Lady Viktoria wasn't satisfied with the vote.
She challenged Adrian directly—claiming his youth and his bond with Kieran made him unfit to lead vampires. She demanded a trial by combat, an ancient vampire tradition where leadership could be contested through single combat.
"You don't have to accept," Elena advised. "Trial by combat is outdated—"
"But still legal under vampire law," Adrian finished. "If I refuse, I look weak. If I accept, I risk losing."
"You won't lose," Kieran said firmly. "I've trained you for ten years. You're stronger than she knows."
The combat was scheduled for one week later, giving Adrian time to prepare. Kieran trained him relentlessly, pushing his abilities to their limits.
"Viktoria is three hundred years old," Kieran explained during a session. "She's strong, experienced, confident. But you have advantages—ancient blood, entity-fighting experience, and you're underestimated."
"What if I lose?"
"You won't. But if somehow you did, we'd deal with it together."
The night before the combat, Adrian couldn't sleep.
"I'm scared," he admitted to Kieran.
"Good. Fear keeps you sharp." Kieran pulled him close. "But remember—you've fought entities, demon lords, ancient threats. One vampire, no matter how old, is manageable."
"Will you be there?"
"Front row. Supporting you every moment."
They made love that night, slow and tender, both needing the connection before the challenge ahead.