Hell's Glitch (initial draft)

Secret Chapter (The Cutthroat and the Blood Knight: Aschelund's Pariahs)

The Cutthroat and the Blood Knight: Aschelund's Pariahs

"Ah, that scent."

The shadows could mask much of Rondo's presence though not his scent. The cutthroat had other concoctions to hide that, but this killer, the blood knight, Caesar was clearly versed in some preternatural skill which boosted his senses. Not even Rondo's mastery of the silent step would have protected him from this vulture's notice.

"You're as sharp as a master's blade," said Rondo while leaving the shade of a nearby oak of ash. The knight, clad in black and red armor and an oddly pristine vulture skull helm stood calmly with one hand upon his waist while the other was hidden under his cloak. Upon his back, a sword handle stretched up over his head and ended in a brilliantly polished silver pommel in the shape of a sphere.

"Sharp enough to know that you haven't come here to entertain me."

"I would bore you, great knight. By now, you must know that I am no match for you."

"In terms of strength, no, but I have a sneaking suspicion that you would provide quite a fun distraction. It's not often that I get to engage in a cat and mouse hunt."

"That is better off as fantasy, I'm afraid."

The blood knight shrugged.

"Well, if you aren't here to provide me with a temporary thrill then why are you here? And please, answer truthfully or I will be cross."

"I would not lie to you and I would not approach you at all if I did not have something important to share with you."

As a matter of fact, Rondo spent most of his days avoiding the blood knight and his obsession with murdering strong warriors for artistic purposes. Rondo did not want to spend his final days being strung high up in Caesar's gruesome gallery.

"Share to your heart's content then, assassin. Despite the look of my helmet, I'm all ears."

With his night trained eyes, eyes accustomed to peering through the darkest of shadows, Rondo stared into the hollows of Caesar's skull mask and caught a brief glimpse of his shining blue eyes and saw the intensity there that his mask and armor had so perfectly hidden.

"I've learned much about art through my travels and dealings with the rich of various nations." Rondo could not see it, but Caesar had cocked his eyebrow. "I know that the finest art, that which truly captures the soul, is born through hardship and great struggle."

The blood knight threw his head back and laughed. Rondo did not bristle at the knight's brazen disrespect. He had blunted his base emotions long ago, an investment he would thank his younger self for once he had the chance.

"What a farce. What could a lowly mercenary really know of art?"

More than you, you spoiled and ignorant child.

"Please, indulge me. I have learned that true artists yearn for this struggle and with this knowledge, I believe I understand the dilemma you face in this forest. And so, I have finally found an opponent that would provide you the greatest challenge."

"Have you really? Hahaha haha. You are a sinuous beast, Rondo and your honeyed words are no doubt seething with treacherous venom ... but you tell a fascinating tale at the very least."

"I would not presume to tell you that you are mistaken, o' great knight, but I do not intend you any harm. This opponent is one whose elimination would also benefit myself and I have finally managed to get them to combat me on my terms. But this opponent, I know that they would interest you most of all."