Blood of Origin [Alucard x (f)Reader] (Adrian Tepes)

by SorceressOfStories

Summary:

Your souls were bound by the cruel thread of fate. He was blessed by the blood flowing in his veins, you by the unknown. But as destiny took its course, the safety and peace in which you lived was violently ripped away. Fractured and broken, you walked the agonizing path that destiny set before you, unaware it would lead you back to where it all began.

~~~~~~~~

You are the main character of this story. There is no direct description of reader's hair/eyes/body etc.

- animism//pagan-based spirituality that is important to the plot
- slow burn. we start from before the events of season 1 and span throughout the entirety of the series

Chapter 1

Wallachia, July 1456

 

YOU WERE BORN UNDER THE PALE LIGHT OF THE FULL MOON to a young mother and unknown father. The night was warm, the air fresh, and the smell of pine flooded the senses. It had been two days since the pains had started, another still since your mother's waters had broken. It had taken everything in her to travel the distance into the forest - her true home - that way she could birth you as her people had been doing for thousands of years. She wailed as another birth pain gripped her womb, her arms and legs tensing as she clawed the moss beneath, shaking and moaning on all fours as you began your descent to earth.

"You can do it, Amara. Just breathe." a blonde woman spoke in a calm and even voice, her pale hand stroking your mother's back gently. Her brown gown was soaked with blood - your mother's blood - and her brow was slick with sweat. Her long blonde hair was bound by a thick braid down her back, her medicine pouch cast aside on the earth beside her. Already prepared was a tincture, its dark bottle glistening in the pale moonlight.

"I cannot," your mother sobbed, her swollen belly bobbing merely inches from the ground, "I cannot do this."

"Yes, you can. We have been doing this since the dawn of time. You can do this, I promise."

"No, I cannot. I cannot!"

"Amara-"

"Listen to me, Lisa! Something is wrong, I know it and you do as well. We have seen enough births to know this is not normal!"

Lisa's eyes shot between your mother's slick thighs, watching with growing worry that she was right. Blood streaked between her legs, dripping onto the mossy ground beneath her. Three days had passed and still the babe had not come. Lisa knew that the birth of a person's first child could take longer in some cases, but she knew time was running out - for mother and child.

"Promise me something, Lissy."

Amara's voice pulled her from her thoughts. "Anything."

"If I die, please take care of my child. Let them know they are loved."

"I will not let you die!" Lisa's eyes watered at the horrific thought.

"Promise me! Promise me you'll take care of them!"

Lisa's mouth went dry as she willed her tears away. There was absolutely no way either of you were dying. "Of course. I promise."

Her naked form writhed in pain as another contraction hit, an animalistic growl leaving her lips. Lisa's eyes grew wide as your mother began to crawl towards the riverbank, her movements broken and jagged, a trail of blood following behind her. When she reached the bank, she went in fully, her body sliding from off the wet moss and into the illuminated waters. The river wasn't moving fast enough to be dangerous, just a subtle trickling that made your mother sigh out in relief. She began to chant over the swell of her body, the words unrecognizable to Lisa. It was a prayer she had learned in her mother language - a medicine song - that was used by her ancestors for generations. Countless times she had murmured it over other women while assisting with hard and tricky births. Never did she think she'd have to use it on herself.

Lisa bit her lip before removing her top gown, leaving only her shift. Quickly she went into the water and faced your mother, settling on her knees so that she had access to aid the birth.

"I don't belive the babe is breach," Lisa palpated the surface of your mother's belly, "she seems to be in the correct position."

"She?" your mother smiled despite the pain that tore through her. "What makes you say that?"

"I don't know," Lisa shrugged gently, her own smile tugging on her lips, "just a feeling."

Before your mother could respond, another contraction gripped her. Her arms shot out as she nearly fell forward at the pain, but her closest friend caught her just in time. Lisa braced her legs in the river, digging her feet beneath the sand to support the full weight of them both. Your mother, who sat on her knees, began to wail as she pushed down. Blood seeped into the water like crimson ink, its sinister color glittering like rubies in the moonlight.

"Try to push and bare down when you feel called to do so, not only because of the contractions. It'll feel different if you focus on the babe. Focus only on her and nothing else."

Your mother nodded as another pain possessed her. Her mind went blank with agony but in that moment, she could feel it, a nearly imperceptible tugging in her womb. It was so small she thought she had conjured it in her mind, but when it happened again, she followed through. Time stood still as she continued this practice until finally you were in her arms, a choked sob leaving her lips in relief.

"A girl," your mother marveled at your small form and wispy hair, "just as you said."

Lisa's eyes glistened at the sight of the small bundle in her arms, the cord of life vanishing beneath the waters. It was a mere moment before your first cries rang out, the small, piercing sound echoing off every tree and floating on the wind. Lisa carefully left the bank to grab the herbal tincture, the brown bottle cool in her hands. She fed a few drops to Amara and wiped her forehead of sweat. The two women sat silently as they listened to your cries, Lisa supporting her out from the water carefully and back onto the soft riverbank. Your mother peered down at your scrunched face and with gentle fingers wiped away the blood from your small body as she scooped a small handful of water into her palm. You cried at the foreign feeling, small limbs bobbing in protest.

"Is this what it is like to gaze upon your own child? Unable to catch your breath yet feeling the most alive?" your mother's voice was small as she admired you, small head fitting perfectly in her arms.

"It never disappears," Lisa smiled as she sat beside your mother once again, "and it only ever grows stronger."

Amara looked at her friend then, bright eyes shining with tears. "Thank you, Lissy."

"You needn't ever thank me. We may not share blood, but you are my sister. Now and always."

Your mother's tears ran freely down her face as she looked at her closest friend and then at you, now suckling at her breast. The three of you sat in silence, taking in the land around you before the afterbirth finally passed. The bleeding stopped nearly an hour later as Lisa gave your mother more tincture, a mixture of Yarrow and Shepard's Purse. The blonde woman breathed a sigh of relief, her fear and worry bleeding away every moment Amara and you drew breath.

In the final hours before dawn your mother rose, holding you securely in her arms while Lisa supported her at the elbow. Following your mother's request, Lisa buried the afterbirth underneath an ancient oak that towered high above the treetop. Your mother whispered a prayer in her native tongue before kissing your forehead and blessing you with her own words of power. Before long they turned from the clearing, walking silently towards the small cottage to the east.

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, June 1460

 

YOU WERE AN UNCOMMONLY ODD CHILD, as far as the village folk were concerned. Sure, it was normal for children - especially ones as young as you - to wonder all the why's and how's of the world. But something about you, who would ask all the typical questions on the rare instances you went into town, would take it a step further. Where a normal child would wonder why certain trees looked different from others, you would go so far as to ask, with full conviction, why an aspen's spirit was golden like the sun, versus a maple whose spirit resembled more closely the color of the clear sky at high noon. The villagers and merchants would respond, with great confusion, that trees did not have spirits, nor did those spirits have colors. That they were trees and nothing more.

Your mother, who could not see what you did, still encouraged and passed down what knowledge she had from her homeland. It was a distant place much different from Wallachia. A place that was home to many gods and goddesses with the freedom to worship who you chose. She regaled you of the myths and legends of old, taught you the language of your ancestors, passed down their beliefs of honoring the land, of protecting and revering it as the sacred being it was.

"Why are the spirits different?" you asked one day, eyes bright as you took in the surrounding forest. You marveled at an aspen as you passed, your eyes landing on the golden shape that emerged from the base of the tree. It glittered brightly, taking the vague shape of a woman, its long hair falling over its golden shoulders. The spirit did not have distinct features like humans did, but you knew it meant you no ill will or harm.

"Well, my love," your mother's kind eyes glanced down at your small frame, hair wild and feet bare as you walked through the forest, "all plants have their own essences. An aspen's spirit is golden, like it's leaves in autumn. It means renewal, shedding what no longer serves you. The spirit of the aspen tree teaches us about growth and the importance of it."

"She is pretty! Her hair is like the sun." a giggle escaped you as you ran in front of her, squealing and sharing your energy with the dense forest around you. It was a late spring, merely days from the Summer Solstice. The forest was teeming with life as it always had; birds overhead singing their songs, insects buzzing near patches of wildflowers, the tree canopy above dancing in the light breeze. It was common occurrence for your mother to take you on walks through this forest - the very forest in which you were born - that was merely a stone's throw from the small cottage in which you both lived.

"Yes, I am sure she is quite beautiful." your mother spoke softly, a gentle smile on her lips. "Come, darling. I have someone I would like you to meet." she held out her hand as she caught up to you, and you took it without hesitation.

"Who, mama?"

"Someone very special to me."

It wasn't very often you got to meet or talk with other people. The hamlet in which you and your mother lived was extremely small and was often negated by those who traveled. The villagers spoke to your mother only when strictly necessary: when someone was ill or when a child needed to be born, or if she had gone to market. Though she was a wise woman they were weary. She was no countryman, did not worship the same god. She did not seem to mind, however. You, on the other hand, loved talking with others, meeting new people. The prospect made you giddy with excitement. You held onto her hand more tightly as you walked down a familiar path.

In mere moments you arrived at the clearing, your favorite place in the whole world. Your mother always told you the story of how you were born on that very earth, and nearly every day you came here with her to connect with the land. The riverbank was slightly higher than it had been last time, but that was normal just after the snowmelts that time of year. What was unusual, however, was the tall woman that stood at the riverbank, her bright blonde hair flowing in the wind and a light blue dress billowing at her feet. She turned as you and your mother approached, a wide smile gracing her face.

"Amara!" the woman rushed over and hugged your mother close, tears falling from her eyes.

Your mother gently let go of your hand to embrace the woman, a soft sigh escaping her lips. "Lisa."

The two women pulled away from one another, the blonde woman's gaze falling upon you. Your eyes widened at her beauty, the kindness of her soul, the golden energy that emitted from her being.

"Are you an aspen spirit?" you asked suddenly, tilting your head to the side.

"No, my dear girl." Lisa gently responded as she knelt to be eye level with you. "I am a very close friend of your mother's."

"You are gold, like an aspen spirit." you weren't convinced, you could clearly see the golden aura of her being. "I won't tell anyone. Promise?"

Lisa's smile grew. "I promise, little one. Here, I have a gift for you. Would you like to see?"

You immediately perked up and nodded excitedly. Both women laughed, the sound so heavenly it filled you with warmth. Your mother and Lisa led you further into the clearing and onto a log your mother had fastened into a bench a few years prior. Lisa knelt in front of you once again, handing you a finely wrapped parcel. The cloth wrappings were dark green, and a simple blue bow sat atop it. With little help from your mother, your clumsy hands finally unwrapped it. Inside sat a beautiful cloth doll, dressed in a bright purple dress.

"Do you like it?" Lisa asked, a hopeful expression passing over her features.

"Yes! She is pretty."

"What do we say, my love?" your mother scooped you onto her lap, placing a small kiss atop your head.

"Thank you!"

"You are most welcome, my dear girl."

You giggled and slipped from your mother's arms; your attention solely focused on your new doll. You had toys, of course, but they were made of simple sticks and straw. You were thrilled to add it to your collection. Your mother stared after you fondly, seeing as you sat in front of the riverbank a few paces away, completely enthralled with your gift.

"I am sorry I could not come sooner," Lisa began, eyeing you with awe, "she is beautiful."

"Yes she is," your mother agreed, "but you needn't apologize. I understand."

"I feel I must. It's been three years since I saw you both last. I feel an awful friend."

"You shouldn't, Lissy. I know why, I understand. Being the wife of Dracula and a student of medicine requires such absences."

Lisa hummed softly. "He sends his regards and well wishes."

Your mother chuckled. "How chivalrous of him. If I remember correctly, you had told me he had little manners at all."

"He had them, he just forgot how to use them. Being a lonely recluse can have that affect on even the most refined persons."

The two women laughed again, which drew your attention. It felt nice to see your mother smiling with another person, a person who seemed so kind and warm. You watched on a moment longer before turning back to your wonderful doll.

"How is Adrian?" your mother asked. "It seems only yesterday he was born. I will always say he was the easiest birth I ever assisted with."

"He's perfect," Lisa breathed, "such an incredible boy. He is currently fascinated with the stars. His father has been teaching him all the constellations."

"I am happy to hear it," your mother said, genuine contentedness settling on her features, "and your current studies?"

For hours they spent conversing, making sure to dote on you when your attention shifted to and from different things; your doll, seeing a fish in the river, seeking attention from your mother. When the sun began to arc passed its zenith and the sky began to turn dark orange, their voices had turned to quiet murmurs as you slept in your mother's arms, doll held tightly in your hand.

"She has been seeing more spirits as of late," your mother began after a short moment of silence, "and it has the townsfolk anxious."

Lisa glanced down at you, a small, sad smile on her lips. "Anything besides their god gets them anxious. They haven't harmed you, have they? You promised me you'd let me know if something ever happened."

"No, nothing has happened. A few cold and angry stares here and there, a few remarks thrown my way. Nothing I cannot handle."

"And the Reverend?"

"The Reverend, however, has been insistent we come to mass. Claims our souls will be damned for all eternity if I continue to refuse. I have respectfully declined, and at the moment, he has stopped requesting. For now, at least."

"And her? Do they believe she's a witch?"

"At this moment, they think it an oddity - an imagination gone wild. Nothing more."

"You must promise me, Amara, that if anything happens, you will write to me. You and your daughter are always welcome at our home."

"Does your husband hold that same sentiment?"

Lisa dipped her chin in seriousness. "If it was anyone else, no. But for you and your child? Of course, you are family."

Your mother nodded and peered down at your sleeping form. She rocked you softly, holding you close. "I promise."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, December 21st 1460

 

YOUR EYES DID NOT STRAY once from the cottage window. A thin layer of ice covered the glass panes, blurring the dirt path and farther beyond. Behind you a fire roared in the hearth, the smell of clove and cinnamon wafting over you. Your mother hummed softly at the wooden table, her hands working on kneading dough. A small feast was being prepared for the winter solstice, different meats and pastries littering the table for the occasion. Your mother was working on a special pie - something she called a delicacy - for the special occasion, but perhaps more importantly, the expected special guests.

Lisa, who you now referred to as Aunty Lissy, had promised to share and celebrate the solstice with you and your mother. Every two weeks, as sure as the cycle of the moon, Aunt Lissy would visit you both. She would bring odd bits and things from her travels, her simple way of sharing the world with you. On her last visit, during the full moon in November, she and your mother promised that she would be back in time for the festivities - and she would not be returning alone. This time, she would bring her husband and son.

"Anything yet, my love?" your mother asked.

"No," you were saddened at the fact, "I don't see Aunty Lissy yet."

"Soon, love. She'll be here soon, I promise. Why don't you come help me with the pie? I'm sure Aunty Lissy will be so excited to try something you made."

You immediately perked up at the idea. Swiftly you clambered down from the chair you were sat on and perched yourself on her lap.

Nearly an hour later, with a completed meat pie baking in the coals, was a knock on the door. Your head snapped up at the sound as your mother chuckled. She crossed from one end of the cottage to the other before opening the door. In an instant cold air rushed through, and in the threshold stood a man, his red hair cropped short, silver eyes landing on your mother's form.

"I take it yor the wise woman called Amara?" his heavily accented voice was deep, unsettling. He was covered in a thick fur cloak, a sword strapped to his hip. You did not recognize this man at all. Was this Aunty Lissy's husband?

"I am. Who asks?"

"Doesn't matter who I am. You have been summoned by the Reverend"

"The Reverend? I am not a part of the church, and he knows of this."

"That is precise reason why you have been summoned. I have orders to bring you in, by any means necessary, they said." his hand gripped the handle of his sword.

"Mama?" you peered from behind the chair you stood behind. The man's eyes shifted towards you, a cruel smile on his face.

"Ahhh, the bitch's pup."

"We haven't done anything wrong. Please leave. I have an understanding with the local parish and townsfolk. We have no qualms." your mother tried to close the door, to block you from his view, but the man shot out his hand and shoved it open.

"Not anymore."

Time stopped as the man grabbed your mother by the throat and slammed her up against the nearest wall, closing the door of the hut loudly behind him. She screamed, clawing and scratching at his eyes and face, desperately trying to break free. He cursed, crushing her neck even more.

"Let my mama go!" you ran at the man, your tiny fists hitting his leg in desperate attempt to help. He didn't feel a thing. Annoyed at your intrusion, however, the man kicked you away roughly, sending your body flying into a nearby bookcase. You landed on your side limply. Your mother thrashed and screamed at him to leave you alone, her eyes widening in terror. She couldn't see if you were moving or not, breathing or not. Tears spilled down her cheeks and made the man's hand slick with salty tears. She called your name, but you did not respond.

"They said by any means necessary, they did. Wanted to make an example of you, he said. Bloody foreigners ruining our land. But y'know whot? Yor gonna end up dead anyways, and I'd rather have my fun with you first."

~

Dracula felt death in the air before he saw it. It lingered heavily over the treetops, thick and suffocating. Lisa sensed it as well, grey eyes widening as she scooped her son into her arms. The young boy immediately melted into her embrace, unaware of the darkness that loomed overhead.

"Vlad? What is it?"

He stood to his full height, scanning the surrounding tree line. Small flurries of snow floated to the ground and the wilderness around them was eerily quiet.

"How much farther until we reach Amara's home?" his words were barely a whisper over gentle hush of wind.

"It is only a few hundred paces ahead-"

It was then they saw it, the large billowing of smoke unfurling towards the heavens. The color of Lisa's face drained as a strangled cry was pulled from her throat.

"Stay here." his lips pulled into a deep frown as he steered his wife from the main road, hiding them expertly out of view. "I will scout ahead."

"But-"

"You must," his red eyes bore into her grey ones, "it may be dangerous. Swear it."

Lisa swallowed thickly before nodding silently. Instantly he disappeared from view, leaving mother and son alone in the silent woods. Dracula ran as fast as he could without channeling his immortal abilities, coming face to face with the burning cottage within moments. The sharp tang of blood and the scent of unwashed human male flooded his senses as he looked around the vicinity of the hut, searching for any sign of life. It was then he heard it, the faint rasp of breath coming from inside the blaze. The flames were inconsequential as he carefully entered the threshold, coming face to face with the devastation within.

Amara's body lay lifeless on ruined dining table, deep stains of crimson staining her dress. Her lifeless eyes were trained on your limp form, a single tear slowly cascading down her cheek. Bright orange and red flames licked up the sides of the wooden walls as thick clouds of smoke began to choke the air. Dracula was in front of you in an instant, cradling your fragile body to his broad chest. Once you were secured in his hold, he gently brought you outside to safety before retrieving your mother's body and laying it beside you.

"Oh my god. Amara! Amara!?" Lisa's voice echoed in the small clearing as she ran desperately towards your mother's body. The vampire took his son from her arms before she collapsed beside you both, tears streaming wildly down her face. With trembling hands, she checked if you were breathing, a choked sob escaping her as she found a pulse.

"W-What happened?" she called your name, gently cradling your small head in her hands.

Adrian began to fuss in his father's arms, overwhelmed by his mother's panicked and heartbroken demeanor.

"We cannot stay here, my love." his voice was gentle as to help soothe his wife and son. "Please, I know you grieve. But we need to leave."

~

You woke slowly, your head cloudy and vision slightly blurred. When your eyes finally opened, they landed on the golden aura of Aunty Lissy, but she looked nothing like her usual self. Her face was blotched and tear-stained, her hair unkempt and falling out of its signature braid. She sat on the bed beside you, gently rubbing your back as tears fell from her eyes.

"Aunty Lissy?" your small voice was hoarse and your chest hurt. "Where's mama? And the bad man?"

Her gaze landed on you, her breath trembling. "Oh, my sweet girl."

You sat up, not fully registering the odd and unfamiliar room you were in. You looked around for your mother, but she was nowhere to be found.

"A mean man came. He hurt mama. I tried to stop him."

A sob escaped Lisa's lips despite her best efforts to control it. Her free hand trembled as it reached for you. Instinctively you crawled into her arms, so safe and warm.

"I know, my dear. I know."

"Can I see mama? Where is she? I want to see her. She needed my help."

Lisa pulled you in closer and began to rock you both as she began to truly cry. Her golden aura dimmed, her sadness and overwhelm something you've never seen before.

"My love," an unfamiliar voice sounded from behind you. You jumped, the male voice forcing your heart to leap. Lisa felt your tremor and held you tighter.

"Yes, I know." she responded. A few moments went by before she cradled you as if you were a babe.

"My dear girl, there is something I must tell you about your mother."

You pushed away from her, excitement at seeing your mother again pulling you free. "Can I see her? Can I see mama?"

Lisa's closed her eyes for a moment before locking her grey eyes onto your own. "I'm afraid that isn't possible, my dear. She's with the gods now."

Chapter 2

Wallachia, December 22nd 1460

 

SILENT TEARS STREAMED DOWN LISA'S FACE as she rocked you in her arms, gut-wrenching and uncontrollable sobs wracking your body. The sound of your heartbreak and sorrow twisted Dracula's stomach and rattled his bones. Never in all his centuries of walking the earth had he ever wanted to kill more than he ever wanted to then. Not only to avenge his wife's broken heart, but to avenge yours as well. He was well versed in the darkness and pure evil that corrupted the hearts of men, it was one of the many reasons he was fueled with insatiable bloodlust and rage for centuries. But this? Seeing his wife crumple with grief and an innocent child orphaned? He could not abide.

"We will have justice," his voice was a low whisper for he did not want to startle you again. "I swear to you, my love. Amara will be avenged."

He had never met the woman; had only known her through the stories Lisa told him over the years. They had met many years ago in Targoviste because of one fateful - yet albeit embarrassing - encounter. Immediately they knew they were two souls connected, linked forever. And Dracula knew, without a shadow of a doubt, Lisa would want retribution yet would not take it. For she was a doctor and swore an oath to do no harm.

He had sworn no such oath.

"Will you be alright with the children?" he asked quietly. Lisa's hold tightened on you as your sobs began to ebb to small whimpers. Adrian was fast asleep in his chambers, sleeping off the sudden shock of the evening. Over the last day his father had been taking care of him, knowing Lisa could not handle the needs of two distraught, young children. He knew she had to comfort you during this heavy loss, for no one else on the planet could take her place.

Lisa sniffled, her back turned towards him still. She knew she would not be able to let him leave if she turned around, for she would truly break. "How long will you be gone?"

He remembered his promise to her, to travel as a man and not an immortal. Given the distance of the city and church, it would be many days before he returned. Possibly more, considering what he had in store for those wretches.

"Seven days," he paused, "if I travel by foot."

Lisa tilted her head the tiniest amount, taking in your tear-stained face. Her heart shattered again in that moment looking down at you, grieving the life you should have lived. Grieving the mother you should have had, the love and memories you should have shared. All of it gone because of evil men, their evil deeds, and their evil religion in which they justified it all with.

"Then fly."

~

He forgot what it felt like to be the King of Night. His power undulated underneath his stone flesh, eyes red and monstrous. He had forgotten what it felt like to hunt prey, to become the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike. Dracula watched with cold calculation as the priests knelt before their tortured god, unaware of the promise of death lingering around them. He floated above their heads, none the wiser of the danger lurking only meters above. They spoke their powerless words in Latin before their Bishop, an old portly man, clambered up the dais and raised the goblet filled with their mock blood of Christ.

"Brothers! God is good on this glorious day! The witch and her runt have been eradicated!"

The balding men in their ill-fitting robes shouted their celebratory statements and crossed themselves. A small shift in the corner of his eye brought his attention to the right, where the man who you called the bad man stood. He recognized his scent instantly. From his position he could see the nails and scratch marks along his hands, arms, and face, chunks of his red hair missing from his scalp. The last remnants that Amara fought as hard as she could to protect herself and her child. The final nail in their coffin.

He descended from the cathedral ceiling, inky blackness flooding the room, snuffing out any and all light. The men screamed in surprise, yet it did not last for long. One by one he ripped them apart, piece by piece, bit by bit, until there was nothing but intestines and gore and shredded pieces of cloth. Dracula called back his shadowy mist, leaving the only two survivors to see the fate they shared with their so-called brotherhood. They screamed, as he knew they would, before the sharp, tangy smell of urine filled the air.

"Y-You cannot enter in the House of God! Begone, ye Servant of Satan!" the Bishop shook violently as his eyes bulged. Saliva dripped from his chin and urine began to seep through his robes. It took everything in Dracula to not punch a hole through his skull.

"There is no god here," Dracula growled, "and he does not wield my power. You have the blood of innocents on your hands. And you will pay."

He lunged for the Bishop, his hand exploding through his chest cavity, his fingers encircling the still-beating heart. The Bishop made a strange noise, as he looked down at the gaping wound. In a split-second Dracula retracted his hand, the force of his power causing the chest to explode. Blood and guts spewed to the farthest reaches of the cathedral, and a smile etched itself onto his lips.

"Pl-Please spare me! Oh spare me King of Night! I'll do anything, please!" the bad man fell to his knees, shaking so strongly his limbs could no longer prop themselves up. Dracula could now see the fine details of his face, the scratch and claw marks upon his person, red and oozing. He felt then, a mere moment of solemnness for Amara. She fought, as hard as she could, until the bitter end. And he would be her vengeance, and Lisa's, and yours. That was his duty as a man, as a husband. As the fucking King of Night.

"You wish to plea? You wish to be saved?" Dracula grabbed the back of the man's head, long nails splitting the back of his scalp open. He screamed a glorious scream, desperately trying to claw himself away. Dracula flung him onto the ruined altar, his mortal body landing with a loud thud. Blood pooled from the back of his head, and even so, the man did his best to crawl away.

"Keep begging, call out for your god. The god who seems to care not for innocents, not for women nor children. The same god who will watch as I rip you to fucking shreds. Call out to him! Call out to your god!"

The bad man babbled and shook and wheezed as he slowly crawled off the altar and began to make his way down the isle, towards the main doors. Blood smeared on the red isle carpet, deep crimson that left a smear of retribution in its wake.

"God, please save me. I did your bidding! Save me!"

Dracula floated above him, broad shoulders looming, dark power emanating, crackling around him. With one smooth turn of his hand the man was flung back to the stone altar, blood spurting from his mouth on impact. The Vampire King's feet planted themselves firmly on the floor as he kneeled in front of the man. He was no longer coherent, simply a simpering mess of blood and pain.

With his dominant hand Dracula took his nails, claws made for mauling, and held it up to the man's face. The bad man shook his head and attempted to beg again before the Vampire King ripped off his manhood. The man howled, blood-foam dripping from his teeth. With the appendage in his right hand, Dracula opened the man's mouth with his left, as far as it could go, and shoved it down his throat. The man convulsed and tried to fight it, but he was too strong.

As the man finally took in his last breath, Dracula spat upon his corpse. Then, without another glance at the carnage behind him, he set fire to the altar and flew away.

~

"Thank you."

She spoke the moment she felt his presence behind her. You lay in their bed, your small body wrapped warmly in the thick quilts. It had taken a few hours to peel you from her body, to give you a warm bath, and feed you a small amount of bread. At least in this moment, you weren't crying. Lisa knew that was merely temporary. What you witnessed, what you had been through, would leave its mark on you forever. She would be damned to allow you to go through that alone.

"They are all dead. Each and every one of them." he spoke so quietly, so tenderly. Lisa knew that, of course. There was no way he would have left any of them alive. She didn't know exactly what he had done to them, and she needn't ever know. All she did need was the knowledge that your mother's tormentors were dead.

Dracula hugged his wife from behind, his dark eyes landing on your small form. You were still a baby, not even five years old, and yet you had everything taken from you in a blink of an eye.

"I cannot abandon her," Lisa began, "I cannot. I know she is not your child-"

"My love, that does not matter. This is her home now. Nothing will change that fact unless she herself wishes to leave. I swear this to you. We will not abandon her."

Her breath hitched and soon more tears began to fall. Dracula turned her to face him, clutching her frame to his body, grounding her in place.

"My heart feels like its cracking," her body wracked with sobs, "how could this happen? If we hadn't gotten there in time-"

"But we did, my love. The girl is safe. Nothing more will harm her, Lisa. I swear it."

 

 

Chapter 3

PALE RAYS OF WINTER SUN SHONE THROUGH THE COTTAGE WINDOWS, basking father and son in holy light. The young boy sat atop one of the plush couches in the cottage's sitting room, his father adjacent to him on the floor. The boy's golden eyes stayed trained on the fireplace, watching the flames lick up the sides of the stone interior. He had always liked watching fire, even as an infant. The bold, bright colors mixing and mingling together in such splendor, the flames always the same yet different. Dracula observed his son silently, searching for any slight tell that the boy would start crying again. Lisa had spent the night with you, curled up in their bed as she tried her best to soothe your grief. Every few hours you had awoken, crying and trembling at the terrible memory of that horrible night. It was the first time since the birth of their son that she did not sing him to sleep.

"When will I see mummy?"

Dracula's face softened. "Very soon, my son."

"Who is that girl?" the young Tepes boy peered up at his father, shoulder-length hair held loosely back with a leather strap. "She has been with mummy all day. I miss mummy. She is my mummy."

Dracula sighed deeply. "I know, love. Mummy misses you as well. But our guest needs mummy right now, it is very important."

"Daddy, who is that girl? Why does she need mummy?" he asked again. "She looked sad. Why is our guest sad? Why was mummy sad?"

Dracula smiled tenderly at the boy. "That's because she is sad, my son. She lost her mummy, and your mummy was very dear friends with her."

"Lost her? Where?"

His son's innocent question struck him sharpy in his chest. The boy knew things died, of course, when animals in the forest were hunted for supper or when an elder from a nearby village passed away. But the idea that a healthy, normal human could die at any moment? By the hands of other humans, no less? It was a foreign concept to him, one neither him nor Lisa had yet to prepare him for.

"Her mummy died, Adrian. Lost is another word for death." his voice was so soft as he spoke to his son. Dracula did not like discussing the topic of death with one so young, especially if that death was unjustified. The boy may not have been human, but that did not mean he needed to be exposed to the cruelties of the world at such an age, immortal or not.

The young dhampir's breath caught in his throat. Oh no, her mummy died. Her mummy is gone. Does that mean...?

"Is my mummy going to die like her mummy did?" his voice was quiet, trembling at the idea.

Dracula took the sharpest of inhales, imperceptible to his son. Adrian peered up at his father through thick lashes, fear written across his face. The elder Tepes could not fathom the notion of placing such a heavy burden on the young boy's shoulders. He did not yet understand his own immortality, nor what that could mean for his mother's fragile mortality. Would she die at the hands of evil men? Would she die alone and afraid, fighting for her child's life, just like Amara had?

He would raise Hell and descend upon the earth before an attempt was even made.

So, he did what any father would do and said, "No, my son. Mummy isn't going to die."

~

You clutched the side of Lisa's skirt, eyes wide with trepidation. Adrian sat on the same plush couch as before, father peering at him from the side. The young Tepes curiously studied you silently. You looked like any other of the human children he'd seen - not that he had seen many. It was a rare occurrence when other humans his age would visit his mother for healing, and each and every time he was filled with sadness when he was unable to play with them.

"Adrian, my love, come say hello to our guest." Lisa cooed. The young boy immediately stood from the couch and walked towards you. Instinctively you began to walk backwards, away from him, until Lisa knelt beside you and held your hand. She was now eye level with you both, a small smile on her lips.

"She will be staying here with us, Adrian, in our home. We are going to make sure she feels the most welcome, yes?" Dracula spoke as he crossed over to you three, kneeling beside his wife. Despite his dominating size, he made his best efforts to make sure he made himself as little and human as possible.

The young boy's face flooded with awe and surprise. No one had ever stayed at the cottage before. Excitement began to bloom in his chest, giddy at the prospect of having a friend. It was immediately dampened when he remembered your hurt and looked upon your tear-streaked face once more. Adrian stepped towards you gently, unflinching as he saw the pain and sadness swirling within their depths.

"Hello, my name is Adrian. Adrian Tepes. I-It is a pleasure to meet you." he bent forward, a short, curt bow before quickly standing straight. He watched you, waiting for you to complete your introduction. "What is your name?"

You curled yourself to Aunty Lissy's chest, hiding your face away.

"It is alright, dear girl. Adrian will not harm you." Lisa hummed, gently pulling you from her grasp. It took a bit more coaxing before you pulled away completely from the safety of her embrace. Many moments went by and when you did not respond, Lisa took it upon herself to introduce you to her son.

He repeated you name gently, golden eyes boring into your own. "I am sorry your mummy died."

You bottom lip trembled and your body began to shake. Adrian's eyes widened in panic as he realized he had upset you.

"I-I am sorry," he attempted again, "I am sorry you are sad."

You tilted your head down, focusing on the elaborate rug beneath your feet. Your body began to shake again with small sobs, your heart aching for the warmth of your mother's embrace. Terrorizing flashes of the bad man and the sound of your mother's cry echoed in your mind, the memory forcing a whimper from your lips. The moment before you were consumed by overwhelm, you felt small and gentle arms wrap around you, tethering you in place. You peered up, eyes landing on the golden tendrils of Adrian's hair cascading down his back.

"Don't be sad," he hugged you clumsily closer to him, "you can share my mummy with me."

 

《》

 

HEAVY FLURRIES OF SNOW FELL FROM THE HEAVENS, encasing the land in a blanket of pristine white. You stood at Lisa's side; your small hand curled tightly on the hem of her cloak as you eyed the semi-large headstone of your mother's grave. She was buried at the base of an ancient tree, at the western-most point of the meadow, in accordance with her ancestral practices. Dracula had made sure to prepare everything without you as witness, handling Amara's body with the utmost respect. He gathered all the necessary items needed for the rite, ensuring her afterlife was honored. He and Adrian were mostly silent as you and Lisa decorated the grave, cleansing the round stone with aromatic oils and lighting small candles in accordance with the directions.

"Here, my dear girl," Lisa knelt beside you and reached into her pocket, withdrawing from it a small scroll. When she opened it, it revealed the familiar symbols the markings of your mother's language.

"Do you remember the words?" her grey eyes found your own, heart constricting as tears streamed down your face. You shrugged wordlessly.

"We will recite it all together, yes? As was practiced by your ancestors."

You shook your head, unable and unwilling to conjure the words and will to speak. Her eyes softened at your response.

"No worries, my dear girl. Vlad can help you read it, if that is alright with you?"

You nodded gently, eyes shyly finding the tall man. He crossed over to where you stood, Adrian following closely behind him. His movements caused his raven hair to cascade down the expanse of his back, briefly revealing the sharp points of his ears. Your eyes widened slowly, apprehensive intrigue curling faintly in your being. Dracula carefully took the scroll from his wife's hands before turning his gentle gaze onto you, kneeling beside you fluidly.

"I know you miss your mummy very much, my dear. But I know she is with the ancestors now. Isn't that right?" his red eyes softened when he saw you nod imperceptibly. He held out his free hand for you to take, coaxing you towards him. You stared at him and his large hand before reaching out and taking it.

"When you wish for me to start reciting the prayer, little one, you can squeeze my hand." Dracula stood, carefully enveloping your small hand into his own. For many moments you were unmoving, eyes never leaving the curved headstone. You watched as the small flurries of snow that landed in the small wax candles melt immediately, the flame slightly wavering in the breeze. Somewhere in the nearby tree line you felt the gentle thrum of the nature spirits watching on, their voices hushed as they honored your loss. Tears began to roll down your frozen cheeks as memories of your mother came to you, all the happiness and peace you felt and then the horror that burned you from that terrible night. You felt another hand take your empty one, its size nearly the same as your own. When you turned your head, you saw Adrian's teary eyes looking back at you. Something in his touch reminded you of the radiance of the sun, and it soothed your soul.

Slowly you squeezed Dracula's hand and soon you were lulled by the familiar lilt and melody of your mother's language. The prayer was very similar to the other song's she had taught you, but instead of honoring the earth's beauty and vitality, the words honored your mother for her journey to the afterlife.

 

《》

 

IN THE IMMEDIATE MONTHS AFTER AMARA'S DEATH, you refused to speak. Night terrors gripped you in your sleep, your soul only soothed by the warmth of Lisa's embrace, and she, too, found solace in yours. During the waking hours, you trailed behind her as she worked, accompanying her while foraging for herbs to make medicine, sitting beside her as she worked in the small apothecary, helping her roll dough for supper. And all the while, Adrian was always right beside you. He did not mind that you would not speak and happily filled the silence with stories he learned from his father or recalling his lessons from that day. You listened intently, eyes always shifting from his brilliant golden gaze to his mother's granite one as they conversed. In the moments you fell apart, you were never alone. Lisa and Dracula would scoop you into their arms, promising you were safe and cared for. In the rare instances they weren't near, Adrian helped as much as he could. It was one such night Lisa was busy with an elderly patient in the apothecary, Dracula away on a brief trip abroad. You were plagued by the vision of a dark shadow coming towards you, only to be jolted awake, a familiar voice calling your name. Your tightly shut eyes opened and landed on Adrian's worried face. He had heard you tossing and turning in your bed despite your room being down the fall from his own, and the idea of you hurting was too much for him to bear. His golden eyes were wide with concern as he clambered up into your bed, clumsily throwing his scrawny arms around you.

"I have nightmares too," he whispered gently, "mummy and daddy make them go away when they stay with me."

You clung to his small frame tightly before pushing away and wiped your tears with the back of your hand. He peered at you in question; you shrugged your shoulders in confusion.

"Like this." he motioned for you to lay back down. You obliged him, covering your body with the thick quilt. He lay gently next to you, eyes peering into your own. "I will be like mummy and daddy. I will make the nightmares go away."

Your eyebrows rose, as if asking how. He took your hand gently into his own, so that they lay clasped together on the pillows. Within moments you felt your eyes grow heavy, and soon you were met with peaceful sleep. It was the first night of many where he'd come to your rescue, and soon you were no longer plagued with nightmares at all.

As the land began to shift towards the liveliness of summer, a small spark of joy had relit itself in your soul. You had finally felt comfortable enough to roam the expanse of the meadow without the tethering presence of Lisa or the protective energy of Dracula. Adrian ecstatically took the opportunity to introduce you to all of his favorite places in and around the meadow, pointing out every pebble, flower, and weed.

"Mummy told me you see spirits," he turned his head as he walked beside you, "can you?"

You met his eyes which were alight with curiosity. Though you felt the nature spirits around you, they did not make themselves overly known. You nodded very gently in answer.

"Really!?" a broad smile graced his face. "Can I see too?"

You shrugged your shoulders, unknowing.

"Can you show me?" Adrian's head tilted in question, a hopeful light dancing across his features.

Again, you shrugged.

"Promise?" he held out his pinky finger for you to take. You stared at his hand for a moment before slowly interlocking it with your own. He turned his head back to face forward, the small braid at his back bobbing wildly with his movements. He exclaimed excitedly as he rushed forward, pointing to a large boulder a few paces away.

"This is my favorite rock. It's my castle." Adrian climbed the towering boulder with ease, standing atop it with a broad smile across his face. "I also have a trick like you! Do you want to see?"

Your eyes widened with concern as he jumped from the imposing height, landing on all fours with a dull thump. Confusion swirled in your mind as he appeared to be without injury. It was odd, you thought. If you or any other child had jumped from the same height, there would have been a broken limb at the very least.

"Daddy says my bones are strong," he stood, wiping the dirt from his palms, "stronger than lots of children."

You nodded, agreeing with the observation.

"Do you want to see another trick?" he positioned himself to face the nearby woods. Your eyebrows rose in curiosity before nodding.

He smiled wildly. "One, two, three!"

Adrian took off in a quick dash, giddiness flooding his being. A loud and bright laugh escaped him as he veered to the right, trying to catch you off guard as he wove in between the large trees. It was then he felt it, the sudden and elusive surge that engulfed his body. His surroundings seemed to move in slow motion, his hidden ability flowing through him uncontrollably. He shifted clumsily, colliding roughly with a nearby tree. Pain bloomed throughout his face and body as he was thrown backwards at the impact, a pained groan escaping him.

"Adrian!" his name was ripped from you unexpectedly, your voice hoarse and foreign in your ears. You scrambled as fast as you could to his side, hands and legs trembling.

The young boy sat up, wiping the small droplet of blood from his lip. He was dazed for a moment or two before a lopsided grin spread across his face. "Did you see that!?"

Confusion and awe swirled in your mind, not fully comprehending the events that occurred moments before. "Yes."

His head whipped to the side to face you, elation flooding his features. "You talked!"

"Hh-how did," you paused, willing your voice to clear, "how did you run so fast?"

The young boy stood, golden eyes never leaving your own. "It's one of my tricks!"

"Are you hh-hurt?" your eyes went to the small scrapes and cuts on his arms and legs, saw the distinct crimson droplets staining the bright fabric of his clothing.

"No I-"

"Children, what are you doing all the way out here?"

You both whirled as you heard Dracula's voice sound from behind you. Adrian attempted to hide his ruined outfit before sheepishly meeting his father's red eyes.

"I was showing her my running and jumping trick!"

A genuine and tender laugh escaped him before offering both his hands for the two of you to take. "Come, children. It seems we have an important conversation to discuss."

~

You sat side by side with Adrian on the couch of the cottage's sitting room, eyes trained solely on Dracula as he spoke. He knelt before the two of you, voice gentle yet firm.

"You are not in trouble, my dears. You are free to be yourselves when you are here in the cottage or out in the meadow. But there are things you need to be careful of. Here, let me show you." Dracula tucked his raven locks behind his ears, revealing their true and unusual form. You gasped softly in awe.

"My ears are a bit different from your own, aren't they?"

Adrian and you nodded, still enraptured at their distinct beauty.

"I, like some others, have certain...abilities...that I possess. I can jump from large heights; I can run with the speed of the wind."

"Just like me, daddy!" Adrian giggled with pride.

"Yes, my son. Just so. And because of those abilities, you are known as dhampir."

Adrian repeated the unfamiliar word before turning to you. Dracula nodded encouragingly as you stumbled through the pronunciation, his chest feeling with warmth as he heard your voice for the very first time.

"Very good. Because you are dhampir, my son, you need to be gentle with how you play. Our dear girl is human, not dhampir like you. Which means you need to be careful with channeling your abilities."

"Why is she not like me?" a small frown tugged at the young boy's lips. "I want to run and play with her. She is my friend."

"You still can, love. You can play chase in the meadow, climb trees in the forest, explore to your heart's content. But you must be careful not to channel your abilities and accidentally hurt her. Do you promise to be careful and protect her?"

The young dhampir swallowed before nodding eagerly. "Yes!"

~

Lisa sipped from the goblet of wine in her hand, savoring its rich flavor as it flooded her tongue. She and Dracula stood on the small porch of the cottage, watching as the sun began to descend below the horizon. Crickets chirped loudly nearby as hundreds of fireflies dotted the meadow's landscape. When Dracula had told his wife the news when she returned from seeing a patient, she went to find you immediately. The moment you called her Aunty Lissy for the first time in many months, she wept with joy. You spent the evening together as a family, sipping on soothing tea for your throat, surrounded by encouragement as you found your voice again. Adrian was elated, and soon the two of you spoke nonstop about everything and nothing until it was time for bed.

"Her soul is mending," Dracula spoke quietly beside her, "slowly but surely."

Lisa hummed gently, melting into her husband's side. Though your silence had worried them both, they agreed not to rush or force you into speaking. It was your way of coping with Amara's death, and they would not take that from you. So long as you knew that you were never alone, that was all that mattered. The pair were lulled into comfortable silence as the sky began to bleed with the deep oranges and blues of twilight. Lisa exhaled deeply, quiet mourning slowly creeping into her being.

"You can speak to me of her, my love. I will always listen." Dracula peered at his wife with gentle eyes, his ruby gaze full of tenderness.

"I miss her every day," her voice trembled, and she stook a steadying sip of wine, "it pains me she is gone. But I feel an odd sense of peace knowing the girl is safe with us."

Dracula pressed a kiss to his wife's temple. "And she will always remain so. You have my word."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, June 1463

 

A GENTLE BREEZE COMBED THROUGH THE TREETOPS, ushering with it the faint smell of wildflowers and earth. Birdsong rang out overhead, its melody echoing to the farthest reaches of the meadow. You sat underneath the shade of the large tree that overlooked the entirety of the Tepes lands, eyes intently focused on braiding the recently plucked flowers into one cohesive loop. Adrian was beside you, holding a stick that was meant to emulate a mighty blade. The two of you had decided to play a game you named Kingdom, which was heavily influenced by the new fairytale Dracula had read to you the night before. It was a colorful tale of princess and knights, of dragons and magical quests. You debated amongst yourselves who would play which role, unable to come to an agreement.

"Mummy and Daddy are the king and queen," Adrian shook his head, "which makes me the knight."

You frowned deeply, peering up at him from your work. "But you are the prince."

"No, I am not." he huffed. "I am a knight. I protect the princess."

Your eyebrows knit in confusion. "Who is the princess?"

"You are, of course." he stated confidently. "Daddy made me promise to protect you, remember?"

Heat rose in your cheeks as you quickly dropped your gaze to the flowers in your lap. "Oh."

Within a few moments it was finished. Carefully you stood, the clover chain held reverently in your palms.

"Is that your crown?" his golden eyebrows raised as he inspected your work. The small purple flowers were bright in the afternoon sun, reminding him of the glowing jewels from the story.

"Yes," you placed it atop your head securely, "how do I look?"

Adrian's smiled wildly as you twirled. "Like a princess!"

You beamed at his answer before grabbing his hand. "Let's go!"

For hours you ran around the meadow, on your quest to slay a dragon and save the world. You fought countless armies of trolls with the help of the faeries, brought down a mighty ogre with a funny jig. At the end of the game Adrian and you erupted in gleeful giggles when he made a particularly silly face. When you both collapsed to the ground you stared up at the blue sky, watching contentedly as the puffy clouds traveled across it. For a long while you stayed like that until you felt a shift in the air, a quiet tremor that alerted you something drew near. Slowly you sat up, eyes scanning the nearby forest. A shimmer of brilliant gold rushed by, immediately catching your attention.

"Adrian, look!"

You quickly stood and crossed over to the forest. You scanned the trees again until you saw it peering back at you. The aspen spirit's disembodied voice called out to you in greeting. Immediately you greeted it respectfully in your mother language, eyes wide with surprise.

"What is it?" Adrian's lips pulled into a confused frown. "Where is it?"

You pointed in the direction of the spirit, eyes widening as the golden vibrance of her light glimmered as she came closer. "She's right there. Don't you see?"

The young dhampir shook his head, disappointment blooming in his chest. "No."

"My friend Adrian can't see you," you stepped closer to the spirit, "can you show him?"

The aspen's energy thrummed over you, her thoughts a gentle caress in the back of your mind. You were flooded with foreign feelings that were not your own - the apologetic energy that was the spirits reply.

"You can't see them." you told Adrian. "I'm sorry."

"Why not?" his frown deepened.

The aspen spirit glimmered before fading from view, leaving you and the young dhampir alone in the sprawling woods.

"I don't know." you turned to him, guilt curling in your chest.

He considered for a moment before smiling. "That's alright! You are the princess with the magick eyes. I am the knight with magick speed."

His words soothed your worry. "Yes!"

You both fell into a fit of giggles before he grabbed your hand and whisked you away back to the imaginary kingdom, one that was filled with laughter and endless amounts of joy.

Chapter 4

Wallachia, August 1468

 

THUNDER RUMBLED ACROSS THE LAND as a streak of lightning slashed through the sky. Rain poured from the heavens, violent winds ripped through the surrounding foliage, and yet, you stood in the middle of the field, embracing it all. You danced about, in tune with the cacophony around you. The dark green skirts you wore were stained with mud at the hem as your bare feet kicked up the wet earth with your movements. Your dress was soaked through, but it mattered not. You were in your element, wild and free. In your peripheral you could see the corporeal bodies of the forest spirits coming out to watch your dance. The light pink hue of a beech spirit, the dark green of a silver fir spirit, even the light yellow of a nearby chamomile spirit. Over the storm you could not hear their whispered tones, but you knew that they thanked you for your tribute.

"Did they return?"

You whirled around, facing Adrian with wild eyes. You had not heard him sneak up on you over the noise of the storm, too enraptured at the power of it. You stilled your movements, chest heaving.

"They never leave." you wiped away the raindrops from your eyes. "This is their home."

His blond hair began to darken as he stood there, regarding you. It had been many years since his family took you in, and in that whole time, he struggled with the fact that you could see something he could not. Yes, he knew there were different kinds of magick in the world, and that some humans had more capabilities than others. But he was immortal, you were not. Surely, he should be able to fully see what spirits dwelt on the land he lived on.

"They told me to dance during the storm," you turned from him and pointed in the direction of the forest, "they said it helps release bad feelings."

"Bad feelings?" he studied the tree line then looked back at you. Your dress, which his mother bought you for your recent twelfth birthday, was caked with mud and bits of plant matter. But when weren't you covered in mud and plants? At any given time of the year, except maybe the winter months, you spent the majority of your free time in the large meadow the cottage occupied. You talked with every tree, shrub, flower, and weed. Animals would approach you when you were receptive to their advances, even if he was standing beside you. When Dracula wasn't teaching you both, you were in the meadow, in the surrounding forests, or aiding his wife in tending the vast herb garden.

"Yes, like anger." you replied. You saw the spirits slowly fade away as you turned from them. Adrian was watching you, curious.

"Why would they want you to dance in the rain if you are angry? Wait, are you angry?" worry gripped his chest. You rarely got angry, and when you did, you were not afraid to let him know why you felt such a way. The times you had been angry were mainly caused by thing he had done. Like when you were both seven, and he accidentally channeled his immortal speed while playing a game of chase. You were giggling as you ran away from him, squealing as you tried to avoid getting caught. Adrian got too excited and unlocked that part of his immortal abilities, caught up to you in a blink of an eye and pushed your shoulders, sending you flying to the ground. Your front tooth ended up being knocked loose and you cried for hours. He felt horrible and did everything he could to cheer you up. Not that you could stay mad at him for long, anyway.

After reassuring him that you were not in fact angry, you decided to head back to the cottage together. Another clap of thunder sounded cover the heavens and Adrian jumped in surprise before promptly laughing. Inside, Lisa sat at the dining table, her eyes focused on the many tomes sprawled across its surface. A mortar and pestle sat filled with crushed rosemary and lavender, and an open vessel of oregano oil next to it. The blonde woman looked up from her books as the two of you came in, soaked to the bone.

"Had quite the fun time, I see." she stood from the table, wiping her herb-coated fingers on the apron over her dress. "Who came out to see you today, my dear girl?"

Your smile widened at her question. One of the things you loved most about Aunty Lissy - and there was an infinite amount of them - was that she honored the calling you had to communicate with the nature spirits. Even though she did not quite understand it all herself, she knew it was an important link for you, and she would do everything in her power to help you foster that link. She would do for you what your mother could no longer, till her dying breath.

"A beech and silver fir!" you beamed. "I even saw a chamomile spirit."

"What color was chamomile?" Adrian wondered. He did not understand how each spirit had a different color, and there had been hours upon hours over the years of him trying to memorize each color for each spirit. He knew aspens were gold, because that was your favorite tree. He knew roses - no matter the petal color - were pink, because that was your favorite flower. It was all very fascinating yet overwhelming.

"Light yellow." you beamed.

"How remarkable!" Lisa wandered over to the both of you before tilting her head to the side with a small smile. "Why don't you get cleaned up and I will make some tea. How does mint sound?"

Adrian and you nodded vigorously before heading off, giggling and talking animatedly as you went.

~

It was nights like these, Lisa thought, where she missed having her husband home. He was away, traveling to a neighboring territory, learning and experiencing what the human populace had been up to. The storm from earlier was still surging, a fire was lit in the fireplace, and both children slept soundly in their beds. She sipped a cup of wine, savoring the flavor, as she watched the fire crackle and burn. Her mind wandered to this thing and that, from mental notes of making a certain tincture for one patient and ideas for another experiment. Before long, she thought of Amara, and the knowledge that her closest friend would never be able to see how much her wonderful daughter had grown.

Lisa finished the wine and set the goblet aside. It pained her greatly to think such things, and it was harder when her husband was not home. He would hold her, during these nights of remembrance, while she cried or told him stories of her and Amara's time together. She could pull from a vast storage of memories, and it both pained and comforted her. Over the last eight years - heavens had it already been that long? - since you began to live with them, Lisa did her best to keep your mother's memory alive. It became ritual to visit her grave, always in synchronization with the full moon, bringing offerings of honey and bread. During your studies you'd expand your knowledge of the language she once taught you, the lands she hailed from, the customs of her people. You learned the ancient histories of her motherland, gifted access to study the ancient tomes and artifacts from Dracula's personal collection. Though your memory of her faded, your connection was steadfast. You may have not been able to recall her face, but you could feel her spirit within you. And that, Lisa thought, was the most important thing of all.

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, September 1468

 

THE SUN SHONE DOWN FROM THE HEAVENS, its relentless rays stilling the wind and stifling the air. Sweat dripped down Adrian's face, his blond hair sticking to the nape of his neck. He held a wooden sword, body poised in defense, watching his father intently. Dracula nodded once before dashing forward, his own wooden sword in hand. Adrian's golden eyes widened as he attempted to channel his speed, to move at the precise moment to dodge his father's attack. Instantly Dracula was upon him, forcing Adrian to tumble backwards. His wooden sword clattered to the ground, and in a flash his father's sword was at his throat, mere inches from the pale flesh.

"Do not think too hard about summoning your power," Dracula stood to his full height, releasing his hold on the boy, "let it move through you."

"I'm trying." the young dhampir grumbled, bending to pick up his practice sword. "You're too fast, father."

Unlike his other abilities, Adrian's power of speed had a tendency to slip from his fingers. He still struggled with perfecting the flow of it, either accidentally calling upon it at inopportune times or not being able to channel it at all when he tried to summon it.

Dracula smirked at his son. "Try again."

For hours they practiced, the sun slowly arcing across the sky. Most times Dracula made his mark, but there were some instances Adrian successfully drew from his power. His father smiled proudly at his son before announcing the end. Adrian thanked his father before stowing away the practice weapons. Without another word he set out to the surrounding forest, searching for you. The moment he got to the tree line he closed his eyes, took in a deep breath, and listened.

It was subtle, the near whisper of your singing, but he grinned all the same as he heard it. Immediately he began to run, your voice growing louder and louder until he found you laying upon the heather and staring up at the tree canopy. You twirled a blade of grass in your fingers, the movements in tune with your song.

"Found you." he stated simply.

You did not startle, as you had grown used to his talent for seemingly appearing from nowhere. It always amazed you, though, that he could always find you. No matter how far you seemed to be, all he had to do was listen.

"You always do," you sat up, picking the pieces of plant matter from your hair, "how was training?"

"I was only able to channel it twice." he mumbled, settling next to you. You reached into the small satchel beside you, pulling out a waterskin from within. You offered it to him first before taking a sip for yourself, humming as the cool liquid soothed your throat.

"Father said to feel it, not think. But how can I feel something if I cannot think?" he shook his head, his golden hair cascading down his back.

"I don't know," you shrugged your shoulders, "that seems hard."

"It is hard. But father makes it look so easy! I want to be just like him." he peered up at the tree canopy before laying back. You followed his movements, now shoulder to shoulder. You laid there silently, listening to the sounds of the forest around you. The heat was not as stifling in the greenery, the earth cool at your backs.

"I want to be as powerful as he is. To be a true warrior. He can call upon his speed without issue."

You said nothing, your eyes trained on the branches above. You had seen Dracula's power for yourself over the years. His show of strength when a tree fell and obstructed the dirt road, or his speed when he'd take you and Adrian flying through the surrounding forest. You always marveled at his gifts, and as Adrian began to show an affinity for it himself, you grew jealous. You could not run at the speed of wind or call upon godlike strength. You could see the spirits of plants and trees, hear their thoughts and sense their feelings. Nothing so fantastical as Adrian or his father. Little did you know, however, that Adrian felt the same for your abilities, wishing with all his heart that he could see what you did, feel what you did. But alas, neither of those wishes would come to pass.

"I wouldn't worry," you began, "it takes time for things to grow."

"I am already twelve! Father said it should be any day now. What if I never grow strong enough? How am I to protect you and mother?"

You turned to face him, the grass tickling the side of your face as you did so. His elegant features were pulled into a worried expression, his lips drawn in a frown. Even in this unhappy state he was beautiful like the sun, radiant as light. While he did not share the same aura as his mother, his own teal light was just as beautiful, emanating around his person. It was the perfect fusion of Lisa's bright gold and Dracula's dark blue. You blinked, focusing your attention on his face, no longer seeing the light blue around him.

"You always protect us." you said.

"Not like father does," he turned to face you, "besides, I want to travel with father. See all the different lands and cities and people he tells us about. He said I cannot do that until I can control my powers."

You listened quietly as he continued to ramble. Adrian always talked of seeing the world, begging his father to allow him to journey alongside him. Alas, traveling long distance with a young dhampir who was all but twelve was a difficult task, especially in the world of men.

"Where would you go first?" you asked.

"Hmm," he thought about it for a moment, "I want to visit your mother's homeland with you."

Your eyes widened as heat flooded your cheeks. "That would make me very happy."

Adrian smiled, and you knew then you had helped him from his loop of worry. "Let us make a promise then. When I am strong enough, we will go to your homeland together. Promise?" he held out his pinky for you to take.

You stared at it for a moment before grabbing it with your own. "Promise."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, October 30th 1468

 

THE VIEL BETWEEN THE WORLD OF THE LIVNG and the world of the dead was thin. You could feel it in your being, sense it in the restlessness of the trees. The moon was a pale disk hidden behind dense grey clouds, the air crisp and scented with the sweet smell of fallen leaves and wet earth. You stood still, your eyes trained on your mother's grave, as you recited the ancient prayer to honor her in the afterlife. Lisa and Dracula stood to your right, Adrian beside them, heads downcast as you recited the ancient words of power with ease. When you finished you turned to Aunty Lissy, a small smile on her lips. Silently she passed a silver bowl laden with bread and honey to you and kissed your forehead. You knelt, careful not to spill the contents, and lay the offerings next to the bundle of roses that lay upon the curved stone. Sometime later you rose, the cold of night settling into your bones. Lisa had stayed with you, while father and son returned to the cottage. She kept silent as she watched you, a curious look spreading across her features.

You continued to stare at the headstone, watching as the flickering of a candle flame danced in the gentle breeze. Suddenly you felt something pulling and tugging deep within your soul, felt a force peering at you through the shadows. Gentle whispers in a voice you had never heard before called your name, the sound barely registering in your mind. When you glanced up you saw it, a small, greyish-white orb floating above the forest floor, wispy vapors tumbling from it like smoke.

"Aunty?"

"Yes, dear girl?"

"There's a spirit," your voice was low as you continued to watch it gently sway, "it's watching us."

"Oh?" she peered out in your line of sight. She knew that she would not be able to see anything, for she did not have your gift. All that met her gaze was the dark forest. "Is it a tree spirit?"

You continued to watch it with wide eyes. It did not look like any nature spirit you had seen before. They almost always looked humanoid, with featureless faces. Slowly it moved towards you, its greyish light illuminating the surroundings trees.

"N-No," you stuttered, backing away from the headstone, "it is not a nature spirit."

Lisa's eyes widened as fear took over you. She watched as you continued to back away, until you were at her side.

"Please stop!" you shouted. The moment it heard you, it ceased its movements. The whispering continued to grow, indistinguishable words filling the air.

"My dear girl, what is it?" worry gripped Aunty Lissy as she continued to study your panicked reaction. You were never afraid of nature spirits, even when you were young. "What do you see?"

"It's round, grey and white." you squinted your eyes. "I have never seen it before."

Lisa peered out once again before grabbing your hand. "Come now, inside."

You followed silently, watching as the orb slowly followed across the meadow. It took everything in you to not scream, but the moment you crossed the cottage threshold, it disappeared.

~

The very next morning, you were pulled from your sleep by unfamiliar pain. It gripped your lower belly like a vice, tightening until you could no longer breathe. A lone whimper fell from your lips, and not a moment later Adrian dashed through your door and was by your side, worry written across his features. Even though his chambers were down the fall from yours, he could hear and sense your discomfort. He could always tell when you were in pain, hear when you had restless sleep.

"What is it? What is wrong?" his blond hair was pulled back in a braid, his body still clad in his night clothes.

"It hurts-" another pain ripped your words away, tears threatening to spill.

Adrian's brows knit together as he gently pulled your blankets back. Immediately he saw the dark crimson stains on the mattress, fear striking him to the core. "Don't move. I'll go get mother!" he ran off, shouting for help. You curled into yourself, arms supporting your stomach as tears spilled down your face. You felt warmth spreading underneath you, panic swelling.

"What is it, dear girl?" Lisa entered the room, panic rising in her throat. However, the moment she saw the dark stains on your mattress and gown, it was quelled immediately. A small smile of understanding graced her lips as she sat by your side, rubbing your back gently.

"Adrian, my love, can you boil some water?"

"But-" he didn't want to leave your side.

"She will be alright. Please, my dear, fetch the water for me."

Adrian glanced over at you before nodding, following his mother's request. When he left the room Lisa pulled you to her chest. "It will be alright, love."

With gentle movements Lisa helped you out of your gown, passing you the ewer of water to clean yourself, all the while reassuring you all was well when you saw the blood stains.

"Am I going to die?" you asked in a small voice.

"No, my dear girl. You aren't going to die. Do you remember what I told you what happens when a girl comes of age?"

You looked up with her with wide eyes, realization slowly dawning. "That we bleed with the moon."

"That's right."

Her words settled the fear in you. As a doctor, Lisa made sure to teach you everything you needed to be healthy, to be prepared as you grew. She made it no secret when she would bleed, and instead, took time to educate and explain things about why it was happening and how to take care of yourself when it did. You never envisioned it could happen in your sleep, however. Or be that painful.

"Let me show you how to make some wrappings. And then, my dear girl, you and I will have some raspberry leaf tea. How does that sound?"

You nodded, tears welling in your eyes. Lisa held out her hand for you to take, and silently you made your way to the dining hall, fear dissipating to nothing.

Chapter 5

Wallachia, October 31st 1468

 

LISA PEERED AT YOU THROUGH THE COTTAGE WINDOW, the scent of thyme and lavender filling her nostrils. Beside her was a hastily written letter, its contents explaining the ailments of an elder from the village beyond. She absentmindedly worked on the medicine, all the while keeping her eyes on you, a small frown at her lips.

You laid sprawled on a thick woolen blanket in the meadow, fur cloak wrapped around your body to keep the autumnal cold at bay. She could see you gripping your belly, rocking from side to side, small puffs of breath tumbling upwards as you sang softly. She had cautioned you to stay indoors, especially as you bled, but you insisted on being outside, grounded to the earth.

It was a bittersweet moment for her, to see you grow. She remembered the first time she bled, and how disorienting the sensation was, especially as she had no one to support her. Lisa did her best to keep your belly full of nourishing food, womb warm with nettle and raspberry tea. After the shock of that morning, you seemed to be at peace with the reality of your changing body, confident with the knowledge Aunty Lissy bestowed upon you.

"How is she fairing?" Dracula asked as he entered the apothecary, carrying a cord of firewood in his arms. Gently he set it aside, adding a log to the burning fire in the corner.

"Well enough," Lisa responded, adding more lavender to the mortar, "is Adrian alright?"

The young dhampir had been overcome with emotion that morning, worried for your health. It did not occur to him, even though he had the knowledge of what it meant, that your bleed was anything but ordinary.

"Our boy and his tender heart," Dracula murmured, wrapping his arms around his wife, "he gets it from you, you know."

Lisa chuckled, a small smile forming on her lips. "Does he now?"

"Ooh yes. Our boy and his mortal heart. Just as you are mine." he pressed a kiss to the side of her temple. He studied her for a bit longer, sensing her spiraling thoughts behind her grey eyes. "What is it, my love?"

Lisa turned her head to face him. "What do you think she saw last night?"

Dracula regarded his wife for a moment. After you had seen the strange spirit and rushed inside, he checked the perimeter of the meadow. All Hallows was the time of year where the veil was at its thinnest, and he knew creatures of the dark would be lurking, waiting for an opportune moment to strike at unsuspecting humans. Despite his best efforts, the elder vampire could not sense anything strange or otherworldly.

"I do not know," he admitted, "I did not sense anything from the otherworld."

It concerned them both, your strong and frightened reaction. Never over the course of the last eight years did you respond negativity to seeing a spirit. When one you did not recognize showed itself to you, it was always a positive thing. Last night was completely different, and Lisa could not shake the feeling that something was happening. She just didn't know what.

"Do you think it was Amara?" Lisa's voice was quiet, if not hopeful. There had been speculation over the years between her and Dracula on whether you could see human souls. They knew that you described colors for certain people, Lisa being golden, Dracula dark blue, Adrian teal. Interestingly enough, however, you never mentioned if any of Lisa's patients had auras. Your gift simply seemed to be only spirits of nature and the Tepes family. Dracula had scoured his infinite books and resources from the castle, deigning to find an answer or name for your gifts. He poured over the countless tomes of your people's history, studied their unique magics and sciences. Unfortunately, no matter how much he read or studied, he could not come up with a clear answer as to what sort of abilities you had.

"Human souls are delicate things," he held his wife tighter, "when they pass, it is a rare occurrence that they stay on this plain. It's been many years since her passing. I do not believe she is still here."

Lisa nodded solemnly. "I suppose you're right."

Dracula pulled her into his arms once more, his eyes landing on the forest beyond.

~

For hours you sat in the meadow, impervious to the chilled air around you. The ache in your lower abdomen subsided greatly as time went on, and eventually you didn't feel anything at all. You watched the heavens as you turned onto your back, the cloudless sky giving way to the pale autumn sun. Though the ground was cold and hard beneath you, you felt at ease.

"Are you not cold?"

You opened your eyes to see Adrian peering down at you, golden locks cascading down the front of his shoulders. He did not wear a cloak, despite the chilly weather.

"I could ask you the same."

He smiled at you. "I don't feel the cold."

You knew that, of course. It was just another thing about being a dhampir - he was immune to the cold.

"Here, mother brewed you some more tea. She said if you were to stay here, you need to be drinking it." he handed you a goblet, its contents steaming. From the smell you could tell it was more raspberry, mixed with a hint of chamomile and rose.

"Thank you." you sat up and took the drink from his hands. He joined beside you on the blanket, gazing out at the meadow. There was a hazy fog that settled over the land despite the shining sun. The leaves around you had begun to change colors weeks ago, the dark and light greens transforming to brilliant yellows, reds, and oranges. Autumn was Adrian's favorite time of year, the land shifting its energy from growth and renewal to rest and decay. Yours was spring, of course. You could sense as the land woke once again, life and abundance springing forth from the earth.

"How are you feeling? Are you still in pain?"

Your cheeks heated at his inquiry. You had been initially embarrassed at the encounter that morning, feeling foolish for your panic. Adrian had seen you cry plenty of times, that wasn't the issue. How could you explain your feelings of bleeding to a boy who could never understand what it felt like?

"It doesn't hurt anymore." you paused for a moment. "It feels good now."

"It feels good?" he found it hard to believe, considering how scared you were that morning. He thought back to when his mother would bleed, and supposed there was something to it. Her medicines seemed to be more potent, her intuition stronger.

"Yes," you shrugged, "it feels right. Like I am more connected to the land somehow."

Adrian hummed at your words. His connection with the earth would never be as strong as your own, but he could sense the truth in what you said.

You sipped your tea as you talked about different things. The hot drink felt good in your belly, warming you from the inside out. For a few more moments you stayed silent, until you felt it. The tightness in the air, heard the disembodied voice once again. Slowly you peered up, instantly freezing as you saw it. The greyish white orb was some distance away, floating above a pile of fallen brown leaves. It bobbed between the trees, vapors falling and disappearing to the ground underneath.

"Adrian." your voice was quiet as your stomach filled with panic. He immediately heard your tone and looked at you, golden eyes taking in your stricken face.

"What is it? What do you see?" he scanned all around the meadow but could not see anything. It was then, for a mere moment, he sensed it. The air seemed taut, as if it held its breath. The wind ceased, as did the bird song. A chill ran up his spine, body rigid.

"The spirit, its here." you discarded the goblet and stood, swallowing the lump in your throat. A low whistle rang out in the meadow, soft and sweet. The floating orb grew and contracted, as if breathing.

"What was that?" Adrian's eyes went wide as he stood beside you. Your head snapped to him, surprise etching itself onto your face.

"You heard that too?" panic swelled once again in your stomach.

The young dhampir nodded before quickly standing in front of you, scanning the edge of the forest for danger. "Go get father."

You did not move, your eyes solely trained on the mysterious spirit. The whistle sounded out once more, this time loud enough for Dracula to hear. The elder vampire rushed from inside the cottage, sword drawn at the ready. He took one look at the direction of your and Adrian's gazes, red eyes scanning the forest for danger.

"Is it here?" Dracula's voice was low and even. You nodded, pointing a shaky finger at the grey ball of light. It whistled again, louder still. A harsh wind began to whip the branches of the trees, the rustling of leaves drowned out by roaring wind.

"Get inside, both of you!" the elder vampire yelled before turning and dashing towards the direction of the spirit. Adrian wasted no time before grabbing your hand and running for the safety of home. Lisa quickly barred the wooden door the moment you both entered, grey eyes wild and alert.

~

Dracula slowed the tempo of his breaths, red eyes taking in every detail before him. The wind continued to howl around him, shaking the trees and showering the forest with red and golden leaves. The sweet tone of the whistle echoed every which way, yet he could not pinpoint the source. It was not a night creature; he was absolutely certain. It did not have the stench of magic, ruling out the possibility of a rogue witch. He knew what the presence of a human spirit felt like, and this did not feel as such.

"Show yourself!" he bellowed.

It was then he felt it, the shift in the air. It was nearly imperceptible, a quiet tremor that wavered in the material plain. Before his eyes it materialized, just as you had described it to be. The grey-white orb floated a few paces in front of him, a stark contrast to the dark and damp forest around him.

"What magick is this?" he poised his sword, prepared to strike.

The orb pulsated, its movements blowing the fallen plant matter in a large gust of wind. Dracula slashed with his sword, splitting the wall of leaves and fallen branches in two. Instantly the orb transformed, its form taking the shape of a woman, basked in white light. Unlike other spirits, she had a face. Not quite so detailed as a human, but enough so that Dracula could see the shape of her nose, the curve of her mouth, the bright silver of her eyes. A long robe covered her glowing form, the hem brushing the forest floor.

"You are the one they call Vlad Dracula Tepes," the spirit's voice sounded as if multiple voices were speaking at once, "does this mean the Priestess is dead?"

"How do you know me? What priestess do you speak of?" his eyes widened the slightest amount. No mere spirit could manifest itself as such, nor have the power over the wind. Moreover, no creature - living or dead - would speak to him in such a casual manner.

"What are you?" he raised his sword higher still, prepared to strike.

The spirit ignored him. "I am here for the girl. Bring her to me."

"What business do you have with the girl?" his eyes narrowed as his lips curled in malice.

"That is not for you to know, King of Night." the spirit bent her head in warning. "Do as I say and you can keep your immortal life."

Dracula bared his fangs and dashed forward. In one smooth motion he brought his sword to the junction of the spirit's neck and shoulders. At the last possible moment it disappeared, only to reappear behind him. Swiftly he turned on his heels, preparing to strike once again.

"I will be back for my champion," the spirit stated and stared at him for a mere moment, "continue to watch over her until then."

Instantly she was gone, the tautness of the air dissipating. Silently Dracula sheathed his sword, a deep frown etched on his lips.

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Castle Dracula, November 1468

 

FOR TWO WEEKS DRACULA POURED OVER ANCIENT TOMES AND COUNTLESS SCROLLS, searching for the origin of the mysterious spirit. It was pre-Christian, that much he was absolutely sure of. That night he hadn't mentioned the encounter with the children, waiting until they were fast asleep to inform Lisa of his experience. Her grey eyes were wide with intrigue as he retold the story.

"It was a woman, the spirit. It was unlike anything I have ever seen." Dracula spoke quietly as he sipped from a goblet of wine. "Amara was pagan, yes?"

"Yes. She did not have any faith for the Christain god. It was one of the many reasons the townsfolk did not like her."

"And yet she healed them when they were sick, helped bring their children into this world." Dracula nearly hissed. Even though he had been living as man among the humans, he could not entirely rid himself of his hatred for humanity's tendency of hatred for 'otherness'.

"Yes," Lisa whispered, "she was a gifted healer."

"The spirit mentioned a champion. Did Amara ever mention anything like that to you?"

Lisa peered at him with questioning eyes. "No, never."

"Hmm."

And so, he sat in his study at the castle, researching and re-analyzing every single bit of information he had of your mother's people, spanning the course of the last thousand years. The small artifacts he had in his personal collection that he had shown you were rudimentary items, bits of pottery or cloth, folktales and scrolls of prayers and spells. There was enough material to teach you the language over the years, but nothing out of the ordinary or anything that referenced a champion.

For hours he read, scouring the large library for any clue. He had long forsaken finding the answer in the direct artifacts of your mother's people and began to expand his search to the surrounding cultures of her homeland. A lone weathered tablet caught his eye, the artifact dating more than two thousand years. It was the chronicles of a long-forgotten scribe retelling the accounts of an ancient nomadic tribe - the direct ancestors of your mother's people. The scribe spoke of the abilities of their priestess who was blessed with the power of sight and recounted her experience seeing one of the most sacred rituals and rites of the tribe.

I was summoned by the council leader on the eve of the blood moon. There were whisperings of war in the faraway land of Rome, of rivers of blood and countless death, of beings rising from the underworld to slaughter. The elders of the council agreed to summon her, to call upon her and relinquish a life to become her champion. To serve humanity and preserve life.

Gaianna, Great Goddess of Earth, Protector of the Moon and Realm.

 

 

Chapter 6

March 21st 1450

 

YOUR MOTHER SCANNED THE ORANGE-LIT TREES, the small fire in front of her beaming out in the surroundings darkness. With shaky hands she pulled from her apothecary satchel four small candles, placing each one in accordance with the four elements and associated directions. With a deep breath, she settled her trembling hands, whispering an ancient incantation. A wild wind encircled the forest as she spoke, howling and roaring with power. The trees bent to and frow with the strength of the wind, allowing in momentary beams of silver moonlight. It all came to a fever-pitch as the small fire exploded in front of her, the flames soaring up to the heavens. The moment the last of the incantation fell from her lips, she sliced her right palm with a silver dagger. As the droplets of blood sizzled in the fire, she felt it. The tautness of the air, the abnormal stillness of the forest.

"Goddess Gaianna, I am your humble servant." your mother bent her head as the grey-white form appeared above the fire. Flowing robes danced about the goddess's being, immune to the flames beneath her.

"Priestess." Gaianna's silver eyes narrowed.

Amara bowed her head further, the circlet of shells jingling with her movements.

"What purpose do you have in summoning me here?" her voice that sounded like many echoed out.

"I have been plagued by vicious nightmares, Goddess. Of pain and suffering, of rivers of blood. Beings raising from Hell."

"Oh?" the Goddess's head tilted to the side in curiosity. "You've summoned me here because you are plagued by bad dreams?"

"I would never call upon you for something so trivial, Goddess. I can feel it in my bones, in the core of the earth. The spirits whisper to me warnings, a plague of death brewing on the horizon." your mother peered up to the primordial being, lips pulled into a frown.

Gaianna titled her head the slightest amount. "I too have felt a change. These Christian mercenaries slaughter by the thousands, burn our forests. All in the name of their god."

"It is more than that, Goddess. It is not just the Christians. I have talked with the elders and have brought it to the council's attention. My premonitions are never wrong. They gave me permission to speak with you."

"What are you asking of me, Priestess?" Gaianna bowed her head to look squarely in her eyes.

"For our chance of surviving the wars to come. Please, Goddess, please help us. I know not exactly when or what may come to pass, but it will be dark and full of terrors." your mother bent down, her forehead touching the soft earth.

"Are you willing to pay the price for such power?" Gaianna studied the human priestess at her feet. "For the survival of your people, of humanity?"

"I am."

"Even if it may cost you your life? Or those you love?"

She peered up, her eyes full of determination. "Yes."

"So be it." the goddess floated from above the fire and stood before the human woman, eyes glowing silver like the moon. With a shimmering hand she lay it upon your mother's body, just above her womb. "You have my blessing. And I, my champion."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, May 1456

 

WITH A LEASURILY HAND YOUR MOTHER RUBBED HER SWOLLEN STOMACH, at ease with the life growing inside her. The swell of her belly moved gently as the babe within shifted. A large smile passed over her features, a small sigh falling from her lips. It was a pleasant spring morning, the river warm and inviting. She lay sprawled on the bank, bare of clothing, hair loose and free. The clearing she sat in was hidden from the main road, a pleasant distance from the village whose occupants did little more than tolerate her existence. Absentmindedly she ran her fingers through the moss that covered the earth beside her, humming gently with the breeze. She was filled with such bliss, such love and tenderness that her heart seemed to swell. Her eyes closed gently as she listened to the running river, of the birdsong overhead. Just as she was about to slip into peaceful slumber, she felt it. The shift in the air, the stillness as the world held its breath.

"Priestess."

Her eyes snapped open, heart heaving. There, floating above the river was the Great Goddess, silver eyes trained solely on the human woman.

"Goddess-" she attempted to sit up but was unable to due to the size of her pregnant belly. The Goddess's eyes narrowed, and in an instant a pair of invisible hands helped her to a seated position.

"Gratitude, Goddess."

"How is the child?" her voice echoed in the clearing, sounding as if many people spoke at once.

"Strong, healthy." Amara smiled tenderly, placing her hand upon her belly.

"It seems the child will be earthside soon," Gaianna floated from over the river and touched the moss with grey-glowing feet, "you have all that you require?"

"Yes, Goddess."

"And the father? Where is he?"

Your mother's smile fell. "He is dead, Goddess."

"Dead?"

"He passed just before the Spring Equinox, Goddess. A fever."

"I see." Gaianna peered around the clearing, catching as the nature spirits watched on silently. The moment they noticed her attention, they quickly faded from view.

"Is there a reason for your visit, Goddess?"

"I wanted to see my champion." she stated simply. "But it seems I am too early."

The color of Amara's face drained, eyes widening in shock. "T-Too early?"

The grey-white goddess turned her attention to Amara, a distasteful look on her face. "The child."

Her heart stopped as bile rose in her throat. "My child?"

Gaianna huffed in annoyance. "Did you think I named you champion, Priestess?"

"Well, yes! I am the one who summoned you! I am the one who performed the ritual! I am the one who asked for your aid. What could you want from my child!?"

The silver slashes of her eyes roared in annoyance. A wild wind swept around her, bits of flowers and branches encircling the primordial being.

"You dare question me, human?"

"I-I meant no disrespect, Goddess! I just do not understand. Why, why my child? What could you want with an infant? The child is innocent!"

"It is no fault but your own for assuming otherwise. The child is my champion."

Cold dread rushed from the top of your mother's head to the tip of her toes. "Please-"

"Did I not ask you if you were willing to lose those you love?" she glowered at the human priestess before her.

"Please reconsider! Please!" she threw herself at the Goddess's feet, heaving sobs constricting her chest. "The child is innocent!"

"Precisely."

Her heart cracked; the breath stolen from her lungs.

"If the child is male, I will make myself known when he is thirteen years of age. If the child is female, I will present myself fully when she first bleeds. Once the child is born, you will no longer be able to see through the veil. It is up to you if you speak to them of my existence before then." In a flash Gaianna was gone, and your mother's wails echoed through the clearing, only to be met with silence.

She decided then, in that moment, she would not speak of the Goddess again. She would never speak her name to Lisa, nor tell you where your fate lie. For the rest of her life, so long as she breathed, she would do anything to keep you from the Gaianna's clutches. No matter what, you would be free.

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, November 1468

 

LISA'S GREY EYES WIDENED AS Dracula relayed his discover. The blood in her veins froze as he continued to speak, his hushed tone drowned by the crackle of fire in the hearth. It was a dark, moonless night as a misty rain fell from the sky. A rumble of thunder sounded in the distance as the wind howled through the trees.

"What do you mean, a god?"

"An ancient pagan deity," Dracula answered, "a goddess from Amara's culture."

"What does she want? I don't understand, she's just a young girl!"

"I don’t yet know," Dracula sipped from his goblet.

"What are we to do? How does one even converse with deity?" panic coiled in Lisa's chest.

"I won't let anything happen to the girl," the vampire reassured, "all we can do is wait. The goddess will come again, and this time, I will be prepared."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, June 21st 1469

 

FOR MANY MONTHS YOU DID NOT SEE the strange spirit again. Dracula and Aunty Lissy continued to hide the truth from you, unable to figure within their minds how to tell you something of such great import. Your fear began to bleed away with every passing day of not seeing it, and in time, you held no fear at all. On the summer solstice you celebrated with Adrian in the meadow, a roaring bonfire soaring high to the heavens. He danced with you, laughter and songs spilling from your lips. Atop your head was a make-shift circlet of dandelion, the matching pair adorning Adrian's.

As the sun began to set, you made your way to the nearby forest alone, your hands filled with bowls of fruit to offer the spirits of the wood. You prayed over the offerings in your mother tongue, placing the bowls at the foot of a great oak. From your peripheral you could see the countless spirits coming to greet you, their blissful and positive energy soothing your soul.

"Hello, my friends. Happy solstice." a broad and bright smile graced your features. You felt the thrum of energy as they expressed their gratitude. A peaceful silence fell upon the woods as you watched the spirits glimmer in and out of your vision, the birdsong overhead a pleasant melody floating in the wind. In a breath it changed, the air growing taut and tense. The spirits immediately disappeared from view, the symphony of birds falling to hushed silence. She appeared in front of you in an instant, glowing eyes and flowing gown floating inches from the ground.

"Did you bring me an offering, girl?" her voice that sounded like many reverberated in your chest, the sound of it setting you in unease. Your eyes widened in shock, the breath in your lungs ceased.

"N-no," your voice trembled as you took in the unknown spirit, "it is for all to share."

"Do you know who I am, child?"

You nodded your head, panic curling in your gut. "A spirit."

Her brilliant grey light flashed in offence. "I am no mere spirit. I am a goddess of your mother's people."

"My mother?" you swallowed the lump in your throat. "You know of my mother?"

"I see she taught you nothing of who you truly are," Gaianna sneered, "I am Gaianna, Great Goddess of Earth, Protector of the Moon and Realm." she lifted her head, high and proud. "And you, girl, are my champion."

Your chest constricted and your vision swam as hot tears spilled from your eyes. "Please, what do you know of my mother? I do not know of you."

Gaianna narrowed her eyes before descending to the ground, her silver-grey skin unnaturally bright in contrast to the dense green of the forest. She towered over you, the top of your head barely reaching her navel. You felt a strange coldness radiating from her, so unlike the warmth of the nature spirits.

"Your mother was a priestess of her people, a seer. There was a time she had gifts such as yours. I blessed her womb, bringing forth a soul-tie into this plane - my champion. You."

Your head swam with the influx of information. Though you had never heard of Gaianna, her words rang true in your being. You felt it, a near imperceptible tie to her, a thread as strong and as true as your connection to the land and earth. "What is a champion?"

The goddess peered at you for a moment, as if considering. "A sword to wield."

"I cannot wield a sword," you confessed in confusion.

"You will," the goddess replied simply, "so long as you are my champion, you shall wield my power. I will come to you again, girl, on the nights of the full and new moons. I will train you to hone your power, better your skill. I will never harm you, so long as you remain pure."

"Pure?"

"Pure of greed, pure of evil. So long as you continue on your set course, you will be spared from my wrath. Now go, your keepers are waiting for you." She didn't give you the chance to respond and instantly disappeared from view. Your knees buckled beneath your weight as your mind drowned in millions of different thoughts and feelings. It was only until the sun fully sank behind the horizon did you have the strength to stand, your legs carrying you as fast as they could to the safety of the cottage.

~

Adrian watched you silently from beside you, his hand enveloped tightly within your own. You both lay on your bed, facing one another as you stared at the loose fibers of your quilt. It had taken many hours of a jumbled attempt of speaking what happened with the Goddess, your words pouring over one another and tears of overwhelm streaming down your face. After a hearty mix of lavender and oat straw tea you finally clamed, coaxed to bed by Lisa and Dracula and kept company by the young dhampir when he heard you fighting restless sleep.

"Father and I will keep you safe," his voice was quiet as to not startle you, "I promise."

You turned to face him, the pillow beneath your cheek tickling your skin. "She said she was a goddess. She promised she'd come back for me."

"Are you scared?" he tried to read your expression but was unable to glean your feelings.

"Yes."

He hummed softly to himself. "I would be too."

You found comfort in his admission, allowing your eyes to gently close. The room fell into comfortable silence, and before long you both slept soundly, hands still grasped between you.

Chapter 7

Wallachia, June 22nd 1469

 

THE FOREST WAS BLACK WITH NIGHT and a small fire smoldered at Dracula's feet. It was silent save for the hush of wind combing through the tree canopy and the distant call of an owl. His towering form cast an eerie shadow on the trees behind him, flickering to and frow in the amber firelight. In his hand was an ancient tome, its writing the strange swirls of your mother's language. A silver bowl held a mixture of burning herbs, the sharp scent of mugwort and dragon's blood wafting into the sky. Four candles surrounded the vessel, each alight with a wavering flame. The elder vampire recited the incantation with ease, his large hand held out as he invoked Gaianna. The fire and candle flames roared to life and the air went thin, and then she appeared, glowing silver-grey skin nearly blinding in the inky blackness of night.

"You dare invoke me, King of Night?" her voice that sounded like many was grating to his ears. "Has something happened to my champion?"

"You frightened the child beyond inconsolability" he spoke lowly, anger lacing his words like poison, "and you shall answer for it."

"Fear breeds bravery."

"Fear breeds fear," he snarled, "she is just a child."

"She will not be a child forever. Her bleeds have come; her powers will start to awaken within her. She is my champion, promised to me in blood."

"What do you know of the child's mother? What does Amara have to do with this?"

Gaianna's lips curled. "She was the priestess who invoked me, completed an ancient rite. I blessed her womb, called forth a spirit to serve as my sword and shield."

"For what reason?" Dracula's eyebrows furrowed.

"That is not for you to know, King of Night."

"I will not allow you to take that child. I vowed to protect her; I care not for some ancient rite done in the past."

"I am not to spirit her away, hellspawn!" she seethed, silver eyes flashing.

"Then to what end is your purpose?"

"I hear you are renown for your endless knowledge, Vlad Dracula. There are whispers of lost technologies hidden within the walls of your castle, ancient knowledge spanning the course of human existence. It was no mere coincidence that girl found solace under your protection"

"Speak plainly, goddess."

"You will teach her the art of war, hone her gifts to be as sharp and as swift as your sword. She will learn the knowledge of her gifts under my instruction. But you must guide her, teach her the ways of men. Their cultures and histories, their dichotomies, their weaknesses and their strengths. Teach her of the magicks that are found across these lands, of the powers and shadows that lurk in the night."

"And if I refuse? The child is not some pawn you can use and discard for your own enjoyment." his frown deepened, his nails curling into the palms of his hand.

"You will not, for it is already written. Your fate is sealed in blood, King of Night. And that child is the pen."

Dracula steeled his back, ruby eyes narrowing. "You speak in nothing but riddles."

Gaianna tilted her head, a cruel smile playing at her lips. "Are we in agreement, Vlad Dracula Tepes?"

"Do you promise to appear to her in a more digestible manner?"

The goddess frowned but dipped her chin in agreement. "I shall make it so."

The elder vampire nodded imperceptibly.

"I will return for her instruction during the full and new moons. Have the child meet me here, at the invocation site. Ensure she comes alone."

In a flash of brilliant white light she was gone.

~

Dracula pressed a light kiss to his wife's bare shoulder, the soft hair of his beard creating gooseflesh upon her skin. Their room was bathed in the deep blue and purple of dawn, the quiet of night still blanketing the land. A soft breeze filtered in through the open windows, bringing with it the soft scent of lavender. Lisa breathed in deeply, settling further into her husband's embrace, her bare back melting into the strong muscle of his chest.

"What troubles you, my love?" the vampire pulled her ever closer, enjoying the feel of her naked body upon his own.

"Why didn't she ever tell me?" her voice was soft, tears welling in her eyes. After his second encounter with the goddess, Dracula spent the night recounting everything Gaianna had told him. "She never mentioned a goddess, never mentioned a champion. Never mentioned the girl was born of a goddess's blessing."

"I don't know," he spoke gently, "I'm sorry."

Lisa blinked the tears from her eyes as confusion worry curled in her chest. "She's our child too."

"She is," he pressed another kiss to her temple.

"What do we do? What can we do?"

"What Gaianna has asked of me. I will train the child as I have been training Adrian. It will be different as she is not dhampir, but I will teach her what I can. I will bring her to the castle and bestow upon her the knowledge I shared with you, and more. We will ensure she is as prepared as she can be for whatever may come."

"But she is just a child-"

"A special child, my dear. Just as Adrian is. I will ensure they are both equipped to handle the realms of men, beasts, and gods."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, July 1469

 

JUST AFTER YOUR THIRTEENTH BIRTHDAY, as Gaianna foretold, your powers began to thrum in your veins, waking something ancient and otherworldly within you. It started with your dreams, flashes and moments in your sleep that would come to fruition during the waking hours of reality. You saw a patient of Lisa's pass in their sleep, could recall the time of day and exact details of the room in which they lay. You dreamt of an unknown boy falling headfirst out of a tree, only for his family to bring him to Aunt Lisa for healing days later. You saw flashes of when disease would take hold in the village, when the rivers would flood. And it only progressed from there.

The first visit with the goddess came quickly, fear and anxiety coiling tightly in your being. It was under the darkness of the new moon, the inky expanse of the forest beaconing you deep into its depths. You followed Dracula's directions to the invocation site, your eyes widening as you took in the scene before you. Four candles surrounded the silver bowl which burned with unfamiliar herbs, the smoke curling upwards and unfurling as it reached the branches overhead. A woman stood waiting for you, her full figure encased in the low light of the candleflames. You felt the familiar tug within your soul and knew immediately it was Gaianna. She had kept her promise to Dracula and appeared to you in human form: her eyes were silver, her skin pale, her hair white like an elder. But her features were young, so at odds to her ancient gaze. Her flowing, wispy gowns were replaced by a regular grey dress and cloak, the top of her head always covered by its hood.

"Hello, champion." the goddess spoke, her voice mirroring that of a human woman.

"Goddess." your breath wavered in fear, anxiety taking hold over your senses.

"You need not be scared of me child. I will not harm you. Come forward."

You stepped closer, eyes adjusting to the low light of candles. She held her hand for you to take, and you gently obliged. It was not warm like a human's, but the sharp coldness you had felt from her before was gone.

"Are you ready to learn, child? To fulfill your destiny as my champion?"

You swallowed thickly and took a steadying breath. "Yes, Goddess."

A wide smile crossed over her hauntingly beautiful features. "Then let us begin."

~

The days bled into one another as your abilities continued to awaken. Your connection to the land and nature spirits seemed to grow ever stronger, their usual hushed, indecipherable voices now becoming clearer in your mind. The color of their aura's deepened, appearing as if in focus for the very first time. You could sense the energies of all the plants around you, feel within your being when it was best time to harvest, or when to leave it be. Animals of the wood sauntered up to you; deer let you pet their soft coats, foxes played chase with you, birds ate seeds from your palm.

Dracula could sense the change within you shifting daily and decided it was time to move your studies from the small cottage to the grand libraries and laboratories of the castle. Alongside Adrian you learned the world's history of humanity, the hard and soft sciences of times long forgotten, dead languages that only survived in books. He taught you of the creatures of night and all their forms, shared with you the knowledge of magicks found across the globe. You could not wrap your young mind around the vast amount of knowledge held within its walls, but you did your best to honor Dracula's teachings to the highest degree. Not only did he hone the weapon of your mind, but he also began to sharpen your sword arm as well.

On the night before the full moon, you and Adrian stood across from one another, wooden weapons poised to strike. The elder vampire made good on his promise to train you in the art of combat, though it proved quite the challenge. Adrian was gaining strength by the day, his ability to call on his powers and speed coming naturally to him like breath. You, on the other hand, had shown no real improvement. You moved like a regular human, slow and sloppy, never hitting your mark. Unlike you, Adrian never missed, the welts and bruises upon your shoulders and arms evidence of that fact.

"You can do it, focus! See how Adrian positions arm before he strikes? Your enemy will always have a tell. Use that advantage against them." Dracula stood in the sparring ring, arms crossed. He had you going over the drills again and again, knowing that eventually you would be successful. You, unfortunately, had no such faith.

"He moves too fast, Uncle! How am I supposed to compete with immortal speed and strength?" your chest heaved with your exertions, your arms growing heavy as stone.

"Every opponent you face will have a weakness. It is up to you to find it. Again!"

Adrian's golden eyes narrowed in apprehension before he lunged, wooden sword held firmly in his hands. The force of his sword coming into contact with your own reverberated through your arm, the painful tingles shooting down to your fingertips. You lunged to the right, barely missing the full arc of his second blow, the wooden weapon slamming into the junction of your shoulder and chest. The pain was blinding; your eyes lost focus and the breath was stolen from your lungs. Something deep within you surged as you screamed, reeling on your heels as you brandished the wooden weapon, your empty hand moving of its own accord to face him. A disk of brilliant white light surged from your palm, traveling the path into Adrian's shocked expression. The young dhampir dodged it just in time, the unknown light slicing his arm instead of his chest. You collapsed, hands shaking and chest heaving, eyes wild in overwhelm.

"Adrian!" Dracula was in front of his son in an instant, carefully inspecting the wound. His tunic was torn, rivulets of blood pooling from the cut. "Let me see."

"I'm fine, father. It is already healing." his eyes didn't leave you, the pain inconsequential to him.

Tears streamed down your face as your heart sunk. "Adrian, I am so sorry I don't-"

"Never mind me, are you alright?" his golden eyes shone with worry as he knelt and took your shaking hands into his own.

"You're bleeding," you lip trembled as you saw the wound.

"I promise I'm alright. I am worried about you."

"I-I-"

"Father?" the young dhampir looked to his father worriedly.

Dracula eyed you curiously. "Describe what you felt just now."

You swallowed the lump in your throat as you attempted to recenter your breath. "It was like a pulse. When I got hit, I was overcome a-and it just happened. I'm so sorry."

The elder vampire sighed deeply. "That is enough training for today. You will speak to Gaianna about this upon your next visit. She must have an answer. Come now, inside."

~

"Are you sure it doesn't hurt?" you murmured, eyes locked on the young dhampir's face. He lay facing you on your bed, knees pulled to his chest, golden hair dark and wet from washing. A single candle illuminated your room, the flicker of its light wavering on the walls.

"I promise, I am fine. It didn't even hurt that much!" he smiled reassuringly at you, but the corner of his lip twitched the most imperceptible amount. You could tell he was lying, but your heart swelled, nonetheless. "Anyway, it is only fair, given how many times I have caused you pain while training."

Adrian had refused at first to take up arms against you, even if it was just a wooden sword. The difference in skill and agility was staggering, and he could not bear the thought of hurting you. It was only when you had learned the basics from his father and could block with some accuracy did he begrudgingly agree to train with you.

"I still don't know what happened," your eyes went downcast, finding shelter in the threads of the blanket underneath you.

"It must have something to do with you being her champion." he reasoned.

You frowned deeply, the words unsettling. "I do not know what that means."

"You will learn. Father promised to teach you. Were you not the one who told me it takes time for things to grow?"

You peered up at him through your lashes, a small smile tugging at your lips. "Yes."

"You will learn," he reiterated, "about what it means. How to channel your powers just like I did. And I will always be there every step of the way, as you have been for me."

"Except you are dhampir, I am not."

"You are the champion of a goddess," he grasped your hand, "you will."

Adrian continued to soothe you as you fell asleep, still clutching his hand in your own. He smiled lightly to himself as your face finally flooded with peace. "I will always be with you," he whispered your name into the silent room, "always."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, September 1469

 

GAIANNA'S PIERCING GAZE NEVER LEFT YOUR BEING, a slight frown etched on her lips. It had been two months since the sparring incident, and despite your best efforts, you could still not call upon the light.

"Slow your breathing, feel it in very part of your being. You cannot force power that is innately within you." She had not been surprised about the light magick, and instead, began to teach you how to harness it.

"I'm trying," you sat cross legged upon the forest floor, the light of the moon filtering in through the treetops. Your palms faced one another as if in meditation, not exactly touching, but close enough for you to feel the heat radiating from each hand.

"Stop trying and feel. You were not thinking when the dhampir attacked you, but you felt and reacted."

You huffed in annoyance before closing your eyes and took a deep, steadying breath. You tuned into the rise and fall of your chest, the hard ground beneath your body, the breeze rustling the leaves overhead. A pulling sensation began to build within you, deep within your soul, until it pulsed forward, shining brightly and as purely as the silver moonlight above. Your eyes flashed open, the brilliant light building and undulating within your palms. "I did it!"

"Good," Gaianna tilted her chin in satisfaction, "now expand it. Make it so the light enshrouds your body. See it in your mind's eye and make it so."

You closed your eyes once more, imagining the pulsing orb within your hands growing and encompassing your body. Slowly you pulled your palms farther and farther apart, the warmth of the light sending shivers throughout your being. You cracked one eye open, then the other, as you watched the light grow around you, encasing you in a shimmering dome. A mixed laugh of disbelief and shock fell from your lips, eyes wide with wonder.

"Now call it back to you."

You inhaled and slowly brought your palms back together, the light following fluidly with your movements before dying out. You blinked as your vision readjusted to the darkness of the forest and the small campfire alight a few paces away.

"What is this light?" you asked the goddess, your hands still tingling with its warmth.

"It is lunar energy."

"As in the moon?" you peered up through the trees, your eyes just able to see the full disk through the thick covering of twisted branches.

"The very same. Humans have worshipped the moon since time immemorial to harness it. Your ancestors did the same."

You watched the goddess intently, head swimming with the thrum of power coursing through your veins. "Like my mother?"

"Your mother had some of your gifts, but not the ability to harness lunar magick. Only those with my blessing have the power."

"I see," you stared into your palms, "why did my mother call on you, Goddess?"

"I have told you before, champion. To serve as my sword in the battles to come." her eyes narrowed on your frowning face.

"Is there going to be war?" fear curled around your heart and made your blood run cold. "Is that why?"

"I cannot say for certain, champion."

"But why-"

"Enough!" irritation dripped from her words like poison, causing you to flinch. "That is not for you to know, girl. It is a great blessing to be blessed and called my champion. You will refrain from asking questions like that again. Do you understand?"

You flinched at her tone and quickly sent your eyes downcast, confusion and hurt swirling in your mind. "Yes, Goddess."

"Continue your practice and your studies. Your magick should come to you as easy as breath. I expect the next time I visit, it will be so."

In a hush of wind and blinding light she was gone, leaving you alone in the clearing with only your roiling thoughts bouncing around in your mind.

Chapter 8

THE FLOW OF TIME PASSED with the ease of tranquil waters. The blessings of Gaianna only grew stronger and brighter as the years came and went. No longer were you the scared young child who could not easily call upon her abilities, whose sword arm lacked strength. It came to you as easily as breath - never wavering - as you pushed yourself to your limits. You trained both your body and your mind, honing your craft and sword arm with impressive dedication. You channeled your lunar magick as fluidly as the air moved, weaving through your body and passing through the tips of your fingers with ease. Your twice-monthly visits with Gaianna slowly ceased, her teachings and instruction ingrained within your very being. Though she did not admit it outright, the goddess was very pleased with the promise of her champion and bestowed upon you the highest honor of your mother's people: High Priestess. The night of your initiation she gifted you a blessed blade of spectacular beauty, its ivory handle shining under the silver glow of moonlight. From then on, your interactions with her only took the form of formal meditation when the need arose.

Your more traditional education was also built upon as you spent countless hours bent over books as Dracula recounted the vast histories of human existence. When he'd travel abroad, you and Adrian were often at his side, seeing the lessons you had learned throughout the years come to life before your very eyes. You met all manner of people and learned their customs; saw the historic and wonderous land of your mother's ancestors you had only glimpsed at in the drawings of history books. You and Adrian became worldly individuals; the bond between you growing ever stronger. The depths of your friendship intertwined and imprinted in the deepest parts of each other's souls. Your secrets were his, and his yours. His happiness was your own, and it filled you with warmth every time you were the cause of his laugher or smile, the reason his worries fell away.

The dhampir had become the very best parts of his mother and father, growing into a young man with the ease and grace of one beyond his years. You saw how others were enchanted by his radiant beauty, their hushed voices and heated cheeks following everywhere he went. When you'd tease him on the matter, he always dismissed you and replied, "I'm not the one who is the focus of their attentions." You did not notice his lingering gaze on you as he said it, the slight tilt of his chin, the softness of his eyes. There was no other whose opinions mattered most to him, none he considered his equal. All except you.

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Castle Dracula, January 1474

 

THE LAND WAS ENSHROUDED WITH THE POWDER OF FRESHLY FALLEN SNOW, the lakes and rivers frozen over as the lull of winter forced the earth into deep slumber. The clearing in which you stood was untouched, the ancient forest painted in white crystal, still and quiet, as if it held its breath. With every inhale and exhale of your heaving chest, thick clouds of vapor tumbled from your lips and disappeared into the frozen air. Dried blood stuck to your shirt from the slice on your arm, the sting of Adrian's blade still fresh on your skin. Your own steel sword was slick with his blood; the ivory handle clutched firmly in your grasp.

"What does that make it now, two to three?" he smirked smugly, running a pale hand through his cascading golden locks. He wore nothing but a white shirt and leather pants, impervious to the freezing weather that had settled upon the land. Your own body was clad in a similar fashion, except a thick fur cloak was fastened around your shoulders to keep the encroaching cold at bay.

"Again," you steadied your footing on the snowy banks of the frozen lake, readying your sword arm once more.

"If you insist." he obliged you, bringing his own blade to the center of his face. Adrian bent his head before dashing forward, the speed of his movements causing a flurry of snow in his wake. The clashing of steel echoed throughout the frozen clearing, the sharp, shrill sound causing a flock of crows to abandon a nearby tree. The two of you were indecipherable slashes against the landscape as you sparred, meeting each other's strikes evenly. You went for his chest, but he blocked it with ease, an overconfident smirk etching itself onto his features. With a flick of your empty hand, you called forth your light, throwing the half disks at his legs and feet. Promptly he jumped back, dodging and rolling out of the way of each beam.

"That's a dirty trick." he tsked.

"It is only dirty because you did not expect it." your own smile pulled at your lips.

He rushed at you again, initially aiming for your torso before changing his trajectory at the last possible second. His sword flew through the air with his magick, aiming right for your blade. You tried to out-maneuver it, but it was too late. Your sword was flung from your grasp, landing too far for you to correct. You summoned your light in both hands, sending each beam in a perfect arc in his direction. Adrian dodged all but one until he was upon you. Your bodies collided and you lost your footing, bracing for the pain and sensation of falling. His arm snaked protectively around you, bearing the brunt of the impact as he landed on his back, the fluffed snow puffing up in a shimmering cloud around you. You were pulled firmly onto his broad chest, the breath stolen from your lungs.

"That was a dirty trick," you panted, pulling away ever so slightly so you could read his expression, "going for my sword arm like that."

"From the lessons of my father, you always attack your opponent in the way they'll least expect." his voice was soft next to your ear, his smirk reappearing on his face. You could see his fangs as he smiled, which you had found endearing ever since the moment they began to show themselves.

"I shall remember that for next time," you muttered sarcastically.

"Take your loss honorably," he gazed at you with bright eyes, tightening his hold on you, "it is the respectable thing to do."

You regarded him for a moment before bending down, your noses barely touching. You did not feel him tense as you moved closer to him, his breath catching imperceptibly. "It is a good thing honor does not matter while sparring." with deft and quick hands you fisted a handful of snow and put it down the front of his shirt. His golden eyes widened in realization, a playful hiss escaping him. You took the opportunity of his surprise and rolled off, landing in the snowbank beside him. The sudden cold took your breath away, and for a moment you lost your bearings. Adrian used it to his advantage and rolled on top of you, pinning your arms above your head with just one hand.

"Adrian!" you attempted to wriggle from underneath his grasp, but to no avail.

"Did you forget I don't feel the cold?" he bent down, inches away from your face.

"You may not feel the cold, but you hate the way wet clothing feels upon your skin." you smiled wickedly.

"That is true," he agreed, "but not as much as you."

"No, no, Adrian don't! Please!" you couldn't help the fits of laughter that escaped you as he reached for a handful of snow, waving it above your head playfully.

"Admit that I won, concede. If you do, I will let you go." the snow sat glittering in his palm, his grin growing at the sound of your laughter.

"But-"

"Concede!" he held the snowball in his hand mock-threateningly.

"Alright, alright! You won!"

He stared at you for a moment longer before throwing the ball of snow into the quiet woods. His other hand released you, eyes never leaving your form. Your face was alight with humor, your cheeks heated from laughter, ice crystals glinting in your hair.

"What?" you peered at him through your lashes. "What are you looking at?"

Adrian shook his head, clearing his thoughts. "You have ice crystals in your hair." he quickly stood before offering you a hand. You took it, your palm warm against his own.

"That is what happens when one rolls around in the snow." you giggled, attempting to shake the snowflakes from the crown of your head with your hand as you searched for your blade. You found it a few paces away and quickly seized and sheathed it. "Shall we head back? I'm absolutely famished."

Adrian nodded, briefly avoiding your gaze. You didn't notice the slight flush of his cheeks as you turned towards the direction of the castle, hooking your arm within his own as you went.

~

"What did I say about sparring with real blades?" Lisa's grey eyes were narrowed, her lips pursed as she inspected the small gash on your arm.

"I'm quite alright, Aunt Lisa. It is just a surface wound."

"Even so," she shook her head, "you need to be careful."

You sat atop the wooden counter of the castle kitchen, the scent of venison stew wafting from the enormous woodstove. The warmth of the fire was a balm to your freezing skin and your stomach began to growl at the promise of food.

"We were careful, mother," Adrian pressed a quick kiss to her cheek, golden eyes shining, "I promise."

"Careful? The cuts and blood on your shirt say otherwise." she sent a pointed look to her son, but a small smile tugged at her lips. He smiled sheepishly in return, the tips of his fangs glinting in the glow of hearthfire.

"My wounds are already healed." he replied, revealing the smooth skin of his muscled forearm.

"That is the only advantage you have over me, dhampir," you playfully taunted, "quick healing and the like."

"The only one, High Priestess?" he teased back. "Did I not disarm you not only moments ago?"

"With the magick of your blade," you dismissed him with a roll of your eyes.

"Hmm," he stepped closer to you, golden eyes boring into your own, "says the one who used her own magick first."

"Hmm," you echoed him, smiling broadly.

"If you two are quite finished, I would appreciate your help in setting the table for supper." Lisa wiped her hands upon her apron; a knowing smile spreading across her face.

"Yes, mother."

"Yes, Aunt Lisa."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, March 1st 1474

 

THE EARTH BEGAN TO AWAKEN, the promise of spring ushering new life into the flora and fauna. You sat in the meadow of the Tepes lands, singing softly to the bright purple flowers that surrounded you and the fat honeybees that sought their pollen. The early spring sun shone down from the sky, basking everything in its pale golden light. Lisa was a few paces away, working contently in the herb garden, long golden hair held back from her face in a thick braid. You had accompanied her to the cottage a few days prior, as Dracula and Adrian had left to travel abroad. They had extended an invitation towards you, but you felt compelled to enjoy the time alone with your adoptive Aunt in the warmth and familiarity of your childhood home.

The two of you spent your days leisurely strolling the surrounding forests, foraging wild mushrooms for her medicines, attending to the sick villagers who came for treatment. It was on one of those particular days you met a young man, his emerald eyes a deep contrast to the darkness of his hair. You could admit he was handsome, especially for a human male, but it paled in comparison to the otherworldly beauty of a certain dhampir, you thought. The comparison struck you as odd, and you quickly banished it from your mind. The young man had introduced himself as Edwin, the son of a blacksmith in one of the nearby villages. He had traveled to be treated for a particularly severe burn on his hand, the flesh angry and bubbling with blisters.

"I was clumsy," he admitted with a shrug of his shoulders, "I accidentally brushed my hand upon the furnace. Never felt so much pain in my life."

Lisa studied the wound intently, dabbing it with a soothing mixture of cooling herbs. "You are lucky it did not burn into the deeper layers of the skin. It may look ghastly now, and hurt something awful, but it will heal with minimal scarring."

"I don't care if I am scarred, doctor. It comes with the profession. I only care if I am unable to continue my apprenticeship."

"As long as you give yourself time to heal, it will be fine. Let me go prepare you a poultice. I will return shortly." she stood from the kitchen table and left swiftly.

Edwin peered at you with curiosity, green eyes alight with something you could not place. "What is your name? Are you the doctor's daughter?"

"No," you shook your head and introduced yourself, "she is my aunt."

"By blood?"

You tilted your head in confusion, a frown etching itself on your lips. "What does that matter?"

His eyes widened as he realized he had offended you. "I meant no offence, lady. It is just, you do not appear related."

"She is my aunt," you said again, "and no, not by blood."

"Are you a doctor as well?"

"Why are you asking so many questions?"

He grinned widely. "I am just attempting to make conversation with a beautiful woman. Is that such a crime?"

Your cheeks heated. "No, I suppose not."

"Well then, are you a doctor?"

"No."

"I would have thought you were. You have the look of a healer."

"And what do healers look like?"

He shrugged his shoulders. "I suppose they can appear any way. It is the look in your eyes, that is my meaning."

You regarded him for a moment. "I dabble with the healing arts, but I am not as skilled as my aunt."

"You strike me as the kind of person who could remedy that very easily," his green eyes bore into your own, "wouldn't you agree?"

"Here we are," Lisa had reappeared before you had the chance to answer, carrying the poultice and a glass bottle filled with a dark brown liquid. You stayed silent while Lisa continued her ministrations on Edwin's hand, extremely aware of the many glances he sent your way. They talked easily amongst themselves until she had finished, bandaging his wounded hand in fresh linen.

"Keep the poultice applied for two days, and make sure you drink this medicine once daily. It is just wine with some powdered herbs mixed in. It will help stave off infection. Come by next week so I may assess its progress."

"Thank you, doctor. I shall. " Edwin bowed his head deeply, standing from the dining chair and crossing to the door. He thanked Lisa once again before turning to you, bowing his head, eyes glinting. The days went by quickly and Edwin reappeared at the cottage just as he had promised. The burn and blisters on his hand had healed considerably, the only indication of an injury being the bright pink irritation upon his skin.

"That medicine you gave me worked wonders, doctor. I have had burns in the past, but they took twice as long to heal."

Lisa smiled, examining the hand. "I am glad to hear it. How is the pain?"

"Very minimal. Before I could scarcely handle the weight of a spoon in my hand. Now I barely feel anything at all."

"That is excellent! I don't think you need another poultice, but I think a soothing balm should work wonders. I will return with it at once." she stood from the table and walked away, leaving you alone in his company once more.

You felt the weight of his stare and you met it evenly. "You have a very odd habit of staring at strangers."

He smirked. "I only stare at things that hold beauty. Besides, we are no longer strangers."

"So you say."

"Does my gaze offend you?"

"Hardly," you waved your hand dismissively, "but your gawking grows a bit tiresome."

"Gawking, is it?" he huffed a laugh.

"What else would you call it? If you have something to say to me, please do so."

"Alright. How would you feel taking a stroll with me, once I finish with the doctor?"

"A stroll?"

"Just to the edge of the woods, where the path to the cottage joins the main road." his green eyes were bright with hope.

You considered for a moment before agreeing. "Just to the path where it meets the road."

~

A friendship with the blacksmith's son quickly blossomed after that. You would take pleasant walks through the forest, listening intently as he spoke to you of his travels. You found yourself relishing in the pleasantness of a new person's company, the foreign feeling causing newfound excitement to bloom in your chest. You did not mind that he was the only one who spoke during your time together, growing too addicted to the invigorating prospect of a new friend to care.

For two months Edwin met you at the cottage's crossroads each Sunday, bearing small bouquets of flowers upon each visit. Every time he gifted them to you, his eyes shone with the brightness of the sun filtering through the green tree canopy above. He would share stories from his days working at the smithy, using exaggerated voices as he recalled interesting or wild experiences with customers and travelers. You'd laugh genuinely, face alighting with humor as you watched him talk expressively with his hands. It was on such a day he finally shared about his family life, his usual light demeanor heavy with an emotion you could not place. You sat on an old log across from him, watching as he leaned against a nearby tree.

"My younger sister is to marry soon," he took a deep drink from the wine bottle he brought with him, "and my mother is beside herself. Always fussing over trivial things."

"How old is your sister?" you questioned.

He frowned gently, pausing for any moments before shrugging. "I don't remember, actually. Old enough to marry, I suppose."

Your eyes narrowed. "Does she even want to marry?"

"Of course," he laughed easily, "don't all women?"

You felt an uneasy sensation begin to bubble inside you. "No, I don't believe so."

His emerald eyes snapped to you, a cocky grin etching itself onto his lips. "Do you not wish to marry?"

"No, I haven't thought of it. Do you?" you responded evenly.

Edwin didn't answer as he continued to smirk at you, a twinkle in his eye. Silently he crossed over to where his leather pack sat and pulled out a small batch of flowers. Securing the wine bottle back in the bag and standing straight, he crossed over to you and held the flowers out.

"For you. And yes, I do."

In the following weeks after that day, you sensed a shift from Edwin you could not place. You felt as if his eyes stared a bit too long as you walked through the forest trails, how he lingered just a bit too close. How when you spoke, you often found his focus on your lips instead of your eyes. On the day he gifted you peonies, everything changed.

You walked side by side on the forest trail, showing him the different medicinal plants that dotted the area. You were too engrossed in your teachings to notice that he paid no mind to what you were showing him and instead was focused solely on the way your clothes fit the silhouette of your body. He couldn't not stop himself from turning you towards him and capturing your lips with his own. You stilled, your words frozen in your throat. When he finally pulled away, he pressed his forehead against yours, as if fighting himself from going further. "Was that wrong of me?"

Though it was not entirely unpleasant, you had felt something was missing, something that made the feeling of his lips against yours empty and wrong.

You willed your voice into neutrality. "I was not expecting it."

"Well," he pulled away, emerald eyes gleaming, "I won't do it again unless you ask me to. I promise."

The odd feeling in your chest never went away, nor the unsettling sensation of his lips upon your own. You often found yourself rubbing your bottom lip with the pad of your thumb when you were alone, attempting to decipher the mix of emotions that coiled within you. Edwin clearly fancied you, but you harbored no such feelings for him within your heart. You enjoyed his stories, and his company, but had no desire to see beyond that.

Your muddled mind became too much to bear, and as the night of the full moon arrived, you decided to commune with your goddess in attempt to bring you back to center.

"You are distracted, girl." she observed, silver eyes narrowing. You sat before the invocation site, four candles lit in accordance with the directions, an ancient tome in your hand. The incantations that you read from the aged pages were half-spoken and disjointed as your mind whirled.

"Apologies, Goddess." you shook your head in an attempt to clear your mind.

"Is it the human boy?" her voice was laced with distaste.

Your eyes widened in shock. "How-"

"The spirits of the wood see all, girl. You do well to remember that."

You peered at her human form, saw the flash of the frown upon her lips. "He kissed me."

Gaianna's lips curled in annoyance. "You are distracted by a simple kiss?"

"I have never been kissed, Goddess." you huffed in defense.

"Do you wish to take him to your bed?"

Your eyes widened wildly at her words. "The thought never crossed my mind."

"He wishes to bed you." she stated coldly.

Your cheeks heated. "Perhaps."

"I care not who you take to your bed. But I will not tolerate the simplicities of human dalliances from clouding your mind. You are my champion, not some simpering village girl. You will correct this behavior at once."

You swallowed the thick lump in your throat before refocusing your eyes on the tome. "Yes, Goddess."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, May 1474

 

ADRIAN AND DRACULA RETURNED HOME to the welcoming and loving embrace of Lisa. She hugged her son and kissed his cheek before melting into her husband's strong arms. The spring sun was high in the cloudless sky, a gentle breeze dancing in the air. Adrian's golden eyes scanned the vast meadow in search of you, a frown forming on his face when you did not appear. He asked his mother where you had gone, the slant of his mouth deepening as he saw an unknown emotion flash across her features.

"She is not home." she stated gently.

"Then I will go to her-" he began to turn before his mother caught his arm.

"Adrian, she is with a friend."

Confusion swam over his features. "A friend? You mean a spirit?"

"No, a friend." Lisa eyed her husband for the briefest moment before turning her attention back to her son.

"What friend?"

"He-"

"He?" his chest constricted. "Mother-"

"His name is Edwin; he's the son of a blacksmith. He came to me for treatment months ago. They have become close."

"Close?" Adrian echoed.

"Oh dear," Lisa sighed deeply, "they are friends, Adrian. She is allowed to have friends."

"Where is she and this friend?" his golden eyes narrowed on his mother's face.

"Son, leave her be. We only arrived home. Let us go inside and regale your mother of our travels." Dracula stated evenly.

"But-" the words died on his lips at the sharp look on his father's face. "Yes, father."

 

Chapter 9

Wallachia, May 1474

 

ADRIAN'S GOLDEN GAZE NEVER LEFT THE CIELING OF HIS ROOM, a deep frown set into his beautiful features. The sun had dipped below the horizon hours ago, the darkness of night swallowing the land and hushing the sounds of day. He lay upon his bed, still dressed in his traveling clothes, ears straining to hear any sign of you. There were none.

Emotions toiled within him that coursed in his veins like hellfire. It mattered not to him that you weren't there to greet him upon arrival; you had no way of knowing exactly when they would return. What did matter was the fact that he couldn't fulfill the need to ensure your safety. His parents had dissuaded him from looking for you, adamant you were safe with a so-called friend, a practical stranger. How could his father deign it alright? Did he no longer hold value for the very lessons he instilled in him since boyhood? The ways of men and their endless desires to control, dominate, and destroy? The thought made him hiss.

It was then he heard you, soft and quiet, as you walked the length of the cottage hallway. He heard you hesitate at his door, perhaps noticing he had no candle lit, before the soft knocks filled the room. In an instant he was twisting the nob and pulling it towards him, anticipation constricting his chest. You stood with a bright smile on your lips, your eyes glowing the moment they landed on his face.

"Welcome back," you pulled his muscled frame into your own, "I didn't think you would be home until after the solstice"

"Father decided it was best to return home early." he fought the urge to wrap his arms around you and lost. You were soft and warm and smelt faintly of earth and smoke. He inhaled the scent of it in your hair, pulling you closer. The unease he felt within himself melted away immediately as his mind finally registered you were safe and real before him. After a few moments you released him and crossed the threshold into his room. Gently you sat at the edge of his bed, facing him expectantly.

"Well come on," you patted the mattress beside you, "tell me of your travels. Did you meet any interesting persons?"

"You first," he obliged and sat next to you, your thighs barely touching, "mother says you met someone."

"You mean Edwin? There's not much to tell." you shook your head dismissively.

"I doubt that," he peered at you from the corner of his eye, "you spent the entirety of the day with him."

"I'm sorry for not returning sooner. If I had known you had come home, I would have returned immediately." an apologetic smile graced your lips.

"It's no matter." he reassured you, eyes narrowing the slightest bit. "Does this friend treat you well?"

Confusion swam over your features. "What kind of question is that?"

"The important kind." his chin tilted in seriousness.

"I'm going to ignore the offence I feel of you insinuating I would choose to be around someone who harms me." you tsked.

"I care not of offence if it means I can guarantee your safety. Has this Edwin ever done anything to make you feel unease?"

The breath caught in your throat as you peered down at your hands and away from his gaze, your mind flashing to the unexpected kiss. He noticed in an instant, his face flooding with a mixture of emotions. Before you could blink, he was before you, his face only inches from your own. "What did he do?"

You blinked wildly, taken aback by his sudden change in demeanor. "What? Nothing-"

"Don't lie to me." his voice was low, a near whisper.

You gaped before you were able to recollect yourself and center your breath. "He kissed me, once. I wasn't expecting it."

Adrian stood, nails curling into his palms. "He did what?"

"It was just a kiss, Adrian. And it won't happen again." you shook your head, half to placate him and half to rid yourself of the memory. "He promised he wouldn't do it again unless I want him to."

"And you believe him? Do you remember nothing of what my father taught us? Human men want nothing more than to dominate and fuck and destroy whatever they can." a look of distaste painted his features. How dare this human boy take something that wasn't his to gain? And without your consent, no less?

"You've never met him. How can you tell what his intentions are?" the response was weak, even you knew it, but you felt the need to push away the uncomfortable feeling that curled in your chest.

"Because what other intentions can a human man have in regard to befriending a woman? He doesn't even know the truth about you, who you are and what you're capable of. All he sees is a woman in a dress." he shook his head, pinching the bridge of his nose. How could you be so naive? How could you not see this Edwin's intentions as clearly as he? Any person who would cross someone's boundaries without their desire would do it again unless they faced the hard consequences of their actions. And he would be damned that this blacksmith would dare to cross your boundaries again. The dhampir would be the consequence if need be.

"Not all human men are bad and want to cause harm," you stood and placed a gentle hand on his arm, "your mother taught us that. Besides, I'm human as well. Will you refuse to trust me because of that?"

"That is a completely different matter entirely. You are nothing like them." he shook his head in exasperation, a light frown at his lips.

"How can you say that? I am as every bit human as they are."

"That is wholly false." he took a steadying breath, reigning in his roiling emotions. "Did he do anything else without your desire?"

"No."

He narrowed his eye as if he didn't believe you. It was only when you took your hands into his own and stared into his soul that the worry and rage nullified. "I swear, Adrian. He hasn't done anything else. And if he does, I will handle it. I can take care of myself, you know."

His lip twitched. "So long as you promise."

"With my life." you held your pinky finger out for him to take. His eyes met your own for the briefest moment before he curled his own around yours. "Now can we please talk about something that actually matters? I want to know everything you saw while you were abroad."

~

Adrian never tore his eyes from you as he watched you and Edwin forage wild berries in the cottage meadow the Sunday of his next visit. The sun was a golden disk overhead, basking the land in brilliant light. A pleasant breeze combed through his hair and birdsong floated from above the tree in which he sat under. His back was flush against the thick trunk, his blade resting upon the grass beside him. You had begrudgingly agreed for him to accompany you as you met the blacksmith's son that day. He could tell that the human male was surprised at the unexpected guest, but he seemed to have enough sense not to question it beyond simple introductions. Edwin had eyed Adrian with curiosity and had subconsciously made himself appear taller around you, which he found quite amusing. Besides that, the apprentice was hardly a danger at all. That didn't mean he wouldn't continue watching, though. Even if it meant sitting under a tree for the entirety of the afternoon to ensure your safety, to ensure that no further lines were crossed.

"You appear to be brooding, my love." Lisa sounded from behind him.

He met his mother's gaze as she drew closer, a frown at his lips. "Brooding?"

"You are sitting under a tree while you silently watch on but refuse to join their conversation. What else would you call it, my dear?" she gracefully sat beside him, smoothing out the skirt of her dress as she did so.

"I'm just making sure she is safe, mother. I wouldn't call that brooding."

Lisa hummed as her grey eyes found you. You laughed at something Edwin said, your eyes shining bright with amusement. Adrian's frown deepened.

"Safe from what exactly?" she questioned lightly.

"The insatiable desires of men."

"You sound just like your father."

"How are you not worried?" he turned to face her, confusion flooding his features. "You really trust this blacksmith? He is a human male, surely you know he is capable of harm."

"I refuse to condemn someone to be labeled distrustful just because they're human. With that logic, you shouldn't trust either of us." her voice was gentle yet firm as she watched her son digest her words.

His golden eyes widened as he looked at her in bewilderment. "Well-" the words died on his tongue. He would not confide in your truth, for it was not his own to share. And so, he shook his head. "She said nearly the same thing."

"It is almost if she has the wherewithal to think and act for herself." she placed a slender hand on his arm. "You mustn't be so distrustful, Adrian. It is no way to live."

"It is not distrust, mother. It is caution."

"And you believe she has thrown caution to the wind? Do you believe she cannot protect herself? Do you feel she does not have enough sense to make decisions for herself?" Lisa shook her head, her braided hair falling over the back of her shoulders.

"No but-"

"I understand the desire to want to protect those who mean the most to us. But you must make efforts for it to not be...overbearing."

"I am not overbearing." he shook his head.

Lisa inhaled deeply, fighting the smile that threatened to show itself. "If you made a new friend, wouldn't you mind if she accompanied every time you saw them?"

"I don't need new friends." he shrugged easily and peered back at you. "And no, I wouldn't mind."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, May 29th 1474

 

THE DENSE GREEN OF THE TREE CANOPY SWAYED as a gentle breeze combed through the air, carrying with it the humming of insects of melodious sound of birdsong. The river that flowed next to you was cool and inviting, decorated along its mossy banks with vibrant wildflowers and the honeybees that sought their pollen. Edwin sat beside you; chest bare as water droplets fell from his dark hair and trailed down the expanse of his body. Adrian was not too far off, his long legs out in front of him as his back leaned against the trunk of a tree, the book he read held effortlessly in hand. You fought the urge to roll your eyes at the sight of him and lost.

Nearly every day since his arrival back home, he had insisted upon accompanying you to meet with Edwin. The first time was pleasant enough. They spoke cordially and formally, if not a bit stiffly. But by the fifth visit, it became quite the nuisance. You'd leave alone to meet Edwin at the crossroads every Sunday, walk with him to the forest, but it was only a matter of time before Adrian appeared, pretending to come across the pair of you coincidentally. While Edwin laughed and welcomed him each time, you knew better. You couldn't hear or sense he was close, but you knew. You knew he followed you in the tree canopy, waiting for the best moment to make himself known.

"Is everything alright?" Edwin's voice broke the spell of your thoughts.

"Of course," you smiled but it didn't quite meet your eyes, "just thinking, is all."

His emerald eyes gleamed in the golden light filtering in through the trees. "You aren't lying, are you?"

You couldn't help the huff of laughter that escaped you. "I would never."

He hummed as his eyes darted briefly to the dhampir. His pale face was hidden from view by the book, and when Edwin felt he could not overhear, he leaned his head close to your own. "He doesn't like me much, does he?"

You shook your head. "He doesn't like most people."

"That's a 'yes', then?"

You shrugged easily. "He's weary of others, especially the villagers. They don't take too kindly to those they don't see themselves in."

"I suppose," he glanced at Adrian again before gazing at you, "but I think it's more than that."

"Oh?" your eyebrows rose.

"You two are not promised to one another, are you?"

You steeled your back at his words. "What?"

"I am not oblivious to how he watches you, how he watches me when I look at you. It's as if he is waiting for something to happen." Edwin watched you, unable to read the expressions that passed over your face.

A frown etched itself onto your lips. "I don't-"

"I do not mean to make you uncomfortable. It's just, I want to have the truth of it before I make a fool of myself." Edwin shrugged, watching you intently.

"A fool of yourself?" that uncomfortable feeling began to rise and curl itself around your chest again, restricting your breath.

"Are you promised to one another?" he asked again, firmer this time.

You inhaled deeply, shaking your head sharply. "No. No, we are not promised to anyone, least of all to one another. Adrian and I have been close since as far as I can remember. We are each other's dearest friends."

"But-"

"Edwin," you breathed his name, "we grew up together, and for a long time we were all each other had. That is all."

"But you are not children any longer." he regarded you seriously, a storm of unknown emotions swirling within the dark green depths of his eyes. "Do you not think it is time for you to...expand...who you let into your life? Who you consider a friend? Without being under his constant scrutiny?"

You went to respond, but the words died on your tongue. He was right, you thought. You knew the truth of his words, and you hated that he had acknowledged it before you had.

"You have a lot to say for someone who knows nothing about what they speak of." Adrian's voice was low; his tone edged with disdain. You watched as he set down his book and stood, making his way to where you and Edwin sat. His golden hair cascaded down his back, the white shirt and black pants that adorned him still looked fresh and ironed. The blacksmith stood as well, tearing his eyes from you and glaring at Adrian. He looked less imposing, chest bare and pants wet from the river. You swallowed and willed the comparison from your mind.

"I think I know plenty," Edwin's voice also lowered, "and see just as much, if not more."

"And what do you think you see, blacksmith?" Adrian's golden eyes narrowed on him.

"You think it's not obvious what you're doing? Following her around like a lost puppy? Glaring at me as if I have stolen your favorite treat?"

"You may want my mother to check your eyes, blacksmith. You are beginning to see things that aren't real." Adrian tilted his head mockingly.

Edwin scoffed. "You want to keep her trapped and isolated from everyone because you fear for her looking anywhere but at you. Be a man and own up to the truth of it." they stood nearly chest to chest, anger and something else swirling around them like a cloud of smoke.

You stood, a frown at your lips. "Alright, enough of this. You are acting like children."

"The only person who is acting like a child is him." Edwin waved his hand in Adrian's direction. "You are not some toy he can keep safeguarded and hidden from the world."

"Finally, something you and I agree on. She it not a toy, not an object for you to lust over. It is my duty to protect her, and I will do so from small men like yourself who want to lay their claim."

"You call me a small man yet here you are barking like a dog, having your very own tantrum trying to protect your territory. Because what? I dare speak the truth of your obsessive behavior? What are you protecting her from, little dog? The trees? The river? Or are you so threatened at the idea of her finding more comfort and joy in spending time with me than she has with you?"

Adrian's eyes darkened as he peered down at the human male with discontent.

"Oh, have I struck a nerve? Is that what this is, then? Jealousy?" Edwin shook his head and turned to you. "If you refuse to confront him, then I will. Ever since your uncle and him returned home we have not been able to meet as we had before. And I know you see it plainly as I do!"

"And how's that? You wish to force yourself upon her once more without interference? Is that the root of the issue?" Adrian spat. "I know all about the kiss you stole from her, the things you think about. Men like you are all the same. You just want something soft and pretty to warm your bed."

Edwin paled at his words. "That-"

"Are you going to deny it?" Adrian stepped closer to the human male, a snarl at his lips.

"Enough!" your shout rang out through the forest, momentarily silencing it. Your chest heaved with the effort to control your boiling rage and disgust for the two men in front of you. "You both are acting like beasts, and I want no part in it. I hope you continue to enjoy each other's company." you turned and left without another glance in their direction, your head roaring with blood and anger.

~

You regained the ability to breathe normally as you sunk to your hands and knees on the forest floor. A jumbled mess of mantras fell from your lips in your mother language as you tried to control your anger, quiet the roaring in your head. The need to call forth your light was nearly overwhelming, but with each mantra and forced deep inhale and exhale, it faded. The forest around you was empty save the creatures and spirits that roamed it. The nature spirits watched as you struggled to compose yourself, the thrum of their empathetic energy washing over you like a balm. For hours you stayed in that place, your back against the ground as you peered up at the swaying branches, their argument playing over and over again in your mind.

You felt angry that Edwin was right. That despite his best intentions, Adrian was smothering you with his overbearing presence. But more so, you also felt the deep pit of knowing and disgust at Adrian's accusation of the human man. That in the end, Edwin was drawn to you for what your body could offer. You had seen it for weeks, how could you not? The first thing he ever told you was how he found you beautiful, stole your first kiss without you inviting him to do so. You saw the longing looks at your lips, the heaviness of his stare as he watched your body walk and move beneath your dress. How he waited with bated breath for you to kiss him, never knowing that desire did not exist within you - that it never would. That he didn't even know you, not truly. He knew nothing about Gaianna nor your gifts. He saw a beautiful woman and nothing more. You had just been too blinded at the idea of having another friend and companion to see the truth of the matter. Which meant, in the end, Adrian had been right all along. You cursed at the thought.

"I hope that wasn't directed at me."

You didn't bother to turn your head to face him. Silently Adrian laid beside you, his shoulders barely brushing your own. Golden tendrils of hair fanned out around his head, the long curl at his forehead wavering with the breeze.

"Not for the reason you may think," you kept your eyes trained on the branches above, unwilling to look at him just yet.

"Hmm," he breathed, his own eyes starting at the trees overhead, "care to enlighten me?"

You were silent for a long moment before responding. "You were both right."

He tensed beside you, head snapping to look at you with wide eyes. "What?"

"Edwin was right in stating the obvious. We aren't children anymore; I don't need you coddling me and following me around while I try to live my life."

"I was just trying to keep you safe." he muttered.

"I know," you finally turned your head towards him, the grass beneath you caressing your cheek softly as you did so, "but it was suffocating. What if I had wanted to return his affections for me? Would you have stuck around then to watch and protect?"

His eyes never left yours as the words hung heavy between you. A tightness wound itself in his chest at the question. "Did you?"

"No." you shook your head. "Edwin doesn't see me for me. He has no knowledge of who I truly am and what I am capable of. He sees a pretty thing in a dress and nothing more. You were right about that."

Adrian's golden gaze never left your own, a frown etched on his lips. "I am sorry."

You smiled lightly, the warmth of it curling within his being. "I know. I was too caught up in the feeling of having another friend, even if it meant ignoring all the signs that it was not meant to be."

"Are you going to see him again?" he forced his voice to sound as neutral as possible.

You hummed as you turned your focus back to the branches above. "One last time, yes. To say goodbye."

"Oh?"

"I refuse to be friends with someone whose only aim is to get me into their bed. I cannot lie, it was beyond pleasant having someone else to spend time with. But it pales in comparison to the way I have to speak and move around him to break away from his gaze. It was hungry and ingenuine. I want no part of that in my life."

Adrian watched as the calmness of resolution flooded your face, his own unfamiliar feelings ebbing away with your words.

"Just promise me one thing, Adrian." you turned to look back at him, voice even and strong. "Promise that if we do meet others, you won't follow me like some warden. You will let me experience life the way I need and want to experience it. I'm not saying you can't protect me, because I would give my life to protect yours. But there is a difference between protection and suffocation."

He breathed deeply before vowing. "I promise."

~

Flashes of anger and rejection swam in the depths of Edwin's emerald eyes, his gaze never leaving your own. You stood at the forked road that following Sunday, the same place it all began. Despite the warmth of the late spring air, the chill and coldness that emanated from his being sent gooseflesh down your arms.

"Does this have to do with him?"

"No."

He laughed bitterly in disbelief. "I didn't take you for a liar."

"This is about me, Edwin. I am not oblivious to the desires you have."

"I have never made my desire for you a secret," he scowled, "you didn't have an issue before, when I kissed you. Why now?"

Anger began building in your being and you willed it to temper. "I had hoped you would see that my feelings on the matter would not change. I hoped you would see that I would never ask for those advances."

"And I hoped you would."

His words made the uncomfortable feeling in your chest rage against your ribs. "That is precisely the issue."

Edwin scoffed. "So, what is it, then? Have you already let him into your bed? Is that why you refuse me?"

You stilled, your chin tilting the most imperceptible amount. "What did you say?"

"It is, isn't it? He's already fucked you-"

The slap echoed off the trees and down the winding path to the cottage, promptly preventing the disrespect to continue spewing from his lips. Your hand burned with the impact, but not nearly as much as the imprint on the side of Edwin's face. He clutched it, eyes wide with shock.

"You think you can speak to me in such a way, blacksmith? To any woman in such a way? You stand here proving the precise reason why I do not wish to continue our friendship. You proved it beyond doubt that you only wished to spend time with me so you could bed me."

"I-I-"

"Your actions and words do not make you any more of a man than a boy pretending to be." your eyes were dark, full of your power.

Whatever he saw in them rattled something within him and he bowed his head in shame. Wordlessly he turned from you, still clutching his cheek as he began his walk down the main road. He never came to visit you again.

~

Adrian's eyes followed you from his position in the meadow. He sat in your usual spot, overlooking the entire landscape, waiting for you to return. You had let him know of your plans to confront Edwin, and it look every single fiber of willpower within his being not to follow you. He had made a promise, after all. And he would be damned if he ever betrayed your trust in such a way.

Silently he was you made your way to him, clutching your hand suspiciously. It took him a moment too long to gaze at the irritation on your palm. He was in front of you in an instant, grabbing your hand gently in his own.

"Ow! Adrian what are you doing?" you tried to wretch your hand away, but he was too strong.

"You struck him?" his golden eyes peered at you briefly before returning to your hand.

You scoffed and stopped thrashing as he inspected your palm. "Yes."

"Why?"

"Does it matter?" your lips curled.

"Did he harm you? Is that why you struck him?" his voice was calm, worryingly so.

"He tried to with his words. I did not let him."

When he was satisfied that there was no lasting damage, he let your hand go. You rubbed it gently, eyebrows furrowed.

"Do you want to speak of what he said?"

"No, no I do not."

His lips pulled into a frown. "It's bothering you."

"It will pass. What I would like is some spearmint salve and a cup of oatstraw. Will you indulge me?"

He eyed you warily before nodding. "Of course."

Chapter 10

Castle Dracula, June 1474

 

RAGING TURMOIL FLOODED YOUR BEING as you held onto the handle of your sword, eyes trained solely on the vampire in front of you. Dracula nodded once before he dashed, calling upon his power of speed in an instant. The two of you sparred in the stone courtyard, parring and meeting each other's strikes evenly. His blade slashed in a perfect arc at your throat, which you quickly blocked, a growl escaping you. He came at you again, this time with even more strength. You felt the moment he decided to attempt to overpower you, and in your rage and anger fell right into his trap. Within seconds you were caught, his blade at your throat and you disarmed, him holding your sword at the back of your neck.

"You are allowing your emotions rule you. That is a deadly mistake." with deft hands he let you go, gently passing the blade back into your grasp.

"Again, Uncle." you wiped the sweat from your brow.

Dracula's eyes narrowed. "Avoidance is not the answer for what is troubling you, my dear."

You swallowed the lump in your throat. "No, but it gives me a way for me to release this storm I feel."

He chuckled softly. "I know well what you mean. Come, why don't we speak for a moment?"

You inhaled deeply, sheathing your blade as you followed him through the ever-winding courtyard of the castle. You walked in silence as you passed the bushes of wild roses and other foreign flowers that were planted in the stone garden beds that dotted across the vast grounds. Here you did not feel the plants' energies as you had in the forests surrounding the castle and beyond. Instead, there was an unusual stillness in them, as if they mirrored the very immortality that their owner possessed.

"What troubles you, my dear?" Dracula's voice was soft as he spoke with you, as it always had been. The simple endearment made a small smile form on your face despite the feelings that wound their way inside you.

You glanced at his towering form. "Human men and their plight on this world."

He chuckled. "This has something to do with the blacksmith's son, I gather?"

"Not exactly."

"Oh?"

You peered out at the vast view in front of you from your position on the terrace. There was forest for as far as the eye could see in all directions, and to the west sat the lake, only a blue smear upon the dark green landscape. The morning sun was still pale, and it cast its warming glow intermittently through the fluffed clouds that crossed the pale blue sky.

"You have instilled in us since we were children that human men were fickle creatures who cared for nothing else but their pleasures. And I, despite all your teachings, went against the fundamental values of those teachings. I would even go so far to say you did as well, by allowing me to spend time with Edwin. You and Aunt Lisa stayed silent while I experienced the follies that I did. Adrian did the opposite, of course. He would not let me experience this for myself, and again, you let him do what he wished."

"And I suppose you wish to ask me why?" he smiled gently.

You nodded, leaning your arms on the stone banister that encircled the entirety of the grounds. "Yes."

He inhaled deeply as he stared at the expansive landscape before him. "Despite my thoughts and feelings on the human male population, I trust you to make those decisions for yourself. You are human too, my dear, and you have the right to live your life the way you please. You have the right to make mistakes. You have the right to experience everything the world has to offer. I trust wholeheartedly that you can protect yourself and that you would make the decisions that best suited and aligned with yourself. Which is why your acquaintanceship with the blacksmith's son was safe."

"But it wasn't, not entirely." you didn't meet his heavy gaze.

"And you needed to learn it for yourself. It would not have made you a better or worse person because you decided to pursue his affections. It only mattered that the choice was your own."

"If only Adrian understood such a concept." you bit bitterly.

"My boy knows it too well," he peered at you with a soft smile, "which is why he wanted to protect you as he did. Adrian and you, you have shared such a profound bond since you were small children. That desire to keep you safe has only grown stronger as the years have gone on. Just as yours for him. "

"I wouldn't trail behind him if he tried befriending someone new. In fact, I would encourage it! You've seen how he treats outsiders, Uncle. When we go abroad, he isn't interested in spending time with those who show interest in him. He's a recluse."

Dracula's lips twitched in amusement. "Yes, well. Like father, like son. But there is more to it than that, my dear. Dhampir like Adrian are more closely related to humans than full vampires. They feel more deeply than either species because of the duality of their blood. They have the stretch of eternity to face as all vampires do, but their human natures aren't gone or dampened like other creatures. You are the only other person in his life who he has grown up with, who has become dear to him. You needed to be the one who set the boundary with him. It wouldn't have meant as much if the words were spoken by me or his mother. It had to be you. Do you understand?"

You nodded, your chest constricting at his words. "Yes, I do."

"Good," he bent his head and turned, "shall we return to your training then?"

~

The sky was torn in two. In the east, the golden sun shone brightly without the threat of clouds. In the west, dark, heavy clouds covered every inch of sky, heavy rains pelting the forest below in torrential rain. The castle was in the middle of the two as they converged: golden clear skies as rain fell from the tail end of the westward coverage.

You found Adrian in the laboratory a while later after speaking with Dracula, the room flooded by the pale light of the partly clouded sky. The rain pattered gently on the glass ceiling, the sound intermingling with the dull thrum of the machinery of the castle. He sat facing you, eyes downcast as he concentrated heavily on the tome before him. His golden hair cascaded down his back, his golden eyes narrowed in thought as he read the aged pages of the book. When he heard you clear your throat he glanced up, tilting his head in acknowledgement.

"I take it training with father eased some of the anger you harbored?" he closed the book silently, eyebrows raised as he invited you to sit at the desk he was perched at.

"Some." you sat in the chair opposite of him. "It shed some light on everything that has happened."

He watched you silently. "Well, what is it? I do not have the gift of reading minds."

"Is it enough for you that I am your only friend?" your eyes never left him as the question fell from your lips.

He did not move an inch as his breath caught in his throat, his chest constricting at your words. "How can you ask such a thing?"

"I do not mean to be self-deprecating," you waved your hand, "I mean it genuinely. I am the only person you think of as 'friend'. You do not interact with those who live outside the castle or the cottage. You're a recluse, just as your father was before he met your mother."

"My father is still a recluse." his eyes never wavered from your own.

"Yes but, even when we traveled abroad, you never spoke to anyone outside of pleasantries. Even when all those people expressed their interest in getting to know you."

"You have the need and desire to interact and befriend other humans, to connect with them. There is nothing wrong with that. But I do not have the same human need and desires as that." he straightened in his seat, schooling his features into neutrality. You didn't know his heart hammered oddly in chest, or that he hung onto every word you spoke.

"Except, you had the need and desire to follow me around as I tried to connect with Edwin. That seems human to me." you crossed your arms over your chest; your eyebrow raised in curiosity.

His jaw ticked as he tilted his chin. "That was an entirely different matter."

"Perhaps," you shook your head, "but the core of the matter is still the same. Do you not feel that you need more interactions with others?"

He inhaled deeply, eyes narrowing on you the most imperceptible amount. "You are all I need."

You felt your heart stop as his words, your eyes widen. "What?"

"Your friendship," he amended quickly, his cheeks warming the slightest amount, "is all I need. You know the truth of who I am, who my father is. It is not if I can go out into the world and say the truth of it as loud as I can. When we travel, I must worry about people looking too closely at my teeth, of noticing my differences, run the risk of them attacking us with pitchforks and stakes. The same with the people in the nearby villages. They can never know me. Only you can, and I am perfectly content with that. So yes, you are enough. Your friendship is enough."

You swallowed the lump in your throat. "I never thought of it that way."

His lips pulled into a frown at the change in your demeanor. "It is nothing to be upset about."

You stared at him a moment longer before you stood and walked around the immense desk and leaned down to hug him from behind. You did not feel as he tensed beneath you as you wrapped your arms around his shoulders, leaning your head softly against his own. He sat without breath for a moment before he gently placed his hand softly onto your arm and returned your embrace.

"Who needs the world when we can be recluses together?" you pulled away from him, a gentle smile at your lips.

"Yes," he murmured, willing the blush that crept into his cheeks to disappear, "who needs the world indeed."

~

The unease and anger you felt within yourself began to seep away into nothing as time wore on. You could feel the slow and steady transition of the land crawling its way into the livelihood of summer, and in a way, you felt the same transitional energy within the friendship you and Adrian possessed. It felt as if an unknown veil had been lifted from your eyes, as if you were seeing him and his entirety in a whole new light.

You found yourself watching him more throughout the day, little glances that were undetectable to the dhampir. You began to notice the ease and grace in which he carried himself with, the near stillness that he seemed to exist within. The way he walked, poised and confident. The way he picked a book from the vast bookshelves of the library, with precision and knowing. The way he basked in the golden light of day, his blond hair cascading down his shoulders and back, the strength of his jaw and shape of his nose, the curve and bow of his lips. It was all so humanly inhuman, so perfect and stunning, the very image of radiant immortality. It was in those moments that you felt your heart ache when you remembered his words, felt the near sorrow of his truth that nearly the whole world would never get to know him, not truly. Not as thoroughly and as deeply as you knew him, not as truly as you now saw him. The thought only made your desire to protect him even stronger.

It was on such day you sat beside Aunt Lisa, the goblet of wine in your hand long forgotten. Your eyes never left Adrian as you raptly watched he and Dracula dance around each other like smoke, the shrill cries of their steel blades ringing out through the stone courtyard.

"I never get tired of watching them," Lisa peered at you from the corner of her eye, "wouldn't you agree?"

"Hmm?" you tore your gaze away and met her eyes.

"Their sparring," she couldn't help the smile that crossed her features as she quickly took a sip of wine to hide it, "it is extraordinary."

"Yes," you took a small sip of your own, "they are each other's equal. It is a marvel to see them use their power."

"It seems like only yesterday you were children, and he struggled calling upon his power." Lisa turned her attention back to her son, a pang of nostalgia pulling at her heart. "My, have you two grown."

You smiled at the memory of your childhood, saw the young boy in your mind. When you peered up again, the image vanished and was replaced by the man before you. He looked as if had been carved from exquisite marble, reminding you of the legendary heroes of old. The way his bare chest glistened in the sun, how the muscles of his arms tensed and contracted with his movements. How his golden hair flowed around him like a halo, the exact visage of Achilles himself.

"Yes," your cheeks heated at the thought, and you quickly tore your eyes away to peer into the goblet, "yes, we have."

"I'm glad you are feeling more like yourself, dear girl." her voice was soft as she redirected your attention to her once again. "I was worried about what was troubling you."

You glanced up at meet her grey eyes, saw the tenderness behind them. "I'm alright, Aunt Lisa."

"You never call me Lissy anymore," she tilted her head to the side, "am I getting that old already?"

You laughed gently at the familiar name. It had been many years since you had called her that. "No more than I am."

She grabbed your empty hand softly. "You have grown into an extraordinary young woman, my dear girl. Your mother would be so proud."

Your eyes teared a bit at her words. "That it very kind of you, Aunt Lisa."

"You needn't thank me for speaking the truth," she squeezed your hand, "you know you can always come speak to me about anything, yes?"

"Of course I do."

"Even if it concerns the matters of men," her chin dipped slightly, "and if you feel you need support or advice on the matter."

Your eyes widened at her words, but you smiled despite yourself. "I know."

"I may not have many experiences to pull from, but I was once a young woman. And I wish to be there for you, no matter what it may entail. You know the herbs to work with, yes?"

"Yes but-"

"So long as you know of them. You can never be too careful, especially when you are in the throes of passion." her grey eyes bore into your own, her face alight with humor. You couldn't help the laugh that escaped you. She followed suit, and before long the sound was the only thing that echoed in the courtyard. The two immortals ceased their sparring the moment the melodious sound reached their ears.

"I do hope they are not mocking us." Dracula smiled tenderly as his red eyes landed on the radiant form of his wife.

"Yes," Adrian's golden gaze landed on you and softened, his own smile gracing his lips, "but I doubt it."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Castle Dracula, June 7th 1474

 

THE LAKE GLITTERED LIKE SAPPHIRES as the sun bore down from the heavens. The air was thick with moister, birds and insects voicing their complaints in a constant cacophony of the stifling heat. You lay upon the shore, a short linen slip adorning your body, allowing for a better chance at staying cool. Adrian was beside you, chest bare and legs clad in linen pants, an arm thrown over his eyes lazily. A basket of freshly picked berries and loaf of bread lay beside you, nearly half-eaten.

"It feels as if the sun is suffocating me," you groaned, turning from your back and onto your stomach, laying on your arms and turning your head to face him.

"What would you like me to do? Banish it?"

You pouted. "Perhaps, especially if it is making you ill-tempered."

"I am quite content," he lowered his arm and peered at you, the tendrils of his golden hair shining brightly around his head, "it appears you are the one who is ill-tempered."

You scoffed playfully. "If only there was a remedy to solve this issue promptly."

"If only."

With a breath you heaved yourself up to a standing position. You eyed the cool waters before extending your hand to him, a broad smile on your face. He sighed before taking it firmly, lacing your fingers in his own. You walked together to the shoreline, cursing as the cold water came in contact with your feet.

"How do you expect to cool off if you cannot even handle the briefest touch of water?" he shook his head in amusement, hand still firmly in yours.

"I did it before, I can do it again." you steadied your breath, bracing for the inevitable shock of the freezing liquid.

"You look as if you are trying not to piss yourself." he mused.

"I am preparing myself," you shot him a pointed look, "let me concentrate." You heard him chuckle beside you before you were lifted off your feet, his arms supporting the underside of your thighs. Immediately you flung your arms around his neck, a surprised yelp falling from your lips. "Adrian!"

"We would be here until this evening if I wait for you to prepare." suddenly he leapt into the air, pulling you closer to his chest as he aimed for the middle of the lake. You both went under, legs and arms flailing as you tried to swim to the surface. His arms found you once again, snaking them around your back and pulling you towards him. You both resurfaced, inhaling deeply as the sudden shock of the cold hit your skin all at once.

"A warning would have been nice!" you clung to him as you regained your bearings and shivered with cold. "Would have been preferred, actually."

"Where's the fun in that?" he smirked wickedly at you, the tips of his fangs glinting in the sunlight.

You shook your head, a smile tugging at your lips. "I will have my revenge."

"Oh? How so?" his golden eyes bore into your own, alight with humor. You stared at him for the briefest moment, taking in his thick eyelashes, the delicate curve of his lips, the strength of his jaw. He looked every part of water-nymph, beautiful and brilliant in the shining waters.

"I will think of something." you hummed, wrapping your legs around his hips. His breath caught, but you were too entranced at the beauty of the forest around you to notice. Adrian's eyes never left you as he watched you scan the tree line, noticing the way the water droplets clung to your hair, the serene and ethereal look spreading across your features.

"It is beautiful, is it not?" you sighed deeply, your eyes catching a hawk soaring overhead. In a flash it dove, breaking the water's surface. A moment later it reappeared, flying towards the sky, a lone fish wriggling in its talons.

"Yes," he agreed, eyes still trained on you, "it is."

You pulled from his hold to tread water while still gazing at the surrounding landscape. "It never ceases to amaze me how beautiful this land is."

He ignored the empty feeling at the loss of your touch. "It is one of the many reasons my father chose this location to settle the castle."

"I would choose the same." you floated onto your back, enjoying the feeling of water caressing your skin. "Though, I may be too tempted to use the Carpathian Mirror to travel from place to place."

"And in which direction would you head?" he followed your movements and floated onto his back, long golden tendrils fanning out along the surface of the water.

"Hmm," you thought about it for a moment as you stared at the pale blue of sky, "somewhere we haven't been before. China, perhaps?"

"China?"

"The history of the Ming dynasty is fascinating," you softly laughed, "it has been more than a hundred years since it began."

"A hundred years is not that impressive in the scheme of history."

"To you, maybe. But for a mortal, it's more than an entire lifetime." you replied easily.

"I suppose."

"And you? Where would you go, if you had to choose?"

"Your mother's homeland." he replied swiftly.

You recentered yourself in the water immediately, bewilderment flooding over your features. "What? We've already been there with your father. What reason do you have to want to go there again?"

"I promised you when we were children that I would take you." he repositioned himself, facing you. "Do you not remember?"

"Of course, I remember. You promised me in the woods."

"Well, you have my reason."

Confusion still swirled in your mind. "But-"

"I promised I would take you."

"Oh," you felt heat flooding your cheeks as realization dawned on you.

"Is my answer not satisfactory enough for you?" his golden eyes shone with the intensity of the sun overhead.

"It is." you shook your head and turned from him, willing the coolness of the water to stop the heat from spreading to your face.

~

You watched silently from your position on the shore of the lake as Adrian fed the newly burning fire a few paces away. Above it, two large fish hung from the homemade spit, slowly cooking in the warmth and heat of the smoke curling towards the heavens. The sun had begun to dip behind the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant oranges, pinks, and breathtaking purples. Crickets could be heard from all around and the yellow blinking of fireflies could be seen everywhere you looked. The stifling heat had died some time ago, leaving the night refreshingly warm. Despite all the beauty around you though, everything paled in comparison to the dhampir in front of you. The amber light of the fire illuminated his pale skin like perfected marble; his hair glistened like molten gold down his back and shoulders. He had redressed in his shirt, the white fabric straining against the muscle of his body. Once again, an image came to mind, a depiction of it drawn expertly in a book within the library. A painted fresco of a civilization long forgotten, paying homage to the beautiful demigod and his immortal essence.

"I can feel you staring," he spoke gently, not turning his attention from the task at hand.

"More like observing," you stood and crossed over before sitting beside him, "making sure you don't burn supper."

"You say that as if you're the one who is cooking," he peered sidelong at you, "and the one who went to fetch the ingredients."

You nudged him lightly with your shoulder, a smile on your face. You had suggested another meal upon the lakeshore, to experience the beauty that the castle was surrounded by. When he saw the excitement and hope in your eyes, he couldn't refuse. "True."

A comfortable silence engulfed you both as you ate your meals and continued to watch the sunset. When you finished, you sat side by side, heads tilted up to see the heavens above. Every so often Adrian would point to a cluster of stars and speak on their mythologies, the origins of the constellations. He had always fostered a fascination with the stars, much like your love for the earth and all its wonders.

"And there, see it? With the three brightest stars across the middle? That's Orion."

You followed the line of his fingers and saw what he spoke of. "It's beautiful."

"And there, see? The archer."

He continued to speak about their histories, and lulled by the softness of his voice and the peacefulness of the surrounding forest, you laid your head upon his shoulder. It was warm and strong, soft beneath your cheek. Adrian peered down at you from the corner of his eye, careful not to move in case you thought he did not want your touch. He did not move a muscle until he felt you fall asleep, your soft breaths fanning his face as he turned to look at you. He scanned your face, gaze softening as he saw the peace that flooded your features. With a tender but strong touch he brought you to his chest and stood, careful and fluid with his movements as to not to wake you. He only breathed again once he laid you in your bed and pulled the covers gently over your body. Silently he left your chambers, ignoring the coldness of his arms that no longer felt the heat of your body against his own.

Chapter 11

Castle Dracula, June 1474

 

YOU FELT THE SLOW TRANSITION OF SPRING IN TO SUMMER deep within your being, the pulse and pull of its strong energy coursing through your veins. You tried to pay it little mind as you helped saddle the two horses that stood in front of massive doors of the castle, but it seemed they felt the energy as well. They neighed and butt their heads against your palms, begging for affection. You laughed, gently placing your hand to their neck in attempt to soothe them and continue to prepare them for their journey. A week prior, Lisa had received an urgent and desperate letter calling for aid to a small child in a foreign city. The young girl was not yet five and struggled to maintain breath, her parents unable to ease her discomfort and lacked the knowledge to heal her. The child was too ill and weak to make the journey to the cottage in Wallachia, and so Aunt Lisa decided she would travel to treat the child instead. Dracula had insisted he accompany her, the idea less than pleasant for her to be traveling alone for such an extended period of time, as she had predicted they would not return until autumn. And so, they scheduled to leave as soon as the necessary medicines were prepared.

"Please forgive me for leaving so close to the solstice and your birthday, my dear. I will find a way to make it up to you." she embraced you tightly, an apologetic look flooding her beautiful face.

"The life of a child is more important than celebrating another one of my birthdays," you returned her hug, "there is nothing to forgive."

"Yes, but I still feel awful about it. When we return, I promise to bring back a gift."

"There is no need, Aunt Lisa."

"A need, maybe not. But your uncle and I already decided on it. You cannot change our minds." she smiled humorously.

"Your aunt is right, my dear." Dracula crossed the threshold with Adrian, both carrying large travel bags upon their shoulders. "We've already decided."

You rolled your eyes playfully while you and Lisa stood back as the two immortals finished preparing the horses. Within a few moments everything was completed. Lisa hugged you and Adrian close to her chest, as did Dracula, before he helped Lisa onto her mount. You stood next to the dhampir as you both waved them off, well-wishes and heartfelt goodbyes exchanged only until their forms were no longer visible on the horizon.

Despite the obvious absence of Lisa and Dracula, you and Adrian enjoyed the emptiness of the castle. You wandered its many galleries, marveling at the treasures that still took your breath away just as they had when you were young children: Large stone monoliths of civilizations long forgotten, gargantuan bones from creatures that roamed the earth eons ago, large crystalline structures that were nearly as tall as the vaulted ceilings. At night you prepared and cooked supper together, the dining hall filled with laughter and warmth as you spoke of anything and nothing and everything in between. Adrian's heart would fill with joy when he was the cause of it, and soon he became addicted to the feeling. He watched you when your attention was focused elsewhere, always careful to look away before you caught him, enamored by your presence. How your hair shined in the light of the sun as you both walked the forest of the castle grounds. The determination in your eyes to perfect a certain way of shielding yourself while you sparred. The calmness that surrounded your being when you greeted the creatures of the forest, a smile at your lips that made your face glow. The melodic sound of your voice as you sang softly to the nature spirits, the tenderness of your touch when you combed your hand through the various plants and ferns that dotted the landscape. Every single time he looked upon you, it was harder and harder for him to look away. A voice in the back of his mind attempted to come forth, to be heard and honored, but he willed it to be silent, afraid of what it meant to listen.

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Castle Dracula, June 21st 1474

 

THE DARNKESS OF NIGHT ENSHOURDED THE LAND completely, only punctuated by the trillions of stars that glittered from the heavens. A roaring bonfire stood in the middle of the beach, at the halfway point of the lakeshore and edge of the forest. Its red and orange flames licked up the sides of the large logs Adrian had placed earlier that day, a cloud of smoke unfurling skyward. He watched you with near spiritual reverence as you danced around the fire, your movements in perfect rhythm to the drum in your hands. With every graceful twirl and swish of your hips he was captivated, unable and unwilling to look away.

You felt the vibrant thrum of the summer solstice course through your veins with an intoxicating surge. Your power felt ever present, the warmth of your light seeming to radiate from your being. You channeled the rhythm of the drum to match the energetic shower around you, in perfect tempo with your heartbeat. You felt everything around you, the breath of the trees and the warmth of their spirits as they watched you dance. How the sand was soft beneath your feet, the pulses of your movement reverberating down to the core of the earth. How Adrian's golden gaze never left you, the intensity of its energy nearly as molten as the fire beside you. Your body came to a gradual stop as the last echo of the drum gave out, chest heaving with your exertions. The fire roared as the silence of night finally registered in your ears, as did the calling of crickets and hush of wind that brushed your cheek. For a long moment you said nothing, bringing your breath to center. You peered at him, a small gasp leaving your lips as you saw him. Adrian's golden gaze was dark, swirling with something in their molten depths you could not place. He sat straight, not unlike how he holds himself while preparing to strike.

"Adrian, are you alright?" you spoke gently as you walked towards him, your brows furrowed in worry.

"I'm fine," he closed his eyes for a moment before opening them, "it's the wine, is all." Whatever you saw was gone in an instant as he came back to himself. He shifted the nearly full goblet in his hands nervously, avoiding your gaze.

"Do you feel it, the energy in the air? I've never felt it this potent in previous years." you gazed at him with curiosity before settling down beside him and pouring your own glass of wine. You had brought a small basket of provisions with you for the celebration, and it sat to the side nearly untouched.

He took a deep drink of his goblet before meeting your gaze. "I did feel something, yes."

"Oh?" your eyebrow quirked as the rich flavor of the wine graced your tongue.

"A shift, like magick." he finally met your eyes, voice low in attempt to settle the emotions that flooded him. You lapsed into a comfortable silence as you continued to drink from your goblets. As the spirit coursed through your veins, you became even more aware of the living woods that surrounded you.

"There are so many spirits who are showing themselves tonight." you marveled at the multitude of colors you saw emerging from the flora and fauna of the landscape around you. They shimmered in and out of sight, but you felt their presence at the back of your neck.

"It must have been your dance. It was a rite, wasn't it?" Adrian dipped his chin, studying you with light eyes.

"More so an offering, paying my respects to the land. But I suppose yes, it was a ceremony and rite." you drank from your own cup, eyes meeting his evenly.

"I suppose, then, I should pay my own respects." he finished the rest of the wine in his goblet before setting it aside. With graceful movements he stood, extending his palm out towards you. You eyed it for a moment before placing your hand into his own. It was warm and strong as he directed you to before the bonfire, only a few paces from where you danced minutes before.

"Do you remember the steps my father and mother taught us?" he brought his hand to your waist, the other held to shoulder level.

"Of course," you wrapped your arm around his neck, the other still held firmly in his grasp, "do you?"

"Of course," he echoed, golden eyes boring into your own. With a slight tilt of his chin he began to move, you mirroring his movements effortlessly. The world around you fell away as you danced as one, his touch tethering you to the beach and forest. Adrian held you close as he maneuvered you both with ease around the bonfire, eyes never leaving your own. He could feel the rise and fall of your breath against his chest, how your heart hammered against your ribs. He heard the nearly imperceptible hum that escaped you as he held you closer, the soft breath of your lips fanning his face.

"I can hear your heart beating," the words escaped him before he could stop them, the wine coursing through his body and muddling his thoughts.

You laughed softly as you peered at him through your lashes. "That is what happens when one dances."

"Hmm," he closed his eyes as he inhaled the scent of smoke in your hair, the sweetness of the wine on your lips, "wine doesn't help either."

"No," you breathed, "it doesn't."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Castle Dracula, July 1474

 

THE SUN SHONE DOWN FROM THE HEAVENS, basking everything its rays touched in brilliant golden light. The dense tree canopy above shielded you both from the scorching heat, the slight breeze that combed through the leaves a welcome reprieve. Birdsong floated somewhere overhead, and deer grazed just a stone's throw away from where you knelt at the base of an ancient oak. You murmured an incantation in your mother language as you poured the libation atop the thick roots that sprouted from the earth, a quiet greeting and show of respect. A silver bowl sat just off center of the tree trunk, laden with various fruits and breads you have prepared in the kitchen that morning. The scent of rose and frankincense wafted through the air, the smell of it grounding your energy to the forest around you. You felt the thrum of the spirits of the wood around you awaken, their gratitude for your gifts causing a warm feeling to spread throughout your chest. Adrian watched you silently as he stood a few paces away, eyes never leaving your form. Each movement of your arms, each syllable you spoke in your mother tongue, each time you poured the wine from your goblet was captivating. He hadn't thought twice of accepting your invitation to accompany you on your walk that afternoon. It was your birthday, after all. How could he refuse?

"Are they close?" he spoke softly as if not to disturb the peace and tranquility of the forest around him. Though he could never see when the spirits showed themselves to you, he had grown accustomed to the way your body reacted when they would appear. You held yourself more confidently, your back straightened and the air about you grew softer, your eyes brighter.

You stood when the final verse left your lips, and the last drop of wine soaked into the mossy ground beneath your feet. In the corner of your eye, you saw the shimmer of different spirits making themselves known as they approached their offerings. "Yes, they're here."

He peered around the seemingly empty woods. "Hmm."

"Do you wish to offer them something?" you turned to face him, a small smile at your lips.

"I have nothing to offer them, but I do have something for you." he tilted his chin, eyes glinting with amusement.

You blinked, your eyebrows raising in curiosity. "Oh? What is it?"

"Close your eyes." he stated simply. You gave him a curious look before doing so. Adrian watched you for a moment longer to ensure you weren't looking before he pulled the small bundle from his pocket and crossed over to where you stood. With silent and deft hands he unwrapped it, taking precaution as to not make a sound that would alert you of his movements. The only difference you felt was his warmth beside you migrating to your back as he stood behind you. Suddenly you felt his fingers gently brushing the skin of your neck, only to be replaced with the cool sensation of a metal chain and heavy pendant.

"Open them." his voice was soft in your ear. Immediately you did so, your hand finding the large pendant that was now secured around your neck. When you peered down, you could not help the gasp that left your lips. The pendant was made entirely of shining moonstone craved in the shape of an oval. The stone was inlaid in pure silver, as was the intricate chain that it was placed upon. "Happy birthday." he spoke as you turned to face him, a smile tugging at his lips.

"Adrian, this is remarkable. Where did you even get this?" your awe and excitement were palpable, and it made his chest flood with warmth.

"The last trip abroad with my father. The stone was cut and shaped during the full moon to harness its energy." he failed to keep the blush that crept into his cheeks from blooming as he watched your reaction.

You struggled to form the words to express your appreciation as you gazed at him and his radiance. Your chest and body hummed with something you could not place, and no matter how much you tried, you could not look away from his golden eyes that shined like the sun. Before you could fully comprehend what you were doing, you closed the gap between you and pressed your lips gently to his cheek. It lasted only a moment before you pulled away, eyes gleaming. "Thank you, Adrian. I love it."

The dhampir's breath caught, eyes widening in pleasant surprise as he attempted to regain control of his emotions. "I am glad to hear it."

You looked down at the necklace again, carefully cradling it with the tips of your fingers. Unknown emotions flooded your being, each of them pleasant, each of them as equally forbidden. An unspoken rule that was made in childhood whispered to you in the back of your mind, voicing its guilt and shame. But another voice, a stronger and truer one, proclaimed otherwise.

~

That night, sleep refused to find you. You lay up on your bed staring at the crossbeams of the ceiling above, a frown at your lips as you gently ran your finger up and down the length of the silver chain. The pendant was cool upon your chest, your night clothes sliding down your shoulders. Your mind whirled with a million thoughts, each as muddled as the last. Despite your best efforts, you could not get the memory of Adrian from earlier that day out of your mind. You kept seeing the way he stood tall, composed and present. How his thick blond hair fell down his shoulders and back, framing his sculpted face and complimenting the golden hue of his eyes. How his porcelain skin shone in the filtered sunlight of the trees above, illuminated as if he was borne from the sun itself. How warm and comforting it felt for your lips to press themselves against his cheek, so unlike when Edwin had kissed you months before.

"That is not the same thing at all." you huffed to yourself, frown deepening. You were right, of course. One was taken from you, the other offered by you. But you couldn't stop yourself from comparing the two. When Edwin kissed you, it was empty and void, as if missing something. But when your lips felt the warmth of Adrian's cheek, it felt anything but. You couldn't help yourself from thinking what it would have been like to have kissed his lips instead. Would it have been just as warm and soft? Would it feel as if it brought you to center, instead of apart? Your breath caught in your chest at the thought, and you immediately shut your eyes tightly, willing it to disappear. It did not.

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Castle Dracula, July 30th 1474

 

THE SKY WAS COVERED IN GREY-BRUISED CLOUDS as a heavy rain fell from the heavens and saturated the land below. Thunder boomed loudly overhead, the echo of it traveling through the stone halls and clashing with your ears. It had been nearly a week of nonstop storms, a welcome reprieve from the sweltering heat that had gripped the land for twice as long. Adrian discovered you sat in the threshold of the grand entrance, the doors held wide so you could watch the raging tempest without getting wet. He watched you for many moments, his chest constricting as he drank in your form. The way your breath hitched when a clap of thunder sounded out, how your eyes lit up in awe of the silver-purple lighting slashing across the sky.

"Quite the storm, isn't it?" he finally made his presence known as he stepped forward, footsteps silent upon the stone floor as he approached.

You didn't startle as you turned to face him. "It feels amazing."

"It gives you a feeling?" he questioned as he sat beside you, close enough to each other you felt the warmth of your bodies intermingling.

"Does it not for you?" your eyebrow quirked.

"Not particularly, no."

"Hmm," you hummed lightly, turning your head to face the forest again.

"Care to explain further?" he inquired gently, tilting his head to the side.

You closed your eyes for a brief moment, centering your breath as you focused on tuning in with the world around you. A sense of cleansing and calm washed over your being, as if you were flooded with the very essence and magick of the storm. Adrian felt the shift around you as you communed, enraptured at the sight of your reverence, the vision of the divine earth herself.

"It feels as refreshing as breath, as pure as water." you opened your eyes slowly, facing him once more. You met his bright eyes, a gentle smile on your lips.

"I see." his chest tightened at the intensity of your gaze. "That must be a wonderful feeling to have."

You hummed before turning so you sat face to face. "Close your eyes."

Adrian's eyebrow quirked at your request but obliged wordlessly. He felt the heat of your body as you leaned in closer, body tensing at your proximity.

"Inhale deeply, center your breath." your voice was soft by his ear, nearly a whisper. The sound of it sent shivers down his spine. As you felt him begin to breath out, you placed your hand above his heart. "Focus here."

The heat of your palm spread throughout his entire being, and it took every fiber of his concentration for his breath not to betray him. His heart hammered as his mind was flooded with nothing but the sensation of your touch, the absolute beauty of your presence.

"Do you feel it now?"

His eyes opened and he was brought back to himself by your voice, ears once again registering the sounds of the storm around him, the roaring of the whipping wind. You took your hand away, at once feeling the loss of his warmth.

"Yes," he peered at you, struggling to quiet his racing mind, "I do."

You stared at each other in silence before another flash of lighting crossed the sky and thunder shook the walls of the castle. You both looked away at the same time, cheeks heated and hearts thrumming nearly as loud as the storm above.

~

The raging storms pacified into nothing a few days later, bringing with it a sense of renewal upon the land. The still waters of the lake shimmered like a looking glass, clearly reflecting the pale blue sky above. A dragonfly flew low, hovering over its surface before quickly darting away, startled by the sudden rock disrupting the tranquil waters. Birdsong rang overhead, their melody a balm, soothing the roiling emotions coursing through Adrian's veins. He couldn't pinpoint one feeling over another; they jumbled and twisted together like vines.

He was pleasantly haunted by the memories of you every time he closed his eyes when you were not with him. His mind continued to conjure the feeling of your palm braced against his chest during the thunderstorm, the sound of your voice next to his ear. How your chest felt against his own when you danced together on the night of the summer solstice, the way you peered up at him from your lashes, eyes alight with joy. The incredible feeling of your lips upon his cheek, how it steadied and tethered his soul to your own. How it grew increasingly impossible to prevent himself from thinking how your lips would feel against his own instead of the skin of his cheek.

"Gain control of yourself," he muttered, inhaling deeply and closing his eyes. He saw it again, the image of your lips pressing against the side of his face. He willed it from his mind, but instead of emptiness, there was a another born from his imagination. It was you, held firmly within his arms, lips parted slightly as he kissed you. Adrian forced his eyes open, blinking in bewilderment. How could he think such things? You were the most important person to him, had always been so since childhood. He had vowed to himself the moment he first laid eyes on you to protect you, to hold your happiness above all else. There was an unspoken rule between the two of you, an expectation that was solidified in stone. You were each other's anchors, dearest friends. Nothing more.

Another image filled his mind again, this time a memory. You peering up at him, ice crystals in your hair as you lay beneath him in the snow. He could still feel the heat and softness of your body as he hovered over you, the delightful sound of your laughter causing his heart to swell. Adrian swallowed thickly, pressing the palms of his hands into the sockets of his eyes. A voice inside him was screaming, begging for its truth to be heard. But another - a more rational and digestible one - roared otherwise.

 

 

Chapter 12

Castle Dracula, August 1474

 

THE NEARING DESCENT OF AUTUMN was palpable as the air began to shift and cool. The land had gone from a vibrant and constant thrum teeming with life to a slower, deeper flow. Aunt Lisa and Dracula had returned home once the child had fully healed, bearing gifts as they had promised. They regaled you and Adrian the stories of their travels over goblets of wine and around the roaring hearth, laughter and easeful conversation filling the air. The castle halls felt whole again with their presence, more colorful and alive. Together they watched you with tender eyes, encouraging you to open the gift Dracula placed in your hands. Inside the wrapped parcel was an expertly made scabbard, the fine leather and expertly carved wood smooth beneath your touch. In its middle were etchings of protection sigils of your mother's ancestors, the sight of it brining a smile to your lips.

"We happened by an armour-smith while we were abroad. She was from your mother's homeland." Dracula spoke as he saw the amazement that flooded your features.

"It is a genuine relic, dear girl." Lisa smiled softly at you, her own eyes tearing as she watched your reaction.

"I have no words. I cannot thank you enough." you bowed your head softly, marveling at the beautiful sheath in front of you.

"You deserve to have a scabbard that is fitting for the blade you wield." Dracula dipped his chin in welcome.

"Thank you both, truly." you glanced at them again, feeling such deep gratitude, it made your chest ache.

"We have something for you as well, Adrian." Lisa stood from her spot on the couch and handed the dhampir his own parcel.

"Oh?" his brows rose in curiosity. He took the package gently from his mother's hands and opened it. Inside was a well-made and tailored coat, its rich black fabric embroidered with golden thread.

"You are a man now; you should have a coat that signifies as such." Dracula said, pride lacing his voice.

Adrian stood from beside you and shrugged the coat over his shoulders, the length of its hem falling just above his heels. His blond hair seemed to glow more brightly in contrast with the dark material, his eyes gleaming as they were accented by the golden stitching.

"Thank you." he met his parent's gaze, a smile of gratitude at his lips.

The rest of the night was spent in the comfortable lull of gentle conversation. It was only until the fire died in the hearth did you all return to your chambers, cheeks warm from wine and hearts full of joy.

~

The sound of Lisa's and your laughter filled the castle kitchen, adding to the warmth of the lit stove and pleasant smell of garlic and stewing meat. You each had a goblet of wine in your hands, taking sips in-between laughter and focusing on your attentions on the meal you were attempting to prepare. She was recounting a story from her youth, when she had first begun to study the science of healing and medicine. It was a ridiculous tale of injured drunkards, and despite its preposterous nature, you both found it hilarious. The wine that flowed through your veins allowed for a more colorful retelling, your laughter genuine and unfiltered. Adrian sat at the table a few paces away, a book held up to his face as he tried to concentrate on the content written on its pages, but it was a futile effort. He couldn't keep his gaze from wandering to where you stood leaning against the kitchen counters, illuminated by amber light. He drank in the sight of your contagious smile, the crinkle of your eyes, the curve of your lips. The way the moonstone pendant hung from your neck, glittering iridescently in the low light.

"They seem to be enjoying the vintage," Dracula mused and sat next to his son, his raven-black hair cascading down his back as he poured himself a goblet.

The dhampir tore his eyes from you to greet his father, closing the unread book and setting it on the table before him. "Nearly half the bottle, yet."

Dracula smiled softly as he twirled the wine within his goblet before taking a sip. The flavor was dark and rich, as was his favorite. Another bought of laughter escaped you, the sound of it bringing the dhampir's eyes onto your form once again. You sipped your wine and looked over absentmindedly, face shining as you raised your glass in acknowledgement when you met his gaze. He mirrored your movements, golden eyes never leaving your form.

"It is amazing how quickly things change before us, isn't it?" Dracula spoke lowly, peering at his son from the corner of his red eyes.

"How so?"

"The ebb and flow of existence is a delicate and sacred thing. How you can look upon a person and see a friend, a companion, only for you to set your sights on them once again and feel something more. Whether it was an imperceptible change or an obvious catalyst, it will always make itself known."

Adrian's brows furrowed. "What is your meaning, father?

Dracula tilted his head to the side, bemusement on his face. "The same shift happened between your mother and I, and it was the most important thing that happened to me."

The dhampir's chin dipped slightly. "I don't-"

"You know what I speak of, son. Do the brave thing and acknowledge the truth of it. If you refuse to do so, you will spend your endless days consumed by regret."

~

The orange glow of candlelight illuminated the golden frames of the portraits, the rich colors and shapes as vibrant as the day they were placed onto canvas. They were centuries old depictions of Dracula, their image still identical to his likeness. The type of paint and style of the artist differed from century to century, but nothing about the man's appearance had changed. All except his eyes. Nearly all of the portraits from the last four hundred years depicted the same thing: bloodlust, anger, and power. All but the ones that represented the years with Lisa. Those held warmth, love, and devotion. It always made Adrian smile when he noticed it.

He continued to walk the expanse of the gallery in silence, taking in the art before him. His eyes landed on a portrait from his youth; the four figures painted with expert hands. In the background stood the fine pair of his polished parents, adoring smiles on their faces. Standing in front of them were the two of you, only seven years old, eyes alight with the wonderment of youth.

"It's a marvel how fast time goes by."

Adrian turned at the sound of his mother's voice, inclining his head in greeting. "Yes."

Lisa walked into the gallery room, scanning the vast walls and countless paintings. When she finally stood next to her son, she found the portrait he was looking at. "I remember the day we had this commissioned. You were playing a game of chase in the meadow, and you called upon your speed accidentally. Knocked the poor girl's tooth right out." she giggled, voice lilted with nostalgia.

His lip twitched at the memory. "Yes, I remember."

"That was a long time ago," she peered at her son, "when you were children."

"Yes."

His mother sighed dramatically, a smile on her lips. "You are as stubborn minded as your father."

His brows furrowed in confusion. "How so? I am agreeing with you."

"You are agreeing with me yes, but you do not understand my meaning." she tilted her head as in indication for him to follow. Lisa led him to another row of portraits, this time one of you alone. It was the most recent one, your face and body that of a woman, of a priestess and champion. It was a striking and stunning image.

"Mother-"

"I am not going to say anything you do not know for yourself. I am simply going to offer you a word of advice as your mother. Take the chances your soul is called to, whenever you can. There will come a day the opportunity won't show itself again, and nothing feeds darkness like regret." she placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, a small and understanding smile on her lips.

"It is not that simple." his eyes found your portrait again, scanning the shape of your face and depth of your eyes. It took every fiber of his being not to reach up and touch his cheek where you had kissed, missing the feel of it on his skin.

Lisa's gaze softened as she saw the warring emotions cross over his face. "Then at least give yourself the ability to hear what is calling you."

Adrian turned his head to face his mother again, inhaling deeply. "Yes."

~

A stifling heat had settled upon the forest in summer's last burst of life before the arrival of autumn. The sun was a blinding disk in the clear sky, its rays scorching everything in its wake. A sheen of sweat covered your body, causing the clothing you wore to stick like a second skin. Your chest heaved from both heat and your exertions, clammy fingers holding the hilt of your sword tightly. Adrian stood a few paces away from you, bare chest glistening, arms poised to strike. You saw the moment he decided to channel his speed and rolled out of the way before he was upon you, your blade blocking his attempt to disarm you.

"Better," a smirk etched itself on his lips as he reeled to face you, "but not fast enough." he charged at you again, but you were prepared. You called forth your light and threw it in his direction, causing him to veer slightly off path. You took the opportunity and swung your sword in the direction of his own blade, the ring of steel echoing out. The suddenness your blow caught him off guard, but he corrected it with a playful hiss. He channeled his magick once more, commanding his blade to attack you. You danced around it effortlessly.

"Not so confident now, are you?"

His golden eyes narrowed at the challenge before he ran at you again. He made the magick sword arc towards you, and while your attention was on it, he made his move. Channeling his speed, he was on you in an instant, your bodies rolling onto the sand of the lakeshore. He made sure he received the brunt of the impact before rolling you beneath him, landing so your back was to the ground. He pinned your arms above your head, held securely in place by his hands. You met each other's eyes, chests heaving, the warmth of your breaths intermingling into one.

"You and that damn sword," you panted, desperately trying to ignore the pleasant feeling of his closeness, "not fair."

Adrian's gaze darkened as he watched you peer up at him through your lashes. "Who said anything about fair?"

You swallowed as the deepness of his voice reverberated through your chest, eyes catching on the perfect curve of his soft lips. You felt something coil within you before you pushed the desire to find out what his kiss would feel like from your thoughts. "What happened to honor while sparring?"

He chuckled as he leaned ever closer. "We can go again, if you like."

Your breath caught in your throat as you were flooded with the overwhelmingly pleasant sensation of him on top of you, your arms pinned above your head by his strong hold, the way you could feel the warmth of him seeping through your clothes more than the blistering heat. It took every ounce of willpower for you to break the spell your body and mind put you under. "Another time."

His chin tilted as he regarded you for a moment, the tips of his fangs glinting as he smiled. "As you wish."

You felt a wash of coldness rush over you as he unpinned your hands and stood. With a shaky breath you followed his movements, eyes struggling to meet his. Immediately you busied yourself with sheathing your sword into its scabbard and taking a long drink from the waterskin you brought, desperately trying to rid yourself of your roiling emotions.

A few nights later you dined with Lisa alone in the castle, the two immortals occupied elsewhere as Dracula prepared to leave for his upcoming travels. He had invited you and Adrian along with him, but the idea of being in extremely close quarters with the dhampir was nearly overwhelming. You denied the invitation, as well as Adrian had. You had almost hoped he'd go, that way you'd have the opportunity to figure out your confusing thoughts and feelings without the constant energy of his presence.

You were quieter than usual while you ate, your goblet of wine barely touched, your food only picked at. Lisa had watched you silently before she invited you to sit in the main sitting room under the guise of simple conversation. The room was dark save for the low fire that burned in the fireplace and small candles that lit the candelabras that were strewn about the room. Both of your glasses of wine had been filled to the brim, plush chairs repositioned so that you could see each other clearly while you conversed.

"What is troubling you, dear girl?"

You met her gaze after taking a sip of wine, the rich flavor settling over your tongue pleasantly. "I don't know."

"Well, what are you feeling now? I see it written plainly on your face."

You huffed a laugh, fingers tightening around the step of the glass. "I hope that is not the case for everyone."

Her eyebrow quirked in curiosity. "You are trying to hide your feelings from someone?"

Your breath hitched and you immediately took another long sip of wine. Your eyes found themselves roaming the dark room, feigning interest in the large bookshelves and paintings that were hung on the walls. "Not exactly."

"Is this about Adrian?" her voice was soft, her tone lilted in knowing. She sat forward in her seat, bringing your awareness to her as you saw her move.

You nodded once, still unable to meet her gaze.

"I won't know what happened unless you tell me," she coaxed gently, "but only if you wish to share, of course."

You took a deep breath to center yourself before meeting her eyes. The shadows of the fire and room danced across her beautiful face, and in that moment, you saw the bright gold of the aura around her, glittering as vividly as the fire beside you. You had not seen it since childhood, and the sight of it warmed your heart. You blinked and it was gone.

"He has always meant everything to me, ever since we were children. He has been by my side ever since I can remember, and I've always known how special he is. He is my closest and dearest friend, and he will be so until the day I die." your words wavered as you were overcome with intense emotion, and in a desperate attempt to regain control, you drank from your goblet.

Lisa's grey eyes softened, and a sigh escaped her at the beauty and honesty of your words. "I am sure he feels the same, my dear girl."

"But something is different now. He's not the same boy I grew up with. He is...more." your eyebrows furrowed, lost for words.

"I see," she replied softly, "you see him as a man now, yes?"

Her words caused your heart to skip a beat, the truth of it flooding your being like a tidal wave. You saw flashes of him above you from when you sparred, remembered the weight of his body upon your own, the intensity of his gaze. You willed the images from your mind before you responded. "Yes."

She hummed gently, the sound of it snapping you from your thoughts. "And you feel that is wrong?"

"It is unknown," you struggled to clear your racing mind, "and I know not what to make of it."

Silence consumed the room as you peered down into the hearth. The fire popped in the grate, sending a flurry of embers up the chute of the chimney.

"The unknown can lead to amazing things, if you allow yourself to experience it."

You tore your gaze from the fire, landing on her smiling face. Confusion swam over your features; a frown tugging at your lips.

"Honoring your thoughts and feelings is one of the bravest things a person can do. Life is never guaranteed, and each moment we live is precious. Just know that whatever it is you're feeling, you deserve to honor it, to face the truth of it." her chin tilted in seriousness, grey eyes gleaming in the firelight.

"I-"

"You don't need to speak the words aloud to me, love. It is your own truth, and only you can decide when you are ready."

You swallowed thicky, eyes wide. Your breath shuddered for a moment before nodding, seeking refuge in your goblet once again.

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Castle Dracula, September 1474

 

THE FULL MOON ARRIVED THE DAY DRACULA DEPARTED FOR HIS TRAVELS, carrying nothing more than the cloak around his shoulders and a simple bag he slung over his arm. He kissed Lisa lovingly and murmured his promise to return after the new year against her lips, cupping her cheek in reassurance. She nodded, a small smile gracing her features before he turned to embrace you and Adrian in goodbye. The three of you stood at the base of the stairs that led up to the castle entrance, only returning indoors once his towering frame could no longer be seen on the horizon.

You and Adrian spent the majority of your days with Lisa foraging mushrooms and other herbs for her medicine making, diligently combing the vast wilderness that surrounded the castle. The shifting of the seasons was palpable as you walked the forest trails, eyes alight with ease as you felt the dull thrum of the earth beneath your feet.

"They are deadly, are they not?" Adrian asked from beside his mother, hands full with the basket she used to collect her findings.

"Yes, exactly right. The raw mushrooms themselves are poisonous, but when I dry it and turn it powder, it helps prevent excessive bleeding." Lisa answered softly, stone grey eyes scanning the bottom-most branches that hung from above.

"Here, Aunt Lisa." you found a cluster of the mushroom between two forked branches, hidden from view by moss. With careful hands you dislodged it from the tree, the light pulse of its spirit thrumming in your fingertips. You spoke a prayer of thanks in your mother language, the melody soft and sweet. You crossed over to where mother and son stood, extending the mushroom for Adrian to take. He drank in the way your face was alight with reverence, the sight of it halting his breath. When you approached, his hand gently closed around your own before taking the mushroom and placing it into the basket. Your eyes met each other again, completely unaware of Lisa's shining smile.

"I am going to return to the castle before the rain begins. Would you mind searching for a bit more in my stead?" her eyes were bright with mischief she looked between you.

You blinked, your eyes finding hers. "Of course, Aunt Lisa. Are you feeling alright?"

"Oh yes, I am fine. The cold is getting to me a bit more quickly than I would like. You will be fine if I go, yes?"

"Would you like me to accompany you back to the castle, mother?" Adrian's brow quirked as he regarded her carefully.

"No, no I am alright. While you both are here, I will get started on supper. No need to follow me all the way back." she waved dismissively, readjusting her cloak around her shoulders and turning on her heels, walking away too quickly for you to respond.

"Well, that was strange," Adrian chuckled lightly, running his fingers through his hair, "wouldn't you agree?"

You shrugged gently. "A bit strange, yes. She is right though; the rain will begin soon."

"I suppose we better hurry then. I'll help you search, if you wish?" he inclined his head.

"Yes, that would be best." you smiled before turning, your chest blooming with warmth.

You walked side-by-side in amicable silence, enjoying the ambient noises that surrounded you. The turning leaves of the branches overheard rustled and danced as the wind grew stronger, bringing with it the scent of rain and wet earth. A single bird sang out, its melody carried by the wind. A hush of quiet rain began moments later, the droplets of water that filtered in through the canopy overhead cold and soothing on your skin.

"I think I found one," his voice was low as he spoke, "is this it?"

You peered at him sidelong where he stood a few paces away, eyebrows furrowed in curiosity. His hair was pulled away from his face, held together by a leather strap. The black and golden-trimmed coat his parents gifted him covered his torso, the bottom hem nearly brushing the forest floor. His sword was at his hip, tucked safely away in its scabbard. He looked like an ethereal and primordial being of the forest, the very visage of gods long forgotten. You inhaled to center your breath before you crossed over to where he was. The mushroom cluster was small, but it was the one you sought.

"Yes, this is it." you turned to face him, only to find he was already looking at you. His face was merely inches from your own, close enough for you to share breath. Your eyes landed on his lips, and the desire to feel them against your own was devastating. He called your name, the sound just above a whisper, his finger gently brushing the side of your cheek and finding the tip of your chin. Softly he tilted it up, seeking your gaze. When your eyes met, your body was overwhelmed by the strength of his presence, and you found yourself leaning into him ever so slightly.

"I would very much like kiss you," his deep voice caused a shiver to run down your spine, "may I?"

Your breath caught for the slightest moment before you whispered against his lips.

"Yes."

Chapter 13

Castle Dracula, October 1474

 

YOUR LAUGHTER ECHOED DOWN THE STONE HALLS of the castle as you ran, every so often checking behind you to see if Adrian was following. Your main goal was to make it passed the front doors, to safety, as was agreed before you initiated the mock-chase. He appeared within its threshold in an instant, a knowing smirk etching itself onto his features. You stuttered for only a moment before making your way to the laboratory, the lavish doors held ajar enough you could see the towering golden telescope glinting in the light of the windows. Your foot had barely crossed its threshold before you were swept off your feet and pinned to the nearest wall. You landed with a soft thud, the breath catching in your throat.

"Caught you," Adrian smirked, arms pining you on either side of your head, "I won."

"You cheated." you panted, chest heaving with your exertions.

"No, " he bent closer to your face, "I didn't."

You huffed, desperate for your breathing to even out. "Yes, you did. You blocked the exit point. That's not fair."

His muscles strained as he closed his arms tighter around you, boxing you in further. "You didn't want fair. You wanted to train."

"What happened to honor?" you tilted your chin up at him in defiance.

He leaned in ever closer, your lips practically touching. "That only applies when we spar."

You didn't back down, even as you fought the urge to close the distance between you. "Should we spar, then? To make it fair and honorable?"

"I have a better idea," he murmured, capturing your lips with his own. You responded instantly, your hands finding his shoulders, pulling him closer by the collar of his coat.

The colder days of autumn had been spent in a pleasant lull of reading, sparring, and secretly stolen kisses. Your bodies would find themselves in close embrace in the brief moments of solitude away from Lisa's gaze, hidden between the bookshelves of the castle library or under the constant shroud of fog in the forest. The taste and the feeling of each other's lips grew intoxicating, your bodies always yearning for more. At night he would sneak into your room, soft hands and gentle lips keeping you warm beneath the sheets as the encroaching cold began to settle in the land. It was one such night you lay in bed, the fireplace glowing with nothing but embers, your body kept warm by the heat of him. You faced each other, clothed limbs entangled beneath the quilts, bodies close enough you nearly shared breath.

"When should we tell your mother?" your voice was light, but your question was genuine.

"Whenever you wish." he peered down at you, golden tendrils framing his face.

"What will we say?"

"The truth," his eyes narrowed on you, "what else?"

"We haven't even spoken of it." you shrugged, focusing on your laced hands to avoid his gaze. "So, what is the truth?"

"Look at me."

You fought the urge to listen to him and lost. Slowly you met his eyes, inhaling deeply to steady yourself.

"You are my guiding light, my reason to draw breath. You are the one person I wish to protect most in this world. I know you feel the same for me, do you not?" he cupped your face gently in his hands, his thumb gently stroking the curve of your mouth.

"Of course," you leaned into his touch, "you're everything."

"That is the truth we shall tell her." he leant forward, kissing the corner of your mouth.

You kissed him then, your hands finding his shoulders as you sat up and straddled him. His arms wrapped around you, crushing your chest against his own. It was reverent the way he held and kissed you, his touch alighting your body with radiant warmth. Your body grew needier as his lips kissed down the length of your jaw and shoulder, lightly biting and licking the sensitive flesh of your neck. Your hands found the hem of his nightshirt and tugged it over his head, shivering as you came in contact with the warm expanse of his bare chest. You pressed your lips to the hard muscle of his shoulder, taking immense pleasure as you felt him shudder beneath you. You rolled your hips into his own when you felt him harden beneath you, the feeling of it sending a jolt of heat to your core. He groaned softly against your lips, his hands finding the swell of your hips and kneading the soft flesh over your night clothes. You grinded into him again, your own moan escaping you as the friction sent a delicious tingle down your spine.

"Wait, wait." Adrian's voice was strained as he pulled away, eyes hooded with desire. He leaned his head back against the headboard of your bed, hands gripping into your sides to ground himself.

You pushed back, lips swollen and wide-eyed. "Are you alright?"

"Yes," he closed his eyes tightly for a moment before opening them, "I just need a moment. I do not want to lose control and hurt you."

Confusion swam over your face. "You could never hurt me."

"Every time I taste your lips or touch you, I fight a hunger. It is primal, and I never want to lose control of it." his voice was heavy, eyes molten as he stared at you.

"What is your meaning?" you inhaled deeply, your heart fluttering in anticipation.

"I fear that I may not always be able to remain...gentle." he dipped his chin, lips parted enough the tips of his fangs glinted in the low light.

Your breath caught at his confession, a pulse of heat thrumming in your core. "I see."

"I cannot bear the thought of hurting you." his hand found your chin, tilting it ever so slightly.

"We do not have to do anything you are not comfortable with." you made to move off him, but he gripped you tightly to prevent you from doing so.

"You misunderstand me. I want you more than anything. But your wellbeing and safety mean more to me than my pleasure."

"It wouldn't just be your pleasure, Adrian." your eyebrow quirked gently. "Or at least, I would hope not."

He chuckled softly despite himself. "I would never dishonor you in such a way, Priestess."

You leaned into him once again, your lips gently brushing against his own. "I look forward to the moment that proves true, dhampir."

The following morning, you and Adrian walked hand in hand to greet Lisa for breakfast. In her excitement she cried, pressing kisses to both your cheeks to express her blessing,

"I am so happy for you both," she wiped the tears from her eyes before turning to the stove, "it is only fitting we have a grand breakfast to celebrate."

"There's no need, Aunt Lisa." your cheeks heated as you watched her scramble about for ingredients.

"Nonsense," she waved her hand in the air, "this is a moment to cherish. I cannot wait to tell Vlad when he returns."

"It is best if we leave her be," Adrian mused as he directed you to the dining table, pulling your chair out and pushing it back in once you sat.

"Quite right, dear." Lisa hummed.

You found yourself smiling quietly as mother and son conversed, your heart so overjoyed and full of warmth it nearly brought you to tears. In that moment you felt something shift within the very fabric of time and self, a moment of true and complete oneness. You prayed to the earth and heavens it would remain as so, unable to bear the thought of ever letting go.

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Castle Dracula, October 25th 1474

 

You were burning alive. Flames licked your bound feet and your skin began to boil. The back of your throat was raw as you screamed, the agony of your torture swallowed up by the roaring fire and stone streets. The sky tore open and bled, flooding the earth in a wave of crimson. Disfigured monsters broke the surface of the blood-sea, their gnarled claws and teeth covered in shredded bits of skin and muscle. They began to climb the pyre, their claws ripping into your flesh and tearing out your heart. You tried to cry out, to get away, but you were silenced by the swarm of death before you could.

"It's just a dream. Wake up!"

You thrashed awake, a terrified cry ripping from your throat as you tried to escape, your chest heaving with terror.

"You're safe. It was just a dream, I'm here." Adrian's voice was gentle yet firm as he spoke, his golden eyes trying to find your own. When you found his gaze, you flung yourself into his chest, your sobs wracking the entirety of your body. He instantly responded, wrapping his arms around your shaking form and held you close. His heart broke at the sound of your cries, at the pure terror that had plagued you moments before. You clung to him until you could control your breath and the tears stopped streaming down your face.

"Tell me what you saw." he pleaded, his voice no more than a whisper.

You inhaled deeply, your hands shaking as you sat up from his hold. Your eyes were bloodshot from crying, the pain behind them swirling darkly in their depths. You spoke what you saw and felt aloud, each terrible image still vivid in your mind. He listened silently; a frown permanently etched on his beautiful features.

"Do you think it may mean something?" his deep voice was barely a murmur, eyebrows knit together in thought.

"I don't know," you shook your head, a single tear spilling from your eye as you blinked, "I haven't had a vision since I was a child. And it was never anything like this."

"Perhaps it was only a dream, then." his frown deepened when you shrugged numbly.

"Perhaps."

The room went silent save for the wind that howled around the castle. Adrian's eyes never left you as you eased back onto the pillows, an exhausted and broken sigh leaving your lips. "I apologize for startling you."

"You have no need to apologize. Do you wish to try and sleep more?" he scooped you into his embrace and you melted into it immediately.

"Thank you," you whispered. Within moments your eyes fluttered closed, your breath quiet as sleep found you once again.

The frequency and intensity of the dream only escalated from then on. Though it always began with the same images of the pyre and blood, you were soon overwhelmed with more horrors. Mutilated corpses that were strewn on cobblestone streets, mouths agape in their eternal suffering. Thousands of terrible cries and screams of agony that reverberated in your skull, never ending. Each and every time you woke covered in sweat, sobs constricting your chest, but Adrian was always by your side.

"It is worsening," he sat on the edge of your bed, a deep frown on his lips as he watched you.

"There's nothing to be done about it," your voice was hoarse from your tears and the sound made his chest constrict. You ignored the weight of his gaze as you continued to stare out the window, focusing on the dark sea of night below the castle. It had been days of reoccurring horror anytime you closed your eyes. No matter the amount of sleep-aid teas and extracts Lisa gave you, no matter the amount of wine you drank, no matter the amount of breathwork you did, nothing worked to keep the dreams at bay. The only thing that kept you grounded was Adrian's warm embrace and soothing energy as he held you while you wept, waiting for the cloudy haze of the nightmare to cease its onslaught of terror.

"You cannot continue like this," he stood from the bed slowly, meeting you at the window. His night shirt was wrinkled and stained with your tears, face flooded with concern.

"I need to commune with Gaianna," you wiped the last of your tears from your eyes as you glanced up at him, "she must know something."

"You believe this has something to do with her?" his frowned deepened.

"I think this is more than a simple reoccurring nightmare, and she might have more insight on the matter."

"Oh right, the unnamed an unknown war she proclaimed would happen when you were a child." he couldn't help the sarcasm that dripped from his voice as he ran a hand through his hair in irritation.

Your eyes narrowed. "Adrian-"

"I do not speak ill of the goddess. I only doubt she will be any help on the matter. How many times did she speak of 'the battles to come' and offer you an explanation on the matter? How many times did you ask her about your mother, and she refused you?" he shook his head, the movement causing his hair to fall down his back.

You cursed under your breath, knowing he was right. There had been countless times you asked Gaianna about Amara, about the foretold battles and the unspoken story of your fate. Each and every time you were met with disdain and silence, never given any true answers.

"I don't know what else to do." your voice broke slightly, overcome with dejection. "I must try something."

He closed his eyes for moment, reining in his agitation. "Yes."

"I will invoke her tomorrow, then. Hopefully she is willing to speak the truth of it."

~

You knelt before the fire that burned before you, only a stone's toss away from the freezing lake. The fur cloak around your shoulders was tossed aside on the beach as you lit four candles in accordance with the directions, heart hammering in your chest. A small vessel burned with herbs and a silver bowl laden with apples and bread sat beside it. You took a moment to attempt to center your shuddering breath before you began the invocation, your voice carried by the wind and swallowed by the large trees of the surrounding woods. You cut the palm of your hand with your blade and allowed it to drip into the fire. The moment the blood began to sizzle you felt it, the tautness of the air, its unnatural stillness. The flames of the candles and that of the fire roared to life, and in an instant Gaianna was hovering above it in her true form, white-grey skin nearly blinding.

"Goddess." you pressed your head to the sand before sitting straight and meeting her silver-moon gaze.

"Priestess." her voice that sounded like many echoed out, eyes narrowing on you. "What is your purpose in summoning me here?"

You stood from your kneeled position, eyes never wavering. "I am plagued by nightmares, Goddess. I have not been able to escape them. I thought it only a dream, but I feel it may be more."

"Oh?" she tilted her head the slightest bit. "And what occurs in these dreams?"

"Death," you swallowed the lump in your throat, "death and rivers of blood. I burn alive as creatures rise from a blood-sea."

"I see."

"I summoned you here for guidance. You always spoke of me being your champion, of a distant war, of my destiny. But you never tell me what will come to pass, what I was promised to you by my mother to do."

The goddess frowned at your words before she floated to the edge of the lake. Her glowing feet touched the sand and entered the frozen water, unperturbed by its bite at her ankles. "Do you remember when we first met, champion? The words I spoke to you of your mother?"

You frowned. "Yes I-"

"To help protect the innocents from the battles to come." her voice echoed out across the frozen lake, sending shivers down your spine.

"You cannot keep speaking in half-truths and expect me to understand." your anger flared, agitation rooting in your chest. "You have spouted the same nonsense since I was a child! You must know more."

Gaianna whirled on you, silver eyes flashing with disdain. "Watch how you speak to me, girl."

"You have deigned me High Priestess and champion, supposed honors to have. And yet, you treat me as if I am the same child you ambushed in the woods." you spat.

A large gush of wind howled in your ears as she channeled her divinity, her light growing nearly blinding. The tree tops shook violently with her power, the air growing taut with stillness. "Be silent!"

You didn't retreat from the intensity of her glare nor the magick she threatened to wield. "I will not! Tell me what my mother saw, tell me why she sacrificed her only child to an unknown cause!?"

"That is not for you to know, mortal." she seethed.

You scoffed, shaking your head in distaste. "He was right, you never offer anything real."

The goddess huffed a cruel laugh. "The opinions of a half-blood mean nothing."

Roughly you wiped the tears from your eyes, voice raw with emotion. "If you refuse to provide me with real answers, you can at least help rid me of these nightmares."

"There is nothing that can be done. You must endure."

"What if I cannot?"

Gaianna's eyes narrowed on you, the snarl on her lips never fading. "Then you are not worthy of being my champion."

 

《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》《》

Wallachia, October 31st 1474

 

YOU FELT IN EVERY FIBER OF YOUR BEING AS THE VEIL between the living and the dead grew thin. The land seemed to hold its breath and the spirits were restless. The cloak around your shoulders did little to keep the consistent chill you felt from seeping into your bones, and you knew it was not simply due to the frigid air around you. Large gusts of frozen wind whipped through the treetops, the bright yellow and red leaves showering the meadow and forest beyond. The air smelt heavily of damp earth; the grey sky covered in dark clouds that threatened rainfall. You had returned to the cottage to celebrate All Hallows, bags heavy with offerings for the nature spirits and your mother's grave. Despite being away from the castle, the nightmares still gripped you. You had endured as Gaianna had told you to do, your subconscious mind now able to recall that you were merely dreaming. That despite how real the horrors felt, the dream always had an unnatural shimmer that you could focus on and endure through.

You sat in your usual spot overlooking the entirety of the meadow, a thick blanket beneath you. Adrian sat beside you on his own blanket; his attention trained on the book he brought with him from the castle. It was a foreign work from the north, original chronicles from the warriors that lived four hundred years prior. For hours you sat until the grey sky began to bleed with the blues and purples of twilight. The chill had begun to set in your bones as your body shook gently, but you refused to head inside, for it would bring the inevitability of terrorized sleep that much closer.

"You're shaking." Adrian felt the moment the chill settled into your being. He lowered his book, pressing the dried red leaf he had picked up hours before between its pages. Gently he set it aside and peered at you, a small frown on his face.

"It is only the cold." you hugged yourself gently, willing the warmth of your torso to spread to your hands.

"Why not return indoors, then?"

"No," you shook your head sharply, "not yet."

He sighed deeply. "Then wrap the blanket around your shoulders. Your teeth are chattering so loud it is interrupting my reading."

"I cannot. The grass is still damp, and my dress will get wet from last night's rains." you peered at him from the corner of your eye.

"We wouldn't want that, would we?" he mocked gently.

"You know better than anyone the hatred for wet clothing against your skin." you dismissed him humorously, your attention turning back to the meadow. A small smile tugged at your lips as you noticed a family of deer emerge from the tree line. They ambled about before they found a bush of rosehips at the edge of the meadow. Just as you went to point out the animals, you felt Adrian shift. He sat behind you, his legs boxing you in-between his lap on either side, your back becoming flush with his front. In one swift movement he wrapped his own blanket around both of your bodies, encasing you completely in sudden warmth.

"Is that better?" his voice was low next your ear and you felt the deepness of it rumble in his chest.

"Yes, much." you hummed pleasantly. Your body no longer shivered with cold and instead hummed with the pleasure of his closeness.

"Lean back fully, it will be easier to keep the blanket closed." his arms flexed around you, gently tugging the corners of the blanket together.

You lapsed into a comfortable silence as you both watched the deer continue their meandering through the meadow before they disappeared from view. For many moments you stayed in his embrace, relishing in the warmth and strength of his arms around you. At least twice you found yourself falling asleep in his arms, startling lightly when you woke at the last possible moment before you fully succumbed.

"You cannot avoid the need for sleep forever," he spoke so lowly you could barely hear him, "it is dangerous for you to do so."

You tensed at his words despite yourself. "I know."

"Then why do you continue to do it?"

"I'm just prolonging the inevitable," you murmured, "you know why."

He made a dissatisfied sound at the back of his throat before pressing a gently kiss to your temple. "I am sorry she refused to help you."

"We knew she would," you whispered bitterly, "so I shall continue to endure."

Chapter 14

Wallachia, December 31st 1474

 

THE HEAVENS WERE PAINTED IN THE DEEP ORANGES, purples, and pinks of twilight. A snap of abnormally warm weather for late winter prevented the first snow from falling and had brought with it clear and cloudless skies. You were no longer seized by nightmares, the reprieve coming to you only days after All Hallows. You figured the night terrors were attributed to the thinning of the veil and was grateful when it returned to normal. As the days grew closer to the winter solstice, you had all decided to spend the sacred days in your childhood home. With the help of Adrian's strength, a large pine tree was felled and brought into the main sitting room and from its branches you hung golden threads and ornaments made of stone and wood you gathered in the forest. Small candles were perched on top of the leaves, the soft amber glow encasing the entire tree in an orange aura. The scent of pine and spice mingled in the air as a stick of cinnamon burned in the fireplace, wafting pleasantly throughout the entirety of the home. Lisa sat closest to the hearth; head bent in concentration on the embroidery work in hand. You were on the couch across, fingers gently combing through Adrian's golden tendrils as you gazed at the burning embers. His head was in your lap, his hands holding the book he read a few inches from his face.

"This bloody needle is going to be the death of me." Lisa huffed.

You laughed gently. "You have no problems sewing flesh, but needlework gives you pause?"

"Yes, well, with flesh the margin for error seems to be much better." she sighed humorously before setting the embroidery hoop to the side.

"Perhaps, mother, it is time for you to consider using the magnifying glasses you always leave behind in the castle laboratory." Adrian mused, laying his book down on his torso so he could see her face.

"Are you insinuating my eyesight is going with old age, dear?" Lisa's grey eyes gleamed as she stood from her seat, grabbing her goblet of wine from the table and crossing to the fireplace. Gracefully she bent and placed another log in the grate, the movement causing embers to fly up the stone chute.

"I would never dream of it, mother." he smirked mischievously.

"That's what I thought." she grinned. "At any rate, I think I shall retire now. I must be up early in the morning to prepare for my patient."

"Will you want any help tomorrow, Aunt Lisa?" your eyebrows rose, your fingers still threading themselves through Adrian's locks.

"No, my dear. I want you both to enjoy the rest of the holiday. It will be a simple matter, anyhow" she waved gently, taking a sip of her wine.

"Are you certain?" you frowned lightly. "I do not mind."

"I want you both to enjoy the night. There's no need to worry about me. I will see you both in the morning." she smiled warmly as she gazed at your forms on the couch after you bid her a goodnight, the pure tranquility and peace that emanated from you both warming her soul. Her heart swelled as she watched for a moment longer before turning and heading to bed.

~

You woke to the sound of your name whispered closely in your ear, gentle enough you would not startle. Sleepily you opened your eyes, landing on the form of Adrian's reverent gaze.

"I have something I wish to show you." his voice was a low murmur, golden eyes alight with excitement.

"Now? Is it not the middle of the night?" you pouted gently, mind hazy with sleep.

"Do you trust me?" he held out his hand for you to take. You noticed he was no longer in his night clothes and was fully dressed in his coat, trousers, and boots. His side of the bed was cold, as if he had not been next to you since you fell asleep.

You smiled softly before placing your hand in his. "More than anyone."

He pressed a kiss to your forehead before leaving your room and allowing you to dress. Your body swam with anticipation and excitement as you did so, walking out to meet him outside the cottage while you secured your cloak to your shoulders. Adrian held a blanket in one arm and grabbed your hand tightly in his other as you walked across the expanse of the meadow, heading north into the dense woods. You walked for miles, silently listening to the gentle breeze brushing through the tops of the bare trees, their empty branches creaking and groaning in protest. In the distance an owl hooted, only to be met with the echoing howl of a faraway wolf.

"It is just up ahead." he whispered. It was then you saw it, a swath of empty grass surrounded by dense forest. A large and thick quilt lay in the middle, in perfect position to view the stars.

"What is this?" your voice was soft, as if not to disturb the peace of the surrounding forest.

"It's about to start, I don't want you to miss it." he smiled before settling you in front of him as you sat on the quilt, bringing the second blanket he brought with him around both your shoulders.

"What is?"

"Look up." he whispered in your ear, the sensation of it sending tingles down your spine.

From one breath to the next the black sea of sky was suddenly illuminated in the bright pinks and purples of the boreal lights from the north, casting a magenta glow on the clearing and forest around you. A surprised gasp escaped you, eyes widening in awe. He peered at you gently, drinking in every detail of your face. How your skin glowed under the shifting lights above, the way your breath caught when a flare of light surprised you.

"By the gods, Adrian. How did you know this would happen?" your eyes shined brighter than the sky, amazement flooding your being.

"Before we left the castle I was tracking its course. I had hoped the weather would hold, which it did. It is a stroke of luck, really."

"It is the most resplendent thing I have ever seen." you marveled, unable to look away. For hours you sat beneath the sky, watching as the lights shimmered and danced in beautiful waves and swirls. Your fingers and hands began to roam each other before he pulled you on top of his lap, capturing your lips in a slow and passionate kiss. Your fingers found the hair at the nape of his neck, gently pulling the soft tendrils at the root. He moaned at the sensation, the sound lighting a fire inside your core. When your hands began to push the coat from his shoulders he pulled away, pressing his forehead against your own.

"Wait," his voice was a breathy pant, golden eyes dark with need.

"Do you not want to?" your peered up at him through your lashes, lips swollen and parted with your desire.

His hold on you tightened. "God yes, I want to. But I do not want to hurt you."

You smiled gently, your thumb finding the smooth plane of his cheek. "Adrian, I want all of you. I trust all of you."

He dipped his chin, molten gaze never leaving your own. "Are you certain?"

"I have never been more certain of anything in my life. You are my everything, Adrian. I want all of you." you cupped his face in your hands, eyes shining with your truth.

"You're the most beautiful soul I will ever know," his golden eyes bore into your own, "you mean more to me than life itself."

With gentle hands your clothing fell away, your back soon held by the solid earth beneath you. You watched each other in a moment of stillness, the boreal lights above you flowing and shimmering in a sea of fuchsia and teal, painting your naked bodies in the colors of the heavens. You worshipped each other with divine devotion, each touch and caress an oath of piety. Your hearts became one the moment your bodies joined, breaths of ecstasy filling the air. Adrian whispered your name in prayer as you moved together, deep and slow, in perfect harmony with the heavy thrum of the earth. His hand laced his fingers within your own, his soul tethering itself to yours. When you found your release, he watched with reverence, the feeling of your bliss bringing forth his own. In the silent moments after you held each other close, the soul-tie between you as true and bright as the sky above. You felt it deep within your being, coursing in your veins and intermingling with your very essence. You were his, and he was yours. Forever, until the end of time.

 

《》

 

A cloud of death surrounded the cottage. Dark shadows cloaked in robes stood over Lisa, necks heavy with crosses like yokes that dripped crimson. She was bound, paralyzed with a thorny whip that sunk into her delicate flesh. An agonizing scream escaped her as blood-tears ran down her face and the cottage erupted in flames, swallowing all into the pits of Hell.

You woke with a terrified scream as you bolted up from Adrian's arms, the jaws of the nightmare consuming every single fiber of your being. Your hands shook uncontrollably, eyes blurry with hot tears that streamed down your face as you looked around the clearing wildly.

Adrian sat up beside you in an instant, golden eyes wide with worry. "What is it? What did you see?"

"We need to get back to the cottage," your voice was strangled as you clawed your shaking body to a standing position and wretched your clothing on, "we need to go now!"

You ran as fast as your legs could carry you in the pale light of late morning, the forest rushing by in an indecipherable smear. The scent of smoke and ash flooded your senses as you grew closer to the cottage, the sinking abyss in your chest deepening with every breath. Its dark and twisted tendrils clawed at your soul, ripping you apart bit by painful bit. You and Adrian broke through the tree line at the same time, eyes landing on the sight before you with a choked sob. Your childhood home was burned down to its very last timber, the broken and jagged pieces of wood and stone foundation still smoldering in giant piles of rubble. Billows of smoke unfurled towards the heavens, enshrouding the entire meadow in a heavy haze. Ash floated down from the sky, blanketing everything in dulled grey.

"Aunt Lisa!?" her name was ripped from your throat in a horrible scream as you stumbled your way across the meadow. You tried to make your way into the ruins, only to be stopped by the tight hold of Adrian's arms preventing you from doing so.

"She isn't here," his voice was quiet and strained as he held you, "we need to leave. It isn't safe for you."

"We can't-"

"Are you doctor Tepes's son and daughter-in-law? She talked about you both with such great fondness." an unfamiliar voice called from behind you, causing you to startle.

Adrian immediately stepped protectively in front of you, rounding on the stranger with a deep frown slashed across his face. "What happened here? Where is my mother?"

"Oh," the old woman's hands clutched the bouquet of flowers in her grasp with despair, "the Bishop took her. Witchcraft, he said. They are burning her at the stake."

A broken sound left your throat as you stumbled up to the old woman, tears flooding down your face. "What do you mean?"

The elder woman's face faltered as she took in your stricken expression. "I'm so sorry. It is not right what happened. Doctor Tepes was always good to me, a great doctor. I saw her just this morning for treatment, and they took her shortly afterwards. They wouldn't listen to me when I tried to stop them. I refuse to be there; I don't care what they say. I will not take joy in that woman being killed by the Church."

"Where are they holding her? The cathedral?" Adrian dipped his chin, hiding the tear that rolled down his cheek.

"Oh, oh no sir. She'll be dead by now."

You felt Adrian's hand steady himself in your own as the weight of the old woman's words settled over you. You felt your heart break as the reality of Aunt Lisa's death consumed you whole. Your knees buckled underneath you, a wretched weep cracking open your ribs and chest. Adrian caught you in his arms and nuzzled into the crook of your neck, his shoulders shaking with silent tears. You paid no mind to the old woman or when she left. The only thing you could focus on was the anguish and torment that gripped you. For many moments you stayed like that, clinging onto each other as the world shifted on its axis. When the sun reached its zenith you felt Adrian stand, his arms pulling you up with him.

"Look at me," he cupped both sides of your face, tears rolling down his cheeks, "it isn't safe for you here. We need to leave and return to the castle."

"I-"

"Please," his voice broke as he begged you, "we need to go."

 

《》

 

THE KING OF NIGHT'S LAST SHRED OF HUMANITY DIED the moment he learned of his wife's death. Everything ceased to have meaning. The growing, endless darkness that had always threatened to consume him had finally swallowed him whole. He welcomed it with a clawed and mangled embrace.

Dracula raged in his study, breaking and destroying everything in his wake. Thousands of broken glass shards glittered on the floor; some seeped in the blood that ran freely from his palm. Large splinters of smashed wooden furniture rained down as he continued his destruction, erasing any memory of him existing as a man. Heavy and uncontrolled pants made his chest heave, the roaring of his anger and grief deafening in his ears. "One year! It will take me one year to summon an army from the guts of Hell itself!"

"No," Adrian shook his head, a deep frown at his lips. His hands were clenched in fists as he watched his father succumb to grief and madness, overwhelming sorrow blooming in his chest. You stood beside him, hands shaking so violently you clutched them tightly within one another to temper it.

"What do you mean, no?" Dracula hissed, his broad back tensing in fury. "That woman was the only reason on earth for me to tolerate human life!"

"Then find the one who did the deed! If you loose an army of the night on Wallachia, you cannot undo it. Many thousands of people just as innocent as she will suffer and die." Adrian stepped forward, voice forced into evenness as he desperately tried to reason with his father.

"There are no innocents! Not anymore!" he roared, fangs barred in rage. "Any one of them could have stood up and said they were against what was happening, that they rejected the murder of an innocent woman!"

"Uncle, please." your eyes met his crimson ones, chest constricting as you saw the unabated torment that swam within them. "You can't condemn the bloodshed of those who did nothing wrong. The Church is responsible, not the people of Wallachia!"

"You of all people should understand this necessity," he snarled at you, "she took you in after Amara's murder. Raised and loved you as her own, a mother to you in every way but blood! Yet you stand here, pleading for me to spare the vermin who stole her life?!" his towering form rushed at you, emanating nothing but seething anger and bloodlust.

"The Church was responsible for my mother's death, just as they are now. I wish for the bastards who are responsible to suffer! But I will not send innocents to horrific slaughter. Aunt Lisa-"

"Keep her name from your tongue," his red eyes glowed with malice, "or I shall rip it from your head."

You swallowed back your tears. "Please-"

"If you dare stand against me, you dishonor her memory and deserve death just as much as those parasites you share a race with." Dracula spat.

"I won't let you do it. I grieve with you, but I won't let you commit genocide." Adrian stepped in front of you, shifting his father's revenge-filled gaze onto himself.

"Let me?" Dracula pulled himself to his full height, a monstrous energy you had never seen before flooding over his being. In an instant he was in front of Adrian, claws mauling and tearing open a huge gash across the expanse of his chest. The dhampir's scream of agony made your ears ring as you called forth your light, shielding you both in a silver dome to protect him from any more harm. Dracula swiped at the shield around you, hissing as it wavered when he was unable to force himself entirely through.

"Adrian!?" your head snapped to the side, eyes widening in horror as his torso gaped open, blood pouring from the wound endlessly. He did not answer.

"I do this last kindness in her name, for her memory and love for you. Take him and leave this place. Leave Wallachia tonight and do not look back. For if you do, I will rip your still-beating heart out of your chest, just as mine was ripped from me." Dracula's eyes went black, his voice dripping with his bloody promise. In an instant he called forth his shadows, disappearing from sight.

~

Relentless sobs shook your being as you heaved Adrian's mangled body onto the back of a horse, his blood smearing along its brown coat and staining the saddle with deep crimson. It took every ounce of your strength to hold him up as you rode hard, the freezing air of winter no longer registering to your numbed body. You had no idea what direction you headed in, you just knew you couldn't stop. For hours your rode until you felt your minute hold on him begin to fade. You jumped off the horse just in time to catch his slumped form from falling to the ground. His blood seeped into your clothes, the warmth of it burning to your frozen skin. Sweat covered every inch of his face, his lips nearly white.

"Adrian? Adrian, can you hear me?" you laid his back against an ancient oak, tears streaming steadily down your face. The deep wound on his chest was not healing fast enough. In a desperate attempt to help, you called forth your light, hoping the heat of it would cauterize the wound. His skin began to sizzle, the smell of burnt flesh churning your stomach. It did nothing to help speed up his healing. You cursed in your mother language before you grabbed your sword and carefully pulled it from its scabbard and aligned it gently with your neck. It stung as you cut yourself, the blood immediately beginning to dribble from the slice. You situated yourself in front of him, making sure his lips could reach where your blood pooled and flowed from your neck. When his lips felt the first droplets of blood, his eyes shot open.

"You must drink, Adrian."

You felt the moment his fangs pierced your skin, the sensation of it causing you to moan in both pleasure and pain. His arms pulled you close, holding you in place while he drank deeply. Within a few moments the world began to swirl around you, and you found it increasingly impossible to sit up straight. Adrian felt the moment you went slack in his arms and wretched his lips from your neck, guilt curling in his being.

"I'm sorry," he braced you in his arms, placing a gentle kiss to the bite, "I'm so sorry."

You smiled weakly, cupping his face. "You're alive, that's all that matters."

He pressed a kiss to your temple, your blood still warm in his throat. "Rest now."

His golden gaze never left your sleeping form. It was hours before dawn, the forest still pitch black with night. There was not a sound to be heard for miles, as if the earth held its breath in preparation for what was to come. Silent tears rained down his face as he stared at you, your blood still fresh on his tongue. His mother dead, his father succumbed to madness and hell-bent on revenge, and you, broken and banished from the only home you had ever truly known. Adrian warred with himself on the impossible tasks before him. His father would call forth his army and drench the land in blood, and there was nothing he could do to stop it. Even if he attempted it again, you would not let him leave and face death alone. You would never choose to leave his side. He frowned deeply as the one and only solution came to mind.

You awoke sometime later, eyes adjusting to the small fire beside you, your body covered with Adrian's coat. He sat close, chest bare as he sat braced against the tree, golden eyes trained on the flames before him.

"Are you alright?" you sat up stiffly, voice hoarse from tears and blood loss. The woods around you were silent save for the light crackle of fire and low creaking moans from the bare branches that danced above.

Adrian's eyes found you, his face swimming with conflicting emotions. "It will heal in time."

Your gaze found the open wound. "I am so sorry."

His heart cracked in his chest as he heard the brokenness of your voice. "It is not your fault."

"I dreamt of being burned alive for days. We should never have left the cottage. If I had known the truth-"

"There was no way of knowing what your dreams meant. There was no way of knowing what would come to pass." his eyes softened as your face crumpled.

"She's gone," your voice was barely a whisper, "she's truly gone."

His own breath caught as grief constricted in his chest. "Yes."

You both fell silent as your own eyes dropped to the fire. For many moments neither of you spoke, the weight of Lisa's death heavy between you.

"You cannot stay here, it isn't safe." his voice was quiet, barely heard above the crackling fire.

"Where do you suppose we go?"

"You misunderstand me. It isn't safe for you."

Your eyes snapped up to meet his. "What is your meaning?"

"Your life is as good as forfeit if you stay here with me. I heard my father warn you to leave Wallachia, you need to heed his words." he spoke quietly, forcefully keeping his tone even. It made your stomach twist with dread.

"I'm not going anywhere without you." the breath was taken from your lungs at the thought. "Why would you say such a thing?"

"You will die if you stay here, do you not understand? I cannot fight my father and win. I cannot fight an entire army from Hell alone. You must flee." his brows knit in frustration, fangs barred at the intensity of his worry.

You shot to your feet, eyes blazing with your roiling emotions. His coat crumpled to the floor beside you, narrowly escaping the flames of the fire. "You wouldn't be alone, Adrian. I will fight and live beside you until my dying breath!"

"You must!" he also stood, hissing in pain as he did so. "You are all that matters to me, nothing else. If you stay here, you will be slaughtered."

"How can you say that to me?" you felt anger surging to the surface, a conduit for your grief. "Do you still see me as the weak young girl who cannot hold a wooden sword?"

"Regardless of your sword-arm, you are still human. You still have the weakness of a human, your ever-present mortality. Your gifts...they aren't enough. Not for this." he could not meet your gaze as the words fell from his lips, harsh like acid on his tongue.

Your entire being stilled. "You don't mean that."

His eyes widened as he watched you slowly break apart. "What my father is planning is going to be unlike anything this world has ever seen. You remember as much as I do the lessons he taught us on the creatures of Hell, what death and utter destruction they bring. They will be wholly loyal to him and his cause. No human life is safe, not even yours. And I cannot bear the thought of anything happening to you, not after everything."

You stepped towards him, fierce eyes meeting his own. "I am not leaving your side, Adrian Tepes. Not until my heart stops and by body grows cold. And even then, I will always be with you. I will not let you face your father and his army alone. Even if you hate me for it."

"I could never hate you." his voice wavered as his hand found your face, cupping it gently.

"Promise me you will cease this talk of leaving one another. Promise me we will stay together, no matter what may come." you leaned into his touch, eyes never leaving his own.

Adrian kissed you with everything he had, and you met him equally. You only pulled away when you felt him wince, reminded of the gash on his chest.

"Promise me, Adrian. Promise we will stay together." you stared at him, eyes gleaming with tears in the firelight.

He took an imperceptible breath before tilting his chin. "I promise."

Adrian watched as relief flooded your being before you kissed him once again. Before long you were curled into his side, head on his shoulder as you slept. He never took his eyes off you, his mind and soul overcome with despair at the choice he was about to make.

He told himself it was the safest course, that you would be forced to leave Wallachia and your life would be spared. He told himself that the sacrifice was necessary in order to keep you alive. He knew you may never forgive him, but that was a price he was willing to pay. So long as you lived, so long as you were safe, nothing else mattered. Even if it meant you hated him for it.

As the sky was painted in the bruised blues and purples of dawn, you awoke. You felt his absence before you saw it. It was a sharp, quick thing that stole your breath and ripped into your heart. You knew it wouldn't matter when you called out his name, half between a sob and shout, but you did it anyway. The silence was deafening.

Your agonizing cries echoed out around you before it was swallowed by the surrounding wilderness. You clutched your arms to your body as you shattered apart, body sinking into the earth as you spiraled into the deepest depths of your despair.

 

《》

 

THE ENDLESS LABRYNTH BENEATH THE CITY would be his refuge. Adrian slowly limped through the tunnels of Gresit, hands gripping the reopened wound at his chest as the pain stabbed him with every step. His blood dripped and smeared on the stone floor as he walked, leaving behind a trail of crimson in his wake. His vison was blurry from mental and physical agony, the ancient blue lights that dotted the walls shining with unholy brightness.

"I always wanted to be just like you, ever since I was a young boy. How I dreamed to have your strength and courage, to protect those who mattered to us most." his voice was hoarse and raw, consumed by the yawning darkness of the underground. "Mother hated the idea that I might define myself by you. She loved us both, enough that she wanted us to be our own people, living our own lives, making our own choices."

Adrian choked on the gnawing feeling of his betrayal curling around his heart, the pain of his abandonment causing him to physically recoil. His golden eyes finally found the coffin that lay in the middle of the crypt, beaconing him sinisterly to seal his fate. Like the living dead he approached it, angry and devastated tears streaming down his face. "And so, here I am. Choosing to honor my mother by killing my father. Choosing to abandon the woman I care for most in my pursuit to ensure she lives."

He saw the flash of your face in his mind, guilt and shame strangling his breath. "No longer Adrian Tepes. Choosing to be Alucard of Wallachia, the very opposite of you."

As his back lay against the crushed velvet cushion and the stone lid of the coffin dragged shut, he closed his eyes. "And so, we begin anew."

You were the last thing he saw before he fell into dreamless slumber.

 

 

Chapter 15

THE FLOW OF TIME MEANT NOTHING as you continued to drown in the dark depths of grief and despair. You were continuously pulled underneath the roiling tides, unable to see or claw your way out for air. Your mind was torn apart by the shock of Lisa's death, to your banishment and the hatred Dracula now harbored, only to be brought to your knees when your heart and soul ached for Adrian and you were reminded of his treachery. It was an all-consuming and never-ending torment.

You blindly stumbled through the wilderness in an unknown direction, a ghost and empty shell of who you once were. Heavy sheets of ice rain fell from the dark sky, soaking you entirely to the bone. Thunder boomed over the landscape as a streak of purple-silver lighting cut across the black sea of night, briefly illuminating the forest in white. It was then you saw the spirits of the wood in your peripheral and changed your course, your broken mind barely soothed by their subtle light. With gentle whispering and calming radiance, they coaxed you to follow them, small beacons of shimmering colors to distract you in your free fall. You hadn't noticed where they led you to until you were at the edge of the meadow, eyes landing on the blackened rubble of your childhood home. A strangled and broken sound escaped you as you crept forward, body trembling with overwhelm.

"No, no! Why did you bring me here!?" the words were a choked sob as you stumbled forward, your legs finally giving out a few paces away from the ruins of the cottage. Flashes of the nightmares you were plagued by cut across your mind, your body physically recoiling in pain at the memory. You screamed as the claws of guilt and anguish overwhelmed you.

You were given signs and omens. Had you only understood their meaning, you could have stopped it...you could have saved her. You never should have left the cottage. You and Adrian could have stopped them!

Your breath choked at the thought of him, your heart and soul ripping to shreds at the excruciating void of his abandonment. It burned and clawed every fiber of your being, bloodthirsty talons that would not relent. He who you cared for more than life itself, who you would have protected until your dying breath. He who you had given every part of yourself to - mind, body, and soul. He who broke his promise as if you were nothing, the very night you both lost everything.

You slammed your fists onto the frozen ground as hard as you could, your light beaming out across the ground and illuminating the space around you. The sight of it made you shout in rage, causing it to expand around you in a brilliant dome of silver. You screamed and cried and shouted and cursed until your throat was raw and tasted like blood. Your hands dug into the frozen earth desperately searching for an anchor, but all you found was pain. Deep, dark, agonizing pain.

"Priestess."

You hadn't felt when she appeared, too lost in the sea of brokenness. It was only when you felt her ice-cold touch upon your skin did you react. You flinched away, a snarl at your lips. "Leave me be."

"I am sorry about the doctor-woman," her echoing voice was grating to your ears, "but it was her fate."

"Her fate?" your words were quiet, but in the way the land is before catastrophe. You forced yourself to stand, bloodshot eyes finding the silver of her gaze. "You dare to still speak to me of fate?"

Gaianna's lips pulled into a frown as she stared down at you. The silver-white of her glowing skin was almost offensive to your sensitive eyes, its radiance causing you to squint. "You may grieve the woman, champion, but you must learn to endure. One cannot escape their destiny."

Your chest constricted at her words, cruel realization dawning on you. "You knew, didn't you? You knew what the dreams meant, you knew what would come to pass. You fucking knew, didn't you!?"

A long, terrible silence rang out, the accusation heavy between you. Your chest heaved, the sting of the ice-rain whipping across your face. Your body trembled with your bubbling rage, the blood within your veins boiling to a fever-pitch.

"It matters not." the goddess tilted her head the slightest amount, her voice grotesquely even.

"I could have saved her. We could have saved her! All you had to do was tell me the truth, and you refused! Instead, she was tortured and burned. There's not even a body left to bury!" your shrill voice rang out in the meadow, only to be drowned out by a deafening boom of thunder accompanied by the cutting flash of silver lighting.

The goddess tilted her chin, voice and face void of emotion. "You could not."

"Fuck you." your eyes flashed with your power; it fueled by the endless pit of agony that swirled within you. "Fuck you and your prophecy. Fuck you and your titles of honor. Fuck you and Amara and your secret crusade. You are nothing more than a glorified and prideful spirit who plays games with those you deem lesser than. Well, no more." you wretched the sword she bestowed upon you from its scabbard and threw it at her feet. "I renounce you, Gaianna."

The goddess eyed you with roaring rage as the wind began to howl around you. You felt as if the air was being taken from your lungs, an overwhelming crushing sensation pushing against your chest. The force and pain of her power brought you to your knees, hands clawing at your throat as you tried to regain the ability to draw breath. Your vision began to go black before air rushed into your lungs once more. You heaved, coughing as your body fought for air. When you had the strength to look up, she was gone, your sword lying abandoned on the singed grass before you.

Your mind was too broken to register the passing of time as you lay numbly in the meadow, curled into yourself as much as your body would allow. At an unknown moment the frozen rain had ceased and, in its stead, came a blue sky with the winter sun shining brightly overhead. A quiet voice whispered to you in the back of your mind to move, to stand, to do anything. You shifted - nearly imperceptibly so - but it was enough to feel the necklace around your neck move beneath your clothes. The moment you became aware of it, it began to choke and crush you, its weight and meaning too much to bear. You surged to your feet, growling animalistically as you ripped it from your neck, dirt and blood-stained fingernails curling tightly around the moonstone pendant. It sat mockingly in your grip, its multicolored hues shifting under the winter sun above.

"How could you do this? How could you leave me after promising you'd stay?" you stared at the stone as if it would speak to you, as if it would provide the answers.

"You promised," you began to cry the silent and haunted tears of heartbreak, "how could you leave after we lost everything?"

Hot fury and icy hatred consumed your being, your hand squeezing hard enough the crystal cracked in the middle. With a scathing curse in your mother language, you threw the necklace as far as you could into the nearest tree line. You paid no attention to where it landed, turning your back to it as your body shook with overwhelm. "I release you, Adrian Tepes. I release you from my heart, my body, and my soul."

With trembling legs you crossed to the west of meadow, halting only when you stood in front of your mother's grave. You silently scanned the tree line until your eyes landed on a smooth rock, slightly bigger than the headstone of Amara's grave. With gentle hands you dislodged it from the muddied earth and wiped it clean with the hem of your clothing. Once it was completely cleaned of debris you set it a few paces away from the first headstone, a broken cry escaping you. You shakily recited the prayer for honoring the dead in accordance with your ancestors before placing your hand upon the curve of the stone. "I am so sorry, Aunt Lisa. I failed you. You died because I did not know what was being shown to me. It is all my fault."

You were met with nothing but silence. Empty, still, endless silence.

"I have lost all who are the most important to me, and it's all my fault." tears rolled down your face, your words punctuated by heavy sobs. "I will never forgive myself."

Guilt and dread curled darkly in the deepest parts of your soul, their sharp tendrils wrapping tightly around your heart and stealing your breath. Flashes of Lisa's smile and the sound of her laughter filled your mind, the memory of it sharp and sweet. You attempted to swallow the large lump in your throat before titling your head with reverent respect. "I love you, Aunty Lissy. Forever and always."

Your words were swallowed by the eerie stillness, and you found yourself falling in the yawning void of your grief once again. You stood to your feet, the image of Lisa's headstone searing into your mind. With slow and unsteady steps you walked the expanse of the meadow, eyes trained solely on your sword that still lay in the grass. Stiffly you bent and sheathed it before walking away from the ruins. You never looked back as you walked away from the only home you'd ever truly known, the heaviness of the past and your hauntingly beautiful memories ever present.

 

《》

 

THE FROZEN FLOOR OF THE FOREST became your bed; the mushy leaves and mossy sticks your pillow. The nature spirits were always at the edges of your vision, their distant voices barely audible as if not to overwhelm you. At times you'd wake with foraged roots and snowberries by your side, gentle offerings of aid and support to help keep you fed. You'd always expressed your gratitude, even if it was barely more than a numb mumble. Before long, animals had started meandering from their paths and into your own, foxes and deer that kept you warm as you curled up next them near your small campfire. They'd let you pet their thick winter coats as you cried yourself to fitful sleep, succumbing to the never-ending waves of loss.

The nature spirits led you gently as you ambled through the vast wilderness of Wallachia, the sound of your grief the only thing you heard besides the small thrum of the earth's energy. Despite your wishes, memories conjured themselves and would torment you in the waking hours. You'd see flashes of your childhood, moments solidified in time as both a blessing and a curse. Peaceful moments in the garden with Lisa, insightful and cozy afternoons under Dracula's instruction learning the histories of the world, the gentle gaze of golden eyes staring back at you as you danced wildly in the rain. The moment you thought of him your heart cracked, and your soul craved his strong and grounding embrace. You were bombarded with the images of the night your souls and bodies became one, how the heavens shone with mesmerizing colors, how you peered into each other's eyes and held each other with reverence, forever shifting and exchanging energy you could never reclaim. Each and every time a part of you died as you were consumed by the ever-growing pit of hatred and betrayal until you could no longer bear it. You decided then to perform the rite.

Your eyes took in the dark grey waters of the river that sat beside you, the rushing rapids loud in your ears. The sun was hidden behind dense clouds, barely a half-disk in the sky. Your hands shook as you peeled off your ruined boots, your frozen body barely registering the bite of cold of the forest floor. Numbly you entered the waters, the stabbing cold biting at your skin, and for a moment you relished in the foreign pain. Dark maroon began to leech from your dress into the choppy waters, the inky red tendrils quickly carried downstream. Bitter realization dawned on you as you realized it was his blood that stained your being. With rough and indelicate hands, you wretched the dress from your body, throwing it harshly to the edge of the riverbank. You stood in your nakedness, chest heaving as you clawed at your hands and rubbed the skin raw with frozen sand.

"I release you, Adrian Tepes. I release you from my mind, my body, and my soul."

Your voice was raw and broken with emotion as you repeated the words over and over again, using the frozen waters to cleanse your being. You felt your power thrumming in your veins and called forth your light, a sudden wave of relief washing over you as your palms illuminated effortlessly. You had remembered Gaianna's promise of losing your gifts if you had ever gone against her and had feared the worst. It filled you with a minute sense of peace knowing it was one piece of you that remained.

"I call my energy and power back to me," you cupped your hands and let the river water fill them and felt as your power infused with the cool liquid before saturating your hair, "and I release all that does not serve me."

You spoke words of power in your mother language before immersing the entirety of your body. The cold was sharp and intense before you rose, your lungs filling with air the moment you broke the river's surface. With steady hands you washed your dress, whispering the words of power until there was no trace of him left. You hoped that was the last time you'd think of him, the last time you would ever have to repeat the mantra. You would never be so fortunate.

~

You awoke once the land was completely covered in darkness, a light misting of rain falling over you. Your body was sore and stiff as you gained consciousness, the tightness in your temples stabbing painfully against your skull when you opened your eyes. With much effort you pushed yourself up from the warmth of the fox that slumbered beneath you, its chest rising and falling evenly as it breathed. For many moments you sat numbly, eyes peering out into the empty and pitch-black forest. You felt something shift in the air, a slight tremor that alerted you that something drew near. You stilled, straining your ears and focusing your gaze on your surroundings. With expert hands, you unsheathed your blade, your breath steadying as you willed yourself to concentrate.

For a moment you saw nothing until your eyes locked onto the silver-gold gaze that glowed brightly in the night, the large wolf-like eyes never wavering from your own. You felt the energy of its presence collide with your senses, ancient and powerful, so unalike anything you'd ever seen. It was not a nature spirit, nor was it a deity like Gaianna. It was something else entirely.

You shifted slightly, poising yourself to strike. You glanced around you, unable to detect any other presence. A twig snapped, bringing you back to center. The unknown being crept forward slowly, as if not to startle you. It was a large wolf, its blond fur light enough it appeared nearly white, but you could sense it was no ordinary animal. Your eyes narrowed on its mouth, your eyes catching on something that glinted silver in its maw. The moment it was a few paces from you, you saw the object clearly. The cracked oval of moonstone shined iridescently, dangling from the silver chain in its mouth. Your breath caught as your eyes landed on it, heart lurching painfully against your chest.

"You dropped this, High Priestess."

The disembodied voice filled your mind as the wolf sat back on its haunches, peering at you expectantly. You blinked, confusion and disbelief flooding your being.

"W-What-?"

"I am called Roya. I am sincerely sorry for all your loss." the wolf bowed its head in respect, the necklace gently swaying with its movements.

"Are you a servant of Gaianna?" you couldn't help the curl of distrust from settling inside you. "If so, rip my throat out and be done with it."

"I belong to no master, Priestess. I follow who I choose." Roya tilted their head. "I am a familiar."

"What do you want?" you stood stiffly, your body screaming in protest. The small fire you had lit had gone out hours ago, the embers nothing more than smoldering ash.

Roya titled their head to the side, eyes narrowing slightly. "I wish to help you on your journey, Priestess."

"I am on no journey, nor do I think am I a Priestess any longer. And I surely do not need that." you spat, ripping your eyes from the necklace and settling on the wolf's ancient gaze.

"Wherever you travel, you will need coin. Or has that human custom changed?"

"It has not." your eyes narrowed in distaste.

"Then you surely need it."

"How did you find me?" you peered around the dark forest cautiously. "I have never seen a spirit such as you before."

"The land feels your pain, Priestess. The spirits grieve with you and feel your loss. Your heartache led me here."

"And again, I ask, what do you want?"

"I only wish to be by your side, Priestess. So long as you'll have me."

You felt in your being that the familiar in front of you was genuine, and it seemed that the woodland creature that kept you company was not afraid of its presence. Despite yourself, you slowly stepped forward, reaching for the necklace between Roya's teeth. The familiar stayed perfectly still besides gently opening their maw, allowing you to take the necklace. Sorrow swelled within your body as you stared at it before shoving it into your pockets.

The wolf dipped their chin. "Do you have a set course?"

"I have nothing, Roya." your words were quiet as you busied your hands with relighting the fire. The embers came back to life with a quiet whoosh as you clicked two stones together and the sparks caught on the few dried branches you placed at the bottom. You sat once again, pulling your tattered cloak tightly around your shoulders and the hood above your head. The fox that lay by your side cracked its eyes open sleepily before settling into your lap, paying no mind to the large wolf that sat only a few paces away. Within a few breaths it was asleep again, the warmth of its body keeping the chill at bay.

"You have your gift, Priestess. And the knowledge of what is to come."

You frowned deeply at the familiar's words. "I have been banished from Wallachia by the King of Night himself, nor can I defeat him alone in battle. I renounced the Goddess who claimed me as her champion. There is nothing I can do." you stared into the small fire, its amber glow encasing the immediate vicinity of your camp in golden light.

"You may have renounced your Goddess, but she has not renounced you."

You glanced over the fire and met Roya's silver-golden eyes, your chin dipping imperceptibly. "Perhaps."

"There is nothing to be done for those who witnessed what happened that day. The Lord of Night warned the Wallachians, it is up to them to heed it. You must prepare for what is to come."

"Oh? You sound as if you are reciting Gaianna's prophecy." you couldn't help the cruel huff that left your lips. "And how do you suggest I prepare for an army birthed from the pits of Hell itself? How do you suggest I stand against Dracula?"

"You must find the dhampir."

Roya's words knocked the breath from your chest. "What?"

"You will not find success alone. But with him by your side-"

"Be silent." the words were barely audible over the crackle of fire and the frozen breeze that howled overhead, your eyes darkening with fury. A million and one thoughts and emotions flooded your being, all cruel and filled with hatred.

The familiar dipped its head. "You are bound to one another, High Priestess."

"Bound?" you barked a cruel laugh, your hands finding themselves in the fox's fur to keep from trembling. "He abandoned me the night everything was taken from us despite promising otherwise. I would have gladly died by his side in the efforts to stop Dracula's army. But he left, stole away into the night. And you dare say we are bound?"

"I feel your heartbreak, Priestess. As does the land. But your feelings matter not in comparison to the needs of the many."

Your lip curled. "Even if I did want to find him, I would not even know where to begin. Is he at the stronghold in Britian? Or maybe the catacombs Dracula built under Gresit? Or, perhaps, he spirited away to Rome to integrate with the vampiric order?"

"I know not, Priestess." Roya sat on all fours, eyes never leaving your own.

"Adrian Tepes is dead to me, Roya. If you wish to stay in my company, you will never speak of him ever again. Do you understand?"

A heavy silence fell upon the camp as you and the familiar continued to stare at one another. The empty tree branches croaked and groaned overhead as they were jostled by the cold breeze, the force of it causing the fire to spark upwards to the heavens.

"I understand, Priestess."

 

《》

 

THE WEATHER FINALLY SHIFTED TO TRUE WINTER once you had reached the outskirts of Bucharest. Slow flurries of snow fell from the heavens, coating everything in blinding white. The cloak you wore around your shoulders was teared and battered, your hands and clothing smeared with mud and bits of plant matter. You washed in the frozen river, the biting pain of the water inconsequential in comparison to the agony in your heart. You scrubbed the dirt and mud from your body before redressing in your tattered clothes.

You and Roya had agreed it was the best course of action to travel south in preparation for the impending occupation of Wallachia. You had been to the city before many years ago with Lisa and knew it was the best chance at securing much needed provisions. No one spared you a single glance as you were jostled to-and-fro while walking through the wooden gates of the town. The scent of meat and cooking food made your stomach growl as you came upon the main square, your eyes and ears taking in the raucous scene before you. Countless vendors called out to sell their wares, men lifted large barrels and chests from wagons and carts. Children laughed and screamed as they played, running through the throngs of people. You pulled your cloak tightly around your shoulders as you meandered your way through the streets, seeking a place to sell the necklace. You could feel as it shifted around in your pocket as you walked, the sensation of it causing resentment to bubble in your chest. Eventually you came upon a jeweler, the shop located a few hundred paces from the town square.

"Stay here." you whispered to Roya who bowed their head in agreement, now in the form of a regular dog. You took steadying breath as you entered, pulling the hood from the top of your head. The small shop was quiet save for the scratching sound of a quill on parchment as an old woman wrote upon the counter. Bits and baubles were perched on the shelves that lined the entirety of the room, glinting and gleaming in the low candlelight.

"Can I help you, miss?" the elder woman looked up, surprise flooding her face as she took in your disheveled appearance. Though your body and hair were clean, there was naught to be done for your ruined wardrobe.

"I have a necklace," you carefully approached the counter and placed it in front of the woman, "it is a bit damaged, but it is mainly intact."

"Well, what's this then?" her eyebrows rose incredulously as she gently picked up the pendant, cradling the broken chain in her other palm.

"It was a gift, pure silver."

"Aye, I can see that." she peered at you from under her brows. "Where did you get a piece like this?"

"A man." you willed the thought of him from your mind. "Someone I knew, once."

"Ahhh," a mischievous smile graced her wrinkled face, "they sure love gifting you women of the night shiny things, don't they? I mean no disrespect, of course." she inclined her head in apology.

"None taken."

"Well, from what I can see the setting itself is fine, it is just the chain and the pendant that are damaged. The chain will be an easy fix, the stone not as much. I can have it fixed within the fortnight, if you have the coin." the woman studied the necklace carefully before she met your eyes once again.

"No," you shook your head sharply, "I wish to sell it."

"Are you certain?" her face contorted into a mixture of surprise and confusion. "It is a beautiful necklace, miss. Not many like it in all the world."

You smiled tightly, forcing away the memories of him from your mind. "Name your price."

Chapter 16

Bucharest, February 1475

 

THE CHEAP AND BITTER ALE BURNED YOUR THROAT as you drank from the tavern cup, the warmth of it spreading to every inch of your body. You frowned deeply as raucous laughter reverberated off the wooden walls and the grating sound of a lute player plucking a too-jolly tune assaulted the senses. Roya sat at your feet still in their canine form, calmly watching your surroundings. A barmaid brought over a bowl of venison stew and a plate of fresh bread, a pitiful yet understanding look swirling in her blue eyes.

"Anything else I can get for you, mum?"

You nodded once before carefully fishing into your pockets and pulling out a few bits of silver, ensuring the heavy coin purse on your persons stayed hidden from view. "A room and hot bath, please."

She fussed with the hem of her apron as she pocketed the money before scurrying off, leaving you to your solitude once again. When you had finished every crumb of your meal you were shown to your lodgings, relief flooding your being as the noise of the tavern's drunken patrons was muffled to near non-existence. The room was simple, fashioned with a fireplace that roared to life with fresh wood and a four-poster bed covered with thick quilts. A wooden tub was placed in the middle of the room, the steam emanating from its surface curling towards the beamed ceiling above. An ewer was set aside in the eastern-most corner, only a few paces away from the frosted window that allowed for a single beam of sunlight to filter through. Roya padded forward before situating themselves in front of the mantle, their golden fur illuminated with amber light.

"If that is all, mum?" the barkeep titled her head curiously.

"Yes, thank you." you dipped your chin as you watched her bow and walk away. Wordlessly you closed the door behind you, inhaling deeply to settle your mind.

~

You sighed as the warm waters enveloped your body, the sensation now foreign to you. The bath smelt faintly of rose-oil, the scent of it conjuring memories you wished would stay forgotten. You and a certain dhampir foraging rose petals in the meadow, only to shift and change into the moment he softly rocked into you, eyes shining with the intensity of the sun, sounds of pleasure echoing in your mind. The memory caused a frozen and painful stab through your heart, the blood in your veins turning to ice. Your breath choked and you stood roughly from the tub, eyes wide with overwhelm. With trembling breath you reached for the nearby towel, hugging it tightly around you. 

"Are you unwell, Priestess?" Roya stood from their position at the foot of the mantle and was quickly by your hip, supporting your weakened legs as they steered you to the bed. You sat the moment your legs reached the mattress, your hands shaking violently in front of you.

"I just," your chest heaved with a wracked sob, "I just need a moment."

The room was plunged into near silence as you fought for control over your breath, the only sound heard being the crackling hearth and faint howling of wind outside the tavern's walls. For many moments you did not move nor speak, your attention solely on brining your mind to center.

"You may share your grief with me, High Priestess. Lest its burden grow too great."

You slowly lifted your head, revealing the tears that silently streamed down your face. "I cannot."

"Speaking the truth of the soul is the most powerful thing one can do. It is healing." Roya dipped their head gently, their fur shifting like liquid gold. "If not, the hurt festers and you will be consumed wholly."

You breathed deeply, steeling your back as you tightened the towel closer to your chest. Your eyes scanned the scarcely decorated room of the inn before landing on the flames in the grate. The red, orange, and white hues bled and shifted together as one, their flames licking violently up the sides of the darked hearth. A single log shifted and sent flurries of sparks up the chute before fizzling out.

"My Aunt Lisa died because of me, because I did not understand the visions and omens that were revealed in my dreams. She died because Gaianna refused to offer clarity of their meaning. If she had, I never would have left the cottage." the words were barely a whisper from your lips. "My entire family destroyed in a single evening. The man who raised me driven to madness with grief. The other who promised to never leave my side breaking his oath. All because of my failure."

"Even if you had understood your sight, visions from beyond are never set in time, there is always a chance a variable changes."

"And I could have been the one that saved her life." you roughly wiped your tears before meeting the wolf's gaze, lips slanted into a heavy frown.

"Perhaps." Roya sat on their haunches; their tone lilted with a slight twinge of disbelief, their silver-gold eyes narrowing.

"And here, in this moment, Dracula is in his castle preparing to unleash an army from Hell upon the land. To go against him alone would be a futile and suicidal effort. And the only person in this entire world who could help stand against him, betrayed me." you stood suddenly from the bed and crossed over to the small dresser where a decanter of wine sat upon. With trembling hands, you poured yourself a goblet and took a deep drink of the liquid within.

"I have absolutely no idea how to proceed. I don't know where to go, I have no one to turn to. Do I attempt to warn the citizens of Wallachia of what is to come? Do I heed Dracula's threat and flee this land? If so, where do I go? To the homeland of my mother, who kept the most important part of my life a secret? Whose goddess I renounced?"

In the distance a particularly hardy and loud guffaw echoed up to your room. You cursed, downing the rest of the wine immediately before filling the cup once more. "Or do I stay and help the innocents who do not deserve Dracula's bloody vengeance for as long as I can? Alone in a losing war?"

"You needn't be alone. The dhampir-"

"Adrian abandoned me!" you snarled, the knuckles of your hand straining as you clutched the goblet tightly in your grasp. "He vowed we would stay together, no matter what may come. He left because he refuses to be by my side. There is no finding him! He could be on the other side of the continent at this very moment, and I would never know. And I never want to."

You took a deep sip from the goblet, savoring in the burning sensation as it set your throat aflame. The room was plunged into silence as you watched the flames of the hearth, willing the hammering of your heart to cease. Eventually you tore your eyes away from the grate and found the familiar's gaze. "You vowed you would never speak of him again if you were to stay by my side. Why do you go against your promise?"

"I am sorry, Priestess. Truly." the familiar bowed their head deeply, their shadow wavering on the wall behind them. "It is too much loss for a soul to experience, but you both must fight side by side. You must grieve your heartbreak and find him."

You scoffed. "As I said before, he could have traveled to any city, to any country. Dracula taught us in our youth of all the different underground networks he built over the centuries; the many strongholds scattered across the continent. There's one such crypt under Gresit, another in his ancestral home in Transylvania, another in the Ottoman Empire. They are trapped and armed to prevent intruders, and I have never stepped foot into any of them. It would be impossible to search them all before the new year. Not only that, he travels with immortal speed, there would be no way of tracking his movements. You are asking for the impossible."

"I see."

"Whatever future I have left, Roya, it is without him. Whether or not I could forgive him - could look passed the agony of his betrayal - he chose to be alone than be by my side. He said it himself, he does not believe I am strong or powerful enough for what is to come. And so, I will face it alone."

~

The next day you woke to light snowfall, the sky blanketed with a mix of white and grey clouds. You sat from the bed with a small groan, a shudder running down the length of your spine as the chill settled over your exposed torso. Roya's ears twitched as they watched your cross over to the hearth and breathe life into the fire once more.

"Grand rising, Priestess."

"Grand rising," you dressed quickly before pulling your tattered cloak over your shoulders.

"Is today the day you intend to procure provisions?" Roya shifted onto their haunches. "If so, may I accompany you?"

"Not if you plan on breaking your promise again." you fastened the hood over your head and secured the leather coin purse to your body, the contents within adding up to the total value of the moonstone pendant. Luckily for you, it was more than enough to secure much needed provisions and comfortable lodgings for the foreseeable future. You glanced as the familiar dipped their head and shifted into their canine form, accepting their wordless agreement. You attached your scabbard to your hip, ensuring it was hidden from view by the cloak.

"How many other animals can you shift into?"

"None, Priestess."

Your lips twitched. "I suppose we are in need of a mount, then."

The streets of Bucharest were bursting with people. Merchants, vendors, and potential customers overcrowded the streets, the onslaught of their overlapped conversations causing your ears to ring. You did your best to weave between the crowd, so unaccustomed to the sights and smells from your many weeks surrounded by nothing but wilderness. The light snowfall was whipped to and froe by the biting winter breeze, the energy of the air causing a flurry of powder to sweep up towards the heavens. A group of children laughed excitedly at the spectacle, chasing after it in a cacophony of happy squealing. After many moments you found your way to an armor-smith, intrigue filling your being as you studied the many wares the moment you entered the warm shop. Countless expertly crafted armors were displayed on wooden and straw fixtures, the many different styles proudly showcasing the craftsmanship of their land of origin.

"How may I assist you, mistress?" an unknown voice called out from behind you. Your eyes found the deep brown gaze of an older woman; her aged skin painted in ornamental patterns and symbols that covered the entirety of both her arms and peeked over the collar of her neck.

You tilted your head in greeting. "I am looking for leather armor. Something sturdy, but light enough for easy travel."

"I see." she glanced over your form before tilting her head. "I believe I have just the thing." the armor-smith nodded once before directing your attention further into shop. Your eyes at once landed on the deep, crushed leather of the torso piece, it accompanied by a matching set for the legs. Next to it were finely woven pieces of cloth that were meant to fit underneath the leather, accentuating or covering the wearer as they saw fit.

"This allows for the most altering without picking pieces apart. All the major organs in the body are protected by the leather chest piece."

"I see," you ran your hands over the leather carefully, "do you have travel packs and cloaks as well?"

For many hours you tried different variations of the armor that interested you until you found one that aligned with you most. The shopkeeper had introduced herself as Talia, who hailed from the large city of Craiova in the west of Wallachia. It had been many years since you traveled there with Dracula, the memories of the city hazy in your mind. She told you stories of the many warriors and unique souls she met during her time before mentioning an odd encounter with a group of peddlers she had encountered weeks before.

"They had traveled all the way from Targoviste, they did. Kept speaking of a Devil's threat on the cityfolk. I wouldn't pay it any mind though, mistress. There are always talks of devil men and their wars." Talia concentrated on fitting the fabric and armor to your body, too engrossed in her work to notice your breath catch in your throat.

"When was this?"

She shrugged her shoulders. "Nearly a moon has passed since they walked through my doors."

The shopkeeper finished her ministrations before standing back, quickly grabbing a small, velvet-cushioned wooden box that held stunning pieces of jewelry. You grabbed the first one that caught your eye before gazing at the mirror in front of you. You did not recognize your reflection as you stared at yourself in the looking glass, eyes wide with emotion. The last time you looked upon yourself was the night before Lisa died, radiant excitement washing over your features as you dressed to meet him, to be taken deep into the woods and shown the marvels of the heavens, to become two souls connected forever. You had worn a basic gown beneath your cloak, accented solely by the sword at your hip. The young woman who embodied that reflection no longer existed. Instead, you now gazed upon the wild and ancient eyes of a soul that had lost too much, dressed to protect herself from an army of death.

Your new armor fit as if it was made specifically for you. The leather pieces fit every edge and inch of your body perfectly, the cloth underclothing providing much needed coverage and warmth. The attached hood was wide and thick enough to provide you anonymity if you so desired. The new leather and fur boots that adorned your feet made you feel wholly secured, so unlike the tattered boots you cast aside. Your eyes suddenly found the silver circlet that adorned your forehead, the metal glinting in the candlelight.

For the remainder of the time you collected provisions, your mind replayed the conversation with Talia over and over again. It filled you with a sense of dread knowing so many innocent lives were catastrophically unaware of the dangers to come. Despite your best efforts you were forced to return to the inn, your legs threatening to give out beneath you as overwhelm flooded the entirety of your being. Roya supported you as you slumped immediately into the nearby dining chair, your trembling hands reaching immediately for the decanter of wine once more.

~

"I n-need to wharn everyone of whhhat is to come," your voice was slurred with drink, your vision blurring with hot tears, "t-there must be shhhomething, anything."

Roya watched silently as you finished your fifth cup of wine, your body swaying uneasily with your movements. You had clambered drunkenly out of the wooden tub an hour before, your nakedness barely covered by the cloth towel wrapped haphazardly around you. The wine coursed hotly through your veins, and despite your best wishes to numb yourself with drink, the continuous onslaught of agony that was always at the forefront of your mind never faded.

"They may try to take your life the same way they killed your loved one, Priestess. They may claim blaspheme."

You whirled uneasily on your feet, clumsily sloshing wine over your goblet as you poured yourself another, the dark purple liquid dribbling to the wooden floor. You sniffed sadly, taking another deep sip from your goblet and set the decanter back down with a heavy thump. "Sss-so I shhhould let the innoc-cents suffffer?"

"It is their destiny. Their current ignorance will be their final moments of bliss. The only thing you can do now is ensure your survival for the battles to come."

You downed the sixth goblet of wine at the familiar's words before crawling into bed, silent tears streaming down your face as you lay frozen in the middle of the mattress. Your vision began to dance with block dots, and soon you gratefully embraced the pull into oblivion.

You left Bucharest after a few more nights of emotional and drunken deliberation. Your travels were long and arduous, but despite the difficulty of the journey, you found your heart and mind slowly mending themselves together. Roya stayed loyally by your side, even during the nights silent tears spilled down your face and words were not enough to soothe the aching of your soul. Eventually you found comfort again in the land and nature spirits, transmuting your heartbreak and grief into something more. As late spring breathed life anew into the flora and fauna, you finally came to terms with the knowledge that there was naught to be done for the fate of Targoviste and the Wallachian citizens who were promised death. The thought of fleeing often crossed your mind, the mounting fear of what the future would bring nearly paralyzing, but you could not abandon and turn your back on the people who would need you most. And so, you did the only thing you could do. You bid your time, waiting and preparing to fight for the innocent lives in the battles to come.

 

Chapter 17

January 1476

 

WALLACHIA WAS ENSHROUDED IN DARKNESS as snow fell furiously from the heavens, blanketing everything in a sea of white. You huddled around the fire, fur cloak and hood pulled protectively around you, a futile effort in attempt to keep warm. The towering trees above rocked to and frow from the force of the snowstorm, their branches groaning deeply in protest. Your horse neighed quietly a few paces away, its attention solely on the bush it grazed on, its sound drowned by the howling winds. The spirits of the wood shimmered in and out of the focus of your peripheral, their uneasy energies washing over you.

"They are restless," you murmured, a frown etching itself onto your features.

Roya's ears twitched slightly, silver-gold eyes scanning the surrounding wilderness around you. "Yes."

You hummed gently before closing your eyes, ears focusing on the cacophony. The rest of the world fell away as your senses honed in on the crackling fire, the screeching wind, the low creak as the trees settled. But then everything stopped, and you were pulled further away into a dark and unfamiliar place. You were bombarded with images of decimated corpses, by the shrieks and cries of the tormented, by a familiar voice calling for the death of all humanity. When you managed to wretch yourself from the stupor, you felt the tremor of catastrophe reverberate deep into the core of the earth. Your eyes shot open as bile rose from your throat, bracing the forest floor in attempt to anchor yourself. You cursed, willing your breath to center.

"Priestess?" Roya's voice barely registered as you continued to fight for air, your vision swimming.

"It has begun," you heaved, "Dracula's horde brings death to Targoviste."

The familiar's head bowed solemnly at your words. You carefully stood, washing your mouth with water before reaching into the saddlebag and bringing forth a candle and bottle of wine. Silently you crossed to the eastern facing trees of your camp and bent to your knees, paying little mind to the biting cold that seeped through your clothing. In your mother language you began your prayer, cleansing your energy and lighting the candle as offering to the spirits of the earth. You invoked them as you poured the libation of wine at the base of the tree, asking for their protection and guidance. You whispered your gratitude before standing, eyes peering out into the looming darkness beyond.

"What is our set course, High Priestess?"

"Wherever the hordes of death may lead us."

 

《》

 

HE HAD GRIEVED IN THE ABYSS that was his solitude borne of betrayal. Time fell away as he existed between dreamless slumber and still meditation, haunted by memories of childhood, his parents, and you. The missing warmth of your radiance was filled by a quiet, icy stillness that consumed him wholly - mind, body, and soul.

He dared to hope you were in a land far away, whose distance from Wallachia and himself would keep you safe. He hoped you would someday understand why he left, that he had no choice. Not when it came between choosing his own happiness over the need to protect you. Time could heal all wounds - all except the finality of death - and he'd surely damn you to a broken heart than the tragic and cruel fate of a needless death.

And so, when the Belmont Hunter and Speaker-Magician woke him on that fateful day, he vowed to never conjure memory of you again. Not until his father and his army of hellspawn were gone from the world, not until the moment he drew his own dying breath.

~

The bright, brilliant light of morning sun shone down from the heavens, illuminating the devastated city of Gresit in holy light. Redstone tiles of broken and collapsed rooftops glinted from the ruble, a stark contrast to the singed and burnt buildings in which they were once supported on. A light powdering of snow dusted the ruined city, mixing to dark grey with the fallen ash. Somewhere in the distance the sound of hammering and disembodied voices carried on the wind, only to be drowned out by the damped sound of the ruined church bells in the town square.

"So," the Speaker-woman's voice called curiously from behind, "how do we proceed? Is it true the castle can travel? I know the stories, but sometimes it is hard to separate myth from truth."

"Tell her about Dracula's castle, Alucard. Her day cannot get anymore ruined."

The dhampir shifted his gaze from the dirt floor to see his new mortal companions approaching the decimated house in which they had been using as shelter. The Speaker-Magician Sypha, and the drunken hunter Trevor Belmont. Two unlikely allies, two humans he vowed to help slay his father. Two humans who painfully reminded him of his sins, despite there being no connection between them.

"It is true," he shifted his eyes to meet hers, "how to describe it? It travels without moving, appearing in different locations as if by...well, as if by magick."

"There has to be some way to trap it." her eyebrows furrowed. "Where should we start?"

"I want to go home." Trevor mumbled, lifting a broken wine bottle from the abandoned chest that once sat in the dining room.

"Have you been drinking again?" Sypha questioned incredulously, crossing further into the ruins of the threshold. "Of course your mind is on alcohol instead of more important matters."

"Some chance, but no. I want to go home, to the old Belmont estate."

"I was under the impression it was destroyed. Villagers, pitchforks, and torches - that sort of thing." Alucard dipped his chin, the movements causing his golden tendrils to cascade down his back.

"It was. But the value of the house wasn't the house itself. It was what was buried beneath it: The Belmont Hold. My family's complete library and trove."

"The collected knowledge and material of generations of Belmonts who fought creatures of the night. That sounds interesting, if it survives." the vampire muttered.

"If there is any knowledge on the possibility and chance of defeating Dracula, they are in the Hold. I cannot read multiple languages or have prowess over magickal artifacts, but you two can. It's a start for a task we are monumentally underprepared for at the moment." Trevor crossed his arms in defense.

"Fortunate indeed, then, that I chose not to kill and eat you, Belmont. You may prove useful after all."

"And that I decided against gutting, flaying, and turning you into shoes, Alucard."

"Such a merry band we are." Sypha mumbled. "I am going to go find us a wagon. Do try not to kill each other while I am gone."

~

For nearly a week, they traveled west towards the Belmont estate. Alucard sat in the front of the wagon beside Sypha, golden eyes silently watching the dark green and white sea of forest pass by, leather reins in his hands. The winter sun shined brightly, the bare branches of the tree canopy above swaying back and forth, allowing glimmers of sunlight to filter through.

"I'm still not completely sure on why you don't catch fire in the daylight." the Speaker-woman glanced sideling at the immortal, a puzzled look flooding her features as she watched the pale rays of light dance across his face.

"I am half human." he responded evenly. "My mother's name was Lisa, and she was mortal."

"I would very much like to hear the story of how that happened." she rose her eyebrow in gentle curiosity, ice blue eyes refocusing on the dirt road before them.

The vampire let out a huff of air, not quite a laugh. "She found the castle and banged on the front door, demanding for my father to let her in and teach her to be a doctor."

"She sounds incredible." Sypha marveled.

"She was remarkable." his heart constricted as an image of his mother conjured in his mind, her grey eyes and warmth brining a sad smile to his lips. "She healed all manner of people in the nearby villages and cities, often traveling to provide them care."

Trevor startled from the back of the wagon; face contorted with disbelief. "Wait, Dracula actually taught a human woman how to be a doctor? What was first, bloodletting?" he chuckled mockingly.

"God, you still think you're funny." Alucard muttered in irritation. "My father is a man of science, a philosopher, a scholar. He knows things our society has forgotten three times over. Do you still not understand the enormity of what we are doing? He's gone mad, and from that there's no recovering him." his  mouth slanted into a frown.

"Shame," Trevor drawled sarcastically as he threw himself backwards to lean against the back of the wagon once more.

"It's a tragedy. He's a repository of centuries of learning. He could have changed the world. I think he might have, if my mother hadn't died. She'd send him to travel, you know. To see and learn about humans."

"She sent him away?" Sypha's head turned to the immortal beside her, raptly listening to his words.

"She would send him to learn the state of the world, the true nature of humans, how they live. If only the religious inquisition hadn't proved true all his thoughts about humans-"

"And now he uses her death as an excuse to destroy the very world she seemed to love." Trevor interrupted gruffly.

"Oh, the world will still be here, Belmont. Trees will still grow, birds will still sing, animals will still hump away in the undergrowth. But we won't be here. None of us. There will only be Dracula, his war council, and the hordes of the night if we succeed in failure."

 

《》

 

IT DID NOT TAKE LONG FOR THE ARMY OF HELLSPAWN to spread to every corner of Wallachia. They slaughtered under the cloak of night, talons and fangs bared to rip apart flesh and bone, just as they had in your visions. You spent your days roaming from town to town, hamlet to hamlet, offering herbal medicine and aid to those in need. The devastation of every massacre weighed heavily on your soul, despite your best efforts to save every innocent life you came across. You continued to travel east, fueled by the waves of refugees fleeing the bloodshed. It wasn't until you reached the outskirts of Arges that you finally arrived before Death.

The winter sun was hidden by a cover of thick grey clouds, its pale light shining dully upon the earth. It was a large city, rivaling that of Bucharest, its pitched-roofed buildings visible from the main road. A temporary blockade was set up just before the main gate, manned by those used to the weight of a blade.

"Halt, rider! State your business!" a voiced from beyond the wooden wall echoed out. You gracefully dismounted from your horse; eyes narrowed in caution.

"I am just a traveler," you took two steps forward before stopping, eyes landing on the archers that readied their arrows, "I am offering aid to the injured, protection when I can to those falling victim to Dracula's horde."

"Reveal yourself."

You frowned in annoyance before lowering your hood, eyes finding the warrior who had been addressing you. The metal of your circlet glinted in the light, the metal appearing to shift as you moved.

"You are alone?" he glared down at you.

"I am not."

Roya revealed themselves then, standing to their full height, their nearly white fur shifted against the snowy landscape. The men reacted as one, their confused and ignorant thoughts nearly as loud as their disbelief.

"You bring a monster here, heathen?!"

"Roya is no monster. The true monsters have yet to come."

"What do you know of Dracula's army? Speak, now!"

You cursed in your mother language. "I have no knowledge of their whereabouts. As I said before, I can offer healing and protection to those in need."

The warrior laughed cruelly. "As if we need protection from a pagan witch! That's what brought death to Gresit, you know. They allowed Speakers - Godless heathens - inside their gates. We will not make that same mistake!"

"You must listen to me I-"

"Leave now, witch. Or die right where you stand!"

Annoyance flooded your being as you eyed each and every man that stood guard. They were all entirely engulfed in terror, and each and every one of them had channeled it into hateful rage. Wordlessly you bent your head before mounting your horse once more. You did not look back at as you slowly rode off, Roya protectively beside you.

"I can feel death draw near, and yet, they refuse my help because I do not practice their narrowminded religion." you spoke bitterly as you prepared your camp for the night, your words swallowed up by the silent forest around you. You did not travel far from the gates of Arges as you felt the spirits of the earth drowning in unrest, the air growing taut. Everything shifted the moment the sun dipped fully behind the horizon, revealing the cloudless night sky and sea of stars. You heard them before you saw them, dark, guttural sounds that made gooseflesh appear on your skin. Within a breath they were upon you, crimson eyes glowing bright. Each one different from the other, a tortured mix of beings and creatures across time and space. They smelt of rot and decay, their teeth dripping with bloody shreds of flesh. With expert hands you unsheathed your blade and conjured your light, illuminating the forest around you in pale lunar splendor.

Roya growled deeply, baring their maw in preparation to strike.

"You must protect the town," you gazed at the familiar, "I will hold them off for as long as I can."

"Priestess-"

"Go, Roya!"

"Be careful, Priestess."

You did not respond as the familiar retreated to the direction of the town. Your eyes made contact with the entire hoard, and in a breath, they descended. You moved as air, channeling your light and wielding your blessed blade with deadly precision. The lesser creatures disintegrated into ash the moment their flesh was ripped apart by your magick, the blood of others quenching the thirst of your sword. When the final body fell you dipped your chin, eyeing the carnage around you. Gore of the fallen stained the formerly pristine snow of the forest while others burned to cinders in the brilliant light of your magick.

A sudden roar sounded from the dark forest as a gargantuan night creature broke through the tree line. It resembled an ancient beast you had read of in your youth, its face disfigured and charred. It stood as tall as ten men, its strength twice as much. It moved with unnatural speed as it bounded towards you. You were taken too off guard, unable to fully dodge the creature who viciously attacked you. The force of the night creature's blow robbed you of your breath as you flew backwards, landing painfully on your side. It's blood-curdling roar echoed out in all directions, the weight of its body causing the ground to shake. With a curse you stood, pain blooming hotly in your torso and hip. You called upon your light, throwing deadly slices in perfect arcs towards its extremities. It did nothing but anger the abomination before you. You dodged the creature's fire breath, eyes scanning its body for any telltale weakness.

You spotted the nearly imperceptible waver of the thinner skin at its neck, right in the middle of its throat. Gathering your breath to center you rushed forward before sliding through the opening of the monster's legs and jumping onto the back of its hulking shoulders. With all your strength you pulled the blade of your sword towards you, slicing open the skin of the creature's thick hide inch by inch. It roared and tried to throw you off its shoulders, but you dug your sword until you finally began to feel the sinew give away. A horrendous cry echoed from the creature, and despite your best efforts, you were thrown from its back. You saw stars at the back of your eyes as you made impact with the ground, the breath in your lungs stolen from you. Quickly you reached for your blade, only for your fingers to ghost over nothing. Your head snapped to where the night creature continued to roar and rear, the ivory of your swords handle shimmering in the pale moonlight, blade still embedded in the flesh.

Just as the hellspawn reared to attack you for the final time, a sharp, quick cracking sound echoed out. The night creature's head severed roughly from its shoulders as your blade was forced to slice through the tissues, blood and gore raining from the wound. It rolled a few paces away before stopping, its ruby eyes dimming as the soul passed on. Its body landed beside you with a heavy thud, its extremities twitching gently before stilling. Immediately you seized your blade and peered up to where the sound originated.

Standing upon the hill were two figures, one dressed in the striking blue robes of a Speaker, the other in a white coat, its embroidered crest indistinguishable in the low light. The owner of the coat held a whip in hand, the silver of its tip dripping in the blood of the night creature.

"Are you still alive down there?" the man called out, winding his weapon back to him.

You shifted, eyes narrowing. "I am."

The man and Speaker-woman slowly made their way towards you, their eyes taking in the strewn corpses. Their faces came into view, the hand on your sword tightening imperceptibly.

"We saw the explosion from the road to Arges right before we were attacked ourselves. Is the town in danger?" the woman eyed you curiously.

"Not anymore." you sheathed your blade, drawing her attention to the protection sigil etched into the scabbard's leather.

"You are a Priestess of Gaianna," her eyes widened in familiarity.

You dipped your chin. "Something of the sort. You know of the goddess?"

"It must be one hell of a 'something' if you can kill an entire pack of night creatures." the man commented gruffly, eyebrows knit in suspicion.

"Belmont!" the woman frowned before turning to you once more. "The whole purpose of Speakers is to know and carry knowledge throughout time and cultures. It is my duty as a Speaker to know such things."

The name echoed somewhere in the deep recesses of your mind. "Belmont? As in the House of Belmont, the family who hunted the creatures of the night?"

"The very same. Trevor is the name." he barely inclined his head in greeting.

"Well then, Trevor Belmont, speak plainly of your meaning."

He regarded you carefully. "It is rare for people to know how to fight and successfully kill night creatures. I would go so far as to say unheard of. And yet here you are, alone, with nearly twenty undead corpses strewn about, five miles from the main gates of Arges."

Before you could respond, a third voice rang out in the silent forest calling for Trevor and Sypha, who you assumed was the name of the Speaker. You saw each other in the same moment, the world roughly halting to a standstill. At first you believed it was nothing but a ghost, a cruel premonition conjured from the darkness. It was only when you heard the strangled sound of your name from his lips did your body react.  You took in the shocked molten of his gaze, the breath stolen completely from your being. Reality bent and folded into itself as you were consumed by an onslaught of thoughts and  emotions, all voicing their demands. 

The only one you could bear to listen to was the whisper that told you to run.