The Betrayer versus The Judge

Before he could dwell on these unsettling questions, a familiar voice cut through his reverie.

"There you are, my enigmatic champion."

Báthory materialized beside him, her sudden appearance causing nearby spectators to scramble back in alarm.

The vampire queen paid them no mind, her crimson eyes fixed on Atenzi with an intensity that was almost palpable.

"I sensed... disturbances," she said, her voice low and silky. "Your heartbeat spiked in a most interesting way.

Care to share what's gotten you so worked up?"

Atenzi turned to face her, his posture betraying none of the turmoil within.

The construct flickered to life: "It's nothing. A minor encounter."

Báthory's laugh was like ice cracking. "Oh, my dear Atenzi.

Nothing about you is minor.

But if you insist on being mysterious..." She trailed off, her gaze roaming over him in a way that was both appreciative and calculating. "Well, it certainly adds to your charm."