The assassinations occurred without mishap. But before they could consider a celebration, they received bad news. The Heaven's Core had been taken shortly after it formed. The location was heavily guarded, with two Vampire Princes and a Werewolf Chief on standby. But a sixth stage cultivator had turned on them. He managed to poison much of the guard and snuck out of the camp.

Hanz Riverman now had his hands on the Heaven Core.

…

…

“Well that was fucking pointless.” The Vampire Viscount says as he twists the cap off a beer.

“Nah.” Taylor says before removing the cap off his own beer. “It was worth it. I got to kill a bitch.” He says before taking a swig.

“Do you think there will be another job? This whole thing seems far from over.” The Vampire Baron says before pouring his beer into a mug.

“They'll call when they need us. I'm not too worried, as long as we're grouped up with Taylor again.” The Vampire Viscount says with a laugh. “Man, I didn't expect you to pull it off. Whatever you're cultivating seems to be the natural enemy of the Mountain Climbers. The name is Charles by the way, of the Demon Heart Vampires. I've heard your name mentioned before, but that was when you were a grunt. Now, you'll be the first one I call if I ever receive another job like this.” Charles says with a friendly attitude.

Most of the vampires who were gathered for this task looked down on Taylor. He was a third stage cultivator and was under the protection of Maggie, which was enough cause for jealousy, if not disdain. But Charles had a different view now. Maggie's family wouldn’t take just anyone for a son-in-law, or most people would tend to think. Charles was now under the assumption that Taylor was cultivating something special; something that would be very useful to the great Axel Witch Clan.

“How did you do it by the way? A third stage cultivator shouldn't have that kind of power. I can only barely get to that level with a blood sacrifice.” The Vampire Baron says with some curiousity.

Taylor didn't mind sharing; he grew up around the assumption that his drinking buddies could be trusted and was always pretty liberal with his honesty when drunk. But when the Vampire Baron mentioned the blood sacrifice he thought it was better to keep his mouth shut.

“I'd rather not get into it.” Taylor says with a bitter smile before redirecting the conversation. “I haven't caught your name yet?” Taylor says, his question implied.

“Jake. From the Blood River Vampires.” Jake says with a smile which Taylor thought looked pretty grim.

Taylor gives an awkward chuckle. “Nice to meet you. If you guys ever need an extra guy or you’re involved in something interesting, let me know.” Taylor says, his invitation carrying his intent. This event made him realize that he's been too idle. There is a lot to learn in battle and his curiosity for adventure has been piqued. Unfortunately, his life wasn’t his own anymore, and any sort of adventure would have to go through the wife's approval first.