Chapter 482
Holland Manners observed the five vampires praying to St Vigeous. Vigeous was a vampire who'd led a vampire crusade in the middle ages, sort of a patron saint of slaughter. It was unusual to see a vampire praying, but perhaps there really were no athiests in foxholes. These five vampires belonged to the Order of Aurelius, they were giving their lives to bring forth the Beast. The Beast would bring forth much death, Holland Manners hoped this thing could be an ally. He also brought others with him. Hamilton, created like Eve by Wolfram and Hart, but much stronger. Stronger perhaps, than a slayer. Hauser, in charge of security for the firm. Hauser was a fanatic, a true believer in evil. Hauser felt proud to be a part of this. Holland believed these guys could protect him if the Beast tried anything. Vocah, a warrior of the underworld, had been deliberately vague about how exactly they'd work together, but Holland wanted the power only they could give. The dark priests and Vocah performed their ritual. The vampires, including Thomas, turned into dust. This dust took shape, becoming material. This figure was soon walking and talking. This was the Beast.