The Festival, an Attack, and The Pact

The third day of the grand festival in the kingdom of Suzuki dawned with a promise of festivities and fanfare. Princess Rinko Suzuki, with her heart full of anticipation and curiosity, stood on the balcony of her opulent guest room, which overlooked the magnificent city below. The morning air was crisp, carrying with it the fragrant scent of blooming flowers and the distant sounds of merchants and performers preparing for the day's celebrations.

Rinko's sapphire eyes sparkled with excitement as she watched the city come alive. Her silken nightgown, a pale blue adorned with intricate white lace, rustled gently in the breeze as she leaned against the intricately designed balcony railing. Her long, snow-white hair previously in twin buns, cascaded down her back, shimmering with a hint of silver in the soft morning light.

Down in the streets, the once deserted and shrouded avenues were now transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colors and sounds. Vendors rushed to set up their stalls, their laughter and lively banter filling the air. The market squares were adorned with vibrant banners and fluttering flags that bore the emblem of the Suzuki royal family, an owl flying beneath a luminescent moon.

As the first rays of sunlight painted the cobblestone roads with a warm, golden hue, Rinko couldn't help but smile. It was a sight she looked forward to every day since her appraisal—the moment when the city, her city, awoke to the magic of the grand festival. It was a time when the commoners and nobility would come together to celebrate their shared history, their unity, and the hope for a prosperous future.

From her vantage point, Rinko could see the eager faces of children clutching festive balloons and cotton candy, their laughter like sweet melodies drifting up to her balcony. The colorful stalls boasted a cornucopia of treats and trinkets, from candied apples to intricate handcrafted jewelry. Musicians and street performers tuned their instruments, their voices and melodies rising to create a harmonious symphony of celebration.

Rinko's heart swelled with pride as she thought of her role in this grand event. She was not just a spectator but a participant—a symbol of the royal family's connection to the people. Her duties for the day were significant. She would lead the grand parade alongside her family, riding in a resplendent carriage adorned with roses and lilies, symbolizing the unity and prosperity of the kingdom. It was a role she had prepared for with enthusiasm, eager to share in the joy of the festival with her subjects.

But as the morning sun continued its ascent, Rinko knew that beyond the festivities, there was a sense of responsibility that rested upon her shoulders. The recent revelation of her extraordinary aptitude, and the potential she held as a vampire progenitor, had cast a shadow of uncertainty over her future. She couldn't shake the feeling that something ominous loomed on the horizon, a threat that went beyond the grandeur of the festival.

With a sigh, Rinko tore her gaze away from the bustling streets and turned her attention to the horizon. The clear blue sky stretched out endlessly as if offering her a canvas of hope and possibility. She knew that her path would be fraught with challenges and unexpected twists, but she was determined to face them head-on for the sake of her kingdom and the people she held dear.

As the sun's rays bathed her in its gentle warmth, Princess Rinko Suzuki felt a renewed sense of purpose and resolve. Today, she would embrace both the joy of the festival and the weight of her destiny, ready to confront whatever challenges lay ahead.

***

It's been two days since the grand ceremony began, unveiling the truth that I, Princess Rinko Suzuki, am a vampire progenitor. Surprisingly, the news didn't incite the panic and fear that initially gripped my family and vassals; instead, our kingdom's citizens seemed to place their trust in their princess. I couldn't help but attribute this to the way I've treated them since my debut as the second princess of the realm. Right from the start, after I regained my memories, I made it a priority to forge a strong connection with my people. My official entrance into noble society was scheduled for my tenth birthday, and I eagerly anticipated it. I imagined an extravagant ball, filled with enchanting music, graceful dances, and joyous laughter. Perhaps I might even have the chance to meet the brilliant princess from the neighboring Kingdom of Mina, an idea that thrilled me. I resolved to speak to my father about extending an invitation to the young princess.

Sitting in my room, I contemplated the upcoming grand parade. Liz, my loyal bodyguard, had voiced her concerns about security during the event, and I shared her worries. After all, we had brought only my nine personal guards, including Lizzy, and a handful of my father's guards. The question loomed: would this be sufficient to ensure my safety during the festivities?

With this concern in mind, my father, the king, took the initiative to contact the church and request additional security for the parade. The church readily agreed, as was customary when a person of significant power made such a request. The church deployed a total of eighty-nine guards, led by one of the church's top cardinals, who would serve as their commander. My father and I accepted this offer with gratitude, believing it would provide an extra layer of protection for the impending event.

At that moment, neither my father nor I were aware of the church's hidden agenda. We were only familiar with the church's public image and its reputation as a benevolent institution. Its willingness to assist with security matters reinforced that positive perception.

I understand that my situation might raise questions. Why did the second princess have more guards than her father, the king? The answer is quite simple, rooted in our kingdom's traditions. On the day a royal child is born, a specific number of elite guards pledge an oath of fealty and loyalty to that child. This oath binds them to protect their charge with unwavering dedication.

However, when a member of the guard squad passed away, replacing them became a challenging and rigorous process. The new member had to undergo thorough screening and training to seamlessly integrate into the team. Moreover, the coordination and teamwork among squad members were of utmost importance. When multiple members of royalty were nearby, their respective security teams would temporarily collaborate to ensure everyone's safety.

In my family, my elder sister, as the heiress to the throne, had three dedicated guards sworn to protect her at all costs. This unspoken agreement was shared among the security teams, as long as their original charge remained safe. My mother shared a guard squad with my father, King Suzuki, ensuring their safety as a royal couple. It was a complex but seemingly effective system that had safeguarded the royal family for generations, and I had grown accustomed to it, though I personally thought it was an inefficient tradition to have.

As I contemplated these matters, I couldn't help but feel the weight of my responsibilities as a member of the royal family and as a vampire progenitor. The grand parade was rapidly approaching, and with the added security from the church, I hoped it would proceed without any unforeseen incidents.

***

As the eagerly anticipated hour approaches and the vibrant city streets teem with excitement and anticipation, my devoted lady-in-waiting, Hilda, is a whirlwind of activity. Her meticulous attention to detail is a sight to behold, as she flits from one corner of the room to another, ensuring that every aspect of my appearance is nothing short of perfect. Her fingers deftly adjust the folds of my elegant snow-white gown with stunning blue trim, her keen eye ensuring that the fabric drapes just right. From the selection of the finest accessories to the meticulous arrangement of flowers in my hair, Hilda leaves no stone unturned in her quest for a flawless ensemble. Her delicate touch accentuates the beauty of the gown that has been chosen for me, and every element of my attire exudes an air of regal splendor. It is her unwavering dedication that ensures I will be the epitome of grace and elegance when I take my place in the open carriage.

At times, it may seem that Hilda's commitment to perfection verges on the extravagant. She fusses over every minute detail, from the precise placement of each strand of my hair to the gleam of the jewels adorning my neck. Yet, in her tireless efforts, I find a deep well of gratitude. Hilda's devotion extends beyond mere duty; it is a testament to her unwavering loyalty and her desire to see me shine on this grand day.

Standing before the grand mirror of the guestroom, I take a moment to gaze at my reflection, appreciating not only the intricate details of my gown but also how it complements my appearance. The luxurious fabric drapes elegantly, its blue trim serving as a delightful frame for my eyes. The shade of blue chosen for the gown's accents seems almost tailor-made to match the depths of my sapphire irises, enhancing their captivating allure. I can't help but admire how the gown's design harmonizes with my features, enhancing the radiance I hope to exude during the grand parade.

Amid the serene moment of reflection, the lively sounds of the church’s bustling activity drift through the open door, punctuating the air with the orchestrated chaos of preparation. The footfalls of attendants' echo in the hallways as they navigate the labyrinthine corridors, each step purposeful and urgent. Our knights in their resplendent armor add a melodious clangor to the mix, their voices resonating with gravitas as they issue orders and ensure that every detail is executed with precision.

The hurried movements and whispered exchanges in the church’s chambers are reminiscent of a symphony in which everyone plays their part. The diligent attendants, tasked with ensuring the seamless execution of the parade, dart about like choreographed dancers, fulfilling their roles with grace and efficiency. Knights, the stalwart guardians of the realm, offer their solemn protection and guidance, their very presence a reassuring testament to the kingdom's strength.

As I continue to admire myself in the mirror, the backdrop of this bustling activity only serves to heighten my anticipation for the grand parade. The orchestrated chaos of the church, the diligent servants, and the resolute knights—all are aligned in the pursuit of perfection for this momentous occasion. I take a deep breath, feeling a sense of unity with my kingdom and its people. In just a short while, I will step out into the lively streets, embodying the spirit of the grand festival and leading my people in a celebration of unity and hope.

With the echoes of preparation as my backdrop, I make a silent vow to carry myself with grace and dignity during the parade, for I am not only a princess but also a symbol of my kingdom's resilience and strength. As I step away from the mirror and towards the door, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to embrace the challenges and joys that await me on this grand day.

As I stand there, admiring my gown's elegant details, I hear a polite but cautious knock at my door. My ever-vigilant companion, Liz, who is never far from my side, subtly shifts her stance, her hand instinctively resting on the hilt of her sword. It's a silent but reassuring reminder of her unwavering dedication to my safety. Hilda, my tireless chambermaid, stands poised by my side, ready to assist with any last-minute adjustments to my attire. Together, they create an aura of protection and support, a comfort I've grown accustomed to.

I call out to our plausible guest, my voice warm and welcoming, "Who is it? Is it that time already? You are free to open the door." The heavy wooden door creaks open softly, revealing an attendant with a somewhat panicky disposition. What catches my attention is that this attendant isn't one of my family's trusted servants, which strikes me as a tad unusual.

With a composed demeanor, the attendant, their eyes shifting slightly, relays the message that I've been eagerly awaiting. "They say the parade will be going ahead as scheduled, Your Highness. I was told to come get you by His Majesty the King."

I nod, acknowledging the message with a sense of anticipation. "Very well," I replied, offering a gracious smile to the attendant. "Please convey my gratitude to Father and let him know that I am on my way. And while you're here, how is the crowd outside? Can you feel their energy?" My curiosity gets the better of me as I wonder about the mood of the masses gathered to celebrate this momentous procession.

The attendant hesitates for a brief moment, perhaps not expecting such an inquiry. "The crowd, Your Highness," they begin, "they seem positively jubilant and eager to see you. The excitement in the air is palpable, and it's as if the entire kingdom has come alive with anticipation."

I can't help but feel a surge of pride and gratitude for my people, who have gathered to celebrate alongside me. Their unwavering support and enthusiasm fuel my determination to make this parade a memorable event for all. With a nod of appreciation to the attendant, I turn back to the mirror, my heart brimming with excitement. The grand parade awaits, and I am ready to take my place at the forefront, leading my kingdom in a celebration of unity and hope.

***

As I sit in the resplendent carriage, ready to embark on the parade through the streets, I can't help but cast a fond smile in Hilda's direction. Her hands have transformed me into the very image of a princess, and her meticulous care has ensured that I radiate an aura of grace and majesty. The citizens awaiting our procession will be greeted by a vision of royal perfection, thanks to her dedication.

So, while Hilda's attention to detail may sometimes seem excessive, it is a quality that I wholeheartedly cherish. In the grand tapestry of this momentous day, her role is invaluable, for she not only tends to the details of my appearance but also weaves the threads of loyalty and trust that bind us together on this extraordinary journey.

Father stands to the side, his regal posture commanding respect as he communicates with the church's mercenary detail. His brow is furrowed with concern, a reflection of the weighty responsibilities he bears as both a monarch and a father. The grandeur of his royal attire, adorned with intricate embroideries and the royal crest, contrasts with the sternness of his expression.

He speaks with a measured tone, his voice carrying authority and gravitas as he addresses the mercenaries. "Gentlemen, I understand the situation we find ourselves in, and I appreciate your willingness to stand with us today. Our kingdom's security is of paramount importance during this grand festival, and your presence is vital."

The mercenaries, a diverse group with weathered faces and battle-hardened attire, listen attentively. They are well aware of the honor and responsibility that comes with being entrusted by the church to safeguard the princess and the royal family.

Father continues, "Unfortunately, the church's fabled paladin squad is currently unavailable, and we must make do with the forces we have. I have complete confidence in your abilities, but I also emphasize the need for discretion. We don't want to cause undue alarm among our citizens."

As Father conveys his expectations, he makes it clear that their role is not only to provide security but also to maintain the illusion of a joyous and peaceful festival. The mercenaries nod in understanding, their commitment to the task evident in their unwavering gazes.

The church's decision to hire mercenaries underscores the significance of the festival and the potential threats that loom. Father, as the king, takes this matter seriously, and his determination to ensure the safety of his family and his people is palpable in every word and gesture.

As the mercenaries stand in formation, their faces etched with determination, they present a formidable sight—a united front ready to confront any challenges that may arise. Their armor glints in the sunlight, and their weapons are polished and ready, reflecting their commitment to ensuring the safety and order of the grand parade.

Father, observing their readiness with a sense of satisfaction, knows that their presence adds a layer of security to this joyous occasion. With a nod of approval, he sends them off, acknowledging their importance as guardians of the kingdom. They move forward with purpose, their steps echoing the resolve to fulfill their duty.

Turning his attention away from the departing mercenaries, Father shifts his focus toward the awaiting carriage. The sight of his wife, Runa, and his elder daughter, Rin, already seated beside me within, brings a sense of warmth to his heart. He knows that his family's safety is paramount, and his presence alongside them serves as a symbol of unity and strength.

As Father approaches the carriage, a sense of regality surrounds him. His royal attire exudes authority and nobility, and his demeanor radiates a quiet confidence that inspires confidence in those around him. With a dignified gesture, he joins his family inside, ensuring that they are all together for this significant moment.

The grand parade begins to set into motion, a procession of splendor and elegance. The four of them, seated in the ornate carriage, are the centerpiece of the festivities. Their loyal knights, mounted on horseback, ride around them, forming a protective circle. The knights' armor gleams, their steeds prance with grace, and their solemn expressions reveal their dedication to safeguarding their royal charges.

As the parade moves through the city streets, the citizens line the roads, their cheers and applause filling the air. It is a moment of unity and celebration, a testament to the kingdom's history and the hope for a prosperous future. With Father, Mother, Rin, and myself together in the carriage, we symbolize the enduring strength of the Suzuki royal family, ready to face whatever challenges may lie ahead on this grand day of festivities.

***

What absolutely none of us noticed as we rode through the streets waving at the citizens of our great kingdom, were the occasional malice-filled glances directed at me nor their suspicious hand gestures. The church’s plan was well underway, our request for additional security giving them an excuse to be close to their target, me, without seeming suspicious.

***

As I sit in the carriage waving at the multitudes, a bright and warm smile resting on my face, I start to feel a prickle of unease as we approach the most dangerous spot on our route. The gate between the noble and commoner districts is narrow and where security would be at its most vulnerable.

As we approached the narrow gate separating the noble and commoner districts, a subtle sense of unease crept over me. I couldn't help but draw on the lessons from my past life as a gamer, where I often relied on choke points to gain a tactical advantage, especially in ranged and group combat scenarios. It was this knowledge that heightened my awareness of the potential danger lurking at this particular juncture along our parade route.

Instinctively, I knew that if anyone were to make a move against us, this choke point would be the ideal spot. I couldn't afford to take any chances with our safety or that of my family and retinue. My gamer's intuition urged me to act.

So, with a subtle flick of my ear, I summoned Liz, my loyal and vigilant bodyguard, to my side. Liz, always prepared to protect me, appeared beside me, her readiness palpable.

"Liz," I spoke with determination, my voice steady, "I have a bad feeling about going through this checkpoint. Please stay near me until we are safely through it. In the meantime, have Lina temporarily join my sister's detail with half your squad."

My instructions were clear and to the point, reflecting my resolve and deep concern for our security. Liz nodded in understanding; her voice quiet as she gives the orders. With Liz by my side and my unwavering determination, we were prepared to face any potential threats that might arise as we navigated our way to the perilous choke point during the parade.

As our carriage approached the narrow checkpoint, my unease grew more pronounced. The very moment I had feared unfolded before my eyes, confirming my instincts. The atmosphere, once filled with celebration and joy, took a sudden, chilling turn.

In the blink of an eye, chaos erupted. Several of our guards, who had been stationed to protect us, fell victim to a brutal ambush. The attackers showed no mercy, launching a ruthless assault on our unsuspecting guards. I witnessed the horrifying scene: guards were stabbed in the back, beheaded, or left gravely wounded and helpless.

The gruesome spectacle left a lasting impression on me, a stark contrast to the joyful festivities that had just moments ago filled the air. The contrast was jarring, and a collective scream echoed through the streets, shattering the silence that had descended upon the scene. It was a bloodcurdling cry that sent a chill down the spines of all who heard it.

This unexpected and violent attack had thrown our once peaceful parade into disarray, and the repercussions of this shocking event would undoubtedly have a profound impact throughout the nation.

The swarm of mercenaries, whom we had once thought of as allies stormed the carriage, a large blonde guy in the lead laughing maniacally as he cut down knight after knight of my fathers and sister's guard, mine staying close to me, with the assurance of survival if they didn’t leave my side. A subtle reminder of our promise. The only ones absent were Lina and half my guard, who was actively trying to get Rin to safety. Most of the mercenaries are seemingly ignoring them and my parents and focusing on me and Liz, which draws a shiver from my spine as I realize all their bloodlust is directed at me.

The surviving guards begin to close the gaps falling back in a circle as they realize their target. Unfortunately, numbers were just not in our favor. Many knights whom I never knew were dying for me. Something that I had never experienced before in either of my lives. Even on the day that I died, I never once saw another person die with my own eyes. The image burned into my memory, sure to act as an echo of the trauma of this event if I survive.

“Everyone but Liz, retreat. I am their target, and I don’t want to turn everyone at once. I promise to see this through and meet back up with you all later, but if I don’t prioritize your lives, we will all die here.” My voice shakes as I give my orders, and my knights falter, a reluctant mood hovering over them as they contemplate disobeying my order to stand by my side. Their loyalty was commendable, and I was eternally grateful to have them at my side. “I am grateful for your unwavering loyalty, but I have a plan, and I can only follow that plan with Liz as my sole guard. Retreat when I give the order and regroup with my sister Rin. Follow Lina’s orders from there.” My beloved knights finally accepted my orders with a firm nod. I raised my hand, aiming for the weakest link in the wall of mercenaries; Liz raised her sword and shield, prepared to dash in. With a flick of my ear, the battle commenced. Liz rushed forward as I followed close behind her. Her blade was singing as it sliced through the air, and a vicious clash of metal rang out. The rest of my knights took that as their queue to retreat, we were still outnumbered eight to one. I followed up by using martial arts, I punched her opponent’s gut with all my might, and had my arm sliced off in return. The pain was intense, and I groaned out in agony. A smiling grimace played on my lips as I picked my arm back up and stuck it back in place. It healed immediately as Liz finished him off in the next moment. Liz took her position at my back, prepared to fight till the last man. I picked up the newly minted corpse’s sword and stood at the ready.

Liz’s voice was filled with a concerned yet intrigued tone, “That was quite a spectacle, Rinko, I didn’t know you could recover so fast. Are you alright?”

I smile sheepishly, “Well it hurt like hell, but I’ll live. Think we can manage?”

The enemy reinitiates the conflict mid conversation as Liz responds, “Honestly, might be a bit of a tall order, my lady. But if you command me to, I will do my very best.” As she fends off and cuts down another enemy. “So far it seems that they have yet to take this fight seriously, though, I suppose that makes sense. We are vastly outnumbered.”

I stepped into the guard of one of the mercs and cut into his leg, then step back. “We might be in for a toughie huh. Worst comes to worst, I can bite one of them and make them my servant. Though honestly, I really don’t want to turn a guy...”

Liz chuckles after taking down two more, “if you have time for jokes, my lady, perhaps we might just have this won after all.”

A wry smile grows on my face at that. I stepped forward to engage another foe, but in my lapse of judgement, a blast of magic hit me in the back in the shape of a frost arrow. Liz notices me go down and rushes over only to get run through by the man she was fighting the very next moment. “NOOOO!! LIZ!” I struggled to my feet, and without turning around, stab myself in the stomach, impaling the enemy who was about to finish me off with a mighty grunt of pain. I pulled my sword out again and my grotesque wound closed almost instantly. I approach Lizzy as the blonde guy goes to finish her off, my blind rage filled me with a momentary burst of power, I raised my hand and just as his blade came down, a magic wall appeared out of thin air.

Blonde guy, “well, well, little vamp has some magic huh. Color me surprised; your recovery speed is also pretty scary, it’s no wonder we were ordered to deal with you now.”

“Shut up Clive, any more info and you might reveal enough information to jeopardize our mission.” One of the men on his side exclaimed.

“So, your name is Clive, I will keep that in mind when I order you to rip yourself to shreds with your own hands.” My voice was cold as I knelt beside my guard Liz and checked her pulse. She was alive, though just barely. The guilt I felt was palpable as I realized she got hurt because of my inexperience and lowered guard. Lifting her back gently as I brush my cascading hair out of the way. She uses her remaining strength to tilt her head and shift her hair away from her nape. And then, with that as the signal, I threw away whatever humanity I had left from my old world. Softly biting into her neck, the sensation of hot, thick iron iron-tasting liquid fills my mouth. It was a blood-binding ritual only possible due to my nature as a progenitor. After what felt like an eternity, I pulled away and gently caressed Liz’s cheek as I let her rest her head on my knees. I finished the ritual with a kiss on her forehead with her blood as my lipstick.

My barrier prevented anyone from attacking. I raised my head and glared at Clive. “You very nearly took away someone who was precious to me, for that, I promise you won’t die peacefully.”

“My, my, the princess has a sharp mouth, fine, drop the barrier and have at thee,” Clive grins in response.

I ignore him and check on Liz again, “You are doing alright Liz?”

“Yea, sorry, I shouldn’t have panicked.”

“No worries,” I chuckle as she looks up at me with clear eyes. “I have a promise to keep with blondie here, so if you would.” I glance at the rest of our foes.

“Yes master, your will is my command. I will keep the rest of them occupied with a dance of death.” Liz responds coolly.

“No need for master, just my lady or Rinko is fine,” I gently flick her forehead and help her up.

“Enough posturing, you’re boring me with your crap. Fight me already!!” Clive loses his patience and lunges again at me, an anti-magic sword in hand.

The barrier shatters under his assault, which I casually meet with a disinterested glance. “Wow, that was impressive, guess I have no choice.” I turn around and grab the sword I dropped.

“Stop screwin with me damn it!” Clive lunges again, this time at my open back. I turn to meet his strike and both blades shatter. Clive jumps backwards with a look of disbelief on his face. “How, that was the legendary sword Falfulbane...” His voice was quiet, and he cried out, “All hands, retreat at once. We underestimated this one.” after which they all make an orderly retreat.

***

As the bloodbound ritual was initiated, a curious crow perched atop a nearby chimney, its ebony feathers glinting with an air of foreboding intelligence. This particular crow served as one of the familiars belonging to the Pope himself, a creature tasked with the secretive mission of observation.

Within the hallowed halls of the church, the Pope sat in a dimly lit meeting room, surrounded by the remaining three cardinals. Their expressions betrayed a mixture of surprise and apprehension, as they grappled with the unfolding events. The Pope, however, maintained a veneer of composed authority.

"It would appear we have greatly underestimated the power that Rinko possesses," the Pope mused, his voice carrying a weight of contemplation. "Not merely as a vampire, but as the hero. Who would have suspected such a profound twist from a pint-sized brat?"

The Pope leaned forward, his fingers forming a steeple as he gazed intently at his assembled cardinals. "Contact the survivors who have retreated," he commanded. "Inform them that their failure should not burden their consciences. The blame for this unexpected outcome falls squarely upon my shoulders. Let them know they are absolved of any wrongdoing."

His eyes narrowed as he continued to dissect the situation. "What intrigues me the most is the uncharted territory of Rinko's assumed hidden divine skill. It seems to grant her a natural, instinctive control over her formidable powers, a trait that has never been noted in our records. However, she needed to be in a mentally unstable state to trigger it."

As the crow continued to observe from its perch, the Pope and his cardinals delved into a clandestine discussion, seeking answers and strategies in the face of this unexpected revelation. The fate of the kingdom hung in the balance, its future uncertain and shrouded in the shadows of newfound mysteries.

***

As soon as Liz and I finished cleaning up the mess and let the survivors who ran away go. We moved to regroup with everyone at the designated meeting point. We remained on high alert as we moved to our rendezvous. Liz cleaned me up as best she could after the battle, a task that would be a tall order, even for dear Hilda.

After a tense journey on guard with every shadow we saw, we finally arrived at our destination. There, standing amidst the shadows of uncertainty, were Rin and Lina, their faces etched with concern and worry. Their eyes scanned the road, searching for any sign of their beloved princess.

As soon as they spotted us emerging from the ally, relief washed over their features like a tide of tears held back for too long. It was a moment of overwhelming emotion and unspoken gratitude.

Rin, unable to contain her feelings any longer, raced forward to envelop me in a fierce and tearful embrace. Her voice quivered with a mixture of relief and scolding, each word laden with affection and concern. "Rinko, you dummy," she exclaimed, her words a mixture of reproach and relief. "What am I to do when your guards return without you?"

I hugged Rin back just as tightly, feeling the warmth of her embrace and the reassurance of her presence. It was a moment of solace and comfort amidst the chaos we had just escaped.

Meanwhile, Lina approached Liz at a more measured pace. Her expression, too, was filled with not only relief, but a look of inquisitive wariness, but she maintained a sense of composure befitting her role as vice-captain of the guard. Liz and Lina exchanged nods, acknowledging the unspoken understanding that had passed between them during this ordeal and that Liz retained her sense of self despite now being a vampire.

As the tension ebbed away and safety settled in, I felt a profound sense of relaxation wash over me. The mysterious power that had flowed through me since Liz was stabbed through, finally ebbed away, leaving me wondering what exactly it was.

After Rin had calmed down and released me from her tight embrace, we made our way inside the grand building that served as the capital estate of the Shizumura dukedom. It was a place steeped in history, with walls that had witnessed countless royal gatherings, diplomatic negotiations, and celebrations of all kinds.

As we entered the estate, the warm glow of chandeliers illuminated the opulent interior. Elaborate tapestries adorned the walls, depicting scenes from the kingdom's rich history and the heroic deeds of its monarchs. The floors were polished to a mirror-like sheen, and the air was filled with the scent of fresh flowers arranged in exquisite vases.

The sense of security and sanctuary within these familiar walls was a stark contrast to the perilous streets we had traversed just moments before. It served as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that came with being a member of the royal family and a vampire progenitor.

Rin and Lina led me to a spacious chamber where we could regroup and debrief. It was here that we began to discuss the events of the day, analyzing our encounter with the unknown assailants and the implications of their attack. It was clear that we were dealing with a formidable enemy, one with the audacity to strike during such a high-profile event.

Amidst our discussion, Rin's thoughts turned to the upcoming public debut ball, which was to be my worldwide introduction as the second princess of the realm. It was a significant event, one that would bring together dignitaries and nobles from across the kingdom and beyond. The ball would be an opportunity to showcase our unity and strength as a royal family, as well as my unique position as a vampire progenitor.

Rin's eyes sparkled with excitement as she spoke of the preparations for the ball—the elegant gowns, the enchanting decorations, and the captivating entertainment that would grace the festivities. It was a chance for me to make my mark on the world stage, and Rin was determined to ensure that every detail was perfect. The mention of the ball reminded me to make my long-awaited request I made note of what felt like forever ago, “Father, regarding my debut ball; I have someone in particular in mind to invite, The second princess of the kingdom of Mina.”

“I will do my best to ensure she comes then,” Father replies, his eyes crinkling with a smile as he senses how long I've waited to make that request. “You need more friends your age anyways,” he adds with a chuckle to which I turn away, my face a little flushed from his teasing.

As we continued to plan and strategize, the weight of our responsibilities hung in the air. The attack during the parade had been a stark reminder that some sought to challenge our rule and disrupt the peace of the kingdom. But we were resolved to face whatever challenges lay ahead, standing united as a family and as guardians of our beloved realm.

And so, with the echoes of danger still fresh in our minds, we began to lay the groundwork for the grand public debut ball that would soon captivate the world, a celebration of unity and hope in the face of adversity. The next day, we headed back to the palace to wind down.