Shadow of Styria

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''Content Warning'' <span style="color:red">''The game is 18+, for adults only''</span> Trigger warnings include: - Blood lust - Explicit sexual themes - Death - Violence - Blood - Assault - Murder - Swearing - Emotional abuse - Nightmares and night terrors ''DO NOT PLAY THE GAME IF ANY OF THE THEMES MAKES YOU FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE'' Prioritize your mental health above all else. ❤️ This symbol indicates a romantic route. ❤️‍🔥 This symbol is used for more intense scenes. ❌ This symbol means you're blocking the RO advances. 🩸 This symbol indicates that you are entering a feeding scene, where your character will consume the blood of a victim. ❗''THIS GAME IS HIGHLY EXPLICIT. THERE IS NO OPTION TO FADE TO BLACK. EVERY SCENE IS EXTREMELY GRAPHIC. PLEASE PROCEED WITH CAUTION.''❗ Feel free to follow me on tumblr if you like @kingsdespair-if [[• Take me to the game.]]

Insert achievements here

by Krosgznak

Shadow of Styria

hunt, feed, fall in love.

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<a href="https://www.motoslave.net/sugarcube/2/docs/">Sugarcube 2 Documentation</a> <a href="https://github.com/ChapelR/custom-macros-for-sugarcube-2">Chapel - custom macros collection</a> <a href="https://github.com/cyrusfirheir/cycy-wrote-custom-macros">Cycy's custom macros</a> <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a> for sidebar images (<a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/4CpyhNQ-LdU">light mode</a> and <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/1L71sPT5XKc">dark mode</a>)

<h3>StoryInterface</h3> The StoryInterface special passage, used by creating a special passage titled StoryInterface, allows you to override the default UI layout of Sugarcube. At its most basic, it consists of a div with the id "passages" that displays the data from your passages on the screen, as shown in example 1. You can add more complex layouts by adding more elements to this passage, such as menu bars, splash screens, headers and footers, as shown in example 2. Defining these divs is as simple as adding the necessary HTML to the StoryInterface passage; however, note that if a div is assigned a "data-passage" property, you should not add content to it within the StoryInterface passage. This property assigns a passage to that div. In example 2, the div with the id "ui-bar" has the data-passage property "UIBar", meaning it pulls its content data from a passage with the same name. These designations are case-sensitive. If you're just starting out with Twine/Sugarcube, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the language and the UI before working with StoryInterface. ''Example 1'' {{{<div id="passages"></div>}}} ''Example 2'' {{{<div id="ui-bar" data-passage="UIBar"></div>}}} {{{<div id="passages"></div>}}} {{{<div id="footer" data-passage="Footer"></div>}}} This will create a layout with three basic elements: the UI bar, the passage, and the footer. Content for the UI bar is found in the UIBar passage; likewise with the Footer passage & div. <h3>Accessing the UI functions</h3> Using StoryInterface by nature removes the built-in UI bar and the links contained within (Saves, Settings, Restart etc); these can all be replaced using their relevant APIs. The most common & useful of these are listed below. These commands can be placed inside links or buttons. {{{UI.saves() - opens the save UI}}} {{{UI.settings() - opens the settings UI}}} {{{UI.restart() - restarts the game}}} {{{Engine.backward()/Engine.forward() - undoes the previous action and returns the player to the previous passage/moves the player forward one action}}} Similarly to the above, you can use {{{<<back>>}}} to create a button that automatically undoes the last action, or {{{<<return>>}}} to return to the previous passage without undoing any variable changes made. <h3>Dialog functions</h3> You can set up dialog options to pop up upon clicking a link or button, which allows you to share information with the player without adding a new passage to the player's history or changing the state of the game. In order to do this, you need to set up the Dialog box, tell it what passage contains the content you want to display, and optionally, add a title. {{{Dialog.setup("Dialog Box Title");}}} {{{Dialog.wiki(Story.get("PassageName").processText());}}} {{{Dialog.open();}}} Any of these commands can be used in the default layout as well as StoryInterface - if you want extra save buttons, back buttons etc. <<back "Return">> <<link "Settings">><<script>>UI.settings();<</script>><</link>> <<button "Saves">><<script>>UI.saves();<</script>><</button>>

''CHAPTER 1. WHAT LURKS IN THE SHADOWS AT NIGHT.'' As you walk through the dark streets of Styria late at night, the carriages have long gone, leaving behind only the occasional sound of horse hooves against the stone and dirt ground. It's quiet, which is necessary for you to feed, but too much silence could attract witnesses if your victim screams. Unlikely, but not impossible. The cold wind brushes against your face, but you don't mind. Your skin is already cold, and your blood flows slowly through your almost lifeless veins. Your long red hair dances on your back, leaving behind a trail of blood crimson blur. Your slender body is clad in a perfectly fitting black dress, accentuated by a velvet red corset that enhances your breasts. Your perfectly manicured nails graze the stone walls as you lean against them, ensuring your steps are as quiet as possible. You know exactly where to find a satisfying drink tonight: The Saloon. It's the only place that stays open late, and it has provided you with most of your recent feedings since you arrived in Styria four months ago. Thanks to this place, you haven't experienced hunger. As you continue walking, your hazel eyes scan the dark alleys, searching for an easy meal. It doesn't take long for you to arrive at the noisy saloon. The name "Noapte" is spelled out in big red letters, a rather ironic twist considering this is the perfect place for you to feed. Throughout your entire life, you have always been regarded as the most beautiful woman wherever you go. Being an immortal with enhanced beauty, created to seduce and prey on humans, has only heightened even more your allure, as this pitiful species cannot control themselves when in your presence. It's amusing to see how desperate these sheep become to enter the wolf's den, willing to risk everything to be inside the wolf's jaws. They don't even know. They are nothing more than food. As soon as the people inside the establishment notice you, their behavior seems to change. They sit up straighter, the men try to deepen their voices when talking to their companions, but their eyes are fixed on you. The women fix their hair and touch their lips delicately, their eyes trying to catch your attention. Tonight will be an effortless opportunity to find someone to feed on. No one appears too intoxicated to be enticed, yet they are drunk enough to be easily lured to a secluded alleyway. Two young individuals immediately capture your attention: a man in his early twenties, around 23 years old, and a woman who appears to be about 22. Both of them fixate their hungry and curious gazes upon you. The man's attire suggests that he may be the son of an aristocrat. He is impeccably dressed in an expensive suit, complete with a golden chain hanging from his front pocket, showcasing a pocket watch. In contrast to the setting of a cheap saloon in the late hours of the night, he wears a topper as if he were attending a sophisticated ballroom event. Clutching a mug of ale, he cradles it with caution, almost as if he is afraid to taste its contents. His posture, his gaze, and his solitude exude an air of naivety. The woman sits with her friends, two girls giggling and teasing her as her face turns red at the sight of you. You can tell they're mocking her crush on you. She wears a simple light pink dress, and there are five empty mugs on the table, suggesting she may be a bit tipsy. Her friends laugh even louder when you lock eyes with her, and she tries to avoid your gaze by looking down at the table. You decide it's time to start hunting. You approach: <<link "• The man.🩸" "• The man.🩸">><<set $monster to +1>> <</link>> <<link "• The woman.🩸" "• The woman.🩸">><<set $human to +1>> <</link>>

As you walk with the grace and agility of a lioness, you notice the sound of breaths catching around you. The man's blue eyes meet your hazel eyes, and a shy smile appears on his lips. You continue walking until you are standing directly in front of his table. "May I join you, sir?" you ask, a charming smile on your lips. The first step. "It would be my pleasure, madam," the man replies hastily and gestures for you to sit. You sit down in front of him, crossing your fingers on the table, observing his gestures and body language, searching for the best approach to captivate him effortlessly. Rich men always enjoy talking, especially about themselves, so that's exactly what you do. "Would it be impolite to inquire about your name, sir, after requesting to join you?" you ask, subtly licking your lips. You notice his gaze flicker to your lips, and he swallows audibly. Too easy. "No, of course not, m'lady. My name is Franciszek von Leppin. And what may I call you?" You smile at him, an empty smile reminiscent of a lynx preparing to attack its prey. Extending your hand, you invite him to kiss it while speaking in a sultry voice. "I am Carmilla Le Fanu, pleased to meet you." "A pleasure indeed, Miss Le Fanu. May I inquire as to what a respectable lady like yourself is doing in such a questionable place?" "It's a cold night tonight, don't you think, Sir von Leppin? I'm actually seeking some company to keep my bed warm. I thought you might be interested," you reach into your pouch and grab a cigarette, lighting it while maintaining eye contact with him. Just as the cigarette touches your lips, the man rises from his chair, the sound of wood scraping against the hard floor. "I am very interested in your offer, m'lady. May I accompany you home?" he asks, extending his arm for you to take. You rise from the chair and link your arm with his, allowing him to guide you out of the saloon. Once outside, you subtly direct him towards your "home," but instead lead him to an empty field just a few blocks away from the saloon. Once he realizes that you're taking him away from the main street and into a more rural part of the city, he begins to sense that something is amiss. It becomes apparent to him that you are too well-dressed to be living in the camp. His head turns towards you, his lips parting as if to question you, but it is already too late. You are much stronger than him, effortlessly overpowering his feeble attempts to resist as your hands tighten around his neck. "Shhh, my little lamb... It will all be over soon," you whisper, your teeth transforming into fangs as you sink them into the man's neck. He tries to scream, but your hand remains firmly clamped over his mouth. The taste of sweet, metallic blood fills your mouth, and you realize that you were slightly hungry. It seems that feeding on a victim every two months may no longer be sufficient. After 150 years as a vampire, your hunger has only intensified with each passing year. As you feed, the man's struggles gradually weaken, his expensive suit now stained with red and dirt from the ground. Finally, you have drained enough to satisfy your hunger. Sadly, it wasn't enough for him to stay alive after you drank from him. You know he won't survive, so you finish drinking the very last drop. Carrying his lifeless body, you walk to the river and drop him there. It will take days for anyone to report him missing, and even longer to find the body, if they ever do. You glance down at yourself, cleaning off the blood that has stained your pale skin red. As you look up at the sky, you notice the moon is about to set. It's time to find a hiding spot before the harsh sun discovers you. [[• Satisfied, you return home.]]

You smile at the woman, and despite her friends teasing her, she attempts to smile back. You approach her cautiously, ensuring she won't feel the need to hide or escape from you. You remain patient and avoid rushing, there's no use in scaring the prey away. As you reach her table, one of her friends glances at you, winks at her, and says, "Alright, we'll catch up with you later, Gwen. Enjoy yourself." With that, they depart, leaving you alone with 'Gwen'. "Good evening. Miss Gwen, I presume?" you inquire, flashing a charming smile as you gracefully reach for her hand, placing a gentle kiss on her knuckles. "It's actually Gwenhwyfar, m'lady. But you may certainly call me Gwen," she responds, blushing as your lips make contact with her skin. "Very well, Miss Gwen. I am Carmilla Le Fanu. It's a pleasure to meet you. Please forgive my forwardness, but I have been wondering if you, as a lady, would appreciate the companionship of another lady?" you raise a charming eyebrow, maintaining a polite but suggestive tone. "I... I mean... Yes, I would like that very much," she smiles at you, her hand gently caressing yours. "That's wonderful to hear. Would you like to accompany me home, Miss Gwen?" you ask, offering her your arm. She hesitates for a moment before standing up and accepting your offer. You lead her out of the saloon and head towards an unoccupied house where you take the victims you don't intend to kill. As soon as she sees where you're taking her, you feel her grip on your arm tighten and she starts to panic. "Where... Where are we?" she asks, fear evident in her tone. Your head snaps in her direction and you meet her gaze. Slowly, you enter her mind, soothing her and mesmerizing her. In a matter of seconds, she becomes compliant, like a doll in your arms, following you without resistance. You open the door and lead her into the dimly lit living room. One hand rests on her lower back, while the other gently strokes her neck, your thumb brushing against her pulse point. You feel her steady heartbeat beneath your touch. Your teeth transform into fangs as you lean closer to her neck. "Shhh... close your eyes, my little lamb... It will be over soon, and you will only remember pleasant memories of me," you whisper softly as your fangs penetrate her delicate skin. You feed on her, savoring the metallic taste of her blood. As you implant memories in her mind, she moans in pleasure. You satisfy your hunger, yet ensure she still has enough to survive. Finally, you lick the last drops from the two puncture wounds on her neck. You realize that you were slightly hungry. It seems that feeding on a victim every two months may no longer be sufficient. After 150 years as a vampire, your hunger has only intensified with each passing year. You gently place the unconscious woman on the floor and exit the house. As you look up at the sky, you notice the moon is about to set. It's time to find a hiding spot before the harsh sun discovers you. [[• Satisfied, you return home.]]

You successfully hypnotize an elderly couple living on the outskirts of the city. It took longer than you had hoped, as the couple proved to be intelligent, making it more challenging to charm and manipulate them. Eventually, your skills prevailed, as they now introduce you as their daughter, just as you instructed. This arrangement provides you with a secure refuge during daylight hours, which you understand is essential for your survival. Nonetheless, you despise being confined within the house. You enter your temporary home, finding your fake parents fast asleep in their room. You go to your own room, where the windows are sealed to keep out the light. After removing your clothes, you inspect them for any blood stains before returning them to the wardrobe and heading to bed. The bed is not very good; the mattress is uncomfortable at best, but it's tolerable. Comfort is not your priority; safety is. Hopefully, you'll find a better place soon. You lie down on the bed, naked, and hide under the blankets. Before long, the sleep of a dreamless vampire finds you. A sudden noise wakes you from your sleep. You grunt as you throw the blankets aside and rise from the bed to get dressed. A simple black nightgown will suffice. After dressing, you quickly fix your hair and head downstairs to find your adoptive parents conversing with an old man. You catch only snippets of their conversation. "No, Baron Vordenburg, we haven't heard or seen anything. My wife and I go to bed early. We're old and easily tired," your 'father' informs the man. "Understood, Mr. Le Fanu. But do you and your wife live alone? No children?" the man inquires. "Oh, our daughter is upstairs asleep. She suffers from a rare illness, you see. She easily becomes fatigued and requires ample rest." "I see. Can we speak with her? We just have a few questions, it won't take long," the man asks your 'father'. He mentioned 'we', implying that there are others with him. You close your eyes, focusing on the sounds coming from the living room. You can hear the familiar heartbeats of your fake parents, along with one from the man and another from someone else. There are only two of them, so you might be able to eliminate them if necessary. "I think so, I'll call her downstairs." You hear the slow footsteps of the old man approaching, and you wait for him at the top of the stairs. When he sees you waiting, you raise a hand, signaling for him to be quiet. "Go to the kitchen and get food and drinks for our visitors. I'll handle them. Take mother with you." The man nods and goes back downstairs. You wait a few minutes before following. You descend the stairs, feigning fatigue and drowsiness. The moment the old man lays eyes on you, you let out a loud yawn and stretch your arms above your head. Seated on the couch is a man dressed like a colonel, with white hair and a white beard that adorn his wrinkled face. He appears to be around 60 years old. You discreetly scan the room for the other person accompanying him, and you spot her. She is approximately 24 years old, the same age you were before becoming a vampire. She stands behind the man, her hands crossed behind her back. A crossbow hangs from her back, and she is dressed in black leather armor. On her belt, there are wooden stakes and a few flasks filled with a red liquid. The woman possesses an exquisite beauty. Her long, dark brown hair is tied up in a messy bun, and her sharp grey eyes meet yours. She has a strong face and jawline, with light olive skin. Oh, how delicious her blood must taste. [[• 'Miss Le Fanu, I presume?' the man addresses you, snapping you out of your train of thought.]]

You give him your best charming smile, your voice sweet and innocent. "Oh, please, good sir. Call me Carmilla. You must forgive my appearance, I was resting and didn't expect a visit," you politely bow at the man, then turn to the woman and repeat the gesture. "Right, alright. I am Baron Vordenburg, and this is my daughter, Anna Vordenburg. We are investigating a few strange missing cases around Styria, and it would be a great help if you could answer a few questions," he reaches for a small notebook and a pen, gesturing for you to sit. The woman keeps her calculating gaze on you. "Of course, anything I can do to help," you say as you sit beside the man. Now that you're closer, you catch a whiff of Anna's scent. It's a mix of whiskey, dirt, and lilies. Taking a deep breath, you can almost imagine the taste of her skin against your tongue. You lick your lips, stealing a side glance at her. The woman takes a step forward, now closer to you. "Miss Le Fanu, where were you last night?" "I went to the Noapte, Miss Vordenburg. I had a few drinks and chatted with some interesting individuals, then I came back home before it got too late," you bluntly answer. You know that the best way to deceive is to tell a truth wrapped in lies. "Did you know a man named Stefan Albescu?" she asks, observing your reaction. You do. You killed this man a month ago. You keep your face impassive. "No, I don't," the lie flows naturally. "Have you noticed any strange or suspicious activity in the city recently?" "I don't go out much, Miss. So, no," Anna looks at you with narrowed eyes, she is not buying what you're selling. "Are yo-" the man interrupts her before she can finish her question. "That's enough, Anna. Thank you for your time, miss. We still need to investigate and ask more questions to the other residents on this street." "That's alright, sir. Thank you for your efforts to keep us all safe from whatever is happening. It's quite frightening." "It's our duty and our pleasure, Miss Le Fanu. Please try to avoid going out at night... You never know what may be lurking in the shadows at night." I'll be careful, sir. Thank you once again," the man nods and stands up from the couch, heading towards the door. Your fake parents return to the living room with a tray containing bread, cheese, coffee, and juice. "Oh, Mr. and Mrs. Le Fanu, you're too generous, but we really must leave. Thank you for your hospitality," with that, the man puts on his hat and departs. The woman takes a few more moments to examine you before joining her father and closing the door behind her. That was a close call. The man believes your story, but his daughter seems suspicious of you. You need to be cautious around her. Perhaps it's time to find a new hiding place before she starts investigating you. [[• You run back to your room and start to store yout clothes in the travel trunk.]]

Black and red dresses, with long sleeves and gloves complement all your belongings. You have instructed the elderly couple to rent a carriage, which will safely transport you out of the city. You patiently wait for the sunset before loading the carriage, ensuring a smooth departure without any complications. You direct the man to drive the carriage, while the woman accompanies you inside. If anyone inquires about the passengers, she will act as your sole companion. Soon, you'll be leaving the city with the carriage curtains closed. Surprisingly, the old man driving is not as terrible as you expected. Once outside the city, you push the curtains aside slightly to enjoy the view. It has only been a few hours since you left when you spot a small castle in the distance. It turns out to be the Mielul family castle, indicating that you are still within Styria territory. As the carriage passes through a dense forest, you suddenly hear howling and growling. The carriage horses become frightened and start running uncontrollably, even your zombie companion can't calm them down. You're thrown up and down inside the carriage, cursing loudly until the horses finally break free from their ties and run away from the wolf pack surrounding you. The woman appears to have fainted, her head resting against the floor of the fallen carriage, blood dripping from a cut above her eyebrow. You climb out of the window to confront the wolves. It's a large pack, maybe 10 or more hungry and angry wolves, and the man is nowhere to be found. You're alone against all of these creatures. <<link "• Hide inside the carriage and wait for the wolves to leave." "• Hide inside the carriage and wait for the wolves to leave.">><<set $human to $human += 1>> <</link>> <<link "• Eliminate every single one of them." "• Eliminate every single one of them.">><<set $monster to $monster += 1>> <</link>>

In a flash faster than even the wolves can see, you're back inside the carriage. You close the door and use a piece of broken ceiling wood to block the windows. You hear the wolves scratching at the carriage, howling and growling, trying to reach you inside your refuge. It's not the first time you've dealt with wolves; sometimes they get tired and leave, sometimes they don't. You really don't want to get your dress torn and dirty from fighting these creatures. The woman beside you is bleeding, and the smell starts to trigger your predator instincts, even though you're not hungry. You feel your fangs growing in your mouth. "Shit, fucking hell. Go away, you bastards!" you scream at the wolves, your voice a commanding tone, maybe you can charm them too? You can't stay trapped inside the carriage with a bleeding person; you'll end up killing her, and she can still be useful. A gunshot rings out, you hear a wolf whimpering. The sound of men screaming grows louder as they approach. More gunshots follow. "Here! I think we have a survivor!" a man screams, approaching you. You quickly compose yourself, retracting fangs back to their human form before he can notice anything unusual. The door opens and you see a man hovering above you. "Hey, lady, are you okay?" he asks, gently touching your shoulder to turn you around. You allow it. "I-I'm alright, thanks to you! Thank you, thank you!" you hug the man, feigning fear and even managing to shed a few tears. "It's okay, you're safe now. Come, we'll take you inside the castle. Is anyone else with you?" "My mother is hurt, I think she fainted, but my father is missing. I'm so scared," you say, biting your bottom lip as tears ruin your makeup. You need to appear fragile. "We'll take care of her, and we'll also search for your father. Come now," he instructs, sending a few men into the forest to search for your 'father', while the rest carry your mother and guide you up the hill to the castle. [[• You follow the man up the hill to the small castle.]]

You prepare for the fight, your human hazel eyes turning a fiery red. The eyes of a predator, bigger and scarier than any wolf. Your nails lengthen, your teeth transform into fangs. The presence of so many wolves may pose a problem, as they might ruin your clothes. Doesn't matter, you can always fashion new ones from their pelts. The first wolf lunges towards you. Despite the darkness, you can see with absolute clarity. You seize the wolf by its neck and hurl it, causing it to collide with two other wolves. You hear the wolf's cry of pain, and another one approaches, baring its teeth in a fierce snarl. You bare your own fangs in response, causing them to take a step back, but not enough to scare them away, they are preparing to attack. Another wolf howls behind you, and the one in front of you lunges towards you. Before you can defend yourself, a gunshot rings out, and the wounded wolf collapses in front of you, whimpering and bleeding. The sound of men screaming grows louder as they approach. More gunshots follow, causing the remaining wolves to flee back into the forest. "Here! We have a survivor!" a man screams, approaching you. You quickly compose yourself, retracting your nails, teeth, and eyes back to their human form before he can notice anything unusual. "Hey, lady, are you okay?" he asks, gently touching your shoulder to turn you around. You allow it. "I-I'm alright, thanks to you! Thank you, thank you!" you hug the man, feigning fear and even managing to shed a few tears. "It's okay, you're safe now. Come, we'll take you inside the castle. Is anyone else with you?" "My mother is inside the carriage, but my father is missing. I'm so scared," you say, biting your bottom lip as tears ruin your makeup. You need to appear fragile. "We'll take care of her, and we'll also search for your father. Come now," he instructs, sending a few men into the forest to search for your 'father', while the rest carry your mother and guide you up the hill to the castle. [[• You follow the man up the hill to the small castle.]]

''CHAPTER 2. THE WOLF WITHIN YOUR OWN WALLS.'' Only now do you notice that the men are dressed as guards, likely the castle guards. They escort you to a room with a massive fireplace, where they kindly wrap you in a blanket and ask you to wait while they summon their Lord to speak with you. Meanwhile, your 'mother' is taken to the castle's surgeon for proper care. As you wait, they offer you mulled wine and a bowl of soup. As you scan the room where they have placed you to wait, you notice the crackling fireplace and the presence of tall, luxurious windows, velvet curtains, and expensive couches. In front of the couches, there is a large floor table. The walls are adorned with numerous paintings, some of which you believe to be from the ancestors of the Mielul family, while others appear to be more recent, possibly painted for the current residents. But it's the largest painting that catches your attention. It hangs above the fireplace and depicts a man in his 50s with short blonde hair and light brown eyes, seated in an armchair. Standing beside him, with a hand on his shoulder, is a much younger woman. She shares the same hair and eye color as him, and her hair is long enough to touch her hips. At first, you assume she must be his wife, as older men often marry much younger women, but upon closer examination, you realize that she is more likely his daughter. The resemblance between them is too obvious to ignore. A old woman approaches you to keep you company while Lord Mielul finishes his tasks. She introduces herself as Mademoiselle De Lafontaine, the governess of the castle, she carries a heavy french accent. "Carmilla Le Fanu, Mademoiselle, it is a pleasure to meet you, although I wish it were under better circumstances," you say, giving her a sad smile as you nurse the wine goblet with trembling hands. The woman moves closer to you, gently touching your forehead with the back of her hand. As soon as her skin makes contact with your cold one, she gasps loudly. "Oh my dear, you are freezing! Those vile creatures must have scared you so much, poor thing," she says, spreading another blanket over your legs before returning to her seat. "Are you feeling okay? Do not worry about your mother, she will be fine, and the boys are searching for your father. Do not fret, darling." You nod in response. Occasionally, you bring the goblet to your lips and pretend to take a sip, while the soup remains untouched on the table in front of you. Mademoiselle De Lafontaine engages in conversation with you throughout the evening, inquiring about your previous place of residence, your travels, your parents, and your education. You don't tell her this, but as the daughter of the Count of Karnstein, a wealthy man who provided you with a privileged upbringing, you are used to interacting with individuals like De Lafontaine. You know how to gracefully dance to the songs she plays. I doesn't take long for her to be charmed by you, your politeness and your knowledge as a Lady. Of course, you know how to draw and paint, and play the harp and the piano, you know how to sew and sing, how to write flawless letters and create stunning bouquets, write poetry with precision, and read flawlessly, without stuttering. Every little thing expected from a high born woman, you know how to do perfectly. [[• The double doors open, and the man depicted in the painting enters the room.]]

"Oh, Lord Mielul. It's good to see you again so soon. Our guest here was eager to meet you," the woman says, smiling and politely bowing to the man. "Mademoiselle De Lafontaine," he greets, "and you must be Miss Le Fanu, I presume?" "Yes, my Lord," you reply, nodding your head politely. "I came to inform you that your mother will be fine. She hit her head hard and will be asleep for a few days, but she is being taken care of. Your father is still being searched for, and I have sent my best hunters. I believe he will be found soon enough. As for you, I-" Before he can finish his sentence, a young woman emerges from behind him, hiding behind her father like a child, despite being an adult. He raises his hand to you and bends down towards the girl, who is whispering something to him. What they didn't know is that you can hear what she is saying. "Is she staying, father? You know how lonely I am here. I only have Mademoiselle De Lafontaine's company, and she's wonderful, but I want someone closer to my age... Please?" she pleads. Her voice is sweet and delicate, like morning dew. The man sighs and whispers back, "I was getting to that, impatient girl. Her mother will need to stay for treatment, and I was going to invite her to stay. Would you like to be introduced?" She doesn't respond verbally, but you see her nodding. "As I was saying, Miss Le Fanu, your mother needs to stay for a few more days, and I cordially invite you to stay as our guest for as long as you may need," he clears his throat, gesturing towards his daughter. "This is my daughter, Laura. She was eager to have a friend. I believe you might get along due to your similar ages." You give him a nod of acknowledgment. "Thank you, thank you, my Lord, for your infinite generosity. It will be my pleasure to keep your daughter company. I'll do my best to be a good friend," you give the woman your usual charming smile and see her shyly smiling back at you. "Of course. A room is being prepared for your stay." "Excuse me, my Lord. May I ask how you knew my family and I were in danger?" you ask, preparing yourself for scouts or guards if you go out to hunt in the woods. "Laura saw your carriage passing through our lands and heard the wolves right after you entered the forest domain. The wolves around here are very dangerous, so we knew something bad might happen. I sent my men to search for your carriage and any possible accidents." You approach the woman. Laura watches you with a curious gaze. "So it's you I must thank for saving me and my mother?" Her eyes shine with awe as her gaze flicks to your face, as if seeing a work of art. <<link "• You bend down to gently grasp her hand, your lips lightly brushing against the soft skin of her knuckles. Despite the white makeup meant to conceal it, you notice her pale face turning red.❤️" "Laura romance 1">><<set $lauraromance to +1>> <</link>> [[• 'Thank you for saving me. I promise to be the best friend you've ever had.']]

The woman in front of you freezes, a delighted but embarrassed expression on her face. Her fingers gently squeezes your soft hand before you let go. You can hear her heart skip a beat as her eyes quickly flick to where your lips touched her. Humans are easily impressed, especially this one. This might be interesting. Her father stands beside her, placing a hand on her shoulder. He looks at you with the same expression a teacher gives to a troublesome student. "Alright, Laura. It's time for bed now. I'm sure you and Miss Le Fanu will have plenty of time to get to know each other tomorrow. And Mademoiselle De Lafontaine will be there too, to keep you both company," Lord Mielul gestures to the older woman. "Mademoiselle De Lafontaine, could you please take our guest to her room?" The woman nods. "Of course, my Lord." "Then I bid you farewell. I hope your accommodations are comfortable, Miss Le Fanu. Have a good night," with that, he leaves without waiting for your response. His daughter locks eyes with you briefly, bows, and follows her father out of the room. "Well, young lady, shall we?" Mademoiselle De Lafontaine speaks beside you, her face adorned with a polite smile. You look at her, taking in her appearance for the first time, despite having been conversing with her for the past two hours. The French woman exudes elegance, with her long blonde hair neatly braided and her attire consisting of a beautiful and expensive golden dress. She is modestly covered, not even revealing her bust. Quite discreet for someone who is likely fucking the castle's Lord, you think to yourself, catching a faint whiff of his cologne on her rosy skin. You return her polite smile, "Of course, Mademoiselle De Lafontaine. Please, lead the way." You follow the older woman as she leads you through the corridors of the small castle. The wind howls against the stone walls, but you don't feel its chill. The walls are nearly black, adorned with luxurious tapestries. Tall windows with colored glass create a somber atmosphere as the moon's silver light casts eerie shades of red, purple, and grey when it passes through the glass. Your smile grows sharper, menacing. These dark hallways are ideal for a creature like you. Never forgetting, you count the guards you pass through, one for each corridor. The woman leads you to a room on the second floor, passing by two larger oak doors. You catch a whiff of Laura's presence in one of the rooms. Closing your eyes briefly, you hear her steady heartbeat. There are only three guards between your room and hers. Three corridors only. De Lafontaine opens the door to your room, revealing a luxurious guest room. The room features a large bed, heavy velvet curtains to block out the sun, and a fireplace that you may need to be kept lit at night for appearance purposes. The room also includes a private bathroom, which appears to be safe. As the woman finishes showing you the room and providing extra clothes, you call her back. "Mademoiselle De Lafontaine," you say. "Yes, Miss Le Fanu?" "I apologize if this goes against any rules of this magnificent castle or its generous owner, but I have a condition that requires me to sleep for long periods. I am rarely able to stay awake during the day." "Oh? I'm sorry to hear that, Miss Le Fanu. This won't be a problem, I will inform the servants." "Thank you, Mademoiselle De Lafontaine." "You're welcome. Good night, Miss." You remove your clothes and put on your finest nightgown, which was brought to you by the guards from the carriage. After closing the curtains and ensuring there are no gaps for the sunlight to enter, you finally make your way to bed. The bed is far superior to the one you had at the old couple's house. It has silk sheets and blankets made of soft fur. You close your eyes, prepared to drift into your dreamless sleep. <<link "• The distant sound of howling is the last thing you hear before drifting to sleep." "night 1">> <</link>>

Laura smiles sweetly at you, bowing her head politely. "I couldn't just stand by and say nothing while you and your family were in danger. It's a pleasure to have you and your mother here, although I do wish it were under better circumstances. I pray for your mother's speedy recovery. And even after you leave, you're always welcome to visit! I'm sure father wouldn't mind and-" "Alright, Laura. That's enough. Let our guest rest for tonight. I'm sure you and Miss Le Fanu will have plenty of time to get to know each other tomorrow." Lord Mielul gestures to the older woman. "Mademoiselle De Lafontaine, could you please take our guest to her room?" The woman nods. "Of course, my Lord." "Then I bid you farewell. I hope your accommodations are comfortable, Miss Le Fanu. Have a good night," with that, he leaves without waiting for your response. His daughter locks eyes with you briefly, bows, and follows her father out of the room. "Well, young lady, shall we?" Mademoiselle De Lafontaine speaks beside you, her face adorned with a polite smile. You look at her, taking in her appearance for the first time, despite having been conversing with her for the past two hours. The French woman exudes elegance, with her long blonde hair neatly braided and her attire consisting of a beautiful and expensive golden dress. She is modestly covered, not even revealing her bust. Quite discreet for someone who is likely fucking the castle's Lord, you think to yourself, catching a faint whiff of his cologne on her rosy skin. You return her polite smile, "Of course, Mademoiselle De Lafontaine. Please, lead the way." You follow the older woman as she leads you through the corridors of the small castle. The wind howls against the stone walls, but you don't feel its chill. The walls are nearly black, adorned with luxurious tapestries. Tall windows with colored glass create a somber atmosphere as the moon's silver light casts eerie shades of red, purple, and grey when it passes through the glass. Your smile grows sharper, menacing. These dark hallways are ideal for a creature like you. Never forgetting, you count the guards you pass through, one for each corridor. The woman leads you to a room on the second floor, passing by two larger oak doors. You catch a whiff of Laura's presence in one of the rooms. Closing your eyes briefly, you hear her steady heartbeat. There are only three guards between your room and hers. Three corridors only. De Lafontaine opens the door to your room, revealing a luxurious guest room. The room features a large bed, heavy velvet curtains to block out the sun, and a fireplace that you may need to be kept lit at night for appearance purposes. The room also includes a private bathroom, which appears to be safe. As the woman finishes showing you the room and providing extra clothes, you call her back. "Mademoiselle De Lafontaine," you say. "Yes, Miss Le Fanu?" "I apologize if this goes against any rules of this magnificent castle or its generous owner, but I have a condition that requires me to sleep for long periods. I am rarely able to stay awake during the day." "Oh? I'm sorry to hear that, Miss Le Fanu. This won't be a problem, I will inform the servants." "Thank you, Mademoiselle De Lafontaine." "You're welcome. Good night, Miss." You remove your clothes and put on your finest nightgown, which was brought to you by the guards from the carriage. After closing the curtains and ensuring there are no gaps for the sunlight to enter, you finally make your way to bed. The bed is far superior to the one you had at the old couple's house. It has silk sheets and blankets made of soft fur. You close your eyes, prepared to drift into your dreamless sleep. <<link "• The distant sound of howling is the last thing you hear before drifting to sleep." "night 1">> <</link>>

Your dreamless sleep transforms into a fever dream, a rare kind of dream where a vampire feels a connection with their potential victim, freely roaming within the victim's dreams when they dream of the vampire. You know it's a fever dream when you feel the rush of adrenaline coursing through your veins, your half-dead heart pounding loudly in your chest, your hands trembling. You feel the same anticipation as when you hunt and feed on prey that took more than one night to convince, a special prey. Silently, you lurk in the shadows of Laura's dream, observing how she envisions you. In her dream, you are adorned in a tight and exquisite velvet crimson red nightgown and bare feet. Your long red hair cascades loosely around your shoulders. As you survey your surroundings, you realize you are in Laura's room, or at least, the manifestation of her room within her dreams. Your hazel eyes turn ruby red, shining in the corner of her dark room. You see her figure perfectly sprawled in her luxurious big bed as her eyes catch sight of you. "Who are you?" she asks, even though she already knows who you are. You're only here because she wanted you to be. "I am a manifestation of your recent superficial desires, Laura," you reply, your voice sultry as you slowly walk towards her. A thin gap in the curtains allows a sliver of moonlight to illuminate half of your face as you step into its glow. The silver light gives your skin a ghostly pallor, but ghosts don't exist. Vampires do. And you are far more dangerous than a mere story to scare a child into behaving. "Desires? You think I desire you?" she asks, her tone genuinely curious rather than disbelieving or offended. "I don't think anything, Laura. It is you who thought of me. I wouldn't be here if you didn't want me to be. The clothes I'm wearing, the voice I'm using to speak to you, even the location we're in right now – they are all products of your imagination, of what you want," you reply again, this time with partial truth. Inside a fever dream, you can control yourself, think and act as you wish, but the victim always blames their own mind and imagination. You were the one who decided to activate your vampire eyes to see her in the dark, though she remains unaware of this. "I hardly know you, so how could I feel desire for you?" "Desire has nothing to do with knowing someone intimately. It's purely instinctual. You saw me and found me attractive and interesting. It's natural, even lustful, some might say," you say as you approach her reclining figure. She gazes at you intently. You gently trace your fingers along the silk of her bed canopy, feeling its delicate texture against your fingertips. Laura rises from the bed, moving on her knees until she stands before you, separated from the silk fabric of the canopy. You feel her gaze on your barely visible face, hear her heartbeat, and smell her pheromones pulsing beneath her skin. Lust and desire consume her mind, evident and palpable. You release a warm and gentle breath, letting it caress her face. It won't be long before she succumbs to your allure. It's only a matter of time. Easy prey, easy feed. <<link "• Tease her a little more. You enjoy it when your prey squirms in anticipation of your touch before you finally sink your fangs into their necks." "tease">><<set $monster to $monster += 1>> <</link>> <<link "• Gently bring an end to this fever dream. You're unsure why, but you don't wish to cause this human any suffering, at least not at this moment." "leave">><<set $monster to $human += 1>> <</link>>

You want to elicit a strong reaction from her when she sees you the next day, so it's time to capitalize on her sweet dream. It's important to don't give her much, just enough to ignite confusion and desire within her. A small seed that you will nurture and allow to grow slowly and deliciously. Her face draws nearer to yours, her lips slightly parted as she takes a deep breath. "You smell like moonflower," she whispers, uncertainly raising a hand to touch you. Her fingertips glide slowly over the fabric of her canopy. You respond with a smile. A sharp, dangerous smile. "Both of us only blossom in the night." Laura leans closer, and you remain motionless as her hand ghosts above your face. "Do you want to touch me?" you ask, seeing the desire in her eyes. It seems as though she is afraid of scaring you away. It's amusing. She simply nods in response. You gently guide her hand and place it on your cheek, your hand still cupping hers. Feeling her shiver at your touch, you tilt your head and place a gentle kiss on the palm of her hand. Your cold lips meet her warm skin. She gasps in surprise and delight, but you know it's time to leave before things escalate too quickly. The chase is less enjoyable when it's short-lived. You release her hand and retreat into the darkness, slowly licking your lips as your face disappears from the moonlight. You make sure she can see your movements. Her eyes remain fixed on your face, her hand still extended where you left it. "I want to touch you again, this time for real. Would your true self desire that?" she asks, as your body begins to fade into a black mist, merging with the darkness of the room. "Why wish for my true self when dreams come through stone walls, light up dark rooms, or darken light ones, and their persons make their exits and their entrances as they please, and laugh at locksmiths?", you answer, your red eyes shining like two drops of blood under the moonlight. "If you desire to see me in your dreams again, I will be here whenever you wish. Goodnight, little lamb." [[• You finally let your mind succumb to the blissful oblivion of dreamless sleep.]]

You retreat into the darkness, your face disappearing from the moonlight. Her eyes remain fixed on your face, her hand still extended where you left it. "I want to touch you, the real you. Would your true self desire that?" she asks, as your body begins to fade into a black mist, merging with the darkness of the room. "Why wish for my true self when dreams come through stone walls, light up dark rooms, or darken light ones, and their persons make their exits and their entrances as they please, and laugh at locksmiths?", you answer, your red eyes shining like two drops of blood under the moonlight. "If you desire to see me in your dreams again, I will be here whenever you wish. Goodnight, little lamb." [[• You finally let your mind succumb to the blissful oblivion of dreamless sleep.]]

The morning arrived, and you hoped that Mademoiselle De Lafontaine had indeed instructed the servants not to disturb you or open the curtains. True to her word, no one attempted to wake you. Only once did you hear a knock on your door, as a servant brought some food, which you assumed by the smell. However, when you didn't respond, they left, allowing you to continue resting. Once you could no longer feel the faint warmth of the sun through the stone walls, you knew it was time to rise from bed. You requested hot water from a servant for your bath, and when it arrived, you took your time washing away the scent of wolves from your body. You delicately cleansed your red hair and very pale skin. After finishing, a servant arrived to invite you to dine with Lord Mielul and his daughter. Apparently, the invite came from Lady Laura Mielul herself. The servant informed that there are other guests tonight. <<link "• You decide for a dress in a color very similar to the nightgown you wore in Laura's dream. How delightfully amusing it will be to see the expression on her face.❤️" "dinner">><<set $lauraromance to $lauraromance += 1>><<set $dress to "red">> <</link>> <<link "• You're curious about the other guests. You've been careless today, not noticing new people arriving at the castle. With so many heartbeats in one place, it's difficult to keep track of each individual." "dinner">> <</link>>

When you're ready, a servant will come and escort you to the dining room. The room is enormous, with a high ceiling and a large, lit fireplace that casts a warm glow throughout the space. Candles provide additional lighting. Lord Mielul is dressed as one would expect of a nobleman. These noblemen are always so boring, lacking any flavor. They serve no purpose other than being a potential midnight snack for you. Laura is wearing a white dress, adorned with a beautiful red satin ribbon. The shade of red is deep and vibrant, reminiscent of the nightgown you wore in her dream. That's interesting. You flash your charming smile at your host and his daughter. The man bows his head in response, while Laura averts her gaze, her cheeks turning a shade of red. You can even hear her heartbeat. What an adorable little lamb. "Miss Le Fanu, I am delighted that you could join us this evening. Our esteemed guests have already had the pleasure of meeting you," he gestures towards the other two individuals seated at the table. A chill runs through your veins as your gaze meets Anna's. The intensity with which she looks at you could rival that of a blade slicing through your skin. How pitiful it is to be the predator afraid of the prey. Your throat feels parched, and the instinct to blend into the shadows and escape this place before Anna drives a stake into your chest overwhelms you, but you resist. You smirk at her, allowing your nervousness to gradually transform into confidence. You regain control of your voice and speak up. "Ah, yes. I had the pleasure of meeting the esteemed Vordenburgs back home. It is truly delightful to see you both again so soon, Sir Vordenburg, Lady Vordenburg," you move slowly, taking careful steps. It is crucial to maintain a controlled pace, especially in the presence of these experienced hunters. One wrong move, and they will be alerted. Anna is already watching you with a careful eye. Lord Mielul gives you with a polite smile, motioning for you to take a seat. "Please, Miss Le Fanu, have a seat," he settles himself at the head of the table, with Laura positioned a short distance away from her father on his right. On the left side of the table, Anna and her father sit closely together. As you approach the dinner table, you notice a lavish spread of various foods. There is an assortment of meats, vegetables, fruits, sweets, and savory dishes. The table is adorned with elegant plates and cutlery. Crafted from a dark, aged wood, it appears to have been part of the castle since its construction. You feel two pairs of eyes fixed on you. Laura and Anna are waiting to see where you will sit. You decide to take the chair next to [[• Laura.]] [[• Anna.]]

"You look absolutely stunning this evening, Miss Le Fanu," Laura's voice is soft, almost timid. Her hands are tightly clasped in her lap. She has styled her hair differently this time, delicately braiding it into a long braid that gracefully drapes over her shoulder. Her makeup is light, accentuating her already fair complexion, with a touch of pink-toned lipstick enhancing her full lips. <<if $dress is "red">> "Thank you, Lady Mielul, you look just as much stunning. Do you like the color of my dress?" you inquire, your gaze locked with hers, filled with hunger. "This color suits you perfectly, Miss Le Fanu, it's almost divine," she murmurs, her lips pressing together, her pupils dilating ever so slightly. You notice the faint sound of her thighs brushing against each other beneath her dress, causing your eyes to briefly flicker towards her lap. Your teeth graze your bottom lip as you speak. "Such a compliment means a lot, especially coming from someone as elegant as yourself. Thank you once again." <<else>> "Thank you, Lady Mielul, you look just as much stunning," your gaze locked with hers, filled with hunger. You notice the faint sound of her thighs brushing against each other beneath her dress, causing your eyes to briefly flicker towards her lap. Your teeth graze your bottom lip as you speak. "Such a compliment means a lot, especially coming from someone as elegant as yourself. Thank you once again." <</if>> The servants begin to fill the plates, and a sense of impending headache washes over you at the thought of consuming human food. But it's necessary to eat at least a little to avoid arousing suspicion. Taking a sip of wine and a small piece of pheasant, you strain your hearing to focus on the conversation between Lord Mielul and the Vordenburgs. They discuss politics and recent events in Styria, arranging a hunting expedition for the following morning. It is during this exchange that you learn Lord Mielul's past as a war surgeon. Human concerns that holds no interest for you. Suddenly, Lord Mielul calls out to you. "Miss Le Fanu, I almost forgot to update you on your mother's condition. She is improving and we are seeing good results. It is possible that she may wake up sooner than we initially anticipated." "Thank you, Lord Mielul. That's a relief to hear." Anna's eyes snap in your direction, and she clears her throat. "Excuse me for intruding, Miss Le Fanu, but what happened to your mother? Lord Mielul mentioned that you would be staying here for a few days, but I only just learned about your mother falling ill within the castle's grounds," she speaks in a polite and controlled voice, but her tone drips with venom as she utters your name. Her gaze remains fixed on you as she slowly takes a bite of a sliced apple. "Anna..." her father interjects. "It's okay, sir," you raise your hand to reassure him. Glancing back at Anna, you match her intense gaze. "My parents and I were traveling to visit distant relatives, Lady Anna. While passing through the forest, a pack of wolves attacked us. My mother was injured, and my father went missing. Fortunately, Lady Laura heard the howls and alerted the guards. They arrived just in time to rescue us." Anna traces her fingers along the rim of her glass, licking away a drop of wine as she studies you. "Did you get hurt, Miss Le Fanu?" "Pardon me?" "Did you get hurt? Did the wolves cause you any harm? A bite, a bruise? Perhaps a small cut from the incident?", her eyes scan you, looking for even a single hair out of place. "No, Lady Anna. I'm perfectly fine, no wolf had the chance to hurt me, and I was fortunate enough to keep myself from any harm from the accident." You notice a smirk forming on Anna's lips, this is a dangerous game you're playing. While she may be human, she is certainly not to be underestimated, she is not a prey. The two of you are like wolves, circling each other, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. "That's quite fortunate indeed. You see, I've hunted in these woods before. My father is a close friend of Lord Mielul, so I practically grew up within these very walls. I am familiar with the pack of wolves that roam here. They are incredibly fierce and troublesome. They hunt as a unified force, and I have only once witnessed them fail to at least injure their prey. Until now, that is. With you, there are now two exceptions." "Anna, please, will you stop harassing the guest? I invited her to dinner, not to be interrogated by you," Laura speaks up, her voice sweet and delicate. Her hand is now on top of the table, gripping a napkin. Anna's gaze remains fixed on yours, never wavering. She moistens her lips, the words flowing effortlessly from her mouth. "Certainly. I sincerely apologize, Miss Le Fanu. Would it be possible for us to continue our conversation at a later time?" "Ladies, please conduct yourselves appropriately. This is neither the appropriate place nor time for such discussions," Lord Mielul reprimands. "Laura, why don't you escort our guest to the library? Mademoiselle De Lafontaine and Madame Perrodon are currently there. I'm certain you can engage in conversation and reading with Miss Le Fanu and both of them to divert your attention from your... distress." You hear Laura sigh beside you, but she rises from her chair nonetheless. "Of course, father. Come, Miss Le Fanu, our library is a delightful sanctuary." [[• You stand up and follow her out of the dining room, aware of Anna's gaze fixed upon your back.]]

"It's good to see you again so soon as well, Miss Le Fanu," you can't quite place her tone; it's a perplexing blend of sarcasm and curiosity. The servants begin to fill the plates, and a sense of impending headache washes over you at the thought of consuming human food. But it's necessary to eat at least a little to avoid arousing suspicion. Taking a sip of wine and a small piece of pheasant, you strain your hearing to focus on the conversation between Lord Mielul and the Vordenburgs. They discuss politics and recent events in Styria, arranging a hunting expedition for the following morning. It is during this exchange that you learn Lord Mielul's past as a war surgeon. Human concerns that holds no interest for you. Suddenly, Lord Mielul calls out to you. "Miss Le Fanu, I almost forgot to update you on your mother's condition. She is improving and we are seeing good results. It is possible that she may wake up sooner than we initially anticipated." "Thank you, Lord Mielul. That's a relief to hear." Anna's eyes snap in your direction, and she clears her throat. "Excuse me for intruding, Miss Le Fanu, but what happened to your mother? Lord Mielul mentioned that you would be staying here for a few days, but I only just learned about your mother falling ill within the castle's grounds," she speaks in a polite and controlled voice, but her tone drips with venom as she utters your name. Her gaze remains fixed on you as she slowly takes a bite of a sliced apple. "Anna..." her father interjects. "It's okay, sir," you raise your hand to reassure him. Glancing back at Anna, you match her intense gaze. "My parents and I were traveling to visit distant relatives, Lady Anna. While passing through the forest, a pack of wolves attacked us. My mother was injured, and my father went missing. Fortunately, Lady Laura heard the howls and alerted the guards. They arrived just in time to rescue us." Anna traces her fingers along the rim of her glass, licking away a drop of wine as she studies you. "Did you get hurt, Miss Le Fanu?" "Pardon me?" "Did you get hurt? Did the wolves cause you any harm? A bite, a bruise? Perhaps a small cut from the incident?", her eyes scan you, looking for even a single hair out of place. "No, Lady Anna. I'm perfectly fine, no wolf had the chance to hurt me, and I was fortunate enough to keep myself from any harm from the accident." You notice a smirk forming on Anna's lips, this is a dangerous game you're playing. While she may be human, she is certainly not to be underestimated, she is not a prey. The two of you are like wolves, circling each other, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. "That's quite fortunate indeed. You see, I've hunted in these woods before. My father is a close friend of Lord Mielul, so I practically grew up within these very walls. I am familiar with the pack of wolves that roam here. They are incredibly fierce and troublesome. They hunt as a unified force, and I have only once witnessed them fail to at least injure their prey. Until now, that is. With you, there are now two exceptions." "Anna, that's enough," her father interjects firmly. "Please, leave the woman alone. Her mother is injured, and her father is missing. Show some empathy, will you?" Her gaze remains fixed on yours, never wavering. She moistens her lips, the words flowing effortlessly from her mouth. "Certainly. I sincerely apologize, Miss Le Fanu. Would it be possible for us to continue our conversation at a later time?" "No, Anna, that's enough of that, I said." "Miss Le Fanu, would you like to see the gardens?" Lord Mielul interjects. "I would, Lord Mielul." "The gardens are most beautiful at night. I'll ask a servant to take you there immediately, to give our esteemed Anna some time to clear her mind." [[• A few moments later, a servant come to take you to the gardens. You follow them, aware of Anna's gaze fixed upon your back.]]

You walk alongside Laura in the dimly lit hallway. Her typically relaxed and cheerful expression has transformed into a stern frown, her gaze fixed downwards. The sound of your footsteps reverberates through the castle's stone walls. Swiftly, you drop your hand and casually graze your fingers against hers, almost interlocking your little finger with hers for a brief moment before retracting your hand, pretending it was an accidental touch. As your cold skin makes contact with hers, you hear her breath catching in her throat. "Does she experience the same sensation in her dreams?" you ponder to yourself. You yearn to recall the feeling of having warm skin and touching something cold. "I apologize, Miss Le Fanu, I'm a bit distracted. I didn't mean to..." "It's alright, and please, call me Carmilla," you respond with a gentle smile. The key is to understand when to charm and when to foster a genuine connection. "Is this... appropriate?" she questions, nervously biting her lower lip. "If it remains our little secret, then yes, it is." "Absolutely! Feel free to call me Laura as well, I insist." You can sense it, your influence slowly seeping into the crevices of her vulnerable mind, like a vine infiltrating the cracks in a wall. She pauses in front of a set of double doors, gently pushing them open for you to pass through before following closely behind. The library before you is truly a sight to behold. Towering bookshelves line the walls, adorned with tables and couches, vibrant stained glass windows, and cozy shaggy rugs. "Madame De Lafontaine? Madame Perrodon?" Laura calls out, her voice echoing through the shelves as she searches for them. You gracefully take a seat on a plush couch, crossing your long legs as you patiently await her return. Your eyes are drawn to an aged book with a weathered leather cover, its title proudly displaying "Myths of Ancient Styria". How fitting, you think to yourself. After a few moments, Laura returns and settles down beside you, clutching a crimson book titled "Artemis & Cyrene". She opens it on her lap, her gaze fixed upon you. "I apologize, I had hoped they would be here to keep us company, as father had mentioned. However, it seems it will be just the two of us this evening." <<link "• 'Isn't it a shame? To find oneself confined within the walls of a magnificent library, with nothing but the companionship of countless books and an enchanting lady?❤️" "Laura 2">> <</link>> <<link "• 'It's alright, I'm confident we'll find something to read and pass the time. What are you currently reading?'" "room">> <</link>>

The servant escorts you to the gardens, as promised by Lord Mielul, and then leaves you alone to fully appreciate its beauty. Bathed in the soft moonlight, the flowers appear breathtaking; roses, lilies of the valley, orchids, dahlias, daisies, and, to your utmost delight, moonflowers. Their white petals glisten under the silver glow of the moon. You kneel before a flower bush, inhaling deeply as the fragrance fills your nostrils. In addition, there is a grand fountain with a few fish gracefully swimming within, and a small labyrinth of bushes that piques your curiosity. The labyrinth's bushes are adorned with thornless roses. As you step into the labyrinth, your feet leave faint footprints on the lush grass. Skillfully maneuvering through the foliage, you effortlessly make your way towards the center. Passing beneath a charming flower arch, you finally reach your destination. A solitary stone bench stands majestically. Taking a moment to sit, you remove your shoes, allowing your bare feet to sink into the damp grass. The coolness of the night dew adds a gentle touch to the already soft texture of the grass. You gaze at the night sky for a few more moments when suddenly, a cracking sound grabs your attention. The distinct scent of whiskey and lilies fills the air, indicating Anna's presence. Looks like she has been tailing you, and her expertise as a huntress has led her to accidentally step on a branch. How fortunate for you. <<link "• Leave the garden and promptly return to your room. This is no time to mess with the huntress." "room">> <</link>> <<link "• Pretend you hadn't heard her approaching, allowing her to come closer as you walk towards a darker corner of the labyrinth.❤️" "Anna 2">> <</link>>

"Oh, I... I suppose so. I can say the same, you are also a wonderful companion... Carmilla..." she whispers your name like a hidden treasure, its sweetness lingering on her tongue. You gaze at her through hooded eyes, inching a few inches closer. A strand of your fiery red hair cascades loosely in front of your eyes. You notice her gaze flicker towards the stray strand, and her hand begins to reach towards your face. You are aware of her intentions, yet for now, you choose to feign ignorance. Her warm fingers barely graze your skin as she tucks your hair behind your ear. You keep looking deep into her eyes as she withdraws her hand and leans even closer, lips parted, cheeks flushed red, dilated pupils. You catch a whiff of her enticing pheromones. Just as her face is about to enter your personal space, you abruptly drop your gaze to the book resting on her lap, changing the subject. The thought of messing with this woman's head fills you with excitement. It's going to be so much fun. "It's... um... A book on mythology. Specifically, Greek mythology," she says, glancing down at the book with a mix of frustration and disappointment evident on her face. "Really? What is it about? Which gods or stories does it cover?" you inquired. Her face flushed red once again as she discreetly coughed into her hand. "It's about Artemis, the goddess of hunting and the moon." "I adore Artemis! She's one of my favorite goddesses from any mythology. The idea of a goddess ruling over the moon is fascinating to me. I'm definitely a night person, thriving in the darkness." "I can tell, Carmilla. You have a certain aura that belongs to the night." "Indeed, just like Artemis. And who is that depicted alongside her in the engraving?" you asked, already aware of the answer. "That's... Cyrene." "Cyrene? Her companion? The one Artemis was so fond of that she bestowed her with her finest hunting dogs?" "The very same. Some even speculate that they were... lovers." You can see where this is headed; it's too predictable. You recline on the couch, extending your arms over the velvet backrest. "Do you know what it feels like to be in love, Laura?" you inquire, dragging your teeth across your lower lip, teasingly. You notice her gaze fixated on your mouth, tracing its movement. "I have been in love with no one, and never shall," she whispers. You smile, your thumb gently brushing against her shoulder. You delicately study her tender face with your hazel eyes. "You shall." Laura remains silent as she turns away from you, placing the book on the table. Her lips part, yet no words escape. She whispers so faintly that no human ear could ever hear it. But you are no human. "unless it should be with you," she utters softly. The double doors swing open, and Madame De Lafontaine gracefully enters the library. "Lady Mielul! I have been searching for you. It is time for bed, please come. Miss Le Fanu, it is delightful to see you in good health." Laura stands up from the couch, slightly awkward as she adjusts her dress. "Goodnight, Miss Le Fanu," Laura smiles at you, a hint of uncertainty in her expression. "Goodnight, Lady Mielul. May the moon watch over you tonight," you give her a subtly wink as she turns around to leave. <<link "• You want to captivate this woman, enthrall her thoughts, and make her infatuated with you, you want to make her your favorite snack, always ready to let your fangs sink into her soft neck." "room">><<set $monster to $monster += 1>> <</link>> <<link "• You don't know why, but this woman inexplicably quickens the pace of your lifeless heart. You are certain it would beat faster, if such a thing were possible. Unexpectedly, you yearn to provide her warmth during the night, to taste her blood, yet, without causing her any harm. What a peculiar sensation." "room">><<set $human to $human += 1>> <</link>>

CHAPTER 3. END OF DEMO. 🩸🧛🏻‍♀️

Putting your shoes back on, you cautiously approach a secluded area beneath a towering tree, its branches casting a shadowy refuge from the moon's glow. Leaning your shoulder against the sturdy trunk, you position yourself with your back turned towards the path from which Anna is approaching. The sound of her footsteps grows louder, accompanied by the distinct noise of her blade being unsheathed, the clash of metal against leather. As her presence draws nearer, you keenly perceive the rhythm of her heartbeat and the cadence of her breath. So predictable. Suddenly, a chilling sensation courses through you as the sharp edge of her blade grazes your neck, her arm encircling your shoulder. "How delightful it is to have you accompany me on this enchanting night, Anna," you whisper gently, disregarding the sensation of her blade against your skin. "Did you hear me coming?", she tries to fish for easy information, as if you were nothing more than a newborn vampire. An amateur might have fallen for this trick, but not you. "No, certainly not. But you see, you are the sole individual who gazes upon me with such a desire to employ my skin as a blanket. No one else would wish to press a knife against my throat." She leans in closer, her chest brushing against your back. "At this moment, I cannot ascertain your true intentions or nature, but if you deceive me, rest assured, I will catch you, sooner or later. Remember my words. If you are indeed what I suspect, refrain from causing harm to anyone within this fortress. I shall remain here, you see? I will not depart until you are no longer here." "Is there a chill in the air, dear?" you inquire, pointedly disregarding her warning. "Are you mocking me?" Her grasp on you tightens. "Far from it. I just think your boldness is giving me the chills, and I was wondering if you would mind letting me go, since I did nothing to deserve such treatment." She releases you, only to grab your shoulders and forcefully push your back against the tree. "Don't play games with me. I'm not one to laugh around. I know you'll feel hungry sooner or later, and I'll be there when you show your fangs." "Didn't we just have dinner, dear? I'm not feeling hungry, but thank you for your concern." Her mouth contorts into a snarl as she lunges forward, her face mere inches from yours. If you were to lean in, your lips would touch. "If you wish to capture a lady's heart, Lady Anna, that approach won't suffice. We find ourselves in a charming garden; perhaps you could gather some flowers for me? Or perhaps a serenade beneath the starlit sky? Undoubtedly, you possess great beauty, but that alone won't sway me," you playfully touch the tip of your nose to hers, teasingly biting your own lip. In a fleeting moment, her gaze briefly flickers down to your lips before she finally lets you go. You hear her heartbeat beating faster, her snarl have turned into parted lips. "I'll be keeping an eye on you," she warns once again. "Well, I certainly look forward to it," you retort, playfully winking at her. "You've piqued my curiosity, dear Anna. Who was the person you witnessed escaping the wolves unscathed?" She smiles at you, a smile void of any amusement, resembling that of a lynx. "Me," she answers before swiftly turning on her heels and leaving you alone once more, with only the soothing sound of the fountain and the chirping crickets. <<link "• You want to captivate this woman, enthrall her thoughts, and make her infatuated with you, you want to make her your favorite snack, always ready to let your fangs sink into her soft neck." "room">><<set $monster to $monster += 1>> <</link>> <<link "• You don't know why, but this woman inexplicably quickens the pace of your lifeless heart. You are certain it would beat faster, if such a thing were possible. Unexpectedly, you yearn to provide her warmth during the night, to taste her blood, yet, without causing her any harm. What a peculiar sensation." "room">><<set $human to $human += 1>> <</link>>