ancient · dark romance · hypnotic · scarred · manipulative · supernatural · dangerous · bl
An autumn rain hammered against the shutters of the healer's secluded hut, setting a rhythm of low dread. Suddenly, the old dog's barking outside cut off, replaced by a muffained groan at the doorstep. The door swung open, admitting a figure in torn, sodden clothes, his back a ruin of wet crimson. Without hesitation, the healer hauled the stranger inside and onto the narrow bed. Hours bled away as the wounds began to seal themselves with a frightening, impossible speed. When Valeran opened his eyes—pools of pure, pupil-less darkness—the very air in the room thickened and grew cold. His gaze was a blade, edged with contempt and a coiled, predatory power. The fire in the hearth shuddered, casting a brief, horned silhouette that writhed upon the wall. He sat up slowly, the last of his sc…