Vamps in Chaos

Chapter Thirty-Three: Freedom and Family

The morning dawned with an air of grandiosity as the trio prepared for the Council member's arrival. The estate itself seemed determined to match the occasion, adding its own touches to the decor: portraits straightened themselves with exaggerated importance, the armor polished itself furiously, and the enchanted suit of armor by the door had even donned a monocle.

Babe adjusted his collar, catching sight of Ollie bouncing nervously on his toes. "Don't worry, Ollie. Just answer with as much pomp as possible," he whispered, grinning. "They love that kind of thing."

Ollie nodded, though he looked like he was trying not to laugh. "Pomp. Got it."

With a sudden gust of dramatic wind (courtesy of the estate's curtains, which swooshed on cue), the Council member entered. His cape was massive, sweeping the floor and getting caught on every piece of furniture as he walked in. Each time he tugged it free, he'd glance around with forced dignity, as if daring anyone to comment.

The Council member cleared his throat, drawing himself up with exaggerated grandeur. "I come bearing official orders from the Council of Vampiric Affairs." He paused, clearly waiting for some sort of reaction.

Babe didn't disappoint. He tapped the side of an old gramophone, which immediately started playing a hilariously formal tune, filling the room with trumpeting fanfare.

"Please, refrain from theatrics," the Council member snapped, though he didn't hide a flicker of satisfaction.

Babe grinned and turned the gramophone down, giving Ollie a wink. "Couldn't help it."

The Council member unrolled an absurdly long scroll, which tumbled onto the floor and kept going until it hit a chair leg with a soft thunk. He read with slow, dramatic pauses, making his phrases sound as elaborate as possible.

"Oliver," he intoned, "having served your probationary period with... commendable... fortitude, the Council now offers you an opportunity to return under our auspices, should you seek advanced and... prestigious magical instruction."

Behind him, the enchanted furniture looked ready to burst into applause, and Babe had to cover a smirk as he noticed one of the side tables vibrating in silent excitement. Ollie was clearly fighting the urge to laugh too, biting his lip as he gave a serious nod.

"Thank you for the offer, sir, but I believe I'd prefer to remain here." Ollie cast a quick glance at Babe and Billy, his expression soft. "I think I'll learn more... practically."

The Council member looked momentarily stunned but adjusted his cape and nodded, though a portrait behind him did a tiny, victorious fist pump.

"Very well," he said, barely concealing a sigh. "Your probation is officially concluded, and your records... expunged." He waved a hand, and the scroll rolled itself up with a satisfying pop.

As Ollie visibly relaxed, the Council member turned to Billy. Clearing his throat, he launched into yet another rehearsed monologue.

"William Patchanon," the Council member began.

"Billy," Babe whispered loudly, making Ollie stifle a snort.

The Council member huffed but continued, raising his voice. "The Council acknowledges your... notable contributions to the neutralization of one Darius Allard and hereby recognizes your commendable loyalty and efforts."

"Translation: good job," Babe muttered under his breath, grinning as the Council member shot him an unimpressed glare.

Undeterred, the Council member pressed on, the estate playing its part as curtains and shadows enhanced every dramatic pause. "In light of this... meritorious service, the Council extends to you an offer of freedom from Council duties and responsibilities, allowing you to live freely, should you so desire."

Billy's expression softened, and he gave a dignified nod. "I accept," he replied, keeping his voice steady. "I'd like to live a quieter life—one that allows me to stay here, with..." He hesitated for a moment, glancing at Babe and Ollie. "...my chosen family."

Babe, despite himself, felt a pang of warmth. "Welcome to the supernatural support squad, Billy," he said with a grin, trying to keep it light.

The Council member, sensing that his time was nearing an end, produced an even more absurdly elaborate scroll, complete with sparkling enchantments that scattered unnecessary sparkles everywhere. Ollie's nose twitched, and he stifled a sneeze as the glitter settled around them.

"Herein lies the official paperwork for the release of William Patchanon from his duties," the Council member announced. "It is binding, permanent, and witnessed by—"

Before he could finish, the enchanted objects broke out into a premature celebration, the gramophone blaring triumphant music, the chandelier swinging dramatically, and the curtains flaring as if performing a grand finale. The Council member, attempting to maintain his dignity, gave a forced smile and rolled up the scroll, clearly ready to make a swift exit.

After he left, the trio stood there for a moment, taking in the enormity of what had just happened. Ollie, finally free from probation, and Billy, free from the Council's watchful eye, were officially able to choose their own paths.

Without thinking, Ollie threw his arms around them, and they laughed as they shared a spontaneous group hug. The enchanted objects, apparently wanting to join, did their best to gather around. The suit of armor attempted a hug of its own, clanking awkwardly, while the chandelier blinked affectionately above them.

Babe chuckled, pulling away with a smirk. "Well, that's it, then. The supernatural support squad is officially in business."

Ollie grinned, his eyes bright. "And what's our first mission, Captain Babe?"

Babe dramatically lifted an imaginary glass. "A toast to freedom, family, and whatever chaos we stir up next!"

The estate eagerly joined in, floating an assortment of actual glasses from the kitchen, spilling a bit of juice as they clinked together. Even the normally quiet portrait on the wall seemed to raise a painted eyebrow in approval.

As they clinked glasses, Babe glanced around at his makeshift family, feeling a deep contentment settle over him. For the first time in a long while, he felt like he belonged, and he was ready to face whatever came next—with his family by his side.