Chapter 607 - The Banquet (5)
As the evening progressed, the buzz of the banquet increased, and the attention around Maya and Astron grew steadily. It wasn't surprising—Maya, with her elegant demeanor and her ties to the powerful Evergreen family, was naturally a magnet for those looking to strengthen their economic and political standing.
Meanwhile, Astron's striking presence—his chiseled features, cold purple eyes, and composed aura—drew the eyes of more than a few of the women in attendance, many of whom were eager to find an excuse to approach him.
Vivienne, always aware of the undercurrents at play, remained nearby, subtly guiding the conversation with Maya, though her eyes often flicked toward Astron as well. "It seems you've caught the attention of many tonight, Lady Evergreen," Vivienne remarked with a knowing smile, her gaze sweeping over the guests that had gathered nearby.
"You and your companion have certainly made quite the impression."
Maya, ever aware of the subtle games in motion, gave a modest smile. "It seems that way," she replied softly, her voice carefully measured. "But I'm sure the atmosphere of your wonderful event brings everyone together."
Vivienne chuckled lightly, her sharp green eyes gleaming with amusement. "How gracious of you to say, though I suspect it's more than just the atmosphere." Her eyes lingered on Astron, whose calm expression remained unreadable as he listened to their exchange. "Tell me, Mister Astron, do you enjoy these kinds of gatherings? You seem quite... composed amidst all the attention."
Before Astron could respond, another group of guests, two elegantly dressed women, and a well-groomed man, approached them with warm smiles, their interest clear. The ladies' eyes flicked to Astron almost immediately, their smiles widening as they took in his appearance.
"Oh, Lady Evergreen," one of the women began, her voice light and friendly.
They had chatted a little bit more with some pleasantries, but then her attention quickly shifted to Astron. "It's such a pleasure to meet you, but I must say, your companion is... quite the striking figure."
Maya, noticing the subtle flirtation in their gazes, maintained her own calm. 'They're trying to draw him in,' she thought, recognizing the social maneuvering at play. She had no intention of letting these flirtatious interactions derail the evening or undermine the facade she and Astron were maintaining.
The other woman leaned in slightly, her tone playful. "You must be quite the man to keep company with Lady Evergreen. Tell us, what brings you to such events? Surely, you have many stories to share."
"I'm here to ensure Lady Evergreen enjoys the evening," he replied, sidestepping the flirtation with ease.
The women giggled lightly at his answer, clearly intrigued by his quiet charm.
And to that, Maya felt a surge of frustration bubbling beneath her calm exterior as the women giggled and continued their light flirtation with Astron.
Inside, she was fuming. 'Do they really think I'm just going to stand here while they try to pull him in?' Her anger simmered, but she knew she had to maintain the role she had crafted for the evening—timid, unsure, and polite.
However, it was getting harder by the second to keep the mask in place. Her fingers tightened ever so slightly on her fan, and she could feel her expression twitch, a subtle sign of the growing tension inside her.
'I can't let them see me like this.'
Maya inhaled softly, forcing herself to remain composed even though the frustration gnawed at her. It was clear that the situation wasn't going to improve if she stayed, so she decided on her next course of action.
"I... I think I need a moment," she said softly, her voice still measured though there was a hint of strain in it. Without waiting for a response, she gave the women a brief, polite nod and turned toward the nearest exit. But as she walked away, she made sure to throw a side glance at Astron—just a flicker of her gaze that conveyed everything he needed to know.
'Follow me.'
Astron caught the look immediately. His expression remained neutral, but he understood what was happening. Without missing a beat, he smoothly excused himself from the conversation. "If you'll excuse me," he said politely, his tone giving no indication of anything amiss. The women looked slightly disappointed, but they nodded in understanding, allowing him to depart without question.
As they left the main hall, the hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses faded into the background, replaced by the quiet stillness of the dimly lit corridors.
The elegant marble floors gleamed softly beneath the glow of sconces lining the walls, casting long shadows that danced as they walked. Maya's footsteps echoed lightly in the silence, her back straight, her movements graceful but carrying an undertone of tension.
Astron followed her, his steps silent and composed, his expression as unreadable as ever. He had sensed the growing tension in Maya as they navigated the social intricacies of the banquet, but he had remained calm, playing his role perfectly.
Now, however, he could feel the weight of her emotions pressing down, simmering just beneath the surface.
Maya suddenly stopped in her tracks, her posture still poised, though the quiet energy around her had shifted.
She spread her senses, the mana within her reaching out subtly, scanning the empty corridor for any sign of onlookers or eavesdroppers.
Satisfied that they were alone, she turned on her heel with a sharp, fluid motion and walked straight toward him, her eyes locked on his with a fire that burned beneath the surface.
Her breath was soft but heavy, brushing against his skin as she came to a stop just inches away from him, close enough that their faces nearly touched. Her pink eyes, usually so calm and composed, now blazed with restrained anger.
Astron, standing his ground, looked down at her with the same collected expression, though his gaze sharpened slightly, recognizing the intensity of her emotions.
Maya's voice, when she spoke, was low but brimming with frustration. "What exactly were you doing back there?" she asked, her tone quiet but biting. "Standing there like nothing was happening while those women…" She trailed off, her breath hitching slightly as she clenched her fists at her sides.
"You just let them flirt with you," she continued, her voice trembling slightly with the effort of maintaining her composure. "Did you enjoy it?"
Astron remained calm, his expression unwavering as he met Maya's fiery gaze. Her frustration was palpable, her words laced with the tension that had been building all evening. He could feel the weight of her emotions pressing against him, but he didn't flinch. Instead, he looked at her with the same composed intensity he always carried.
"It's not about enjoyment," he replied evenly, his voice steady, measured. "I acted the way I needed to, nothing more."
Maya's blue eyes narrowed, and despite knowing the logic behind his words, she still wasn't satisfied. Her breath hitched again as she stared up at him, her fists trembling slightly at her sides. "But did you enjoy it?" she repeated, her voice quieter but more insistent this time.
Astron's eyes flicked over her face, the fire in her gaze unmistakable. "No. I didn't."
The tension in Maya's body seemed to relax just slightly at his response, but the simmering emotions beneath her composed exterior didn't fade entirely. She nodded once, slowly, as if accepting his answer, though there was something else in her expression—something unresolved.
And then, without warning, she moved.
In a swift, fluid motion, Maya leaned in closer, standing on her tiptoes as she closed the final inches between them, her fangs sinking into the soft skin just above his collarbone.
He remained still, his body tense but composed. Maya's grip tightened slightly, her fingers pressing into his chest as she held herself against him, her lips lingering at the point where her fangs had made contact.
Maya's breath was ragged as she pulled back slightly, her lips brushing against his skin as she whispered, "I needed to remind you…"
Astron's purple eyes darkened slightly, but he remained steady, his breathing calm despite the rush of sensations that came with her bite. He understood the message she was sending—this was her way of asserting control, of grounding herself after the tumultuous emotions of the evening.
And though he didn't speak, his silence was answer enough.
Maya stepped back, her eyes flicking up to meet his again. Her anger had faded, replaced by something else—something quieter, more intense. Her lips were stained with a hint of his blood, and she wiped them with a quick sweep of her tongue.
Astron held her gaze, his expression calm, though there was a faint glimmer of something darker in his eyes as he spoke, his voice low and steady. "Satisfied?"
Maya smiled a slow, quiet smile, the intensity from before now replaced by something softer, more controlled. She gave a small nod, the corners of her lips still carrying a hint of mischief. "For now," she replied her tone light but with an undercurrent of meaning that only the two of them would understand.
Without another word, she turned, her movements fluid and graceful as she composed herself once more. Astron followed suit, his demeanor as composed as ever, though the tension from their private moment lingered faintly in the air between them. Together, they made their way back toward the banquet hall, the soft echo of their footsteps the only sound in the quiet corridor.
As they stepped back into the bustling banquet hall, the hum of conversation and laughter welcomed them once more, the vibrant energy of the evening wrapping around them like a cloak. Vivienne, ever observant, was one of the first to notice their return. Her sharp green eyes gleamed with amusement as she approached, her lips curving into a knowing smile.
"Well, that was quick," Vivienne remarked, her tone teasing as she glanced between the two of them. "I was starting to think you might have gotten lost."
Maya, ever poised, smiled softly, her expression smooth and serene. "I just needed a moment," she replied lightly, her voice carrying the perfect balance of warmth and nonchalance. "It can get a bit overwhelming with so many people around."
Vivienne chuckled softly, clearly satisfied with the answer, though there was a glint in her eyes that suggested she wasn't entirely convinced. But she didn't press further, simply nodding in understanding. "Of course," she said with a smile. "The evening can certainly be exhausting."
As Vivienne finished her sentence, the atmosphere around them seemed to shift subtly. Maya noticed it immediately—the soft murmur of conversation near them quieted, and the energy in the room felt more charged, almost as if the very air had thickened.
'This.'
The vampiric instinct inside him was reacting.
She turned slightly, her instincts already alert, and that's when she saw the reason why such a thing was happening.
Silas Vayne.
The target finally took the bait.
Chapter 608 - The Banquet (6)
Silas Vayne—no, Zharokath—moved through the grand ballroom with the calm, measured grace that was expected of a man of his stature. His sharp, calculating gaze swept over the lavish surroundings, noting the opulence of the Cox estate, the glittering chandeliers, the polished marble floors, and the carefully curated gathering of influential figures.
He observed it all with mild interest, but beneath the mask of composure, he felt nothing but disdain.
'Humans and their need to display wealth and power, as if it means anything,' he mused, his thoughts laced with contempt. 'These creatures believe that money and influence elevate them, make them important. How foolish.'
In his guise as Silas Vayne, Zharokath had spent years infiltrating human society, meticulously building connections and manipulating those around him to further his own agenda. He had cultivated the perfect identity—one that was respected, feared, and above all, trusted. But to him, this facade was nothing more than a convenient tool, a means to an end.
'If only they knew what truly lurks beneath the surface of their fragile little world,' he thought, a faint smirk threatening to tug at the corners of his lips. 'They prance about like kings and queens, but they are nothing more than insects—easily crushed underfoot.'
The Cox family, in particular, amused him. Gerald Cox had risen to power with unnatural speed, thanks in no small part to the quiet manipulations Zharokath had orchestrated behind the scenes. But the man, like so many others, had no idea that he was merely a pawn.
Even now, as Gerald played host to some of the most influential figures in the Federation, he was blissfully unaware of the demon who stood among his guests.
'Every time they think thy are in control,' Zharokath mused, his eyes flicking briefly toward the host. 'He believes he has secured powerful allies, that tonight will solidify his position among the elite. How amusing. He does not realize that his every step is guided by my hand.'
As Zharokath glided through the room, his attention shifted to the other key players in tonight's event. Argen Delvora, the ruthless businessman whose wealth and political influence extended far beyond the Federation, stood in conversation with Vivienne Althea, the cunning socialite who controlled the flow of information and rumors with a mere whisper.
Both were important pieces in the game he was playing.
'They serve their purpose well enough,' he thought, eyeing them from a distance. Argen, with his ambition, and Vivienne, with her ability to manipulate.
'But like all humans, they are short-sighted. They believe they are making deals for wealth and power, but they cannot see the true nature of the bargain they are striking.'
The deal Zharokath was here to conclude tonight was of far greater importance than any human could comprehend. It wasn't simply about money or influence—it was about control. Control over the humans who would unknowingly serve his clan's greater purpose, control over the Federation's political landscape, and control over the demonic forces already creeping into their world.
And yet, Zharokath knew he had to be cautious. He was not so arrogant as to believe that he could flaunt his true nature openly.
The Void Clan, to which he belonged, needed to operate in the shadows since, from the moment their biggest strength had been injured, and needed to reincarnate and create a new body for himself.
'Tch...To be looked down and forced to come to this place….'
Because there were many other clans that were hunting his clan, he was forced to come to this human domain.
Zharokath had no intention of becoming one of their trophies.
And for that to happen, he needed to recover his strength as well as the strength of the great one.
As Zharokath's gaze flickered across the room, it briefly settled on the small, ornate necklace hanging from his neck. Its dull, unremarkable appearance masked the immense significance it carried—within the necklace, a fragment of the Void Clan's greatest power lay dormant, waiting to be revived.
He reached up, fingers brushing against the cool metal, and his lips curled into a faint sneer of contempt.
'Great one, it will not take long. Don't worry,' he mumbled under his breath, the words barely audible, but laced with reverence. 'Soon, we will recover our strength. And once we do, no one will dare hunt us again.'
The thought filled him with a surge of dark satisfaction, but his arrogance was tempered by the weight of caution. The Void Clan had once ruled over realms far beyond this insignificant human world. But now, they were hunted, forced to hide in the shadows, their greatest strength injured and scattered. Zharokath had taken it upon himself to ensure their survival, to rebuild what had been lost.
That was why he had come to this human domain—an exile of sorts, but a necessary one.
His eyes shifted again, drawn to a particular corner of the grand ballroom where most of tonight's attention seemed to gather. There she was—Maya Evergreen, the young lady of the powerful Evergreen family, standing amidst the crowd.
Zharokath's eyes narrowed as he studied her. Maya Evergreen… He had not expected her to attend this banquet. It was, after all, hosted by a lower-ranked noble family, a far cry from the kind of gatherings her status usually demanded. For a moment, her presence seemed out of place, almost suspicious.
But then, as he glanced over her file in his mind, the pieces began to fall into place.
'Of course,' he thought, his arrogance briefly giving way to a calculated understanding. 'The Evergreens are preparing her, easing her into environments like these to adapt. To observe.'
Zharokath continued to watch Maya Evergreen's every detail of her appearance, her movements, and the way she interacted with the people around her. From the nervousness in her posture to the slight tremor in her voice, she appeared every bit the young noblewoman stepping into unfamiliar territory, trying to find her footing in a world dominated by seasoned players.
Her gaze flickered to and from the guests, her smile wavering as she fumbled through small talk. Her hands, though gracefully clasped in front of her, occasionally betrayed her by fidgeting with the delicate fabric of her gown. Zharokath could see it all—each slip, each hesitation.
'A fish that has yet to grow,' he mused, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. 'She is still small, still inexperienced. A girl sent into the ocean without fully understanding the depths she's navigating.'
His initial assessment of her seemed accurate—she was not a threat. The Evergreens had sent her here not as a player, but as an observer, allowing her to grow accustomed to the political undercurrents that defined such gatherings. They were grooming her, teaching her to swim with the sharks without realizing the true danger that lurked beneath.
Zharokath almost dismissed her entirely as he prepared to refocus his attention on the more significant matters at hand. But then, something stopped him. A flicker of energy, faint yet unmistakable, brushed against his senses. He paused, his gaze narrowing as he focused more intently on the girl standing across the ballroom.
'What is this…?'
The sensation was subtle, barely noticeable to anyone without his keen perception. But to Zharokath, it was undeniable—a faint resonance of demonic energy, something that stirred within him the moment his gaze lingered on her for too long.
His smile faded, replaced by a deepening frown. The energy wasn't strong, not enough to suggest she was a demon herself, but it was there. A whisper of something familiar, something dark. It tugged at his awareness, an echo of his own power resonating from the girl.
'This is… unexpected.' Zharokath's mind raced as he searched for an explanation. The resonance was not something he had anticipated, and it left him with more questions than answers. Was it possible that Maya Evergreen had come into contact with something—someone—demonic?
'No, this is more than just contact,' he thought, his sharp eyes narrowing further. 'There's something inside her, something that responds to my presence.'
He watched her more closely now, his attention no longer casual but focused, predatory.
'Or had someone of our kind already planning to use her?'
The longer he observed her, the clearer the sensation became. It was faint, yes, but undeniably there—a thread of demonic energy woven deep within her being.
Zharokath's eyes gleamed with a newfound hunger as the realization settled in. There was something inside Maya Evergreen—a thread of demonic energy woven into her very being. A spark of dark potential, waiting to be manipulated. His frown faded, replaced by a slow, predatory smile. This unexpected development had turned the evening into something far more intriguing than he had anticipated.
'Heh… What a surprise this is,' he thought, his mind already whirling with the possibilities. 'If there's a demonic presence within her, then influencing her will be far easier than I thought. Someone has already done the groundwork for me.'
The idea of bending the girl to his will filled him with dark satisfaction. Maya Evergreen—naïve, inexperienced, and apparently carrying a demonic connection—was now a target he couldn't afford to ignore. And the best part? She didn't seem to be aware of it. That made her even more vulnerable.
Zharokath licked his lips, the taste of opportunity tantalizing him. His fingers brushed the surface of the table beside him, feeling the cool glass as his gaze stayed locked on Maya, who was still conversing with a small group of nobles, unaware of the predator in the room.
'Such a pleasant opportunity,' he mused, his smile growing darker. 'How could I possibly let it go now?'
With the calculated ease of a seasoned manipulator, Zharokath straightened his posture and adjusted the cufflinks on his immaculately tailored suit. There was still some time left before his meeting with Gerald Cox—time he could use to introduce himself to the girl. After all, this wasn't just a social gathering anymore; it had become a hunt.
He began to move, his steps deliberate, gliding across the room with an effortless grace that masked his true nature. To any observer, he was merely the influential Silas Vayne, a man of power and refinement. But beneath the surface, Zharokath was already plotting how to ensnare Maya in his web.
As he approached the group Maya was standing with, he caught the faintest edge of her voice—a careful, soft tone that fit the image of a young lady eager to learn but out of her depth. Her nervousness was palpable, her eyes darting between the guests around her, and Zharokath couldn't help but find it amusing.
'She really is a beautiful piece,' he thought. 'But soon, she'll be playing my game.'
As he neared, the guests parted slightly, noticing his approach. Zharokath flashed a charming smile, the kind that made people lower their guard, and inclined his head toward Maya and her companions.
"Lady Evergreen," he began, his voice smooth, exuding warmth and respect, "I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting yet."
Chapter 609 - The Banquet (7)
"Lady Evergreen. I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting yet."
Maya turned toward him, her expression momentarily surprised before she composed herself. Her blue eyes flicked up to meet his gaze, and Zharokath could sense the faint tension in her posture.
"Mr. Vayne," she replied softly, clearly aware of who he was. Her voice was calm, but there was an underlying thread of nervousness she couldn't quite hide.
Zharokath offered a polite nod to the others in the group before focusing his attention entirely on Maya, his smile never wavering. "It is truly an honor to meet a member of the esteemed Evergreen family. Your reputation precedes you."
Maya blinked, a slight 'blush' creeping into her cheeks at the compliment.
She glanced briefly at Astron, who stood silently a step behind her, his watchful gaze never leaving Zharokath. But Zharokath wasn't concerned about him—not yet, at least.
Why would he be?
After all, how could a mere bodyguard sense what he was doing? Though that guy certainly looked really handsome, there was nothing else that gave an impression of him.
Most likely, he was a boy's toy prepared for Maya to use, as most of the high-ranking families had such traditions.
"Thank you," she replied with a faint smile, her tone modest. "I'm only here to learn."
Zharokath's smile widened ever so slightly. "Ah, but learning is the first step to greatness, is it not? And I'm certain you will make quite an impression here tonight."
Her blush deepened, and she looked down briefly, clearly still adjusting to the attention. Zharokath found it endearing in a way, though more than that, he saw it as an opening—a way to slip past her defenses.
'She's unguarded,' he thought, his predatory instincts sharpening. 'This will be easier than I thought.'
Zharokath continued his conversation with ease, allowing the words to flow smoothly, each one carefully chosen to keep Maya engaged while subtly planting seeds of influence. His smile remained calm and inviting, the perfect mask of a gentleman, but beneath that facade, his mind was working, calculating how best to manipulate the situation to his advantage.
"Experience is everything," he said, his voice smooth and measured. "The art of ruling, of managing people, is not something one simply learns from books or tutors. It must be lived, experienced firsthand." He gave Maya a knowing look. "Your presence here tonight is already a step in that direction.
Soon, you will understand the subtleties of power—the way it ebbs and flows, and how it can be wielded to shape the future."
Maya nodded, still playing the role of the eager but modest learner. "I have much to learn, Mr. Vayne. But I hope to understand it all in time."
Zharokath's smile widened slightly as he shifted the conversation toward himself. "I was much like you once—an observer in the world of politics and influence. But as time went on, I learned that true power lies not just in commanding others, but in knowing when to influence from the shadows, when to let people believe they are in control."
As he spoke, he began to subtly release a thin stream of his demonic energy, letting it weave through the air toward Maya. The energy was faint, barely perceptible, but it carried with it a familiar resonance that would reach out to the dormant power within her.
Zharokath watched closely, sensing for any reaction from the demonic energy within her. His aim wasn't to fully control her—not yet. It was a test, an experiment to see if he could stir something within her, perhaps even command a part of her, as demons held an innate ability to influence their lesser kin.
He doubted Maya was fully aware of the energy lying within her, which made her even more susceptible to his influence.
As the demonic energy reached her, he noticed a slight shift in her posture—a momentary flicker in her expression. Her eyes, though still focused on him, seemed to darken briefly, as if something stirred within her.
'There it is,' Zharokath thought, satisfaction blooming within him. The connection was faint, but it was there, responding to his energy. 'This will work.'
He didn't need her to fall under his control immediately. What he sought was more subtle—an influence that would slowly make her view him more favorably, perhaps even develop a sense of trust or admiration. It was a method he had used many times before, gradually bending people's perceptions in his favor without them ever realizing it.
"Of course," Zharokath continued, his voice softening slightly, as if sharing something personal, "I have learned that true leadership is not about force. It's about understanding the desires and fears of others and using that knowledge to guide them. People are often drawn to those who seem to understand them, who make them feel seen."
As he spoke, he sent another pulse of demonic energy toward her, just enough to nudge the dormant power inside her, to see if he could push it further. Maya's breath seemed to catch for a moment, and she blinked, her eyes briefly clouded with confusion before she quickly composed herself.
'Interesting,' Zharokath mused, watching her closely. He could feel the stirrings of the demonic energy within her reacting, though it wasn't strong enough for him to fully command yet. Still, the fact that it responded at all meant that, over time, he could nurture it, slowly coax it to the surface until she became more susceptible to his control.
Maya, meanwhile, seemed unaware of the subtle manipulation at play. Her expression remained calm, though Zharokath could sense a faint unease within her, as if she were trying to shake off a strange sensation she couldn't quite identify.
"Do you ever feel," Zharokath asked, his tone now more intimate, "that there's something more waiting for you? Something beyond what you've been taught or what your family expects of you?"
Maya hesitated for a moment, clearly caught off guard by the question. "I… I suppose," she replied, her voice quieter. "But I've always followed my family's guidance."
But this time, her hesitation was real.
It was because she was really feeling uncomfortable, as if something inside her was burning. Even though Astron had warned her beforehand that such a thing would happen and she had prepared herself for these types of sensations, she still did not expect it to be like this.
She really was having a hard time holding herself from breaking down.
Zharokath's smile softened, almost as if he were sympathizing with her. "It's natural to follow, but there comes a time when we must step beyond the expectations of others and seek our own path. I sense that within you—a potential for greatness, for something more."
He sent another wave of demonic energy toward her, this time even subtler, designed to stir feelings of admiration, to make him appear more favorable in her eyes. It was a delicate balance—too much, and she might sense something was wrong. But Zharokath had mastered this method, and he knew how to play the long game.
Maya's mind, already clouded with discomfort, began to unravel under Zharokath's subtle manipulation. The burning sensation inside her intensified, and despite all her preparation, she hadn't expected it to be this overwhelming. She felt her control slipping, her thoughts muddled and sluggish. Zharokath's words rang in her ears, soothing and inviting, as if pulling her closer into his grasp.
'This…'
Without realizing it, her lips curled into a soft smile. "Thank you, Mr. Vayne. Your words mean a great deal."
For a brief moment, everything blurred. Her vision darkened at the edges, and the voice inside her, the one that knew something was wrong, seemed to fade away. She couldn't think clearly, couldn't resist the strange warmth overtaking her senses.
But then, suddenly, a sharp sting pierced the base of her spine, cutting through the fog like a blade. It wasn't painful, just a quick, precise sensation, but it was enough to jolt her from the creeping influence of Zharokath's demonic energy.
Her body shuddered ever so slightly, and in that instant, the world around her snapped back into focus. The dark haze lifted from her mind, and the burning sensation inside her cooled, though a residual discomfort remained.
Astron.
Maya didn't need to look to know who had caused that sting—it was Astron.
She could feel his presence behind her, his silent support steady as ever. He had warned her about this, about the potential for demonic influence and how it could overwhelm her. She had known this was coming, had prepared herself, and yet she hadn't been able to stop it.
Fear coursed through her, sharp and cold, mingling with the realization of just how easily she had been affected. The subtlety of Zharokath's control, the way he had so effortlessly slipped into her mind without her even noticing—it was terrifying. If it weren't for Astron's intervention, she might have fallen completely under the demon's influence.
But there was no time to dwell on it now. She had to act. Maya knew that her sudden clarity, her return to control, could raise suspicion if she didn't handle it properly.
She let her body relax into the lingering effects of the demonic energy, pretending to still be under its sway. With a soft sigh, she allowed herself to stagger slightly, her steps faltering as if she were suddenly lightheaded.
'….Indeed, it worked.'
Zharokath's eyes gleamed with satisfaction, clearly believing that his influence had taken hold. Maya felt a flicker of revulsion as she saw the pleased look on his face, but she forced herself to remain composed.
"I'm… feeling a bit unwell," she said quietly, her voice trembling just enough to sound convincing. She brought a hand to her forehead, feigning dizziness. "Would it be alright if I excused myself for a moment, Mr. Vayne? I think I need some air."
Zharokath's smile remained in place, but she could see the triumph hidden behind his polite expression. He believed this was his doing and that the influence of his demonic energy had overwhelmed her. Of course, he would let her leave—after all, he thought his hold over her was secure.
"Of course, Lady Evergreen," Zharokath replied smoothly, his voice dripping with false concern. "Take all the time you need. The evening can be quite overwhelming, especially for someone as attuned as yourself."
Maya offered him a small, strained smile. "Thank you," she murmured, and with a slight bow, she turned and started walking.
As Maya made her way toward the exit, her steps carefully controlled to seem unsteady, she could feel the weight of Zharokath's gaze on her back. Each step took effort as she maintained the illusion of being under his sway, the discomfort still burning faintly inside her. But her focus was sharp—every action had to be perfectly calculated to keep Zharokath from suspecting anything.
But just as she drew near Zharokath, right as she was passing by his side, something unexpected happened.
Her balance faltered.
A sudden wave of dizziness hit her, and for a moment, the world tilted. Maya lost control of her footing, her body lurching forward as if she were going to fall directly into Zharokath. Her breath caught, and panic flared in her chest. 'No…'
Before she could collide with him, a hand shot out with lightning speed, catching her just as she began to fall. The touch was steady, firm, and familiar.
It was Astron.
He had appeared between them in an instant, his arm wrapping around Maya's waist to support her, his other hand gently steadying her. The sharp contrast between the cool composure of Astron's presence and the chaotic surge of demonic energy that had briefly flared in Maya was unmistakable.
To Zharokath, it must have appeared as if her internal conflict with the demonic energy had momentarily overwhelmed her.
Zharokath raised an eyebrow but remained calm, his smile still lingering on his lips. 'It seems the energy within her is more volatile than I thought,' he mused, but the smirk in his eyes didn't fade. In his mind, this was only further proof that Maya was slowly succumbing to his influence.
"Careful, Lady Evergreen," Zharokath said, his voice smooth as silk, though his eyes glinted with a hint of amusement. "It seems the evening is taking more of a toll on you than you realized."
Maya, still in Astron's arms, managed to offer a weak smile, playing along with the act. "I'm terribly sorry," she murmured, her voice breathy and fragile. "It just… caught me off guard."
Zharokath nodded graciously, completely oblivious to the deeper meaning behind her stumble. In his eyes, the brief lapse in control was nothing more than the demonic energy inside her reacting to his influence—a momentary display of power that she couldn't yet manage.
Astron, however, showed no outward reaction. He merely stood protectively beside her, his expression calm as ever, though there was a subtle tension in his stance that only Maya could sense. His timing had been flawless, and the danger had passed without Zharokath suspecting anything.
Or so it seemed.
Since when Zharokath was observing the demonic energy in Maya, something small and deliberate happened in the blink of an eye.
Chapter 610 - The Banquet (8)
"Let me escort you outside for some air," Astron said quietly, his voice steady but laced with the protective tone that suited his role, but at the same time, it also felt genuine to Maya.
He gently guided Maya toward the exit; his arm still wrapped protectively around her waist. Their departure was graceful, calm, and without any hint of the underlying tension that had nearly overtaken the situation moments ago.
To anyone watching, it appeared as if Maya, overcome by the intensity of the evening, needed fresh air, and her ever-dutiful escort was simply helping her along.
Zharokath's gaze followed them for a brief moment longer, his smirk still in place, satisfaction gleaming in his eyes. He believed the situation was under control, that Maya was slowly falling into his grasp. The demon was completely oblivious to the fact that, in the blink of an eye, something had been done to him—something subtle, something he wouldn't notice.
Astron's movements had been flawless. With the precision of a master, he had slipped a small, barely perceptible object onto Zharokath's clothes. It was nothing overt, nothing that would draw suspicion immediately, but its purpose would soon reveal itself in time.
As they passed through the grand ballroom, the eyes of various guests briefly flicked toward them, but there was no suspicion in their gazes—only polite curiosity. Lady Evergreen, the esteemed guest, was simply unwell, and her guardian was assisting her. It was a perfectly reasonable sight, one that fit the roles they were playing to perfection.
However, on the side of Maya things were a little different. She leaned into his support, but it wasn't just for the act anymore. Her head began to spin, the grandeur of the ballroom fading into a hazy blur, and her breathing became shallow, each breath feeling heavier than the last.
She could feel an intense heat rising within her, her senses sharpening painfully, and beneath it all, the gnawing hunger—something darker, more primal—began clawing at her insides.
Her vampiric tendencies, usually under her control, were flaring up in a way she hadn't experienced in a long time. The urge for blood was almost overwhelming.
She clenched her teeth, fighting the feeling, but her fangs began to press painfully against her lips. It was more than just the usual hunger. This was something deeper, something darker—her demonic side.
'No... Not here. Not now,' Maya thought desperately, her steps faltering as her legs felt weaker. The hunger was unlike anything she had felt before—it wasn't just a need, it was a demand, a raw, consuming force that screamed for blood.
Her body was heating up, every nerve on fire, and she could feel the demonic energy coursing through her, amplifying the hunger tenfold.
Astron felt her weight shift, her body sagging slightly against him, and his expression, though calm, flickered with concern. He leaned closer, his voice low and steady. "Senior….. Is it?
Maya couldn't find her voice. Her throat felt tight, and every word she tried to form died before it left her lips. She clutched at his arm, her fingers tightening around the fabric of his jacket as she fought to keep herself together.
"I see…."
Astron's arm tightened around her, sensing the growing unease. He guided her out of the ballroom, their exit still graceful but now filled with more urgency. As they reached the open air of the garden outside, the cool breeze hit Maya's heated skin, but it did little to quell the storm inside her.
"Senior," Astron said again, his voice more insistent but still calm, "look at me."
Maya's mind was a swirling storm of fear and hunger, the intensity of it all threatening to pull her under.
But beneath that hunger, a darker fear took root. The fear that her control, which she had fought so hard to maintain, was far weaker than she had ever realized.
If Zharokath had been able to affect her so easily, to stir the demonic energy within her so effortlessly, what did that mean for her future?
'I'm not ready,' she thought, panic creeping into the edges of her mind. 'I thought I had control, but...'
It was a wake-up call and, at the same time, a reminder of how dangerous a real demon was. Even just without not showing his powers fully and barely sending demonic energy into her, she was feeling this much effect.
The realization hit her harder than the hunger itself. It wasn't just that she was a vampire struggling with her natural instincts—it was that the demonic energy inside her was something she barely understood. Something she hadn't mastered. The idea that someone could so easily manipulate that part of her made her feel exposed and vulnerable.
Astron's voice cut through the haze, sharp and steady, grounding her for a moment. "Senior," he said again, his calm yet insistent tone breaking through the chaos. "Look at me."
Maya forced her eyes to focus on him, though it was difficult. Her vision wavered, and the world around them seemed to pulse with her frantic heartbeat. She could see the concern in his violet eyes, but also something more—trust. He wasn't afraid of her, even though she could feel herself slipping. He was right there, steady as ever.
Astron, I—"
"Don't be sorry. This time, it is because of me."
Astron's words were spoken quietly, almost as if he was mulling them over for himself. His tone was calm, but beneath it, there was a weight that Maya had never quite heard from him before. "This time, it's because of me," he said, his violet eyes flickering with a subtle, internal conflict. "I should have handled this alone."
Maya's breath hitched as she caught the faint guilt in his voice, her fingers tightening against his jacket. His words hit her harder than she expected, and the growing storm inside her shifted, not because of Zharokath's influence, but because of Astron's.
"No," Maya snapped, her voice firmer than she intended. She straightened, though her body still trembled from the lingering effects of the demonic energy.
Her eyes, still glowing faintly with hunger and frustration, locked onto Astron's, her expression fierce. "This isn't on you. I chose to be here. I wanted to be here."
Astron's gaze remained steady, but there was a flicker of something—perhaps doubt, perhaps resolve—as he listened.
Maya could see the gears turning in his mind, calculating, always planning his next move. But this time, his cold logic felt wrong to her, and the idea that he thought he should bear this burden alone only stoked the fire inside her further.
"I'm not some helpless bystander," she continued, her voice growing softer but no less determined. "I knew what I was getting into when I came with you. I'm not here because you made a mistake or because you needed help. I'm here because I chose to be."
She took a step closer to him, her eyes searching his face for any sign of hesitation. "I didn't come here to watch you do everything on your own. You don't need to carry this alone."
Astron's eyes narrowed slightly, the weight of her words sinking in. He remained silent, his mind clearly turning over her argument, but his expression stayed unreadable, his features calm, his breathing controlled.
Yet Maya knew him well enough to sense the subtle conflict beneath the surface. He had always been the one to take on the heavier burdens, to make sure others were shielded from the worst of what they faced. It was how he had survived, how he had kept control over the chaos of his life.
But Maya wasn't going to let him use that same mindset with her. Not now.
"Sigh…." Astron let out a long sigh as he mumbled. "I guess so."
Just as his words hung in the air, pushing through the silence between them, the quiet sound of footsteps approached. Astron's eyes flicked to the side, catching sight of the butler as he stepped forward, his demeanor polite and professional.
"Excuse me, sir, Lady Evergreen," the butler began with a respectful nod. "I couldn't help but notice that you were heading toward the exit. May I ask if you are leaving for the evening?"
Astron's expression didn't change, his calm mask still in place as he glanced briefly at Maya before addressing the butler. "Yes, we are," he replied smoothly. "Lady Evergreen isn't feeling well. It would be best for us to leave."
The butler's brow furrowed slightly, concern flashing across his face, though his professionalism never faltered. "I see. I do hope it's nothing too serious. If you wish, I could have one of our healers bring a potion. We have a variety of remedies for such situations."
Astron shook his head, his voice calm but firm. "That won't be necessary. It's nothing urgent, but I believe it's best we take our leave."
The butler nodded, understanding in his eyes. "Of course, sir. I'll inform the staff of your departure. Please, don't hesitate to let us know if you need anything further."
With that, the butler offered a polite bow and stepped back, leaving them alone once more. As he disappeared into the distance, Maya glanced at Astron, her eyes reflecting a mix of exhaustion and determination.
Astron's demeanor remained collected, but Maya could sense the subtle tension in him, the weight of the situation still lingering. Without a word, he reached into his pocket, tapping his smartwatch. He had already summoned the driver earlier, anticipating their exit, and as expected, the sleek black car was now waiting just outside the estate's grand entrance.
Astron gave a slight nod toward the car, his gaze briefly meeting hers. "The car is ready," he said quietly. "Let's go."
Maya let out a small breath, steadying herself as she followed his lead. The cold night air hit her skin as they stepped outside, the towering estate looming behind them. She could feel her strength returning little by little, but the weight of everything that had just happened still clung to her mind.
As they approached the car, the driver opened the door for them, and without another word, Maya slid into the backseat, followed closely by Astron. The door closed behind them with a soft thud, sealing them inside the quiet, dimly lit interior.
The engine purred to life, and as the car pulled away from the estate and inside, Maya jumped onto him immediately with her fangs as she could no longer hold it in.
She did not care about the driver since there was a barrier preventing any sound or vision from escaping.
********
As the final moments of the banquet wound down, Zharokath—still wearing the guise of Silas Vayne—concluded his business with Gerald Cox, Argen Delvora, and Vivienne Althea. The deal had gone smoothly, and the exchange had been flawless. Their cooperation would serve his purposes well in the human domain, each of them unwitting pawns in the larger scheme.
Now that his goal for the night had been achieved, there was no reason for him to linger any longer.
'Humans,' Zharokath mused, his lip curling slightly in the privacy of his thoughts. 'This little one is just driven by Lust while the other one is a slave to his pride.'
He offered one last polite nod to Gerald and the others, his expression still that of a gracious businessman as he excused himself from the gathering.
With careful precision, he maintained his demeanor—charming and poised—until he stepped through the large doors of the banquet hall and into the cool night air.
The driver, stationed by the luxurious car Zharokath had rented for the evening, straightened and immediately moved to open the door. Zharokath nodded appreciatively, slipping into the backseat of the vehicle with practiced grace.
The door clicked shut, and as the car pulled away from the estate, Zharokath allowed himself a brief moment of stillness. His expression relaxed, the mask of politeness falling away, replaced by the calm, calculating demeanor that truly defined him. His sharp eyes flickered as he glanced out the window, watching the lights of the estate grow distant.
The driver navigated the vehicle expertly through the darkened streets, but Zharokath wasn't concerned with their destination. This car and the driver were all just for show—a necessary illusion to maintain his facade. His true method of departure was far more efficient, far more secure.
Zharokath's hand brushed against a pendant hidden beneath his shirt—a dark, ancient artifact bound to his very essence. He murmured a few words under his breath, and the pendant responded, pulsing faintly with demonic energy.
The air around him shimmered subtly, a faint ripple of power that only he could perceive. His eyes briefly glowed with the energy, and in the blink of an eye, the scenery outside the car shifted. One moment, he was in the rented vehicle, driving through the streets.
The next, he found himself standing in the privacy of his personal quarters in Ardmont City, the teleportation completed without so much as a sound.
Zharokath stepped forward, his boots clicking softly on the polished marble floor of his residence. The room was dimly lit, draped in shadow—just as he preferred it.
Yet he did not know that something was glowing on his clothes.