I'm in a deep meditative state. It mimics sleep but grants vampires the chance to unlock new abilities, a process that transcends the confines of the mind's limits. It's like a divine gift, empowering us to execute the gods' commands more effectively. The pace at which my abilities unlock surpasses that of others, though I don't question it; I embrace it. My focus remains on honing my fire magic and mastering the art of my black blade, even though I ponder the irony of vampires, creatures of the night, wielding the potential for fire magic.
My magic embodies the element of fire, while my blade personifies ice—a balance of immense power and strategic offence. I could broaden my focus to other abilities, but for now, fire and my blade will suffice. And if ever in dire straits, I retain 'it'—my last resort—an 'Ace' in my arsenal, though I detest using it due to the loss of control and excruciating pain it inflicts.
A knock interrupts my meditation. "Oi, Morsus! You busy? It's Lucuis. Come on, we've got another contract, a special one. Meet me in the war room. I'll explain everything." I open my eyes, intrigued by this unexpected proposition. (A special contract? Am I ready for it? Perhaps the gods seek to test me. I'd relish the opportunity to showcase my abilities. I wonder how many credits it's worth? Furthermore, I'm eager to learn the details.)
I enter the war room and find Lucuis standing alongside another vampire. A round, magical table showcasing a map of Earth separates them. This table offers invaluable insights into our missions, revealing the locations of specific targets with adequate information.
"Ah, Morsus! So glad you could join us. Ardent Nox, meet Morsus Frigus. Morsus Frigus, meet Ardent Nox. He'll accompany us on this contract." We both nod at each other.
"Wait, a joint contract?" I inquire.
"Yes," Lucuis confirms. "This is urgent. The Ordo Noctis has intel suggesting a potential assassination—a royal princess as the target. You understand the catastrophic implications?"
"It means inevitable war, right?"
"Exactly. If the princess falls, it could ignite the most devastating war in history. You realize what this means, Morsus? Should we fail, it might spark the extinction of humanity. Either they annihilate one another, or they evolve into such a menace that we'd have to exterminate them."
"By the gods... so why choose me instead of more experienced vampires?"
"They see vast potential in you, as did I during your training. That's why I recommended you."
"I see..."
"Come now, Morsus. Observe the map and let's discuss our plan." Lucuis points to the Sanctum Terra region, known for its devout worship of 'holy' gods. The capital, adorned in white stone and gold, houses significant structures such as the white-gold cathedral and their tall castle, reaching to the gods in the divine realm. "King Aldric Sanctorum governs this realm. His daughter, Seraphina Sanctorum, undergoes a sacred baptism into adulthood at the cathedral. Then, she embarks on a pilgrimage to the summit of their 'holy' mountain to conclude the ritual."
"This is where it gets perilous," Lucuis continues. "The King anticipates the threat and assigns his elite guards to escort her to safety. Yet, our paintings revealed intel suggesting a rival kingdom's plan to strike during her exposed moments. An unknown assassin, possibly incredibly skilled, poses a threat. Be prepared for all contingencies. Understand the task?"
"Yes," we both reply.
"Any questions?"
"Will there be only one assassin?" I probe.
"Indications suggest so," Lucuis replies. "Our intel points to talk of a lone female assassin from the rival kingdom."
"Interesting. Not something you hear often. She must be remarkably skilled to undertake this alone."
"Indeed. Nonetheless, prepare for any scenario. Ardent, are you attentive?"
"I am," he responds, his voice even lower than mine.
Lucuis snaps his fingers, "Come now! Look alive! All right, listen up, you two. Here's my plan... We'll head to the capital and gather intel on the guards who will be escorting the princess during her pilgrimage. Do whatever you can to find information—sweet-talk, eavesdrop, bribe, or threaten. We'll use beacon orbs for telepathic communication. Report immediately if you find useful information. Then, each of us will procure the uniform of one of these guards to disguise as them. The method doesn't matter, be it stealing, bribing, or other means, as long as it's swift, clean, and won't interfere with our task later. Next, we blend in. Typically, the guards walk in rows of 2 behind the princess, and two of her personal guards stay beside her. Remember, leave her personal guards alone. They'll notice if their uniform is missing or if someone else is wearing them. Focus on someone less well-known if possible. Now, continuing... Morsus, you need to try and stay as close as possible to her, ideally at the front. I'll be in the middle, and Ardent will be at the back. Check your surroundings and keep an eye on the princess. If all goes well, we'll eliminate the assassin without any complications. Understood? Meet me at the teleportation room in 30 minutes."
"Understood," I confirm before departing. As I leave, Lucuis adds, "Morsus, keep a clear head. Remember your training and experience. Even if things go awry, I'll shoulder the responsibility. I'll guide you, but no hand-holding!" He winks at me.
His words linger as I prepare for the contract—the most significant one yet. But with focus, a level head, and teamwork, I believe we can succeed.