Dominique offers Jeanne advice. Jeanne surprises Vanitas with an invitation, and Dominique shadows them. Noé encounters Lord Ruthven, but after their previous meeting, he doesn't know what to expect. Jeanne keeps her promise, and Vanitas makes one to her.

Jeanne says something that strikes fear into Vanitas. Lord Ruthven makes Noé swear an oath. Olivier is at his wits' end over Roland's obsession. Noé has a consuming thirst. Vanitas hears a certain monster has returned and sets out with Noé to investigate.

Noé learns Naenia took Chloé's true name. Chloé's past and the d'Apchiers' history come to light, including her friendship with Jeanne, the Alteration Engine, and Ruthven's friendship with Chloé, which he shattered by trying to take the engine research.

Noé begs Count Orlok to save Vanitas from a strange ailment. Vanitas bumps into Roland and asks him about love "for a friend." Jeanne confides in Luca to his dismay. Dominque seems strangely obsessed with Noé. Noé tells Vanitas he is glad they met.

As Noé sucks Mikhail's blood, he gets a glimpse of the latter's past with Vanitas. Details emerge about Vanitas's parents, his history with the Vampire of the Blue Moon, and the experiments he endured. Mikhail is delighted when Vanitas comes to save Noé.

Mikhail pleads with Vanitas to join him. Dominque comes to terms with her inner self. Mikhail unleashes terror on his foes, but the book exacts a toll. An unexpected figure appears amid the ruins. Vanitas mends fences with Noé and parts ways with Mikhail.