A hunched figure dressed in black, hooded robes stood amidst several corpses in a small meadow within a dark forest. After a moment, it turned and peered between the trees, and seemed to squint and see what was there. After a moment, the figure chuckled in a voice fit more for something from an ancient tomb, rather than a person. "Ah, it's you. My partner in crime."

A man stepped into the meadow, his black, polished new boots carrying him over the grass. The Hanged Man, a high-ranking member of the Stoneclutch, looked around the meadow, taking in the corpses that littered the ground. "You've been busy," the man said, dusting off his fine, aristocratic clothing. His status and wealth gave him many perks, and he preferred to dress to impress. That was especially important when meeting such a powerful figure like the infamous Midnight Witch.

"The perils of a long, infamous life include making numerous enemies, as you well know," the robed figure admitted, lowering her hood to reveal a face not so much old as ancient. Even if she were much younger, it was clear she would have been a remarkably ugly woman, with warts and blemishes covering her face.

Regardless, there might be five more powerful wizards on the continent, but none of them would have dared try to test that theory barring desperation, especially at night. Most especially when the moon was absent, such as would be the case on Monday night. "They were fools to try and sneak up on me in the dark. The night is my ally." The hideous hag chuckled grimly, then asked, "So what brings you here?"

The Hanged Man cleared his throat, noting that even if the moon was a bare sliver now, that wouldn't save him if his temporary associate suddenly became angry. "I merely wished to be certain that our arrangement is understood, agreed upon, and meets your satisfaction. If any additions must be made, now is the time."

"Ten maidens from among the hostages, of my choice," the Midnight Witch stated, "as we agreed. Barring the ones that you've indicated must not be harmed. I also have my pick of any whose parents refuse to pay the ransom."

Turning her head suddenly, causing her neck to give a disconcertingly loud pop, she added, "I find the terms more than satisfactory. Just remember, they must be maidens, and neither you nor your kin is allowed to slake your thirst upon them."

The Hanged Man grinned, revealing prominent fangs, and said, "Worry not. While my carnal desires are certainly towards women, I prefer my consorts far more seasoned than a gaggle of teenaged aristocratic chits. As to my hunger, my venal preferences notwithstanding, I have found the blood of virile young men to be far more satisfying than that of any woman."

The Midnight Witch nodded, then said, "Good. Everything is bargained and done, then."