Leonardus the Vampire

All the chapters so far, listed according to the Timeline.

Melodies of Destiny Arc May - June 2016 The Beginning - Vladislaus' dilemma The Bite - Sofia and Leon's transformation The Transformation - Sof and Leo's first meeting Place of Comfort - S & L's First vampire battle Copperdale - Balance of school & occult Fuuka's Curse - A look on Fuuka's curse Fuuka and Leon - Two MCs' First meeting

July 2016 Warren Hargreave and Noctis Lucis Caelum Seeking Answers - Leon and Sofia's nature call Vladislaus Straud - Leon and Sofia's introduction to Straud August 2016 Who We Are - Fuuka's acceptance The Vatores - Leon's first training and Caleb's suspicion

September 2016 San Myshuno Visit - Leon's rising attention Crossroads of Destiny Arc Candy Behr, Yuki Behr, Candy's Old Friends, Lux Demarco Leon's Looming Decision - Weighing Fuuka and San Myshuno Ultimate Decision - Leon's Realization

October 2016 Fuuka's Problem - Between occult and Leon Occult Worlds - Bridging Werewolves and Vampires

November 2016 Sofia's Meets Fuuka - A realization and confrontation Sofia's Irresistible Vampirism - Sofia plans to fulfill her nature Werewolves at Odds - Sofia's infiltration on the werewolves Payment to Destiny 1 - A Foreshadowing Payment to Destiny 2 - Fuuka's Decision Sokolov and Denisov - Ambitious Teen Vampires facing jealousy Sokolov and Denisov (2) - Sofia and Leon proving their worth Sokolov and Denisov (3) - The Confrontation December 2016 Prom Prelude - Approaching prom Prom Prelude 2 - Leon and Fuuka's anticipation Life Outside Windenburg - Alisa, Aqua, Ruby's introduction (The Peak of Windenburg Stories) Prom - A Night to Remember (1) Prom - A Night to Remember (2) Prom - A Night to Remember (3) Prom: A Night to Forget - The Last Chapter of Windenburg Stories Windenburg Stories: Epilogue

Making Waves

Laila shook her head. “She never told me anything.”

Miyu glanced at her, silently questioning Fuuka’s somber reaction. Laila hesitated before continuing, her voice barely above a whisper. “I think… every time someone brings up her spellcaster nature, she starts gazing into the distance, her lips curving downward… like she’s remembering something painful.”

“There’s no escaping the duties, is there?” Fuuka suddenly spoke, turning back toward them.

Of course, she had heard Laila’s quiet words. And she wasn’t wrong. Every reminder of her spellcaster nature brought along another—the Golden Rule.

Faba’s voice echoed in her mind once more. I forbid you, Fuuka. He is a vampire.

"I am sorry, Isuka," Miyu said, "but, knowing who you are, the Sage of Mischief's successor, and you being here, drives me to help you ensure you do not stray from the path of a spellcaster, albeit Faba-san's claim of sending you here to live a normal school life, only sparingly train your magic when you can.

"I heard about Faba's rise to Sage of Mischief. It is full of peril and trial, Isuka. It would be wise to... rebel... a little and keep training vigorously."

Fuuka gazed upon the shrine, the conduit for fast travel to Glimmerbrook. With a sigh of resignation, she spoke once more, "Very well. What more can you tell me?"

Smiling upon Fuuka's submission to the reminder of her nature. "I will introduce you to a fellow spellcaster, Tohno Mahoroha. I consider myself as a good spellcaster, but I do not possess the spells to open the portal."

Miyu turned around to leave, stopping just for a moment to deliver one last line before leaving. "She's in 1B. I'll let her know. Besides, you can make some friends from other class too, if you wish."

The next day...

"So, you live near where we live, and near the shrine. What a coincidence and convenience, Isuka-san." Tohno took her phone and added Fuuka in her contact. "If you want, we can travel there today. I've got some things to do at Glimmerbrook either way."

Meanwhile, at the library...

Komorebi 1A

Kurisu smirked. "Admit it, Natsume. Hakuo has more popularity and gigs than you."

Itsuki sneers. "Hey! That isn't true! Did you say that just because she spent more time at San Myshuno than me?"

The lively spring air filled the third week of classes at Komorebi High, a school often compared to the prestigious Myshuno High and Del Sol Elite. It was during this time that Hakuo finally returned, her arrival delayed due to a major audition in San Myshuno alongside Itsuki.

Recalling Laila's admiration for Hakuo, Fuuka wasted no time in introducing herself.

She’s absolutely stunning! That smooth pink hair looks as if she was born with it! That was the first thought that crossed Fuuka’s mind upon seeing Hakuo in person.

“You must be Fuuka Isuka, the new transfer student. I’ve heard about you from Miyu,” Hakuo said with a friendly smile. “She mentioned how you had all the boys turning their heads the moment you walked into class.”

Fuuka let out a nervous laugh. “Ah, that… I’m not really sure how to respond to that.”

As their conversation continued in class, Fuuka brought up Laila’s admiration for Hakuo, expecting only a polite response. Instead, she was surprised by Hakuo’s genuine enthusiasm at the prospect of meeting her fan.

“Do you live nearby?” Hakuo asked.

“Yes, in Wakaba. Not far from Izakaya Ippai.”

Hakuo gave a small nod, her sharp gaze scanning Fuuka as if assessing her carefully. “Well then, maybe we should hang out sometime. Have you introduced yourself to Miyu Kagirohi yet?”

Later, when Miyu arrived in class, Hakuo shared her idea of spending time with Fuuka after school. Miyu seemed agreeable to the plan, but deep down, something about Fuuka intrigued her—an unmistakable aura, one that could only belong to a spellcaster. Just like her.

Lately, the Natsume cousins—both Kenji and Itsuki—had developed an unusual habit of staring at Fuuka with an intensity that made her uneasy. She wasn’t sure what to make of it, but their gazes lingered long enough for her to notice.

Was it... because I easily approach Hakuo whilst I kept turning down Kenji's offer to lunch?

Still, school carried on as usual. The day passed in a blur of lessons and chatter, and before long, the sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow over Komorebi. With the final bell ringing, Fuuka was finally free to hang out with Hakuo and Miyu for the first time, also introducing Laila to her idol at the same time.

Students of 1A

"Fuuka, you do know that Komorebi High has a lot of notable students, don't you?" "Indeed. I don't live under the rock, Laila."

Komorebi's Top Influencer, Hakuo...

Actresses Akane Kurokawa and Itsuki Natsume...

Basketball Stars Kenji Natsume and Kurisu Navarro...

The list went on... Senja Hadinata, a well-known story writer. Souta Matsuda, both Foxbury and Britechester were on a tug-of-war game to secure his name on their university.

And many more yet to be seen... E-Sports stars, more athletes, actors and actresses, children of business tycoons, and whatnot.

Lastly, of course, Fuuka Isuka herself...

"But, they don't know that I 'am' her," Fuuka said.

Her single that she wrote with the help and composed together with Leon not several months ago, Sorrow, shocked the world by breaching the top-20 leaderboard, remaining so until then. But, what shocked the world was that Fuuka chose to remain anonymous.

After several tiring days, Fuuka and Laila finally settled on their new home at Komorebi. As instructed by Faba, they were to live normally just like before, and surprisingly, Faba wanted them practice less and focus on their studies academic more.

"Speaking of school, how's your first at Komorebi High?" Laila suddenly shifted to Komorebino, her eyes glued to the TV in front of her. "You're getting better!" Fuuka remarked at Laila's Komorebino. "Well, as for school, nothing special aside from everyone eyeing you as you introduce yourself." Laila chuckled. "Same, same here."

Earlier that day...

Somewhere, she wondered how San Myshuno felt like.

Then, somewhere, he wondered where'd she had gone to.

But, life does go on. It waits no one.

New faces will enter your life.

New chapter awaits when one ends.

(Newcrest... Leon and Sofia were awaiting Octavia Moon's representative.)

Leon scanned the menu thorougly, glancing at Sofia, who appeared to know what to order. “Feels strange being here, doesn’t it?” Sofia looked up, a faint smile playing on her lips. “Yeah... leaving Windenburg behind, it’s surreal. But hey, we’re here now, right? It’s what we wanted.”

Leon nodded. “Arnessa took it better than I expected when I told her. She just said, ‘I knew this day would come.’ Turns out, the whole move to Windenburg was her way of preparing me. If I’d stayed in Tartosa, I wouldn't be able to explore the modern music. She wanted me to see there was more out there.”

Then, the matter about the Bjergsens.

Leon smirked. “I could tell. Your dad looked ready to throw me out when I said you were leaving.” Sofia laughed softly. “Well, he wasn’t wrong to worry. You know how they always treated me as second-best, but I'm still his little girl.”

“In the end, they realized they’d been holding you back,” Leon finished for her. “Yeah. It was like a switch flipped. And then Elsa...” Sofia trailed off, her expression shifting to one of quiet guilt.

“She really looks up to you,” Leon said gently. Sofia sighed. “I didn’t realize how much until she said she wanted to be like me. I’ve been so... dismissive of her. Always harboring grudges for her, too focused on myself. But now, I think I understand.”

Then, their departure from the occult world.

Sofia tapped her fork against her plate thoughtfully. “Do you think Vlad meant it? About giving us his blessing?” Leon leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. “He knew this was coming too. He’s not the type to lie about something like that.”

“I guess,” Sofia murmured. “Still feels weird. Leaving the occult world behind, even temporarily.” Leon nodded slowly. “It’s not forever. He made that clear. If they ever need us again, they’ll call.” Sofia smiled faintly. “Guess we’ll just have to be ready when they do.”

But, then, the hardest part would be Fuuka.

Leon’s gaze drifted down to the table, his voice quieter now. “The hardest part... was saying goodbye to Fuuka, again.” Sofia looked at him, her expression softening. “I went to Havisham House before we left this morning,” Leon continued. “It was brief. We didn’t even say much. I just... stroked her cheek like I did that night at Plumbite Pier.”

Interestingly enough, Leon left Windenburg sooner than Fuuka herself, as she'd leave the next day Leon left.

Sofia reached across the table, placing her hand over his. “She’ll be okay, Leon. And so will you.” Leon smiled faintly, his eyes still distant. “Yeah... I hope so.”

A Night to Leave Behind

She didn’t turn around but felt his presence as Leon came closer. A soft smile played on her lips. "It’s beautiful, isn’t it? This night." Her voice was steady, warm, but her fingers trembled ever so slightly.

Leon stopped beside her, his breath visible in the cold air. He gazed out at the serene landscape for a moment, then turned his attention to her. "Yeah," he replied with a soft smile. "It’s been… magical. It’s hard to believe how much has happened these past few months. Five? Six, maybe? And now… here we are."

Fuuka finally looked at him, her eyes glistening like the snow falling around them. She wanted to savor this moment, to hold onto the warmth he brought.

Leon hesitated, then reached out, his hand gently cupping her cheek. Fuuka’s smile widened slightly, leaning into his touch, not stopping him. For once, she let herself feel the closeness without holding back.

"You’ve been so important to me," Leon said softly, his voice steady yet laced with an unspoken sadness. "I just… I wish this moment could carry on forever."

The word hung in the air like the snowflakes drifting down. Fuuka’s smile faltered ever so slightly, her eyes widening. She searched his expression, and in his gaze, she saw it—the understanding, the quiet acceptance. Somehow, Leon had pieced it together.

Fuuka straightened, pushing aside her emotions to keep her composure. She smiled again, this time a little brighter, though it was fragile. "Thank you… for all of it. I’ll remember this night for the rest of my life." Tears started welling her eyes.

Leon’s lips pressed into a thin line, his sharp gaze softening. "That… sounds like something someone would say if they were about to say goodbye."

Leon exhaled slowly, his shoulders dropping ever so slightly. "I knew," he admitted quietly. "I’ve felt it for weeks now. Don’t ask me how, Fuuka. I just… knew."

Silence fell between them for a moment, the soft sound of snow landing on the pier filling the space.

Finally, Fuuka spoke, her voice trembling just a little. "Leon, you’ve made my life so much brighter. I’ll always be grateful for the memories we’ve made. And… I hope that someday… maybe someday…"

"Someday," he echoed with a nod, his voice calm but full of emotion. "I’ll hold onto that hope too. Wherever you go… don’t forget that you have a place here, Fuuka. Always." Fuuka bit her lip, tears threatening to spill, but she fought them back. "Thank you… for everything, Leon. You’re someone I’ll never forget."

From a distance, Sofia stood near the carousel as she watched Leon and Fuuka at the end of the pier. The snow falling between them blurred their figures slightly, and Sofia couldn’t quite make out their expressions. Still, the way they stood so close to each other, how Leon reached for Fuuka’s cheek, brought a smile to her lips.

Everything’s going well, she thought to herself, her heart light with hope. They’re perfect for each other. Maybe tonight’s the start of something beautiful.

Or so she thought. Fuuka turned and began to walk away from Leon.

Leon’s chest tightened, but he smiled for her, despite the ache. "Goodbye, Fuuka." She stepped back slowly, her gaze lingering on his. "Goodbye, Leon."

Sofia tilted her head, her smile faltering as she squinted through the snowfall. Something was different now—something heavy. Fuuka’s shoulders were tense as she retreated into the night, and Leon… Leon stayed frozen in place, his face carrying a weight Sofia couldn’t ignore.

Prom: A Night to Remember (3)

At the peak hour of the prom...

Principal Mei Prescott stepped forward, her elegant demeanor commanding attention. “Good evening, students,” she began with a warm smile. “I want to thank all of you for making this prom truly special. Your energy, enthusiasm, and spirit have made this night unforgettable.”She paused, glancing down at the card in her hand. “Now, for the moment you’ve all been waiting for—the announcement of our Prom Royalties.”A wave of anticipation washed over the crowd, whispers buzzing among the students. Principal Prescott’s smile widened as she said, “It was nearly unanimous. Please welcome to the stage... Leon and Fuuka!”

The room erupted into cheers and applause. Among the crowd, most students exchanged knowing smiles. Deep inside, they were content with their votes. Watching Leon and Fuuka earlier on the dance floor had confirmed it for them—the two were perfect.

Leon glanced at Fuuka, his eyebrows raised in slight surprise, and she returned his look with a shy yet beaming smile. He offered her his hand, and together they walked down the stage amidst a thunderous ovation.

Royal dance would be next on the event.

Hand in hand, they turned to face the crowd, giving a nod of agreement. The cheers swelled as they moved into position, ready to dance once again.

"It’s like watching a real prince and princess," Liam said, unable to tear his gaze away, "one wonders why they're not together yet." "They're not?" Wolfgang asked. "As far as I'm concerned, no." Noct stood beside him, he looked at the two in awe. “Who cares?” he said with a grin. “They're here now. It's beautiful enough.”

"This is incredible," she said quietly, her voice nearly lost in the music. Leon’s gaze softened as he replied, “It’s all because of you.”

Fuuka blushed, smiling as they moved seamlessly into another turn. Around them, the crowd continued to watch in admiration.

Gods. Not like this. Please tell me this isn't the end. It wasn't Fuuka's thought, but rather Leon's. He felt it too.

The final notes of the song lingered in the air as they finished their dance, bowing slightly to each other. The room erupted in cheers, whistles, and applause, the sound almost deafening.

“Best prom ever!” someone shouted from the back.

They embraced each other before Leon and Fuuka turned their gaze towards the crowd. As they gave grateful waves to their peers, their crowns shimmered under the lights, and for just a moment, they truly felt like royalty in a fairy tale.

As the final applause died down and the music faded into a soft hum, Rita Coombes, the chaperone strode toward the grand doors of the auditorium. With a wide smile, she pushed the doors open, revealing the cool night air outside. A gentle breeze swept in, carrying with it the scents of winter and its snow-bright joys outside.

The students began to filter out, the once-lively auditorium gradually emptying into the moonlit courtyard. Leon and Fuuka, still wearing their crowns, led the procession. Their hands brushed briefly before Leon extended his arm to Fuuka, who smiled warmly as she took it.

Outside, the students gathered in clusters, the night sky dotted with stars above them. Farewell waves and cheerful goodbyes filled the air.

Prom: A Night to Remember (2)

The auditorium shimmered with fairy lights and streamers, setting a magical tone for the evening. Fuuka and Leon entered arm in arm, drawing a few admiring glances. Fuuka’s black dress flowed gracefully as she nervously adjusted her corsage, while Leon, in a sleek black suit, offered her a reassuring smile.

At a back table, Liam, Noct, and Warren sat quietly, the weight of Liam's departure hanging in the air. He'd be leaving to San Myshuno for his Myshuno Giants Football Club medical checkup, and his school transfer administration.

"I can't believe this is the last time we’ll all be here," Liam said, swirling his drink. "I don’t know if I made the right choice." Warren shrugged, leaning back. "You’re not abandoning us, you’re just moving on. That’s life." Noct nodded slowly, adding, "It’s not about leaving, it’s about what you did here."

The conversation was interrupted as Sidney, Savannah, and Rashidah overheard and approached.

"We know," Sidney said with a smile. "But it’s prom! Let’s not dwell on the future. Enjoy tonight." Savannah chimed in, "Exactly! We’ll make it memorable." Rashidah added, "It’s about the memories, Liam. You’re not alone." Liam smiled faintly. "Yeah, you're right. We’ll make tonight count." "To the memories," Warren said. “To the future,” Noct added.

Liam leaned back. "I'm looking forward to see you on the pitch for, Warren." "I'll beat you good for leaving us." He smirked.

Wolfgang sat awkwardly beside Yuki at their table. His stiff posture and uncomfortable silence contrasted with her relaxed demeanor.

“So, uh... How’s the decoration?” Wolfgang asked, trying to make conversation. Yuki glanced around, shrugging. "It’s fine. Not great, not terrible. But you know, decorations are decorations."

Wolfgang nodded, but his gaze drifted elsewhere. He wasn’t exactly sure how to talk to someone like Yuki, who was your run-of-the-mill loner geek type. "You know," Yuki said, breaking the silence, "I always thought people like you were... so bad. But you don’t seem as bad as I imagined." Wolfgang raised an eyebrow, caught off guard. "You imagined me to be bad?" Yuki chuckled. "Yeah, Mr. Obvious? The big bad bully. You look like someone who'd pick on someone, even at prom."

He let out a breath of laughter. "I mean, you're not technically wrong, but... I guess I’ve got a different side too. I wanted to change too." Yuki smiled, a small, genuine smile. "Maybe you're not as bad as you seem, then. Hey, we're in the same club back home, don't we? I know you more than the others do."

Warren finally made his way back to Morgan, who was seated at a table, sipping on a punch cup, alone. She looked up as he approached, raising an eyebrow but smiling all the same.

"Well, look who finally decided to show up," she teased, her tone playful. "Sorry, got caught up with a farewell," Warren replied with a sheepish grin, taking the seat next to her. "Liam?" "Liam."

Warren and Morgan exchanged a glance, and their eyes drifted to Leon and Fuuka, who were standing together. They saw Wolfgang coming there towards them.

Morgan followed Warren’s gaze, her expression softening for a moment. "Would you look at that? I think Wolfgang is apologizing to her," she mused quietly, leaning back in her chair. "About time he did, huh? He's changed now." Warren looked towards them also, confirming the unlikely sight.

It was a truly wonderful night. Everyone's eyes confirmed that.

A night to remember. Eagerness, anxiety; two souls, one anticipating a heartwarming night with the one he had feelings with, and one soul wishing this day would never have to come.

Prom: A Night to Remember (1)

Leon stood behind Fuuka, his hands firm on the ropes of the swing as he gave it a steady push. The breeze picked up slightly, ruffling Fuuka's hair as she let out a small laugh, the kind of carefree sound that was rare to hear from her.

With each push, Fuuka’s laughter grew, filling the air around them. The golden rays of the setting sun filtered through the trees, casting long shadows that danced along with them.

"Your eyes, Fuuka. They're brighter now. I just noticed."

She blushed a little. "Yes. This is how my eyes should've looked like before the curse. Now, with it weakening..."

Leon watched her for a moment, his grip on the swing steady. Seeing her this happy felt like a victory—a stark contrast to the quiet, reserved girl he’d met months ago.

He chuckled at that, shaking his head as he gave her one more push before stepping back and settling into the swing beside her.

For a while, they didn’t say much, just enjoying the moment. But when their words finally broke through the silence, they reminisced.

“Remember the first time we met?” Fuuka asked, her smile soft as she glanced at him.

“Yeah,” Leon said, his gaze fixed on the sky. “You were so quiet back then, keeping to yourself. I didn’t get it at first, but... I guess I do now.”

Fuuka’s heart warmed. His acceptance had always been her strength, the reason she could smile like this now. “And look at us now,” she said lightly, though her voice betrayed a faint tremor. Leon turned to her. “Yeah. From neighbors to this.”

Her smile faltered briefly, a pang of anxiety creeping in. The thought of leaving Windenburg, leaving him, clouded her mind. She hadn’t told him yet. Not about her destiny. Not about the fact that tonight would be their last dance.

Leon had been taking up DJ gigs at Discotheque Pan Europa for several days. With a dance party planned for prom, he used this opportunity to help his friends prepare for the big event. However, his performances didn’t go unnoticed—word began to spread beyond Windenburg about a rising star from Tartosa, once thought to have vanished from the music scene, now making a bold return with a fresh, modern sound.

Life Outside the Occult World

In Del Sol Valley, Octavia Moon met Alisa Kujou, a teenage storyboard director and daughter of her primary investor, Mikhail Kujou. The two women exchanged polite smiles, though the air was laced with anticipation.

"I can't say I'm not intrigued by your message," Octavia said, straightening her posture. "It’s been some time since you last set foot in Del Sol Valley, hasn’t it, Alya?"

Alisa bowed respectfully. "Indeed. It’s a pleasure to meet you again, Mrs. Moon."

The two took seats at the VIP lounge, away from the paparazzo. Octavia sat poised, meeting Alisa’s polite yet pointed gaze.

“My father often asks about the agency’s progress,” Alisa began. “Karina Ceballos is impressive, but one name isn’t enough. He’s looking for results, not promises.”

Octavia’s smile didn’t waver. “Building a lasting brand takes time. Karina is just the start—I’m focused on securing talent with staying power, not fleeting names.”

Alisa tilted her head slightly, her tone measured but firm. “I understand, Mrs. Moon. But my father believes in this agency, and he expects that belief to be rewarded.”

Octavia nodded, the weight of expectation clear. “Tell him to trust me—more stars are on the horizon.”

It turned out well for most of them. The promposals were a mixed bag of victories and setbacks. Leon got his “yes” from Fuuka, and Warren successfully secured his date with Morgan. Meanwhile, Liam faced rejection with a bittersweet smile, a surprise for the school idol. Lastly, Noct, deciding against a formal promposal altogether, simply shrugged it off, claiming he’d just enjoy the night with friends.

Prom - Prelude (2)

Later that night at Discotheque Pan Europa...

"Right, I'm here. What do you want to talk about?" Noct asked, leaning casually against the bar.

Leon hesitated for a moment before speaking. "It's... about Fuuka. I mean, she said yes to the promposal, but before that, I was worried she'd say no. She's been distant lately. I can't shake the feeling that something's bothering her."

Noct raised an eyebrow. "And you think I know?" "You're a spellcaster too, like her. I just thought... maybe you’d know if something’s happening in the magical world."

Noct sighed, pushing his hair back. "Honestly, Leon, I don’t know much. But I do know she’s got ties to L. Faba. If there’s anything going on, it probably starts there." Leon frowned. “L. Faba?” “Yeah,” Noct shrugged. “The Sage of Mischief. If Fuuka’s acting distant, I’m sure it’s not without reason. There has to be something.”

Leon’s gaze dropped, clearly deep in thought. The music pulsed around them, but his mind was elsewhere.

Noticing this, Noct clapped him lightly on the shoulder, pulling him back to the moment. "Hey, don’t overthink it, man. Fuuka said yes, didn’t she? That’s all that matters right now." Leon looked up, the weight on his brow easing slightly. "Yeah... I guess you’re right. Thanks, Noct."

"One last thing, Noct. Why did you decide to not ask anyone out?" "I figured since I'm only here for a year, I don't want to make memories with the one I asked out. I'd felt bad when I left Copperdale."

Noct shrugged, a faint, almost wistful smile on his face. “I guess. I’d rather make memories with everyone, you know? Friends, moments like this—it’s easier that way. No guilt when I go.”

Leon nodded, understanding the weight behind Noct’s reasoning. “Yeah, I get it. Still… seems kind of lonely.”

He wasn’t the only one thinking about the prom. Fuuka had her own thoughts, too. The next morning, Fuuka awoke to a surprising sight as she looked into the mirror.

The most prominent part of her cursed face—the three deep scratch marks across her left eye—was gone. Faded, like whispers of a wound that had healed. The other scars remained, but lighter now, almost insignificant.

I understand it now. A soft smile touched her lips. Acceptance. Leon’s acceptance of me… it’s made me stronger, and the curse weaker.

(A week before the prom...) "Looking good!" Liam approved. "And here I stand with regular Cs of the art class." Warren chuckled as he continued spraying his promposal sign. "Everything for her." "Hey, Noct," Leon said, "you haven't told us who you're planning to ask out." "And neither have you." He scoffed.

Sofia shrugged. "Nah, no expectations this year. I’m just going to enjoy myself at prom." Luna grinned. "My brother's planning to ask Yuki to prom." Sofia let out a small sigh. "Poor guy." "I know, right?" Luna chuckled softly, a bit of sympathy in her tone.

Prom Night - Prelude

The next day at school...

Leon feigned a troubled expression. "Hey, I need help with the arts class homework. I heard you're always acing it." Fuuka smiled, eager to help. "Sure! Not sure how much help I’ll be, but I’ll do my best." "Awesome! Can you meet me in the debate room after school?" Leon asked.

Fuuka nodded, unaware of the surprise waiting for her.

As prom approached, Copperdale High became the epicenter of gossip. The Social Bunny accounts were flooded with polls, rumors, and vlogs speculating about who would ask whom. Whispers spread throughout the school hallways, with everyone eager to know who would pair up for the big night.

Heard about that guy who's the ace of the cooking class, Hugo. He's gonna ask Yuki out. Huh? I'm on the poll? No way! Kiyoshi and Kaori don't need rumors. It's written in the skies. Luna has like 6 people lining up for her. Sofia's a cutie, isn't she? But, I think she'll refuse any offer. Liam's not taking any offers, because he's the one asking out.

Each rumor, crazier than the last.

The silence in the debate room felt perfect—almost like fate had orchestrated it. Fuuka, eager to help, smiled brightly. "So, where's this art homework you need help with, Leon?"

"So, where's this... art homework that you needed helping, Leon?" Fuuka asked, her eager smile to help colored her words.

Leon closed his eyes. Here goes nothing.

"Um, Leon?"

Leon took a deep breath and closed his eyes, steeling himself. He reached down, pulling out a board hidden beneath one of the chairs. It wasn’t homework—it was a promposal sign.

"Fuuka Isuka," he said, his voice steady, "Please go to prom with me as my date."

The words were simple, but they hung in the air with undeniable weight. Fuuka froze, her heart racing as she stared at the sign. Her mind scrambled, emotions flooding in all at once—This can’t be... but it’s really happening! "Well?" Leon asked, a hopeful smile tugging at his lips.

Fuuka’s eyes sparkled as she jumped in excitement. "Yes! A million times, yes!"

It was confirmed. Leon and Fuuka are going to prom as date.

Fuuka couldn’t wipe the smile off her face entirely as she returned to class, her heart still fluttering from the moment. As she walked through the hall, she exchanged a brief but knowing smile with Sofia. It was a silent acknowledgment—a shared understanding that needed no words.

Sofia glanced at her phone, her curiosity piqued. She opened the Social Bunny app, and there it was—Ash Harjo had posted it: Leon had asked Fuuka to prom.

A pang of something sharp hit Sofia’s chest, though she couldn’t place it. Well, congrats...? She thought.

(Later on...)

“Kids... I guess even Leon and Sofia wouldn’t take kindly to being doubted. Can’t say I blame them.” He glanced back, his gaze distant. A small chuckle escaped him, almost bitter. “It’s just like those high school dramas—teens at odds, full of ego and rivalry. Only this time, there’s a supernatural twist to it. Vampires and grudges... what a mix.”

Sokolov - Denisov (3)

"Sofia Bjergsen, the descendant of the ancients." "Anna Sokolov." "I see you boys and girls have started the fight already."

Sofia smirked. "I haven't broken any sweat yet. Leon had already defeated your boy Anton, and now he's about to teach your brother a lesson."

Anna narrowed her eyes, clearly unhappy with that remark. Their eyes were now directed to the looming combat behind them.

Anton grabbed Sergei’s arm firmly, pulling him back. “Sergei, maybe we should just call it a day. Enough’s enough, they're the real deal.”

Sergei shrugged him off, his face a mix of frustration and pride. “You’re not my father, Anton. I know what you’re thinking—how you and I are equals in combat, and how this would end the same way as your loss.”

Anton scoffed, raising his hands in surrender as he stepped back, his expression cool but subtly annoyed. “Fine. Go ahead. But don’t come blaming me for not stopping you when you end up flat on the floor like I did.”

Then, all that epic build up... all for Sergei ending up on the floor in the end.

"Fine. I lost. I admit it." He looked towards Anton and Anna. "Let's call it a day, and—" "No. It's not over yet." Anna looked towards Sofia. The latter smiled, she didn't need any confirmation of what would come next.

Anna’s voice cut through the tension like a blade. “Let’s do this. Or are you just going to stand there, ancient?” She scoffed, turning her back with an air of arrogance. “And are you seriously going to fight me in that... dress? I’d hate to ruin it.”

Sofia said nothing, her expression calm yet unreadable.

Anna glanced over her shoulder, her pale features illuminated by the faint moonlight. “Anyway, don’t hold back. Whatever you may have heard about me, I don’t let my... condition weaken my will.”

Her sharp, crimson eyes that are wrapped in her crystal white eyelashes gleamed with challenge, waiting for Sofia to make her move.

As the mist of Sofia's transformation dissipated, an ancient air filled the room. The Sokolovs and Anton froze, their eyes widening in shock. The delicate, bright white dress Sofia wore moments ago had vanished, replaced by an elaborate, regal battledress—a garb worthy of a true ancient vampire.

“How... did she do that?” Sergei muttered under his breath. “No idea,” Anton whispered, equally stunned.

Leon, arms crossed, smirked with pride. “Told you she’s more than you could handle.”

The battle that followed was far more intense than Leon’s earlier clash with Anton and Sergei. Every strike and counter was fueled by raw emotion—Anna’s bitterness for being overlooked and Sofia’s quiet fury over the insults aimed at her and Leon’s rightful ascension under Straud’s mentorship. Their powers collided like thunder, shaking the very air around them.

In the end, Sofia stood victorious. Anna, kneeling on the ground, was breathing heavily but managed to lift her head in defiance. Anton and Sergei exchanged brief, knowing glances, their expressions grim.

Without speaking a word, it was clear what they both thought: Sofia is stronger than Leon.

As Sofia approached Anna, Sergei's thought was filled with dread. However, the tense aura dissipated within a single motion. Sofia extended her hand. Anna's eyes widen, but she found herself instinctively reaching for it.

"As promised. I didn't hold back." "You didn't."

(Later, after cleaning up the mess... Anna invited the two to her home.)

And so it begins...

Sokolov - Denisov (2)

"Rocking that new outfit, I see. New hair too." Sofia smiled. "Yeah, figured I'd fit in better this way." "So, you're ready?" Leon's expression turned serious. "Born ready."

Leon hesitated for a moment, his hand still raised from where he had intended to knock, but the door creaked open as if on cue. A deep voice, calm yet commanding, echoed from inside. “To the left. Sit down.”

The air was heavy as Leon and Sofia stepped inside, their footsteps quiet against the worn wooden floor.

Seated at the far end of the room were two figures. Anton Denisov sat with an air of calm detachment, while Sergei Sokolov, towering and sharp-eyed, exuded an imposing presence. Leon broke the silence. “I assume you are Anton and Sergei.” Anton gave a polite nod. “In the flesh.” Sergei gestured toward the seats across from them with a curt wave of his hand. “Sit down, comrades.” Sergei's tone was even, but his face betrayed no warmth, only a measured, calculating gaze.

“Looks like you can’t really share your thoughts publicly,” Anton said, shaking his head with a faint, knowing smirk. Sergei leaned back in his chair, his piercing eyes studying them. “I assume Mr. Vatore blurted our criticisms to Grand Master Straud, and now he’s sent you two here to… correct us.”

Leon and Sofia remained silent, their expressions carefully composed. They refused to let any hint of doubt or weakness slip through, though the tension in the room was palpable.

Sergei's lips curved into the faintest semblance of a smile, but it carried no humor. “Well? Let’s see what the protégés of the great Straud have to say—or show.”

Leon finally spoke, his voice firm but calm. “You don’t want to do this.”

Anton raised an eyebrow, but it was Sergei who answered, his tone cold and sharp. “Oh, but we do. We’ve supported Grand Master Straud for years, even looked up to him to some extent.”

Anton leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. “Then you two showed up out of nowhere… and stole the spotlight.”

Leon tensed, but Sofia held up a hand, steadying him. “This isn’t about us taking anything. It’s about proving that we belong, just as much as you.”

Sergei scoffed, standing up. “If that’s the case, prove it.”

Leon glanced at Sofia, who gave a subtle nod. “Fine. Let’s settle this, but remember—we’re not here to destroy each other. There’s no place for enemies among us,” Leon said, his voice steady.

Sergei smirked, but his eyes gleamed with challenge. “We’ll see if you still believe that once we’re done.”

(Moments later...)

Anton straightened his stance with a smug grin. “So, Sofia Bjergsen, huh?” he said with a mocking tone. “Guess names really can bring you places. An Ancient skipping all the steps to claim the highest rank. How convenient.”

Sofia’s jaw tightened, but before she could respond, Leon stepped forward, his presence sharp and commanding. He pushed Anton back with enough force to make his point. “You don’t talk to a descendant of an Ancient like that.”

Townies: Sokolov - Denisov (1)

"I suppose it's time for you to refine your fighting abilities," Straud said, his tone firm. Sofia smirked faintly. "Hmm... so my outings as Lydia Rasmussen weren’t enough?"

Leon scoffed at the name. He couldn’t hide his disdain for the chaos it left behind. Moonwood Mill was alive with rumors of the rogue “werewolf” who attacked several of its own. Though when the big names, like Rory and Kristopher, sought out this elusive figure, “Lydia” had vanished without a trace.

Leon crossed his arms, his tone sharp. "Those weren’t just ‘outings,’ Sofia. You crossed a line with people I was trying to build trust with." "Enough. Sofia's merely fulfilling her nature, Leon." Straud's tone was firm. "You are lucky enough to be gifted with the resistance to your nature." Leon looked down. "You're right, sorry, Sofia."

"Back on track. I want you to test your strength against one of the strongest families. The descended from an authentic ancient vampire family."

"Sergei Sokolov," he began. "A vampire with ambitions to rise among the High Vampires, a man driven by power and legacy."

He paused, shifting his gaze. "Then there’s Anton Denisov, a servant to the Sokolov lineage. While he served them dutifully, away from prying eyes, the Sokolov children treated him as more than a servant—he was their confidant, even a friend."

Straud's tone softened slightly. "And Anna Sokolov, Sergei's younger sister. She suffers from a rare condition that amplifies a vampire’s vulnerability to sunlight. Born an albino, her life has been… difficult. Poor girl, burdened by weakness from the moment of her birth."

That's what she'll become if she's left unchecked. A necromancer. A being we've thought to have extinct long ago.

Necromancy, a forbidden magic, was a subject long hidden by the ancient spellcasters. It was a power so corrupt and dangerous that even the most seasoned spellcasters feared it. However, its existence couldn’t be erased completely. The ancient spellcasters had sealed away knowledge of it, but the ancient writings warned that, despite their efforts, the power would one day resurface.

Payment to Destiny: Fuuka (2)

Fuuka recoiled after seeing the glimpse of the future. Even if it was just a reflection, Fuuka could feel the terror as clear as daylight.

"W-what was that?! Wasn't that 'her' in the reflection?!" Instead of answering, Faba instead said, "Fuuka. I want you to become more than my successor."

Faba recalled the moments where she came across this knowledge about necromancy. If not for a slipped piece of information in one of the tomes she studied, she wouldn't come across this looming threat.

"The day will come. The day where storms occur among the other occult worlds. Infectious like disease, the storm will eventually hit the magical world, putting the cogs of destiny in motion."

As storms raged outside their world, Faba felt the weight of impending chaos. Vampires and Werewolves alike were facing upheaval, and the magical community trembled. Faba, ever composed, resorted to watching her students closely, searching for the source of the disturbance.

Faba had to resort to stalking in order to identify any disturbances in magic balance inside her fellow spellcasters' hearts. She had to run checks on hundreds of them. In the end, it wasn't Noct, Darrell, Gemma, nor Emilia. When she finally discovered the truth, it struck her like a cold slap—Laila Pahlavi. The cheerful, friendly teenager with countless connections. The bitter realization was hard to swallow, but it was clear: Laila was the one Faba had feared all along. Even worse, Laila appeared to be unaware of her true nature.