As the clouds parted from the beauty of the full moon, the world turned funny. Gabe was unsure of things when a woman approached him as walked past the local graveyard. She was pretty, warm looking, and maternal. Rather tall and well built with curled gray hair, deep amber eyes, and skin that was sort of peachy. She seemed melancholic though, like there were bittersweet memories overflowing her heart. 

“Dear, can you forgive me?” 

“Huh?” He asked, confused. Who wouldn’t be with that sort of introduction? “ For what?” 

Stolen novel; please report.

She answered with her body, her hand striking out to jab something into his neck, something sharp. Heat penetrated his skin from its painful touch, sinking into his muscles, into his blood. He felt it spreading, halting his movements as it almost melted him from within. 

“This.” She whispered, sorrow in her eyes. “Perhaps you can save my son, if not… well, I am afraid at least your life will serve a greater purpose in satiating his hunger..” 

He couldn’t ask her what she wanted, only sleep was possible as darkness bled into his eyes and he fell into her arms. 

The last thing he remembered, as he passed out, was the sound of her sobs breaking free and the cold touch of manacles clamping on his wrists.