Zero Kiryu is a fictional character from the popular manga and anime series Vampire Knight, created by Matsuri Hino. He is a student at Cross Academy, a school that separates humans and vampires. Zero is known for his brooding personality and complex background, as he comes from a family of vampire hunters. Zero possesses the ability to transform into a vampire due to being bitten by Kaname Kuran, a pureblood vampire. This transformation causes him inner turmoil, as he struggles with his identity and the desire to protect his friends, particularly Yuki Cross, whom he has deep feelings for.