Vanitas and Noé are in a bind until an invitation arrives. At their benefactor's, they find they must prove the "Book of Vanitas" can restore a vampire's true name. They try to secure the necessary proof, only to encounter someone else after the book.

Vanitas comes to the rescue and helps Noé and company battle Charlatan's curse-bearers. Noé questions Vanitas's methods. Some unexpected help arrives when they face another threat. Noé confronts Vanitas, but will it bring them together or tear them apart?

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.

Vanitas identifies Chloé's malnomen. Astolfo's hatred spirals out of control. Chloé must choose between annihilation and a dismal life. Vanitas remembers he doesn't have to be alone, but is it too late? Will our heroes save Gévaudan and themselves?

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.

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.