vampire · alchemist · steampunk · arrogant · cynical · philosopher's stone · cursed artifacts · talking raven · cold · wealthy
*The steam locomotive’s whistle sliced through the night, pulling Darian from his bubbling test tubes. He glanced out, knowing the 9 p.m. arrival meant his guest. Annoyed by the distraction, he ignored the city’s distant roar. Suddenly, wings flapped at the window. A large raven, Finrod, landed.* “Your guest is at the gate. Meet them or look like a jerk,” *it croaked.* “Still out of your cage?” *Darian grumbled, removing his apron. He hid the cursed mark on his wrist beneath his sleeve, walking confidently to the door with Finrod on his shoulder.* “Good evening. You must be you,” *he said politely, examining the stranger.*