The decadent medieval fortress stood proudly on the highest hills of some long forgotten German town. I was on my own within its walls. The servants had long left the castle before darkness descended. By the time I had ventured inside the sun was gone, giving life to unimaginable phantoms which would become my companions for the night. Fatigue which should have overcome me did little to lull me into sleep as the clock stroke past one. All was still and silent, save for the rustling of trees and the howling of wolves.

I could not, in my state of fervent anticipation, close my eyes. I had long awaited to be summoned by the mysterious owner. After years of languid wanting I was finally granted with incredulous fortune to spend the night. I had heard countless tales and myths over years of research to know what awaited me. I shall pay the price whatever it will be when time comes. Nothing could ever satisfy me more than to uncover the mystery of this decadent place; my ever constant obsession since I have heard of its existence.

The clock stroke midnight. Everything went quiet. longer could I hear night-time noises. My attention then fell upon the door ajar leading to the balcony.

Time froze as a figure bathed in moonlight slowly condensed before my eyes. She was stunning. A delight to behold! I was immediately enraptured by her ethereal being. The woman had pale skin delicate to the touch, her iridescent eyes betrayed no sense of danger, only peace. Her long, dark lustrous locks slowly guided my gaze to her nightgown. What used to be a virgin white linen dress — or what I can only assume was fine linen — was drenched in crimson liquid. Her steps were akin to those of a phantom for I could not hear even an echo. I did not dare look away from those eyes. She held my face; my lady’s touch were frozen ice. A plethora of possibilities ran amok my mind.

I allowed her to consume my soul so that I may become a part of her sacred being. The Devil’s temptress feasted on me. I had become the sailor who threw himself in momentary ecstasy, desperate to reach the siren which called out his name. Neither the absence of pain in having my flesh torn, and the warmth of fresh red which now dripped on the floor were enough to interrupt the spell. This was my price. I resigned myself to Death while my host proceeded to consume every inch of what I had to offer. When all was left but my head, she held it closer to her bosom, cradling me in her arms. I could not decipher her last words.

Elios’ chariots dragged the sun signalling the end of my lady’s celebration. She won’t recall any of it. I slipped in eternal slumber with the lingering regret of being a miserable mortal unable to provide for my host for eternity.