[Crimson]

Curious indeed.

Braving the cold and frigid early brightenings of Jaedaxia, the lone Alchemist moved eastward toward the reported coast where the baby zaratan was found, died, and its remains buried, perhaps hidden, from the rest of the population. These supposed 'cover-ups' by the Protectorat and the Institute did not go unnoticed by Jaedaxians of course. Many fishermen, especially those who returned the brightening of the tremor with no catch, demanded to see the remains of the zaratan to 'break the curse' brought upon them. Other, more curious citizens, demanded to see the remains of the zaratan youngling simply to poke and prod and decide whether the magical creatures were really hording unimaginable treasures and priceless artifacts.

The walk to the northeastern tip of the Jaedaxian penninsula took some candlemark or more for Alexander. The tall grass of the wilderness of the Carmelyn Hinterlands covered the rolling, uneven terrain with its emerald majesty. But with the coming of winter, of course, the tall grass was patched with snow, frozen dew, and other dangerous sections that caused any inexperienced traveler to slip, fall, or loose their footing. Thankfully, Alexander experience no such hindrance. And by the time he reached the coast, a cold, salty breeze greeted him, effectively refreshing his body while causing him to shiver uncontrollably.

From the elvated ground, Alexander saw that the penninsula fell abruptly over the edge near the coast producing a cliff of sorts before touching the rocky beach below. A little more walking, however, led the Alchemist to a steep and narrow pass that zig-zagged downward toward the beach in irregular intervals of steps, slope, and sudden climbs before reaching the waterfront. There did not seem any other way down the cliff, unless Alexander wanted to take some more time northward toward an ominous looking structure in the distance. He immediately recognized it as Chateau Noir, the notorious nest of vampires that was supposedly purged by local and foreign groups of volunteers during the Second Vampire Scare.