(1) An agreeable Alliance

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The cavernous entrance hall of Vorenus's looming castle, lit by flickering torches ensconced in the great stone walls. Dust particles swirl in the beams of moonlight that cut through the darkness, as Alucard and Trevor Belmont step forth. Trevor clutches his family's legendary Vampire Killer whip, coiled and ready.

Vorenus descends the grand staircase, his silhouette a dark omen against the backdrop of flickering light. A mocking smile plays on his lips as Inferno's Edge, luminous with an inner fire, hangs loosely in his hand.

Vorenus: "The son of Dracula and the last of the Belmonts come forth into my lair. What folly or courage does this act require?"

Alucard, stoic, replies first, while Trevor's grip tightens on the handle of his whip.

Alucard: "Vorenus, we seek your aid against the coming storm of chaos. Prove your rumored strength is not mere myth, and let us test our might against yours."

Trevor: "If you're half as strong as the whispers say, helping us stop Dracula should count as your evening's sport."

Vorenus chuckles, a sound like the crackling of embers.

Vorenus: "Then let the sport begin."

Quick as lightning, Trevor lashes out with the Vampire Killer, the whip slicing towards Vorenus with a sound like thunder. Vorenus sidesteps, the whip barely missing as he locks eyes with Trevor, and within that split second, he lunges.

Trevor hardly sees the movement, a testament to Vorenus's supernatural speed. Vorenus's hand grasps Trevor's throat, lifting him off his feet effortlessly. With a flick of his wrist, Vorenus sends Trevor crashing into a wall. The Belmont crumples, incapacitated but alive—Vorenus's contemptuous gaze says he deems Trevor beneath him.

With Trevor temporarily out of the fight, Vorenus turns to Alucard, who stands ready with his sword.

Vorenus: "Now, for a true test."

Alucard: "Your arrogance is misplaced."

Their blades clash, Vorenus's sword enveloped in flames that sear even the air, against Alucard's gleaming silver. Each strike from Vorenus is met with Alucard's precise and elegant form, the style of a seasoned duelist taught by legends.

Vorenus unleashes a barrage of attacks, the heat from his sword melting stone surfaces upon contact. Alucard evades and parries, his counterattacks swift and targeted. Vorenus's superior strength is apparent, but Alucard relies on finesse and speed, aiming for joints and openings.

Vorenus: "Come now, Alucard. You'll have to do better!"

Alucard: "Strength without discipline is as the wind—fury without direction."

Vorenus laughs, reveling in the challenge, then leaps high, summoning a trail of fire in the wake of his blade, attempting to bring it down upon Alucard. But Alucard is not there—he is behind Vorenus, forcing Vorenus to turn and block an attack aimed at his back.

Their swords locked, they stand face to face. Vorenus's fiery eyes burn with delight at having found an opponent worthy of his full attention.

Alucard: "You've made your point, Vorenus. Now make your choice. Stand with us, or fall alone."

Vorenus breaks the lock and steps back, flicking his blade in a salute.

Vorenus: "I have tasted your metal, and it is strong. Rise, Belmont, join us. I find this alliance... agreeable."

As Trevor pulls himself up, bruised but unbroken, he sees a grudging respect in Vorenus's eyes—a respect earned through battle. With a nod of acknowledgment, the three warriors, each formidable in their own right, prepare to weave their fate together in their shared quest to end Dracula's reign.

Timeskip

When the three men get outside of Vorneus castle, the mage Sypha Belnades is waiting having been on the watch for Trevor and Alucard's return noticed and recognized by Vorneus due to her magic signature.

Vorneus: Well, hello there, enchanting Sypha! I've heard of your remarkable magical abilities, but I must say, I bring a certain je ne sais quoi to the arcane arts.

Sypha: Oh, do you now? And what might that be, Vorneus de Lioncart?

Vorneus: Why, my dear, it's the perfect combination of wit, charm, and a dash of undeniable brilliance. All crucial components, I assure you.

Sypha: *smirking* Yes, I'm sure your charm is as potent as your magical prowess.

Vorneus: Ah, a sharp tongue to match your formidable skills! But fear not, I am here to offer my unparalleled expertise. For instance, have you ever considered the strategic deployment of a bit of flare and panache in your spellcasting?

Sypha: Flare and panache? I tend to focus on precision and control, not theatrics.

Vorneus: Ah, but imagine the thrill of captivating your foes with a dazzling display of magic! It's quite the spectacle, I assure you.

Sypha: I'm more concerned with vanquishing evil than putting on a show, Vorneus.

Vorneus: Oh, I completely understand, my dear. But a touch of showmanship never hurt anyone, and it might just leave our adversaries spellbound!

Sypha: *suppressing a smile* I have a feeling you'll be quite the handful, Vorneus.

Vorneus: Ah, but an entertaining handful, no doubt! Now, shall we delve into the sublime art of enchantment?

And as the two magic users conversed Trevor and Alucard observed the spectacle with both wariness and a small amount, but undeniable satisfaction in this interaction, which makes them somewhat believe this alliance will work out better than they initially thought.

You've reached the end of published parts.

⏰ Last updated: Feb 21 ⏰

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