Lucard, known as the Crimson King, inherited and protected the Dark Codex, using its secrets to safeguard his kingdom and maintain balance among his kind. However, the allure of absolute power proved too tempting for the members of his trusted Ten Council. Fueled by greed and ambition, they plotted to overthrow Lucard and seize the Dark Codex for themselves.
Lucard had been the King of Vampires for centuries. No one dared to challenge him, but power often brings enemies. Even those closest to him can turn into foes.
"Hand over the Dark Codex," one of the council members demanded, his voice sharp and unwavering. "It is too dangerous for one man to control—even a king."
"The Codex is not yours to take, It is not about danger, but greed " Lucard said, his voice calm but laced with authority.
Lucard's eyes narrowed as he looked at the council. "The Dark Codex is mine to wield and mine to protect. I alone understand its power. Your desire to take it stems not from fear, but from your hunger for power."
Murmurs of discontent rippled through the council, but Lucard's voice silenced them.
"Do not forget who I am," he warned.
At his side stood Alarion, his trusted disciple. The boy had been by his side since he was a child. Lucard had found him orphaned and weak, raising him as his own, teaching him the ways of their kind. To Lucard, Alarion was more than a disciple; he was family.
"I will always stand by you, my King," Alarion said, his voice steady, his eyes filled with what seemed like loyalty.
But something felt off.
That night, Lucard retreated to his private chamber. He placed the Dark Codex on the table, its ancient pages glowing faintly in the candlelight. The power within it was immeasurable, a force that could shape or destroy worlds.
A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts.
"Enter," Lucard called.
Alarion stepped inside, his expression serious.
"They won't stop," he said. "The council fears the Codex. They'll do anything to take it from you."
Lucard sighed, placing a hand on Alarion's shoulder. "You've always been my strength, Alarion. I raised you, taught you, and trusted you. With you by my side, I have no fear of betrayal."
Alarion lowered his eyes. "Of course, my King."
Later that night, chaos erupted.
The council launched a surprise attack, breaking into Lucard's chamber. Blades gleamed in the dim light, and the room filled with shouts and the clash of steel.
Lucard fought fiercely, his strength unmatched, but the council had numbers on their side. Still, he held his ground until he felt the sharp sting of betrayal.
A silver blade pierced his heart.
Lucard froze, his eyes wide with disbelief. He turned to see Alarion holding the weapon, his face twisted with guilt and determination.
"You…?" Lucard's voice trembled. "Why?"
"I'm sorry," Alarion said, stepping back as Lucard stumbled. "You were a great king, but the Codex… its power belongs to us all, not just you."
Lucard fell to his knees, blood staining the floor. "I gave you everything," he whispered, his voice breaking. "I raised you… like my own son."
Alarion looked away, unable to meet his gaze. "This is for the greater good."
Lucard's vision blurred as the council surrounded him, their voices fading into the distance. His last thought before the darkness claimed him was a vow.
"I will return," he swore. "And I will make you all pay."
To be continued…..