Dreams, Changes, and a Vampire

by Shadowwolf08

Plagued by incessant dreams, Tsukune Aono feels his heart is growing close to an important decision. The question is: how will the rest of his friends take it? When all is said and done, will Tsukune be able to keep all his friendships intact? Or will he end up moving on without them?

7. Chapter 6: Training, Bonding, and a Vamp

Hello, I'm back with the second chapter of the summer break arc. I think all you romance lovers are simply going to LOVE this chapter. :D Anyway, sorry about the long delay to put this out, but this chapter covers a lot, so I think that will more than make up for it. Much thanks to my boyfriend, friends, and beta readers: Shiki Nanaya, Gamera68, and TykkiMikk. Once again, I really appreciate the extra set of eyes and words of encouragement. You rock! Thank you as well to all my faithful reviewers. You guys really make my day. Anyway, on with the story.

Warnings: Explicit sexual dreams and minor language.

Chapter 6: Training, Bonding, and a Vampire

Ruka gave a blissful sigh as she gently placed a hand against her sleeping mate's cheek. A peaceful smile graced his lips, his shaggy, brown hair sticking out on both sides of the pillow as he continued with his silent slumber. Ruka rolled onto her back, staring at the white ceiling that seemed to glow silver in the dim light that filtered through the window. No one would think to look for them here in her family's summer home. She and Hitsuba hadn't really been for a visit since the death of their parents. When Hitsuba mentioned informing Ciel of recent events, the summer cottage was the first place she thought of to hide. She simply couldn't bring herself to allow Ciel to get her hands on Togura. The young woman could only imagine what punishment the hydra would deal out. She had witnessed Ciel's wrath before, and it was a memory that would be forever burned into her mind.

Giving another heavy sigh, Ruka slowly dislodged herself from her mate's embrace as she crawled out of the small bed, careful not to disturb her sleeping lover. They were both guilty now. They had committed two of the most outrageous sins of their organization: going AWOL, and mating with another member of the organization. The female mummy pinched the bridge of her nose to ease the beginnings of a headache. When they had arrived the previous day, becoming mates was the last thing she had planned. But when he had looked at her with those remorseful, burning eyes and apologized so genuinely for causing her so much worry, she simply couldn't force herself to hold back any longer; neither of them could. Yes, they may have betrayed their organization, but at least they had remained true to themselves.

The mummy wasn't stupid. There was no place left for them in the organization against Fairy Tale any more. And Ciel…Ruka resisted the urge to scowl in disgust. Ciel had the nerve to sell herself out to Fairy Tale; all for the sake of her precious family's reputation of power. Of course, this remained, for the most part, a hidden fact. Not many in the organization knew about where Ciel's true loyalty lied. Those that did were far too fearful of her power to say much of anything. After all, a hydra backed by the power of Fair Tale's might was definitely a force to be reckoned with. In all actuality, most of the original members of the organization of souls had either been eliminated, or had merged into the ranks of Fairy Tale.

Ruka scoffed. The idiots left behind were truly ignorant. Couldn't they see that Ciel was gradually assimilating them all into Fairy Tale; the very group they once fought against? The mummy closed her eyes with a deep frown. She, Hitsuba, and Togura were three of the only ones left. It was time to break away. Sure, she didn't like humans, but they hardly deserved complete genocide. That was Fairy Tale's ultimate goal, and she refused to be a part of it. There were big changes getting ready to happen at the academy, and Ruka would prefer to be absent when they took place. After all, Fairy Tale was rumored to be a bunch of elitist snobs who wished for a total reformation of Yokai. Ruka idly wondered how long the academy, with its passive ideology, would be able to resist the influences of those in power. Quietly padding across the hardwood floor, the young woman silently made her way to the kitchen for a drink of cold water. Yes, it would definitely be for the best if they laid low for a while.

---

Tsukune continued to lay in his bed, staring at the ceiling as the sun began to shine through his window. Rolling over, he glanced at the clock on his nightstand. The teen suppressed a groan when he saw that it read 8:49. He had already ignored his mother's calls twice. He smiled to himself as his ears picked up Moka's voice as she attempted to help his mother with making breakfast. The vampiress was positively an angel!

The teen stretched, finally dislodging himself from his warm nest. Even though he was still somewhat groggy, he couldn't help but feel slightly exhilarated. Today would be his first day of training with Inner Moka. The teen gulped. Hopefully, she wouldn't half kill him! Quickly shaking his head, the young vampire gathered the necessary items he would need for a bath. Selecting a navy-blue collared tee-shirt and a pair of kaki cargo pants, as well as a clean pair of boxers, Tsukune retrieved the container of herbs that he had mixed up from his backpack and left his room.

Yawning slightly, the boy made his way down the hall to the bathroom. Setting his clothes on the floor a few feet in front of the tub, Tsukune walked over and turned on the water to begin filling the tub. Yawning again, he slipped off his pajama shirt and tossed it to the floor. Waiting for the tub to fill, the young vampire opened the container of herbs and dumped the appropriate amount in to mix with the water. Sighing in contentment as the soothing aroma clouded around him, the teen ran a hand through his messy hair. Deciding to brush his teeth quickly before his bath, Tsukune slowly made his way over to the bathroom sink, sighing in relief when he saw his normal human appearance staring back at him in the mirror. Perhaps he was getting better at controlling his form?

After retrieving a small, plastic cup from the cabinet, Tsukune filled it with water and added a small amount of the special herbs to nullify the purifying reaction. Now satisfied that the water was safe, the teen fished his toothbrush out of the holder fixed to the back of the sink. Applying toothpaste, he dipped it in the cup of water before setting to the task of cleaning his teeth. He was only somewhat surprised that, even in this form, he still had fangs. They were smaller than when he was in his new true form, but they were still fangs nonetheless. The teen pinched his eyes shut. He only hoped his mother wouldn't notice yet. Finishing up with brushing his teeth, he rinsed his mouth and made his way back over to the tub to shut off the water. Testing the water's temperature with a finger, he gave a satisfied smile when it felt just right. He had just removed his pajama pants and boxers when he heard the bathroom door click open. How had he forgotten to lock it?! Turning around, he was met with a familiar pair of wide, emerald eyes staring back at him. The teen instantly felt all the air leave his lungs. So much in shock was he that he didn't even move to cover his, now nude, form.

Standing frozen in the doorway was Moka, her whole face glowing a deep red. Try as she may, the poor, flustered vampiress couldn't seem to move even an inch, let alone tear her eyes away from the sight. Walking in on Tsukune in the bathroom had been the last thing on her mind. When she had gone back downstairs to inform Tsukune's mother that she would be taking a bath, Tsukune had still been asleep. She had been so absorbed in her own thoughts that she hadn't even paid much attention to the closed state of the door. The vampiress sucked in a gasp, her shy eyes involuntarily wandering over his form. Oh, he was absolutely gorgeous! Before she could stop herself, her gaze drifted lower. Feeling her body instantly heat up even further, she quickly shook her head. When had she become such a pervert?!

"I-I'm s-so sorry!" she finally managed to stutter out. Turning on her heels, the vampiress closed the door behind her as she quickly fled the room, her whole body burning a bright red.

Tsukune stood, blinking in shock, as continued to stare at the spot Moka had been standing only moments before. Seeming to come back to his senses, the teen quickly shook his head. He was almost positive that he had to be about a billion different shades of red about now. Moka had seen…

Ah! No! Don't even think about it! the flustered vampire chided himself, his blush only deepening. Taking a deep breath, he shakily stepped into the tub. Why couldn't he have just one normal day in his life?

---

Moka quickly shut her door behind her, leaning her back against it as she placed both hands to her face in mortification. She had seen his…his…and it was… The vampiress shuddered, feeling her body grow impossibly warm. Never before had she felt such intense attraction. From the moment she saw his naked skin… She felt like such a pervert, yet she couldn't deny her curiosity. She had never seen a man naked before. Moka felt a shiver run down her spine. He was so beautiful. If it was at all possible for a man to be beautiful, Moka was certain that Tsukune was.

"Moron! He really needs to learn to lock doors. And you! Why the hell were you just standing there like an idiot?!" Inner Moka growled, swinging the rosary slightly in her embarrassment. Honestly! That was an image that was sure to stick with her for a good, long while.

Moka winced slightly at her inner self's harsh tone. She couldn't really remember her inner self ever swearing at her before. Her blush deepened as she quickly picked up on her inner self's growing embarrassment. For some reason, her attraction to the boy only seemed to skyrocket in response. Every time she closed her eyes now, she saw him. It was definitely safe to say that she was becoming obsessed. The vampiress swallowed nervously.

"S-sorry, Ura-Chan, I-I just…froze."

There was tense silence, followed by a dizzying wave of warmth, and her inner self sighed. As much as she didn't want to admit it, her outer self's reaction had been rather understandable. After all, she had seen his…boy parts… The silver-haired vampiress blushed deeply, and she was, once again, extremely grateful for the cover of the rosary.

"W-well, be more careful! And tell that idiot to lock the stupid door next time!" Inner Moka returned, grumbling indignantly under her breath. How was she supposed to focus on training now? She couldn't deny, however, that the boy had been…attractive. The inner vampire's blush deepened. Why? Why did he have such a strong effect on her? Could it be that she was really… No! That was definitely enough of that train of thought. Still, this new, weird feeling of warmth that he always seemed to invoke now continued to confuse her. There was no denying that something had definitely changed between them.

Moka vaguely nodded in acknowledgement, her thoughts clearly distracted. Her inner self's turmoil only seemed to fuel the chaos of her jumbled up mind. How was she ever gonna look Tsukune in the eyes again?

---

Hitsuba groaned, tentatively placing a hand to his ribs as he stared out the window of his dorm. Ciel had been much angrier than he had originally thought she'd be. The mummy shook his head. He knew that she was going to be angry, but, truth be told, it had also been a convenient excuse to see her. He would never admit it to himself, but he hoped that, one day, he would be able to tame the temperamental hydra. The young man sighed. He knew that it was probably a long shot, and that it was most likely a one-sided romance, but he couldn't seem to help himself. Her overwhelming, take-charge attitude had always had a way of attracting him, even though he was nearly four years younger than her. Though blunt, stubborn, and ill-tempered most of the time, the twenty-two year-old had a much kinder side that was rarely ever displayed to others. Hitsuba gave an almost sympathetic smile. That was the way it was in their world: if you showed kindness, you were weak. And if you were weak, you died. It was as simple as that. As much as he wished to remain loyal to the organization, more specifically to Ciel, things were becoming much too complicated for his taste. Even though he loved Ciel, he simply couldn't understand her joining forces with Fairy Tale. After all, they were an organization that stood against nearly everything their group believed in. At least he had taken the news better than Ruka had. To be perfectly honest with himself, he was still somewhat conflicted about joining the ranks of Fairy Tale. He was brought out of his thoughts by a loud knock at the door.

That must be Itachi and Ruka, the mummy thought in mild relief. He had been a little worried when Ruka failed to show up for their planned meeting earlier that morning. Opening the door, Hitsuba was surprised when Itachi walked in alone. "Where's Ruka?"

Itachi ran a hand through his short, black hair before giving the mummy an apologetic look.

"I'm sorry, Hitsuba, but I couldn't find her. Jin and I looked all over for her, but it's like she just disappeared. She's not answering her door, or her phone-"

"Wait, her phone rang?" Hitsuba inquired, cutting him off.

Itachi thought for a moment, then nodded in affirmation.

"It did when I called earlier. She gave no answer though, and I didn't think to leave a message."

The mummy rolled his eyes.

"No, you idiot! You don't get it, do you? If her phone rang, that means that she's left the school! Everyone knows that cell phones and stuff like that don't work here under the barrier."

Itachi's eyes widened.

"Wait, then where would she go? Why would she take off like that?"

Hitsuba growled slightly in the back of his throat, whipping around to face the window once more as the sound of thunder echoed in the distance.

"Isn't it obvious?" he sneered. "No one has seen her in about two days. Around the same time Togura ended up in the infirmary. She's taken that snake and hidden him somewhere. The question is: did she take him to the human world, or the monster realm?"

"W-what do you want us to do, Hitsuba? She's your sister. I doubt you'd want us to follow protocol and inform the higher-ups. They'd most certainly tell Ciel, and then Ruka would be in serious trouble."

Hitsuba smirked.

"She already is, Itachi. No, keep this quiet for now. I'll handle my sister. To be honest, I'm curious as to what she's planning. I know Ruka. She's scheming something. I think things are getting ready to become…interesting."

---

Kasumi continued to watch the pair sitting across from her with curious eyes. Ever since they had come downstairs, they had been acting rather odd. In fact, they would hardly even look at each other, and when they did, they would blush and immediately look away. Chalking it off as teenage jitters, the mother smiled at her son and the young girl sitting beside him. Yes, she definitely liked this girl much better than the others. She wasn't noisy or obnoxious, and she seemed like such a sweetheart.

"Here you guys go," she chirped as she placed a sausage and cheese omelet in front of both of them. She watched in mild fascination as Tsukune seemed to shrink back a little.

"Um, Mom, did you happen to use garlic in these?" he asked hesitantly, poking the omelet with his fork. The scent was so strong. No wonder vampires despised garlic. It smelled awful!

Kasumi quirked a brow. Since when did Tsukune care so much about garlic?

"Well, yes, Honey. You know that I typically use garlic when I cook meat. It gives it such a wonderful flavor. I could've sworn that these were your favorite. Don't you like them?"

Moka immediately looked away, shifting nervously in her seat as she gave Tsukune a quick glance out of the corner of her eye before looking away again. This was bad. What was he going to say? Was he going to tell her the truth? Not only that, but she couldn't seem to get his naked image out of her mind. God, she couldn't even look at him! How was she supposed to interact with him now without embarrassing herself?

Tsukune swallowed nervously, not missing Moka's brief, worried look. Thinking quickly, he scratched the back of his head bashfully.

"W-well, it's not that. I-I just, uh, I kinda developed an allergy to garlic a little while back. I'm sorry, Mom," he offered sheepishly.

Kasumi's eyes widened in alarm.

"Oh, I'm sorry, Sweetie, I had no idea. Here, I'll make you a different one. Moka, is yours okay?"

The vampiress shifted uncomfortably again. Should she tell the truth? She didn't want to sound rude. On the other hand, however, if she said nothing, it would probably cause a whole lot more problems in the future.

"S-sorry, but I'm afraid I have an allergy to it too."

Kasumi held in a light giggle.

Now I understand. How sweet! He's pretending to have the same allergy, so she won't feel so different. Aw! "Oh, it's quite alright, Dear. Here, I'll make you two a couple of new ones, and I'll just save these in the fridge for Koji's lunch. Tsukune, maybe you two can take them to him later?"

Tsukune nodded gratefully.

"Sure, Mom, that sounds like a good idea to me."

"A-as long as it's not too much trouble, Mrs. Aono," Moka hastily added.

Kasumi gave a bright smile at her polite demeanor.

"Oh, it's no trouble at all, Dear," she assured as she made her way back over to the stove.

Nearly four hours later found the young couple on their way to the park, picnic basket in hand. After a reluctant, private discussion, the two had decided that it would be best for Tsukune to start his training with Inner Moka in the secluded area of the park that they had visited last night; away from any prying eyes. The last thing they needed was for a bunch of gawking bystanders to find out that they weren't human. It was also the perfect opportunity to be alone with her that Tsukune was looking for. He wasn't exactly sure how he was gonna react to her after their 'accident' that morning, but they had agreed to this. He couldn't go back on his word. Glancing at the girl beside him, he gulped as his eyes drifted to the rosary on her chest. Had Inner Moka seen…? The teen felt a shiver run down his spine. Oh, she was definitely gonna kill him! His chocolate brown eyes darted back and forth as guys continued to stop and stare as he and Moka made their way down the cement sidewalk.

Tsukune bit back the sudden growl that bubbled up in his throat. Sometimes, it was as if the vampiress was a bit too attractive for her own good. Before he even realized what he was doing, he was glaring daggers at the males who had the nerve to ogle HIS Moka. The teen shook his head. Where the hell had that come from?! She wasn't his…not yet, anyway. Shoving his bashfulness aside, he took a deep breath before slowly reaching over and taking her hand in his. He looked away immediately when he felt the vampiress jump, though she made no move to pull away.

Moka shuddered at the touch of his hand, her rosary glowing to life. She barely even registered the somewhat indignant scowl coming from her inner self as they finally reached the park. The vampiress remained silent as he led her down the stone walkway, the trees becoming more and more dense the further in they went.

Finally reaching their desired destination, Tsukune hesitantly let go of her hand and spread out the picnic blanket they had brought with them under one of the many large shade trees that lined the pond before turning to her with a slightly awkward smile.

I-I have to say something. I can't stand this awkwardness anymore! "L-listen, Moka, a-about this morning-"

"I'm so sorry, Tsukune! I-I wasn't paying attention. I should've known when the door was closed not to go in," she immediately blurted out, cutting him off as her face instantly erupted into a deep shade of red.

Tsukune felt the blood rush to his face, and he shyly rubbed the back of his head.

"No, no, it's really my fault, Moka. That's what I wanted to say. I *gulp* I should've locked the door," he quickly reassured, his voice quivering in spite of himself. Taking a deep breath to soothe his nerves, he hesitantly continued. "I also wanted to say thank you in advance for, you know, taking the time to train me-," the teen paused, not missing the way the slit pupil in the center of her glowing rosary narrowed in response. Shaking his head to collect his thoughts, he continued once more. "A-anyway, I, uh, suppose I should let the other Moka take it from here, huh?"

Moka gave a shaky nod. She could only hope that her inner self wouldn't be too rough with him.

Please, Ura-Chan, go easy on him, she mentally pleaded. She almost balked at the delighted amusement she detected coming from her rosary.

However, the pink-haired vampiress had no more time to think on the matter, as Tsukune grasped the silver crucifix and pulled. The area was immediately bathed in a brilliant, pink light as the vampiress's true form was unleashed. The inner vampire stretched, giving a small fission of a smile as she smoothed out her black skirt. She had to resist the urge to roll her eyes. Leave it to her outer self to pick something easily dirtied to wear to a training session. Shaking her head in mild exasperation, she turned her attention to the boy in front of her and folded her arms across her chest.

Tsukune shrank back a little at her penetrating stare. Swallowing nervously, he tugged at the collar of his shirt in apprehension.

Oh, Man! She looks pissed…Ah! I'm in so much trouble! he mentally panicked. "Uh, hahaha! Hi, Moka," he greeted sheepishly.

Moka quirked a brow. Now he was nervous?

Humph! He has good reason to be nervous. He's lucky I don't kick him into next year after what his stupidity caused this morning! The thought caused the silver-haired vampiress to flush. His skin had looked so…so soft… E-enough of that! she quickly chided herself. Shaking her head slightly to snap herself out of her thoughts, she lowered a hand to her hip. "Hello again, Tsukune," the vampiress greeted in kind, her tone neutral.

Tsukune breathed an inward sigh of relief. So he wasn't a dead man…yet.

"S-so, uh, what's on the agenda first for my training?"

Moka brightened slightly.

"Well, first things first, you need to learn proper form. You've gotten off pretty lucky just blindly charging through in the past, but that's not gonna save you in a fight with a more skillful opponent," she lectured, folding her arms.

Tsukune thought for a moment before copying her trademark, hand-on-hip, scowling, pose.

It was a miracle that Moka's jaw didn't hit the ground, and she had to stifle the sudden girlish giggle that bubbled up in her throat. Just what did he think he was doing? In a way, she knew that she should be annoyed. After all, she could very easily take it as a mocking gesture. However, the look was so uncharacteristic of him that it was quite amusing.

"What is that supposed to be?" she quipped, hiding the mirth in her tone as she shook her head.

Tsukune bit his lip, the heat rising to his cheeks in a blush.

Ugh! This is a lot harder than it looks. It would help if she'd just TOLD me what she meant by form! the embarrassed teen thought as he dropped the pose, scratching the back of his head.

Moka felt her gaze soften in spite of herself. She was hard-pressed to deny now that the boy was definitely cute. Once again, the events from earlier that morning played in her mind. Fighting down her blush, the vampiress gave a sigh. What was the matter with her?! She was supposed to be thinking about training Tsukune, not his…n-naked body. Quickly snapping herself out of her thoughts, she steeled herself before marching over behind him.

Tsukune stiffened as the silver-haired vampiress quickly crossed the short distance between them and disappeared behind his back.

"M-Moka?" he inquired hesitantly, his breath hitching in his throat as he felt her grab his arms and place her toes against the back of his heels.

"You moron, you're gonna get yourself killed like that," the vampiress chided, inwardly cursing herself when her tone came out much softer than she'd originally intended.

Wrapping her hands around his upper arms, she brought them into a defensive position in front of him. She then tapped his right heel, indicating for him to bring the leg forward.

Tsukune gulped, quickly stilling himself from shuddering as he bit his lip. Here they were again; finding themselves in a situation that put them in closer physical proximity than normal. He took a deep breath of her soothing scent.

Damn it, not now! the teen thought breathlessly as he freely allowed for her to position him. She's…so close… His eyes fluttered slightly.

Moka pinched her eyes shut briefly, grateful that he couldn't see her face at the moment. This was absolutely absurd! She couldn't even get near him now without feeling the desire. Was something wrong with her? She had never felt this way before. This strange feeling resonating deep within her that yearned to be expressed…if only she knew how. The vampiress bit her tongue lightly, attempting to snap herself out of this trancelike state. It was probably because she had gone for nearly two days without his blood. Yes, that had to be it. Shaking her head slightly, she leaned close to his ear. She had to turn this around FAST!

"You're daydreaming, Tsukune."

Tsukune barely had time to blink before her foot locked around his ankle and jerked. Caught off guard, the boy gave a startled yelp as he instantly lost his balance, falling to his rear. Stunned, he found himself looking up into the inner vampire's amused face, a slight smirk pulling at her lips.

"Wh-what?" he breathed incoherently, his mind unable to form a single comprehensive thought with her looking at him like that. Her crimson eyes seemed to almost glow with mischief; a look he had never seen before from her. Is she…is she actually p-playing with me?

Moka only returned his gaze for a moment longer before averting her eyes. She couldn't look at him; not with the kinds of thoughts that were running through her mind at the moment. She felt so strange. Running a hand through her silver hair, she held out her free hand to assist the boy in standing.

"Always keep your mind on the fight. You get distracted in a real fight, and you'll end up getting your head torn off. Especially now that you're a vampire."

The teen gulped and took her hand. Now on his two feet again, he shyly rubbed the back of his neck.

"Um, s-sorry, Moka," he offered meekly. Ugh! Is there any way NOT to look like an idiot in front of her? It seems that every time I'm near her, whether it's this Moka, or the outer one, I always end up doing or saying something stupid!

The teen was brought out of his thoughts by a low rumble of thunder. It was then that the two vampires finally took notice of the dark clouds that filled the sky. The two made a mad dash for the tree beneath which their blanket was, and Tsukune was suddenly grateful for his mother's thoughtfulness in reminding him to pack an umbrella. He just barely managed to get it open when the downpour started.

"Damn it," Moka grumbled as Tsukune immediately huddled close to her with the umbrella, shielding her from the rain.

"I didn't think it was supposed to rain today," Tsukune offered sheepishly in an attempt to soothe the vampiress's sudden ire.

Moka huffed her irritation as they sat down on the blanket beneath the umbrella. So much for their training! The pair sat with their backs against the tree trunk as the torrential downpour continued. The vampiress resisted the urge to sigh. After all, with their training discontinued, there was really no reason for HER to be out. She was beginning to contemplate asking for her rosary when he turned to her suddenly, holding a can of tomato juice out to her in his free hand.

"W-well, it looks like we'll be here a while. H-here, Moka," he murmured softly.

Moka blinked. There he went again; being much kinder to her than she deserved. How could he treat her so normally when she was the one responsible for turning him into a monster? The vampiress paused a moment before accepting the offered beverage. The tomato juice would alleviate at least some of her thirst. She made short work of the drink as Tsukune propped the umbrella up against the tree with their picnic basket.

The pair fell into a brief silence, the pouring rain the only sound heard. Tsukune glanced at the silver-haired vampiress out of the corner of his eye and gulped, their closeness beginning to get the best of his senses. They weren't even a foot apart. If he shifted to the right another few inches… The teen felt his breath catch as his hand accidently brushed hers, and he was suddenly staring into her mesmerizing scarlet eyes once more. The teen shuddered. Those eyes, while holding a deadly ferocity, were truly breathtaking.

Moka jumped slightly, her heart skipping a beat as she felt their hands touch. Blushing, she whirled around to face him, a low growl bubbling up in her throat as she pinned him with a hard glare. She almost smirked when she saw him flinch slightly. Staring into his soft, nervous brown eyes for a moment longer, the vampiress nearly shuddered as she felt her body warm further, her heart thumping wildly in her chest. There was that strange feeling again. That warm twisting of her insides that almost seemed to burn through her with an intensity that she'd never known. Attempting to fight back her deepening blush, she quickly looked away. This feeling…was it-was it love? It couldn't be merely lustful attraction. If that were the case, then she wouldn't have felt so compelled to infuse him with her precious blood. The vampiress gave an inward groan at the headache she could feel coming on. This is exactly why she didn't get too close to anyone; the feelings always turned too complicated, and she would only end up losing them in the end. However, there was no denying the fact that she did feel a kindred spirit forming between them. He understood her bloodlust first hand now. The thought sent a shiver through her. Feeling her heart skip a beat again, she hesitantly slipped her hand fully beneath his, turning it palm-upwards to slowly intertwine their fingers. She would allow for this. She almost owed him this kindness. It was the least she could do after all he had done for her.

Tsukune gasped, feeling his heart race in his chest. She was actually gonna let him hold her hand?! He nearly felt dizzy. He was holding Inner Moka's hand! And she wasn't killing him for it either! Gulping, the teen took a chance and moved closer to her. Now sitting shoulder-to-shoulder, their intertwined hands were the only thing between them. He glanced at their fingers that were so intimately curled around one another's as he did his best to ward off the sudden spike in his thirst. Now definitely wasn't the time. Inner Moka had given him her blood on one occasion; there was no need to push his luck. It was then that he realized that, perhaps, she was in worse shape than he was in that department. Maybe he could...

"Moka?" he spoke hesitantly. It was almost funny how she didn't even really need to ask him for his blood anymore; he freely volunteered it!

Moka shivered lightly at the sound of her name and turned to him questioningly. Why was it that every time he called her name now her body tingled and burned with this unfamiliar heat? It wasn't thirst; that burning need was all too familiar, and it didn't invoke this nearly uncontrollable desire to be closer. This throbbing ache that seemed to call her so desperately into his arms confused her and caused another emotion that she was far less comfortable with to emerge: fear. Yes, the prideful Moka Akashiya was almost ashamed to admit it, but this one young man held the power to crush her without lifting even a single finger. The thought sent another shiver down her spine. She felt so helpless. Her heart hammered against her chest as the realization slowly kicked in: the warm tingle she felt every time they touched, her desperate need to protect him, the intolerable ache of loneliness every time they were separated, the way her heart seemed to almost melt every time he looked in her eyes; there was no other explanation. She, Moka Akashiya, the powerful, untouchable vampire, had fallen in love at last. The silver-haired vampiress almost choked at the thought. Her: in love? She shuddered lightly, her heart skipping a beat yet again as an involuntary blush bled into her cheeks.

As thrown off guard as she was, it was nothing compared to when the boy beside her loosened the collar of his shirt, exposing his neck to her heated gaze. Moka felt her breath hitch as she eagerly drank in the wanted sight, unable to tear her gaze away. Her crimson eyes glowed to life in the dim light as her desire flared instantly upon seeing his exposed skin. There was no denying that she felt sexual attraction at the moment. What actually frightened her was that she no longer cared if it was reflected in her eyes as plain as day for him to see. The silver-haired vampiress shook slightly. She had never felt so vulnerable. She could almost feel the stone wall around her heart shatter into a million pieces as she stared into his warm eyes.

Tsukune couldn't suppress a shiver under her heated gaze. He knew that look all too well. Despite his deepening blush, he offered her a small smile.

"You, uh, drank your tomato juice so quickly, so I thought that, well…I know you're probably really thirsty. You haven't had a drink of blood since we got here in the human world, and so...," the teen swallowed nervously, trailing off as he slightly tilted his head to the side in silent offering.

Moka's eyes widened, her blood beginning to boil in her veins as she attempted to hold back her desperate urges. The vampiress was irritated to no end as her body quickly betrayed her, her throat constricting slightly and forcing her breathing into light pants. Her fingers dug into the blanket in her resistance.

Th-that moron! Tempting a vampire so freely like this…offering his precious blood with such reckless abandon, the vampiress shuddered, a low growl escaping her as she continued to battle herself for control. This was a battle that was instantly lost the moment she felt his hand gently cup the back of her head, nudging her closer to the source of her undoing.

"It's okay, Moka. My blood is yours any time you need it," he whispered soothingly into her ear. He could feel the heat swirling around them intensify and sense her struggles. The teen almost winced. He knew the pain she must be feeling. Kinda funny how I never thought of it that way before, but now that I know what it feels like…I can't even begin to imagine denying her. Please, Moka, he bit his lip as he felt her breath against his skin.

His soothing whisper was the last straw for her control, and Moka gave another shuddering breath as she hesitantly leaned into him. She nearly whimpered as she slowly pressed her fangs against his skin, but she managed to stifle it. No need to make a complete fool of herself. For probably the first time since she'd met him, the vampiress cursed her ethnicity. She desperately wanted to resist; really, she did. She felt her heart race as instinct took over. Moka pinched her eyes shut as her tongue darted out of its own accord to gently lap at the place that she would bite.

Tsukune felt her tongue brush over his sensitive skin, and his eyes widened as he hastily bit his lip to stifle a moan. The heat between them only seemed to intensify in response as he felt her finally sink her fangs into his neck. He twitched in ecstasy as a soft groan managed to escape him, and he felt her shudder in response. He gasped in pleasure as she began to drink in slow sips, and he instantly felt his body begin to respond to the stimulation. This warmth; was it her desire?

Moka shook slightly as she gently drew his blood out, no longer shuddering, but full out trembling as she drank eagerly. She could feel the warmth building, her pulse throbbing. There was nothing like this sense of completion she felt when drank his blood. After all, to a vampire, drinking blood was second only to physical intimacy in pleasure. The silver-haired vampiress trembled again. She knew she had to be blushing about now, but the scary thing was that she no longer cared. She drew longer, even slower sips as she pressed herself flush against his side. Try as she might, she was unable to prevent the soft moan that finally managed to escape her lips, much to her mortification.

Tsukune shuddered at the sound, giving a soft moan of his own. He had never really heard this Moka audibly express pleasure before, and the sound filled him with a sense of pride as it fueled his desire. He whimpered as her suckling slowed even further. Now it was almost as if she were giving him a love-bite rather than drinking his blood. His eyes shot open, revealing intense crimson orbs. That was it! Embarrassment be damned! Wrapping one arm around her shoulders and one around her waist, he tugged her into his lap, careful not to dislodge her. He gave another soft groan as he felt her fangs sink deeper into his skin, further heightening his pleasure. Even though he knew that, with her straddling his lap like this, she would be able to feel his arousal, he found himself more concerned with her pleasure. She sounded so adorable, and he'd give almost anything just to hear that sound fall from her lips again. His breath hitched as he felt his body warm even further, his pants suddenly feeling too tight on him as he hesitantly rested his forehead on her shoulder.

Moka gasped, quivering as she felt herself pressed flush against his chest. They were so close to each other. She could barely tell where she ended, and he began. Unable to help herself, another soft moan escaped her as he continued to hold her against him. She wasn't naïve. She could taste the desire in his blood; she could feel it pressed against her thigh. Her body no longer felt warm; it felt hot! Everywhere their bodies were touching seemed to burn as nerves she didn't even know she had flared to life. The familiar tingles of pleasure shivered down her spine, and her toes curled. Unable to stop herself, she arched into him when she felt him comb his fingers through her silky hair. She felt her fingers twitch and flex in spasms as one last sip sent her over the edge. The vampiress was caught completely off guard, and her toes curled again as she experienced her first direct release, a soft, breathless whimper falling from her lips in her ecstasy.

Tsukune gasped as he felt her press against him, his erection throbbing almost painfully as a low moan escaped him. The teen quivered, completely awash in the warm, tingling pleasure as they trembled against one another. He moaned again as he felt her slowly retract her fangs and lick the wound shut.

Moka gave a violent shudder, licking her fang marks to seal them closed. No words could describe how sated she felt now. Her heart still beating wildly, instead of pulling away, she lightly pressed her lips against the place she had bitten as an uncontrollable wave of affection swelled within her. There was no denying it now. She was definitely in love.

Tsukune gasped, and his trembling started anew as he felt her slowly pull back. Staring into her eyes once again, both vampires blushed deeply. If he had thought he wanted her before, it was nothing compared to now. He gave a soft smile as the vampiress averted her eyes, licking her lips in appreciation.

W-wow…I-I can't even describe what that was, the teen thought breathlessly.

"Tsukune, y-your appearance," he heard her murmur finally, snapping him out of his amorous thoughts.

Tsukune cocked his head in confusion, his bright, crimson eyes gleaming at her.

Moka blushed in spite of herself, feeling her heart almost flutter in her chest. He was simply gorgeous!

"Y-you're in your true form, idiot," she clarified, looking away again. God, was this ever embarrassing?! She couldn't even look at him now!

Tsukune gave a sheepish smile.

Well, I suppose it's no surprise that I lost my concentration, he thought, a deep blush still staining his features.

Swallowing nervously, the teen felt a shiver run through him as he now battled with the urge to bite back. He quickly shook his head. Now wasn't the time. He couldn't do that when he hadn't even asked her yet, and there was still so much that he wanted to know about her. She just had to be the one. There was no other girl on Earth that could possibly hope to make him feel the way he felt now. He honestly didn't trust his mind to remain focused enough to maintain his human form at the moment, so he opted to remain in his true form for a while longer.

The pair fell into an almost comfortable silence, neither making a move to end their embrace. For the first time in almost two years, both vampires felt a sense of peace.

Moka gave a soft sigh as she continued to allow him to hold her. While embarrassing, there was no denying that his embrace was also quite comfortable. His gentle, yet strong arms held her just right. Though it made her feel more vulnerable that she would like to admit, it also invoked a strong sense of completion; almost as if she was drinking his blood again. There was no need for words at the moment.

"Hey, Moka? You're not really allergic to garlic, are you?" Tsukune finally spoke with a small chuckle in his voice.

While slightly regretful for the break in their comfortable silence, the vampiress couldn't help but laugh slightly. The silly boy…

"No. That was something the other me was forced to come up with on the spur of the moment. Vampires can actually eat garlic, Tsukune," she replied, taking great delight in his confused hum. The vampiress sighed and pulled back to look at him. "Garlic doesn't hurt vampires, Tsukune. However, it DOES agitate our senses, as you probably figured out this morning. Vampires have exceptional hearing, sight, and smell. The scent of garlic is simply so strong, that it overloads our sense of smell. The myth about vampires and crosses is also incorrect, as you've probably already gathered from me, considering that my rosary is a silver cross."

"So all that vampire folklore that humans hear as children is wrong?" Tsukune inquired. Vampires were actually quite interesting creatures. In fact, all monsters were. No matter how frightening, Tsukune couldn't help but be awed by them; beings that supposedly didn't exist. It only made the fact that he now was one that much more ironic.

"Not all the folklore is false. For instance, holy water or a stake through the heart would instantly kill almost any vampire, including myself. And, of course, decapitation is a no brainer. That would kill just about anything. Vampires can't enter a home or private property without verbal permission," Moka explained, a small smile gracing her pale lips. She never knew that Tsukune was so interested in vampire folklore. Then again, it would make sense considering that he was one now. The thought caused her to nearly wince in guilt.

"So that's why you stopped in the doorway until Mom told you to come in," Tsukune realized with a small smile. Now it all made sense!

Moka blinked in shock for a moment. He hadn't made the differentiation between her and her outer self. Snapping herself out of her thoughts, the silver-haired vampiress gave a nod.

"That's right. The outer me stopped because she knew that we could not enter without consent."

Tsukune winced slightly. Did they have to separate themselves like that? They were technically the same person, right? Why did there have to be an outer and an inner, anyway? The teen sighed. He hadn't helped that. After all, he had separated them as two different individuals as well. Well, no more! It wasn't fair to either of them…or, more appropriately, her.

All this time, I've been going about this all wrong. The two Mokas were never two separate people, but rather two different aspects of one whole personality. That's why they're the same, yet so different, he thought absently. It was then that the question that had been nagging him forced its way to the front of his mind again, and the teen chewed his lip in apprehension. In all honesty, he wasn't exactly sure if he really wanted to know, yet he felt compelled to seek the answer. After all, it was only right that he knew exactly what it was he was doing to her every time that cross was put back in place on her collar. "M-Moka? I've been wondering… What's it like to be sealed? D-does it hurt?"

As soon as the question left his lips, Tsukune immediately regretted it. The vampiress gasped, recoiling as if struck. Finally, she looked away, though Tsukune didn't miss the sadness in her scarlet eyes.

"Why would you want to know that?" she murmured, her eyes downcast. Why was Tsukune asking her such a question? He had never asked any questions on the matter before. The thought of lying to him briefly crossed her mind before she shook her head, deciding against it. She couldn't lie, not to Tsukune. That was something her pride would simply not allow for.

Tsukune gulped, not speaking a word as the vampiress fell into silence. He didn't want to push or pry, but he desperately needed to know now exactly what she went through in her sealed state. Finally, his voice found him again.

"I-I want to know, because…well, you're always sealed away after a fight. I just wanted to know what it is that really happens to you."

Moka sighed, her emotions swirling around inside her like a whirlwind tornado. She knew her answer was probably going to upset him. However, he did ask, so it was only fair that she give him an answer.

"Dark," she finally answered, turning to face him once more.

Tsukune blinked.

"Huh?"

Moka sighed again, her gaze softening in spite of herself.

"You asked what being sealed was like: it's dark and sometimes cold. I am only aware of what's going on in the world around me through use of the other Moka's senses. I feel everything through her; what she feels, I feel. To touch her would be to touch me."

Tsukune gulped. Any thoughts he might have had were instantly cut off as she hesitantly continued.

"It's a feeling of weightless suspension. Like being forced to stay in a dark room with no light where you can't see what's around you. You lose all sense of time. As for your question of does it hurt. The truth is, I don't know. I don't know, because I don't 'feel' anything for myself in that state," she murmured, her tone much softer than the one he was used to from the confident, silver-haired vampiress.

Tsukune choked, feeling tears prickle in the back of his eyes. So she wasn't even living her life?

And it's all my fault! For some reason, I'm the one that can take that rosary off. I'm the only one who can help her, and what do I do? I only take it off for her to rescue us. I've-I've only taken it off for her to fight. I'm sorry, Moka, so sorry…, he thought with a choked sob as he pulled her flush against him, hugging her tightly as the tears of self-loathing streamed down his cheeks. Now it all made perfect sense: the harsh words, the indifference, the awkwardness. She wasn't cold and cruel; she was afraid to trust others and so very lonely. "I-I had no idea, Moka," he whispered into her ear, choking back another sob. Never again. Never again would he take this girl…no…woman for granted.

Moka gasped as she quickly found herself embraced for the second time that day. She didn't need to look at his face to know that he was crying. She could hear it in his voice as well as feel it through their blood-link and the way his frame shook as he held her. She was alarmed to find her own eyes rapidly filling with tears, as she desperately tried to rein in her runaway emotions. She never cried! What was happening to her?! There was no way she could let him see her like this. The silver-haired vampiress almost had to laugh at the irony: her, a powerful vampire, crying. She winced as she tentatively buried her head into his shoulder. Now that she actually allowed herself to cry, it was as if she couldn't stop.

The pair sat like that, simply holding one another in silence, for what seemed like hours. Neither really knew what to say, or if to say anything at all. It seemed like they were finding themselves in these types of situations more and more as of late. Moka knew that it was dangerous to allow him so close to her. She knew that her family would never allow for such a union. However, it was as if she'd fallen off a cliff and was continuously free-falling. There was simply no stopping the wildfire of emotions that blazed in her chest; a burning passion that had been ignited and refused to die. Of course, then there was the guilt. He was a vampire now because of her, after all. He would never be able to be human again. She also wondered how her outer self would take this. Would she be angry and jealous? Would she be happy? The silver-haired vampiress sighed. God, she hoped so. She didn't even want to think about what it would do to her now if she couldn't spend any time with him.

When the pair finally pulled back, they noticed that the rain had finally stopped.

"Let's go home, Moka," Tsukune murmured, snapping her out of her depressing thoughts.

The vampiress hummed in agreement and stood up. She made no protests when he instantly took her hand in his. She didn't really trust her voice enough to speak, anyway.

You'll never have to be alone again, Moka. I swear it, Tsukune vowed as he glanced at her out of the corner of his eye. Carefully focusing his mind, he willed his body back into his normal human form.

The two then made their way back to Tsukune's house, hand-in-hand. The streets were, for the most part, vacant. The pair paid little attention to the stares they got from the few passersby; mostly envious looking males.

Moka sighed. The one part about being a vampire that she dreaded with a burning passion: the ogling. No matter where she went, it seemed that some pervert just had to have his eyes all over her. The vampiress bit her lip. Was she that attractive? Contrary to popular belief, Moka never really thought that much about her appearance as far as being attractive or not. Sure, she took good care of herself, but she didn't really pay all that much attention. Her ears had grown deaf to the various cat-calls, simply writing them off as perverted males with only one thing on their mind; incapable of seeing true beauty. She gave a shy smirk, a dark blush creeping into her cheeks. There was only one that she wanted to look at her like that. The only one that she wanted to hear call her beautiful, and he was right beside her; holding her hand. Her heart skipped a beat as she shook her head. These thoughts just wouldn't stop. It seemed the more she fought them, the more insistent they became. Before she knew it, they had reached the front door of Tsukune's house.

Tsukune quickly opened the door for her and allowed her to enter first, remembering to extend verbal invitation. Her soft smile nearly melted his heart right there, and she stepped through the doorway. Tsukune closed the door behind them as they quietly removed their shoes. Both vampires nearly jumped out of their skin when a lamp suddenly flipped on, illuminating the pitch-black entryway and revealing a rather stern looking Kyouko.

"*Gulp* Uh, h-hi, Kyouko," Tsukune offered sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head, not missing the way Moka shifted uncomfortably beside him. Crap! I wasn't even thinking. I forgot to give her back her rosary!

"Cutting it a little late, aren't we, Tsukii?" Kyouko quipped. "Do you have any idea what time it is? Your mom was so worried that I had to come over here and send her to bed before she called the police-," she paused, taking notice of the silver-haired girl in a lavender collared shirt and black skirt. W-who is that? S-she looks familiar almost… It was then that she caught sight of the black leather collar around her neck, and she gasped in remembrance. N-no way…is that… "M-Moka?" She nearly paled when the silver-haired girl gave a small smirk.

"That's right. You remember Moka, don't you, Kyouko. She, uh, 'helped' you when you came to my school," Tsukune intervened, still nervously scratching the back of his head.

"H-how could I forget?" Kyouko stammered, catching sight of the girl's blood-red eyes. "So you really are a vampire?" she breathed as she glanced the girl over.

Moka gave an almost relieved smile, glad that the human remembered.

"I am," she replied, folding her arms across her chest with a smirk. It was obvious that Kyouko was a bit afraid of her. How amusing.

Tsukune gulped, sensing the tension.

"Kyouko, this is what Moka really looks like. This is her true form. I'm sorry that I didn't have time to explain everything to you before you left that day."

Kyouko's eyes widened as she carefully looked the vampiress over. Her appearance definitely was different from any human's. However, what if she was simply cosplaying?

"S-so d-do you really drink blood, like, for real?"

Tsukune paled.

Crap! "Kyouko, don't," he pleaded. The girls ignored him, and his heart nearly stopped when Moka answered.

"I do."

Kyouko balked.

She has got to be kidding! There's no way… Steeling herself, she rolled up the sleeve of her red jacket, exposing her wrist, and walked up to Moka. "Prove it," she demanded, staring into the vampiress's scarlet eyes as she held her wrist out to her. She nearly gasped in fright as Moka's crimson eyes glowed briefly in the dim light.

Tsukune nearly fainted. This could NOT be happening! Surely Moka wouldn't drink her blood? Tsukune was shocked when the thought caused a wave of jealousy to crash through him. Then again, it was really no surprise considering how close they had become as a result of it.

Moka simply stared at the girl's pale, exposed wrist. She had to be joking, right? If she was to prove that she was a vampire, there were plenty of other methods available to her. Truth be told, the thought of drinking the blood of someone other than Tsukune nearly sickened her now. However, if it was proof she wanted, it was proof she would get. Grasping her offered wrist, Moka brought it to her lips, her glowing, crimson eyes blazing into Kyouko's wide, fearful blue ones. She winced at the fear prevalent in those cerulean orbs. If there was one thing that Moka despised, it was fear.

"M-Moka?" Tsukune choked. She wouldn't!

Moka ignored him again and pulled back her lips to reveal her sharp fangs, staring into Kyouko's openly frightened eyes as she pressed them lightly against the main vein in the human's wrist.

"Is this proof enough, Kyouko?" the vampiress muttered, applying a bit more pressure; not enough to break the skin, but enough to allow the girl to definitely feel them.

Kyouko gulped.

Those-those are fangs! Oh, my God, she-she really is a vampire. A living, breathing vampire! the teen panicked, wrenching her arm away on reflex.

Moka chuckled lightly, releasing her hold on her 'victim'.

"Well, do you believe me now?" she smirked, placing a hand on her hip.

Tsukune breathed a sigh of relief. So she wasn't going to drink Kyouko's blood?

She was just toying with her?

Kyouko rubbed her wrist with her free hand as continued to stare, wide-eyed, at the girl in front of her. Sure she hadn't bitten her, but she had definitely felt those fangs.

So…she really drinks blood? *Gulp* I guess I do owe her for looking out for Tsukii, but still… "H-how are you even possible?" she breathed in disbelief. Monsters didn't exist; they didn't.

Moka rolled her eyes. Okay, this little convincing game was beginning to get on her nerves. She wanted to find a way to get along with Tsukune's family, but she wasn't about to beg for acceptance.

"How are YOU possible?" she returned, causing both Tsukune and Kyouko to gasp. "I'm here for the same reason you are: because two people fell in love, or, in my case, two vampires."

Tsukune's jaw dropped. Sometimes, Moka seemed almost too calm for her age. She wasn't reacting near as violently as he'd predicted she would. Was she mellowing out?

Kyouko shook slightly.

"How many?" she questioned, her gaze turning icy as she boldly pinned the vampiress with a glare.

Moka quirked a brow in confusion.

"Pardon?"

"You! How many people have you killed to drain their blood!" Kyouko shouted accusingly, her eyes nearly brimming with tears. Friend of Tsukii's or not, I won't let some murderer into Auntie's house!

"Shh! Kyouko, please keep your voice down," Tsukune pleaded desperately as he waved his arms. Great! At this rate, Mom and Dad will wake up, then I'll really be toast!

"I haven't killed anyone!" Moka retorted, her aura flaring in her sudden anger. How dare this human accuse her of something so heinous?!

"C-calm down, now. Moka, p-please don't wake my parents," Tsukune tried again, nervously placing a hand on her shoulder in an attempt to soothe her ire.

The vampiress scowled, crossing her arms indignantly over her chest.

"Tell that to her, Tsukune. She needs to learn her place," she huffed, turning away.

Tsukune paled.

"What the hell is that supposed to mean?!" Kyouko retorted, glaring daggers at the vampiress. What was with girl? She wasn't anything like the Moka she remembered.

Tsukune gulped, stepping between the two girls to separate them before things got too carried away…if they weren't already.

"Kyouko, Moka isn't dangerous. She's never killed anyone. As a matter of fact, she used to only drink blood from transfusion bags."

Kyouko quirked a brow.

"Used to?" she questioned, gasping as realization dawned on her. "D-don't tell me that…y-you?"

Tsukune gave a nervous chuckle, shyly rubbing the back of his head again.

"W-well, I, uh…I don't really mind it."

Kyouko paled, her vision nearly swimming as she took in the information. Tsukii, her shy little Tsukii, was giving his blood to a vampire!

"You mean you actually f-feed her your blood? Oh, I think I need to lie down."

Tsukune gave another nervous chuckle as he watched his cousin stumble past them and out the front door.

I'm so screwed…

Moka growled in agitation, shaking her head.

"Where's my rosary, Tsukune?" she demanded, snapping him out of his panicking thoughts.

Tsukune reached into his pocket and retrieved the silver cross. As he held it out to her, however, he couldn't help but feel a deep sting of regret, and he paused.

"Listen, Moka, I-I'm sorry. I didn't-"

"There's no need for apologies, Tsukune," the silver-haired vampiress cut him off, giving a small smile. "See ya later, 'kay, Tsukune?" she murmured, her tone softening.

Tsukune shivered as their fingers brushed briefly, then she was gone, disappearing up the stairs into the darkness.

---

As soon as Moka reached her room, she closed the door behind her and leaned her back against it as she sank to the floor. Drawing her knees up to her chest, she glanced at the rosary clutched in her right hand as she took in the day's events.

"I-I guess you and I…we really are the same. I-," she trailed off, placing a hand over her racing heart, "I can't deny this-this feeling." A deep blush warmed her pale cheeks. "I-I know I shouldn't feel this way, but I-," she trailed off again, gasping as her heart missed a beat.

Tears stung the corners of her eyes, and the vampiress almost had to laugh. How had he done this to her? How had he taken her confidence and turned her world upside down? How had he managed to shatter the stone wall around her heart? Her worst nightmare, her greatest weakness, was this simple human-turned-vampire. It honestly frightened her; the power he held over her. Without him, her world no longer made sense. Moka shuddered. She had become totally dependent on another now. She felt like a small child again. If he did choose another, what would she do? Another sharp gasp was torn from her lips as she pondered the thought.

N-no! T-that can't happen, because I-, her thoughts trailed off as her blush deepened. "Because I'm…I'm in love with him."

As soon as the words left her mouth, her blush only deepened further, and she quickly clapped a hand over her mouth as silent sobs shook her thin frame. She could no longer deny what her heart so desperately wanted. She knew that he cared deeply for her outer self, maybe even loved her, but how did he really feel about her? Would he reject her if she told him? Would he run away like he had the week following the Lilith's Mirror incident? The vampiress drew in a shuddering breath. She was almost positive that she would be a good mate. She wouldn't have a clue what she was doing, but she could definitely learn, and Tsukune was such a loving man…

Moka winced as a deep, throbbing pain in the back of her head made its presence known. The vampiress slowly opened her eyes, only to gasp as another wave of pain sent her vision swimming. Giving a small, pained groan, she quickly snapped her eyes shut as the rosary fell from her hand. So out of it was she that she didn't even take notice of the limiter's soft, pink glow.

---

Lurid breathing was the only sound audible in the room as timid, yet eager, lips softly pressed together, moving to the most sensual of rhythms as they acquainted themselves to the feel of one another. Slowly making their way across the soft, blue carpet, the pair's footsteps were silent as they made their way toward the bed. A soft, feminine chuckle broke the silence as she suddenly felt her back pressed against a nearby wall.

"Know your place," she whispered heatedly, playfully nipping her lover's neck.

Softly running her fingers through his silver hair, Moka gave a shy smile, her crimson orbs glowing in the dark room as she gazed contentedly at her lover. She felt him shudder, then his lips were upon hers again as he slowly pressed himself against her. Moka trembled lightly, feeling the familiar electric tingles run down her spine. She gasped as their hips pressed together, evidence of his excitement pressing against her upper left thigh. Her whole body felt like it was burning from the inside out, and his touch only seemed to ignite her more. The silver-haired vampiress couldn't help the whispered moan that escaped her lips as her lover slowly ran his tongue along her bottom lip, begging for entrance. A deep blush overtook her features as she timidly parted her lips, allowing him in. Her pulse was throbbing so loudly in her ears that her mind was quickly losing focus. The moment their tongues touched for the first time, both teens trembled. The vampiress gave a soft groan as her lover lifted her up slightly, slowly wrapping her toned legs around his waist as he continued to kiss her deeply.

Moka moaned softly, quivering as the movement caused her red skirt to rise slightly. Now intimately pressed against one another, their kisses became slower and deeper as their shy hands slowly roamed one another's bodies. She felt him run his fingers through her hair, and her body arched into him on its own accord.

Tsukune whimpered, panting lightly as he broke the kiss for air.

"Oh, Moka," he breathed, resting his forehead against hers as he gazed into her eyes, "I-I love you so much."

The vampiress felt her blush deepen further as she leaned forward to gently nip his left ear.

"I've always loved you, Tsukune, and I always will. For as long as I live, my heart will never stop beating for you," she whispered into his ear before leaning down and sinking her fangs into the side of his neck.

Tsukune gave a shuddering gasp, trembling lightly as the warmth that surrounded them only increased. A soft moan escaped him as she held her fangs in, lightly sipping his blood. He felt his whole body shudder as she brought a hand to the back of his head, gently coaxing him to her neck. Tsukune whimpered, his eyelids fluttering as vampiric instinct took over, and he slowly pressed his lips against her warm skin. Trailing his tongue lightly along her collar-bone, he relished in the shiver he felt rock through her. Pulling back his lips, he sank his fangs into her lower neck just above her shoulder.

Moka moaned, her toes curling in pleasure. For a moment, time stood still as their heartbeats seemed to almost fall into sync with one another. Her skin tingled as every nerve in her body was suddenly launched into overdrive. After a few more agonizingly slow sips of his blood, she retracted her fangs and brushed her tongue along her mark.

Tsukune shuddered, returning the favor. He slowly began kissing his way up her neck, causing her to shiver. Reaching her ear, he nipped it lightly. His heart skipped a beat at her sharp gasp. The young vampire nearly fainted when he felt her slowly lift his green tee-shirt over his head. Now shirtless, he trembled uncontrollably as her soft hands timidly trailed over his heated, bare skin.

"N-a-ah, M-Moka," he moaned softly, whimpering as he pressed himself flush against her.

"Tsukune," she breathed, a sensual gasp leaving her at the feel of his hardness fully pressed against her clothed core. Looping her arms around his neck, she brought him to her for another heated kiss.

Tsukune moaned softly, feeling her fangs teasingly nipping at his lower lip before she began to lightly suck on the tender flesh. He groaned, the sensation traveling straight to his lower body. Unable to hold himself back any longer, he slowly reached up and began unbuttoning her black shirt.

Moka shivered in spite of herself as her heated skin was exposed to the cool night air, breaking the kiss briefly for air. She blushed under his tender gaze, her skin tingling as she felt him reach behind her to undo the clasp of her black bra. Her breath hitched as it fell away, exposing her full, nude torso to him.

Tsukune could feel his hands shaking, and he gulped as he hesitantly ran his hands over the tender, rounded flesh, marveling at their softness. He buried his face into her neck with a soft groan as she gasped and arched into him in response.

"Beautiful, Moka…," he breathed lovingly into her ear, causing her to shiver as her toes curled in pleasure.

Moka trailed lingering kisses along his neck, panting lightly as the heat in her body grew to an almost excruciating inferno. She gave a strangled gasp, her head tilting back in her rapture as she felt him lean down and close his lips over her right nipple, tenderly suckling the hypersensitive flesh as he gently kneaded her other breast. A soft growl of pleasure bubbled up in her throat, causing Tsukune to pause.

"M-Moka?" he questioned, gasping when she sealed his lips with her own once again as she unbuttoned and unzipped his khaki shorts, grateful that he had neglected to wear a belt.

Now clad in only his boxers, the teen shivered as their tongues brushed and intertwined, a low moan escaping him. His body went rigid, a sharp whimper leaving his lips as she pressed further into him, rubbing against his thinly clothed erection. His frustration getting the better of him, he reached down and slid her skirt off, leaving her in only her black, silk panties.

Moka, by this point, now had a permanent blush staining her pale cheeks, and she couldn't seem to help the soft purr she murmured as they pressed together again, their thin undergarments the only barrier left between them. This connection they held was unlike any she'd ever known. Even now, as she slowly trailed her fingers down his naked spine, she couldn't even begin to fathom all the moments that had brought them to this point in time. Right now, the only thing on her mind was the young male vampire lovingly running his fingers through her hair while he timidly sucked on her tongue, and all she wanted was to be closer to him; to make them inseparable. Even still, she was nervous. This was her first time, after all. However, at least it was with the man she knew she'd spend the rest of her life with. They both wanted this. Trembling, she reached down and slid her silk panties past her hips, letting them fall to the floor to join her shirt, skirt, and bra.

Tsukune froze as he felt her remove her last article of clothing. Swallowing nervously, he slowly pulled back a bit, unable to keep his shy, yet curious, eyes from wandering over her gorgeous form. One thing was for certain: she definitely had the body of a model. Everything about her was perfectly proportioned, from her shapely breasts, to the soft curve of her hips.

Moka blushed deeply once again at his raptured stare, a wave of intense warm flowing through her at the knowledge that he would be the only one to ever look at her this way. Only Tsukune would be allowed to view her body in such a manner. Taking advantage of his obvious distraction, as well as to alleviate her own embarrassment, she tentatively hooked her fingers in the elastic waistband of his boxers and tugged down.

Tsukune gasped as he was suddenly fully exposed to her gaze. He had never felt so nervous before in his life! He gave a small, shy smile at her heated gaze before leaning forward to mesh their lips together once more as he gathered her into his arms and slowly carried her to his bed.

Moka gasped into the kiss as she was picked up bridal-style. Moments later, her back hit the soft mattress, and she gave a shuddering sigh. Her breath hitched as their warm, naked skin touched for the first time. Her whole body instantly grew warmer as she timidly reached down to grasp him, shifting slightly to align their hips.

Tsukune let out a choked gasp as her soft hand gently wrapped around his erection, slowly guiding him into her warmth. He couldn't help the moan he uttered, his whole body trembling. She felt so warm and soft.

Moka gave a soft groan, her toes curling in exquisite pleasure as he slowly sank into her. She paused, wincing slightly as he reached the proof of her virginity. Taking one last shaky breath through her nose, the vampiress arched her hips upward into his, fully joining their bodies.

Tsukune shuddered violently, a desperate moan escaping his lips as he sank completely into her. Breaking the kiss for air, he panted and rested his forehead against her shoulder as her velvet heat squeezed around him, causing his toes to curl as another moan fell from his lips. Trembling, he licked apologetically at her lower neck, whispering soothing hums into her ear. From all the guy-talk he had overheard, a woman's first time was actually rumored to be painful. His assumption was only proven correct as the vampiress beneath him went completely rigid, shallow, unsteady breaths falling from her lips as she squeezed her eyes shut. After a few moments, he felt her move against him, and his vision nearly swam with the overwhelming pleasure. Unable to resist any longer, a soft, drawn out moan escaped the boy's lips as he buried his face into her neck, sinking his fangs in again on instinct.

Moka felt the shivers run through her body, causing her to tremble from head to toe as she nearly saw stars from the pleasure. Her mind slowly numbing to anything but the raw pleasure and heat between them, she copied his actions, sinking her fangs into his neck once again. She moaned softly as his sweet blood seeped into her mouth. The stimulation, combined with the intoxicating flavor of his blood only seemed to heighten her ecstasy, and she whimpered.

Their rhythm was slow, deep, and tender as they moved together. Enraptured by the bond they were creating, the pair found themselves staring deeply into one another's eyes as they made love, unable to tear their gaze from the other.

Moka moaned as their movements slowed even further, wrapping her legs around his waist in an effort to deepen their contact. She whimpered as her toes curled in her release, giving a soft purr when she felt him follow immediately afterward with a soft groan. Shuddering, she tenderly lapped at the mate-mark on his lower neck…

Moka's ruby eyes shot open, her heart racing in her chest as her body trembled. Blushing wildly, her eyes darted around the room. Wait, she was still in control of her body? It was then that she caught sight of the silver rosary lying on the green carpet beside her.

I fell asleep? Still blushing, the vampiress shook her head. She had to snap herself out of this.

The silver-haired vampiress almost winced at the irony. If this wasn't proof that she was in love, she didn't know what was. Her blush deepened. Her dreams were so vivid. Shaking her head again to clear and focus her thoughts, she grabbed her rosary. She had no time for this. She needed a bath. Her mind should be focusing on Tsukune's training anyway. Sighing in resignation, she lifted the crucifix to the chain on her collar. She resisted the almost involuntary gasp as the sealing magic instantly took effect, her silver hair darkening to pink and her scarlet eyes lightening into a bright emerald.

Moka sat against her door for a few moments longer, regaining her bearings as she slowly recovered from the change.

---

Tsukune's eyes flew open, a sharp gasp leaving his lips as he sat up in his bed. Trembling violently, the teen tried to force his breathing into an even rhythm.

P-please stop, he mentally begged.

The dreams were becoming too much, taunting him with their vividness; dangling in front of him what he was absolutely terrified of asking for. It all made perfect sense now. The dreams were obviously trying to tell him something. While they made him feel horribly perverted, his mind had never felt clearer. The teen blushed. The dreams were always about her. He felt his blood warm considerably. She always allowed him to touch her so freely. He never dreamed about Kurumu, Mizore, Yukari, or Ruby in such a manner. In the rare dreams he DID have of them, they weren't nearly as detailed and vivid; mostly them interrupting, or attempting to coerce him into decision. It was always only Moka he shared such intimacy with in his dreams. His eyes widened as Inner Moka's words replayed in his mind once again…

It's your indecisiveness that brought this about…you know that. That's okay for the time being, but one of these days you are going to have to make a decision, Tsukune. And that time is coming up…

Tsukune gulped in realization. Her words continued to haunt him, and her every look now seemed to almost paralyze him. There was no doubt about it, she was right. His time for indecision had finally come to an end. Standing up on shaky legs, he slowly made his way to his closet. It was official: she haunted his dreams, and he truthfully wouldn't have it any other way. In all actuality, it was hard to picture himself without her. The vampire shuddered. That was a life he didn't want to even begin to fathom. A life without his close friends was horrible enough to picture, but a life without Moka in it… Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, he picked out a pair of blue jeans and a grey tee-shirt and threw them on before heading downstairs to greet his family.

---

"Now, listen, Son, we aren't saying that we don't trust you, but you had us worried sick."

Both Moka and Tsukune sank down in their chairs in the dining room as Tsukune's father continued to lecture them on their, apparently irresponsible, behavior the night prior.

Tsukune rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. He honestly should've expected this. After all, he had completely forgotten all about the time, let alone calling. He blushed faintly. The second the rain started, and Moka had bitten him, he had lost all sense of time.

"I-I'm sorry, Dad, I just completely forgot. I really didn't mean to make you guys worry so much. I didn't even know what time it was," he offered apologetically.

Moka sat beside him, not saying a single word. She had really blown it. Her first outing with him in the human world while staying with his parents, and they had stayed out half the night! They must really have the wrong impression of her now! The vampiress glanced down at her lap in shame. There was also the little exchange that had taken place between her inner self and Tsukune that she had to think about. Her inner self had even confessed to holding feelings of love for the boy last night! She would be lying if she were to say that she wasn't the least bit jealous. However, she couldn't deny that she was mildly happy as well. It was official now; she had her inner self's approval. After all, her inner self could hardly protest when she had admitted to feeling the same affections for him too. Not to mention the dreams. The pink-haired vampiress shook her head slightly to clear her thoughts. Now definitely wasn't the time. She bit her lip as Tsukune's father sighed and gave a slightly stern look.

"Well, you best be sure that it doesn't happen again. You nearly gave your poor mother a heart-attack."

Tsukune nodded and looked away. His mother had definitely been upset. When he had spoken to her that morning before she left for the grocery store, she had nearly been frantic. After he had assured her that her fears were irrational, she had seemed to calm down somewhat. That had been nearly two hours ago now, and she still hadn't returned from her shopping. He only hoped that she would be in better spirits when she got home. The vampire gave an inward sigh. It was only eleven o'clock in the morning, but he could already tell that it was going to be a long day. After all, he still had Inner Moka's training to think about.

---

A young, dark-haired woman sighed as she walked down the long, luxurious hall. Along the wall were various photographs. The first one showed a young, blonde-haired woman with a tan complexion, holding a child with a similar visage. Immediately following that photo was one of a little red-headed girl with pigtails sticking her tongue out at the camera.

The young black-haired girl scowled. That child had always been an absolute brat. Shaking her head, her short, black hair swished behind her as she walked on. Passing by another photograph, she froze. Her deep red eyes peering over the faces: one face she hoped to see again very soon. She glanced into the face of the young woman in the frame, her green eyes seeming to gleam as she held tightly to a grinning little girl with long, silver hair. The black-haired young woman smiled slightly, a fang poking out from behind her pale lips as she traced her fingers over the child's smiling face.

Moka…I can't wait to see you again…, the young girl gave a blissful sigh and moved to the large castle-like door at the end of the hall, entering a dimly-lit room.

"Welcome, Aqua. I'm glad to see you've finally made it back. Have you done what I've requested?" A cool, feminine voice greeted, glowing red eyes staring intently out of the semi darkness as the black-haired vampiress made her way to the large chair in the back of the room, sitting across from her greeter.

"I have. Everything is set to go forward now," Aqua replied with a small smile.

The glowing eyes narrowed in contentment as a soft sigh left the blonde's lips.

"Very good. Soon the Yokai Academy that exists now will all be a distant memory. I refuse to subject my daughter to such a boorish lot of mongrel children any longer."

Aqua was silent for a moment as she rested her chin in her hand.

"I thought Kokoa was enjoying Yokai Academy," she replied curiously.

Gyokuro scowled slightly.

"That is only because Moka is there, well, what's left of her," the blonde vampiress replied with a slight smirk.

Aqua's eyes narrowed slightly, though she said nothing. She had been there on that awful day; that horrible day when her precious little sister had been sealed away, locked away while an artificial personality rose to take her place in life. She wouldn't stand for it any longer!

"Well, I met with Ciel Katori last night."

Gyokuro quirked a brow in interest.

"The hydra? What did she have to say about her little problem with AWOLs now?"

Aqua sighed.

"Well, apparently she's lost another one. It seems that Ruka Santori has disappeared as well."

Gyokuro scowled, running a hand through her short, blonde hair.

"That doesn't particularly surprise me. When I heard from her that Togura Ishimoto was the one who disappeared, I figured it was only a matter of time before Ruka followed. Ciel's told me about their history. Those two are nothing but trouble, and they need to be gotten rid of. Kahlua should be ready to receive the orders. She should be more than capable of handling such nuisances."

Aqua nodded, though inwardly cringing slightly in fear. She didn't envy those Kahlua was sent after.

"Very well. Should I inform her now?"

Gyokuro crossed her legs as she leaned forward on the black leather couch she was sitting on to retrieve her cup of tea from the coffee table between them. Taking a long sip, she sighed contentedly. Giving a cat-like grin, she finally answered.

"It can wait until tomorrow. After all, part of the thrill of the kill is the chase."

Aqua smiled slightly.

Soon, Moka. Soon, we will be reunited again.

---

"Keep your guard up, Tsukune," Inner Moka ordered, delivering a blow to his unguarded stomach.

Tsukune yelped. Thankfully that punch hadn't been as hard as her normal blows. However, it still managed to knock the wind out of him. It was no use. Training with Inner Moka had been a bad idea. It wasn't even really training at this point. He simply couldn't bring himself to return a single blow. Every time he looked at her now, visions of his dreams flashed through his mind: their soft lips touching, his fingers gently trailing through her silken hair, the tingling feeling of their heated skin touching. The teen was brought out of his thoughts painfully when a well-aimed kick to his back sent him flying a few feet away into the ground. He winced, feeling his back kink as he sat up. At least that kick hadn't carried her usual strength. Otherwise his spine would've surely been dislocated. He sighed. It was apparent that she was going easy on him.

Moka sighed as she marched over to him. She honestly didn't know whether to be flattered or offended at his hesitation. While she enjoyed the opportunity relieve the frustrations of her jumbled thoughts, she took no pleasure in kicking him around like a ragdoll. She was supposed to be training him, not beating the stuffing out of him.

"Alright, take a break," she muttered as she reached down and pulled him to his feet. The teen winced again as she led him over to the blanket they had spread out underneath the tree they had sat under the night before, sitting down with a pained groan. Oh, his back was so stiff!

"Listen, Tsukune, this training does nothing if you aren't willing to go on the offensive. At least act like this is worth my time," Moka chided as she sat down next to him. The vampiress gave an inward sigh. She was almost being a hypocrite. She hadn't really been utilizing her full potential either. In all honesty, considering the dream she'd had, she could barely bring herself to strike him at all. She turned to face him when she heard him give a shuddering sigh.

"I-I can't do it, Moka. I thought that I would be able to handle it, but I can't," he murmured as he turned to her with glazed ruby eyes.

Moka nearly gasped. Had she been too tough on him? She had held back for him, but perhaps it hadn't been enough.

"W-what are you talking about, Tsukune? You're a vampire now. You're a lot tougher than-"

"That's not what I meant. I-I can't bring myself to-to hit you. I know that it's just training, b-but I just can't," he cut her off, biting his lip as he choked back the sob that desperately wanted to escape him right now. Boy, had he ever blown it. He felt so worthless, but the thought of raising even a finger to the woman he loved only made him nauseous.

Moka's crimson eyes widened. Maybe she really had been too tough on him. When he suddenly looked away from her in shame, her gaze turned soft. A wave of guilt crashed through her as he reached behind him to feebly rub his bare, aching back. Her glowing, scarlet eyes traveled over his bare skin, and she blinked as the idea for atonement came flittering to her from her outer self. She felt a deep blush fill her cheeks as an idea came to her. Perhaps there was something she could do to make things easier for him? Biting her lip, she slowly moved to sit behind him. Taking a deep breath, she hesitantly reached out to trail her hands along his back, lightly massaging the sore muscles. She almost grinned to herself when she felt him jump in response to her touch.

"M-Moka?!" Tsukune stammered, blushing a bright red as he felt her hands on the bare skin of his back, her gentle fingers feeling like electricity on his sensitive body.

"D-don't get any ideas. I'm only doing this as a reward for your effort today," she hissed as she gently trailed her hands over his shoulders, kneading the soft flesh. God, was this embarrassing!

Tsukune's eyes widened, and a soft groan escaped his lips as he sank to his stomach on the soft blanket. He felt his breath hitch as Moka came with him, straddling his hips from behind as he lay flat on his stomach. He gave a soft moan as she continued her ministrations, tenderly trailing her hands along his spine.

Oh, God, if-if she keeps that up, I'll…I'll… The teen shuddered.

Moka couldn't help but give a soft smile at his reactions, grateful that he couldn't see her at the moment.

I-I may not be the best at showing my feelings, but…maybe…just this once, her thoughts trailed off as she leaned down and softly pressed her lips to the side of his neck.

Tsukune gulped, his eyes widening again. Did Inner Moka really just kiss his neck? Giving a soft groan as he felt his body instantly react to the attention, his eyes slowly fluttered closed.

Moka blushed deeply, though she couldn't deny the sense of pride that his reactions brought her. She slowly worked his sore muscles, soothing out the knots with gentle fingers. When she brushed a particularly sensitive spot in the middle of his back, he gave a soft moan and jerked slightly. The vampiress did her best to keep herself in check, and by the time she had completely worked out the kinks in his back and removed herself from him, they were both nearly panting.

Tsukune felt her weight leave his back and slowly sat up. Turning around to face her, he gave the silver-haired beauty a bashful smile, a dark blush warming his cheeks.

Th-that was amazing! She-she was so gentle. The teen swallowed nervously. "T-thanks, Moka. I really owe you one."

Moka blushed slightly, muttering indignantly under her breath as she turned away, trying to appear nonchalant.

Tsukune smiled slightly.

Wow, that was so nice of Moka. M-maybe she'd let me…, the teens thoughts trailed off as he quickly shook his head. There was no way. No! No more being a coward. Even if she does kill me for it, it'll at least be worth it. Steeling his courage, the young vampire hesitantly reached over and gently began to rub her shoulders, causing her to jump.

Moka instantly felt a shiver run down her spine, causing her toes to curl slightly. A low growl bubbled up in her throat as she glanced over her shoulder at him.

"What do you think you're doing?" she questioned, warning clear in her deadly tone.

For once, Tsukune ignored her warning, biting his lip in apprehension as he continued his massaging of the vampiress's shoulders.

"W-well, y-you're tense too, Moka. B-besides, I told you that I owed you," he finally stuttered, surprised when his reply stunned the, normally confident, vampiress into silence. I never really realized just how sweet she could be.

Moka tried her best to still her shuddering as he tenderly kneaded her shoulders, slowly trialing down to her back. She was mortified to say the least when her back arched on its own accord, a soft purr falling from her lips. The vampiress instantly blushed, her body no longer seeming to listen to her as it reacted of its own volition, a soft growl of pleasure leaving her as he reached her lower back.

Tsukune heard her growl and paused momentarily. Wait, so did a growl mean that she was happy? Swallowing nervously, he continued. Feeling a little bolder when she made no movement to stop him, he hesitantly slipped his hands beneath her shirt to knead her bare skin.

The instant his fingers touched her skin, Moka gave an involuntary moan. Mortified, her heart skipped a beat as she slapped a hand over her mouth. Why wasn't she able to control her voice anymore? She had no more time to think on the matter, however, as his shy fingers gently kneaded along the back of her ribs, causing her to twitch slightly as her pulse began to throb loudly in her ears. Her fingers dug into the blanket in pleasure, another soft purring growl leaving her lips.

Tsukune bit his lip, his thirst growing more insistent by the minute. All the while she had massaged him, her scent had tortured him, and he hadn't had a drink of blood in two days now. Before he could even think about stopping himself, he had pressed his face into her lower neck, taking a deep breath of her soothing scent. He couldn't hold back any longer. Gently moving her hair out of the way, he hesitantly pressed his fangs against her skin.

Moka felt chills go down her spine as he slowly grazed his fangs against her flesh. She knew what he was waiting for. She knew that he wouldn't simply take her blood without some form of permission first. Drawing in a shuddering breath, she tilted her head slightly. The simple action had been enough of a signal to Tsukune, and he sank his fangs into her neck with a whimpering moan. Moka shuddered at the sound, feeling it reverberate through her body all the way down to her toes. The combination of his gentle massage and the exquisite ecstasy of his bite proved to be too much, and she instantly felt her toes curl as she gave into the sensation. She gave a soft moan, her fingers twitching lightly in her release.

Tsukune moaned, intense warmth filling him at the sweet taste of her blood. Taking one last gulp, he retracted his fangs and brushed his tongue over the wound to seal it, watching in fascination as she trembled. They had gotten so much closer, and he idly wondered how much closer she would allow them to become.

Maybe…maybe she really does have feelings for me…

A/N: Well, there's chapter six, everyone. I really hope you enjoyed it. Once again, I am VERY sorry that it took me so long to complete this chapter. A lot of emotional chaos has been going on at my house, and I was simply too unfocused to write.

Next Chapter: Thread of Fate and a Vampire

Preview:

"W-wait, hear me out," Tsukune pleaded as he quickly snatched the silver cross from her hand, preventing her retreat. At her penetrating glare, he continued. "I love the other Moka…but-but the truth is…I-I'm in love with y-you too. I-I could never choose between the two of you, because you're both the same wonderful person to me. Together, you make the most amazing, beautiful person I've ever known. You may not believe me, and that's okay. That's okay, because-because, if you just give me the chance, I-I can prove that I do love you, Moka, more than anything."

Moka gave a sharp gasp, a deep blush rapidly filling her cheeks as her crimson eyes widened. She was absolutely mortified to find that they were rapidly filling with tears. She moved to turn away in an effort to hide her tears when she felt him gently grasp her shoulders and pull her into his arms, causing her to gasp in shock at the bold action.

"I-I love you, Moka," he murmured softly into her ear as he hesitantly reached up to run his fingers through her silver hair.