THE DAY OF BIRTH (PART 1)- (MEETING LADY DIMITRESCU-CHAPTER 14)

Vera meticulously studies the land from the high cliffside. The world was still white but mischievous bits of green peak out from under winter’s blanket. The bright sun smiles down on the vast countryside, signalling a new day full of promise. Despite winter’s presence, the air was much warmer than usual.

The chirps of songbirds fill the air as woodland creatures happily scurry about. The lycan’s eyes fall onto the large castle in the distance, its presence completing the picturesque scenery.

The woman releases a sigh as she feels something tighten deep within her gut. The castle was as still as the day and yet, she still couldn’t shake the troubling feeling.

“Something the matter, cariño?” Comes a gentle voice behind Vera. It came to no surprise it belonged to the only person capable on sneaking up on the warrior.

Vera’s eyes never leave the castle, her arms crossed as a gentle breeze caresses her face.

The warrior’s voice is steady and yet, carries a hint of hesitancy, “the day is perfect and yet…”

“And yet I assume something is wrong then?”

Vera’s gaze travels over every inch of the castle she can see from the distance.

“I see nothing but it feels as if a storm approaches….but I can’t see from where.”

The lanky figure lets out a sigh. “I suppose that means we must prepare ourselves then because if memory serves, and my own memory is quite exceptional. Your hunches are more often than not correct.”

The lycan gives her head a small shake as she recalls the various situations her gut had warned her of, too many close calls than she’d like to admit.

Finally, Vera turns her back on the landscape, addressing the visitor with denial in her voice.

“I truly hope it is unwarranted paranoia, Zaen.”

The person responds with a sad smile, they both know better than that.

Unlike their partner, Zaen was almost completely covered from head to toe. Vera preferred to wear bits of armor over her shoulders and forearms. The woman’s chest was covered by leather held together by straps; abs proudly exposed regardless of the climate. The warrior’s look was completed with a cape made of thick fur and pants that clung to her muscular thighs.

Zaen on the other hand, wore a thick cloak, most of their body covered in bandages, creating a strong contrast against their dark skin and snow-white hair.

“I suppose that means we’ll be staying here for the next few days?” The androgynous figure asks while tending to an itch against the side of their neck.

“Yes, I think so. Luckily, the young ones seem to be enjoying all of the forestry. It’s nice to be away from prying eyes.”

Zaen hands the warrior a water bag, “you don’t have to tell me the comfort of escaping prying eyes.” They say lightly as Vera happily quenches her thirst.

A booming voice in the distance grabs the attention of both lycans.

“ULFRA! LOOK HOW FAR I CAN THROW THIS BOULDER!”

“Taika we don’t want to draw any atten-“

A loud crack fills the air as the large rock crashes into a grove of trees. The sound is followed by the excited panting of several young lycans running through the forest, racing to see where the rock landed. Joyful howls fill the air as wolves happily exert their abundant energy.  

“Like you said, the children just loooooove it here. Something tells me I’ll probably have to heal someone this morning.” Zaen chuckles as they leave a small kiss on the alpha’s cheek.

Vera releases a heavy sigh.

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Alcina’s smile outshines the sun as she notices your reaction, you stand in awe at the castle’s spacious courtyard. Hedges shaped into larger-than-life creatures cover the yard, from mighty lions to leaping horses. The bright day allows each animal’s personality to finally peak through the layer of snow covering them.

Each of the green creatures are masterfully detailed from head to toe. You can’t help but touch a nearby bear, confirming it was a simple bush despite its feral realism.

“How do you like them?” The vampire asks as she places a hand on your shoulder.

“I love them.” You answer with a whisper as you pet the cold leaves. You turn your head towards the matriarch as you address her further. “Which one is your favourite?”

Alcina releases a small “hmm”, taking a few moments to look over each of the creatures. Your eyes follow the vampire as she walks further down the courtyard.

Your gaze falls onto the vampire’s backside, travelling further down as Alcina’s dress accentuates every inch of her body, leaving little to the imagination. You feel yourself get warmer as you fantasize how it would feel….

[“TO TAKE HER FROM BEHIND WHILE SHE BEGS FOR MORE”]

You feel desire flicker within you as you indulge the fantasy…

“Gods, please don’t stop! Please don’t stop” Alcina moans as you insert your fingers into her once again. You feel her desire dripping off your hands as you kiss down her body. She releases desperate whimpers as you being to feel her shake. You begin pumping into her faster and with more vigor making the vampire-

“Her.”

Alcina’s very real voice, breaks you from your hormone fueled daydream. You shake your head a bit to fully compose yourself.

[Gods, I clearly need a very cold shower.]

[“Or you could simply listen to me.”]

[quiet, you.]

At the end of the yard resides a large panther that overlooks the space. It proudly sits on all fours as it stands on guard. None can escape its piercing gaze as the creature towers over all, even Alcina.

You come up next to the matriarch and gently take her hand into yours.

“She reminds me of you.” You say while flashing the vampire a genuine smile. Alcina’s cheeks become slightly pink, feeling incredibly touched and bashful by your connection.

“That’s..very nice of you say, my love.” Her fingers interlace with yours and she softly rubs her thumb over your skin. A comfortable pause fills the air as you look into each other’s eyes. The creatures surrounding you respectfully stand on watch as the matriarch bends down to meet your lips with a chaste kiss. You happily kiss her back as you both lose yourself to the gentle moment.

Once Alcina pulls away she notices something in the corner of her eye. A mischievous expression emerges on her face once she points out what’s captured her attention.

“Look my darling, it’s you.”

You turn your head in the direction of the vampire’s gaze, somewhat confused. That is until you see a large wolf in the corner of the yard. The beast is frozen in a furious howl towards the sky. You turn back to Alcina with narrowed eyes and a bit of an incredulous smile. The vampire immediately bursts out into laughter at your reaction. You can’t help but feel pride in making Alcina laugh, her giggles sound like a joyful melody.

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The day so far had felt like dream to the matriarch.

She and her partner were immediately woken to the sound of her children bringing her breakfast in bed. Alessia and Lena carrying separate dishes while Daniela carried in the drinks. For a split-second, panic filled the air from the blonde almost spilling the drinks over the floor.

The air was light as the family enjoyed their morning ritual. Swapped stories led to laughter and smiles as the women had no trouble embarrassing their mother in front of her companion. But every action was in jest and reflective of an unbroken tender bond. The matriarch feels herself fill with warmth as she takes in the scene before her. It seemed almost “perfect”. She had children she loved and a partner who made life feel both lighter and thrilling at the same time. Her life had been completely changed by the human and she couldn’t be more grateful. She was starting to entertain the idea that perhaps she did deserve to be “happy”.

The sun’s bright rays would illuminate the scene, catching Alcina’s attention, calling to her. The matriarch would later introduce her companion to the castle’s courtyard, enjoying the brilliant day with the small human.

The beautiful day would quickly turn to a gentle evening, time soaring whenever she spent time around her small partner. The two would discuss past days of birth and how the human’s father was fond of gifting her a brilliant stone each year for her collection. The vampire would highlight the quiet ones in contrast to the ones surrounded by blood and survival.

Alcina couldn’t help but pretend days like that no longer fit within her “new life”. The matriarch allows herself to entertain the naïve thought as a personal gift to herself. She allows herself the gift of escapism and denial and it only became easier whenever she looked into the eyes of her small companion. Within the human’s gaze she’s found the solace and salvation locked away from her for lifetimes on end.

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Philips wipes his hand against his outfit as he addresses the squadron.

“There’s only a few hours till sundown. Stick to your posts and do not deviate from the plan. And remember, I will be the one to deliver the final blow to the head bitch…”

One of the masked figures surrounding the hunter notices the man’s blackened hands. His hands seem to be covered in a charcoal like substance, similar to the dagger that hangs off his waist. Regardless of how much the hunter wipes his hands or attempts to clean them, the residue only smudges further against his skin, seeming to permanently stain them.

“Do whatever you’d like to her offspring. And as we agreed, once we’re finish, you’re all welcome to whatever treasures the castle holds. And lastly, if you spot my wife bring her to me immediately.”

A large man speaks up, his voice low and heavy.

“And if she’s been compromised?”

Philips eyes lock onto the speaker, staring into a gas mask that obscures the man’s identity. The man matches the rest of squad as each member have their identity hidden in some way, whether it be through hoods, masks, bindings, etc. The hunter takes a pause before answering.

“Then do what you must but at the very least, try to bring her body back to me.”

The squad of men and women surrounding the hunter simply nod in acknowledgement. The group of hunters vary in shape and size, but all dawned in black from head to toe. Similar to Philips, each hunter is covered in an array of weapons that complement their personal hunting style. Some, deadly assassins with poisoned weapons, others eagle eyed archers with inhuman precision, berserkers clothed in the furs of beasts, all allured by the bounty that is the Dimitrescu family and their lavish home.

“Squad A, let’s start making our way. Squad B, begin preparing your positions but do not react until I give the signal.” The hunter says while waving one of the groups towards the path leading down to the castle.

The bright sun covering the day slowly starts to fade away, allowing darkness to set in.
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“Can we please have dessert now?” Daniela pleads after the delicious meal.

“As always, a brilliant idea Daniela. Mother, why don’t you get the lavish array I ordered while the rest of go get your gifts?” Lena chimes while picking up the now bare plates.

Alcina can’t help but giggle at how your eyes light up while Lena describes each luxurious sweet.

“Yes, I better be the one who gets them because someone else may end up eating them along the way” she jokes while looking at you.

Your mouth hangs agape as you feign shock by the accusation, hand on your chest. Her children find your reaction equally as humorous, to the point that Daniela gives you a playful shove.

Before everyone goes their separate ways, Alcina gives you directions for a “secret drink” she’s made just for your tastes, down in the castle’s cellar. You immediately salute her once she finishes explaining, earnestly saying, “I promise this sangria will be personally hand delivered to you ma’am, safe and sound!”

The vampire widens her eyes for a split second, and you wonder if you’ve insulted her in some way. Though once her children start heading off, she pulls you aside. She begins whispering in your ear.

“That was cute but I need you to know I very much like hearing you call me ma’am…..perhaps we could see just how much I like it when it just the two of us. What do you say?”

A prominent blush immediately covers your face as you find yourself stumbling over your words.

“I-I think I would like to see that very much.”

The matriarch pulls you into a deep kiss which you happily reciprocate. The kiss leaves you breathless and with a goofy smile once Alcina pulls away.

“Good.”

She flashes you a cheeky wink before heading off.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Alcina nearly floats down the hallway, each step lighter than the next as she makes her way towards the kitchen. The painted smile she wears instantly disappears as she hears a small creak at the end of the hallway. At first, she assumes the noise to be a harsh wind against a nearby window. Her assumption is quickly proven wrong once she enters the castle’s foyer. The matriarch is met with a group of figures, each calm and collected as they take in the vampire.

Alcina immediately recognizes the man who speaks up.

“Good evening, Lady Dimitrescu.”

The voice instantly shatters Alcina’s waking dream.


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Lena grabs the gift hidden in her large wardrobe. A small smile emerges on her face as she imagines her mother’s surprise once she opens the box.

“You’re going to make someone very happy.”

A gentle breeze enters through the room’s large window. The brunette had spent many nights sitting by the window, admiring the moon’s bright gaze as she thought. Once again, she can’t help but appreciate the heavenly body. Tonight, she was full and with the slightest tint of crimson to her colour.

“Honestly darling, I can’t help but be impressed with how beautiful you look tonight.”

The vampire says half joking as she stares up at the night sky. Twinkling stars compliment the brilliant sphere as they shine against the dark sky. Lena takes a short pause before continuing.

“Oh no, of course! You always look perfect, my dear. You just look ESPECIALLY ravishing tonight, what with your lovely shade and all.”

Lena feigns faux embarrassment as she addresses the moon before chuckling at her foolish display.

Before the vampire can react, an arrow suddenly strikes her in the chest.

A dark character in the distance revels at their shot, “bullseye. Enjoy the arrow, sweetheart. Something tells me it won’t be a good time”.

Lena stands stunned as she takes in the arrow sticking out her body. Her hands hover over it as mixed emotions flood her. The more the vampire tries to process the situation the more shock quickly shuts down her mind.

“Wha..”

Lena attempts to slowly reach for the arrow, her arms feeling as if weights were tied to them. But before she can even grab it the world around her strips away. The castle walls and the beautiful moon slowly disappear, darkness setting in as her head begins to ache. A loud ringing fills her mind as she bends over in pain, hands tightly gripping her head. The vampire winces as she snaps her eyes closed.

The ringing gets louder and louder, making her head pound. The vampire stumbles around in the dark, completely helpless. (what was that infernal arrow laced with?!)

Finally, Lena uses all of her strength to open her eyes.

The brunette is back to where she’d soon be reborn, tied to a chair as a church head brightly smiles at her. But before she can react the nun loudly signals the men holding Lena afloat.

“NO WAI-“

Water instantly fills Lena’s lungs as she’s violently dunked into the lake.

The archer from afar watches the ordeal, his pleased expression quickly disappearing. He studies the vampire’s movements as she gasps for air, despite being physically very much on land. The squad mate can’t help but be disturbed by the hallucinogen’s effect as the brunette claws at her throat before writhing to the floor.

“Dear gods, that weirdo wasn’t joking. What’s in this stuff?” The archer asks while examining his arrow heads, his demeanor uneasy.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Across the castle, Alessia looks for a false book hidden within the structure’s library. The redhead eagerly searches through literary spines as tries to remember where she hid her mother’s gift.

The redhead’s hand hovers over a large, weathered tome, her movement interrupted as she suddenly feels something off in the air. The vampire feigns ignorance as she pretends to continue searching through the novels, her index finger slowly gliding over the various titles. (“strange….I hear no one.”)

The redhead’s thoughts are broken by the library’s large doors shutting closed to her right. The loud sound catches the vampire off guard. Alessia hops back as she adrenaline courses through her veins. The redhead feels her anxiety rise as her eyes dart around the moonlit room but finds no sign of threat.

An arrow suddenly breaks through the library’s window, heading straight for the vampire. Glass shatters throughout the floor. Alessia ducks behind a large seat right at the last second, her non-pumping heart beating through her ears. The redhead desperately checks her surroundings, as she hears several more arrows shot at the chair. (“Think Alessia, think!”)

An idea comes to the vampire. She quickly picks up the chair against her back and uses it as a shield as she makes her towards the door, smashing it with a barrier should be no problem for her.

The crossbow user can’t help but be impressed with the vampire’s quick thinking.

“Clever girl. Unfortunately, not clever enough”.

The heavy archer immediately switches in another arrow type, unsurprised he’d be needing it.

Right as Alessia reaches the door an arrow appears next to her hand, quickly realizing it didn’t miss once orange smokes starts coming out of it. Alessia swiftly starts trying to break down the large door, covering her mouth with her other hand. The vampire’s panic starts to rise as she realizes there won’t be enough time. Alessia makes one last attempt as she coughs while turning into a swarm of insects. The swarm reaches the window only for the vampire to quickly change back, roughing coughing as she’s ingested too much of the mysterious smoke.

Alessia weakly reaches for the window before finally passing out.

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The redhead awakes to her head on fire. She rubs her throbbing temples only to immediately tense up once she hears a familiar voice behind her.

“Hello, Anabelle”.

The vampire’s eyes widen in horror, “Richard”.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Alcina feels her anger rise by the second.

“Whomever you are, leave now and you won’t suffer an untimely death.”

The matriarch is in no mood for pleasantries as she extends her claws. Despite the threat, the group is ultimately unfazed. The hunter in the middle even lightly chuckles, the sound sets her temper ablaze.

“Unfortunately, Madam, I cannot leave until I collect my wife. Hand her over now and I may not cut you up into little pieces once I’m through with you.” The hunter’s hand ever so slightly hovers over the small blade hanging off his hip.

Confusion and anger paint the matriarch’s face, she tilts her head as her eyes narrow at the statement. “You’re mistaken. Whomever your wife is she is not here. Now. Get. Out. OF.MY.HOME”

Part of the group shifts in fear under Alcina’s feral gaze. The vampire takes steps towards them, her claws draw, voice cold and energy akin to an animal ready to strike. No amount of experience in the world could prepare one to be on the receiving end of the matriarch. Her stature only elevating the chilling fear she induces.

Despite the display, Philips does not back down.

“Oh, I believe she is though. Don’t you remember? She’s the one who gave me this lovely gift.”

Philips pulls down his collar to reveal the healed mark. The vampire instantly realizes whom the hunter speaks off. Fury, akin to the very flames of hell fill her. The squad except for Philips starts taking steps as they notice the instant change in energy from the vampire, her eyes locked on the group, rage radiating off her.

“SHE. IS. MINE!!!!”

Alcina roars loud enough to make the windows shake. The matriarch starts heavily breathing as she allows her rage to finally overtake her, eyes locked on the squad. The hunters shrink under the vampire’s gaze as they start to notice her changing before their eyes. The matriarch’s once alabaster body starts to turn to a dark marble texture, white vein-like streaks contrast against matte black. The transformation catches the elite squad off guard, confusion quickly turns to fear as the changes do not end there. Alcina’s golden eyes turn into an icy white, surrounded by a sea of black. The vampire’s teeth become elongated, knife-life fangs, all the more pronounced as she sneers at the hunters. Philip’s confidence starts to falter as he takes in the display, fixated on the vampire suddenly squirming her shoulders around. The hunter quickly takes a step back when the matriarch falls to her knees, releasing sounds of struggle. Finally, a pair of large bat like wings sprout from the matriarch’s back, instantly turning her dress into shreds. Beastly talons join the wings as Alcina’s hands and feet completely reshape themselves.

There are mixed reactions from the squad. Some cower at the creature before them, others much too excited in thinking how much collectors would pay for such a beast and some take no time to think as they immediately start shooting arrows into the matriarch. All in all, regardless of the years of experience the team had with even the most occult of creatures, the lady of the castle was nothing any of them had ever encountered.

Philips stands somewhat in shock as he takes in the matriarch’s otherworldly form. Fighting the towering vampire would already be a feat but nothing could have prepared Philips for the hellish creature before him. The hunter is snapped from his daze once the matriarch eyes lock onto him, sending a chill down his spine.

Alcina quickly surges forwards Philips, snarling as her talons lunge at the hunter. The vampire feels more arrows pierce her skin, but they do not slow her down. By now, the vampire’s entire body has arrows sticking of out in every direction.

Philips dodges the vicious attack at the last second, resulting in chunks of floor destroyed while various pieces go flying. The hunter owes his escape to the vampire’s blinding rage. Though the matriarch’s strength is now doubled, her fury obstructs the precision of her attacks. All she wishes is to destroy all her path and for some unlucky squad members, she does. Flying limbs and fresh blood remind Philips of his original plan.

“KEEP SHOOTING! SHE’S GOING TO NEED MORE! MUCH MORE!”

Philip yells to the remaining hunters. Arrows flood Alcina’s body but their small sting does little against her adrenaline. More victims fall to her violent rage, her speed only increased by the wings on her back, lunging herself across the room in seconds. Philips attempts to hide himself behind a nearby pillar only for his sudden movement to attract Alcina’s attention once again. (YOU!!!)

The matriarch thrusts herself across the large room, destroying the pillar with a swift strike. The hunter braces himself as pieces of stone fall around him. Right as Philips looks up, he catches the vampire raising a talon ready to strike him down to an untimely demise. But right as Alcina swiftly lowers her beastly claws down onto the man her body suddenly fails her. Her talon falls inches away from the hunter’s face, feeling immense heaviness throughout her body.

“WHAT!? NO!”

Despite the sudden setback, Alcina attempts to desperately swing her claws around, hoping to still catch the hunter. Philips takes the opportunity to create some distance between him and the lady of the castle, only fueling the vampire’s rage further.

“You insolent pest. You will not leave this castle alive!” Alcina hisses.

The vampire slowly starts making her way towards the hunter, her movement sluggish as the hallucinogen starts to quickly take effect. Alcina’s will only get her so far until her world suddenly turns black. Her surroundings disappear, along with the hunter as Alcina feels pressure fill her head.

Her claws squeeze her temple as she feels searing pain. But before she can properly address it, Emily appears before her eyes. The blonde looks as alive and well as the day they first met.

“Emily?” The vampire winces in confusion. Alcina can’t help but slowly reach for her, hoping she’s as real as she seems.

But right before Alcina can touch her, the blonde immediately throws her a look of disgust, stopping the matriarch in her track.

“Look at you, you’ve always been such monster-“

Alcina’s eyes widen in pain.

“no wonder I ended up dying because of you. You only leave death and destruction wherever you go, you absolute daemon.”

Alcina’s breath quickens as she falls to her knees. She shrinks under the blonde’s belittlement. Her rage quickly replaced by guilt, pain and sadness. Emily bends down to lift the vampire’s chin up, tear stained eyes meet ocean blue.

“You can’t possibly believe that little halfling actually cares for you, can you? Who could ever possibly want such a beast like yourself? Just look at yourself-“

Alcina looks down at her blood-stained talons, they slightly shake.

“you’ll always just be a killer who targets vulnerable women, Alcina. How else do you explain what you did to me?”

Alcina freezes at the question. Her voice is shaky and hesitant as she tries to speak.

“…I..I didn’t mean. She..I think-“

Before Alcina can finish, Emily’s throat is sliced once again, her blood spraying onto the vampire’s face. The matriarch feels her entire body shake at reliving the horrific scene, she slightly cowers away while closing her eyes. Alcina only looks up once she hears Emily’s voice.

“What’s wrong, Alcina? Don’t you like how vulnerable I am now? Now I’m perfect for you.”

Alcina looks at the blonde in horror once she notices how corpse-like she’s suddenly become. All of the colour has left the blonde’s body, a sickly green tint in place as veins cover her. Emily flashes her a bright smile as she reaches for the matriarch.

The interaction finally overwhelms Alcina, her screams of horror fill the space around her. The remaining squad members watch the vampire interact with thin air. All they can do is look upon the disturbing scene with confusion and unease.

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You focus all of your attention on keeping the large pitcher in your hands steady. Despite very much wishing you could run to kitchen; you fight back against your excitement.

[The last thing I need to do is spill any of this sangria. Alcina clearly worked hard on it]

You can’t help but feel your throat go dry as you look over the appetizing drink. Bright yellows, greens and oranges peek through the blood red drink. Condensation drips down on the side of the clear pitcher, only adding to your thirst. You’ve never tried sangria but so far, it seemed like the most refreshing drink based on looks alone. You couldn’t get to the kitchen quick enough.

As excited as you were for the promise of more food and drink, it paled in comparison at the thought of getting to see Alcina open presents. You remember bashfully asking her if it would be okay if you could give her your gift in private.

[Hopefully she likes the pearl-]

A thunderous roar? Yell? Completely catches you off guard, you immediately jolt back and stumble. You take a few seconds to catch your breath, your heart still beating out of your chest.

(Gods, what was that!?)

You’ve never witnessed a sound physically shake the world with such power. Only after composing yourself, do you notice you’ve spilled some of the drink onto yourself. It won’t be an issue wiping the sangria off your face, now whether your ruined outfit would survive may be a different story. You heavily sigh once you discover how far the drink flew and gently put the pitcher down to clean yourself up as best as you can.

As you start heading towards a nearby washroom, you suddenly hear an unfamiliar voice address you from behind.

“There you are, been looking all over for you. I was beginning to think that wack job made you up.”

At the end of the hall, you find what you assume to be a woman dressed in all black. She dawns a mask that cover her entire face, with the exception of holes for her nostril and small slit for her mouth. You narrow your eyes at her as you wonder how she can see you.

You immediately go on guard once she starts to stroll towards you.

“Honestly, I’ll admit, I’m way happier to be looking for you than handling any of the leeches of this home, you get what I’m saying?”

The woman addresses you casually, as if you’ve known each other for years, it only confuses you further.

“First off, who are you? And what are you doing in this castle?” You ask directly, throwing your hands up in a defensive position.

(It can’t be a coincidence that she’s here during Alcina’s day of birth. Could she be here for revenge? No. She says she’s here for me…..but why?)

The shrouded woman immediately puts her hands up in surrender.

“Woah, no need for the hos-“

The woman’s energy changes once she takes notice of your red stained mouth and clothing. She releases a heavy sigh and her shoulders slump in defeat. The entire situation makes you feel as if you’re missing something vital, nothing is adding up. You can’t help but feel a tad anxious and frustrated considering the day you’re supposed to be celebrating.

(You really couldn’t have picked any other day to come in and “infiltrate” the castle, could you? Regardless, I won’t let you ruin her special day.)

Without hesitation, the woman swiftly throws a pair of bolas at your legs, giving you no time to react. You immediately fall to the ground with a heavy thud, releasing a loud “oof” as your body collides with the floor. She leaves you no time to process the situation as she throws another pair at your hands, completely binding you.

“It’s a shame you know. We were betting on whether you were real or not. And betting even more on if you’d still be human, looks like the leeches wanted a new family member-“

You angrily struggle as you hear her closing the distance between you both.

(Damn it all! What are these made of?!)

For some reason you feel weaker than usually, and you can’t seem to hear your inner beast at all.

“Look, I don’t personality care if you’re a leech. I mean, how hypocritical would that be?-“

(She thinks I’m a vampire??)

“Wha-“

“But you see, we can’t suddenly let you live and not the rest, you know? It’s best to avoid revenge seekers and all that. At least that’s how I see, I know some of the others would just be really excited to see how much you sell on the market.”

Her words flood you with mixed emotions. You focus on trying to decipher them until you notice her unsheathe a wavy dagger. You quickly start to panic at the sight and try one last attempt to get yourself out of this mess.

You close your eyes and try to call your teacher. You feel sweat start to form on your forehead as you press your eyes tightly.

(come on, come on! SOMEONE HEAR ME PLEASE!)

Nearing footsteps spike your heart rate.

You open your eyes once you feel the woman’s presence. You look up at her in fear, your eyes pleading for her to reconsider.

“It’s too bad kid, I think we really could have been friends. I promise I’ll make it quick”

The woman’s voice is somber as she grabs your hair with one hand and positions her blade towards your throat.

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