Chapter 56: Chapter 56
The room fell into an expectant silence as Sirzechs's presence seemed to fill every corner. Grayfia stepped forward with practiced efficiency, materializing an elegant tea set from thin air with a simple gesture.
"Please, everyone else, give us some privacy," Sirzechs said politely, though his tone carried the weight of absolute authority. "I have some important matters to discuss with Akira."
Rias nodded, understanding immediately. "Of course, brother. Come on, everyone."
As the others filed out—Valerie giving me a concerned glance before following—I noticed Gasper practically teleporting back into his box at the sight of such powerful devils. The poor kid's anxiety is through the roof.
Soon it was just Sirzechs, Grayfia, and myself in the clubroom. The silver-haired maid worked with silent precision, preparing the tea with movements so graceful they seemed choreographed. The delicate clink of porcelain was the only sound breaking the tension.
"You're full of surprises, aren't you, Akira?" Sirzechs began, settling into his chair with the casual confidence of someone accustomed to command. "First, you provide us with holy water that treats the Sleep Disease—something our best researchers couldn't accomplish. And now, you single-handedly defeat Kokabiel, a ten-winged fallen angel, despite being human and having no support from any faction."
He's fishing for information about my capabilities. Not surprising, considering what I just pulled off.
"It's quite admirable," he continued, accepting the steaming cup Grayfia offered with a nod of thanks.
Grayfia moved to stand behind his chair, her posture perfect and alert. Everything about her screamed lethal competence barely contained within the facade of domestic service.
"Is there something particularly concerning that brought the Lucifer himself to the human world?" I asked, accepting my own cup.
Sirzechs took a measured sip before responding, his green eyes studying me over the rim. "Nothing to be worried about, but certainly something important enough to require my personal presence."
I waited, knowing he would elaborate when ready. Political figures like him rarely spoke without purpose.
"A summit is being proposed," he said finally. "Devils, angels, and fallen angels—all three factions meeting here at this academy. Azazel, the Governor-General of the fallen angels, suggested it."
Now that's interesting. The peace talks are happening earlier than expected. My actions against Kokabiel must have accelerated the timeline.
"Is this related to the Kokabiel incident?" I asked.
"It is, but nothing of immediate concern," Sirzechs assured me. "Actually, I wanted to thank you personally. You didn't just save this town—you saved the lives of my precious sister and her peerage."
"That's what friends are for," I replied simply.
His smile was genuinely warm at that response. "Which brings me to my request. I'd like you to join the summit alongside Rias and her peerage. After all, you were the one who dealt with Kokabiel directly."
I set down my teacup carefully, considering my words. "I appreciate the invitation, but I'll have to politely decline. I have some important business to take care of that can't wait."
Sirzechs's expression sharpened slightly. "Would this business involve the Khaos Brigade?"
I couldn't hide my surprise completely. "How do you know about that?"
"My grandmother mentioned that you'd asked her about them," he said calmly. "Something about a vampire incident as well."
Right. Lady Lucifer and her network of information. I should have expected this.
"Do you know anything about the Khaos Brigade?" I asked.
Sirzechs shook his head. "This is actually the first time I've heard the name, aside from what grandmother told me. We're looking into it now, of course."
"I'll be making my move first," I said firmly. "Before they can cause more trouble. The Carmilla faction has agreed to help me deal with them."
Sirzechs leaned forward slightly, his interest clearly piqued. "In that case, allow me to offer assistance. Grayfia could accompany you."
He turned to his Queen. "You wouldn't have any objections to this assignment, would you?"
"It is my duty to obey my Lord's commands," Grayfia replied without hesitation, her voice as composed as ever.
Having Grayfia with me would virtually guarantee success. She's easily one of the strongest devils alive, and her experience in combat situations is unparalleled. But... that would also eliminate any challenge, any opportunity for growth. And more importantly, it would rob me of the chance to earn system rewards through genuine struggle.
"I truly appreciate the offer," I said carefully, "but I believe I can handle this on my own. It wouldn't be right to constantly rely on others' strength when I need to prove myself capable."
Sirzechs studied me for a long moment, and I could see him weighing my words against what he knew of my character.
"Very well," he said finally. "But know that the offer stands if you change your mind. The devil faction doesn't forget its friends."
"I'll keep that in mind," I assured him.
After a few more minutes of polite conversation about the upcoming summit and general pleasantries, Sirzechs and Grayfia prepared to leave.
"Take care of yourself, Akira," Sirzechs said as the magic circle began to form beneath them. "And take care of my sister as well."
"Always."
The crimson light faded, leaving me alone in the clubroom with the lingering scent of expensive tea and the weight of impending conflict.
Back at my house, the living room felt almost cozy compared to the political tension of the academy. My peerage had gathered around as I explained the situation—the summit, the Khaos Brigade, and my plans for Romania.
"Wait, you refused to take Grayfia with you?" Valerie asked in disbelief. "You yourself said the Khaos Brigade was a serious threat to your life, and you turned down help from one of the strongest devils in existence?"
Xenovia looked equally puzzled. "I've never heard of this Khaos Brigade, but if they're dangerous enough to concern someone of your power..."
"That's exactly why we should accept help from someone like Grayfia," Valerie pressed. "Fighting against enemies we know nothing about seems unnecessarily reckless."
I leaned back in my chair, running a hand through my hair. "How long are we going to keep asking for help from others? Whether the Khaos Brigade is stronger than us or not, it won't be good for us to run to devils or fallen angels every time we face trouble."
Asia shifted uncomfortably, clearly torn between wanting me safe and understanding my point.
"Besides," I continued, "the more favors others owe us, the bigger favors we can ask for in the future. Building relationships is about balance."
I leaned forward, meeting each of their gazes. "As for the Khaos Brigade itself, I don't think they'll be as dangerous as I initially thought. I have a solution to deal with them, though it might come with some repercussions."
With the Sage's Eye, my combat capabilities have increased exponentially. The Hero Faction might be formidable, but I'm not the same person who struggled against individual enemies anymore. Still, if I do end up eliminating them entirely like I did Kokabiel, there's a real chance Ophis herself might take notice. The question is whether she'd try to recruit me or eliminate me as a threat to her organization.
I have to believe she cares more about defeating Great Red than avenging her subordinates. But either way, I can't just wait for them to come after me. Better to strike first while I still have the element of surprise.
"Repercussions?" Valerie asked, her violet eyes showing concern.
"Probably just a small chance," I deflected. "Most likely it won't come to anything. But tell me, do you know anything about Carmilla faction territory?"
She shook her head. "I never left Tepes faction lands. My knowledge of other vampire territories is quite limited."
Great. I have allies I can't locate. This is exactly the kind of logistical nightmare I was hoping to avoid.
I pulled out my phone, scrolling through my contacts until I found the number I needed. Azazel might be a chaos-loving fallen angel, but he had resources and information networks that spanned the supernatural world.
The phone rang twice before his familiar voice answered.
"Look, it wasn't me who ordered Kokabiel to attack, so if that's all you're calling about, I'll talk to you later—"
"That's not why I'm calling," I interrupted quickly. "I need to know the whereabouts of the Carmilla faction."
Silence stretched on the other end for several seconds.
"Why do you want to know that?" His tone had shifted from casual dismissal to genuine interest.
"Long story short, I've got trouble with the Khaos Brigade and need to reach them as soon as possible."
Another pause, longer this time. I could practically hear him thinking.
"Meet me at the Black Dog Bar at 8 PM," he said finally. "I'm sending you the location now."
The line went dead, and moments later my phone buzzed with a text containing an address.
"Did it work?" Asia asked hopefully.
"We have a meeting," I said, showing them the message. "Azazel's agreed to help, but knowing him, it won't be simple."
"At least we're making progress," Xenovia added pragmatically. "A known contact is better than wandering Romania blindly."
I looked at the address again, memorizing the details. The Black Dog Bar—probably some supernatural establishment that catered to the kind of clientele who needed to discuss vampire politics and terrorist organizations over drinks.
Typical Azazel.
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Chapter 57: Chapter 57
"It's lively here"
The address led me to what looked like an unassuming building tucked between a bookstore and a small café. The only indication it was anything special was the subtle black dog silhouette etched into the glass door. As I pushed it open, a small bell chimed overhead.
What I saw inside made me stop dead in my tracks.
Azazel—the Governor-General of the fallen angels, one of the most powerful beings in existence—stood behind the bar counter wearing a crisp white shirt with rolled-up sleeves, black vest, and a bow tie. He was expertly mixing what looked like a complicated cocktail, tossing the shaker with practiced flair before straining the contents into a martini glass.
I blinked several times, certain I was hallucinating.
"Welcome to the Black Dog Bar," Azazel said with his trademark grin, not even looking up from garnishing the drink with a twist of lemon. "Come on in, don't just stand there gawking."
I approached the bar slowly, still trying to process the surreal scene. The establishment was completely empty—not a single customer in sight—yet Azazel was working as if he had a full house. This man is beyond my understanding.
I stepped ahead, still staring at his ridiculous outfit "Why are you mixing drinks when this place is completely empty?"
Azazel chuckled, tossing the shaker once more before setting it down with a flourish. "The regular staff are off duty, so someone has to keep this place running. Plus, I've been experimenting with cocktail recipes—turns out mixing drinks is a lot like Sacred Gear research. Precise measurements with proper timing or else you get explosive results when you mess up." He grinned and gestured to a stool. "Take a seat. What'll it be?"
Of all the ways I imagined this meeting going, this wasn't even in the top hundred.* I settled onto one of the bar stools, still trying to wrap my head around seeing one of the most feared fallen angels in existence moonlighting as a bartender.
"Orange juice," I said finally.
"Orange juice?" Azazel raised an eyebrow. "In a bar?"
"I don't drink alcohol."
"Fair enough." He moved with surprising efficiency, retrieving a glass and filling it with fresh orange juice from what appeared to be a high-end juicer behind the counter. He slid the glass across to me with the kind of smooth motion that spoke of genuine bartending experience.
How many hidden talents does this guy have? And more importantly, how did he get so good at this?*
"So," Azazel said, leaning forward on his elbows, "what's the deal with this group you call Khaos Brigade? How did you manage to get yourself into trouble with them? And the Carmilla faction too, for that matter." His eyes gleam with curiosity. "Just what did you do to get yourself into so much trouble in such a short time?"
I took a sip of the orange juice—which was surprisingly good—and considered how much to reveal. "Let's just say I did something that messed up their plans" I said, keeping my tone measured. "And now their new plans would put people I care about in danger if I don't stop them."
"That's admirably vague," Azazel commented with amusement.
"So about the location of the Carmilla faction," I redirected. "Do you know where they are?"
"About that..." Azazel turned and pressed a button on the wall behind him. A buzzer sounded somewhere in the back of the establishment.
A moment later, footsteps approached from a door I hadn't noticed before. A young woman emerged, and I found myself raising an eyebrow in surprise. Her energy signature was definitely human—a strong one, but human nonetheless.
She was a beautiful, buxom young woman with long flowing blonde hair and sapphire blue eyes. She wore standard magician robes with a hood and cloak, giving her the appearance of a classical witch. Despite her elegant mystical appearance, there was something distinctly warm and sisterly about her presence.
"Hello there," she said with a warm smile, her voice carrying a melodic quality. "I'm Lavinia Reni. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Lavinia is a member of Team Slash Dog," Azazel explained, "and she works in this bar too."
"I'm Akira. It's nice to meet you" I responded to the gesture, then glanced at Azazel "So the workers off duty are on supernatural operatives? Team Slash Dog, right?" I asked, pieces clicking into place.
Azazel nodded. "The rest of the team members and leader are on a mission while Lavinia is helping me understand that Holy Water of Life potion you gave me."
Lavinia's eyes widened in surprise. "Wait, is it true? You're the one who created that miraculous potion?"
"Not only that," Azazel added with obvious amusement, "but he's also the one who defeated Vali a few days back."
The change in Lavinia's expression was immediate and dramatic. Her eyes sharpened as she covered her eyes with pulling her hat down slightly. "You're the one who defeated Va-kun?" she asked in a serious tone that made the air around us feel heavier.
Va-kun? She has a nickname for Vali? Just what kind of relationship do these people have?*
"Yeah, that was me," I replied, still not sure where this conversation was heading.
To my complete surprise, Lavinia's serious expression melted away, and she reached over to me gently patting me on the shoulder and just smiled fondly. This girl looks like Asia's long lost big sister.
"You did a good job," she said with genuine warmth. "Va-kun always gets himself into trouble, looking for strong opponents. Maybe now he'll be more careful about picking fights." Her tone was exactly like a caring older sister talking about a troublesome younger brother.
This is... not the reaction I was expecting. She's talking about Vali's defeat like a concerned older sister talking about a troublesome little brother who finally learned his lesson.*
"So, about the Carmilla faction—do you know where I can find them or not?"
Azazel motioned to Lavinia, who nodded and summoned a magic circle on the table between us. From it emerged a large, detailed map that unfolded across the entire surface.
I leaned forward to examine it, my eyes widening as I took in the incredible level of detail. Territory boundaries, stronghold locations, patrol routes, safe houses—everything was meticulously marked and color-coded.
"This is way more detailed than I expected," I said, genuinely impressed as I studied the intricate markings. "How the hell did you get something like this?"
"I have maps of almost every faction out there," Azazel replied casually, but something in his tone suggested that was all the explanation I'd be getting.
Of course he does. The question is how and why, but I get the feeling pressing for details wouldn't be necessary as long I got what I want.*
Azazel's expression grew more serious as he looked at me directly. "If you intend to get involved in the wars between vampire factions, you'd better leave your girls behind. This bar would be perfect for them to be safe, don't you agree?"
That caught me off guard. "Why?" The suggestion seemed completely out of nowhere "Why would you say that? That doesn't sound like you at all."
"You're most likely going to engage in war between Vampires, and battle with this Khaos Brigade too," he explained. "You might risk their lives."
I studied his face carefully. "Is that really the only reason, or are you after something else here?"
Azazel looked at me for a long moment, then sighed with a knowing smile. "You got me." He paused dramatically. "I'd like to request another bottle of Holy Water of Life."
There it is. The real reason he's being so helpful.* I had to admire his approach—offer protection for my peerage in exchange for another sample of my work. It was clever, practical, and mutually beneficial. Not something to be mad about.
"I can give you another bottle," I said, "but I want something in return. Have Lavinia teach Asia magic while I'm dealing with this mess. As for Valerie, she would be fine to come along with me"
Azazel nodded immediately. "That's acceptable."
Lavinia gave me a warm smile and nodded as well. "I'd be happy to help."
I reached into my jacket and withdrew one of the bottles I'd prepared, setting it on the bar. Azazel picked it up immediately, holding it up to the light with obvious fascination and curiosity.
"Do you have any other potions?" Lavinia asked, leaning forward with interest.
I shook my head. "Not right now, but maybe in the future." I turned to look at her directly. "I'm trusting you to take good care of Asia. She's not well-suited to combat and dangerous situations, so please keep an eye on her every move."
Lavinia chuckled softly, a warm sound that somehow made the supernatural atmosphere of the bar feel more welcoming. "Don't worry about it, Akira" she said with the gentle confidence of someone who genuinely cared about others. "I'll do my best to teach her and make sure she stays safe. You can count on me."
She has this oddly comforting presence. Like a caring older sister who also happens to be capable of incredible violence if necessary.*
I leaned back in my chair, my mind already shifting to the next challenge. How should I approach Queen Carmilla when I reach her territory? A direct approach might be seen as aggressive, but being too subtle could waste valuable time. The political dynamics between vampire factions were notoriously complex, and one wrong move could turn potential allies into enemies. But none of them were as alarming as the other group after me.
The Khaos Brigade was still out there, still planning whatever chaos they had in mind. Every moment I delayed gave them more time to prepare, more time to potentially hurt innocent people. But rushing in without proper preparation would be equally foolish. First, I got to put Carmilla Faction under my palm, they would be useful in dealing with the Tepes faction while I deal with Cao Cao and whoever is tagging along with him.
I need to strike a balance between urgency and chaos. Show strength without appearing threatening, demonstrate the level of destruction without revealing all my capabilities. I am gonna put that blonde queen to her place once I step into her territory*
Standing up from the bar stool, I nodded to both Azazel and Lavinia. "I'll be back here tomorrow"
"Sure thing, boy" Azazel responded while Lavinia gave me with another warm smile.
As I headed toward the door, I could feel their eyes on me. This alliance with fallen angels was becoming more complex by the day, but if it meant protecting the people I cared about and stopping the Khaos Brigade, it would be worth the complications.
The next morning found me in the woods behind my house, testing the gravity manipulation abilities of my Sage's Eye while Valerie and Xenovia sparred nearby. I focused on a fallen log, watching as it slowly got crushed under the influence of my gravitational control. The power was well in control as I could make objects heavier or lighter, even levitate them briefly, but perfect control remained elusive.
The gravity aspect is definitely the most suited for me as part of the Sage's Eye. Unlike the other natural forces that feel devastating, this one felt less lethal and unsettling for the view. Strong force, EM force, Weak force, the possibilities of chaos were endless*
The sound of metal clashing against each other filled the air as Xenovia's Durandal met Chastiefol's spear. I let the log settle gently back to the ground, wiping sweat from my forehead.
"Is...Everything alright?" Asia's gentle voice broke through my concentration. She'd approached so quietly I hadn't noticed her presence until she spoke.
I deactivated the Sage's Eye and turned to face her. Her green eyes held that characteristic concern she always showed when she thought someone might be troubled.
"Yeah, just working on controlling my abilities," I said, offering her a reassuring smile. "Actually, I should mention—I'll be leaving you in Lavinia's care. She's someone I'll introduce you to today."
"Lavinia?" Asia tilted her head curiously.
Before I could explain further, Valerie and Xenovia joined us, both slightly out of breath from their training session. Xenovia's cheeks were flushed from exertion, and there was something different in her expression—more intense than usual.
"Who's Lavinia?" Valerie asked, dismissing Chastiefol back to its dormant state.
"A member of Team Slash Dog who's agreed to teach Asia magic while we're dealing with the vampire situation," I explained "Don't worry, they serve under Azazel so don't think too much about it"
Xenovia wiped sweat from her forehead with a towel, her eyes fixed on me with an odd intensity. "You must be something dangerous if you're arranging for Asia to stay behind."
"Indeed. The fight with Khaos Brigade isn't going to be a simple one," I admitted. "And vampire politics can get messy quickly. I'd rather let Asia be safe and learn valuable skills than to be put in the middle of a war zone."
Asia's expression showed a mix of disappointment and understanding. "I want to help, but I know I'm not strong enough for battles like that yet."
"That's exactly why this training is important," I said, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Lavinia can teach you things that will only help you get stronger. Right now, you have to understand that I don't want to risk your life for something so dangerous out there"
Valerie nodded approvingly. "It's a smart plan. Asia will be safer, and we won't have to divide our attention during combat."
Xenovia had been unusually quiet during this exchange, and when I looked at her, I noticed she was staring at me with that same intense expression. There was something almost... calculating about it.
"Plus," she said finally, "it means the rest of us can focus entirely on supporting you in battle." She paused, then added more quietly, "You've been getting stronger so quickly, Akira. Defeating Kokabiel, developing new abilities... it's impressive."
That's an odd way to put it. Why does she sound like she's evaluating me?*
"We all need to get stronger," I replied. "The enemies we're facing aren't going to stay the same level forever."
"True," Xenovia agreed, but her gaze didn't waver. "But some people have better... potential than others. Better genetics for producing strong offspring."
Valerie and Asia both froze.
"Xenovia..." Valerie said slowly, "what exactly are you thinking about?"
Xenovia straightened her posture, looking like she was preparing to deliver a formal declaration. "I've been considering the future. After we resolve these immediate threats, we should think about the long term. About continuing bloodlines with strong supernatural abilities."
Oh no. I can see where this is going, and I don't like it.*
"Continuing bloodlines?" Asia squeaked.
"And how do you plan to do so?" I asked, knowing very well, the answer for it.
"Children," Xenovia said matter-of-factly. "Specifically, I think Akira should give me a baby."
The words hit the minds of everyone here like a thunderclap. Valerie choked on her own breath, Asia turned bright red and made a sound like a squeaking mouse, and I felt my brain temporarily shut down.
"I... what?" I managed to stammer out.
"A baby," Xenovia repeated matter-of-factly, as if she'd asked me to add more water to her glass "I've been thinking about it extensively, and I've concluded that having a child with you would be the optimal choice."
If only girls would be so direct with their feelings, we wouldn't be having so many heartbreaks out there"
"Xenovia," Valerie said weakly, her face pale, "you can't just... you can't just ask something like that out of nowhere!"
"Why not?" Xenovia looked genuinely puzzled. "It's a logical request. Akira has proven himself to be strong, intelligent, and capable of protecting those he cares about. These are excellent genetic traits to pass on to offspring."
Asia had her hands pressed to her cheeks, looking like she might faint. "X-Xenovia-san! That's so... so forward!"
She's treating this like a breeding program. Only Xenovia could make the concept of having children sound like buying a new appliance for home.
"I appreciate your... confidence in my genetics," I said slowly, trying to find stable ground in this conversational minefield, "but don't you think we should maybe focus on the current crisis first? And perhaps discuss these kinds of things after we've, you know, actually been in a relationship for more than a few weeks?"
Xenovia considered this seriously. "That's a fair point about timing. Very well, I'll table the request until after we resolve the Khaos Brigade situation." She paused thoughtfully. "But I want you to remember this, as my official intention."
She's making it sound like a contract negotiation. 'Please note for future reference: Xenovia Quarta has formally expressed interest in reproductive partnership.'*
Valerie had recovered enough to shoot me a look that clearly said 'your life is insane and I don't know how you deal with this anymore'
"Can we please talk about something else?" Asia pleaded, still covering her red face with her hands.
"Actually," I said, grateful for any opportunity to change the subject, "we should probably head to the Black Dog Bar soon. I want to introduce you all to Lavinia and make sure Asia is comfortable with the training arrangement."
Xenovia nodded approvingly. "Excellent. And we can continue our previous discussion at a more appropriate time."
She's not going to let this go, is she? This is my life now. Vampire wars, fallen angel politics, terrorist organizations, and a former holy sword wielder who wants to have my children.*
As we headed back toward the house to prepare for our trip to the bar, I couldn't help but reflect on how dramatically my life had changed. A few months ago, my biggest worry was passing exams. Now I was juggling supernatural politics while trying to navigate the increasingly complex relationships within my own peerage.
At least life isn't boring, so I couldn't complain, can I?"
The morning sun climbed higher as we prepared for another day of supernatural complications, and I found myself both dreading and anticipating whatever new chaos awaited us at Romania.
. .
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Chapter 58: Chapter 58
The magic circle beneath our feet glowed with soft blue light as Lavinia completed the teleportation ritual. Within moments, the familiar surroundings of the Black Dog Bar dissolved, replaced by a dense forest of towering pine trees under an overcast, perpetually twilight sky.
Even in what should have been midday, the territory was shrouded in an unnatural darkness, clearly designed to accommodate its vampire inhabitants' sensitivity to sunlight.
"Here we are," Lavinia announced cheerfully, brushing off her robes. "Just a few meters away from Carmilla territory." She reached into her cloak and withdrew a carefully folded map, extending it toward me. "Make sure to take a good look at this before deciding where to invade their territory. The layout is more complex than it might seem from the outside."
I accepted the map, feeling its weight in my hands. The parchment was old but well-maintained, covered in intricate markings that showed defensive positions, patrol routes, and weak points in the territory's perimeter.
"Thank you, Lavinia," I said, tucking the map into my jacket without unfolding it.
She tilted her head curiously at my action but didn't comment. Instead, she stepped back and prepared another magic circle. "Well then, good luck to all of you. Try not to start a full-scale war, okay?" Her tone was light, but there was genuine concern in her sapphire eyes.
"We'll do our best," Valerie replied with a slight smile.
As Lavinia's form began to fade within the teleportation circle, she gave us one final wave before disappearing completely, leaving the three of us alone in the Romanian forest.
The silence stretched for a moment before Valerie turned to me with a questioning look. "So, what's the plan?" She glanced pointedly at my jacket where I'd stored the map. "Aren't you going to check that?"
Before I could respond, Xenovia stepped forward with her characteristic directness. "I suggest we attack from the front gate. That's where their strongest individuals will be positioned, and it makes tactical sense to deal with the most dangerous opponents first."
Valerie's eyes widened in alarm. "Xenovia, this isn't just a few vampires we're talking about! Carmilla territory has a population equivalent to everyone living in Kuoh Town. We can't just charge in through the front entrance like we're raiding a small outpost."
"We're attacking from the front," I said firmly, beginning to walk in the direction where I could sense the strongest concentration of vampire energy.
Xenovia nodded approvingly and fell into step beside me. "A direct approach. I like it."
"Wait, hold on!" Valerie called after us, her voice filled with concern. "This is incredibly reckless! The Carmilla faction is known for being one of the stronger vampire houses. They have trained soldiers, magical defenses, and—"
She stopped mid-sentence, and I could practically hear the gears turning in her head as she remembered exactly who she was talking to. The same person who had single-handedly decimated a significant portion of the Tepes faction in one night. The same person who had defeated Vali Lucifer and Kokabiel.
"...You know what, never mind," she muttered, quickening her pace to catch up with us. "I suppose if anyone can pull off a frontal assault on a vampire stronghold, it would be you."
As we emerged from the treeline, the imposing gates of Carmilla territory came into view. Massive stone walls stretched in both directions, topped with what looked like a combination of traditional battlements and more modern magical barriers. The gates themselves were ornate affairs of dark metal decorated with intricate patterns that seemed to shift and move in my peripheral vision.
More importantly, eight female vampire guards stood at attention before the entrance. Each wore polished black armor that gleamed despite the overcast sky, and each carried a sword that radiated a faint supernatural aura. Their postures were alert and professional—these weren't ordinary sentries.
As we approached, the guards immediately took notice of our presence. Their hands moved to their weapon hilts in perfect synchronization, and I could see their fangs extending slightly as their eyes began to glow with an ominous red light, clearly preparing for potential combat.
"Halt!" the lead guard called out, her voice carrying the authority of someone accustomed to being obeyed. "State your business in Carmilla territory!"
I stepped forward, keeping my hands visible but ready to move if necessary. "I'm here to meet with Queen Carmilla. Tell her that—"
My words were cut off as all eight guards suddenly launched themselves at us with supernatural speed, their swords gleaming as they drew them in fluid motions. So much for diplomatic introductions.
"Hostile approach it is, then," I muttered, activating my abilities as I prepared to meet their charge.
Xenovia was already moving, Durandal materializing in her hands with a flash of holy light. "Finally, some action!" she declared with obvious enthusiasm as she intercepted two of the attacking guards.
Valerie summoned Chastiefol in its spear form, spinning the weapon with practiced grace as she engaged another pair of vampires. "Why is it never simple with you people?" she called out, though there was no real complaint in her voice.
I focused on the remaining four guards, deciding to keep my more dangerous abilities in reserve. These vampires were skilled, but they weren't threats that required the Sage's Eye. Instead, I activated my Bungee Gum, the aura extending from my hands in flexible strands that were invisible to normal sight.
The first guard's sword thrust met nothing but air as I used my water manipulation to create a small but precisely placed barrier that deflected her blade just enough to throw off her balance. At the same moment, my Bungee Gum attached to her armor, and I used it to redirect her momentum, sending her crashing into one of her companions.
The third guard attempted to flank me from the left, but I was ready for her. Water rose from the moisture in the air and the morning dew on the grass, forming into a pressurized stream that caught her sword arm and threw her off balance. Before she could recover, strands of Bungee Gum wrapped around her legs, and I yanked her feet out from under her.
The fourth guard proved more cautious, hanging back to observe my fighting style before committing to an attack. Smart, but it wouldn't save her. I sent a strand of Bungee Gum stretching wide around her position, then snapped it back like a rubber band, using the elastic properties to accelerate a sphere of compressed water directly at her midsection.
Around me, I could hear the sounds of Xenovia's battle—the distinctive ring of Durandal meeting vampire steel, followed by her satisfied laughter as she overwhelmed her opponents with sheer power and holy energy. Valerie was more tactical in her approach, using Chastiefol's shape-changing abilities to keep her enemies off balance, switching between spear, staff, and pillow forms as the situation demanded.
The guard I'd knocked down was already recovering, vampire regeneration allowing her to shake off what would have been devastating injuries to a human. She came at me again, this time with two of her companions who had regrouped. I was preparing to end this quickly when a desperate voice rang out across the courtyard.
"Stop! Everyone stop fighting!"
The familiar voice made all of us pause mid-combat. Elmenhilde came running toward us from the direction of the gates, her usually composed demeanor replaced with obvious panic and concern.
"Stand down!" she called to the guards. "These people are... guests!"
The vampire guards looked confused but obeyed, lowering their weapons though they remained obviously wary. Elmenhilde reached us, slightly out of breath and looking frazzled in a way I'd never seen before.
"What were you thinking, attacking the front gates directly?" she demanded, though her tone held more exasperation than anger. "Do you have any idea how close you came to triggering a full military response?"
"We're here to see your Queen," I replied simply. "This seemed like the most direct approach."
Elmenhilde rubbed her temples as if fighting off a headache. "There are protocols for this kind of thing. Diplomatic channels, proper introductions..." She trailed off, seeming to remember exactly who she was dealing with. "Although I suppose subtlety has never been your strong suit."
"Is Queen Carmilla available to meet with us?" Valerie asked, dismissing Chastiefol back to its dormant state.
"She's... expecting you, actually," Elmenhilde admitted reluctantly. "Come on, I'll escort you to the castle. Try not to attack anyone else on the way there."
The interior of the carriage was more luxurious than I'd expected, with plush velvet seats and intricate wooden paneling that spoke of centuries of craftsmanship. Elmenhilde sat across from me, with Xenovia beside her looking completely at ease despite the tension in the air. Valerie sat beside me, occasionally glancing out the window at the passing scenery of the Carmilla territory.
I decided to address the elephant in the room directly. "Why didn't your Queen tell the Khaos Brigade about my location? Or has she already told them?"
Elmenhilde's eyes widened in alarm, and she shook her head quickly. "No! Her Majesty hasn't said anything to them, I swear!" She seemed to catch herself getting too emotional and tried to compose herself. "The Queen... she knew you would eventually come to fight against the Khaos Brigade after you refused her alliance offer. She just didn't expect you to show up here, since she never told you about our current location."
So Carmilla is playing a longer game than I initially thought. She's betting on my eventual opposition to Khaos Brigade while keeping her options open.*
"What's the current status of the war?" Valerie asked, her tone gentler than my interrogation had been.
Elmenhilde's expression grew somber. "We're losing. Every day, we lose more soldiers, more territory. At this rate, it won't be long before Her Majesty and the other nobles will have to take the field personally. And then we'll be facing not just the Tepes faction, but the Khaos Brigade as well."
Xenovia leaned forward with a frown. "If you're losing so badly, why don't you just surrender? It would prevent more unnecessary deaths."
The change in Elmenhilde's demeanor was immediate and dramatic. Her back straightened, her eyes flashed with pride, and her voice took on a tone of noble dignity that reminded me exactly what kind of ancient bloodline she represented.
"We are proud nobles," she declared firmly. "Neither I nor anyone in our faction would ever bow our heads to those upstarts, much less to any humans who think they can dictate terms to us." She noticed my steady gaze and seemed to realize how her words might have sounded. "Besides," she added more quietly, "it's too late for that now. The war will reach its conclusion soon enough."
The sadness that crept into her voice at the end told me everything I needed to know about what kind of conclusion she expected. Having someone like Khaos Brigade on your enemy's side would definitely shift tides of war in their war.
"Whether it's humans or vampires," I muttered, "war is still a problem that needs solving."
The rest of the carriage ride passed in contemplative silence, each of us lost in our own thoughts about the complicated situation we were walking into.
When the carriage finally came to a halt, I stepped out and found myself staring at something that looked like it had been pulled directly from the pages of a fantasy novel. The Carmilla castle rose before us in gothic splendor, with soaring spires, elaborate stonework, and enough architectural drama to satisfy any vampire's sense of aesthetics. The perpetual twilight cast eerie shadows across its ancient walls.
"This place needs better lighting," Xenovia commented matter-of-factly, squinting up at the dark castle. "How are we supposed to see any enemies sneaking up on us? Do vampires just stumble around in the dark all the time, or do they have some kind of night vision I don't know about?"
Both Valerie and I sweatdropped at her completely practical concern about combat visibility in a vampire stronghold.
"Please follow me to Her Majesty's chambers," Elmenhilde said, leading us toward the castle's main entrance.
As we walked through the massive front doors and into the castle proper, I found myself thinking about the conversation ahead. Queen Carmilla was expecting me, which meant she had some kind of plan or proposal ready. The question was whether whatever she had in mind would align with my own goals, because what I had in mind, was gonna shock not only her faction but even Valerie too.
Either way, it's time to find out exactly what the Queen of the Carmilla faction wants from me—and what she's willing to do to get it.*
The sound of our footsteps echoed through the cobblestone corridors as we made our way deeper into the castle, toward what would undoubtedly be another complicated supernatural negotiation in my increasingly complicated life.
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Chapter 59: Chapter 59
The throne room was everything I'd expected from a vampire queen with centuries to perfect her sense of dramatic presentation. Massive stained glass windows filtered the eternal twilight into deep purples and crimsons, while ornate pillars stretched toward a vaulted ceiling decorated with intricate carvings that seemed to move in the shifting light. At the far end of the chamber, elevated on a dais of black marble, sat Queen Carmilla herself.
She was more imposing in person than I'd imagined. Tall and elegant, with platinum blonde hair that cascaded over her shoulders and crimson eyes that seemed to hold the weight of centuries.
Her dress was a masterwork of gothic fashion—deep burgundy with silver accents that caught the light as she moved. Despite her regal bearing, there was something about her posture that suggested she was prepared for violence at a moment's notice.
"Your Majesty," Elmenhilde announced with a formal bow, "I present our guests as requested."
Queen Carmilla's gaze swept over our group, lingering on each of us for a moment before settling on me. When she smiled, her fangs were clearly visible, though the expression seemed more calculating than threatening.
"So," she said, her voice carrying the melodic quality that seemed common among powerful vampires, "the famous troublemaker finally graces my territory with his presence. I must admit, I wasn't expecting such a... direct approach to requesting an audience."
"Your guards attacked us first," I replied evenly. "We were just defending ourselves."
"Of course they did. It's their job to protect this territory from intruders." Her smile widened slightly. "Though I suspect you knew that when you chose to approach through the front gates rather than using proper diplomatic channels."
She wasn't wrong. I could have had Lavinia deliver a message first, or found some other way to arrange a formal meeting. But I'd wanted to see how Carmilla's forces would react to a direct challenge, and I'd wanted to make it clear that I wasn't here as a supplicant.
"You said you were expecting us," Valerie interjected. "How did you know we would come here?"
Queen Carmilla's attention shifted to Valerie, and I noticed the way her eyes narrowed slightly as she took in the sight of Chastiefol at Valerie's side. "I didn't know for certain, but I hoped. You see, Miss Valerie Tepes, your reputation precedes you as well. The dhampir who chose to stand against her own father's faction. How... noble of you."
There was something in the Queen's tone that made me tense. It wasn't quite mockery, but it wasn't entirely respectful either.
"I chose to stand with what was right," Valerie replied firmly. "My father's alliance with Khaos Brigade was a mistake."
"Was it, though?" Queen Carmilla rose from her throne, moving with fluid grace as she descended the steps of the dais. "Your father saw the future clearly—the old ways of vampire nobility are dying. The supernatural world is changing, and those who don't adapt will be swept aside. Khaos Brigade offers power, opportunity, and most importantly, survival."
"They offer chaos and destruction," Xenovia countered, her hand moving unconsciously toward Durandal's hilt. "I've seen what Khaos Brigade does to the places they 'liberate.'"
"And yet," the Queen continued, now standing directly in front of us, "here I am, fighting a losing war against overwhelming odds while my territory bleeds soldiers every day. Perhaps your father's pragmatism was wiser than my pride."
The admission hung heavy in the air. This wasn't the confident, defiant vampire noble I'd expected to meet. This was someone who was genuinely questioning her own choices in the face of imminent defeat.
"You didn't bring us here just to philosophical debate about the war," I said, cutting through the tension. "What do you want?"
Queen Carmilla's crimson eyes locked onto mine, and for a moment I saw something that surprised me—desperation, carefully controlled but unmistakably present.
"I want to make you an offer. A real one this time, not the half-hearted alliance proposal I sent before." She gestured around the throne room with one elegant hand. "Join me. Help me win this war, and I'll give you everything—territory, resources, an army of vampires at your command. Together we can crush both the Tepes faction and Khaos Brigade."
"And in return?" I asked, though I suspected I already knew the answer.
"In return, you help me reshape the vampire world. No more hiding in shadows, no more pretending to be myths and legends. We take our rightful place as the apex predators we were always meant to be." Her voice grew more passionate as she spoke, and I could see the vision she was painting in her mind. "Humans have had their time ruling this world. It's time for a change."
The throne room fell silent except for the soft whisper of wind through the stained glass windows. I could feel both Valerie and Xenovia watching me carefully, waiting to see how I would respond to what was essentially an offer to become a vampire warlord.
"That's not going to happen," I said simply.
Queen Carmilla's expression didn't change, but something cold flickered in her eyes. "I see. And why not, may I ask? Surely you must realize that your current path leads nowhere. You fight individual battles, solve immediate problems, but you never address the larger issues. The supernatural world will always be in conflict as long as the current power structures remain in place."
"Maybe," I admitted. "But your solution isn't better—it's just a different kind of tyranny."
"Tyranny?" She laughed, though there was no humor in the sound. "Is it tyranny when the strong rule over the weak? Is it tyranny when those with power use it to create order from chaos? Or is it simply the natural way of things?"
"When the strong rule through fear and violence, yes, that's tyranny," Valerie said firmly. "I've seen what that kind of rule looks like. My father—"
"Your father understands necessity," Queen Carmilla interrupted. "He sees the bigger picture beyond petty morality and naive idealism."
The temperature in the room seemed to drop several degrees, and I realized we were approaching a breaking point in this negotiation. Queen Carmilla had made her offer, I'd rejected it, and now we were getting into the part where things might turn ugly.
"There's another option," I said, deciding it was time to reveal the real reason I'd come here. "You could surrender to me instead."
The silence that followed my words was deafening. Even Valerie and Xenovia turned to stare at me in shock, clearly not having expected this particular twist.
Queen Carmilla blinked once, slowly, as if she hadn't quite processed what I'd just said. "I'm sorry, could you repeat that?"
"Surrender your faction to me," I said, keeping my voice calm and matter-of-fact. "Transfer all authority over Carmilla territory and its inhabitants to me. In exchange, I'll end this war and deal with both the Tepes faction and Khaos Brigade."
The vampire queen's expression went through several rapid changes—surprise, confusion, indignation, and finally settling on something that looked like barely controlled fury.
"You want me to... surrender? To simply hand over everything my family has built over centuries? To abandon my people and my responsibilities?" Her voice was getting progressively more dangerous with each word. "Do you have any idea what you're asking?"
"I'm asking you to put the lives of your people above your pride," I replied. "You said yourself that you're losing this war. Your soldiers are dying, your territory is shrinking, and eventually you and the other nobles will have to take the field personally. How does that end, realistically?"
Queen Carmilla was silent for a long moment, her hands clenched into fists at her sides. When she finally spoke, her voice was cold enough to freeze blood.
"And what exactly makes you think you can succeed where I have failed? What gives you the right to make such an arrogant demand?"
Instead of answering with words, I let a small fraction of my true power leak out—just enough to make the air in the throne room heavy with supernatural energy. The stained glass windows rattled slightly, and I saw several of the vampire guards who had been standing silently along the walls take involuntary steps backward.
"This," I said simply, then pulled my aura back under control.
Queen Carmilla had gone very still during that brief display, her instincts clearly recognizing the level of power I'd just hinted at. When she looked at me now, it was with the wariness of someone reassessing a potential threat.
"That's... considerable power," she admitted carefully. "But power alone isn't enough to win wars. Strategy, logistics, political maneuvering—"
"Will all be irrelevant once I eliminate the enemy leadership," I interrupted. "This isn't a conventional war anymore, Your Majesty. It's a conflict between individuals with supernatural abilities. And in that kind of fight, overwhelming personal power trumps traditional military tactics."
Valerie was staring at me with a mixture of concern and fascination. "Are you seriously planning to just... fight your way through the entire Tepes faction and Khaos Brigade by yourself?"
"Not by myself," I corrected. "I'll have help. But yes, essentially, that's the plan."
"That's insane," Elmenhilde whispered, though she didn't sound like she entirely disapproved of the insanity.
Queen Carmilla began to pace back and forth in front of her throne, clearly thinking hard about the situation. "Let's say, hypothetically, that I were to consider this mad proposal of yours. What would happen to my people? To the noble houses under my protection? You're asking me to trust the lives and futures of thousands of vampires to someone I barely know."
"They would be under my protection," I said. "No one would be harmed, no one would be displaced, and the noble structure would remain intact for day-to-day governance. The only thing that would change is who has final authority over major decisions."
"And what about after the war is over? What happens to us then?"
That was the key question, and I could see everyone in the room waiting for my answer. "That would depend on you. If you prove that you can govern responsibly, work toward peaceful coexistence with other factions, and avoid the kind of extremist policies you were just advocating, then I'd have no reason to interfere in your internal affairs."
"And if we don't meet your standards?" Queen Carmilla asked, though her tone suggested she already suspected the answer.
"Then I'd find new leadership for the Carmilla faction."
The blunt honesty of my response seemed to surprise her. I could see her weighing her options, calculating the odds of various outcomes. Finally, she stopped pacing and fixed me with a direct stare.
"You realize that even if I agreed to this unprecedented arrangement, my nobles would never accept it. They would see it as the ultimate betrayal of everything our faction represents."
"Then convince them," I said. "You're their Queen. If you can't make them understand that survival sometimes requires difficult choices, then maybe you're not as good a leader as you think you are."
It was a calculated insult, designed to provoke either anger or thoughtful consideration. Queen Carmilla's eyes flashed with fury for a moment, but then I saw something else creep into her expression—respect.
"You're either very brave or very foolish to speak to me like that in my own throne room," she said, but there was almost a smile playing at the corners of her mouth. "Very well. I need time to consider this proposal and discuss it with my advisors. In the meantime, you and your companions will be my guests here in the castle."
"How long do you need?" I asked.
"Give me until tomorrow evening. If I'm going to make a decision that will reshape the entire power structure of vampire society, I'd prefer not to do it hastily."
That seemed reasonable. I nodded acceptance, and Queen Carmilla gestured to Elmenhilde.
"Please show our guests to the elite quarters. Make sure they have everything they need, and ensure they're not... disturbed... by any of the more impulsive members of our faction."
As we were escorted out of the throne room, I caught Queen Carmilla watching me with an expression I couldn't quite read. There was calculation there, certainly, but also something that might have been anticipation.
Tomorrow evening, then. One way or another, this situation is going to be resolved.*
The question was whether I'd be gaining a new ally or making a very powerful new enemy.
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Chapter 60: Chapter 60
The silence in our quarters stretched on after Elmenhilde's departure, each of us lost in our own thoughts about the impossible situation we'd walked into. Valerie sat on the edge of one of the ornate chairs, her fingers absently tracing patterns on Chastiefol's surface, while Xenovia had claimed a position near the door where she could monitor the corridor outside.
"This is completely insane," Valerie finally said, breaking the quiet. "You can't seriously expect Queen Carmilla to just hand over centuries of vampire tradition and hierarchy because you asked nicely."
"I don't expect anything," I replied, moving away from the window to face her properly. "I made an offer. She'll either accept it or she won't."
"But why?" Xenovia asked, turning from her surveillance of the hallway. "What's your real goal here? You could have just offered a military alliance, helped them win their war, and maintained the existing power structure. Why demand complete surrender?"
It was a fair question, and one that deserved an honest answer. "Because the existing power structure is the problem. Every supernatural conflict I've encountered comes back to the same issue—ancient hierarchies, inherited power, leaders who care more about maintaining their position than protecting their people."
"So you're going to replace all of that with... what? Your own hierarchy?" Valerie's tone wasn't accusatory, but there was genuine concern in her voice. "How is that any different?"
"Because I don't want to rule," I said simply. "I want to eliminate the conditions that create these conflicts in the first place. Supernatural beings hiding from humans, factions fighting over territory and resources, leaders making decisions based on pride instead of pragmatism."
Xenovia frowned thoughtfully. "That's... actually quite ambitious. You're talking about restructuring supernatural society entirely."
"The alternative is letting it destroy itself through endless wars and political maneuvering." I gestured toward the window, where the sounds of military preparation continued to echo from the courtyard below. "Look at what we have now—vampires fighting vampires while terrorist organizations manipulate both sides. How is that sustainable?"
Valerie was quiet for a long moment, clearly thinking through the implications. "And you think Queen Carmilla will see it that way?"
"I think Queen Carmilla is desperate enough to consider options she would have dismissed outright if approached earlier" I replied. "The question is whether she's desperate enough to swallow her pride."
"What if she isn't?" Xenovia asked. "What if she decides to fight instead of surrender?"
That was the key question, wasn't it? I'd made my proposal knowing there was a significant chance it would be rejected. The real question was what I would do if it came to that.
"Then I'll have to decide whether forcing the issue is worth the cost," I admitted. "I don't want to conquer anyone, but I also can't let this war continue indefinitely while people die for the sake of vampire politics."
Valerie studied my expression carefully. "You're not telling us everything, are you? This isn't just about ending the war. There's something else you're considering."
She was perceptive, I'd give her that. "I'm considering all possibilities. Queen Carmilla might accept my proposal, but she might also be planning something else entirely. Desperate people make unpredictable choices."
"Such as?"
"Such as deciding that if she can't win on her own terms, she'll make sure everyone loses." I moved back toward the window, watching the vampire guards below. "Or such as making deals with outside parties that she thinks will give her an advantage."
Xenovia's expression sharpened. "You think she might be in contact with Khaos Brigade?"
"I think she's been fighting a losing war for months, and desperate leaders sometimes make alliances they would never consider under normal circumstances." I turned back to face them both. "Which is why I need to know exactly what we're dealing with before tomorrow evening."
"What are you planning?" Valerie asked, though her tone suggested she already suspected the answer wouldn't be entirely conventional.
Instead of answering directly, I activated Incursio, feeling the familiar sensation of the armor materializing around me. The advanced camouflage systems came online immediately, bending light around my form until I was effectively invisible to normal sight.
"I'm going to take a look around," I said, my voice slightly distorted by the armor's vocal systems. "See what Queen Carmilla and her people are really up to when they think no one is watching."
"That's... probably espionage," Xenovia pointed out, though she didn't sound particularly disapproving. "Are we officially adding breaking and entering to our diplomatic mission?"
"We're officially making sure we understand the situation before making any irreversible commitments," I corrected. "Stay here, keep an eye on things, and try not to start any international incidents while I'm gone."
Valerie stood up from her chair, concern clear in her expression. "Be careful. If Queen Carmilla really is planning something underhanded, she'll have defenses against exactly this kind of surveillance."
"I'll manage," I assured her, moving toward the window. "If anything goes wrong, get out of the castle and back to Lavinia. Don't try to play hero."
"Says the man who's about to sneak around a vampire stronghold by himself," she replied dryly.
I activated Incursio's flight systems and slipped out into the perpetual twilight that shrouded Carmilla territory. The castle was even more impressive from the outside—ancient stone walls rose in elegant Gothic spires, while modern magical defenses created barely visible barriers of energy around key strategic points. It was clear that centuries of vampire engineering had gone into making this place both beautiful and impregnable.
Moving carefully to avoid the detection systems I could sense throughout the structure, I began a systematic reconnaissance of the castle's interior. The lower levels were mostly military—armories, training facilities, and barracks for the vampire soldiers. Nothing unexpected there, though I did note that their weapons seemed unusually well-maintained for a faction that was supposedly losing a war.
The middle levels contained the more administrative areas—offices, meeting rooms, and what looked like magical communication centers. Again, nothing particularly suspicious, though I filed away the locations of several rooms that might contain useful intelligence if I needed to return later.
It was on the upper levels, near what I assumed were the royal quarters, that I finally found something interesting.
Queen Carmilla's private chambers were exactly what I would have expected from vampire royalty—opulent furnishings, priceless artwork, and enough space to host a small diplomatic reception. What I hadn't expected was to find the Queen herself in a state of intimate embrace with Elmenhilde.
I froze in place, suddenly very aware that I was intruding on something extremely private. Professional surveillance was one thing, but this crossed several lines I preferred not to cross. I was about to retreat when Queen Carmilla's voice stopped me.
"Are you certain he'll accept the arrangement?" she was asking, her fingers running through Elmenhilde's hair with obvious affection.
"Cao Cao seemed confident," Elmenhilde replied, her voice soft with contentment. "Though I still don't understand why you agreed to this in the first place. Having a human rule over us goes against everything our faction represents."
Queen Carmilla's laugh was rich and genuinely amused. "My dear Elme, sometimes you're wonderfully naive. Do you really think I have any intention of actually surrendering to that arrogant boy?"
The words hit me like a physical blow. I remained perfectly still, invisible within Incursio's camouflage, as Queen Carmilla continued speaking.
"Cao Cao made me a very reasonable offer," she explained, settling back into what was clearly a familiar and comfortable position. "If our young troublemaker proves too strong for their initial assault, I'm to approach him during the battle and strike from his blind spot. One decisive blow while he's distracted with other enemies."
"And if he's not too strong for them?"
"Then the problem solves itself, and I inherit whatever territories they choose to grant me." Queen Carmilla's voice carried the satisfaction of someone who believed she'd outmaneuvered everyone around her. "Either way, the Carmilla faction emerges victorious, and I maintain my independence."
Elmenhilde was quiet for a moment, clearly processing this information. "When will Cao Cao attack?"
"Tonight, despite what I told our guests about needing until tomorrow evening. The Hero Faction and King Marius's forces should be in position within the next few hours." Queen Carmilla's smile was visible even from my concealed position. "By dawn, this entire situation will be resolved, one way or another."
I'd heard enough. Moving with the careful precision that Incursio's systems allowed, I retreated from the royal quarters and made my way back through the castle toward our diplomatic rooms. My mind was racing, processing the implications of what I'd just learned.
Queen Carmilla had never intended to seriously consider my proposal. She'd been stalling for time while Cao Cao and King Marius positioned their forces for a coordinated assault. Worse, she was planning to personally betray me during the battle, striking from behind while I was engaged with other enemies.
It was, I had to admit, a reasonably clever plan. If I survived the initial assault, her betrayal would likely be decisive. If I didn't survive, she would be in a position to claim credit for the victory and negotiate favorable terms with the new power structure.
The only flaw in her plan was that she'd had this conversation where someone with advanced surveillance equipment could overhear it.
By the time I slipped back through the window of our quarters, I had already begun formulating a response. Valerie and Xenovia looked up as I deactivated Incursio's invisibility, clearly eager to hear what I'd discovered.
"Well?" Valerie asked. "What did you find?"
I settled into one of the chairs, considering how much to tell them. The truth would certainly motivate them for the coming battle, but it would also eliminate any possibility of turning this situation to our advantage.
"Queen Carmilla is not planning to accept my proposal," I said finally. "In fact, she's planning to do quite the opposite."
"Meaning?" Xenovia prompted.
"Meaning we're about to be attacked by Cao Cao's Hero Faction, King Marius's forces, and Queen Carmilla herself, all working together." I leaned back in the chair, already running through tactical possibilities. "Tonight, not tomorrow evening."
The silence that followed this revelation was profound. Finally, Valerie found her voice.
"All three of them? Working together against us?"
"Against me, specifically," I corrected. "Though anyone standing with me will certainly be considered a legitimate target."
Xenovia's expression had shifted into what I recognized as her combat mindset—focused, alert, and slightly eager. "So what's our plan?"
I smiled, feeling the familiar calm that came with having all the pieces of a complex puzzle finally fall into place. Queen Carmilla thought she was manipulating me, Cao Cao believed he was orchestrating a perfect trap, and King Marius probably assumed his daughter would see reason once the fighting started.
They were all about to discover just how expensive those assumptions could be.
"Our plan," I said, "is to give them exactly what they think they want."
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