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[superkamiguy1]

[superkamiguy1]

Vladmir Graveblade stirred in his bed, a low rumbling growl escaping his lips as he slowly, gradually, came to consciousness. The dreams of the previous night, fantastical though they may be, were already fading away and the darkness of the night was burned away by the Sun. As he sat up, the soft fabric of his bed sheets slid off of his lean muscular body. The pale skinned honey brown haired pretty boy vampire prince yawned and stretched, revealing his mouth full of fanged teeth, and large draconian leathery wings unfolded from his back as he leaned forward. They raised up int the air and spread out before slowly returning to his back and sinking into him again. He sat up again, rolled his neck, and looked around the bedroom. It was the same as ever. A wide open bedroom with fancy comfortable furniture, Gothic Architecture, pitch black curtains, a black bed, a chandelier....it was the same. He was back in his bedroom. One of the many bedrooms in the castle. 

"I'm home. I never left. It was just a dream. Wild as hell though....that lady...she was...gorgeous...a Vampire for sure....but who was the other guy? A Huntsman? A Gunslinger? Whoever he was, he had a fine suit. Huh. I wonder who they were fighting though. Because they were leaving an awful lot of bodies. Huh. Wonder why I was dreaming about that though. Did I see it in an action movie or something?" He shrugged and hopped out of the bed and began performing a series of stretches and warm-up exercises to wake himself up.

It worked like a charm and his body woke right up. His body moved fluidly as he stretched and loosened every muscle. Next came the katas, graceful sequences of movements that had been passed down through generations, precise moments that told stories of ancient battles and revered warriors. Each motion carried centuries of wisdom and tradition. With each strike and kick, he paid homage to the warriors who came before him. His body became an instrument of power and grace as he executed each technique flawlessly. The wind whispered secrets in his ear while birds flew past the window, bearing witness to this epic display of skill and dedication. Vlad's movements were so precise that it seemed as if time itself slowed down just to marvel at his prowess. His training transcended physicality; it was a spiritual journey where mind, body, and soul merged into one. Vlad moved with precision as he practiced the forms of ancient martial arts styles he'd learned from his family and their instructors over the long years of his undead life. His body became an extension of his thoughts. Each strike and block carried the weight of history, as if he was recounting tales known only to those who understood the language of the ancient arts. 

After he finished warming up for the day, Vladmir waved his hand and his bed made itself automatically complete with the pillows arranging themselves back in place. No reason not to save Penelope some trouble if he could help it, right? 

-

Vladmir sighed with relief as he lowered his body into the large intricately designed blood filled bathtub. Soaking in that heated bubbling bloodbath, feeling it hug every inch of his body so gently, breathing in the sweet aroma of blood, it was a slice of heaven from hell, a mini-vacation, a place to breathe deeply and let his inner peace return. Hot and invigorating and literally empowering, it soothed his muscles, which allowed him to free his mind of any stress he'd been carrying from the previous night's dreams and a cocoon for him, a place for relaxation and self-care. As he sank into the blood pool however his mind drifted back the dream.

(That woman....the Vampire Woman from my dream....there was something weird about her. Something different. I'm relatively sure I've never seen her before. So, unless my mind was playing tricks on me, that could mean that my mind based her off of someone I've met...that's not the weird part though. It's that...at one point during the dream, during a lull in the battle...I could've sworn she looked right at me. She was confused as I was too. I wonder what it all means? Does it even mean anything? Eh, who knows. Maybe. Maybe not. I'm not going to worry about it until then.) 

Vlad put it out of his mind for now and enjoyed the bloodbath.

-

After cleaning up, draining the bathtub, and absorbing the remaining blood all over his body into himself, Vlad returned to his room and got dressed into casual wear for now. A dark red t-shirt and black jeans. He'd put on something fancier later but since it was just him and his friends in the castle right now, casual wear would do just fine. He slipped on a pair of shoes and took a deep breath in and then he waved his hands again and opened the curtains to let the sunshine into the room. The light illuminated the room like solar flares going off! The blinding light chased away the darkness of the room and washed over him. The Vampire Prince growled and shieled his eyes as he waited for his body to re-adjust.  The Sunlight might not be lethal to him but it was still annoying sometimes. 

"Yeah, okay, I get it Heilos. You're bright as hell." He joked. 

-



-

Once he adjusted, Vladmir walked towards his dresser where a small intricately designed black and gold box was sitting on a coaster.



He grabbed the box, put it in his pocket and then walked the door and opened it up to stroll through the castle and face the day. 



Penelope Araignee was waiting for him at one of the dining tables with a blood drink for him and an insect meal for herself. Not unusual but he also noticed a black crystal ball sitting on a stand in the middle of the table. "Alright, which of them is calling me today?"

"Your older brother, sir, Master Demetrius."

"Of course. He knows he can just use a Cell Phone, right?"

"I'm sure he does. But, your family does have a tendency to be old fashioned."

"Heh. You're not wrong about that. Alright, lets see what he wants now." Vladmir sat down at the table, crossed his legs and snapped his fingers and pointed at the Crystal Ball. "Alakazam."

A light flashed within the crystal ball and it spread outwards as black smoke surrounded it and the light traveled upwards to project the image of Demetrius Graveblade: One of Vlad's siblings and his older brother, who was dressed in a fancy high class black tuxedo and sitting proudly on his throne.



He took a second to observe his casual attire and scoffed. "Did I catch you at a bad time, my foolish little brother?"

"It's Called Casual Friday, Demi-Pire. So what can I help you with today?"

"Just thought I'd let you know that The Shiba's Samurai Schools are officially being franchised. We're going global!"

"Hold up!  You're working with The Shiba's? You know they aren't fond of Supernaturals. What changed?"

"Ordinarily, yes, but the current head, Lumi, has been something of a radical. She might be blind but she's got vision where it counts. She's been spearheading the union between the Samurai School and the Ninja Schools with the other Hunter Teams on top of wanting to spread the influence of The Shiba Clan's Teachings to other cities in case they're ever attacked by Nighloks or other assorted Troublemakers." Demetrius explained. "The Old Man gave us some pushback but Lumi overruled him. Things have changed with The Shiba's, Little Brother, you really should give them another shot." A fanged smile spread across his face. "Just because things didn't work out between you and Lauren last century doesn't mean they're all that bad."

"One: It was amicable. We knew it wouldn't work out because I'm immortal and she wasn't. We still stayed friends anyway until she passed on. Two: That's personal. Three: Get Bent just in general." He smiled. "Fourth: I'm proud of you. You're doing some amazing work out there, Demi. You're finally growing up."

"You're the one still living in our parent's house."

Vladmir spread his arms out. "My Castle Now, Bro!"

"Clearly,  I misjudged you, you’re not a moron, Little Brother. You’re only a case of arrested development.” Demetrius commented, throwing a Paraphrased Hemmingway Quote his way. 

“You’re awfully funny, Harvey, some day somebody will push your face in.” Vladmir fired back with the retort from The Sun Also Rises.

"They're welcome to try. Many have tried to do exactly that you know and none have succeeded."

"Except me." 

"A lucky shot I assure you."

"You still using that excuse?" Vladmir challenged. 

"Just name the time and place."

"Heh. I'll keep that in mind. But I've got more important things to worry about."

"Yes, clearly. You know, The Supernatural Protection Agency is always open for new recruits if you want to do something more with your life." 

"Maybe...one day. It's just not the right time yet. I swore an oath to protect the town and its people."

"You're a good honorable man, Vladdie, sometimes to a fault."

"It's how true men live after all."

Penelope dropped some bugs in her sugar water and drank it down as she listened in on the conversation between the Vampire Brothers. 

"Ahhhh...forgive my manners. It's been a long time, Penelope, you're looking as gorgeous as ever, how have you been?"

"Every day is a blessing and I'm living the dream, thank you Master Demetrius."

"Of course dear, may fortune continue to smile upon you forever more. On that note however, I would like to mention that my offer to come work at my castle is still on the table. Our doors are always open for our dear friends."

"I appreciate the offer sir but I must humbly decline. Like I said, my life in Graveblade has been a blessing and all my friends are here. Please do give Saresha our regards though."

"I will darling, thank you, you're too kind."

"Make sure she doesn't drink your soul while you're at it." Penelope joked.

"What's there to take?" Vlad asked with a smirk.

"Hold your tongue, foolish little brother, I'd hate to cut it out. We both know that I'm more whole and together than you are." Demetrius' words were warnings but his tone of voice was clearly one of amusement.

"Keep telling yourself that. Anything else?"

"Actually there is. I don't know the specifics yet but there's been rumors circulating throughout the supernatural community that various monster groups are starting to get organized and group together."

"Like the United Alliance Of Evil? From the old days?"

"Not quite like that. More like....the Aurora Crown Hunters."

"The guys who were beaten by The Overdrive Rescuers?" Vlad scoffed. "Big deal. I'm shaking. Am I supposed to be afraid of that? Come on bro, we're Vampires. We've survived the worst that warriors on any side can throw at us and this won't be any different."

"Yeeeaaaahhh....see...I know you're right about all of that...except...well, there's something else." Penelope and Vlad couldn't help but notice the hesitation in his voice.

"What? What is it?"

"Keep in mind, brother, that we haven't been able to clarify this yet, but, there's a rumor that Albedo's involved."

Penelope's eyes widened and Vladmir sprung up to his feet in shock. He stared wide eyed at his brother and clenched his right hand and pointed at him with the other hand. "Are you being serious right now? Because if this is another one of your jokes then-"

"It's not a joke but it's not confirmed yet either. The truth is we don't know for sure if he's involved or even alive after what happened but that's what my informants have been telling me. I'll know more once they're able to clarify it for me but that will take time. So don't go running off half-cocked just in case it turns out to be either a different Albedo or someone just using the name."

Vladmir slowly calmed himself down after a moment and then placed a hand on his hip and let the other arm dangle. "Fine. You're right. But still, I want to be the first to know if if it turns out to be him."

"Vladdie-"

"Promise me, Demetrius."

"Fine. But in exchange I want you to be patient and wait for clarification before you go chasing after him."

"Deal."

"Deal accepted."

"Okay, cool, cool, thanks for bringing this to our attention. Anything else?"

"Vlad...it's been years since that day. Nobody blames you for what happened in Angel Grove. It was his fucking fault. Not yours."

"Yeah. I know. Anyway. Thanks for bringing this to my attention. Take care of yourself and stay safe bro."

"Right. You too. Out." He snapped his fingers and his image vanished and the crystal ball returned to its inert resting status. Vladmir sighed and sat down and returned to his blood drink.

"Sir? Master Vladmir? Are you alright?" Penelope asked him.

"Yeah, yeah, I am. Thank you for asking. I'm just going to need a minute that's all." He responded politely. "Like...how can it even be him? I could've sworn I killed Albedo back then..."

-

Demetrius hung up and sighed as he leaned back in his chair. "Ahhhh, what a pain."

A tall gorgeous business suit clad woman with long flowing emerald hair and four demonic bat wings flapping about from her back strolled up to him and leaned down to look at him. "Well, well, well, I take it he took the news well?" Saresha asked him.



"Better than expected actually."

Her sharp pointy ears wiggled. "Ohhh? Has he finally started maturing?"

"He's trying but he still blames himself for The Amalgamation Incident."

"He really is such a silly boy isn't he?" She asked as she resumed strolling towards him to sit on Demetrius' lap. "Nobody could have predicted a spell from the Tome Of Purgatory." She wrapped her arms around him. "Take it from me, that was supposed to be a myth."

Demetrius put his arms around her in return. "I'm aware. But we saw its power first hand that day and I'd rather not experience any more accursed Hellish Magic from that book again. With any luck though, he's dead and that accursed book burned up with him. Generally speaking, I don't like being wrong, but this is one of the few times I'd be happy to be proven wrong in my information gathering. Until then, all we can do is plan and prepare, right? In the worst case scenario that he does return with the book? We'll be ready...and I'm sure that Vlad will be too." He smiled. "Let him come. We'll put him down for good next time." Then he leaned down and kissed Saresha on the lips.

[superkamiguy1]

Nov 18, 2024 0:52:09 GMT superkamiguy1 said:

Vladmir Graveblade stirred in his bed, a low rumbling growl escaping his lips as he slowly, gradually, came to consciousness. The dreams of the previous night, fantastical though they may be, were already fading away and the darkness of the night was burned away by the Sun. As he sat up, the soft fabric of his bed sheets slid off of his lean muscular body. The pale skinned honey brown haired pretty boy vampire prince yawned and stretched, revealing his mouth full of fanged teeth, and large draconian leathery wings unfolded from his back as he leaned forward. They raised up int the air and spread out before slowly returning to his back and sinking into him again. He sat up again, rolled his neck, and looked around the bedroom. It was the same as ever. A wide open bedroom with fancy comfortable furniture, Gothic Architecture, pitch black curtains, a black bed, a chandelier....it was the same. He was back in his bedroom. One of the many bedrooms in the castle. 

"I'm home. I never left. It was just a dream. Wild as hell though....that lady...she was...gorgeous...a Vampire for sure....but who was the other guy? A Huntsman? A Gunslinger? Whoever he was, he had a fine suit. Huh. I wonder who they were fighting though. Because they were leaving an awful lot of bodies. Huh. Wonder why I was dreaming about that though. Did I see it in an action movie or something?" He shrugged and hopped out of the bed and began performing a series of stretches and warm-up exercises to wake himself up.

It worked like a charm and his body woke right up. His body moved fluidly as he stretched and loosened every muscle. Next came the katas, graceful sequences of movements that had been passed down through generations, precise moments that told stories of ancient battles and revered warriors. Each motion carried centuries of wisdom and tradition. With each strike and kick, he paid homage to the warriors who came before him. His body became an instrument of power and grace as he executed each technique flawlessly. The wind whispered secrets in his ear while birds flew past the window, bearing witness to this epic display of skill and dedication. Vlad's movements were so precise that it seemed as if time itself slowed down just to marvel at his prowess. His training transcended physicality; it was a spiritual journey where mind, body, and soul merged into one. Vlad moved with precision as he practiced the forms of ancient martial arts styles he'd learned from his family and their instructors over the long years of his undead life. His body became an extension of his thoughts. Each strike and block carried the weight of history, as if he was recounting tales known only to those who understood the language of the ancient arts. 

After he finished warming up for the day, Vladmir waved his hand and his bed made itself automatically complete with the pillows arranging themselves back in place. No reason not to save Penelope some trouble if he could help it, right? 

-

Vladmir sighed with relief as he lowered his body into the large intricately designed blood filled bathtub. Soaking in that heated bubbling bloodbath, feeling it hug every inch of his body so gently, breathing in the sweet aroma of blood, it was a slice of heaven from hell, a mini-vacation, a place to breathe deeply and let his inner peace return. Hot and invigorating and literally empowering, it soothed his muscles, which allowed him to free his mind of any stress he'd been carrying from the previous night's dreams and a cocoon for him, a place for relaxation and self-care. As he sank into the blood pool however his mind drifted back the dream.

(That woman....the Vampire Woman from my dream....there was something weird about her. Something different. I'm relatively sure I've never seen her before. So, unless my mind was playing tricks on me, that could mean that my mind based her off of someone I've met...that's not the weird part though. It's that...at one point during the dream, during a lull in the battle...I could've sworn she looked right at me. She was confused as I was too. I wonder what it all means? Does it even mean anything? Eh, who knows. Maybe. Maybe not. I'm not going to worry about it until then.) 

Vlad put it out of his mind for now and enjoyed the bloodbath.

-

After cleaning up, draining the bathtub, and absorbing the remaining blood all over his body into himself, Vlad returned to his room and got dressed into casual wear for now. A dark red t-shirt and black jeans. He'd put on something fancier later but since it was just him and his friends in the castle right now, casual wear would do just fine. He slipped on a pair of shoes and took a deep breath in and then he waved his hands again and opened the curtains to let the sunshine into the room. The light illuminated the room like solar flares going off! The blinding light chased away the darkness of the room and washed over him. The Vampire Prince growled and shieled his eyes as he waited for his body to re-adjust.  The Sunlight might not be lethal to him but it was still annoying sometimes. 

"Yeah, okay, I get it Heilos. You're bright as hell." He joked. 

-



-

Once he adjusted, Vladmir walked towards his dresser where a small intricately designed black and gold box was sitting on a coaster.



He grabbed the box, put it in his pocket and then walked the door and opened it up to stroll through the castle and face the day. 



Penelope Araignee was waiting for him at one of the dining tables with a blood drink for him and an insect meal for herself. Not unusual but he also noticed a black crystal ball sitting on a stand in the middle of the table. "Alright, which of them is calling me today?"

"Your older brother, sir, Master Demetrius."

"Of course. He knows he can just use a Cell Phone, right?"

"I'm sure he does. But, your family does have a tendency to be old fashioned."

"Heh. You're not wrong about that. Alright, lets see what he wants now." Vladmir sat down at the table, crossed his legs and snapped his fingers and pointed at the Crystal Ball. "Alakazam."

A light flashed within the crystal ball and it spread outwards as black smoke surrounded it and the light traveled upwards to project the image of Demetrius Graveblade: One of Vlad's siblings and his older brother, who was dressed in a fancy high class black tuxedo and sitting proudly on his throne.



He took a second to observe his casual attire and scoffed. "Did I catch you at a bad time, my foolish little brother?"

"It's Called Casual Friday, Demi-Pire. So what can I help you with today?"

"Just thought I'd let you know that The Shiba's Samurai Schools are officially being franchised. We're going global!"

"Hold up!  You're working with The Shiba's? You know they aren't fond of Supernaturals. What changed?"

"Ordinarily, yes, but the current head, Lumi, has been something of a radical. She might be blind but she's got vision where it counts. She's been spearheading the union between the Samurai School and the Ninja Schools with the other Hunter Teams on top of wanting to spread the influence of The Shiba Clan's Teachings to other cities in case they're ever attacked by Nighloks or other assorted Troublemakers." Demetrius explained. "The Old Man gave us some pushback but Lumi overruled him. Things have changed with The Shiba's, Little Brother, you really should give them another shot." A fanged smile spread across his face. "Just because things didn't work out between you and Lauren last century doesn't mean they're all that bad."

"One: It was amicable. We knew it wouldn't work out because I'm immortal and she wasn't. We still stayed friends anyway until she passed on. Two: That's personal. Three: Get Bent just in general." He smiled. "Fourth: I'm proud of you. You're doing some amazing work out there, Demi. You're finally growing up."

"You're the one still living in our parent's house."

Vladmir spread his arms out. "My Castle Now, Bro!"

"Clearly,  I misjudged you, you’re not a moron, Little Brother. You’re only a case of arrested development.” Demetrius commented, throwing a Paraphrased Hemmingway Quote his way. 

“You’re awfully funny, Harvey, some day somebody will push your face in.” Vladmir fired back with the retort from The Sun Also Rises.

"They're welcome to try. Many have tried to do exactly that you know and none have succeeded."

"Except me." 

"A lucky shot I assure you."

"You still using that excuse?" Vladmir challenged. 

"Just name the time and place."

"Heh. I'll keep that in mind. But I've got more important things to worry about."

"Yes, clearly. You know, The Supernatural Protection Agency is always open for new recruits if you want to do something more with your life." 

"Maybe...one day. It's just not the right time yet. I swore an oath to protect the town and its people."

"You're a good honorable man, Vladdie, sometimes to a fault."

"It's how true men live after all."

Penelope dropped some bugs in her sugar water and drank it down as she listened in on the conversation between the Vampire Brothers. 

"Ahhhh...forgive my manners. It's been a long time, Penelope, you're looking as gorgeous as ever, how have you been?"

"Every day is a blessing and I'm living the dream, thank you Master Demetrius."

"Of course dear, may fortune continue to smile upon you forever more. On that note however, I would like to mention that my offer to come work at my castle is still on the table. Our doors are always open for our dear friends."

"I appreciate the offer sir but I must humbly decline. Like I said, my life in Graveblade has been a blessing and all my friends are here. Please do give Saresha our regards though."

"I will darling, thank you, you're too kind."

"Make sure she doesn't drink your soul while you're at it." Penelope joked.

"What's there to take?" Vlad asked with a smirk.

"Hold your tongue, foolish little brother, I'd hate to cut it out. We both know that I'm more whole and together than you are." Demetrius' words were warnings but his tone of voice was clearly one of amusement.

"Keep telling yourself that. Anything else?"

"Actually there is. I don't know the specifics yet but there's been rumors circulating throughout the supernatural community that various monster groups are starting to get organized and group together."

"Like the United Alliance Of Evil? From the old days?"

"Not quite like that. More like....the Aurora Crown Hunters."

"The guys who were beaten by The Overdrive Rescuers?" Vlad scoffed. "Big deal. I'm shaking. Am I supposed to be afraid of that? Come on bro, we're Vampires. We've survived the worst that warriors on any side can throw at us and this won't be any different."

"Yeeeaaaahhh....see...I know you're right about all of that...except...well, there's something else." Penelope and Vlad couldn't help but notice the hesitation in his voice.

"What? What is it?"

"Keep in mind, brother, that we haven't been able to clarify this yet, but, there's a rumor that Albedo's involved."

Penelope's eyes widened and Vladmir sprung up to his feet in shock. He stared wide eyed at his brother and clenched his right hand and pointed at him with the other hand. "Are you being serious right now? Because if this is another one of your jokes then-"

"It's not a joke but it's not confirmed yet either. The truth is we don't know for sure if he's involved or even alive after what happened but that's what my informants have been telling me. I'll know more once they're able to clarify it for me but that will take time. So don't go running off half-cocked just in case it turns out to be either a different Albedo or someone just using the name."

Vladmir slowly calmed himself down after a moment and then placed a hand on his hip and let the other arm dangle. "Fine. You're right. But still, I want to be the first to know if if it turns out to be him."

"Vladdie-"

"Promise me, Demetrius."

"Fine. But in exchange I want you to be patient and wait for clarification before you go chasing after him."

"Deal."

"Deal accepted."

"Okay, cool, cool, thanks for bringing this to our attention. Anything else?"

"Vlad...it's been years since that day. Nobody blames you for what happened in Angel Grove. It was his fucking fault. Not yours."

"Yeah. I know. Anyway. Thanks for bringing this to my attention. Take care of yourself and stay safe bro."

"Right. You too. Out." He snapped his fingers and his image vanished and the crystal ball returned to its inert resting status. Vladmir sighed and sat down and returned to his blood drink.

"Sir? Master Vladmir? Are you alright?" Penelope asked him.

"Yeah, yeah, I am. Thank you for asking. I'm just going to need a minute that's all." He responded politely. "Like...how can it even be him? I could've sworn I killed Albedo back then..."

-

Demetrius hung up and sighed as he leaned back in his chair. "Ahhhh, what a pain."

A tall gorgeous business suit clad woman with long flowing emerald hair and four demonic bat wings flapping about from her back strolled up to him and leaned down to look at him. "Well, well, well, I take it he took the news well?" Saresha asked him.



"Better than expected actually."

Her sharp pointy ears wiggled. "Ohhh? Has he finally started maturing?"

"He's trying but he still blames himself for The Amalgamation Incident."

"He really is such a silly boy isn't he?" She asked as she resumed strolling towards him to sit on Demetrius' lap. "Nobody could have predicted a spell from the Tome Of Purgatory." She wrapped her arms around him. "Take it from me, that was supposed to be a myth."

Demetrius put his arms around her in return. "I'm aware. But we saw its power first hand that day and I'd rather not experience any more accursed Hellish Magic from that book again. With any luck though, he's dead and that accursed book burned up with him. Generally speaking, I don't like being wrong, but this is one of the few times I'd be happy to be proven wrong in my information gathering. Until then, all we can do is plan and prepare, right? In the worst case scenario that he does return with the book? We'll be ready...and I'm sure that Vlad will be too." He smiled. "Let him come. We'll put him down for good next time." Then he leaned down and kissed Saresha on the lips.

After a couple more blood drinks, Vlad went into the kitchen with Penelope to wash the dishes.

"I'm sure you're worried about nothing sir. Supposing Albedo really did survive your fight, wouldn't he have come back for revenge already?"

"That would be the logical move, yes, but Albedo wasn't really much for logic. Nobody who summoned that abomination could be." He began rinsing out his glass. "Still, you might have a point. Ten years is a long time for someone like him to wait for revenge. If he did survive The Burning Blood Dragon Twister after all, then he probably died in The Amalgamation's explosion....with any luck that freaky book burned up with him." He put the glass in the dishwasher.

"Suppose he did however. Do you have any contingency plans?" Penelope asked as she rinsed her plate.

"I thought he was dead all these years sooo...no, I don't. Kinda been resting on my laurels here." Vlad confessed. "I guess I should come up with something. At the very least, I know how to prevent the merging of The Amalgamation now but who knows what other rituals are in that book?"

She placed one of her upper arms on his back. "See? You've already figured out how to beat one of his tricks and, at the very least, you nearly killed him last time. If he shows up again? You'll beat him again and finish him for good. Take some time for yourself today, get some fresh air, check in on the people, and I'm sure combat plans will come to you."

"Thanks a lot, Penelope, you're the best."

"Oh please, do praise me more." She joked.

"Gladly. But hey, do you wanna come with?"

"I've still got some cleaning to do through the castle, Vladdie, I'll join you later."

"All good. I'll see if the shops have anything cool I can buy for you." Vlad promised. They finished cleaning breakfast together and then Vlad fist bumped her and began walking through the castle to clear his head.

Vlad rubbed the back of his head as he walked through the castle. He knew he should be heading to the front door to go visit the townspeople to unwind like Penelope suggested but he just wanted to clear his head a bit first, so Vlad began teleporting to random rooms. He didn't have any room in particular in mind so he just began moving himself from room to room, passing through the realm of darkness and shadows to come out the other end a second after, before he finally returned to the front door and he stretched. "Hello Silver, Hello Vincent, Hello Sclera."

"Sir! We heard the news! Is Albedo really still alive?" Sclera asked him.

"I don't know for sure yet so we're going to play this by ear right now. We'll make our preparations and wait until we have further information. I'm stepping out for a bit to clear my head and then we'll discuss the details when I get back."

"Ch-ch-cheese! That's our leader for you! Always prepared! Would you like us to accompany you?"

"Hmmmm...." He looked out the window and his eyes narrowed. "Maybe it's just because of the news throwing me off my game but I have a bad feeling about it. I'm sure it's nothing but right now I want you guys to remain at the castle. Just do your normal stuff and keep an eye out. I'll see if I can find some cool gifts for you while I'm out and if nothing happens we can all have a good laugh over my paranoia." Vlad joked and the group shared a laugh.

"You're the be-e-e-essst, sir! Please have fu-u-u-unnn out there!" Vincent wished for him.

"You got it man. Keep an eye on things for me guys! I'll see ya when I get back!" He told them and walked past his buddies, walked up to the doors, took a breath and then he pushed them open to be greeted with a wide and massive blast of sunlight washing over him. He hissed and snarled and then he stepped through the doorway to the outside world. The two heavy doors closed behind him while Vlad began walking down the stones to head towards the town.

Despite what the town's imposing name might imply, Graveblade was definitely not the desolate wasteland one might expect. Instead it was a place of vibrant life and stunning beauty where the sun danced on cobblestone streets and laughter echoed through the air. The townsfolk of Graveblade went about their days with joy in their hearts, baking in the warmth of their sun-kissed surroundings. The marketplace bustled with activity as merchants peddled their wares and children played in the cobbled streets without a care in the world. The town square was a sight to behold as it was filled with vibrant flowers and the same laughter and music as the rest of the town. It was also a beautiful town. Graveblade was a town that popped like it was right out of storybook with how bright and colorful it was with the beautiful buildings fantastical designs and their intricate carvings and ornate balconies causing this picturesque medieval town to exude elegance and grace! The streets are lined with stunning architecture from towering Gothic cathedrals to intricately designed townhouses! Colorful banners and flags flutter in the gentle breeze added to the town's festive atmosphere. Naturally, the town's thriving economy is evident in its bustling marketplace where farmers and artisans sell their goods. The town's rich history is on full display in its museums and galleries showcasing artifacts and art from centuries past. From the stunning views to the warm and welcoming community this town is a true testament to the beauty of modernized medieval living. This was of course in part due to them being protected for generations by the vampiric Graveblade Family. Though their name struck fear into the hearts of many, those who called Graveblade home knew them as benevolent guardians, some would even go so far as to say they were like their own Dark Angels, who watched over their beloved town with unwavering devotion.

Vladmir Graveblade took in the sights of the beautiful town as he strolled through it and enjoyed the sensation of work, trade, craftsmanship, flora, fruits, baking and working people and...something else. There was something else on the horizon. Something that wasn't supposed to be coming here. Unfortunately he couldn't quite place it yet. He still had some of his abilities but they were dulled out in the sunlight.

He would need to slip into the shade to be able to get his senses at least somewhat straight to figure it out. He refocused his attention on the people for now though and stuck out his foot to stop a soccer ball. He smiled at the gasping children, held up his finger, and then he kicked it into the air, let it come back down, bounced it off of his head a couple times and then he let it fall down on his back, rolled it down his shoulder down to his hand, tossed it into the air, let it fall back down on his hand, rolled it back up his arm, across his shoulders, down his other arm, up to his hand, dropped it and then he began playing hacky sack with it for a bit, putting on an impressive display with it, before he let it drop to the ground, put his foot on it and rolled it back over to the kids and took a bow to the applause of the children and the townspeople.

"Hey everyone look! It's The Prince!"

"Welcome, Your Highness!"

"Vlad! Vlad that was amazing!"

"Way to go! Thanks for showing us!"

"That was so cool!"

Vlad laughed and waved to the townspeople. "Thank you! Thank you! It's always nice to see everyone here, Ladies and Gentlemen! How does this fine day find all of you? Come on and tell me! How's everybody doing?"

"We're doing wonderful your highness! Thank you for asking!"

"Great! We're having a great day!"

"Thanks for asking Prince!"

"Please, just call me Vlad. But hey that's good to hear! It's always nice to know that you guys are doing great."

"Hey Vlad! Vlad! Come play Soccer with us!"

He chuckled. "Maybe later, Farkas, I still have some patrolling to do. But you kids have fun alright? Remember to stay out of the streets and watch for cars!"

"We will sir!"

He waved goodbye and continued walking until he heard Eliza Derks op den Nieuwen Blokvoort calling him from The Memento Gallery Souvenir Shop. "Heeeeey! Vlad! Over here! You're just in time! We have some good stuff in stock!" The Memento Gallery was one of the greatest souvenir shops around. Along with the usual things you can expect to find in that kind of shop, it also housed fantastical souvenirs, scientific or supernatural, that held mysterious powers and ancient secrets. The Blokvoort family were well known for adventuring and traveling around the world far and wide across the lands, collecting rare artifacts and magical trinkets to sell as their wares and if Nieuwen was flat out calling to him like this then she must have found something amazing. He strolled over to the store and stepped right in. He breathed in the sense of incense and mystical energies as he gazed around at the shelves lined with curious objects. There were crystal orbs that glowed with ethereal light, enchanted mirrors that showed glimpses of other worlds, ornate jewelry imbued with ancient spells and so much more! The store was filled with townspeople and tourists examining the various objects in the store while the employees explained what everything there was. He walked right up to the front desk to greet Eliza. "Good Morning, Miss Blokvoort. How's business?"

"Booming as always, Vladdie! Thank you for asking! In fact! It's going so well that we got our hands on something really fantastic this time! Our employees managed to get their hands on a very special prism meteorite and shave off some chunks of it before they had to flee. While they were hiding they overheard a ninja squad looking it over and talking it out." She and an employee reached down, picked up a heavy looking ornate golden box and placed it on the counter. "Your Highness Vladmir Graveblade, please allow me to introduce..." She opened the box and presented beautiful shining shimmering sparkling silver space steel to him. "Stellarium."

"Super magical space metal used in the formation of Starforge Alloy. Said to be able to enhance a person's truest desires and, if you drink it, enhance your powers even further and you can use it forge weapons and armor of all kinds. That's amazing. Your people seriously shaved this off themselves?"

"What can I say, sir? My people do very good work."

"Some very impressive work. Considering the sheer potential and rarity of this space metal how much would you like for it?"

"Well lets see now. Meteorites are rarer than gold, platinum, diamonds or emeralds and Stellarium is even rarer than the usual metals, and even one pound of it would be worth up to one million....but of course you get a discount here sir."

"Ah that's fine. I'll gladly pay full price for this."

"Oh! You're the best! Alright then! How about $30 Mill? Sound fair?"

"Perfectly fair. Sold!" He took out a checkbook, wrote on a check and handed it to her. She smiled as she beheld it with a big smile on her face and then she closed up the box and slid it over to Vlad.

"SOLD! All yours, sir!"

"Why thank you." He chuckled and patted the box. "So what else do you have in stock?"

"Quite a few beautiful ancient and magical treasures from around the world. But I saved some of the best stuff for you sir." Eliza and her employees placed the objects on the table. The Blazing Rod Of Flagel, A Fireheart Scale Fire Bracelet, The Eternal Mask and The Cursed Skulls Of The Mut-Org Hydra."

"You are a master of your craft Eliza. Say, is that backroom still open?"

"Of course, sir. Unlocked and open for your usage."

"Excellent. You're the best."

After writing her another check to pay for the artifacts they were placed in containers and the containers were placed inside of bags. He took the bags with him into the private backroom and closed the door. It was pitch black inside. No sunlight in here whatsoever. Vlad sighed with relief and rested against the wall as his strength began to return. It would dissipate all over again once he stepped back out into the light but it felt good to step out of it regardless. He took a moment to rest and then he got to work. As a Vampire he could naturally see in the dark with ease so it would be easier to get down to business. He walked across the room to a table with a box on it that contained pieces of magical chalk. He opened it up, took out a piece of chalk and then he walked across the room to the table in the middle of the room and then he began drawing a magical circle on it with the symbols of movement, space and field contained within it. Now that this was done he returned the chalk to its place and walked back to the middle of the room while dusting off his hands. Finally he took the Ninja Steel Box out of its bag first, placed it on the table and began chanting a teleportation spell.




"From ancient scrolls, the spell is drawn. A weaving of words before the dawn. Through realms unseen and worlds apart, the chanting spell starts its art." He chanted. "By Moon's light and Sun's bright glow, let this object swiftly go through time and space with swift grace to its destined place. By moonlight's glow and starlight's gleam I call upon this enchanted stream to move with grace from place to place. An object's journey through time and space. Transport!" The magical circle lit up with a wavy violet light that swirled around the table until the box was transported from the store to the designated landing pad in the castle. The spell worked by teleporting the object to a designated area you had pictured in your mind. The sharper the memory of the location was in your mind the better the spell worked. Vlad had a designated landing zone for where items like this would be transported as well as a sound system that would alert the castle's inhabitants to their arrival so they could transport them to The Castle Vault for storage. With one object transported away he turned his attention to the rest and had them teleported away one by one to the castle until they were all taken care of.

Now that this was done Vladmir placed his hand on the table and the spell died back down and the table was cleared and cleaned. Vlad took a breather and then he rested inside of the dark room for a little bit longer. Mostly to delay going back out in the sun again but also because he wanted to figure out what that weird ominous presence he felt earlier was. It would take a bit of focus to focus his senses off of the magical energies inside of here and separate the sensations from that but Vlad knew that he could do it if he concentrated hard enough. So Vlad crossed his legs, folded his arms and closed his eyes to concentrate.

Vlad was gradually able to reach out with his mind through the barriers of the store. It took a moment of gentle pushing but he was able to push his mind through the barrier and then out across the town and beyond its borders, across the land and through the sky until he finally found what had been bothering him so much: Multiple flocks of crow-like humanoid tengu bird monsters were flying through the air en-route to the town. The bird creatures had grey skin, hooked grey beaks, sharp talons on their digits and black feathers covering every part of their body aside from their faces, hands and feet. Their only clothing was organic, natural torso armor covering most of their chests, abdomen, and pelvis, along with kneepads and armor around their lower legs.

Vlad let his focus return to the room and he stood up and stretched. "So. Whole flocks of Tenga Warriors, huh? I can handle that but it feels like a distraction. Heh. I wonder if there's something else coming here to pick a fight with me." He reached out with his mind again to contact Penelope.

'Bonjour, Penelope! Can you hear me?'

'Loud and clear, sir. Is everything alright?'

'Right now it is but we might be getting some visitors soon. We've got Tengas incoming, whole flocks of them, and I have a sneaking suspicion that they're just a distraction for something else. You guys know the drills. Secure the castle and be prepared for a fight just in case.'

'Understood. We've already secured your gifts in the vault and we'll be more than prepared in case someone comes here to pick a fight.'

'Awesome. I'll speak with the guards and tell them to get set up just in case.'

'But sir? Are you sure you'll be alright?'

Vlad smiled and flashed his fangs in the dark room. 'Oh don't you worry about me. I'm weaker in the sunlight but I'm still far from helpless. Let them come if they really want a fight. We'll give them one they won't forget.'

Vladmir walked out of the backroom and quickly walked up to the front desk and tapped it.

"Hello again sir. Did everything go alright in there?"

"Everything went as planned but...I'd like to buy a sword anyway."

"Then you're in luck! We have weapons and trinkets to spare! Feel free to pick out whatever you like!"

Vlad looked around the store and quickly spotted one that caught his eye and he walked right over to it and lifted it up off of its holder and he brought it back over to the desk.

A long, narrow, straight blade made of crystal is held by a grip wrapped in low-cost, green shark skin. The blade has a barbed, curved cross-guard, which makes sure the blade is both balanced and capable of protecting the owner's hands against any sliding sword. The cross-guard has an ornamented eye on each side, this is clearly a weapon not meant to be wielded by a commoner. A fairly large pommel is marked with the sword maker's signature, a famous symbol and rightfully so. The blade itself is fairly simple. No markings, no decorations and no engravings. While the hilt is as elegant as its owner, the blade has to be as strong as its owner.

"This one will do nicely." He told them. "What do you call it?"

"Peacekeeper, The Diamond Crusader. We found it at The Crystal Creek Falls on The Sparkling Island."

"What? Seriously? No way! I've never even been there! It's not exactly somewhere that Vampires can go."

"Trust me sir, the pictures don't do it justice. The Dazzling Augecophoenicite lights up the island in a way that words alone cannot describe. It's like a bunch of naturally occuring Dawn Crystals!"

Vlad laughed. "Yeah. That's why my kind can't go there. Dawn Crystals aren't exactly good for us. But I would love to hear more about it later. Can you ring this baby up?"

"Gladly!"