Lily's body turned into a streak of color as she raced ahead. Other vampires underwent dramatic transformations—some changed skin color while others grew claws or fangs longer than usual as their bodies brimmed with vampiric energy.
Within seconds, the clearing was nearly empty except for the vampire teachers, the headmaster, and Lord Frostbite himself.
Edmund, who had started running at full speed, quickly realized he was falling behind. Even the younger vampire students were moving ahead of him with ease.
Their laughter and mocking whispers trailed behind them, cutting through the air like sharp knives.
"Look at the Crown Prince, barely keeping up with the juniors!"
"He'll be the last to find them at this rate!"
Edmund pushed himself harder but maintained a calm look. Although he had unlocked his essence and was faster, and stronger than he had ever been, it wasn't surprising that he still wasn't at the level of his peers.
