The Verdilak

The Verdilak, or Slavic vampires, dwell in the perpetually fog-shrouded wasteland of the Zharkov Islands. To keep them from descending upon the people of Siberia, the Tsar of all Russia created the Voldmak.

Located in isolated monasteries through the hinterlands, the Voldmak are sworn to protect the seven jeweled amulets that create a barrier holding the Verdilak on the island. If all seven are combined, the barrier will fall, and the Verdilak will be released from their prison.

Not having the power to overcome the amulet’s protection, the Verdilak combine their energies, allowing one of their kind to slip through the barrier and attack the places of holding in hopes of securing the amulets.

Many attempts have been made, but they have yet to defeat the Voldmak or gain access to the place of holding deep within the monastery.

This night, Klosala, the forward sentry, relaxes near the fire pit to warm his hands before continuing his patrol.

The Verdilak can transform into a wing beast, allowing them to travel great distances. Unseen, a Verdilak prepares to strike. Swinging around, it positions itself and then dives straight at Klosala to knock him unconscious.

Although strictly forbidden, the guard leaned his weapon against the nearby pillar while he warmed his hands, allowing the beast’s reflection to be viewed in the polished steel.

With only a second to react, Klosala tucks and rolls to secure his weapon. He rotates until the blade is precisely where his body stood, giving the Verdilak no chance to alter its trajectory.

Effortlessly, the blade severs the beast, half falling into the fire pit while the other tumbles along the stones to a stop. “Looks like the crows will eat well in the morning,” Klosala said, stabbing the upper torso and placing it on a pike.

The Klosala wonders how many more times luck will favor the Voldmak. “It only takes one mistake, and we are all in danger of the Verdilak’s return,” remarked the guard as he returned to the firepit to warm himself.