After returning to his apartment, Lorien collapsed into bed and slept straight through until noon.
It was a rare sunny day. Bright yellow sunlight streamed through the gaps in the curtains, casting warmth onto the still-lingering traces of his body heat on the sheets.
Morning Routine
Lorien scooped a handful of cold water, splashing it on his face.
After washing up, he grabbed a towel, wiping away the remaining droplets, and looked up at his reflection.
A sharp-featured, youthful face stared back at him.
Though he had stayed up all night, his expression showed no exhaustion—
His need for sleep had diminished significantly.
Now, just two to three hours were enough to fully restore his energy.
A corporate worker's dream.
A New Addition: The Revolver
He opened his wardrobe, pulling out a mid-length trench coat that draped down to his thighs.
Strapping a leather holster around his waist, he slid his fully loaded revolver into place.
The coat's hem concealed the gun perfectly.
He took a few steps—not a trace of the weapon was visible while walking.
Only if someone stared intently at his waist while standing still could they notice a slight bulge.
But who the hell would do that?
To test the draw speed, Lorien snapped his coat aside, quickly pulled the revolver, and aimed in one fluid motion.
"Click."
A metallic sound rang out as he spun the revolver's cylinder, then swiftly holstered it again.
Repeating the motion several times, he nodded in satisfaction.
Making Plans
Seated in his living room, he grabbed a blank sheet of paper from his desk drawer.
Tapping the pen absentmindedly, he began to outline everything that had happened so far:
● The Tepes Manor Murders● Creating his first Vampire Thrall● Hunting wanted criminals
Everything had unfolded in just a few short days.
Top Priorities:
① Find a better apartment.
This shabby little place wouldn't cut it anymore. Deadline: Two weeks.
② The detective agency can wait.
No longer desperate for money, he could afford to delay its opening.
③ Investigate Oliver Winston.
Since he was already embroiled in the mystery, he might as well take control.
④ Expand his influence.
The city was not as simple as it seemed. Delegation
"You two won't be following me for a while. I have assignments for you."
From the shadows, Jack Arnold emerged.
Moments later, Evans followed, his eyes practically glowing with excitement.
"Are we finally making moves on London?!"
Evans' breathing grew heavy, like an over-eager dog.
"Not exactly," Lorien replied, shaking his head.
"First, I need you to start recruiting people in East London."
He handed Evans a stack of pound notes—
One hundred pounds.
More than enough to get things started.
Evans' hands trembled as he took the money.
His voice quivered with excitement:
"I will absolutely complete this task, my lord!"
Lorien glanced at Jack Arnold.
"And you—keep spreading terror as 'Jack the Ripper'."
Jack nodded silently, fully understanding the importance of fear in strengthening their abilities.
The city would soon know the power of the undead.
After confirming the plan, Lorien crumpled the paper and tossed it into the trash.
"That should do for now. Get to work."
Jack bowed respectfully.
Then, calling upon the shadows, he vanished—taking Evans with him.
A Quiet Afternoon Meal
Alone again, Lorien's stomach rumbled.
Feeling hungry, he grabbed his coat and headed out for lunch.
The streets near his apartment were filled with small eateries—
Simple, cheap, and surprisingly decent.
Nothing fancy, but good enough.
After scanning his options, he chose a quieter establishment that looked cleaner than most.
Inside the Bakery
A broad-shouldered, dark-skinned man stood behind the counter.
His rolled-up sleeves revealed strong forearms—a man used to hard labor.
Upon seeing Lorien, he grinned.
"Welcome, friend! What can I get you?"
The menu was posted by the entrance.
After glancing it over, Lorien ordered:
"One eel jelly and a buttered roll."
The owner wiped his hands, nodding.
"Coming right up!"
He disappeared into the back kitchen and returned within five minutes, carrying a tray.
Placing the food down, he gestured to the soup bowl included.
"That's on the house—a little something new I'm testing out."
"Try it and let me know what you think."
Lorien raised an eyebrow.
"Thanks."
The soup had a rich aroma—hints of mushroom, bacon, and cream.
Taking a spoonful, he savored the taste.
Not bad.
And since it was free, it tasted even better.
Finishing his meal quickly, Lorien leaned back, satisfied.
He reached into his pocket to pull out a few shillings—
When something unexpected caught his eye.
At the bakery's entrance—
A familiar face had just walked in.
"Huh…"
Lorien blinked.
Standing at the door, looking around—
Was Detective Winnie.
To be continued…