Castlevania: Awakening

Chapter 9

“BURN THE WITCH!!! TO HELL WITH THE HERETIC!” angry voices were calling out.
The faces of the villagers appeared like monstrous devils lit by the flames of hell as they brandished their torches.

Laevon stood tall on the doorstep and raised his crossbow high in the air. Philip unsheathed his sword, the silver blade glinting fiercely in the fire light.

“VILLAGERS!” Laevon commanded at the top of his voice, “STOP THIS MADNESS!”

They had never seen him in this agitated of a state before and the crowd quieted to a murmur.

The high priest stepped forth and addressed the fearless ranger, “Laevon Randstadt! Your sister stands accused of heresy against the church.”
His voice was deep and accusing. “Her sins include: Witchcraft, consorting with demons, and most sadly - the death of our beloved Demetrius!” he continued, his voice powerful and clear in the night.

The crowd was captivated by this holy man. He stood straight as an arrow; his long hooded robe shrouded his face and made him appear all that more pious.

“Satan’s harlot enticed our ranger deep into the woods where she then conjured up the ravenous beasts to attack. It is the only explanation for how she escaped with her own life!”
He turned towards the crowd with dramatic flair as they all gasped in unified shock.

Seeing that his accusations were convincing he pressed on, “She then communed with the Devil’s tool - the Lord Dracul - who ensured our Demetrius was dead by slicing his throat and leaving him as an example - a diabolical sacrifice - by painting the trees with his devil blood! An offering to please his master Satan!"
He paused again as the crowd cried out in weak gasps – their hands covering their mouths. They could hardly believe what they were hearing!

“He has cursed our dear Demetrius to eternal Hell, and this miserable Witch will pay!” His voice had risen to a terrifying volume as he pointed at Laeleth who stood in the doorway behind her brother.
“Bring her forth, Laevon! You cannot stop us or you will be charged with conspiracy.”
The priest smiled fiendishly at the thought of enacting “God’s justice”.

Laevon’s blood boiled within him and he pointed his bow directly at the priest’s heart.
He spoke angrily at the devout man of God, “You spout LIES, you religious FOOL! None of these accusations are true! My sister had nothing to do with Demetrius’ death or any of those other acts you claim. If you continue in your falsehoods, I and my brothers will have no trouble in sending you to your God tonight!”

The priest’s smile did not waver as he replied in turn, “Perhaps you would like to ask your ‘brothers’ then?”
He stepped aside and motioned someone forward.
At this Darrion stepped from the crowd, crossbow cocked on his hip — smirking spitefully.

“Darrion?” Laevon was amazed.
“Laevon,” he sneered in response.

Instantly Laevon’s bow realigned with Darrion. “How dare you betray my trust! You are one of us!” He motioned to Philip and some of the others that had sided with him.

But Darrion was surprisingly surrounded by fellow rangers as well - who all stepped forth with weapons drawn.

“You say this because she is your sister, Laevon, but you did not go yourself! You know NOT what we saw," Darrion declared loudly as he began to enjoy the attention he was getting. "You send others to do your bidding while you stay behind - choosing to trust and protect someone who completely defies you!” he jeered at Laeleth. Her face appeared rather worn and horrified.

“You risked our men’s lives to find her the first time — our brother Demetrius more than any other!” Darrion turned around to address the crowd as though he was trying to win their favor.
They all began to murmur again and seemed to be agreeing with his words.