CastleVania: Intermezzo of Agony

Chapter 10

Modoru had successfully destroyed multiple planets in the solar system after reviving Chaos, the other source of Dracula's power. He had transcended humanity, absorbing black holes and reaching full power. Now, only three steps remained to reset the world: kill thousands of humans (including at least 100 innocents), kill Oliver Belmont, and absorb the Vampire Killer.

Modoru had killed numerous criminals worldwide, often by ripping their heads off, slitting their throats, or emotionally manipulating them. When he had to kill innocents, he made their deaths as painless as possible, using a slow-acting, painless poison to allow them to spend their last days peacefully. He didn't want to kill them, but he believed it was necessary to reset the world and rid it of criminals. With his godlike power, he planned to reincarnate the innocents he murdered, while condemning the guilty to hell.

Having completed the first step, Modoru turned his attention to Oliver. To gain his trust, Modoru needed his powers temporarily erased and his memories altered.

"W-Why is that?" Death asked in surprise as they walked down a hallway.

Modoru smirked. "I need to gain Oliver Belmont's trust. If I do, I can betray him easily. Remove my powers except for my immense strength and speed. I'll keep my sword and claim to be a vampire hunter."

The Grim Reaper paused before responding. "Very well, I have faith in you, Modoru."

With his memories of being the Dark Lord erased, Modoru befriended Oliver, claiming to be a vampire hunter. They were dispatched on missions together by the organization Oliver belonged to, which Modoru had joined.

**TIMESKIP**

Modoru decided to put his plan aside temporarily to focus on his studies. He had recently turned 16 and, along with Kasumi, was at the top of his class.

Modoru stared at the ballpoint pen in his hand, occasionally spinning it with his fingers, until the teacher called on him.

"Modoru, can you tell me who believed in the divine right of kings and became king of Sweden at the age of 14?"

Modoru stood up. "It was Charles XII, Sir, also known as Carolus Rex."

The teacher smiled slightly. History was one of Modoru's favorite subjects, especially warfare. "Very good, Modoru. Take your seat."

"So, what subject are you best at, Oliver?" Modoru asked.

Oliver perked up. "I guess it's History. I love learning about our world's past."

"Guess we have that in common."

**The Next Week**

"Who's this boss you guys are taking me to anyway?" Modoru asked as he walked with Kasumi and Oliver up the stairs (the elevator was broken).

"Well, he's kind of serious, but don't worry, you'll be fine," Oliver said with a shrug as they reached the top floor. The trio was equally exhausted and annoyed.

They knocked on a door, and it swung open to reveal a pale man with long black hair and a black suit.

"Ah, Arikardo. Here's Modoru, as you asked," Kasumi said.

The man named Arikardo examined Modoru. "I see. You truly are Dracula reborn. I am Genya Arikardo, the leader of this organization."

Modoru grinned shyly. He wasn't very sociable. "Uh, hello, Arikardo. So, why are we here?"

Arikardo gestured for them to follow. They entered his office, which had a wooden desk, an open window, a shelf full of books on history, mythology, and spells, and a small couch near the desk.

"Take a seat, you three," Arikardo commanded. They complied. "We have recently learned that Count Olrox is on the loose again. He has seized control of the rebuilt ruins of an old site where Dracula's Castle once stood. After a week, he was killed by a mysterious ronin. He is currently commanding an army of creatures of the night."

The three stayed silent until Kasumi spoke up. "Arikardo, where is the castle located?"

Arikardo stood up. "Follow me. Two others will aid you."

They soon arrived in front of the castle in Arikardo's car. As they got out, Modoru glanced around.

"The four of us will split into two groups. We will meet up with the other two in the cathedral's confession room. Oliver, come with me. Kasumi, go with Modoru. Understood?" he instructed. Modoru, Oliver, and Kasumi nodded.

They split up, with Modoru sticking with Kasumi and Arikardo with Oliver. But the question remained: would Modoru remember his true goal?