Victoria took a deep breath, heart pounding in her chest. She knew that her charm ability could be a powerful tool, capable of persuading others to bend to her will. She cautiously tiptoed down the stairs and approached the kitchen where the old woman was preparing tea.
Her emotions were conflicted, knowing that her vampire nature and psionic abilities granted her the power to dominate the minds of others. It was a path she had chosen, but she still wondered if she should. Her nature demanded her to embrace the darkness within, but she just wasn’t sure.
She summoned her courage with each step, reminding herself of the game's rules and the need to level up. She would need to act swiftly if she couldn’t win the woman over. The old lady's vulnerability would be an advantage, a stepping stone in her journey toward strength and survival.
Keeping every inch of her body concealed from the light, Victoria reached out with her psionic energy, augmenting her charm spell with the raw power of her mind. As she cast the enchantment, she delved deep into the woman's consciousness, manipulating her thoughts and emotions with amateurish fervor.
The old lady's eyes widened, her face morphing from surprise to a mesmerized expression. Victoria's charm, enhanced by her psionic dominance, worked its magic, weaving an unbreakable hold over the woman's mind.
“I’m sorry for bursting in like this, but the duke’s men….” Victoria's voice trailed off, the words mingling with the threads of control she had meticulously woven. The old lady stood there, completely entranced, ready to fulfill her every command. There was no need for elaborate tales to win her over. Her magic had done it all.
Leroy, sensing the potency of Victoria's domination, approached her side. He glanced at the thrall, then back at Victoria, acknowledging her choice to embrace her powers entirely.
"It seems your mastery over the mind is unmatched, mistress," Leroy observed, admiration and caution in his voice. "Your charm spell, coupled with your psionic dominance, has rendered her entirely subservient to your will."
Victoria's eyes flickered with a blend of hesitation and determination. She understood the implications of her actions, the allure and the danger they presented. As she watched the old lady's blank obedience, a surge of conflicting emotions welled within her.
"Ensure that no one disturbs me," Victoria stated, her voice tinged with a hint of remorse.
The old lady under Victoria's thrall, nodded obediently. "As you wish, mistress. I shall attend to my tasks and ensure your privacy is maintained. If you require anything, do not hesitate to summon me."
Victoria watched as the old lady continued her routines, moving about the kitchen with an eerie calmness. As she observed the scene, a sense of conflicting emotions washed over her. The weight of her powers and their impact on others weighed heavily on her conscience.
"No, there is no need for tea," Victoria replied, her voice tinged with a touch of remorse. "Just carry on with your day as you normally would, and remember to keep my presence a secret. Would you mind telling me about the city?"
As the old woman prepared a cup of tea, the aroma filling the air, she settled into conversation with Victoria. Her voice carried weariness and wisdom as she spoke, recounting the tales of the city.
"The city of Columairre, mistress, is a place shrouded in deception and contradictions," the old woman began, her weathered hands clasping the teacup. "The duke, with his grandiose speeches about cracking down on evil, is the epitome of hypocrisy. For behind the façade of righteousness, he holds a darkness within, making him the evilest person around."
She sipped her tea, the warm liquid soothing her throat, before continuing. "Life within the city walls is no refuge, I'm afraid. High taxes burden the citizens, draining them of their hard-earned wealth. And with the weight of such financial strain, crime runs rampant in the streets. It's a vicious cycle where the common folk suffer while the elite revel in their excesses."
The old woman sighed, her eyes reflecting the weight of the city's burdens. "But let me tell you, as dire as life may seem within those walls, the perils outside are even worse. Those who dwell beyond the city limits must constantly fear the threat of monster attacks and bandit raids. It's a treacherous existence, living on the fringes of society, always watching over one's shoulder."
As she spoke, her gaze seemed to drift into the distance, recalling the hardships faced by those living outside the city. She took another sip of her tea, the warmth grounding her thoughts.
"In the end, mistress, it seems that neither city life nor the life beyond offers true respite. Each carries its own set of challenges and dangers. It is a delicate balance, a choice between the devil you know and the devil you don't. It is up to people like you to navigate these troubled waters and carve out your own path."
Her words conveyed a sense of resignation, acknowledging the world's harsh realities. She leaned back in her chair, her gaze meeting Victoria's. "Remember, mistress, true strength lies in the choices we make and the actions we take. In this world filled with darkness, may you find the light that guides your path."
“My path is the antithesis of light, but I hope to take out the trash while I’m here.”
“Of course, mistress. I’m sure you will do an admirable job.”
“Thank you for the vote of confidence. Now, I’m off to get some rest. Remember, I am not to be disturbed.” With those words, Victoria retreated to her secluded room, seeking solace and contemplation. She knew she had stepped further into the realm of darkness, but she was determined to find a balance between utilizing her powers and maintaining her morality. She had to navigate the treacherous path ahead in this unfamiliar world with caution and introspection.
As she settled into her temporary sanctuary, Victoria grappled with the implications of her choices. The delicate dance between power and compassion would guide her actions moving forward. With Leroy by her side, a constant reminder of the need for restraint, she vowed to wield her abilities responsibly, striving to protect and preserve life amidst the shadows.
Victoria reached with her mind to her connection to Leroy. "Should I dismiss you for now and summon you again later when I need your assistance?"
Leroy shook his head vigorously, appearing underneath the bed in a blink. "Absolutely not, mistress. I've had enough of the place I come from. I'd much rather explore the city while you take your rest."
A faint smile appeared on Victoria's lips. "Very well, Leroy. Enjoy your time prowling the city, but remember to return before nightfall. We have much to do."
With that understanding, Leroy leaped out from underneath the bed, his tail held high in anticipation. He gave Victoria a nod of acknowledgment before gracefully slipping through the drapes, and, with a blink, disappearing into the city beyond.
Alone once again, Victoria settled herself beneath the bed, finding comfort in the familiar darkness. She closed her eyes, allowing her body and mind to recharge after the day's tumultuous events. As she drifted into a state of rest, her thoughts turned to the upcoming night and the challenges that awaited her. She knew that she would need all her strength and wits about her.
Victoria let herself relax in the quiet solitude, finding solace in the temporary respite. She focused on her breathing, allowing the gentle rhythm to calm her restless mind. With each breath, she felt a renewed sense of determination and purpose. She knew that she had chosen this path and would face whatever lay ahead with courage and resolve.
As time passed, the light of day began to wane, casting long shadows throughout the room. A sudden pounding on the door jolted Victoria from her slumber, causing her heart to race with apprehension. She listened intently as the sound echoed through the house, each thump resonating with a sense of urgency.
As Victoria huddled underneath the bed, her senses heightened, she strained to listen to the muffled voices coming from downstairs. The pounding on the door echoed through the house, reverberating with a sense of urgency.
With her vampire senses, she watched as the old lady, still under the influence of her thrall, made her way to the front door. Victoria’s heart raced with anticipation as she listened. She held her breath, anxiously awaiting the exchange.
“A female vampire escaped the prison last night. Have you seen anyone suspicious?” the guard's voice rang out.
The old lady, now firmly under Victoria’s control, responded calmly. "No, it's the same routine every day. Nothing different except for you," she replied, her voice steady despite the underlying tension.
Victoria sighed in relief. She silently thanked her charm spell for its hold on the woman's mind, enabling her to navigate this precarious situation.
The guard's demeanor remained cautious as he warned, "Stay on the lookout. She's very dangerous."
The old lady nodded, her expression sincere. "Of course. Thanks for the warning," she replied.
As the guard departed, Victoria remained hidden, her heart still pounding with the close call. She marveled at her fortune and wondered how different the situation might’ve been had she killed the old woman.
As the hours slipped away, Victoria found herself growing increasingly restless. The limitations of her vampire existence weighed heavily on her mind. The stark contrast between the fifteen long hours of daylight and the mere nine hours of nighttime felt incredibly frustrating. She yearned for the freedom to roam and explore without the constant threat of the sun's rays. If only she had a spacious lair shielded from daylight or some form of modern entertainment to pass the time.
Sitting in the old lady's house, she sighed and glanced at her character sheet. It was a familiar sight, filled with numbers and attributes that defined her abilities and progress in this strange new world. She remembered the exhilaration she felt when her strength and constitution increased after feeding on the guard, but to her disappointment, the changes did not seem to reflect on the sheet. She pondered the discrepancy, wondering if the sheet only displayed whole numbers while the incremental improvements were merely fractions.
A flicker of hope sparked within her as she considered the possibility that her attributes would eventually accumulate to a point where a whole number increase would be visible on the sheet, just from feeding. For now, she could only continue to hone her skills, level up, and strive towards reaching her goals.
Victoria's eyes widened as she discovered four skills that had manifested within her character sheet.
Level three deception represented her skill at manipulating others through subtle misdirection or outright lies. She knew she would be using this skill frequently as she wove intricate webs of lies and half-truths. It would be an important one to level up, enhancing her capacity to deceive and outwit her adversaries.
Stealth, now at level four, granted Victoria an almost supernatural ability to blend seamlessly into the shadows, becoming one with the darkness itself. This skill heightened her natural aptitude for stealth and made her virtually undetectable to her enemies.
Tumbling? She couldn't help but wonder if this newfound skill had indeed emerged due to her journey down the poop chute. It was a decent skill, increasing her agility and nimbleness, allowing her to maneuver in more acrobatic feats, but she hated to think how she got it.
The last skill was the most interesting. She’d been using it without knowing of the skill. Sanguine sight, a manifestation of her vampiric essence, granted Victoria an extraordinary form of perception that extended beyond the limitations of her mortal senses. It allowed her to see the world through a vampiric lens, a crimson-hued veil that unveiled hidden truths and untapped potentials. Through this skill, she could perceive the ebb and flow of life energy, detecting the faintest traces of vitality that pulsed around her.
If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.
Victoria explored her sanguine sight, and slowly became attuned to the subtle nuances of her environment. She could discern the faintest traces of movement, even in the darkest of shadows, and detect the minute fluctuations in body temperature that betrayed the presence of living beings. This supernatural perception allowed her to anticipate the actions of her adversaries, granting her a heightened awareness and the ability to react with unparalleled precision.
She imagined how this ability might grow. Maybe one day, she would be able to see the currents of energy that intertwined within the world, reading the invisible threads that connected all living things. As her fantasy continued, she wondered if this ability could identify weak points in her opponents' defenses, vulnerabilities that eluded mortal eyes. With a skill like that, she would have an unparalleled advantage in combat, enabling her to strike with unparalleled precision and exploit her adversaries' weaknesses.
As Victoria pondered the depths of this newfound ability, she realized that Sanguine Sight was more than just a skill—it was a gateway to understanding her true nature as a vampire. The skill was only at level one and it was already invaluable. She couldn’t wait to explore how it developed in the future.
With time to herself, she thought back to the fragmented memories of her time between her world and this one. She remembered a strange voice that stole her from her world. It told her it would be watching her. Curious, she called out to it. "Voice, can you hear me?" Victoria spoke into the empty room, her words echoing softly. However, no response came, and the silence lingered, leaving her alone with her thoughts.
As she waited for a reply, she focused on her spells, seeking solace and answers within their descriptions. She accessed the detailed information for each spell, hoping to gain a deeper understanding of her psionic abilities.
Charm: The charm spell allows you to exert a subtle influence over the minds of others. By weaving your words and projecting an aura of enchantment, you can persuade and manipulate their thoughts and actions. As you grow in power, your charm becomes even more compelling, making it harder for others to resist your influence.
Telekinesis: Telekinesis is the art of moving objects with the power of your mind. Through intense focus and concentration, you can manipulate the physical world around you. As you advance, your telekinetic abilities will strengthen, enabling you to move larger and heavier objects with ease.
Read Surface Thoughts: This ability grants you access to the surface thoughts of those around you. By delving into their minds, you can gain insights and extract information without their knowledge. As you delve deeper into your psionic powers, this spell evolves into a more advanced form, allowing you to penetrate deeper into the thoughts and memories of your targets.
Mind Spike: Mind Spike unleashes a concentrated burst of psionic energy upon a single target. By channeling your psionic abilities, you can pierce through their mental defenses, causing intense pain and disruption to their consciousness. With each level gained, the power of your Mind Spike intensifies, inflicting greater harm and potentially unlocking new effects.
Dark Step: Dark Step grants you the ability to blend seamlessly into the shadows and move undetected by your enemies. By tapping into your vampiric nature and harnessing the power of darkness, you can become nearly invisible, allowing for stealthy movements and surprise attacks. As you progress, Dark Step will enhance your agility and concealment, making you an elusive and formidable presence.
Victoria absorbed the knowledge presented in the spell descriptions, visualizing herself utilizing these powers to their fullest potential. She felt a gush of excitement and determination as she planned how she would train them.
Though the voice remained silent, she felt a sense of reassurance. It was as if the world was watching and waiting to see how she would navigate her chosen path. Victoria knew she had to embrace her powers, uncover their hidden depths, and use them strategically to overcome the obstacles that awaited her.
She winced as she read the description of the last skill, dark step. A tinge of regret washed over her as she realized the missed opportunity to utilize this ability during her escape from the jail cell. If only she had taken the time to familiarize herself with her spells and abilities, she could have turned the tables in her favor and evaded capture more easily.
She couldn't help but feel a pang of frustration at her oversight. The power to blend into the shadows and move undetected would have been invaluable in navigating the treacherous prison corridors. It was a reminder that thorough knowledge and understanding of her skills were crucial in this world of dangers and challenges.
Victoria made a mental note to delve deeper into her spell repertoire, ensuring she would be well-prepared for future encounters. She couldn't afford to underestimate the potential of her abilities again. The game-like nature of this world demanded her full attention and strategic thinking.
As she closed the spell descriptions, Victoria resolved to learn from her past mistakes and embrace her powers with a newfound determination.
"I heard you calling for me. Don't think for an instant that I'll be here at your beck and call."
The voice said harshly.
"So, you did hear me, and making me wait was just a power play,” Victoria replied. “I get it."
Victoria pressed further, "Who are you and what is this game all about?"
The voice hesitated before revealing, "I am one of many patrons who sponsor the game. Those who enter through the mirror are mine. If one of my champions wins, I will receive certain unnamed benefits."
Victoria was curious. "What kind of benefits? What are the stakes here?"
The voice remained elusive, "The game is more than a simple adventure. It has greater significance, but I can't disclose the details. Just know that there is more at stake than you realize."
Seeking more answers, Victoria pressed on, "What is your role in all of this? Why did you choose me as your champion?"
The voice softened as she revealed, "My name is Esmerelda, and I am one of the patrons who oversee this grand competition. As for why I chose you, there was something unique and promising about you. I sensed potential and a spirit that could rise to the challenges presented here. But remember, your success lies in your own hands. If you reach level 100, you will gain control over this world and I will gain many benefits."
“All this for a crown?”
Esmerelda laughed. “Not a crown. Full authority over the world. The power to change it how you see fit.”
“What happens to the other champions when someone wins the game?” Victoria asked.
“Those from the winning patron will have the choice to stay here or return to their former lives. All those from losing patrons will either be killed or sent off to the next game, depending on their performance.”
Victoria's curiosity grew, and she inquired, "So you have multiple champions? What happened to the previous champions? Are they still here, competing alongside me?"
Esmerelda's voice carried a sense of mystery as she replied, "Indeed, all the previous champions are here, within this realm. They are part of the competition, just like you. Time flows differently in this world compared to your place of origin. Here, all those who ever disappeared and all those who will disappear from your world in the future are gathered together. The competition commenced at the same moment for each of you."
Victoria's mind raced with the implications of Esmerelda's words. She was surrounded by individuals who, like her, had been plucked from their lives and thrown into this otherworldly game. The significance of their shared fate resonated deeply within her. She hesitated before asking, "Is killing other champions the only way for me to level up and grow stronger?"
"No, my dear champion,” Esmerelda said reassuringly. “While defeating other champions does grant you valuable experience and strengthens your abilities, it is not the sole means of growth. Regardless of its source, every kill you make grants you experience that contributes to your development. Furthermore, you will also receive a portion of the experience gained by your summoned companions from their own kills. So, while the battles between champions are significant, they are not the only path to power."
Victoria absorbed this knowledge, realizing that every encounter held the potential for growth and advancement.
Determination ignited within Victoria as she made a firm decision. If she was thrust into this competition, she would embrace the challenge and strive to emerge victorious. She refused to let this mysterious game be a mere backdrop in her life. Instead, she would seize this opportunity to prove her worth and push her limits.
"If I must compete, then I will compete to win. I won't let this world confine me or limit my potential. I'll use every skill, every ounce of strength, and every strategy at my disposal to rise above the rest."
"Very well, Victoria. Show us the fire that burns within you. Unleash your true potential and demonstrate why you are a force to be reckoned with,” Esmerelda said.
With that, Victoria could feel the presence leave her mind. She knew that to succeed in this game, she needed knowledge and information. She couldn't rely solely on her instincts and abilities; she needed to understand the world she was in.
She found her thrall downstairs. "Listen closely," Victoria said. "I require maps and books, knowledge of the world beyond these walls. I need to find a refuge where I can safely spend my daylight hours and gather the information I need to excel in this game. Can you help me?"
The old woman nodded with a hint of eagerness in her eyes. "Of course, mistress. There are rumors of a vampire estate nestled deep within the mountains surrounding this town. It is said to be an ancient abode long abandoned by its previous occupants. It may offer you the refuge you seek."
Victoria felt a spark of excitement at the mention of the vampire estate. It sounded like the perfect hideaway, far from prying eyes and potential threats. The mountains provided a natural barrier, adding an extra layer of protection.
"And what about maps and books?" Victoria inquired. "Where can I find them?"
The old woman's eyes sparkled with knowledge. "Some scholars reside in the eastern part of town, near the university. They possess vast libraries of information. Additionally, there's a reputable bookseller in the market square who may have the books you seek. I will draw you a map of these places."
Victoria nodded, a sense of gratitude welling up within her. "Thank you. Your assistance is invaluable. I shall ensure your loyalty is rewarded."
“I need no reward except your pleasure, mistress,” the thrall replied.
Victoria reached into her pocket and retrieved the coin purse she had looted from the guard's corpse. It was only fair to reward the old woman for her assistance and loyalty. She handed the purse to her thrall and spoke with authority.
"Take this," Victoria said, holding out the coin purse. "Use it to secure transportation for us tomorrow. We need a reliable means to travel to the mountains and establish our refuge in the vampire estate. Find a suitable carriage or any form of transportation that can safely take us there."
The old woman's eyes widened with surprise and gratitude as she accepted the purse. "Thank you, mistress. I shall fulfill your command and make the necessary arrangements. You can count on me."
Victoria nodded, satisfied with the old woman's response. "Make sure everything is prepared before the end of the day. Have the transportation ready before dawn. We shall depart at the break of dawn."
Time passed, and the sun began its descent, casting lengthening shadows across the room. The once-piercing rays of sunlight grew weaker. Emerging from her refuge, she stretched and blinked, a renewed energy coursing through her veins. It was time to venture forth once again, to navigate the intricate dance of this mysterious realm, armed with the clarity and fortitude she had gained during the day.
She stepped out from under the bed with quiet resolve, her senses attuned to the world outside. The old woman entered the room, her weary expression contrasting with the air of accomplishment that surrounded her. Victoria's eyes brightened as she saw the bag in her hands, realizing their preparations were coming together.
"I've arranged everything as you requested," the old woman said, placing the bag on the table. "A coach will arrive before dawn to take you outside the city, to the designated meeting point."
Victoria realized she had no idea when that was exactly. “What time is sunrise?”
“Around 6:00 AM, mistress,” the thrall replied.
Victoria, realizing that she had no way to tell time, asked, “Do you have a timepiece?”
“Unfortunately, no, mistress. I’d be happy to obtain one for you, but I will need more funds.”
Victoria's gaze fell upon the bag, her heart sinking slightly as she noticed the meager contents. She reached inside and felt a few copper coins, realizing that most of the gold and valuables she had given the old woman had been spent on the arrangements. Nonetheless, she maintained her composure, understanding the necessity of the expenses.
"Not at this time. Thank you for your efforts," Victoria replied, her voice laced with gratitude. "You've done well.” Victoria stood in the dimly lit room, the weight of her hunger pressing upon her. She knew all too well the gnawing, insatiable thirst that compelled her to seek sustenance. It was a dark aspect of her existence, one she couldn't ignore. There would surely be bloodshed tonight.
Returning her attention to the old woman who had faithfully served her, "Tell me, dear..." Victoria felt a twinge of guilt for not knowing her name. She paused, realizing her oversight. She cleared her throat, her voice calm but tinged with curiosity. "What is your name?"
The thrall responded without hesitation, her voice respectful and obedient. "Rosella, mistress," she replied, her eyes downcast.
Victoria nodded, acknowledging the woman's name. Rosella had proven to be a valuable ally in this unfamiliar world. With a renewed focus, she continued. "Rosella, among the researchers you recommended, are any of them particularly unscrupulous? I seek knowledge and resources, but I also have a more... primal hunger that needs to be sated."
Rosella furrowed her brow, her mind delving into her memories. Wrinkles etched deeper lines on her face as she pondered the question. After a moment, a flicker of recognition crossed her features, and she spoke cautiously. "Avery Johansen," she said, her voice laced with a hint of warning. "He is known for his unorthodox experiments, delving into dark arts and conducting questionable studies on his subjects. If anyone would fit that description, it would be him."
Victoria absorbed the information, cocking her head in thought. Avery Johansen seemed to align with her dual needs - a source of knowledge and a potential target to satisfy her vampiric urges. She knew she needed to verify the claims and investigate further, but the allure of indulging her darker desires couldn't be denied.
Her emerald eyes glimmered with determination and hunger as she nodded, a decision forming in her mind. "Thank you, Rosella," she said softly. "I appreciate your assistance. I shall look into Avery Johansen. If he proves to be as unscrupulous as rumored, he may become an intriguing prospect for my... hunger."
With those words, Victoria's resolve solidified. She would find a way to sate her primal urges while seeking the knowledge and resources she desired. Avery Johansen would be her target, a fitting vessel for her insatiable thirst.
"Thank you," Victoria said. " Now, get some rest. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow.”
As Rosella shuffled off to find some much-needed sleep, Leroy perched on the table's edge, his eyes glinting with curiosity. "So, what do we have planned for this evening, mistress?" he inquired, his tail swishing back and forth.
A mischievous smile crossed Victoria's face as she met Leroy's gaze. "Tonight, my furry friend, we shall engage in a little thievery. Our purse is empty and I am far too ignorant to survive in this world. We'll use our stealth and cunning to acquire what we need. We're in a new world now and must make the most of our unique abilities."
Leroy's whiskers twitched with excitement. "I'm always up for a good heist," he purred. "Lead the way, mistress."