Reborn As The Vampire Noble Lady

The sun illuminated my office with golden light, casting long, warm streaks across the floor. I stood by the tall arched window, a goblet of animal blood wine in hand. Outside, the estate buzzed with quiet activity — birds gliding past the orchard trees, servants tending the gardens.

My appearance might seem serene… but my mind was far from calm.

Behind me, Kane's boots clicked softly on the floor.

"Here is the complete list of suspected vampire nobles in Esklaira," he said, placing a leather-bound folder on my desk. "It includes both the newly added names and those previously identified."

"Put it on the table," I said, my voice cool.

He did so without a word.

"Have you finished compiling the report I asked for?" I asked, still watching the sunlight stretch across the distant hills.

"Yes, my Lady," Kane replied.

"Send it to His Majesty, immediately," I said, taking another sip from my goblet.

"Yes, my Lady."

My eyes finally moved to the suspect list. The names stared back at me like bloodstains. Each one of them might be part of the rot infecting Esklaira.

"Keep a close watch on Navine, the Townlord of Vanis," I said. "I don't like the silence coming from that town."

"As you command, my Lady."

Just then, a servant entered swiftly and bowed. "My Lady, a royal carriage has arrived. A knight bearing the King's crest wishes audience."

I exchanged a glance with Kane, then turned and strode toward the front entrance without hesitation.

---

A Knight's Arrival

The royal carriage stood gleaming in the courtyard, its doors marked with the golden seal of House Esklaira. Soldiers from the Royal Vanguard stood at attention, their spears upright, polished armor catching the light.

Then, the door opened.

Out stepped a striking woman in her early twenties — red hair tied back into a tight braid, bluish-grey eyes sharp beneath the shadow of her helm. She carried a steel-tipped spear slung across her back and wore the uniform of the Royal Guard.

She knelt gracefully.

"Lady Ella Esklair," she said, her voice confident yet respectful. "It is an honor to meet you. I am Esma Revilla, Elite Royal Guard. His Majesty King Samuel has assigned me to your service in the fight against the Red Moon."

She handed me a sealed scroll with the royal insignia. I broke the wax and read the letter.

'Dear Ella,

I send to you my most loyal and capable guard. She has expressed a willingness to join your cause completely — even to become one of your kind, if needed. Her heart is strong, but her mortal strength will not suffice against the darkness. Use her well. May she bring you closer to victory.

—Samuel, King of Esklaira'

I smiled and looked down at her. "It's a pleasure, Esma. You may rise."

She stood, her posture perfectly straight.

"Kane," I said. "Summon the maids and servants. Show her to her quarters. Let her settle in."

"At once, my Lady."

---

Evening in the Garden

Later that evening, I brought Esma to the garden where Gaim, Liza, and Emilia were already seated at a table under the lantern-lit trees. The night was pleasant. Tania and Merisa served tea and cakes as we welcomed our new guest.

Gaim studied her with a warrior's eyes. Emilia smiled gently, while Liza gave an approving nod.

"So," I began, swirling my tea lazily, "His Majesty says you're aware of what I am."

Esma nodded. "I am, my Lady. You are a daywalker vampire. The King told me everything."

"And you're asking to become one of us," I said, my gaze narrowing just slightly. "You realize there's no going back to being human, yes?"

"I understand," she said firmly. "But I've also heard of what daywalkers are capable of. That they can control their hunger... that they are not bound to the madness of typical vampires. I want that power — not for myself, but to destroy monsters."

Her voice held conviction — not blind ambition. That impressed me.

I leaned back and gave a faint smirk. "Very well. You've shown resolve. We'll perform the ritual tonight."

Internally, my thoughts danced with a different kind of anticipation.

A royal knight with strong arms, discipline, and striking red hair... Oh yes. I'll taste that fire eventually.

But not yet. For now, I would let her settle in. There was no need to rush what could be savored.

I lifted my goblet.

"To new beginnings," I said, eyes glinting.

Esma raised her teacup in return. "To victory, my Lady."