...The Pumpkin Serenade shrieks in a final, desperate chord filled with a furious fragrance—it was not enough, retreating into the night, it vanishes.

Silence falls.

The vampire exhales, slow and measured, fatigue settles within her. The battle had drained her, yet not entirely—some strength remains. Her gaze drifts towards the distance of the snow-covered mint leaves, the scent is crisp against the lingering traces of magic and cocoa butter in the air.

The fire’s magic had led her here. The phantom, maybe the gods of lore? She understands—other forces are shaping this battle. But why?

She is grateful for the aid, but trust is another matter entirely.

She must take the initiative, find the truth. Is the Pumpkin Serenade the enemy or a tool of the enemy? How long until the next encounter? Why her?

The next step is clear—return home, prepare for the journey.

As the Villainous Vanilla Vampire considers the trip back, even though all she really needs to do is spread her wings, she whistles, Pamono starts to run up behind her. He stops and starts chewing on the leaves of the minted snowfall and digging his nose in the ground. The vampire walks to Pamono with frustration. Thinking to herself, why does he have to eat everything. The vampire scratches his head.