Chapter 337: Spirit world

Finally, they arrived at a modest two-story house, its stone walls covered in creeping ivy. Dumpheries ushered them inside, the door creaking shut behind them with a sound of finality.

The interior was a stark contrast to the opulent Shelley castle. Warm, flickering candlelight illuminated cozy rooms filled with well-worn furniture and overflowing bookshelves. The air was thick with the scent of old parchment and aromatic herbs.

"Please, make yourselves comfortable," Dumpheries said, gesturing to a cluster of mismatched armchairs surrounding a low table. As they settled in, Blake couldn't help but feel a small measure of relief. This place, with its lived-in charm, felt more welcoming than anywhere else they'd been in the vampire city.

Dumpheries busied himself in a small adjoining kitchen, the clink of glassware punctuating the tense silence. He returned moments later, carrying a tray laden with delicate crystal glasses filled with a deep crimson liquid.