Chapter 443 443 Something

Chapter 443 Chapter 443 Something

The intricacies of the artwork captivated him, but it was a specific detail that caused him to pause – a stone book, identical to the one he had encountered at Dracula's house.

Mike, observant as ever, noted Nexus's reaction. "Something catch your eye?"

Nexus, momentarily caught off guard, tried to conceal his mind. "Oh, it's just the painting. It's quite remarkable," he responded, attempting to redirect the conversation.

But Mike, ever perceptive, leaned into the curiosity. "Ah, that painting has an interesting history. Care to hear about it?" he offered, a glint of mystery in his eyes.

Nexus, torn between departing and indulging in the intrigue, couldn't resist. "Sure, tell me about it," he said, his curiosity piqued.

As Mike began to unravel the story behind the painting, Nexus's mind raced with possibilities. The original content can be pinpointed to n0v3lbin•

"Centuries ago" Mike began his narration, "Arkanthos had been a malevolent force, a vampire of unprecedented power who reveled in chaos and destruction. His insatiable thirst for blood knew no bounds, and his mere presence sent shivers down the spines of even the bravest souls.

As the legend goes, Arkanthos's reign of terror reached a pinnacle that plunged the world into a shadowed abyss. Cities crumbled, and once-thriving landscapes succumbed to the darkness that trailed in his wake. The skies themselves wept as Arkanthos unleashed his unholy fury upon the unsuspecting realms.

Faced with the imminent threat of annihilation, a coalition of the world's greatest mages convened, setting aside their differences and rivalries in the face of an unprecedented menace. The Council of Elders, as they came to be known, comprised mages of unparalleled skill and wisdom. They understood that the only hope for salvation lay in the unity of their powers against the formidable vampire.

The conflict within Nexus intensified. On one hand, his instinct urged him to share this crucial information with Mike, a confidant who had proven to be a valuable ally. On the other hand, a sense of obligation and a promise made to Dracula tethered him to silence.

In the end, Nexus, burdened by the weight of secrets, chose to keep his newfound revelation close to his chest.

Nexus, concealing the turmoil beneath a mask of casual amusement, manages to stifle any hint of concern that might betray the unsettling truth he now holds. With a forced chuckle, he dismisses the ancient tale as a fanciful yarn fit for bedtime stories.

"Well, legends are usually just stories to spook children, right?" Nexus quips, a smirk playing on his lips. "I've never encountered a real vampire in all my travels."

Mike, seemingly in agreement, leans his hand on his chair. "Exactly, Nexus. Legends are born from a mix of fear and imagination. However, there are other supernatural beings that roam our world."

Nexus, veiling his true thoughts, continues the banter. "Like werewolves, I suppose? Do you believe in those?"

Mike's response is measured, his eyes reflecting a blend of skepticism and acknowledgment. "I don't believe in the fantastical aspects of the legend, but werewolves, in a more mundane sense, are real. Reaves himself faced off against these formidable creatures during his exploits."

Nexus raises an eyebrow, feigning mild surprise. "Werewolves? How exciting! Though, I guess encounters with them are quite rare these days?"

Mike nods in agreement. "Indeed. While werewolves were once more prevalent, their numbers seem to have dwindled over time. Nowadays, very few people stumble upon these creatures. Perhaps they've adapted, or maybe their existence has become more elusive."

As they delve into the topic of supernatural beings, Nexus can't help but feel a tinge of irony. The conversation dances around the edge of the truth he's chosen to withhold—the reality that, in the shadows, a vampire, once confined to legend, now lurks with the potential to wreak havoc.

As Nexus rises to take his leave, Mike's voice cuts through the air, a solemn undertone underscoring his words. "Nexus, a word of advice before you go," Mike begins, a weighty seriousness in his gaze that demands attention.