Chapter Ten: False Ally

A/N: Scratch what I said last chapter. THIS is the longest installment. I was originally going to separate this chapter into two but my wife, who is an avid Rosario Vampire fan, decided it would benefit this way. This chapter took nearly 10 hours to complete but I still enjoyed the hell out of it. Hopefully I'm not alone in that regard. Enjoy!

The light of the sun stirred Tsukune awake. The bed was warm and the sheets soft. It reminded him of those long but blissful Saturday mornings. Homework done for the weekend and the rest of his time allowed for whatever may come his way. At least, that's the feeling he got and it almost made him forget where he was.

"Mistress, would you like if I brushed your hair? You have very pretty hair, it would be a shame if you had a knot,"

"Of course,"

Tsukune peeled open an eyelid. Sitting before a mighty vanity mirror sat Moka and behind her a servant. Casting through the mirror's reflection he could see Moka's face, a faint but noticeable smile decorated her lips. It was as that moment he realized he was witnessing an emotion he had never seen.

It was inner peace.

Her eyes closed, the servant tended to her long hair. It was as if Moka had found a fragment of her childhood resting within the room. Calm and serene, two words usually never associated with Vampires had suddenly found refuge upon her. It was endearing and settled a warm feeling deep inside his chest.

The servant locked eyes with him through the mirror and instantly turned, "Master Tsukune, would you like your hair done as well?"

The question hit him in more ways than one. If the servant hadn't placed any emphasize on 'Master' he would have totally missed it.

"Excuse me?" he said.

Moka smiled and restrained a chuckle but the servant continued: "It would seem you have a mild case of bed hair,"

It was true. Tsukune's hair was a disheveled mess folding in on itself from every angle. He wanted to view himself in the mirror but the moment he gripped the sheets to tear them away he spotted Moka's hand lift to him. Gesturing for him to stop.

He was glad he heeded the warning. Looking down he realized not a shed of clothing adorned his body. His hands shot down beneath the sheets hiding his most intimates even though it wasn't necessary.

The servant seemed confused as she spoke, "My apologizes. Have I offended you?"

Moka blushed but laughed quietly, "No, no, Amelia. He's not used to our customs but you are dismissed for the time being,"

The servant named Amelia merely nodded and excused herself from the room leaving the two of them in a silence.

Finally, Tsukune had to ask: "How long has she been here? She didn't see..."

Moka shook her head, "Don't worry about it. Your dignity is perfectly intact,"

At this moment he noticed her clothing. An elegant red summer dress hugged her body, black flowers embroidered the hem and gave the gown a look of royalty. Although he had never seen her wear such a garment it somehow fitted her profoundly. If anything, it only brought home the fact that she wasn't human.

Moka stood from her chair and sat beside him at the edge of the bed. Leaning forward she planted her rouge lips against his.

"Good morning, Tsukune,"

He smiled, "I guess you're in your element again, huh?"

She gave him a nonchalant shrug of her shoulders, "It's like I never left. Amelia tended to me when I was younger so it's only natural she would gravitate toward me when I returned. She brought you some clothes,"

Moka pointed to the night stand where a small stack of rather expensive looking clothing sat. Tsukune's eyes then darted around the room.

"What happened to my clothes?" he asked.

"Amelia took them to be washed," Moka replied, "Embarrassed?"

Tsukune gave a nervous smile, "It's just that... I never had another woman wash my clothes besides my own mother,"

Moka laughed, "Even though I've never done it before. I'm pretty sure my outer self wouldn't mind doing that one day,"

"Oh? What about you? The inner you?"

Moka stood and handed him the stack of clothing, "Not a chance,"

Figures, he thought, but then again he wasn't too surprised. Moka had a funny way of expressing herself and it made him feel like he was the only one who truly understood.

He began to dress himself inadvertently turning away from her as he slid on a pair of black slacks. He could feel Moka's eyes on him as he did so, a sense of awkwardness came rushing soon after.

"We are having breakfast with my father," she finally said.

Tsukune couldn't have experienced such a more fit dread. To think that the day was just looking up, he thought.

Before he knew it Tsukune found himself sitting at a long wooden table in a massive room. Moka sat opposite him and her father sat at the end but Tsukune wished he was sitting farther away. The thought of being able to see each individual strand of Moka's father's well groomed beard tightened his throat.

Servants made their way from an invisible doorway and placed large sterling plates before Moka and himself. Looking down he couldn't identify the food but the smell was enough to persuade him to try it.

Glancing towards Moka's father he noticed nothing had been placed in front of the Vampire leader, instead, only a generously sized goblet sat. Within it a red liquid pooled reeking of something potent.

"Moka, I trust you had a decent night's rest?" said Issa as he placed his goblet to his lips.

Moka dabbed her still rouge lips delicately with her handkerchief before replying, "Yes, father. It was much needed from what we've already been through,"

Issa nodded as he swirled his drink within his long fingers, "And you boy? Basking in the luxury?"

Tsukune could only nod feeling as though any wrong placed word was punishable by death.

Issa tilted in his chair and whispered to Moka, "I would hope a mate of my daughter would prove to be a bit less cowardly,"

"Father, this is a bit much for him. Please, give him a break,"

"I haven't done a thing to him but offer him my home,"

"How about you lighten up a bit. He's not used to the formalities much less eating with you. You're not the easiest person to talk to either,"

Issa cleared his throat and tossed another sip between his fangs, "So be it,"

He turned to Tsukune and said, "When can I expect an heir?"

Tsukune had just begun to swallow when the question caught him. He coughed and hacked praying this wouldn't be the way he would end up dying.

"Father!" Moka said as her cheeks swelled into a similar color as her lips.

Issa seemed confused, "What is it now? I am making idle banter on your behalf and this one over here wants to choke? Children these days,"

"Inappropriate," muttered Moka.

"You sound like your mother," Issa replied. He then glanced over to Tsukune, "Would someone please help this boy! He's turning blue in the face,"

A servant suddenly appeared behind Tsukune and gave him a curt slap on the back stiffing the endless stream of hacks.

Issa stood from the table finishing off his goblet of vice, "Excuse me, I have to finish the preparations for tonight. Moka, I trust you will be attending? All of the Hierarchy will here and I wish for them to see you,"

"Of course father. But what about..."

"As I said yesterday. I still need time to get to the bottom of your story. Until then, you are safe within these walls," he told her.

Moka nodded as he exited the room. When she heard his footsteps disappear she immediately came to Tsukune's side, "Are you alright?"

"Yeah," he said hoarsely, "Forget to chew,"

Suddenly a group of servants appeared around them.

One of them said, "Mistress, we must prepare you for tonight. If you do not mind, we would like to get started right away,"

Moka seemed unsure as she darted her eyes from the servant to Tsukune.

"Don't worry about me," he said, "Go, I'll find something to do in the meantime,"

She gave him a hesitant nod and walked out with her entourage leaving Tsukune on his own. Sitting back in his chair he gave out a long sigh. Why were things getting out of hand so fast? Well, he seemed to be in good standing for the time being so all wasn't lost.

His eyes scanned the room.

Maybe he would explore the mansion. No harm in that, right?

Kurumu stared out her window, arms folded and eyes narrow. This place was filled with bourgeoisie and she was beginning to taste its sourness. Snobby, she thought.

However, that was the least of her worries. Her mind was clouded with the memories of the night before. Stumbling upon Tsukune and Moka in the depths of... of... passion.

Her knuckles curled into her palms whitening with anxiety. Somehow she couldn't tear her mind from that image and yet it was the only thing she could think of. She needed to find Tsukune and pour her feelings to him. Even if she lost him she would lose without regrets.

Suddenly, the door to her room popped open and in came a servant holding a long dress.

"You need to wear this. His Lordship demands you attend the festivities for the night and you will not set foot out of this room wearing what you have now,"

"I'm not wearing that and I don't want to join whatever it is you are planning," Kurumu snapped back.

The servant smiled briefly placing her back against a wall balling the dress in her arms, "Whether you like it or not, Succubus. You will wear this dress and you will attend. Be grateful, these garments are too rich to be worn on your kind,"

Kurumu turned in place, "What did you say?"

"You heard me,"

"Leave me alone,"

The servant sneered, "So unbecoming of a young woman. You brood as much as an old hag. Is it because you are madly in love with my Mistress's mate?"

"That's none of your business,"

"Oh, so I am correct. One thing you must understand, Succubus. Vampires are the true creatures of seduction. It is no surprise my Mistress has won. You will do your best to admit defeat,"

Kurumu's hands balled into fists as she maintained a transfixed stare out the window. Anger was devouring her and she wanted to lash out. But she knew doing so would prove detrimental to their cause. She had to bite her tongue even if it meant severing it.

"What's your name?" said Kurumu.

The servant frowned, "If you must know, it is Amelia. Why do you ask?"

Kurumu turned, her eyes in dangerous slits: "When this is all said and done. I'll show you what a Succubus can do,"

Amelia laughed, "We'll see. In the meantime, shut your trap and put this on. You have wasted enough of my time as it is,"

As the door shut Kurumu felt herself bite her lower lip to stop it from quivering. She inhaled deeply not wanting to admit defeat. No matter how many times she tried to reassure herself reality persisted otherwise.

Then a knock came from her door. Her stomach rose to her throat.

"Leave me alone!" she called out, tears brimming at her eyes.

"It's me, Mizore,"

Kurumu immediately wiped her eyes and went to the door. Opening it she spun around not wanting attention to be drawn to her miserable state.

The Snow Fairy spoke; "Are you alright?"

Kurumu nodded taking a seat at the foot of her bed, "Yeah, just... just fine. How's Yukari?"

"With all the commotion Ruby was having a hard time healing her but she's doing a lot better than before. Still out of it, though,"

"Why are you wearing that?"

Mizore looked upon the dress that was given to her. A long ocean blue dress complete with an intricate black corset perfectly hemmed at the back. What's more, her violet hair was done into a perfect bun that sat intricately atop her head sporting a pair of Kanzashi; chopstick like ornaments.

"They told me to wear this," she said, "I think it's cute,"

"You're actually going along with this?" whispered Kurumu, "It's ridiculous,"

Mizore sat beside her, "You're more worried about Tsukune, aren't you?"

"And you're not? Ever since things started going downhill you haven't been going after him like before. What gives?"

Mizore clasped her hands together, her eyes staring at her lap, "Because I know now that his happiness means more to me than anything,"

"What do you mean?"

"I've been thinking about the past few years. In my heart I would love nothing more for him to be with me. To give me the same look he gives Moka. But... I've been selfish,"

Kurumu didn't know what to say as the Snow Fairy continued, "It would be amazing if one day he decides that I am the one for him and it hurts knowing I won't be able to live up to the tradition of my people and have children with the one I love... but... I love him too much to force him. I love him too much to take away what makes him happy. And... if Moka makes him happy more than me then I will accept it. The fact that I can just be by his side is enough. I will let him go if that means he'll be happy. And in the end... what else would I want for the person I deeply truly love? He never really belonged to me so what right do I have to snatch him away?"

Kurumu couldn't help but feel a sense of shame hit her, "I... I never really expected that from you. I always saw you as a rival. Well, a rival stalker,"

Mizore smiled, "Sometimes you just have to let go. Even though its hard sometimes you have to look past it. As long as he lets me be in his life, I think that's enough for me,"

Kurumu nodded but she could feel a part of herself struggling to come to terms with her words.

"Not everyone is friendly here but I don't think Tsukune is having an easy time either. So, let's do our best for him. He deserves that much," said Mizore.

Kurumu nodded and stood, "You're right. I guess I'll get dressed then,"

Mizore agreed and made her way out of the room. As she walked down the hall towards her own room but spotted two servants walking towards her.

As they came closer she heard one of them whisper, "Have you seen the Mistress's mate? He's so cute. He's perfect for her,"

The other agreed, "Oh yes, I do not remember a time even when she was a child such a smile on her face. She has really blossomed into a very beautiful young woman,"

"Imagine. One day we might have a little heir running around. Would that not be something?"

As their voices disappeared around a corner Mizore found herself leaning against a wall. Her chin quivered and her vision blurry. And without pause she cried into her hands staining the gloves she wore.

Tsukune couldn't believe the size of the mansion. Just walking from one part to another made his legs tired. Each hall was nearly identical and after so long he thought he might have been walking in circles. However, he found himself in a dimly lit hall with nothing but candlelight lighting his way.

An opened door caught his eye and upon looking in he found what appeared to be a library. Curious and with nothing else to do he allowed himself in.

The walls were stacked with countless books, all seemingly bound in materials long lost to the sands of time. Candles sat upon mantles casting an eerie glow on the wooden tables adorned with writing instruments and various vials of what appeared to be ink. It made sense, he thought, Vampires were creatures of incredible age. It would seem natural they would keep books throughout the ages.

He wandered the room taking in the breath taking vista of the courtyard that sat outside the massive windows. His eyes came upon a vast row of books, some relatively new by the color of their covers and others caked in dust and grime. As he took a closer look he noticed a small black book sticking out from the rest of its comrades. Taking it into his palm his eyes found the embossed title.

Notes of lost History.

Tsukune glanced over his shoulder and was satisfied when he heard nothing. He flipped to a random page and realized the book was hand written. Odd, he thought.

He began to read:

Many of our kind dispute the founding of our race. However, it has become clear to me over the years where our ancestry lies. After years of searching I have found the answer in the most unexpected place. It was in the books of fairy tales handed down the lineage of all monsters.

The first Vampire was not a Vampire at all. In fact, the first of our kind were called Ancients.

Tsukune felt his body begin to tremble. Ancients... where was this headed?

In the tale that I have read. It was stated the Ancients were the first iteration of mankind on this planet. They possessed God-like abilities but were masters of knowing how to use them. However, a catastrophic event occurred. The tales refer to this event as 'The Great Divide'. War broke between the Ancients and the newly gathered Humans. Furthermore, opponents on both sides began to break apart. Our ancestor is one of these defectors.

One could only imagine the shock this has caused me. The fact that we, Vampires, who always preyed upon Humans were in fact the first race to side with them. Nosferatu, the first Vampire Ancient, sided with the Humans. And if my theory is correct. Our ancestor was the first to betray the Ancients.

Tsukune couldn't tell how to handle the information he was reading but his eyes continued on searching for the elusive clue that taunted him.

Upon searching further. This revelation brought upon yet another. Due to the Humans lacking any type of natural prowess. The Ancients that defected began to mate with the humans. This simple act alone brought forth a new generation of being. From the union between Ancient and Human gave birth to what we now call today, 'Monsters'.

Our Ancient ancestor mated with a human. And their offspring are today's Vampires.

Tsukune slammed the book shut and replaced it into its empty slot. He suddenly felt out of breath and panicked.

Somehow he knew this was knowledge he was not meant to have.

"Curious, are we not?"

Tsukune turned in place and spotted his worse fear standing at the doorway. Issa's silhouette dominated the entrance and the light from the glowing candles tossed a veil of shadows across his sharpened features.

"I'm... I'm sorry," Tsukune stammered, "I didn't mean..."

Issa shook his head softly, "Do not fret. If I was concerned with concealing something I would not allow my servants to let you walk so freely in my domain,"

Tsukune noticed two small champagne glasses within the Vampire Lord's hands. Both filled with the familiar red tint of something fierce. Issa glided into the room lifting one glass within Tsukune's reach.

"Here, I cannot have you stressed when I am having very important guests arrive," said Issa. Tsukune took the glass but was unsure of what to do with it. Watching Issa take his a sip he mimicked the action without hesitation.

His face contorted as the taste hit his tongue. It was somewhat familiar but it stung his throat and left a strong aftertaste. Like thick cough syrup it stuck to the insides of his cheeks bursting with a copper flavor. It even managed to somehow numb his lips.

"Fairy blood," whispered Issa, "Do not worry. We are not as archaic as we once were. I have it donated in exchange for protection,"

Tsukune nodded. The taste was hard to get used to but it caused a warm burn in the pit of his stomach. He took another sip and noted a sudden bounty of flavor he hadn't noticed before. It was quite delicious.

"Here, take a seat. There is something I wish to discuss with you," said Issa.

Tsukune agreed, his legs were beginning to wobble. He placed himself into a chair making sure his glass did not tip over. Issa sat opposite him, a look of blatant concern in his deep eyes.

The Vampire Lord sighed heavily.

"I know something is going on. It is quite obvious you and Moka are at the center of it," he said.

Tsukune blinked, "So... you knew all this time? Then why?"

Issa seemed at a lost for words which was an amusing sight, "If you were a father and you knew something troubling was rapidly approaching. And one of the only solutions was to give your daughter something with incredible burden that could potentially destroy her life... would you?"

"What is the Elder Cross?" Tsukune replied.

Issa knocked his glass to his lips devouring its contents in one gulp, "It is a rosary that holds a power unlike anything we Vampires have ever seen. It contains the soul of our ancestor, Nosferatu,"

Tsukune peered down at his glass and realized it was already nearly empty, "Nosferatu..."

Issa nodded, "Yes. Truth be told, Moka's mother was considered by many to be the reincarnation of Nosferatu. Obviously that was a bit exaggerated, however, there's a bit of truth to that,"

Tsukune listened intently swallowing his last bit of drink, "What do you mean by that?"

"Moka's mother, Akasha, her family were the protectors of The Elder Cross. That is where she received much of her power over the years. So much so she attained a power unrivaled. The Elder Cross is much as a weapon as it is a piece of our history. However, its power is restricted and will not work with just any fledgling. Moka is different because she is simply the daughter of her mother. And in actuality is the next in line to receive such a relic. But alas, I am afraid,"

Tsukune could feel his gut begin to tremble with anxiety.

"If I give The Elder Cross to Moka there is a chance it will consume her. She will be bound to it and will not be able to live a normal life. However, I have been getting information from a variety of informants that there is unrest amongst our kind. That is the reasoning behind this little gathering of mine. It is not to please the masses, it is to weed out the betrayers. Hopefully if this works, I will not need to give my daughter a half life. I will find the ones causing this mess and I will kill them. I will not allow my daughter to suffer the same fate as her mother. Not under my roof,"

Issa offered him another glass of Vampire spirit and Tsukune took it. The flavor was beginning to grow on him and the Vampire Lord's story captivated his mind.

"Someone in the Hierarchy is feeding information to someone. I will get to the bottom of it,"

Tsukune only nodded gulping down his second round with a hearty swallow. Issa noticed and quickly said: "You should really pace yourself. On the same token I suggest you clean yourself up. Guests should be arriving soon. Leave this operation to me. Try not to draw attention to yourself. The presence of your friends alone may cause a bit of a stir,"

Tsukune couldn't tell when Issa had left the room but he felt his mind begin to swim. For a moment he couldn't declare which way was up and his stomach cursed in rebellion. He attempted to stand but stumbled over his feet. Using his arms for balance he miraculously found himself standing at the doorway of the library.

After several minutes the dizziness subsided. Whatever Issa had given him must have been the equivalent of strong alcohol he surmised. Hopefully he would regain himself once the festivities began.

Kurumu stepped from her room. She had spent several hours figuring out the puzzle that was her dress. She never had to wear something so intricate and trying to hem the laces that went along her back was excruciating but somehow she managed to complete the feat. Although she wasn't eager to wear something provided by a race of monster that saw her inferior she did marvel at the breathtaking care that was made to create it.

Surprisingly the light blue color of the dress matched almost perfectly with her hair. With a nearly matching corset laced with black embroidered designs it accentuated her waist and humbly concealed the size of her bust. A slit cut just above the knee created a waterfall impression around the hem of the dress. Since she couldn't find anything to pin to her hair she simply abandoned her usual hairpiece in favor of a natural look. She normally didn't wear her hair down but somehow it matched the theme of the dress. Looking down at herself she realized the dress matched her situation.

Just like she felt it was unyielding. She couldn't allow herself to hold back any longer. She needed to push on.

Her room overlooked the grand hall and upon peering over the banister she could see guests beginning to mingle down below. Anxiety didn't loosen as she let out a sigh. In the back of her mind she knew tonight would mean the end of her pursuit. She had to tell Tsukune everything and regardless of the outcome she had to accept it. They weren't young teenagers anymore. They were knocking on adulthood's door and she had to be there to take that first step.

The thought crossed her to find Mizore and the rest but the thought of seeing them weighed heavy. Was it embarrassment or shame that kept her secluded?

She made her way to the hall below keeping caution to avoid eye contact. However, it didn't seem to do much for she could hear whispers of disdain tremble through the air. It wasn't completely obvious but somehow many knew she wasn't one of them. Luckily the dress she wore was a sign of the guest, a means of telling others that despite her foreign origin she was allowed to walk amongst them.

She tried to lose herself in the crowd but no matter where she wandered she was met with eyes of both confusion and subtle malice. Ignoring it was becoming harder by the moment but her mind kept focus on Tsukune. She just needed to find him.

Vampires surrounded her all wearing outfits that made the occasion seem more like a wedding than a simple get together. Many brandished thin champagne glasses filled with red tinted liquids, some shone with hues of orange and some were a dark nearly black red. The thought of it being blood made her stomach clench.

The sound of distant music lofted the hall, harps, chimes and a number of string instruments. Suddenly it dissipated and a figure took center at a podium at the end of the hall. Looking closer, Kurumu could see that it was Moka's father. The Master Vampire lifted a hand into the air instantly gaining attention from the massive crowd.

"Welcome, my friends. As you know this is our annual gathering so please enjoy yourselves. Dinner will be served shorty, in the meantime, do not hesitate if you feel the need to move to my wonderful orchestra. Be merry and be prideful,"

"Be prideful!" the crowed replied in unison as they all lifted their glasses.

The music started again but Kurumu could see several couples in the crowd embrace into a slow waltz. Little by little more and more people in the crowd began to find partners leaving her in awkward seclusion.

Then something caught her eye.

Several feet away stood a man. It took her all of a moment to realize it was Tsukune. Fighting the crowd she zigzagged her way through it finally reaching him. All of her worries faded. It was as though she fell in love with him all over again. He looked, breathed and stood like a man of strength and mystery. All traits she watched ensnare him over the years.

"Tsukune," she said happily, "I'm so glad you're here,"

He turned to her seemingly lost in a train of thought, "Hey, Kurumu... wow..."

She couldn't suppress her giggle as she spun in place allowing him to take her in.

"Do you like it? I was kinda hoping you would," she admitted, "I spent all day putting it on,"

Tsukune lost his balance for a brief moment sparking an instant reflex in her. She held out her arms and straightened him. Confusion set on her face.

"Are you alright?" she asked him, "You're all over the place,"

He nodded and smiled, "Yeah, sorry. Drank something I shouldn't have,"

Kurumu's eyes wandered to a nearby table topped with countless goblets. Figures, she thought.

"Do you need to lie down?" she asked.

He shook his head, "No, no. I'm fine. Hey, would you like to dance?"

Kurumu's face seared with heat, her mouth void of any words to make a reply. Not even in her wildest imagination she did foresee him asking such a question. Looking around for answer she suddenly entered a fit of nervousness.

Luckily, she didn't have to answer.

He took her hand and brought her close. So close in fact his lips were hovering dangerously beside her ear, "Come on, let's dance,"

"What about Mo-?"

"Come on,"

He led her by the hand into the crowd but Kurumu wanted nothing more to be invisible. The stares they both received manifested a feeling of self consciousness but did not erase the beaming smile that refused to leave her face. The music dimmed and began again, this time springing a lively melody. Tsukune took her hand and planted another by her waist. She flinched under his touch and blushed at their close proximity. She couldn't understand his sudden interest but the look in his eyes gave off something she had never seen before.

No, she had seen this look.

It just was never directed to her.

"Tsukune... I..."

The music bloomed with a crescendo and before she could say another word she felt him lead her into motion. With each rise and fall of the melody she felt his strong body guide her with flawless precision. She never knew he could dance.

"Are you sure you're feeling alright?" she couldn't help but ask again.

He gave her an alluring smile, "Never been better,"

He rocked her into a slow spin following the music in perfect rhythm. He was so close that her breasts lifted slightly out of her strapped brassiere against his chest. She could feel his warmth, his scent and even the breath from his nose. It enticed her senses and made her ignorant of the countless couples around them, all coming to a halt seemingly entranced by the sight.

Kurumu felt herself drift farther into this dream. Reasoning, remorse, fear, shame... all left her as she embraced this feeling. This feeling of love. He gave her those eyes of longing, the eyes of true passion. The eyes she thought that were lost to her. There was no longer a need to feel fear and she was to make this moment theirs.

The music grew louder and so did their movement. When a swell of melodic beauty came forth Tsukune grasped her by the waist and lifted her. Her hands found his shoulders and for that brief moment she became airborne it was as if everyone watched them.

And she accepted it.

That's when she began to let go.

Mizore and Ruby watched from above noticing the air in the grand hall beginning to shimmer like a hot summer day. The Witch gave her Snow Fairy companion a concerning look.

"What's going on?" Mizore whispered not taking her eyes of the two dancing bodies below.

Ruby crossed her arms, "She's being careless,"

"How so?"

Ruby sighed, "Succubi work a little differently than most monsters. She has to restrain her ability to cast illusions. Because she's so wrapped up in the moment she's revealing her inner most desires. And... this could be bad..."

Mizore eyed her shuffling nervously in place, "Why? Could this stop us from finding what we need?"

Ruby shook her head and pointed down the hall where a woman stood, her gaze locked on the dancing duo. Mizore's eyes widened.

"Oh, no. Moka..."

Moka peered down at both Kurumu and Tsukune. Her hands tightened against the railing and her eyes narrowed. Without a word she disappeared into a darkened hall, her red dress trailing behind.

Mizore was about to go after her but Ruby halted the action.

"Don't. There's nothing we can do right now,"

Mizore frowned slowly removing her candied sweet from her lips. The tides of conflict were growing. Although it was just an ember it had potential to spread into a chaotic inferno and she was bearing witness to it. A horrid feeling wound in her insides.

"I'm going to go check on Yukari," she said.

Ruby nodded without moving her eyes.

The Snow Fairy traveled off making her way down the narrow corridor and towards the wing where they all stayed. The hall was bathed in moonlight cascading from the towering windows. Walking past them something caught her eye. She stopped and peered out into the vast vista that was the forest that surrounded the mansion.

Then from the darkness of the trees she saw several figures emerge.

The enemy had revealed themselves.

"Tsukune, I have to tell you something," Kurumu whispered.

He laughed, "I hope it's not bad news,"

"Even if... even if this is my only night to live this dream. I'm going to enjoy it,"

"Hmm? You're whispering, I can't here you,"

"Nothing... it's just... this is my last stand. And I know I might be hated for this... actually, I'm probably going to hate myself for this but..."

Tsukune lost his balance but quickly regained himself, "I don't feel so good,"

Kurumu lifted a hand to his face, "Don't worry, I can fix that. I promise I won't Allure you completely. Just a little,"

"Huh?"

Monster Trait Identifier:

Allure: An ability specialized by Succubi. Use to hypnotize a member of the male gender. The time the effect lasts varies depending on the power of the Succubus using the ability; ranging from a few minutes to a few days or even longer.

She loosened her mental restraint as their eyes met. Tsukune's pupils enlarged and she knew the effect was beginning to take hold. Unbeknownst to her the Fairy blood that still coursed through him had its own set of side effects.

They continued to dance, hand in hand, body to body. Rocking to and fro in a gentle embrace. He held her close and she could feel his hear beat.

"I love you, Tsukune. Never forget that," she whispered.

She felt his finger under her chin and before she could realize what was happening she felt his lips on her. This feeling, she thought, this incredible feeling was what she had been after for so long. Here she was, dancing the night away in the arms of the one she loved.

With his lips entangled with hers...

Several guests gasped as the marbled floor suddenly gave way to a flourish of beautiful green grass. Trees manifested from the columns, flowers bloomed all around and a soft glowing light shone from the opposite end of the hall.

Issa watched in disdain as one of his servants reluctantly whispered to him, "Your Lordship, what is happening?"

"That young woman is a Succubus. She is casting an illusion. And a powerful one at that,"

The orchestra didn't stop as they continued on with their musical score. The crowed slowly backed away allowing the illusion to continue its transformation of the hall. With each clash of notes more and more flowers began to bloom and the light that came from down the hall mimicked the dying sun falling behind a distant hill. It was as if a new realm had been born right inside the grand hall and it disturbed the guests to no end.

As the music sped so did they. Tsukune held her, whisking her around his arms and Kurumu couldn't help but join their secluded merriness. False fireflies sparkled in the air winking happily around the two of them.

Finally the music came to a halt and the illusion blinked out of existence. Kurumu suddenly realized where she was and glanced around. The entire mass of guests only stared at her and she felt incredibly embarrassed.

Issa stood from his seat, "You! Succubus! Dismiss yourself and take him with you!"

The words came in such a forceful tone she could have sworn he was yelling at her without even raising his voice. Taking Tsukune by the hand she made her way from the hall and turned a corner praying she didn't just screw up their chance of attaining the help of the Vampires.

Kurumu leaned against the water fountain gasping for air. Her head rushed so fiercely she didn't realize she had broken into an all out sprint out the mansion. Turning to her side stood Tsukune, hands on his knees he too seemed out of breath.

"What... happened?" he breathed.

Allure must have faded, she thought: "We had to... we had to get out of there..."

"Why? The last thing I remember... is standing in the library..."

Kurumu's ears perked, "What? What library? You don't remembering kissing-"

She thought for a moment remembering the odd behavior Tsukune had been giving off.

"Yeah, sorry. Drank something I shouldn't have,"

She straightened herself and took a hold of his shoulder, "Tsukune, what exactly did you drink?"

He rubbed the bridge of his nose, "I think it was... Fairy blood,"

Fairy Blood: Despite its generic title it is actually a misnomer. Fairy Blood derives from elemental sprites and when consumed by Vampires acts as a depressant. Its human equivalent is alcohol. However, when Fairy Blood is consumed by humans or mixed monster breeds it can produce a variety of side effects. Case in point, amplifying the effect of a Succubus's Allure.

Kurumu's jaw tightened, "What? Why? Why did you drink that? Don't you know what that does?"

Anger swelled in her chest. Not because he drank Fairy Blood but that she used her ability on him. The very thing she swore she would never do. And now they were standing with the consequences.

"I didn't want to. Moka's father gave it to me," he said.

Kurumu froze, "But... that doesn't make any sense. Why?"

"I don't get it, what's the big deal? I mean besides me not remembering what happened for the past hour or so?"

Kurumu bit her lip, "One of the side effects of Fairy Blood... it suppresses the powers of whoever drinks it. Vampires are the only ones that are immune,"

Tsukune heart skipped a beat. Why? Why would Moka's father give him something like that?

"Moka's father told me this gathering was to weed out the betrayers," he told her, "He said he was doing this because he didn't want Moka to get involved. The Elder Cross... we need to find it,"

"You will do no such thing,"

Both Tsukune and Kurumu turned towards the mansion. Issa stood alongside a wall of other vampires all staring at them with malevolent crimson eyes.

"What's going on?" Kurumu said, "What are you doing?"

"I am doing exactly what Mr. Aono has stated. I am hosting this gathering to pick out the betrayers. I've given Mr. Aono Fairy Blood simply because I know what he is capable of and if left unchecked could place quite a damper on my plans. And I plan..."

Issa's eyes were heavy with darkness.

"... to stop anyone who wishes to stop the Ancient from rising again. People like you,"

Tsukune couldn't believe what he was hearing, "You've been part of this the whole time? What are you thinking? What about Moka?"

Issa folded his arms, "I am doing this for Moka as well. I will not repeat the same mistakes our ancestor, Nosferatu, had committed. I will not be that weakling that betrayed his own. I will become the next Vampire Ancient through the help of our new ally... Azazel,"

Tsukune's mind found itself back on the day they had encountered the black shade. Its power so grand that just by being near it sapped them of their strength.

So, he thought, its name was Azazel.

"I guess you're going to try to kill us then," said Kurumu as she allowed her nails to extend into claws.

Issa smiled, "No, no. If you come quietly that will not be necessary. Azazel will be here soon and I would hate to go against my deal,"

Kurumu shouted, "Run!"

Phew! Long chapter I know. Hope this sparked a bit more interest. Anyway, thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed the latest installment. If you liked please leave a comment or review and don't forget to follow. And as always, until next time...