Chapter 1
Once Upon A Time...there lived a beast trapped within the skin of a man. Hidden behind wealth and finely tailored suits, the beast gorged on easily manipulated members of society. The man had existed in isolation since he had left the warmth of his mother's womb. All he knew and loved had been taken from him at a very young age. His only companion was the beast who enjoyed the cruelty the man bestowed upon others. The man was only too happy to comply, and every year his temperament worsened. As time passed, the man found himself despondent. He longed for a companion with whom to share his life. The man longed for acceptance.
London, England
November 16, 1912
The man stared out the window as the train came to a sudden halt. The hour was late, the train station deserted. Dark smoke swirled around the man as he stepped out onto the platform. He raised the collar of his black overcoat to thwart off the chill of the night air as he took in the nearby surroundings and then headed in the direction that appeared the most promising for his needs.
The few peasants littering the street watched as the elegantly clad man neared them. They did not beg him for money as he passed. There was something eerie about the man, about his walk, something troubling, menacing. They scurried out of his path as he disappeared into a luxurious hotel establishment. The atmosphere seemed to change with his presence...
The man set his bag on the black marble floor of the large hotel lobby, which he found as deserted as the train station. He cleared his throat politely. The balding concierge behind the desk looked up from his manuscript and smiled at him.
"Good evening, sir. How may I be of assistance?"
"I have just this moment arrived in your fair city, and I find myself in need of lodging. A suite would be most appropriate."
"And what would be your length of stay, sir?"
"I am uncertain at the moment, but my intention is to pay in full for this month."
The balding concierge gave him a toothy grin as he took the money. "Very well, sir. Just sign your name here. The boy will show you to your room."
The man signed his name with magnificent penmanship.
"Thank you...Count Xavior Romier."
