A LADY IN DISTRESS

There was no longer any coherent thought in her mind, only a maddening fear and a near maniacal need to run. Having spent most of her spells, her only impulse was escape. Elaydren put all her remaining strength into reaching the doors of the mansion.

She made it to the hallway leading to the foyer. Her fear nearly turned into glee as she realized that the way to freedom would be in the next room. However, someone -- something barred her path to escape.

***

To pass the time while waiting, Miguel pulled out a small sheet of vellum and began enchanting it. In a minute, a single kanji appeared on its surface as the small piece of paper stiffly floated before him at face level.

“Hey you!” Miguel started to talking, more kanji started to appear and dance on the floating parchment. “I’m already at the Aunt Elaydren‘s house waiting for Rourke. I don’t know how long this one’s going to take, but as soon as I find out - ”

***

Elaydren's face grimaced in fear as the creature stepped into the light. It was of human shape, heavily armored and had it's sword raised at the ready.

The figure stepped into the hallway casually. The creature saw that only a lone disheveled noblewoman was it's only prey. Judging that she was no threat, It lowers it's blade - deciding to take it's time.

"You are no match for the blood and soil of Karrnath!" The creature's voice was a raspy sigh.

Elaydren's fear threatened to climb out of her belly but seeing the creature lower it's weapon gave her hope. This mixed with her panic bred desperation. Elaydren's instinct to survive took over.

With a feral scream, the lady charges.

***

A piercing scream from the house abruptly stops Miguel.

“Something’s up. I’ll message you later.” He quickly finishes off the missive and sends it off as he runs for the house – his speed enhanced by his link to the darkness around him.

***

Elaydren's desperate charge succeeded. She made it to the foyer. She had taken the creature unawares but not without it's price -- her fine dress was now stained with her noble blood. She felt her knees weaken and threaten to buckle but fear pushed her on. Frantically she limped toward's the door, now only a few feet away.

"BY THE BLOODSWORD'S CRIMSON BLADE!"

The battlecry made Elaydren turn around to see that there were now two of the creatures both rushing toward's her, swords raised.

***

Miguel reached the door. Finding it locked. He hears another scream from within. The warlock utters a harsh word causing the front door to suddenly explode inward.

Miguel saw his aunt. Her back turned towards him. His gaze drawn forward, he see's his aunt about to be attacked by two armored foes.

-continue here-