[Asher's Perspective]
The roar of my motorbike echoed through the city, signaling my arrival at Hundred Tower. I dismounted, leaving the sleek machine humming behind me, and approached the colossal doors with a determined stride, ignoring the Guardians.
As the entrance opened before me, I stepped into the opulence of the tower, my gaze unwavering. Entering Hundred Tower, a lavish display unfolded: ornate gold and silver details adorned the foyer, while regal red curtains framed tall windows. The air carried a hint of rare incense, and grand chandeliers cast a warm glow on marble floors. A staircase with a golden railing beckoned upward, surrounded by portraits of past rulers. There were four hallways, that lead to other hallways. Near the bathrooms, there was an elevator.
The Guardians, their eyes glowing, flanked me with scrutinizing eyes. Unfazed, I continued to the elevator.
[ 100th Floor Access Code Required ]
[If you made an appointment, you were mailed an access code for this visit. If you did not make an appointment, please go online and make an appointment at hundredtower.com.]
I nonchalantly typed on the terminal.
964023889517
I didn't go to the throne room, like most would. I went to her bedroom doors on the 100th floor. I knocked, and the sound echoed in the silence. A stern voice demanded, "State your business."
"Asher, the Ascended Vampire. Again, I seek an audience with you, Queen Hundred," I announced, my tone dripping with authority.
The doors creaked open, revealing the grandeur of the Queen's bedroom. Red walls, red carpet, a massive wardrobe. Scented candles were placed about the room. Queen Hundred, lying in her bed, which was also adorned with red sheets, regarded me with a mix of curiosity and disdain. She was wearing… nothing except a robe.
"What brings you here, Asher?" she inquired, getting out of bed, her voice a velvet whisper. She approached me with slow steps, her tall, half-naked form casting a shadow across the room. ."It's not often I talk to silly little mercs, you know. But you have been… promising. You haven't failed me yet, I'm sure this won't be a waste of my time."
I bowed slightly, maintaining eye contact. "Your Majesty, I come bearing a gift—a demonstration of my capabilities and loyalty to our noble society… and to you."
Queen Hundred's gaze sharpened. "Explain."
I straightened, a wicked smile playing on my lips. "I present to you your daughter, her highness Lysandra, along with Kaizer Anderson. They are imprisoned at Bloodguard as we speak. I captured them and decided to come to you before I took unwarranted action. I believe this accomplishment warrants consideration for ascension in rank."
From inside my shirt, my dark fairy roommate emitted a giggle, her wings casting a faint glow.
"Celeste, shh," I whispered.
Queen Hundred's interest was piqued, and a sly grin crept across her face.
"Bring them forth to me," she commanded. "And the matter of your rank will be considered. We'll discuss it more at a later time. You are dismissed."
"Yes, Your Highness, thank you."
"And Asher?"
"Erhm…Yes, Your Highness?"
"My eyes are up here."
Queen Hundred's cold, crimson eyes stared into mine, and a smirk creeped across her lips. She was very beautiful… I liked her smile.
"Oh… Yes, My Queen."
"I know you want to do good for the Noble Vampire Society, Asher. And for me," she said, smiling warmly. "You'd make a good Noble."
I couldn't stop myself from smiling back. "Okay."
Walking back to my vehicle, Celeste flew out from my shirt and yawned. "I really needed that nap."
"Heh. Sleep well?" I said in a friendly tone.
"Yes, actually, your chest is very comfortable. Sooo, we gonna go kill them now?"
"No, Celeste, did you even hear anything the Queen said? We're bringing them to her."
"Oh… well, good, I didn't wanna kill anybody today either. Save it for another day."
While I drove to the prison, my thoughts raced.
If I could prove myself to Queen Hundred, prove that I'm meant to be with the powerful Vampires, then I can actually have some fun around here. Maybe I can fight someone powerful… or have multiple wives… I can do whatever I want as a Noble.
I didn't get brought back from the dead just to be a dog for the elites.
I want my own power.
I got lucky enough to actually become acquainted with Queen Hundred, and I'm not letting that go to waste.
And I may not be able to do Blood Magic, but…
I have Shadow Magic, and I have Celeste.
Together, we can do anything, right?
After all, I'm Ascended.