Yes

About an hour later, Venus' eyes flickered open. For a split second she thought she had gone blind, but then remembered where she was and what had happened.

"Here," LaSalle said gently, and opened the coffin a tiny crack, letting out a tiny sliver of light. Venus studied the vampire's handsome flawless features as she shifted in the small space, trying to uncramp her muscles.

"I'll let you out as soon as we finish discussing some things away from prying ears," LaSalle promised. "You have passed the test, and I believe you have a chance of defeating Valdin with some more training and some help."

"You said Valdin is way stronger than you. How can I possibly defeat him?" Venus asked.

LaSalle opened up a tiny hidden compartment and took out a black obsidian ring. "Here," he said, taking Venus' hand and placing it in her palm. "You have my seed inside you now, and we are connected. With this ring, you will be able to transfer my power to you. This will give you far greater strength, as well as resistance against Valdin's hypnosis and various other spells. That coupled with your speed, cunning, and hopefully a few more allies and you will have a chance. Try to only use the ring during the day while I am sleeping, because it will leave me weaker even than a normal human. But do what you must to defeat Valdin. That is what matters most."

"I haven't even agreed yet!" Venus protested. "And why would you trust me with something like this? I could just turn around and kill you!"

"I have been under Valdin's control for centuries now," LaSalle said quietly. "I would rather die than spend all eternity as his lackey. You are my best hope."

"I don't believe this!" Venus fumed. How did this happen? Venus wondered. I'm suddenly helping the vampire I came to destroy. But if it was to rid the world of an even greater evil... Venus realized that she had already made up her mind. LaSalle had been straightforward from the beginning, and as gentle as could be expected given the circumstances. He could have easily killed her or turned her, but didn't. LaSalle needed help, and trusted her with a ring that could easily be used to destroy him. At the very least, they now had a trusting relationship, although Venus was surprised to wonder if she wanted something more. She was completely confused, but **** herself to put her emotions aside and concentrate on the mission at hand.

"Okay. Where is this Valdin?" Venus asked.

"I can send you to his last known location," LaSalle said with relief. "Please be careful, and come back to me after you defeat him." Venus looked at him in surprise. "Uh- to return the ring," he quickly added.