The Great Sages stepped out into the night, the heavy castle doors sealing shut behind them with a low, echoing thud. A cold breeze swept across the barren field, carrying that unmistakable metallic scent that forever lingered in the heart of vampire territory. In the distance, moonlight washed over the rows of stakes, their long shadows stretching across the dirt like dark, reaching fingers.
The castle loomed at their backs, a silent and watching beast. Vaelus crossed his arms, his jaw tight as irritation radiated off him like heat. "Man… every time we come here, he talks too damn much," he muttered.
Morvath let out a soft breath and placed a calming hand on the younger man's shoulder. "Relax, Vaelus. We're leaving soon."
"I know," Vaelus replied, his ears twitching with annoyance. "Still annoying."
Eiden stood a few steps ahead, his cloak shifting in the wind as he stared toward the dark horizon. The moonlight caught in his white hair and settled in his grey eyes, giving him a cold, reflective glow. Beside him, Selyndra rubbed her arms against the sudden chill.
"It's colder out here than I expected," she noted. Seraphaine nodded, her breath blooming in the air like pale smoke. "Vampire lands always feel like this. The air never settles."
Dravien's ears flicked as he tuned into 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 and exhaled deeply. "Good. I'm tired of surprises tonight."
The group fell into a quiet lull, the wind rustling their cloaks as the castle behind them pulsed with a faint, rhythmic red light, as if the stone itself were breathing. After a few minutes, the doors creaked open and Dinnes stepped out, walking briskly toward them with a large cloth bag held in a stiff, formal grip.
"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.
"I wish you all a safe journey," Dinnes added. "May the night treat you kindly." He turned and disappeared back behind the heavy doors.
Vaelus scoffed under his breath. "Finally. Let's get out of here."
Without waiting, he started down the road, still visibly annoyed. Morvath sighed, following after him. "Vaelus, slow down…"
The others exchanged glances and began to walk, leaving the vampire castle to the shadows as they headed back into the cold, moonlit wilderness.