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.
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