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THE VAN HELSING CHRONICLES PART VII
As the "Great War, or The War to end all Wars" starts to wind to a close, so does our tale. we pick up our story at Darach Castle, where Raynor has found Dracula and Mina in intimate conversation...
As the "Great War, or The War to end all Wars" starts to wind to a close, so does our tale. we pick up our story at Darach Castle, where Raynor has found Dracula and Mina in intimate conversation... 'What is this? What is this loathsome creature doing here?" Raynor thundered furiously. "What are you up to behind my back, Mina?"
"Raynor..." Dracula said soothingly. "I merely came over to introduce myself..."
"Be quiet! I am not speaking to you!" Raynor roared at Dracula. "I warned you to stay away from my family!" Anger and jealousy filled Raynor's heart. His emotions, which were usually under his tight control, now bubbled over. In one swift motion he reached out and slapped Mina, something he had never done before.
Mina cried out in shock, her cheek stinging frightfully where he struck her. "Do not think I didn't observe the way you were both looking at each other," Raynor spat maliciously. "Really Mina, it seems you cannot stay away from vampires, you are quite shameless."
Dracula made a few steps toward Mina, but he stopped. It was perhaps prudent he stay out of this tempestuous situation, and extricate himself; his interference would only make matters worse. Mina could not hold back the tears any longer. Her soft sobs filled the cavernous room.
Dracula made one last attempt to tranquilize the raw emotions in the room.
"Raynor, you have misconstrued this whole situation, She is Mina's granddaughter, and your wife, I would never make any overtures, my sense of honour would not allow it. I was merely making a neighbourly call." Dracula said calmly, trying to soothe Raynor's wrath. Dracula turned to Mina. "My dear, pray excuse me, I do not wish to cause anymore trouble. We shall speak again soon." Dracula bowed slightly. He inclined his head to Raynor then quietly slipped out of the room.
Raynor turned to Mina. 'Why was he here, what were you talking about, Tell me woman!" he hissed horribly. Mina's tears soon turned to rage. Her fists clenched. "How dare you strike me?" she cried. "What do you care what we were discussing? It is none of your business!"
Raynor snorted in disgust. "You are right, what do I care if you wish to amuse yourself with your late grandmother's lover." He turned and walked away.
The yawning chasm between them widened even further. A few weeks have passed, Mina and Raynor have been keeping their distance. While walking down the hall; Raynor heard some activity in the powder room so he went in to investigate. Raylene and Ulrika were together deep in conversation.
"What's going on in here my loves?" Rayor asked his daughters.
"Ulrika is sick, Daddy..." Raylene stated simply.
Raynor looked down at Ulrika, "My love, are you not well?"
Raylene left the two alone. "I'm alright daddy, just a little tired...can we play the game again tonight? Please?" she pleaded.
Raynor threw back his head and laughed. He had kept his promise and was indeed paying more attention to his children. His affection for them had grown somewhat; he enjoyed their company, when he was at home, of course.
"Why yes my love! Here, try and hit Daddy's hands..." The game was soon interrupted as Ulrika began to cough. Her small hand went to her chest; she could not catch her breath. The wheezing was horrible to witness.
"Ulrika! What is it my love?" Raynor cried worriedly.
The poor child continued her coughing fit. It went on for several minutes without abatement.
"Mina....MINA!" Raynor yelled out the door. Colin and Sabrina were married some weeks later; he bought a new home and moved Sabrina and Aidan in. He found the boy a little cold and standoffish; but they managed to get along well enough.
Aidan for his part was closing in on his teen years. Colin provided the companionship the boy needed. Aidan would even go so far as to say he liked and admired Colin to a point, the man was kind, did things with him, more so than his own father whom he barely saw, once a month or less. As for Colin's marriage to the wild and turbulent Sabrina, that relationship did not fare as well. She continued to blow hot and cold, she was moody, unpredictable at times, and altogether unreachable. Some nights Colin dreaded coming home. But in spite of it all, he still loved her.
Sabrina on the other hand, felt trapped. She was utterly and completely bored. After the initial thrill of moving into a new home wore off, she began to get restless. Even the occasional pleasure she got from Colin was wearing thin. Many a night would pass with neither speaking. As for Jon in France, it is close to two years he has been working at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception/Hospital. He has toiled tirelessly, working very closely with Sister Maria and Dr. LeClerc. Jon has become quite adept at dressing wounds and tending to the soldiers. He tries so hard to recall any memory, a name...but he draws a blank.
In these two years, his feelings for the young novice have grown. She is strong, capable, intelligent and caring. These last few months especially he has felt rumblings in his heart for Maria.
"What are you doing, Maria?" Jon asked.
"Making up the beds, we are expecting a lot of soldiers in the next few days, the flu has spread rapidly throughout the ranks." she replied. Jon smiled. "I must tell you Maria, your dedication to your work does you proud. There is not a finer nurse and caregiver here than you!" Jon said brightly.
Maria found herself beginning to blush. "Why Paul, what a wonderful thing to say, I am quite touched." She stared into those glorious blue eyes; the colour reminded her of a pristine lake she once knew of. He was indeed handsome; there was no denying it. And as each week passed, she found herself more captivated by him. Jon's heart began to beat a little faster in his chest. He has no memories of his past, he does not know if he ever loved before, but he certainly recognized the feelings he was starting to have deep inside his soul. He was starting to fall for the young Maria. Jon impulsively reached for Maria, to give her a friendly hug. She backed away and held up her hands.
"No, Paul...I am sorry. We must keep this professional between us. You are a patient here, I am one step away from taking my vows as a nun, this will not do." She smiled slightly. "You are simply grateful for all my care and kindness, nothing more." Jon's face showed the hurt he felt at her rejection. "I may not remember my past, but I am quite capable of telling the difference between gratitude and deep affection. If you do not care for me at all, please tell me now, and we shall never speak of it again."
Maria sighed. "Paul, you have a life out there somewhere, you may even have a family! It would be imprudent to speak of affection. There is a war going on, and most likely a flu epidemic, there is no time for such frivolities!" Jon reached out and touched her face; he lifted her chin and looked at her with all the feelings that were rushing in his heart. "And if there were no war? What would be your feelings then? Could you look at me with any regard?" he whispered huskily.
Jon's touch was like a bolt of electricity that had just rushed through her. Maria could not look away from his pleading look.
"Yes..." she whispered. "I could, very much so. if there was no war..." That was all Jon needed to hear. He gathered Maria in his arms and embraced her close to his heart.
"I am so pleased to hear you say that Maria. I will heed what you say, we will try and keep this professional, but remember all the talk is that the war will be ending soon, promise me you will not take your vows until we can discuss this more?"
Maria hugged Jon closely. Her heart soared being in his arms. "Yes, I will do as you ask Paul."
Jon smiled. Maybe something good would come out of this wretched war. Many nights Raynor kept a vigil at his daughter's bedside. She seemed to get no better. He wiped her fevered brow, he told her of stories of long ago, parts of his life he had never told anyone else.
Dr. Blewett visited often, but this strain of flu was spreading quickly throughout the district, and he was kept very busy indeed, and sadly, so were the gravediggers. Dr. Blewett walked into the room and turned on the light. "Any change?" he questioned Raynor.
"None. At least she is sleeping for the moment. I cannot fathom why she got sick, you see, she is special, she should have been able to fight this off." Raynor whispered. He did not want to say too much, even though Colin was now married to Sabrina, Raynor was not sure if he knew about the vampires in the family.
"Special...what do you mean by special?" Colin questioned. Obviously the wretched man was in the dark with regard to the family secrets, thought Raynor to himself. "It is of no consequence. Tell me, why is she no better?"
Colin sighed. There is nothing worse than telling someone his or her near and dear would not recover, especially a beloved child. But he knew deep down there was no hope for little Ulrika. He explained as gently and as compassionately as he could the facts to Raynor. This flu was baffling all the medical community with its 50% infection rate and over 25% fatality rate. He explained the other children should not be allowed in to see her.
Colin shook his head sadly and turned and left the room. Raynor sat perfectly still in his chair. Surely he did not just hear his daughter would die.
A deep rumbling began down deep in Raynor's chest, his head was roaring, his emotions were in a violent vortex, swirling madly beyond his control.
He stood, and out of the depths of his tortured soul came an anguished sorrowful cry that did not sound human. Mina froze in the kitchen. That sounded like a wolf, or was it a lion? It was a horrid, jagged animal cry and it sounded like it was coming from the room Ulrika was in. Mina sprinted down the hall toward the room, as she got closer, she could hear weeping. She stopped at the door and listened. It was Raynor! She had never heard him cry before! Mina burst into the room, Raynor was still sobbing, his animal roars now sounded more human, more pitiable. She had never seen such a flow of emotion from Raynor. It was if the dam of 600 years had sprung a huge leak, and all his pent up feelings were rushing forth in a torrent.
Mina's heart surged with love and pity. She felt her own eyes growing wet at his torment and anguish.
Mina ran over to Raynor to embrace him, first he pushed her away, but she would not let him do so. She gathered him in her arms and held him close, whispering softly to him to try and calm him down. Raynor resisted, but gave in to the love and sympathy being offered to him.
Ulrika tossed feverishly in the bed, moaning quietly. It did not last long. Raynor recovered quickly and immediately turned on Mina. 'Get away from me!" he roared. "Do not touch me! I want no one to touch me!"
Mina backed away. The wall was back up, while his handsome face bore his grief, his cold eyes flashed cruelty and anger, and utter despair. "What is wrong with you??" Mina roared back. "I offer my compassion and you push me away? What is going on here? What did Dr. Blewett say to you? What has turned you into a wild animal??"
Raynor flinched at the wild animal remark. "Ulrika is going to die." he said finally, "And there is nothing to be done."
Mina was stunned. "But she is half-vampire! I thought you said that she would fight off sicknesses, you told me so! You told me she would get better! You lied!" Now it was Mina's turn to cry out in anguish and she immediately collapsed on the floor overcome with grief. She sobbed for them all, the family such as it was, would never be the same.
Raynor stood and watched Mina, this was all too much. All these centuries he purposely kept people at arms length. He swore he would never be hurt again; and what has he done? In his desire for children he forgot you love and nurture them; grow attached to them. Only to have this happen! To have one taken from you in a most insidious way. Raynor turned and walked out. He could not handle the torrent of emotions flooding his soul, or the wretched screams of Mina, nor the ragged coughs from his daughter. He had to get out, he wanted to forget, he wanted to feel numb and never feel anything again, for anyone.
Mina was still on the floor. "Raynor! Come back! Please don't leave...not now! Raynor!"
The door slammed violently, rattling on its hinges.
He was gone. Jon was having very vivid dreams. For some reason he was dreaming of a dark foreboding castle, and a man, pale with dark penetrating eyes...he began to cry out in his sleep.
Maria ran to his beside and tried to wake Jon out of his intense dream. "Paul! Wake up! You are having a nightmare!!" Jon's eyes immediately flew open. It was hard to focus. He looked around and saw the familiar surroundings of the hospital. He breathed a sigh of relief.
"You were talking in your sleep, Paul." Maria stated. "You were saying a name over and over...'Dracula'...do you remember any of it?" Jon stood and shook his head to clear out the cobwebs. What kind of name was 'Dracula'? It was extremely puzzling. "No, I have no idea what any of it means, must have been a nightmare as you said." He began to smile at Maria. "I guess you will have to tuck me back in..." he teased.
"Paul! Really...behave! Remember what we said..." But Maria returned his smile; she was extremely flattered by his flirting. "Back to bed at once!" she said in her best nurse's tone.
Jon laughed good-naturedly and did as she asked. That same night, Raynor left a bereft and emotional Mina and went directly to Colin Blewett's home. He walked in unannounced into the parlour where Sabrina was sitting.
"Where is your so-called Doctor husband?" Raynor growled viciously. "I need to talk to him...and now!"
Sabrina saw the rage deeply etched in Raynor's face. 'What is it? What has happened?" she questioned. "Get him! I will not waste breath talking to you!" Raynor roared.
"He is not here, he is very busy with all the people sick with that flu. He hasn't been home for hours. Tell me Raynor maybe I can help." Sabrina said in a soothing voice.
"There is nothing you can do..." Raynor spat. "There is apparently nothing no one can do, my daughter will die regardless! I will go out and try to find him..." Sabrina ran into his Raynor's arms. "No! Not Ulrika! Colin told me she was ill, but I was sure she would recover...how you must be suffering!" Sabrina cooed. She pulled herself close to his muscular frame and nuzzled his neck affectionately. She was offering more that her sympathy and condolences...she was offering much more. Raynor looked at Sabrina. What she wanted and desired was plain on her face, she masked nothing. He wanted to feel numb, to feel no pain, no emotion, no grief for his beloved Ulrika; this would be one way to do it. To forget his troubles for a brief while would certainly mask the pain he was feeling. And what better way than in the arms of a woman? Raynor began to kiss Sabrina. Already the pain in his heart was lessening. She was nothing to him, just a diversion, it could have been any woman, anywhere in London, it would not have mattered to him. But here was Sabrina, offering herself freely, so why not indeed? Sabrina backed away. "One minute Raynor, before this progresses further, there is one thing I want from you in return."
"Come to me and you shall have it!" Raynor said roughly.
Sabrina laughed softly. "No...What I want more than your glorious self is to be a vampire...I want you to make me one. You must promise me this!" Raynor began to laugh most cruelly. "Are you mad, woman? If you want to be a vampire, ask your grandfather, he is quite adept at making them!"
"I have asked him, many times!" Sabrina hissed. "He will not do it! Says I 'have to earn it', that I am 'not ready'...well I say I am ready!!! And I want you to do it!"
Raynor continued to laugh. "I do not know if I can make a vampire my dear, I tried once hundreds of years ago, and it turned out rather badly. I wasn't powerful enough."
"Well you must be powerful enough by now! Centuries have passed!" she hissed through her clenched teeth. "We can try!!" Raynor stopped laughing. His first instinct was right when he first met this woman; she was not to be trusted. However, what did he care if she wanted 'the gift'? Besides, it would agitate Garrard to no end, an added bonus.
"I will consider it, however, you must accept the consequences whatever the outcome, do you agree?" Raynor said darkly.
Sabrina's eyes grew wide. "I do...anything you say!" "Then be quiet, not another word. Come to me..." Raynor began to kiss her up her arm until his lips rested on her neck. He left them there, teasingly.
Sabrina took a sharp intake of breath. She was finally going to get her way, and get the thing she most desired...(besides Raynor) eternal life! Meanwhile At Carfax Estate, high in the attic, Victor continues the scientific work that he and Edward started so long ago. Victor is most anxious to discover some sort of inoculation that will curb 'the need'. As the years spin by, it is becoming quite evident to Victor he will not be able to fight it off much longer.
He consults some ancient texts to get a better understanding of vampires and their curse... Edward at last joined Victor. He walked over to the fireplace and started a fire. "Still hard at work I see Uncle Victor, anything new I should be aware of?"
The clickety-clack of the dictograph is the only noise in the room.
Victor sighed in exasperation. "It is most frustrating Edward, Father's blood samples have really given us no new further information. We must be missing something! I suggest we test his platelets once again. Harrison has kindly consented to giving us a blood sample to test against." Victor furiously began to type again. The logs crackled in the large fireplace, the flames hissed and spit noisily in the stone hearth.
"I feel this is all folly, as your father so astutely pointed out. All these tests on our blood, and his...nothing conclusive." Edward said softly. "Victor, I know you are quite desparate to discover some sort of antidote for 'the need' as you call it. How can you fight it? You must have amazing fortitude, a constitution of steel, truly, I admire your stamina in this regard."
Victor exhaled a deep breath. "It is all Carolina, if it was not for her love and support I am afraid I would have been lost long ago...I would have succumbed and embraced my vampire side. You see Edward, I race against time, I must find an antidote before...before Carolina..." Victor's voice trailed off.
Edward patted his Uncle and dear friend on the shoulder...he understood completely. Edward and Sophronia had a very small ceremony at the Vicar's, with Victor and Carolina as witnesses. Edward was successful in convincing the Government of his demise, the forged documents passed muster and he married under his new name of 'Edward Tambling'.
They have moved into the Van Helsing's. It is their wedding night, a night they have been waiting for.
Edward stared into Sophronia's eyes, it was not that she was the most beautiful woman on earth, but she was the most beautiful to him. Sophronia jumped into Victor's strong arms. "I am so very happy, Edward!" she squealed joyfully.
Edward laughed. Her happiness was infectious. For the first time in years he felt serene, at peace. He enveloped her in his arms and lifted her off the floor, they both laughed. Edward gathered his love into his arms. He had not been with anyone since that fateful night with Sabrina all those years ago.
Now here he was, with a glorious woman whom he loved and loved him in return. How he longed to give someone all the love he had stored up in his heart.
Past hurts and mistakes were now forgotten; he wanted to live here and now, and would live life to the fullest with Sophronia. Now that Edward was back living at the Van Helsing Estate, he took a larger role in the lives of Adelaide and Warner; he also assisted Verity when he could, as did Sophronia.
Edward became a surrogate father to Jon's children, and he found he was enjoying it immensely. If he and Sophronia were lucky enough to have their own child, his joy would be complete. Edward has all but forgotten about Aidan Van Helsing, his son who has turned 14. He has his father's colouring, but his features favoured his mother...from the arrogant look to the cold, empty eyes that were deeply set in his handsome face.
His full lips were always curled in an insolent fashion; his manner was imperious and haughty.
He was Sabrina's son, through and through...Any positive influence Edward could have had on the boy, the opportunity had long since past. The affair between Raynor and Sabrina has continued on and off for over two months now. Since little Ulrika's death, Raynor has hardly spent anytime at home, his grief is still raw; the wound still festers.
His feelings for Sabrina have not changed, he still distrusts her, but she is a distraction, a path to the numbness he so desparately wants to feel and does, when he is in her arms.
"Raynor..." Sabrina whispered in his ear. "I am expecting a child...your child." Raynor backed away immediately from Sabrina. His anger flashed to the surface. "How do you know it is mine? What is this?" he growled.
Sabrina grinned mischievously. "Oh it is yours, I have been with no one else but you these last months. Perhaps I should tell Mina this bit of news..." Raynor's anger boiled over and he hissed menacingly at Sabrina. She did not flinch.
"Enough! I am tired of you using me while I have not gotten the one thing I want most...eternal life! When are you going to fulfill your end of the bargain?" Sabrina snapped. "Fine! You want the 'gift' as your grandfather calls it, then take it! I have had enough of you at any rate. It ends here Sabrina. I will come to you no more!"
He began to pull Sabrina into a trance.
In the haze she said softly. "You will be back tomorrow night for the final bite...Raynor, Raynor...?"
She felt an icy cold breath on her neck; the room went black.... It was late afternoon, at least 6 weeks after little Ulrika Nightwood was buried. Dracula decided to pay another call on Mina. He knew Raynor was out, and with whom...but he would never tell Mina that piece of disturbing news. He found Mina sitting alone in the drawing room; she was lost in her thoughts.
"Mina my dear...let me offer my deepest condolences for the loss of your daughter..." Dracula said with great emotion. Impulsively Mina rushed into Dracula's arms. Why she felt such a connection to him was inexplicable to her, but she welcomed him and his sympathetic gesture warmly.
Dracula patted her back and talked soothingly to her.
Dracula could not describe his feelings for Mina, he was not attracted to her romantically, but he cared for her deeply nonetheless. They parted. "How is Raynor handling this tragic event, my dear?" Dracula asked softly. He already suspected the answer, but wanted to hear Mina's side.
Mina bit her lower lip. "Terribly. If he was cold and withdrawn before, now he is more so." She explained Raynor's initial emotional response to the news, the torrent of anguish, the weeping, then pushing her and the children away.
Dracula listened; his heart began to ache for them all. "I am sorry Mina. It is quite obvious Raynor's emotional damage is far worse than perhaps either of us thought.
Let me tell you of the man I once knew, Raynor is descended from nobility, from a very proud and wealthy and arrogant family. When I first met him, he was as he was raised; unmoved by the human condition. However, I managed to break through, we became very close, brothers in fact. I saw in him a greatness, a depth of passion and emotion untapped, a man who for all his outward rugged, chilly exterior was a young boy inside, longing for love." Mina shook her head. "If you knew all this, why on earth would you betray his love and friendship so? Did you not know what that would do to him? And why did you never try to find him, to make amends, to help ease his turmoil over his new life state as a vampire? Was that not your responsibility as the one who made him?" Mina's voice began to rise.
Dracula felt his voice rising as well. "Yes, I admit I did him a great injury! I am not perfect; I am proud, too proud and stubborn by half. Do not forget I was just re-born to my new existence, I was reckless and selfish."
"When Raynor rejected my 'gift' and my friendship, I was wounded deeply in my heart. And I did not have to 'find' him; I have known where he was all these centuries. There is a connection between us, a blood connection. We are forever tied together. I did not seek him out because I was proud, hurt and heeded his wish to stay away. An error on my part. Perhaps if I had reached out to him years ago, he would not be out of our reach." "Listen to me Mina..." Dracula continued. "You must confront Raynor and tell him your feelings, you must break through and reach him any way you can..."
A young lady soon interrupted Dracula.
"Oh, I am sorry mother, I did not know you had company."
"This is my daughter, Raylene, Raylene this is Count Dracula." Mina introduced.
Neither spoke; they were locked in an intense gaze that did not go unnoticed from Mina, who looked on with concern. Raylene was but 14 years old, but she found herself completely entranced by the dark intense man standing in front of her.
His eyes drew her into depths she had not thought possible.
Dracula for his part could not help but admire Raylene. What a glorious looking young lady. Intelligence and strength shone in her eyes.
He found he could not look away from her radiance. At last, Dracula broke free from the intense gaze and went over to Mina. He gallantly kissed her hand. "Please, heed me my dear. You MUST reach Raynor, do not delay. Tell him how you feel, hold nothing back. Only you can do this, he does love you, I know it." he whispered only for her ears. "Will you put aside your pride and hurt and lay bare your feelings?"
Mina's lip was trembling. "Yes, I will do as you ask.' Dracula turned back to Raylene, he held out his hand. "So nice to meet you my dear, it was an honour. May I say you are quite beautiful, but with parents such as yours, it was inevitable."
Raylene reached out and took the large masculine hand. She tried to find her voice. "The pleasure was all mine, Count." she managed to squeak. Dracula turned to leave. His handsome angular features were intense, his brows knotted furiously in confusion. His emotions and intuitions were acute, and some interests that were long dormant, were starting to stir...
Dracula turned and left without looking back. The Flu epidemic was growing to worldwide proportions, after the death of Ulrika, the flu spread throughout the rest of the families. The flu no longer was attacking children or the elderly, but attacking otherwise healthy adults.
Verity was now very ill. Warner keeps a vigil at her bedside, praying she will not die. Harrison Harker has also taken ill. He lies in his bed, tossing and turning in a feverish state, attended by Mina and Victor in turn.
The family was in turmoil.
And to Victor's utter horror, not only has his brother Harrison taken ill but Carolina has also taken ill with the insidious flu that was spreading around the globe.
There was now not one family in the district that was not affected by this deadly flu.
Everyday life had all but come to a halt, stores and businesses were closed, it was even getting hard to bury all the dead. After Raynor left Sabrina, she slept awhile, and then awoke, quite pleased with herself. Now, he just had to return tomorrow night and the deed would be done. She would be a full-blooded vampire at last!
In the meantime, Colin had returned from his Doctor's duties, so Sabrina decided this would be a good as time as any to spring the news of the baby on him. "My dear!" she cooed. "How tired you look! You have been so busy we have had no time to talk!"
"Aren't you going to ask how your father, sister and aunt are doing? Don't you even care they are ill? You have not been to see them, to assist in their care! You are truly heartless, Sabrina!" Colin shook his head in disgust. "My dear, I have a valid reason, I have not been well myself." she sniffled convincingly. "You see, I am expecting a child Colin."
A smile broke out on Colin's face. "You are sure? Sabrina! What wonderful news! I am sorry my dear for chastising you, of course it is a valid reason!"
Sabrina smiled sweetly, almost sickeningly so. To be truthful, she had no idea whose child it was, Raynor's or Colin's and she didn't care...as long as Raynor believed it was his! Mina sat that same night, waiting patiently for Raynor to come home. It was now 3AM, a thunderstorm was rumbling frightfully outside, the rain beating against the windows with ferocity.. She sat...and waited.
At last Raynor returned.
"We must talk Raynor..." she said urgently.
He sighed exasperatedly. "Not now Mina, I am not in the mood for another row with you." "I do not want to fight..." she whispered. "There has been so much left unsaid between us for so long, especially since Ulrika died..."
Raynor was watching the thunder and lightening light up the night sky. He whirled around and looked angrily at Mina. "I will not talk about Ulrika, not now, not ever!"
"Then let us talk about us, Raynor, let us talk about love..." Meanwhile in France, Vic Harker has been promoted to Chief Medical Officer and one of his duties is to inspect the many aid stations, convalescent depots and hospitals along the western front. He came into the old Cathedral, when he saw a blond man vigorously washing bandages and bed sheets.
Vic froze. From the back he looked like...couldn't be! It could be his mind playing tricks on him, he wanted so desperately to see Jon again, any fair-haired man could be him. So many times Vic checked the injured as they came in to the battalion aid station, praying he would come across Jon Van Helsing. Could this be him at last? If it was why did he not tell the family he was safe?
Vic began to smile. "Jon....?" The man turned and faced Vic, my God; it WAS he! Vic was about to run to greet Jon, but he saw no flicker of recognition on Jon's face.
"Were you speaking to me, Captain? Is there something I can assist you with?"
As quickly as Vic's heart soared at the sight of his dear friend, it sank just as fast.
He does not know who I am....thought Vic incredulously.
TO BE CONCLUDED~~
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65 Comment(s) posted so far
On Dec 13, 2007 drewsoltesz wrote:
A few notes, in a couple of shots, some walls are down...oops. Also in one shot Raylene is a child, at the end of the chapter she is a teen, such is the Sim game age transition! LOL! Thought bubbles are part of the storytelling. The vampire mythology in this story is of my own making. (number of bites, etc...)
Also a big tip of the hat to my writing buddies, Eve, Beth, Leah, Gayl, Zayury and Sandy, their wonderful stories gave me the inspiration to take Raynor on an emotional journey I did not originally envision.
Putting the finishing touches on the conclusion...and thanks to all the artists for the great CC, so many of them here at TSR!!
On Dec 14, 2007 BBKZ wrote:
Wow! This is the most exciting story I've ever read here at TSR! I love it! And I will always wait for another part
Fantastic work! Thank you for sharing 
On Dec 14, 2007 fizz bomb wrote:
Beautifully written, such an emotional journey for all
looking forward the the final chapter
On Dec 14, 2007 candy820 wrote:
It's such a great story. Please let me know when the next one comes out. 5.0 if i could
On Dec 14, 2007 tahab wrote:
yup that great one
On Dec 14, 2007 Lord_Cyrus wrote:
ohh god that ending such a cliff hanger! I really can't wait till the next part! I am so eager to see if Jon will regain part of his memory and remember Vic.
overall another fantastic part to your Van Helsing Chronicles. keep up the good work! 5.0
On Dec 14, 2007 Melody Curious wrote:
Oh I have so been waiting for this next part! Hope your trip went well, and it's great to see you back up and running.
We forget now adays just how deadly flu once was, and I feel for those laid low with it. More so, Victor his deadline for an antidote may be coming sooner than he thought!
I want more now!!!
On Dec 14, 2007 estatica wrote:
Another cliffhanger!
I'm so glad you have updated this story, I was growing restless! Raynor really took over this chapter, he is such a tormented soul and a strong character. And I wonder how Jon will react when he finds out who he is... you did an excellent job, as always, I can't wait to read the next chapter! 
On Dec 14, 2007 Devalyn wrote:
Great, I've been waiting for this story for so long!
I hope Jon will remember who he is, and his wife can see him once again...
I was surprised how Raynor's story is evolving, I never thought he'd be that emotional
5.0. for you, if the rating was on.
On Dec 14, 2007 iron mum wrote:
That was brilliant
Can't wait for the next part.
On Dec 14, 2007 Miss_Crazy13 wrote:
He your're back.Hope that you had a nice trip.
Another great chapter!!!
It is really a cliffhanger!! Can't wait till the next part,please hurry up.
On Dec 14, 2007 sallyhails wrote:
I loved it, I've been waiting for this next part for so long, now I can't wait for the next
I'm glad Vic found Jon, but also a little sad, will it end his little romance with Verity, or will the flu do that for us? Great writing.
On Dec 14, 2007 Saoz wrote:
Mina finally said the "L" word! Is she too late, though. And that little thing between Dracula and Raylene - Raynor is going to go through the roof if anything ever comes of that!
Great update, as always. 
On Dec 14, 2007 wrote:
Wow, great job Karen!
There's so much emotion, so much passion in your writing, it's incredible. What an achievement.
Is the next chapter going to be the final one? Somehow I hope so, but on the other hand, I just don't want this story to end...
On Dec 14, 2007 KatCat wrote:
On Dec 14, 2007 amd11 wrote:
im so surprised that talent scouts haven't plucked you up and thrown you in the face of a movie contract.best story ive ever read,not just on TSR,but like books.
hurry with the next chapter!
On Dec 14, 2007 Zayury wrote:
On Dec 14, 2007 jaundyce61 wrote:
Sabrina a vampire?? NOOO!!! LOL! And can I say I have a crush on Dracula? What a glorious vampire! And what is going on with Dracula and Raynor's daughter? And speaking of Raynor...such a clash of emotions, well done!
And who will survive the flu? Will Jon remember? Another great cliffhanger!!
On Dec 14, 2007 GFitz wrote:
Karen, this was fabulous! I hate to see it end. I am really hoping that Sabrina does NOT get her wish. You have set up the conclusion in brilliant fashion! Where I had always been rooting for Mina and Edward, I have such sympathy for Raynor. He didn't ask for this life and it seems as though he has built a very strong wall around himself for all the long years. I actually hope he finds happiness with Mina! There are so many possibilities here...well worth the wait...and looking forward to the next one! ~gayl
On Dec 14, 2007 hazabaza1 wrote:
Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!!1 The new one!!!! You are kinda mean to be honest though... :/ Just had to kill off a child eventually... Naughty Sabrina as well! I hope evryone gets better... (You started on that book yet?)
On Dec 14, 2007 jadedqueenie wrote:
On Dec 14, 2007 wrote:
Wonderful, I'd been looking forward to this! A lot of interesting things here...I hope Raynor doesn't turn Sabrina and that it's not too late for things between him and Mina to be salvaged. Dracula and Raylene - very interesting! And I'm worried about all the characters who are ill - I really hope Victor doesn't lose Carolina yet, when he needs her most! I loved it, thank you for letting me know this was up.
On Dec 14, 2007 xtamadea wrote:
You're totally back in the game!!! Beautiful chapter once more. Is the next chapter going to be the last??? wow, I seriously don't want this to end. Real emotional all the way, especially for Raynor. And there are all this layers to him: a jealous side, loving side, desperate side. You've really made a complex yet realistic character. I love him!!! And Sabrina, well she really has no shame. Will Aidan inherit her traits?? Ugh, I hope not. But on the other hand bad guys always make the story.
Evil, evil, evil cliffhanger!!! Jon finally has a brush from his past. And his real wife is dying too. Kyaaaaaaaa, so many to see from the next part of the story!! You've done it again. Bravo to you, Karen!!!! 
On Dec 14, 2007 SpaciKathy wrote:
wow, a fantastic part
absolutly great
,can't wait to read the next part
On Dec 14, 2007 eshuff wrote:
Wow...I have so many comments....
Incredible emotional energy in all the characters. At this point, I feel like I know them, and they leap out at you! Raynor's struggle in particular draws me so deeply.
The period detail must have taken you forever to accomplish. I am so impressed! I would never undertake something so difficult!
Astonishing achievement! If South Beach had vampires, I'd certainly invite a couple of them to move in!
On Dec 14, 2007 SongChild99 wrote:
Did your trip go well?
Wonderfully done as always. I'm looking forward to Mina and Raynor breaking down some "emotional walls." Maybe they'll both be better for it. ^.^ There is one reason that I'm not looking forward to the ending - I'll have to say goodbye to my beloved Count!
On Dec 14, 2007 Magical Metamorphosis wrote:
Karen,
Another wonderful chapter!
Cheers,
Angela
P/S Can hardly wait for the next chapter!
On Dec 14, 2007 123456789_1234 wrote:
Great job!keep going!!
On Dec 14, 2007 123456789_1234 wrote:
On Dec 14, 2007 katty007 wrote:
The things in this story are getting more and more complicated... and more captivating, of course!
I've became so accustomed to waiting and reading its chapters, that I don't know, what I will do after it ends...
On Dec 14, 2007 mangooo1 wrote:
I don't know what to write... speechless...
That was amazing! You can describe their feelings totally true, it's very great, feels like I'm part of the family and can feel their sorrow or happiness too. Thanks for sharing and writing these stories. Poor Ulrika and the other people who are ill, I hope at the end everything will be good. Maybe this story is not meant to be a happy one at the end but I hope so 
On Dec 14, 2007 plyangel456 wrote:
Wow that was so good especially with the cliff hanger it just makes me want to read more. -plyangel456-
On Dec 14, 2007 binky13 wrote:
Wow. Someone found Jon and gez these stories just keep on building the suspense.
On Dec 14, 2007 cariadbach wrote:
On Dec 15, 2007 dayane_hola wrote:
On Dec 15, 2007 MissIlly666 wrote:
Interesting....
On Dec 15, 2007 Alyosha wrote:
Fantastic! I love the way this story has me glued to my seat! Love it! Wonderful!
On Dec 15, 2007 Deanna73070 wrote:
Oh, I'm so excited that Vic has found Jon!!!!! Wonderful, gripping ending to this chapter, Karen!!!! I can't wait to find out what happens next!!! Wonderful job!!!
Deanna
On Dec 15, 2007 janine2005 wrote:
On Dec 15, 2007 wrote:
A amazing chapter, love how you used every character and every emotion... great plots and subplots and a great set up to your conclusion, you know how to spin a tale!!
Dracula and Raynor have emerged as multi-layered fascinating characters!!WELL DONE!!!
On Dec 15, 2007 WelshWitch wrote:
Amazing, gripping, and totally enthralling, your writing is so gripping!! Love it.
Hugs
Welshy
x
On Dec 15, 2007 Kenvjo wrote:
Excellent! as usual!
On Dec 15, 2007 Hordriss wrote:
Building to a very powerful point. I can't wait to see how this resolves.
Still feeling a little sorry for Aidan, although given his upbringing and the determined neglect of his less objectionable parent, he probably wouldn't have many redeeming features (and you are clear on this point). I'd feel sorry for Sabrina, only her manipulation of Raynor (and I was wondering when her desire for immortality would become explicit) has finally put her beyond the pale. Thanks for all this free entertainment. 
This beats most commercial vampire fiction I have read.
On Dec 15, 2007 sara_87 wrote:
you rock!
On Dec 15, 2007 simmgirl wrote:
I loved your story. The ending caught me off guard, more like a cliff-hanger. I can't wait for more. Really good story.
On Dec 16, 2007 wrote:
Powerful writing , great story
On Dec 16, 2007 sweetcharming wrote:
Great cliffhanger, awesome written and interesting storyline!
On Dec 16, 2007 sakravy wrote:
I can't wait wait until you release the next part.It was a fantastic story!
On Dec 16, 2007 Katriona! wrote:
Beautifully written
I loved it
I'm not looking forward to the ending
On Dec 16, 2007 DarkBorderR wrote:
I am in love with your story. I hardly wait the next sequence! Thank you for sharing it with us!
On Dec 17, 2007 Eve70 wrote:
The pics are gorgeous and perfect, as always. The writing is superb, my friend. I am holding out hope for Raynor and Mina, and for their unspoken love. Dracula feeling romantic? Can't wait to see what happens there. Very sad, but also a chapter with a touch of hope, now that Vic has found Jon. Cheers!
On Dec 18, 2007 jero22 wrote:
one of the best sim stories i ever read
On Dec 18, 2007 Wigwog wrote:
Woah!!!
On Dec 20, 2007 Stesie wrote:
LOVELY!
On Dec 22, 2007 DevlishDoll91 wrote:
This just gets better and better!
I so cant wait for the next one to be released now
On Dec 31, 2007 sandybvv wrote:
WOW!!! great chapter! LOVE IT!!!
GREAT job!
On Jan 13, 2008 SimsBarbie wrote:
Just amazing...absolutly amazing in so many ways. Sabrina..and Raynor. Vic finding Jon. So, so much emotions. The Count and Raylene?...that may prove quite, quite interesting in due time. And creepy Aidan. Hmm will he ever find love? Wondeful job on this chapter.
On Feb 6, 2008 wrote:
OMG!!! Such a wonderfully told tale!!!!!! I am totally in awe of your story-telling abilities!
On Feb 7, 2008 Little Seer wrote:
I have been busy and haven't made it in for ages. I am very happy to check up on all your characters. Love this story and this was a wonderful episode. Cheers
On Feb 17, 2008 OpheliaNival wrote:
I have no words left... I found the last frame to be the most heartbreaking of them all... Poor Vic.
I catch myself feeling sorry for those who lost their familymembers to the flu, even Raynor.
On Mar 23, 2008 love-marta wrote:
Good story! Can't wait for the next one!
On Mar 15, 2009 Kvetoslava wrote:
On May 26, 2009 fabrizioammollo wrote:
There is so much to worry about...
Another great chapter 
On Oct 15, 2009 maxi king wrote:
On Dec 29, 2009 kjw19 wrote:
Awww poor Vic Jon doesn't know who he is i hope Jon will remeber he isn't Paul brilliant story