After I pulled Jack from that place, I went back down and coated it all in gasoline and set it ablaze, along with the clothes and shoes I was wearing, as they were ruined and I had a spare set at the clubhouse. The spokesman, the only survivor of their fight with Oscar and the curing of Jack, said that blaze was sufficient, but I went ahead and burned down the Red House too. Fuck that place.

I carried Jack back to the clubhouse, got dressed, and waited outside the car for the police and ambulances I had called to arrive. I felt little surprise when I looked over to see the small creature I called the spokesman standing nearby. Apparently it had found its mask somewhere, for as I watched, it tucked it casually under its tiny arm as it looked up at me.

I asked was it over, and it told me that it is never over. I asked if our part was done, and it said that we had succeeded in thwarting the Rot in this place, in weakening its hold. As for whether my part was done, that would be up to me.

“There is always more work to be done, Mr. Spires. Whether your part is done or not lies within your own heart. If you ever choose to fight against the growing tide of the Rot again, call me and we will come if we are able. Be warned, however—that help, like everything else, is never guaranteed.”

I let out a short laugh. “I…I’m sorry. But I’ve never been this scared my entire life. I’ve been in some shit, but this…no, I doubt I’ll ever be fucking with this kind of stuff ever again.”

It gave a small shrug. “As you will. You did well tonight. Better than many would have in your place. Perhaps that is enough.”

I was surprised to find I felt conflicted. “Well, tell me your name at least. I don’t plan on ever calling for you, but…well, just in case.” I glanced up at the red heartbeat of emergency lights that started to appear near the front of the property.

It made a short chortling sound. “You are interesting, Mr. Spires. I like it. As for my name, it is Rilla. If we do not meet again, I wish you well on your path.” I looked away for a moment as the ambulance pulled up, and when I looked back, Rilla was gone.