Chapter 431

Chapter 431
## Chapter 431

Lycoris (1)

AIZEN: switched to NOVELSHUB translations

In the current climate, public opinion regarding vampires in Korea had grown considerably more favorable than in days gone by.

A variety of initiatives launched by Heinz upon gaining total authority were at last yielding tangible rewards.

Owing to their absolute command over the criminal underworld, local streets had grown far more secure after dark, and the unpredictable strikes launched by rogue villains had dropped off dramatically.

Because these improvements were distinct enough to be witnessed in daily life, the general populace understood exactly who deserved credit for this newfound tranquility.

‘Furthermore, the Blood Alliance hasn’t merely been acting as a band of vigilantes.’

A range of specific policies had been chosen to seamlessly weave their presence into the social fabric.

Foremost among these was the practice of offering considerable sums of cash to individuals facing severe financial hardship, provided in exchange for blood donations.

This program inserted itself straight into the routine of ordinary citizens while acting as a crucial safety net for people pushed to the absolute edge.

‘Granted, enduring a blood draw leaves a person lethargic for a period, meaning it isn’t a viable long-term solution.’

Even so, it remained a vast improvement over falling prey to predatory loan sharks and watching one’s entire existence unravel.

Conducting these extractions within a sterile, clinical environment akin to a modern clinic—rather than some dim, back-alley basement—had likewise done wonders for easing public discomfort and building confidence.

“Walking freely under the sun like this is entirely due to the Lord. Had he not stepped forward, we would still be hiding in the shadows, constantly monitoring our surroundings for the Guardians and the Ability Management Bureau.”

The mere existence of ‘Phantom’—the figure who had single-handedly subdued the European underworld to stand at the absolute pinnacle of global authority—was a heavy enough weight to halt anyone hoping to suppress the Blood Alliance.

On top of that, they had orchestrated an extensive campaign of financial persuasion through Howard Industries, while also delivering vital humanitarian aid and reestablishing civic stability following the devastating Seoul terrorist attack…

‘Given all those factors, how could the public’s viewpoint fail to evolve?’

Instead of the historical approach where they were treated like fleeing felons to be captured on sight, the current trend was to evaluate them carefully, treating them more like reformed citizens on probation.

Naturally, they remained under a ceaseless, watchful gaze, with authorities prepared to strike the moment any misconduct occurred.

‘Conversely, the prevailing sentiment across the seas… ‘

Predictably—since those regions enjoyed none of these direct advantages—foreign perspectives remained deeply hostile.

Certain factions even manufactured complex conspiracies, claiming that the operations taking place in Korea masked a far more sinister agenda.

Simply reviewing the international press coverage that emerged after Phantom’s excursion to Europe made the situation painfully obvious.

The overwhelming majority of press releases maintained a highly critical stance.

A handful of objective pieces did surface, certainly, but they were utterly drowned out by waves of unfiltered malice.

The concept of introducing physically striking vampires into Korea’s pop culture sphere—where the hostility was far less pronounced—to cultivate a sense of approachability had grown directly out of that realization.

‘It is undeniably an intelligent strategy.’

If these entities, traditionally perceived as creatures of nightmares, were seen on broadcast television performing synchronized dances or participating in lighthearted talk shows to prove they were merely ‘ordinary people with unique traits,’ it would inevitably reshape their public image.

Furthermore, that revised outlook would effortlessly broadcast across the globe via digital networks and modern media streams.

Significant obstacles would surely present themselves, but even if the project stalled halfway through, it carried very little financial jeopardy for the organization.

‘…Yet, is it truly wise for the Blood Alliance to diversify to this extent?’

A syndicate originating in the shadows, already manipulating the international trade of magical artifacts, now plunging headfirst into commercial entertainment?

Talk about extending their reach into every conceivable sector.

“Very well, I have already granted you total jurisdiction over this matter, so execute it as you see fit. What is the current status of the project?”

Ultimately, because he had given the venture his blessing, he fully intended to support its completion.

Who could predict the outcome? It might eventually serve as a pipeline to bring foreign vampires under their banner.

“It represents a massive undertaking for our faction as well. Getting off on the right foot is absolutely essential, as the old proverb goes.”

While the domestic climate was superior to that of foreign nations, that advantage was entirely relative.

With a vast portion of the public still harboring deep-seated prejudice, it was imperative to generate an undeniable initial splash and pursue mainstream popularity right out of the gate.

“And more than anything—when aiming for absolute mainstream popularity, doesn’t it simply have to be a female idol group?!”

Jin Soran proclaimed with utter conviction, her gaze burning with intense focus.

An aura of absolute certainty radiated from her entire frame.

“Hmm, a female idol group.”

Heinz contemplated, rubbing his chin while giving a nod of agreement.

Naturally, this was merely the individual perspective of a young woman who had once been an idol trainee herself, yet the logic behind her assertion was undeniably sound.

“We have reached the concluding phase—stringent tryouts to cull the candidates, intense physical preparation, and studio recording are all completely finalized. I am certain the Lord will find the results highly satisfactory.”

Jin Soran expanded her chest with immense self-satisfaction.

She had personally overseen the entire recruitment process, rigorously measuring every attribute from physical beauty and innate capability to public speaking skills, vocal range, and overall intuition.

A total of five exceptional candidates had emerged from that grueling gauntlet.

“Psychological fortitude was a major criterion as well. In the beginning stages, they are bound to encounter an immense wave of animosity, and the threat of total failure is incredibly present.”

Striking, distinctive aesthetics were an absolute baseline.

They possessed ironclad physical endurance derived from their regenerative traits, complex routines that completely shattered the boundaries of human physiology, and a raw vocal intensity capable of straining their vocal tracts in real time without permanent harm.

Jin Soran proudly asserted that they were about to introduce a flawless performer the likes of which the world had never witnessed, exhaling a sharp breath of pride.

“Oh? If you speak of them with such high regard, I shall look forward to seeing the results.”

While awakened individuals certainly existed within the entertainment field, vampires belonged to a lineage naturally hardwired to mesmerize those around them.

If they committed themselves fully, who could possibly stand against them?

As he quietly respected her driving passion, she pressed onward without a pause.

“We still need to complete the promotional imagery, film the music video, and organize the marketing campaign, but utilizing the unbridled resources of the Blood Alliance, it will require very little time. Ah! Would you care to observe the trainees? They should be running through their routines at this very moment.”

Jin Soran seemed infused with an unprecedented level of enthusiasm.

Heinz cast a slightly puzzled glance in her direction.

While she was routinely animated, this particular level of fervor was entirely unfamiliar.

The question slipped past his lips before he could censor it.

“Have you ever entertained the thought of making a debut yourself? I understood that public curiosity regarding you surged following the Howard Industries exhibition.”

“Myself?”

Her eyes fluttered open in surprise.

Then, acting as though the concept had genuinely never entered her mind, her gaze wandered as she offered a slightly strained, self-conscious laugh.

“…No, I have no real desire for that. In days past, perhaps, but I am entirely content with my current position.”

She brushed the notion aside without a second thought.

Her demeanor betrayed not a single shred of lingering remorse or longing.

“Furthermore, considering the mountain of responsibilities already on my desk, appending the schedule of an idol? I would undoubtedly collapse from sheer exhaustion.”

She wrinkled her nose in mock complaint, though it was patently clear she was merely venting.

As a member of the Sacred Blood lineage who had climbed all the way to level 8 courtesy of the repeated offerings of Purified Blood Essence bestowed by Heinz, physical exhaustion was hardly a concern for her.

Even so, balancing her primary executive tasks naturally left her with very little surplus time.

“Besides, I still host digital broadcasts from time to time. That arrangement suits my preferences perfectly.”

Above all else, witnessing the performers she had personally cultivated ascend to the absolute peak of stardom would bring immense personal gratification, she concluded, her face lighting up with a radiant grin.

‘Well, if those are her true thoughts on the matter.’

Heinz found no reason to object either.

It made little sense to groom a high-ranking lieutenant only to have her neglect her administrative duties to pursue a career as a stage performer.

“Very well, let us examine the personnel first. Have you determined an official moniker for the collective?”

“Oh! I stumbled upon the absolute ideal title.”

As she guided him out of the main office suite and toward the corporate complex housing the rehearsal spaces, Jin Soran manipulated the screen of her mobile device.

She brought up a digital image displaying striking, crimson petals and oriented it toward him.

It was an unusual, deep-red blossom featuring delicate, crinkled petals that recurved backward, with elongated stamens thrusting gracefully upward from a slender stalk.

“Lycoris! What are your impressions?”

◇◇◇◆◇◇◇

Lycoris.

The designation was derived from Lycoris radiata, the botanical taxonomy for the cluster amaryllis, frequently referred to as the red spider lily or the flower of the dead.

While traditionally linked with somber themes such as ‘melancholic recollections’ or ‘demise,’ it simultaneously symbolized concepts like ‘unbridled fervor’ and ‘resurrection.’

‘…An accurate reflection of our current state. Burdened by a dark reputation, yet striving fiercely to cleanse our past and achieve a new beginning.’

Lee Na-hee swallowed heavily, trying to steady her nerves.

She had just finished executing an intense routine of synchronized choreography and vocal performance alongside her peers.

This display was staged for Jin Soran, who had suddenly burst into the rehearsal area, and… the supreme ruler, monarch of the entire vampire race, Heinz, who had entered right behind her!

‘Ah, the tension in this room is completely suffocating. Did I execute my steps correctly? His countenance seems incredibly severe… Did I commit a blunder? What exactly is it? What part of our performance failed to meet his standards?’

The group of five female vampires, her included, remained completely rooted to the spot.

Heinz, who had observed the entire display with his arms folded across his chest, gave a curt nod toward Jin Soran, his expression remaining entirely unreadable.

Then, offering not a single syllable of feedback, he pivoted smoothly and marched straight out of the rehearsal space.

Leaving the performers suspended in a state of absolute panic!

‘Noooo! That is an absolute rejection, no matter how one tries to spin it!’

Lee Na-hee clamped her eyelids shut as a torrent of frantic anxieties raced through her consciousness.

This was by no means her initial encounter with Heinz.

In point of fact, for a vampire of minor status, she had crossed paths with him an astonishing number of times.

Up until quite recently, she had been employed as a clerical assistant within Heterosis, and prior to that, she had been the very first moderate vampire following Jin Soran to come into contact with him.

Based on her prior observations, that specific sort of silent departure indicated that the presentation had failed to impress him.

‘Ugh, I dedicated so many sleepless hours to this just so I wouldn’t bring shame to Big Sister.’

In tandem with the rest of the unit, she had practically abandoned sleep, investing every ounce of her vitality into perfecting the material.

She desperately wished to avoid any backroom gossip suggesting that Jin Soran had selected her merely out of personal favoritism.

Granted, no sensible individual would dare openly criticize the second-in-command of the syndicate, but the mere prospect of causing her distress was deeply unsettling.

She wanted to demonstrate beyond a shadow of a doubt that she belonged here based purely on her own merits…

“Haa.”

“Hoo.”

Dejected exhalations rippled through the air alongside her own.

Her fellow performers stood motionless in a neat row right next to her.

It appeared they were all trapped in the exact same cycle of worry.

Trading heavy, discouraged glances, they collectively realized that their upcoming introduction to the world would be anything but smooth.

◇◇◇◆◇◇◇

Jin Soran had provided him with a comprehensive briefing prior to the live demonstration in the rehearsal hall.

The musical composition had been obtained from a highly celebrated producer boasting an array of chart-topping hits—the organization had expended a massive sum to acquire it.

The inherent capabilities of the selected members were truly remarkable as well.

The unvarnished, high-energy movement appeared nearly impossible to execute while singing live, yet their supernatural breath control and exquisite vocal timbres made the rationale behind Jin Soran’s picks completely obvious.

There existed only a single flaw…

‘…It fails to resonate with me.’

The piece fell completely short of delivering the profound satisfaction he had experienced during his brief period of relaxation, resting beneath the cool canopy of trees back at Harris’s stronghold.

‘The underlying instrumentation and the vocal performances are in complete opposition to one another. The arrangement entirely suffocates the unique appeal and distinct character of the vocalists, dominating the soundscape like an overbearing soloist. That cannot be defined as true artistic expression—it is a scenario where the composition forces the artists to act as mere mechanical apparatuses.’

The musical piece possessed undeniable technical merit, but his highly refined perceptions immediately identified that it had never been crafted to complement their specific vocal qualities.

Because they were being forced to adapt to a pre-existing arrangement, the final product naturally felt hollow.

No genuine sentiment or artistic truth could possibly manifest under such constraints.

“To debut with an offering of that nature?”

Rather than highlighting their distinct supernatural allure, the performance carried the unmistakable scent of an industrialized, assembly-line pop track.

As an elf who sought an absolute, unblemished equilibrium between vocal art, the inner self, and the surrounding environment, he found himself entirely unable to countenance it.

This deficiency wounded his personal artistic standards.

“Harris! I have brought the customary afternoon selection… Yikes!”

At that moment, Shapiron glided into the space carrying a platter of refreshments, her eyes expanding to their absolute limits as though she had encountered an apparition.

She quickly raised a hand to cover her mouth, letting out a small, trembling gasp.

“Ha… Harris actually has his eyelids completely parted…?”

Rather than his customary, sleepy look, he was casting an incredibly intense, piercing gaze forward.

His unique, star-shaped pupils seemed to radiate ethereal, flickering embers.

Gulp—

She cleared her throat nervously without realizing it.

A delicate crimson flush crept onto her cheeks as she stole quick, covert glances, permanently imprinting this rare imagery into her memory.

Witnessing his fiery, deeply invested persona was an exceptionally rare occurrence!

“Miss Shapiron.”

“Y-yes?!”

Harris rose to his feet with sudden deliberate movement after his prolonged silence.

He locked his powerful, focused gaze onto her visibly startled form and spoke with absolute gravity.

“An exceptionally pressing matter has arisen. Would you object to providing me with your assistance?”

“…Of course not.”

He began to march away with purposeful strides, while she hurried along behind him after offering a slightly bewildered affirmation.

There was no time to squander contemplating the scale of the undertaking before them.

‘I absolutely refuse to permit the maiden voyage of my subordinates to proceed with such material.’

The track would likely perform quite well within the domestic market of Korea, which served as their primary base of operations, and it had been selected with that specific demographic in mind.

However, he refused to content himself with such mediocre goals.

‘Absolutely out of the question.’

Their latent capabilities had been thoroughly demonstrated.

Jin Soran possessed an undeniable knack for discovering raw ability—these individuals could flourish in a truly magnificent fashion if provided with an appropriate piece of music.

‘If we are to commit ourselves to this endeavor, we shall execute it flawlessly. How many years would it require to secure dominance over Korea and transition to a worldwide scale following this current trajectory?’

There was zero necessity to fragment their target audiences.

A truly exceptional piece of music resonates powerfully regardless of geography.

If he could furnish them with a creation capable of shattering deep-seated biases, unleashing their full potential to an overwhelming, undeniable degree…

‘If such a composition does not exist, I shall simply create it myself.’

Harris’s celestial pupils flashed with an intense, creative fervor.

With that objective in mind, bringing together Shapiron alongside an assortment of interconnected associates, he successfully finalized a thoroughly rewarding composition in just slightly over twenty-four hours of Outerica time.