World Enough, and Time. FastPencil Premiere

      The noble Vampire took a burnished brass-handled saber off the wall and handed it to his old friend. “This blade has tasted the blood of many foes. May it never hunger in your hands.”

      She took the saber from its scabbard, lovingly examined it, replaced it in its sheath, and strapped it to her waist. “I’ll use it well on this hunt, dear friend.” They hugged long and silently.

      To the others, each, he gave a tiny gold locket, shaped like a blood-drop. Josh strapped his to his belt, Beauty tied his in his mane, Isis wore hers tightly at the neck. “These you must keep with you always,” said Lon. “If ever you need my help, send this locket back, and I will come.” He hugged them all. “Enough,” he said. His eyes were moist.

      Finally he escorted them to another hidden entrance, deep in the golden morning of the forest, where they emerged through a bark-peeling door in the trunk of a massive eucalyptus tree. The Vampire watched them disappear quietly among the green shadows. “Go in good blood,” he said, and returned to his cave.