Ethan: (whispering) Okay, guys, stay close. We don’t know who—or what—might be around here.

Benny: (snickering, holding a homemade garlic necklace) Please, I came prepared. These bad boys will keep us safe.

Sarah: (rolling her eyes) That’s not how garlic works, Benny.

Rory: (grinning nervously) But I heard it actually works if you eat a lot of it. Right?

Sarah: I’d still bet on wooden stakes over stinky breath.

As they round a corner, they come face-to-face with Jesse, the ancient vampire leader, looking as imposing as ever. Flanking him are Gord, the quiet yet calculating vampire, and Wes, the overzealous and unpredictable one.

Jesse: (smiling smugly) Well, well. The vampire hunter, the spellcaster, the snack, and the traitor. Looks like I hit the jackpot tonight.

Ethan: (gulping, stepping back) Jesse… Why are you here? I thought you were… you know, dead.

Jesse: (chuckles darkly) Vampires like me don’t just die, Ethan. We take a little… vacation. And this is my grand re-entrance.

Benny: (trying to stay brave) Well, newsflash, buddy: we’re not scared of you!

Gord: (smirking at Benny) I’m not sure you got the memo, kid, but we’ve been doing this a lot longer than you’ve been casting spells.

Wes: (laughing) Besides, we’re starving, and you all look like a full-course meal. Especially you, Rory.

Sarah: (stepping forward, confidently) Leave him alone, Jesse. You’re not taking anyone here tonight.

Jesse: Oh, Sarah, Sarah. Ever the hero. You could have had everything with me. Eternal power, a family that understands you.

Sarah: A family that preys on others? No thanks.

Jesse: (angry, his eyes glinting red) So be it. I was hoping you’d choose wisely. (gestures to Gord and Wes) Boys, let’s show them what real vampires are made of.

Gord and Wes step forward, preparing to attack. Ethan quickly flips open a vial of holy water, splashing it in their direction. Gord hisses, recoiling, while Wes dodges and charges straight at them.