Chapter 67: Preparing for the Storm

The group returned to New Haven under the cover of night, their minds racing with what they had seen. The master vampire's appearance had left a chilling impression, her calculated power and confidence a stark contrast to the feral chaos of her minions. George walked ahead of the group, his rifle slung over his shoulder as his thoughts churned.

Inside the mansion, the team gathered in the common room. Lanterns flickered on the walls, casting long shadows that seemed to move with the tension in the room. George stood at the head of the table, his hands gripping the edge tightly.

"She wasn't just powerful," he said, his voice steady but grave. "She was calculating. She sent her minions to test us, to see how we fight. That wasn't an ambush, it was a message."

Stephanie leaned back against the wall, her arms crossed. "She's gauging us. Trying to decide how much of a threat we really are."