The body of Minister Arden was dragged away by the vampire guards, leaving a trail of dark blood across the marble floor.
No one dared to whisper. No one even breathed too loudly.
Malum sat silently on his throne, expression unreadable, when the doors suddenly swung open.
A young, handsome vampire rushed inside and dropped to one knee.
"Milord."
Malum gave a simple flick of his fingers.
The ministers instantly understood. They scrambled out of the hall like frightened insects.
Once the doors slammed shut, the young man spoke.
"Milord… Minister Arden's entire family was found burned to death. His home reduced to ashes."
Malum's eyes narrowed sharply.
'Vampires do not burn from ordinary fire'. He thought.
"Viktor," he said slowly, "do you know what you're saying?"
Viktor swallowed hard. "I'm afraid it's true, milord. Only their ashes and bones were found. No witnesses. No scent left behind. And… the fire itself remains a mystery."
Malum rose from his throne at once, his cape flowing behind him as he strode toward the exit. Viktor followed close.
"Viktor," Malum said without turning, "are you thinking what I am thinking?"
"We… can't be certain yet, milord," Viktor replied, equally disturbed.
They reached the grand balcony overlooking the entire vampire city which sat under a soft, cloudy morning. The light was dim but gentle, giving everything a calm, cool glow. Tall stone towers rose quietly into the sky, smooth and elegant. The streets below were clean and quiet, with dark flowers growing along the paths and small fountains misting the air. Even in the gloom, the city looked beautiful, peaceful, refined, and full of quiet life.
Viktor hesitated, then delivered another report.
"Milord, there have also been sightings of… decay. Dead grass and rotting ground along the border between our realm and the fairy realm. And it is spreading into their lands."
Malum spun around. "Are you sure?"
"Yes, milord." Viktor bowed his head.
Malum paused, thinking. "How is your research going?"
Viktor instantly knew what he meant.
"The news about you choosing a bride soon is spreading everywhere. The royal families are already preparing for your selection."
"I didn't ask you that," Malum cut in. "Among them… who do you think is the best choice "
Viktor hesitated. "I cannot say for certain, milord. But… choosing the fairy princess could bring great advantages to both kingdom."
Malum nodded slowly. "I was thinking the same."
He turned toward the city again. "Send them an invitation. They are to be in the palace tomorrow."
"Yes, milord." Viktor bowed deeply.
"I'll visit the border myself," Malum said, already walking away, cape trailing behind him.
And with that, he left Viktor standing alone on the balcony.