Head Maid Lucy was a beautiful woman and the strongest Vampire in the Castle, on par with a Master Level Professional.
It was Eileen's good fortune to receive her First Embrace from Lucy. The stronger the one who turned her, the greater her potential would be. And Eileen was a Gifted Sorcerer.
Annan saw Eileen, now a Vampire, late the night before his departure. Her delicate features had gained a bewitching edge, and her skin had grown pale and fine.
"My sisters and I are grateful to you... Please let me follow you and protect you." She stood before Annan.
Annan had no need of protection from Eileen, who was still a newly turned Vampire Sorcerer. But he realized he might be able to shape this branch, which was willing to listen to him, into something he wanted.
He already had his own faction within the Vampire Clan, for one thing, and the Crimson Princess had him to thank for it.
"You found us a Vampire Sorcerer. Tell me, what reward do you want?" The more the Crimson Princess looked at Annan, the more she felt he was their lucky subordinate. An alliance, a Vampire Sorcerer... Ever since he had arrived, the surprises had kept coming!
"I haven't thought of one yet."
"No, you have to name one!" the Crimson Princess insisted playfully.
Annan thought it over seriously. Money was out. His dark eyes met hers. "Then please keep moving forward with unwavering resolve. The road ahead may be full of obstacles. You may be shut out and looked down on, misunderstood by your companions... But you are creating a new twilight for the Vampire Clan."
The Crimson Princess grew solemn. "I accept your request."
Dawn was near. The Castle grew busy, preparing the party that would visit the Skeleton