Return to the Sparrow's Swallow.

As you head back into the hills, the subdued Mistress Catherine is further weakened by the power of the sun. It's a strange sight for sure--a high succubus pulling along a mostly naked vampire through the hills by a leash around her neck. That's the world you live in, though. As you continue, Dajy explains that she's going to head back home, as such a sight isn't going to be welcome in the town.

She also explains that the collar you placed around her neck was made of silver. Apparently vampires are weakened somewhat by silver as well, though not in the same way as holy water. It does prohibit those able to turn into clouds of smoke the ability to do so. You had no idea when you put that on her, but you reckon she has those to play with her vampire minions. You do feel confident that Dajy won't let her get away... probably ever. You almost feel sorry for her. Almost.

For now, you need rest. It'll be dinner time by the time you arrive at the inn. Your party is tapped out and aching. This is going to be a much-needed meal and night's sleep.

Finally, your party arrives.

There's a familiar sight that calms your nerves. You finally understand fully what people see in Bibi. As she stands before the rush of people coming in for dinner, she's like a beacon of light, and you're the only one that knows her secret. It's one you'd rather not break. She's happy, and so is everyone else.

When you enter, she looks to you with an even brighter smile and hurries on over.

"You're back! You look tired," she says with concern.

"We could definitely use a break," Eva says with a nervous chuckle.

"But we did it!" Niki swings her fist up into the air. "The vampires in the hills are slain!"

The room starts to fall silent. People look in your direction and murmur to one another quietly.

"There really were vampires?" a man calls out. "You better not be talking bullshit."

Most people here didn't even think about it being vampires. I'm sure people thought goblins, bandits, or maybe nothing at all. We might look like liars telling our story, so--

Bibi turns to face them. "It's true! I saw one with my own eyes. These heroes really did set out today to slay the vampires residing outside our town. That's the darkness that's been looming over us as of late."

"Wait, really?!" a woman says.

Another man speaks up. "Holy shit. Bibi says it's true. It must be. That's scary!"

Bibi turns back to you and leans in closely. "I do owe you one."

"I thought you already gave me your payment," you reply.

She winks. "Oh no," she whispers and giggles. "It doesn't count if I get something out of it too."

Before you can reply, she spins around to face the crowd again.

"Let's get these heroes something to eat!" she shouts.

Everyone applauds. It may be a town out in the boonies, but it finally happened. People are cheering for you. A hero.

As the evening continues, your party sits around a table and are given a variety of foods and drinks. It's interesting to watch Bibi work after having... worked with her more personally before. It all tastes amazing, and it's the most you've been able to truly relax in a long time. Niki, Amara, Eva, and Alice. They may be a handful, but they would throw themselves into danger to save your life. They're your friends. Perhaps one day, something more. For now, you find a room and sleep. You can't imagine moving another muscle tonight. And tomorrow, you'll be able to head back home.