The cold concrete floor of the orphanage storage room was Quinn's only sanctuary.
In an era where humanity was locked in a brutal intergalactic war against the alien Dalki race, power was the only currency that mattered. Everyone in his academy had manifested an ability: fire, earth, wind, or metal. Quinn had manifested nothing. He was classified as a Level 1 'Blank'—the bottom of the food chain.
In his trembling hands, Quinn held the only legacy left by his late parents: a heavy, black leather-bound book wrapped in rusted chains. No matter how hard he pulled, the lock had never budged.
A sudden commotion echoed in the hallway. It was Dan and his gang of Level 2 bullies coming to collect their daily toll. Desperate, Quinn's fingernail caught on the serrated edge of the brass lock. A bead of crimson blood welled on his thumb and sank into the antique clasp.
The chains dissolved into black smoke.
[Genetic Match Confirmed.]
A synthetic, ancient voice resonated directly inside Quinn's skull.
[Host: Quinn Talen.]
[Vampire System Binding: 100% Complete.]
Before he could scream, a searing bolt of violet electricity coursed through his veins, forcing his eyes wide as his vision turned pitch black.