A/N: Here is the full version of the chapter. Approximate 8000 words. Happy reading.

Chapter 21


Hanabusa kept watching the former human closely. Very closely. Like he was memorizing her.

Fuuka felt his stare, and the intensity of those gaze made her feel uncomfortable. But she tried her best not to show. She wished he wouldn't look at her with such worried eyes. It added to her guilt, made her feel like burden on his shoulder.

Now she regrets! With every cell in her body Kisaragi Fuuka regrets breaking the rule that night and sneaking into the moon-dorm. For now her only consolation is –everything happens for a reason. If she didn't feel bold enough that night and break the rule, she wouldn't have met her beloved Kuran-sempai, nor would she have befriended the night class and nor would she have known what a wonderful soul Aidou-sempai is. Although at first she found him a bit annoying but over the time she has come to admire this guy more than she should…

"You're eyes are squinting." Fuuka snapped back hearing that concerned voice. She faced the vampire and beam him a grin, assuring him she was fine. But her actions could not fool him as he clearly saw through her struggle.

"Is the sunlight making you uncomfortable?" he pressed.

Her heart warmed. He cared; and that's all that mattered.

"Trust me, I feel fine." She lied, oblivious to the fact that he could read through her, see her discomfort and notice her agony.

"Let's go inside." He took her by the hand and walked back inside.


Aiyora sighed…

The more she watched, the more her blood boiled.

Overtime Hanabusa and Fuuka grew so close that one can easily mistake them for a couple.

And how did the night class react to this?

Well…the members of the night class divided into three groups. Ones that looked down on the aristocrat's closeness to the former day class student. Ones that were genuinely concerned for him, thinking about the possibility of him developing feelings for the girl and ultimately suffering a massive heartbreak as a result. And the last group that minded their own business, those were the ones who could care less.

Kuran Kaname, Shiki Senri and Touya Rima actually were among the ones that belonged to the last group. The vice president Ichijo, and Kain Akatsuki belonged to the second group that was concerned for the Aidou heir. Souen Ruka belonged to the first group that was looking down on her cousin, for his sudden growing closeness to the former human – who will soon fall into the lowest standard.

Kuran Aiyora however was a strange combination of both first and second group. On one hand she was genuinely concerned for her teacher/friend but at the same time she was not too happy about that fact that he was giving his heart to someone who will soon be a level-e.

Usually Aioyra is a sucker for romance, especially the forbidden love kind. She loved the idea of two people falling deeply in love and having their happy ending. But in this case she felt very differently. First of there is no future for these two.

Because:

A) Hanabusa is the solo male heir of the Aidou family; and a high ranking aristocratic family like his would never accept a former human as their only son's mate.

B) She will soon fall to level-E. There is no way to stop that, unless you can get her to drink the blood of the pureblood that bit her – which is close to impossible.

C) He maybe infatuated with her now. But what happens when the monster growing inside finally takes over? One can't love a monster. That is simply impossible. Take cult classic 'Beauty and Beast' for example, even there by the end the beast turns into a handsome prince. Not the other way around!

Thus fighting for this matter is lost cause. In the end it will bring heartbreak for both parties.

"…ora, hey!"

The voice, alongside a poke of finger brought the pureblood back out of the zone she was lost in.

Immediately she shot the intruder a look, but he paid her no heed, instead continued to carelessly munch on his poky biscuits.

"You'd make a great stalker." He pointed out, putting another new poky stick into his mouth.

"Ri-chan." She huffed and then spat. "I'm just a concerned friend."

"I don't think he considers you a friend. You're simply his master's fiancée. That leaves him no choice but to abide by your rules."

"How rude!" she stuck out her tongue with that remark. "What would you know about making friend… huh? When you barely have any."

"I don't need plenty of friends, one good is enough."

"Is that 'one good' Rima-chan?" she teased.

It was Senri' turn to shoot her a look. He looked at her and wondered was she losing a part of her brain stressing about unnecessary matters?

"No it's president Kuran actually." He said dryly, returning the favor. Making Aiyora's eyes momentarily go wide. Senri and Kaname friends! How on earth is that possible? They barely exchange words. Them beings friends is as impossible as having the sun rise at night.

"On a serious note… do you not worry about what will happen to Aidou-kun once this girl transitions to a level-e?"

"Somebody will take her down." Senri stated in a matter of fact tone. He made it sound so simple, like it was no problem at all – she turns to level-E and someone just finish her off.

"Exactly!" Aiyora exclaimed. "But what if Aidou-kun is too attached to her by then? Things will get super messy. He might intervene."

"You're wasting your time worrying about him. That guy is biggest flirt in this entire dorm. No one is as skilled as him in that department. A soon to be level-e cannot break his heart."

"Do you not watch movies Ri-chan? These are the guys who fall in love with someone who is undeserving of them!"

Senri looked at her, astonished. He's sure even Aiyora herself did not realize what just came out of her mouth. Many at times she spoke without thinking; perhaps this was one of those times. However that does not change the fact how odd it sounded. Especially coming from her mouth. When despite being a pureblood and a member of the Kuran family she gave her heart to someone below her rank …someone undeserving off her.


Over the next few days Aiyora took it upon herself to become a barrier between Hanabusa and Fuuka. She followed the pair almost everywhere. Be it the garden, library and the blonde's private lab.

The pureblood made sure that the two were not by themselves.

Sometimes she even dragged others along with her, such as Senri or Rima. As the saying goes – more the merrier! Meaning more people around them will give them lesser chance to delve into emotional feelings.

But soon the young pureblood understood – it was too late. He is already too deeply invested into the former human. There is no turning back.

So she decided on a different measure, a private conversation with the individual.

Few days later…

"Aidou-kun…are you certain about what you're doing?"

"What is that suppose to mean Aiyora-sama?" he put his pen down and focused on the pureblood seated on the opposite side.

"You know what I mean."

She gave him a soft smile. He also returned the smile but cursed in his mind at the same time. It wasn't her that he cursed, but himself. Thinking if he was that obvious? Because it was just few days back that Akatsuki had a chat with him about this same exact topic. He too warned her not to get too emotionally involved with the subject of their experiment.

"I'm sure you get told this often, you're a very handsome man Aidou-kun…"

He blushed at the complement. Hearing such words out of the mouth of a pureblood meant a great deal to him. But ignoring his reaction Aiyora continued,

"…besides being blessed with good looks, you also posses a great heart. Any girl would be lucky to have you. So please keep you heart secured for that special person. Do not give it away to the wrong one and forever close the door for the right one."

"Aiyora-sama…" he looked at her astonished. It took him a moment to come back from what she just said. "I assure you that Kisaragi is nothing but the subject of our experiment." He actually quoted Akatsuki's line from the other night.

"I hope you don't misunderstand me. I'm simply trying to save you from the heartbreak that is on it's way."

"Thank you, Aiyora-sama… I'm pleased to have a friend like you, and glad to know you care so much for me...a mere aristocrat."

His voice came out determined. In fact he sounded so confident that it would have convinced a young pureblood like Kuran Aiyora, if not for the irrational beat of his heart… which gave away the truth. It told the pureblood everything that the aristocrat could not with his own mouth.


Hanabusa absently watched the tablet. Playing with the small object between his fingers. He could not help but admire the result of his hard work. It was the latest and hopefully the final modified version of the initial project – the blood tablets.

Soon as the disgusting smell invaded his nostrils, Aidou figured the struggle one would have to go through in order to consume it. This one smelled way worst than the last one. However despite the horrid taste it should work. It should be able to curb a vampires thirst; especially the ones that belong in the lower ranking.

'But what if it doesn't… work?' His heart stopped. For a second there the aristocrat could not breathe. The mere thought of failure shook up his core.

"No!" he mumbled under his breath, determined.

It must work.

It has to…

it has to…

it has to…

.

.

.

"Here… drink this."

He handed Fuuka the glass after pouring two tablets into it. By the time she took the glass, the tablets dissolved into the liquid and changed its color turning the clear liquid very much blood like. Same as the older version.

She thanked him and drank quietly. It was a moment of absolute silence. The only source of sound in the room in that moment was of the former human's gulp.

She drank and he watched.

The automatic expression of her face told him how horrid it actually tasted. But whether it was working… that was yet to be seen.


Several Days after:

Aiyora was playing the piano while Rima kept her company.

They were in the lounge that was located on the west wing of the moon-dorm, on the top floor.

It was a large room with just one widow that gave direct view of the forest. This was a specially designed area where the décor was kept simple unlike the rest of the moon dorm. Only few sofas and a coffee table with a small bookshelf on the side for those who wanted to indulge in reading and musical instruments such as piano, cello, violin were placed on the other corner; as other means of entertainment for those that desired.

However this room was rarely used, as most night class students preferred to be within their own compounds or hang out mostly in the lobby. But that changed once Kuran Aiyora moved in… she became a regular user of this lounge. Making this, sort of, her private sanctuary.

"So…What's your opinion on Aidou-kun's closeness to the former-human?" Aiyora asked suddenly, still playing the piano. Recently she's been asking this question so much and to so many that it's starting to sound like a survey.

Rima was about to put a poky into her mouth, but stopped and looked at the pureblood instead. She shot the latter an 'are you serious?' look. This girl really didn't know her…did she? …Since when was it her hobby to poke nose in other's business.

Aiyora now looked at her. Her fingers still continuing with the ministrations on the keyboard, producing the soothing melody. But that face demanded an explanation, which – Rima being an aristocrat had no way of denying.

So the model gave the pureblood her opinion.

"Nothing, actually."

Aiyora was taken aback by the just two word reply. "Nothing…!? How come?"

Rima nodded her head affirmative, sticking to her earlier response.

"It's not really my business." She finally took a bite of that poky biscuit in hand. "…Neither should it be yours. I'm sure Aidou-san knows what he is doing. He's intelligent. Even if he acts otherwise most times."

"I'm just worried about him."

That earned the pureblood an indifferent look from the aristocrat.

"…I don't want him to get hurt. Have his heart withered for someone whom it's not meant to be."

Rima looked away. As it was the safest available option. She couldn't risk her face giving out any unwanted expression that would offend the pureblood.

At first she wasn't planning on judging Aiyora, but now she definitely was.

Hypocrate! A small thought that entered her mind but dared not come out vocally.

It is natural for higher ranked vampires to look down on lower ranked ones. All aristocrats looked down on common vampires and purebloods looked down on both the common and nobles. Let's not even go towards how they felt about the former humans that have been turned – they are straight up labeled as 'monsters' by all vampires; be it pureblood, aristocratic nobles or the common ones.

Like every other vampires Rima also didn't have much high opinion on recently turned humans. However she wouldn't go out of her ways to express them, like this pureblood was currently doing.

"But how do you know that she's not meant for him?"

"What do you mean how do I know… Have looked at the girl Rima-chan? Next time do look carefully. Perhaps then you'll notice how quickly she's losing the battle against the beast that's growing inside. Soon she will lose herself and allow that monster to take over… Plus she's aiming for something that's unattainable. Do you think the council will approve of such a match? Will the Aidou family approve?"

And you think you can go against the council? Your family will approve? The words remained in Rima's head. She couldn't voice them out despite the strong urge.

Senri always mentioned that his Ai-chan was different. But clearly he's wrong. End of the day she's a pureblood, a Kuran pureblood on top. She's can't be too different. After all, an apple doesn't fall too far from it's tree. Just like that Kuran Aiyora is not too different from Kuran Kaname, whose words and actions never really match.

The model didn't intend to judge the pureblood so harshly. But then, if Aiyora indeed felt so strongly about Shiki then she should at least try and understand their (Hanabusa and Fuuka's) perspective rather than giving out her opinion so blatantly.

Has she forgotten, that she too will have to face similar situation one day?


Fuuka entered the library with every intention to read.

With night class in session, it was the perfect time, as there wouldn't be anyone present. These days that's exactly how the former day class student preferred. Ever since she moved, thing have been quite different...

To start off – she didn't even get a peek of Kuran-sempai, since her very first night. When she inquired about him, the response was always "he's away on business."

Shiki and Touya-sempai are out, shooting most times and whenever they're here, they're either in class or in their respective rooms. Although the Shiki heir is sometimes seen in the company of the younger Kuran, but he interacts with Fuuka, his focus stay on the former only.

Ruka and Kain-semai have also been keeping their distance. The latter may occasionally smile depending on his mood but the former's been straight up ignoring her. And it really confused Fuuka.

So far only Ichijo-sempai remained the same. He checked up on every now and then, exchanged small talks about mangas, joked with her, smiled alongside her. But he was so busy that she rarely saw him.

The only one who is by her side at all times now is Aidou-sempai. A smile grace Fuuka's lips at the thought of the blonde vampire. She continued to smile fondly till the soft smell of lavender moved the former human, and shook the vampire inside.

Her throat dried down and Fuuka realize her new self wanted to taste the source of this aroma. Unknowingly she moved further inside the library to meet the owner of the fragrance and found Kuran Aiyora, sitting on a secluded corner, reading. No wonder the smell was so enticing. Fuuka tried to think of other things but her mind kept going back to what the blood flowing inside the pureblood would taste like. The former human may have only bitten her friend Kanae but after moving here she had the chance to smell all. Everyone in night class smells divine, but nothing can be compared to – what was she thinking!

Fuuka cleared her head with a vigorous shake before staring a conversation to divert her mind.

"What are you reading…?"

The pureblood paused and looked at the person approaching her way. Although she looked pretty composed outside but her body actually tightened inside. The more closer the former human got, the uncomfortable she felt.

It further added to Aiyora's surprise when the former human sat on the opposite side without asking for her permission.

How impolite.

"You look quite captivated. Is the book that interesting?"

And bold too!

"No it is not." Aiyora replied dryly. Without sparing a single thought on how awfully cold and rude she sounded she continued, "I have a paper due, so I'm just studying for it." This was her polite way of saying 'please excuse me' .

"…Oh! My bad, I must be disturbing you then-" Fuuka scratched the back of her head nervously. For a moment she debated getting up. During their first meeting Fuuka didn't feel very cautiously about her. There was no reason to, as she was not aware of how the vampire hierarchy worked. Now that she has been educated – her strong presence is making the former day class student nervous. .

"Don't worry I have some time to spare." Aiyora invited, suddenly changing her mind. Then closing the book in hand she continued, "Is there anything specific you wish to talk about…?"

Fuuka gladly accepted the invitation and opened up in hopes that the other would understand.

"…Um… I'm loosing sleep worrying about the future."

"The future is unknown, the unknown that we cannot see. There is no point stressing about it. Live in the present- because that is the gift."

"Is that a poem?"

"A phrase, my brother often use to lecture me."

"Oh I see…"

An awkward silence fell between them. Well it was awkward for Fuuka, Aiyora on the other hand could care less, she already went back to her study when Fuuka continued with the silence.

"Um…" Fuuka hesitated first, but decided to get if off of her chest. "…I've learned that soon I will be one you guys-"

Those words irked Aiyora, and bothered the pureblood to the point where she didn't even let the other finish.

"Kisaragi-san… whoever said that, has lied." The Kuran princess's voice was anything but warm. "…you will never be one of us! And that's an unchangeable reality."

"I'm sorry I didn't mean it that way. I jus-"

"It doesn't matter what you meant. What matters is you know and understand the truth from now on. That way it will be easier for you to understand where you stand." p

For a moment Fuuka sat there absolutely speechless. Leaving the floor for the pureblood to continue.

"I don't know what kind of mis-information Aidou-kun fed you, but I don't want to show you some sweet dreams when it's a nightmare you're walking towards. …The category where you'll belong is called Level-E. …Do you know what that is?"

"Um…"

"E stand for the End. Your place is at the very bottom, the very end of the chain, the lowest amongst our race..."

"I know…" Fuuka admitted, somehow managing to keep her calm.

Now Aiyora quieted down leading to another silence.

"Aidou-sempai told me everything."

"…In that case I'm sure you know what your future is." You'll turn into a monster. Aiyora may have very well left those words unsaid but the former human was able to read them off of her eyes.

Fuuka opened her mouth and closed it back. The action repeated couple times, till she made up her mind not to say anything.

Aiyora knew her words were beyond harsh, however she had no desire to beat around the bush. There was no point in giving her hope when there was none.

Once more a silence fell between them. The awkwardness returned. The two just sat there quietly for some time before the pureblood resumed studying. And Fuuka got the hint – her presence was no longer welcome. Therefore sitting here begging for company was not only pointless but also humiliating.

She stood up as soundlessly as possible and made her way towards the exit. But just before stepping out she opened her heart, revealing its pain.

"You're right, soon I will be nothing but a monster. …but just so you know… I wasn't born one… I was made one."

Aiyora was in the middle of turning a page, but stopped in the midst of action and shot her head towards the other female… only to be met with empty space.

In that moment neither knew that, not only was this their last conversation but also the words that just came out of the former human's mouth would continue to live and haunt the pureblood princess till the end of her days.


She walked through the corridor impatiently. Some passing by maids greeted her and was a surprised when no response came, as the younger Kuran always returned the pleasantries with a bright smile but this time she continued on without pause, completely ignoring them. In her defense though, Aiyora was distracted, there was a lot on her plate and it was weighing an immense burden on her shoulders.

"I need to see onii-sama." Aiyora requested Seiran and the latter assisted by opening the door for her.

"I need to speak with-" Aiyora's voice and footsteps both came to a halt, upon noticing that her brother had company. Souen Ruka was standing before his desk while he continued to browse through some papers.

"I'm sorry, I wasn't told you were busy. I'll come back later."

With that said she turned back on her heels ready to walk out but stopped when Kaname declared.

"It's fine, Ruka was just leaving."

That statement caught both the girls off guard. Aiyora turned and looked at the other, the expression on Ruka's face clearly stated otherwise – her tightened jaws, disappointed eyes and clenched fists were screaming out one simple fact – she wasn't just leaving, he was throwing her out.

Kaname handed Ruka the set of papers and smiled, a smiled that meant leave now. Leaving the aristocrat no choice but to comply.

A mere 'thank you' managed to come out of the aristocrat's mouth. Despite giving her best she could not conceal her facial expression which now changed to one that was a combination of displease and annoyed. She waited an entire week looking forward to this meeting. Prepped and pampered herself to be in her best skin, best appearance. He seemed free this evening too. Perhaps she could have stayed longer. But no! This little brat had to show up and ruin everything.

Ruka made sure to throw a heated glare in the younger Kuran's direction before making her exit.

Once the door closed Aiyora moved towards the divan and sat down in straight posture. Kaname's eyes follwed. A moment later he too moved out of his chair and joined her on the divan. Unlike her, he sat more laid back.

"What's the matter?" he started, taking in her hand and entwining their fingers. "Aiyora…?" he pressed, giving her hand a gentle squeeze.

"I'm confused." She admitted. Not understanding the reason behind such strange feeling.

"About?"

"I think I'm doing the right thing…" she mused, but then faced him determined. "No, I believe I'm doing the right thing! I'm trying to save my friend, nothing can be wrong about that, right?"

"I depends on the context you're referring to."

"Aidou-kun."

"What did he do now?"

"I'm trying to save him from a possible heartbreak."

Kaname raised an eyebrow, amused. Was Aiyora always this entertaining? Saving a ladies-man from heartache, how absurd. She sure had enough spare time in hand to lose sleep worrying about such futile matter.

"How…?"

"What do you mean how?" She shot him a look. Revealing how disappointed she was with him. "Do you not pay any attention to the surrounding? You're doing terrible job for a leader."

"Noted."

He chuckled for a moment before, bringing their entwined hands to his lips and brushing his lips softly over her hand. He sneaked a glance to watch her reaction. Deep down hoping to see her flushed face, but alas! her mind was elsewhere, occupied with other matters to notice this small gesture of romance.

"Anyway… Aidou-kun and Fuuka are growing."

"That worries you?"

"Absolutely!" she exclaimed. And did so with so much excitement that she ended up pulling her hand free his hold in the process. To Aiyora it meant nothing, she did not even pay enough attention to notice; but for Kaname it was enough to bring a reaction on his usually calm face. A shock at first, then a look of hurt. It made him wonder if she her action was deliberate? Why do that? But before he could ponder on the silly matter longer she spoke up, bring his mind to focus on what actually mattered.

"Onii-sama you have to look at it this way…"

She went ahead explaining why she was so strongly against them. How a heartbreak was inevitable for the Aidou heir – no matter how you look at the situation. The former human turns to level-E, his heart will break. She dies, his heart will break. And even if she survives by some miracle, they cannot be together; the Council and the Aidou family will not bless such union – thus he will left with a broken heart.

Then she proceeded to tell him what happened between her and Kisaragi Fuuka that night, in the library. What she told the former day class student, and what the latter said to her return. And how she has been having these uneasy feeling lately.

Kaname listened carefully. Not even once he interrupted her while she spoke. What he did instead was mentally note her each and every reaction. He understood right away where the real problem was – deep down Aiyora was starting to feel guilty. Her heart was softening. And as a concerned individual, he could not allow that because this soft heart will cause her a hefty price in the future.

The evening turned to twilight but their talk was no where near done.

After Aiyora finished, Kaname took over.

He did not just talk words. He took out several books, documents related to recent cases and included photographs as well, some gruesome ones too. In short he showed evidence. In order to prove that what she was feeling, that small feeling of guilt was wrong. Level-Es aren't to be sympathized with.

"So… to summarize your personal opinions on level-Es… would be…?" Aiyora asked, as she helped him put everything back to its designated place.

"They're anomalies," he said placing the last file in the cabinet. "…they have no place in this world. They should not exist."


The next few days Aiyora spent majority of her time, thinking. Thinking about solution to solve this mess. At this point she stopped making fuss, like earlier. Now she only watched them (Aidou and Fuuka) from the sideline, mostly keeping her focus on the former human while cautiously noting her movement.

Her worry for Aidou doubled. The talk with Kaname added more stress then relief. The information he revealed indicated that no one is safe in the company of level-E. In dire thirst they don't distinguish between human, vampire and animals. They sink their fangs over any flesh that has blood flowing underneath.

Fuuka still has her sanity. The rational part of Aiyora's head pointed out.

But its only a matter of time till she slowly starts to lose it. The other side reminded. What are the chances that she wouldn't attack him?

With vigorous shake of head the pureblood threw the ominous thought, and went back to brushing her hair while reminding herself over and over again that the blonde noble wouldn't be so stupid to take assault from a lowly vampire.

Then one passing evening, on a night out in town with Senri; Aiyora brought up this topic again.

They were walking hand in hand, going from one shop to another.

Since it was summer Aiyora chose a simple pink dress and a pair of stark white sneakers for apparel. As for her hair, she tied that up in sleek tight ponytail. Senri on the other hand chose his usual comfortable pair of jeans and t-shirt and of course a hoodie. The last one is a must have these days to conceal his identity from the crazy fans.

"Where to next?" Senri asked suppressing a yawn.

"How about that store..."

"Which one?" He asked her to specify since they were three in a row.

Aiyora pointed out the one in the middle. The smallest and the simplest one among them. It surprised the model a little. He could bet any amount that Aiyora wouldn't find anything in there. After all they are not used to shopping from such kind of stores. But of course he couldn't deny his Ai-chan anything so he motioned her to lead the way.

Just as they were about to enter Senri's mobile phone rang. With a sigh he took out the device from his pocket and showed the pureblood. His manager was the one calling.

"Answer it. It could be important."

"You sure…?"

"Just go!" she push him to take call and told him in sign language to meet her inside the store once he was done.

Aiyora went into the store and started to browse. Nothing in there seemed to fit her taste but she continued to look. At least it was diverting her mind. She didn't have to worry about Aidou getting drained dry by the soon to be level-E.

"Hi…" the pureblood turned hearing that. To make sure if that was directed towards her or someone else. Only to find a young brunette with shoulder length hair looking at her with immense interest.

Aiyora assumed the girl to be a sales associate, so she said "I'm doing alright. I'll call you if I need any assistance."

"Um… actually I don't work here." The girl said sheepishly, "…but I was wondering I could get your suggestion."

"With what?"

"I picked these two for my friend but not so sure whether it would suit him."

The girl showed her a dark green jacket with olive green t-shirt both men's

"What does your friend look like?" Aiyora inquired. She wanted to have a look at the person before giving out her opinion.

The girl searched here and there before someone called her out.

"Hey! What's taking you so long."

"That's him." The girls pointed toward the guy coming their way.

Aiyora froze to the ground. Silver hair, lilac eyes, unnaturally pale complexion and that smell. He was a freaking vampire! Not any vampire… he was like Kisaragi Fuuka, a former human. And a girl he's with is a human. What the hell is going on!? Aiyora's head stopped functioning. She couldn't think straight.

The glared daggers at her. If looks could kill surely Kuran Aiyora would be in her grave now. Aiyora too returned the stare.

The girl simply danced her head between the two, confused as to why they were staring each other down this way.

"Let's go!" he was the one who broke that uncomfortable silence and dragged the girl by her arm.

"Zero wait let me at least pay for it."

"I don't need anything." He threw the merchandises on the floor before leaving out of the door.

Aiyora just stood there dumbfound while the sales person ran to pick up the items floor and ranted screaming at them never to come back.

Senri walked in minutes later and found Aiyora somewhat shaken up.

"Why are you standing like a statue."

"Let's go."

"What!?"

"Let's. Go." She punctuated the words. This time it was a command from the pureblood.

"Okay."

Their way back to the academy was quiet. Aiyora was stiff till they got into the car. Once inside the vehicle she relaxed a little but still she wasn't her earlier cheerful self. Her sudden change worried the Shiki heir. He inquired several times what happened but she said nothing and to top that her hands were freezing – something that only happened when she was too frightened. If his calculation is correct he was only gone for five minutes. What could have happened in such short period of time?

"What are your thoughts on level-Es?"

Again that question. Senri had the urge to roll his eyes. Honestly he did not understand her sudden obsession with level-Es.

"They're ugly and disgusting." Senri replied.

You're wrong Ri-chan, not all of them are ugly and disgusting. I just happen to cross path with a handsome one. And he's friends with a human! What a living breathing example of co-existence… perhaps these two should join Cross Academy.

Aiyora let out a tired sigh before facing the window.

It's pointless talking to him about it. Senri lived in a different world. Besides that he already had a lot on his plate – with his modelling career now taking off he has to juggle between shooting and class. To add a cherry on top, he also has his unstable mother, who is capable of being far more dangerous than any level-E.


Aiyora shivered. An automatic reaction that happened to her body every time she recalled those enraged lilac eyes, those heated glare of immense hatred. It filled up her stomach with strange unease. Something about the equation was wrong. After her talk with Kaname she came to an understanding, things started to seem clear. Her only concern became Aidou's safety. But now after meeting that guy… she's back at square one.

Therefore to clear her mind she thought about consulting with Takuma. In hopes that finally conclusion will be drawn on this matter.

Next Night: In the library

They were organizing the shelf that contained all his manga collections.

The green eyed blonde was surprised when Aiyora offered to help him out in the library. But gladly accepted it anyway…

Takuma was on the ladder-step re-arranging the top shelf while Aiyora was seated on the floor taking out the new books from the box and passing them over.

In the beginning topic of their discussion remained within entertainment. Aiyora told him about the movies she watched recently and the ones she planned on watching soon. Similarly Takuma told her about the latest manga he just finished, the one he plans to start, the new order he just placed last night and also which mangas should be made into movies and so on…

From entertainment the topic eventually switched to night class. At first the discussions were only about what they were learning. Slowly Takuma brought up the topic of Aidou's experiment and that led Aiyora to became quieter. She only listened, debating inside if this was the right time to bring up...

"Ai-chan pass me that pile." He pointed towards the one that was on her left side but Aiyora picked up the one that was on her right.

He took note of the action before pointing out. "No Aiyora-chan, its that pile."

"Oh sorry," she quickly dropped the wrong piled and picked up the one on the left side and placed them on Ichijo's awaiting hand.

He took the pile from her and went back to placing them according to order but his attention remained fully on her. With a slight glance he noticed Aiyora looking around, fully absent in mind.

He may not have said anything but that doesn't mean he didn't notice. He resumed back to the task in hand; once done, he stepped down and joined her on the floor. He sat down coping her style folding his legs yoga style.

"Everything okay Ai-chan?" his tone was warm, approach was friendly.

Exhaling a shaky breath the younger pureblood nodded her head no.

"Want to share. Perhaps I could offer some advice."

Their eyes met. The Ichjo heir was taken aback by those intense gaze. Her eyes were indeed rare gems. They could express so much that words were not really needed.

Takuma was well aware about the pureblood's tension with Fuuka and her talk with Kaname. But in order to understand her better, he wanted to hear everything from her mouth.

"Um… Takuma nii-san," recently she developed the habit of addressing the Ichijo heir as big brother.

"…I want to know your thoughts on level-Es?"

"Are we talking about level-Es in general or Kisaragi-san?" lifting up her face with a finger he flashed her a warm, friendly grin.

"Both… I guess." She admitted sheepishly, then continued.

"Why don't you be candid with me first?" he gave her the chance to open up.

"My feelings are mixed. My initial worry was about Aidou-kun having his life destroyed. The talk with onii-sama added to my worry but I kind of knew where I stand, what level-Es are and where they truly belong. … But then I saw someone in town… a former human…and since then I cannot think straight."

"Has Aiyora-chan developed a crush on this…" he emphasized with quoting with his fingers "…former human."

"Oh no no no! it's not at all like that." Aiyora looked around frantically, just making sure no one else was there beside them. Then scooted a little closer him. "Plus how it is impossible to develop a crush on someone who stares you down with so much hatred."

"What do you mean?" he looked at her, more concerned now. "Who'd hate such a beautiful girl like you?"

"He did Takuma nii-san. The level of hatred in those eyes were so intense that it made me back away. I could not keep up. It felt like he was burning me alive. Even lady Shiki's hatred is nothing in front of his."

For a moment Takuma wondered who this could be?

"Oh… I missed the best part; the girl he was with is human."

Who is she talking about? What are the chances this is Zero and Yuuki-chan?

"I don't think his hatred was solely towards you. It's towards your kind. The purebloods."

Aiyora mused on those words for a moment.

"…it's a pureblood that changed his fate. Ruined his entire life. Made him a monster, a beast whose thirst for blood knows no bounds. Which is why hates that pureblood, in fact hates the entire race. But most importantly nothing compares to the hatred he feels towards his own self."

Aiyora's eyes turned wide. She finally filled in the gaps. Now she knows, she understands and she did not just feel guilty but also embarrassed.

"So tell me Aiyora-chan is it fair to blame Fuuka for the fate that was forced upo-"

The sudden cry for help cut Takuma off. Both him and Aiyora looked at each other, confused. That confusion turned to tension the moment the smell of fresh blood reached them.

Both vampires tensed immediately!

Cry for help, strong smell of blood. The combination of these two here in the moon-dorm is uncalled for.

Ichijo stood up and Aiyora followed.

"You stay right here, I'll go check."

Takuma went to have a look at the situation while Aiyora stayed back inside the library for few more minutes. She continuously kept on swallowing empty air. Nervous, would be understament to describe how the pureblood felt in that moment. She was absolutely terrified. It brought back all the memory of her last day at the Shiki residence, lady Shiki's betrayal…

Aiyora reminded herself that she's a pureblood, a Kuran pureblood. She should be brave enough to face such small challenges not dwell in the past and hiding in here like a coward. That would only set a bad example.

Aiyora followed the scent, and it led her downstairs to the lobby. There was a big crowd in front of the kitchen area. Noticing her presence the some of them moved away giving her direct view of scene.

There were blood splatters on the white marbled kitchen floor. Kisaragi Fuuka sat there, on her knees, before her was pile of dust.

The younger Kuran's eyes went wide when she connected all the dots.

Hanabusa was the one standing closest to the former day class student; and beside him was Takuma, giving out instructions. Kaname was away, that left him as the vice president in change.

Aiyora managed to ask the person beside, who the victim was. The boy slowly whispered.

"It was the night maid, Ushia-san."

Aiyora heart sank deeper, recognizing that name. She was a kind hearted woman (level-c vampire) who used bake various kinds of cakes and pastries. Even this afternoon she was the one who brought the pureblood her breakfast in bed. She had a paper to finish so she could speak to the woman. If only she knew then that it would be their last encounter…

Takuma signaled Akatsuki and Ruka to clear the crowd. Majority went back to their respective room. Couple of maids then appeared with mops and dusters to clean up the mess after Hanabusa had pulled Fuuka off the floor and walked outside.

Everyone was gone, only Aiyora and Takuma remained.

"Why did you leave the library?" Takuma asked closing the distance between them. Aiyora stared back at him helplessly. She looked like a child who was ready to break down.

"Are you scared? Do you want to forget what you saw?" he made the suggestion. But she declined the offer right away with a shake of her head.

"Let me take you to you room Aiyora-chan." He took her by the hand "let's go…" he tugged, but she did not move. She stood there thinking for a moment… and then suddenly she broke free from his hold and ran outside.

"Aiyora! Wait!"

Leaving no choice for the other but to follow.


They walked through the garden covered with the darkness of night.

"It's cold." Fuuka murmured, realizing that she had left the moon dorm in her pajamas.

"Here, take this." Aidou took off his jacket and offered it to the trembling girl, wrapping it around her shoulder.

"Thank you, that was very kind." She said in appreciation while taking in a deep breath, enticing herself in Aidou's scent that was emanating off of his jacket.

While passing a certain point Fuuka glanced to her side and saw a part of the sun-dorm that was still visible but across the wall, in the distance, that was way far for her to reach. The sight was enough to make the girl feel a strange longing. And that longing came after the realization – she'll never go back there again…

Her steps came to a sudden halt.

"Aidou-sempai…"

"Tell me," he replied, turning. His eyes shone in the darkness but Fuuka was not afraid. Because it was Aidou, the only one who stayed by her side all this time.

"I have a favor to ask…"

"Let's hear it."

Encouraged, but still a little fearful, Fuuka began to speak.

"While I'm still me…" the night wind blew hard, making the treetops sway. "…please kill me."

Aidou's eyes went wide.

"…now, with your own hands."

"What-!?" he gasped. Not fully registering what he just heard. No he definitely heard it wrong. She could not and would not wish for something like that.

But she proved him wrong with her next words.

"I've decided," she continued, looking at him with eyes that showed bravery. She no longer looked afraid like before. As she no longer had time for such weak emotions.

"I want this journey to be over."

"Look there is still time! It will a while before you begin to fall. I'm still working on it. I will modify the tablets again and won't give up till it actually starts working." He protested. Trying his best to convince her to take back what she just said.

But Fuuka kept her gaze steady, her mind made up for good.

"Sorry, but I've already decided."

"But-"

"I almost killed Kanae, my best friend, roommate. Then you moved me here but what did that bring? Death of that innocent maid. Why? Because I could not control my thirst. I know that monster growing inside me is not the real me. However soon there will be a time when that's all that will remain off me."

"You will stabilize, if you drink the blood of the pureblood that bit you. We can search for that vampire together. …till then you drink my blood. It will help tempor-"

"NO!" she interrupted him, realizing he was trying to buy time while wasting both their times.

"…you don't understand. I don't want to live like this anymore. I don't want to be a hindrance for you, more than I've already been. Besides… I have no time, I can feel it. The person I am is slowly getting eaten by this new me. The real Fuuka is disappearing… and the vampire inside is breaking free."

"Fuuka-"

"It' only a matter of days when Kuran-sempai will order someone to put me down. And I do not want to die by the hands of anyone… or die alone."

He looked at her with pained expression. He finally realized she was that kind of a person who would jump a wall out of love for Kuran Kaname. A person who did not mind skipping the rules, a girl who always seemed to have fun and be happy, talkative as bird sometimes. That girl who at first seemed so silly, so absurd. That girl named Fuuka, who was in some ways so much like him.

"But you… Aidou-sempai, if it is you then I don't mind dying." She saw his hesitation, and it warmed her heart. Now she could see him for who he truly was… the kind loving person who deep down was also very… innocent.

"Think about it carefully, when I fall to level-E, I will be hunted down. There is no doubt about that. …but now while I still retain my sanity I still get to choose who can hunt me down. And that someone is you, Aidou-sempai."

There was no shred of doubt in her eyes. And the blonde understood, the decisions been finalized. There no turning back, she will not allow it.

"But why me…?"

She smiled a very happy smile. Because she wanted him to remember this smiling face forever.

She took a bold step towards him and placed a finger over his lips, silencing him before he could say further.

"Please don't try to change my mind. I'm very happy now and allow me to depart with this happy heart."

She smiled again and this time he joined her. His was a pained smile.

"I understand…" Aidou finally accepted.

He embraced her with one arm while forming an ice knife on his other hand. He looked down at her with eyes full of love. At this point there was no hiding. He wanted her to see how much he cared…

Fuuka finally closed her eyes. The smile on her lips remained intact. That calm, blissful smile.

Aidou hesitated, but he did not want her to suffer. So, with one clean downward stroke he drove the sharp ice-blade into her chest, directly into her heart.

Her face quivered. A chill spread through her body. The monster within her slowly freezing. For her it was the final salvation.

"Aidou-sempai…" she lowly opened her eyes. "…may I ask you one last question?"

"Sure…" his eyes shone with emotions he did not know he had.

"What would you think if I were to say… I love you?"

His faced paled, mouth partly gaped. He wanted to tell her the feeling was mutual. But for some reason he could not give voice to those words.

"You don't have to say anything… I can see them, in your eyes. And that makes me glad. Thank you for returning the feeling… I'm happy to die in your arms…" she smiled again, with a pleasant feeling.

Using her last remaining strength she placed her icy hand over his face and cupped his cheek. For a vampire he felt strangely warm.

"Fuuka…" his voice came out as a slowly whisper, soft and strangled. To hear him call her with so much affection filled her heart with happiness. The happiness that came from deep within her soul. She smiled once more, the smile that came from the deepest part of her heart…

"I'm happy to have met you. Thank you for everything… Ha… Hanabusa!"

And that was her last word!

The hand that rested on Aidou's face slipped away, losing to the force of gravity. Her eyes closed down, as she fell asleep for the last time. Now, that beautiful face reflected peace. With her last wish fulfilled she was indeed resting in peace. Whilst Aidou remained there, knelt on one knee, motionless… looking at her sleeping in his arms.

The mortal remains of Fuuka, in his arms, slowly turned to dust. Her body, her innocent smile everything was gone… forever. All that remained was his jacket… and last bit of her scent lingering on the fabric.

Aiyora, was standing at a distance with Takuma right by her side. She fell on her knees. Her tears now directly dropping to the ground. Takuma tried to pull her up but she pushed him away. It was too late… too late… She clutched the fabric over her chest in hopes that it would ease down the pain. The fact that she will never be able to apologize Fuuka ate her from inside.

Forgive me Fuuka-san… I never tried to understand you… never apologized for that pain my kin inflicted upon you… now I know, that I am no different. I am also a selfish pureblood, like every other ones that exist.

She looked up at the sky in hopes that Fuuka was somewhere there watching down on her.

May you finally be at peace no matter where you are.

Takuma pulled her in and engulfed her into his arms. And Aiyora could not hold back anymore. Her emotions, her guilt all pour out together in form of broken sobs. She cried into his chest while he held her tightly, afraid that she might disappear if he accidently loosen the grip.

Along with Hanabusa and Aiyora, Ichjo was also lost in grief. So lost that he failed to notice the panther, the black panther that was watching Aiyora from the shadows.

A panther with mismatched eyes – one red and one blue.


a.n. Hope you guys enjoyed. Also, did you guys notice who Aiyora met at the store? on another note... the ending is taken Ice Blue Sin novel. it was beautifully written that i didn't want to change it much.