Part 1
It was a late evening, the Moon was shining brightly. The rain pouring heavily down on the stranger, no one knew where the stranger had come from. It was said that the stranger had come from the west, but no one could be truly sure. The stranger covered from head to toe in a long black coat, covering every aspect of him you could only make the outline of his face. The streets were cold and wet from the heavy rain. He came on foot, leading his laden horse by the bridle. The stranger did not go unnoticed, he could see the townsfolk staring at him through the windows of their houses. He stopped at one of the local Inns and the stranger glared at the sign. The inn was called The Old Fox. He stopped in front of the Old Fox Inn, stood there for a moment, and listened to the hubbub of voices. As usual, at this hour, it was full of people.
The stranger completely ignored the inn and kept on walking down the road, pulling his horse further down the street. He did not fancy to be with that many people. He stopped just outside a second inn. The Black Cauldron. He glanced from the window, only a few individuals were inside the inn, he took a second glance through the window seeing the innkeep behind the bar a few barmaids and a few rowdy guests but overall, it is more quiet and isolated. The stranger preferred to be alone, less people around makes it easier that way.
The stranger, still leading his horse, moved the horse under cover just outside. He proceeded to tie the horse down so it wouldn't wander off. The stranger then opened his satchel, looking for something. After a few moments, the stranger pulls out some paper and places it within his black coat.The stranger opens the door to the inn and walks inside, he stops for a moment. No one seems to have noticed him. The Stranger walks over to the counter, he makes a slight noise to get the innkeepers attention.
The innkeeper raised his head above a barrel of pickled cucumbers and measured the man with his gaze. The stranger, still in his coat, stood stiffly in front of the counter, motionless and silent.
“What will it be?” said the innkeeper as he picked up the barrel of pickled cucumbers and placed them back on the counter behind him.
“Beer” said the stranger in a firm voice.
The innkeeper wiped his hands on his canvas apron and grabbed a chipped earthenware tankard filling it to the top with cold beer. The innkeeper Handed the cold mug of beer to the stranger. The stranger grabbed it, placed it to his side. He then pulled down his black Hood, revealing his face. He was not an old man nor a young man. In fact it is quite hard to guess his age, he has long brown hair, quite greasy and dirty like it hasn't been washed in a few weeks.
He has a scar just by his left eye. The part of his hands you could see were covered in small scars, like he's been in several fights with knives or swords.
The stranger did not take a seat at the tables, in fact he stayed standing next to the counter. The innkeeper looked at the stranger and asked “hey buddy you want any food, the kitchen is still open?”
“No thanks” replied the stranger, “The beer will be just fine”. The stranger then proceeded to take off his black coat. He was wearing some sort of leather type armour, those around him noticed that he was carrying a weapon, in fact he was carrying two weapons. On his left side, he was carrying a small short sword, and on his right side he was carrying what looked to be a morning star weapon. But this was no ordinary morning star in fact, It did not look like one at all, this one was in the design of a whip.
“I'm looking for a room to stay in tonight. Is there one available?” said the stranger.
“I don't have any spare rooms,'' replied the innkeeper. “Perhaps you should try the other inn, the old fox. They should have rooms for you” said the innkeeper.
“I would very much like to stay here with less people around. It's quieter. I like it better that way” said the stranger “I can pay what you want at any price”. The innkeeper pause for a moment, he was quite surprised how resilient the stranger was after the innkeeper has gathered his thoughts,
“I'll tell you what stranger, I can offer you my room” said the innkeeper “It's nothing fancy but it will get you through the night”.
The stranger looked at the innkeeper “you offering me your room? won't you be needing it tonight” asked the stranger.
“I don't really sleep much at night anymore, not when the horror started in the town, and the stories started, too afraid to go to sleep”. Replied the innkeeper.
The stranger took a big gulp of his beer and laid the cool mug down on the counter. He wiped the froth from his mouth and looked at the innkeeper.
“So, tell me about these horror stories, I am very interested in hearing about them. The innkeeper looked at him quite surprised.
“Haven't you heard the story stranger?” said the innkeeper with a worried look on his face. “I've heard many stories over time, but some can be over exaggerated, I prefer to get my information from the local people, It's much easier that way”.
The innkeeper's face started to go pale, as if he were terrified of something. "I prefer not to talk about these stories if you don't mind, sir," said the innkeeper, wiping a cold sweat from his brow. The stranger quickly looked in his large black coat, searching for something in his pocket. He then pulled out a small coin pouch and placed it on the counter. "I am willing to pay for my information," said the stranger.
The innkeeper looked at the coin purse and measured up the contents. It was a lot of money, more than he had seen in quite a while. The Innkeeper took a big deep breath, exiled, face quite pale like he was scared to talk about the stories. The innkeeper poured himself half a glass of beer and drank the whole thing in one go to settle his nerves. He then looked at the stranger and spoke.
"Well, you'll see, it all started a few years back." The innkeeper moved closer to the stranger, close enough to whisper. "You see, there was a murder in town. It seemed like it was out of pure hatred." The innkeeper paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts, and continued telling the rest of the story.
"I didn't see the body myself, but I heard people talk about it. They said the body had been torn apart in some places and horrifically disfigured. They said the body had been defiled as well," said the innkeeper. "After that horrific murder, the town has been cursed."
The stranger looked at the innkeeper and took another swig of his beer. He replied in a low but heavy voice, "Why do you think this town has been cursed?"
"Ever since that horrific night, the murders have never stopped. Every few weeks or so, another murder happens. No one knows why. The victims don't have any connections. Sometimes they are human, other times dwarves, even a beautiful elven girl once."
"The elven girl," said the stranger. "Tell me about her. Who was she? What was she like? What did she do for a living?"
“Well, she was lovely,” said the innkeeper as he grabbed the stranger's mug, filling it with fresh beer. “Her death was really shocking to the townsfolk, no one expected such a lovely girl to fall victim to something so horrible but so her murder was very unusual.
"Unusual in what way?" replied the stranger as he grabbed the freshly brewed mug of beer and took a sip.
“Her body was discovered in her own home, in fact when she was found she was just asleep in her own bed. At first people didn't realise she had been killed, they thought she was just sleeping. When they came in to wake her up she was cold as ice, they said she looked quite peaceful, lying there”. The innkeeper's mood turned bitter.
“Hmm. Very interesting,” said the stranger. He looked at the innkeeper “how old was this girl?'' asked the stranger as he placed his mug down on the counter. The innkeeper looked quite shocked, he had just realised he actually didn't know how old she was.
“I'm sorry,” replied the innkeeper. “I actually don't know how old she was, now that I think about it. I believe she was young for an elf.”
“She showed up in town a few years after the murders started, she was part of a caravan group, they told us, they went all over the place helping small towns like us out, They only stayed a few weeks and then they were off again, she decided to stay behind, she said she wanted to keep helping people in the town because she believe their was still work that needed to be done, it she was a ray of sunshine to the sea of black clouds”.
“When she was killed it felt like that ray of sunshine, faded away, and the world had forgotten about this town”.
The innkeeper lowered his voice, to that of a whisper “No one is safe, the church of the Eternal Flame blames it all on our impure souls, saying we have bought this curse upon ourselves because we are all Heathens. I think it's a load of rubbish, they're just scaring the people into joining their religion”.
The innkeeper still low and his voice move closer to the stranger he was so close that the stranger could feel his breath on his cheek, “but because of the murders the church has seen an increase in size, taken it upon themselves to be their towns so-called Militia protecting it from evil forces within they say.
Doesn't this town have its own city watch? I don't think I've heard of her religious party taking control of a town so easily like this before. Asked the stranger.
“Well, stranger. The city watch normally takes orders from the lord himself, but because of the church growing in power quickly, they have just as much or even more power then the town's lord. I hear he's afraid to take on the church, in case it turns into a bloody conflict. The last thing we need is more blood in the Streets, because of this, whenever there is an Incident in town, evolving the Eternal Flame members the guards don't do anything”.
“Hasn't anyone come to help the town in all these years?”
The innkeeper grabbed his mug and proceeded to fill and continue with the story “well you see stranger, The Lord of the town had put bounties for this murderer to be caught”.
“That got a lot of attention, it made a lot of people come from all over the area, looking to cash in on the opportunity. It made the local business have a big rise in profits, myself included, as time went on, nothing happened. The killing still happened, people started to leave, saying it was a lost cause. There was this one person, she was a witch or something, she claimed that she could cast a spell on the town that could vanquish all evil. the Lord jumped at the chance of course he really was so happy to put an end to all this, she apparently asked for her money up front, the Lord paid, she cast a spell and she went. It wasn't long after that it turned out she was a con-artist. She had been doing the same trick all over the area. It made the lord furious, he told a few of the city guards to track her down and bring her back for a tail, but she was long gone”. The innkeeper pointed to the notes board by the door to the inn.
“Her poster is still on the board over there, if you want a look. Think her name was Vala something”.
Alucard turned his head, he saw the empty notice board except for the one wanted poster he took a closer look at the paper it read read
“Vala Doran, wanted for the crime of stolen Property, this criminal extremely dangerous approach with caution”.
“There was a mercenary group, called The Silver Knights. You should have seen them, they were a new group, full of youngsters trying to make a name for themselves. They were wearing some fancy armour, a bit full of themselves if you asked me. They were not in town long, they did a few Patrol's at night, trying to ease everyone's mind, But not long after they arrived a group of them including the captain, were found dead the next morning, whatever attacked them tore right through their armour and flesh like it was nothing.
After packing their belongings and leaving, no one else dared to take on the job. The price had increased several times, but fear kept everyone away.
“So after that know one came to help anymore?”
“No, it was far too dangerous, and there are far easier ways to make a quick coin. That's all the information i have for you am afraid”
“That's alright, what you given me will help”
“So what are you, bounty hunter or something”?
“Something like that, thank you for the information”.
“That's quite alright” replied the innkeeper.
“If you don't mind me asking, what is your name? I can't keep calling you stranger” The man paused for a moment “Alucard, my name is Alucard”.
“Hmm, That's a bit of an unusual name”.
“I'm an unusual person”.
The innkeeper took the coin pouch, leaving Alucard to his own business. Alucard lifted up his black coat, reached into one of its pockets, and retrieved a blank piece of parchment. He then pulled out a small black feather and began taking notes of all the information gathered on the murders from the innkeeper. Alucard started muttering to himself, a habit he often resorted to when deep in thought.
Suddenly, there was a loud crash behind them. The noise reverberated throughout the tavern, grabbing Alucard's attention. He swiftly grabbed the hilt of his short sword without unsheathing it and turned to investigate the source of the disturbance. It turned out that one of the barmaids had accidentally dropped a tray of drinks on the floor.
Alucard observed the situation, his gaze fixed on the girl. He could see visible signs of distress and unhappiness on her face. He then glanced at the gentleman she had been serving, who seemed to have been rough with her due to his drunken state. The man's friends seemed oblivious, lost in their own drunken revelry. Reacting quickly, the innkeeper rushed over from the back room to attend to the girl.
“That's quite alright Sarah. I will clean this up, you get cleaned up in the back.”
As soon as a young girl got to her feet and procedure to leave the drunk man quickly grabbed her arm pulling her back.
“Hey now” said the man slurring his words “who said, you could leave us we still wish to be served”.
“Not tonight I still haven't paid off all the damage you did last time when you got this drunk”. Said the Innkeeper
“You know what happened last time, the city guards came and you spent the night in jail”.
“Oh come on, we're having a bit of fun, man visibly yelling at this point did not note how loud he was being.
“Come over here sweetie, give us a kiss before you go”. The young girl physically trying to move away from the man as him and his friends kept laughing. The other barmaids, also trying to help out. Alucard turned back to his notes, proceeding to work on them again “don't get involved” matted Alucard.
The noise was getting louder from the drunk men behind him. All he could hear was the innkeeper still trying to please the man, the other group of people laughing.
“Don't get involved,'' muttered Alucard.
Alucard before you to hear the young girl pleading with a drunk man “please sir, could you let go of my arm, you're hurting me now” Alucard noticed, tears rolling down her cheek.
“Oh come on now don't be like that sweetie just give us a kiss”.
Alucard quickly slammed the counter as loud as he could, the noise echoing throughout the whole Tavern, everyone Stood Still motionless, silence filled the room.
Alucard turned around, his gaze locked everyone's attention almost instantly, then spoke in a strong firm voice.
“Can't you see, the young lady has asked you to stop. If I was you I would let go of her arm and apologise nicely, before I have to come over and have words”.
Everyone was stunned into silence, the group of rowdy man facial expressions dropped, like they had just been slapped right across the face. The group looked at each other motionless as to expect one of them to open his mouth and speak, to answer back, but none did not. the barmaids looking at each other hiding a small grin. The silence was suddenly broken from a loud drunken voice.
“Who does this vagabond think he is?” Said the drunk man who seemed to be the leader of the group, the one who caused ruckus.
“I am the man who asked you politely to let the girl go and apologise to her for the way you have mistreater, I came here for some peace and quiet, I don't need your drunken escapade two disturb my evening”
“Who the hell do you think you are, you're just a vagabond, you have no right to be here” said the man, his face turning red from anger. The man shot up from his seat pushing his chair back, knocking it on the floor, his friends following quickly after.
“I think you owe me an apology”, said the man in a firm tone, no longer slurring his words. “For compensation. You should buy me and all my friends here drinks, it would only be fair, before we beat you and throw you into the streets where you belong you gutter rat.
At this point Alucard was no longer at the counter, he slowly closed the gap between him and the drunks, Alucard stood there motionless, this action intimidated quite a few of the individuals, including some of the barmaids and the innkeeper.
“Do you really think you can take me in a fight?”. Said Alucard as he slowly moved towards the man.
“You stay back”, said the man with a whimper within his voice. He slowly moved back to get more distance away from him. “If you're not careful I'll kill, I've killed people in the past before, you make no difference, you're just a vagabond around these parts”.
The man's words did not phase Alucard, it did not phase him at all, in fact it made him smile. I doubt you've ever killed a man in your life. The only thing I think you killed is your sex life by the look of you”.
One of the barmaids Smirked after the comment Alucard made. it did not go unnoticed. The drunk man, still furious, red in the face and angry, notices the barmaid smiling, finding it funny. “What do you think you're smiling about?” yelled the man he raised his fist right across the face. The force strong enough to knock her to the ground as she fell, crashing by one of the tables one of the barmaids quickly rushed to her help, the innkeeper also rushed over.
Alucard stood there silently for a moment, letting out a big sigh. "Now you've done it," he muttered under his breath. Without hesitation, Alucard leaped towards the group of men, delivering a powerful blow to the face of the large man, knocking him down to the ground. The other men rushed at Alucard, but his agility proved too much for them. He effortlessly dodged their attacks, swiftly taking down each man one by one. The fight lasted only a brief moment, leaving the spectators in awe. They couldn't believe their eyes—a single person defeating a group of men so easily.
However, the fight had not gone unnoticed. Alucard realised that considerable damage had been caused in the tavern—broken chairs, overturned tables, and a general mess. Walking back to the counter where he had left his black cloak, Alucard put his hand inside his pockets and pulled out a slightly larger coin pouch. He turned back around and threw it to the innkeeper.
"Sorry about the mess. Hopefully, this will cover the cost of the damage, and a bit extra for the girls," Alucard said apologetically.
As Alucard walked back to the counter to resume his research, the door to the tavern swung open with a loud crash. Guards bearing the town's insignia burst into the establishment, their weapons drawn. There were about five guards in total, surveying the scene in front of them.
One of the guards paused and examined the area. The group was bewildered as they took in the sight of the destroyed tavern—broken furniture and five men groaning on the floor.
"Um, Captain, what do we do?" one of the guards asked, scanning the room for an explanation.
The captain quickly assessed the situation. "Innkeeper, what happened here? Who started the fight?" he demanded in a firm voice.
"It was just a bit of a misunderstanding. You know how people get when they're drunk. Things got out of hand," the innkeeper replied, trying to downplay the situation.
The captain's gaze swept across the room. "You call this 'a few broken things'?" he pointed out the significant damage—numerous chairs and tables in disarray.
"This is more than just a few drunken individuals. Come on, speak up. How did the fight start, and how did it end?" the captain pressed, determined to get to the bottom of it.
The innkeeper began explaining the sequence of events to the city guard, recounting how the group of drunk men had become rowdy and physically aggressive towards one of the barmaids.
The city watch started apprehending the injured men on the floor, restraining them with iron chains.
The captain then walked over to Alucard. "I've heard the innkeeper's side of the story, but I'm afraid I'll have to arrest you tonight. I won't tolerate vagabonds starting fights in our town. Do you understand? We have enough problems as it is," the captain stated firmly.
Alucard looked at the captain with disappointment on his face. He turned around and picked up his beer, holding it in his hand. He then looked back at the captain.
"Can I at least finish my drink?" he asked, hoping for a small favour.
Part 2
The dungeons of iron harbour were quite an unpleasant place, the dungeons were located deep underground. The only way to get there was down a long spiral staircase leading from the surface. The main entrance was next to the city's main Garrison, where the city's guards eat and sleep. There were always guards on duty, they would be located at the main door just at the top of the staircase and two more would be located inside. To gain entrance, one would have to knock on the door and give the correct password. The password changed on a regular basis, so unauthorised people could not just wander in. The dungeons were small, cramped places, The rooms for cold and damp were located far on the ground. There's a window that pointed upwards dug straight to the surface where you can get a Glimmer of light.
The window itself causes quite a bit of a problem, this is because on days or nights where there is a heavy downpour of rain, all the water would rush into the cell. There are a few drains located in the cell to prevent flooding, but they don't really help. The design of the room was clearly for the purpose of whoever was sent there. Was to deter them from committing crime again. It was an effective measure.
Alucard, Didn't sleep. That night the sound of the rushing water tapping the ground as it dripped through the window. The smell of mould and damp fill the air, it was an unpleasant smell, but Alucard had been and seen far worse places and smells in his life, some not so easy to forget.
Alucard did not mind being in the cell, it gave him time to think, he should have known better, not to get involved back at the inn, but he could not resist. It was a problem he had since he was a young lad. Very dangerous threat to have in his line of work. He hunts monsters, and does not need for him to become one himself.
Suddenly there's a noise coming from outside, footsteps coming down the stone staircase, by the sounds of the foot traffic there were a few of them, three or more people. Alucard could tell by the sounds of noise, two of them at least guards a clanking of their metal shoes but one pair was soft, no weight behind them.
The footsteps were getting closer, as they approached the door but just before they got there, they stopped. There was silence for a few moments then the sound of keys rattling around as everyone of the guards fumbling around there was an older voice.
“Open the door”
There was a sound of Gears turning, the cell next to Alucard's opened, the old man spoke. “This is the third time you and your friends have been arrested for your drunken misdeeds, the innkeeper does not wish to press charges. However the barmaid you struck does wish to press charges, there are half a dozen people who can verify her events, it does not look good for you I'm afraid”.
There was loud sobbing coming from the next room, the man pleaded with the older man begging him.
“Please sir, I am sorry, I am really sorry, my mum will be all alone if i am to go to jail, she depends on me, please sir I beg you”. The subbing was getting louder, it was quite unpleasant to listen to.
“Now now, There's no need for the water works, I have not filed the paperwork yet, if I were you, I would go back to the inn and find the barmaid and apologise to her grovel at her feet, beg her for her forgiveness, plead with her, that she doesn't press charges. If she agrees to drop the charges, then the matter will be closed and you'll be free to go. I want your world, you and your friends will not cause anymore trouble in town, if you agree and break this agreement, there will be consequences, do you understand”. The sobbing quieted down into a low whimper.
“Yes sir, yes thank you, I will not cause you any more problems I swear”.
“See that, you do, very well guard escort him and his friends topside and open the cell there, I wish to have a word with our visitor”.
Alucard could hear the footsteps of the guards escorting the man out. Alucard leaned his back against the wall furthest from the door and waited, there was a clutter of the lock, then the doors swung open, the sound of the rested hinges screeched as the door opened. The guard moved to one side, slowly an older man appeared from the hallway in front of the door. There stood an older gentleman with short White hair, wearing an all black frock.
Alucard Examined the man, taking in every detail. Alucard noticed the man's shoes have a very stylish design. designed for comfort, but quite worn out. He clearly had them for a long time, could be sentimental value; he doesn't replace them or perhaps he can't. The way he was leaning, favouring his left side, he could have damaged his right leg possibly a knee injury could be age. His frock was well looked after, but that was also well used. Alucard could see that the colours were feeding in parts, the buttons a bit damaged and worn recently sewed back on. His hands were clean but rough. This is a working man, he did not come from wealth, he earned this lifestyle.
Alucard saw the older man examining him too, no words were spoken, both Individuals stared at each other intensely, not one making a sound. After a long pause the sound was broken by the guard.
“Eh Sir,” The older man stepped into the cell.
“So, you are the Individual who started the fight last night in The Black Cauldron, do you have something to say in your defence”?
Alucard did not answer right away, he wanted to see the older man's reaction if left waiting, but nothing happened. He stood there patiently. “I didn't start the fight” said Alucard “but I sure did end it” a slight grin appeared on the older man’s face.
“Hmmm, so you did, may I ask you what is your name sir, and what brings you to this little town of ares at such ill times”?
“I came here looking for work”
“Well, I am sad to tell you this, but we have no jobs opening at all I'm afraid, if you hadn't noticed most of the establishments are closed and the docks haven't seen new trading ships in years. I'm afraid there's no such work for you here”.
Alucard smiled slightly, “That's a good thing I'm a terrible doc hand then, and I don't have the best people skills if you've noticed. but I am here for work. I came across your help wanted poster, it's an old copy, and found it in an old abandoned house a few weeks back. I'm hoping the contract is still open”.
“Did you know, well I must say you can handle yourself in a fight, but what makes you think you can solve the little problem we have? That contract has been open for six years now, what makes you think you can close it”.
Alucard smiled. “I am what you would call a problem solver, as long as the pay is good”
“Hmm, we had many mercenaries come before, none succeeded some even ended up dead, what makes you think you can succeed where they failed”
“Because you never met someone like me, those Mercenaries, had no idea what they were doing or what they were looking for. They were probably young and inexperienced, hoping to make a quick name for themselves”.
“Right you are sir, I remember them very well, they were young and naive, The more experienced mercenaries never took the job once they saw one of the corpses, they turned tail and ran. So forgive me if I don't hold the same confidence as you do, our past experience with your kind, doesn't seem to end well for both parties.
“ Well, it's a good thing I'm not a mercenary then” “No? then what are you”?
“I am what you would call a professional monster hunter”
“Monster Hunter” said the old man quite perplexed “are you referring to the Houses of old where they dedicated their life to the training and combating the Creatures of the Night”?
“I am”
The old man stood there perplexed, even the guard also was quite shocked with the news here just heard the silence was suddenly broken, “hmm very interesting, I heard all about the houses of old, they were either lost, destroyed or disbanded it is a very rare sight to come across one of your kind, I am honoured”
“I see are reputation hasn't faded with the passing of time”
“Indeed it hasn't, but if my history is correct, the houses were lost long ago, before even my time. Yet you look so young, tell me, what is your name, and may i ask what house do you originate from”?
Alucard leaded forward from the wall at the back of the cell and walked closer to the door and the old man, “my name is Alucard Morgraine, of the house Morgraine”.
The old man's face gleamed with excitement, his Entire body language changed, he was happier, excited, an emotion he had not felt for a long time.
“Well I think it's best for us to continue this conversation, in a much more suitable environment, guard. I will take this man into my custody and escort him to my residence. I want you to gather his belongings and bring him to my residence”.
“Yes Sir, right away”. The guard went to grab the Iron cuffs around his waistband but was stopped abruptly.
“Those won't be necessary” Said the old man, “I am confident our guests here will not cause any trouble”.
Alucard gave a slight nod to the old man agreeing with the statement “are you sure? it is part of protocol, I can get into trouble if I”
“Yes I am” said the old man Interrupting the guard in mid sentence, “If need be i sort it out with your supervisor”
“Yes sir” the guard lowered the iron cuffs and placed them back on his waistband. The old man proceeded to work out the cell into the corridor Alucard quickly followed him into the corridor.
As the old man took the lead down the corridor, Alucard swiftly followed the guard, locking the cell behind him. Alucard didn't notice that the first time but the dungeon was actually quite large. His room is located quite close to the staircase but the corridor went further on then his eyes could see. He couldn't quite make out how big the Dungeon actually was; only the area he was in was illuminated with light. He guesses there's about an estimate of around 20 to 30 cells, quite a large Dungeon for the small town.
Alucard followed the old man up the poorly lit stairs. After a few minutes of walking, they Reached the top of the staircase, the Large wooden door opened and Alucard was hit with a blinding light Which obstructed his vision briefly. It took a moment to get used to the light, after being in such a poorly lit cell. Alucard followed the man into the wide open area, he saw a large Garrison next to the entrance of the dungeon. A few smaller buildings close to the Garrison. At first glance Alucard noticed the buildings were abandoned, Old shops, closed most likely due to the town's unfortunate events. I guess even being this close to the city's watch did not put the public at ease.
“How many buildings have been abandoned since the killing started?'' asked Alucard as he followed the old man. The man looked to his left as he walked past the buildings. There was a hint of sadness in his face only for a moment he turned and proceeded to walk forward. “far too many”.
After a short walk, they approached a large stone staircase leading up a small hill. At the top of the hill there’s a large house, made entirely of expert crafted stone work, around three stories tall by Alucard estimate. Just below the Manor was a lower level, there were around a few houses around six to seven people. Alucard could not tell if there was any more he could not see.
After a few moments of climbing the steps, they stopped just after they approached the houses. The old man turned slightly and looked at Alucard “This way please” he muttered, “My house is just over there”.
Alucard had a quick glance at the houses as they walked past them, “I am guessing these houses belong to staff members who work for the Lord, if I'm not mistaken”
said Alucard. “That is right,” replied the old man. “These houses were constructed not long after the new Lord took ownership; he believed that fair and hard work should be rewarded, because the staff of the Manor so much for the Lord he decided to build everyone their own home.”
“Your Lord sounds like a kind and generous man,” “he is, it's just a shame that his once beloved town he cherished so much, has turned into... this” the old man gestured to the town down below, a very grey and gloomy place not even a fraction of what it once was. “We are here” said the man as they approached the house. Alucard looked at the house and followed the man inside as he opened the door, and the man closed the door after him. Alucard took in his surroundings, the interior of the house was cosy and warm, it was a family house. Alucard looked around the house to see if there's any signs of family members, if there was any, none of them was home.
There are three rooms in the home. The main room, the one they walked into as they opened the door, was quite large. There was a reasonable size table by the centre of the room with four chairs around each corner. A small but quite compact kitchen on the left side, and on the right a small box which looked like it was filled with some children's toys around the age of seven to ten years old. There were two other rooms, most likely one belonging to children and the other the master of the house but both doors were closed so Alucard could not see inside. There were a few decorations around the house, a few paintings on the wall, none of them famous pieces, most likely just common work from local shops.
“Please have a seat,'' the man gestured to one of the chairs by the table. Alucard took a seat and the man joined him moments later.
“I am Eugene Duran. I am the Master of Coin for Iron Harbour.
“Duran?” said Alucard “I saw a wanted poster on the wall back at the inn, of a woman wanted. called Vala Daran. Is there any relation?”
“I can assure you there is no relation, just a coincidence. So tell me master Alucard, what is the real reason you have come to this town?” Alucard looked at the man complex.
“What makes you think I've been deceiving you?”
“Well if you would please humour me for a moment,'' replied Eugene with a firm voice. “You call yourself an expert in this line of work, and not just any kind of expert. But one from the old legends themselves, a hunter from the houses of old. From my understanding, You're kind, died out long ago, long before my time. Of course it is still Hunter isn't Monster Hunters in this world but none come close to that of the old Legends.”
Alucard started silence, letting Eugene talk, not interrupting him. After a moment Alucard has stopped paying attention to what Eugene had to say. this was not intentionally Alucard had full intentions listening to him but as Eugene was talking about the houses of old Alucard mind started to wonder, to past events. The moments in his life, both good and bad and those wishes he could forget. It is only for a moment. Alucard snapped himself out of the Trance and started to listen to Eugene continue on.
“Also if you don't mind me saying” continue Eugene, “you look quite young if I don't say so, sure you'll have a few scars here and there, but no one of your age could be a professional Monster Hunter.” Alucard leans forward into his chair resting his arms on the table.
“I can assure you Eugene. I'm older than they look and I would not lie to you, I've come to this town seeking work and to help with your problem. but as you suspect me I've been dishonest may I ask why did you release me from the cell? you could have left me there.”
Eugene stared at him for a moment “truth be told... my own curiosity got the better of me. I believe you're just another scammer, spinning tall tales of the old legendary Hunters themselves, so we grovel at your feet and offer you more money, for you just to skip town. Leave us worse than when you arrived.”
Alucard stared at Eugene with quite an angry expression, like this was not the first time that someone accused him of Lying. alucard paused for moments Gathering his thoughts. “I can assure you, Eugene. Master of Coin Of Iron Harbour. that is not my intention nor would it ever be. The poster was quite clear of the amount that is rewarded, I intend to honour it. I won't be seeking further compensation.”
Eugene was taken aback. silence filled the air. He was not expecting that, not at all he paused for a moment, getting up from his chair and walking to the kitchen, he opened the cupboards and grabbed two glasses. He turned to Alucard and said.
“Well then, I was not expecting that response. I must say you have truly surprised me. It's been a long time since someone has done that. I am glad.” Eugene smiled. Can I offer you a drink? I wish to discuss business with you.” Alucard smiled “Of course” he replied. Eugene walked back to the table holding two glasses of what looked to be whisky. He sat down next to Alucard, laying the glass next to his arm.
“So Mr Alucard, let's discuss business” Eugene raises his glass and begins to take a sip. Alucard took a much larger sip then Eugene and placed the glass down.
“So Eugene. What exactly would you like to talk about?” Asked Alucard
“Well I would like to ask you, how much do you know of a little problem here? I assume you've heard many of the rumours, following that this town is cursed, or this town is a secret front for bandits, and the brutal murders are just the Bandits forcing their will on us. or even that the whole town folk accursed and that night they all become horrific Monsters that feed on the innocent at night I think that is my favourite it makes me chuckle.” Eugene let out a small laugh and a smile as he took a sip from his glass.
“Well I must say,'' replied Alucard, “I've heard of many rumours surrounding this town, but I must say I don't think I've quite heard the one about the town folks turning into monsters. there's a new one even for my line of work. but this world is full of terrors so who knows, perhaps such a place exists.”
Eugene seemed a bit relieved hearing that. “Well I suppose there's some good news then. tell me master Alucard, from all the rumours and reports you have heard about the town. and I'm sure you got a lot of information from their innkeeper at The Black Cauldron. What do you believe is plaguing our town?”
“I can't say for certain, at this point most of this speculation was the more information I can gather the easier it is to find and the corporate or corporates of these crimes. human or non-human the job is the same to me.” Alucard took a swig of the whiskey provided by Eugene, he could tell that it was an old bottle that had been maturing for quite some time. He could not say without seeing the bottle for sure but he guessed around 40 years. Taste of it alone he could tell this bottle meant something to Eugene, something he would only bring out on rare occasions. Or entertaining important guests.
“Do you really think that people could be behind these crimes?”
“I don't know, anything is possible. but from the reports that I have heard it is unlikely but I cannot rule it out. I must do my own independent investigation to cover all possibilities.
“I see. Master Alucard, you may ask me any question you see fit that can help you with this case. I am at your disposal.”
“Thank you. I'll start off with some simple questions. Do you remember when the attacks started happening? and what can you tell me about the attacks? do they always happen around the same time of day, or do they happen in the evening or at noon. do the victims know each other or the attacks random to you.
“Truth be told, I haven't given it that much for. The attacks started around 5 years ago. That is when the first killings started, but I can't be sure if they started sooner and then progressed to more brutal killings.” Eugene let out a deep breath. “They started to become part of daily life.” Eugene frowned, his voice went into a low whisper. Alcatel this made Eugene very upset a man who is working as way up the ranks, someone has most likely come from nothing becoming the master of coin I such a large town for all to be reduced to nevermore then I have a story a cruel joke played by the gods.
“How often do killings happen?” said Alucard as he leant forward getting closer to eugene.
“Every few weeks or so some poor soul loses their life.”
“Can you tell me how many victims there have been altogether?”
Eugene looked at Alucard and replied with a heavy heart. “32, there have been 32 victimssincetheKillingstarted.” Alucard hadquiteashoplookonhisface,hewas not shocked by the number of kills. No, he expected the number to be high. But what he was not expecting was for Eugene to remember all the victims.“You seem quite surprised,” said Eugene. “I may not look like it, Master Alucard, but I deeply care for this town and all its inhabitants. Human and nonhuman alike are all equal in my eyes. It doesn't matter if you come from a rich or poor background as long as you work hard in life everyone should be allowed the same rewards.”
A large smile appeared on Alucard's face he could not hide. Eugene was quite surprised with the smile. “if you don't mind me asking sir why you are smiling?” Because Eugene replied Alucard, when you've been I live as long as I have. It is a good change of pace, that not everyone blames all their problems on nonhumans thinking they're the cause of everything that goes wrong with her life.” That too also made Eugene smile.
“Eugene, you said there were around 32 victims altogether, if you don't mind me asking how many were human and non-human?”
“Of course," replied Eugene. Now let me think about this. It has been sometime I'm a go but I'm sure I remember. Eugene sat there and thought for a few minutes trying to remember all the people who have been killed. Suddenly there was a loud shout “HA” said Eugene I probably, I knew this was coming handy. Eugene stood up from the table and walked to the dressing table by the wall, and started to rummage through the content. You could hear the sound of its content moving from one place to another, the sound of paper cracking as it was moving around and then suddenly Eugene stopped. “Hopefully this will help you” Eugene pulled out a small notebook for the dressing table and handed it to Alucard. Alucard took the book and opened it and had a look inside. Alucard was shocked, he was not expecting this. It had names and not just names, dates and locations of all the victims who have been killed.
Eugene did not just hand them over and notebook scribbled were issued notes. The book contained detailed information about the victims, what they were like, where they lived if they were rich or poor. Human and non-human. It seems Eugene has done his own investigation for the last several years. Alucard could not help but think, perhaps Eugene in another lifetime could have become a hunter just like him; he surely has a keen eye for detail.
“Thank you Eugene” said Alucard as he took the book away, and placed it inside one of his pockets for safe keeping. “ I will make sure your housework will be put to good use.”
“That is all I can ask for.” replied Eugene as he proceeded to walk back to the table. “But I'm afraid there is still one more person you have to convince before you are allowed to take this job.” Alucard looked up, “Oh, and who might that be?” reply Alucard for the surprise told in the voice.
“I'm afraid you will still have to convince the lord himself. After the whole mishap with that woman.” Eugene's voice cracked at the slightest mention of her. “The Lord would like to meet everyone who comes offering solutions for his problems. I hope you don't mind?”
“Not at all," replied Alucard. Alucard rose to his feet leaving the glass on the table “shall we proceed?”
Eugene smiled “Of course, this way. I will take you to see him now.”
