"I cannot break my oath further…"
The red sigil carved into Vladimir's chest pulsed beneath the rain.
Ivan stared at it for several seconds with his claws still extended and wet silver hair hanging against his cheek. The burning warehouse crackled and spat black smoke across the harbour, masking the wind.
Even the pier beneath them groaned as it began to collapse.
"I never thought you wouldn't seek help, Vlad..."
"Heh, what do you mean? When have I ever asked for someone's help? I must achieve things through my own efforts. That is the way of the Tepes clan and shall never change, even with my daughters."
Vladimir closed his coat slowly before adjusting himself.
"Let us not dance around half-truths. I was not forced to beg them for help; it is the one moment of my life I regret more than anything. A stain on the man named Vladimir Tepes, one I must rectify right this moment."
