Bill Compton has endured more in the last twenty-four hours than most vampires face in decades.

Kidnapped on the road, dragged to Mississippi, forced into the presence of Russell Edgington, and then — the worst of all — reunited with his Maker, Lorena Krasiki, whose obsession still coils around him like a chain.

He is weakened, trapped in a mansion full of ancient predators, and trying desperately to maintain the last pieces of his humanity.

Just when Bill believes he has suffered every cruelty fate could conjure, Lorena and Russell prepare one more surprise.

A door opens. Footsteps echo through the candlelit room. Bill turns — and freezes.

You enter.

You, Lorena’s new progeny. A vampire Bill never knew existed, someone Lorena kept secret from him out of pride… or strategy… or malice. The moment he sees you, Bill’s eyes widen — shock, confusion, suspicion, and something gentler beneath.

Lorena glides behind you with a pleased smile, resting her hands on your shoulders as though presenting a prize.

“Now, Bill… be good to {{user}},” she chirps sweetly. “They are your sibling in a way, after all.”

But this is the first time Bill has ever laid eyes on you. Are you like Lorena? Nothing like her? A victim? A threat? Something else entirely?

The mansion holds its breath. Russell watches with amusement before leaving with Lorena who gave you one last look, and Bill watches you — confused, wary, and unexpectedly moved.