As the first rays of dawn painted the sky with a soft golden hue, Victoria found solace in her carriage, allowing her weary body to rest. The night of relentless slaughter had yielded fruitful results, granting her three points of strength, one in dexterity, and two in constitution. Finally, her stats were inching closer to those of her formidable opponents, instilling a sense of growing confidence within her. Her strength now stood at 12, dexterity at 15, constitution at 9, charisma, wisdom, and intelligence at 21, perception at 17, and luck at 11.
Victoria's mind yearned to eavesdrop on the conversations unfolding within Avery's camp, yet the limitations of the daylight hours restricted her options. Her vargouille companions, creatures sensitive to sunlight, would perish if exposed to the light of day. Thus, she was left to imagine the mounting intensity of Avery's efforts as he learned of the theft of his funds and saw her teasing message. She knew their search for the elusive threat would gain urgency. All the better for her. With their focus on the mountains, she would be free to hit him where it would hurt the most.
Turning her attention to Carl driving the carriage, Victoria directed a telepathic question to him. "How long until we reach the city?" she inquired.
Carl glanced back at the cabin. Victoria, through her sanguine sight could feel his eyes reflecting a sense of duty. "We should arrive a few hours before nightfall, mistress," he called out loudly in response, his voice carrying through the thick carriage walls to her coffin within.
"Good," Victoria acknowledged, her mental tone filled with malice. "Stick to the plan and inform me immediately of any issues that arise."
"Of course, mistress," Carl replied dutifully, guiding the horses along their predetermined path.
With the reassurance of Carl's competence, Victoria succumbed to a deep slumber, her body craving rest to process the copious amounts of blood she had consumed during her nocturnal bloodbath.
Several hours later, she awoke to the sound of grunts and growls echoing within the carriage. Opening her casket, she discovered Lum, Jared, and Brig in a state of restless movement.
Sensing their unease, the oni mage thrall Tori, stepped in to calm the situation. "Calm down. Everything is alright," she urged urgently, her voice carrying a reassuring tone.
Victoria observed the distorted faces of the three vampire spawn, a twinge of sympathy touching her undead heart. While their memories and higher functions had been lost in the transformation, she reminded herself that they would regain all that and more once they reached level five. Taking charge, she commanded, "Lum, Jared, Brig, be still. All is well. It is daylight now, so remain inside the carriage and avoid making any noise."
The vampire spawn obeyed, their restless energy subdued under Victoria's command. Yet, she could sense their ravenous hunger, an insatiable longing that pulsed through their undead forms. "There will be time to sate your hunger soon. For now, rest and remain still," she continued, employing her charm spell in conjunction with her voice to pacify their primal instincts. They were connected to her as their sire, but the spawns were feral and violent, very unlike the calculating, intelligent full vampires.
With the situation under control, Victoria settled back into a state of rest, her mind swirling with thoughts as she recalibrated her plans to accommodate the newfound presence of the vampire spawn. She recognized they were unpredictable variables within her previously precise strike team, requiring significant adjustments to ensure their effectiveness.
As the carriage rolled up to Columairre’s east gate, Carl leaned out and handed a bag of coins to the guards standing watch. "Lord Johansen thanks you for your diligence and discretion," he declared, his voice laced with a subtle air of authority.
Victoria smiled. The knowledge she’d gleaned from the drow minds would now be put to good use. Avery regularly brought new women from the countryside to his estate for his obscene pleasures and the guards at this gate had an understanding with him.
The guards exchanged puzzled glances, their eyes lingering on the oni squad surrounding the carriage. "We usually see the drow and never this many guards," one of the guards commented, a note of suspicion in his voice.
"Lord Johansen took most of the drow into the mountains for an expedition, leaving the rest of us to take up the slack," Carl explained, his tone confident and matter-of-fact.
"I see," the guard cautiously replied. "Mind if I take a peek at the merchandise?"
A stern expression crossed Carl's face as he firmly responded, "That's not part of the agreement."
The guard's gaze shifted away, his inquisitiveness momentarily thwarted. "No harm done. Just curious. The drow are so reserved. I thought you might be more pliable. Nevermind. You're clear to go."
With the exchange concluded, the city guards granted them passage and the carriage rolled through. As the carriage distanced itself from the gate, Victoria’s oni guards rode off, leaving the carriage to continue its journey in solitude. Victoria surmised that this intentional separation would draw less attention, allowing them to proceed with relative discretion.
The carriage pressed forward, navigating the bustling city streets with a purposeful stride. People moved aside, casting curious glances at the unusual entourage. Yet, the presence of the oni riding atop and the air of authority surrounding the carriage deterred any unwarranted interference. They advanced unimpeded, steadily making their way through the city towards their destination.
Upon arriving at the Johansen residence, the guards eyed them with suspicion. One guard spoke up, his voice filled with skepticism, "I've never seen you before. Who are you?"
Another guard's gaze fell on their armor, his accusation tinged with doubt, "They're wearing the Lord's armor. Did you steal that armor?"
Jung, Victoria's high-level fighter, stepped forward confidently and asserted, "Lord Johansen gave it to me himself. He's tied up in the mountains and wants his shipments to continue unabated."
Carl interjected, his tone firm and commanding, "Just let us in. You're causing a scene. We don't need any more attention than necessary. You can ask more questions inside if you wish."
The guards, realizing the potential for disruption, decided to comply. They led the carriage to the carriage house, where the atmosphere grew dim as the vehicle entered. Sensing the opportune moment, Lum, Jared, and Brig burst from the carriage doors and launched themselves at the guards.
The scene turned gruesome as the spawns attacked, tearing into the guards' throats and reveling in their bloodlust. Their chaotic feeding filled the air with a macabre frenzy.
Observing her surroundings, Victoria noticed three vehicles neatly arranged within the spacious garage. She admired the design with envy. They were battlewagon than carriage. By the end of the night, they would be hers, she promised herself.
Her heart raced as she led her squad from the garage through the covered walkway to the house, their swift movements synchronized with her mental commands. The sound of the gates closing behind them resonated through the air, sealing off the outside world.
Thick vines grew along the covered walkway, offering a sanctuary of shade, a bridge between the manor and the carriage house. As Victoria hurried along its length, she could feel the intense heat of the sun's rays trying to breach the protective barrier. Beads of sweat formed on her brow. She was unsure if she was sweating because of the heat or if it was due to her nervousness at being near the rays that had caused her such deep pain.
Her thralls moved with purpose, their bodies positioned strategically to shield her delicate vampiric skin from the harmful rays.
Bursting through the side door of the manor, the team unleashed a wave of chaos upon the unsuspecting inhabitants. The vampire spawns moved through the opulent halls with an untamed violence, their bestial instincts guiding their every move. Servants and staff became mere playthings in their deadly game, dispatched with ruthless efficiency.
At the main entrance, the oni stood tall, their imposing figures serving as an intimidating deterrent to anyone who dared to approach. With their sharp senses and lightning-fast reflexes, they were prepared to subdue any who attempted to breach the threshold.
Others ran to each of the other entrances. With each team was a wraith, its ethereal form gliding silently through the corridors, to take up its post. Its incorporeal nature allowed it to seamlessly blend with the shadows, making it virtually undetectable to the naked eye. Its presence served as a chilling reminder that escape would be futile for anyone who dared to try and its touch would freeze those who made the attempt.
Victoria's voice echoed through the lavish corridors as she commanded her spawns with precision. "Drain those at level 1, leave the rest for me," she directed her vampire spawn, her strategic mindset focused on maximizing the leveling potential of her spawns while reserving the choice targets for herself. It was a delicate balance of efficiency and personal gain that she had learned to master.
As the carnage unfolded, the guards put up a futile resistance, their weapons no match for the supernatural strength and speed of their assailants. Victoria used her charm skill, presenting them with an offer to join her ranks as loyal thralls. Two of the guards, recognizing the futility of their situation, accepted her proposition, submitting themselves to her will.
In a surprising turn of events, it was the butler, Bentley, who emerged as the highest level individual within the manor. His skill with the cane, concealing a deadly blade, showed a glimmer of potential resistance. However, Victoria's superior vampiric prowess quickly subdued him, rendering his skills useless in the face of her overwhelming power.
Victoria approached Bentley with a mix of authority and persuasion, her gaze locked with his. She recognized the value of his experience and expertise, seeing the potential he held.
"Bentley," she spoke with a commanding tone, her voice carrying the weight of her dominance. "Your skills have not gone unnoticed. I can appreciate the dedication and precision with which you wield your blade. Join me, and your talents will not go to waste. You will be a valued member of my staff."
Bentley, his back against the wall and his once-confident demeanor shattered, met Victoria's gaze with a mixture of defiance and resignation. "You may have defeated me, but I will not yield to your whims," he retorted, attempting to hold onto his fading sense of dignity.
Victoria's eyes narrowed, her voice dripping with persuasion as she sought to break his spirit. She increased the willpower behind her charm, leaning heavily on her high charisma. "Bentley, consider the possibilities that lie before you. Embrace the power that comes with serving me. Become part of something greater than yourself, and your legacy will be remembered for eternity."
The weight of her dominance, combined with Bentley's diminished state, slowly eroded his resistance. He understood the futility of his defiance and the undeniable power Victoria possessed. After partially draining him, she extended her hand, a silent invitation for him to join her as a devoted thrall.
Bentley hesitated for a moment, his pride warring with his survival instincts. The reality of his situation finally settled in, and he reluctantly reached out, clasping Victoria's hand in acceptance. A mix of fear and resignation flickered in his eyes as he realized the inevitability of his fate.
"Very well," Bentley conceded, his voice laced with a newfound submission. "I shall serve you."
Victoria presented her bleeding thumb to him. He looked on the blood with disgust, but his face was pure pleasure when he tasted it. With Bentley now under her control, Victoria secured his loyalty as a valuable asset within her entourage.
With the manor in disarray, Victoria moved forward, leading her team deeper into the heart of the estate. The air was thick with the scent of fear and the echoes of her triumph. Her eyes gleamed with a mixture of hunger and determination as she advanced, her mission to claim the resources and secrets that lay hidden within the prestigious walls.
The manor became a battleground of shadows and blood, a testament to her cunning and thirst for power. The inhabitants tried to flee, but were met by oni spears at each entrance. Her wraiths stunned the staff, leaving them for the vampire spawn or Victoria to deal with later. The assault on the manor was a calculated dance of dominance and submission, as Victoria orchestrated her ascent, one drained victim at a time.
In the dimly lit depths of Avery's dungeon, Victoria's eyes swept over the pitiful figures shackled within the cold cells. The five prisoners, emaciated and on the brink of death, were mere shadows of their former selves. Their desperate eyes turned to her, a glimmer of hope flickering amidst their despair.
Victoria's voice resonated with authority as she extended an offer of freedom, but it came with a condition. Her piercing gaze locked onto each prisoner in turn, her words carrying both power and consequence. "I can release you from these confines, grant you a new purpose, but it will come at a price. You must become my thralls, bound to serve and obey me."
A mixture of fear, desperation, and curiosity danced across their gaunt faces as they contemplated the choice before them. One woman, her voice frail yet tinged with a hunger for power, spoke, "If becoming a vampire is an option, I will gladly embrace that path. I crave the strength and immortality it offers."
Victoria's expression remained unreadable as she considered the woman's request. The allure of having another vampire spawn under her control tempted her, but she knew that it was not yet the right time. Once she reached level ten, she could create full vampires, rather than spawn.
With a measured voice, Victoria responded to the woman's plea. "Becoming a vampire is a privilege I will bestow upon only the worthy. For now, prove yourself by becoming my thrall. Show your loyalty and dedication, and perhaps one day, you will have the opportunity to join my bloodline."
The other prisoners watched the exchange, their fates now intertwined with Victoria's. The decision weighed heavily upon them, a pivotal moment that could determine their future. One by one, they nodded their acceptance, their hope rekindled by the promise of a new purpose and the potential for something greater.
This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
As the dungeon doors creaked open, Victoria led her newfound thralls to freedom, their weakened bodies stumbling in their first steps towards a different existence. Bound by their pledge to serve her, they began their journey under her watchful gaze, their destinies intertwined with her own as they set forth on a path that held both darkness and possibility. Leading them to the kitchens, she said, “Eat, but be slow about it so you do not become sick. When you are done, carry the remaining food to the carriages in the garage. You can eat more once you are rested. We leave this place today.”
Leaving them, Victoria and her thralls searched the remainder of the interior of the manor, leaving no living soul save her thralls in their wake by the time nightfall descended.
"Now the fun begins," Victoria declared, her voice laced with a twisted delight. "Search this place from top to bottom. Gather every valuable item you can find. Place smaller items in bags or trunks to be loaded onto the carriages. Larger items will be stored in my dimensional storage."
Leroy raised a paw to ask a curious question, "What about me?"
A mischievous smile played across Victoria's lips as she leaned in to whisper her plan to Leroy. The cat purred with anticipation, fully embracing his special role in the forthcoming events.
Bentley, now fully under Victoria's control as a thrall, proved to be an invaluable asset during the raid on Avery's manor. His extensive knowledge of the estate, acquired through years of dedicated service, allowed him to guide Victoria and her forces with precision and efficiency.
With Bentley at the forefront, they ventured into hidden chambers and secret corridors, uncovering Avery's well-guarded stashes and concealed vaults. His intimate familiarity with the nooks and crannies of the manor made the search almost effortless. Together, they bypassed intricate locks, deactivated concealed traps, and navigated the labyrinthine passages that led to Avery's most prized possessions.
Bentley’s insider knowledge ensured that Victoria and her companions could swiftly access the hidden treasures and avoid unnecessary obstacles. The raid was transformed into a meticulously executed operation.
Together, Victoria, her thralls, and Bentley moved meticulously, leaving no room untouched. They swiftly progressed through the manor, transforming what was once Avery's kingdom into a treasure trove of their own. Bentley's invaluable knowledge of the estate not only facilitated their plundering but also ensured their safety as they navigated past traps protecting the plunder lurking within the estate.
The spoils of their conquest were substantial, but none excited Victoria more than the discovery of two large enchanted trunks. These magnificent containers possessed the extraordinary ability to hold an expansive 50 cubic meters within their dimensional space. The possibilities they presented filled her with anticipation and a sense of triumph.
With an air of satisfaction, Victoria directed her thralls to transport one of the trunks to the magnificent library within the manor. The room, adorned with towering bookshelves and a sense of scholarly serenity, was about to undergo a profound transformation. As she stepped into the library, a thrill coursed through her, knowing that every book would soon find its place within the mystical depths of the enchanted trunk.
She plucked volumes in armfuls from the shelves, their weight in her hands gave her a thrill as she imagined what knowledge lay within. With each book she tossed into the trunk, the shelves were emptied, leaving behind only a sense of emptiness and the echoes of centuries' worth of wisdom. The library, once a sanctuary of knowledge, now stood devoid of its written treasures.
As the first trunk filled with books, Victoria reveled in the thought of carrying with her an entire library of knowledge, ready to be explored at her leisure. The weight of the words within, both mundane and arcane, held the promise of unlocking new realms of understanding and power. Her biggest vulnerability in this new world, outside of her aversion to sunlight, was her lack of knowledge, but this would go a long way to remediating that weakness.
The second trunk, reserved for valuables, gleamed with the treasures amassed during the raid. Precious gems, ornate artifacts, paintings, delicate rugs, and intricate pieces of jewelry were carefully placed within, their sparkle and allure a testament to the wealth and opulence of the manor's former inhabitants. And yet, despite the riches already collected, Victoria knew there was more to be taken. The allure of unclaimed treasures beckoned her, promising further riches and spoils beyond her wildest imagination.
It was late afternoon by the time Victoria led her entourage back to the carriage house, a building that housed her own elegant carriage as well as the three battle wagons that once belonged to Avery. The wagons, formidable in their design, stood as a clear indication of their former owner's thirst for power and dominance.
Each wagon was approximately 15 feet in length, its imposing presence demanding respect. The sturdy construction boasted four hatches on each side, reminiscent of storm shutters, ready to be opened for strategic attacks or swiftly closed for defense. The front of the wagons featured a comfortable bench where the driver and one additional passenger could sit, providing a vantage point to oversee the journey.
At the rear, a solid wooden door covered in a thin sheet of metal offered a secure exit and entrance. The door swung inward, allowing for swift and controlled access, and a sturdy bar could be placed across it to fortify the wagon against any potential breach. Adjacent to the door stood a vertical beam and handholds, providing space for two guards to ride standing, vigilant and ready to defend.
The sides of the wagons were built with thick wood, fortified with leather coverings adorned with menacing metal spikes. These defenses served both practical and intimidating purposes, discouraging any would-be assailants from approaching too closely. The top of each wagon featured a small metal railing, serving as a practical space for securing baggage or additional supplies.
As Victoria examined the first battle wagon, she noticed its utilitarian design, a testament to its intended purpose of swiftly transporting troops. The interior was optimized for efficiency and functionality, featuring a row of seats on either side that could comfortably accommodate sixteen soldiers. The seats were sturdy and practical, allowing the soldiers to sit securely during the journey.
Luggage nets lined the ceiling, providing ample storage space for personal belongings and equipment. The nets ensured that the soldiers' gear remained within easy reach, organized and ready for deployment. In addition to the luggage nets, there were two weapon cabinets located near the rear entrance of the wagon. These cabinets served as secure storage for various weapons, ensuring quick access in times of need. Hooks were also strategically placed throughout the wagon, providing convenient hanging points for backpacks or other essential items.
One unique feature of this particular battle wagon was the additional compartment at the rear. It housed a rotating platform, designed to accommodate a single soldier. This platform served as a vantage point, granting an elevated position for reconnaissance or defensive purposes. The soldier stationed on the rotating platform had access to a small ballistae, a powerful weapon capable of launching projectiles with deadly accuracy.
Victoria recognized the practicality of this battle wagon, designed to transport troops swiftly while providing them with storage space and defensive capabilities. It was a testament to the efficiency and foresight of its creators, and she knew that this particular wagon would serve her well in future engagements.
As she continued her examination of the remaining battle wagons, she noted their individual features and specialized functions, each tailored to suit a different purpose.
Victoria's eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she gazed at the second battle wagon, reminiscent of a charming gypsy cart she had once seen at a circus during her childhood. The wagon was similar to her memory, if someone had decided to create a gypsy cart for a monarch.
Atop the wagon, a luggage rack provided ample space for storing belongings, while two water casks were positioned to ensure a steady supply of fresh water during their journeys. Pipes ran from the water barrels, discreetly leading to the inside of the wagon, providing easy access to water for the occupants.
Stepping inside, Victoria discovered the wagon was divided into three distinct compartments, each serving a different purpose. The first compartment, located closest to the rear door, resembled a cozy sitting room. It boasted a plush sofa and two reclining chairs, inviting occupants to relax and unwind. Along the left wall, a lockable glass cabinet displayed a collection of neatly arranged books, showcasing a treasure trove of knowledge and entertainment.
On the opposite side of the sitting room, a window adorned with a locking shutter allowed for fresh air and natural light to filter through. The window was ingeniously equipped with large knobs that controlled screws, providing additional security when needed.
Moving further into the wagon, Victoria entered the next compartment, which revealed a small bar area complete with four bar stools. Behind the bar, a large mirror added a touch of elegance, while a compact kitchenette stood ready to cater to the culinary needs of its occupants. Two tables were thoughtfully placed on the other side of the room, providing a comfortable space for guests to dine. Windows above each table offered pleasant views of the surrounding scenery.
Finally, the front compartment of the wagon was designed for rest and relaxation. Bunk beds were neatly arranged, offering comfortable sleeping quarters for the weary travelers. A chest of drawers provided storage for personal belongings, while a vanity mirror allowed for grooming and personal care. Victoria's eyes gleamed with satisfaction as she noticed the absence of windows in this room, ensuring her privacy and allowing her to rest undisturbed during their travels.
The second battle wagon exuded a sense of home and tranquility, offering Victoria a sanctuary on wheels as she embarked on her journey. It provided all the necessary amenities and comforts, enabling her to travel in style and enjoy the freedom of the open road without compromising on her privacy and security.
Victoria's expression darkened as she approached the third battle wagon, noticing its stark contrast to the previous two. The exterior mirrored the design of the troop transport, giving no indication of the ominous interior that awaited inside.
The interior was devoid of any luxurious embellishments, constructed from plain, untreated wood. Shackles lined the floor, their presence a grim reminder of the wagon's sinister purpose. Metal rings were affixed to the floor, a haunting testament to the restraint and confinement of those unfortunate enough to be transported within.
The wood bore the unmistakable stains of blood. She couldn't help but envision the wagon's dark history, the transportation of slaves or criminals in its unforgiving confines. The windows, barred and restricting the outside world, seemed to reinforce the oppressive atmosphere within.
As she examined the wagon further, Victoria noticed that unlike the other two, the door opened outward, and the bar was placed on the outside, a clear indication of its intention to keep its passengers locked inside. The rear of the wagon offered a small balcony, an unsettling addition that provided seating for guards to oversee and maintain control over the occupants.
Victoria issued swift commands to her thralls, orchestrating the loading of the spoils into the designated battle wagons. The eerie atmosphere surrounding the prison wagon made it an appropriate choice for securing the goods. Boxes and crates were carefully placed within its confines, each item seeming to carry the weight of its dark history. It was a fitting tribute to the wagon's grim purpose.
Once the prison wagon was filled, attention turned to the troop transport, which now served as a secondary storage space. The remaining items were arranged methodically, utilizing every available inch of space. Victoria's keen eye for organization ensured that the precious cargo was secured and ready for transport.
The two large dimensional trunks, their magical properties intact, were carefully positioned within the war camper, the third battle wagon. Placed on the sturdy bottom bunk, they occupied a position of importance and security. Victoria deemed it fitting to dub the wagon as the "war camper," a name that captured its unique character and purpose.
Among the items loaded into the war camper, Victoria's coffin held a place of prominence. Positioned on the top bunk, it symbolized her connection to the realm of the undead and acted as a constant reminder of her vampiric nature. It was a stark contrast to the practicality of the wagon's design, serving as a testament to Victoria's unwavering commitment to her own existence and power.
With the loading complete, the battle wagons stood ready for the next stage of their journey. The war camper, now laden with both valuable spoils and the resting place of its powerful matriarch, exuded an aura of dark potential as it awaited the continuation of their travels.
Victoria's voice carried with a vindictive tone, a blend of pride and contempt as she observed her thralls diligently loading Avery's possessions into the wagon. The words spilled from her lips, charged with a sense of satisfaction and triumph. Her voice cut through the air, laced with a mixture of bitterness and superiority.
"I hope you relished every moment of your fleeting taste of nobility, Avery," she sneered, her words dripping with disdain. "But know this, your lofty chapter of grandeur has been abruptly brought to its swift and decisive conclusion."
Her voice lingered in the air, carrying an unmistakable air of triumph. Victoria reveled in the downfall of her adversary, savoring the satisfaction of seeing Avery's possessions, once symbols of power and privilege, now reduced to mere spoils within her grasp.
Victoria watched as the vampire spawn obediently filed into the prison wagon, their eyes devoid of any resistance or defiance. The shutters were securely closed, ensuring the darkness that would keep them contained and pacified during the journey. With the interior protected, Victoria could rest assured that her powerful spawns would not cause any damage or disruption.
In the war camper, Tori joined her, her presence offering a sense of reassurance and companionship. Bentley, the loyal butler turned thrall, accompanied them, along with the four prisoners and two servants who had now pledged their allegiance to Victoria. The small group settled into the cozy space, ready to embark on the next phase of their journey.
The horses were hitched to the battle wagons, their powerful forms ready to carry the weight of the loaded carriages. As the four vehicles slowly moved forward, the sound of hooves echoed through the streets, blending with the creaking of the wagons and the rustling of leaves in the breeze.
The carriages rolled steadily through the manor’s open gates, the imposing structure of the grand estate fading behind them. Victoria's eyes flickered with a mix of satisfaction and a touch of sadness as she witnessed the execution of their plan through her sanguine sight. She wished she could see it with her own eyes, but the light of day deprived her of that pleasure.
After several blocks, Victoria determined it safe enough to implement the next stage of her plan. With a mental command, she signaled Leroy and the nimble blink cat sprang into action without hesitation. In a seamless display of agility, Leroy darted through the shadows of the burning manor. His lithe form navigated the halls with precision, leaving chaos in his wake. Candles were swiftly toppled, their flames igniting pools of carefully placed lantern oil. The resulting inferno erupted with a ferocious appetite, devouring everything in its path.
The crackling flames danced with an insatiable hunger, their fiery tongues licking at the walls, furniture, and memories that once graced the halls of the Johansen estate. The sight of the spreading inferno, casting a fiery glow across Victoria’s senses. Screams and shouts erupted from the surrounding mansions.
Meanwhile, the carriages continued their journey, the sound of hooves on the city streets accompanied by the distant roar of the consuming flames. The passengers remained silent, their hearts filled with a mix of triumph and anticipation. The flames that consumed the manor were not only a physical manifestation of destruction but also a symbol of their mistress’s desecration of her rival’s place of power.
They moved much slower through the streets during the afternoon hustle and bustle. Carl guided them on the least used streets based on his understanding of the city’s traffic patterns. At their speed, Leroy quickly caught up to them. He blinked into Victoria's war camper, seeking solace in her lap. “Excellent job, Leroy,” she complimented, as she stroked his fur gently, offering him comfort as the carriages approached Columairre’s southern gate.
As the carriages approached the city gates, the guards stationed there were on high alert. News of the recent fires had spread, and they had orders not to let potential arsonists escape. The sun cast a golden hue over the scene, illuminating the four carriages.
With swift and coordinated movements, the oni under Victoria's command expertly overpowered the guards, swiftly neutralizing any resistance they encountered. The clash of weapons and the shouts of struggle echoed through the air, but the superior strength and skill of Victoria's forces prevailed. The defeated guards were swiftly subdued, their fates hanging in the balance.
Satisfied with their successful conquest, Victoria ordered the incapacitated guards to be brought inside the war camper where she was protected from the sun’s deadly rays. A mixture of anticipation and hunger coursed through her veins as she prepared to feed upon them, knowing that their life force would provide her with vital sustenance and power.
In the relative seclusion of the carriage, Victoria indulged in her vampiric instincts. She drank deeply from the guards' veins, their lifeblood flowing into her with a ravenous thirst. The taste of their essence, tinged with the knowledge of their defeat, invigorated her, filling her with a renewed sense of strength.
It was at this pivotal moment that the guards faced a choice — to embrace the thrall life or meet their demise. Two of them, weakened and faced with the overwhelming power of Victoria, chose to submit to her authority. With the exchange of a single drop of her blood, they became bound to her will, their loyalty sealed. Taking up positions at the back of the war camper, they joined her growing group of followers, ready to serve her with unwavering devotion. The other guards were quickly stripped of their belongings, then tossed like garbage from the back of the war camper.
As the carriages departed from the city, the afternoon sunlight casting long shadows in their wake, Victoria's connection with her thralls deepened. Her sanguine sight extended, allowing her to sense their presence, their loyalty, and their growing power. Each individual became a vital piece in the intricate tapestry of her dominance, their collective strength solidifying her position as their leader.
The scenery changed as they traveled further away from the city, the surroundings shifting to open landscapes and winding roads. The journey ahead held both uncertainty and opportunity, but Victoria was undeterred. Her plan was coming together splendidly.