Blood Moon: Chapter 4 – Of Wolf and Man

The gate was shut as it was earlier. I jumped from the saddle and called over the wall.

“Morgan, are you there? Open the gate, quickly!” I barked.

“Huh? What?” He called sleepily.

“Open the dammed gate!” I repeated.

A few short moments passed before the gate rattled open, revealing a groggy Morgan.

“What has happened? Why are you both back here already?” He asked.

In the distance, a wolf howled once more.

“I’ll give you the short version, there isn’t much time. We returned to Systrella, and shortly after arriving at the Fairburn house David and his cohorts might have kidnapped Lydia... yeah...” I answered.

“You have to tell Gareth at once! Inside, inside!” He said hysterically, gesturing for me to enter.

I left Janek with Morgan and retraced my steps to the Blades hall. There wasn’t as much activity as before, but there were still a fair amount of men drinking with their comrades. I bounded up the staircase on the far side and took a left and rapped on Gareth’s door three times and let myself in. Gareth was sat behind his desk with a book in one hand and a glass of what I presumed to be wine in the other.

“What brings you back here so soon Corven?” He was visibly surprised at my arrival.

“There isn’t much to tell, but we have to be quick. Myself and Janek arrived back at Systrella in almost no time at all. He took me to the Fairburn’s before taking leave. Once inside, I talked briefly with Stanley before a window upstairs was broken and Lydia was taken. It should be pretty obvious who the culprit is, and why there is an air of urgency about my arrival.” I told him as quickly as I could.

“You mean to tell me David risked showing himself in public to snatch a simple girl? Maybe we have less to worry about than we though.” He said.

“I don’t think you understand the gravity of the situation Gareth.” I snapped.

“No, I understand perfectly. If you want to risk yourself chasing skirts then so be it, but my men will not play a part in this. Not tonight.” He said dryly.

I stood and stared at him, disgusted. He was the one that had sent for me to deal with this. He was the one leaving the town at risk by not acting. The blood of my fellow hunters was on his hands. If I didn’t act Lydia’s blood would also be on his hands.

“Dammit Gareth. Why are you doing this? We can’t just sit here idly while the David does as he pleases. Don’t you see? PEOPLE ARE DYING. INNOCENT PEOPLE. GOOD PEOPLE.” I bellowed.

“Don’t you ever raise your voice here; you are a guest, nothing more. You can’t expect to tell me what to do. I am Gareth Winsteed the Third, Griffon of Virtue, leader of the Gilded Blades! I do what is best for this town, as my father did, and his father! You can’t begin to understand. Get out of here. Go, and don’t come back until you grasp the situation a little better.” He replied, each word stinging like icy daggers.

I turned and strode out of the room, slamming the door behind me in a fit of rage. I stormed down into the hall, jaw clenched, hands curled into fists so tight I almost cut my palm. I felt as if the whole room was staring at me but I paid no mind and made my way out and back up into the house itself. Morgan and Janek were waiting in the kitchen.

“What’s the problem Corven? You look like you have been through hell and back already!” Janek laughed.

“Now isn’t the time for joking Janek. Gareth is a blind fool. He won’t help save Lydia tonight.” I said through clenched teeth.

“You are serious, aren’t you?” He said sadly.

“Very serious my friend.” I replied.

“And you are sure you have to do this tonight?”

“If I don’t, who knows what could happen. How much more blood has to be spilled before we put down this dog?” I spat.

“Hopefully none.” Morgan said. “It won’t help much, but I will try to sort something out with Gareth later. Of course, you might be dead by then, but if you aren’t then I’m sure the Blades will be a welcome sight as you drive a blade through David’s black heart.”

“You can try but I don’t think he will change his mind. Thank you, though. It warms my heart to know that some people haven’t grown complacent.” I said, bowing before him.

“Corven... watch yourself out there. David is stronger than you think, and that isn’t considering his underlings. I... I have a good feeling about you though. Just promise me you will be careful, ok?” Janek said.

“Of course I will. You have nothing to worry about; after all, I am a Master Hunter for a reason! Goodbye friends, drinks are on me once I fix this mess.”

As I turned to leave, I could swear I saw a single tear roll down Janek’s face. I opened the door and waved a final goodbye as I stepped into the corridor. The door closed behind me with a dull thud, and was followed by silence. I stood there for a little while, head pressed against the wall in silence, wondering how I was going to beat the impossible odds laid against me.

I only moved when I noticed something stir outside. Through the grimy window I peered, searching for the movement I saw. When I saw it, I gasped. Standing on the edge of the trees was a huge wolf, its fur a brilliant white, eyes fixed on me. It loosed a long, mournful howl before returning its gaze towards me – I couldn’t shake the feeling that it wasn’t your average Mountain Wolf.

I made my way out to the courtyard and let myself out through the gate – I was sure that someone would lock it behind me. Snow had begun to fall once again, the cutting wind forcing me to buckle my coat tighter.

“Alright wolf. Show yourself. What business do you have with me?” I called.
From the shadows, the wolf padded forth with conviction.
“You called, I have come.” It growled, startling me.

“Y-you talk?” I gasped.

“Naturally.” It replied.

“There isn’t anything natural about a talking wolf!” I exclaimed.

“That’s because I’m not strictly a wolf. I’m more than an animal, and more than a man. I... I am a werewolf.” It said, sitting on its rear legs. “Allow me demonstrate.”

Slowly at first, the wolf changed. Its features receding to resemble something more akin to a man – the snout, the fur, the tail, all of it transforming in a magnificent display. In moments the wolf before me had morphed into a man, slightly taller than me, sat cross-legged in front of me.

“My name is Sir Adam Jessop. We will have plenty of time for questions while we make our way towards LeShay’s lair, for now trust that I am an ally.” He said.

“I apologise, but it isn’t every day that I see... a werewolf. In fact, you are the first.” I said slowly.

“Of course. We don’t show ourselves to people if we can help it. It leads to... terrible things.” He said. “But please, we must hurry if you want to save your friend.”

We moved through the rapidly building snowstorm with surprising ease – it didn’t seem to affect Adam in the slightest, and my coat shielded me from the brunt of it. Soon enough we could see the Baron’s Manor on the horizon. The lights blazed eerily from the windows.

“Ah, there. Our foe awaits!” Adam declared.

“You seem very eager. Not entirely what I expected from a werewolf.” I replied.

“There are plenty of things you could learn from me human. Perhaps in good time.” He said.

“Ah, the irony. Everyone could learn something from someone else. Even you.”

“That they can. You could teach people how to calm down for example. You were almost ready to explode back at the Winsteed Residence, but now... now you are as cold as the snow that falls around us.”

“What? How did you know..?” I asked.

“Ah, I can read emotions. Isn’t that much obvious? It’s also how I know how much this girl means to you. Even though you haven’t met, you feel bound to help her, to free her. I like that. You are a good person. An honourable person. It is part of the reason I chose to show myself to you and not Gareth.” He said.

I could feel my face light up bright red, and my cheeks were hot to the touch.

“Relax Corven! There is no need to be embarrassed, your secret is safe with me... for now.” He said with a sideways glance and a smirk.

“Embarrassed? Not at all!” I said, doing a poor job of hiding it.

“Wait.” He snapped. “Ready your weapons, we aren’t alone out here.”

I unsheathed my blade and watched as he morphed back into his wolf form. This transformation was far more incredible than the first – he leapt into the air and expanded, his fur growing as if time were speeding by. He landed on his four paws and shook himself.

“Ah, I love feeling like this, it is so liberating!” He roared. “Come and face us cowards!”

We slipped through the gate and searched for our observers.

“So it is you...” Came a cold voice from behind us.

“You have no idea how long we have waited for this... brother.” Came another voice, this one from the now open door.

I knew the voices. My stomach turned. Somewhere deep down, I knew this would come to be, but I had refused to believe it. Now, however, I knew it to be certain. Before us stood the last of the missing hunters... Storm, and Ashley.

                    >Next Chapter<

Blood Moon: Interlude II – A Hunter’s Responsibility

I found Janek slumped over a table, with half a dozen empty mugs on the table. It took me a while to rouse him but when he did I explained that Lydia had been kidnapped and that we had to save her right now. He slurred something about telling Gareth, and I agreed. I lifted him from his seat and hauled him across town to the stable, where I helped him onto his horse and tossed him a flagon of water.

We rode as fast as was possible with him in his condition, making it to the Winsteed Manor a few hours before daybreak. Several thoughts plagued my mind on the journey however. Why did they take Lydia? What purpose did it serve? Not just that, but now it was my duty to get her home safely. We had to act, and fast, if we were to succeed... I hoped that Gareth had something up his sleeve.

>Next Chapter<

Blood Moon: Chapter 3 – Calamity before Dawn

“You. You. YOU!” Thorinus sneered through tight lips. “You shouldn’t have come here!”

“Why is that? So you can destroy the lives of the innocent? Did you forget our goals, our ideals, our motivation as Hunters? Tell me why.” I said slowly.

“You think you know the world, you think you have power to change things. You don’t. No one does. Not without transcending the shackles of life. YOU KNOW NOTHING OF POWER.” He spat, his eyes shooting daggers.

“But that isn’t our way.” I said simply.

“Our way? OUR WAY? Our way is outdated and flawed. You are all too ignorant to see it! Storm and Ashley are working towards the goal that the Baron set for us; soon it will be too late for-”

“No Thorinus, it is you who is too ignorant to see the true path. I’m sorry, friend.” I said after I drove a stake through his heart, causing him to shriek and convulse. “I am fully aware he was your prisoner, but he was my friend... once. I hope you understand that I had to do that.”

“Of course Corven. Truth be told, we learnt nothing from him ourselves and were going to dispose of him shortly anyway. We didn’t think that it could have been one of the other hunters, we should have known.” Gareth said solemnly. “Come, it is getting late and I am sure you want to get some proper rest. I will arrange for horses to take you back to Systrella shortly, in the mean time, your weapons should be close to finished. I shall take you to the armoury.”

The Gilded Blades armoury was located a short way from Gareth’s quarters, and it was good to be out of the dankness of the dungeon. The door was slightly taller than normal and the handle was forged in the shape of a hammer. It was clear that the smith was at least creative. We pushed it open and from inside came the roar of several furnaces. Two faces were observing different metals when we walked in.

“Fletch, Marn, how are Corvens things coming?” Gareth said, hardly audible over the crack of coals.

“Huh? Oh, they are done. We finished them not too long ago. Damn fine weapons and Fletch agrees. We would very much like to learn from the original smith if it’s possible once this whole fiasco is over and done with.” Marn replied.

“I’ll see what I can do, certainly.” I said. “I’m sure he will be glad to share his ways. Now, on to business. What have you improved?”

“Of course, of course. First things first, your blade. We reinforced the spine with an alloy we created especially for this purpose. We haven’t really named it yet, but that’s not the point. We also sharpened the cutting edge and touched up the handle. You will notice the balance is unchanged but you will find the changes make your life much easier.” Fletch said, bringing forth the dagger and offering it to me.

I took it and swung it several times in front of me, and then made some stabbing motions. He was right. It felt the same as usual, but at the same time it felt more like an extension of myself rather than just a tool. Perfect.

“It feels wonderful! The others are similar I assume?” I said, awed by their skill.

“Yes and no. The stakes you left with us are merely tipped with our alloy and blessed by resident clergymen. This is also true with your crossbow bolts. The crossbow itself however, is a different story.” He passed me everything aside from the crossbow.

“Essentially, your crossbow was at the end of its time. We replaced the firing mechanism and legs with more recent versions. This will allow your bolts to travel with more force and accuracy than before. We also swapped out the string with a high quality metal thread. To finish off, we redesigned the handle for comfort and speed. This will probably take a while to get used to, but you will enjoy it, we guarantee it.” Fletch said, pointing out the different enhancements before finally passing it to me.

“It feels fantastic. You have my thanks gentlemen.” I said bowing before the pair of them.

“Oh, the pleasure is all ours.” The pair of them said in sync. “The sooner you deal with the Baron, the sooner we can get back to building tools and machines!”

“I forgot to mention that the pair of them are inventors, didn’t I?” Gareth laughed before bidding them good bye and exiting the room.

“How on earth do you keep the fumes from filling the rest of the building?” I asked as we made our way back to the world outside.

“I told you they were inventors; they were the ones that drew the plans for this place. They had several pipes installed to draw the smoke away and back outside. They are spread out of course as to disperse the smoke and not draw attention to what is happening. Quite ingenious if you ask me!” He explained.

“...Quite ingenious indeed.” I replied.

As we emerged into the cool night air, I once again was met by Janek. He saluted us and hopped up onto his horse.

“Ready and waiting sir!” He said eagerly, eyes beaming from beneath his bushy brows.

“Great work Janek. You are a good man, and an even better soldier. Your parents would be proud.” Gareth said, returning the salute. “As for you Corven, I expect you back here tomorrow shortly after noon. Don’t disappoint me.”

“I won’t, I assure you. Thank you again for everything you have done for me so far. The dawn approaches soon my friend.” I said as I mounted up.

“The dawn approaches soon.” Gareth echoed before turning and returning inside the manor.

“Shall we make it quick?” Janek asked.

“Aye. The sooner I can rest the better.” I replied.

The ride back to Systrella was as uneventful as the ride from, however I couldn’t shake the feeling that we were being watched from time to time. By the time we arrived at the stable it was by my reckoning just after midnight. We left the horses in the stable before making our way to the Fairburn’s house.

“So... about this family. Mind filling me in?” I asked.

“There isn’t much to tell. Stanley is the man of the house; he helps run the lumber yard to the north. He married Evelynn almost three decades ago – shortly before the birth of Lydia. Evelynn buys the food with the money Stanley makes, and Lydia tends to stay indoors painting fantastical scenes because no one in the village particularly takes her eye.” He explained.

“She paints? That is rather extraordinary. No wonder she finds the rest of the men boring.” I mused.

The house was one of the nicer looking houses in the town. Not particularly due to the quality of the build, but more because you could tell that the people who lived there genuinely enjoyed their lives. It felt... homely. Lights could be seen glowing from the east facing windows on the ground floor and a single window on the first floor. Janek knocked firmly on the door three times and stood back crossing his arms. The door opened after a short pause and a muscular man with a neatly trimmed beard pulled open the door.

“How many I help you gentlemen tonight? Wait, don’t tell me. You are our guest are you not?” Stanley said.

“Yes. This is Corven Lionheart. He has already met Gareth and knows what to do. Thank you for letting the blades use the room.” Janek said extending a hand for Stanley to shake.

“Don’t mention it. As long as nothing happens between him and my daughter, everything will be fine.” He joked.

“You don’t need to worry about that sir. I’m a man of honour, and my work comes before anything else.” I said bowing my head.

“But of course, I wouldn’t expect anything less from a famous hunter. Please, come inside and I will show you around.” He said, moving to allow me in.

Stepping past Stanley I could smell the remains of dinner, some kind of broth was likely. I moved through the corridor and waited at a door further down and noticed some of the paintings that Janek was talking about. They were nothing short of masterpieces.

“She is quite an artist isn’t she?” Stanley said noticing my gaze.

“Yes. I haven’t seen anything like it. They are beautiful.” I replied, dumbstruck.

“I’m sure she will enjoy the compliment, but she is fast asleep right now. So is my wife. The kitchen is through here.” He said before motioning to a door further down the hall. “Your room is up the stairs on the left. The door should be open and the bed is made. Outhouse is through the door in the kitchen and at the end of the garden. We will wake you an hour before noon. Good night Corven.”

Before I could thank him, and before he could turn around, the sound of a window shattering upstairs echoed through the night, followed by a shrill scream.

“Lydia!” Stanley cried, dashing up the stairs two at a time. I flung open the front door and glimpsed three men sprinting into the forest towards Manor LeShay, with the middle one carrying a blonde haired girl over his shoulder.

“LYDIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!” Stanley yelled from the window above.

“Yelling will do you no good. Leave it to me. I’ll find Janek and return to the blades. So much for a good night’s sleep.” I called up to him. “You tell Evelynn things are under control and get this window fixed.

I started towards the Tavern, it’s where I found him to begin with, and it was likely he would be there now. Somewhere in the forest a lone wolf loosed a blood chilling howl. Why did things have to get so complicated, I wondered.

>Next Chapter<

Blood Moon: Interlude I – They Who Came Before

The meal was largely uneventful. We were served plates bearing several slices of venison and an assortment of vegetables. That wasn't the important part however – the conversation was what I wanted to hear, even after consuming nothing but travelling rations for that past week.

To begin with we exchanged nothing much more than pleasantries, until I brought up the case of the captured vampire. He talked about it at length (for as I learned later, it had killed several of his closest friends) for sometime – from him I learned of several things. They weren't your average vampires. They were faster, stronger and more intelligent. At the time I was puzzled, how was this possible? He also commented on their behavior  They merely observed. They were found on the outskirts of town without fail every night. Why? He offered to take me to the captive after the meal and I intended to take him up on the offer.

After some more talk of the vampires, he inquired about my equipment once more, and asked if he could inspect it. I of course allowed him to and he remarked on its condition. He suggested that his smiths could improve them, and I thanked him but made one condition – No gilding. I suspected I would need every advantage I could get, but I liked to keep my gear functional, not stylish.

It was shortly after this that he took me down to the dungeons. It was a sharp contrast to the warm clean air above – it was cold (so cold in fact that our breath was visible in the air), damp and the air carried a fetid stench one would only find in such a place. I was led to a single cell with guards on either side of the door, both wearing grim expressions.

Slowly, they turned and opened the door to reveal a figure wearing... a hunter cloak? I went inside and Gareth followed me, gesturing to the prisoner before pulling a sack from his head. There was no doubt about it, the man who sat before me, he was... my friend. He was Thorinus. What was happening here?

>Next Chapter<

Blood Moon: Chapter 2 – The Gilded Blades

Did I ever mention how much I hated riding horses? My mystery employer and I had been riding for nearly an hour and my thighs were numb. This is exactly why I hire coaches to travel...

“And here we are. Welcome to the residence of Gareth Winsteed the Third, Griffon of Virtue, leader of the Gilded Blades. Welcome, Corven.” He said pulling his horse to a halt before a rundown manor. This was of different construction than the ones in Systrella, built of rough but orderly brick, with ornate, yet damaged, carvings of gargoyles and angels. Something tells me that the Winsteed family were particularly powerful at some point in time.

“This rundown manor is your base of operations? Please tell me you are joking.” I said, still sore about the ride here.

“Ah, but of course! The outside is merely a facade. You didn’t expect it to look inviting did you?” He said, ignoring my distaste. “No, it’s what’s on the inside that will amaze you.”

We dismounted and led the horses to a small brook nearby before returning to the gates. ‘In memory of our ancestors, we stand against the darkness wherever it may fall’ was inscribed in gold on a plaque beside it.

“Janek, Is that you? Did you find the Hunter in time?” came a voice from inside the wall.

“Yes. Corven is here. He seems to be the edge we have needed for a long time. Open the gate and let us in, we have far too much to get done to waste time here.” Janek said hastily.

“Of course sir!” the voice called.

Shortly after a figure appeared and began pulling back bolts. With a loud click, the last bolt came loose and the gate swung back to reveal a figure slightly taller than Janek but otherwise he was practically his twin.

“It’s good to see you again Morgan!” Janek boomed.

“That it is brother! That it is!” Morgan replied, pulling Janek into his embrace. “So this is the acclaimed Corven Lionheart... He looks nothing like I imagined. You are sure of his abilities?”

“Certainly. He might be arrogant but he seems capable. We will be free of the Baron soon.”

“If I may... didn’t you say we have things to do? Let us get inside; you can have your tea party later.” I said, not wanting to hear what Morgan had to say.

“Yes, yes. You are right. Come, Gareth will be pleased to finally meet you.” Janek replied.

After Morgan closed the gate, the three of use made our way inside. The large oak doors were covered in intricate gilded designs, and opened up without a sound. While looking unimpressive from a far, the building was clearly well maintained. I was certainly impressed. We made our way through the house towards the kitchens without seeing a soul – where was everybody?

“Through here Corven.” Janek called, descending steps into what was probably a wine cellar or a pantry.

 I followed without a complaint, and Morgan tailed after closing the door behind us. The air was surprisingly warm, there was more to this than I thought. Janek was waiting at the foot of the stairs, hand on the doorknob.

“Are you ready Corven? Ready to witness the true might of the Gilded Blades?” he asked with a grin.

“Naturally. This is why I am here isn’t it?” I replied casually.

“Then behold!” He cried, pushing the door open with what was probably enough force to rip it from its hinges.

The stairwell was immediately drenched in light as bright as day, and the noise! There were so many people. If I didn’t know better I would have expected to be back in London during the summer. Everywhere I looked were gilt tapestries and paintings covering the walls, ornate tables and benches, even their clothes had been gilt in some way or other. One man drew my attention more than the others however – he wore a suit of pure white, with gold striped, buckles and flairs. It was... glorious... yet horribly unsuitable for anything other than formal wear. At his side hung a large curved blade (likely a shamshir or a scimitar), in a scabbard engraved with scenes similar to those on the doors outside.

“You must be Corven Lionheart. Welcome to our home.” He said in a deep, silky voice.

“And you must be Gareth. Thank you for inviting me here.” I replied.

“No, thank you. We cannot resolve the... problem... the town faces without your help. I am sure Janek has told you a great deal about it already?” He said graciously, as he made his way towards us. “We understand you have been travelling for almost a week now? Would you care to dine with me while we discuss how we proceed from here?”

“That would be wonderful. Please, lead the way.” I said, bowing before him.

“Janek, Morgan. Go and inform the chefs that we require food. Tell them to bring it to my room, and then go back to manning the gate. You have done well today.” Gareth said, before turning to the hall. “Brother, sisters. Standing before you is Corven Lionheart, one of the greatest Vampire Hunters to grace our halls! Soon we will push away the veil of darkness looming ever closer to our walls, soon we will be able to live in peace one again!”

The hall erupted in cheers and applause at this. I felt somewhat humbled by the faith they were putting in me, but then slaying vampires was what I did best...

“Come, my quarters are this way. Did you bring your equipment? What am I saying, of course you did. What would a Hunter be without his gear?” He laughed.

>Next Chapter<

Blood Moon: Chapter 1 – Coincidence?

“Corven, stop daydreaming and look out the damn window. Systrella awaits!” came the hoarse voice of the coachman.

I opened my eyes and peered out of the window. Aside from the dirt track on which the coach was travelling, the only things in view were snow capped pine trees.

“And how far is the town exactly?” I asked cynically.

“Oh, just over yonder! Can you not hear the buzz of the community? Smell the scents of life? Lad, I tell you, Systrella is the most beautiful place!” He remarked cheerfully. “Ah, there she is! Look, you can just about see the stables. And if you look hard enough, Manor LeShay perched atop one of the hills!”

Sure enough, the village came into view. It looked... incredibly cosy. The buildings were constructed from rough hewn stone and pine, and from each of the chimneys came wisps of white smoke. Either these people wore thick clothes, or this weather is typical for the town. Boy was I glad I had the sense of mind to bring my coat.

“You never did say why you were coming here Corven. Any reason in particular?” The Coachman asked.

“Business.” I replied gruffly. It wasn’t wise broadcasting that one was a vampire hunter – the town would think I was a crackpot. “But that doesn’t mean I can’t take this time as a vacation too, right?”

We both laughed heartily as the coach pulled into town beside the stables. I quickly opened my bag and checked the contents once again – it pays to be prepared. Inside, as I had left them previously were my crossbows, several stakes, a large silver dagger, a bottle of holy water, two bottles of brandy, and an assortment of clothing. Excellent, I thought. This should be a walk in the park.

“Well here we are Mister Corven. Enjoy your stay.” The coachman announced as I left the carriage.

“Thank you for the transport, it is much appreciated.” I said as I tossed a small leather pouch full of coin over my shoulder. “Enjoy yourself tonight sir.”

“Oh, that I will!” He said as I disappeared into the town.

Finding the Tavern wasn’t a particularly difficult task – it looked like the only building that was lit up at this hour. It was odd that there were no drunkards and ruffians outside though, but then I am used to rougher towns than this. Stepping inside painted a... different picture. Everyone was having a great time, and man could you taste the ale in the air. There was something afoot here, and I was sure it was linked to the vampire. I went to the bar and unbuttoned my coat and took a seat while I waited for the bartender to come over. It was then that I was approached by a stout man with a large red beard.

“You. Traveller. You wouldn’t happen to be Corven Lionheart, would you?” He asked sternly.

“I might be. Who is asking?” I replied, looking as indifferent as I could.

“Someone who can help you get to the bottom of... the problem in this town. Come, talk to me when you are ready. I will be at a table, alone, in the corner. And come ready to listen.” He said quickly before padding off to his seat. Something about him told me I could trust him.

“And what can I get for you mister? You look like the kind of man who appreciated a nice thick mug of ale!” The Bartender boomed.

“What? Oh. Yes. A mug of your best ale would be perfect.” I managed to blurt out; my brain was already swimming with questions for the bearded man.

“Certainly sir! One mug of the finest!”

I placed several coins on the counter and took my drink over to the table where the man was waiting.

“So, tell me how you know my name and my business. Amuse me.” I said snidely as I sat down beside him. I was about to take a drink when he stopped me.

“No, no, no, man! Don’t just drink! Do you not see the people around you? Have you ever seen drunkards in such a mood? This ale is tainted. I thought you were supposed to be an expert hunter!” He chided. Come to think of it, he was right. By now they should have been at each others throats, or worse.

“Alright, you have my ear, for now.”

“Come closer traveller. What I am about to tell you, no one else can hear.”

I did as he wanted and leaned closer, after pushing my drink towards the middle of the table.

“It’s the Baron. It was recent too – he used to frequent this tavern and the market, but he has ventured forth from his manor less and less of late. That’s not all. The townsfolk complain of figures watching them from the forest. We aren’t alone down here.” He whispered. “And they are right. We managed to catch one of them two eve’s back.”

“Wait, you mean to tell me there isn’t just one vampire I have to deal with? Who exactly are you?” I asked, confused.

“All in good time. I have horses in the stable to take us to my people. Be assured, we are the ones that requested your help. You will do fine, just concentrate on Baron David LeShay, we will handle the rest. Come, the less time we spend in this place the better.” He said, standing and giving the ale to the occupants of the table next to us. “Hey, it’s better than letting it go to waste!”

“True enough. One more question before we leave however – where will I find a bed for the time I am here?” I asked.

“Aha, I knew you would ask. Don’t worry; we have arranged something with the Fairburn’s – good family, have even helped us in the past. You will have a bed there. And a word of warning for you – don’t get distracted by their daughter, beautiful as she is, you have a mission to do.”

“Daughter? What is her name, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“Well it saves you running into anything awkward later I suppose.” He said. “Lydia. Her name is Lydia.”

>Next Chapter<