Blood Shadow Handblade drew on vampires' shadow spells, some guidance from Mulan on the power of shadows, and discussions with Farolynch about the wondrous uses of true blood. It was a skill Shire had developed himself.
Having entered the path of the different-blood from a half-vampire state, Shire exerted a powerful bloodline suppression over lower-ranking vampires, even stronger than the pressure high-ranking vampires exerted over those beneath them.
As a result, Shire's first truly independent battle yielded spectacular results, impressing even Mulan.
For all the ordinary people present, however, it was rather frightening. They backed away in alarm. For the six Blood Slaves, it was utterly terrifying.
"M-master?"
The six turned stiffly to look at Shire, who was smiling as he held the vampire's head. The vampire was still alive, staring at Shire in terror.
"M-my lord, I didn't know you were here. I meant no offense. Please let me go. Forgive me this once, and I'll find you the finest blood to feed on!"
"Thank you, but I already have some."
Shire offered a sincere smile. The next instant, the vampire's head in his hand burst into blood-feeding flames, turning to ash in a heartbeat. All those thick, blood-red flames were drawn into Shire's mouth.
At the same time, the vampire's still-standing body also turned to ash in the flames, and that wisp of blood-red fire was likewise drawn into Shire's mouth.
Mulan watched with interest, then asked a question.
"What did it taste like?"
Shire smacked his lips.
"Honestly, not bad. Like a fairly strong red wine."
Within seconds of the vampire's death, the six Blood Slaves began convulsing. They soon collapsed, their bodies stiffening and their faces turning pale as they began to rot at a visible rate.
The workers around them covered their noses and backed