Morning sunlight filtered through the high gothic windows of Blackthorn Academy, casting long shadows across the stone corridors. Rudransh stood in front of the mirror in his dorm room, staring at his reflection. His eyes looked the same—almost. But deeper within, he saw the difference. There was a stillness, a sharpness. A predator's patience.
He raised his hand, flexing his fingers. The energy inside him was raw, chaotic. Ever since the activation of the Vampire System, his body hadn't felt like his own. It felt stronger. Hungrier.
[System Message: Transformation Stabilizing - 48 Hours Remaining]
The screen faded after a few seconds, but the meaning was clear. If he didn't figure this out soon, he might lose control—or worse.
Blackthorn Academy Cafeteria - Later That Morning
Whispers filled the air as Rudransh entered. He didn't need super hearing to know who they were talking about. Marcus had been found unconscious with strange marks on his neck, barely alive. Some said it was a wild vampire. Others claimed it was a punishment ritual gone wrong.
Rudransh walked past the tables, grabbing a tray without a word. He could feel their eyes on him. For once, not mocking—uncertain.
He sat in the far corner, as usual. But this time, someone followed him.
A girl. Tall, raven-haired, with piercing silver eyes. She sat down across from him without asking.
"You smell different," she said.
Rudransh blinked. "Excuse me?"
"Your blood. It's changed. You're not fully human anymore."
He went cold. "Who are you?"
"My name is Selene. I'm part of the Council's Watch Division."
"Council? Watch Division?"
"We monitor... supernatural abnormalities," she said. "And you're glowing like a bonfire on our radar."
He set down his fork. "I didn't ask for this."
Selene leaned forward, whispering, "Doesn't matter. It's in you now. The Vampire System doesn't choose lightly."
Before he could respond, the system activated again:
[Quest Alert: First Blood - Use Blood Drain on a willing or unconscious target within 12 hours. Reward: +1 Level | +Skill Unlocked]
[Warning: Failure to comply will result in feral transformation.]
His breath caught. A timer began counting down in the corner of his vision.
11:59:57...
Selene saw the look in his eyes. "It's begun, hasn't it?"
He nodded.
"Then you have a choice," she said, standing. "Hunt smart—or lose yourself."
Chapter 3: Predator's Trial
Rudransh didn't go back to class. He wandered the academy grounds instead, heart pounding in his ears. Each step felt heavier. Each breath more shallow.
The hunger gnawed at him. He could smell blood—subtle, sweet, like a scent trail etched into the air. Every student he passed was a potential target. And he hated himself for thinking it.
He slipped into the forest at the edge of the academy, where training grounds merged into wild territory. Few students came here without permission. It was a forbidden zone, home to summoned beasts and old wards—perfect for someone trying to stay unnoticed.
[System Tip: Controlled Feed on magical beasts permitted. Reduced EXP gain.]
That was something. At least he wouldn't have to hurt a classmate.
He crouched low, senses wide open, eyes scanning the underbrush. Then—movement.
A shadow bolted through the trees. Rudransh gave chase.
He found it—a horned lizard-beast with eyes like glowing embers. It hissed and charged, claws slicing the air.
Instinct kicked in. Rudransh dodged left, planting his feet as the system flared.
[Skill Active: Blood Drain - Initiate Contact]
He struck the beast's flank and grabbed hold. The second his palm connected, red tendrils pulsed out, threading into the creature's body. A surge of warmth flooded him—its life essence flowing through his hand and into his core.
[Blood Drain Successful: +1 Level | New Skill Acquired: "Night Sense"]
[System Sync: 24%]
The lizard shrieked, then collapsed. Rudransh stumbled backward, breathing heavily, heart hammering.
But the hunger eased.
He stood up, stronger. More aware. Night Sense activated, giving him a surreal clarity—the ability to see blood flow, energy pulses, and movement in the darkness.
He smiled bitterly. "So this is what it means to be a predator."
From behind a tree, a slow clap echoed.
Selene stepped out. "Not bad. Most don't survive their first Drain."
He wiped his mouth, ashamed. "It still feels wrong."
"Then you're not gone yet."
She tossed him a vial. "Blood stabilizer. Use it when the hunger spikes again. It won't stop it forever... but it helps."
He nodded. "What now?"
"We train," she said. "Because the Council will come for you soon. And if you're not ready... they won't ask questions."
To be continued...