Siltovis.
Annan had not been back in almost two months. Innocent City was where his journey in Middle Earth had begun, and it held a special place in his heart.
The city considered Annan one of its own, too. That was why Siltovis was also Free City's largest trading hub: all of Free City's purchases and sales there were exempt from tax.
The streets were under curfew, but no guard dared stop a Montreal carriage. After leaving Solz Magic Academy, Annan and Beludona headed for the Black Gold Tavern.
They stopped at the roadside. Before Annan and Beludona could go in, two pale young men blocked their path.
"This is Vampire territory, monsters of the Abyss. You're not welcome here."
Annan stared at the fangs showing at the corners of their mouths. "I'm Annan."
One of the Vampires scoffed. "And I'm Elizabeth the Tenth."
"Who's Elizabeth the Tenth?"
"Who's Annan?"
Annan took a deep breath. "King of the North, Champion Sorcerer, Uncrowned Rat-Hunting Champion, lord of the Floating City, executioner of the Mad Dog Duke: Annan Reeves."
The two Vampires fell silent for a moment.
"Wow."
"Forget it. Let's try another tavern." Annan gave up on dealing with these stupid Vampires.
Just then, a customer came out of the tavern, spilling lamplight across Annan's face.
"By the Queen, you're Jack!" one Vampire shrieked. "Please, come in! Your visit is an honor!"
Beludona looked stunned. Annan, however, was used to such sudden changes of attitude. "You just said creatures from the Abyss weren't welcome here..."
"Of course you're not one of them."
"I mean, there aren't any Succubi here, are there?"
"Our Vampire girls know how to take care of a man even better than Succubi—"
"We're looking to cause some trouble for Demons," Annan said frankly. "Do you know which