The First Vampire

He was equally filled with confusion such as, how did Lucien become a subordinate to Count Angler? Or, how could this individual remain so composed with a bloody cavity excavated from his chest?

But one thing was clear—his life had been saved by the individual in front of him.

More importantly, Orlando, who had previously been forced into a deadlock, once again saw a glimmer of hope for survival.

There might even be a chance to go further …

Colin, observing Orlando through the eyes of his blood slave Lucien, had mixed feelings.

He had indeed planned the chaotic situation in Alfalfa City, but the developments had exceeded his expectations.

It had to be said, the subjective initiative of people was a peculiar thing.

Each individual trapped in this chaos struggled for their own interests, their own hatred, and their own destiny.

Harry, Bruce, Ron, Capen, Orlando …

In Colin’s eyes, these people, who should have been minor characters and pawns, weren’t necessarily willing to follow the path that Colin had laid out for them.

These could introduce variables.

This was why the more complex a conspiracy, the harder it was to succeed.

Simplistic and brutal methods were less likely to yield unexpected complications.

However, to opt for such “simple and brutal” methods, one must possess the strength to break the status quo, something that, at least in Alfalfa City, Colin had so far failed to achieve.

That’s why he planned everything.

Although there were many unexpected events, the final result was surprisingly satisfactory to him.

Moreover, Colin discovered a pleasant surprise—Orlando.

This boss of the thieves in Alfalfa City, regardless of his humble background, despicable past, or questionable character, definitely impressed Colin during this ordeal.

The calm in the face of danger, the wisdom to see through the plot, the courage to cheat death and even lure the enemy with his own life … Colin had to admit, if he was in Orlando’s shoes, he may not have done better.

This was a talent.

If used properly, Orlando could potentially help Colin covertly control Alfalfa City, and even pose a significant threat to East City.

It was a pity that Orlando was not a knight; otherwise, Colin might have wanted to turn him into a bloodline.

Transforming him into a blood slave would be too much of a waste …

“Sir Lucien …” Orlando looked at the silent armored figure and couldn’t help but remind, “Your wound …”

“It’s a minor injury, no worries.” Colin, controlling Lucien, waved his hand at ease, adjusted the damaged armor, and covered the unsightly wound.

Orlando did not dare to say more, seeing how relaxed Lucien was, and swiftly changed the subject: “Sir Lucien, may I have the honor to meet Count Angler and express my gratitude personally?”

“The Count is not ready to see you at the moment,” Colin rejected bluntly.

Seeing Orlando’s face flash with disappointment, he added, “However, the Count knows about your situation and is quite satisfied with you.”

Hope relit in Orlando’s eyes and he quickly said, “Thank you for the Count’s recognition! Please convey my willingness to pledge my loyalty to him. I will do my utmost to fulfill any of his commands!”

“I will convey your sincerity to the Count, but under the current circumstances, you must not expose yourself.”

Orlando’s eye flickered, seeming to understand something. He immediately nodded and said, “Yes! May I ask what plans the Count has for me?”

The Armored figure’s deep eyes did not betray any emotion, and his tone remained rigid: “The Count said, since you managed to figure out his plan and extricate yourself from this game, that proves you are smart.

Therefore, Count Angler is willing to give you an opportunity to prove yourself.

With the fallen Capen, the Alfalfa Brothers will need a new leader, and you, indeed, have a good chance for the position.

You should head over to No. 87, Ferun Street. There, the Count has left a gift for you.

At the same time, this will be the most significant aid the Count can provide for you.

Whether you can take control of the underground forces in Alfalfa City is then up to you.”

“Thank you for the Count’s trust! I will not let him down!” Orlando said aloud.

He had a vague idea of what “gift” Count Angler had left for him.

He also knew that this could be a gift, but at the same time, it might become a death noose for himself.

But Orlando accepted this “gift” without hesitation.

This narrow escape made Orlando realize a lot of things. He, as a small figure without power or strength, only armed with a somewhat clever mind, would not be able to survive in this turbulent world on his own.

He needed a backing.

Moreover, Orlando was quite clear that he did not have the power to refuse.

Count Angler had people save him and could have just as easily ordered them to ruin him.

So, Orlando had no choice but to follow the script given by Count Angler, to provide a perfect ending to this big play in Alfalfa City.

Lifting his head, Orlando asked again: “Sir Lucien, does Count Angler have a detailed plan?”

The Armored figure shook his head: “No, it’s all up to you now.”

“Understood!” Orlando was worried, but more so, he felt a surge of anticipation.

The armored figure saw through Orlando’s ambition but did not say anything else. Instead, he picked up the unconscious Capen and disappeared into the dark night.

Orlando stared at the place where the armored man had disappeared for a while before turning around and descending the stairs.

A group of loyal followers had gathered downstairs. Seeing Orlando appear unharmed, they were immediately relieved.

“Boss, we found out that it was Musos who leaked your whereabouts to Capen.”

Orlando nodded as if he was not surprised by this news and did not give any orders. It seemed as though the traitor was not even worth his attention.

The followers watched Orlando wordlessly walk away and quickly followed.

Under the cover of the night, Orlando arrived at the location the Armored figure had given him without interruption. He smoothly found Count Angler’s “gift” in the dilapidated warehouse.

Yes, it was those priceless bonds!

Looking at the object that had stirred Alfalfa City into chaos, Orlando couldn’t help but sigh deeply.

But soon, he put these useless emotions aside, carefully stashed away the bonds, and walked outside.

Outside the warehouse, Orlando’s followers kept reporting that the heads of the various forces in Alfalfa City were requesting an audience with him.

Orlando simply sneered and didn’t agree. Instead, he asked, “Did you find out the details of the East City Envoy I asked you to investigate?”

“We did. The one who came to meet Capen was Viscount Fein of the East City.”

“Where is he now?”

“He’s in the Cathedral in the East City District.”

Orlando nodded, took a deep breath, felt the spot on his waist where the bonds were hidden, and instructed:

“Alright, let’s go meet this Viscount from East City!”