Bertrand is convinced the Shapeshifter is linked to Malik. In retaliation the Shapeshifter creates chaos by manipulating the Dracula clan; First she engineers a near death situation for the Count and Malik in the hope that it will provide the impetus to bond as father and son. Then she impersonates Bertrand and invites Adze and Mina to Garside. Their meeting degenerates into a confrontation and Mina dusts Adze. Believing that Bertrand is undermining him and is responsible for Adze's death. Vlad stakes Bertrand. The peaceful coexistence is teetering on a knife edge and Vlad has never felt so alone.

Vlad is still in denial about Bertrand's death and is lying to everyone about the mind wipe of the slayers. Ingrid's bid for a position on the Vampire High Council fails an outsider, George Lansley beats her hands down. His surprise win infuriates Ingrid and she suspects fowl play. With the help of Renfield she finds out the truth – Lansley has a blood farm. Ingrid reveals the farm to Vlad. Horrified at what vampires are capable of, if left to un-policed by the slayers – he dusts Lansley. With no rival Ingrid is accepted onto the High Council. Vlad resolves to reverse the mind wipe. Malik helps the Count to get rid of his love rival.