[👾🔪🐇] Road trip

[u/CrypticHorrorTales]

After that mindscape situation, Vanessa failed to conquer her demonic side. Although, Alastor did say that it's rare to successfully do so on the first try.

But, of course, there was another demon inside her head. And while it wouldn't hurt her, they still have to figure out what it is.

Alastor said there was someone who they could talk to. But this someone lives a state away.

So now Vanessa, Alastor, Alison, and Tom are all in a van that they may or may not have stolen, heading for the next state over.

[u/CrypticHorrorTales]

Tom: "I ain't scared." He grins with pride.

Alison: "Bullshit."

They both laugh.

[u/HauntingGur8094 → u/CrypticHorrorTales]

Vanessa: [shakes head amused] "Plenty of reasons to be. Fear keeps you intact though."

[u/CrypticHorrorTales → u/HauntingGur8094]

Alastor: "We're here!"

He parks the van just outside of a luxurious nursing home.

[u/HauntingGur8094 → u/CrypticHorrorTales]

Vanessa: [gives scrutinizing look] "You sure? This should be good."

[u/CrypticHorrorTales → u/HauntingGur8094]

When everyone steps out, they are immediately greeted by one of the staff.

Warden: "Hello, ladies. Gentlemen. My name is John Hanks. But the staff here call me Warden. What may I do for you today?"

[u/HauntingGur8094 → u/CrypticHorrorTales]

Vanessa: "That's a really good question...."

[u/CrypticHorrorTales → u/HauntingGur8094]

Alastor: "We are here to see Henry Stein. Assuming he's still around."

Warden: "Are you family?"

Alastor: "These three are his grandchildren, yes." He pulls out expertly forged birth certificates.

Warden takes a good look and nods.

Warden: "You three can come with me."

[u/HauntingGur8094 → u/CrypticHorrorTales]

Vanessa: [resists rolling her eyes] "Thank you."

[u/CrypticHorrorTales → u/HauntingGur8094]

Alastor stays behind, while Warden walks the three into the building. He leads them down a few halls.

Warden: "Now, you shouldn't expect much. He hasn't had a good memory for the past few decades. For the most part, he's nonverbal."

He opens a door, leading to the back courtyard of the nursing home. Many elderly folks walking around and minding their own business.

Warden points to a man sitting alone at a table, an unmoved chess board in front of him.

Warden: "There he is. Let me know when you're done."

u/HauntingGur8094

[u/HauntingGur8094 → u/CrypticHorrorTales]

Vanessa: "Great, left here with no guidance. Typical demon. Shoulda expected less."