《Sometimes insanity is the only option》 Wake up and take a step Once again, it has been a dreadful day. I reluctantly wake up and slowly get out of the floor. As I pull back the curtains, the soft or perhaps intense sunlight streams into the room. It has been quite some time since I last feltthe warmth of the sun, having unknowingly isolated myself from the outside world. There is only one life, and despite all the pain, I am determined to move forward. Giving up is not an option... not anymore. Certainly, let''s restructure your text into paragraphs to make it more organized and readable: It''s not a joke anymore, not like it ever was, but... 3 years¡ª almost 3 years without seeing the outside world, isolated from the world. My family was the one that had it harder, as the "Crown prince" of both Bragan?a and Alexandria, I had a lot of responsibilities, but that was easy, after all, I was a prodigy, the genius of both Alexandria and Bragan?a¡ª genius huh... not really. People always praised me for everything I did. Why is that, you ask? Because it''s true I was flawless in everything I did, or at least that''s the way I was perceived. But I am not a genius, and I know that very well. All that they saw was not talent, it was dedication, effort, perseverance, and more. I wasn''t able to do a lot of things correctly, and when it happened, I cried. I would go to my room with some pretext and cry and cry some more. I gave it my all, so much that I would fall asleep dreaming of training, to reach the levels that made people praise me as a prodigy, I put all my effort. Mana, you ask? My mana core was so strained from overuse that I felt pain walking, still, I did not stop because I knew it would work as I planned for my future. Super strength? From where I am from, no one with my age was my equal. Fighting style too, I know a bit of all principal styles, but my main is the "Imperial blade of the deviant," and I''m a deviant master at this point. If I was traveling, I would just use my head to challenge myself, be it with mathematics, etiquette, languages, and more, in other words I would not stop improving myself. It was tough, I won''t lie. I shed so many tears, but you know what? No regrets at all. I poured my heart and soul into becoming a better person. All I ever wanted was to make my family and people proud, and most importantly, be proud of myself for how far I''ve come. And you know what my ultimate dream is? It''s to unite Alexandria and Bragan?a, creating the most epic empire this world has ever laid eyes on! I wanna fight for that number one spot and get all that this world has to offer. After that, the sky''s the limit! I wanna build a freaking paradise, a place where everyone''s just happy and content. I know it won''t be a piece of cake, and it might not seem possible right now, but hey, it''s my dream and one of my biggest goals. Although, I gotta admit, It will take time, even more with my current situation, but I will get to that eventually, first of all I''ll destroy my enemies the ones who made me hide myself from the world... from this cruel world. Huff huff¡ª I''m panting and shivering, and it''s happening once more. I can feel myself starting to tremble, and this is not good. I really need to find a way to calm down before I end up hyperventilating. I hate feeling this way, it''s not like I''m scared... right? But damn, it seems I''m still afraid... why did all of that have to happen? I didn''t want things to end like that, but I was weak. Thinking I could protect myself was my biggest mistake. The thought of not being enough makes me want to cry sob¡ª I don''t want to feel powerless or out of control ever again. All I ever wanted was to be happy with the people I love, so why did that have to happen? This fear just won''t go away, and it hurts so bad. I can''t stop crying, but it also makes me so mad. I feel lost... *Breathing* This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. *** It took some time, but I finally got my head in the right place. It''s frustrating to think about the time I wasted, but that''s just how life goes sometimes. I believe that trauma does not completely vanish, but rather can be effectively managed to a more bearable extent. This is my viewpoint, and I intend to test this hypothesis starting today. All I need is an unwavering conviction. If I don''t help myself get back on my feet, no one else will. Or, at least, they won''t be able to. I am determined to move forward without looking back, without letting my past hold me down or haunt me. Above all, I have the confidence that I will achieve my dream. Which will catch up to me first, my dream or my death? Who knows... I''ll still bet on my dream, though. I''ve always been the type of person who either goes all in or doesn''t go at all. While I don''t mind losing multiple times, whether it''s 10, 100, or even 1000 times, there are times when I am truly invested in winning. In those moments, I give it my all and leave no room for mediocrity. Despite there being only two options - winning or losing - I believe there is a middle ground called intensity that can make the difference. Moving forward, I wonder what day it is today. And which month corresponds to today''s date. I believe I know the year, but it wouldn''t hurt to double-check. It seems to be the 17th of August, 1877. Time passes rather quickly when we are not constantly checking the unfolding events. I am now 21 years old; time certainly flies. It has been almost 3 year since I secluded myself. I am aware of the numerous rumors circulating about me, but I am indifferent towards them. I am more concerned about the reactions that will follow once I reemerge, after carrying out my actions that will undoubtedly astonish my family''s kingdoms, and almost certainly the entire world. First, I will visit my family and apologize for my actions, which include isolating myself despite all the love and support they have shown me. To begin, I need to analyze the current global situation. In order to achieve my objectives, it is essential that I possess a comprehensive understanding of my surroundings. Currently, there are officially recognized 77 empires and 147 kingdoms in existence. Additionally, some autonomous territories exist, although their numbers are relatively small. These territories predominantly fall under the control of churches, as religion heavily influences global dynamics. Hence, it is only natural for such territories to be under their jurisdiction. I was born in the Kingdom of Bragan?a, which is ruled by my father. It holds the 20th position among the most influential territories. Additionally, I have familial connections to the Empire of Alexandria through my mother''s lineage. The global population is nearing 70 billion people, and with a circumference of approximately 330,000 kilometers, the world is well-populated, neither excessively crowded nor sparsely inhabited. Having a larger number of individuals contributes positively to the overall outcome. Achieving the top position out of a group of only 10 people does not generate such a satisfactory feeling. However, attaining the first position among 100 people already starts to evoke a sense of accomplishment. Yet, if we were to compare being first among 70 billion people, the magnitude of that achievement would be unfathomable, leaving me unable to comprehend the emotions experienced by the person in that particular position. I desire power - the ability to destroy my enemies, those who have tormented me, not only that of course. This power would enable me to create a peaceful world, where children can freely laugh, run, and play without the constant fear of danger. While I possess a kind heart, I reserve it for those who have earned it. I am not hesitant to display cruelty when the circumstance demands it, not anymore; however, it is not a preference, but a necessary act. Considering the imperfections that exist within our world, there are times when intervention becomes essential, and I am the one called upon to fulfill that role. I always remember what my mother said to me "freedom is not the power to do everything you want but the power not be subjected to what you don''t want to do", the more I think about it the more I believe that''s what freedom truly is. For now I''ll be using distortion magic to render myself unrecognizable. In addition, I will dye my hair black in order to conceal my naturally white hair and wear brown contact lenses to hide my distinct green and purple eyes. Having so many unique features can be quite problematic when I''m trying to conceal myself. I don''t know anyone with white hair and heterochromia, let alone this rare heterochromia. It is a shame that I must resort to dye my hair and put on contact lenses, even with distortion magic; however, such precautions are necessary as there are always individuals who possess superior magical abilities and can see through my illusions, thus destroying my plans. I find myself in good condition even after isolating myself, my mana circuits are stronger than ever as well as my super human-strength, unfortunately I did not improve my "imperial blade of the deviant" to a higher rank, isolating myself made me complacent in a lot of aspects but at least I did not stop training the basics. There are 10 ranks be it "Magical" or "Superhuman". Imperial blade of the deviant has 9 ranks. (Sword and fighting style) I guess I got somewhat stronger but still far to be able to realize my goals) 18 years - Magical rank - 6 (Master class) - super-human rank - 6 (Master class) - Imperial style rank - 6 (Deviant master) 21 years old - Magical rank - 7 (Regent class) - super-human rank - 7 (Regent class) - Imperial style rank - 6 (Deviant master) I guess now I''m pretty happy, as of today, I decided to meet my family after all this time, I wonder how they''ll react when they see me again. -I giggle a little reminiscing about them. When you isolate yourself, you tend to think too much and do too little. This is currently happening to me; I find myself overthinking without taking much action. Well... A shower for starters before I leave to Bragan?a and let them know I''m back and... what I''m about to do. Half step "Marcus, I will be finished in 10 minutes. Wait for me in the salon," I say. Marcus can be described as a dedicated household assistant, or on a more personal level, my assistant. However, I view him as more than that, considering him something akin to a best friend. Black hair, tanned skin and light blue eyes. He is 23 years old, which means he is 2 years older than me. He''s apparently 180cm so I suppose I''m a little taller, standing at 182cm. "Yes, your highness," Marcus replied, his voice tinged with a hint of contentment. He sure seems happy. The hair has been successfully dyed black, the contact lenses have been put on, and the use of distortion magic is also impeccable. Furthermore, the clothing is of high quality, and a pair of silver glasses serves as a perfect complement for my new identity as Alber. It is time to exit the room. I proceed to open the door and head towards the salon. As I walk through the hallway, I notice an impressive collection of art displayed in the frames that adorn the walls. Undoubtedly, nobility holds art in high regard and provides a dedicated space for its appreciation. Is that Isabella I see next to the salon? Hmm, I believe so. It seems that Isabella is in close proximity to the salon but has not yet noticed my presence. I will seize this opportunity to surprise her. I chuckle at the thought of her flustered expression. She is slightly older than me, but the age gap is not that significant¡ªabout five years, I reckon. Isabella is someone with whom it is enjoyable to engage in conversations, and she has proven to be someone that I value a lot. I conceal my presence and instantly appear in front of her. It takes less than a second for her to notice me and then... Isabella lets out a small gasp, which quickly escalates into a loud scream. Amidst her frightened sobs, she tries to address me as "you thief." Did I hear that correctly? However, she struggles to pronounce it accurately, resulting in something like "yoouuuu thiiiff" or something along those lines, followed by her screaming "Marcuuuus". What did I do to be called a thief? I am left contemplating my actions, wondering what I could have possibly done to be labeled as a thief but before I could think of what I did Marcus appears from the salon and focuses his attention on me, as well as Isabella, multiple times before bursting into laughter. "Wha...?" I exclaimed, along with Isabella. Isabella, upon hearing my voice, quickly approaches Marcus with an expression of doubt, embarrassment and a little bit of anger. She demands to know why he is laughing. I would like to inquire about the matter as well. Explain yourself, Marcus. This is what I think but do not say it out loud though. Marcus greeted me with laughter in his voice as he respectfully addressed me, "Your highness." In response, Isabella''s gaze focused on me, her expression a mixture of embarrassment and lingering anger but softening the more she looked at me. It was at that precise moment that realization struck me, and I found myself uttering, "Oh, shit". I exclaim "surprise" in an attempt to mask my current feeling of embarrassment, as I had inadvertently forgotten that I had concealed my presence. This time I use distortion magic to make me look like the real me. Isabella gazes at me with a genuinely startled expression. It appears evident that she was completely caught off guard by this fun or maybe not so fun, turn of events. "Your highness, I was unaware that it was you. I deeply apologize for mistakenly labeling you as a thief." Isabella apologizes sincerely. "Everything is alright. I just wanted to play a prank on you, but it seems like I ended up going too far". I say "No way, there''s no need to apologize, more importantly why are you here, Your Highness?" Isabella inquires, indicating some degree of joy. "I have come here to discuss certain matters with Marcus. I must leave now, but let''s catch up to talk later, Isabella," I said. "Of course, Your highness ," Isabella replied happily. "Shall we, Marcus?" I asked. If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. "Yes, Your highness," Marcus answered. I bid farewell to Isabella and entered the salon, taking a seat at the table with Marcus facing me. "Marcus, you do have an idea of what I am about to do, am I right?" I say nonchalantly. "I can''t say that I don''t know, but I also can''t say that I know for sure, I have some vague idea," Marcus says. "Putting aside small talk, let''s get to the point, Marcus. But first, you have to promise me that what I say here stays here," I say with a serious face. "I swear, Raphael, what I hear here will be known only by the two of us," Marcus says. I smile. That''s what I expected to hear. "Blood rose, does it ring any bells?" I say. "Blood rose? Are you perhaps talking about the vampires'' strongest empire?" Markus asks somewhat reluctant. Blood rose rank''s 3rd place in strength between all territories so I guess he''s quite shocked to hear me mention it, after all it''s not just about me choosing a strong empire but choosing the vampire''s strongest empire. "Yes, that blood rose, my objective is bloodrose''s royal family blood". I say determined. Marcus slams his hands on the table with a good amount of force and... "Are you being serious? Don''t say something like that again, that''s a no. I''m not letting you do something that stupid, do you want every person you love dead? You don''t only want the blood from someone of the bloodrose empire, you want from the royal family too? You''re not thinking straight." Marcus says with anger. I open my eyes a bit more than normal in surprise of what I heard, but I guess it''s understandable after all, they''re the first in line descendants of the progenitor Giure Grando and one that is not his descendant does not have the right to share the same blood as him, at least that''s what they preach and they showed it with actions too. I look at him directly in the eyes and say "not stupid, not crazy, just tired of being still". He looks at me with disbelief and disappointment "I thought you were finally making the first steps towards your future but now...". Marcus says with disappointment. "But now what? I thought you were with me on this" I said with a smile that''s not really a smile. "I never said that, I said that no one would know what was discussed here, not that I would go with with your crazy plan". Marcus says with traces of anger in his voice. "You didn''t even let me tell you my plans, you just heard a part so calm yourself and listen". I say. "No, I''m not going to help you with this". Marcus says with anger stamped in his voice. "Marcus" I say . "No, this conversation is over, I''m leaving". Marcus says. "Marcus?¡ª Hey Marcus? Are you there? At least answer me. For Cleveland''s sake will you answer me?". I say. "Cle... Cleveland? You kno..." Marcus says "Yes, I know, of course I know, there''s no way I wouldn''t know don''t you think? After all these years together, did you really think I wouldn''t know your past trauma?" I say. "If you knew then... why? Why did you never bring that up?" Marcus says with a mix of anger and sadness in his voice. "Do you really need me to explain it out loud? Traumas are better when they are left to be forgotten, don''t you think? Why would I bring your traumatic past up? To satisfy my curiosity? I could, I for sure could, but you should know very well the type of person I am." I start saying all this with a serious face but it seems that it turned into a smile gradually. "So? Have you decided to listen to me now? I ask. "Apologies, I lost my composure. However, please explain to me why you intend to go to such extremes, even if you haven''t experienced their brutality and methods when it comes to their ''pure blood''. I assume you are aware of how ugly things can get when that topic is touched upon." Marcus says uncomfortably. "Yes, I know, but allow me to ask you how strong do you think I am?" I say it, curious of what Marcus is going to say. "Overall or all of your rankings??" Marcus asks. "Both" I answer. "In Bragan?a and Alexandria, you are undoubtedly strong, but in the stronger territories, you are only slightly above average," Marcus says. "You have reached the 6th rank in the magical ranking and 6th too in the super-human rankings. "You would be a absolutely correct if you had said that one year before." I say grinning a little. "You mean..." Marcus says but pauses and looks at me from head to toe. "Bingo, I may have secluded myself from a lot of things, including putting my responsibilities to the side, but still I did not give up everything, not my potential at least", I say while grinning. "So you''re still getting stronger Raphael, I would expect nothing less from my best friend." Marcus says with a smile that goes from ear to ear. "For someone that says all that it seemed as though you did not think I had been putting the effort before I said I got better." I look at Marcus straight in the eyes. "Well, I guess I had a tiny bit of a doubt but I still trusted you, you know I''m always here. Changing the subject why did you not tell me before?" Marcus looks at me questioningly. "... Surprise" I say after a moment hesitation. "Ahah, you and your surprises, I guess that''s expected coming from you." Marcus says with a smile. "Now, let''s get to the main event" I say with a malefic grin. "Can''t really take you serious when you make those faces ahah." Marcus say laughing. Ahah, it feels good not being constrained by rules all the time." I say matter of fact. I said I wanted bloodrose''s royal blood and you became too mad to even listen to me, but did you know there are ways to acquire it that would not cause nothing as close to a war? Marcus gazes at me with a quizzical expression, as if seeking clarity on my words. "What I am attempting to convey is that the general population of bloodrose is ranked 6th in the magical system and 7th in the superhuman system, they also use the bloodrose system to fight but even I don''t know much about it. Having said that, they are equal to me in the superhuman system, and are only 1 rank below me in the magical system these rankings solely pertain to ordinary individuals." I stated as matter of fact. "Do you understand the point I am trying to make?". I ask. "I don''t your highness " Marcus replies. "Of course you don''t, I did not answer my previous question ahah." I say while chuckling a bit. -_- "Sorry, just messing with you a bit my friend ahah" I say it while grinning. "Bloodrose is strong, too strong and I want their blood. Why you ask? Because I need power to reach my objectives and I will not be able to do it if not by such an extreme take. "You said there''s a way to get the blood without making it all come to war. What''s that way you were talking? "Good. So are you finally going to listen?". I question him. "Yes, Your highness. Sorry again for my outburst and the words I said" Marcus says with a nervous type of voice. "It does not matter. I understand why you made the statement, but I kindly request that you refrain from interrupting with questions until the end of the discussion. Otherwise, I may not have sufficient time to fully explain everything today." "Yes, your highness" Marcus says resolutely. "For starters I''ll get my hands on blood rose''s blood, depending on the ways I can be injected with the blood making me a "half blood" or injecting it myself making me a human with vampire blood that is if I survive the second option". I say. But I don''t plan to go with the second option, as the first is what I was aiming for the start". I say But, would any vampire willingly gi...". Marcus says or at least tries. I''ll answer all your questions in the end so for now just listen" I say. "Yes, your highness"Marcus says somewhat embarrassed. "Do you remember my first love?" I ask. "Your first love? I think her name is Lenore but I don''t know who she is you never really talked about her, even when your best friend asked you and asked time and time again you never told him, how sad being bestfriend of someone like this¡ª sob, sob." Marcus says while feigning tears. "Huhh, well I was somewhat shy and well this and that happened and then that and well, you do understand me right?" I say somewhat embarrassed. "No." "No need to be so cold I''m at least telling you now." I say sending him a smile while some sweat drops falling from my forehead. Stupid sweat "Ahah tell me then I''m all hears Rapha" Marcus says smiling "You really need to choose what to call me, first it''s "Your highness" then "Raphael" and now "Rapha". You sure are indecisive ahah, not like I mind that much but try using my name Marcus. Rapha or Raphael is good enough." I say and give him a wink. "Hum, okay if you prefer. What''s the wink for by the way? Marcus says while giving me a wink too. "Ahah, the same as you I guess." Now, hear this with all your attention cause what I''ll say now you''re not expecting in the least." Stepping outside "Now, about Lenore¡ª her full name is Lenore Bloodrose." "What th-!?" Marcus jaw almost touches the table and it seems it''s his first time seeing the world with how big he has his eyes opened. "Surprise" "Ah-! No... I don''t hav¡ª e words. Lenore Bloodrose the 7th vampire princess?!!" "That''s life for you" I say with a smile and sweat bidding on my forehead. "You jest" Marcus says "Sure not" I say "I met Lenore when I was 15, at the Ishtar the territory of royalty, it was love at first sight I got nervous, nervous enough to be perceived that I was nervous, I remember the day as if it was yesterday. I met her 10 times in total after that day. "Huh." "What?" I say. "Just processing" Marcus says like he had received too much information at once. "So let me get this straight, you pretend to make her your woman?" Marcus ask with a serious tone. "Yes, I plan to make her my woman" I say it blushing somewhat. "I don''t know of your relationship but I guess it will not be easy" "Easy or not, I need to try, I''m still deeply in love even after all this time" "But it''s been years she maybe moved on or wor..." Marcus is cut abruptly. "We send letters to each other" I say embarrassingly. "Oh¡ªhuh... you don''t stop surprising me. You did that even after isolating yourself?" Says Marcus with an intrigued expression. "Well, yeah, even after isolating myself I could not bring myself to stop contacting her." I say my ears red. "It seems you thought more than I imagined" "Yeah, well, I like to do things when I''m almost sure how they''ll go" I say. "My plan is to make her my woman, and ask her to make me a "vampire". "After that, I''ll be training one year to be sure to get my new me to peak condition, reaching rank 8 in super strength will be a massive improvement". I say pausing for a moment to make sure he is listening carefully. "But that is just the beginning, I''ll be aiming for the 10th ranks by other words the system top rankings." I say confidently. Marcus looks at me with an incredulous expression. There''s only a handful of individuals who maxed one system and even less both of them, his reaction proves to be what I expected but it''s somewhat sad that he thinks of my plan as not that viable. "When I get stronger I''ll be participating in the Superpower of the seven kingdoms, (a tournament including both my family kingdom/empire and five others to find the strongest powers of our nations) with my identity concealead for the whole tournament, revealing myself at the end". I say. Getting myself the attention of all watching the tournament will send a message to the world "Prince Raphael has returned" the rest does not matter, I only need those words circulating, that will be enough to send a message to the ones who destroyed my life, tortured me scarring my body, all to satisfy their jealousy, but the ones I can''t really forget are the ones who kidnapped me to try and satisfy their sexual desires, fortunately before they could do anything to me, I destroyed my reasoning with insanity allowing me to break my bones cutting parts of my flesh with it and getting out of there, cause if not... I don''t think I would have the strength to be here. "Afterward, I''ll begin my vengeance and with the widespread knowledge of my return, they are bound to reappear, but this time I''ll be the one making the rules and the shedding of blood shall be the last of their concerns" I say calmly, yet brimming with fury. Marcus remains silent, looking at me with a sorrowful expression, that''s expected, after all, he was the only one i truly told my "not so pretty" past. "Is it really necessary to resort to blood rose''s royal blood? Have you considered other options?" Marcus inquires. "While there are indeed other alternatives, none of them are as effective or efficient as this particular method," I respond. "Understood. I won''t question you further. I do comprehend the majority of what you have explained," Marcus acknowledges. "What are your orders, Raphael?" Marcus asks. "Have you been able to communicate with my father regarding the previous matter?" I inquire. "Yes. He has been informed and all necessary arrangements have been made. You simply need to present yourself before His Majesty," Marcus assures.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. "Good. I will step outside momentarily to take in some fresh air and gather the latest news firsthand. Please inform me promptly if any unforeseen events occur," I state. Using distortion magic, I assume my Alber identity once again. "Yes, allow me to accompany you outside." Marcus says. "Very well," I reply. Marcus opens the door to the salon, politely waiting for me to exit so that he can accompany me. As we make our way towards the exit, we continue our conversation. "It seems our conversation ends here. I''ll see you later," I say. "Until later, Raphael" Marcus bids farewell. After spending a significant amount of time confined, the sensation of the wind against my body, coupled with the warmth of the sun and the fragrance of the city, proves to be remarkably invigorating. M¨¦rida, with its unchanging beauty, captivates me just as it did when I first arrived. There are a considerable number of people around; however, I fail to discern any specific topic that captivates my interest. After a bit of consideration, I contemplate visiting either a tavern or guild, as they typically provide up-to-date information. Considering proximity, I opt to proceed towards the tavern. As I approach the tavern, I observe a significant gathering surrounding a pianist. After his performance concludes, I may take the opportunity to showcase my own skills and assess if my musical abilities remain intact. "Excuse me, sir," a woman said. "Is she talking to me?" I turn to my right and notice a woman, approximately 35 years old, standing and staring at me. "Good morning, madam. Is there something you would like to discuss with me?" I inquired politely. "What do you think about making a donation to the Church of Hope?" the woman said. "You mean the Church of Hope? Could you elaborate?" I inquired further. "Yes, sir. The Church of Hope is seeking donations to aid individuals facing difficult situations, such as food shortages or lack of shelter," the woman explained. "I''m not interested. I have plans to personally assist those in need in the future, so donating to the Church of Hope doesn''t align with my intentions," I responded. "However, sir, the more you assist others, the better your karma will be. The God of Hope never forgets those who lend a helping hand," the woman insisted. The god of hope uh. "I assure you, I won''t forget either," I said, providing a slight smile. "Excuse me? What do you m..." the woman attempted to inquire, but I interrupted her with my words. "I mean exactly what I said. I will help those in need myself, so rest assured, even without donating to the Church of Light, I will still perform good deeds. That being said, if you''ll excuse me, I need to go test my music abilities." I say with a grin on my face. The woman regarded me with disapproval. However, before she could utter another word, I swiftly headed towards the piano. I guess her approach was to be expected. With my new identity as Alber Villarreal, my appearance gives off an air of nobility, and one would assume that someone of noble status possesses wealth. I don''t oppose donating to assist those in need. On the contrary, I value such acts. However, the Church of Hope only allocates 20% of the donated funds towards noble causes, while the remaining amount is utilized to enhance the churches and enrich themselves. Ordinary individuals might not be aware of this, but I am, and it doesn''t seem like the most suitable church for charitable donations. "Excuse me, sir. May I have your permission to play the piano for a brief period?" The man observes me closely, seemingly analyzing my abilities. "Please show me your hands," the man requests firmly. "Here you go," I reply, offering my hands. "Hmm... You appear to have some knowledge of piano playing. I trust that I won''t be disappointed, as musicians often support one another. Please proceed," the man agrees. "Thank you, I assure you that you won''t be let down," I say confidently, with a smile on my face. "Let''s see what you''re capable of," the man expresses his curiosity. Taking a seat on the piano bench, I quickly adjust my hands. Today, I believe I will perform "Benevolent Society" as it seems appropriate. This is the moment, a profound sense of tranquility envelops me as I immerse myself in the music. The melodic tones, delicately slow and enchanting, captivate all those who hear it. With each note, my heart quickens, urging me to embrace this euphoria. Simultaneously, my skin tingles with a peculiar sensation - a manifestation of discovering a talent that exudes immense potential and renders all else mundane. Irrespective of one''s mindset, the power of good music renders the mind blank, ensuring not a single note goes unnoticed. As I conclude my performance, I hear the resounding noises of the crowd screaming for more. While I am left contemplating whether to fulfill their desires, I realize that I did it to satisfy my own artistic yearnings. *There is a wave of loud cheering.* "Remarkable talent, young man," complimented the man who had been present earlier, his smile radiant. "I suppose it felt quite satisfying to me too," I replied, allowing a slight giggle to escape. "Play again," one voice urged. "Go for it, young sir," encouraged another. "Show us more of your music," chimed in someone else. "Keep playing," echoed yet another request. "That experience was inexplicably calming. I must admit, they certainly know how to motivate someone," remarked the man with a content smile. "If I were any more timid, I might be blushing right now. You''re absolutely right," I replied with a smiling face. "What do you think about performing at the ''Musical of M¨¦rida''?" inquired a man stepping forward from the crowd. "The ''Musical of M¨¦rida''? Are you a talent scout, by any chance?" I asked in return. "I suppose I needn''t have said much. Yes, you''re correct. We are constantly in search of new talents, and I must say, I have found one today. What are your thoughts on my proposal?" the man asked. "A good proposal indeed, but I must decline. I am here visiting solely for business purposes and have no intention of staying much longer. I would consider your proposal more seriously if I were a resident here," I state. Hmm, that is truly a shame, especially now that I thought I had found the one. However, here is my contact information. If you ever change your mind, you know who to call," the man says bidding farewell. I watch the man going his way while thinking of all the things I still need to do. "Well, thank you sir for letting me use your piano" I say. There''s no need for that, as I mentioned earlier, musicians always support one another. Just look at the audience you have gathered; I couldn''t ask for more." The man replies, his face beaming with a smile. "I promised not to disappoint you," I reply, with a light giggle. "Well, I must bid you farewell. I hope your piano career progresses smoothly," I convey. "It''s a pity you''re leaving so soon, but such is life. Take care, my friend," he says. I smile, acknowledging his words, and turn away. I overhear people discussing my departure. Such is always the way; nothing remains forever, and I am no exception. Nevertheless, thank you for listening to me; it brought me a little joy and reinforced my belief that I can strive for more. People often underestimate the value of constructive criticism, but it can indeed make a great difference. I proceed towards the tavern, seeking to gather information on the latest news. As I walk, I gaze at the sky and reflect that a day like today is perfect for a change of pace. The tavern comes into view. It is a place where people are always boisterous, but I find no fault in that. It''s good to have a few places where one can speak and act freely, without the need to conform constantly. Let''s see how reliable the information gathered here is. I step inside the tavern. People take notice of my presence, but swiftly return to their conversations. Though, as always, some continue to stare. *loud talking* I approach a table, pull out a chair, and sit, patiently waiting for the server. After roughly a minute, a lovely woman with copper brown hair approaches me. "Good day, have you decided what you would like to order, sir?" the server asks. I haven''t made up my mind yet, but I request an ale since it seems to be the beverage of choice here. "I''ll have an ale for now," I reply. "Have you seen him? *No, I believe he is new here* It seems people talk without realizing that others can hear them, or perhaps they simply don''t care. "One ale coming right up," the server assures me. "What are your thoughts on the war in Barbuda? A man seated at a nearby tableinquires. "In my opinion, Barbuda should surrender. Despite receiving assistance from other territories, it seems highly unlikely that they will emerge victorious at this stage," expressed a stout man seated at a nearby table. Another individual chimed in, remarking, "If Barbuda surrenders, they will simply become another empire to be absorbed." A war huh I guess it''s not uncommon for wars to exist but what is the opposite force that Barbuda is going against, I think to myself. "The strong naturally absorb the weak that''s only natural. I cannot defend Barbuda; they were foolish to engage in the mass production of vampire blood," asserted a fellow patron. Vampire blood? Could it be that... No, it couldn''t possibly be Blood Rose, as they would have been absorbed long ago. It must be Pret¨®ria or Vladimino. "The attendant approached with my beer in hand and stated, "Your ale is here, sir." Curious about the outcome of the war, I questioned, "Who do you believe will prevail?" Puzzled, the attendant responded, "Well, predicting the outcome of a war is challenging. However, from the start, Pret¨®ria was considered the likely victor. Even if Barbuda were to miraculously triumph, other vampire empires would undoubtedly lend their support. Out of all the foolish choices they could make, Barbuda ventured into mass producing vampire blood. Even a child knows the stupidity in that." It made sense. Pret¨®ria ranked closely to Barbuda at 27th place, if memory serves me right. Nevertheless, vampires-by their very nature-are a formidable, warrior-like race, embracing the notion of fighting to survive and living to fight. Such is the common understanding. "I agree, they''re for sure not the brightest crayons in the box" I remark, allowing a slight chuckle to escape while doing so. The attendant gave me a quizzical look, as if contemplating the workings of my mind. I couldn''t help but find amusement in the fact that I, too, was about to embark on an endeavor that may lack wisdom, though not to the extent of entertaining the idea of mass producing vampire blood. "Well, sir, they surely displayed a lack of intelligence with their actions. If you''ll excuse me, I must attend to other customers," the attendant politely excused herself. As I watch her go, I contemplate my life an the things I still have to do. Time to move As I prepare to depart from the cozy tavern, I raise my hand slightly to catch the attention of the attendant. Carefully, I place two rupi bronze coins on the worn tabletop, signifying the cost of the refreshing ale I enjoyed. Noticing the payment, the attendant promptly approaches and collects the coins, her smile reflecting a sense of gratitude. "Hope you come back, sir," the attendant says warmly, extending a sincere invitation. "Perhaps, one day," I respond, reciprocating her smile with a gentle one of my own. As I rise and make my way towards the tavern''s exit, I seize the opportunity to employ telecommunication magic to inform Marcus of my new plans. "Marcus, can you hear me?" I utter, my voice resonating through the magical connection. "Raphael, is everything alright?" Marcus inquires, his concern evident in his tone. "Yes, everything''s fine. I''m reaching out to inform you about what I''m about to do," I reveal. "I wasn''t expecting to hear from you through this form of magic. I must admit, I''m both surprised and intrigued by the nature of this communication," Marcus responds with curiosity. "While I was stepping out for a breath of fresh air, I decided to stop by the tavern, and guess what I heard¡ªBarbuda has chosen to proceed with the plan of mass-producing vampire blood," I disclose. "Yeah, it''s been a hot topic lately, but what are you thinking?" Marcus asks, his hope mingled with a hint of worry, desperately hoping it''s not what he suspects. "Oh, nothing much. I just had this fleeting idea of visiting Pret¨®ria," I casually reply, feigning nonchalance. "Ah... you really¡ªnever mind. Just let me know when you''re going and if you''d like me to come along," Marcus offers, his concern evident in his voice. "There''s no need, Marcus. It''ll be a quick visit, as I mentioned," I assert matter-of-factly. "I''d like to say ''don''t do anything stupid,'' but at the very least, don''t get caught," Marcus sighs, his worry palpable. "Who do you take me for? Of course, I won''t get caught doing anything wrong, after all I''m just going to visit. One or two days should be enough to sightseeing" I retort, a faint smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "If you say so I''ll trust you, but don''t forget to call me in case something unexpected occurs" "Of course, I... I''ll call you later. Before Marcus can respond further, the telecommunication magic abruptly ceases, cutting off our connection. "Show yourselves," I command, my voice carrying a calm yet unmistakably hostile tone. They may believe their silence will deceive me, that I''ll doubt my instincts. However, in moments like these, I''ve learned that nothing spurs action more effectively than embracing the raw power of bloodlust." I exude an aura of bloodlust, sensing the palpable tremors emanating from the group of five surrounding me. With each step I take towards them... "Wait!" interrupts a young man, appearing to be around my age. Undeterred, I continue moving forward, taking another step and then another. "Wait, please, and hear us out," the young man implores, his voice quivering but determined. The rest of his group remains silent, wisely opting to withhold their words, for they would struggle to speak coherently in their current state. This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. "And why should I wait?" I assert, still emanating bloodlust. The young man, whom I perceived as their leader, attempted to regain his composure and clarify, "We weren''t following you with any intention to rob you. Please, allow us to..." However, before he could finish his explanation, I abruptly cut him off. "Yes, you were. I don''t mind hearing your explanation, but I won''t tolerate any lies," I responded with hostility, making my stance clear. As he opened his mouth to speak, one member of his "thief group" suddenly began throwing up, causing everyone to tense up. The young man, his voice filled with both fear and hope, pleaded, "We didn''t mean to mess with you. Please, stop with your hostility and give us a chance to explain." "Done. Now tell me why you decided to rob me, and don''t think you can lie" I say with a serious tone. Admitting their intentions, the young man mustered the courage to speak truthfully. "I want to be honest with you," he began, his voice tinged with vulnerability. "We were desperate for money. Times have been tough, and we were struggling to make ends meet. No one wants to hire us because of our reputation, and we were left with no other options. Stealing seemed like the only way to survive, even though deep down, we knew it was wrong. We deeply regret our actions and are genuinely sorry for what we did." His words hung heavy in the air, filled with a mix of desperation and remorse. The other members of the group stood silently, their expressions mirroring the young man''s sentiment. It was evident that their actions were driven by desperation rather than malice. Listening to their confession, a wave of empathy washed over me. I understood the harsh reality of trying to survive in an unforgiving world. While their choices were misguided, it was clear that their circumstances had forced them into a corner. Taking a deep breath, I softened my tone and spoke with compassion. "I hear your words, and I understand the difficult circumstances you''re facing. Desperation can lead us down some dark paths. However, it''s crucial to acknowledge the consequences of your actions. I implore you to reflect on the choices you''ve made and search for a different path¡ªone that allows you to rebuild your lives with honesty and integrity." Their eyes filled with a mixture of gratitude and relief as they absorbed my words. They knew that they had been given a second chance, an opportunity to break free from the cycle of desperation and wrongdoing. "I offer you this chance," I continued, my voice gentle yet resolute. "But remember, the road to change is not an easy one. It will require commitment, self-reflection, and a genuine effort to make amends. I hope you''ll embrace this opportunity and strive to become better versions of yourselves and..." "...while I acknowledge your apology, it''s important to remember that an apology alone does not mean much. I kindly request that you and the members of your ''group'' undress, leaving only your underwear". I convey this message calmly, yet with utmost seriousness. "Undress? You''re not thinking about... please no don''t do it." Says the young man desperately "Yes, don''t do it please." Another member of the group adds, his voice filled with concern. "What did we do to deserve this?". One of the women in the group questions, her voice filled with confusion and anxiety. "Hypocrites... the hypocrisy displayed by some of you is too much. You exploit others but resist experiencing the same fate. Have you considered how it feels when the tables are turned? You believed your unity made you invincible, but to me, it simply reveals a group of individuals unaware of the harsh realities of life. I will not repeat myself. I urge you to undress before you come to regret it." My words are straightforward, neither conveying happiness nor sadness, but merely stating the facts." The group casts pleading gazes in my direction, their eyes filled with desperation, yet no voice dares to speak out. Slowly, they begin to disrobe, removing every article of clothing save for their underwear. A sense of anguish fills the air as some among them appear on the verge of tears. In this harrowing moment, the bitter reality of a robbery comes to life. "For starters this is pretty much what you feel when you''re being robbed; I demand and you comply." Reflecting on my past, I realize that I once lacked the capacity for such actions. However, life has taught me that profound lessons often arise from moments of pain. I have come to accept and embrace this previously unfamiliar aspect of my character, understanding that excessive amiability can leave one vulnerable to losing everything. There are times when it becomes crucial to embrace a certain level of ruthlessness, but always accompanied by a discerning eye that carefully evaluates the circumstances at hand. There are individuals whose lives have undoubtedly been severely impacted by their actions, so why should they be exempt from experiencing the consequences they have caused? "I''m marking your mana signature, there will be no second time." I state. It is possible to mark the mana signature of an individual who possesses weaker magical abilities than you in order to discern if they are being truthful. "We understand" says the leader of the group. As the group stood before me, clad only in their undergarments, the weight of their actions hung heavily in the air. They wore expressions of remorse and resignation, aware that their attempt at robbing me had led them down a path they never intended to tread. I decide to return the clothes I asked them to take off. I have no intention of robbing them; my only aim is to help them wake up to reality. As they look at me with skeptical expressions, their thoughts may be filled with questions about why I am returning their clothes. "Dress yourselves," I say, my voice now devoid of hostility but filled with firmness. "Consider this moment as a turning point in your lives¡ªa chance to confront the consequences of your actions and reflect on the path you''ve chosen." Relieved yet uncertain, the group hastily retrieves their clothing, each movement a reminder of the weight of their choices. As they redress, the lines of regret and understanding etch themselves onto their faces. Approaching them once they are fully clothed, my gaze remains steady and unwavering. "I offer you a second chance," I assert. "It is now up to you to seize it and redirect the course of your lives." They stand before me, gratitude and trepidation shining in their eyes. Uncertain about what lies ahead, they seek guidance, waiting for the next step. "Reflect on your actions," I continue, my tone firm. "Understand the consequences and let them shape your growth. Take responsibility for your choices and strive to make amends wherever possible and take this." Reaching into my spatial ring, I retrieved a small card containing my contact information. Holding it in my hand, I spoke with a firm yet compassionate tone, "If you find yourselves truly struggling to get your lives back on track, don''t hesitate to reach out to me. This card holds my contact information. Use it wisely, and remember that there is always a chance for a path towards a better life." I extended the card towards the young man, ensuring that he understood the weight of the gesture. His eyes widened with a mix of surprise and gratitude as he accepted the card, realizing that a lifeline had been extended to him and his companions. With a nod of acknowledgment, I turned away, allowing them to process the opportunity before them. It was up to them to take the first steps towards a brighter future, but the knowledge that someone believed in their potential might serve as a guiding light in their darkest moments. As I continued on my journey towards Pret¨®ria, a sense of fulfillment accompanied me. The act of offering assistance to those in need, even in the face of their transgressions, resonated deeply within me. I knew that the road to change was a challenging one, but I hoped that my gesture would serve as a catalyst for their transformation, reminding them that they were not alone in their pursuit of a better life. With those final words, I turn away, allowing them to find their own path forward. Their journey of growth is not mine to chart, but I hope they will grasp the significance of this moment and embrace the right way. Pretória With a renewed sense of purpose, I continued on my journey towards Pret¨®ria, one of the lands where vampire''s live . As I ventured forth, I relied on my flying magic to cover great distances swiftly and efficiently. Flying magic does not consume too much of my mana reserves anymore, I guess as I am now I could fly for 3 hours at a maximum speed of 500km/h, not that I pretend to test it out. My destination was the teleport-order, known for its intricate network of teleport portals. These portals allowed travelers to traverse vast distances in an instant, saving both time and energy. It was my hope that I could find a teleport portal in M¨¦rida that would transport me directly to Pret¨®ria. After hours of flying, I finally reached the teleport-order of M¨¦rida, a land of lush forests and enchanting rivers. It was a sight to behold, and the presence of magic permeated the air. As I descended towards the city, I noticed the distinct shimmering glow of teleport portals scattered throughout the landscape. Navigating through the city streets, I inquired about the location of the teleport portals that could lead me to Pret¨®ria. The locals, with their friendly demeanor, pointed me towards the central teleportation hub, a place bustling with travelers and magic practitioners from all walks of life. As I approached the hub, I could feel the hum of energy in the air. The teleport portals were arranged in a circular formation, each glowing with its unique signature hue. The magic-infused atmosphere filled me with a sense of anticipation, knowing that soon I would be on my way to Pret¨®ria. I walked up to the information desk, where a helpful attendant greeted me with a warm smile. "How may I assist you today?" she asked. "I seek passage to Pret¨®ria," I replied, my voice steady and determined. "Do you have any teleport portals that can take me there?" The attendant nodded, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Indeed, we have a portal that can transport you directly to Pret¨®ria. It''s right through that blue-glowing portal over there," she said, pointing towards a shimmering archway radiating a cool azure light. "The cost of utilizing the portal will be 6 gold rupi coins. Usually, the price would be half of what it currently is, but due to the ongoing war situation, prices have risen." Says the attendant. I then took my platinum card (card of royalty)from my spatial ring and gave the card to the attendant. After showing my card to the attendant, she became quite flustered; after all the card that I gave her makes me able to pass the portals without paying, guess this is one of the perks of being royalty. I take of my distortion magic, I would need to do it either way, before I enter the portal, it is necessary to verify our identity via a magical machine. "I!- I did not know I was talking to prince Raphael forgive my somewhat blunt way of speaking." The attendant says flustered. "There''s no need for that, I may be a prince but I''m a person just like you." I say with a smile. "With your permission, you may place your hand here" I guess I just put my hand on this magic board and it identifies my identity. "It''s done, thank you very much for using our services" The attendant says flustered. "Thank you for attending me" I say with a smile. No need to conceal my identity while in Pret¨®ria, so goodbye for a bit my "Alber" ego ahah. After being directed towards the portal I should enter, I made my way towards the designated portal. As I approached, a surge of anticipation coursed through my veins. I had come this far, and now, with each step closer to the portal, I felt the weight of the task ahead. With a deep breath, I stepped into the portal, feeling the familiar sensation of magic enveloping me. In an instant, I found myself transported to Pret¨®ria, a land shrouded in mystery and intrigue. As I emerged from the portal, I took a moment to survey my surroundings. The air was thick with an elevated quantity of magic energy, and the sight before me confirmed the rumors I had heard about Pret¨®ria. An empire shrouded in darkness but at the same time the red buildings illuminated all including the sky, giving it a dark red hue, the moon was a mixture of red and white. There were a lot of enchanting red and black buildings in a gothic style, it is so difficult to explain how the colors complement the atmosphere with so much harmony. A feast for the eyes But first I need to confirm my arrival with the guards of Pret¨®ria. As I made my way through the enchanting city of Pret¨®ria, I approached the grand gates guarded by formidable-looking sentinels. Their eyes glowed with an otherworldly intensity, hinting at the power they possessed... I would win in a fight though.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. "Halt! State your name and purpose of visit." One of the guards commanded, raising an ornate spear as a warning. "I am Prince Raphael of Bragan?a, and I come in peace," I declared, showing them my royal insignia to confirm my identity. The guards exchanged a brief glance, recognizing the emblem of Bragan?a as well as Alexandria stamped on my attire. "Welcome to Pret¨®ria, Prince Raphael," the other guard said, bowing slightly. "What brings you to our empire?" ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª "I came here to visit, that''s all.¡± I say with a genuine smile. "You came here just to visit? Is that your only reason?" The guard eyes me skeptically. "Yes, I''ll be leaving in two days, so I want to enjoy Pret¨®ria to the fullest," I reply matter-of-factly. "I must tell you, the country is currently at war." The guard reminds me. "That''s not a major concern for me. I have faith that your side will be the victor, and besides, I am confident in my ability to protect myself. I''m here to explore and learn more about your culture, make friends, and experience everyday life," I explain, still maintaining a friendly smile. "Learn more about us?" "Yes, precisely. I''m interested in your customs and traditions, and I wish to make meaningful connections with the locals while I have the chance. Just the simple things in life," I clarify. The guard studies me for a moment, seemingly intrigued by my response. "Well, I can appreciate your curiosity and enthusiasm.¡± He says, nodding slowly. "Just be cautious during your stay. War brings its challenges, and it''s not something to be taken lightly." "I understand, and I will certainly be cautious.¡± I assure him. "I believe that even in difficult times, there''s always something to learn and appreciate about a place and its people." He seems to relax a bit, perhaps acknowledging my sincerity. "Alright then, I hope you have a safe and meaningful visit. If you need any assistance or information while you''re here, don''t hesitate to ask." "Thank you, I appreciate that," I respond gratefully. ¡°Oh, wait.¡± ¡°Huh?¡± I look behind me to see the guard coming towards me. ¡°Is there something I forgot to do?¡± I ask the guard. ¡°No no, nothing like that, I just wanted to give you this envelope.¡± The guard says with a grin. ¡°An envelope? For what?.¡± I ask. ¡°That¡¯s a secret. You said you wanted to explore Pret¨®ria right? Then, you¡¯ll know about it in no time as long as you socialize¡±. The guard says still grinning. "Well, thank you for the unexpected advice. I appreciate it, and I will definitely take it into consideration. It seems like a beneficial addition to my Plans too.¡± I say with a tranquil smile. With that, the guard gives me a nod and allows me to proceed. With the guard¡¯s permission, I entered Pret¨®ria, my heart filled with excitement and curiosity. As I ventured further into the city, I couldn¡¯t help but notice the unique architecture and the elegant design of the buildings. The vampiric population moved gracefully through the streets, and their presence exuded an air of mystique. As I strolled along, I spotted a comfy caf¨¦ with a sign that read ¡°Eternal Brews.¡± It seemed like the perfect place to start my exploration. Upon entering, I was greeted by a warm ambiance and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. ¡°Welcome to Eternal Brews.¡± a vampire barista said with a friendly smile. ¡°What can I get for you today, young man?¡± ¡°Just a simple cup of black coffee, please.¡± I replied. The barista prepared my coffee with a skillful flourish, and as I sipped it, I found the taste to be unlike any I had experienced before. It had a deep and velvety flavor that tantalized my taste buds. As I enjoyed my coffee, I struck up a conversation with the barista. I asked about their daily life in Pret¨®ria, their favorite spots in the city, and their experiences during the ongoing war. They shared stories of resilience and camaraderie, which only deepened my admiration for this place. I told him. "Your city is seriously cool, you know? There''s this awesome sense of togetherness that''s just inspiring." "Yeah, we''re not just all about being vampires and stuff. We''ve got a rich history and a vibrant culture we''re proud of." The barista said. "By the way, my name is Raphael. What''s yours?" I asked. ¡°I¡¯m Astratos, nice to meet you.¡± ¡°Nice to meet you¡± After some talking I got curious and asked if there were any cool events happening while I was there. And guess what? He told me about this traditional vampire ball that''s coming up! It''s this big celebration with dancing, socializing, and showing off talents. I was super pumped to be invited! ¡°By the way do you know what is this envelope all about?¡± I ask Astratos. ¡°That¡¯s the invitation for that vampire ball event. Where did you get that from?¡± Astratos asks with curiosity stamped on his face. ¡°Before I could enter through the gates the guard gave me this envelope and told me to find out once inside. I guess I am lucky hehe¡±. I say while giggling a little. ¡°You sure are lucky, unless you were born in Pret¨®ria, the chances of being invited for a vampire event are not that high. I thought about inviting you there myself but it seems someone else beat me to the punch.¡± ¡°It seems Pret¨®ria is too friendly to foreigners, the guard and you too? I¡¯m really happy to have taken the time to come here.¡± -I say with a smile from ear to ear. ¡°So any tips of how I should dress? I ask enthusiastically. Astratosthen gave me some tips on what to wear, and I was like, "Got it, I''ll wear something with a touch of red or black to blend in with the vibe!" ¡ª¡ª¡ª ¡°You¡¯re going to love the ball! It¡¯s an event filled with elegance, charm, and enchantment,¡± Astratos exclaimed. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see it for myself.¡± I replied. ¡°What about you? Will you be attending?¡± Astratos chuckled. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll be working at the caf¨¦ during the ball. It gets quite busy, you know, with so many vampires looking for a pick-me-up after a night of dancing and mingling.¡± ¡°That¡¯s understandable. I¡¯ll make sure to drop by for a coffee after the ball, then.¡± I said with a grin. As I continued chatting with Astratos, another vampire named Serena joined our conversation. She overheard us talking about the ball and couldn¡¯t help but chime in. ¡°The vampire ball is always a splendid affair. I remember my first time attending; the atmosphere was intoxicating.¡± Serena said with a nostalgic smile. ¡°I¡¯m Raphael, by the way. Nice to meet you,¡± I introduced myself. ¡°Serena, pleasure¡¯s all mine.¡± she replied. ¡°Are you new to Pret¨®ria?¡± ¡°Yeah, I just arrived a short while ago. I¡¯m here to explore and learn about your culture,¡± I explained. ¡°That¡¯s wonderful! The vampire community here is quite welcoming to visitors,¡± Serena said warmly. ¡°If you need any guidance or company during your stay, don¡¯t hesitate to ask.¡± ¡°Thank you, Serena. I appreciate that,¡± I replied gratefully. "You''re truly enchanting; your exquisite eyes are simply captivating, and it''s difficult to tear my gaze away. It''s as if our roles are reversed, I''m a vampire with the power of seduction from the stories ¡°just kidding¡±. Would you like to accompany me? Beauty like yours can''t go wrong." Serena says it with a smile. ¡°You¡¯re pretty outspoken,beautiful if I may say so, your blonde hair complements your golden eyes, you have a pretty good figure and dress well.¡± I say to Serena. Just then, another vampire named Viktor joined our little group. ¡°Did I hear someone talking about the vampire ball?¡± He asked, a mischievous glint in his eyes. ¡°You certainly did,¡± Astratos replied, chuckling. ¡°Raphael here got an invitation to attend.¡± Viktor turned his attention to me. ¡°An invitation to the ball on your first visit? You¡¯re quite fortunate!¡± ¡°I feel lucky indeed.¡± I said with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m excited to experience it.¡± Viktor¡¯s grin widened. ¡°Well, it¡¯s going to be an event to remember, that¡¯s for sure. I¡¯ll be there too, showcasing some of my illusions.¡± ¡°Illusions? That sounds fascinating!¡± I exclaimed. ¡°They¡¯re quite the spectacle, if I say so myself,¡± Viktor said, sounding rather proud. ¡°But enough about me. Tell me, Raphael, what brings you to our city?¡± ¡°I came to experience the culture, make friends, and learn from the people of Pret¨®ria.¡± I replied earnestly. ¡°It¡¯s been an incredible journey so far.¡± ¡°Ah, the pursuit of knowledge and connection, admirable goals indeed,¡± Serena chimed in. As we continued our conversation, I couldn¡¯t help but feel grateful for the warm welcome I received from these vampires. Each of them had their unique charm and talents, and it was evident that the vampire community in Pret¨®ria was diverse and vibrant. Little did I know that this encounter at Eternal Brews would be the beginning of many memorable experiences during my stay in Pret¨®ria.