Chapter 15: The Fortress

Clouds moved in the silent, dark sky, allowing the moon to shine some light upon the group of mortals and vampires below.

Edith looked up, way up, taking in the enormous structure beyond the bridge. She felt a tentative pressure on her leg and looked down to see Blaze, eyes wide.

“Having second thoughts about following us, eh?” Edith asked quietly.

Judith forced a smile and joked, “I am.”

Miles led the way and Asher took his place at the back of the group, something Edith noticed, but said nothing.

Their footprints fell silently on the stones as they crossed the bridge. As Edith crossed, the cat now held firmly in her arms, she could see an arched doorway on the other side. The horses stood eating hay in a small courtyard beyond the arch. Edith exhaled. They were now safe.

She was mistaken.

Shrieks of anger filled the air. Shadows fell from the sky and more shadows emerged from the forest.

“Miles!” Asher warned, his eyes blazing a brilliant red as he drew an archaic sword.