A coward who has found his death.

- I sent two messengers to Riliya and the Northlands last night. - he began, returning to his seat. – And today we received their disemboweled bodies.

Waves of curses, anger and a couple of female gasps ran through the hall. 

- We are surrounded. - The short and concise phrase marked the fact that even the Duke himself was confused.

- We're safe as long as no one leaves the palace grounds. - Said a middle–aged man who looked like he used to be a significant person under the king.

- Isn't it funny to you from the very thought that vampires hide in the walls of their castle like rats? - Dexter snapped at him. - While some pathetic witches are plastering the walls of our palace, we are sitting here and cowardly tucking our tails between our legs. I have never remembered such a thing in the history of our kingdom.

- The king was with us. - Another man added.