Vlad had already considered the realities of their future situation, and while it pained him to think that he may have to leave the comforts of his castle, a part of him thrilled with the memories of the old days. Back then, he had done many actions solely on his own to consolidate the necessary powers in order to be an insurmountable target for his enemies. He had worked decades and centuries gathering ties, negotiating and killing those that affronted him.

Then, when he had had it all and could have toppled entire nations - and those of the vampire circles knew it - he had simply withdrew to pursue other interests. He left the threat of what he was capable of be enough to keep a tether on. But those exploits had been alone, and being alone did not bother him. However, he didn't deny the warmth of pleasant intellectual company either.

If Lenore understood the personal risks of both travel and being amid a country of potential expansionism hostilities, so did he. He saw no benefit to sacrificing her, not when she had proved her loyalty and wit time and time again.

"And would it put you at ease should I decide to travel with you?" This was all hypothetical, of course. He needed more information before he felt it worthwhile to walk into the Ottoman Empire, but if it came to him, he had everything he needed right here in this castle. "I would not put you in a position where you would be in danger. It benefits neither of us for you to be frightened. As long as you continue to reside in my home and assist me with such issues, you will have my protection."