Chapter 1

Dusk had already fallen on the small town of Sidon when they arrived, the last few golden rays of the sun struggled to peak over the horizon only to be driven back by the grayish black veil of night. In a few minutes even these pitiful remains of the day would be gone.

Despite the fact night had barely begun, the streets were empty and all was silent. The only lights to be seen were from behind closed window curtains. The only signs of life were three riders cloaked in white stopped on the edge of town.

The tallest of the riders dismounted; throwing back his hood he revealed long brown curly hair and a rather distinct mustache. Laugh lines belittled the serious look in coal black eyes, revealing a more joyous nature then the one that he currently displayed. Looking around he gestured for the other two to dismount. In one smooth motion the remaining riders followed suit.

“Rather quiet isn’t it,” the first rider commented, motioning towards the empty street before them. The rider his right snorted, before slender hands tied a set of reigns to a picket line, hay and water in easy reach. The other two followed suit, with an easy that came only with years of practice.

“Not really surprising considering what was in the reports, Nickolas.” the rider answered as she drew back her hood. Unlike Nickolas,  her blond hair was cropped short. While beautiful she gave off a cold air and her green eyes were hard. Despite her fragile appearance,  she moved with deadly grace.

"You have a point. Who in their right mind would want to walk around at night with an insane murderer on the loss. Especially with all signs pointing to a vampire being responsible. " Nickolas agreed chuckling slightly.  

" I guess that means we are all out of our minds. " the third rider commented amused at the irony of the dark haired man’s statement. They were after all not only out in the night but were actually going to go look for said murder.

" I'm pretty sure that its part of the job description Kael." Nickolas responded with a grin,. The woman shook her head in exasperation.

"Enough goofing off you two. We have work to do, or have forgotten we have a murder on the loose? " she snapped,  glaring at her companions.

" Your right of course, Mira. We don't yet know what we face. Carelessness could get us all killed." Kael said softly, pain coloring his voice.Nickolas nodded his agreement as well,  mistakes in their line of business were often fatal. None of them wanted to lose any more friends, especially not due to something that could be prevented.

It was with this thought  in mind that the three of them started trudging up the cobblestone road, leaving their horses behind them, toward the church that was suppose to be located in the center of the town. With only a half moon and little light the road was dark and gloomy. Several small houses lined the roads and on more then one occasion a face peeped out at them before quickly darting back behind thick curtains.

“Warm welcome,” Nickolas commented as another face ducked back behind a curtain. None of them were use to overly friendly welcomes since the only time they ended up places like this was when something horrible had happened but they were at least generally meet by worried citizens eager to be ride of what ever monster was responsible.

“You can practically taste the fear in the air, I don’t I’ve ever seen it this bad,” Kael responded as he continued to watch the now empty window as they walked by. “Not with only 3 deaths. I have a feeling there is more going on here then what we have been told. There shouldn’t be this much pure terror. Last time saw something like this, it was when I was on assignment and we had to deal with a vampire from the order of the Black Rose, who had slipped into a small village on the outskirts of down and wiped out half the population. We should tread very cautiously. “ Kael murmured, worry coloring his tone.

Nickolas and Mira traded looks before nodding slowly. Both knew to trust Kael’s instincts, he had been doing this for longer then either of them and had seemed to develop a sixth sense.
While his two companions went on the alert Kael allowed his thoughts turned inward, running the new information through his mind. Despite his warning to his team mates, he doubted that they would be attacked at the moment and on the off chance that he was wrong, it was unlikely that any assailant would manage a surprise attack in such an open place as the road the currently traveled, without himself or his to companions noticing their approach.

It was clear to Kael that who ever was the master mind behind this mess was after something beyond mass slaughter and chaos. The real question would be figuring out what they could possibly be after in a small town like Sidon that was so far away from basically everything. These were not yet questions that  could be answered with the limited amount of information he had gained on their arrival, however something about the town nagged at his memory linger on the edges of his awareness like the shards of a forgotten dream. He had a feeling that the forgotten memory was in some way important. Knowing that trying to remember would serve no purpose and the memory would only surface in time or if something triggered it, he turned his focus back on the road that lay before them.

As they rounded the bend the three travelers caught sight of their destination for the first time. Unlike the rest of the town the church was still brightly lit, its brilliant light driving back the shadows of the night, like a beacon of hope. Silver crosses glittered on the windows and doors, giving off a light of their own that warned that they were more then mere decoration.

“Looks like their on high alert, the barriers are active and I am pretty sure  the doors and windows have been be treated with holy water.” Nickolas observed. Kael nodded, considering the situation, the church defenses weren’t much of a surprise. In fact is was likely that most of the buildings in town had defenses on them. With the town so close to the boarder and no man’s land, trouble spilled over all the time.

However such defenses wouldn’t hold out long against a more powerful vampire. At best they might slow one down for a few seconds. The church’s defenses would be the strongest in the town and in case of an out right attack it would be act as a safe haven.  Only the most powerful of vampires would be able to circumvent such wards, most would be severely handicapped.

“Any reason why we are still standing out here?” Mira asked impatiently. Nickolas shot Kael a worried look. Kael just smiled softly and shook his head.

“No, shall we,” Kael said gesturing for Mira to go first. The blond swept in front haughtily. Reaching for the bronze door handles she pulled open the elegantly carved wooden doors and stepped inside. Shooting another worried look at Kael, Nickolas followed.

Amused by his friend’s worry Kael followed quickly after, not even bothering to pause as he felt the wards brushing over his skin like cool water. Looking around he caught sight of a group of priest kneeling in front of an alter chanting, holy magic wafted gently around them.

“For protection?” he asked Nickolas. The taller man nodded, but didn’t elaborate do to the approach of a priest.

“Greetings, I take it your the team that Vatican sent?” the priest said politely,  however it was rather clear that he doubted they were up to the task, judging by the dubious looks he was giving them. Not that Kael blamed him, out of the three of them, only Nickolas looked anything like a warrior.

“That would be correct. I am Mira Walker of the White Lions, the gentlemen on my left is Father Nickolas Hightower and on my right is Kael Letalis, an imperial agent. We where sent here on orders from the Vatican in regards to the murders.” Mira answered bowing slightly, her eyes never leaving the priest’s face. Kael suspected she was mentally plotting the priest’s death. There was nothing Mira hated more then people looking down on her. She had worked hard to build up her reputation as one of the white lion’s finest warriors and it just pissed her off when people dismissed her simply because of her sex.

Not that many survived making that mistake. Her reputation was no joke. She was incredibly fast with her preferred weapon, a light weighted Glaive with a wicked steel blade lined with silver.  Many believed that once the current captain retired, she would end up as his replacement. A rumor that he was incline to believe after seeing her in action the handful of times that they had worked together.

“We have travelled a long way. We would be most appreciated if you put us up for the night. Such a serious matter requires more focus then we are currently equip to give.” Nickolas murmured, stepping in front of Mira.  It was a legit comment, but knowing Nickolas he had chosen to make it in order to distract Mira.  

The two of them worked together far more often then he worked with either of them, Nickolas acting as the diplomat and support and Mira the muscle.  Priest and White Lion was a common pairing when dealing with such missions. White Lions were members of the imperial guard, trained to deal with the supernatural. Paired with a priest skilled in holy magic, it was a effective enough to with most threats.

As an imperial agent he was only sent on the most difficult or covert assignments. In fact normally he wouldn’t have been sent on this particular one if it there hadn’t evidence that the Order of the Black Roses was some how involved.

The Order rarely operated out in the open. Instead they manipulated things from the shadows, trying to instigate war between countries. The New Roman empire and the Vampire Imperium were the main targets. As the largest and most powerful of the nations, should war break out between them it would no doubt drag most of the smaller countries into its mists.  

“Yes of course. You and your companions may rest here for the night. I am Father O'Neil. If you require anything else, please let me or one of the sisters in charge, know and we will do our best. ”The man said, gesturing to two women overseeing a group of sisters lighting candles and polishing the alter.

“Understood. My companions and I thank you for your generosity. We would appreciate any information you have regarding the murders. Then we will take our rest.” Nickolas told the man, bowing.
“Speak to Annette. Her brother was the first victim. If anyone knows anything about this whole mess its her.” The priest explained, pointing at a slender young girl with brown hair, carefully lighting candles on a table covered in white lace,  below a large stain glass window  depicting the rise of Christ. Despite the fact she was smiling slightly as she focused on her task, her eyes were red from crying and it was rather obvious that she hadn’t been eating or sleeping properly.

“She can also show you to were you will be spending the night.” he told them, before he turned his attention back to the prayers, dismissing them. Kael watched him walk away thoughtfully. It didn’t seem like they would be getting much help from the church here.

“Well, shall we?” Nickolas asked. Kael nodded and stepped in behind Nickolas and Mira as they approached the girl. It would be best to allow Nickolas to do the talking. His charming, laid back personality put people at ease and made them more likely to answer questions.

“Excuse me Miss Annette? May we have a moment of your time?” Nickolas asked, with a brilliant smile. The sister turned and catching site of the dark haired man smiling down at her blushed a bright red.

“Y-es, Y-es, of c-ourse. How can I ass-ist you?” She stammered, looking down at her feet.  Reaching down Nickolas took her hands in his and knelled down.

“My companions and I were sent here to deal with the person responsible for killing your brother and the other villagers. I know it must be a traumatic experience for you, but any information you could give use would be a great help in catching this insane manic before another person is killed.” Nickolas said, his voice gentle. Pain filled the girl’s eyes and for a second it looked as if she would refuse. Then determination washed over her and she straightened up and looked Nickolas in the eyes, a fierce look making them glitter in the candle light.

“I’ll tell  you everything. Just please, you must stop his killer. “ she begged, “Don’t let my brother’s murder get away.” Shaking slightly she turned and looked at each of them beseechingly.  

“My Lady, you have my word. We will bring this murder to justice.” Nickolas swore. Kael nodded, silently giving his vow as well. He would insure that the one responsible would be stopped, especially if they had anything to do with the Order.

“Me and my brother run a small bakery shop in town. My brother had stayed late clean up the night he was killed. It was not an uncommon occurrence. He normally leaves after I do. He still hadn't returned when I retired that night.” she explained, “It wasn’t until the next morning when I discovered his bed hadn’t been slept in that I became concerned.”

“Thinking that he might of fallen asleep at the bakery I made my way to the shop early. It was then I-I foun-d him.” she broke down crying. Looking rather helpless Nickolas gently cradled the sobbing girl in his arms. After a few minutes she found the strength to continue.

“He was l-lying on the floor, looking deathly pale, his neck bent in a weird angle. The father who arrived later said it was broken.” she whispered, tears running down her face.

“Was there any signs of a struggle?” Kael asked quietly. Annette looked up at him. Frowning for a second she shook her head.

“No, nothing was out of place,” she answered. Nickolas shot Kael a questioning look. Kael shook his head and purposely looked at Annette. Looking slightly exasperated he shook his head, knowing that Kael no doubt explain later.

“The only thing that was unusual was the door was unlocked.” Annette said, thoughtfully, causing both men to turn their attention back to her.

“Unlocked?”Nickolas asked, confused on why that would be strange.  Annette nodded.

“Yes, before I leave I lock up. It keeps customers from coming in.” Annette explained softly.”But when I went in that morning it was unlocked. Is that important?” she asked, confused.

“It might be. Sometimes the smallest details are.” Kael answered, “thank you, I know that this was difficult for you. I only have one more question for you and we will take our leave. Prior to his death did your brother do or say anything out of the norm?”

“Out of the norm? I’m not sure what you mean. He talked to a lot of customers. We have a lot of people come in during the day, including members of the church since we are so close to the chapel, but that’s nothing unusual.  I do remember that he spend several minutes talking with the new father but I wouldn’t say that’s out of the norm. We are a small town and new comers, as few as they are, generally are the center of attention.” Annette explained, blushing slightly.

“And I take it this new father is rather attractive as well?” Nickolas asked amused noticing the tell signs of a crush. Annette turned even redder and nodded slightly.

“Thank you madame for your time,” Nickolas said bowing valiantly. “And now if you would direct us towards where we will be staying tonight we will bid  you adieu. We will need our wits about us if we are going to stop this villain.”

With a look of relief, no doubt due to the fact that she was done answering painful questions, she lead the three of them to a small room off the main hall. There were two beds particularly side by side and small desk with a light.  A small wooden chair sat in the opposite corner. With a polite far well she left the three to their rest.

“Seeing that we only have two beds Mira would you perhaps be willing to share with me?” Nickolas asked, giving the warrior his most charming smile. Smiling slightly Mira stepped closer to Nickolas, until the two were only separated by a few inches.

“Nickolas, your charm might work on other woman, however if I ever find you in my bed,” Mira said softly, a dagger suddenly appearing in her hand, “ I will make you regret it dearly.”  Tracing Nickolas throat with the blade she smiled darkly before stepping back. She slipped the dagger back into its concealed sheave.

Making her way over to the bed closest to the door she dropped her pack and settled down on the bed. Once seated she smirked, looking up at Nickolas who was still looking rather pale.

“To suggest that I, a man of the cloth would do such a thing.” he started, only to stop as Mira once reached for dagger. Sighing he  slide past her warily, just in case she actually decided to fulfil her threat and settled down one side of the other bed.  Kael just watched amused as Nickolas then proceeded to sulk.

Despite both her threats and his flirting, Nickolas was very much dedicated to the church and would never actually break his vows of chaste. He simply just enjoyed flirting and teasing others. A fact that Mira was well aware of. The first time he had seen them act this way he had been concerned and had considered interfering. However he had quickly realized that it was a game between them, one born from a long standing friendship  and had decided to just sit back and enjoy the show. However sadly the lacked the time for such things now.

“Nickolas, please stop pretending to sulk and cast a privacy barrier. I want to speak freely.” Kael said seriously. Looking slightly surprised Nickolas nodded once. Draw a cross out of his bag he chanted softly in latin “O sancte, serva nos a malo. Abscondere verba a qui volunt male.”

The cross glowed blue and silver lines burst from it, surrounding the room. Satisfied that the room was secure, Kael took a spot on the bed next to Nickolas.

“There is something going on here beyond the murders.” Kael said softly, watching his companions expressions. Mira looked curious and somewhat worried. Nickolas however looked like Kael had stabbed him through the hurt with Mira’s dagger.

“You suspect that the church here is somehow involved?” He asked, looking pained by his own question. Mira whipped her head to look at the priest in shock. When he winced but remained quiet she turned to Kael.

“I don’t believe that the church is directly responsible for the murders, however I believe that they are hiding something and whatever it is its what the murder is really after.” Kael explained both in an attempt ease Nickolas’s pain at the idea that his fellow priest were behind the murders and to appease Mira.

“It’s also likely that they themselves are aware of this, hence the high defenses, somewhat hostile treatment and the fact that all the priests currently seem to be here instead of out comforting the people and raising protections, which would be what would normally occur in such a situation.” he continued, causing both Nickolas and Mira to look thoughtful.

“So how should we proceed?” Mira asked. Both her and Nickolas waited while Kael consider the issue.

“I think its best for if we have one of us alert at all times. With how wary the people here are I believe its likely that our murder has made at least one appearance here and its possible they could do so again. I would rather we not get caught unaware. “ Kael said at last. Mira nodded her understanding, causing Nickolas to sigh in resignation.

“As for tomorrow I suggest we do some digging, try and get some information on those killed and any relationship they have with the church. The key to catching the killer might very well lie in finding out what exactly the church is hiding. Hopeful we can avoid stepping on to many toes in the process.” Kael concluded. Though if it became necessary in order to stop the killer he would personally see that anyone standing in the way ended up limping, both literally and metaphorically, for a long time to come, politics be damned.

“Understood,” Nickolas sighed, looking extremely tired “I’ll see if I can get any of my “brothers” and “sisters” to talk tomorrow. See if I can’t pick up some clue about what they are hiding.”

“Your the one their most likely to drop their guard around.” Kael said, quietly. Nickolas closed his eyes and leaned forward until his head rested in his hands. His long brown hair cascaded down covering a good portion of his face.

“Spying on fellow priests.” he said snorted, his voice was bitter.

“What does it say about the church, when its members can’t even trust each other?” he asked, darkly. Neither Mira or Kael answered, knowing that Nickolas didn’t truly want a response.

“You and Mira should get some sleep,” Kael said at last, “ All take the first watch.

Instead of verbally agreeing to the plan Mira simply stood and slid off her cloak. Folding the white cloth into a neat pile by her bed, she began to remove the armor that lay underneath, until all that was left was a pair light blue of trousers and faded white shirt. After a few minutes, Nickolas followed her example and removed his white cloak. He however left his priest robes on and preceded to only remove a rosemary and and belt adorned with pouches and vials.

Moving from the bed to the wooden chair, Kael darkened the lamp and the preceded to watched his fellow travelers slip into bed. It wasn’t long be sleep over took them. Not that he was in any way surprised. The had been traveling since dawn, not even bother to stop long enough to eat but instead partaking in rations while still on the road.

Without the lamp, the only source of light came from moonlight streaming in from small window and the a thin line from underneath the door.  However it was more then enough for Kael to watch the two sleepers.  Nickolas was sprawled out over the his bed, dead to the world. Mira on the other hand was slightly curled up, a hand under her pillow, where he was sure she had stashed a knife.

Eventually, several hours later, the light from the door faded. Deciding that he would still be able to sense anyone approach Kael decided to stretch his legs.

Moving silently, he slipped out of the room and into the dark hall of the church.  The only sounds in the hall was the hum of holy magic and the soft breath of those who sleep behind the closed doors nearby.

Wandering around the church, Kael took in the darkened stain glass and the rows of candles lining the tops of tables scattered about the hall.

Catching sight of a dim light from behind a cracked down at the end of the hall he made his towards it. Immediately his senses picked up the slight murmurs of a prayer and the faint swish of cloth against wood floors.

Being careful not to make a sound he slipped into the room, easily blending into the plentiful shadows being cast by a lone candle at the far side, revealing a young priest with curly black hair kneeling before his altered, his back turned towards the door.

Before he could approach, a form parted from the shadows on the other side of the room. Startled the priest stumbled back, trembling in fear.

“How many more will die, before you consent to join us father,” the figure purred, stepping closer to the priest. Terrified green eyes stared up at the figure shrouded in darkness. For a brief moment, the priest stood there trembling.  Then with sudden determination he turned and fled.