—Step away, Faceless Imposter.
Velra's voice lost its teasing lilt entirely.
What replaced it was sharp. Focused. Dangerous.
—If I am correct… it has noticed me.
My pulse skipped.
Noticed?
Before I could ask what she meant, her irritation snapped like a pulled wire.
"Enough. Why are you hesitating when the enemy is right in front of you?!"
Frustration overtook caution.
Velra stepped out from the shadows on her own.
Unable to use any offensive magic, she still moved decisively—yanking her hand out of my trembling grip as if instinct alone propelled her forward.
"Enemy, you say?" I asked, forcing my voice to stay steady.
"Yes." Her crimson eyes narrowed. "When it comes to blood, I do not mistake it. This stench—this presence—is unmistakable."
She inhaled slowly.
"It is demon blood."
The room seemed to freeze.
Then—
"…Vampire?"
Joe's voice cut through the tension.
Low.
Flat.
Stripped of warmth.
That single word sent goosebumps racing up my arms.
