "Doesn't the same apply to it, as well as the bad?"
"I think he's absolutely right." Ruby agreed.
Issa considered them for a moment before turning around once more. Regardless of their feelings on the subject or even his own, he began walking in the opposite direction. At the moment, he saw very little to be gained by continuing the debate.
"Pardon my sudden departure, but I have business to attend else ware." he stated, causing the others to exchange confused glances.
After contemplating whether or not he should press the issue, Tsukune came to the same conclusion as his future father-in-law. "Thank you, sir..." he pressed a fist against his opposite palm, bowing courteously.
The elder vampire stopped mid-step as if he had sensed his student's sign of respect, but after a moment his form blurred, leaving nothing behind but a few scattered leaves as he vanished with blinding speed. Tsukune knew not to question his future father-in-law, for he was a stern teacher and a strict individual when not speaking candidly. Much like his daughters, Issa seemed to possess two sides to his personality: The staunch head of the Shuzen Family feared as a great assassin, and the strong-willed father who cared deeply for the well-being of his family. Of course, Tsukune would never state such things in the presence of his teacher, especially when there was such a vast difference in their skill sets.
Having been preoccupied with these thoughts, he was surprised by a sudden tugging sensation on his shoulder, only now realizing that Ruby had been bandaging one of his remaining wounds since the vampire lord's departure. "Been a while since I've felt so much pain." he murmured.
"There now, much better!" she smiled cheerfully, giving the cloth one last tug for good measure.
"If this sparring match was his idea of holding back, I'd hate to see what's he's like serious."
"Issa Shuzen was said to be on par with the Three Dark Lords. Seeing this really doesn't surprise me." Ruby blushed profusely upon seeing her friend's expression. "That doesn't mean I only have a thing for strong guys. You're still the best in my eyes!"
"Gee thanks..." he replied with a half-smile. Thinking about it, she wasn't really lying. Al of the girls ha fallen for him when he was a simple human, and from experience, he knew that humans were easily the weakest sentient species.
"Please don't look at me with that puppy dog face. When you get all mopey like that, the rest of us start feeling down, too."
Tsukune couldn't help but feel guilty again, but the feeling came from more than once source. "I still haven't forgotten who really stopped Alucard for good. In the end, they were the ones who had to finish the job, even after all I did to protect Moka..." he stopped mid-sentence with a hurt expression before amending. "I meant all of my friends."
She appeared touched by the notion, but saddened at the same time. "The rest of us understand how you feel, even if we don't always show it. You worked hard to protect everyone, but Moka was always number one. I've long come to accept that."
The young vampire considered her words, but found himself unable to properly respond. "I really don't know what to say." he replied with a half-hearted smile. "You're a true friend, Ruby."
Ruby busied herself with the clipboard in her opposite hand in an attempt to divert her own attention. She had taken it upon herself to document Tsukune's progress in a log while penciling in his training schedule each day. Having spent the last few years of her life as Mikogami's secretary, it came natural to her. The young witch had accepted the truth of his affections for Moka Akashiya, but had come to the conclusion she would be happy if only he would allow her to continue serving him forever.
"So, maybe I should head back to the dorms and change clothes." he cocked his head to the side bashfully. "Imagine what the others would say if they saw me looking like this."
"No problem, I've already laid out a fresh uniform for you in case of such an emergency. I'll even save you the trip!" She added with a refreshing smile, gently grasping his hand in hers.
Ruby relished the feel of his firm grip as she twirled her wand, transporting them back to Youkai Academy in a flash of light. The duo reappeared standing on the floor of the chairman's office, which was currently unoccupied due to Mikogami's demise. Yet the future headmaster found himself silently taking in the details of the room like countless times before. The plush carpet resembled a magical circle, and several shelves were lined with ancient tomes, most of which were written in languages unrecognizable to a novice like him. No matter how many months had passed since the fall of the Floating Garden, it was still hard to believe that this entire school and everything he had come to love over the past few years was now his.
Ruby reluctantly released his hand before taking a seat in the posh chair belonging to the former Dark Lord. "Speaking as interim headmistress, I highly recommend you head back to the boy's dormitory to prepare for the day ahead." she began in a businesslike manner, the playful wink that followed dispelling her professional vibe. "Mustn't be late for class, now."
"Thanks for all your help! Frankly, I don't know how I could get through all of this without you guys supporting me."
"Maybe I can't speak for the others, but personally, I'll always be there to stand beside you no matter what you choose. I mean... If that's what you want us to do." she added the last part more for her own sake than his, finding it difficult to look him in the eye.
He took a moment to consider this, although in the end he couldn't do much else but smile to express his gratitude, something that the young witch seemed to acknowledge even without the words. Suddenly feeling as though he overstepping the boundary of friendship, Tsukune imagined the reaction of his remaining friends and instinctively began searching for a way to divert the uncertainty of it all.
"So, you planning on coming to the Newspaper Club this afternoon? We just finished this week's edition of the Youkai Gazette and were planning on passing it out."
She opened a draw and pulled out a stack of forms, placing them on the desk with a soft thud. "I have a few official duties for today that come with my new position, temporary as it is."
"Sorry I forgot how busy you were, lately." he muttered disappointedly. "The others haven't seen you in a while and are beginning to wonder if you dropped off the face of the Earth."
"I had no idea!" the nurse-clad woman piped up innocently, her pleasant surprise shifting way to bliss. "I didn't mean to neglect you guys... If all else fails, I'll just handle the paperwork later."
"Maybe I can help... After all, you are doing the job that was supposed to be mine."
"Chairman Mikogami's Will in Testament states that you are only to inherit the school after graduation, and proclaims that I manage day-to-day affairs in his stead until that time comes." She explained flatly.
"Sure thing, Headmistress Toujou." he shot back, earning a giggle from the older woman.
"Now I suggest you get going to class, or I might have to take disciplinary action!" Ruby playfully wagged her finger, but her banter quickly gave way to a dreamy look that was all too familiar to him. "Or just maybe... ... ... You could discipline me instead?"
"No thanks." Tsukune replied calmly, having grown used to her rather unique sense of arousal.
He promptly excused himself shortly thereafter, his exit causing Ruby to revert back to her professional demeanor. As she set to work on the forms, the Shinso vampire found himself back at the gates to his dormitory, having used his enhanced speed to shorten the commute. The fast-paced movements took a lot out of him due to his exhausted state following the fight with Moka's renowned father. Not wanting to strain himself further, he walked to his room at a more human pace.
True to her word, Ruby had left a neatly pressed uniform sitting on his bed, a pair of recently polished shoes laid out for him to slip into. Fang-Fang had provided some Chinese-style fighting clothes for his sessions with Issa, the remains of which were loosely hanging from his shoulders in a tattered mess. The style was similar to the Huang Heir's usual outfits, aside from the brown combat boots and black color scheme. Tsukune replaced the ruined cloth with his green uniform jacket, taking a moment to adjust the collar and fasten the buttons.
Next he retrieved a small ring with a cross-like emblem etched on the surface from the nearby table. Standing in front of a full-length mirror. He slid the object onto his finger while watching the transformation, his grayish brown hair and light red eyes returning to their normal hue while the inhuman markings on his face vanished from view. The talisman was one of many relics left to him by the previous headmaster. Due to the Shinso blood, it couldn't completely block out his power like Moka's old Rosario Seal, but the physical change was enough to keep him from attracting more attention than he already did.
The walk to morning class was no different than the countless other days, but he enjoyed the subtle breeze and sunlight. One thing that had changed was the strange amount of attention he received from girls outside of his inner circle, most of which was attributed to the numerous Freshman that had enrolled in the school only months ago. It had become common knowledge one campus that he had been on the front lines during the war with Alucard, and word about him becoming the chairman of the academy had grown from whispers to common knowledge. Such was the nature of high school gossip.
"Yahoo-hoo!" As if on cue, a familiar pair of breasts enveloped his face as he was pulled into a bone-crushing hug. "Hi there Tsukune! Did you miss us last night!? I know I missed you!"
Yukari ran to catch up with them, wearing a childish frown. "That is so not fair, Kurumu!"
"Yikes... ... Can't breathe!" the Shinso vampire exclaimed in a muffled voice, taking a moment to pry himself loose for her vice-like grip.
Another familiar face emerged from behind the nearest bush, surprising her friends despite the frequency of her random stalking. "Maybe I should put the freeze on her?" she asked in a calm monotone, earning a nod from the young witch.
"Good idea, Mizore!" She took out her wand to cast a spell only to be pause upon feeling a familiar hand squeezing her shoulder. "Oh! Good morning, Moka!"
"Would any of you mind telling me what's going on here?" the silver haired woman placed one hand on her hip with an amused look, causing the succubus to separate herself from their dually proclaimed destined one. "From the looks of things, you seem to be trying to steal my fiancé for the millionth time!"
" I'm not scared of you, anymore!" Kurumu tightened both her fists, only to be suffocated by an intense monster aura. This caused her to remember the last kick they received for criticizing Moka's blood-sucking habits. She swallowed, looking less certain than before. "I think... .. ..."
Seemingly satisfied with this reaction, she relaxed her power with a sweet smile reminiscent of her departed pink-haired self before wrapping her own arms around the group's lone male in a gentle embrace. "Good morning to you, Tsukune. There's something important I've been burning to ask you lately."
The new vampire closed his eyes with an accepting sigh and pulled down his shirt collar. "Can you be a little more careful not to take too much this time?"
Moka seemed positively joyful that he had caught the meaning so quickly. "I'll try my hardest."
Leaning forward, she gently began sinking her fangs into the back of his neck for a nice drink. It took all of her willpower to stop after only a short time, but with the other girls watching them, the former ice queen had decided to be considerate. Beating them up every time they broke into a heated argument had become a regular occurrence over the last year, but she was slowly trying to compromise with the others, realizing that they cared for Tsukune just as much as she did. Even so, she made a mental note to meet him later for a longer session so that the others didn't have to make a spectacle out of her feeding time.
"No matter which way you look at it, I still can't help but think you're cannibalizing him." the succubus raised and eyebrow. "I mean, he is a vampire now, so doesn't that make him one of your kind?"
"My people have been doing this for generations to express the strength of their bonds. I hardly find it inappropriate, especially when his blood tastes so delicious I've become reliant on it as a source of nutrition." she ran a hand down her beloved's chest, earning a shiver from him.
"I don't get it, but I guess it makes sense for a vampire." the little witch shrugged.
"Wouldn't that mean he should get to drink some of yours every once and a while?" Mizore added bluntly, causing Moka to trip mid-step and the others to fall silent in suspense.
Tsukune was the first to recover, although he was still curious as to what the snow woman had been thinking. "Um, don't you think she would have said something by now if that's the way it was supposed to work?" he glanced over at her. "Isn't that right Moka?"
"Well!?" Kurumu pressed the female vampire, looking slightly disgusted by the idea of letting him intimately drink the blood of her arch rival.
Moka blinked twice with a bewildered look before finding her voice. "I'm sorry for being so inconsiderate to you." she gently embraced her proclaimed fiancé once more, causing him to blush. "I never really considered it until now, but I suppose the thought never crossed my mind when you were a human."
It was Tsukune's turn to be confused. "Wait a minute! Are you saying that I'm supposed to... ..."
Without another word, the silver-haired beauty reached down to expose her neckline, blushing uncharacteristically. "Do be gentle... This is my first time with a man."
"I... I..." The young man stammered. He began nervously fumbling with his collar, but when she did not back down, he slowly opened his mouth to oblige, only to find himself unable to move. It took them a moment to regain their bearings before realizing they were both encased in a sheet of ice. His eyes widened in shock before settling on their mischievous group of friends.
"I think it's about time this situation cooled off a little..." the snow girl drawled, her long sleeve falling back to reveal one of her ice claws.
Yukari pouted as though someone had just told her Christmas was cancelled before rounding on the Yuki-onna. "Oh c'mon! Did you have to ruin things before they got to the good part."
"Good job, Mizore!" Kurumu pumped her fist triumphantly.
Seconds later Moka broke their frozen prison with a flash of monster energy, sending shards of ice flying like a rain of diamonds. Gone was the gentler personality that inner side had developed in the recent months, her red eyes flashing dangerously as she began stepping towards the trio menacingly. Monster energy crackled around her feet, searing the grass, as nearby students began fleeing to a safe distance to avoid getting caught up in the vampire's wrath.
Tsukune reached out to grab her wrist, but she swatted his hand away like a mosquito. "Moka, they do this sort of thing all the time... C'mon, can't we just sit down and talk about this?"
"You three!" she seethed through grit teeth, the sight of her sharpened fangs causing their friends to huddle closer together. "Know you place!"
The three girls closed their eyes as Moka used her vampire speed, looking surprised when she didn't immediately kick them into submission. Kurumu was the first to notice the female vampire standing behind them, but before anyone could properly react, they were knocked down by three consecutive blows. Moka returned to Tsukune's side a second later, casually running a hand through her hair with a satisfied smirk.
"That'll do for now. Maybe next time you trollops will think twice before attacking me." She replied, letting out a humorous chuckle as the trio sat on their knees nursing the small lumps she had left on their heads. "
"Seriously, that's all!?" the blue-haired seductress jumped to her feet with am irritated scowl.
"I have to admit, it was funny watching you three cower in fear like cornered animals. To think you guys are so scared of me that a little smoke and mirrors made you wet yourselves."
Yukari retrieved her witch's hat, using it to cover her sore spot. "Why'd you have to include me?" she shook her tiny fists indignantly. "I'm on your side, remember!?"
The silver-haired woman crossed her arms with a mildly amused look. "I don't take fondly when an underage girl watches my intimate moments like some kind of light porn video."
"It's your fault for trying to do it out in the open! It's not like shorty was the only one watching, since half the school yard saw what you guys were about to do!" Kurumu jerked a thumb over her shoulder, causing several students of both genders to turn away embarrassedly.
"No shit, Miss Dairy Cow..." the Yuki-onna spoke flatly, gently sliding the lollipop from her mouth. "At least I have the decency not to be caught watching inappropriate moments."
The blue-haired seductress slapped her forehead. "Seriously... You're not helping!"
"Sorry, but you've got some serious issues, Mizore." Yukari agreed with a flustered exhale.
"I don't see what the big deal is. Rather, you should thank me for letting you guys off with only a thump on the head." Moka argued, looking more amused than upset by their daily runaround. "It was mostly a joke, but worth a laugh to watch you guys panic like that."
Kurumu lowered her arms, her limbs stiffening irritably. "Seriously!? You're actually toying with us like a bunch of children?"
"Well I couldn't seriously consider three B-Class monsters to be my competition." Moka pressed with a mischievous smirk, earning another rise out of the succubus.
Tsukune let out a small sigh as the bickering began anew, having seen this sort of thing on almost a daily basis since his first year at Youkai Academy. This gentler version of inner Moka was noticeably more abrasive than her pink-haired counterpart, but at least her kicks were softer, and her anger more subdued as of late. He could tell she was really trying hard not to make waves while still claiming him as her own, but the ensuing arguments between her and the other girls remained a constant. If anything, he found it hard to believe that this was the same ice-queen who once pounded other people into submission at the drop of a hat.
A few minutes into their walk, he saw that the four girls were talking amongst each other like four ordinary girls marching off to their morning classes. This brought a smile to his face, to see them acting so casual despite the conflict that had dominated the conversation only moments ago. If he didn't know better, it was almost like they secretly enjoyed this little run around of theirs. Maybe somewhere deep down, even he shared this notion, albeit for different reasons. It was nice to feel so much love from others, no matter what the complications it caused.
The brown-haired Shinso stopped walking as he bumped into the wall, having unconsciously wandered over to his desk while engrossed in thought. "That was quick."
Once the others had taken the nearby seats, Kurumu began aggressively rummaging through her stuff before turning her attention to the youngest member of their clique. "Yukari, you need to lend me your notes, like now!"
"I'm gonna go out on a limb and guess you forgot to study." deduced the child genius.
"Yeah, go ahead and rub it in, why don't you? It's not that... I just... ... Forgot to bring my notes with me this morning."
Moka playfully rested one cheek against the back of her hand. "What a strange coincidence that we have a quiz on European Monster History scheduled for first period class."
"She does bring up a good point." the group's lone male replied innocently as possible.
Kurumu's gaze settled on each of her friends like a deer caught in the headlights before she conceded. "All right, you got me... The truth is I took lousy notes and didn't study last night!" she admitted before turning back to the witch. "I really need to borrow yours. What's the point of being a fucking genius if you won't share it with others!?"
Yukari's smug look changed to one of genuine pity. "Wow, you must really be desperate to start groveling like that. It's really not like you."
"Maybe she's been replaced by an evil doppelganger again." Mizore put out, only to receive an eye-roll from the succubus.
"Not that it's anyone else's business, but I can't afford to fail anymore classes at this point... Ruby told me that if I keep this up, I might have to repeat the year."
"Which would really suck, since we'd probably graduate without you. Though it would be easier to pass next year with Tsukune in charge of the school." the vampiress added, earning a sour look from her friend.
The blunette's discomfort resonated with Yukari, who surrendered her notebook without further comment. "I suppose it's still better than the time you forced me to tutor you against my will. Just promise you'll give it back in one piece."
Kurumu accepted it with a look or relief. " I really owe you for this one, and thanks for not ragging on me."
"You make it too easy..." the snow girl said from over her shoulder.
"Yeah, it's no fun when you walk right into it." the little witch added, eliciting an indignant grimace from their succubus pal.
As Yukari began helping their academically challenged friend, Tsukune glanced to his right to find Moka readying her own materials for class. Despite having some problems with cooking and home economics, she was every bit as studious as her outer self had been. He found himself staring at the pale pink tips of her hair again, but this gesture did not go unnoticed by the ever astute vampire.
"Something wrong, Tsukune?" she asked, cocking her head to the side ever-so-slightly.
"Uh, it's nothing." The male Shinso shook before seizing another topic altogether. "Actually, I was wondering why your father ran off this morning."
"Ran off?" she repeated, looking suddenly curious herself.
"Yeah, we had a sparring session this morning. Can't say it ended better than usual, but he mentioned having to leave early for some important business... ... ... Did he tell you anything about it, or am I just worrying for nothing?"
Moka took a second to think, although in all honesty, she hadn't really spoken to him much since his return. "I really don't know anything either. When I was little he would occasionally leave to carry out a job, but the only reason I know that much is because Akua had a bad habit of sticking her nose into the family business even when it didn't concern us."
The memory of the eldest Shuzen sister's killer instinct made him cringe. "I can imagine."
"Since he's working for the academy now, I don't think you have anything to worry about. My father can take care of himself."
"You don't need to tell me." he replied good-naturedly, gently rubbing the sore spot on his back where he had crashed through the granite earlier. "Yeah, I guess you're right. With Alucard gone, things are bound to stay like this for at least a while... ... ..."
Meanwhile...
Youkai Academy's resident Bus Driver rarely ever found himself wandering the school campus outside of a vehicle, yet here he was taking a stroll through the surrounding forests. occasionally glancing over his shoulder to ensure that no one followed. His detection powers were acute as ever, but even keener were his eyes, which gave off an eerie glow even in the darkest of places. After traveling for what seemed like hours, he finally reached the entry to an ancient sanctuary, a place where up until recently, only the Three Dark Lords and himself had entered.
The wizened old tree standing before him appeared no different than the countless others that surrounded it, yet upon placing his hand on the surface bark, a door appeared before him. The stone entry was inscribed with the academy's bat-like logo. Beyond it lay a stone staircase leading down into the true temple beneath, a place most sacred to the founders and forbearers of the institution. The external door vanished behind him as he stepped beyond the threshold, his eyes quickly adjusting to the darkness of oblivion.
As he finished descending the long winding stairway, the Bus Driver exited the tunnel, the next door opening into a large room with cathedral-sized ceilings. Several magical orbs suspended from above giving off a brilliant light, their bright surfaces glistening like that of several fine chandeliers. A large red carpet led from one side of the room to the next, and standing guard alongside the walls were several statues of important figures throughout the monster world's history.
"Haven't been here in a while..." he commented, eyeing the statues of previous rulers.
One statue depicted the likeness of Sun Wukong, the great monkey who had ascended to the realm of the Gods and became a Buddha. Across from him was a statue of Alucard in his human form as noble ruler of the monster world, from the days when he was known worldwide as the noble Count Dracula. A nostalgic smirk lit the Bus Driver's face as his eyes settled on another statue depicting an elderly bald man wearing a robe with a tea cup in his hands. So many powerful individuals had sat atop the world of monsters throughout the ages, and this shrine was dedicated to them all.
"Are you remembering the days of old?" a deep voice replied from over his shoulder, the Shuzen Clan's Head casually walking past him to pay respects to his forbearers.
"Yeah..." the Bus Driver turned to face Issa, otherwise looking completely indifferent to his presence. "Can't say there's anyone left living now that remembers those times but me."
"The records left behind by my ancestors speak of these forgotten tales, if only in gentle whispers." Moka's father replied gauntly. "Battles far greater and more terrifying than anything that has been seen in this world since the ancient days."
"Battles waged from the lowest levels of the Underworld to the highest halls of Heaven. Makes that mess with Fairy Tale seem more like a squabble between children."
Issa Shuzen knew that the man standing beside him was perhaps the last living monster who embodied the memories of these struggles, making him feel like a mere hatchling in comparison. Being centuries old himself, the notion was foreign to him. "The one that you spoke off... ... ... He's come to speak to you."
"Waiting in there, I'd reckon." the other man pointed towards the door at the end of the grand hall, earning a nod from the vampire. "I was hoping he'd forget the whole thing... Guess I have no choice now."
"With the supernatural worlds having remained quiet for eons with only minor conflicts emerging between individual parties from time to time. That incident with Fairy Tale was bound to garner the attention of the other factions eventually."
The Bus Driver remained silent as he sauntered forward with Issa following closely behind. The door at the end of the entry hall lead to a series of narrow corridors lined with suits of armor and weapons; much more mundane relics than the resplendent statues displayed in the fist room. Although the hallways branched off in several places, the two monsters continued on the straight path leading to a pair of polished wooden doors, which when opened, revealed a large room with a similar decor to the first, albeit much smaller and lacking the larger than life figures.
Instead there were portraits depicting battles from throughout history and a series of bookshelves against the walls, giving the chamber a resemblance to the headmaster's office back a the academy. A large stone desk sitting on the farthest wall across from the entry. Behind it was a particularly large panting of the Three Dark Lords in their youth, Akasha Bloodriver standing tall and proud in the center, with Mikogami and Touhou Fuhai to her right and left, respectively. A mysterious shadow was depicted looming behind them, but the shining eyes leering through the darkness were all too familiar.
A circular table sat in the center of the room surrounded by six individual cushioned chairs, each equally spaced apart from the other. The Bus Driver let out a low chortle as he caught sight of their guest. Seated upon one of the chairs was a man with long blonde hair and kindly blue eyes, his gentle expression radiating a sense of pure tranquility and deep virtue. Golden armor covered his broad shoulders, off which branched a magnificent cape, opened in the front to reveal red and white robes with a yellow n trim, the lower half emblazoned with the mark of the Holy Cross.
The angelic being stood up, revealing his pure white wings and golden halo. "It has been quite some time, Nurari." he greeted, causing the other man to smirk in recognition.
"Saint Michael of the Heavenly Seraphim... To what do I owe this rare pleasure?" the Bus Driver replied, casually removing a cigar from his coat pocket.
"I see you have brought with you the head of the Shuzen Vampires. Has he become one of your retainers as of late, or do I assume too much?"
Nurari ignited the tobacco with a lighter from his back pocket, appearing as carefree as ever. "More like an employee." he began after a bit of thought. "I hired his services for something important we've got going in the works. As for my intentions, well... ... ... I would rather not disclose them for the moment."
"It is a pleasure to meet you." the Archangel extended a hand, causing Moka's father to hesitate before accepting the gesture. Vampires were weakened by religious symbols and holy power, and even someone strong as the Shuzen Patriarch was no exception. "Oh dear, I do apologize if you find my presence cumbersome."
"On my honor." Issa bowed his head slightly, still wary of the Holy Seraph.
The Bus Driver took a seat on the opposite side of the table as Michael returned to his own. The vampire lord took the seat to the immediate left. "Now that the pleasantries have been observed, let's settle this and be done with it. I've got a schedule to keep."
"Interesting that a creature once known as the ruler of all monsters would spend his late years transporting children from one place to the next. I find it intriguing that a man of your stature would have lowered himself thusly."
"I left behind that pomp in ages past, never to speak of it again. It is only Mikogami's departure that's forced me to exert some manner of leadership in these fleeting times. I just wanna spend my remaining time watching the young rise to the challenge. Not to mention, it grants me some free entertainment watchin' em stumble along the road to the top."
Michael exhaled slowly, carefully observing the mysterious man through pensive eyes. "There are many things I wish to say."
"Then say 'em." the former monster king pressed, his own thoughts hard to discern as ever.
The angelic visitor took a deep breath in, allowing his shoulders to relax under the weight of the golden armor. "First and foremost, I came today in the hopes that we may speak of your first successor... The Vampire King, Alucard."
"Successor!?" Nurari replied flatly, seemingly finding a mirthless humor in the label. "I did support the boy's desire to create a world were all sentient beings could exist in peace, but everything else was his own doing."
"These noble intentions turned to dark designs once his kingdom was laid to waste by fearful humans..."
"And the Church was involved too." the Bus Driver added despondently, pointing the end of his cigar at the archangel.
"Bringing up the complications of this matter was never my intention, today. I deeply regret the decisions of the past, even though it was not my influence that planted the seeds of this tragedy among the followers of God." Michael took a moment to pray for the souls of the departed before speaking again. "I came here to discuss the recent actions of the deviant vampire: The one known as the First Ancestor."
The Bus Driver lowered the brim of his hat as if to hide his true feelings on the subject before gently letting out a puff of smoke. "What's the point speaking of it now? He's dead, ain't he?"
"Along with your most recent successors; the transcendent monster trio known collectively as the Three Dark Lords." he pressed, looking truly concerned by the other man's laid-back approach.
Nurari's expression became suddenly serious, the tiniest bit of his former identity as the old monster king shining through his carefree facade. "An unfortunate turn of events, perhaps." he muttered, taking a moment to honor their sacrifice. "Even so, they took the monster world's biggest menace along with them. It was a necessary sacrifice."
The Archangel inclined his head thoughtfully. "My condolences... ... ... Nevertheless, That still leaves a few points of concern I would like to address. One of which shall wait until we have discussed the business at hand."
When the other man fell silent, the former monster king grew impatient. "Go on..."
"The incident concerning Alucard's appearance in the human world begs me to question why you purposely concealed his return from the other factions. The others may have dismissed the incident, but you understand that we who serve the Biblical God find this most disconcerting."
The Bus Driver tapped his cigar against the table, leaving a burn mark and ashes in its wake. "You're talking about the fall of the Floating Garden in that human city? Fairy Tale was who made this war a public spectacle, not us."
"It has caused an uproar among the factions... That monsters would stake a claim on the human world, regardless of the consequences for everyone else."
"The monster world isn't a united force... Never really was, regardless of everything we've done to make peace. Despite what you might think, I see this as an internal affair that doesn't directly concern the factions you speak of."
"Please understand, Lord Nurari. It is a problem that has inadvertently affected the innocent as well." Saint Michael answered courteously, his voice sounding soft and comforting, even now.
Issa Shuzen cleared his throat assertively, waiting for the acknowledgment of the others before speaking. "We have since repaired the damage to the city and wiped the memories of the humans directly involved. Nurari has informed me that several undercover academy alumni purposely interfered with television broadcasts to contain the spectacle caused by Alucard's followers. All we need do now is hunt down the remnants of Fairy Tail."
"And you'll pardon me for saying this, but the affairs of our world do not concern those of you who dwell past the Pearly Gates."
Michael remained unfazed by this, though he could not entirely ignore their retorts. "I understand your feelings, and accept your reasoning." he spoke rationally, gently folding his hands as if in prayer. "However, the main reason I came to you today is not relevant to the Fairy Tale incident."
The Youkai's usual smirk dissipated once more as he closed his mouth, leaving the cigar hanging with only his lip as a support. "It was you who approached me, your Holiness."
"Which is why I must first apologize for allowing my own thoughts on the Alucard incident to cloud my judgment." His words only seemed to confound the monsters. "My true reason for being here is to propose peace between the Angels of Heaven, and the World of Monsters."
Issa exchanged a glance with the driver. "To my family's knowledge, there has never been a direct struggle between Youkai and the Holy Will. That is, if we neglect to mention relics of your kind were forged to exterminate creatures who possess negative energies. devils are not the only ones susceptible to exorcism. We monsters also faced eradication at the hands of your believers."
"We've never had a large scale conflict like you folks and the Devils did, but that doesn't make us buddies." Nurari agreed.
"While this is true, we have since made amends with the Fallen Angels and the Devil factions.
The Bus Driver looked surprised for a moment, a rather foreign emotion on his normally mysterious visage. Although after careful consideration he seemed to accept the idea. "Hmmm... I suppose this was coming. You folks spent eons in a deadlock between Heaven and Hell, yet the war was mostly over following the ceasefire. It's natural you'd make the truce official at some point."
Michael nodded slowly in acknowledgment. "Thus it is now our desire to do the same with others. A lasting peace... That is all we hope for. It will give us all a chance to thrive once more, to take the most out of this shared existence."
The former monster king paused maddeningly, but never at a loss for words, answered quickly. "Sounds like something that snake Azazel would say, yet to hear it from God's personal errand boy too." he let out a dry laugh sounding more like a cough.
"He did propose peace for these reasons. But we were all in agreement."
Issa looked concerned by the angel's statement. "The leader of the Fallen Angels was the one?"
"I'd guess the fool was too lazy to fight after so long of dealing with all the headaches these squabbles caused for he higher-ups." the Bus Driver responded.
"The real question is, why do you come to us with this same proposal?" the vampire asked, turning to their guest for an answer.
"It is simple." Michael spoke serenely. "We saw your people struggle against adversity, and now we wish you all to join us in our plans for a brighter future. The time has come for us to procreate, not to war amongst each other."
Nurari took the moment of silence to discard his cigar, promptly stomping out the remains with his driver's boot. "If it were up to me, then I'd consider it." he coughed softly, placing a hand to his mouth. "But it's like I kept saying; my time as monster king ended even before the fall of Ancient Egypt. Monsters don't have a single powerful leader, anymore... We haven't in eons!"
The Archangel bowed his head. "And with the Three Dark Lords gone from this world, there are no longer those with strength who could unite them."
"Not to mention we don't even have matters settled here at the academy. I sure and Hell don't intend on being in charge here for much longer."
The Seraph appeared weary by the prospect, although his courtesy did not waver. Slowly he rose from his seat and raised his hand. "I understand... ... ... It is a pity we could not come to an agreement, old friend. Still, I have high hopes that one day, your people will stand together united once more."
"You and me both." the Bus Driver turned his back to the angel as the holy representative was engulfed in a brilliant light, causing Issa Shuzen to shield his eyes.
While Saint Michael prepared to return to the Heavens, he spared one last glance at the monster leaders, a look of deepest concern crossing his angelic features. "Beware the vanquished ones... Beware the fallen ones..." he chanted solemnly, his body soon disappearing in another flash of light.
As the room grew silent once again, the vampire lord found himself at a loss for words. This was not the first time he had encountered an angel, but he had never before felt so bewildered by the presence of a holy disciple. He had killed monster hunters and exorcists before, but despite all of them living under the banner of the Church, this man had given him and entirely different impression than the so-called righteous followers who preyed upon his kind. The feeling this Seraph had given him was a strange mixture of curiosity and disgust, yet the desire to murder the holy messenger was not present as it had been with the others.
One thing disturbed him, though. "His last words to you felt ominous, yet somehow, repentant... Was it a threat?"
"More like, a warning... ... ..." the Bus Driver slowly made his way towards the exit, his trademark smirk returning. "Here I thought things were looking up for us. I have a feeling that things are about to get a lot more interesting around this place."
Later that night...
The sun had set several hours ago, leaving Youkai Academy covered in darkness. To an ordinary human the monster world would've been scary at the best of times, but the gothic style buildings and graveyards on campus made things all the spookier. Ironically, all of the monsters on campus had retired for the night, leaving nothing behind but an eerie calm. It was a classic scene or nighttime terror, with bats fluttering about, shifting shadows, and owls hooting in the distance, yet the person who had wandered onto the grounds under the cover or night proceeded onwards without an ounce of fear.
A mysterious figure emerged from the dead trees leaning on a large stick, a sheathed sword barely visible beneath his black trench coat. The stranger wore a brown cloak over his upper body, using it to conceal his movements and identity as he stealthily made his way across the academy grounds, an unusual spring in his step that spoke more of anticipation than fear. Although his face was hidden by the shadow of the hood, a pair of dilated red eyes could be seen glistening beneath the surface.
"So this is Youkai Academy!?" he shouted, a wild grin enveloping his face. "I can't wait to chop up some monster whores!" Suddenly the feeling of a cellphone vibrating caught his attention, forcing him to answer. "Yeah, what the Hell you want now!?"
"I'm making sure you don't do anything stupid." a confident yet sinister voice answered from the other end, further incensing the receiver. "Kill whomever you want once the task is complete, but your primary target is the boy!"
The mystery assassin reached into his coat, pulling out a wanted poster featuring Tsukune's face. "The kid looks like a real pussy to me! You saying as long as he dies, I can do whatever I want?"
"Do not forget the main objective... Underestimate the Shinso blood, and you'll be dead." the caller responded.
"Fuck you too, freakshow?" the assassin answered, his tongue dangling out of his mouth in an insane manner. "Talk to me like that again, and I'll take your head instead of payment!"
NOTE TO READERS: Thanks for giving my story a chance. Sorry if there are any typos, but stuff slips through the nets, so-to-speak. Not to mention I usually write and edit late at night, so being tired doesn't always help either.
You wanna see more of this story than drop me a review! Have any suggestions, ideas, or criticisms than feel free to tell me. That being said, I'll judge whether or not to continue this story based on the feedback... It's often a policy of mine to focus on stories that people like the most among my fanfiction list, since I have several.
Yeah, I went with the theory that the Bus Driver is the Nurarihyon, the Legendary Ruler of all Youkai. His name was a play on the monster name, but I went with it since he supposedly scouted Mikogami years ago the same was he did with Tsukune. Anyone wanna guess who the assassin was at the end of this chapter?