8. SECRETS OF HENFORD

Klara and Akito decided to settle in Finchwick, a quaint village in Henford-on-Bagley, conveniently close to Forgotten Hollow—the vampire territory. This way, Akito can keep a watchful eye on the situation. (You can check the world map here.)

Klara: They’re looking for a Teaching Assistant at the local school, and I think I’m the only candidate. Perfect!

Akito: And I’ve registered as a carpenter. I’ll be able to craft stakes without anyone suspecting a thing.



With her new job, Klara has completed the Ambitious Student aspiration!



Klara: Hello, I read a lot about Henford and know you appreciate traditional gifts. I hope you’ll enjoy this salad.

Pub Owner: How thoughtful! Let me introduce you to the others. If you’re interested, we could always use more help around here. There’s never enough hands for errands!

Klara: I’d love to help!



Akito is also meeting the locals. Everyone seems friendly—for now. Or could the village be hiding some dark secrets?



Klara: Good morning, I’m still getting to know Finchwick, but is there anything I could help with?

Shop Owner: Since you insist, could you gather some orders from the villagers and maybe bring me something to eat? Oh, and take this rose to the Creature Keeper. He’ll know what it means.

Klara: Six eggs for Mrs. Kang, six for Mrs. Crumplebottom. Got it!



Agnes Crumplebottom: So, you’re the new teacher at our school, huh? Back in my day, teachers set an example. What kind of example are you setting, living with your partner unmarried, hmm?

Klara: First, one doesn’t start a sentence with “so.” Second, times have thankfully changed. Third, it’s none of your business, and you really shouldn’t stick your long nose into other people’s affairs.



While cooking tomato soup for the shop owner, disaster struck—a fire broke out! Klara caught on fire, but Akito was nearby and saved the day.

Klara: That’s twice you’ve saved my life and this game! My hero! Just imagine what the Watcher would do without the founder of the legacy and the heir.



Akito: Good luck on your first day, love. When do you leave?

Klara: I’m working from home today. I need to prep lesson plans and check the parent forum. Besides, it’s still the holidays.

Akito: See you later, then. I’m off to town to ask about strange stories in the area. Maybe someone has seen something that could lead me to the local vampire gang.



Pub Owner: Strange stories? Hmm, let me think... The first that comes to mind is the disappearance of Maybell Watson. Just thinking about it gives me chills.

Akito: A disappearance? Any others? Murders, sudden deaths?

Pub Owner: Well, there’s the drowning of Lady Volpe, but that was ages ago. They say she was a witch... Some claim her ghost still haunts the Volpe Abbey ruins.



Akito: Hi, I’m new in town. Can you tell me how to get to the Volpe Abbey ruins?

Rahul: Hey! I’m Rahul. The Abbey? The easiest way is through the Bramblewood Forest. From there, a bridge leads to the island. But be careful—they say it’s haunted!

Akito: And have you heard of other strange occurrences around here?

Rahul: Besides the Volpe ghost? There’s the mystery of the mill in Old New Henford.



Akito: So the villagers’ tales are true. I assume you’re Lady Volpe in the... ethereal flesh?

Lady Volpe: And who are you to disturb my peace, mortal?

Akito: My Lady, I am no ordinary mortal. I’ve been chosen as a Vampire Slayer. I need your help, and you were rumored to be a witch in life. Perhaps you still possess magic to aid me?

Lady Volpe: I know what you seek, but it’s not so simple. To craft the Ring of Protection, I’ll need five crystals and one metal. Bring them, and I’ll create it for you.



Lady Volpe: In the meantime, take this. It’s a tome containing valuable knowledge about vampires—their habits, weaknesses, and more. Every Slayer should memorize it!



The next day, Klara continues running errands.

Klara: Hello, Creature Keeper. I have this rose for you from Kim, the shopkeeper.

Creature Keeper: Greetings, I’m Thomas. So, Kim sends me a rose? I’m not sure what to think... Well, give her these mushrooms in thanks.

Kim: Oh, a charming mushroom from Thomas! I understand the message perfectly!



Zelda: So, how’s life here? Not too boring?

Klara: Are you kidding? This village hides some dark secrets. People go missing, mills run by themselves. And then there are lighter mysteries, like the shopkeeper’s unrequited love.

Zelda: And how’s your love life? More specifically, the wedding plans?

Klara: We’re looking for the perfect location for the ceremony. I need to explore the area more.

Zelda: Well, get on it—this is the start of a legacy! Wedding, then an heir—don’t wait too long!



Akito: You know, Zelda’s right. Why wait...

Klara: Then let’s go make that heir.







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