After we opened a bank account and killed six people in the process, Dalton and I continued as before. As a promising, attractive lad with a steady income, Dalton began to receive cautious inquiries from some good families to see if their daughter was a good fit for him. He systematically rejected them. This will only fuel the rumors. Now everyone says we're a couple. Luckily, we are protected by a good reputation, so we are seen as an exotic couple rather than a pair of sinners.

This made me consider building a relationship with him. I'm sure he won't hesitate. I was also sure that ours would be pleasant and carefree, however, I decided against it. While I can't take back what Master took, what I gave was still my choice, and I wanted my first consensual moment of intimacy to be like what Agna and Loth shared. I don't want to indulge; I want what they have. My feelings for Dalton are not lover's feelings, so we can't get what I want.

In the meantime, I still have a way to entertain myself.

While I waited for the conclave and Shimena to submit my petition, I was not idle. My current situation has given me a lot of resources. Follow Jime

A For advice on pursuing art, I am taking a drawing class.

Well, that's not entirely true. In Jime

On A's recommendation, I started to learn to draw. It was at Loth's suggestion that I took the relevant courses under the kind guidance of Maggie Mitchell Sr.

After a period of self-study, I showed the fruits of my labor to Lotus. He was not impressed. His exact words were: "Don't worry about your lack of talent, kid, you still have centuries to learn." Now explain to me how you think it's a house. Please, I want to laugh again. ”

Rogue. Luckily, my other ventures are going well.

My research into magical runes and their arrangements has come a long way, and Loth has begun to show me how to build, dodge, and disarm magical protections and alarms. It at least lets me know what things can do, and then, break them. Even in the most basic ward, I was completely unable to perform.

When I asked him how he knew so much about trespassing, Loth became suspiciously dodgy. He mentions a girl, a crown, and his good cousin Okri. That's all I have to say.

Bounty hunting gets fun. There was a new market for fugitive slaves, and when Loth learned about it, he offered me a deal. I would hunt down fugitives, and instead of returning them to their owners, I would take them to remote houses or lost paths, where others would take them. Loth explained that he was part of a secret network called the Underground Railroad dedicated to helping slaves travel north to Canada or west to Mexico. Ah, Loth, you're always so understanding.

The rest of the bounties are ordinary crooks, thieves, murderers and rapists. That reminds me of tonight.

May 1805, Georgia Wilderness.

"That's them, ma'am."

Dalton pointed to a small group of people who had left the roads in these areas. I saw three wagons and three groups of people surrounding a campfire. Unfortunately, they have a dog.

I study them. There was a young farmer couple who were probably married because the woman was pregnant. I also noticed a large family with many children being fed by a burly woman while her husband smoked a pipe. He was dressed in missionary black. The last two members are an old woman sitting in a rocking chair, next to a faceless woman, like a fool. None of them resemble Mr. Darius Hill, charlatans and scoundrels.

I love charlatans, they always have the best stories.

"You say none of them saw your prey?" I asked.

At least that's what they say, and they seem honest. The problem is, this shouldn't be possible. Hill followed the same path, and no one remembered him at Salt Spring. Unless he was off-road before he met the group, they were supposed to see something. ”

I've been looking. I don't think they saw anything. They travel together for safety, but there is no friendship here. If anything, it's that both the young couple and the fool are wary of the priest. Throughout the journey, he may threaten their ears with God's punishment. There is no reason to concoct a premeditated lie.

It looks like a long walk through the wilderness is becoming more and more likely, although it doesn't match what I know about him. Scammers scam money by traveling. Murderers are more likely to brave the wilderness.

Unless...

No way! It's so precious.

I watched for a moment until I was fully convinced that I was right, and then stood up.

"Lover?"

"My dearest vassal, you still have a lot to learn! Follow and observe. ”

"Yes, ma'am, I bow to your supreme wisdom." His face was expressionless.

I wonder how many vampires are reviled by their vassals?

We walked from the road to the camp. The dog was the first to hear and smell me. His furious barking alarmed the room, and both men grabbed a musket.

Dalton reached the edge of the campfire aperture. The flames shone on his lieutenant badge, making it sparkle.

"You?!" The priest roared angrily. Dalton remained unmoved.

“Hsssssss.”

The sound is too low for the human ear. The dog barked, whimpered, and then quieted down.

Good.

I avoided Dalton to get close to them. It's time for an exciting lesson.

"My dear Dalton, you must remember ...... when hunting down your prey"

"Who allowed you to speak, girl?"

We're in trouble. I think the dog that killed them was a warning when Dalton stepped in.

"I did. Please be quiet now. ”

The priest stood up angrily and opened his mouth, but could not say anything. The distinctive sound of the pistol pulling the trigger silences everyone.

"You don't dare to ...... to a person"

"Yes. I would very much like. Shut up now, you're getting in the way of the deputy sheriff's duties. ”

Well done, Dalton, now I don't have to kill.

"Like I said, I was rudely interrupted."

"You dare!"

Bang!

The pastor fell to the ground screaming, and his family panicked until a second when Dalton was spotted firing warning shots into the air.

When everyone's attention turned to him, my subordinate calmly put his pistol in his holster, only to pull another gun out of the other butt. His expression was very calm.

"Next one is your knee."

You can hear the sound of a needle falling on the ground.

Good vassals.

“… Many only see danger when they look down at the muzzle. As a result, those animals that prey on others have found ways to make themselves look harmless until it's too late. ”

I walked around the camp and stopped in front of the fool.

"However, most criminals are stupid, and the disguise is often flawed. For example, older women don't smell like cigars and wine. ”

I took the hat off the head of the "old woman", revealing a bald head. Wigs are glued to the hair all the time.

"You! Hill screamed as he tried to get up from the recliner, his face contorted with rage. A moment later, his hateful gaze was buried by Dalton's leather-clad feet.

Ciel fell down, screaming. The fool screams, the couple screams, the pastor's family screams. My poor ears.

"Darius Hill, you were arrested for assaulting, beating, stealing with a deadly weapon......"

I watched as Dalton shackled criminals. Blood dripped to the ground... I felt thirst awakening. I've been drinking Holy Communion for the past three days, and it's time for Mr. Hill to help.

"What does this mean?!" The priest shouted as he tried to regain some authority.

"You share a campfire with a felon and a transvestite, that's what it means."

I smiled and prepared to leave, until I noticed that Dalton was staring at the man, thinking.

"You know, when I first asked you, you said that God would reveal the soul of a sinner. But here he is, sharing the fire with you. Weird, isn't it?"

"What are you hinting at, you impudent scoundrel?" Do you know who you're talking to?"

"I don't know, but you'll have to tell me. Please tell me your name and place of origin. Dalton replied.

"I'm Pastor Luther Boone of the Baptist Church of America, thank ......"

"Date of birth and place of birth."

"What did you say?!"

"Sir, will you tell me your date and place of birth for the last time, or do you refuse?"

"It's outrageous!" I've never been treated like this! I'm going to tell you ......"

"You harbored a fugitive and now refuse to cooperate with the deputy sheriff of Georgia. You have to answer my questions or you will be detained. Got it?"

“!!!”

"Yes. That. Clear?"

There was a tense moment when I almost believed the priest would lose his temper until Dalton pulled out another pair of handcuffs. The priest quickly looked around, as if asking for help, however, the couple looked at him warily, and the fool was still crying on the ground. He gathered his pride and sat down again.

A brief interrogation ensued, during which Dalton asked a few pointed questions. Others didn't realize it, but I saw what he was doing. His tone and phrasing were not curious, but degrading. Something like, "Is that so?" and "Can you say that again?" Constantly shaking his interlocutor, giving a vague impression that Dalton did not believe a single word he spoke. This treatment continued until the redness on the priest's face no longer came from his anger, but from his humiliation.

After saying that, Dalton turned to leave, and before parting, he said:

"I will verify these claims, sir, and if I am not satisfied, you may wait and come again."

Then we disappeared into the night, dragged along.

That impression was only slightly undermined when the idiot chased us and cried.

"I think she likes you, mistress."

"Don't speak."

Our wagon was heading towards Coolidge, where the now somewhat anemic Hill was last seen. I believe he grabbed the innocent woman and used her as a cover. As soon as we found her place to live, we sent her there.

When the fool was no longer so afraid, she would be able to say a lot. I learned that she lives alone in a hut most of the time and that she really loves rabbits. Tonight's sortie is getting weirder.

"Dalton ......"

My courtier sighed heavily, not meeting my gaze.

"I'm sorry, ma'am. That won't happen again. ”

"Oh no, I'm far away from you, I'm going to deprive you of your pleasure. It was a pleasant surprise, though, and you understand my curiosity......"

I saw something rare in my precious ally, embarrassment.

"That was a long time ago......"

"Then at least tell me why you're angry. You're always so harsh......"

Dalton took a moment to gather his thoughts, and then began to speak.

"There is a kind of person who likes to be in power. In fact, they enjoy it so much that they will try to make there fewer people around them so that it will continue to exist. They beat their wives, they beat their children, they destroy their spirits, so they surround themselves with a bunch of cowards who are afraid to stand up for themselves. They are not interested in growth, only in control.

Now some people, like this scumbag guy, they have found a religion. That religion told them that they were God's chosen people and that they knew the only truth, and that put them on top of this damn world. How blessed they were. Now they beat their families to protect them from sin. How did they know it was sin? Since they are God's chosen people, if they don't like it, then God must not like it either. That's the way it is. A bunch of self-righteous, incompetent mongrels have exterminated all those who can cast a shadow over their joyful hegemony. ”

It doesn't take a mastermind to understand where his resentment comes from.

"You did punish him severely."

"Oh, no, ma'am. The punishment has just begun. You see, I did it in front of his children. Now they know that their father is unreliable. Just an angry little man, really. When they grow up, they will remember this and know that whoever can face him will win. ”

"Seeds of rebellion?"

"Maybe. Maybe none of them have the courage, or maybe they could all be like him. Never mind. I gave them something to think about. That's more than I got......"

With that last sentence, Dalton became unusually restrained. I decided to let him ponder on his own. He rarely shows affection, which might attract attention, but I'm not worried. The unity that comes with our union cannot be forged or destroyed.

"I will not let my resentment jeopardize our cause, ma'am."

"I know. I believe in you, and I believe I now understand why you believe in me, believe me, that day in the valiant camp. ”

"Yes," he replied with a smile, "I would rather choose a respectable monster than a hypocritical human on any day of the week." ”

We would smile heartily and fall into a comfortable silence as the carriage took us back.

Savannah (October 1805)

As soon as the guards recognized me, they opened the door. The nervous accountant who helped me manage my money last time came over and spoke with a look of awe.

"Welcome back, Lady Ariane. Young Master Isaac will be here soon. Would you like to be seated? What would you like to drink...... Uhhhh。 ”

"I'm fine, thank you," I said to the pale-faced man.

Yes, the words are misnomer. I wouldn't have accepted his offer anyway, it would be too rude for Isaac. Not to mention that I love the sound of "Miss Ariane".

As I took a moment to study the magical protection of the place, the accountant hurried back to his illusory security desk. I now recognize this armor as an animated golem with no power at the moment. The book that Loth lent me mentions that they are tireless and painless. They are a good defense against vampires, although their slow speed can be a burden. The easiest way to deal with them is to outwit them. In addition to that, they have a core that needs to be destroyed.

The hieroglyphs on the ground are also interesting. This is a seal of the Solomonic tradition, and while I don't know its full purpose, I believe it has something to do with the destruction of foreign magic.

"Research the game, Ariana?"

I stood up and curtsied before my master. As soon as I saw him, my answer choked in my throat.

Something has changed.

The icy aura that marked him as my relative had greatly increased in strength. Also, it seems to be constantly changing, growing with my observations, and despite this, it remains as organized and disciplined as ever.

"Alright! Congratulations, is it appropriate?"

"Definitely! Indeed it is. Let's go, I'm going to tell you about my latest accomplishments. ”

I refused to take his outstretched arm, and he gracefully accepted. We left the building and walked away from the pier to the more affluent parts of the city. Dalton followed us closely, always on his toes.

"Your power feels like a master."

"Yes, after our short outing, I came home and immediately fell into a groggy sleep. I learned so much that night, much more than you think. The insight I gained was enough to break me down. What you're seeing now is the Rosenthal family's newest dominator!"

"Congratulations again. So what are the customs? Do you want me to give you a coming-of-age gift?"

He shook his hand contemptuously.

"There will usually be a ceremony, yes, and gifts. But don't worry, you've already exceeded my requirements. One more thing. ”

"Really?"

"Well, these gifts are usually very precious, and as your financial advisor, I strongly advise you not to overspend at this time."

“… Did you just say I was poor, sir?"

"Of course not!" Of course not, I'm just thinking about you. This is justified. ”

Isaac's perfect poker face only reveals his inner smirk. If he had been honest, he would have apologized a long time ago.

"Well, I'm sorry."

"I forgive you."

I jokingly booed. Roth, Sinid, and now Isaac, it seems that lonely people will feel comfortable in my presence. How else do you explain the sheer number of problems I have to deal with? Even Dalton sometimes makes fun of me. When something stirs up his emotions, his expressionless speech can be scathing.

Maybe I'm a breath of fresh air for them, someone they know won't betray. I guess if Master wasn't like that......

It's better not to go there.

"We're almost there. As I promised, the location is safe. I promise you. ”

"Thank you, Isaac, I knew you could be trusted."

"Definitely! Indeed, Ariana says, what you have is extraordinary. I'm happy for you. Cherish the memories you made tonight. ”

"I will. Thank you. ”

"That's enough, let's go!"

I walked alone into the lobby of a small hotel. Tables and furniture have left traces of age and regular use. The warm colors, soap and smell of flowers give the room a homely feel rather than shabby.

The place was empty, only the heartbeat coming from the restaurant.

I walked in silently. If my heart was still beating, it would be pounding now.

He sat at the table with his back to me. His fingers danced nervously on the scratched wood, trying to focus on a cargo manifest, but in vain.

I sneaked up on him with a childish flirtat. But I haven't felt like a human in months! I covered his eyes with my hands.

"Oh my God!"

"Little girl!" He cried out with joy.

"Let me take a good look at you!" He jumped up and grabbed my armpit. He lifted me into the air like I was made of straw and turned me around like a strange animal. I was happy to realize that he had regained his normal strength, even though his hair was much grayer than I remembered. I try not to let it affect me.

Seconds later, he announced his verdict.

"You're fat."

"Lies! Calom

ies !” I said angrily.

"Hahaha, good, good. Come on, sit here, and tell your dad everything. ”

After I left the house, I told him lightly about what had happened. As expected, I was interrupted almost immediately.

"Those damn fanatics hired a mage?" Typical hypocrite. Bastard, I want you to give them hell"

"I did. At the same time, the language!"

"Spare me, daughter. Your aunt isn't here. ”

"So I can start swearing too?!"

"Do you want to go?"

"That's not the point!"

"Do what I say, don't do what I do, it's the prerogative of every parent!"

I jokingly hissed. When I realized what I had done, I froze. I didn't intend to show this side of me, however, my expectations were dashed. Dad was not frightened by this inhuman voice, but approached.

"I could... Can I take a look?"

I hesitated.

"It's okay if you don't want Ariana, I know it's hard."

"No, it's fine."

Dad took my hand in his, rubbed his paws, careful not to let the edges of his paws scratch himself. At the same time, I opened my mouth, revealing my fangs. He looked down at them.

"Human Resource Management".

We were all taken aback when we realized that Isaac was in the room.

"Oh my God, don't scare me like that!"

"I'm sorry, Mr. Renault. I just wanted to tell you that everything is in order. You can find the signed contract at your accommodation. Speaking of which, I wish you a good night. ”

He bowed very professionally. I'll never forget it, right? We watched in silence as he left.

"You signed a contract with the Rosenthal family?"

"Yes, they are looking for a trustworthy contact with a huge storage capacity. Our position allows them to bypass the spheres of influence of other clans. ”

"Very well, I, wait, wait, how do you know this?!"

“Hmmmmmmm.”

"Dad?!"

"If you tell me why Lucien asked about you in the absence of his parents, I'll tell you."

"Ahh Aha. Wellllll。 ”

My father crossed his arms and raised his eyebrows, meaning I couldn't escape.

"When I came to look for you, I passed by the manor. Luo Zhuo came, and Lucien followed him. ”

"Did they see you?" Roger never said ......"

"I told him never to mention me."

"I see. As for why I know so much, your letter was written by a vampire, and I managed to get in touch with her. ”

"What? !She never said that!"

"I told her to keep it a secret, and I don't want you to worry."

"Dad, this world is dangerous!"

"Closing your eyes won't save me, since they captured you. In any case, Achille has expanded its business, and many of the deals that we thought were strange have now become meaningful, as we can explain the hidden interest groups. Moreover, Achilles does not know yet, but I intend to give you the inheritance you deserve. ”

"Daddy......"

"Tsk, I totally want you to take care of your nieces and nephews, as well as their children. I hope you will stay with me for a long time, and I instruct you to protect this family in the future. ”

“… Well, I promise. ”

Speaking of which, Akili's wife, Nicole, is about to welcome their second child! Constantza too. ”

They continued to discuss my family until I continued to tell my story. Finally, I mentioned Dalton.

"We're mostly catching bounties together."

"Do kids say that now?"

"Dad?!"

"Hahaha just kidding. Well, remember to tell me about the wedding in advance. I've got to make some arrangements. ”

"Even if I did, we wouldn't find a priest."

"Ah, who cares about this, I can do a pagan wedding. There is Nanashoba to serve us. ”

"Pass".

"Alright, alright."

After that, I asked Dalton to join us personally. They measure each other and hit it off at first sight. We ended the evening happily and planned for the future.

It's been a long time since I've felt closer to human Ariane. I wondered if it would be a weakness and I realized I didn't mind. If I manage not to be killed, I will be forced to see my family die of old age. And maybe their children. I need to enjoy the moment while I'm okay and protect those memories. Feelings matter.

I also realized that I was capable of taking care of the descendants of Achilles. I'm too weak to change anything now, and most of my offspring haven't been born yet. This is still something to consider in the future.

It all puts me in a bad mood. I know what I need, a good Hunter.