Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Chapter 1 : Cross Academy: Night class @ 9:23 PM

Chapter 1 : Cross Academy: Night class

 The world was a sea of white. It hurt to walk – my feet were sore and numb. I glanced up wearily at the moonless black sky, reaching out for the falling snowflakes...



It’s so cold…



Pure white Snow…Why is it so white? What is this snow?



It is not supposed to be red…



So where is all the red coming…From…?



Out of the snowy, endless night, a sudden strong wind blew. I dropped to the ground, unable to support myself.



Vampires.



I heard footsteps. The boots pressed into the soft snow, making a sound.



Crunch, Crunch….

 “Are you lost, little girl?” he asked, with malevolence filtering through.



I stared up at him.



“In that case, can I drink your blood?”



They are…



The bloody man lowered his body and he took hold of my head with so much strength, it hurt terribly. He widened his jaw, flashing his lethal, venomous teeth. My eyes widened in fear and my legs felt like it wasn’t there.

 “Sto…!”I shrieked.

 Just a split second before the man attempted to sink his poisonous teeth into my skin, he rained a shower of blood. A boy appeared in front of me. His hand went all the way through the man’s head mercilessly, soaking it with blood. His auburn hair waved down to his shoulders, framing his face. His eyes, full of power and mystery with a coat of bloody red.

 “You are a disgrace to all vampires.” The young boy ruthlessly pulled back his hand, and the man collapsed onto the floor with a thunderous thud, falling asleep eternally.



…Blood-drinking monsters who disguise themselves as humans…



… Vampires exist…But most people do not realize them…



“Are you okay?” The boy asked. He licked the blood on his fingers, as if that was the most innate thing to do.

 My earliest memories begin with that snowy day…



Ten years later at Cross Academy…



There was an enormous crowd waiting impatiently in front of the Moon Dormitory, gazing excitedly it.

 “Okay, Okay! Everybody please move back! It’s curfew time for everyone in the Day Class, so just go back to your dorms!” I shouted, desperately trying to catch their attention. I stood in front of the gate and straightened my arms in order to prohibit entry.


My name is Yuuki Cross. I am a first Year prefect at the Day Class. Cross Academy is a prestigious, esteemed private school that divides its student body into two groups: the Day Class　and the Night Class.



The Day Class and the Night Class share the use of the school facilities in turns. But when the classes change in the evening, it is always erupts into chaos and anarchy.

 “Don’t get bossy because you’re a prefect!” some fan girls grumbled and they surged in front, trying to break through. Others echoed agreement. I had tremendous difficulty trying to keep them under control.



“Click!”



As usual, the Day Class　all glanced in the direction the gate opened. “Wow!” they would all exclaim in awe.


The reason why students from the Day Class always surround the Moon Dormitory in the evening is because　ｔhe Night Class consists of elite, top-notch students and they are all gorgeous and stunning.



The Night Class students sashayed down the rocky path, dazzling and striking. The Day Class stood rooted to the ground, all too dazed for words.


“Good Morning Ladies! Still as pretty as ever, I see!” Aidou greeted.



His fans stared adoringly, satisfied with his flowery compliments. There was a sudden surge of enthusiasm as the Day Class rushed towards ｔhe Night Class . Being caught in the stampede, I lost my balance and fell on my knees. I groaned.



“Are you okay, Yuuki?” a familiar, deep voice asked.


I glimpsed up to his face. He was bending down, offering his hand.


“They are always so difficult to manage.” His gentle eyes were beautiful. I was always brought into an enchanted world with him.



“Kaname!” I felt blood rushing to my cheeks immediately. I jumped to my feet instantly, replying, “Yes! I am just fine!” I felt the stares of the other girls. I knew that I was contradicting my very own words, but I could not help but overreact whenever he is around. I pulled strands of my fringe, a tendency I would have when I am frustrated yet embarrassed.

 He chuckled softly. “You are always so formal with me. It makes me really sad.”



“Oh… I didn’t mean to…It’s because you saved my life!” I was flustered, not knowing how to react next.

 He is Kuran Kaname. He is not only the Night Class Representative as well as the Dorm Leader for the Moon Dormitory, but also…



On that snowy night ten years ago…He is the one who saved my life…



“Don’t worry about that, it happened so long ago…” He salvaged the awkward situation and patted my head lightly. Just at this moment, a pale, strong hand grabbed Kaname’s hand. Instinctively, I traced my gaze to see who the one was. Standing beside me was Zero, shooting a hateful glare at Kaname.

 “Class is starting, Kuran.” Zero notified Kaname coldly, still clutching his wrist.


Kaname jerked out of Zero’s grip forcefully. He walked a few steps ahead, and glanced back.


“You’re scaring me, Mr. Prefect.”


He was situated with the other Moon Dormitory students, and the demeanor around them was fearsome. They paced away, with a relaxed gait, leaving us on our own. I felt the gentle wind mildly caressing my face.


Suddenly, there was a sound of rustling of the leaves. A girl from the Day Class emerged from the bushes, with her uniform wrinkled and her hair messy. She was gripping tightly onto a pure white rose and she held it up in Kaname’s sight, blushing furiously as she did so.



Kaname serenely accepted it, and thanked the girl. The girl immediately dashed off afterwards, keyed up by the fact that she gave Kaname the rose.


Zero turned to glare fiercely me and he expressed his disapproval firmly. “I don’t care how much you suck up to Kuran, but you do know the rules right?”


I was stupefied instantly. That jerk is Kiryuu Zero, whom is also a prefect. He is always abrasive with his words. I pouted childishly.



“Shut up! I know already. They are different from the rest of us.” I defiantly answered.

 Because the Night Class　is not just the cream of the crop. The terrible, concealed clandestine that no one knows about them…



Is that behind their façade….



Every one of them is a vampire.





For that reason…Our job as a Prefect is just a mask. Our real job is to act as the School guardian, to protect the secret of the Night Class.



Like an active volcano, Zero erupted.



“LISTEN UP, BRATS! GET THE HELL BACK TO YOUR DORMS! WHY THE HELL DO I HAVE TO DEAL WITH YOU RUNNING AROUND, GOING, “KYAA! KYAA!” EVERY DAMN DAY! WHY?!”


Zero was in no mood to tolerate persistent students. They sensed his dangerous mood. Not daring to ignore Zero’s provocative warning, the entire Day Class quickly scrambled back to their dormitories. Consequences would be far more than dire if even one soul lingered.



Recovering from the blow from Zero’s violent outburst, a sudden thought hit me, making me rememver the original reason I was being humiliated.


I viciously threw a rain of punches on Zero’s back, blaming, “YOU WERE LATE AGAIN, USELESS JERK!”



The pain from my strikes instantly smacked him.



“That hurts! OWW! I’ll get that from you later.”



“As if.” I shot back rebelliously.


Ever since long ago, stretching back into the sinister shadows of history, there has been a constant conflict between humans and vampires.



In this country, only a few remember the daunting past. But…



The very existence of vampires is a petrifying reality.

 The reason why students in the Day Class do not know about the school’s secret is because we deliberately block of all connections between the two classes.

 Some way or another, we arrived at the Chairman’s office.



Zero had a gloomy air around him.














“This is ridiculous,” Zero declared.



“HOW CAN YOU POSSIBLY EXPECT JUST THE TWO OF US TO GUARD THE WHOLE BUNCH OF THOSE BLOOD SUCKERS AND DEAL WITH THE SCREAMING IDIOTS, MR. CHAIRMAN!?” Agitated, a thunderous slam on the table was made by him. Not this again, I sighed.



The chairman took it stoically. Still composed, he held a cup of warm tea. “I admit that it is difficult to deal with it every night. Thanks for your hard work!”



“SO FIND SOMEONE TO AID ME BEFORE THIS WHOLE THING IMPLODES! SHE’S WORSE THAN USELESS!” Zero implied, pointing directly at me.
“Hey! I’m not taking that from someone who is late half the time and absent the rest!” I retorted angrily.
The chairman sipped the tea and replied, “Impossible. The role of the guardians is critical. If the Day Class and the Night Class are to successfully co-exist, you two are the only ones I can trust, ” He eyed us carefully and continued in a unserious tone,” Besides, it is a thankless job, with long hours, sleepless nights and no respect given. No one else would take the offer.

“And…I know that my adorable daughter and loving son will not let me down.”

The obvious use of “son” made Zero blew his top. Unable to control his rage, he punched hard at the table top, causing it to crumble.



“You might have taken care of me, but I DO NOT REMEMBER EVER BECOMING YOUR SON!”
 The Chairman gave a shrug. “You always obsess over the minute details. It’s such a pain in the neck.”


Zero switched his target to me instead.

“Hey Yuuki, you are more of his daughter than I am. Don’t you have anything to say?”
 I gave it a moment of thought.



“But… The Night Class seems to be getting along with the others. I’m just contented to offer my helping hand.”
I flashed my trademark idiotic smile.



“Yuuki! You’re such a good girl! I am so proud of you!” The chairman exclaimed over exaggerated happiness. Then, he continued with his melodrama of idealism…



“Yuuki is the only one who truly understands my pacifist idealism! I dream that one day we will break out of this dark circle of hatred that haunts the relationship between vampires and humans! I believe that if the youth of today can grow together with generous hearts and inquisitive minds, we can build an unbreakable bridge whereby our two races will end in harmony!”



While he was preaching, Zero and I felt as if we went to outer space and he was talking about Mars and Venus instead of vampires and humans…
Not ending his unbelievable long speech,” That is the pride and glory of education! That is the purpose of the Night Class!”
Zero knew that once the Cairman goes on his lecture mode he would not be stopped and he covered his ears with his fingers and said, “I’m going on patrol duty. This nut is all yours, Yuuki.”
 Without leaving time for me to stop him, he slammed the door shut.


My attention went back to the chairman.


“It such a shame…But I do understand why Kiryuu feels the way he does. Even within the vampire community, there are evil creatures that still pounce on human. That is why it would be a horrible catastrophe if the truth of the Night Class is let out of the bag.


Upon hearing, I defended for my saviour.


“Kaname would never do anything like that! There are also plenty of honest vampires like him too! They are pacifists!”

I assured him, “That is why everything is going to be okay, just leave it to us guardians! I’m going!”

I pushed the window open and took a last glimpse of him being visibly touched with tears rolling down his cheeks before I jumped down.


I enjoyed the rush of the wind as my body made contact with the open air which smelled vaguely of mint. I landed with a thud on the solid ground. Images of the past began flashing in my mind again.


I do not have any memories from before I was a five-year-old.


On that fateful night, after Kaname saved me, he took me to the chairman of Cross Academy…

Even though I had nothing, the chairman took great care of me and raised me up as his daughter. That is why I have always thought of that night ten years ago as the night I was born.

So that is the reason why I strongly believe that vampires and humans can live together as on whole.


While I was in my sweet dreams, sleeping in class, I was unaware and oblivious of my surroundings.

“Kurosu! Kurosu! Good grief, nothing ever wakes that girl up.”


I snored soundly.


As if in defeat, the teacher looked for another student. “Alright then… Kiryuu!”


The student beside him raised his hand. “Teacher, Kiryuu is asleep too!”


Frustrated, the teacher grumbled,” The two of them only sleep all the time! What on Earth are the up to!”


The Day Class teachers do not know the true identity of the Night Class students either.


Not sympathising, he declared, “Detention for Kurosu and Kiryuu!”


Awaking from my deep slumber, I yawned sleepily. My best friend, Yori, informed me of the detention. My heart sank to my heels at the mention of D-E-T-E-N-T-I-O-N and I slumped in my seat.


Yori stated nonchalantly, “It is your own fault for staying out all night and sleeping all day long. That is something only vampires would do. “


I jumped in shock.


“Y…You don’t really believe in vampires, do you?” I stuttered nervously, with my heart thumping wildly.


“Of course not. I was just kidding.” Unsuspectingly, Yori answered. I heaved a sigh of immense relief. She did not know the truth after all. Trying to change the subject, I lifted the mood again.

“Hey! Will you come to detention with me today? It sucks having to do it alone with that jerk.”

Yori rejected me without hesitation. “No way. I thought Zero and you were good friends.”

That jerk sighed heavily, which encouraged me to fan the fire.



“AS IF! Zero is flaky, bad-tempered, and he is always so gloomy, it is depressing!” I exclaimed with irritation in my tone.



“Yuuki, I can hear you.” Zero said from a distance behind me.



I swerved around and stuck my tongue out cheekily. “I’m saying it because I know you can hear me! BLEH!”


Just then, I heard a distinct set of footsteps leaving.

“Wait! Yori!” I pleaded.




Without even stopping, she said, “Now that I think about it, you two are perfect for each other. By the way, you are late…” Her voice trailed off into the hallway, leaving me alone with Zero.

“Look outside. It is getting dark. We here in the Night Class are the first of our kind to test these newly developed blood tablets. Now only we are the pride of the school, we are also the pride of the entire vampire race.” The teacher announced.


Negative responses scattered in the class. “Somehow I really doubt that.” “We’re just a study groups anyway.”


One of the reactions flickered to me.




“I don’t know about that. After all, co-existing with humans like that is a ginormous step forward for us. Right. Kaname? “
Still flipping through my textbook, I chuckled lightly. “That’s right. We have the Chairman to thank for everything we have learnt here.”




Standing with Zero at the porch, a felt the wind rush past me again, lifting my hair. I gazed at the clear, grand windows, hoping to catch a glimpse of Kaname.




Just at that moment, I saw Kaname’s figure filtering through. He was glancing somewhere else, unaware of my fixed gaze. He looked so perfect in that pure white uniform which had an exquisite design. The uniform went with a tuxedo coat, adding to the layers and grandness.




Unfortunately, someone just had to interrupt my beautiful moment.

“So how is your Kuran Kaname, YOUR HERO, doing tonight?”
I was dumbfounded by the sudden situation. Immediately, I tried to think of an excuse to divert Zero’s attention to humble me.




“It’s not like I was looking at Kaname or anything! Everyone in the Night Class seems to be behaving themselves! It doesn’t look like anyone from the Day Class is loitering around either! Yup! Looks like we are in for a quiet and peaceful night! We probably don’t even need to be here!”




Sadly, I could tell that he did not buy my retarded story. To my surprise, Zero did not react the way I thought he would.




“I know that the Chairman thinks that the members of the Night Class are conscientious objectors but I beg to differ. There is no way in hell that I am going to let my guard down. That is why I cannot understand why an adult like the chairman can ever collaborate with them.


I gasped at his words.

“You said it yourself once…The reasons why they look like humans… is that they can hunt us down more efficiently. I’m going to patrol.”

Just as abruptly he started on this familiar topic, he left.


I don’t understand you, Zero…because when you arrived four years ago..


It was the first time I saw pure hatred in someone’s eyes. I know…


That not all vampires are good and kind-hearted...

The parents that I could no longer remember…


Were probably killed by vampires.
Out of the sudden, I heard a faint sound of people’s voices.
I groaned. “Looks like some Day students are breaking curfew again.”




One of the girls was sitting on the floor and she was pressing on to her knee, which seemed to have sustained an injury.


“Can you walk?” her friend asked with concern.



“I don’t think so. It hurts too much.” She replied, still rubbing her knee.




I leaped to the nearest tree, causing a piercing rustle of a twig, which evidently startled the two girls. I swung down by means of the twig, settling with a thump.

“You two! I want your names and class! ” I demanded.
“Wandering around after dark us strictly forbidden under school regulations! It is very dangerous; please return to your dormitories right away!”




I tugged at my prefect icon. As usual, I got a impolite response.




“We just came to take photos of the Night Class students. What the hell is your problem?”


A familiar smell tugged at my senses and caught my attention.


“You are bleeding?” I definitely did not expect this. “This is really bad…Quick! Get back to your dormitories!” I grabbed both of their arms, shoving them away. They were both reluctant.
I felt a familiar presence around me. Too late.




I swiftly fished my White rod-type weapon, Artemis and pointed at the enemy. “Who is it?” I demanded.




Akatsuki Kain grabbed it effortlessly. “How scary…I would expect nothing less from the Chairman’s foundling.”




Standing behind him was the blonde-haired Hanabusa Aidou. The two girls behind me squealed in delight. “It- It’s Hanabusa Aidou and Akatsuki Kain from the Night Class! No way!”




The two vampires grinned. “We smelt blood and decided to come and take a look around. You really are mean, Yuuki. After all, we came here especially to see you…” Aidou chimed.




The scent of blood noticeably aroused his interest. The scent wafted through the air and he closed his eyes, enjoying the moment. He commented, “Ahh… It’s such a lovely scent. Mmmm… The scent of your blood…”




“Kyaa! Did you hear that? Did you? He said we smell nice! I don’t really get it, but still...”The ignorant girls went crazy over that clearly taboo comment.




I felt fury rising in me immediately. I tried to threaten him. “Aidou! If you dare to lay a finger on either of them, I won’t forgive…you…” My voice faltered and it trailed off when Aidou did somthing that caught me off guard.




Aidou took Artemis with one hand and stroked my hand gently with the other. I froze instantly. While fondling with my hand, he asked, “Did you fall earlier? The scent I was talking about is of your own blood…Yuuki.”




He opened my palm and, to my utter horror, I noticed bruises and signs of blood oozing out. Darn! It must have been when I swung from that tree earlier! I thought in realisation.




“Thanks…but-“I struggled furiously as I made an effort to pull away. I can’t pull away from him! He’s too strong!




He lowered down to my hand and positioned his face to it. “You really are…tempting…me…” He widened his jaws, which flashed his vampire fangs.




His tongue and licked the blood on my palm clean. My mind went completely void. I just witnessed the scene like a dummy. “I want more…Can I take it from your neck?” He requested.

Blood trickled down from his fangs to his chin. Memories flashed in my head. “Are you lost, little girl? In that case, can I drink your blood?”


Fear filled me as he situated himself beside my neck. I barely noticed that the two girls collapsed.




I snapped back to reality when someone flashed a White gun at Aidou. I recognized the gun as Bloody Rose, Zero’s weapon. “Drinking blood whilst on school grounds are strictly prohibited, vampire. “He warned. Aidou was visibly amused.




He was about to shoot when I shouted, “Zero, don’t!”




“It was just a taste.” Aidou licked the blood that dripped down. I grabbed the golden opportunity and rushed towards Zero, grasping his hand and pointing upwards.




“BANG!”




Aidou winced at the shrill sound.




“Idiot! Why did you shoot?” I chided, knowing fully that the shoot was treacherous.




Kain smartly observed that the Bloody Rose was no ordinary gun. The shoot left the mark of the Bloody Rose shining brightly. It was then we heard the tapping of shoes.




“It is called the Bloody Rose. You should be more careful, Aidou. It was made to kill creatures like us. Well then, I would take care of these fools. The Chairman would need a complete report. Is that okay, Kiryuu?” Kaname grabbed Aidou by the collar.




I looked worriedly at Zero. He stared at Kaname for a brief moment before keeping Bloody Rose. “Just get them out of my sight, Kuran.”




“Kain, why didn’t you stop Aidou? You are just as guilty as he is.” Kaname questioned. Kain definitely did not expect himself to be dragged into the punishments.




“Yuuki, I am sorry for all this…I hope it hasn’t awoken any bad memories for you…” Kaname looked at me in the eye. I flushed. “No! He didn’t actually hurt me, so don’t worry about it!” I lied partially.

He smiled faintly, leaving with Kain and Aidou. His sight lingered before we broke eye contact.




I always knew that Kaname was different…




My thoughts were cut off by a sudden grab. “What?” Zero slided his tie from his neck and started bandaging my injured palm. He used his teeth to tug at the ends. He may have a good side after all. I glanced at him appreciatively.




“Let’s go. We still have to deal with the girls. This place reeks of blood. It is making me sick. The fact that they like this smell…is proof that they are beasts.” He turned and started walking away.
Ever since that day he lost his family…



Zero won’t enter a stranger’s territory without carrying a weapon…

Zero…is now more talkative than he was before…




In no time, I was back at the Chairman’s room while Zero went back to the Boy’s dormitory.




I was blowing my hair dry after a comfortable bath when a familiar figure slammed the door and strode towards the bathroom. “What are you doing in here?” I screeched. “Beats me! The Dorm showers are close till dawn! Not like I’d like to look at you anyway!” Zero answered defensively.
He unbuttoned his shirt and revealed his pale skin. I tossed whatever I grabbed at him. “Don’t just come in and start stripping! I am still a girl!” I declared. There was a flash of silence.“You just though ‘NO, You’re not’ didn’t you! I can read your mind, jerk!” I accused.




He stepped closer, still bare, and sniffed. “I can’t smell the blood anymore.”
I rolled my eyes. “Oh shut up! My hand has already stopped bleeding.”




Walking towards the hair dryer, I started blowing my hair again. My hair flared and Zero just stood there motionless. “Oh! But I’ll be careful from now! After all, I am the guardian of Cross Academy. I can survive no matter how much of my blood is sucked, right?”




I winked and grinned retardedly at Zero. He ignored me and went into the bathroom.
 “Ten days suspension? It was still worth a taste of Yuuki’s blood. I don’t think I’ll be able to endure living off tablets much longer. Her blood was so delicious.” Aidou sighed contentedly.



I felt anger rising rapidly in me. I stepped to him and exerted all my force to slap him. Water still dripping from my wet hair, I demanded, “Pardon?” Aidou apologized unwillingly.

Yuuki…
 The Day and Night Class live together side by side…

There is a secret that is being kept form the Day Students…But…



What I didn’t realize is…



There is also another secret.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Chapter 1 : Cross Academy: Night class @ 9:23 PM

Chapter 1 : Cross Academy: Night class

 The world was a sea of white. It hurt to walk – my feet were sore and numb. I glanced up wearily at the moonless black sky, reaching out for the falling snowflakes...



It’s so cold…



Pure white Snow…Why is it so white? What is this snow?



It is not supposed to be red…



So where is all the red coming…From…?



Out of the snowy, endless night, a sudden strong wind blew. I dropped to the ground, unable to support myself.



Vampires.



I heard footsteps. The boots pressed into the soft snow, making a sound.



Crunch, Crunch….

 “Are you lost, little girl?” he asked, with malevolence filtering through.



I stared up at him.



“In that case, can I drink your blood?”



They are…



The bloody man lowered his body and he took hold of my head with so much strength, it hurt terribly. He widened his jaw, flashing his lethal, venomous teeth. My eyes widened in fear and my legs felt like it wasn’t there.

 “Sto…!”I shrieked.

 Just a split second before the man attempted to sink his poisonous teeth into my skin, he rained a shower of blood. A boy appeared in front of me. His hand went all the way through the man’s head mercilessly, soaking it with blood. His auburn hair waved down to his shoulders, framing his face. His eyes, full of power and mystery with a coat of bloody red.

 “You are a disgrace to all vampires.” The young boy ruthlessly pulled back his hand, and the man collapsed onto the floor with a thunderous thud, falling asleep eternally.



…Blood-drinking monsters who disguise themselves as humans…



… Vampires exist…But most people do not realize them…



“Are you okay?” The boy asked. He licked the blood on his fingers, as if that was the most innate thing to do.

 My earliest memories begin with that snowy day…



Ten years later at Cross Academy…



There was an enormous crowd waiting impatiently in front of the Moon Dormitory, gazing excitedly it.

 “Okay, Okay! Everybody please move back! It’s curfew time for everyone in the Day Class, so just go back to your dorms!” I shouted, desperately trying to catch their attention. I stood in front of the gate and straightened my arms in order to prohibit entry.


My name is Yuuki Cross. I am a first Year prefect at the Day Class. Cross Academy is a prestigious, esteemed private school that divides its student body into two groups: the Day Class　and the Night Class.



The Day Class and the Night Class share the use of the school facilities in turns. But when the classes change in the evening, it is always erupts into chaos and anarchy.

 “Don’t get bossy because you’re a prefect!” some fan girls grumbled and they surged in front, trying to break through. Others echoed agreement. I had tremendous difficulty trying to keep them under control.



“Click!”



As usual, the Day Class　all glanced in the direction the gate opened. “Wow!” they would all exclaim in awe.


The reason why students from the Day Class always surround the Moon Dormitory in the evening is because　ｔhe Night Class consists of elite, top-notch students and they are all gorgeous and stunning.



The Night Class students sashayed down the rocky path, dazzling and striking. The Day Class stood rooted to the ground, all too dazed for words.


“Good Morning Ladies! Still as pretty as ever, I see!” Aidou greeted.



His fans stared adoringly, satisfied with his flowery compliments. There was a sudden surge of enthusiasm as the Day Class rushed towards ｔhe Night Class . Being caught in the stampede, I lost my balance and fell on my knees. I groaned.



“Are you okay, Yuuki?” a familiar, deep voice asked.


I glimpsed up to his face. He was bending down, offering his hand.


“They are always so difficult to manage.” His gentle eyes were beautiful. I was always brought into an enchanted world with him.



“Kaname!” I felt blood rushing to my cheeks immediately. I jumped to my feet instantly, replying, “Yes! I am just fine!” I felt the stares of the other girls. I knew that I was contradicting my very own words, but I could not help but overreact whenever he is around. I pulled strands of my fringe, a tendency I would have when I am frustrated yet embarrassed.

 He chuckled softly. “You are always so formal with me. It makes me really sad.”



“Oh… I didn’t mean to…It’s because you saved my life!” I was flustered, not knowing how to react next.

 He is Kuran Kaname. He is not only the Night Class Representative as well as the Dorm Leader for the Moon Dormitory, but also…



On that snowy night ten years ago…He is the one who saved my life…



“Don’t worry about that, it happened so long ago…” He salvaged the awkward situation and patted my head lightly. Just at this moment, a pale, strong hand grabbed Kaname’s hand. Instinctively, I traced my gaze to see who the one was. Standing beside me was Zero, shooting a hateful glare at Kaname.

 “Class is starting, Kuran.” Zero notified Kaname coldly, still clutching his wrist.


Kaname jerked out of Zero’s grip forcefully. He walked a few steps ahead, and glanced back.


“You’re scaring me, Mr. Prefect.”


He was situated with the other Moon Dormitory students, and the demeanor around them was fearsome. They paced away, with a relaxed gait, leaving us on our own. I felt the gentle wind mildly caressing my face.


Suddenly, there was a sound of rustling of the leaves. A girl from the Day Class emerged from the bushes, with her uniform wrinkled and her hair messy. She was gripping tightly onto a pure white rose and she held it up in Kaname’s sight, blushing furiously as she did so.



Kaname serenely accepted it, and thanked the girl. The girl immediately dashed off afterwards, keyed up by the fact that she gave Kaname the rose.


Zero turned to glare fiercely me and he expressed his disapproval firmly. “I don’t care how much you suck up to Kuran, but you do know the rules right?”


I was stupefied instantly. That jerk is Kiryuu Zero, whom is also a prefect. He is always abrasive with his words. I pouted childishly.



“Shut up! I know already. They are different from the rest of us.” I defiantly answered.

 Because the Night Class　is not just the cream of the crop. The terrible, concealed clandestine that no one knows about them…



Is that behind their façade….



Every one of them is a vampire.





For that reason…Our job as a Prefect is just a mask. Our real job is to act as the School guardian, to protect the secret of the Night Class.



Like an active volcano, Zero erupted.



“LISTEN UP, BRATS! GET THE HELL BACK TO YOUR DORMS! WHY THE HELL DO I HAVE TO DEAL WITH YOU RUNNING AROUND, GOING, “KYAA! KYAA!” EVERY DAMN DAY! WHY?!”


Zero was in no mood to tolerate persistent students. They sensed his dangerous mood. Not daring to ignore Zero’s provocative warning, the entire Day Class quickly scrambled back to their dormitories. Consequences would be far more than dire if even one soul lingered.



Recovering from the blow from Zero’s violent outburst, a sudden thought hit me, making me rememver the original reason I was being humiliated.


I viciously threw a rain of punches on Zero’s back, blaming, “YOU WERE LATE AGAIN, USELESS JERK!”



The pain from my strikes instantly smacked him.



“That hurts! OWW! I’ll get that from you later.”



“As if.” I shot back rebelliously.


Ever since long ago, stretching back into the sinister shadows of history, there has been a constant conflict between humans and vampires.



In this country, only a few remember the daunting past. But…



The very existence of vampires is a petrifying reality.

 The reason why students in the Day Class do not know about the school’s secret is because we deliberately block of all connections between the two classes.

 Some way or another, we arrived at the Chairman’s office.



Zero had a gloomy air around him.














“This is ridiculous,” Zero declared.



“HOW CAN YOU POSSIBLY EXPECT JUST THE TWO OF US TO GUARD THE WHOLE BUNCH OF THOSE BLOOD SUCKERS AND DEAL WITH THE SCREAMING IDIOTS, MR. CHAIRMAN!?” Agitated, a thunderous slam on the table was made by him. Not this again, I sighed.



The chairman took it stoically. Still composed, he held a cup of warm tea. “I admit that it is difficult to deal with it every night. Thanks for your hard work!”



“SO FIND SOMEONE TO AID ME BEFORE THIS WHOLE THING IMPLODES! SHE’S WORSE THAN USELESS!” Zero implied, pointing directly at me.
“Hey! I’m not taking that from someone who is late half the time and absent the rest!” I retorted angrily.
The chairman sipped the tea and replied, “Impossible. The role of the guardians is critical. If the Day Class and the Night Class are to successfully co-exist, you two are the only ones I can trust, ” He eyed us carefully and continued in a unserious tone,” Besides, it is a thankless job, with long hours, sleepless nights and no respect given. No one else would take the offer.

“And…I know that my adorable daughter and loving son will not let me down.”

The obvious use of “son” made Zero blew his top. Unable to control his rage, he punched hard at the table top, causing it to crumble.



“You might have taken care of me, but I DO NOT REMEMBER EVER BECOMING YOUR SON!”
 The Chairman gave a shrug. “You always obsess over the minute details. It’s such a pain in the neck.”


Zero switched his target to me instead.

“Hey Yuuki, you are more of his daughter than I am. Don’t you have anything to say?”
 I gave it a moment of thought.



“But… The Night Class seems to be getting along with the others. I’m just contented to offer my helping hand.”
I flashed my trademark idiotic smile.



“Yuuki! You’re such a good girl! I am so proud of you!” The chairman exclaimed over exaggerated happiness. Then, he continued with his melodrama of idealism…



“Yuuki is the only one who truly understands my pacifist idealism! I dream that one day we will break out of this dark circle of hatred that haunts the relationship between vampires and humans! I believe that if the youth of today can grow together with generous hearts and inquisitive minds, we can build an unbreakable bridge whereby our two races will end in harmony!”



While he was preaching, Zero and I felt as if we went to outer space and he was talking about Mars and Venus instead of vampires and humans…
Not ending his unbelievable long speech,” That is the pride and glory of education! That is the purpose of the Night Class!”
Zero knew that once the Cairman goes on his lecture mode he would not be stopped and he covered his ears with his fingers and said, “I’m going on patrol duty. This nut is all yours, Yuuki.”
 Without leaving time for me to stop him, he slammed the door shut.


My attention went back to the chairman.


“It such a shame…But I do understand why Kiryuu feels the way he does. Even within the vampire community, there are evil creatures that still pounce on human. That is why it would be a horrible catastrophe if the truth of the Night Class is let out of the bag.


Upon hearing, I defended for my saviour.


“Kaname would never do anything like that! There are also plenty of honest vampires like him too! They are pacifists!”

I assured him, “That is why everything is going to be okay, just leave it to us guardians! I’m going!”

I pushed the window open and took a last glimpse of him being visibly touched with tears rolling down his cheeks before I jumped down.


I enjoyed the rush of the wind as my body made contact with the open air which smelled vaguely of mint. I landed with a thud on the solid ground. Images of the past began flashing in my mind again.


I do not have any memories from before I was a five-year-old.


On that fateful night, after Kaname saved me, he took me to the chairman of Cross Academy…

Even though I had nothing, the chairman took great care of me and raised me up as his daughter. That is why I have always thought of that night ten years ago as the night I was born.

So that is the reason why I strongly believe that vampires and humans can live together as on whole.


While I was in my sweet dreams, sleeping in class, I was unaware and oblivious of my surroundings.

“Kurosu! Kurosu! Good grief, nothing ever wakes that girl up.”


I snored soundly.


As if in defeat, the teacher looked for another student. “Alright then… Kiryuu!”


The student beside him raised his hand. “Teacher, Kiryuu is asleep too!”


Frustrated, the teacher grumbled,” The two of them only sleep all the time! What on Earth are the up to!”


The Day Class teachers do not know the true identity of the Night Class students either.


Not sympathising, he declared, “Detention for Kurosu and Kiryuu!”


Awaking from my deep slumber, I yawned sleepily. My best friend, Yori, informed me of the detention. My heart sank to my heels at the mention of D-E-T-E-N-T-I-O-N and I slumped in my seat.


Yori stated nonchalantly, “It is your own fault for staying out all night and sleeping all day long. That is something only vampires would do. “


I jumped in shock.


“Y…You don’t really believe in vampires, do you?” I stuttered nervously, with my heart thumping wildly.


“Of course not. I was just kidding.” Unsuspectingly, Yori answered. I heaved a sigh of immense relief. She did not know the truth after all. Trying to change the subject, I lifted the mood again.

“Hey! Will you come to detention with me today? It sucks having to do it alone with that jerk.”

Yori rejected me without hesitation. “No way. I thought Zero and you were good friends.”

That jerk sighed heavily, which encouraged me to fan the fire.



“AS IF! Zero is flaky, bad-tempered, and he is always so gloomy, it is depressing!” I exclaimed with irritation in my tone.



“Yuuki, I can hear you.” Zero said from a distance behind me.



I swerved around and stuck my tongue out cheekily. “I’m saying it because I know you can hear me! BLEH!”


Just then, I heard a distinct set of footsteps leaving.

“Wait! Yori!” I pleaded.




Without even stopping, she said, “Now that I think about it, you two are perfect for each other. By the way, you are late…” Her voice trailed off into the hallway, leaving me alone with Zero.

“Look outside. It is getting dark. We here in the Night Class are the first of our kind to test these newly developed blood tablets. Now only we are the pride of the school, we are also the pride of the entire vampire race.” The teacher announced.


Negative responses scattered in the class. “Somehow I really doubt that.” “We’re just a study groups anyway.”


One of the reactions flickered to me.




“I don’t know about that. After all, co-existing with humans like that is a ginormous step forward for us. Right. Kaname? “
Still flipping through my textbook, I chuckled lightly. “That’s right. We have the Chairman to thank for everything we have learnt here.”




Standing with Zero at the porch, a felt the wind rush past me again, lifting my hair. I gazed at the clear, grand windows, hoping to catch a glimpse of Kaname.




Just at that moment, I saw Kaname’s figure filtering through. He was glancing somewhere else, unaware of my fixed gaze. He looked so perfect in that pure white uniform which had an exquisite design. The uniform went with a tuxedo coat, adding to the layers and grandness.




Unfortunately, someone just had to interrupt my beautiful moment.

“So how is your Kuran Kaname, YOUR HERO, doing tonight?”
I was dumbfounded by the sudden situation. Immediately, I tried to think of an excuse to divert Zero’s attention to humble me.




“It’s not like I was looking at Kaname or anything! Everyone in the Night Class seems to be behaving themselves! It doesn’t look like anyone from the Day Class is loitering around either! Yup! Looks like we are in for a quiet and peaceful night! We probably don’t even need to be here!”




Sadly, I could tell that he did not buy my retarded story. To my surprise, Zero did not react the way I thought he would.




“I know that the Chairman thinks that the members of the Night Class are conscientious objectors but I beg to differ. There is no way in hell that I am going to let my guard down. That is why I cannot understand why an adult like the chairman can ever collaborate with them.


I gasped at his words.

“You said it yourself once…The reasons why they look like humans… is that they can hunt us down more efficiently. I’m going to patrol.”

Just as abruptly he started on this familiar topic, he left.


I don’t understand you, Zero…because when you arrived four years ago..


It was the first time I saw pure hatred in someone’s eyes. I know…


That not all vampires are good and kind-hearted...

The parents that I could no longer remember…


Were probably killed by vampires.
Out of the sudden, I heard a faint sound of people’s voices.
I groaned. “Looks like some Day students are breaking curfew again.”




One of the girls was sitting on the floor and she was pressing on to her knee, which seemed to have sustained an injury.


“Can you walk?” her friend asked with concern.



“I don’t think so. It hurts too much.” She replied, still rubbing her knee.




I leaped to the nearest tree, causing a piercing rustle of a twig, which evidently startled the two girls. I swung down by means of the twig, settling with a thump.

“You two! I want your names and class! ” I demanded.
“Wandering around after dark us strictly forbidden under school regulations! It is very dangerous; please return to your dormitories right away!”




I tugged at my prefect icon. As usual, I got a impolite response.




“We just came to take photos of the Night Class students. What the hell is your problem?”


A familiar smell tugged at my senses and caught my attention.


“You are bleeding?” I definitely did not expect this. “This is really bad…Quick! Get back to your dormitories!” I grabbed both of their arms, shoving them away. They were both reluctant.
I felt a familiar presence around me. Too late.




I swiftly fished my White rod-type weapon, Artemis and pointed at the enemy. “Who is it?” I demanded.




Akatsuki Kain grabbed it effortlessly. “How scary…I would expect nothing less from the Chairman’s foundling.”




Standing behind him was the blonde-haired Hanabusa Aidou. The two girls behind me squealed in delight. “It- It’s Hanabusa Aidou and Akatsuki Kain from the Night Class! No way!”




The two vampires grinned. “We smelt blood and decided to come and take a look around. You really are mean, Yuuki. After all, we came here especially to see you…” Aidou chimed.




The scent of blood noticeably aroused his interest. The scent wafted through the air and he closed his eyes, enjoying the moment. He commented, “Ahh… It’s such a lovely scent. Mmmm… The scent of your blood…”




“Kyaa! Did you hear that? Did you? He said we smell nice! I don’t really get it, but still...”The ignorant girls went crazy over that clearly taboo comment.




I felt fury rising in me immediately. I tried to threaten him. “Aidou! If you dare to lay a finger on either of them, I won’t forgive…you…” My voice faltered and it trailed off when Aidou did somthing that caught me off guard.




Aidou took Artemis with one hand and stroked my hand gently with the other. I froze instantly. While fondling with my hand, he asked, “Did you fall earlier? The scent I was talking about is of your own blood…Yuuki.”




He opened my palm and, to my utter horror, I noticed bruises and signs of blood oozing out. Darn! It must have been when I swung from that tree earlier! I thought in realisation.




“Thanks…but-“I struggled furiously as I made an effort to pull away. I can’t pull away from him! He’s too strong!




He lowered down to my hand and positioned his face to it. “You really are…tempting…me…” He widened his jaws, which flashed his vampire fangs.




His tongue and licked the blood on my palm clean. My mind went completely void. I just witnessed the scene like a dummy. “I want more…Can I take it from your neck?” He requested.

Blood trickled down from his fangs to his chin. Memories flashed in my head. “Are you lost, little girl? In that case, can I drink your blood?”


Fear filled me as he situated himself beside my neck. I barely noticed that the two girls collapsed.




I snapped back to reality when someone flashed a White gun at Aidou. I recognized the gun as Bloody Rose, Zero’s weapon. “Drinking blood whilst on school grounds are strictly prohibited, vampire. “He warned. Aidou was visibly amused.




He was about to shoot when I shouted, “Zero, don’t!”




“It was just a taste.” Aidou licked the blood that dripped down. I grabbed the golden opportunity and rushed towards Zero, grasping his hand and pointing upwards.




“BANG!”




Aidou winced at the shrill sound.




“Idiot! Why did you shoot?” I chided, knowing fully that the shoot was treacherous.




Kain smartly observed that the Bloody Rose was no ordinary gun. The shoot left the mark of the Bloody Rose shining brightly. It was then we heard the tapping of shoes.




“It is called the Bloody Rose. You should be more careful, Aidou. It was made to kill creatures like us. Well then, I would take care of these fools. The Chairman would need a complete report. Is that okay, Kiryuu?” Kaname grabbed Aidou by the collar.




I looked worriedly at Zero. He stared at Kaname for a brief moment before keeping Bloody Rose. “Just get them out of my sight, Kuran.”




“Kain, why didn’t you stop Aidou? You are just as guilty as he is.” Kaname questioned. Kain definitely did not expect himself to be dragged into the punishments.




“Yuuki, I am sorry for all this…I hope it hasn’t awoken any bad memories for you…” Kaname looked at me in the eye. I flushed. “No! He didn’t actually hurt me, so don’t worry about it!” I lied partially.

He smiled faintly, leaving with Kain and Aidou. His sight lingered before we broke eye contact.




I always knew that Kaname was different…




My thoughts were cut off by a sudden grab. “What?” Zero slided his tie from his neck and started bandaging my injured palm. He used his teeth to tug at the ends. He may have a good side after all. I glanced at him appreciatively.




“Let’s go. We still have to deal with the girls. This place reeks of blood. It is making me sick. The fact that they like this smell…is proof that they are beasts.” He turned and started walking away.
Ever since that day he lost his family…



Zero won’t enter a stranger’s territory without carrying a weapon…

Zero…is now more talkative than he was before…




In no time, I was back at the Chairman’s room while Zero went back to the Boy’s dormitory.




I was blowing my hair dry after a comfortable bath when a familiar figure slammed the door and strode towards the bathroom. “What are you doing in here?” I screeched. “Beats me! The Dorm showers are close till dawn! Not like I’d like to look at you anyway!” Zero answered defensively.
He unbuttoned his shirt and revealed his pale skin. I tossed whatever I grabbed at him. “Don’t just come in and start stripping! I am still a girl!” I declared. There was a flash of silence.“You just though ‘NO, You’re not’ didn’t you! I can read your mind, jerk!” I accused.




He stepped closer, still bare, and sniffed. “I can’t smell the blood anymore.”
I rolled my eyes. “Oh shut up! My hand has already stopped bleeding.”




Walking towards the hair dryer, I started blowing my hair again. My hair flared and Zero just stood there motionless. “Oh! But I’ll be careful from now! After all, I am the guardian of Cross Academy. I can survive no matter how much of my blood is sucked, right?”




I winked and grinned retardedly at Zero. He ignored me and went into the bathroom.
 “Ten days suspension? It was still worth a taste of Yuuki’s blood. I don’t think I’ll be able to endure living off tablets much longer. Her blood was so delicious.” Aidou sighed contentedly.



I felt anger rising rapidly in me. I stepped to him and exerted all my force to slap him. Water still dripping from my wet hair, I demanded, “Pardon?” Aidou apologized unwillingly.

Yuuki…
 The Day and Night Class live together side by side…

There is a secret that is being kept form the Day Students…But…



What I didn’t realize is…



There is also another secret.