Chapter 26: All Hail, Dracula!

A crashing sound of broken glass echoed around the restaurant. Stares gazed at them as it calls the attention of people nearby.

And from that table, a man rose from his seat, having that pale and grave expression. Noticing this, the woman with him knew right away that they need to leave the place.

"Madame, are you alright?" The waiter asked the lady instead of the man who's having this cold aura.

The woman nodded in response, "We're fine. Just clean the mess here. We'll take our leave." She said and followed her companion who just left the area. She rushed and followed him going the elevator.

"Vulpine, what's wrong?" She worriedly asked and gently held his hand.

Not even looking at her, he took a deep breath and mumbled, "Xyrus... he's dead..."

Kagami's eyes widened, "That's impossible! He's as strong as you..."

Vulpine held his head, "True, but he's always been stubborn and refused to listen to my advice." He heaved a sigh, "Whoever it is... I'll make sure they'll pay!"

Suddenly, the lights flickered and there was turbulence as his eyes turned bright red and he was surrounded by an ominous aura. It slowly faded soon as the elevator landed on the first floor. Someone was waiting for them when the door opens. It was Linnaeus, wearing a grave expression while carrying Griselda in his arms.

"You've got to save her!" He demanded.

"How insolent! Can't you see-" Kagami paused when Vulpine raised his hand and stepped forward.

"What happened?"

"M-master Vulpine..." Griselda reached for him with her trembling hands, "S-she's back..! I-I saw her again! That monster! Please forgive me! I failed you, Master Vulpine!"

"How pitiful..." Vulpine coldly gazed at her and placed his hand at the top of her head, "Don't worry, child... You won't fear that nightmare ever again." He smirked and all of a sudden, Griselda lost her consciousness.

"What did you do to her?" Linnaeus glared at him.

"Relax, she just fell asleep." Then he snickered, "And when she wakes up, she won't feel that weakness again."

"If something bad happens to her, our deal ends here."

"Hmm... You seem to grow fonder to that girl than I thought. I wonder why is that?"

Linnaeus frowned, "That's none of your concern. What you need to worry about are those damn Seraphim!"

Vulpine gazed at him, "Seraphim, you say?"

"Their strength is not a joke as they say. I don't even care why that bitch gets in our way, but I'll make sure she'll pay for what she did to Griselda."

An evil laugh escaped from Vulpine's lips, "Interesting... I never thought they would actually care about the lives of the tainted ones. Just how much did Rae convince them?"

"Does that even matter? I think it's time for you to take our deal to the next level before our goals get trampled on."

"Hmm, you're right." He turned to the woman beside him, "Kagami, gather everyone to our meeting place. Tell them, a new power awaits once they show themselves." Vulpine snickered as his red eyes glowed in the night.

***

The sweet chirping sound of birds outside and the cool breeze of wind are the first things he felt soon as he regained his consciousness. This made him slowly flutter his eyes open and saw the familiar ceiling of his room. Gently getting up, he noticed the damp cloth on his forehead which he placed on his bedside table.

Then, he suddenly pinched his cheek as hard as he can, groaning, "This isn't a dream, indeed."

Upon gazing at his right hand, he noticed a unique violet symbol carved at the back of his hand.

"This is..."

'Huh, so you're finally awake!' said the familiar voice inside his head.

"Blackhole?" Rae stood and tried to walk around.

'Heh, I was wondering how long you'll remain asleep. The fact that you're not born as an Alucard has a great effect on your body when I took you as my new host.'

"I see..." Rae moved his hands, arms, and legs, stretching them as he can, "Right now, I've never felt so light and good."

'It only means we're successfully joined as one. And I'm impressed how your body managed to accept me. You never cease to amaze me, Young Dhampir!'

The lad was about to respond when the door was suddenly opened by Aria, carrying a basin of water. She paused for a bit when he met her gaze.

"Misa Grosvenor..."

The lass walked towards the small table like she saw nothing.

"How are you feeling?" She asked.

"Better than before. All my wounds are healed and I don't feel any pain."

"That's good to know..." She paused after placing the basin on the table.

Rae blinked after noticing this, "Miss Grosvenor?" He walked towards her.

And all of a sudden, he was quickly welcomed by a warm embrace soon as she turned around.

The lad flustered and blinked fast, "U-uhm, Miss Grosvenor? What's wrong?"

"Three days..." she mumbled, "You've been out for three days... I'm just glad you're safe and awake."

He may not see her expression from this angle, but Rae knows how sincere she is with her words. He can tell by the beating of her heart.

"I'm sorry for making you all worry. And thank you, for looking over this city for me." He gently patted her head.

Feeling the warmth of his hand, she has never felt secure. When did she ever feel close to this vampire? The more she thinks about it, the more her heart races and the more she feels confused. And as much as she wanted to stay in his arms, suddenly, they heard a gentle knock from the door. Aria quickly pulled away before they can be seen and misunderstood.

The door swung open and Rin froze soon as she saw Rae standing.

"Y-young master? You're awake!" With tear-filled eyes, she ran towards the lad and hug him tightly.

Good thing Rae has finally regained his strength. He would've fallen out of balance when Rin suddenly jumped and hugged him.

"H-how do you feel? I-is your body okay?" She worriedly asked, lifting the lad's shirt to check for bruises and scars.

She sighed in relief when she saw nothing.

"Rin, what's the commo-" Hearing all the noise upstairs, Damien decided to go up, and like Rin, he froze in place soon as he saw Rae.

But unlike the female vampire, he didn't jumped and hug the lad but rather, he sighed in relief, "Thank goodness, you're alright..."

"I'm sorry for making you all worry. And thank you for taking care of me."

"Oh, it was nothing. Don't mention it."

'Though, we've spent several panic attacks, anxieties, and sleepless mornings.' Damien thought, 'What's worse, I can't figure out the damage he received from that battle. When Grayson brought him here, his wounds are already healed but Rae's still in pain. I... We don't know what to do during that time...' The memory they had experienced three days ago came flashing to his mind like a nightmare.

He was back in reality when the huntress cleared her throat, "Since the Vampire King is now awake, I shall take my leave then." She nodded politely.

"Thank you so much for your help, Miss Aria!" Rin said, "Let me escort you outside."

Soon as the ladies left, Damien glanced at Rae.

"How are you feeling?"

"Better than before. I'm alright, don't worry." He smiled assuringly.

"Is it... really over?"

The lad nodded, "Yes, King Serafino Alucard... is now dead."

Like a thorn that has finally been pulled out of his chest, Damien sighed in relief. The nightmare for most vampires has finally come to an end.

"What are you planning to do now, Rae?"

The lad gazed at the window, "What else there is to do, my friend? It's time to mend the damage and make changes. To do that, the first step is to be the new Dracula." He smiled with eyes full of determination.

Down to the halls they go, the two ladies walked towards the door.

"Thank you so much, Ms. Aria. Without your help, I don't know what to do." Rin started before she could leave.

She looked down while fidgeting her fingers, unable to look at the huntress for feeling the shame.

"When I saw the young master unconscious that time... everything suddenly went blank for me... My heart cannot take the thought of losing the master we dearly loved. All my reasoning and optimism... suddenly vanished..."

Then, Rin gazed at Aria and smiled, "But thanks to you, we were reminded of what needs to be done when you stepped in. I admire how calm and collected you were back then." She chuckled.

"It's nothing." Aria casually said and opened the door.

"Again, thank you so much for your help! We'll surely return the favor one day!" Rin bowed deeply which made the huntress uncomfortable.

"Do what you like, no need to bow your head and show me some weakness." She said and stepped out of the gate.

Aria was about to go back to her apartment when she saw someone standing in front, it was Ciella.

"If you're looking for him, he's now awake upstairs." She said, referring to Rae.

But instead of going inside the big house, Ciella pursed her lips and frowned.

"I just don't get it... Why... did you help him... them... and our kin? You know very well why I'm asking this."

Aria blinked, "I... don't know either..." Then, she gazed at the trees as the wind came and passed by, "Mr. Celis... is the first vampire who has ever matched my strength. He also said something absurd which I can't help but look forward to it."

Her gaze now shifted to Ciella, "That's why... I just can't let him end like this not until he proves his words to me."

"Is that all?" Ciella asked, she seems unconvinced.

"What more do you want to hear?"

"Don't you have any other motive why you're doing this?" She crossed her arms to her chest, "For three days, you've been nursing him. No one in their right mind to exert such effort and help their enemy, not unless you want something in return. So you'd better spit it!"

Aria took a deep breath, "And your point is?"

"Are you that interested in him? Do you see him as a man?" Ciella scooted closer and whispered, "Do you have... feelings for him?"

The last sentence echoed inside the huntress's head. Usually, by now, she should've denied the idea. But for some strange reason, she can't bring herself to do so. And before she knew it, the silence has passed when Ciella spoke once again.

"Well, I don't care either way." she shrugged, "But by the looks of it, you seemed unsure of what to respond. But as for me, I'm already interested in him since the first time we met."

She started walking towards the gate, "Once I got stronger, I'll be his wife." Then, Ciella gazes at her for the last time, "Just making sure no one will take him away when I return."

A playful grin escaped her lips before she went inside the mansion. And that moment, Aria remained in silence. Not because she can't talk back, but for the first time, she doesn't know what to say. What's more, there's this strange feeling inside her chest.

What's the meaning of this? Will she ever find out the answer she seeks?

***

His heart was pounding like it will come out of his chest anytime soon. He has never felt this nervous before. He was just standing at the door but still felt hesitant to make a single sound.

"Come on, Gray! You can do this..." He fixed his collar and purple coat, taking a deep breath before he knocks.

But when he was about to do so, the door swings open and met the gaze of his friend.

"I was expecting you." Rae smiled.

Gray flinched, "H-how long did you know I'm here?"

"The moment you stood behind the door. I knew right away it was you."

The tall lad bashfully rubbed his nape gently, "I-I see..."

"Thank you for coming."

"Of course! I wouldn't dare to miss this event." Gray crossed his arms.

"Oh? And why is that?"

"Isn't it obvious? It's because you're my-" He paused after seeing Rae's expression, gazing at him with eyes sparkling in anticipation. Well, at least to his imagination.

With that, he cleared his throat, "Y-you're... my friend..." He mumbled and blushed in embarrassment.

Rae grinned, "That makes me happy. You shouldn't be shy about it." He teased.

Gray placed his palm on his face and sighed, "Ugh... Please, say no more of this..." Then, his face shifted from embarrassed to a soft expression.

"To be honest, I thought you're going to die..." He suddenly said, without even looking at him.

"After that huge explosion, it was a miracle that I found your body, unscathed, unharmed... But you were unconscious, and your breathing wasn't consistent. I called unto you many times but you won't open your eyes... I thought I was going crazy that time. And I ran as fast as I can, hoping they would be able to do something to save you."

Gray continued, and by them, he was referring to Rin and Damien.

He heaved a sigh, which sounded like a huge relief, "What I'm saying is... I'm glad you're alive." He finally gazed at the lad and smiled.

"I apologize for worrying you and thank you for all you've done. From today onwards, I will protect you all this time." He offered his fist and Gray gladly bumped his.

"Congratulations, Mr. New Dracula." He smirked.

Rae beamed, and before they knew it, a knock came from the door.

"My lord, it's time." said one of the vampire servants.

Rae nodded and they both went out of the room.

'Nervous, aren't ya?' Blackhole scoffed, 'How come a single ceremony can make you feel this pathetic?'

"Because I'm capable of having emotions."

"What? Are you sayin' something?" Gray glanced at him.

"Yep, but don't worry, I'm talking to this guy." Rae slightly removed his glove and showed him the mysterious symbol at the back of his right hand.

Gray became flustered.

He chuckled, "I'll fill you in with details later. For now, let's focus on this ceremony."

"Right."

Their gazes fixed onward as the huge doors were swung open before them. Rae's heart continued to pound louder and faster. It's not just about him having emotions for feeling this nervous. But more specifically, it's because of how he has been waiting for this day to come. And now that it is finally happening, it seems like his heart won't stay still.

The whole room was surrounded by bright lights, and these special lights are meant for their vampiric eyes so they won't get blinded. Not only that, the curtains have been changed to brand new, halls and floors were neatly cleaned. She made sure not a speck of dust can be seen. After all, this is her son's special day.

A week ago in the human world, she was informed how Rae managed to defeat King Alucard. It was a feeling of relief after finding out about his feat. But to be precise, a feeling of guilt is what best describes her emotions. If she didn't become weak before, she could've ended the battle long ago. She could've been the one hurting instead of her precious son. If she would've lost him because of that, she doesn't know what to do anymore.

Just then, she felt something warm holding her hand. When she looked to the side, Stephen was smiling softly at her, as if telling her how everything will be alright. And like a spell that was cast, all her guilt and worries were washed away.

"You look too beautiful to worry about such things." He huskily whispered to her ear, which set her heart racing, "I'm sure Rae wouldn't also want to see you anxious like this." He added.

Astrid chuckled, "And I also wonder how he'll react after knowing how his father can still say such cheesy lines."

Stephen smirked, "At least he knows that I'm only like that to my queen." He placed a soft kiss at the back of her hand.

"Thank you... for cheering me up."

"Anything for you." He smiled.

Then, Astrid took a deep breath before she stepped forward and called the attention of everyone inside the room.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, to our dear honored guests, our faithful friends and helpers, I thank you all for granting us your precious time to come and attend today. We have gathered in this place to celebrate this special event, to give honor to his achievements as well as to enthrone him as the new ruler of our clan." She stretched her arm forward, pointing towards the huge doors at the back which were swung open just a few seconds ago.

"May I present to you, our son, our pride and joy... Rain Anderson Elliot Van Helsing-Celis."

Soon as his name was called, all necks craned and all gazes landed at him. Rae gulped and took a deep breath before he walked forward. Holding his chin up, he proudly stepped towards the dais as he was welcomed by a warm embrace from his parents. His mother looked stunning in her golden dress which was matched to his father's outfit. But as much as he wanted to stay in their arms, they don't have much time to spare for the ceremony.

A servant came forward, carrying the crown made up of black minerals with red and gold gems. Knowing what's next, the lad got down on one knee as Astrid took the crown in her hands.

"According to our clan's tradition, whoever stands the strongest in the family shall inherit the title of Dracula. After banishing Serafino, his entitlement to the position has no bounds. And to this day onwards, I announce my son, Rae, will now be the new ruler among all the vampire families, the king of all vampires." She said in a loud and firm voice and placed the crown on his head.

Soon as it happened, the crown glowed and a huge bat wings symbol appeared and shone brightly - proof of how the crown acknowledges him as the new king.

"All hail, Dracula!" Astrid shouted.

And the soldiers marched and stood up straight, "All hail, Dracula!" They exclaimed, raising their weapons.

Then, all the vampires present in the ceremony raised their arms in the air and exclaimed, "All hail, Dracula!"

There's not a single soul that can be seen opposing this. Everyone is wearing smiles on their faces as they celebrate this day.

As Rae was facing them, he welcomed them with a warm smile on his lips. He stepped forward and looked at each of them.

After their cheers and claps, silence came after as they were waiting for his speech.

"Greetings to my beloved people of Van Helsing! I thank each of you for cooperating and joining me on this special day. And, it wouldn't be possible without a single one of you that has been part of this household." He gazed at them with sincerity in his eyes.

"You might be wondering, you're just helping me, serving this family as a payment for saving your lives. You might be thinking you're insignificant inside this household. But I'm telling you right now, each of you plays a vital role in the Van Helsing... Five years ago, I vowed to become Dracula and revived the Van Helsing family. Starting again from scratch wasn't an easy task. But I thank each of you for maintaining the beauty of this place. And I tell you, people of Van Helsing, the day you accepted my offer, you are now part of this family. You are one of us, a Van Helsing. That's why none of us are insignificant. Each of us matters. And as the new Dracula, I will listen to your pleas and establish your safety. I will proclaim changes as we all move forward towards a brighter future. And as the new king, I vowed to fulfill these duties."

"All hail, Dracula!"

"All hail, King Van Helsing!"

Moved by his words from the heart, all the vampires shout for joy, raising their hands in the air.

Then, another servant stepped forward and handed a cup of blood wine to Rae. He took it and gazed at the people once again.

Like him, they're also holding their cups, joining him for a toast.

"Twenty-two years in the human timeline, war broke between the two families of the vampire household. We've lost so many lives, regret so many things, and hoarded so much pain. But today, I want to end all of those. As the new Dracula, our first step towards change will happen right now." He stretched out his arm forward, pointing at a vampire girl with candy pink hair wearing a royal blue dress.

***

"I heard you're awake, so I came to check on you."

"Ciella, how are you doing? Did you recover well?" Rae asked worriedly.

She sighed in defeat and sat on his bed, "I give up... I really don't understand why you worry about me more than yourself. But I guess, that's just who you are." Ciella chuckled and shrugged.

Rae laughed awkwardly, then, he gazed at the ceiling.

"Ciella, after I'm fully recovered, I'll be crowned as the new Dracula soon." Then he gazed at her with those ocean blue eyes, "And I want you to be there..."

At first, she thought he was just being courteous. After all, he was nicely asking her. It would be rude to decline.

And right now, as she stood among the crowd, she has never felt so awkward and out of place. Back in the human world, she can get anyone's attention so easily. But since she's among the Van Helsing, nothing is much nerve-wracking than this.

Yes, she felt nervous.

And it was her first time feeling like this. She used to be confident and fearless. But in just a snap, after what happened, she felt like everything has been stripped down on her. And nothing feels more shameful as she stood bare naked, having no power nor title anymore.

'This is how it should be...' She thought, but not until she was called in front.

Once again, all eyes glued on her. But unlike before how she enjoys attention, this time, this makes her more nervous and uncomfortable.

Just then, she felt a strong and warm feeling holding her hand.

Rae stood before her after he came down of the dais just to pick her up.

"Come, Ciella." His smile shines brighter than any light and looks more precious than any gem.

And as simple as that, she was swayed and before she knew it, she's now standing in front of the crowd with him.

'She looks familiar.'

'Isn't she the last child of Alucard?'

'What is she doing here?'

These voices kept echoing inside her head as she unintentionally read their minds.

'Is this... his revenge? To humiliate me?' Ciella looked down, she can't bear to look at anyone's faces. And before she could feel betrayed, Rae spoke in a gentle yet firm voice.

"People of Van Helsing, you might be wondering why I brought this guest with me. And you're never wrong recognizing her as Alucard's last child. BUT that doesn't mean she's also our enemy. Like most of you here, Ciella is also a victim of Serafino's cruelty. She has nothing to do with all her father's schemes." He gazed at her and gently squeezed her hand as if encouraging her.

"People of Van Helsing, the first step towards change is to start a new. I want to once again close the gap between the Alucard and Van Helsing. I know it's hard to forget all awful memories, but his children... Orpheus and Ciella, wanted to be free as well. It's time for all of us to recover from these wounds by starting a new life. It wouldn't be easy, but we'll take all the time we need to get there." Rae raised his cup, "This is a toast for a fresh start. For the Van Helsing and Alucard!"

It didn't take long before the vampires raised their toast and agreed to the King's proposition.

"For the Van Helsing and Alucard!" They exclaimed.

And as for Ciella, she can't believe how easily they trusted and agreed to his words. The smiles on their faces are not fake, and the way they all look at him is filled with respect.

'So this is... the power of his influence... I never thought he could win them over so fast.'

After drinking their blood wine, the musicians started playing a mellow and serene sound. And everyone has gathered in the hall with their partners.

Then, Rae gazed at Ciella and offered his hand, "May I, my lady?"

She was a bit hesitant but seeing the warmth and sincerity in his eyes, it feels like she has been hypnotized by those ocean blue eyes. She took his hand as they walked towards the center of the hall.

Seeing this, Astrid was about to stop them when Stephen gently held her hand.

"Let them be."

"B-but... I still can't believe this is happening..."

"I understand, but you heard our son. He wanted to start a new one. And this is the beginning of his peace treaty with an Alucard." He smiled and gently squeezed her hand to calm her down.

Gently they swayed together and twirl like the others. This is the first time having each other as their dance partner. But neither of them has bad feet in dancing.

"Not bad, I'd say." Ciella chuckled, "You must've danced to a lot of girls before, huh?"

Rae laughed awkwardly, "It might be embarrassing to say but... I don't dance that often like this. You're my second dance partner."

She pouted, "Second? Hmph... Too bad I'm not the first."

He chuckled, "Either way isn't bad at all." He smiled and gracefully spins her around.

After drawing her close to him, he softly whispered to her ear, "I'm just glad I get to dance with Ms. Ciella."

She scoffed, "Drop the formalities. I'd much prefer you call my name."

"Noted on that." As the mellow melody comes to end, it was followed by a much upbeat sound that makes anyone stomp on their feet.

Rae keeps holding her hand and leads her to dance more energetically than before. The music became faster as people continued to stomp their feet swiftly and clapped their hands, swirling around the hall as they shout in victory.

In a loud beat of the drum, the music ended facing their partners. Rae and Ciella were panting not because they got tired. But rather, the fast beat of sound earlier matched with their heartbeats as they danced with all their might.

She has never had fun dancing like this before. There are no steps that needed to be memorized. Ciella just enjoyed the moment stomping, twirling, and clapping as nothing else mattered. It was a great feeling she could never forget.

After the dance, the vampires gathered and congratulated the lad. He was totally surrounded that she was unintentionally separated from him.

Never wanting to spoil the moment for him, she chose to step out and walked towards the balcony.

"Uncle Rae!" A young vampire boy with mint blue hair came running towards him.

"Alastor!" Rae kneeled and hugged the boy in his arms.

"I missed you, Uncle Rae! And... congratulations for being our king!"

"Thank you, Alastor! You've grown taller the last time I saw you."

"I didn't just grow taller, Uncle, I've become stronger too! I'll show you my sparring skills next time. You'll be there, right?" The furrowing of his eyebrows is too adorable to resist. And by those unique brows, one can tell where he inherited those.

"Alastor, you shouldn't bother your Uncle now he's the Dracula." The child's parents stepped forward. And just by seeing them, a big smile was drawn on Rae's lips.

"Cal! Aunt Lucy!" He greeted them with a big hug.

"We're so proud of you, Rae. If you ever need help, don't hesitate to get this old vampire's ass working." Lucy said, referring to Calcifer.

"And don't also hesitate to give this old hag some work to do," Calcifer responded.

"They're always calling each other like that but they can't actually live without one another."

The couple blushed at what little Alastor said.

"Uncle Rae!" Trisha rushed over and hugged his other arm, "You haven't played with me and Renzo for so long!" She pouted.

Seeing this, Alastor pouted as well and glared at Trisha, "No! Uncle Rae is going to play with me first!"

"No, I'm first!"

"No, you're not!"

With their little arms but vampiric strength, they're pulling the lad with all their might. But of course, given his power, they can't pull him too much.

"That's enough, you two!"

Rae chuckled, "It's fine." Then, he looked at the two kids, "Don't worry, I'll play with you two once I have free time."

"Promise?" They asked in unison.

The lad nodded, "Yep, that's a promise."

After talking to them, Rae noticed how Ciella left the crowd and went to the balcony. He excused himself and followed her there.

"You should be there more than here." She said, after sensing his presence.

"I haven't expressed my gratitude yet." He walked and stood beside her.

Slowly, Ciella gazed in his direction.

"I've heard from Damien, you've saved those people from turning into parasites. Thank you."

There was silence in between them before she has managed to speak.

"T-there's no need to thank me..." She looked away to hide her red face, "I'm just fulfilling my promise."

"But it wouldn't be possible without you. I'm still grateful you're here." He smiled brightly.

"Fine, I'll take that gratitude of yours. But someday, you're the one who's going to do me a favor." She smirked.

"I'll be waiting for that."

The wind came passing by together with another silence. Ciella tucked some strands of her hair behind her ear.

"Back then, I used to hate all men - whatever species may be, as long as you're a male, you're my enemy. I used to think all men are the same, only wanting power, dominance, and lust for women."

Rae looked down, remembering what he saw in her memories back then.

Ciella took a deep breath, "But thanks to you, my views have changed. You're the first man who showed me not all are the same. And despite the things I did to you, thank you for saving me." She smiled.

"I'm willing to do it again whenever you needed me."

"Hmm... I'll save that offer for next time. Though, it would be in the far future."

He blinked, "What do you mean?"

"When you're unconscious, I met the Witch of Death. She knew my mother well and offered me to go to the academy of witches where they both graduated."

"Do you plan to go?"

Ciella slowly nodded, "Yes... I wanted to get stronger."

"Whatever your decision, I'll support you."

"Will you wait for me?"

Rae smiled, "Of course!"

Ciella smiled too, "That's what I've been waiting for..." she scooted closer and planted a soft kiss on his cheek, "When I come back, I'll prove myself worthy for you."

Rae blinked fast, finally understanding what she meant. With that, he blushed. But before he could confirm it to her, Damien came and entered the scene.

"Here you are. Your mother's calling for you. It's time to end this ceremony."

Rae glanced at Ciella for the last time before they got separated.

'Wait for me... I'll prove myself worthy to be your wife. And I don't plan on sharing you with anyone else.' She thought.

***

She was standing in front of the big house she had stayed in for a while. The moment she has lost control over things that she used to have: fame, money, and properties, she didn't have a place to stay in. After all, those things don't belong to her from the beginning. If it weren't for her powers, she wouldn't be able to obtain those easily. But after Serafino's doom, she chose to let those things go as she realized something.

'For now, all matters to me is to get stronger. In that way, I could come back and be by his side.' Ciella thought and glanced at the tall and fair woman walking out of the door.

"Once you get there, don't expect they'll treat you kindly. You're still a half-vampire that they all so despise." Bernadette said.

She nodded, "I understand."

"And remember, you should be kind to the person who's going to pick you right now." she added, "Because, without that person, my recommendation wouldn't suffice. The approval from the witches' savior helped a lot to get you accepted to the academy."

Ciella was about to ask about it when Gray sensed something.

"The witch's here."

A magical circle was formed from above, and from it, a girl with black hair emerged. Riding on her magic broomstick, she slowly landed in front of the house, right in front of the lass.

"You must be Ciella." Her green eyes met hers, and at that moment, she knew there's something more with this nerd-looking girl. She might be smiling innocently at her but she can clearly feel the powerful mana* she has.

The girl blinks, "Don't tell me... you're the silent type?"

"She must've been shocked, Gilda. You've become a lot stronger than we last met."

A wide smile was drawn on her face, "Professor Berna!" she was about to hug the Necromancer when Gray stepped forward, growling and glaring at her.

"It's alright, Gray. Gilda is a friend." After saying that, Gray calmed down like an obedient dog.

Gilda sighed, "I never thought you'll raise a beast as your guard."

"Not that it matters right now." Bernadette gazed at Ciella who's standing behind, "This is Gilda Walker, the witches' savior that I mentioned."

"You can drop that title, professor... It's kinda embarrassing."

Ciella offered her hand, "Ciella Luna."

Gilda took her hand and smiled, "Nice to meet you. I've heard a few things about you. And I can't wait to introduce you to other witches."

'Is that a threat? A trap? I can't quite tell if she's faking it. But whatever happens, I need to be alert.' Ciella thought.

"Alright! We'll be off now, professor!" She waved goodbye before opening the magic circle.

And as for Ciella, she glanced at Bernadette one last time before she entered the circle and was swallowed by the light.

"Ugh... Finally, they're gone!" Gray mumbled.

Then, he heard the witch scoff as she was gazing above.

"What's wrong?"

Bernadette smirked, "I just have a funny feeling that things would get more interesting from now on."

***

Back in the abandoned building where the members of The Red Skull gather, they all have come as instructed by Vulpine. And a minute before the assembly, Kagami showed before him with a troubled expression.

"Vulpine, I saw it... That dhampir bastard has become the new Dracula! What should we do now?"

Instead of getting worried, a smirk was slowly drawn on Vulpine's lips, "Fret not, my dear Kagami." He reached for her face and gently caressed it, "Everything is going according to plan..."

Then, he stood and walked forward. Before meeting the Red Skull, he snickered,

"Let the young dhampir have his fun for now. After all, this is just the beginning..." His red eyes glowed in the night with that menacing grin.

***

Author's Note:

*Mana, among Melanesian and Polynesian peoples, a supernatural force or power that may be ascribed to persons, spirits, or inanimate objects. ... It was first used to describe what apparently was interpreted to be an impersonal, amoral, supernatural power that manifested itself in extraordinary phenomena and abilities.

(Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/mana-Polynesian-and-Melanesian-religion&ved=2ahUKEwi3jbLV7OLzAhUDZt4KHaLrCaUQFnoECB0QBQ&usg=AOvVaw2H0DxYg6NsLX5lSTAwgaLn)