"Evangeline, are you sure about this plan?" he asked, voicing his concerns. They had just returned to the grand hall after his impressive display of power, and now they are in a secluded space where they could converse without the risk of eavesdropping.
As he reflected on the recent events, he couldn't help but feel uneasy. Everything that had transpired was all according to her meticulous plan, with everyone simply falling in line.
However, this left him with a nagging sensation that their actions may have come across as threatening rather than fostering genuine relationships.
"Don't worry, Brother Vincent. Our people, or rather, your people, will be more inclined to follow you now that you have demonstrated your strength to them." she reassured him.
"But you managed to lead them effectively even when you were weakened," he pointed out. He wanted to imply that strength alone might not be the sole factor in earning the loyalty and trust of their people.
Evangeline giggled in response, indicating a lightheartedness to her tone.
"It's not as pure as that," she replied. It became apparent that she perceived the need to further educate Vincent on certain matters.
"The reason they didn't consider rebelling all this time was due to fear of the unknown,"she explained.
"I'm still an Original Vampire, and they were uncertain about the whereabouts of my siblings, and that uncertainty kept their loyalty intact." She answered truthfully, shedding light on an important factor.
"As the new leader, Brother Vincent, I want you to remember never to give your trust to anyone easily,"
"Even you?" He raised his eyebrows.
"Especially me," she replied firmly. She was not afraid of being doubted by him if it would help him become more cautious.
"Now, let's meet everyone so that we can proceed with the next step," she suggested, indicating her readiness to move forward.
"Okay," he sighed in defeat, realizing that he could never win an argument against her. Resigned to the situation, he began pushing Evangeline's wheelchair towards a secret chamber where all the important individuals had gathered.
.
.
.
Inside the large chamber, well it was obvious that the term "chamber" hardly did justice to the sophisticated and futuristic environment.
The surroundings exuded a technological marvel, featuring a sizable touch screen table capable of accommodating up to 30 individuals. Numerous large screens adorned the walls, displaying vital information and visuals .
Server rooms hummed with the power of advanced computing infrastructure, and military-grade equipment stood at the ready, hinting at the seriousness and preparedness of the one who designed this place.
"I can't believe that Evangeline hid the existence of this place," Madonna spoke, her voice tinged with surprise and intrigue.
They had always perceived her as someone who was not a fan of technology, but it seemed that their assumptions were wrong all along.
Even Erika and Vincent, had been unaware of this place existence.
"It's true," Another High ranking vampire chimed in, his brows furrowed with contemplation.
"We've known her for countless years, and she never showed any inclination towards advanced technology. This revelation raises so many questions about her plan and what she's been up to all this time."
"Don't worry. I will answer all of that today," the woman in question spoke as she entered the room, Vincent, with a deliberate motion, guided her to the end of the table.
Then he sat at the very end, with Evangeline sitting to his right and Erika sitting to his left.
"I'm certain that each of you is eager to learn the reason behind this meeting," Evangeline began, capturing the attention of those present.
"From now on, I will assume the role of advisor to our family, working from the shadows to support our leader." She paused, allowing her words to sink in before continuing.
"I assume everyone gathered here is in agreement with this arrangement, correct?" Her inquiry sought confirmation from the assembled individuals, ensuring their acceptance of her new role and their willingness to embrace the collaborative structure she proposed.
A unanimous nod rippled through the room, as everyone present acknowledged her words. The awe-inspiring display of Vincent's power had eradicated any doubts about his credibility and capabilities.
Even Benedict, previously driven to oppose him, found himself utterly demotivated. It became clear to him that it was wiser to continue serving someone with such immense power rather than challenging him.
In fact, he had never truly intended to betray Evangeline in the first place. Even when he had successfully developed his serum, his initial plan was to prove his value rather than challenge her.
It became evident that his thoughts of turning against her were born out of a sense of frustration and disappointment, as he felt unappreciated for his own efforts. The lack of recognition from Evangeline had pushed him towards contemplating negative actions, but his fundamental loyalty and desire for her acknowledgment remained intact beneath the surface.
Evangeline noticed Benedict's expression and felt a deep satisfaction. . With a gentle nudge, she sought to remind Vincent of their earlier conversation, silently prompting him to recall what they had discussed before entering the chamber.
"I can't believe I have to put on another act. Maybe I should consider applying to Hollywood instead of being stuck in situations like this," Vincent sighed softly under his breath. He closed his eyes to fully immerse himself in his fake persona.
"Benedict, I have received reports that you developed something without informing our family," he addressed him with a serious and authoritative tone.
Benedict was shocked. He had anticipated this turn of events, but hearing it directly from Vincent somehow intensified his sense of terror. It appeared that the psychological trauma he had endured after being sucked in his domain had taken a toll on his thinking.
"I apologize, Leader. It was a personal project of mine, but I had intended to personally report it tonight ." Benedict responded promptly, his voice filled with apprehension. He was afraid that Vincent would execute him and make an example out of him.
'Please don't kill me,' he thought to himself. He hoped beyond hope that his sincere admission and display of remorse would soften Vincent's heart, sparing him from the severe consequences he feared.
In the silence that followed, the weight of his mistake hung heavily in the air. Benedict braced himself, knowing that his fate now rested in Vincent's hands.
"Good job," Vincent chuckled, commending him instead.
"I heard that you have developed something that will greatly help our family grow stronger. From now on, you will become the head of Research and Development. Feel free to ask me if you need more resources ."
'Wait... What...? !' Benedict's eyes widened in disbelief.
The unexpected twist in Vincent's response caught him off guard, almost bringing tears to his eyes. After fearing the worst, the affirmation and recognition from his leader felt like an immense weight lifted from his shoulders.
"Thank you, Leader," Benedict managed to say, his voice laced with genuine gratitude. This was the very thing he had yearned for—recognition. Although it may not have come from Evangeline, the fact that Vincent, the new leader, acknowledged him meant even more.
Vincent was significantly stronger, and Benedict could clearly see the profound respect Evangeline held for him. Therefore, receiving recognition from him carried an even greater sense of honor.
"I am deeply honored by your trust and the opportunity to lead the Research and Development department. I will devote myself wholeheartedly to furthering our family's goals and ensuring that our projects contribute to your strength." he declared with absolute conviction .
"Raise your chin up high. You've made significant contributions to the family, and you deserve all the respect," Vincent replied with a charismatic smile of a true reliable leader who knows how to appreciate the efforts of his subordinates .
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