The Great Sages stepped out into the night, the heavy castle doors closing behind them with a low, echoing thud. The cold breeze swept across the barren field, carrying the faint metallic scent that always lingered around vampire territory. Moonlight washed over the stakes in the distance, their long shadows stretching across the dirt like dark fingers.
They waited near the edge of the path, the castle looming behind them like a silent, watching beast.
Vaelus crossed his arms immediately, jaw tight, irritation radiating off him like heat. "Man… every time we come here, he talks too damn much," he muttered.
Morvath let out a soft breath, placing a calming hand on his shoulder. "Relax, Vaelus. We're leaving soon."
"I know," Vaelus said, ears twitching with annoyance. "Still annoying."
Eiden stood a few steps ahead, cloak shifting in the wind as he looked out toward the dark horizon. His expression was unreadable, but the moonlight caught in his white hair and grey eyes, giving him a cold, reflective glow.
Selyndra rubbed her arms against the chill. "It's colder out here than I expected…"
Seraphaine nodded, her breath visible in the air. "Vampire lands always feel like this. The air never settles."
Dravien's ears flicked as he listened to the distant night sounds. "At least there aren't any vampires stalking us right now. I'd hear them."
Iris stretched her arms above her head, exhaling. "Good. I'm tired of surprises tonight."
The group fell into a quiet lull, the wind brushing past them, rustling cloaks and hair. The castle behind them pulsed faintly with red light, as if breathing.
After a few minutes, the doors creaked open again.
Dinnes stepped out, walking briskly toward them with a large cloth bag in his hands. His posture was as stiff and formal as ever.
"Great Sages," he said with a small bow, "Lord Zeth sends his regards. Here are the dried meats for your journey."
He handed the bag to Morvath, who slung it over his shoulder with ease.
"Thank you," Morvath said.
Dinnes nodded once. "I wish you all a safe journey. May the night treat you kindly."
With that, he turned and walked back toward the castle, disappearing behind the heavy doors.
Vaelus scoffed under his breath. "Finally. Let's get out of here."
He started down the road without waiting for anyone else, still visibly annoyed.
Morvath sighed and followed after him. "Vaelus, slow down…"
The others exchanged glances, then began walking as well, leaving the vampire castle behind as they headed back into the cold, moonlit wilderness.