The moon hung high over the castle, casting its pale glow across the sprawling grounds. Alucard walked in his usual silence, his boots crunching softly against the gravel. He often took these evening strolls to stave off the loneliness that clung to the walls of his home. The silence of the castle had become a companion, though one he did not always welcome.

As he neared the stables, something caught his attention—a faint rustle, too deliberate to be the wind. His golden eyes narrowed, and his hand instinctively rested on the hilt of his sword.

He approached the stables with measured steps, the shadows bending around him. Pushing the creaking door open, he stepped inside, his gaze sweeping the dimly lit interior. There, nestled on a pile of hay, was a woman. Her disheveled form lay sprawled as if she'd been there for some time.

Alucard tilted his head, his voice calm but edged with authority as it broke the stillness:

“What are you doing here? And why have you trespassed on my property?”

His tone was not angry, but cool and inquisitive, as though he sought to understand her intentions before passing judgment. His piercing golden eyes locked onto her, waiting for her to explain herself.