Blood on the Moors: Chilling Tales of Gothic Horror

By Myria Hopkins

Blood on the Moors: Chilling Tales of Gothic Horror is a collection of spine-tingling short stories that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Set in medieval times, these stories will transport readers to eerie and haunted castles, misty woods, and ancient monasteries, where they will encounter ghosts, vampires, demons, witches, and other creatures of the night.

 

From the cursed family of Castle Ravenwood to the devil's bargain at Dead Man's Hollow, each story in this collection will take readers on a journey of fear and suspense. The vivid descriptions and atmospheric settings will immerse readers in a world of gothic horror, where the line between the living and the dead is blurred and danger lurks at every turn.

 

Perfect for fans of Edgar Allan Poe and Bram Stoker, Blood on the Moors: Chilling Tales of Gothic Horror is a must-read for anyone who loves a good scare. Whether you read these stories alone by the flickering candlelight or with friends on a dark and stormy night, you won't be able to put this book down until the last chilling tale has been told.
 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sean Benoit
• Release date: Mar 24, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215623244

Myria Hopkins

Myria Hopkins is a fresh and exciting new voice in the world of fiction, starting her journey as a beginner author. Her passion for storytelling and deep understanding of the human experience are evident in her debut works, which showcase her ability to craft compelling narratives that captivate readers from beginning to end. Drawing inspiration from her own life experiences and a wide range of sources, Myria's writing is marked by its authenticity, emotional depth, and relatability. As she continues to develop her craft and explore new literary terrain, she looks forward to connecting with readers and sharing her unique vision with the world.

Book preview

Foreword

Dear Reader,

As you delve into the pages of Blood on the Moors: Chilling Tales of Gothic Horror, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to my mother, Robin Hopkins, who has always supported me in everything I do. This book is dedicated to her, as a testament to her unwavering belief in my abilities and her constant encouragement to pursue my passion for writing. Without her love and support, I would not be where I am today.

This collection of short stories is a product of my fascination with the supernatural and my love for medieval Gothic horror. Each story is a reflection of my imagination and my desire to transport readers to a world of fear and suspense. I hope that these tales will leave you with a sense of unease and a desire for more. It is my sincere hope that you enjoy reading these stories as much as I enjoyed writing them. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope you will continue to support my future endeavors.

Sincerely,

Myria Hopkins

The Haunting of Blackwood Manor

Lady Elizabeth Blackwood sat nervously in the carriage as it made its way through the winding roads of the English countryside. She had never been to Blackwood Manor before, and she wasn't quite sure what to expect. Her father had never spoken much about his ancestral home, and Lady Elizabeth had only inherited it upon his passing.

As the carriage approached the imposing gates of Blackwood Manor, Lady Elizabeth's heart began to race. The gates creaked open, and the carriage made its way up the long, winding driveway. The manor loomed in front of her, its dark stone walls and twisted towers reaching towards the sky. Lady Elizabeth couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding as she gazed up at the old building.

The carriage came to a stop in front of the manor's grand entrance, and Lady Elizabeth stepped out, her eyes scanning the building for any signs of life. A chill wind blew through the air, and Lady Elizabeth shivered. She was greeted by the butler, a tall, thin man with a lined face and a somber expression.

Welcome, my lady, the butler said, bowing low. I am Butler James, and I have served the Blackwood family for many years.

Thank you, James, Lady Elizabeth replied, forcing a smile. It's a pleasure to meet you.

If you'll follow me, my lady, I will show you to your chambers, James said, leading Lady Elizabeth into the grand hall.

As they walked, Lady Elizabeth couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. The air was thick with the scent of old age and decay, and the shadows seemed to dance on the walls. She could feel eyes watching her from every corner of the room, and a chill ran down her spine.

The manor has seen better days, my lady, James said, noting the look of concern on Lady Elizabeth's face. But we do our best to maintain it.

It's quite all right, Lady Elizabeth replied, trying to sound reassuring. I'm sure I'll get used to it.

James led Lady Elizabeth up a spiral staircase and down a long hallway to her chambers. The room was spacious and well-appointed, with a four-poster bed, a fireplace, and a large window that looked out over the grounds.

Thank you, James, Lady Elizabeth said, smiling gratefully. I think I'll rest for a while before exploring the manor.

As you wish, my lady, James replied, bowing again. If you need anything, I'll be just outside.

Lady Elizabeth watched as James left the room, closing the door behind him. She let out a deep breath, her nerves finally getting the better of her.

This place gives me the creeps, Lady Elizabeth muttered to herself. But I suppose I'll have to get used to it.

As Lady Elizabeth sat down on the edge of the bed, a cold breeze blew through the room, sending a shiver down her spine. She pulled the covers up to her chin and tried to shake off the feeling of unease.

Lady Elizabeth tried to shake off the feeling of unease that had settled deep in her bones. She gazed out of the window, watching as the sun began to set over the darkening landscape.

As she sat there, lost in thought, she began to hear strange noises coming from the other side of the room. She turned to investigate but saw nothing. She dismissed it as her imagination and tried to get some rest.

But as the night wore on, the noises grew louder and more persistent. Lady Elizabeth could hear footsteps in the hallway, strange whispers in the walls, and the sound of doors opening and closing on their own. She felt as though she was being watched, and a cold hand seemed to grip her heart.

In the morning, Lady Elizabeth sought the help of the butler, James. She told him about the strange occurrences in the night and asked if there was any explanation for them.

I'm afraid I don't know what to tell you, my lady, James said, looking visibly shaken. These things have been happening ever since I can remember, and no one knows what causes them.

Lady Elizabeth was even more disturbed by James' words. If the strange occurrences were so commonplace, why hadn't her father ever mentioned them?

Feeling helpless, Lady Elizabeth decided to seek the help of the local villagers. She set out early the next morning, making her way down the long, winding road that led to the village.

As she walked, she saw the villagers staring at her, their eyes filled with fear and suspicion. She could feel their eyes on her, and she knew that they knew something she didn't.

Lady Elizabeth made her way to the local inn, where she found the innkeeper, a gruff man with a bushy beard and a stern expression.

Excuse me, sir, Lady Elizabeth said, trying to sound as polite as possible. I'm Lady Elizabeth Blackwood, and I've just inherited Blackwood Manor. I was hoping you could tell me something about the history of the estate.

The innkeeper looked at Lady Elizabeth, his eyes filled with suspicion. I don't know what you're talking about, my lady, he said gruffly. I suggest you mind your own business and stay away from Blackwood Manor.

Lady Elizabeth was taken aback by the innkeeper's hostile response. She decided to try another approach.

Please, sir, she said, her voice shaking slightly. I'm frightened. Strange things have been happening in the manor, and I don't know what to do. I was hoping you could help me.

The innkeeper's expression softened slightly, and he let out a deep sigh. Very well, he said, his voice low. But you must promise not to tell anyone I spoke to you about this.

Lady Elizabeth nodded eagerly, grateful for any help she could get.

The Blackwood family has a dark history, my lady, the innkeeper said, his eyes flickering with fear. There have been rumors of witchcraft and devil worship for generations. They say that the spirits of the dead haunt the halls of Blackwood Manor, seeking revenge on the living for the sins of their ancestors.

Lady Elizabeth listened in horror as the innkeeper recounted tales of murder, madness, and supernatural phenomena. She knew that she was in grave danger and that she needed to find a way to protect herself.

Lady Elizabeth felt her blood run cold as she listened to the innkeeper's tales. She had always been a skeptic when it came to the supernatural, but the events of the past night had left her shaken and vulnerable.

Is there anything I can do to break the curse? she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

The innkeeper shook his head gravely. I'm afraid not, my lady. The curse has been passed down from generation to generation, and it's said that anyone who tries to break it will suffer a terrible fate.

Lady Elizabeth felt a sense of despair wash over her. It seemed as though there was no hope for her or the inhabitants of Blackwood Manor.

But surely there must be something I can do, she said, her voice tinged with desperation.

The innkeeper scratched his beard thoughtfully. There is one thing that might help, he said slowly. It's said that the spirits of the dead are appeased by offerings of food and drink. Perhaps if you were to offer a sacrifice of some kind, the spirits would leave you in peace.

Lady Elizabeth frowned. She had never been one for superstitious rituals, but if there was even a chance that it might help, she was willing to try.

What kind of offering would be appropriate? she asked.

The innkeeper shrugged. It's hard to say. The spirits can be fickle. But something valuable, something that belonged to one of your ancestors, might do the trick.

Lady Elizabeth thought for a moment, considering her options. She had nothing of great value on her, but perhaps there was something in the manor that she could use.

Thank you for your help, she said, rising from her seat. I'll see what I can find.

As she made her way back to Blackwood Manor, Lady Elizabeth couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled over her. She felt as though she was being watched, and every creak and groan of the old house made her jump.

When she arrived back at the manor, she immediately set about searching for something to use as an offering. She rummaged through old trunks and chests, searching for anything that might be of value.

Finally, she came across a silver chalice that had belonged to her great-grandmother. It was intricately carved with images of dragons and knights, and it had been a prized possession of the Blackwood family for generations.

Lady Elizabeth hesitated for a moment, wondering if she was doing the right thing. But the thought of spending another night in the haunted halls of Blackwood Manor was enough to make her set her doubts aside.

She took the chalice to the chapel in the manor and placed it on the altar. She knelt before it and closed her eyes, praying that the offering would be enough to appease the spirits and break the curse.

As she sat there, lost in prayer, she heard a faint whispering in her ear. She opened her eyes, but there was no one there. She could feel a cold breath on the back of her neck, and she knew that the spirits were still watching her.

As Lady Elizabeth sat in the chapel, she couldn't shake the feeling that the spirits were still watching her. She knew that her offering might not be enough to appease them, and the thought of spending another night in the haunted halls of Blackwood Manor made her uneasy.

Suddenly, she heard a creaking sound coming from behind the altar. She turned around and saw that a hidden door had been revealed, leading to a small room that she had never seen before.

Without hesitation, Lady Elizabeth got up and cautiously made her way towards the hidden room. As she stepped inside, she was struck by the eerie silence that permeated the air.

The room was dimly lit by a few candles, and the walls were adorned with strange symbols that she didn't recognize. As she looked around, she noticed a dusty old book lying on a small table in the corner of the room.

She approached the book and carefully picked it up. It was an old diary, and as she began to read, she realized that it belonged to her ancestor, Lady Margaret Blackwood.

The diary revealed that Lady Margaret had made a pact with a dark entity in exchange for power and wealth. The entity had promised to protect her and her family from harm, but in return, Lady Margaret was required to make regular offerings to the entity.

Lady Elizabeth's hands shook as she read the disturbing details of the pact. She couldn't believe that her ancestor had made such a terrible deal, and she wondered if the curse that had befallen Blackwood Manor was a result of this dark entity's influence.

As she continued to read, Lady Elizabeth suddenly heard a strange noise coming from outside the hidden room. She quickly put the diary down and cautiously made her way towards the door.

As she stepped outside, she saw that the hallway was bathed in an eerie red light. The symbols on the walls seemed to be glowing, and the air was thick with the scent of sulfur.

Suddenly, Lady Elizabeth heard a voice whispering in her ear. It was a voice that she had never heard before, but it was filled with a terrible power that made her blood run cold.

I see that you have found my diary, Lady Elizabeth, the voice said. It seems that the pact that I made with the entity has finally come back to haunt us.

Lady Elizabeth turned around, but there was no one there. She realized that she was facing an invisible entity, one that was more powerful than anything she had ever encountered before.

You must break the pact, Lady Elizabeth, the voice continued. Only then can the curse be lifted, and the entity banished from this world.

Lady Elizabeth knew that she had to act quickly. She had to find a way to break the pact and put an end to the curse that had plagued her family for generations.

Lady Elizabeth's heart was pounding in her chest as she realized the gravity of the situation. She had to find a way to break the pact, but she had no idea how to do so.

As she stood there, frozen in fear, she suddenly remembered something that her grandmother had told her about a powerful medium who lived in a nearby village. The medium was rumored to have the ability to banish evil spirits and break curses, and Lady Elizabeth knew that she had to seek out her help.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Lady Elizabeth made her way to the village, determined to find the medium and ask for her help.

When she arrived, she went straight to the village square, where she found a group of people gathered around a small, elderly woman who was sitting in the center of a circle of candles.

The woman was wearing a long, flowing robe, and her eyes were closed as she chanted softly in a language that Lady Elizabeth didn't understand.

As Lady Elizabeth approached, the woman opened her eyes and looked directly at her. I have been expecting you, Lady Elizabeth, the woman said in a soft, yet powerful voice.

How did you know my name? Lady Elizabeth asked, surprised.

I am a medium, my dear, the woman replied. I have the ability to sense things that others cannot. And I sense that you are in great need of my help.

Lady Elizabeth explained everything that had happened at Blackwood Manor, and the woman listened intently.

I see, the woman said, nodding her head. It seems that you have stumbled upon a powerful entity that has been summoned by your ancestor. But do not worry, my dear. There is a way to break the pact and banish the entity from this world.

What do I need to do? Lady Elizabeth asked, her voice trembling.

You must perform a ritual, the woman explained. A ritual that will require a great deal of strength and courage. You must gather all of the cursed objects that your ancestor used to make the offerings to the entity, and you must burn them in a holy fire.

Where do I find a holy fire? Lady Elizabeth asked.

There is a small chapel on the outskirts of the village, the woman said. It has been blessed by the holy father, and it is said that any fire lit within its walls will be holy.

Lady Elizabeth nodded, taking in everything that the woman had said. She knew that the task ahead of her was not going to be easy, but she was willing to do whatever it took to break the pact and banish the entity once and for all.

Lady Elizabeth thanked the medium for her help and rushed back to Blackwood Manor to gather the cursed objects. She knew it was a risky move, but she couldn't let the entity continue to harm her family and the villagers.

As she entered the manor, she could feel the entity's presence grow stronger, and a cold chill ran down her spine. She ignored the feeling and focused on her mission.

Lady Elizabeth searched every room of the manor and gathered all the cursed objects, including a dagger, a chalice, and a necklace made of human teeth. She put them all in a sack and made her way to the chapel on the outskirts of the village.

As she entered the chapel, she was met by the medium and a group of villagers who had come to help. They had lit a holy fire in the center of the chapel, and Lady Elizabeth placed the cursed objects into the flames.

As the cursed objects burned, the medium began to perform a seance to communicate with the entity. The villagers joined hands and formed a circle around Lady Elizabeth, offering their support.

The medium's eyes rolled back into her head, and she began to speak in a language that Lady Elizabeth didn't understand. Suddenly, the room grew dark, and the candles flickered wildly.

Who dares to summon me? a voice boomed, filling the chapel.

The medium spoke on behalf of Lady Elizabeth, explaining that they had come to break the pact and banish the entity from this world.

You foolish mortals, the voice said, laughing. You think you can banish me? I have been summoned by your ancestor, and I will not be banished so easily.

The medium remained calm and continued to speak with the entity. Lady Elizabeth could feel the fear rising within her, but she remained strong, determined to see this through to the end.

After what felt like hours, the entity finally revealed the only way to break the pact. Lady Elizabeth's ancestor had promised to make an offering of blood to the entity every ten years in exchange for power and wealth. The only way to break the pact was to offer a substitute sacrifice in place of the blood offering.

What kind of sacrifice? Lady Elizabeth asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

The entity replied, The sacrifice must be pure of heart and soul, and it must be made willingly. Only then will the pact be broken, and I will be banished from this world.

Lady Elizabeth knew what she had to do. She would offer herself as the sacrifice to break the pact and banish the entity.

Lady Elizabeth felt a shiver run down her spine as she heard the entity's words. Sacrificing herself was not what she had expected, but she knew she had no other choice if she wanted to protect her family and the village.

She turned to the medium and the villagers gathered around her. I will be the sacrifice, she said, her voice trembling. I must do this to break the pact and banish the entity.

The medium and the villagers were shocked by Lady Elizabeth's decision. They had come prepared to fight the entity, but sacrificing their leader was not part of the plan.

The medium spoke up, Lady Elizabeth, this is not necessary. We can find another way to break the pact.

No, Lady Elizabeth interrupted. This is the only way. I made a vow to protect my family and this village, and I intend to keep that vow.

The villagers began to murmur among themselves, unsure of what to do. They had never faced a situation like this before, and the thought of sacrificing their leader was unsettling.

Is there anyone who would volunteer to be the substitute sacrifice? Lady Elizabeth asked, looking around the circle of villagers.

There was a long pause before a young girl stepped forward. I will do it, she said, her voice steady.

The villagers gasped in shock, but Lady Elizabeth smiled gratefully at the girl. Thank you, she said, placing a hand on the girl's shoulder. But are you sure? This is a dangerous task.

The girl nodded firmly. I may be young, but I am willing to do whatever it takes to protect my family and my village.

Lady Elizabeth was moved by the girl's bravery. Very well, she said. We will prepare for the sacrifice tonight. We must make sure that everything is done correctly.

The medium nodded, I will prepare the ritual and make sure that everything is in place. We will need to gather some items to ensure the sacrifice is pure and holy.

Lady Elizabeth turned to the villagers. We must all work together to make sure that the sacrifice is successful. The fate of our village depends on it.

The villagers nodded, and they all went to work, gathering the necessary items and preparing for the sacrifice. Lady Elizabeth couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness and dread wash over her. She knew that tonight would change everything, and there was no turning back.

As the villagers worked to prepare for the sacrifice, Lady Elizabeth felt a sense of unease wash over her. She knew that the entity would not go down without a fight, and she feared for the safety of everyone involved.

As the night wore on, the entity's presence grew stronger and more aggressive. Strange noises echoed through the chapel, and the candles flickered wildly. Lady Elizabeth could feel the entity's anger and hatred radiating off of it like a palpable force.

Suddenly, a gust of wind swept through the chapel, extinguishing the candles and plunging the room into darkness. Lady Elizabeth could hear the villagers screaming and running in terror, but she stood her ground, her hand tightly gripping the young girl who had volunteered to be the sacrifice.

Elizabeth! a voice called out from the darkness. It was her brother, Henry. Are you alright?

I'm here, she called back, her voice barely above a whisper. But we need to finish the sacrifice quickly. The entity is becoming more aggressive.

Henry made his way over to her, a torch in hand. We need to get out of here. This place isn't safe.

No, Lady Elizabeth said firmly. We have to finish the sacrifice. It's the only way to banish the entity.

Suddenly, a figure emerged from the darkness, its eyes glowing red. It was the entity, and it was more terrifying than Lady Elizabeth had ever seen it before.

You fools, it growled, its voice echoing through the chapel. You cannot banish me. I am too powerful.

Lady Elizabeth stood her ground, holding the young girl tightly. We will banish you, she said, her voice shaking. We will do whatever it takes.

The entity let out a roar, and Lady Elizabeth felt a surge of power emanate from it. She knew that they were in danger, and she prepared herself for the worst.

Just then, the medium stepped forward, holding a golden chalice. We have the necessary items for the sacrifice, she said, her voice strong and unwavering. We are ready to begin.

The entity let out a scream of rage, and Lady Elizabeth could feel the ground shaking beneath her feet. She closed her eyes, bracing herself for the worst.

As the medium began the ritual, Lady Elizabeth prayed silently for the safety of everyone involved. She could hear the young girl whimpering in fear, but she held onto her tightly, determined to see the sacrifice through to the end.

The medium began chanting in a language that Lady Elizabeth did not understand, and the villagers joined in, their voices rising in unison. Lady Elizabeth closed her eyes, focusing all of her energy on the ritual.

Suddenly, there was a bright flash of light, and Lady Elizabeth could feel the entity's presence weakening. She let out a sigh of relief, feeling a sense of triumph wash over her. They had done it. They had banished the entity.

But then, something