Sorry for the late upload... I took a short break, Phoenix got sick, and not to mention that this chapter did not want to be written. Whole bunch of crap happened.

Like hitting 3,000 views. What the hell, guys xD You people are amazing.

But I'm so glad you guys enjoyed the last chapter! The next few are going to be just as exciting, if not more.

This chapter entails the first of Tsukune's many trials, as well as the beginning of Moka's own training with her grandfather.

Hope you enjoy.

Also, it was my birthday this past Sunday! Wish me happy birthday, if you wish!

Chapter 10: The Trial of the Shining Star and a Vampire

After what seemed like ages, Moka finally seemed to calm down. But Ruby still noticed that she seemed... fragile? No, fragile was not a word that could be used to describe Moka... ever. It simply wasn't her. Moka was strong, defiant, and full of confidence. Now she seemed... Ruby couldn't put words to describe her. But she had noticed over the last few months that her state of mind usually was dependent on her relationship with Tsukune. Ruby couldn't help but feel sorry for the vampiress.

Kokoa, meanwhile, was ready to kill someone.

Ruby asked Moka if she could show them inside, and Moka nodded. She wiped her eyes with her sleeve, and shakily stood to her feet. She smiled at the two girls. "Follow me. Tsukune's training right now, but you can watch him if you sit in the parlor."

Kokoa looked like she wanted to ask a question, undoubtedly something along the lines of "What the hell is Tsukune doing training in a parlor" but she decided to trust her big sister and followed the two older girls in silence.

"So... Have you been able to talk to Tsukune at all lately?" Ruby asked tenderly as they walked through the doors of the estate and into the large foyer. Ruby noticed a beautiful staircase in the front which forked into several different directions but maintained an elegant spiral design. Maids and servants traversed the stairs and dashed across the ground floor, each one seemingly on urgent business. They didn't even bat an eye at the appearance of the witch and the younger vampiress.

"It's certainly lively around here, isn't it?" Ruby said softly.

Moka smiled. "Always has been. It's been like this ever since I was little. Back then, a few of the children and I used to play a game to see if we could guess what each person was running off to do. Sometimes we'd count how many people there were and how many times they'd reenter the room from time to time."

"Sounds like you guys got bored from time to time." Kokoa said, looking up at her sister.

Moka smiled down at her. "You could say something like that."

"Then why didn't you come and spar with me? You always had fun doing that!"

"You mean you had fun. It was boring for me. Still is." Moka laughed at her younger sister's expression. "Come on, now. Enough of that. Grandfather and Mother were the ones who trained me, so it's to be expected."

"I expect to beat the snot out of his cranium when I see him..." Kokoa growled, flashing back to just a few moments ago, when she'd held her sister as she sobbed. "And, I don't get why you let Tsukune affect you like that. I mean, he's just a damn half-breed..."

Ruby drew in her breath sharply as Moka whirled on her sister. A dangerous aura emanated from the silver-trussed vampire, a blind fury poured out from her crimson eyes, and Kokoa suddenly felt more afraid than she'd ever been in her entire life.

Kokoa closed her eyes tightly and waited for the deadly blow that she knew was coming... but it never came.

She opened her eyes and saw Moka staring down a blue-haired woman dressed like a warrior. A long, blue-hued blade was unsheathed and aimed at Moka. The woman's eyes were narrowed, but Moka seemed unfazed.

"I am sure I do not have to remind you, Princess, that my master does not allow violence within this house." The woman said sternly.

"Don't worry, Eris." Moka said, her brow furrowing. She wasn't aiming her anger at Eris, Kokoa knew. She could still feel the full brunt of Moka's fury aimed directly at her. She definitely shouldn't have talked bad about Tsukune like that. "I was just about to take this little squabble outside."

"I understand how you must feel, but you must restrain yourself while you reside here."

Moka scowled. "Do you have anyone you love, Eris?"

Eris shook her head. "It is not my duty to love anyone. I do not need to, as a Valkyrie."

"Then do not presume that you can understand me... especially when someone insults the man I love." Moka sighed heavily. "Now, you can go ahead and put that sword away. I'm not in the mood anymore. I'll be showing them the Parlor, if you need me."

"I do not take orders from you, Princess. The only one I answer to is your grandfather, my master." Eris said and sheathed her weapon. "The television set is currently showing Aono in the Arena with my master."

"Thank you, Eris." Moka bowed slightly to Eris, and the Valkyrie did so as well.

As they departed, Kokoa wanted to ask who that lady was, but did not want to incur her sister's wrath again.

Eh, might as well tempt fate. That lady will just keep her from fighting, like she did before. She thought. "Big Sis...?"

Moka glared at Kokoa, and she winced slightly. "What do you want, you little runt?"

Kokoa gulped hard. Big Sis is scary... "Who was that lady just now?"

Moka looked forward as they passed into a separate hallway. "That was Lady Eris. She's a Valkyrie in the direct service of my grandfather. But don't confuse her as a maid or servant. She simply does what she's told. But she is one person you don't want to get in a fight with, even less than with me. Especially when she has that sword drawn."

Kokoa's eyes widened to the size of saucers. "Are you serious?"

Moka nodded. "I certainly am. If you're of a species she's killed with that blade, the moment she draws that sword around you your yokai vanishes. It's rendered useless."

"Whoa... did it work on Tsukune, then?"

Moka's eyes narrowed. "That's the thing. I heard something from a few of the maids. They say that she drew her sword on him, but his yokai just wavered for a moment. It wasn't negated. Nobody knows why..."

"Maybe because he was already sealed with that big Rosario?" Ruby suggested.

Moka shook her head. "It could be possible, but I honestly don't know much about that stuff. Grandfather was the original creator of the Rosario method, so he'd know for sure."

Kokoa fell silent. Tsukune seemed to have the impossible happen around him all the time... either he had the worst luck ever, or something was pushing him towards an unseen goal.

Finally, after much walking, Moka finally showed Ruby and Kokoa into the Parlor. Ruby took note of the fancy leather furniture and the décor, while Kokoa took notice of the nice 65 inch ultra HD TV.

"Fancy set up." Kokoa said softly.

"Well, people come in here all the time to watch people training in the Arena." Moka nodded as she sat in an armchair. "Grandfather wanted them to at least be comfortable while they watched."

The television showed a scene from a heavily forested area. As they watched, some of the shrubbery moved slightly, and then something flew out of the green seemingly locked in mortal combat with what looked like a hellhound. And that something was currently a blood mess.

Moka leapt to her feet, her body rigid. "TSUKUNE!"

Two Hours Prior...

Tsukune groaned into his pillow. Only 45 minutes had passed, and he was already feeling worn out from his little skirmish with Apollo. The Harbinger was one tough customer, Tsukune had to admit. It was almost too much. If Tsukune hadn't awoken as a Shinsai, he'd have never stood a chance.

If I hadn't awoken as a Shinsai, Tsukune thought. I probably wouldn't even be in this mess.

Wait... no. Perhaps that wasn't necessarily the case. While it was true that Tsukune's power had awoken Apollo and landed him in this mess, He would've woken up eventually and come after Moka and Tsukune just for turning him. And he was also Moka's grandfather. He would've come anyways just for her.

Tsukune sighed. He missed Moka... God, did he miss her. And now that he knew that she was now technically his wife, he wanted to be next to her even more so. But, now that Apollo had told him about the blood bond, he could at least check on her. She was still sleeping, as far as he knew. But, he wondered what would happen when she woke up.

Apollo had mentioned that the Blood Bond bound the couple in mind, body, and soul. Did that mean he'd be able to hear her thought? Maybe Tsukune could use that to his advantage and find a way to communicate with her...

That thinking was probably far-fetched, but then again he didn't know much about the Blood Bond in general. He'd just find out in time.

Tsukune looked at the clock on the bedside table. It was time to head over to the Arena and meet up with his new teacher.

He willed himself to move, pulling his aching limbs along with him as he dragged his body out of the bed and stood up. He took a moment to straighten out his wrinkled clothing, then proceeded to walk out the door...

...and almost scared the living shit out of Kurumu.

Kurumu jumped in surprise, her hand having been outstretched to knock on the door apparently. "Tsukune! Oh, hi! I didn't know you were up!"

Tsukune smiled wearily. "Yep. Unfortunately."

"Oh, well. That's good!" Kurumu said, clasping her hands behind her back. "I didn't get a chance to talk to you about what happened during training."

"Well, I'm actually on my way back to the Arena. I only had an hour to take a break. Lord Apollo's going to start my next lesson."

"Wait... so soon?" Kurumu pouted with cute expression on her face. "I wanted to spend time with you..."

"Well, I'm sure you'll be able to while we're here... it's going to be a while before I can return to school." Tsukune said, cracking his neck and closing the door behind him. "But you're more than welcome to walk with me to the Arena, if you want."

Kurumu smiled happily. "Ya-hoo-hoo~! I'd love to! It's like a mini-date, just me and my Tsukune."

Tsukune chuckled softly as they walked. "Whatever, you crazy girl. Just remember I'm Moka's... or you'll end up getting a response from her and not me."

"Oh, trust me." Kurumu nodded understandingly. "I know. I tried sneaking in your dorm room one day, and she was there instead of you."

Tsukune laughed. "I was wondering why the door was broken! But Moka insisted that I didn't worry about it and told me, and I quote 'Just fix the damn door!'"

Kurumu giggled. "Well, then. I guess you didn't notice the giant hole in the wall next to the door, huh?"

He shook his head. "Not really. I was more worried about the door, to be honest." His eyes widened as he realized what she said. "Wait, hold up, there was a giant hole in the wall?!"

Kurumu changed the subject. "So, I watched you fight with Lord Apollo. You were pretty awesome."

"Thanks, but I've got a long ways to go if I want to leave this place... and much longer if I ever want to match him."

"But, Tsukune. Lord Apollo has lived eons before any of us were even alive, and he's never had an equal. The only one that gave him trouble was Alucard. The only way you could do so is to become like him! I don't want to see you lose yourself..."

Tsukune gave her an intense look full of determination. "Then I'll find another path. I have to become stronger, no matter what. I won't lose to anyone... and more importantly, I won't lose to myself."

They began descending the stairs slowly. Several maids nodded at Kurumu and smiled, then suddenly noticed Tsukune next to her and averted their gazes.

Tsukune sighed. "Why does it seem like everyone here thinks I'm something like the plague?"

Kurumu smiled sadly and hugged him. "They're just scared, Tsukune. And even more, they don't know you. Not like Moka, I or the others know you. I sure that if they see the real you, the you that we know, they'll love you just as much as we do."

Tsukune smiled. "Thanks, Kurumu."

They walked in companionable silence until they approached the door to the Arena. Eris stood there diligently, holding something in her arms.

"Hello, Lady Eris." Tsukune said, bowing. "It's nice to see you again."

Kurumu bowed as well.

Eris merely stared at them. "Aono. These are for you. My master thought it would be most appropriate for you to have a more suitable attire for your training sessions for him."

She offered him what she was holding, which Tsukune now saw were a pair of black and silver sweat pants with a matching sleeveless shirt with a silver stripe crossing in a diagonal line.

Tsukune smiled. "Thanks, Eris. These are pretty cool."

Eris blinked. "I believe I have mentioned this before. I do not require your gratitude. I am only doing what my master requested of me." Eris turned on her heels and glided out of the hall.

Kurumu stared after her. "Man, she can be a bitch sometimes, huh?"

Tsukune shook his head. "I don't think so. If she does, it's not to be mean, or anything. I think that's just how she is."

Tsukune then smiled at Kurumu. "I guess I'll see you later, okay?"

The Succubus smiled sadly. "Okay... I need sleep anyways. Good luck." With that, she left him standing there.

Tsukune passed through the door and found himself in the same stone room as before.

Apollo stood in the center of the room, looking just as regal as before. However, this time he had a far away look in his eye. But that vanished as soon as Tsukune crossed the threshold.

"I trust you enjoyed your brief respite?" Apollo offered.

Tsukune bowed. "Yes, Sensei. Thank you."

Apollo sighed. "I do wish you would refrain from addressing me as such. I am quite content with being your teacher and guide. I do not require a special name from you to cement such a fact."

Tsukune sighed sheepishly. "Sorry, Lord Apollo. Old habits die hard, I suppose."

"Indeed they do." Apollo gestured at the clothes in his arms. "I see that Lady Eris was successful in her errand."

"Yeah, she just gave them to me." he said smiling. "They're pretty cool."

Apollo rubbed his chin. "I assume that by saying that the articles of clothing you were given are 'cool' you are saying that you are appreciative and like their appearance."

Tsukune chuckled. "Yes, sir. I like them a lot."

"Well, that is good." Apollo said, clapping his hands together. "You should change into them as soon as possible then."

"Okay." Tsukune looked around the room for a place to change in private.

"Right there is fine." came the words Tsukune did not expect to hear.

He stared at Apollo. "...What?"

"You may change into your training attire right there." Apollo repeated immediately. "Time is of no concern to me, but you are the one who wishes to return to my granddaughter in all haste."

Tsukune blushed. "I... uh... well..."

Apollo blinked. "Is there an issue, young Aono? If you have something to say, then by all means say it."

Tsukune smiled nervously, then asked. "Can... you just look away while I change?"

Apollo blinked again. "I find no issue with you changing in front of me."

"But I do!" Tsukune blurted. "You can't just watch me change clothes!"

"And why not? It is not as if we do not have the same anatomy." Apollo pointed out.

"Just... turn around, please? I'm really uncomfortable with the idea."

Apollo sighed and obliged Tsukune. "I do not understand the notions of this generation regarding nudity... it is not as if it is something to be ashamed of."

Tsukune quickly changed clothes before Apollo changed his mind.

"Alright," Tsukune said. "I'm done now."

"Well, I am certainly glad." Apollo said, turning around and giving him a once over. "They fit you well."

Tsukune cracked his neck and started stretching. "They feel really nice, too."

"Very well. I shall have Seduire make more like them. You will need the extras."

Tsukune blanched. "Wait... what?"

Apollo reached inside his pocket once more and pulled out another ring. He slipped it onto his finger and it began to glow.

"Your training begins now, young Aono." Apollo said. "I wish you the best of luck."

And with that, everything around them changed.

And Tsukune was now alone in a large jungle.

Present Moment

Tsukune grunted as the hellhound's jaws snapped closer and closer to his own face. Blood trickled from a thick gash on his forehead, blinding him in one eye. The creature had caught him off guard while he was trying to find his way out, and Tsukune had definitely payed the price. If it weren't for his quick reflexes from training with Moka, he would have been shredded easily.

"You are to find a way to exit this jungle within the space of 24-hours. And as you do that, you will not be allowed to use any of your yokai." Apollo had said.

Easier said than done. Sometimes the time of day was inconsistent. It'd be daytime one moment, and mere seconds later it'd be darker than the blackest night. Everything was different, even the weather. It'd nothing but the sweltering heat at first, and then it was below freezing out of nowhere.

It definitely made his job more difficult.

The hellhound dug its claws into his chest, and Tsukune gasped as the pain brought him to his senses. Tsukune winced, and brought his feet up and planted them against the body of the beast. He summoned all his strength and kicked the hellhound, trying to create some space between the two of them. The monster landed against a nearby tree trunk and crumpled to the ground in a heap before leaping to all fours and snarling at Tsukune once more.

Tsukune barely managed to get to his feet before the hellhound rushed him once more, fire dripping from its maw. Tsukune ignored his pain, focused his stance and pushed weight forward as he drove his fist into the creature's snout. It went straight through the hellhound's face, and the creature exploded in a blaze of fire and shadows.

Tsukune dropped to his knees and held his head in his hands. How much more madness awaited him in this forest? He'd already encountered three other hellhounds, a harpy, and of all things, he'd encountered another vampire! He'd stumbled across the later in the middle of a meal, and suffice it to say that the vampire was not happy about being interrupted.

Tsukune shuddered in agony. He felt his wounds closing slowly, but it still hurt. And it hurt even worse as they healed. It was like an unbearable itch that he wasn't allowed to scratch and it was driving him insane. But as he healed, he felt a wave of weariness wash over him. He curled up next to a nearby tree and closed his eyes.

Just a few moments...

He shouldn't have done that...

It was dark.

There was nothing.

Tsukune gazed around him, and he could still feel the cold bitter air of the forest. But for the moment, it seemed his mind was in another place entirely.

Tsukune took a step forward, and he heard something squelch beneath his feet. He looked down and jumped back in terror at the substance dripping from the soles of his shoes.

It was blood.

He was standing in a vast pool of blood. It extended beyond his line of sight, and the blood was quickly rising. Tsukune felt panic claw at his throat, and he could almost feel his vampire instincts going out of control. His fangs throbbed terribly, and he felt something inside him pulse. It was a foreign feeling, and an unpleasant one at that. It felt like it was trying to escape, and it was tugging towards the outside of his body.

Tsukune bent over in pain suddenly, grabbing at his stomach. A deep agony had opened a hole in his very being, and the tugging sensation slowly drained out of him. He looked down at his stomach, and noticed a black liquid oozing out between his fingers. He gasped in surprise and removed his hands from his gut.

A round hole was the source of the liquid, and now the black liquid rushed out, turning the blood lake around him a color equivalent to the darkest of nights. Tsukune's eyes widened and he felt panic quickly grab at his throat.

But, strangely enough, that too vanished. Instead of pain and panic... he felt nothing. He felt weak, and he could feel everything within him fade with the flow of the black liquid. He fell to his knees, feeling hollow.

He wanted it to stop. He wanted it all to stop...

Good... A familiar voice said. He heard sloshing footsteps approaching him.

Tsukune looked up just in time to see a tall figure approaching him calmly. He didn't seem to be at all fazed by the pool of blood. The figure shoved his hands in his pockets as he approached Tsukune.

Just give in... The figure said. I'll help you by making sure you never have to worry ever again... I'll protect you...

The figure lifted his head, and Tsukune almost screamed as he recognized the figure immediately.

It was the same face he saw every time he looked in a mirror. But everything was different. His hair was platinum with brown tinges at the ends and his eyes were silver with red slits.

It was the Shinsai version of himself.

I'll protect you... Shinsai-Tsukune said. By destroying everything around you.

Tsukune screamed as he woke up. He was soaked in sweat, chilling him to the bone as a cold breeze blew through the clearing. He shivered and gazed around him. It was dark now. How long had he been out?

Tsukune groaned as he stood up. His sore hamstrings and his back were screaming at him, and Tsukune stretched to wake his body from its slumber. He gazed around him, and tried to shake off the lingering memories of his nightmare.

That image of himself... is that what he could become, if he didn't learn to be able to control himself?

No... he wouldn't become anything close to that. There had to be a different way to become stronger, for Moka's sake. He had to be strong to keep her from ever getting hurt again.

Tsukune racked his brain. He had no idea how long he had been here, but he knew he was probably running out of time. He had to focus, and find a way out of here...

He took a deep breath, and calmed himself down. Then, he just focused on his surroundings as he closed his eyes. He listened to everything around him, and tried to create an image based on those sounds. As he did so, he noticed something strange.

There was an area of the forest where there was just silence. And it wasn't that far from where he was standing. Tsukune figured that had to be the area where he could return to the stone room and call the end of his training. He opened his eyes, and walked in the direction of the silence.

When he reached the area, he noticed that the clearing was eerily still, and a series of stones lead up to a large square of light that Tsukune assumed was the exit. Tsukune smiled, and walked through it.

Immediately a familiar tingling sensation spread across his skin, and when the light faded he was back in the stone room. Apollo stood there, still as a statue. He nodded approvingly when Tsukune entered the room.

"Well done, young Aono. I expected you to take much longer than you did, but you have done well. You have completed your second lesson, which is to...?" Apollo trailed off, looking expectantly at him.

Tsukune sighed. "To trust my instincts, utilize them, but don't let my senses overtake me?"

"Indeed, that was part of the lesson." Apollo nodded. "But there is much more to it. Tell me you did not notice the unusual passage of time while you were struggling to escape?"

Tsukune blinked. "Yeah, I did. Everything about it was strange. It was like it got dark and light over and over and it was all so random."

Apollo nodded. "That is because the passage of time was changed while you were in the Arena. You were in there for an entire week."

Tsukune's eyes grew to the size of dinner plates. "A WEEK?! You never said you would change the time!"

Apollo looked at him blankly, almost irritably. "Well, I never told you I would not, either."

Apollo held up two fingers. "There are two points for you to consider." He counted off his fingers as he spoke. "Firstly, you have succeeded where most others would have given up, perished, or even both. And secondly, you should be aware that not all things go according to plan. What you may consider taking only a few hours can easily escalate to several days, given changes in circumstances."

"But that's still a bit crazy, don't you think, Lord Apollo?" Tsukune asked.

Apollo's eyebrows furrowed. "Consider it training towards your patience. Now..."

Suddenly, Tsukune felt an influx of emotions flooding into him. Loneliness, then shock, then anger, then a slight murderous intent. Then pain and sorrow.

Apollo noticed the expression on Tsukune's face. "I take it you sense Moka waking up?"

Tsukune nodded as he felt an even stronger sense of rage entered his mind. His new wife was not having a good morning. "Yep, and she's not happy."

"Indeed. However, you must remember that this space is disconnected from Time in regards to the outside world. When you walk out there, it may very well be hours after she has woken up. Also," At this, Apollo's eyes softened slightly. "There is a television in the parlor that displays the events of the Arena as it happens. Mind you, you will not be able to see anything that happens within this stone room. But, if you catch it at the right time, you may be able to see my granddaughter as she trains. You may ask one of the maids to direct you towards it."

Tsukune smiled. "Thank you, Lord Apollo."

Apollo smiled. "You are most welcome, young one. However, you may not be feeling so thankful after your second Trial. For if you are to gain a full mastery over your abilities and your new-found powers, you will need to train yourself; in body and mind, without using any of your powers." Apollo apparently noticed Tsukune's fatigue and nodded. "But for now, you are weak and must feed, tending to your vampiric needs."

Tsukune looked around the small room in confusion. "...and how am I going to do that, Lord Apollo? I don't see any blood packets around here..."

"Worry not, I have arranged for you to be provided with sustenance." Apollo replied softly. "It is only right for me to treat my student with the utmost care."

A knocking sound brought both the men's attention towards the door, as a pair of butlers entered through the door. Tsukune noticed that they each carried a chalice, and from the metallic smell and the way his fangs elongated and throbbed, he knew that they contained blood.

"Perfect timing, gentlemen." Apollo said, nodding his head at the butlers. "Gerald, Mikoto... I offer you my gratitude."

"My Lord, you humble us." One of the butlers smiled, offering him the chalice he held. "We only wish to serve you as best we can."

"Wow..." Tsukune was taken aback at the formality. "This is... wow. I really didn't expect this at all."

"Life is indeed full of surprises, would you not say?" Apollo replied with a chuckle as he received the other chalice from the last butler.

The butlers both bowed dutifully.

"My lord," The first butler spoke. "To inform you, Princess Moka will be receiving her meal as we speak."

"Once again, you have my thanks, Gerald." Apollo said with a grateful bow.

The butlers then took their leave.

"Growing up," Tsukune said. "My parents had this huge thing about self-sufficiency. They always said, 'If you want something, go get it yourself.'" He laughed at the fond memories.

"That is a fine virtue." Apollo said approvingly as he offered Tsukune the first chalice. "In all honesty, I too do my best to perform my own tasks. However, the many who deem themselves as maids and servants within my estate always seem to hope that I will let them do it for me."

"They sure have some strong affections for you." Tsukune noted as he accepted the chalice gratefully. He did his best to withstand the aching sensation in his mouth, and continued to listen to his new teacher.

"It has always seemed so." Apollo said, with a distant look in his eyes. "Perhaps they do it out of respect, or perhaps to simply uphold their keep in exchange for protection and a roof over their heads. Ever since my reign began, there have been many of those who seek sanctuary here and have offered to serve. I do not deny their request for sanctuary, nor do I force any into servitude. It would seem they will do it regardless of what I have to say about the matter."

Tsukune winced as the aching sensation increased. Apollo noticed the teen's discomfort and nodded. "The blood is for you, young one. Do not worry about ceremony, for it is clear you need to feed."

Tsukune sighed. "Thank you, Lord Apollo."

Tsukune lifted the chalice to his lips and took a long drag... only to encounter a strong sense of discomfort mixed with pleasure overcome him. He promptly spit half back of it back into the cup and stared wide-eyed at the Harbinger. "What the... What just happened?"

"I see you are used to feeding from Moka." Apollo stated. "However, she has fed from you as well, at the same time. You have not been feeding properly, instead you have merely been slaking the hunger. And, as a Vampire, you will soon find it to be debilitating if you continue to do as such. As of right now, you are only at less than half of your potential."

Tsukune gazed at the chalice of blood in shock. So... he was capable of more? And it was because he wasn't feeding properly...

"Just to inform you," Apollo continued. "I will be providing you with the blood of my cattle whence they are slaughtered. I apologize if it seems I am only giving you scraps, but given that your urge will only grow in time and I cannot condone others putting themselves at risk, this is the best that I can offer."

Tsukune spat out the awful taste in his mouth, but then his vampiric instinct overwhelmed him and he suddenly began gulping the entire chalice down like a frenzied animal.

When he regained his senses, a sense of shame come over him, and he turned his face away from Apollo as he wiped his mouth. "...Sorry. I must seem like such a pig..."

Apollo merely tapped him on his shoulder, and as Tsukune turned he saw that the Harbinger was smiling understandingly. He offered the young vampire the other chalice. "Do not worry. I understand why. This is also why you must tend to your hunger when it arises; otherwise you pose a danger even if you have complete control of your powers."

"Like... I'll die?"

"That is a probability. However, the longer you neglect your hunger, the more likely you will be to attack another. Fortunately, you will need to feed less frequently as you age."

"Oh..." Tsukune realized the truth in his words. A sense of self-loathing took over him as he imagined himself attacking innocent people in a hunger-induced frenzy. "I guess I really am a monster, huh?"

Apollo put a hand gently on Tsukune's shoulder. "The term 'monster' is a matter of perspective, child." Apollo responded kindly. "I view a monster as one who deliberately inflicts harm on the innocent for no other reason than their own personal satisfaction. I view a monster as one who causes pain and misery for their own selfish ends. I view a monster as one who holds no remorse for their own actions and that they are justified for them. You, child, are no monster. I truly wish you had not been profaned, though I understand the circumstances leading to such and I can understand my granddaughter's train of thought. But you are far from being a monster, child."

Tsukune just looked at the man in absolute awe. If he wasn't someone Tsukune looked up to before, he sure as hell was now Tsukune's idol. "...You really are like a magician of words, you know that?" Tsukune smiled, as he gulped down the second chalice and allowed himself to get used to the new taste.

Apollo chuckled. "Living for millennium will teach you well." Then his eyes grew serious. "You may retire to your room until you are summoned tonight. Your Second Trial will take place then, and I guarantee that it will be beyond anything you have experienced to date."

Tsukune swallowed hard. That was certainly ominous...

Moka sighed in relief as she saw Tsukune make it safely to the exit. The moment she saw the trial on the television, she thought her grandfather was pushing another unlucky one of his soldiers through the promotion test to become an Obsidi, which was the highest rank among the Night Warriors, as they were known. It was a rigorous and even deadly process, and more than fifty percent of the test takers never made it past the first trial, which was the jungle. They died within the first few moments.

But when she saw that it was her fiance taking the test... she lost her mind. She screamed at her grandfather through the television, and Ruby and Kokoa had to hold her back to keep her from smashing the TV and running to Apollo. The fury of a woman is no joke, Moka thought to herself. She'd had to keep herself from lashing out at the butler, who'd only come to give her a chalice of blood to feed from.

But the feeling of relief that she felt from seeing her love safe was overwhelming. Moka had felt as if her whole body was being held in a vice grip as she watched Tsukune grapple with the hellhound. But it was unbelievable, she felt as if her life was spared as she saw Tsukune survive.

Moka sighed. She stood to her feet and smiled at her friend and sister. "So what did you two come here for?"

"I came as a representative for the academy, under Tenmei's orders." Ruby offered. "I was worried about you two, so I came for that reason, also."

"I came because I wanted to see Big Sis." Kokoa said. "...and see if Tsukune was okay, too."

Moka smiled. "Well, Ruby, you should tell Grandfather when you get the chance that you're here. I'm sure he'd be happy to know you've arrived. And Kokoa..." She gave her sister a pointed look. "Behave yourself. Grandfather doesn't appreciate violence in the house, as you remember Eris telling me."

Kokoa nodded solemnly. She'd probably felt it too, how her yokai had dropped and vanished when Eris drew her sword. Eris was also Apollo's enforcer. If anything happened that went against her master's wishes, she would correct the guilty party swiftly.

Moka nodded. She was about to say more, but then she heard a knocking sound from the entrance to the Parlor. She turned and saw a maid standing there, her head bowed sheepishly. She curtsied when they made eye contact.

"I'm sorry to bother you, Princess." The maid said.

Moka smiled affectionately at the familiar face. "Carol, you've known me since I was a little girl. You out of everyone have the right to call me by my name."

"But that would be improper..." The elderly maid mumbled.

Moka walked over and hugged the maid tightly. "Please, if it bothers you that much... then just call me Princess Moka. I want you to call me by my name, if you can."

Carol finally lifted her eyes, smiled, and returned the affectionate gesture. "Very well, then... Princess Moka."

When the two women drew apart, Carol gave Moka a once over. "You've grown into such a fine young woman, haven't you? I remember when you were just a little girl." She smiled at a fond memory. "You loved to come with me to the kitchen, for some reason. You'd run away from your mother, Lady Akasha, and you'd just cling to my skirt the whole way. You were so little..."

"Thank you, Carol." Moka smiled, feeling a slight blush creeping up her cheeks.

"And you found a fine young man as a husband! I can't believe you've already grown up..." the maid was almost tearing up.

"Well, we haven't gotten married just yet, Carol." Moka said happily. "But yes, he's an amazing guy. I really am lucky to have found him... He's everything to me." She envisioned his smiling face in her mind, and remembered what it was like when he wrapped his arms around her...

"...Is that so?" Carol said softly. "Well, Lord Apollo tasked me with giving you a message."

Moka's face dropped. "Oh? And what does he have to say?"

"He simply said for you to meet him in the Arena as soon as you are able." Carol said, then looked sympathetically at Moka. "I understand that you're upset about being separated from him, but he has a good reason for separating you two. He's dangerous as he is right now, and I'll bet you anything that Tsukune's thinking the same thing. Let me ask you this." Carol added. "If Apollo hadn't separated you both, and told Tsukune how dangerous he would be to you, what do you think Tsukune would do?"

Moka bristled at first, then deflated. She knew exactly what the idiot would do. "He'd keep some distance between us. That idiot told me long ago he didn't want to see me cry ever again, and he'd do anything to keep that, even if he had to leave me to keep me safe." Moka looked at Carol sadly. "But I don't want him to go... I want him to be next to me! I can handle it."

Carol hugged the vampiress. "Keep telling yourself that, dear child. But in your heart, you know what the right thing is."

She released the vampiress, and curtsied once more before leaving.

Moka stood there, thinking to herself. You know what the right thing is.

Moka sighed sadly. Sometimes the right thing was the most painful thing of all.

Tsukune... my love... I miss you... and I love you... She thought.

I love you too, Angel...

Moka's eyes widened. Where did Tsukune's voice come from? She spun around desperately, trying to locate the source of the voice that had stirred her heart to such a degree. But the man that voice belonged to was nowhere in sight.

Moka put her hand over her heart, which had suddenly started beating at twice it's normal speed.

Tsukune... please hurry with your training.

She sighed, and began walking down the long hallway towards the Arena.

When she crossed over into the Arena, she found her grandfather standing in the middle of the room, as he always did. When she'd asked him once, he'd mentioned something about it being a place where he could freely think and let him mind flow, or something like that.

"Hello, Grandfather." Moka said respectfully, though she heard her own stiffness through her voice.

Her grandfather glanced at her. "Hello, young Moka. I sense that you are somewhat dissatisfied with me. And I believe I know the reason why." He looked at her sympathetically. "As I have previously told young Aono, the only reason behind your being separated is for the sole purpose of forcing him to focus on his training. If his attention were allowed to wander, then I would fear for his safety and would end up having to euthanize him sooner than I would like."

"I'm sorry for being bitter, Grandfather." Moka said, lowering her eyes. "I meant no disrespect... it's just..."

"You feel out of place since he is no longer by your side." Apollo read her mind.

Moka looked at Apollo in surprise. "How did you know that?"

"My dear child, I have known you since your birth." Apollo said with soft eyes. "I know how you are. And I have also noticed how you are when you are with him."

Moka shifted nervously while looking at her grandfather curiously. "What do you mean, how I am with him?"

Apollo put his hand under his chin thoughtfully. "Well, with everything you are feeling and experiencing, it is definitely a first for you. I know this, for I have never witnessed you dropping your guard around anyone as much as you do around your husband. The only others you have done this with are myself and your late mother. Indeed, there must be something special about that boy."

"Everything about him is special, Grandfather..." Moka said, getting a far away look in her eyes. Her hand immediately went to the engagement ring on her hand. The pink diamond shone in the torchlight and the amethysts seemed to sparkle, much like her own eyes probably were doing right now. "He's an absolute idiot... but he's a wonderful idiot. He's so sweet, and caring, and everything about him just makes me absolutely nuts. He actually cares about my happiness over everything else, and he proposed to me in the absolute sweetest way." She laughed softly. "Tsukune was always so insecure about his music, even after I got him a guitar and encouraged him to play and sing. He never sang for me before we got into a fight over the Dark Mark, but when he did he did it in the most spectacular way just for me. You know what he sang, Grandfather?" She looked at him with happy eyes.

"What did he sing, dear child?" Apollo asked, smiling at his granddaughter's outpouring of her heart.

Moka then closed her eyes and began singing softly. She'd memorized the words Tsukune had sang for her.

Forever is a long time

But I wouldn't mind spending it by your side...

Tell me everyday that I get to wake up to that smile...

I wouldn't mind that...

I wouldn't mind that at all...

She smiled as she sang, and the memories of their first night together flooded through her mind. The feeling of her being held by Tsukune, inhaling his scent as she lay against his bare chest. The feeling of his heartbeat so close to hers...

That feeling of safety.

After that night, everything had changed between them. She didn't want to be away from him even for a few seconds. The moment she was unable to see him, or even if she didn't have her hand in his, it was enough to cause her to panic slightly.

"Wonderful words," Apollo said softly. "And a strong promise underneath those words, I feel."

Moka nodded. Like the lyrics said, she wouldn't mind if she got to wake up to Tsukune beside her, letting her see that smile of his always...

And then something her grandfather said smashed through her daydream.

"Wait... Tsukune isn't my husband yet!" Moka cried out, waving her hands in front of her wildly. "He literally just proposed to me the other night! See?" She showed him the engagement ring.

Apollo chuckled. "And I suppose this is where young Aono's predictions may come true..."

"Tsukune knows something? What did that idiot say this time?!"

"Never mind what he has said, and pay attention to what I have to say now." Apollo said sternly.

Moka nodded, feeling somewhat admonished.

"You and Tsukune Aono have partaken of each other's blood, correct?"

Moka nodded.

"The most important thing to a vampire is their blood. Because of the fact that you both carry each other's blood within you, you share what is known in the Vampire tradition as a Blood Bond. It binds the two together in matrimony, mind, heart, and soul. So, essentially, you two have been husband and wife since the moment he injected his blood into you."

Moka stared in shock. "So... so I'm..."

Apollo smiled. "I suppose a congratulations are in order. You are, in a sense, already able to be called Moka Aono. You will make a wonderful wife."

Emotions flooded through her. Happiness, disbelief, shock, doubt. "So... I'm already married... and Tsukune's my husband..."

Apollo nodded.

"No wonder being with him felt right." Moka muttered to herself.

"When in the presence of our loved ones," Apollo mused. "All of our troubles seem to fade to nothingness, and makes it seem as if all is right with the world. I find it unsurprising that you feel this way with young Aono. It is only a shame that few vampires ever wed for love, anymore."

"They don't?" Moka asked, genuinely surprised.

Apollo shook his head. "No, I am afraid not. In this day and age, most vampires only wed for political reasons, or even self-indulgence." He gave her a pointed look. "Not unlike your own father."

"So... Mother and Father.. didn't love each other?"

"Oh, they were certainly affectionate towards each other." Apollo admitted. "In fact, I have a slight suspicion that Akasha was the only one your father truly loved. However, I fear most of the reason for marrying your mother was to boost his own ego. But, I digress."

Apollo looked at Moka seriously. "If you were to ever heed my words once, and I am not saying that you do not, I would have you remember these: Cherish him. Cherish every moment you have with your husband. For I know better than most how painful it is to lose a loved one."

Moka suddenly felt subdued. What Apollo had said was true. In the past, Apollo had lost several of his Queens to various events, and had endured severe hardship throughout his life. He no doubt still carried the pain of each death deep in him. Unfortunately for him, as he'd explained it better to Moka afterwards, everytime he lost a loved one, the loss manifested itself in the form of physical pain that would wrack his body from that moment forward. She felt sorry for her grandfather. She honestly couldn't think about what it would be like to lose Tsukune... even though he'd been on death's doorstep several times before.

And now that she knew that Tsukune was her husband... that added on a whole new level of pain to the thought. It almost brought tears to her eyes.

"But, do not allow your thoughts to dwell too deeply on this subject." Apollo said, setting his cane to the side of the wall and pulling out a ring from his pocket. "Let us train as we used to. Even though you do not need the same manner of training as your husband, it will still do you good to maintain your current abilities and do not become complacent. For by that fault alone, even the most powerful of creatures can be defeated by a human child."

Moka smiled at her grandfather, and felt a familiar rush that she recognized from back in her childhood. "Yes, Grandfather. Let's."

Tsukune strolled through the state, somewhat bored. He'd tried to find the parlor, but had no idea where it could be. He'd even tried asking a few of the maids, servants, and the black cloaked figures that roamed the halls, but the maids all shied away from him, and the figures in the black cloaks looked at him as if he were some kind of disease. He guessed it was because they all knew he was a Shinsai, and were comparing him to Alucard. After all, he was now a destructive force all of his own now, except that he didn't know how to use his powers, and could easily end up killing himself, both spiritually and physically, along with everyone around him.

The vampire walked through several halls, and quickly found himself in a very unfamiliar part of the estate. The walls had a darker hue to them, and seemed to absorb all the ambient light around them. Tsukune could hear voices at the end of the hall, and began walking towards them.

The room he peeked into was very strange indeed. It was a training room, of sorts. There were large punching bags shaped like various monsters, giant weights that looked like they'd break his arms if he even tried to lift them, and so many other training objects that Tsukune couldn't name.

There were several creatures in the room that Tsukune had never seen before, but he guessed that these were what Apollo had called Behemoths. This must've been their true forms. They were almost eight feet tall, yet they were hunched over steeply. Their long tail seemed to help balance them out. Their faces were bestial, with arching horns growing out of their foreheads. They were very muscular,with paw-like hands; as Tsukune watched, several of them drew sharp, almost jagged claws from their cloven hands. Their eyes were a solid color, with neither an iris nor a pupil. It was unnerving, but interesting at the same time.

Several of the Behemoths were wrestling with each other, tackling and throwing each other on the ground violently. They were all bruised and beaten and sweaty, but it seemed as if something drove them forward, placing grins on their faces as they continued to bludgeon each other to a bloody pulp.

This process continued for a while until suddenly a door on the opposite side of the room burst open, and two men strolled into the room. One was robed in black and the other in blue, with the latter walking slightly behind the former. All movement in the room froze and all eyes were directed in the gaze of the black robed figure. Several stifled breaths could be heard as the black figure surveyed the room and nodded, chuckling.

"You guys look like shit. Tired, eh?" He said. "Hurting? Feeling like you can't go on?"

Several of the Behemoths chuckled, and several others muttered words of agreement.

The black robed figure's face suddenly grew dark. "Big fucking deal."

The Behemoths shivered, and several even took a precautionary step back, no doubt surprised at the sudden mood change.

"Obsidi Timaeus... I don't think-" The blue robed figure started.

"Be quiet. Let me speak." Timaeus responded starkly.

He gazed around the room once more and pointed at one exhausted soldier in particular. "You. Come at me with everything you have."

The Behemoth looked worriedly at him, then gritted his teeth and charged forward with what looked like a vicious right cross, but Timaeus just sidestepped and stuck his foot out. The Behemoth tripped forward, falling forward until Timaeus brought his knee forward, viciously smashing it into the Behemoth's stomach. It immediately crumpled at his feet, curling into a ball and groaning loudly.

"You're too focused in your approach that you forget about what will happen upon your arrival." Timaeus announces. "Amateur, at best."

He then directed his gaze for the third and final time at the rest of the room, and this time a few even wilted under his gaze.

He looked at one of the trainees closest to him and nodded. "You there. What made you want to join?"

The Behemoth in question shuffled his feet. "To follow and be the best."

Timaeus shook his head.. "You're joining our Lord's military, not a fucking beauty pageant." He then looked to a female Behemoth and asked the same question. "So, what made you say, 'Hey, can I join?'"

She hesitated, then responded, "Because I know how important this is..."

Timaeus interrupted her. "Fame and glory, right?""

He then looked at another male and said, "Looking to get laid by doing this?"

The Behemoth looked down in shame.

Timaeus continued. "This is what you're in for; three hundred and sixty-five plus days a year, you're going to be on duty; that's what you're here to do."

He then began to walk through the room, meeting the gazes of everyone around him. "Your boyfriend or husband... what's he doing? You don't know. Or how about your girlfriend or wife? What's she doing? You don't know that either. At the end of the day, you're tired, and on the rare occasion that you get a day off, you don't get to rest; it's time to play super wife, super husband, super mom, super dad, so on and so forth... It's not an easy life, and I know it so very well."

He began speaking passionately. "But the likes of me do this because it is what we were born to do. I love this life, and I will continue down this road until I am no longer able to do so. Here, you're handed nothing and expected of everything; your dues are to be paid, and they ARE paid, if you're planning to take this seriously." Timaeus scoffed. "Now, many of you know me; First General Obsidi Alexander Timaeus, the highest ranked, and a supposed legend among legends amongst the Behemoths, second only to Apollo himself. My military awards include ten Mist Crowns, five Servitude Rings, three Imperial Crystal Stars, and the Crimson Sash.

"But does that mean I'm some sort of 'super' being? Hell no. When I first came here, I was no different than the weakest of you miserable fucks. I was kicked, beaten, and shoved in the mud more times than you could count... But I still kept coming back for more, and many of you aren't even going to get through your first year of training if you don't adopt the same mindset."

At that moment, Timaeus looked at the open doorway, right at Tsukune. Tsukune guiltily ducked behind the door frame as he continued. "The Lord sees something in a Vampire, and has given him an opportunity that the likes of the few of us with this level of passion would give our right arm and tail for."

He returned his gaze to the room. The rest of the room was now resting on the same level of anxiety as the first few. "You're standing in the same spot as those whose names are in the echelons of greatness for their pride of our race, and the respect of our Lord." He then snarled. "Now, in spite of the Vampire's sheer dumb luck, if you're still thinking that this life is for you, then I highly suggest that you do NOT fuck this up! Do NOT throw this away! Because if you do, you are going to be shitting on the pride and honor of every Bull and Hale that have stood here and have gone on to do great things! Every one who paid their dues; each one of them who have busted their asses and shed their blood, sweat, and tears for this life and paid dearly... You're going to be pissing on them!"

He then looked upwards and got a far away look in his head, as if he were remembering something. "Those, much like a Fourth I knew... a true friend and brother of mine who fought with all his might and now can't lift his tail or even feel anything below his fucking waist, and regrets nothing because of his pride as a Night Warrior... You fuck this up and you're shitting on him!"

Timaeus once again gazed in Tsukune's direction with a brief look of disgust before continuing. "You either want this life, or you don't; there's no other way of looking at it." He gave the recruits one final stare. "And if none of you feel ready for this, then stop wasting our fucking time!"With that, he left the room. A collective sigh rose from the room, and the blue robed figure looked back at the room.

"Train for one more hour, then you're dismissed for the day." He said.

"Yes, Sapphi..." The room mumbled as he left.

As they resumed their training and Tsukune turned to leave, the vampire suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder and he jumped.

"Enjoy the show, bud?" A friendly voice said.

As Tsukune turned around, he noticed a guy (undoubtedly a Behemoth) with long blonde hair, around his height and garbed in a green robe. He smiled at him. "You're Tsukuru, right?" He offered him his hand.

Tsukune took the Behemoth's hand and smiled. "It's Tsukune. But yes, that's me."

The Behemoth facepalmed. "Why do Japanese people have to give such complicated names? I swear, Bob or Joe or even Jack would've done well! So simple..."

"Umm, I'm sorry, but who are you?"

The Behemoth snapped his fingers. "Oh, wow. My bad. I'm Third Captain Emeral Trajan Cicero, but you can just call me Cicero. Everyone does that anyways."

Tsukune smiled. "How about I call you Cici, instead? That makes it simple and not complicated, like you said before."

Cicero laughed loudly. "I like you already, Tsukune! I feel like this will be the start of a beautiful friendship." He turned around, then looked back at Tsukune. "Hey, how about a drink, bud? My treat."

Tsukune shrugged. "I've never drank before, but I guess a few wouldn't hurt."

Cicero smirked. "Good. Because you honestly don't have a choice, now do you, you little peeker?"

The bar in the estate was nice and elegant, albeit small. There were alcoholic beverages of a million different varieties, and Tsukune was ushered to the bar by Cicero who took a seat with the air of someone who was familiar with the area.

The bartender smiled at him. "Cicero. The usual?"

"Always!" Cicero grinned. "Tucker, don't ask me that question when you know that I know what I want!"

"Fair enough, but I'm just making sure you remember what you want, considering the shape you leave the bar in." The bartender shot back with a smirk.

Cicero laughed. "Fair enough, Tucker, fair enough."

The bartender smiled, then turned to look at Tsukune. "And who's your-"

His voice caught in his throat as recognition crossed his face. A brief look of fear and disgust flew across his features as he turned to Cicero, who's jovial mood had suddenly vanished.

"What is he doing here?!" Tucker shouted at him.

"He is with me, Tucker." Cicero said calmly. "Dude, he's just a kid that was thrown into a situation he didn't want to be in, and is just wanting to go back to his wife. Don't be so hard on him and just get him a drink, eh? He could sure use one."

"He's married at such an age? He can't be more than eighteen or nineteen, right?"

"He's married to our very own Princess Moka Akashi- My bad, our own Princess Moka Aono."

Tucker's eyes bulged out of his skull. "He's married to the Princess?!"

Tsukune's eyes must've been the same way. "Wait, only Apollo and I know that... and Princess?!"

"She's the daughter of the Queen of the Vampires, bud. Akasha Bloodriver? You've heard of her, right?"

Tsukune glowered. "More than that, I knew her."

Cicero's eyebrows shot up. "Really? I'll have to ask about that later. But, yeah, since her mother was the queen, it'd only make sense that Mokie would be called a princess."

"So what does that make me, since I'm her husband?"

Cicero chuckled. "You're still just Tsukune Aono until the Chief says differently, bud. Don't worry about it."

Tucker seemed conflicted, but Cicero's words seemed to win him over in the end. "True enough." He then smiled at Tsukune. "So, what'll it be, kid?"

Tsukune shrugged. "I've never drank before. So, I'll have what he's having." He pointed at his new friend.

Tucker chuckled. "I'd get a little something weaker, if you don't want to leave here on a stretcher as a puking mess, which he never fails to do."

"It was the one time, Tucker! Don't be telling stories!"

"Well, what was last night then, Cicero?"

"That... was a different story."

"Care to tell the story then?"

"Not with a kid's ears nearby..." Cicero grumbled.

"You were paralytic with that goofy ass grin on your face after making us all watch you pelvic thrust the jukebox while it was blaring that song 'Hot Stuff' with a tea cosy on your face! Doesn't make for much of a story!"

Everyone laughed, and Cicero grumbled about having to help Tsukune with his first drink as he ordered for them.

As Tucker went about filling the order, Cicero turned to Tsukune. "By the way, how did you even manage to land a hot babe like Moka? Don't tell her I said that, either."

Tsukune chuckled. "I honestly have no idea. Everything happened so fast. Half the time I dealt with Akasha's clone, which I called Outer Moka. The other times I was with the real Moka. I loved both sides of her, but then Outer Moka left us after the battle with Alucard. It was hard, but I think Moka realized there was more to me than met the eye during the two years I knew her. And, apparently she's happy being with someone like me."

Cicero shrugged as Tucker brought the drinks to them. "I guess so! You should've seen the look on her face when Timaeus and I told her that her grandfather was keeping you two apart." He chuckled. "It was like bloody hell was released. If it weren't for the Chief's rule about no violence in the estate, I'd wager that there would be several casualties from the other day!"

"It was that bad?" Tsukune asked, surprised. He took a sip from his ale.

Cicero laughed. "Oh yeah, bud. It was pretty bad." He then looked at Tsukune evenly. "But even so, I'll bet whatever she could do would pale in comparison to what you could do, right? Chief called you a Shinsai, or am I wrong?"

Tsukune shrugged. "Yeah. That's what Apollo called me. He said that Alucard and I are the only ones of our kind ever to exist." He shivered. "I faced him, and he scared the crap out of me. And now I'm being told that I'm the same exact species as him... it's disturbing."

"Eh, you're being too tough on yourself." Cicero said, poking his drink with a finger. "I look at you two as two sides of a coin. You're on the same thing, but you're kind of different from each other. One's an asshole, the other isn't."

Tucker just stared at him in shock. Cicero glanced at him. "Oh come on now, I'm not that beautiful, am I?"

"That is probably one of the only smart things you've ever said in your entire life, Cicero." Tucker said, nodding. "That was good. I'm proud of you!"

"Oh, shove it, Tucker. Don't you have some glasses to clean or something?"

Tucker chuckled and walked away. Cicero shook his head. "Dick. Anyways, I know you heard what Timaeus said earlier. I just want to say real quick that you shouldn't take what he said to heart."

"Seriously?" Tsukune said, doubtfully.

Cicero nodded. "Yeah. He may seem like a massive dickwad, but in deep down he's a big softie."

"Really now, Cici?" Tsukune said sarcastically. "I couldn't tell."

"Hey, Timaeus is a follower of 'tough love'; he comes across as harsh and bullying, but in the four hundred and thirty years he's been a Night Warrior, there's been few who can honestly say they live for the job. He knows talent when he sees it and you better believe when I tell you; if he sees it in you, he'll squeeze it out of you without mercy! And in return, you'll find no brother in arms in this entire military who'll have your back more."

Tsukune nodded as he sipped his drink again. "I guess that'd make sense."

Cicero nodded. "Exactly! So-" He stopped and smiled. "ERIS! Babe! How are you doing?"

Tsukune turned around and saw the Valkyrie walking towards them, her eyes locked on the vampire. She ignored Cicero's calls and stopped in front of Tsukune.

"Damn, Eris." Cicero said, moping. "Why are you so cold all the time?"

"Simple," Eris finally responded with a pointed look. "My business has nothing to do with you. Therefore I have no reason to interact with you."

"The truth hurts..." Cicero cried.

Eris turned her gaze back to Tsukune. "My master wishes me to convey to you that he requests your presence in the Arena in one hour. He also asks me to remind you of the importance of your timeliness. He does not appreciate tardiness." She nodded slightly, then walked away.

Tucker leaned over the bar and looked at Cicero. "Give it up; you're looking at forbidden fruit, Cicero."

"She's just in denial; she digs me!" He chugged down his glass before slamming it down on the counter with a contented sigh. "Anyways, we've got some time to kill until then. The Arena door is only a five minute walk from here. I'll bring you there when it's time. Sound cool?"

Tsukune smiled. He liked Cicero. He was easy to get along with, and was an absolute clown. But, most of all, he didn't look at Tsukune like he was some kind of a disease. "Sounds good."

Cicero laughed aloud. "It's been forever since I've had a drinking buddy! This'll be good!"

"Nothing too crazy, or I get the feeling Moka will kill the both of us."

"Speak for yourself!"

As Tsukune and Cicero walked to the Arena, Tsukune couldn't help but ask, "So, how did you know Moka and I were married?"

Cicero nodded. "I figured that question would come up sooner or later." He then looked at Tsukune. "I went to talk to the Chief about something, and ended up overhearing you guys talking. I just kept quiet about it until now."

"So... how did I not see you after that?" Tsukune wondered aloud.

Cicero chuckled and winked. "I'm one hell of a ninja! I doubt anyone could catch me aside from the Chief himself!"

"Yeah, Cici. Keep dreaming."

"And you can do better?"

Tsukune laughed. "Hardly. I can't even leave the room without Moka knowing. Makes surprising her on her birthday a bit rough."

"But that's Mokie! She's always been that way."

"Trust me, dude. She has a jealous streak a mile wide. When we first started going out, if I tried to leave my room quietly while she was in it, she'd lose her mind. And there were no restrictions against violence there!"

Cicero winced. "Ouch."

Tsukune nodded. "Yeah, let's just say it'll be a miracle if Moka and I end up having kids."

Cicero actually cringed. "She really...?"

"Yep."

"Damn..."

They walked in silence until they reached the door to the Arena. Once they approached, Cicero nodded. "Looks like this is as far as I go! I'm dropping you off like a babe at preschool."

Tsukune sweat dropped. "Somehow that analogy really sticks in the right place."

"How so?"

"I just feel like I'm just getting to play with the big boys now."

Cicero smiled. "Bud, you've got it made. Before long, you won't be playing with the big boys anymore. You'll be grappling with the men."

Cicero started to walk away, but suddenly the door opened and Apollo looked outwards. "Emeral Cicero. I thought that you would be out here. If you have a moment, old friend, I have a job for you to perform."

"I appreciate it, Chief, but didn't you ask me to take care of the young Bulls' basic combat instruction?"

"I am quite sure that Obsidi Cornelia can handle it well enough. For now, this matter is more pressing."

Cicero's eyes widened. "Must be! I'm all ears, Chief. Lay it on me."

Apollo turned to Tsukune. "Would you mind waiting inside, young Aono? I need a moment with Cicero alone."

He took a sniff. "Who has already been indulging himself in the pleasures of alcohol."

Cicero shrugged. "Hey, you know what they say: It's Five o'Clock somewhere!"

Tsukune laughed. His new friend was a riot. "I'll see you later, Cici."

"See ya, bud!"

With that, Tsukune walked inside the Arena...

...and found himself in a frozen wonderland.

"What the hell is this?" Tsukune wondered in absolute shock. He shivered in the bitter cold that bit into his skin.

"Welcome to the Trial of Pyotan, as I call it." Apollo said as he approached him from behind.

"Pyotan... why does that sound so familiar?"

"I do believe that you and Moka may or may not have had an altercation with him during the last year."

Suddenly a blaze of fire burst through the sky, and it was aiming directly at Tsukune! Tsukune began to cry out in panic-

-only to see Apollo hold his hand out authoritatively. The column of fire froze in place, enough for Tsukune to recognize the figure of a Phoenix.

"Wait... it's you?!" He cried out.

Tsukune remembered from what seemed ages ago a certain bout with Fang Fang about a flame in the shape of a bird, but this Pyotan looked different. He now had more of a regal-like plumage to him than before that seemed to melt from physical mass into pure flames and reverting repeatedly. The Phoenix huffed loudly, and Apollo shook his head, almost as if in disagreement. Pyotan then spread his wings and flew off into the distance, to the top of a large mountain that Tsukune had failed to notice earlier.

"He has resided here ever since his last encounter with you. He has aged,as you can see clearly, and is just as stronger. He is your next trial, young Aono."

"Hold up, Lord Apollo, I'm supposed to fight that?" Tsukune said. "He looks like he wants to burn my nuts to cinders!

"...He may very well do so, if you fail this trial, child." Apollo replied earnestly.

"So I'm supposed to fight him." Tsukune said tartly.

"No." Apollo responded coolly as he motioned over to where Pyotan landed; in a thorny nest atop a mountain.

"Pyotan has been tasked with protecting a certain item within that nest and will do so; violently if necessary." The Harbinger continued before looking straight at Tsukune; as if piercing the very recesses of his soul. "You are to retrieve that item, by any means other than the use of your powers."

"That's it?"

"That is all, young one."

Tsukune cracked his neck. "Sounds easy enough. Just avoid the fiery bird of death, grab the item and come on back down. No problem."

"Oh, I believe that you will find your venture more entertaining than easy." Apollo muttered.

"What was that?"

"Nothing, young Aono. Now, do not dawdle, or you will keep my granddaughter waiting for longer than she ought to."

Tsukune nodded. "Fair enough."

Tsukune waded through the thick snow, his sweat pants quickly getting soaked from the snow around him... Wait a sec... sweat pants? He had shorts on just a second ago...

"Oh, I forgot to mention." Apollo mentioned. "That training outfit that you are wearing will modify itself so that it best suits your present condition. Therefore, you are now wearing clothes that are most suitable for training in freezing temperatures, albeit the looks are deceiving."

Tsukune had to agree. It looked like he was wearing a regular tracksuit, but he no longer felt the effects of the weather around him. The bitter cold was gone now...

Tsukune grinned. "Seduire is the best..."

Apollo smiled and crossed his arms. "Indeed."

Tsukune charged forward, quickly reaching the foot of the mountain in record time. He glanced around, but couldn't find a clear way to ascend. He quickly realized he was going to have to climb using his bare hands, which incidentally were not shielded by his magic training wear.

"This sucks!" Tsukune muttered as he reached out with both hands to find handholds for him in the craggy rock. He slowly began to ascend, inching his way up the side of the mountain. The cold ate away at his grip, but he willed himself to go on, grimacing the whole while.

I gotta get this done... I can't wimp out just yet...

An hour later, when he was halfway up the mountain, something entered Tsukune's peripheral vision from above him. His instincts began to scream at him, and he tried quickly move out of the way, but the object nailed him in the leg, causing him to plummet to the ground below him. He landed with a loud thud, and the pain was thankfully nulled by the snow, which acted like a soft pillow. However, even pillows could hurt as pain laced through his back and side. He cried out, and struggled to get up.

What the hell was that? He wondered, and as he looked at the projectile, he noticed it was nothing more than a large boulder. But it looked too clean to have broken away from the mountain by itself... so why...?

He suddenly flashed back to a conversation that had taken place outside the Arena only moments before, and facepalmed.

Cicero...

Tsukune growled. He now knew why Apollo had said what he said. More entertaining than easy? As if! More DEADLY than easy!

Tsukune sighed. He began to climb again, but this time he climbed with a little more pep in his step. He climbed the mountain with a vengeance, digging his hands and feet into the face in order to propel himself further up the side. Boulders continued to fall, but Tsukune merely slid over, finding a new handhold or grip and kept going as the boulders fell past him. Apparently Cicero was getting a little agitated, because boulders continued to rain down furiously in more and more troves. But Tsukune deftly dodged each and every one; now that he knew what he was currently up against, he was prepared.

As he reached the top, he noticed that there was indeed a nest atop the mountain, made out of thick straw and sticks, and even some scattered string. It seemed old and weathered, most likely from the ages it'd spent on the mountain after having been built.

Pyotan sat on it looking the other way, his gaze firmly fixated on the mountain face below him. To anyone else, this would seem to be the perfect opportunity to grab whatever it was he was supposed to be grabbing and get the hell out of there. However, Tsukune knew that the Phoenix would turn its gaze upon him the moment he set his foot in the nest. Speaking of which...

Tsukune scanned the nest for anything that seemed to be out of place, but all he could find he was a stupid golden egg, probably one of Pyotan's...

...wait a sec... Was that what Tsukune was supposed to grab? Tsukune resisted the urge to laugh. If he was going to have to grab the egg, then things were even harder than before! Geez, how many things did Apollo implement in this to give him a hard time?

Tsukune shrugged. To hell with it then! He chose speed over tact.

He dashed forward, grabbed the egg and dived off the edge of the mountain. He heard Pyotan screeching after him and the fluttering of wings, but he couldn't focus on that! He had to focus on getting the egg to Apollo! He aimed for the biggest snowdrift...

A piercing, fiery pain in his elbow caused him to scream in agony, releasing his grip on the egg to clutch at his arm in a blind panic. A flash of red and orange slammed into him, knocking him off course and snatching the egg away from him. He looked to his arm and saw a red flame in the shape of a feather sticking out of his arm. He pulled it out of his arm, and it winked out of sight, just as he slammed into a less-than-generous patch of snow that covered several jagged rocks. Tsukune felt his arm snap in two beneath him, and he screamed in a deep, gut wrenching agony.

He guessed Moka was watching him through the Parlor, because at that moment he felt a flurry of emotions cross their bond: Pain, sadness, worry, fear, despair. He smiled despite the pain, and tried to convey to his distant wife that he was in fact okay, and that he was going to be fine. He was going to come home, and something little like this wasn't going to keep him down. To his surprise, he felt a sense of relief through their bond and the negative feelings faded away, only to be replaced with the most amazing and wonderful feelings he'd ever felt. There was love, there was compassion, and there was a sense of joy.

Is this how Moka really feels?

That was enough to fuel him to get to his feet and begin climbing once his arm had mended itself.

After another eternity, he reached the top of the mountain and peered over the edge. Pyotan was still there, nudging the egg back into place. Tsukune had to get that egg back... but how?

Hopefully, if something kept his attention for more than a few seconds, then Tsukune could grab the egg and be out of there. He looked around him for something he could throw... There. A rock about the size of Tsukune's fist lay just within his reach. He stretched out his hand and gripped the rock tightly.

Holding onto the ledge with one arm, he raised his arm over his head, and threw the rock with all his might. It bounced off the other side of the cliff, catching Pyotan's attention for a moment.

But Pyotan turned a complete 360-degrees, and locked his gaze with Tsukune's. He spread his wings wide, giving Tsukune a more-than-generous view of his plumage, and screeched in his face.

FALL FOR THE SAME TRICK TWICE?! I THINK NOT!

The screech manifested itself in the form of pure energy, knocking Tsukune off of the mountain and sending him plummeting to the snowy bank below him once more. Upon colliding with the ground and getting over the initial shock and agony, he sighed silently, and began to think. There had to be another way to get around Pyotan and grab that egg!

Slowly, but surely, pieces of a plan came to his mind. Tsukune's eyes widened, and then he couldn't help but grin. If everything went according to plan, he could take Apollo's little challenge and give himself an advantage.

After another two hours of climbing, he finally made it back to the top of the mountain and lifted himself onto the ledge.

Tsukune crept slowly around the nest, stepping on the outskirts of the craggy rock and making sure to keep from stepping on any of the branches or twigs around him. As he came closer to where the egg was, he leaned over the nest and reached out to grab it...

...his fingers brushed against the cold surface of the egg, and Tsukune smiled in spite of himself. He could taste success! Now that he actually had the egg, he now just had to implement Phase two of his plan...

He hid the egg around the edge of the nest itself, making sure it was not visible over the edge of the branches. Once that was done, he walked over to the edge of the mountaintop and peered over.

Just as he thought, Cicero was plastered on the side of the mountain in his true form, his claws and tail giving a lending hand to keeping him from falling. He looked up and saw Tsukune, and quickly hid the boulder underneath him.

"Tsukune! Bud! Heeey... fancy meeting you here!" Cicero said guiltily.

"What the hell are you doing, Cici?" Tsukune said, gaining the attention of Pyotan, who screeched and noticed the absence of his egg.

"Nothing! Just... climbing! It's good exercise, and it keeps the abs, back muscles, and glutes solid! You know, just the way the ladies love them."

"You wouldn't happen to be hiding anything, would you?" Tsukune said, with a slight grin on his face.

"What? Pfft. Nah, just climbing, like I said!"

"I hope you don't have Pyotan's egg, bro." Tsukune said. "That would be bad news... for you."

"What the hell? Of course I don't have it!" Cicero cried out.

"Then what are you hiding underneath you with your tail?"

"Uhhh... well, you see..." He chuckled nervously.

Tsukune looked behind him at the Phoenix, who had suddenly taken a great interest in their conversation. It cocked its head at him curiously, as if to ask what the hell?

"I think he's got your egg, Pyotan." Tsukune said aloud. "You wanna take care of him, or do you want me to?"

Pyotan seemed to consider him for a moment, then huffed and gave him a glance that seemed to say I'll deal with you later. With that, he marched forward, screeched, and dived off the mountain. Tsukune could hear Cicero's cries of panic.

"PYO! BUDDY! I missed you! How you been? It's been soooooo... okay, you're definitely pissed. Oh shit, that's bad. Oh OWWWWWW!"

A column of fire ascended into the blustery sky, and Tsukune winced in sympathy for his friend. But, he had a task to complete, and he only had a slight window of opportunity to get out of there with the egg.

Tsukune turned around and dashed over to where the egg rested next to the nest. He scooped it up into his arms and made a mad dash for the edge of the mountaintop, followed by the screams of Cicero as Pyotan got to work charbroiling him. He dove off the edge, aiming for the same snowbank as before. This time, everything went just as he'd planned out; Pyotan didn't pursue him, under the ruse that Cicero had his egg. The falling snow flew into Tsukune's eyes, but he tightened his grip of the golden egg even further; he was determined to not lose the egg again, if he could help it. He kept his head even, and aimed for the same snowbank as before.

Almost there...

With impressive accuracy, Tsukune smashed into the pile of snow, greatly reducing the damage from his descent.

Not to say that it didn't hurt. It did.

As he groaned, he couldn't help but revel in his victory. But it wasn't over yet. He still had to bring the egg to Apollo, and...

Wait... Where was the egg?! He'd had it only mere moments before! He glanced around him frantically, searching earnestly for the egg in question.

There! It was only a few feet away from him; it must've shook loose from his grip in the impact. He pulled himself out of the snow, walked over and picked it up to examine it. The surface of the egg was pristine; there were no scratches or marks or even cracks anywhere to be seen! It was a miracle that it had survived the fall.

As he turned to return to his teacher, he heard the most awful screech he'd ever heard. Tsukune turned back and saw Pyotan diving off the mountain, a look of rage upon the Phoenix's face. Tsukune felt panic grip his heart, and did the only thing he could think of.

He ran.

He ran with all his might, and the terrain seemed to warp around him as he dashed forward to where he saw Apollo standing tall and regal-like. Upon reaching him, he sighed in relief as he reached the Harbinger, but that relief was short lived as he watched Apollo quickly raise his hand.

Is he going to hit me?

Tsukune tripped and landed face-first on the ground. He braced for the impact... but it never came.

He looked up and noticed that Apollo was holding his hand up in a stopping motion, and Pyotan was on the receiving end of the command. Pyotan huffed something at Apollo as he was suspended in mid-air, but Apollo merely shook his head, giving him a stern look. Pyotan seemed to bow his head shamefully, then returned once more to his roost on the mountain.

"Rather unorthodox, young Aono" Apollo said. "But impressive, nonetheless."

Apollo reached within his robe, and pulled out the ring. He slipped it on his finger and snapped, sending a resounding ring throughout the area, returning them to the stone room.

"Well done, young Aono." Apollo said, slipping the ring inside his robe. "You have once again succeeded where few have lived to tell the tale. This one, however, was even more treacherous than the last. This one only has a 30% success rate."

Tsukune paled. "What does that mean?"

Cicero stood up and cracked his neck loudly. "He means that only thirty percent of the people who take the stupid trial even survive the climb. It's required if you want to become a First like Timaeus or Cornelia. Sweet lady, but you don't know her. You were lucky to have several tries at it! If you fall off the mountain once, it usually means death."

He sighed. "And this is why I don't want to become an Obsidi. But, now to more important matters." He suddenly got in Tsukune's face and started yelling.

"YOU TRAITOR! I bought you drinks and this is how you repay my kindness?!"

Tsukune didn't falter. "You came to make things harder than they already were! I say we're about even!"

Cicero opened his mouth for a retort, then shut it as he seemed to think for a second. "Eh, true enough. Orders are orders, bud." He reached out his hand and helped Tsukune to his feet.

Apollo was chuckling off to the side, and walked over to the pair. "I do apologize, young Aono. It was indeed I who instructed Emeral Cicero here to test your resolve. I have to admit, I am impressed that you took a diversion to an advantage; my congratulations to you."

Cicero clapped Tsukune roughly on the back. "The chief's got a point! That was some smart thinking there!"

Tsukune chuckled, almost embarrassed. "Thanks, you guys. It means a lot, coming from you."

"Hey, we literally just met 6 hours ago, so don't be using me as a comparison!" Cicero interjected.

"And why should he not?" Apollo questioned him. "You are a fine warrior, in your own right, and are well known amongst the legion."

"Geez, now you're just making me blush!" Cicero gave Tsukune an even look and smiled. "Didn't I tell you? You're too good to be playing with the big boys. It's time to fight alongside the men now. But don't come crying to me saying its too tough, or I'll never forgive you! I'll make you buy me drinks from now on, if you do that!"

"And risk going bankrupt overnight? No thanks."

Everyone laughed.

"By the way, Apollo." Tsukune asked the Harbinger. "Why didn't the egg bust when I jumped off the mountain? What kind of egg is this?"

"A hollow one." Apollo said bluntly.

Tsukune stared.

"Consider it my wedding gift to you and Moka." Apollo said, unaware of his confusion.

"Our wedding gift... is a big empty golden egg?" Tsukune asked.

"You misunderstand, young one." Apollo said. "Why not try opening the egg and see what is inside? You might understand and appreciate it better afterwards."

Tsukune shrugged. "Hey, what's to lose?"

Tsukune placed his hands on either side of the egg, and tried pulling, then twisting. Finally, it came apart with a scraping sound. And once Tsukune took a look inside, he almost passed out!

Inside the egg was a wealth of gemstones; rubies, diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, topazes, crystals, and numerous other similar items overflowed from the egg's interior. And they just kept coming.

"What is this?!" Tsukune exclaimed, while Cicero still had trouble trying to pick his jaw off the ground.

"I do believe that I mentioned this moments ago." Apollo said with a smile. "This is my wedding gift to you and Moka. This may help with planning the wedding ceremony for you two." He chuckled. "You know, as well as I do, that she will not be happy having missed out on the ceremony."

Tsukune laughed. "Oh yeah. You should've heard what she was planning out the night of the dance. It was very elegant and pristine."

Apollo looked into Tsukune's eyes, with an almost piercing look. Tsukune found himself unable to speak for a few brief moments, as Apollo's gaze continued, as if he were searching for something.

"Do you want the best for my granddaughter?" Apollo said softly.

Tsukune met his gaze evenly. "You know I do. It's just that I'm not able to always give it to her. I'd give her the world if I could."

Apollo nodded. "Now that you are a member of my family, you will not have to worry about finances. I do not leave my family wanting in any way."

Tsukune almost teared up. "Thank you, Lord Apollo. That means a lot."

Apollo placed his hand on Tsukune's shoulder. "You are most welcome, young Tsukune. Now, I am quite sure that you are tired from your training. As you are aware, you have been at it for several hours now. I am giving you the day off tomorrow, to recuperate. I will have someone send you some blood so you may feed, if you wish."

"I would appreciate that very much, sir."

Apollo smiled. "Good. You are excused. Go get some rest. You have most certainly earned it."

As Apollo left the Arena, he smiled to himself. Moka's husband was showing remarkable progress in almost every department. He was showing signs of being able to think quickly on his feet, react to every situation almost fluidly, and he was now used to using only his own strength instead of the wealth of yokai residing inside his body. Tsukune somehow didn't notice that Apollo slipped the Rosario off of his neck each time he entered a trial. His self-control was becoming more and more affluent as time went on. Apollo chuckled. He felt pity towards anyone that meant Moka harm. Not only would they have Apollo to deal with, but her husband was now becoming a force of nature on his own.

Granted, he still had a long ways to go if he ever wanted to compare to Apollo's abilities, but still. He found that he was actually looking forward to crossing fists with Tsukune in the future. And he'd be happier when Moka could have her husband back.

As he strolled through his estate in his humanoid form, several of the maids and servants greeted him with the usual respect. And he greeted them with equal cheer and respect, asking about their days, and how each was doing personally. He enjoyed talking to the people around him, as it gave him something to distract him from the day-to-day monotony he sometimes found himself in.

However, something this day would happen that would turn the monotony into something entirely different. Once he walked into the main hall of the estate, he noticed raised voices. One of them was definitely a female's.

He gazed around and saw a woman with long pigtails in Gothic clothing arguing with one of his Seconds, presumably Sapphi Coronado. He was big on treating women with utmost care, but he sometimes took it to extremes.

"I'll be fine by myself, thank you." The lady said indignantly. "I don't need an escort."

"But, madam." Coronado said smoothly. "A lady like yourself shouldn't be by herself! It's only proper that we have someone with you if you have any needs or concerns!"

"Again, I can take care of myself." The lady said, an exasperated look on her face. "Now, can you please leave me alone?"

"Ma'am, I must insist-"

"I am afraid that I must insist, Sapphi." Apollo interjected. "If the lady wishes to be by herself, then far be it from you to determine what is best for her. You are dismissed."

Coronado stiffened upon making eye contact with the Harbinger. "My lord... as you wish." He said nervously. He turned on his heels and walked briskly out of the hall.

"I do apologize, ma'am." Apollo said, turning to the lady. "My second lieutenant is a firm believer in chivalry. However, I feat that he does take his beliefs too far in their practice."

"It's alright..." The lady said, then her eyes widened in recognition. "Wait... you're the man from the other day! Lord Ap- Apollo." She bowed forward, then suddenly remembered that she was wearing a skirt and hurriedly curtsied. "I-I apologize for my earlier behavior, my lord."

Apollo shook his head in response to the gesture. "You need not worry yourself about such gestures, my dear. And as for my lieutenant, he was rightfully stung. He must realize that a lovely rose such as yourself is bound to have its fair share of thorns." He smiled. "Pray tell, I failed to learn your name the last time we met. May I have it now?"

The lady blushed at the compliment. "My name is Ruby, my lord. Ruby Tojo. For your information, I'm a witch."

Apollo smiled brightly, a warm feeling rising in his chest. "You have a lovely name."

Ruby blushed even harder. "M-my lord, you are very kind to me."

"I would like to believe that I am kind to everyone, my dear." Apollo said. "Now, may I ask what business you have with coming here?"

"Lord Tenmei requested that I act as an ambassador for Yokai Academy, that the school may work closely with your goals and dreams." Ruby replied professionally.

Apollo nodded. "Indeed, a noble sentiment. I am quite sure that you are more than suited for the job, otherwise Tenmei would not have sent you." He smiled at her. "How about you spend some time with me tomorrow, and we can talk more?"

Ruby smiled brightly. "Wow... I would really like that."

"Please, just call me Apollo." The Harbinger said quickly, then suddenly wondered why he had said that.

Ruby smiled even brighter. "Very well then... Apollo. I, um... I'll see you tomorrow!"

She waved happily and went her separate way. As Apollo watched her departure, he couldn't help but feel drawn to the young witch. There was something about her, her aura seemed so appealing, and he just wanted to be closer to her.

A chill went down the Harbinger's back. He hadn't felt this way since he met Miyu so long ago...

Was this what he thought it was? Was it... the Moment?

PLEASE READ! IMPORTANT.

Okay, I have several things that I want to say.

First off, I want to thank you guys for all the support during the time that I was inactive. It was kind of rough because I was one-manning the story half the time, and my partner was sick with some kind of stomach virus and I wasn't able to contact him. All the support I got every day meant so much to me and really helped me get off my lazy ass and write. So, sincerely, Thank You. I hope this chapter more than makes up for the long wait.

Second of all, I want to talk about reviews.

Last week, I received a guest review accusing me of deleting reviews out of spite. That is entirely not true. While it is true that I do moderate guest reviews, I do not delete reviews because I don't like them or hate them. On the contrary, I enjoy criticism. I enjoy good reviews, and bad reviews. Mainly because it tells me what you guys like and don't like, and I can build off of that.

What I don't like is pure bullshit. Like trolls saying this story gave them cancer, or reciting a rant from Full Metal Jacket (yes, I have received those.). I don't like people trying to say that I'm getting everything in the story wrong, that the story is stupid, and that this character A is supposed to be this old, and Character B is supposed to be like this.

So let me repeat. I do not delete reviews. I delete spam and bullshit.

I will still moderate reviews. But if you have major complaints, do take the time to PM me personally. I appreciate that more than anything.

The next chapter should be up by the end of next week or the week after. I have things in my life coming up that are important, like exams for my IT certification. Those are going to be real buzzkills.

So go ahead and favorite and Follow this story, and don't forget to Review (not spam)! I always read everything you guys send me, good or bad.

As always; Thank you, you Wonderful People. And I will see you guys in the next chapter, Chapter 11: Unwelcome Guests and a Vampire...

Until Next Time...