The Vampire Duke, also known as the Vampire Grand Duke, ranks high in the hierarchy of monster power.
Because they live so long and have a theoretically high potential, it is said that some vampire princes have even become demon kings.
Vampires are considered the backbone of the demon race.
The vampire duke before us, Archduke Charles, is highly talented. He became a duke 114 years ago and has now lived for 514 years.
Their purpose in appearing here was to intercept those heading to the capital after hearing about the kingdom's hero selection.
"In the past, after the Demon King was born, the heroes would directly take their swords and fight the Demon King head-on."
This time, they actually have to hold a selection? It means the kingdom hasn't found a hero yet. If we find and eliminate the hero first, the demons can win this time!
This is the thought of many high-ranking demons; they believe that this may be the demons' most promising chance yet!
So it wasn't just Grand Duke Charles, but also many other demons such as the Flame Demon King and high-ranking succubi, who were approaching the capital.
Most of them operate in the same way as vampires, weakening human power from the shadows.
They won't directly reveal their identities and confront the enemy head-on, because the high-end combat forces in the capital also pose a significant threat to them.
"Those great mages in the capital are indeed difficult to deal with, but if I can't beat them, I can beat you guys, right?"
"Humans, just surrender obediently, and I can grant you a quick death."
It had come all the way here without much rest, and luckily there were so many small bread rolls here that it could eat its fill.
One predator was poised to strike, while another was sizing up the creature.
"These wings are the biggest I've ever seen, they look delicious."
And this one, though thin, I can already smell it—the most vibrant flesh and blood I've ever tasted.
"Can vampire blood be used to make Mao Xue Wang (a spicy Sichuan dish)? It should be pretty good for hot pot, right?"
In El's eyes, Grand Duke Charles the Vampire was not a complete monster, but rather food cut into parts, ready to be cooked and eaten.
"Hiss... What's going on? I have a bad feeling, like there are eyes watching me all around?"
Grand Duke Charles felt a chill run down his spine because of the predator's watchful eye, but El's ability to conceal his presence was getting better and better, and the vampire didn't notice him at all.
"It must be my imagination. Never mind, let's eat these people first."
The bat wings flapped, stirring up a black hurricane. The adventurers, who had been trying to resist and struggle, lost their footing due to the sudden gust of wind.
"How is that possible?!"
"See? This is the difference between us. If you are willing to surrender and tell me about the other humans, I might give you a chance to transform."
With his hands behind his back, Archduke Charles exuded an air of superiority.
"You're dreaming, vampire! We might actually be able to put up a fight!"
The adventurer's captain, his greatsword ablaze with golden flames, swung it at the vampire.
"Whoosh..."
He used the holy fire that was most effective against monsters when the enemy was most relaxed, and aimed for the heart.
With his triple calculations, he was confident that even the vampire grand duke would be harmed.
However, when he landed after the attack ended, he found that the vampire duke, who had been motionless and taking damage, seemed to be completely unharmed.
"Is this what you call a full-force strike, a force that feels like a gentle caress?"
"Are you kidding me?"
He couldn't believe it. Had he fallen under an illusion? How could it be completely ineffective?
"No, it's not invalid..."
The assassin in the middle of the group saw it most clearly; the captain's attack had indeed hit its target.
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