EPISODE ONE: A DARK DAY

PROLOGUE ONE: NIGHT

Thirty Years Ago

Marcus

I clenched my thick cloak to my chest as I stared up at the luminous silver moon. It was completely full, hanging above our heads as we stood on top of the rickety shingles of the old abandoned church in which we had made our temporary headquarters. The streets of Redwater were quiet at this time of night. I gazed over the silent old town, bathed in moonlight that danced across the cobblestone streets. Wisps of mystical fog curled around ancient stone buildings, their weathered facades telling tales of yesteryears. The soft flicker of lanterns cast warm glows from distant windows. Shadows stretched long, wrapping the town in a shroud of mystery, as the scent of the night air mingled with the sharp scent of pine. I stole a glance at my silver pocket watch, which hung from my coat, the face cracked and the metal tarnished. It was already nearly 2 AM. How much longer would we have to wait? The only sound that permeated the air was our own breathing, impatient perpetual pacing, and the thumping of our three heartbeats. There was a lump in my throat that was hard to swallow in the dry crisp December air.

“It’s almost time,” Victoria said, covering her sandy curly hair with her velvet hood. She adjusted her circular spectacles and raised her chin to the sky. Her freckle-covered nose scrunched as she inhaled the night air.

“Indeed it is,” Volcan responded, making his way to my side. I took a deep shaky breath. My mouth felt parched, each breath scraping against my dry throat like sandpaper, while my hands, slick with clammy sweat, trembled slightly as I clenched them into fists, struggling to steady my racing pulse amidst the rising anxiety.

I turned my head to study Volcan's face. His inky black hair cascaded like a raven's wing around his sharply defined features, accentuating the elegance of his pointed ears.

“Anything yet, Marcus?” he asked, his voice a rich, resonant melody as he turned toward me, deep purple eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that felt almost otherworldly. In the silver glow of the moonlight, his skin shimmered with an ethereal quality, reminiscent of finely polished porcelain, making him appear less like an actual being and more like a hauntingly beautiful sculpture come to life. He was an Elf and the leader of our unit, and yet I, a Human, had the strongest gift for magic in our team.

I averted my gaze, feeling the weight of his stare. I squeezed my eyes shut, blocking out the world around me. Letting the silence overtake me, I reached my hand forward. Breathing in deeply, I held my breath and slowly drowned out all feeling in the world surrounding me. I could sense them. We stood surrounded by twenty-four intricately inscribed runes that pulsed with energy, their ancient symbols radiating an almost palpable aura of power, only detectable by me. The air hummed with anticipation, yet the runes remained undisturbed. We had set up a circle a few miles wide, with us in the center of our target’s most frequent feeding area, the center of Redwater. If anything were to enter or exit the circle, I would feel it before any of us could hear, see, or smell it.

“Nothing,” I whispered, letting out my breath.

“This is taking too long,” Victoria sneered through her teeth. “People are going to be slaughtered.”

“People have already been slaughtered,” Volcan proclaimed. “If we do this correctly, hopefully that reign of terror will end tonight.”

I took a deep breath, the night air filling my lungs, and gazed up at the vast glimmering sky, where countless stars twinkled like distant diamonds scattered across dark velvet. I counted the stars slowly in my mind, each number grounding me in the moment, though a familiar trepidation tightened my chest. This wasn’t our first time on the hunt—far from it—but each expedition carried its own weight of uncertainty. The thrill of the chase mingled with an underlying anxiety, a haunting reminder that danger lurked in the shadows, and we could never predict when the icy sting of fate would call it our last.

Volcan turned abruptly, as if he had caught the scent of something in the air.

“Marcus,” he said, a puzzled look on his face. “Can you—”

A powerful jolt of energy surged through me, as if I had just been struck by a bolt of lightning, electrifying every nerve in my body. The sheer force drove a gasp from my lips, and I felt my legs buckle beneath me, causing me to lose my footing. My cheek scraped painfully against the jagged edges of the weathered roof shingles, the sharp pain leaving me momentarily dazed.

“Number twenty-three!” I shouted, my eyes closed tightly. I could see them. Rather, I could feel them, yet envision them in my mind as clear as day. And I could see it: the monstrous figure that tripped my rune. It loomed ominously, standing approximately eight feet tall, with muscular limbs that bulged beneath a dense coat of matted dark fur, glistening crimson under the pale moonlight. A Werewolf.

“It’s close!” Volcan shouted, his voice echoing in the silence. He conjured his weapon from thin air. A slender silver sword emerged, gleaming elegantly in the muted light, its blade adorned with intricate carvings that told the stories of his past battles; each etching a testament to the bloodshed that had shaped him into the warrior he had become. He and Victoria took off in the direction of my disturbed rune.

I stood and collected myself. I took a moment to steady my breath, feeling the weight of the world lift from my shoulders as I straightened my posture and centered my thoughts.

“I can’t waste time,” I said aloud. I materialized my own sword. The dull blade felt heavy in my hands. It weighed down on me as if it were a manifestation of my own fears and anxiety. I gripped the hilt tightly and took a deep breath of determination. “Lord, give me strength.”

Present Day

Olivia

Blood. That’s all I could see. The halls of the school were soaked in an ominous, dark red. The walls seemed to pulse with the haunting hue that seeped onto the floor, forming sinister pools of thick, warm liquid that glistened like rubies under the dim light. As I cautiously made my way down the twisted corridor, the air felt heavy and suffocating, echoing with the whispers of unseen shadows that danced just beyond my sight, amplifying every step with a sense of foreboding.

What is this?

Where is everyone?

At the end of the long, shadowy hallway, a flicker of crimson light caught my eye, glimmering like a dim flame in the surrounding darkness. It felt painfully far away. I began a brisk walk toward it. Each step I took seemed to unnaturally stretch the space between us, making it seem impossible to reach. Fueled by a mix of fear and determination, I broke into a sprint, my bare feet kicking up splatters of blood, staining my clothes a grim dark red. The light pulsed ahead, tempting me forward with the promise of safety. I pushed harder, willing my legs to move faster as I chased that glimmer of hope.

There was someone there. A figure in the darkness; I could just barely make out their towering silhouette against the now near-blinding blood red light. I halted, heart racing, as I took in his strikingly pale gray skin, so taut it seemed to be almost translucent under the dim light, revealing the pronounced contours of his cheekbones. He extended a slender hand toward me, his fingers long and claw-like, and a wicked grin split his lips, revealing two elongated, gleaming fangs that glinted menacingly. A Vampire.

“Hello, Olivia,” he said.

The full moon beamed behind him, drenching him in a deep crimson red light.

The Blood Moon.

I gripped my head tightly, my fingers digging into my temples as I stared into the blinding light that seemed to pulse and swirl around me. The world around me warped and twisted, like a distorted work of art, and I felt a wave of dizziness wash over me. A high-pitched ringing pierced through the chaos, a maddening sound that buzzed in my ears and made my insides churn. Suddenly, my knees buckled, and I collapsed to the ground, the wet surface barely registering as the world faded to black, swallowing me whole.

Dear Olivia Ambrose,

Good evening. I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to inform you that on October 28th, one of our new Red Pearl students will be joining Advanced Magic II class at 12:30 PM on Wednesday. As a student in this class, we understand that this transition may prompt some concerns from you, and we want to assure you that we are committed to addressing the needs of all students impacted by this change. Please know that we are here to support you, and we welcome any questions or concerns you may have regarding the continuation of your current academic schedule. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Volcan Fernando

Headmaster of Blood Moon Academy

I stared intently at the letter, my hands trembling. I had meticulously poured over each word, making sure I didn’t miss a single detail.

Was this actually happening?

A Vampire in my class?

I quickly checked all of the other brass mailboxes that stood before the doorway of the first-year’s dorm.

Empty.

No one else got a letter.

“Well, no one else is in a third-year course,” I mumbled to myself. I let out a deep sigh, folded the letter, and stuffed it into the pocket of my black knit sweater.

I could already tell I was going to have nightmares for weeks. Not that that would change anything. I still couldn’t shake my dream from last night. Who the hell dreams of a school full of blood? And the Blood Moon? The last one occurred nearly thirty years ago. My dreams, however, had been plagued with dark horrors since we got the notice that Vampires would be joining the academy three months ago. The dreams always ended the same. I would look into the moon and collapse to the floor, usually with some vampiric entity standing in front of me. I never expected to actually meet one.

There were three Vampires in total that would attend the academy from today. Two third-years and one second-year. And that’s the most any of us had heard. Most first-years thought we would have nothing to worry about, aside from the occasional run-in in the hallway. How unfortunate for me.

Suddenly, and unexpectedly, the board of education had decided that Vampires were no longer a threat to humanity. Or at least that they possessed enough humanity to control themselves. They were viciously hunted by Blood Moon Hunters for hundreds of years, and now, on the brink of their extinction, we were expected to work beside them. It sounded and felt insane considering we were still learning about their horrendous deeds in our history classes.

I breathed deeply, turning around to face the empty room. It was a bit late in the afternoon, so most of the other students had already left for their morning classes.

The first-year dorm, with its sprawling Victorian architecture, was a captivating mix of elegance and eeriness, where every corner whispered tales of the past. Dark hardwood floors creaked beneath my feet, their polished surface reflecting the faint glow of the ornate chandelier that dangled overhead, its crystals casting prismatic light across the room. The tall arching doorways framed entrances that led to the living quarters, while the large fireplace, cold and untouched, bore a mantle adorned with intricate carvings of mythological creatures, standing guard over the space. The ceilings, lofty and cathedral-like, enveloped me in a comforting yet suffocating embrace, the shadows lurking in their height creating an atmosphere rich with unspoken secrets. The air carried a faint scent of aged wood and dusty nostalgia, evoking a sense of wonder and trepidation each time I crossed the threshold of my temporary home.

“Olivia!” A loud, high-pitched voice yelled from across the room.

“Claire.” I said as I turned to see her bounding for me, skipping lightly across the wooden floors. She smiled brightly, her strawberry blonde bob messy as usual, with a few rebellious strands playfully framing her face. We both had gotten matching cuts before starting our first year at the academy, a spontaneous decision during one of our late-night hangouts. But it felt like that was where the similarities ended. My jet-black hair fell in sleek, polished lines, a stark contrast to her wild, frizzy locks that seemed to have a mind of their own, bouncy and carefree.

She was followed by her training partner Lucas, who trailed behind her. His chestnut curly hair tumbled around his thick-rimmed glasses, while a few curls occasionally fell across his forehead, adding a hint of charm to his studious look. His uniform was neatly pressed, the crisp edges of his black trousers accentuating his tall frame, while the red and gray tie was fixed with care, peeking out from under his gray sweater vest, which fit snugly over his collared shirt. Despite the effort he put into his appearance, there was a relaxed air about him, as if he felt right at home in the archaic school environment.

“Hey, Olivia.” He said with a slight smile.

The three of us had grown up together, although Claire and Luke were partnered together at the beginning of the year. My mom, Claire’s dad, and Luke’s mom had all fought together in the same unit, and they all enrolled us in Blood Moon Academy as soon as we turned 16. It was nice to be among familiar faces.

“How are you, Olivia?” Claire said, wrapping her arms tightly around me. We were the same height, same frame, and the same age. We had the same hobbies, same favorite foods, and same taste in fashion. It was almost like we were destined to be best friends. We always joked that she was the sun, I was the moon, and Luke was the earth.

Her smile faded as she stared at my face.

“What’s wrong?” She asked with a frown.

“Just a little anxiety,” I said, rubbing my mom’s bracelet that remained perpetually on my wrist. “Today is our weapon ceremony, after all.”

“That’s not it.” She muttered, squinting her eyes. “There’s something else that’s bugging you.”

As usual, she always saw right through me. Although I did have some amount of good anxiety from the upcoming Weapon’s Ceremony that would occur this evening, my brain was more focused on the dream and the letter. Well, less focused and more completely wracked. I had a splitting headache that made itself evident from the moment I woke up.

“Here.” I said, taking the letter out of my pocket and handing it to her.

She quickly scanned over it, Luke peeking over her shoulder. Both of their eyes widened in unison.

Claire opened her mouth for a brief second, her eyes flickering with a bit of curiosity, before quickly glancing over at her mailbox, which still stood empty.

“How lucky!” She exclaimed, turning back towards me.

“Lucky?” Luke breathed. “That’s not exactly the word I would use.”

“But it is!” She said, practically floating. “What I wouldn’t give to have a Vampire in my class.”

She clutched her chest dramatically.

“Few months ago, everyone in this school was dead scared of Vampires.” I replied, stuffing the letter back into my pocket.

“Not me,” she snorted. “I’ve always thought they were kind of fascinating. I’d love to pick their brains.”

Claire was unusually gifted with telepathic magic, a trait she inherited from her mom.

“Well then, either of you can gladly take my place if you want,” I huffed.

“Count me out,” said Luke, folding his arms.

“We’d better head out if we’re going to make it on time,” he said with a sigh.

“On time?” Claire said, furrowing her brow.

“The Weapon ceremony is today,” he said, tilting his head.

“Of course I know that!” Claire sputtered, rolling her eyes. “But it doesn’t start until 6 pm.”

“Yes,” I interrupted, knowing exactly what Luke was planning to say. “But as the partner of the head of the first-year class, you’re both expected to be there to help with preparations.”

“Thank you, Olivia,” Luke said, with a satisfied grin.

“Aw, come on. Can’t you just go alone? And I can stay and hang out with Olivia?”

“I’m sure Olivia has a lot of preparations to do as well,” Luke nodded at me, and I weakly smiled back at him.

“We’d better head out,” he said, glancing towards Claire. “Anyway, I’m sure Hector will be here any minute.”

“Fine,” Claire mumbled, letting out a short sigh. “See you later, Olivia.”

She cheerfully waved at me and headed out the door, sticking close to the side of her partner.

I let out a deep grunt and tossed my backpack on the floor.

“Maybe it’s better if I don’t think about it,” I sighed, my mind suddenly racing back to the letter burning in my pocket. But my thoughts couldn’t help but travel.

I had never met a Vampire before, or even seen one. The Blood Moon Hunters had hunted them to near extinction long before my friends and I joined the academy.

Incidents involving Vampires were few and far between these days. And besides, there were far more dangerous creatures out there. Still… I wondered what had brought the leaders to so drastically change their minds and let them into the school.

I guess I would find out soon enough.

“Sorry to be late,” a soft voice said, just as I had shut my eyes.

I looked up to see my partner smiling at me.

“Hector,” I sighed.

He was quite a good deal taller than me, easily towering over me. His thick, curly dark brown hair fell in effortless ringlets across his forehead, giving him a laid-back, sun-kissed vibe as it danced lightly in the breeze. His deep tan skin seemed to glow as if lit from within, radiating warmth under the bright sunlight. I had known him practically since birth; our families were close, yet we had never managed to utter a word to each other until we were partnered together earlier this year. Back in the day, he was just a scrawny quiet kid, but now, as we both navigated the whirlwind of our first year, his frame had really filled out into something athletic and confident.

“Are you ready to head out?” He asked with a slight smile, extending his hand.

“As ready as I’ll ever be,” I frowned, picking up my bag and placing my palm in his. We headed down the cobblestone road toward the main structures of the academy. This would surely be an interesting day.

Niles

We pulled up to the front of the main building of the academy, the imposing structure looming ahead with an air of ancient authority.

I checked my watch.

3:05.

We were late. The realization panged my chest like an unwelcome reminder. I tilted my head and stared out the window at the old building, its weathered stones whispering tales of history and death.

The school loomed before us like a majestic medieval castle, its three main towers soaring high with pointed roofs that seemed to pierce the clouds. As our vehicle glided to a halt at the towering stone walls, which were etched with the marks of time, the heavy iron gate creaked open, revealing all manner of students who eyed us curiously. We drove into the expansive courtyard, surrounded by lush greenery and the enchanting aura of the structure. A grand wooden door, adorned with intricate carvings and ancient symbols, beckoned from the entrance, flanked by turrets adorned with vibrant vines and ivy that climbed toward the sky. The cobblestone courtyard, a patchwork of timeworn stones, was dotted with ornamental wrought-iron lanterns and bordered by vibrant flower beds bursting with vivid colors, as if inviting the world to gaze upon their beauty. Around the edges of the courtyard, a moat—once a formidable barrier—now served as a serene pond, its still waters perfectly mirroring the castle's grandeur while providing a tranquil refuge for students and visitors alike, enticing them to wander through the storied halls where history seemed to hum softly in the air.

“Frankenstein,” I chuckled.

“What was that?” Duncan said, turning his head toward me.

“Nothing.” I whispered, placing a thick pair of shades over my eyes. I peeked out again at the building. The Blood Moon flag, a black banner with a dripping red circular moon, hung over nearly every roof and doorway.

The vehicle gently rolled to a halt. Duncan leaned forward and peered through the front windshield. In front of us stood three robed figures.

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“How cordial,” Ella whispered sarcastically from the passenger seat. “Niles?”

I glanced over at them.

“Two Elves and a Human,” I observed.

“I’ve seen One of them before,” Duncan squinted.

“Deputy Headmistress Victoria Blackburn. Fifth-year leader and student body president Dex Devereaux, and his partner, vice president Chloe Opal.” I sniffed the air.

“And their intention?” Duncan questioned.

“To welcome us,” I said with a plastered grin.

“Unsettling,” Ella spat.

“We should be fine from here,” Duncan said, patting our driver on the shoulder. “Get home safe.”

Ella was first to open her door, followed by Duncan and finally myself. We all stepped out in unison.

The Headmistress clasped her hands together with a big smile as we aligned ourselves in front of the three.

“My dears,” she said with a heartfelt voice, her curly sandy-gray hair peeking beneath her velvety purple hood. “It’s so wonderful to finally meet you in person.”

She extended her hands toward Ella, who stood in between Duncan and me.

“I presume you’ve read our file,” Ella said, the corners of her mouth barely turning into a smirk. She kept her posture straight and her gloved hands clasped together in front of her.

“Of course,” replied the Vice Principal, swiftly retracting her hand. “You mentioned that you’d prefer to avoid physical contact with the students and staff as much as possible. My apologies, it must have slipped my mind.”

She glanced us up and down. I got the sneaking suspicion she hadn’t simply forgotten our request but was merely testing our conviction.

“In any event, let us introduce ourselves.” She placed her hand over her chest. “I’m Deputy Headmistress Blackburn. It’s a bit unfortunate timing, but our Headmaster is currently on a mission and was unable to oversee your arrival.”

“I’m Devereaux Dexter,” the Elf to her right said, bowing his head. He possessed a rich, dark velvety complexion that had a soft shimmer to it, accentuating the chiseled contours of his face. His piercing black eyes, deep and mesmerizing, seemed to swirl with hidden depths of power and ancient knowledge. As I observed him, I felt an electric energy surrounding him, a palpable aura that hinted at his extraordinary magical gifts, each pulse resonating with an undeniable intensity.

“This is my partner, Chloe,” he said, gesturing toward the small girl standing shyly to the left of the Headmistress. With a graceful nod, she bowed her head, her long wild black hair cascading about her shoulders like a tangled waterfall. The blunt-cut bangs that framed her face accentuated her delicate features while her deep brown eyes, nearly as dark as the night sky, shimmered with a hint of curiosity against her warm, olive-toned skin. A gentle warmth radiated from her presence.

“I’m Ella. This is Duncan and Niles,” Ella said bluntly.

The wind whistled loudly between the long silence that followed.

“Well,” the Deputy Headmistress said, clasping her hands together again. “We have much to do today. Dex and Chloe will show you to your dorm. For obvious reasons, we’ve kept you separate from the other students. We’ve converted one of the many school properties into your own personal space. You should be completely isolated there. The other students' dorms will be off-limits to you for the time being.”

She gestured toward the main building.

“First, we will go pick up your schedules and introduce you to our faculty.”

“Please follow me,” she said with a smile, turning on her heels and heading toward the tower. Ella, Duncan, and I glanced briefly at each other before following her into the building.

Lucas

I leaned casually against the east brick wall in the main hall, arms crossed and my hair falling just enough to partially conceal my eyes. I stole a quick glance from beneath my bangs, trying to appear nonchalant while my heart raced. Claire was next to me, gripping my arm a little tighter than usual, her ecstatic energy infectious. She had convinced me to wait here with her incessant begging, but I had to admit, I was really curious too.

Around us, clusters of students were scattered along the walls, pretending to engage in light chatter, but we all knew we shared the same magnetic pull toward what was about to happen. Suddenly, the massive wooden door creaked open, the sound slicing through our low murmurs like a knife; the eerie, high-pitched squeak sent a shiver down my spine. Just like that, an expectant silence engulfed the room, leaving us on the edge of our seats, anticipation hanging thick in the air.

The Headmistress entered first, followed by Dex, Chloe, and finally the Vampires. They seemed to glide in, their movements fluid yet unsettling, as if they were more shadow than flesh. Their skin was devoid of any life and color, taut against their thin frames, and their eyes, though obscured by thick sunglasses, I knew would be crimson and tainted with an otherworldly hunger. The room felt stiffer in their presence, as if the school itself knew they weren’t meant to be here.

The first Vampire was a girl who stood with perfect posture, exuding an almost regal confidence. Her skin was a striking dark gray, while her sleek black ponytail swung gently as she moved. She looked around seventeen, but deep down, I sensed that she had decades of stories etched into her soul. The second one, noticeably taller than the other two, sported crisp blonde hair that was nearly as pale as his lifeless complexion; his head turned as he glanced around the room, and I couldn't shake the feeling that pierced through me with a chilling curiosity. Then there was the last member of the trio, trailing behind like he was overwhelmed by the sheer presence of the room. He was a bit shorter than I was, with jet-black hair cropped neatly above his eyebrows. He possessed an aura that screamed of uncertainty.

All three were clad in form-fitting black attire that accentuated their gaunt frames, and I couldn't help but notice how silent their footsteps were as they walked, as if gravity had little hold on their hungry forms. It was clear they hadn’t had a proper meal in ages. I chuckled slightly at the thought. I hoped not.

“They’re incredible,” Claire whispered, her voice just barely audible in my right ear. The blonde Vampire slightly cocked his head at the sound of her voice and Claire stiffened like a statue.

I gently placed my left hand on top of hers. The group slowly shuffled their way through the hall, followed soon after by a few curious students. As soon as they were out of view, the entire room let out a collective sigh.

For a moment I wondered how my parents would feel about this situation, if they were alive today.

I glanced over at Claire, who was smiling widely, her eyes beaming with excitement. “I wonder which one is Olivia’s,” she said, glancing back in the direction they left.

“Come on,” I said to her, pulling her in the opposite direction. “It’s almost time.”

Olivia

I slipped into my long black velvet robes, the fabric feeling heavy and slightly cumbersome against my skin. It hung a bit too large on my frame and carried a musty scent of dust and mildew, a reminder of the countless years they had been stored away. The school emblem—a bright red moon—was intricately sewn onto the right chest, its vibrant hue a stark contrast against the dark fabric. The robes resembled something an old judge might wear, with their outdated style and oversized sleeves that flopped around as I moved. I had watched the ceremony as a child, enchanted by the magical atmosphere and glamorous traditions that surrounded it. But now, standing here in my own oversized attire, that sense of wonder had faded. Everything seemed smaller and more mundane, almost as if the vibrant aura I had admired from the sidelines had dimmed.

I studied myself in the mirror. My skin looked pale and dull. My eyes had dark purple bags under them. My hair was neatly combed, but it couldn't hide how exhausted I looked. I still couldn't shake my nightmare from last night. I took a deep breath and stepped out of the women’s room.

“How do I look?” I said to Hector, who was waiting for me in the hall along with the other first-years. He wore the same dusty robes, though his seemed to fit him much better.

“Incredible,” he said with a smile.

“Are you ready?” he asked, offering his arm.

“As I’ll ever be,” I echoed, linking arms with him. We lined up with the rest of the first-years, who were also standing arm in arm in the long tight corridor that led to the auditorium.

I peeked my head around the line of students. If I squinted, I could just barely see Claire and Luke. As the head of the first-year class, Luke was the first student in line. Hector and I had fallen toward the back due to my hesitations about my robes.

I suddenly felt a sharp pain shoot through my skull. I let out a grunt and rubbed my forehead with my free hand.

“Are you alright?” Hector asked, leaning toward me.

“I’m fine,” I said. “Just a—”

The school anthem began to loudly echo through the halls, and the stream of first-years began pushing forward.

The sounds of the song were drowned out by cheers from the other classes as the first of the first-years entered the stage.

“Lucas Lyon and Claire Hale.” I heard Headmistress Blackburn’s voice echo.

Hector led me through the hall and into the blinding darkness just behind the curtain of the main stage. My heart was pounding, and my head was throbbing to the same rhythm. I felt dizzy.

My eyes were momentarily blinded by a flash of bright light as each pair's names were called, and they lifted the curtain to the main stage.

Hector and I stood just behind the curtain. I peered through the small gap in the fabric as I tried to steady my breathing.

He squeezed my arm tight as reassurance.

“Hector Sabu and Olivia Ambrose.” The Headmistress’s voice echoed through my ears.

Hector opened the curtain to a blinding light and loud cheering.

I felt even dizzier as we walked across the stage. The auditorium was packed, both on stage and off. The crowd consisted of the second through fifth-years, faculty and staff, and the parents. I squinted out at the crowd and wondered to myself if my mother was there, but all the faces blurred together. On stage were wooden bleachers that all the first-years sat on. Hector guided me up the stairs, and Claire waved at me as we made our way to the last row. In the center of the stage stood Headmistress Blackburn. She wore a beaded purple robe and had her hair neatly tied in a bun. She stood before a giant cauldron of sorts. The edges of the cauldron gave off a soft blue glow, and the whole room smelled of a wintery breeze. After all the first-years had made their way to the stage, Headmistress Blackburn silenced the room.

“Good evening, everyone,” she said in a pleasant tone, her voice echoing throughout the room. “Thank you for joining us here today. This is a wondrous occasion, and it is my pleasure to guide the first-years through the beginning steps of becoming Blood Moon Hunters. It is our job, nay, our duty to protect the mortal world from the dangers of the creatures that lurk in the night. Today we officially invite the youngest of us to join us in fulfilling that duty.”

She ran her hand along the edge of the cauldron and let out a long sigh.

“Throughout the years, many of us have fallen. We've given our lives to protect those in need. When a hunter falls, they give back the one tool that they used to protect them for so long. Their weapon is returned to the realm of light where it may once again be used by another.”

She turned her head to the students on the bleachers.

“I give caution to the first-years. I know you have heard this many times before, but these are not ordinary weapons. They live and breathe just as you do and are only capable of protecting you if you show them the respect they deserve. Right now, you have your units in teams of two. However, once you and your partner draw your weapons, you will become a team of four. These weapons are powerful beings not to be taken lightly. Out of respect for the weapons and for the hunters who have fallen before you, please treat them well.”

She turned back toward the crowd.

“Let us begin.”

The lights dimmed, and the cold blue light from the cauldron seemed to glow brighter, bathing the entire room in a soothing blue light.

Claire and Luke were the first to step up to the cauldron. They stood on either side of the glowing bowl, blue swirls of light reflecting back on their faces.

Luke reached his hand over the bowl and closed his eyes.

“Veni ad me. Da mihi potestatem tuam,” he spoke, no louder than a whisper. Yet his voice reverberated through the room.

He slid his hand into the bowl, recoiling slightly as he pulled it out, his grip tightening around a long, ominous sword. The blade was pitch black, almost like it had absorbed every bit of light around it. Steam curled off both the sword and Luke’s hand, a blue tint shimmering like a mystical aura, making it look as if he’d just pulled it from an ice bath. As the chilly air enveloped the room, I couldn’t help but admire the intricate designs etched into the hilt, each swirl and twist a testament to its mysterious origin.

Headmistress Blackburn smiled a satisfied grin.

“Corvus Luna,” she said, admiring the blade. “She will serve you well.”

Claire's nerves were clearly visible as she echoed the phrase Luke had just uttered, her voice barely above a whisper. With a slight tremble in her fingers, she cautiously plunged her hand into the glowing bowl, and to her surprise, she drew out a stunning longbow crafted from shimmering silver. The limbs were elegantly curved, adorned with beautiful swirling designs that danced across the handle and arrow rest, evoking the image of gentle waves lapping at the shore. To top it off, the string pulsed with a radiant glow, almost as if it were woven from a pure strand of starlight, adding an enchanting allure to the already captivating weapon.

“Argentum Domina,” Blackburn smiled. “What a pair to behold.”

Claire couldn't help but beam at the beauty of her new weapon.

The auditorium erupted into applause as Blackburn whispered something to both Luke and Claire. They returned to their seats, and the Headmistress called the next pair of students as the applause died down.

One by one, all of the students retrieved their weapons from the glowing cauldron, and the audience cheered for each of them.

Until at last, it was Hector and my turn.

He held my arm tightly as we made our way down the worn wooden steps toward the pot that shimmered like a lake beneath the moonlight. The Headmistress's keen gaze trailed us, sharp enough to cut through the excitement and anxiety buzzing in the air.

Peering into the bowl, I tried to find the right word for what I saw; it wasn’t quite liquid but seemed like some ethereal jelly, spiraling and swirling with a mind of its own. The texture was almost hypnotic, as unseen currents churned it in a mesmerizing dance. Tiny glimmers of light pulsed beneath the surface, darting around like luminous fish in an otherworldly sea. I knew exactly what this was—a portal to another dimension. The air around us felt charged—electric, almost.

I looked up at Hector, and he was smiling at me reassuringly.

“I’ll go first,” he mouthed, sensing my anxiety.

“Veni ad me. Da mihi potestatem tuam,” he uttered, speaking stronger and more determined than I had ever heard him speak before.

He plunged his hand into the bowl, and with an unexpected swiftness, he reeled it back, fingers wrapped around something surprisingly hefty. As he pulled it free, a massive silver handle emerged, glinting in the dim light, its surface decorated with intricate twists and patterns that seemed to dance as he moved. Attached to the handle was an ornate silver ax head that looked like it could cleave mountains in two. The weapon was nearly as tall as I was. A soft, ethereal glow enveloped the ax head, pulsating with a resonance of ancient magic, almost humming in harmony with the air around us.

“Fortis Lupus,” the headmistress said with a smile. “How fitting.”

Hector's eyes twinkled with a mix of excitement and pride as he turned his gaze toward me, clearly pleased with his find and anticipating mine.

I took a deep breath, held my hand over the cauldron, and muttered the words.

“Veni ad me. Da mihi potestatem tuam.”

Immediately, I felt a strong pulling sensation in my hand, almost as if the bowl were a magnet and my hand was being drawn toward it. I reached deep into the bowl and felt a shiver of shock at the ice-cold, stinging sensation of the gelatinous water. I couldn't see my hand once it was submerged, but I could feel a gentle crisp breeze brushing my fingers. I waited for a moment—for longer—for what seemed like an eternity. I felt nothing—no sword, nor bow, nor ax. I frowned, trying to peer deep into the liquid.

There was only silence. A knot began to form in my stomach. Had I done something wrong? Did I pronounce the evocation incorrectly? My heart began beating faster, but just as I started to withdraw my hand in an attempt to try again, I felt something brush against my fingers. A soft voice whispered to me. It was strange—I knew I didn't hear the voice with my ears; rather, I heard it in my mind. It spoke in a language that I didn't understand, but the words were soft and comforting. I reached down again and wrapped my fingers around the handle of whatever had brushed my hand moments ago. With all the strength I could muster, I began pulling the weapon from the gel.

It was a sword, and a beautiful one at that. The handle was made of dark blue wood, wrapped in light blue silk fabric, with a chain gently dangling from the end of the handle where a small sapphire trinket hung. The blade was a stunning shade of silver—almost white. It was polished so brightly that I had to squint my eyes to look at it as it reflected the light of the bowl beneath. The blade itself was intricately detailed with strange letters or runes that I could not comprehend. Once the weapon was completely free of the gel, I studied it in my hands. It was much heavier than the weapons that I had practiced with, but it was perfectly balanced. I let out a small gasp as I examined the blade further. I had seen this weapon before. In the realm of light, there are thousands of weapons, but this blade was special. This was the original blade of the founder of Blood Moon Academy; this was the only time the weapon had been pulled since his death. I turned to the Headmistress, and her mouth fell agape. She muttered a few words in Latin before clasping her hands together.

“Fundans Ferrum,” she choked out with an idolizing look in her eyes.

The auditorium once again erupted into deafening applause; they cheered even louder than they had for the other students.

Hector cast a quick glance my way, his face lighting up with a huge grin. He started to move toward me to take my arm again, but just as he did, the Headmistress stepped in, blocking his path. She leaned in close to him, her voice low as she whispered something in his ear. I couldn’t catch what she said over the raucous cheers of the audience, but I could see Hector’s smile vanish in an instant, replaced by a worried look in his eyes that made my stomach knot. The headmistress, ever the reassuring figure, quickly patted his shoulder, her demeanor softening as she turned toward me and leaned in close.

“Your mother will be so proud,” she whispered, her gaze filled with warmth and a hint of something else, as if somehow, in that fleeting moment, she were sharing a secret just between us.

Hector

The four of us sat around the fireplace in the first-year lounge. Claire and Luke sat together, admiring their weapons, and Olivia sat next to me, leaning on my shoulder, our weapons resting on the ground. The fire blazed in the fireplace, illuminating the room from the cold dark night.

“We saw them, you know!” Claire said, suddenly perking up.

“Saw who?” I asked, turning to her.

“The Vampires, of course. They were amazing.”

I groaned.

“So they arrived today?” I sighed. “I was trying to forget.”

“Our school has truly gone to the dogs,” Luke chuckled.

“I think it’ll go to the dogs when they inevitably start letting the dogs in,” I laughed.

“I think they were pretty cool—all three of them. But I’m still wondering which one is Olivia’s,” Claire said with an inquisitive look.

“Olivia’s?” I questioned, turning my head to my partner.

Olivia looked up at me as if she had been completely lost in thought.

“Ah,” she said weakly. She pulled a crinkled folded note from her pocket and handed it to me. My eyes quickly scanned the letter and widened as I took in the content. I let out a short breath and handed the letter back to Olivia.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” I asked.

She shrugged.

“I’ve been trying not to think about it.” She placed her hand on her forehead and furrowed her brow.

“Is that what’s been bugging you?” I asked, leaning back to inspect her. She had always been quiet, but she seemed to be in a fog the entire day.

“Kind of,” she sighed. “I’ve been having a killer migraine all day.”

“Stress from the ceremony?” Lucas suggested.

“Maybe?” Olivia questioned. “I’ve just never had them this bad before.”

“Maybe I can help,” Claire smiled, crawling over to me and Olivia.

“How so?” I asked, a bit worried.

“Well, my mom taught me a neat spell; I might be able to help you clear your mind if you let me in.”

Olivia shrugged and sat up straight.

“It’s worth a shot,” she said. Her complete trust in Claire made me both anxious and a little jealous.

Claire lifted both of her hands and aligned them with Olivia’s temples. She moved her hands in an intricate dance and whispered an incantation which I was unable to catch.

Her hands began to emit a soft yellow glow which slowly began to swirl around Olivia’s head.

They both shut their eyes and took deep breaths, the rhythm of their breathing slowly beginning to align.

“Ouch!” Claire exclaimed, yanking her hands back, the yellow glow turning into a pop of red for a split second before extinguishing itself.

“I’m sorry,” Olivia said with a concerned look in her eyes. “I don’t know what that was.”

“I saw it,” Claire exclaimed, rubbing her palms. “The dream you had. Just flashes, but I could see it.”

Olivia let out a deep breath and slunk back into herself.

“I’ve had dreams about them too,” Claire said. “You shouldn’t be worried.”

“It still doesn’t explain the headaches,” Olivia said.

“There was something else,” Claire said, her tone darkening. “I’m not sure what it was, but it was like a red ball of energy. It hurt me when I touched it.”

“Maybe we should call it for the night,” Luke suggested.

“I want to try something else,” Claire said, her voice almost pleading, “if Olivia is up for it.”

I looked toward Olivia, and she nodded.

“I think I’ll need a little help. Let’s all hold hands,” Claire suggested, reaching for Luke. Luke grabbed her hand and Olivia’s, and I sat holding hands with Olivia and Claire. We all positioned ourselves in a circle.

“This is something a bit trickier. I’ve never actually attempted it, but I’ve seen my mom do it a few times,” Claire whispered. “It’s called a mind link. Somnia Nexum.”

She breathed in deeply.

“It’s more powerful than mind reading. If we do it correctly, it will allow all of our minds to occupy one space.”

“Repeat after me,” she said. “Aperi mihi mentem tuam”

“Aperi mihi mentem tuam” We all repeated.

“Aperi mihi mentem tuam”

Slowly, a circular white band began to appear floating above our heads. It looked almost as if it were made of smoke.

“Aperi mihi mentem tuam”

I saw glimpses of the day unfolding through their eyes: Claire, Luke, and Olivia each pulling their weapons from the Cauldron, their feelings a mix of anticipation and resolve. I could sense Olivia's dream weaving in and out of focus, little flashes of her thoughts dancing like fireflies in the dark. Then there were the three Vampires striding through the main hall, their presence radiating an eerie calm. Luke's uncertainty curled around me like a faint mist, while Claire's curiosity sparked like a fire catching on kindling. But it was Olivia who overwhelmed me; her pain felt palpable, almost like it had wrapped her in a translucent bubble of anxiety that shimmered around her, turning her vibrant spirit into something heavy and distant.

“Focus on Olivia,” Claire whispered between chants.

“Aperi mihi mentem tuam”

I shifted my gaze to Olivia and squeezed her hand tightly. Her eyes were scrunched, and she looked like she was in pain.

I focused all of my energy on her.

“Aperi mihi mentem tuam”

Suddenly, in the blink of an eye, the band turned a deep red. I could see it. Somewhere behind my eyes. The thing that Claire was talking about. It looked something like a mix of red smoke and a deep crimson fire. It danced around in some unknown space, and I reached toward it only to be hit with a jolt of sharp physical pain.

I let out a grunt.

“Hector!” Olivia yelled; she wasn’t speaking out loud, but I could hear her voice anyway.

“I’m alright,” I thought, knowing she would be able to hear.

“Aperi mihi mentem tuam”

“I can see it too,” Luke said, his mental voice quivering. “What is that?”

“Let’s try to reach for it together,” Claire suggested.

“Aperi mihi mentem tuam”

“I don’t want to hurt you,” Olivia thought.

“Don’t worry,” Claire thought, “the three of us will be strong enough.”

“Aperi mihi mentem tuam”

“On the count of three,” she thought, sounding full of determination. “One… two… three…”

I pushed myself toward the mysterious force, feeling the familiar energies of Claire and Lucas swirling beside me. Together, we surrounded it, forming a united front, determined to uncover the truth hidden within it. Suddenly, a wave of red energy surged out, slamming into us like the snap of an over-stretched rubber band. In an instant, my mind snapped back into focus, my thoughts becoming my own again. But that wasn’t all—the powerful force emanated from Olivia, sending a shockwave that blew us all backward and severed our connection completely. The sound of shattering glass echoed around us as the windows exploded outward. The fire flickering in the corner was extinguished in an instant. Claire’s scream cut through the chaos as she tumbled awkwardly over the couch. I desperately tried to grip something, but the force was too strong, and I was sent flying back several feet, the world around me becoming fuzzy for a moment.

“Olivia!” I yelled, looking up at her, my vision blurred.

She was standing up straight with her arms spread wide, as if she were poised to embrace someone in a warm hug. Her mouth hung slightly open, a blank, lifeless expression was etched across her face, as if all emotion had drained away. Her eyes glowed with an intense crimson light, mirroring the powerful magical force that pulsed beneath her exterior.

“Death,” she spoke in a voice that didn’t quite belong to her, a haunting melody that twisted and coiled, resembling a chorus of a hundred voices speaking in unison. It was as if each note carried the weight of countless souls, blending together into an eerie harmony that unsettled me.

“I can see it,” she cried. “The Blood Moon shall rise, and the harbinger of doom awaits. When the shadows deepen and the hourglass nearly empties, the spawn concealed within these hallowed halls shall meet their fate. If the child's light is snuffed before the moon sets, the ancient one shall rise, reclaiming power lost to the ages. Heed this warning, for in the darkness, time is both ally and foe.”

She choked out the last words, and her eyes flickered back to their normal color. She collapsed to the floor with a violent thud.

“Olivia!” I called out, rushing to her side, my heart pounding in my chest as I dropped to my knees. She was breathing, but out cold, her face eerily still. I could barely hear anything over the roar of my own thoughts, fear tightening around my throat. Lucas hurried to Claire, who was groaning softly, her eyes barely flickering open.

We exchanged a glance, an unspoken mix of dread and disbelief hanging in the air between us, the weight of what had just happened crashing down like a tidal wave. Time seemed to freeze; shadows of the recent chaos danced behind my eyes.

“What the hell just happened?” I whispered, barely loud enough to break the heavy silence, knowing that whatever lay ahead wouldn’t be easy—and that we were all on the brink of something we couldn't escape.