“How are you even alive?” The bearded man asked again. Raphael’s throat, while thankfully wetted by the bearded man’s generous meal, remained quiet from confusion and hesitation. All he could remember currently was hazily spotting someone and calling out for help, but nothing else between that and awakening again only several minutes prior. Muscles either flared in pain or were chill in numbness, the agonizing dichotomy threatening to keep Raphael awake or knock him out again.
“Would you believe me if I said I wasn’t sure myself?” Raphael stalled. His thoughts were murky; clarity only found through deliberation and intention. The bearded man seemed to accept it. That or figure Raphael to not be able to answer, rather than being unwilling.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI8RvSD5l0C
The man continued with new inquiries, “Well, were you also from Zori?” Zori, the name was familiar. It was the town that burned down, Raphael recognized that. No point in lying, though clarification might help. “I was passing through there, same day it burned down. I was running after everyone else,” He recalled the events afterwards, “And I guess I got lost”. The words dried his throat out, as he sucked on more of the soup he was given, the warmth and nourishment being a greater reprieve than he could’ve ever dreamed of.
Another question then arose, “What about the old woman that was with you?” The soup felt frigid, as did the rest of Raphael’s body. His heart beat slowly, while his mind began to race. The vigor granted by rest and meals returned his mind. However, it only reminded him of his mistake. He had no plan after finding rescue in the woods, no idea what to do with the vampire, only stepping, stepping and stepping until he could rest. Now the questions had to be asked, and he knew not the answer; the bearded man’s questions took no precedent over his own.
What was the vampire? Where did she come from? Why had she agreed to his terms? Where was she now? The questions lingered, but weren’t enough to keep the bearded man waiting.
“I’m not entirely sure, I met her in Zori, she followed me out, barely said a word”. Raphael gave the truth, a valid answer, albeit incomplete. The bearded man took Raphael’s bowl, the soup having been happily consumed and removed from its container.
He then asked, “What else do you know?” More direct, less chances to weasel through it. Raphael knew he knew something. The woman was a vampire, or at least fit the folktales he had heard before. Her resilience and power would dwarf any person she came across, though she was bound by the dark, lest she begin to burn in the light. This information was valuable, though only a preliminary assessment, it showed the vampire was powerful but hindered. Though the most terrifying part was her hunger, her need to consume. There was no need to fear a tempered man with power, but a beast without restraint is the most dangerous of all.
And yet, Raphael lived. She had not killed him. She agreed to his terms, and held her fangs, albeit somewhat. Could she be trusted, at least negotiated with? How could she be trusted, when she clearly wasn’t here? Raphael asked in turn, “Not much aside from what I’ve said. Do you know where the woman went?” Raphael still was unsure of the events that transpired, nor the bearded man’s name. Though manners were important, Raphael’s concern of the vampire took precedence over etiquette.
The bearded shrugged and sighed, “I don’t know, she went to take a look at you when you fell, and ran like the wind into the woods, that’s all I know, it’s been a few days since”. Raphael had doubts over the vampire being concerned for his safety. But what was more doubtful was his odds of living. She could have killed him, and likely anyone nearby had they tried to stop her. And yet she left.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDd900gaTnp
“When did I get here, midday or night?” Raphael clutched his head; there was no injury nor pain there as he looked at the man. “It was about midnight. You were only spotted because Sasha had placed torches out.” Raphael spotted a young girl behind the bearded man, giving a curt way that Raphael reciprocated. A daughter or family member perhaps, her deeds were fortunate indeed. Though that meant the vampire had more than enough opportunity, but didn’t take any.
The questions remained, and grew. The vampire had nothing to hold her back, but why leave anyways? Either she didn’t want to stay or found a reason to go.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOvgO9z2bd2
Raphael shook his head, those could wait. The time since then and now was too much opportunity for the vampire to act unabated. If she attacked anyone since….
“Pardon me, I’m still struggling a bit” Raphael said as he sat himself up, noting his clothes were kept as is over the days he slept. He thanked his fortune, keeping his shirt tight to his chest. “My name is Raphael, if I may be so kind to ask of yours?” He said in a natural tone. The bearded man appeared taken aback.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjzTQs4yShY
“I’m Dragomir. You sure you don’t know anything else?” The bearded man introduced himself as such, and the question remained. Raphael thought rapidly. The vampire was still out there, and he knew nothing else about the situation. Dragomir seemed ordinary, not trustworthy, but not an enemy. Without information, hasty actions lead to swift failures. Raphael’s words caught in his throat. The vampire must be dealt with. But can he relinquish his knowledge? If people from Zori knew, they may seek revenge, costing themselves far too much to do so. To leave her alone would cost more in the future.
The slow pulse of rhythm continued to beat. “Unfortunately, I can’t say I know more than that.” Raphael sighed before smiling. “It would be discourteous of me to rest with repayment. May I repay your kindness with coin or favor?”
Dragomir straightened himself out, “If you have coin, I won’t say no. Otherwise, figure something out, you cost me good soup.” Raphael noted this, as his body fell back down onto the makeshift hay bed. His eyes remained open long enough to Dragomir take little Sasha elsewhere, just in time to see him slap her hand from peering into his satchel. A stern father, not a bad one………
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She waited. And waited. Moving, and waiting. Sniffing for food, lunging and eating. Not good enough. Not right. Small creatures were plentiful, but not enough. The humans were plentiful. She was strong. But they were many. They could hurt. How they hurt? She didn’t know.
The vampire stalked along the woodline, seeing the buildings in dusklight. She could enter soon, find blood. But she waited. Why did she wait?
They were many. She was strong. She could take them all. She took the animals. They were easy, the blood was quick if they were silent. Eat. Need. Blood. More. The hunger had returned. It was lesser, after her meal in the flames. But it had returned now. It was great. Need. More. She needed more. Where to get more.
In humans. Blood in them. Good. Better. Best. Need. MORE. Why wait? WHY WAIT?
She stopped herself. She could have had more. The human was dead. He fell. He said nothing. She could eat. She tried to eat. She looked at her prey. She gazed at his neck. She saw his face. She saw him.
She ran. She ran, and ran, and ran. Why? Wanted. Eat. Need. More. Couldn’t. Shouldn’t. Wouldn’t. Why? What? Need. MORE.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0WDqV41J2F
She waited again. Sucking blood from a rodent, she crushed the carcass in her hand. Wasn’t enough. Need, more. That human was best. Why run, more humans, more better. More blood, more……More.
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Walking after days of slumber wasn’t the worst trek he’s had in the last week. At least that’s what Raphael told himself. Dragomir was insistent on accepting money and nothing else after some deliberation, though given Raphael could hear arguments with a woman, Dragomir’s wife likely had something to say in that regard. The deer carcass he and the vampire managed to save was already pilfered and used to alleviate any costs, judging by the particular new fur scarf little Sasha had on her. Without much else to offer aside, Raphael paid the man a small sum and left.
“Make sure Sasha bathes well and often.” He spoke without ill intent, only noting the patches on Sasha’s skin, likely a mild infection. From his experience, even a child could overcome it in time, though whether Dragomir took his advice is currently beyond him. Attempts to convince others about changing their behaviors for their health was a fool’s errand, but Raphael considered himself a fool all the same.
Now in the town proper, he looked at the central square of Răscruce, the town where found himself in. From what he learned from Dragomir, it’s an intersection of many trails across this part of Europe. Given the sights present, the description held truth. Various people came and went in the busy streets. Smells of horses present as people moved with haste or stayed for rest. The air was thick of sweat and exotic scents, and sounds of voices mixed and pulsed like rapid drums. Not all too unpleasant.
Raphael noted people begging along the streets. Those down on their luck weren’t uncommon, especially not from his travels, and more so for a busy town like this. But the quantity was concerning. He saw a woman wearing a nice gown with her hands out, pleading with tears in her eyes for coin. Her hands, though muddied and coated in dirt, were soft, likely not been used for manual labor. Raphael sighed. One could only hope that she either deserved misfortune or would be blessed soon enough, the alternative was too saddening to consider.
From seeing the beggars’ movements, he followed their trails, until finding himself on another edge of town. A large ramshackle wooden building presented itself, judging by the construction, it was put up quickly and recently. Raphael noted despite the apparent recency, the construction was quite particular, likely able to be amended later. Most likely scenario, this was the building housing the Zori refugees. If not, then perhaps someone’s attempt at experimental construction. He stepped inside, his hypothesis sadly confirmed. The place was packed with people, the scent being as harsh, though nowhere near as much as the gazes of the downtrodden.
Raphael spoke, his tone calmed and professional. “I am assuming you all are from Zori?” The stares confirmed his suspicion, but it wasn’t a great approach to conversation.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe6lLtpH7Ac
One man spoke in the back “Aye, we are. Come to take pity on us, or laugh in our faces?” Raphael understood the context. They were down on their luck and their prides were damaged. Careful speech held paramount with heightened emotions.
“Far from it. I also came from Zori, just barely made it here alive.” Raphael keeps a relaxed posture, dropping his shoulders slightly. “I also don’t have a place to stay, and I wanted to know if anyone else made it.”
The same man spoke up, “Well, piss off then, we got enough as it is.” No one else spoke up against him. The air of sadness held heavy, as Raphael knew they needed some time.
“Very well. If you ever need any help, come and find me, and I will do what I can.” An offer of free assistance to be left on the table. Not to insult, merely to present should anyone accept it. Raphael turned to leave, as the silence was cut.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcbwjLsc2Me
“Wait a second. I remember you. You came in the day it burned down.” A man, slumped over in the corner, looked up towards Raphael. He stumbled upwards, tired perhaps, and made his way to Raphael.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsEaDUE9ykq
“That is true. I was only hoping to stay for a day or two, but that was cut short. Raphael observed the man. The movements were sluggish, not debilitated, but hindered. Exhaustion from hunger maybe. The man approached Raphel to his face. The scent from his mouth was ever so slight, but enough to reveal intoxication. Likely only if someone was as unnervingly close would anyone tell. Raphael observed where the man was sitting previously. There was a large coat that was being used to cover his sitting. Though a slight stretch of the fabric, pulling down from being propped from something underneath, was a telltale sign of a bottle. How disappointing.
Raphael breathed in through his mouth, and twitched his fingers. Too slow. This man seems confrontational, better to dissuade him. His own body likely wouldn’t be able to handle any exertion currently. “Shall I leave you to it then?”
“Na, Nah, Na-uh. How come you come in and everything goes ta shit?” The man certainly lacked subtlety. Given the state of the large room, no one wanted to do anything about it, the exhaustion overruled a sense of harmony.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL6nGs686lj
“Purely sheer misfortune. I certainly did not want a town to burn down when I arrived, but it happened all the same.” Raphael stated the truth, keeping the tone slightly jovial. This seems to not be the best idea, given the drunken man swung his fist towards him. It was slow, as Raphael shifted his back leg and turned to the side, the fist cutting against his forehead, drawing blood. Raphel looked at the drunken man, his posture left his back exposed. Raphael pulled his foot up slightly to kick the man down, only to see the man get kicked down anyway.
“How about you don’t try anything in here, I’m not done with it yet.” Raphael turned to spot a young man, lean build, dark hair, with freckles dotting his face, holding what appeared to be planks of wood and an apron of tools. The drunken man lied on the floor, clutched his shin, as the standing man spoke again. “For crying out loud, you could pitch in more.” He turned towards Raphael. “I’m guessing you’re new in town?”
Raphael exhaled with relief, “Indeed, though it gets worse I’m afraid.”
The new individual shrugged, “From what I’ve heard so far, it’ll take more to surprise me”. Raphael said nothing more, lest word of the vampire tumble out. Noting the tense atmosphere, he made his exit, “If you’ll excuse me.”
The other man spoke, “Hold up there. At least give me your name, it’s hard enough to keep track of all the new people, give me something to work with here.”
Raphael noted the insistence. Such eagerness should be rewarded. “I am Raphael. Pleasure to make your acquaintance”, as he offered his hand.
The man returned in kind, “The name’s Jan Nemes. Likewise.” Having a family name meant either money or position. For him to share it so easily, yet appear as a carpenter, was either a sign of humility or hard times. Or perhaps emulating the path of Christ, but there was no way to know. “I’m guessing you don’t got anywhere else to stay, from what I saw?”
Raphael responded succinctly, “That is correct. I’m able to work, but I only plan to save up before heading out. So, I’m fine with wherever is available.”
Jan notes the offer, “Welp, know your way around some tools? I got work to do and not enough time to do it.”
“I’m adequate, so long as it helps.”
“Perfect, come on then.” Jan donned his apron before shoving wood in Raphael’s arms, “I gotta fix up the roof before sunset. Just help nail down where I tell you, and I’ll help ya find another place to stay. Deal?”
Raphael held no objections. Jan brought over a ladder and began measuring and cutting his wood as he went. Raphael could hardly keep up; the impressive display of skill showed a professional quality and aptitude. However, his exhaustion left him unable to intervene once Jan increased his rhythm.
After an hour, the two men looked upon the newly constructed roof amendments and additions, with pride and confusion. The roof appeared to have a large basin-like structure on it, which connected to a wooden piping system towards a bucket on the ground. It left something to be desired in aesthetic appeal if any was to be had in such conditions.
Raphael asked mildly, “Pardon my asking, but what exactly was your plan in this design?”
Jan replied with a grin on his face, “The idea was to collect water in a large area, since the wells here aren’t that great, and especially with refugees, we need a lot more water. So, any water collected will go into the bucket for anyone to use.”
Raphael noted the eagerness in which the intention was conveyed. “However, it is entirely dependent on their being rainwater. Likewise, the amount of rain could vary from storm to storm,” as he pointed to the bucket, “and which might not be enough and could just easily overflow and not be usable.”
Jan’s smile cracked, as Raphael continued, “likewise, should the water sit on the roof, it could degrade the roof over time, causing the ceiling to collapse.” Jan’s grin faded as Raphael couldn’t help himself. He noted the actual construction. The design was short-sighted, but the craftsmanship was excellent, noting the roof looked like it could withstand the additions to it, without any gaps for rain. Additional water on top however, would remain to be seen to the roof’s permeability.
Raphael noted Jan’s displeasure, saying “But it's a decent start for now, perhaps more additions in time, if you have the time.” Jan lifted his head and sighed, “Yeah, I get rather carried away. I’ll figure it out later.” Picking up his tools, he waved his hand forward. “Well, a deal’s a deal. Come on, left you find you something.”
Generosity and principles were not strangers nor unwelcome. Raphael followed along to hopefully find rest, the work bearing on his body weighed nothing compared to the knowledge on his mind.
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More. More. Always more.
The vampire stalked and waited. So many people, so many eyes. A wooden structure with a weirder shape than the rest had people. The life. The blood. The warmth. It was right there.
Too many eyes. She was strong. She could take. Why not? Why afraid? She moved more, encircling form the edge. But not moving forward. Why not? Why. She did not know. Would it hurt?
It would hurt.
Why?
Because.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7uSrp06FXn
Why?
Humans would make the hurt?
Why?
No knowing.
How?
No knowing.
Too much trying to ask. The hunger grew. The animals were still plenty. But the feast was there. How many? Don’t know. Too much mixed, too close. Murky. And sweet smell. She did not like it. Weak humans. Easy. Smell was bad, but easy. They stayed inside. Seemed lesser in amount than before. Probably didn’t mean much.
She growled. Where was the human? He was good. She needed more. He had more. He was dead. Was he dead? He saw her. Not dead. Still fresh. Where?
The vampire’s head hurt too much. She watched and waited. She sniffed the air, as the sun set. The shadows grew, her smile widened. But she did not move closer. Why?6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3YwJkdQcaS
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Raphael followed Jan, their heads hanging low. What little refuge was present in Răscruce was taken or unwilling to take more. Raphael thanked Jan each time, Jan each time offered condolences. Jan sat for a bit, sharing a slim piece of bread, before beckoning Raphale to follow him.
“I don’t suppose your home has vacancies?” Raphael asked to lighten the mood.
Jan sighed, “Can’t say it does. Father was particular about a set amount of people, and even then, we can’t afford what little we’ve taken on already.”
They continue onward, ignoring looks for the busy people, with Jan stopping to assist those he can, and Raphael offering to lend aid in turn. The trip’s many detours pushed the sun westward, as Jan asked, “All the different stories about what happened in Zori still have me confused. I’ve heard monsters, witches, the work of the Devil and a foreign attack just to spite them. What was your experience with it?”
Raphael coyly laughed, “I’m afraid I ran the moment the fire’s started. I didn’t wish to be burnt like a forgotten jerky.” His blood stilled as his pulse quickened.
“Really? I had heard from some people about some monster, and that some foreigner lured it into the fire while everyone else got away. It’s quite the story.”
Raphael noted Jan’s notice. “I suppose that would prove to be more entertaining a tale than just running for one’s life. Perhaps you could find a calling as a bard?”
Jan grinned and said, “I certainly can hold a tune, but I’m certain my current occupation has my future covered. Someone’s going to need something fixed no matter what. Speaking of,” Jan points towards Raphael’s forearm, noting the bandages under the long sleeves, “Did you cut yourself on the way here? Clever enough and prepared enough to patch yourself on your own.”
Raphael would nod, “Indeed I did.”
Jan continued. “So, you are Raphael, a foreign man clever enough to keep himself alive, willing to aid others, and seen enough fights to try and take on that drunk without issue? I do believe that makes you the mystery man of the hour of Zori”. Jan spoke with a cheshire grin on his face, playfully announcing his inference.
Though incomplete and lacking the more interesting parts of what happened that night, Raphael put his hands up, “I confess, I did not think I would survive that night. Making myself bait was ultimately foolish, though I consider myself fortunate regardless.”
Jan smiles, relishing the victory, as his questions persisted. “What happened after this creature chased you? What was it?”
Raphael was stunned by the rapidity of inquiries. “I do not know what it was, but it appeared like a large pig, at least that is the closest approximation I can offer. As for what happened,” He paused, “I ran until it caught fire, and kept running until it stopped burning.”
Jan listened eagerly, without much focus elsewhere. “So, did it just burn away, that’s it. I don’t suppose it smelled like cooked pork.”
Raphael laughed, “My nose was full of smoke. I could not discern between a baked good to a barnyard,” before placing his hand on his chin, “Though, when it died, it, there was something in it.” Raphael recalled the sight, the vampire’s clutching on the object out of his vision in mind. “It was a gemstone, very large. The flesh was, pulled into it.”
Raphael’s contemplation was cut short by Jan’s patting on the back. “Well, keep that for stories around a fire, I’m sure someone will like it”.
That night still made itself present in his mind, the heat and panic weighing down his mind and body. The aftermath of which still tore at him, following the dirt path out of town, much like his feet did in this moment. And then the vampire finding him, but before then-
Raphael spoke, asking “By chance, are you aware if a Sister Clara from the church in Zori made it here. I met her the day of the incident and passed by her on the way out, I don’t know if she is well.”
Jan stopped to ponder while his legs kept going. “I know some refugees said they were from the church. If I had to guess, I would check the church here in town, I dunno right now.”
Better than nothing. Considering the events that befell Zori, it would be best to make sure to assess other’s safety. As well, she’s the only one who saw the vampire and recognized it as such. Perhaps she would know more, and how to deal with it. Asking the church for aid was less than ideal, but so were the present circumstances.
“Of course, given the amount of people praying for salvation right about now, your odds of actually getting anything from there are pretty low. I’d ask around, if I wasn’t busy enough as is.” Jan made his point clear, as Raphael sighed. Nothing would be easy. Never was, never will be.
“Nevertheless, I appreciate the information.” Raphael said truly.
“It’s what I do. And….here we are.” Raphael saw his current destination and potential resting spot. A worn-down house, looked to be suited for a small family, isolated from others but functional. But it was not in use by appearances, with a small avian skull laying upside outside. Raphael observed the premises, dust on some of the windows, likely a poor household.
“I do not believe in curses and the like,” though that felt rough to say compared to over a week ago, “So I suppose there is a reason for the sudden vacancy?”
Jan sighed, “I should warn you. The family that lived here, they, were all claimed by the plague.” Raphael kept silent, the memory of the people past and their fates were not to be disrespected. “It’s the only place around that’s available. I couldn’t think of anywhere else to go, so, I dunno.”
Raphael looked over the house. The elements were kind to it, there was a path in the back that connected to fresh water, and plenty of functional utilities present. The interior remained a mystery however. “This will do. Thank you for your assistance Jan.”
Jan’s eyes widened. “You’d live in a plague house? You get sick too.”
Raphael paid him no mind. “I will manage. Thank you once again, I will tend it myself.” He went ahead and walked in, as Jan dared not enter before returning before dusk bathed in him under a golden veil.
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Raphael placed the small blanket onto the fire, as it ignited in moments. The smell was unpleasant but a necessary evil.
Having inspected the house’s interior, it could be described as quaint, if not saddening. Stains of blood and pus could be seen on various objects and the floor. What little clothing and furniture present were likewise contaminated. Without hesitation, Raphael got to work gathering what objects could be salvaged and what should be destroyed. Anything that could spread the plague were not to be overlooked, as he readied and tossed a knife into a nearby rat. It died instantly, after which Raphael retrieved his weapon and tossed the carcass into the nearby fire. They were likely the source of the plague. He hadn’t believed it before, but Vitus had taught him as such, given the evidence he acquired.
The likely scenario of the family’s fate, given the signs of dragging objects through dust and footsteps mixed with paired lines about a foot apart each, was obvious. Raphael said nothing as he worked. Memories of those before him were lost, and no prayer from him could offer comfort. Sentiments and condolences would have to suffice, as he called it a very long day.
Raphael laid onto the old bedding. Washing it took more hours than he had hoped, but the effort made relief sweeter. He had some food from Dragomir, and had enough coin saved up to purchase more in town. But his hunger spoke through his gut, as he nibbled away. The house was small, the room was musty, the story it held was grim and unfortunately common. Altogether, an adequate place to stay.
Dusk soon left, leaving the view of the stars through the wooden window. There was joy to be had after the nights in the woods, and gratitude for the deeds of others. Truly, man may be foolish but kind. Raphael smiled.
Where was the vampire?
Raphael’s blood ran cold. His relief weakened his ignorance, and the question remained unanswered. Where was she? It had been days. No immediate signs of her activity were obvious in town. Was she waiting? Was she planning? Was she blending in with the refugees?
Worst case scenarios raced and unfolded. Raphael jolted upwards, the hypotheticals becoming absurd and alarming. He knew nothing. The nescience was the mother of fear, and the birth of the dark emotion could not be denied.
Raphael’s exhaustion dictated his body. If she was active, she had yet to do anything. The only hope was her continued inaction for now. He would have to search for her somehow, as undesirable as that may be. That and secure funds for the future and his stay here. And gathering info from any of the refugees. And also remembering to thank Jan once again, and…..
Slumber overtook him, mercifully suspending the quandaries for one more night.
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The night grew warmer, the sky fading from the safe blackness to the insipid red that would give way to blue. She ran, finding her sanctuary. A large tree, it’s base hollow but secure. A large yet small creature occupied it before, but she ate it to take its place. It was too frightened to attack, and her meal was swift. She would wait. The sun made pain. The humans could make pain. The sun always made pain. She could not hide.
Need. More. Pain or hunger. A choice. Choice? An instinct. Nothing more. Hunger was eternal. Pain could kill. Hunger needed more. She would get more. When the dark returned, she would get more. Somehow. She wanted the humans. She did not want pain. She wanted. And waited. And wanted. And waited. And…..
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Three days of trial. Three nights of failures. There wasn’t much else that could help Raphael’s mood. He had offered his services wherever possible. Having adequate yet varied skillsets made for likely work, albeit poorly paid. His hands were sore from hammering nails, his arms weary from carrying loads of hay, and his heart tired from aiding the undertaker. The old man seemed perturbed by Raphael’s nonchalance, but Raphael wouldn’t call it that. Rather a grim acceptance of everyone’s eventual end.
Each night, he would ask around along the edges of town for anything people’ might’ve seen. He listened to tall tales, from orbs of light that would kill, to invisible men stalking the innocent, to sightings of the dead rising and walking in the woods. They seemed preposterous to anyone else, but Raphael listened nonetheless. None had a strong enough similarity to what he had seen, and thus weren’t useful to him.
With no new information, he tried taking some rat corpses and spreading them in the woods around town. But the bait remained unclaimed, or worse, taken by the woodland scavengers eager to accept any easy meal.
The fourth day came once again. Raphael saw to looking over injuries and aiding those who could not be attended to at the church in an impromptu clinic, likely built in a hurry by Jan as well, given the unorthodox construction. The crowd of misery that dwelt outside was a sad sight, but only naked what lay before him worse by comparison.
A young woman explained her problem, she had been suffering from bleeding more than normal on her monthly basis, judging by the dirty and discarded clothes she brought to show. Ignoring the unnecessary and rather unhygienic clothing, Raphael pondered his answer. He admitted his study and experience was limited, but remained professional. Given he lacked further information, even from an examination, he figured it best to recommend sticking to a hearty diet and trying to keep her body resting. Whatever natural means to induce more coagulation seemed best. Lacking information and means was mortifying, but more so regretful, as leaving a problem untreated and questions unanswered did nothing to help Raphael’s conundrum. The woman thanked him all the same, as Raphael gave a practiced smile.
The day came to a close, as Jan sat next to him of the ground outside a barn he had just finished. “Any luck there, Sir physician?”
Raphael held his head back, “In what avenue of worry do you mean?”
“Work, I suppose. You said you wouldn’t be sticking around forever. Plus, I’m surprised you’re fine living in that house.”
Raphael waved it off, “I’m managing. Just,” He stopped himself to choose very particular wording, ”Having trouble finding something.”
Jan looked with curiosity, “How so? Did you lose something?”
Raphael noted the technically correct question, “Well, at the house, I think there is an animal that keeps coming by, I’m trying to figure out where it is and where’s it’s hiding,” The lie was half-true, the animal in question was somewhere, a complete mystery at that.
Jan asked, “Did you use bait?”
Raphael says, “I know it likes meat,” Tangentially true, “But none of my attempts have worked so far. I’ve done hunting before, but this is beyond the regular affairs of nature’s beasts” Completely true.
Jan thinks for a moment, and makes a proposal, “Well, if there’s anything I know, it’s making things work regardless. How about this, you take bits of your bait, spread them out and see which ones get taken. After that, repeat the process, but slowly remove the baits that aren’t being taken. Isolate where it’s coming from, then move the baits to where you want it to go.” He spoke proudly and confidently, “Even animals can follow a pattern, just aren’t clever about it”.
The idea springs true, as Raphael could think of the perfect bait. “Jan, thank you very much.” He immediately headed back to the impromptu clinic, and gingerly grabbed the discarded bloody clothing.
As night fell, he walked along the woodline, ripping apart pieces of the clothes, making rags that carried the scent. He tied them to trees, deliberately so that they would not be found by the townspeople easily, but also to fall off with the slightest bit of force or tug. He encircled the town, doing what he could, as he waited for the next day’s findings.
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A scent that was familiar and enticing enthralled the vampire. She felt it travel in the slow wind, but it was enough to signal the time to move. She ran, running and running, creeping for prey no longer a concern.
She continued, moving and running, as the scent led her to a tree. Buildings could be seen past the treeline. They had people. They had the blood. The warmth. The nectar. But the scent was near. She stomped and followed, leading her to a tree, where the scent was there.
A rag was on the tree; the scent bare itself on it. She grabbed it, trying to take whatever drops she could find. But it was dry, nary a drop to quench the thirst.
More. NEED. MORE. She slashed at the tree, the frustrated fury leaving nail marks indistinguishable from an ordinary yet large beast. She would return to the haven in the tree, the hunger only growing evermore.
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After another tiring day of work, Raphael found two of the rags moved. Checking around the first one, there were signs of a squirrel or some other rodent having made a nest above, and likely pushed the rag off by chance. It was thankfully obvious, given the lack of signs of people. Though the area further into the woods seemed disturbed, signs of wildlife moving in a hurry was noted.
The second one however, was far more interesting. He found scratch marks and obvious footprints, not subtle, but certainly related to his quarry. He moved the remaining rags, making space in between the one the vampire likely took down and the others, leaving another just close enough for her to find. He then moved the rest to form a sequence, a chain to bring her where he wanted, just outside a large farmhouse near the edge of town.
Raphael bore no delusions. He had no chance of killing her as is. Perhaps she would be able, much less willing, to reaffirm their deal. He considered it a vain hope, but a hope nonetheless. Still, he carved and worked, the plans repeating in his head, as to what happens if and when he finds her.
Given the location of the farmhouse on the and the place where he was staying, he could try and either flee to the abandoned house, or make enough noise to alert whoever would be nearby. It was risky, it was foolish, but having a predator not realize they are walking upon a prepared prey might be enough to slay her. Unlikely, but still necessary. He brought forth the conversation pieces of vampires in passing as he worked previously, with many contradictory claims and stories coming forth. He heard more sightings of the dead walking the land, along with a new one from a spooked traveler. She had claimed to have seen a giant devil frog, with multiple eyes and a tongue that could ensnare a bull. The idea was mocked by others, though Raphael said nothing, for both courtesy and manners, and for believing such a thing could be possible. At least compared to what he thought not long ago.
Other than fleeing the daylight and feasting on people, nothing concrete about vampires revealed itself, though from unreliable sources, this was expected.
Raphael continued to sharpen impromptu stakes, his knives alone might not cut it, and given the vampire would be aware of them, having alternatives would be crucial. In the unlikely chance that he try and lure her in under the guise of civility, he could thrust at least a single stake into her, maybe enough to kill in the head or heart.
He shuddered at the thought. It was cruel, it was treacherous, it was too easy. He sharpened some more. He did not expect anything tonight, but the work persisted. It must. He must. Something must be done.
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The hunger must be feed. It must. She must. Something must be done.
The familiar scent had returned, as she followed it. She found more rags, with more of the dried nectar upon them. It was maddening, the denial of reprieve invoked insanity and rage, as she tore at a tree in frustration.
Why not? Why?
WHY?
WHY?
WHY?
WHY?
WHY?
WHY?
WHY?
She followed and tore, as she knew not why. Why not claim her reprieve? Why follow the scent, tantalizing and disappointing? She knew not why? She knew not why to ask. Why to think. Nor how. Nor anything.
The hunger persisted. Her legs wobbled, the pain tore like daggers into bone. Her fangs bit into her lips, the pain forcing her into action. She would find it. She would. She must. Something must be done.
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Raphael made note of the pattern. It seems the vampire has been definitely stalking around and following the path he laid for her. This would be the final stretch, with few of the rags left. The woods had an eerie feel to them compared to before. Whether the nerves of the impending encounter or something’s presence in the forest crept closer to town, was unclear. Raphael cared not to stay longer than necessary.
Gingerly gathering the rags up, he noted the blood was certainly no longer fresh. A bait without meaning was worthless. And the vampire already had a particular taste, as far as could be discerned. Raphael took his knife, making another horizontal cut on his forearm, dripping a few drops on each rag. If this did not suffice, then nothing would. His self-harm would hopefully be rewarded by success, though whether that success yields the results he wanted……
The thought would have to wait, the work must continue. He continued around, adding some of his blood onto the trees, not looking back, as young eyes observed curiously.
Walking further along and spreading the rest of the rags, Raphael chewed upon the last of the jerky from Dragomir. It had been a long week, and the taste had not changed. But he savored nonetheless. It felt heavier than before, in his hands and in his stomach. He walked forward, the sunsetting rays leaving his gaze, though his destination remained clear. He stood on the edge of the treeline, the dark woods bearing no light for him to gaze into. He painted his finger upon the closest bark, an effigy of offering for a carnivorous entity.
He sat and waited. His knives were ready, his stakes were hidden, his exits secured, his legs shaking, and his heart ever-beating. The green and brown had given way to black, as he stared into the void, wondering when something would return his gaze.
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The scent had returned. The vampire followed it again. It was fainter than before, from the same place she found them before, and then in a trail. She followed. The hunger persisted. IT was greater. More and more. More and mOre. MoRe. MORE.
Snarling fangs dripped blood from her mouth, the hunger tore away at her from within. Everything scratched and dug into her, her insides like rusty nails, her outsides threatening to rip themselves off of her. Her body did not change, but the hunger persisted. She could not see, the darkness was no enemy, but the mind focused not. She followed the scent, the desperation too much.
Why wait? Why not eat? The humans were there. She could eat. She must. She must. The humans had what she needed. The human-
The familiar scent graced her nostrils. The salivating elixir was fresh. She followed it, finding the nectar of life drying on the bark on a tree. She licked it, chewed on the bark, just to get more. It wasn’t enough, the tantalization only heightened the hunger. But she could smell more, there was more, there was more from the human.
The human was alive. He had to be. He would feed her. He would save her. She grinned, her teeth sharpening, as she ran to find her salvation.
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Raphael waited for his killer, the beast that lay in waiting. The night was her domain, and he knew too well his scenario’s likely ends. Thinking about it more would not help. Though it happened, the itch needed scratching, no matter how much he ignored it.
The plan was terrible. Though he estimated the vampire’s speed, he could not guarantee she might be able to outpace what she had displayed previously. As well, not telling anyone else about the plan and only resorting to alerting the nearby farmhouse was too reliant on faith, and his own life not being snuffed out immediately.
Hands covered his face. There was no way to dispute it. He had made a tremendous mistake. He sighed into his arms, as lamentations were all he could afford. The time of doom approached without estimation, only eventually certainty.
Regrets filled his mind as quickly as he breathed. Too many to count, not enough to forget. His goals appeared further off than before, though the blackness of night did not help clear his vision. Get to Bucharest. Become a real doctor. Die in a field in the middle of Transylvania. What a wonderfully stupid idea.
Was it worth it? Maybe. Maybe a single person he helped along the way might remember him, a kind stranger just passing by. Maybe it would amount to something. Probably not, but a single person, nay, a single act, can make things better. He did not pray, but he hoped more than before, that this was the case.
His hope was answered, as brush was heard but crushed underfoot. His introspection had cost his attention, as he gazed into the abyss. He saw nothing. There was sound, but of what, he knew not. Sweat pooled, blood flowed, and his vision faded and reformed with ever blink. The darkness remained still and calm. From within it,
A single blue eye. What could not, should not be seen stared back. The color sharper than what was known, the glare more intense than murder. It stared, as its holder left the blanket of the trees. Mangled gray hair, leathery skin, dirty and mismatched clothes, teeth all sharpened with purpose, and a grin of recognition and ecstasy. She had not changed in the slightest, and her hunger remained eternal.
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The human was there. He was alive. He did have more to give. More. More. More. More. More.More.More.More.More.More.More.More.More.More.More.More.More.More.
Stepping closer and closer, she moved slowly. She could not contain her hunger any More. She wished to leap, to claim her prize. The agony singed within, yet she did not press faster. Why? The food was there? The blood was ripe? Why? The human was there. He was there. Him.
Her steps slowed, the woodline was behind her as she crept ever forward, her presence revealed and daunting. Raphael’s fears were certainly coming true. Tormenting him with a slow gait, an explosive need likely contained only to play with her food. There were no alternatives. Do or die. He thought, his mind racing to catch the words that swam in his mind, whatever would temper the monster’s hunger.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9TO3vDIUJJ
“Do you need more blood?” Raphael would die in shame; such a question was unfathomably stupid. If she wasn’t, she wouldn't be here.
“MORE” Her words fell out of her mouth with the bloody drool that coated her fangs. The human was there; she paid no mind to his words. Understanding them was too difficult, and she knew not what he said. The hunger remained. It needed. More and more and “MORE”.
Raphael saw her repeat herself, her mind was already bestial, this confirmed it was even worse. He grabbed his knives, placing them getting onto the ground, the stakes still hidden on his back.
The human’s pointies were on the ground. They hurt. Pointy things hurt. He didn’t have them. He not hurt her? No hurt? More blood. More. He no hurt. More blood. The vampire’s mind faded faster and faster, as she approached.
Raphael’s heart gave way, as her breath ceased in his chest. The vampire was within striking distance now. The wind had stopped, the dark life in the woods was quiet. Only him and the monster face to face. His right arm moved towards his back, putting out his left as a diversion. The vampire grabbed and bit into it, as Raphael yelled in pain.
The human cried out, but it did not matter. More. More.
More.
More.
More.
More.
More.
More.
More.
More.
It was refreshing, rejuvenating. The hunger subsided for but a moment, before she had even More to fill herself. It was the first supper in a forever, as far as the hunger felt. She caught the gaze of the human, as the fear made way elsewhere.
Raphael knew something like this would happen. Gripping onto the stake, he focused himself and shifted his arm, the pain blinding him as he moved with instinct.
The vampire stopped, letting go of his arm and retracting her fangs. He had not revealed the stake yet, but she had relented. Why?
Why? Why stop? She caught the human, she could feed, she wasn’t full yet. Why? She moved with instinct. Do not take more. Do not. Fear? Why? What? How? My mind cleared dimly, as she wanted more, but did nothing.
Raphael was at a loss. The vampire had him dead to rights, but stopped. Clearly something was up, but he had no inkling as to what. She looked at him, the beast confused and bewildered. Raphael looked over his arm, the blood loss was already taking its toll, but given the familiar bites, he estimates he can manage for now. He spoke again, trying to perhaps have the monster follow his words. “You feed me. I feed you. Remember?”
The words again. Feeding. She wanted more. She was hungry. The human was there. He had more. He could get more. She could get him more. She could get more with him. She was hungry without him. More. More. More. “More. Hungry. Feed”.
He watched as she relent, as he saw her fangs dull and resemble human teeth, apart for the two notable fangs. She appeared to relent, as Raphael considered yelling in joy, but the blood loss and the need for secrecy prevented. He wrapped himself up using more bandages he had borrowed from town, and carefully walked along the treeline. The vampire followed, staring at him the entire time. He hoped he could make it to the house alive, but given the impossible seemed to have happened again, maybe it could become a trend.
The human walked away, as she followed. He had more. He would get more. She would get more. More. More. More. The thought of blood tantalized her, as she could have more. Just follow him and she would have more.
The walking continued, she had no sense of time. She sniffed the air, the blood from him ever delectable, ever vibrant. She sniffed more, the thought of more filled her head with euphoria. She sniffed again, a familiar scent, not from the human. More raw. More dense. More power. It called to her, as her grin grew wide without thought.
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Lungs burned with exhaustion and tightened with each inhale. Raphael ran as fast as his legs could take him, after the vampire suddenly sprinted further into the woods. Her eye shone with excitement, and that’s all he could gather before she disappeared from his sightline. Following sounds and footprints was all he could manage. In and out, out and in. He focused, timing his breath to the rhythm of his legs. The pain continued to tear at his chest, but it was balanced.
She ran as fast as she could manage, no breath entered her mouth, she had no need for it. Only more blood. More. There was more. So much MORE. She knew this to be true. Why? How? Doesn’t matter. It was hers; it had to be, it must be. Hers. She and she alone. Her feet pounded the earth with each step, caution and concern left in the wind still trying to keep pace as the air brushed her mangled hair. It did not matter. There was more. To return to her. She rounded around a large tree, spotting the source of more and then some. Truly, what a fortunate day.
Truly, what an unfortunate turn of events. Raphael had managed to just now make pace with the vampire after minutes of the most running he’s done in his life. He wheezed, not unfit by any means, but the vampire exceeded human parameters that he could conceive of. He turned past a large tree to spot the vampire’s quarry.
A series of bodies lay discarded, bones piercing through skin as the arms and torsos appeared bludgeoned. What appeared to be punctures marks covering wide berths covered the bodies from various angles. These people died in fear, and Raphael turned, seeing the source of the horror attacking the vampire in turn.
He could not fathom, but only observe, the large creature before him. What resembled a toad, from the nightmares of a child perhaps, leaped into the air, as its size was approximate that of the porcine perpetrator from Zori. Though it was slightly smaller, it shared resemblances and other features, such as the back being covered in eyes where ridges ought to be, as well as its maw being lined with rows of sharp teeth, not unlike the vampire’s. He watched as the vampire rushed towards it, narrowly sidestepping two large and barbed tongues that outstretched swiftly and violently. Both tongues impacted a nearby tree, shattering the wood with an explosive strike. The crater of the impact revealed a smaller cross section where the barb had struck, likely piercing past the initial strike an additional several centimeters.
The creature's means of attack were lethal. Raphael estimated, the puncture marks were from the teeth, the bludgeoning from the tongue. There was also a large crater impact present, which meant something fell from an incredible height. The likelihood of this creature sharing abilities given the basis of its appearance was evident. Raphael saw the vampire try to tear at the creature with her nails, as he saw the beast’s hind legs curl and release nigh-instantaneously.
“MOVE!” He screamed at the vampire. He ran to make shelter behind a new tree, spotting a group of eyes on the creature’s body gaze toward him mid-flight. The vampire was surprised, but tumbled out of the way. The air erupted, as the ground under Raphael shook, dropping him to his knees.
He saw the vampire move behind a tree, blood pooling and falling from her chest. The toad’s eyes now peered towards him. Without a second to guess, he leapt away, as the tree he was hiding behind became ensnared by the two tongues. IT was crushed as the tongues tightened rapidly, the vice-grip releasing upon its destruction. The toad continued to look, the many eyes not changing its target.
The vampire bled. It hurt. IT HURT. She stayed away from the humans. But it still hurt. This thing had more. She wanted more. She needed more. It had what she wanted. What she needed. What must return. Reclaim.
She did not think. She knew not how. The human had yelled. She had stumbled, but the thing didn’t crush her underneath itself. The human was useful. So very useful. He would help her reclaim. She would have what was hers.6Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡynYDlgBZCM
Raphael wanted no part in this, but his compliance remained irrelevant, lest he let himself be killed by the toad. He sprinted towards another tree, the eyes keeping watch over him the entire time. From his periphery, he saw a large boulder covered in moss. It might serve as better cover than the trees. At least that was the plan. Pushing off the ground, his knees threatened to buckle from the sudden force. Diving behind it, his safety seemed assured. The air grew darker however, as he noticed the toad was not in the post from before. Raphael ran again, looking up to see the amphibian's underside just a few meters away from where he was as it descended, almost appearing normal aside from its size. The impact on the earth behind knocked him forward and prone. Looking back up, he could see the creature’s hind legs, as the eyes stared at him again.
Rolling on his back, Raphael rolled as the toad swung its tongues out trying to swipe him. His proximity to the earth saved him once again, with the tongues wrapping around the boulder instead. Raphael retreated once more. The vampire could not be seen from where he ran, but the sounds of fury made her participation in the battle a certainty.
She jumped at the toad, trying to get whatever blood she could. The skin was moist and thick, her nails either not piercing or just slipping off entirely. The toad jumped again, throwing the vampire off once more. She screeched; the blood was there. What was hers was there. She must reclaim. Her snarls ceased as the toad’s body appeared to grow larger. Her mind could sense the air brace for impact, as she jumped away. Landing on a tree, she spotted the toad leering at her once again. The toothy maw dripping with hunger, as the predators glared with hunger in their eyes.
Raphael noted the vampire’s complete lack of tactical decision making. She would attack the first thig she saw at the most immediate angle. At least it had it’s uses. The eyes on the toad’s back did not move toward his direction. At least he had time.
Observing the area, many of the trees were destroyed, leaving debris that would certainly make traversal difficult for anyone under normal circumstances. For the toad, merely going over them would allow ease of movement. It had a level of intellect, or at least experience with prey, that belied more dubious tactics. Raphael was familiar, and willing to reciprocate. He gathered what branches and debris he could fine, and sharpened what wood he found, cutting madly and reckless. Time was of the essence.
The vampire leapt off of the tree, the wood bending and shaking from the launch. She launched straight for the toad’s mouth, the rows of teeth nary a concern. What was hers was there. She would have it. She would return. The toad merely jumped again, caring only for verticality, as it began to descend once more. The vampire snarled and screeched, the prize evading her once again. She moved to evade once more, avoiding a tongue lashing just as the creature landed once more. The ground shook once again, each time more of the woodline threatened to crumble from the impacts of the titanous toad. She tried again, though the toad continued its jumping pattern. The vampire had no choice but to flee again, hiding behind another tree. The cover lessened each time, as the vampire repeated the tactic, without avail.
Insanity by repetition, as the vampire’s movements slowed more and more. The toad continued to try and strike, its maw curled upward ever slightly, or perhaps her eyes were fading on her. She thought she saw the human running about, saying something loudly, she did not know, but she could smell the warmth from his. His arm was cut, the blood dripped as she savored to have it. She looked to see the toad turn its attention towards him. Was the human giving his blood to this thing? NO. It was HERS. MINE. MORE. MINE. MORE. She lunged at the toad, there would be no competition, no one else to take her food. The toad merely leapt away, leaving her in its dust. She screamed and ran after it, as she saw it land just behind a large mossy boulder, as a roar echoed in the forest.
Raphael thanked his experience with woodcutting, as he managed to cobble together incredibly flimsy stakes and branches for the trap. Thankfully the vampire’s stubbornness offered enough time for him to set it up. He figured if this thing was similar to her, it would take the bait and not think about a trap, especially since its leaping strategy was overused. The toad’s arrogance landed itself a hearty amount of puncture wounds into its abdomen and right hind leg. The eyes glared at him, as the moonlight shone behind the creature thanks to the removal of the treeline. Raphael tossed his knives up, using them to focus the eyes on something else, as he jumped on the creature's back. It was slimy and his balance faltered every second. But it would do. Moreso after he pulled out one of the stakes he meant for the vampire, and impaled one of the eyes. The toad flailed, trying to toss him off. It tried to leap, but the damaged leg only threw it off balance. Raphael held onto the impaled stake like a piton in stone, a rather mucous and erratic stone. He pulled out the other stake he prepared with his left hand, and jabbed as many eyes as he could, popping them like bloody zits. The gore coated him in crimson, as the toad roared in pain. He heard a sound that echoed in the moonlit arena “JuSt. DiE!”
The voice coming from this beast unnerved him, the similarity to the pig creature seemed more prevalent, as the toad finally shook him off. The stake in the eye fell out, being destroyed and covered in too much fluid to be useful. However, the damage was done. Raphael laughed weakly, as the only sort of vision this creature had was on its front, as it should be. That did not stop it from flailing its barbed tongue around violently, crashing into whatever remaining obstacles was left.
The toad turned on its good leg, spinning with its tongues in a clockwise manner. The radius of the attack was far too massive, and no way to safely close the gap. Raphael ducked and ran every second, without any more cover, there was no escape from the beast. At best he could run, but it would not last, and leaving this thing may cause it to follow. He watched as the toad’s tongues grabbed onto the vampire, whose attempts to charge at it were foiled once again. It did not dodge however, rather it outstretched its tongues past her, wrapping around her before pulling her into its mouth, as the maw closed, the vampire no longer in sight.
She could taste it now. She could not move, her arms were restrained, but her piece was there. In the dark, she could see the stone, pieces of flesh and sinew stringed into it, as the warmth pulsed from within into the creature’s body, and the warmth returned to it. She would have it back. She need only grab it, and consume. Consume, and return.
Raphael saw the vampire get devoured. He caught a glimpse of the interior for bit a moment, spotting a large gem like the one he saw the vampire take in Zori, as well as the tongues retract with their prey ensnared. Raphael sprinted around, grabbing his knives back, as he went in to pierce the creature’s flesh. Though the attack landed, his knives only managed to cut a layer of blubber that meant nothing in terms of damage. The toad shifted its head back before slamming it sideways into Raphael’s torso. The air within his lungs left in a hurry, as bones threatened to puncture the now empty lungs.
Raphael tumbled on to debris laden ground, pieces of rock and wood either piercing his flesh or bruising him along the pain. The pain surged, his head pounded while his eyes were blurry enough to mistake the moon for a silver coin. He gathered his vision, seeing the toad hold no issue with likely constricting the vampire its mouth. She was her ally in this battle; the likelihood of success depended on her. Raphael grabbed his arm, tightening his grip onto his previous cut and raising it up again.
“OPEN WIDE!” He ran towards the toad, seeing the mouth open like he predicted. One of the tongues loosened from the grappled vampire and extended like a whip towards him. Raphael saw the pattern, side stepping it, as he ran faster. The tongue began to retract, as Raphael waited, and jumped onto the tongue, wrapping his legs around the barb as he entered the mouth.
She could not move. She was being crushed, as what was hers was there. Mine. More Mine. More. PAIN. Only instinct swam in her bleeding head, as she pushed her arms more and more. She felt the tension lessen for a moment, as she naked her left arm free. She tore at the tongue with her nails, drawing blood. She licked her fingers, the pain remained, but the rejuvenation was exhilarating. She tore more and more. She was thrown about, slamming into the sides of the chamber and the rows of teeth. The vampire was tossed into the human, his cent prevailed amongst the rank digestion within here.
“Can you kill this thing now?” He talked in a hurry. Kill. Yes. She will. She wants. She will kill. The human spoke again. “Do whatever you can then!” She knew not what he meant, there would only be her prize, as she reached out for it more, the endless rampaging tongues meant nothing. It was in reach.
Raphael figured she had no idea what he meant. But it was worth a try. She insisted on focusing on the gem that lie in the back of the toad’s throat. He could not see in the moment, the chaos in blackness throwing his sense of direction completely. What little he could see was from bits of moonlight peering in through the toad’s mouth as it tried to wrangle them. The malignant odor perforating the creature’s mouth entering Raphael’s own orifice, the thick, algae and decaying stench filling his throat and threatening to fill it until he choked.
Regardless of the atmosphere of evil he found himself in, Raphael was sat atop one of the tongues. Trying to relocate the vampire and the gem, he spotted them again for a moment. He let go of the barb, as the tongue tried to whip upwards and towards him. He shimmied off, moving away before shoving the bard with his shoulder into where the gem touched the flesh. The toad flailed harder, as Raphael pushed on it more and more, digging his knives into the flesh as well to get more and more leverage. He yelled in pain, his bones ready to break instead of this fiendish rock.
She saw the human, pushing her claim closer to her. He must be a good help; he is getting her what is hers. She flailed and slashed wherever she could, trying to reach out. More. More, More. She would return. It would be hers. She jumped off of the tongue below, grasping the edge of the gem. Her nails dug into the connective flesh, beckoning the bellowing of the toad’s pain. She dug her fingers in further, ripping and tearing until it was done. Her nails and the human’s pointed ripped apart the flesh, as it merely dangled limply. She had what was hers, her eye shone crimson.
Raphael thought he saw a glint of something beneath the long hair that obscured the vampire’s face. She held the gem in her hand as the tongues loosened and went limp. Raphael figured this to be a concise victory. The flesh the remained on the gem pulsed, as the body of the toad around them twisted, almost constricting in a manner. It pulled away, the moonlight shining upon them once more.
Raphael watched as the rest of the toad’s body grow smaller and compact, folding in upon itself, like laundry made compact, it was the only comparison he could think of. It continued, more and more, until the gem remained in the vampire’s hand, the flesh appearing have be made a part of it. He stared in horror at the thing. The vampire paid no mind, rather, she looked to be almost salivating. Was this what happened to the pig monster’s body? He could not recall in this moment, as the more pressing matter was the gem. He tried to speak, but his body could not mutter a sound. The vampire extended her jaws, her myriad fangs poised to devour, as she bit into it. The crunch of the stone broke the silence, as the vampire tore of chunk after chunk.
The gem was gone, as the vampire stood still, her eye seeming distant and lost.
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The air reeked of filth and decay. But there was blood to be found. Everywhere she looked, there were the vessels for her meals. Everyone she heard, the sounds of beating hearts echoed. Truly a feast like no other.
“KILL HER!” The voice commanded, fury and fear intertwined each word. She would drink from him too, but the meals in front of her were appetizing already. Creatures of all shapes and forms stood her before and their master. A large beast, with a maned head in front and a horned head on its back, glared at her. It’s tail extending out, coated in scales and with a mouth of its own, it bit into her. The pain dug into her, as she grabbed the tail with both hands, pulling in two directions. The tail tore apart, as the beast roared in pain.
She need not worry, these obstacles would feed her hunger regardless. The master was her goal. He thought himself equipped enough to kill her. It was never enough. The beasts charged, and she did so in kind. She curled her fingers, her fist landing blow after blow that would shatter a human without issue, for these things, it would take a bit more.
Continuing for far longer than she wanted, the beast would not relent. Her patience grew thin, the hunger grew larger, and her jaw grew outward. She leapt off of one of the monsters, landing on top of the human master. He yelled in fury, his words foreign to her ears. She cared not. There was the hunger, it ruled above all else. She glared as she opened wide, ready to taste her victory as she screamed. “JUST! DIE!”
The human had tried to stab her with a hidden knife but her speed eclipsed his. His neck tore easily, the old flesh simple enough to destroy. She drank it all, a reprieve from all the time he spent trying to end her. He was not the first, and nowhere near as close to others before him. Another meal down, it was over faster than she could enjoy.
The beasts ran wild, the master no longer in control of them. She smiled. She felt refreshed, and had more than enough time to feast again.
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Raphael thought he had seen such a thing before, though not to this extent. The vampire stood still, only small twitches occurred across her body. He saw the skin become flusher, and the hair darker in color but more vibrant in sheen and health. She resembled a middle-aged woman now, rather than the hag she seemed before. Considering when he first saw her, he thought she was an elder, more akin to a corpse, this confirmed a pattern. She was gaining youth, or perhaps an approximation of it.
The first of the strange gems he saw was also consumed by her, and he then saw he appear more rejuvenated as well. Perhaps there was more of these things to enhance her. If that was the case, how many more are out there? They seemed attached to monsters, somehow. The connection there was beyond his understanding.
But what he saw in front of him was his immediate concern. The blood that had left his body was too much to risk losing more, and his exhaustion threatened to let him go into the realm of sleep with nary a push. And the vampire was still there. It was regrettable she lived, but the alternative would not have been better. He watched, as her fingers curled into her palm, the nails digging in and drawing blood. She swung her arm, her fist colliding with the boulder that had served as a barrier against the toad. A cacophonous sound could be heard, and when Raphael saw where the fist had hit the rock, a small crater remained at the impact point.
The vampire turned to him, the blue eye staring at his tired body. Raphael thought of what to say. The questions circled in his mind, but his life needed to be secured. It was hard to think, his legs felt like they were made of leaves yet weighed like iron. His lungs burned while his heart froze further. A second passed. He could barely keep his eyelids from falling. Another second passed. The agony continued. He blinked on the third second, the darkness comforting him for an instance before the vampire was in his face.…….
It did not speak. The fangs remained sharp, while the blue eye was focused. “I-” He coughed trying to catch his breath. “I can’t give more”. He wasn’t sure if the words were from himself or his body. Both seemed applicable.
The vampire stared, before speaking, “Die. Will you?” The tone thick with blood, figuratively or literally, threatened to freeze his blood in its tracks. But looking at it once more, it was a question, not a command.
“I might.” Raphael squeezed his knees, pushing off them to stand straight. “Not here. Not here.” Conversation etiquette had left with any semblance of understanding he thought he had less than an hour ago.
“You. Not die. Feed me.” The vampire insisted, the words more strung together more fluidly than before.
Raphael stood up, the facade of authority was faulty, but he insisted. “I feed first. You had your fill.” Such reasoning was likely not to work, but getting it to do what he wanted would have to be a test of skill, and whether he could bluff hard enough.
The human was shaking. Was he afraid? Maybe. He looked weak. He told her to feed him. She thought. He was weak. When weak, eat. She wanted more. More. MORE. MORE. But-
The hunger dulled. She wanted more. The instinct demanded more. But the hunger slept. She felt this way before. But the hunger would return. He was there when it returned. He would feed her. If he was alive. He will live. She will feed.
“You. Live. Feed me later.” She spoke these words, as the human nodded his head, no more words came from his mouth. He slowly turned, heading elsewhere. She followed. His blood was weak. He would feed, and feed her. They walked. More and more. She thought. More than before, about before. She had followed him; she managed to feed. She was hungry for a long time. She wanted to feed from him. She was hungry even longer. But she has him again. She would feed. This was good. A smile formed on her stained lips, the moonlight kissing her with ecstasy as she imagined her next meal.
The human led her to a small house. House. It was a house. Where humans live. Where they sleep. He went inside and she followed. He said nothing else. She could hear his throat was weak. He would feed soon. If not, she would make him feed. But the hunger dulled. The night was still out, ready for more. But the human would rest. She would not let her food die.
Raphael had barely managed to make it back to the house. The stares of the vampire behind him had prevented the comfort of sleep from embracing him. Any ideas he had were thrown out with the bathwater, as he had not managed to kill it, and instead found evidence of another strange monster and other bizarre phenomena.
He lay down on the hay he had gathered for bedding. His mind could not rest, as the vampire’s continued gaze was felt despite his eyes remaining shut. Thoughts wandered to questions, a habit that served useful in the quiet, not as much when pretending to be calm. What was that monster? How did it come to be, where did that gem thing come from? Why was the vampire so focused on it, and how did it restore its body? What was the vampire’s goal, did it have any? What was it? Who was she? Why-
The darkness took his mind, and his breathing slowed. The vampire watched in silence, the moonlight through the window blessing her cold blue eye.
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