When Barns returns to Dimartino, it's with a new ally - and quite the story to tell about the maniacal Corpsie. Thankfully, whether because it can't or doesn't want to, the Zombie Lord doesn't show up within the boundaries of the kingdom.
Francois, the reconstituted vampire mistress, claims a secluded corner of the ruined castle as her domain.
"I will of course be back and forth with the Pale Court. There are still a hundred humans I must take care of," she says with a sly smile, one fang peeking out. "Poor things. Under my thrall, but I've grown rather fond of them."
Barns nods, though he's still wary. Francois might be an ally for now, but she's unpredictable.
As she probes about the castle, Barns sets about to see his other duties to completion.
'First thing's first,' he tells himself. 'I need to catch up with Absalom.'
