The Chronicles: Green Night

The Scroll

"I think we should get the scroll before the vampires get it. We need to secure the artifact and bring it to the Moon Council; they'll have the knowledge and power to protect it from any threats," Suho suggested as we all examined the scroll from every angle.

"I agree with Suho. Bringing it to the Council makes more sense. They're in Romania right now, and bringing it to our coven would only draw unwanted attention to our town," Lucas chimed in, his eyes fixed on the seemingly innocuous piece of paper.

"So should we just take it?" Anna asked with a confused look on her face.

We exchanged glances, unsure of the wisdom of grabbing the scroll while we were in a temple that could have traps around every corner.

Minutes ticked by until we heard screams echoing from behind the last door separating us from the vampires. Our eyes darted between the scroll and the door, the fear and tension in the room palpable. I felt overwhelmed by the wave of emotion emanating from all of us. I had to get used to this emotional connection, otherwise it could cause problems when facing enemies.

"You know, if we don't take the scroll now, the vampires will, and I shudder to think what they might have in store for it," Robert broke the silence while I was still recovering from the emotional flood.

"Perhaps we should wait for our unwelcome guests and prepare a warm welcome before we consider taking the scroll. Remember, we can't escape if we take it now - our only way out is blocked by vampires," I pointed out as I straightened up.

Everyone nodded and we continued to strategize. After a few minutes, we decided to use our powers to cast a ritual spell that would be triggered when the vampires entered.

"I suggest we use a big runic spell while we channel our powers. They won't see it coming and we can deal with any remnants," Robert said, climbing to the top of the small temple where the scroll was placed.

We followed him, joined hands, and turned our eyes to the entrance gate. With our eyes closed, we concentrated and made a connection between us. Once the link was established, we opened our eyes. Focusing on the door, we chanted the spell together.

"Hellfire, take your place. Gather the lost souls!"

We repeated the incantation at least five times, feeling the energy flow out of us, manifesting as Germanic Hagalaz symbols on the ground in front of the entrance.

"Now we wait for the vampires to enter. Remember, we're still connected, so if you encounter any survivors, use your powers efficiently to eliminate them. Anna reminded us.

As we waited for the vampires, I noticed that our emotions were finally in check. Concentration enveloped us all. Before we could discuss the impending threat, the door was torn open, sending debris flying throughout the cave, followed by a thick cloud of dust.

Fortunately, our runes meant we didn't have to see our attackers. All we had to do was wait for one of them to trigger our traps, and we'd be treated to a crimson spectacle.

Within moments, one of the vampires triggered a rune and was engulfed in hellfire. This was no ordinary fire - it was a relentless, unquenchable blaze. Terrified screams filled the cave as the others ran toward us in terror and rage.

Almost the entire group of vampires was reduced to vapor in a matter of seconds. Two of them narrowly escaped death, but were hit by a shock wave that sent them crashing into the stone wall, leaving distinct holes around their bodies.

One of the vampires died instantly, his body disfigured beyond recognition. The other survived, but was badly wounded. We broke our connection and approached the injured vampire. As we approached, I could hear his faint moans of pain.

"What do you know about this scroll?" Suho asked the vampire.

"You will never stop us from taking the scroll!" the vampire spat with anger in his voice.

"But we just did," I rolled my eyes and crouched down in front of the bleeding man. All I got in return was a maniacal laugh mixed with a hint of excitement.

"Oh, believe me, we're going to get that scroll. You know why? Because the Hydra wants it." He continued to laugh manically until his bones broke, one by one, and he didn't even flinch in response to the excruciating pain.

"What the hell was that? He seemed a bit unhinged, or am I reading too much into it?" Lucas asked, confused.

"Don't ask me, but it looks like someone doesn't want to reveal the vampires' plan," Robert said, laughing bitterly.

"Who or what is the Hydra?" I asked, still confused by the name.

"It's one of the largest vampire clans in Europe. If he's telling the truth, that's even more reason to take the scroll and deliver it to the council," Suho replied, rubbing her temples as if she had a headache.

"So, let's take the scroll. Who's brave enough to be the guinea pig?" Anna asked, slowly hiding behind me, her head peeking over my shoulder.

"I'll do it before we waste the whole day discussing who's going to take the risk," Lucas grunted as he cautiously approached the scroll, which was still resting on its pedestal in the center of the temple.

We held our breath as Lucas reached for the small piece of paper. What trap was he about to set? Would the ceiling collapse and bury us, or would another flood engulf us? We had no idea, and that was the worst part.

After closing his eyes and taking a deep breath, Lucas snatched the scroll from the pedestal with a quick flick of his hand. We all felt our hearts trying to jump out of our chests.

To our surprise, nothing happened - absolutely nothing. Some would think that after dodging flying knives and nearly drowning, something dramatic would happen in the final room, but nothing did.

"Can we please get out of here now? I really need some fresh air," Anna pleaded desperately.

"I think I just wet myself," Lucas stammered.