At the end of the harbour, Father Maxwell, adorned in his ceremonial robes, stood alongside Gabriel and a small entourage of priests. The sunlight glinted off Maxwell's glasses as he observed the approaching ship. A confident smile played on his lips, and he exchanged a few words with Gabriel.
As the Divine Crusader neared the docks, the crew swiftly executed the docking procedure. Grappling hooks were skillfully thrown to secure the ship to the pier, and the vessel glided into place under the command of the helmsman.
Once the ship was secured, Captain Tobias descended from the helm, his first mate Morgan at his side. A few of Tobias's men joined them as they made their way towards the pier where Father Maxwell and his retinue awaited.
Father Maxwell, upon seeing Captain Tobias, opened his arms wide in welcome. The two figures, one rugged and sea-worn, the other robed in ceremonial attire, greeted each other like old friends. Tobias clasped Maxwell in a hearty embrace, and they exchanged a few hearty laughs and words of camaraderie.
"Captain Tobias, it's been far too long," Maxwell said, his voice carrying an air of familiarity.
"Aye, Father Maxwell. The seas have been my home, but when duty calls I always answer.”
"We've had our share of troubles, my friend," Maxwell replied cryptically. "But we have matters to discuss. Walk with me, and I'll fill you in on the details. The Eternal Flame has work to do in Iron Harbour."
Father Maxwell led Captain Tobias through the doors of the church, and as they entered, the dim light filtered through stained glass windows, casting colourful patterns on the stone floor. The air was heavy with the scent of incense, and the quiet whispers of prayers lingered in the sacred space.
Tobias, despite his rough exterior, couldn't help but be impressed by the grandeur of the church. He ran a hand along the carved wooden pews as they walked. The question he posed to Maxwell hung in the air, and the priest responded with a thoughtful smile.
“I must say Maxwell, this place is not half bad, I must admit before docking here the town looked like a right shit hole, it had no redeeming qualities about this place. It always confused me why you even wanted this assignment? Everyone passed it up, the area is horrible, no real value here whatsoever, so tell me, why did you keep this assignment?”
"Captain Tobias, appearances can be deceiving. Iron Harbour might seem a humble town, but it sits upon a nexus of mystical energy. There are ancient forces at play here, and the Eternal Flame seeks to harness that power for a higher purpose," Maxwell explained cryptically.
He gestured around the church. "This place, once a mere reflection of its current self, has been transformed through faith and conviction. The people here needed guidance, purpose, and we've provided that. As for why I kept this assignment, sometimes it's not the obvious riches or strategic location that hold the greatest potential. There are things hidden beneath the surface, waiting to be uncovered."
Tobias arched an eyebrow, intrigued. "And what do you hope to uncover, Father?" “Power Tobias, simple power.”
“You want to harness the power from the very land itself?”
“Ofcourse, this would hold many secrets and there is power within the land itself, one just has to know where to look. With the power I hope to gather here, will help transcend us and we will be unstoppable. We will become gods themselves.” Maxwell lead Tobias to his room, he followed him willingly listening to him talk
“Showing me your room now? It's a nice room, a bit of the small side don't you think?
Maxwell walked over to the wall facing the left side of the door and placed a hand on one of the stones, he pushed it ever slightly and it moved it, there was a metallic sound and a second later the wall swung open, leading to a dark staircase leading deep down, far under the church.
“Oh, you really have been busy now haven't you.”
Maxwell chuckled, the echo of his amusement bouncing off the walls as he descended the hidden staircase, Tobias following suit. The air grew cooler as they went deeper underground. The narrow stone steps seemed to stretch endlessly until they reached a chamber bathed in an eerie, otherworldly light.
Tobias surveyed the underground chamber with a mix of awe and wariness. "You've built a whole secret lair under this church. Impressive. What's all this for?"
Maxwell walked to the centre of the room, where a large, ancient-looking pedestal stood. On it rested a book, bound in leather that seemed to pulse with a faint energy. The pages, though unremarkable at first glance, held a subtle, shifting luminescence.
"This, Captain Tobias, is a Grimoire ," Maxwell declared with reverence. "It contains ancient knowledge, spells, and incantations that tap into the very fabric of reality. With this, we can bend the forces of nature to our will."
Tobias eyed the book with a mixture of curiosity and caution. "And what's the catch? Power like this usually comes with a price."
Maxwell's gaze was unwavering. "The price is dedication, faith, and sacrifice. To wield the magic within this book, one must be willing to give everything for the cause. But the rewards, Captain, the rewards are beyond mortal imagination."
Tobias considered Maxwell's words, a calculating gleam in his eyes. “How did you come to lacrosse with such a book? I have known you for years, you never had it back then, no I am guessing it is only a recent thing you came across?”
Tobias raised an eyebrow. "Destiny, you say? What makes you so sure it's not just an old book with fancy writing?"
Maxwell chuckled, a sound that echoed through the underground chamber. "This book is no ordinary relic. It whispers secrets to those attuned to its magic, reveals pathways to power that defy the boundaries of the mundane. I was chosen to wield its might, to unlock the potential that lies within these pages."
“I did not take you for a sorcerer Maxwell, did not think you had an out of magic within your body.”
“As I said there is magic in the land, you just have to know where to look, but you are right Tobias, at first I could not use it, I lacked the knowledge and ability to do so, but that did not stop me, I heard what started happening within this town all those years ago so I can with my flock and built this church, in doing so I found this place buried underground. Here I could feel the power from within the book, as it spoke to me it told me secrets.”
“What did you learn my boy?” “How to conjure a Fade.”
Tobias's eyes widened with surprise. "A Fade? Those are nasty creatures, not to be trifled with. What in the blazes possessed you to summon one of those?"
Maxwell's expression remained calm, almost serene. "The Fade is a manifestation of pure magical energy. A formidable guardian, a weapon of unparalleled might. With
the Grimoire's guidance, I learned the ancient incantations to bring forth this creature. It obeys my will, loyal and unstoppable."
Tobias's scepticism returned. "Aye, it may obey for now, but creatures of that sort are tricky. They have a way of turning on their summoners."
Maxwell's eyes glinted with a fervent belief. “Not this one, you see, you may not understand how a Fade truly comes to life, it turns out it is a common misconception that a Fade is a creature of pure darkness but the truth of the matter is it comes from a place of trust and faith.” As Maxwell was contuniting his conversation Gabriel walked over interrupting them briefly.
“Ah Gabriel boy, you have been with Maxwell for many years now, what do you think of all this book power hocus pocus shit? Hmmm do you also believe in what he is saying.”
“I do Tobias, and I am rewarded because of it.” “Indeed you are my son.” replied Maxwell
“Oh how so?”
Maxwell turned to the book and placed one hand over the pages and they started glowing a light shade of purple, Maxwell spoke an unrecognisable language. Gabriel took a few steps back away from Tobias, he was confused and moments later Gabriel started to transform.
Gabriel's transformation was a grotesque spectacle. His body contorted and twisted, bones audibly cracking and reshaping. His limbs elongated, fingers turning into long, sinewy claws. The skin seemed to writhe, as if something beneath was pushing against the surface. Tobias could see the strain on Gabriel's face, a mask of agony and ecstasy, and yet, not a single scream escaped his lips.
The air in the chamber thickened with an otherworldly energy as Gabriel underwent the metamorphosis. Tobias could feel the pulse of magic in the room, a palpable force that seemed to respond to Maxwell's incantations. The purple glow intensified, casting eerie shadows on the walls.
As the transformation neared completion, Gabriel's features became more bestial. His eyes glowed with an unnatural white light, he stood, now resembling a creature born from the darkest corners of ancient myths.
Tobias, though taken aback by the unsettling sight, felt a mix of awe and trepidation. There was a power here, raw and untamed, and it emanated from Gabriel. It was a
transformation that defied the laws of nature, a fusion of man and something else, something both beautiful and terrifying.
Maxwell finally ceased his incantations, and the glow subsided. Gabriel, now transformed, stood there, a living embodiment of the magical forces Maxwell sought to control. The air in the chamber seemed charged, as if the very walls retained the echoes of the arcane ritual.
Maxwell turned to Tobias, his eyes alight with conviction. "You see, Captain, this is the power we harness. A power that transcends the limitations of the mortal coil. Gabriel is not a victim; he is a willing vessel, a testament to the heights we can reach with the Grimoire's guidance."
“Are you sure you can control it? And it is not controlling you?”
“But of course, we both want the same thing, and Gabriel is lending me his power, isn't that right Gabriel.” Maxwell gestured to the Fade standing tall only a few feet from them, the creature looked at him with soulless white eyes and turned to Tobias. Tobias felt unsure, he was ready to strike if it made any sudden movements, but to Tobias surprise, the Fade walked over and lowered its head in a bow.
“As you can see, Gabriel is still in full control of his new found powers, when we arrived here all these years ago, this town was pledged by some creature killing and eating its people, when I unlocked this power I had Gabriel hunt down and destroy it leaving no trace of it ever existing, not long after that Gabriel took on the role of predator, we used this opportunity to push a wedge into the heart of this Town bringing the people to are faith and we being the ganging hand and shield to protect them. And we have done so splendidly, everyone who came here seeking fame and fortune, saying they can rid this town of its evil Gabriel sort to it that they never saw the next sun rise, after many years people abandon this town and slowly we are taking control, there are only but a few obstacles left to deal with.”
Tobias folded his arms, still wary but intrigued. "You claim to have rid the town of its evils, but there are whispers of unrest. The people are on edge. What's your play here, Maxwell? What do you seek to achieve with this power?"
Maxwell's eyes gleamed with a fervour that bordered on fanaticism. "A new era, Captain. An era where the people of Iron Harbour embrace the truth of the Eternal Flame. The power we harness is a beacon, a light that will guide them to salvation. With each passing day, more hearts turn to us. We offer protection, purpose, and a destiny beyond the mundane."
Tobias uncrossed his arms, a sceptical expression on his face. "And what about those who resist? Those who see your light as a threat?"
Maxwell's gaze darkened, a shadow passing over his features. "Resistance is the song of the ignorant. But even in their defiance, there is potential. We will show them the truth, even if we must use the power we've harnessed to do so. Iron Harbour will be reborn, and those who stand against it will be swept away in the tide of inevitability."
Tobias smiled. “I must say, father you really do surprise me, I must admit I was not sure what to expect when I was asked to come here, as you asked for assistants, but what you believe we can do with this new power it beyond anything, and perhaps you are right we need to use the dark powers to help show the people the true light and power of are faith... but considering your new found power... why did you ask for me and my enforces? By the look of it, you can take control of this town with Gabriel alone, why ask for me?”
“As my report said, the Lord still hold power here and he has many friends, I am ashamed to say I have not been able to isolate him as much as I was hoping for, and now this Alucard, has caused us many problems, and now Sir Cedric and his lot have also come to town willing to help on behave of the capital, but I don't trust him, I believe he is working against us and not for us.”
“It sounds like you are making lots of friends, Father, why not just send Gabriel to go kill this Alucard, or whoever he is.”
Alucard is a hunter from the houses of old, he is from the Morgraine family line, and he has proven to be a very deadly peace in this game. I warned him he should leave this town or he will die here, and he ignored my warning. Gabriel was sent to kill him and even with the element of surprise he failed in his task, he killed two other soldiers of the Town watch and wounding there Captain Markus, in doing so, but Alucard was much more deadlier than I thought that was an oversight on my part, in doing so even as the Fade, Gabriel was almost killed and Alucard servired the attack and was placed under watch twenty four seven, Gabriel was to hurt to do anther transformation.”
Tobias listened intently, weighing Maxwell's words. "I see," Tobias said, his gaze narrowing with thought. "So, you need my men and me to deal with the obstacles you can't handle directly. Alucard Morgraine and Sir Cedric pose a threat, and you want them removed from the equation."
Maxwell nodded. "Exactly, Captain. Your reputation precedes you, and the Eternal Flame's presence must remain in the shadows. If we eliminate those who would stand against us discreetly, without drawing undue attention, Iron Harbour will be ours. Your methods are well-suited for such tasks."
Tobias leaned back on one of the pillars, a wry smile playing on his lips. "Well, Father, you've got yourself a deal. It's been too long since I've had a taste of real action, and the prospect of a new challenge is like a breath of fresh sea air. But let me make one thing clear - if this plan of yours goes south, if we're left exposed and the Eternal Flame decides to wash their hands of us, we'll be marked as rogue assets. No sanctuary, no allies, nowhere to run."
Maxwell nodded solemnly. "I understand the risks, Captain. The Eternal Flame values discretion, and failure is not an option. But rest assured, if you uphold your end of the bargain, the rewards will be beyond your wildest dreams."
Tobias chuckled. "I'm not one for dreams, Father, but I do enjoy a good gamble. Let's make sure the odds are in our favour. Now, tell me more about this Alucard Morgraine and Sir Cedric. I'll need to know what we're up against before we set our plans in motion."
Not much happened the rest of the day, Sir Cedric and his men walked the streets as nothing had happened, ensuring everyone they were safe and in good hands, he had his spy’s always watching Tobias and his men, including his first officer Morgan. Who really left the ship, or docks and when he did it was only to talk to some of the sailors and swap stories, he even chatted with some of Sir Cedric men as they passed by making small talk, and sharing a laugh. Many of the townsfolk felt uneasy with the large mass of soldiers piling into their small town, but everyone was pleasantly surprised with how well mannered everyone was, including Tobais and his men.
They all looked like they have seen hell itself and hundreds of battles, they looked like taking another person's life came easy to them and if spoken to in a disrespectful manner or look at them the wrong way they take your life, but that couldn't be more from the truth, they all helped and smiled the common people with daily tasks, taking shipments from the warehouse to the market place, helping by providing food for families who were struggling.
Markus was back at work, against the orders of the healers, he insisted he was fine and was getting back to work, he patrolled the streets with his soldiers, making sure there was no conflict that was happening under his watch, Markus was not a fan of the enforcer unite that Tobias and brought with him. They were a large group of around fifty - sixty soldiers all well armed and well trained, they had mostly taken up positions around the church itself, a few were left guarding The Divine Crusader. They had teams of 4 all walking in a control formation. Markus looked for openings for Alucard to give him any helping hand but everything was locked down, Air tight,
there was not a single opening he could find, he relayed the information to Alucard asking if he should call off his plan and rethink of another strategy, But Alucard refused and said it will all be fine.
Brok stayed at his force crafting and repairing old weapons and armour that was on a backlog list that had gotten out of hand after losing his Brother, but now he is moving forward, trying to keep busy and not to worry about Alucard and his plan.
As night fell onto the town, the shops started to close for the night, many tavern stayed open for the new arrivals taking the opportunity to make more money, everyone was more than willing to spend coins for good food and Ale.
The Black Cauldron was abuzz with activity, its patrons revelling in the merriment of the night. The air was thick with the scent of hearty meals and the lively hum of conversation. Despite the crowded atmosphere, Sir Cedric, Roland, and Thomas found a quiet corner where they could discuss their strategy discreetly.
Cedric took a sip of his ale, his eyes scanning the room for any sign of Tobias or his enforcers. The tension in the town was palpable, and the influx of armed men only added to the unease.
Roland leaned in, his voice low, "This situation is more delicate than I anticipated. Tobias seems disciplined, but I can't shake the feeling that there's more to their presence than what meets the eye."
Thomas nodded in agreement, "Agreed. I've been watching them closely. They're not here just for show. Tobias is calculating, and his men are well-trained. If things go south, we need to be prepared.”
“Markus reported that he and his men have walked around the Town for patrols, he said all he sees is a lot of the enforcers are outside the church itself, a few stayed on the ship and a few more guard it, but apart from that he is unsure, what worries him is he keeps seeing boxes and shipments being moved from the ship into the Church.”
“Perhaps it is provisions they are moving, more food to help resupply the town and its people” Said Sir Cedric
“I don't know but I don't like it.” Replied Thomas
Cedric pondered for a moment before speaking, "We still lack concrete proof that the Eternal Flame is behind the disturbances. We tread on thin ice here. If we confront them openly without evidence, it could lead to a conflict we're not ready for."
Roland added, "We can't ignore the reports and the peculiar happenings. But you're right, Sir Cedric. Blindly accusing Tobias and his men could make enemies we don't need right now."
Just as they were engrossed in their discussion, the door to The Black Cauldron swung open, and in walked Tobias with a few of his enforcers. The room hushed for a moment as the imposing figure made his way to the bar.
“Fear not my friends.” Said Sir Cedric as he glazed over towards Tobias and his men standing by the bar, “After they arrived here I sent a Raven to some old friends of ares, hopefully they answer the call.”
Roland let out a smile. “If it is, I think it is, this is going to be fun.” Sir Cedric did not say anything but merely smiled and drank.
Now that Night had come, the Town was shrouded in a thick blanket of darkness. Alucard moved like a shadow through the town. Dressed in dark, muted colours, he avoided the main thoroughfares, sticking to the narrow alleyways and dimly lit corners. His keen senses were alert, every step measured, every breath deliberate.
As he neared the church, Alucard noted the increased presence of Tobias's enforcers. Just as Markus warned him about. They were vigilant, a testament to their training, and Alucard couldn't help but feel a tinge of respect for their discipline. However, this would not stop him, nor would it slow him down.
Alucard reached the outskirts of the church grounds. The imposing structure loomed before him, its silhouette dark against the night sky. The enforcers had strategically positioned themselves, making any direct approach nearly impossible.
He pulled out a small vial from his belt—a potion, he poured the content on his hands, and began to speak, his hands started to glow with a misty black cloud, he placed his hands and the ground, the mist moved with great speed unseen by the naked eye, The cloud attacked itself to the guards and there eyes began to blacken, but they did not notes anything, the position was a powerful one, the content was unknown exposed to Alucard, the cloud blocked all vision the guards had but to them, they could still see unaware that Alucard was walking towards them, and within moments slipped by. The effects did not last long so Alucard had to move fast, he moved like the wind, closing the gap ever quickly. He was by one of the side doors, it was too risky going in the main entrance, this was the next best option.
The side door creaked open with deliberate slowness, Alucard slipping inside like a wraith. The interior of the church was vast and dimly lit by the flickering flames of candles. The occasional sound of footsteps echoed through the cavernous space as Tobias's enforcers patrolled their positions.
Alucard navigated through the shadows, sticking to the edges of the church. He moved from room to room, like a shadow, he found nothing. Alucard's ears caught the faint echo of voices. It seemed there were still priests present, likely attending to some night duties or rituals. He pressed forward, remaining silent as the grave. He moved to the second floor, but still all he found was the private chambers of the priests. He went to the end of the corridor, the last room, he opened it slowly, only a crack of light could be seen. The room was empty, he entered the room, but to find nothing of importance, only a small desk and a single bed, but he did see very large battle worn armour and a greatsword, resting next to the bed. This was Tobias' room he thought to himself, best not linger here. He left the room, closing the door behind him. He was at a loss, he could not find what he was looking for, but he knew it was here but where?.
He went back to the lower levels hiding from many of the priests and guards as they did there patrols, Alucard looked around more finding nothing, he found himself in a small kitchen area, a open fire was still hot, some food had been made some fresh bead still laying on the counter, half eaten. He looked around and saw nothing, he remembered seeing all day soldiers and sailors moving heavy boxes and crates from the ship into the church, but he had not seen anything like that, strange where could they be?
Alucard moved by to the ground floor, moving one with the shadows, he interred the main room, low candle light left a low glow, the room was empty, he looked around, nothing he looked at the altar where Maxwell was standing the last time they met, he walked over and there was a large book placed on the altar, he examined it. It had the same markings and patterns he saw the one Maxwell was holding, the front page was that of the logo of the Eternal Flame there holy bible, everything to do about their beliefs and religion as a whole, the same book Cedric had described to him the day before.
He opened the book and read a few lines, but nothing out of the ordinary, he shifted a few more pages, but still nothing, it was just a book. This was not what he was looking for. He closed the book, making sure he left it as he found it. It's not here he thought, was I wrong? I have looked all over this place and still, I find nothing. Alucard looked around for anything he might have missed, then he saw a door to the far light hand side of the altar, a single door, one he had not checked yet. As he was about to move the main door opened, without thinking he rushed towards the door opening it and closing it behind him, he peered through the cracks to see how entered, just a few enforcers talking with a young priest. He closed the door and
turned around. There he found himself in Father Maxwell's private quarters. No one was in, the bed still made, candle light flicked around him, Strange, it was late and yet I had barely seen anyone he thought.
He looked around the room, checking all the books stored around to see if anything was not what it seemed to be. As Alucard examined the room, he found nothing. Nothing that could point towards Maxwell or the Church being behind everything. Alucard looked around the room, and stopped on one of the candle lights, he stared at it for a moment, he watched it flicker and dance around, he looked at the others and they were still, but not this one. He walked over and placed his hand around the flame, and felt a small draft coming from the wall. Cleaver. He thought, he placed his hand to the smooth stone, and pushed slightly on each stone until he heard a metallic sound click and unlock. The stone door opened and there was the underground stairway leading deeper in.
The underground stairway descended into darkness. Alucard hesitated for a moment, considering the risks of venturing further into the unknown. Yet, he steeled himself and began the descent, his steps silent on the cold stone stairs. As he moved deeper into the hidden chambers beneath the church, he felt a shift in the air. The atmosphere grew heavier, and a faint, ominous hum resonated through the stone walls. The passage twisted and turned, and he found himself in a large open room, with ancient looking pillars holding the room, torches lit the room, casting dancing shadows on the wall. On the side were many doorways and paths leading much deeper into the earth. He could see many of the boxes that were being unloaded from the ship here, this is where they stored them.
At the far end of the room, Alucard felt a chill come down his spine, it filled the room, and his mouth with a bitter taste. He moved close to the end of the room, there he could see it, an ancient-looking pedestal stood. At the end of the room he could see an object laying on top.
Despite the eerie calm that surrounded the underground chamber, Alucard's unease lingered like a whisper in the shadows. The ancient pedestal, bathed in a soft glow from the torches lining the chamber, drew his attention. On it lay the Grimoire, pages open, exuding an unsettling magic.
Alucard moved cautiously towards the pedestal, his senses alert to the strange energies emanating from the book. The pages seemed to ripple with an otherworldly power, the symbols etched upon them shifting and changing. He searched for any clues, any information that might shed light on the mysteries surrounding the church and its dark practices.
A peculiar warmth radiated from the pages, as if the Grimoire itself sought to embrace him with its secrets. The temptation to reach out and explore the forbidden
knowledge tugged at the edges of his consciousness. Yet, Alucard, with a steely resolve, refrained from succumbing to the allure.
His eyes traced the intricate patterns on the open page, but the shifting symbols defied easy interpretation. The unsettling magic in the air seemed to weave a tapestry of whispers, calling out to him in a language he could not fully understand.
The warmth persisted, an invitation to delve into realms unknown. Alucard, however, chose to resist. He knew the dangers that lurked within the ancient tome, the potential for corruption and the seduction of power that could lead even the strongest astray.
This was all the proof Alucard needed, with this they would have no trouble pinning the attacks and killings on Father Maxwell. He knew he found the power that helped turn one into a Fade, it was a dangerous weapon. I found you, he thought there is no more hiding Maxwell, you will answer for your crimes, I will destroy it here and now and bring back what's left as proof.
Suddenly ALucard hurd a rushing sound as someone was running, to turn and but it was too late a large man crashes into him sending him flying into the wall, he lands with a crash his back aches with pain, he grunts and spits blood from his mouth. He looks up and sees Tobais standing over him with an unsettling smile, cracking his knuckles.
“Well... looks like we have a bit of a rat problem, don't we.”
Alucard grimaced as he slowly picked himself up from the cold stone floor. Tobias's taunting smile fueled the fire of determination within him. He glanced around, realising that he was now surrounded by Tobias and a few of his enforcers, each one wearing a smug expression.
"Captain Tobias," Alucard muttered, wiping a trickle of blood from the corner of his mouth. "You're playing a dangerous game here. This power you're wielding, it's not something to be trifled with."
Tobias chuckled, a low, menacing sound. "Ah, the hunter speaks of danger. But you see, lad, you are the one who walked blindly into the lion's den, and expected not to be eaten. Lad’s, it's been some time since I saw a fight, I’ll make you all a deal, whoever kills him the quickest gets anything they want.”
The enforcers exchanged glances, their eyes glinting with the promise of rewards. Alucard, surrounded and outnumbered, knew he had to act swiftly. He shifted into a defensive stance, his blade poised for whatever onslaught might come.
Before Tobias could finish his proclamation, the chamber erupted into chaos. Alucard moved with a dancer's grace, his strikes precise and lethal. Enforcers lunged at him, but he sidestepped their attacks, using the confined space to his advantage.
A clash of steel filled the underground chamber as Alucard parried a series of strikes from Tobias himself. The battle raged on, the air thick with tension. Alucard's movements were a symphony of controlled violence, each strike aimed with purpose. Two of the enforcers charged at him, within a blink of an eye Alucard blocked their attacks and cut them both down, they fell down, blood covered the blade and the floor.
The remaining enforcers, witnessing the swift demise of their comrades, hesitated for a moment. Alucard, bloodied and bruised, stood amidst the fallen, his gaze piercing through the dim light of the underground chamber. The tension in the air escalated as Tobias, undeterred by the loss, pressed on, attacking with renewed fury.
Tobias, with a roar, swung his weapon in a powerful arc. Alucard skillfully evaded the blow, countering with a swift strike that landed on Tobias's side. The Captain grunted in pain but retaliated with a barrage of attacks. The clash of steel echoed through the chamber as the two adversaries engaged in a fierce duel.
“You Little Shit... you're going to die for that.” said Tobias as he grinds his teeth together.
As they clash of swords echo more of the enforces rush Alucard, but it was all for naught, he pushes Tobias away with great strength and pulls his bullship out, he slashes down, killing another. He spins back around like an elegant dance and with a great swing of the whip, slashes one across the face, blood spilled from the man’s face, he holds his face and screams in pain. Caught off guard, Alucard felt the powerful grip of Tobias constricting around him. The pressure on his ribs intensified, and for a moment, he struggled to draw breath.
“Got you now.” Tobias held on tight, squeezing him tight, his armour started to crack under the great pressure, his arms and hands going numb, losing the feelings he had in his hands, he struggles to hold on, he is losing consciousness. Slowly loses his grab, he drops his sword and whip, they clash on the ground, Tobias still smiling. “Oh No, Don’t Break on me now boy, things are just getting fun!”
As darkness encroached on the edges of Alucard's vision, a surge of desperate energy coursed through him. With a final burst of strength, he raised his head and with great force, slammed his forehead against Tobias, with great strength he broke Toibas nose, he yelled in pain and dropped Alucard to the floor, he held his nose blood pouring out of it.
Gasping for air, Alucard staggered backward, reclaiming his weapons from the ground. The enforcers, seeing their captain momentarily incapacitated, hesitated for a moment, unsure whether to press the attack. Alucard, however, wasted no time. In a swift motion, he lunged forward, slashing at the nearest enforcer with his whip. The crack of the whip echoed in the chamber as it found its mark, leaving a red welt on the man's cheek.
Tobias, recovering from the surprise attack, wiped the blood from his split lip, a mix of fury and admiration in his eyes. "You've got some fight in you, I'll give you that."
Alucard makes a run for the door he entered from, stopping for nothing. The remaining enforcers blocked his path, he jumped leaping with great high over the men, and with a slash of the blade, cutting them down before they even saw him land. He makes it to the door, he turns around and sees Tobias just standing in the centre of the room, grinning. He turned around and made a run back up the stairs.
He makes it back to Maxwell room, opens the door to the large open room, with the altar and there he sees Maxwell with more soldiers.
“You should have left well alone, Alucard... now we will be buried here. Take him.” Maxwell signals his men to attack, they all rush him at once.
No time to think he makes a run for the second floor back up, he jumps just missing a few of the soldiers, they all yell chasing after him, he does not look back, but keeps running.
The chase through the church became a frantic dance, Alucard narrowly avoiding the relentless pursuit of Maxwell's soldiers. His agile movements and swift strikes kept him a step ahead, but the relentless pursuit showed no signs of slowing. The echoes of steel and the shouts of his pursuers reverberated through the ancient halls.
As Alucard reached the second floor, he spotted a narrow corridor that seemed less travelled. He dashed down the passage, his footsteps echoing off the stone walls. The soldiers followed, but the confined space hindered their numbers. Alucard, despite his exhaustion, managed to maintain his lead.
He reached a dead-end, a door that seemed locked. Without hesitation, he turned to face his pursuers. The soldiers, confident in their numbers, closed in, surrounding him. Alucard's breathing was heavy, his eyes scanning the faces of the encroaching soldiers.
Suddenly, the door behind him creaked open. Alucard, seizing the opportunity, slipped through and closed it behind him. He found himself in a small, dimly lit room, he looked around and saw a window, there was a crashing sound behind him, the door was being rammed, it would not last long, Alucard ran towards the window and jumped towards it, shattering the flash and fell with great speed down, he was higher than he thought, this is going to hurt. He hits the ground with a controlled role, without looking me makes a run for the Town with great speed escaping his pursuers.
After running for a short time, he found himself safe, no one could follow him. He looked at the top of the hill seeing Davos Home, and made his way towards it to inform them of everything that had transpired.
The next part of Luke's riveting story is up and available right now by clicking here.
