As the first light of dawn painted the sky in hues of dark red, Blake, Reggie, Randall, and Dumpheries prepared to leave the vampire city. The cobblestone streets were still mostly empty, with only a few early risers going about their business. The group stood in front of Dumpheries' modest home, double-checking their supplies and steeling themselves for the journey ahead.
"We'll need horses," Reggie said, his voice tight with urgency. "The Whispering Woods are too far to reach on foot, and we can't waste any time."
Dumpheries nodded, a sly smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "I've already arranged for that," he said. "Follow me."
He led them through a series of winding alleys, the buildings growing taller and more imposing as they approached the city center. Finally, they emerged into a large courtyard dominated by an ornate stable. The scent of hay and leather filled the air, mingling with the earthy smell of horses.
