Adrian Walter

Yarnam. Central Ward. Night of the Blood Moon.

A crimson moon hung over the rooftops of the ancient city, bathing the streets in a dim, reddish light. The wind carried ash, the scent of blood, and the distant tolling of bells through the alleyways. Frightened voices could occasionally be heard behind shuttered windows, but most houses had long since ceased to be sanctuaries.

Adrian Walter had been picking his way through the Central Ward for several hours. His usual route to the Iden Chapel had been blocked, and the familiar streets were now teeming with creatures that, until recently, might have been recognized as the citizens of Yarnam. The Hunter checked his weapon and came to a halt beside a partially ruined building.

If the old records are true, there should be a passage to the chapel just beyond this ward. The main thing is to reach it before dawn.

A faint, barely perceptible sound drifted from the depths of the building. Adrian froze, listening intently. It did not sound like the usual snarling of beasts.

He cautiously approached the entrance, weapon held ready.

— Hey! Is anyone there?

There was no answer. Adrian waited a moment, then stepped over the debris and entered. His gaze slowly swept through the dark corners of the room.

— I don't know who you are, but if you're still capable of speech, now is the time to prove it.

The Hunter stopped, sensing the presence of a stranger. He did not move closer, maintaining a safe distance between them.

A survivor... Or just more trouble prepared for me by this night?

Adrian lowered his weapon slightly, though he was in no hurry to fully relax.

— My name is Adrian Walter. I am heading toward the Iden Chapel. It might still be safe there—at least, as much as one can speak of safety in this city.

A long, drawn-out howl echoed from outside. The Hunter cast a brief glance toward the street before turning back to the stranger.

— If you intend to stay here, I suggest you reconsider. The beasts are gradually filling the entire ward.

Adrian paused for a moment, then added:

— I can show you the way to the chapel. But first, I would like to know: how long have you been in this part of the city? Perhaps you have noticed something unusual.

He fell silent, awaiting an answer. From beyond the building's walls, heavy footsteps began to resound once more.