𝘚𝘪𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘔𝘰𝘰𝘯 𝘈𝘤𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘮𝘺.

Thirty.

The Next Day—

Akira, Rowan, and Renetta made their way to the grand Marcella Mansion, nestled in the heart of Bloodstone Villa. The sprawling estate exuded an air of ancient power, its towering spires and crimson-streaked windows casting shadows across the moonlit grounds. Now that Akira had fully transitioned into a vampire, it was time to pay their respects to Marcella, an elder vampire renowned for her mastery and wisdom.

Marcella had been a silent benefactor to the academy for decades, and her influence extended far beyond its walls. It was said she trained only those she deemed worthy—those strong enough to survive her rigorous methods. For Akira, this visit was more than just an introduction. It was a chance to find guidance and gain control over the power surging through her.

As the trio approached the mansion's imposing iron gates, Rowan glanced at Akira. "If anyone can help you understand what it means to be a vampire, it's Marcella. But be prepared. She doesn't hold back."

Renetta added, "She's... intense, but she's fair. Just be yourself. And, uh, try not to get on her bad side."

Akira nodded, though her nerves were evident. The transformation had left her feeling raw, and the events of the previous night still weighed heavily on her. This meeting could determine her future, and she couldn't afford to mess it up.

The gates creaked open as they approached, as if the mansion itself was aware of their arrival. Inside, the air was heavy with a mixture of elegance and menace. Chandeliers made of black crystal illuminated the vast entry hall, casting eerie reflections across the marble floor. At the top of a sweeping staircase stood Marcella, her presence commanding and otherworldly.

"Welcome," Marcella said, her voice smooth yet sharp, like the edge of a blade. Her piercing gaze landed on Akira, studying her intently. "So, this is the new fledgling. Let's see if you're worth my time."

Akira swallowed hard but stepped forward, determined not to show her fear. "I've come to learn, and to earn your guidance."

Marcella smirked, her fangs just barely visible. "We shall see, child. Come, let us begin."

The air seemed to thrum with anticipation as Akira followed Marcella deeper into the mansion, Rowan and Renetta trailing close behind. The training was about to begin, and it would be unlike anything Akira had ever faced before.

Marcella decided to start with Akira's vampire speed, testing her limits before helping her enhance it. She led Akira to a vast open hall within the mansion, its polished floors gleaming like a mirror under the dim light.

"Speed is the foundation of a vampire's power," Marcella began, her tone sharp and commanding. "Before we work on control, we need to see how fast you are. Then, I'll teach you to surpass that. But to unlock your true potential, you must learn to channel your energy."

She stepped closer, her piercing eyes locking onto Akira's. "To channel your power effectively, you need to connect with what drives you. What stirs the fire in your core? Is it anger? Joy? Fear? Find that emotion and focus on it. Let it fuel you, and then release it."

Akira nodded, taking a deep breath. Her mind raced, searching for the spark Marcella spoke of. She clenched her fists, feeling the faint hum of her power waiting to be unleashed. This was her chance to prove herself.

She hadn't thought about it before. What drove her? Akira gave it some thought before trying to channel the rage of anger. All she felt was anger. So many things were kept hidden from her. Her identity, her life, everything felt so changed. She felt like everything was a lie.

Akira's chest tightened as the anger swelled within her. It was a storm she hadn't fully faced before, but now it consumed her thoughts. The lies, the secrets, the stolen pieces of her life—it all fed the fire roaring inside her. Her jaw clenched as her nails dug into her palms, and her crimson eyes burned brighter.