Chapter 125 Round Table Part 2



The weight of the moment hung heavy in the air, and a deafening silence enveloped the room. All eyes were fixed on Evangeline, waiting for her next move, her next words. But she remained composed, allowing the weight of the silence to permeate the space.

They searched for a sign, a cue to break the stillness that gripped the room. Yet, even Benedict, known for his outspoken nature, remained unusually quiet.

Finally, Madonna, a figure known for her discerning nature and commitment to fairness, couldn't help but voice her concerns about the appointment of a new leader. 

"Forgive me, Evangeline," Madonna spoke up, her voice carrying a hint of apprehension.

"While I understand your intentions and the qualities you see in him, I worry about the collective sentiment among our members. Many of them have dedicated millenniums to the family and might feel unsettled by the decision to entrust our future to someone relatively new and unknown."

Her words resonated with the room, capturing the underlying unease that had been lingering in the hearts of the council members. Madonna's commitment to fairness urged her to consider the perspectives of her fellow officials, aware that their satisfaction and unity were crucial for the family's stability.

She voiced her concern not out of personal gain, but for the sake of maintaining the unity and cohesiveness of the group. Deep within her, she sensed a growing division among them, a rift that threatened to weaken the family's foundation.

Evangeline nodded with understanding, acknowledging the validity of Madonna's concerns. She respected her keen insight and valued her ability to gauge the emotions of others. However, she remained steadfast in her decision to appoint Vincent as their leader. She knew of his limitless potential and believed wholeheartedly in his ability to lead the family towards greater heights .

But she also recognized the importance of listening to the council members who had remained loyal to her throughout the years.

"You raise a valid point, Madonna," Evangeline responded, her voice measured and composed. "Vincent's sudden rise to leadership may seem abrupt, but I assure you, his capabilities and qualities are not to be underestimated. He has proven himself in Puerto Rico, demonstrating resourcefulness, power, and a remarkable ability even against the presence of the Ministry of Magica , DSAS and Vatican ."

Evangeline's words carried conviction, as she sought to appease Madonna's doubts and those of the other council members. 

"This is not just about power, Evangeline," Madonna continued, her voice filled with conviction. She emphasized that power alone was not the sole binding force within their family. There was something more profound and meaningful that united them—a shared sense of purpose, a deep connection, and a commitment to protecting and nurturing their vampire family.

"We wouldn't have stayed by your side all this time if power was the only thing we cared about," Madonna added, her voice filled with emotions.

Her words resonated deeply within the room, as council members nodded in agreement. They recognized that their family was built on a foundation of trust, loyalty, and a collective desire to safeguard their kind from the threats that lurked in the shadows.

Encouraged by Madonna's brave act of voicing her concern, they too felt compelled to express their own thoughts, each driven by their unique motives and perspectives.

One by one, they began to voice their own opinion, their tone carrying a mix of determination, doubt, and personal motives.

A distinguished vampire, known for his strategic brilliance, spoke up with a tone of concern laced with ambition.

"Evangeline, while I acknowledge your authority to appoint anyone you want, I worry that choosing someone new to such a critical role could disrupt the delicate balance we have maintained over the years. Our enemies will perceive this transition as an opportunity to exploit our vulnerabilities."

His words resonated with those who valued stability and feared the repercussions of a perceived weakness. They understood the importance of maintaining a strong leadership that had been tested and proven over time.

Benedict, driven by a desire for progress, expressed a different concern.

"Evangeline, I respect your vision, but I worry that appointing someone we barely know might hinder our ability to adapt and evolve. We need a leader who can push boundaries, embrace change, and lead us into a new era of advancement."

His words stirred the hearts of those who yearned for growth and transformation, who believed that the family's stagnation had hindered its potential. They sought a leader who could ignite a spark of innovation and propel them into uncharted territories.

One by one, they voiced their concerns, each reflecting their unique motives and aspirations for the family. Some were driven by ambition, seeking stability and security. Others sought progress and innovation, desiring a leader who could usher in a new era. And there were those who clung to tradition, valuing the preservation of their heritage.

The weight of the moment hung heavy in the air as they eagerly awaited Evangeline's response, hoping that she would lead them towards a resolution that would satisfy their concerns and forge a path forward for the family

"Alright, let us put this discussion for a later date," she announced, her words carrying a tone of authority and wisdom. "However, in the mean time, I have decided to appoint Vincent as the second-in-command."

Evangeline's words resonated through the room, bringing a momentary pause to the ongoing discussions. 

"Vincent," her voice carried a tone of authority as she turned her gaze towards him. "I believe in your capabilities and your dedication to our family. Therefore, I appoint you as the second in command."

Vincent's eyes widened in surprise, clearly not expecting such a swift elevation in his position. Nonetheless, he maintained his composure, nodding respectfully to Evangeline as a sign of acceptance. 

The other council members, although caught off guard by the sudden announcement, quickly grasped the significance of this appointment. 

"Vincent's appointment as the second in command is not meant to undermine anyone's authority or contributions. Rather, it is a step towards unifying our efforts and utilizing the diverse strengths within our family. That's it for today" 

The meeting concluded, and the other members began to disperse with mixed emotions, leaving Vincent and Evangeline alone in the room. The air was charged with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty as they faced each other, their eyes locked in a silent exchange.

"You didn't mention anything about appointing me as the leader," Vincent protested, letting out a tire sighed. He couldn't help but feel a mixture of bewilderment and concern at Evangeline's impulsive decision and seemingly immature behavior, which had become more apparent since he allowed her to call him brother.

Evangeline, however, responded with a wide, cute smile, completely contrasting the enigmatic and powerful persona she had portrayed moments ago.

"Don't worry, brother," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of playfulness. "I'm sure they'll come to appreciate how powerful you truly are in due time."

"But Evangeline," he began, his tone filled with a mix of concern and curiosity, "isn't it important for a leader to be composed, strategic, and respected by their peers? I'm not even sure if they'll take me seriously."

Evangeline's expression softened, and she held his palm, her eyes conveying a deeper understanding.

"I understand your concerns, Brother ," she replied, her voice filled with reassurance. "Leadership comes in many forms, and sometimes it's the unexpected qualities that bring about the most positive change. You have a unique perspective, innate strength, and an ability to connect with others on a deep level. Those qualities make you an exceptional leader, regardless of any initial doubts." 

"You think I can connect with others on a deep level? The only thing I know how to connect with on a deep level are with beautiful women," he sighed, his voice laced with sarcasm as he tried to put humor on his response as a defense mechanism. 

Nevertheless, He was fully aware that this single meeting had set in motion a series of events that would irrevocably change everything. The dynamics within the family would undoubtedly shift, and the future held both uncertainty and possibility.

In that very same moment , a knowing smile appeared on Evangeline's lips. It was as if she had anticipated this very outcome all along, as if every move and decision had been carefully orchestrated according to her grand design.

"This is all for your own sake, brother Fenrir," she muttered to herself.