This right here is an Oc chapter that a lot of you have been wondering if I'd ever do and this is it. I was going to do a chapter on our main focus, but I decided to give Wilhelm a bit more.
As for what this chapter is, I think the title it's self already gives you an idea of what this one is about. Not to mention this chapter will finally have two characters in particular. Some of whom I know a lot of you have been wanting and waiting for a long time now.
This chapter will not only gives us a glance at some horrors that live within the isle's itself but also, to give you all a glance at something that I've been hinting since his debut in chapter 8.
Without further ado, let's begin.
Chapter 19
The Night Feeder
It was now nighttime on the Boiling Isle's, the sun had finally set just two hours ago. The crickets were chirping, and all the wildlife were minding their own business. However, suddenly, everything just became quiet, dead quiet.
Something was lurking through the shadows moving at incredible fast speeds through the tree lines in just mere seconds alone it stopped upon hearing some noise in the distance. Without hesitation the beast sped towards the direction of where the sound was coming from.
Before long it was watching an entire herd of demons that had attributes of bulls, each one having large sets of horns. These things were bulky and massive in size. Not exactly something a normal person would not want to mess with.
However, what was stalking them had other ideas. It just sat there watching them as if it was waiting for a perfect opportunity. The herd continued to move onward going across a small stream.
One of the bulls stopped leaning it's head down to drink some water, but not long after it perked up, catching whiff of something, and it was close. Very close by it turned into the direction of whatever was stalking them.
Despite it's brave stance showing it was ready to fight, this poor animal did not realize what it was facing against. Because then the stalking predator came bursting out spooking the bull tearing a whole chunk out of it's stomach causing lots of blood and intestines to pour on the ground killing it instantly as it gave off a painful scream alerting the herd.
Hearing their fallen member, the herd started to take off running, they all knew that in the position they were in right now, that they were sitting ducks. As they were running the mysterious creature came busted through one of the bulls sending it's intestines, blood, and shattered bones flying all over. Some the blood nearby splattered on one of other ones that was nearby. Then another one was through the front chest destroying it, sending it's back body and other body parts rolling across the ground as blood was splattered on the ground.
By now, the herd had finally managed to get out to an open field. The herds first move was to huddle up together taking positions showing now that they were together, they were ready to fight.
Despite their numbers they had, that advantage didn't do them any good. The predator came rushing out and sliced one of the bulls clean in half right in the middle of the body right on the freakin center! Tissue, organs, bones everything. The sight of their friend getting butchered scared the living fuck out of them and one that was nearby got a face full of blood.
Within moments everything was going the wrong way, the whole herd was now in full panic. They all started to panic and a few members of the group made a big grave mistake. Cause now, each member of the herd was getting killed.
One by one each was getting killed in a brutal way. One lost it's head, it darted towards another and slashed off a whole chunk of it's upper spine before to it dashed over to another bull demon and butchered the thing in multiple pieces before it sprung towards another tearing chunks of a poor bulls head with little effort.
Before long we get a shot at the moon that was full that night and despite it's beauty it didn't mute nor mull the painful cries of agony of the poor creatures that died helplessly at the hands of this monster
Two days later.
At the library, today was just another regular day for Amity who'd just finished reading for the kids.
" Thank you Miss Amity! " The group said as they waved her goodbye for the day.
" Take care, I'll see you all next time! " She replied back returning the wave with one of her own smiling a bit feeling good as well.
" I still often ask myself if your really doing it for extra credit or your simply to stubborn to admit that you enjoy it immensely? " A voice asked startling Amity making her turn around to see someone behind her reading a large book. The reader proceeded lowering it down to see it was a smiling Willhelm with a smirk satisfied that he spooked her.
Seeing that it was only him she calmed down frowning a bit at his stunt. " What are you doing here?
" I was coming by to see how you were doing, but I saw you were reading to the little ones. So, I decided to be polite and wait till you were done. "
" Huh? " She was confused raising an eyebrow as he explained.
" From what I heard while I was bed ridden... " The red head summarized as he stood up. " Things at Hexside got pretty hectic. And I was worried about you. "
Hearing this made Amity blush a bit since well, he came to her seeing that she was ok and even she had admitted that was really nice and sweet. However she quickly shook her head. " Well, thank you...But I'm ok. How are you? Feeling better? "
" Much. " Wilhelm nodded his head before humming with interest looking at something.
" What is it? "
" There's still a kid right there. " The red head pointed out to see a little kid reading a book by himself near one of the shelves. Curious, Amity walks up to the kid and gets on one knee.
" Excuse me? Reading times done. " She told him but he ignored her. " Hello? " He still ignored her. " Hello? " She made her voice a little bit louder, but the child still wouldn't acknowledge her and before long Wilhelm stood right next to her. " I don't get it. Why's he ignoring me? "
" Only a minor guess, but I believe he's deaf. " Wilhelm commented before he knelt down next to her.
" How do you know? "
" I don't. But, let's find out. " He tapped the little boys shoulder which grabbed his attention and turned around. When he did Wilhelm started using sign language. " Sorry, but my friend was trying to talk to you and you didn't respond. Pardon me for asking, but are you deaf? " He got a nod from the boy. " Do you know sign language? " He got a nod. " Do you read lips? " Another nod.
Wilhelm glanced up at Amity. " Well, that answers that question. " He returns back to the kid who signed back. " Did you need something? "
" My friend was just trying to tell you that you're other friends left just now. You should catch up to them. "
" Oh, ok. Thank you Mr. "
" Will you be fine by yourself? " Wilhelm got a nod back in response and the kid took off leaving Amity a bit surprised by what she saw.
" You also know sign language? "
" I do. Truth be told, I wasn't able to speak till I was eight years old. "
" Really? "
" Yes, the reason was because when I was born my vocal cords weren't fully developed so it took a little bit of time for them mature as I got older. "
" No kidding? Wow, that must've been stressful for your mother if she couldn't hear you cry.
" That it was. " The red head admitted with a solemn look and Amity knew that expression from anywhere.
" You don't really get along with your mother do you? "
" As I said in the past, it's complicated. How bout yourself? "
" ... " Amity didn't respond to that one, she only glanced away holding her right arm. " I think we should change the topic. "
" Agreed. Ah, yes. That reminds me. You asked me a while back if I could possibly introduce you to some other manga. Are you still interested? "
" I'd really like to. " She admitted.
" Then say no more, let's take a look. "
Minutes later after hanging out and chatting with Amity Wilhelm exited out of the library and started to make his way home. As he did someone from the distance began to follow him. For about ten minutes the figure followed Wilhelm throughout town and then he proceeded to go down into an alley way.
When Wilhelm turned in the corner so did the figure following him. When the figure did turn around the corner, Wilhelm wasn't there much to the figures confusion. It was a dead end, there was no way he could've gone. Or could he? Up from above, Wilhelm was watching the figure move waiting for whoever was following him to get into the right spot before he jumped down landing on his stalker.
Upon landing the figure groaned and their hood loosened revealing it to be none other than Lilith. For a split-second Wilhelm gained a look of surprise that instantly turned into a glare.
" Wilhelm. " Despite the tension and situation, she was in Lilith did her best to remain calm.
" Lilith, any last words? " The red head greeted and questioned.
" Wait. "
" A poor choice. "Wilhelm responds as Lilith kicks him off, her staff extended out and swings her staff to knock him back, but he blocks it. She then springs back onto her feet and they start circling waiting for one another to make a their next move.
" So after all this time, you're finally here to finish what you started? " Wilhelm questioned every word he spoke with venom and anger.
She shook her head in response. " No. I'm not here for that. "
Wilhelm meanwhile didn't look so convinced. " Oh please spare the pleasantries would you. Why else would you come? "
" Because, I need you're help. "
" Hmm? " Wilhelm was trying to process what she said. " What was that? I swore I'm mistaken on what I'm hearing. "
" I said, I need your help! " Lilith repeated saying it much louder with a hint of annoyance.
He tilted his head to the right. " And why would I even consider doing so? "
" Because there's been a series of attacks. "
He scoffs at that. " Really? You need my help to deal with bandits? I have no interest in that. If that's the case then you and you're idiotic followers are getting sloppy in their supposed 'duty'. "
" It's not that! "
" Oh? Then what? "
" I believe a dragon is behind the attacks. "
Hearing this caught his attention. " Is that so? " He and Lilith both stop while he crosses his arms giving her a raised eyebrow finding it hard to believe. " And do you have proof? Evidence to support that theory? Of these aledged attacks? "
She stops as well and shows him a few photos. He gives them a quick inspection and hums. " And it does appear so. This is work of a dragon. " He passes them back to her. " Did you piss one off by any chance? "
" No. Wilhelm you know you're the only one on the isle's that has more knowledge on them then even the head of the Beast Coven. "
He rolls his eyes upon hearing this." So Eberwolf isn't enough to help aid you? Why I am not surprised. "
" Because while she might be the best, she only has a small amount of knowledge on them. I wouldn't have come looking for you unless I had no choice. "
" That you would... " He pauses going into thinking. " As much I'd love to spar with you, if a dragon is really behind this, then this is serious. "
She gains a somewhat hopeful look. " Then you'll help? "
" No. I'm only doing this because, our interests are aligned. I've heard only stories like this just until recently myself I've been meaning to investigate them myself. "
" So would you be willing to have a truce? "
" I suppose so seeing the opportunity has presented itself before me. " Wilhelm admitted. " However, do keep in mind, if this is a trick, I will kill you without hesitation very quick and painlessly as possible. Further more we follow my lead. Nor to many questions asked either. If not then, we can continue our squabble. "
She pauses for a moment and thinks this through before she nods at this proposal. " Excellent! Shall we be off? "
" Do you even know which kind of dragon is behind these attacks? " Hearing this question made Wilhelm stop in his tracks and sigh.
" I'm afraid not. " The red head admitted. " I'd hoped to find some witnesses to help me make a list of suspects. But haven't had the time yet. Don't suppose you have a list? "
" Actually I do. I was on my way to a farmer just outside of Bonesburrough. "
" Good to hear. " Wilhelm said before Lilith brought out a masquerade mask making the red head raise an eyebrow in confusion. She explained
" You may need to wear this...Just in case. "
" Very well. I can work with that. "
Outside of town the two of them rode out on Lilith's staff, the witch of course with Wilhelm right behind her wearing the mask she gave him to wear. Neither one speaking a word. It was really awkward to since Lilith hadn't been in much contact with Wilhelm since 'the incident'. And even now she was having a hard time trying to break the ice. Eventually she did.
" So...how have you been? "
" ... " Lilith didn't receive a reply from him.
"So since we're hunting a dragon, why not at least talk a little? "
" I'm only here to investigate and find the culprit. I'm not interested in talking. " He replied coldly.
" Alright...I understand."
"... "
"... "
"... "
"So um still no luck finding my sister Eda"
" Shocker... " The red head whispered sarcastically.
Lilith then proceeded to groan loudly in frustration. " Gah! Look! Can we please not make this any silent!"
" Very well, you wish to talk? How about telling me why exactly you sent a Greater Basilisk to Glandus and Hexside? And if memory serves right, they've been well over extinct for three hundred years. Is it not some strange coincidence that they suddenly just appear now out of the blue itself? "
"No I do not. "
" Then why was it disguised as inspector from, your coven? "
" I mean it Wilhelm I have no idea what you're talking about. I've heard of the reports but there was no evidence supporting those claims either. "
" Do you really take me for a fool like you have before? " He asked with a raised eyebrow. " If you do then, you're sadly mistaken. "
He scoffs shaking his head a bit. " You constantly tell the children that your coven fights for the peace, justice, and honor. Protecting the very isle's we call home. And yet you have the audacity to use the innocent to further you're own agendas. "
"It's nothing like that! Wilhelm I never approved of such a thing. "
" I once believed you without doubt nor hesitation...But that trust was shattered years ago. Now, you're nothing but a deceiver.
" What? " She was confused to hear this. " What are you talking about? "
" I have the body. " Wilhelm clarified earning a surprised look from Lilith.
" Wait, seriously? How d- "
" You have your ways and I have my ways. " The red head answered in a flat tone. " Also watch where you're going! " He cried out pointing forward and just barely by a few inches they almost crashed into a tree.
" Not a word. " Lilith said clearly embarrassed by what happened making Wilhelm smirk.
" You said it, not me. " He said earning a frown from the witch who proceeded to go down which indicated they had arrived at their destination. A farm that was located fifth teen miles outside of town and it was where the most recent incident happened.
Once they landed Wilhelm walked ahead of her. " Wait a minute what are you doing? "
" Gathering information, obviously. " Wilhelm answered. " Besides, I believe it's best you just stick out here and keep out of sigh till I let you know it's alright to emerge. "
" And why exactly? "
" Because the head of the emperor's coven seen with someone wanted like me would leave a bad impression would it not? " He didn't get a response. " And with that I rest my case. "
" Um...Where am I supposed to hide? " With an annoyed sigh Wilhelm turned over to her. " Watch, from above. Obviously. " He answered back before he returned his business to the front of the farmhouse.
After knocking the door was answered revealing a warlock in his mid-forties, wearing some clothing made out animal fur. " Can I help you? "
" Um, yes. I heard about what happened to your herd, and I'm investigating the incidents. May I have a minute of your time? "
" You're not with the local newspaper are you? Cause if you are then get out of here. I've already told you all what happened. "
" Sir, I assure you I am not with that group. "
" Then who are you with? "
" I am simply doing my part for the isle's.
" Emperor's Coven? "
" No. " Hearing this earned a look from the farmer as he stared down at Wilhelm unsure if he should talk or not. But considering that he was labled as a nut job anyways he figured he'd just get it over with so he could be left alone in peace.
" Alright, come on in. "
" Thank you very much, sir. " Wilhelm said as he entered inside of the house going into the living room while the farmer closes his door behind him. Motioning to the couch, Wilhelm sat down and quickly started to ask questions brining out a small note book.
" If I may ask, how much land do you have here? "
" About roughly two hundred acers. My family's own this farm for about two generations. But now, I'm worried and scarred for my family. "
" Why is that? "
" Well, about a week ago while I was flying over the woods I heard something. And honestly I had no idea what it was either.
" What'd it sound like? "
" It was just like a loud wail, any louder it'd hurt you're ears. That sort of thing. " Wilhelm jolted that down on his notes.
" What time was this? "
" I'd say about an hour after sunset. Days passed by, never heard it again. But then, two days ago something happened. " The farmers tone was changing into a much calmer tone. " Right about roughly around mid night, nature called my name and as I was going back to bed. I heard my herd acting up, and then within couple minutes they were screaming. In agony. "
Hearing this really got Wilhelm's attention as the warlock gave him more grizzly details. " It was just so horrifying and heartbreaking to hear them. So, I went out on my staff to see what the hell was hurting my herd. And as when I was five miles out, it just got silent. Dead silent, the screams just stopped. When I got to my herd, my stomach dropped, the whole entire herd was slaughtered. "
" That bad? "
" Yeah, that bad. "
" Wow... "
" After I saw the state of my herd, I saw something else dart into the woods. "
Now this grabbed Wilhelms attention. " What exactly did you see? "
He tried describing what he'd seen. " I...It's hard to explain...It was moving so fast that I couldn't even see what it was. Just only a dark shape. "
" Did you make out any sort of features? " Wilhelm questioned.
" No, but this thing was pretty big... "
" If you had to estimate it's size, what would you guess? "
" Um...maybe 8 meters? "
" So this beast would be about 26 feet long... " Wilhelm added this to his notes. " Probably weighing well in the range of twenty five hundred pounds...Did it make any distinct noise? Was there any sort of smell? "
" There was no smell, but there was a constant cackling noise. "
" Interesting... " Wilhelm continued adding more information to his notes. " Now, the livestock. What condition were they in? "
" I don't even need to tell ya. Hell, I can show you instead. "
" Really? "
" Uh-huh. Follow me. " The older warlock motions for Wilhelm to follow him and from behind Lilith following them from above watching them waiting for the signal. " It's just right here. " He points up ahead in barn.
" And this was just two days ago right? "
" Yeah, that's right. " The warlock replied as he began to unlock the doors to the barn and opens it. Once the doors went wide open Wilhelm was taken by surprise in what he saw. The red head has seen a lot of things including on predator kills. However, this really did take the cake.
Lying Infront of him were different corpses, all heavily mutilated. One of the body's was completely destroyed, body parts were scattered, organs were spread out and the bones were shattered. And then there was another's body was cut clean in half right down straight to its body.
" This what you found? " Wilhelm asked as he knelt down to examine them.
" Yeah, a few from the Beast Coven came down here and they all said the same thing. They'd never seen anything like this before. Never. What do you think it is? "
" I don't know. Would you mind if I continue examine these? "
" Sure, by all means. " The warlock left allowing Wilhelm to continue his work in peace. After listening to make sure the farm owner was gone Wilhelm whistled for Lilith and she came over. But when she did, the head of the Emperor's Coven covered her mouth in shock and gaged before rushing to a bush outside to empty out the contents of her stomach.
While she was doing so Wilhelm hummed in interest showing although he was disturbed by the kills. Because this got the gears for his detective mind rolling. Once Lilith was done she whipped off her mouth and entered the barn still trying to absorb what she was seeing.
" W-What could've possibly done this? " She kneeled downright next to him. " Wilhelm? "
" Huh... " He hummed as he looked at the second corpse noting the way it was killed. " This one was a clean kill...No bite marks, nothing, it's a just clean cut...Even through solid bone... Clean in half like in a butcher shop. " He eyes the other corpse. " The killer crashed through this one though... "
" Wait, you mean one single animal caused all this? "
" I believe so, and a very bold predator at that. " Wilhelm answered as he stood up. " I can't say what did this though...I need to investigate the kill sight. "
...
Minutes later after getting directions from the farmer the duo made their way out to the field to find the kill site. Without much effort, they found it after spotting all the dry blood that still remain in the same spot.
" That's...a lot of blood. " Lilith said obviously pointing out the obvious as Wilhelm made a spell circle using it one himself causing his eyes to project orange lights examining the ground seeing the outline of footprints. All though the attack was two days ago, the footprints were still fresh.
" They were all clustered here, trying to defend themselves. But that wasn't enough. One by one, killed in a brutal way. The corpses tell me enough what happened. " He moves his eyes scanning the area and saw multiple trails of footprints coming from one direction and then going into another. " Interesting... "
" What is? " Lilith asked.
" It always kept running in a straight line towards the herd, killing one. Then, probably by making a quick u turn. It came back around like when you throw a ball in a small room and it bounces off the walls rapidly. This was how it killed the herd. "
" Can something really move that fast? "
" They can. " He moved around tracking the footprints tracing where they went through the field looking for certain trail. " And usually what comes into mind in terms of speed is a Hooklock, they can reach speeds up to 50 miles an hour. But, this isn't how they would kill prey. One would cause a herd like this to separate and go after the vulnerable members, like the younglings, elderly and injured. Then they'd drag it off and eat it. But in the case of this, something just went out here and killed the entire herd without even trying. It's just like child's play. "
" What about the state the corpses were in? "
" Well, two species come into mind with the one body was cut clean in half. And that'd be the Northern Saber Tail. Their tails are able to cut through stone. But they never fly out this far from their territories. The other one, usually something like that would be Skullbasher, they charge at their prey and kill them with brute force rather than use their teeth to kill prey. One problem though, they only come these isle's during mating season every four years. There's still only two before they come. "
" So, ruling those suspects out, what do you think caused this? Be honest? "
Wilhelm glanced over his shoulder for a brief moment and continued trailing the tracks. " I don't kn. . . " He stopped cutting off his answer and turned off his tracking spell which grabbed Lilith's attention.
" What is it? Why'd you stop? " The red head didn't answer her question, instead he knelt down to something. Seeing this Lilith glanced down to see what he was looking at and did the same. What they found was a large track, in the ground. The toes were long at least four feet in length and five inches apart.
" Do you recognize it? "
" No...No. I haven't seen this before... " Wilhelm answered he traced his fingers into the track almost appearing to be memorized by it.
" Are you serious? " Hearing this made the red head glance at her with an annoyed frown.
" I said it for a reason didn't I? " He retorted as he stood up and even Lilith realized that he had a point there and stood up herself.
" Well what possibly could it be? "
He went into thinking. " I do have a few ideas, but there are only small assortment of dragons that have four toes. And none of them are the dragons I spoke about earlier. Skullbashers have six toes, while Hooklocks have three. The problem is though, the dragons with four toes aren't even native to this part of the underworld. " Wilhelm glances over to her. " Are there other people around here that have reported killings like this? "
" Including this one, three in total...So far. " She answered. " Do you want to see them as well? "
" We need to. Take me to them... " He gritted using one word in particular but sucked it up. " Please? "
" Alright. "
Hours had passed and we see the two them at the edge of town.
After interviewing that farmer, they went to other local residents that lived a couple of miles away from Bonesbourough. Each one giving a description of them seeing something and just like at the farm their livestock was mutilated in a gruesome manner.
Right now Lilith was inside of a local store stocking up on some supplies along with buying a few things for Wilhelm. Which was written down on a small list.
As for the red head himself he was examining a map, one that had marks of where all the strange attacks have been happening. He was marking the spots but was careful he didn't make a mistake.
Looking over he saw that Lilith was dragging supplies in a large sack, a pretty decent sized one to. And was having a hard time to, sure the residents on the boiling isle's were stronger then humans but even they had their limits and that included the head of the emperor's coven herself.
" You know you could help me carry this. " She complained.
" I seem to remember saying that to multiple times to. " Wilhelm replied back returning his focus to the map. " Oh the irony. "
At first she was going to retort back but instead nothing came out instead she got over to her staff and tied the sack to the hovering item. Once knowing it was secured and in place Lilith looked over Wilhelm's shoulder watching as he connected all the dots, which circled a certain area.
" I'm assuming you've pinpointed where it could be? "
" You're guess is as good as mine. " Wilhelm replied back. " At the same time though, it's still to early to say. It could've already moved on, or even left the Island and went elsewhere. Which is why we need to go here and soon. It's gonna be dark in four hours from now. "
Night had now fallen and luckily for them they managed to find a small cave. One that was uninhabited and was very easy to defend.
Inside the cave we see Lilith brining out some food to prepare supper for the night. The only thing that was missing, was firewood which Wilhelm had just returned bringing some with him.
Getting to the middle he first placed the wood in a makeshift firepit surrounded by small stones that he and Lilith gathered earlier. After making sure the wood was sorted out in the pit he took a long stick placed it at the bottom and started quickly rotating it at the bottom. Noticing this Lilith raised an eyebrow in confusion.
" What are you doing? "
" Starting a fire. " Wilhelm answered increasing the speed he was rubbing the stick.
" Wouldn't it be easier to use magic? "
" Magic doesn't do everything for us. " Wilhelm said as continued at what he was doing making Lilith sigh as she walked over and kneeled down.
" Wilhelm, let me... " Suddenly smoke started to rise from the pit and surely enough the camp fire was now lit.
" You were saying? " The red head questioned with a smirk of satisfaction very much enjoying the witch's surprised face.
Moments later with the fire still going, Wilhelm added in a couple smaller pieces of wood. They'd just finished eating their supper but then suddenly they heard something off in the distance.
It sounded like a high-pitched screech, but it sounded more like a wail. Upon hearing this they both turned their attention to the entrance of the cave.
" What was that? "
" I haven't the slighest idea. " Wilhelm answered before they started to hear howls along with whatever they heard earlier and what sounded like loud tearing of flesh.
" What in the world? " Lilith asked showing she starting to get a bit scared and grabbed her staff just in case and the howling was starting to get louder and from how loud it was indicating that there was more then one other then. " Are you hearing this? "
Wilhelm nodded his head confirming so they both stood their in silence and before long after a single yelp, all the howling just stopped.
" Wait, listen. " The red head said keeping quiet for a few seconds before speaking up. " It...It just stopped. That's crazy. This is exactly just like what the farmer said with his herd. "
" Why is it so quiet now? " Lilith was just as baffled as Wilhelm was.
" I'm not sure, it sounded like a massive dog fight. But, I believe whatever were tracking, just made some fresh kills. "
" Maybe we should go investigate and try to see what it is! " Before she could go Wilhelm go up infront of her with his arms out wide.
" No! "
" What? " She couldn't believe what she was hearing. " Wilhelm, you heard that just now. This could be our opportunity! "
" I understand that, but if we go now we'll only get ourselves killed. " The red head said hoping she would see to reason. " That thing just made some fresh kills, and that means it's bloodlust is still going. Heading out now is not a wise decision. We'll head out first light at dawn. "
Even though she wanted to say something Lilith couldn't realizing that Wilhelm was right. They didn't know what they were hunting, and with it being so late and dark out right now, it would be to dangerous. So with a reluctant sigh she walked back over to the fire and laid down keeping her staff close with Wilhelm doing the same keeping a knife right next to him. Because of what they'd just heard, the two of them had a hard time sleeping that night. Both of them were to nervous to sleep.
The next morning the two of them went out when the sun rose at first light. Of course, as they were heading towards the direction of where the howls and the noises were coming from they stopped at a small nearby river to eat.
" It's a nice morning right now. " Lilith said with Wilhelm humming in agreement.
" That it is... " The red head said before they heard a branch snap from the side and it was close by. Not knowing what it was both what it could be but to be better safe then sorry they got ready looking towards the direction of where the sound came from.
After a minute a bug came buzzing into view before it got eaten by a bird that flew in and gulped it up. Seeing this put them both at ease, both sighing in relief.
Suddenly a whole bunch of cawing was heard in the distance. " What is that? " Lililith was confused by what they were hearing.
" Take us up. " Wilhelm said and not wanting to argue as she to wanted to know what was going on, they both onto Lilith's staff which proceeded to go up into the air.
" Wilhelm look! " Lilith pointed it out and in the distance, they could see a massive flock of birds gathered in one area.
" Take us over there but when we get close bring us down. "
Minutes later the duo saw something that made their jaws and hearts drop. Lying before them was the fresh remnants of a massacre. There were the remains of small demon like canines much akin to that of earth's coyotes.
" Oh my goodness... " Lilith was shocked to see the state the bodies were in. " How many were here? "
" From a pack of this size, I'd wager around 16,17,18, 24 maybe? " Wilhelm answered as he walked through glancing at each corpse they passed by while Lilith did her best not to gag and hold in her breakfast.
" This...*trying not to gag* This is horrible...This is just like that farmers herd. "
Wilhelm knelt down to one of the corpses to get a better look. " That's because the same creature did this...These poor canines never stood a chance. " He then hummed in interest stroking his chin, begining to think. " Something's wrong though...
" What is? "
" All of these bodies there just torn up beyond recognition, no signs of eating, no bite marks on any of the corpuses nothing...It didn't eat any of them...This thing killed them...for sport... "
" What!? " She couldn't believe what she was hearing. " Thi-This is bad...C-Can't we track it or something? "
" No. " Wilhelm shook his head as he stood up. " Whatever we're dealing with moves with speed and just like in the reports these incidents always happen at night. And that means, this creature is mostly active at night. We better search the area for more signs of it.
Roughly two hours later, they search didn't bring much results and right now there was a strong wind blowing through the forest and the two of them were having a hard time making their way through it.
" This wind came out of nowhere! " Lilith cried out using her right hand to cover her face so she could navigate.
" That it did... " Wilhelm agreed before noticing a large rock in the distance. Turning over to Lilith he pointed at the rocks direction. " Over there! We can use that for cover till the wind settles down. "
Quickly the duo rushed over rushing their way through, and reached over to the rock. When they did Lilith noticed that Wilhelm was oddly quiet.
" You ok? "
" No. "
" Seeing all that really bothered you didn't it? " He only nodded back and just by looking at his expression she could tell something else was on his mind." Something the matter? "
This time he spoke up. " Every since we've entered these woods. I've been having an uneasy feeling, like something knows were here. I know it knows. There's a creature in these woods and...I'm pretty sure I've seen it before. "
" You have? How? "
" A couple of years ago, I went out here with Hilda. We investigating unusual incidents like the ones were doing now. At daytime, everything is just fine and peaceful. But at night, things change taking a whole different feeling. When it went dark, something decided to emerge. "
" What exactly did you see? "
He glanced at Lilith looking her dead in the eye. " I don't know. But, I really wish I knew. When I first saw it, that beast nearly killed me. " Lilith's eyes widened in shock upon hearing this. " When it was able to get away, I caught a brief glimpse of it. "
Wilhelm took a brief pause trying to collect himself a bit as he was recalling this old memory he had.
" The best way I can explain what I'd seen, is that it's solid pitch black. It's able to blend in with the dark and shadows perfectly. The first time I saw it, I only managed to see it, and then it was gone. The second time I saw it, I seen it pretty good that time and I saw it run by our camp. The third time, and the reason I bring this up is because, it's somewhere shade of the tree lines." Lilith's eyes widened in fear upon hearing this and Wilhelm could tell that this was alarming for her. Even though he didn't show it and be honest with her, he was alarmed by this as well but kept a calm brave face trying his best not to give into fear.
Afterwards a screech was heard taking Lillith by surprise, as she tried to stand up Wilhelm stopped her. " Don't, do anything. Just act like it's not there. Let it make the first move. " The screeching continued being heard but unlike the last time they heard it last night the way it screeched sounded like it was in discomfort. Soon they heard the sound of rustling and in the distance, you could hear the thing continue to screech.
" Why doesn't it show itself? " Lilith whispered frightened by what she was hearing while Wilhelm remained calm.
" It's waiting... "
" Waiting for what? "
" It's field advantage. Night time. "
" Th-Then we should prepare. Find a good spot to ambush it, then we- " Wilhelm only shook his head cutting Lilith off.
" It doesn't matter. Because tonight, we need to be careful and I mean it. That thing, it knows we're here. Nor will it stop till were dead. "
" Wilhelm, we really should get some help. " She said trying to make a point hoping he'd agree. " The beast coven can devise a plan to deal with this creature! "
" No. So far it hasn't taken witch or warlocks life. Were right here in it's territory. Tonight, we have to try and stop it. Because this thing, it's not afraid of us, even if we did have help from the coven's, how many you'd think would die in the process facing off against it? "
" Even so, they knew the risk that they could possibly lose their lives in defending the isles. " Lilith argued. " Wilhelm, you seen what it can do. Why do you have to be so stubborn? "
" Because I refuse to die tonight. That's why. " He answered firmly as they continued waiting for the wind to die down while listening to the creature screeching nearby.
Before long night had now fallen. Two hours after the winds died down, they didn't hear nothing nor see any movement whatsoever. Right now the two of them were close to their camp fire doing their best to keep awake knowing full well that they had to.
Right now neither one did not even want to, not fully knowing what was out there. Was the creature nearby? Was it hunting? Did it know where they were? These dreaded questions kept them up. However, do to the long day they had the two of them were starting to feel the urge to sleep.
Wilhelm proceeded to bring out his harmonica earning a confused yet surprised look from Lilith. " Hmm? You still have that? "
" Of course I do. "
" And is now the best time to be playing? "
" If I'm gonna pass on then I wish to hear this one more time...Just in case. " He answered before starting to play. When he did it brought back a lot of memories to Lilith. She's heard this melody countless times over the years, from one person. One that she was proud to call friend, and a sister. But after...'that day' everything changed. She had to uphold her duty to the island, one part told her that it was wrong while the other told her otherwise. However, in the end there was nothing but pain, that filled her heart, on top of that she also lost something very important to her as well.
Something that was irreplaceable, the same way she viewed her sister. Conflicted with her love and her duty, she often wondered if things could've been different, how things became like this...This wasn't her living the dream she's had since childhood. No, instead it was a eternal statis of confliction. After playing a few more minutes Wilhelm stopped.
From the distance a shriek was heard. Quickly Wilhelm grabbed all the remaining wood that was gathered and placed inside the campfire to keep it going. However very slowly their eye lids were starting to get heavy by each passing second before ultimately giving in. When they did the flames of the camp fire were extinguished. When it did the nearby crickets stopped chirping, the whole entire forest become dead quiet.
Not a single creature was making a sound, that was until a loud rustling was heard followed by the same screech from before waking both Wilhelm and Lilith up. The witch spun her staff around while Wilhelm used a spell circle to create a very large knife.
Both stood in silence and patience waiting for something to happen, their hearts were pounding quick in their chest, and sweat dripped down from their foreheads. Neither one not knowing where the beast would emerge, nor strike! This was not a good feeling, they knew that now they were being hunted down by the same monster they were after.
From Wilhelms direction the same screech was heard making them look over in the dark tree lines where they heard what sounded like a tree breaking and falling following by what sounded like to be bones breaking, as if something was getting mangled alive just like the night before.
Knowing this wasn't good, and despite the feeling that told them not to the two of them made a break for it running in the opposite direction as fast as they could. Neither one daring to look back to see if they were being followed.
After about half an hour of running they stopped. Both of them were now exhausted and panting trying to recapture their breath. " Did...did you think we lost it? " Lilith questioned and as Wilhelm was going to answer they heard the screech again. Wilhelm didn't even need to answer cause it just dud receive one. Now much to their displeasure a thick fog was starting to roll in.
From the distance, something was rushing through the tree lines closing in on the witch and young warlock. Slowly it stopped and peered around a tree to see the two were standing and getting ready for the unavoidable battle that would transpire. Silene was in the forest again as they waited for their foe to emerge. Then Wilhelm's right ear twitched and his eyes widened.
" It's coming! " His grip on his knife tightened. " Get ready! "
" Where is it? " Lilith asked but didn't get a reply back." Wilhelm? "
" ... "
" Wil- "
" Move! " Wilhelm screamed as he pushed Lilith out of the way and just in time because something had just tore out huge chunk out a tree behind them.
" Whoa! " Quickly moving Lilith avoided getting squashed by the falling tree. From close by Wilhelm made a spell circle and used it on his nose. Immediately he caught a whiff of the beast's scent. He knew that it would strike at any minute now.
If something wasn't done, he and Lilith would both die, so very slowly he put his left hand up and slowly sank into his thumb. Wincing slightly Wilhelm drew just a small amount of blood and squeezed it as got into a sprinting position and quickly used his right hand to make a spell circle using it on himself while three drops of blood escaped from his left knuckle.
With a frown and a grunt Wilhelm took off running. Just as he expected the beast went after him and from behind he narrowly avoided getting hit as the creature obliterated another tree before it turned around bashing through the same tree that had fallen down. Now it was right on Wilhelm's tail and he quickly sprung to another tree and hopped as the monster behind him slashed at a tree before doing the same to another and busted through another tree relentlessly perusing it's prey.
From the distance Lilith listened carefully and, in the distance, she spotted a tree go down knowing that was the direction she needed to go, the witch summoned her staff and flew after them.
The creature screeched loudly as it destroyed a huge chunk out of another tree in it's relentless chase after Wilhelm. From nearby Lilith was flying close by glancing over to see another tree get demolished and go down. Siezing her opportunity Lilith made brought out a knife of her own and threw it into the fog.
Sure enough she heard the creature shrieking out in pain indicating she hit it.
" Wilhelm what should we do!? " The witch asked as she rushed over to his side.
" Separate, try to confuse it! But keep moving! " She nodded at the idea and flew off on her staff whistling at the beast.
" Well what are you waiting for?! Over here!
As it was gonna go after her Wilhelm started calling it out.
" Hey! You ugly bastard! I'm right here! " Wilhelm called out challengingly before he ran into the other direction.
The creature looked at both directions where it's prey had ran off to and from the sounds of it, this thing was starting to get annoyed.
As both of them sped off, the creature began to emit a very loud high pitched shriek. One that was more then loud enough to make both witch and warlock cover their ears. Both grunted in pain because it was just so ungodly loud, it was almost like it was echoing through the entire woods itself.
The creature looked towards the direction of where Wilhelm ran off to and slowly began to make its way towards him.
Desperate, Wilhelm gritted his teeth doing his best to slowly trace a spell circle all while shouting out in pain do to him not covering his ears.
From the distance Lilith saw it run towards him, eyes widening in fear she tried call out, but the creatures screech was just to loud.
As the beast rushed towards Wilhelm going in for the kill, there was a stroke of luck.
Just in the nick of time Wilhelm's spell circle appeared created a quick flash of light. When it did the creature got startled and backed away much to Lilith's surprise including Wilhelm.
From the distance the beast made another attempt to go in for the kill only before fleeing again because Wilhelm used a spell circle to shoot a fireball on the ground scaring it away. It's screech was heard again only this time it sounded to be afraid.
Wilhelm glanced down at the fire before narrowing his eyes at the direction where they're pursuer had fled. He had now just learned of it's weakness and now they knew they had a fighting chance against this Night Feeder.
The next night was hell for the Night Feeder. The reason why, was because the tides had changed. The hunter had now become the hunted.
Lilith came flying in on her staff creating a flash which scared it making it turn around in the opposite direction. When it did Wilhelm appeared creating a spark of his own.
Soon enough another spark appeared and then another behind some tree's scaring the beast as it tried to run in another direction only to get caught off guard by Wilhelm again as it ran onto an open area.
" Now! " Wilhelm cried out and soon enough a couple of tree's surrounding the Night Feeder was lit up soon enough Wilhelm came speeding in holding a torch using it to trace a ring of fire around their target.
The beast was now fully terrified, now it was feeling the same fear of it's victims. It couldn't run, it couldn't hide now it was it's turn to die. From the distance two spears were thrown hitting it directly in the chest.
It could only screech out from the pain, and within seconds the cursed thing finally toppled over and died as both Wilhelm and Lilith watched on through the flames.
A while later after the fires were put out Wilhelm and Lilith approaches the remains of the Night feeder. Once they got to it both of them just stared down at it.
" I've never encountered anything like this before...Could there more then one? "
" Possibly, I can't say for certain. " Wilhelm answered as he used his magic to create a light sword and with a swift motion he cut off its head that took Lilith by surprise.
" What are you doing? "
" Isn't it obvious? You need proof that you killed it and I need to study it In case I ever encounter another one. I can always remake the head. " Wilhelm explained as he made another spell circle making a series of vines appear wrapping around the night feeders body and started working on making a carrier to put the body on.
" On top of that, no one will know you asked for my assistance either. So we both win, plain and simple. "
" I don't understand, you always try to save creatures like this. Why did you not hesitate in killing it? "
" Because it was to dangerous. If we had not done something, then more lives would've been lost. Sometimes there are things that can be saved, and other times there are no other choices. This is one such example. "
Lilith proceeded to pick up the head and glanced over to Wilhelm. " Wilhelm...Thank you. "
" I didn't do it for you. " The red head said as he put the body into the carrier. " I did it to prevent innocent lives from being lost. " Once he got the body onto their he made a whistle and a couple of smaller dragons came flying down. Once their Wilhelm tied the vines to the bottom of their legs.
" Be sure to take this back home friends. " Wilhelm told the small flying fire breathing reptiles. After that they flew off leaving Wilhelm and Lilith alone.
" Well, regardless of you did the isles a good service. " She then gained a worried look but had a smile showing her appreciation.
" I believe we are done here. Farewell. " Wilhelm started to walk off but Lilith quickly rushed over in front of him.
Que music Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild: Despair
" Wilhelm wait! "
" What is it now? " The red head asked in annoyance. " I did my part in helping, and now truce is done. I have nothing more to say to you. " He started walking away and despite this Lilith continued speaking.
" Even though I've done things that would hurt you,I...I still care about you Wilhelm... " He stopped in his tracks but did not look back. " I really do...You may think not, but I speak the truth... "
" ... "
She looked over to him. " I already know how much you care for the isles, and I feel the same. But Wilhelm, could you just stop and think about the knowledge you know might help it prosper? "
" That is my end goal. " He answered still looking forward. " And I intend on following the path I believe in. Not in what others want me to. "
" You don't have to do this alone though, the Emperors Coven could help. "
" Help me or help them? " He retorted back. " Knowledge is needed but if used incorrectly it only leads to more problems that cannot be solved so easily. "
" But I'll be there right beside you all the way! " Lilith was now practically begging at this point. " I swear! Just...please...come home. " She extended her hand outwards towards him.
Instead, Wilhelm shook his head before finally turning around to face her genntly putting her hand down
" ...I'm sorry...but no. " Lilith was now really at the breaking point, as tears began to form upon hearing that." It's far to late for that now. "
" It...It...doesn't have to be... " She sobbed.
" You and I both know that in life we can't always get what we want...Nor do we always have happy times in our lives...We have to sometimes be willing to ready for the consequences of our actions. " He said despite seeing tears that were now streaming down her face. " You told me that one, remember? That is what is happening now... "
Her voice was now fully broken as sadness was overtaking her. " You'll be hunted till the rest of your days...And the next time I see you, I'll have no other choice... "
" I know. " He replied back cutting her off and continued walking. " Goodbye, Lilith. For what it was worth, I enjoyed the little time we spent together. "
As he walked off Lilith was now fully crying and turned around starting to walk away but she didn't know was that despite his demeanor. He was crying as well, despite knowing it wouldn't make much of a difference and not showing it, he was hurt as well, just as she was. This was something neither of them wanted and wish things would've been the same like it was in the past, like in the old days.
But they knew that those times had passed and they were in the present of today. What the future held for them was uncertain.
To be continued
Now replying back to reviewers
Rw3y Chapter 18 Nah, just Luz and I don't any sort of those characters would make an appearance in this story.
Yoyoyo Chapter 13 Ha! I get it.
Natalie Jarrett. Good eye on that.
Indomiraptor. Eh, nobodies perfect.
CLo-Zone18. Yep, but he'd only do it if he's in the mood or wants payback which is exactly what he did with Bump in the end of that chapter. His response. " Then I'll make another way. "
DJ-Zombie. For sure, thank you.
Cylon One. Happy to hear that.
avengersendgame426. Yep, and let's be frank if Evan was in the show I'm sure most teachers would react in the same way I mean when Bump first heard of him he laughed. I get what you mean, but rest assured it won't go that route, Evan will just have some challenges to face ahead later on.
Even so that episode could've been better instead of being rushed, but that's just my opinion. And I did update my Kipo story back in April.
Marbled Goldx2.
1. Oho yeah, that episode will be something for sure.
2. No kidding? Well, I'm very pleased and flattered to hear someone say that. I hope you enjoy this chapter as well and honestly got no idea what you're talking about either.
sardarhassan503 x3. Chapter 1, Chapter 2 Chaper 19
1. Nah.
2. Tempting, but not interested.
3. Sorry my friend, but not really interested in throwing my hat in the ring with anything to do with Kamen Rider.
Devin sands. Oh don't worry Ghost King will be making appearances later on.
Many Faced Mage. Yes on the heavy metal. One way to find out.
Drake D Hero. I do and thank you very much.
sheesh, that was a better chew out then what Gus did.
Wolfgang19. Yep and double yep.
Guest #1 Chapter 19. Thank you! Nice to see someone else can see that thing could've had ended badly.
SonOfTheDragon. Be careful for what you wish for.
gabeherndon308. Thank you very much.
silverstudent. Well, either way hope you liked this one.
Guest #2 Chapter 19. I don't care, let him be.
dragon rose 11.
Thank you. I'm a lot better now and hope you enjoyed reading this chapter.
kyrogue23. Knowing Evan, I'm sure he's got a lot more where that came from. A lot.
Guest #3 Chapter 19. I'm aware but sometimes other people think differently nor are they always interested.
Guest #4 Chapter 19. It could happen.
TheFranninator. Yes, Harold's another Oc.
Patricia Louise A. Pena x2. Chapter 1 Chapter 19
1. He will, eventually.
2. Belos has his reason for Eda, but when it comes to Evan he's way more a threat.
Timesliger x4. Chapter 15, Chapter 18 Chapter 19(2 for some reason)
1. Ha! I can see that!
2. No worries, it's all good.
3. Nah, not in this one. He wished he did though.
4. Oh I see.
Theamazingowl234. I didn't say Symbiotic Titan and MHA, I said Symbiotic Titan and Ultraman.
Guest #5 Chapter 19. No spoilers.
Guest #6 Chapter 3. And?
Guest #7 Chapter 13 I'll think of something along the way.
Dumbledore. And I happily accept!
Guest #8 Chapter 8. Not interested, some but not all.
Guest #9 Chapter 9. I also enjoy writing out their interactions with one another.
Guest #10 Chapter 19. I'll write as I see fit.
Guest #11 Chapter 18. I'm not changing it.
Guest #12 Chapter 3. No.
Guest #13 Chapter 1 And No.
Guest #14 Chapter 8. Not interested.
Guest #15 Chapter 6. 'Dark Magic'. Not shadow magic.
Guest #16 Chapter 19. Don't care, did it and it happened.
Guest #17 Chapter 18. Happy to hear that.
Guest #18 Chapter 15. Noted.
Guest #19 Chapter 8. No, that ain't the idea.
Vicplay20.
I know. Brothers? Don't you mean brother and sister? As for the main stuff that happens in the show there will be changes because that's what I intended to from the very beginning. And yes, I enjoy making Eda a loving mother in this story to:)
Guest #20 Chapter 9. And? So what.
Guest #21. No.
Guest #22. As Do I.
Guest #23 And is this your story? No.
Guest #24 Chapter 8 It'll reach to their when it reaches there.
LoneWolf427 x2
1. Exactly, nice to see someone can understand that.
2. I don't see why not.
Chapter 17 Chapter 19
Von The Unstopable. Nah, I don't think so.
hoffajordanj x 6
Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 6, Chapter 8, Chapter 9, Chapter 19
1. That ain't cool.
2. Eh, I guess so?
3. And what exactly is that accomplishing?
4. Why should it matter?
5. Meh.
6. And is that gonna stop us from writing Owl house stories? No, it won't.
7. And I say, we don't give a shit. The fact there's people even trying is good no matter how bad they maybe. If you think otherwise, then your sadly mistaken.
Guest #25 Chapter 1. Could work, idea/concept sounds interesting enough.
Guest #26 Chapter 10. No.
Guest #27 Chapter 1. No.
Guest #28 Chapter 8. No.
Javin Spearman Chapter 18 19. 1. I'd like to think so as well. 2. Hope the wait was worth it.
Guest #29 Chapter 19 Well, happy to hear that.
Guest #30 Chapter 5. Nah, I already got something in mind planned for someone with magic like Evan.
Guest #31 Chapter 19. We'll see how things play out still way to early.
Guest #32 Chapter 19. Noted.
Guest #33 Chapter 19. Eh, either way it is what it is. I find it interesting that there's people who do that and overreact over things when in reality there's other people who really don't give a shit either what happens in tv and movies. This is one such example, and I have no intentions on doing so either even if I get toxic fan encounters.
Guest #34 Chapter 19. Not interested.
Guest #35 Chapter 16. You know what, how about you ask the guy instead if he's interested in help and direct him over to me instead of you trying to tell me what to do. Like a regular person would.
Guest #36 Chapter 1 I do not want to nor am I interested in either.
Guest #37 Chapter 4 I have been thinking on that for a while now actually, in the future there'll be some.