“As you already know, the dose I took was indeed derived from vampire blood,” Lucas admitted, pulling a silver cross from inside his clothes.

The cross had a small, sharp tip at the end, resembling a needle.

“But it’s not as dangerous or as potent as pure vampire blood,” he clarified, his voice steady despite the weight of his words.

Moka frowned, her expression unreadable to those around her, though her eyes glinted with restrained intensity.

“It’s a synthetic liquid,” Lucas continued, turning the cross over in his hand before tucking it away. “We call it Hemalux Elixir or Lazarus Vitae. It’s made from a formula that uses vampire blood as its base but dilutes it significantly. The result is weaker than pure vampire blood but ultimately safer.”

He hesitated briefly, then added, “Early on, we had to decide: a weaker power boost that lasts longer, or the same power boost for a shorter period. The organization chose the latter.”

Moka gave a small nod, her gaze unwavering.

Lucas frowned, feeling the weight of her scrutiny. “I’ve already explained what it is. It’s not vampire blood itself.”

Moka’s tone sharpened. “I asked where you obtained the vampire blood to use as a base for this… Elixir.”

Lucas sighed heavily. “It comes from rogue vampires we’ve detained.”

The words were barely out of his mouth before Moka lunged forward. Her hand clamped around Lucas’ neck as she lifted him off the bed with ease, slamming him against the wall. Cottus and Mayumi both surged forward instinctively, but Moka’s intense glare held them at bay.

“These vampires—who are they?!” she demanded, her voice laced with fury.

Lucas clawed at her grip, but without his enhancements or vampiric boost, he was little more than a strong human—a far cry from Moka’s overwhelming strength.

“Moka, set him down,” Mayumi ordered, her tone calm despite the flicker of magic sparking in the air around her.

Cottus didn’t move, though his aura thrummed with readiness to intervene.

Moka ignored them both, her voice cold and dangerous. “Answer me. The two behind me are powerful, but I promise you, human, I’m faster. I can snap your neck before they can even move.”

The entire clinic felt the weight of her threat. Kurumu froze in fear, while Yukari nervously shifted closer to Mayumi, unable to suppress her admiration for Moka’s raw power.

Tsukune stepped forward, holding the silver rosary tightly in his hand. “Moka, please,” he said gently. “Let him go. He’ll answer. Lucas, just tell her. She’s only worried about her family.”

Struggling to breathe, Lucas rasped, “I-I’ll talk… Just let me down.”

Moka’s eyes narrowed, but after a brief glance at Mayumi and Cottus, she released him.

Lucas crumpled to the floor, coughing but quickly composing himself. Wincing as he stood on his newly healed legs, he began, “I—”

“The vampires in their custody aren’t connected to you,” Cottus interrupted.

Moka spun toward the towering giant, frowning. “You knew?”

Cottus nodded slightly. “The Black Hounds are one of the few hunter organizations partnered with us.”

Lucas silently returned to the bed, too drained to argue.

“Then why didn’t you say anything earlier?” Moka pressed, frustration evident in her voice.

“Saying anything outright would’ve betrayed the trust between us and their organization,” Cottus explained matter-of-factly. “However, if the hunter is willing to speak, it provides some leeway.”

While Mayumi resumed checking Lucas’ vitals, Cottus continued, “Your family isn’t the type to attack humans without reason, is that correct?”

Moka hesitated, then nodded.

Tsukune’s thoughts drifted uneasily to Moka’s family.

“The Black Hounds only target rogue monsters,” Cottus stated firmly. “That’s their standard, and we hold them to it. In return, they hold us to ours. The academy assures you that your family remains untouched.”

Moka’s gaze hardened. “Can you guarantee that?”

Cottus tilted his head, considering her for a moment before nodding. “Yes.”

A tense silence hung in the air as their eyes locked. Finally, Moka exhaled and turned to Mayumi. With a more composed tone, she said, “I apologize for my earlier behavior. I was not in the right frame of mind.”

Mayumi gave a curt nod. “Don’t let it happen again. Next time, I won’t be so understanding.”

Moka nodded her head in acknowledgment. Then, turning to Tsukune, she extended her hand.

Without hesitation, he placed the silver rosary in her palm. Moka reattached the cross, and the oppressive aura surrounding her vanished instantly as she returned to her sealed state.

This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

The toll of remaining unsealed for so long hit her immediately. Her knees buckled, but Tsukune was already there, catching her before she collapsed.

“Well, that’s kind of unfair,” Kurumu said with a playful pout, her tone laced with humor. The other conscious occupants of the clinic turned to her. “I mean, if it were me causing such a scene, I wouldn’t get to just ‘turn it off.’ I’d have to sit through the whole scolding afterward!”

“Ugh, you’re so stupid,” Yukari groaned, rolling her eyes.

“What? You’re the stupid one!” Kurumu shot back, her voice rising.

“Alright, enough! Both of you—out!” Mayumi barked, swiftly shoving the bickering duo out of the clinic. With the door closed behind them, she exhaled sharply and turned to Tsukune. “Put Moka in one of the beds and let her rest.”

Nodding, Tsukune carefully lifted Moka and placed her onto an empty bed, ensuring she was comfortable.

Cottus turned his gaze toward Lucas. “I trust you’ll behave.”

Lucas glanced at the unconscious, restrained Junya on one bed and the peacefully sleeping Moka on the other before replying, “Yeah, I will.”

Satisfied, Cottus nodded. “I’ll complete my reports and return later to assist with your departure from the academy.”

Without further explanation, Cottus disappeared, the sheer force of his teleportation spell sending a faint ripple through the air. Tsukune flinched in surprise at the display, his expression wide-eyed.

Mayumi, appearing noticeably more relaxed in the absence of the imposing giant, turned to Tsukune. “If you plan on staying here, keep quiet. No disruptions. Got it?”

“Yes, ma’am,” Tsukune replied quickly, taking a seat near Moka’s bed.

Seeing that Tsukune was far more cooperative than his harem members, Mayumi decided it was the perfect time for a quick smoke break. As she headed toward the door, she called back casually, “If anyone shows up, just tell them to lie down on a bed.”

Tsukune nodded in acknowledgment.

Once they were alone, Lucas broke the silence. “You’re not afraid of her at all?”

The question caught Tsukune off guard. He glanced at Lucas, who, despite looking exhausted, seemed determined to engage in conversation. Tsukune’s gaze shifted briefly to the sleeping Moka before returning to Lucas, his expression thoughtful.

“No.”

Lucas propped himself up on one arm, his eyes narrowing as he studied Tsukune. “Not at all? You saw how ruthless she can be.”

Tsukune glanced down, his expression thoughtful. “Well… it’s true that Moka is incredibly powerful. But even so, I could never be afraid of her. I trust her.”

Lucas nodded, leaning back slightly. “So, when are you going to tell her that you’re human?”

Tsukune’s eyes widened in shock, and he quickly glanced around the room to see if anyone else had overheard. Fortunately, Junya was unconscious. For Tsukune, the less monsters that knew, the better.

“W-What are you talking about? I’m not a—”

“Cut the act,” Lucas interrupted, his voice calm but firm. “It all adds up. Your blood is practically irresistible, you’re physically weak—no offense—and you have no youki to speak of. Honestly, I’m surprised everyone else bought the idea that you’re a vampire.”

Hearing the certainty in Lucas’ tone, Tsukune realized there was no point in denying it any longer.

“She knows,” he admitted quietly.

Lucas raised an eyebrow in genuine surprise. “Oh? Well, I can see why you trust her, then. She’s got you completely cornered.”

Tsukune flushed, clearly flustered by the remark.

Noticing his reaction, Lucas smirked. “Wait a minute… don’t tell me it’s not blackmail?”

Tsukune groaned, covering his face with his hands. “Is it that obvious?”

Lucas nodded, chuckling softly.

After a moment, his tone grew more serious. “Look, I’m not here to lecture you, but as another human, I feel like I should warn you. Humans and vampires… they don’t mix easily.”

“What makes you say that?” Tsukune asked, meeting Lucas’ gaze.

“For starters, the power dynamic,” Lucas said matter-of-factly. “No matter what happens, the two of you will never be on equal footing. Not unless you somehow become as strong as she is—or stronger.”

Tsukune nodded thoughtfully, absorbing the comment.

“And then there’s the lifespan,” Lucas continued.

That made Tsukune pause. He’d never considered that before.

“Vampires stop aging somewhere around 24, max at 28. After that, they’re in their prime forever. So, let’s say Moka does accept you. One day, you’re going to grow old and die, and she’s going to keep living… likely forever, given her strength.”

The weight of those words pressed down on Tsukune, his expression darkening for a moment. But then, he straightened his back, determination lighting up his face.

“I know all that,” he said firmly. “But… I’ll find a way. I’ll close the gap between us somehow. Our story is just beginning.”

Lucas studied him for a moment before smirking, a flicker of admiration in his eyes. “You’ve got a good look in your eyes. Strength in a place like this is impressive—though I can’t decide if it’s more inspiring or ridiculous that it’s fueled by romantic passion.”

Tsukune chuckled softly, shaking his head. “Call it what you want, but I won’t give up.”

Lucas sighed, leaning back slightly. “You know what? I’m feeling generous. We’re both humans, after all. Got any questions you want to ask me?”

Tsukune blinked in surprise. The sudden shift in Lucas’ demeanor after realizing his humanity caught him off guard.

“I…” he started, still processing the offer.

“Keep your expectations in check,” Lucas cut in, raising a hand. “I’m not spilling any organizational secrets. Just surface-level stuff.”

Tsukune nodded quickly, his mind racing as he tried to think of the right questions to ask.

“Does vampire blood actually transform you?” Tsukune asked, his voice tinged with curiosity and a trace of unease.

Lucas regarded him thoughtfully. “Are you asking about transformation through a vampire’s bite, or through vampire blood itself?”

“Well… the latter. I’ve been bitten before, but I’m still human,” Tsukune replied.

Lucas nodded, leaning back slightly. “Pure vampire blood and, to a weaker extent, Hemalux Elixir can result in a transformation, yes.”

Tsukune stiffened at the confirmation. “Is… is it permanent?”

“It can be,” Lucas said, noting the fear creeping into Tsukune’s expression. “Are you afraid of being transformed?”

Tsukune nodded, his gaze dropping. “A bit. I… I don’t know why, but I want to remain human.”

Lucas gave a small nod of approval. “Good. I’m glad you think that way. Honestly, I’d respect you less if you were eager to become a vampire just to stay by her side.”

A brief silence settled over them before Lucas broke it. “Any other questions?”

Tsukune hesitated, then asked, “How do I become as strong as you?”

Lucas chuckled. “Exercise.”

“No, not that,” Tsukune said, shaking his head. “You were ridiculously fast earlier, like a monster yourself. How did you do that?”

Lucas considered how much to divulge. Eventually, he says, “I assume you already know it’s magic, right?”

Tsukune nodded.

“Humans can’t use youki. Instead, we train to harness anki. Judging by your reaction, you’ve heard of it?”

Tsukune nodded again. “Yeah, my friends mentioned it. They even promised to teach me.”

“Good,” Lucas said. “If you can trust them, that’s a solid start. As long as you train your Anki and study spell circles, you can reach a level that’s not a burden to a powerful vampire like Moka.”

The room fell quiet again, until Tsukune broke the silence. “Do you hate vampires?”

Without hesitation, Lucas replied, “Yes.”

“Why?”

Lucas smiled faintly. “For you to ask that tells me you’ve lived a very fortunate life.”

Tsukune flushed, realizing his question might have been insensitive. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize,” Lucas said. “I hate vampires because of my past. It’s personal, and it doesn’t concern you. But… seeing Moka, the sealed one, makes me wonder if not all vampires are as bad as I thought.”

Tsukune hesitated before asking, “Could I contact you after this?”

Lucas considered for a moment, then reached into his jacket, pulling out a piece of paper. “Here’s my number. If you’re ever outside the academy and need help, call me. If I’m nearby, I’ll come.”

Tsukune took the paper gratefully. “Why are you so willing to help me?”

Lucas smiled. “I’m not sure. You just have this… aura. You’re approachable. I feel like you wouldn’t betray my trust or safety.”

“Thank you,” Tsukune said sincerely, surprised.

Their conversation continued, eventually circling back to Tsukune’s desire to grow stronger.

“I can’t teach you magic,” Lucas admitted. “We just don’t have the time. You’ll need to train your anki first. Once you have a basic grasp, you’ll need to learn spell inscription.”

Reaching into his clothes, Lucas pulled out a small, damaged circular charm. “Here. This is a mid-circle shield charm. It’s broken, but you can study it. Think of it as a goal to reach.”

Tsukune accepted the charm, examining the intricate inscribed circle. “Thank you, Lucas. I’ll do my best… for Moka.”

Lucas smiled, watching him. For a moment, he was reminded that, despite everything, he was just 16. If not for his past, he might have been at an academy like this, studying alongside someone like Tsukune.

Well, he thought, this will have to do.

The two continued their conversation, finding solace in the fact that they were the only humans in the academy.