Story 741: Venom in the Veins

Kruger’s breath was ragged, his pulse hammering like a war drum. The Rotting Cathedral’s shadows twisted, creeping toward him as Selene’s laughter crawled up his spine like a centipede.

"What’s wrong, hunter?" she whispered, stepping forward.

Her skin—ashen and smooth, marked with eldritch carvings—was marred only by the plague ichor that dripped lazily from her lips. The hooded cloak of decay she wore was lined with strange symbols, pulsing faintly. And her necklace—**a collection of rusted needles, vials of viridescent venom, and bone charms—**clinked softly as she moved.

Kruger steadied his blade. Focus.

"I won’t fall for your tricks, witch," he spat.

Selene tilted her head, her pale lips curling into something between amusement and hunger.

"Oh, Kruger… but you already have."

Before he could react, a shadow darted past him.

Pain—searing, venomous—shot through his ribs.