Rise of the Lustful Evil Monarch (Re)

Ethan's POV

However, I was no ordinary individual. Taking a deep breath, I steadied myself and quickly regained composure.

My instincts took over and I adapted to the unsettling atmosphere ensuring that no sign of my initial discomfort showed on my face. This was a place where weakness could not be afforded.

A birdwoman sang a haunting melody on the stage her voice weaving through the air like a spell. Vampires gathered in shadowed corners wearing half masks, sipping blood-infused drinks and indulging in their desires.

Some whispered conspiratorially while others kissed passionately. A particularly bold pair was even making out in plain view seemingly indifferent to the world around them. The atmosphere was indulgent and intoxicating and obviously a haven for the elite to lose themselves in their vices.

I took it all in silently and the faintest trace of a smirk played on my lips. This world, with its decadence and intrigue was a gameboard and I intended to play it well.

Virelle swiped her spatial ring and handed me a silver half mask. I wore it without any enquiry and observed myself through the polished pillars in the lounge. I could see that only my crimson orbs and the area below my nose was visible through the mask.

I smirked and we moved into the hall together.

Virelle, knowing my inexperience in this world transmitted vital information to me through sound transmission magic. Her words directly resonated in my mind ensuring that neither Rendell nor Ivanna would detect my ignorance.

"The Blood Chalice Tavern is the premium destination for vampires. It is said to encompass everything Scarlet Hollow City has to offer—for better or worse. Vampires flock here to enjoy rare blood cocktails and lose themselves in the lavish ambiance, or seek opportunities lurking in the shadows."

Her voice was calm yet laced with subtle caution. "But it is far more than a mere tavern. Deals are struck in secrecy, forbidden auctions are held in its underground chambers and the infamous Masquerade Hall conceals both faces and intentions. It's a place of indulgence and danger nothing more, nothing less.

Young Master Ethan, heed this advice the further you delve, the riskier it becomes. Stay on the main floors and you can blend seamlessly into vampire society. In time, you'll appear as nothing more than an ordinary member of our race."

I appreciated her guidance and was struck by her perceptiveness. It seemed the Duchess had divulged a fragment of my purpose here, though it was evident Virelle didn't know my true identity or race.

She only knew I was the disciple of the Nightshade Dragoness which alone marked me as extraordinary in her eyes.

As we approached the expansive counter, I couldn't help but marvel at the establishment's design and clientele. The bar lady immediately caught my attention not just because she was a vampire but due to her scandalously provocative attire.

Her outfit was a tight, bodycon dress styled like a waitress uniform but it left little to the imagination.

Her generously endowed figure strained against the fabric with her large, E-cup breasts barely contained. Only her nipples and under boob were covered while a thin black tie snaked between her cleavage, drawing even more attention to her ample assets.

Seeing her, blood rushed to my head and ignited a fire deep within me. The decadent and sensual environment had already excited me a little and the sheer allure and provocation of the bar lady had an coupling effect, but I quickly wrestled back control.

Without hesitation, I recited the incantation for the first layer of the Arctic Sovereign Immortal Body technique.

As I chanted the ancient words internally, a wave of cool and soothing energy coursed through my mana and body veins like a frigid tide. The fiery desires that had momentarily flared within me were quelled and I entered a calm and composed state.

I calmed myself down and looked at her again. She worked with practiced ease mixing blood cocktails with an elegance that belied her risqué appearance. Many men stared at her with open desire their gazes unable to resist the allure of her provocative figure.

Even Rendell, who had been thoroughly engrossed in Virelle, momentarily faltered and his attention diverted toward the bar lady.

The reactions among the women were mixed. Virelle observed her with a neutral expression, seemingly indifferent to the bar lady's audacious presence. Ivanna, however, turned away the young lady's face flushing with embarrassment.

The bar lady who appeared to be in her twenties remained unfazed by the ogling. She continued to mix drinks with precision and her demeanour remained cool and unbothered.

My gaze shifted to the shelves behind her where beautiful glass jars filled with vibrant liquids were neatly arranged. The majority were shades of red though some glimmered in green and blue hues.

Even without explanation, I understood these weren't ordinary drinks but blood from various creatures and species. She blended them expertly adding ice and garnishes to create scintillating cocktails that radiated an otherworldly allure.

I noticed that her assistants though quick and efficient avoided looking directly at her. They kept their heads bowed in deference even as they took orders or assisted with preparations.

It piqued my curiosity and I expanded my soul sense toward her cautiously attempting to discern what made her so special.

However, before my probing could draw near her gaze shifted slightly her eyelids lowering as though she sensed the encroachment.n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

My heart skipped a beat as I realized she had detected me. I withdrew my soul sense immediately careful not to provoke her in such a crowded and politically charged space. She made no further move but I noted her vigilance.

At the counter, Virelle placed her order. "I'll take two Crimson Reverie," she said in her usual melodic yet detached tone.

The bar lady paused her work and looked up. Her piercing gaze immediately landed on Virelle and set down her tools to approach us.

Her movements were graceful as she walked towards us and her hips swayed sexily. As she neared us, she offered a respectful bow.