The Corps arrived at headquarters near dawn. The trip was long and arduous yet somehow Death Hunter Corps pulled off another successful mission. Markus was the first to jump out of the vehicle followed by Serenity and the little Caster that was now passed out from exhaustion on her back. Dion and Simon were the next to jump out, followed by a new recruit we had recently hired, Vance. He was an old acquaintance of Dion and Simon as they seemed to get along like old high school buds. This was not uncommon for them as Markus knew Simon and Dion for years, yet there was always a new story to uncover about them.
“Vance, are you ready to start your new regiment of training?” Dion asked him, “There are some interesting abilities that I have come across in researching the Crimson Night.”
“Always full of energy I see,” commented Simon about Dion. “There is always a new day mate, go rest up for christ-sake.”
“I’m in no need of rest, I prepared before heading out on the mission.” Vance replied snarkily, “Besides all I need is a good glass of the red stuff…” Vance trailed off as if daydreaming about a favorite drink of his.
“I agree with Simon,” Markus said, speaking up. “Serenity and the child already headed into the infirmary… It must have been a long day for the little Caster.”
“Indeed, Markus, You know it was a success, so we do deserve a break…” Dion added as he watched his wife carry the child off down the hall. “Simon, show Vance to his quarters, Markus please tend to the little girl when she wakes, I will be preoccupied with Serenity.” Dion smirked as he gave his orders for the night.
“Such a dirty mind, boss! Hahaha!” Simon chuckled, patting Dion on the back. “I’ll take care o’ this greenhorn recruit.”
“Yes, well… I best head to my office and finish up my report for the night.” Markus replied to Dion. “...Where is the new recruit anyway?” Looking around, Markus noticed that Vance was still at the entrance of the building, not even stepping one foot inside the building.
“Hmm… you guys sure know how to pull a fast one on a Nightbreed.” Commented Vance, irritated as he would need to be invited in order to continue.
“Hahaha! That’s right Vance, I forgot you have no soul!” Dion laughed maniacally, palming his forehead. “Markus, would you do the honors, I have more important matters to attend to.” with that Dion turned on his heel and headed in the direction of his quarters.
“What?... No soul? What freak have you found us now…” Markus sighed as he turned to Vance. “So… what spawn of creation are you?” Markus asked in a serious tone.
“Vance of the Immortal houses of Vampires; what’s it to you, Priest?” Vance’s tone was intimidating, and had pressure behind it.
“Of course you are… Alright you bloodsucker Vance of the Immortal houses, Please come in…” No sooner did the words leave Markus’ mouth and Vance was behind him.
“Thank you my good sir, we shall be working closely together from here on out.” Vance replied in a quieter tone.
“Don’t be getting any horny ideas about getting your glass of red from my vessel.” Markus retorted, drawing Watermind slightly, giving off a sheen of energy that reached out like lightning and zapped Vance, startling him and pushed him back.
“Whoops! Spicey one ya got here Simon.” Vance answered after recovering his composure.
“Aye, ye’ best steer clear o’ Markus when he’s like that,” Simon replied, “He be Nephilim.”
“Ahh… it all makes sense now. No wonder his mind was blocked from my sight.” Vance perked an eyebrow. “Wouldn’t want to be accidentally Exorcized by such pure energy.”
“Yes, watch yourself Vance, there are times when deep in research my energies spike and could leave ya with a nasty burn.” Markus warned the Nightbreed out of respect.
Now with all acquaintances out of the way, Markus, Simon and Vance headed toward the Armory, where each of their quarters branched off from. The Armory had its own common area with a service desk and office in the back. Simon took up the seat behind his desk and kicked up his feet. He looked at the other two men puzzling.
“Well Vance, I suppose you can bunk up in the Left wing, plenty of shade and very little windows up that way.” Vance nodded and headed down the left wing taking residence about half way up the hall.
“Very well, Simon I’ll be heading in for the night. It has been one surprise after another lately… I need rest.” Markus did not wait for Simon’s reply who only nodded him off as Markus headed up the right wing toward the end where his quarters resided.
Serenity had just finished tending to the little girl as she came to during treatment, “Where… am I..?” The girl’s speech was slurred from exhaustion.
“No need to fret my dear, you are safe now. You are inside Death Hunter Headquarters.” Serenity calmed the girl’s spirit. “Tell me, what is your name, little one?”
“...My name… is Rachelle…” When her last words escaped her lips, Rachelle fell into a deep sleep. Serenity needed to keep her stable and counteract the chemicals that flooded her bloodstream after being a test subject in her previous residence. Hooking her up to an IV and monitor, Serenity was a talented nurse and had become the go to medic of the Corps. Serenity tucked her in and headed out of the infirmary. “The poor child, she must’ve been through so much.” Serenity had not noticed Dion was waiting at the end of the hall as she thought, aloud.
“My Dear, Serenity…” Dion commented on her pondering thoughts. “She is in good hands, give her time to rest and regain strength, she will be bouncing around in no time.”
“Yes… you’re right my dear, let us do the same.” Serenity added with a smile as she followed Dion into their quarters.
~-~
It was mid-afternoon the next day, the members of Death Hunter Corps were busy finishing up their mission reports from the previous night. Markus was in the library looking over a few manuscripts and casefiles of similar incidents. One casefile in particular caught his attention…
Casefile 080: Rise of the Dark Casters
As Reported By:
Dion Martell - Director of D.H.C.
In the past 18 months.
There was a disturbance in the city of Mydian, in the markets district. At a local Pub and Inn that saw many faces and vagabonds come and go on their travels. This is where Dion had booked his next base of operations for the mission. Heading up to the Innkeeper Dion pulled out his satchel and asked, “I would like a room for the next 6 months.” reaching into his satchel, Dion pulled out a small pouch with coins in it. “How much?”
“Ahh… yessir! We have several rooms available. Would you like one with a sitting room or a simple room rental?” The Innkeeper asked in a happy voice, she was still young but knew how to run her establishment.
“Yes, one with a sitting room would be fitting.” Dion replied with a bit of pride in his voice.
“Very good sir! That will be 5 silver per night for.. You say six months!” The Innkeep was surprised that such a long-term tenant would ask for such a stay. “Sir… we do not have a monthly rate at the moment, you would be our first.”
“Very well, this should suit your price.” Dion pulled out 2 gold coins from his pocket, “How is this for a damage deposit?”
“Oh… oh sir I did not realize you were a man of such stature. Please let me call my brother to help you with your luggage.” The Innkeeper replied cheerfully, taking the two gold coins and the pouch of coins, which she opened quickly, counting out enough silver for the entire stay. The innkeeper gasped at the sheer amount of glitter that came off these coins.
“Percy! Get your lazy ass out here and help our Esteemed guest!” She shouted into the back room. A tall and lanky man came sprawling out.
“What’s your problem Peggy I’m right here!” Percy looked at her hands with a pouch of silver and 2 gold coins. Looking up at the guest Percy’s attitude changed to a more charming bellboy. “Sir, yes sir! Follow me to your room!” without skipping a beat, Percy grabbed Dion’s bag and luggage and was up the staircase waiting for Dion.
“Well that snapped ya to attention, Boy!” Dion smirked as he took his time following up the stairs.
Percy led the way to the end and to the right where sat a single door. “We have arrived at your suite, m’lord!” the bellboy announced.
“No need to use those formalities with me, I plan on being here for a while.” Dion answered, putting Percy at ease.
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“Very well, Sir…” Percy trailed off, realizing he never asked the man for his name.
“Call me Dion or Doc, I’m fine with either. I have been out of practice and only wish to live my life.” Dion finished the man’s thought.
“Sir Dion…” Percy pulled out a ring of keys from his pocket, “I present to you, Doctor, your room…” He unlocked the door, opening it to a spacious sitting room with a veranda view of the city. Just off to the left of the room was another doorway that led into the bedroom. Dion followed Percy into the suite as he set Dion’s luggage on the center table in the sitting room. There was a small kitchenette and fridge off to the left that was in-set to the wall. Dion walked up to the kitchenette, turned on the tap and splashed some water on his face. Pulling a hand towel from the top drawer and drying his face.
“Ahh… This will do; you are dismissed Percy.” Dion announced, looking at himself in the mirror. Seeing Percy at a glance in the mirror, Dion chuckled and turned around.
“I suppose a pouch of silver is not enough of a tip?” Dion put his hands into his pockets looking at Percy intently.
“Ahh… how rude of me Sir Dion, I am more than grateful for such a contribution to our establishment…” Percy trailed off and turned back toward the main door of the suite.
“Haha! Percy here take this…” Dion pulled out a small gem that glittered purple in the light. “Be sure to listen to your sister more! She may be a tough cookie but you are the only one that can protect her and your establishment.” Putting the gem in Percy’s hand, Dion patted the man on the back and escorted him out of the sitting area, closing the door. Percy was stunned at Sir Dion’s reactions, only confused as to the reason for the gem. Percy simply shrugged it off and pocketed the gem, heading back down stairs.
Dion sat at the table in the sitting room opening his satchel. He pulled out a journal and pen. He opened up his mission log and reached into the satchel for his flask. Flipping through the pages reviewing some of the work that led him to this moment, Dion cracked open his flask and took a drink. Bitter, and cold his whiskey warmed his soul. “Now this Dark Caster shit…” flipping another page, Dion began to read, reviewing his previous discoveries. “The Mortal House of Casters…” it went on about several bloodlines of mortals that established the now mysterious country of Agartha. “Jinzo Glastonburg… one of the first Dark Casters…” Dion pondered his thoughts aloud. Jinzo, or Jin the Dark Caster, was a master of a rogue Mortal house of assassins that worked for the previous King of Myd’raal. There have been many shady reports from the last reigning monarch, as he delved into the Dark Arts and helped bring the Dark Casters to power. “...Last known location…” mumbled Dion, “sightings of bodies with all moisture drained from them. On the High Road between Mydian and Grande Fresen.” Dion knew Jinzo’s tactics at this point leaving such a large rap sheet. Dion had booked himself into the Inn at Grande Fresen, having followed a lead from the day before… The report continues on for several more stanzas…
Markus’ eyes began to strain as he studied the document. “Grande Fresen… seems to have the most sightings on the Dark Caster’s… looks like we may be heading West soon.” Markus was not particularly a fan of Western Therös, knowing its history as the Forgotten Province of the Unknown Kingdom. Markus headed out of the library rounding the corner to find Simon still in his typical position behind his desk.
“Mornin’ Markus, sleep well?” Simon commented as Markus walked by.
“Morning, Simon… Any news on our new guest?” Markus asked, referring to the little caster girl.
“Ahh yes, Serenity is at her side in the infirmary… Dion is in his office talking with Vance.” Simon answered, giving Markus the updates. Markus nodded and headed down the hall toward the Infirmary. As he turned the corner and peered into the room, Serenity was bandaging the little Caster’s arm and upper shoulder from an injury sustained at the experiment lab.
“Good to see you’re feeling better little one.” Markus commented as Serenity slipped the night gown back onto her shoulder. “Do we have a name for this little warrior?”
“Her name is Rachell,” Serenity answered, “She has recovered most of her stamina and only needs some nutrients.” Stepping back from the bed, Serenity turned and smiled at Markus heading back down the hall, “I will get you some refreshments.” Serenity added.
“Rachelle… How do you feel now? Safe?” Markus asked her caringly.
“...Not really… I don’t know anyone…” Rachelle trailed off with her voice; it was obvious she was still suffering from some shock of the previous night’s events.
“Do you remember what happened last night?” Markus asked concerningly.
“...I Remember the nice lady found me in my room and pulled all the wires off me… then we ran and ran… being chased by monsters…” Rachelle began to hyperventilate, as her panic and conscious mind replayed the events from the night before.
“I promise, Rachelle, you are safe now. Death Hunter HQ is a fortress and is reinforced with runic enchantments that ward off evil…” Markus reassured the little scared caster.
“...Then… we were all surrounded by monsters… You protected me… all of you did…” Rachelle began telling the story, after regaining some composure. “I had… a huge ringing in my head… it ached… I felt like I exploded…” Rachelle was still confused and mystified by her own power.
“Yes… you helped us all; you saved the Corps, we wouldn’t expect anything more from you…” Markus went on, leaning into a mentor role. “You know Rachelle, the headquarters have an extensive Library of Modern history…I encourage you to drop by sometime and we can find out more about your powers.”
“I will have to think about this for a while…” Rachelle replied, “I am happy that I’m safe here… I am in your care.”
“Good,” Markus said, as Serenity returned with some lemon honey tea and some butter cookies for Rachelle. “Looks like breakfast has arrived. I will take my leave then.” Markus stood back, letting Serenity by to help Rachelle sit up.
“There is some coffee and sodas in the break room, if you would like a refreshment, Mr. Alistar.” Serenity always thought about all her co-workers having fresh brew and other goods to keep her men well fed.
“Much appreciated Serenity…” With that Markus headed to the break room and pulled out a mug for his coffee. Grabbing some creme and sugar, he headed back to his office.
Vance had knocked on Dion’s door as Markus entered the infirmary. Dion was at his desk, hands folded as he was looking directly at the door as Vance walked in.
“Quite the disturbing glare ya have, boss.” Vance commented as he approached Dion’s desk.
“How was your first watch, old friend?” Dion questioned him quizzically. “Surprised how accepting my men are of your presence?”
“Yes, they all seem very capable… That little one could be a great ally in the future.” Vance commented as the questioning began. “Say, the Nephilim… Has he awoken his latent powers yet?”
“Indeed… just last week, Markus entered a trance… speaking Highborn…” Dion answered in a more serious tone. “He is one of my most loyal members; we have history.”
“Indeed… I sense an atmosphere of brotherhood amongst your men…” Vance said, as he walked over to the window. “I only hope that our plans come to fruition, Doc.”
“We have already acquired a key toward that goal, Vance…” Dion smirked as he pushed up from his desk and turned to his bookshelf behind him. “I have something to show you…” Dion said as he pulled a bust on the shelf activating a switch that moved the wall, revealing his inner sanctum. “Come Vance, we must rid ourselves of doubt if we are to succeed in the Blood Wars.”
Vance nodded and followed Dion into the sanctum, the wall shifting back in place locking them inside a small passageway. The passage lit up as they walked in, it was no more than eight feet long, yet only narrow enough for someone to pass single file.
“This is for our own safety, since this will be a bomb shelter.” Dion commented as they reached the end of the pass. He opened the next door, which was more sophisticated than any mechanisms Vance could recall since the Dark Dawn.
“You sly dog, you found ancient technology!” Vance commented, impressed by the structure.
“Only the best for the Deathunters. Now Vance this sanctum is also warded to your soulless husk as well…” Dion added as he stepped beyond the door. “I will have to take the catalyst in the room and add your blood to it if you wish to use this sanctum.”
Vance was about to follow Dion, but smashed his nose on the forcefield that warded off Deathwalkers. “Bastard! Ya could’ve warned me sooner!”
“Hahaha… I was just explaining what the situation is to ya, recruit!” Dion gave a commanding order. “Now give me your hand…” Dion turned around pulling out a small dagger from under his shirt. “Your hand…”
Vance lifted his arm up toward the doorway, Dion grabbed the Vampire’s hand and cut it open. Blood as dark as night oozed out from Vance’s veins. Dion grabbed the dagger, now covered in the Nightbreed’s blood. “Fair warning Vance, this dagger is Silver… That cut will take some time to heal, even for you!” Dion sneered, always pulling a fast one on the Vampire.
“Goddammit! Doc, can we not just have a normal encounter!” Vance retorted sarcastically, his blood boiling off and his wound still opened to the elements. “Got any fancy bandage for this ugly blemish!” Vance said in a repulsive tone… he was one who idolized his own self image far too much.
“Ahh get over here ya baby!” Dion snarked back, “This runic bandage will keep it from continually bleeding ya dry.” Dion grabbed Vance’s hand and quickly wrapped it up neat and tightly. Vance winced as Dion finished the bandage there was a dull burning sensation as the bandage touched the wound. “The hell ya couldn’t even give it a soothing creme!” Vance was now showing signs of irritation.
“It’s fine ya bloodhound… It is a mixture of herbs and tonics for you empty bodies.” Dion always seemed to insult Vance for being a Vampire, in his own way.
“Whatever boss… So we good I won’t be spirited away now if I walk around HQ?” Vance replied showing his frustration as he headed back down the passageway.
“All good here Vance, thank you for your time!” Dion smiled, not hiding the fact that he enjoyed torturing the Vampire. Vance headed to the other side of the HQ, he entered the Library and pulled a book out on Demonology, he needed to blow off steam.
Simon was in the back of the Library as he heard Vance storm in. He maneuvered to a shelf behind Vance, seeing him grab one of the Demonology books. “I see you learned about Dion’s little sanctum.” Simon smiled talking through the bookshelf. “You know how Doc gets with yer kind, Vance.”
“Even so… after all these years it keeps me young and thirsting for more…” Vance panted heavily as he flipped open the book with his mind.
“Hehe… Good to see you're motivated for the cause!” Simon winked at the Vampire pulling up a seat next to him. “Anything I can suggest for ‘yer cause?”
“I need a target… To regenerate… I thought picking on a demon would be fun…” Vance began flipping the pages with intent.
“Now we’re talkin’. There are plenty of Depraved souls out there that have no more need for life.” Simon was a dark humor kind of fellow, this complemented Vance’s abilities. As the two men schemed their next move, Markus had entered into the Library seeing them looking over a manuscript.
“Anything I can help you fella’s with?” Markus asked as he made his way over to them.
“Ahh! Markus, just the exorcist I was looking for!” Simon smirked with a gleeful look in his eye. “We’re tracking down a new target for Vance, he is running dry… We're gonna pick a fight with Demons.”
“Yes… Their blood is full of energy and healing properties...” Vance mumbled under his breath as he scanned the book.
“Interesting…” Markus thought, pulling up a seat across from the other two. “ This one, is a Demon that acts through a vessel… one of the Dark Casters.”
“Yes…” Vance perked an eyebrow, “It’s like having dinner and dessert at once!” a bit of drool escaped the Vampire’s mouth, he shook the moment off and refocused.
“Looks like we may have our next target…” Simon leaned back in his seat, lifting his hands behind his head. “Where we headed, Gatekeeper?” Simon teased Markus.
“West… Last sighted in Grande Fresen.” Markus answered near instantly. “There is a known Dark Caster stronghold in the City.”
“The City of the Merchant Monarch…” Simon commented, sitting upright. “So what’s the plan boys, we gonna take a field trip?”
“Looks like I have my next meal planned out…” Vance grinned maniacally.
“I will gather up some resources and report to Dion,” Markus added. “I’m sure he can give us a few pointers on where to acquire transport in this hell hole.” Markus downed the rest of his coffee, pushing up from the table. “Let’s rendezvous at 1800 hours, I’m sure the boss will have arranged something for us by then.” The other men nodded as they headed back to their quarters to prepare for the upcoming mission.