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~THE VAN HELSING CHRONICLES PART VI~
At the Carfax Estate, Dracula has come face to face with Raynor Von Nachtwald (Nightwood), after 600 years. The close friend he so callously and misguidedly turned into a vampire...
At the Carfax Estate, Dracula has come face to face with Raynor Von Nachtwald (Nightwood), after 600 years. The close friend he so callously and misguidedly turned into a vampire... Dracula whirled around to face Raynor. They both stood and stared at each other for quite sometime. Raynor's face was fraught with antagonism, and a quiet turbulence. Dracula's keen senses could feel the hostility oozing from Raynor. He also looked into Raynor's cold polished granite eyes and deep into his soul.
"Yes, I see what you have become Raynor..." Dracula said softly. "And whose fault is that?" Raynor cried angrily. "You took away my humanity, my soul! You turned me into this creature! This parasite, you cursed me!"
Raynor's mouth twisted in unbridled fury. "I feel nothing! For no one! It is your doing!"
Dracula replied, "That is not true Raynor, you feel...and deeply."
Raynor snorted his disgust and disbelief at this foolish remark.
Dracula continued. "So you have spent the last 600 years storing up your hate. What do you want, do you wish to fight a combat, do you wish us to rip and shred at each other? To what purpose? Or perhaps you wish to destroy me! It cannot be done! You know this, or you will meet your own doom!" Dracula hissed. "Or perhaps you wish me to destroy you...well I will not do it!"
"Raynor, What I did was selfish, I see that now." Dracula said in a calmer tone. "I was not out for revenge on you. All I wanted was my brother by my side. Let go of your hatred, it is eating you up from within. I sense your soul is rotting away. I tell you this from experience, I too know what it is to hate, to want revenge. It will avail you nothing. It will not calm your tortured soul, nor soothe the savage beast in you."
"I have no soul." Raynor hissed coldly. "And if I am a beast, it is your 'gift' that made me so. I am not the man you once knew."
"Why are you here Raynor, why now?" Dracula said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I have moved here with my wife and children, Garrard." Raynor scoffed dismissively. "It seems my wife wishes to be near her family, and who am I to deny her?" Raynor chuckled. "So get used to the idea, you are not the only one with your own little clan now! I don't know if you have ever met my wife, Mina Harker?" Raynor said the name with emphasis. Dracula was visibly shocked. "Mina....HARKER? My Mina's grand-daughter!? What is this?? How did you insinuate your way into her graces, and why?"
Raynor smiled evilly at Dracula's reaction to that piece of news. "It was most easy. She is beautiful, but weak. And it turns out, quite adept at bearing children, that is why!" Raynor laughed cruelly. "I do not know what your game is Raynor," Dracula said brusquely. "But hear this, you will not harm my son, his children, nor the rest of the extended family. If you say I am the head of this 'clan' then so be it, I will protect them, even if it means your destruction." Dracula sighed deeply. "But let us be sensible, I say we should not quarrel. For myself, I am weary of revenge and all that entails; I say we pledge a truce."
Raynor listened. He was quiet for several moments. What WOULD be the purpose of a battle? He could not destroy Garrard, and any injuries they would incur would heal almost immediately. The look of distraught surprise on Garrard's face would have to be enough...for now. "You have certainly changed your tune...what is all this talk about peace and a truce? You have grown soft Garrard!" Raynor laughed mockingly.
"Unlike you Raynor, I have loved; I love my family. Do NOT cross me. This is not a warning, but a promise. If you wish to live here in this district, I will not stand in your way. But you will obey me in this."
Raynor looked into Dracula's dark, foreboding eyes. "Fine, for now I will pledge a truce. But I am my own man, and take orders from no one, least of all you." Raynor turned and walked out of the room.
There would be no battle. At least not tonight. After the death of Laura Harker, Sophronia stayed on at her Uncle Harrison's to help him through his grief. She continued to see Edward socially most nights. The couple had grown much closer than either of them thought possible in a short period of time.
Edward's pale handsome face lit up and he smiled warmly when Sophronia walked into the room. He got up to greet her. "My dear Sophronia, how lovely you look, your new hairstyle suits you quite well." Edward smiled. He reached for her hand and kissed it tenderly.
Sophronia took a sharp intake of breath. Even his lips on her hand made her body quiver. She could not tear her eyes from the chiselled perfection of his handsome features. Edward led her gently over to the loveseat. "Sit my dear. I have something to discuss with you. You may not believe the sorry tale, for I hardly believe it myself. I have to tell you about my life. Only the immediate family knows my dark secret, now I am going to reveal it to you." He said gravely. Edward told everything, Sabrina's role in his fate, Dracula's choice, his altered life state. His son with Sabrina, and Aidan's status. The rest of the vampires in the family, and the decendants. He held nothing back.
He watched closely for any sign of repulsion or disgust. Sophronia's eyes held his steadfastly, she did not recoil in terror. She listened intently to his every word. "Edward, I am not horrified. In fact, I suspected as much for sometime. I never see you during the early part of the day. Aunt Laura, God love her, warned me to stay away. Sabrina, has hinted many times that you are not what you seem. She seemed to take great pleasure in telling me so. When I tried to talk to Uncle Harrison about you, he was very vague. Your son Aidan...told me he is special, because of you." Sophronia paused.
"It matters not that you are a vampire..." Edward grabbed Sophronia and held her close. It was more than he expected. He was so afeared she would react as Mina had done all those years ago. Mina did turn and run from him in horror.
Sophronia did not. She was everything he could have hoped for. He was so grateful he felt a few tears form in the corner of his eyes. Sophronia caressed Edward's cheek. "How ever do you shave? With no reflection to look at!" she teased lovingly.
Edward laughed heartily. "Very carefully, my dear!"
"Truly, you must cut yourself, my poor Edward!" she smiled.
"I frequently do, but I heal almost immediately. Sometimes Victor assists me. Sophronia..." his voice took on a more serious tone, "You are not horrified by what I have told you?" "No my darling. I will learn to adjust to your life-state. I want to be with you, for as long as I can. I say this hand on heart. You see Edward, I love you, and have loved you for sometime." Sophronia said softly.
"If we are married, my love..." Edward said quietly. "You may not be able to have children. It is rare for vampires. I will understand if you would not want to be with me." "It does not matter to me, as long as we are together. Kiss me, my darling." Sophronia whispered passionately.
That was all Edward needed to hear. He has waited a long time to find love and happiness, and finally here it was. He grabbed it and embraced it..he would never let it go. The next evening, Edward sought out Dracula in the library. "What is it, Van Helsing? Speak your piece, you have that look on your face as you so often do."
"Very well, Victor and I have taken up the research again and we need to draw some blood from you." Edward said without emotion. "That nonsense again! I would have thought after the fire your bizarre interest would have been extinguished. Really Edward, have you no better way to spend your time?" Dracula scoffed. Edward did not reply.
Dracula sighed. "Very well, if Victor wishes it, fine. While you are here, I should inform you Raynor Von Nachtwald has resurfaced. You may know of him by Lord Raynor Nightwood. Besides you, he is the only other I have given the gift to."
Edward let this information sink in. "Nightwood...Mina's husband is a vampire?? Is this the knight Victor told me about? My God!" Edward was stunned. Mina ran from me into the arms of another vampire?? What a slap in the face!
As if Dracula were reading Edward's thoughts, he said, "I am assuming Mina was not aware of Raynor's secret, for why would she run from you, only to tie herself to another vampire, it is not logical. He bears close watching Edward, he is unpredictable...I thought to warn you."
Edward turned and walked out of the library, utterly astonished at this news. It was the very next night that Harrison and his two daughters were called into the parlour at the Harker home by Mina and Raynor. They were all puzzled by what the meeting would be about.
"I for one, am anxious to meet Mina's husband!" Verity stated. "Perhaps they are going to tell us Mina is expecting a child!" At that moment, Raynor and Mina walked into the room. After Mina introduced her husband to Verity and Sabrina, Raynor politely offered his condolences to Harrison and his daughters over the loss of Laura.
Raynor then immediately plunged into the matter at hand, he announced without emotion that he was a vampire, and the children were dhampyres. Sabrina was shocked. She could hardly take in what was said. How does Mina attract these glorious vampires? It was not fair! She fumed inwardly.
She looked Raynor up and down, her eyes travelling over him as a search light scanning the fog. He looked like he stepped out of a fairy tale, a battle hardened knight of old, a man of mist and dreams...He was magnificent looking, stunning in fact. Those eyes! And that sensual mouth...Sabrina shuddered. Harrison got off the sofa and faced Mina. He felt as if his heart would break. His tired face bore the misery that lay within his soul over this news. Almost all his grandchildren...half-vampires, the curse continues, Harrison thought sadly.
Mina's eyes filled with tears over the look on her father's face. I have hurt him! She ran into the next room, crying softly. Harrison quickly followed, and gathered his oldest daughter into his arms. "My love, please do not despair. I am sorry to react so; it is such a shock. If you truly love this man, then there is no more to be said. I will welcome him into the family, and embrace your children."
Mina hugged Harrison in return. "Oh father, I love you so...we are here to stay, Raynor has found us a place nearby to live. I will never leave you again!" she cried. Sabrina immediately got up from the sofa and embraced Raynor. "Welcome to the family," she purred in his ear. She hugged him tightly; holding herself against his muscular frame. His physical presence was potent indeed. She shuddered inwardly.
'I must make him mine!' Sabrina cried firmly to herself.
Raynor was feeling uncomfortable in Sabrina's tight grip; he broke free and backed away. He looked at her strangely. Harrison came back into the room. He turned to his daughters. "Girls, will you let Raynor and I have a moment alone?"
"Of course Father." Verity and Sabrina left the two men. They looked at each other intensely. Finally, Harrison spoke. "What are you playing at? Why come here now, why did you not tell Laura and I all those years ago about your 'life-state' when we were in Scotland visiting? What kind of hold do you have over my daughter? There is more here than you are telling!" Harrison's eyes narrowed suspiciously. "I do not take kindly to so many accusations thrown at me at once..." Raynor hissed menacingly. "My relationship with Mina is none of your business. I will not have you or anyone interfere! I choose when to reveal my secret, and to whom!" Raynor's grey eyes grew dark and dangerous. Harrison recoiled from Raynor's threatening tone and look. "You are as evil and immoral as Dracula!" Harrison cried.
"More so, perhaps." Raynor snapped irritably. "Do not cross me Harker, I do not wish to cause you harm...but know I will not hesitate to make you suffer if you do." Later that same evening, Mina at last managed to be alone with Raynor. It had been close to two months since she had seen him.
"Tell me my sweet, what is the story with your sister Sabrina, she seems quite different from you and Verity." Raynor inquired.
Mina explained about Peter, Sabrina's father, the fact Sabrina was at least 1/4 vampire, and her child with Edward.
Raynor snorted. That certainly explained a lot. He would have to keep an eye on her; she was not to be trusted. "Enough about Sabrina. I have some news Raynor. I am expecting a child." Mina murmured shyly.
Raynor's handsome face broke into an uncharacteristic smile. "My sweet! What joyous news. I am indeed glad to hear this!" Raynor pulled Mina close. She could feel his hot breath on her throat. She leaned back and let her neck be exposed. Raynor gently ran his sharp canines over her pulsating artery. Mina shivered.
"We will make a fresh start my sweet. Things will be better between us. Now, come to me..." he whispered. Dracula continued to enjoy the company of the twins, Gabrielle and Garrard, He was extremely close to them. He missed out on Victor and Vic's childhood, so he was relishing his role in the twin's lives.
As with Vic; Victor and Carolina were forthcoming with them, so they knew what blood they carried, and who their grand-father was. It mattered not, for they adored him completely.
Today he was introducing them to the music of Mozart. The Victrola scratched and squeaked out 'The Abduction from the Seraglio'. "Bah," Dracula scoffed. "It was much better live."
Garrard's eyes widened. "You knew Mozart?" he questioned with awe.
"I have seen him perform many times. I met him once, in the court at Vienna, strange little man, but a genius. Listen closely Garrard, let the music flow over you. This opera is a classic..."
The twins continued to be fascinated by their grandfather. Vic did indeed leave the Van Helsing's; he moved back in with his parents temporarily. He had only seen Verity a few times briefly since their shared kiss after the funeral of Laura Harker.
It was on this day, in 1916, he showed up in uniform. Vic had been conscripted into the Army. He would be serving at the front lines as a Battalion Medical Officer.
He had come to say his farewells to Verity. Verity looked in shock at Vic. She was frozen in her lounge chair. "Oh Vic..." she uttered softly. "When do you leave?"
"In a couple of days. I catch the train for Liverpool where I will meet the ship leaving for France. I have come to say good-bye Verity, I am sorry I cannot keep my word to Jon, I have spoken to father and Edward, they will do what they can to help you out..." Vic's voice trailed off in sorrow.
Verity's feelings breached the wall she had constructed around her heart. Ever since she impulsively kissed Vic, the wall stood, tall and firm...now it was crumbling.
She ran into Vic's arms. "Am I to be broken bit by bit? First Jon, now you? I cannot bear it!" she cried unhappily.
"You do care for me a little? I am going to war Verity, tell me how you feel toward me, I implore you!" Vic whispered hoarsely. "I...I...care for you very much Vic...I do love you, I cannot deny it." her lower lip was trembling.
"But you do not love me as you love Jon...I understand. I will not press you. Know I have loved you my dear Verity for a long time, I always will. I must go." Vic said in a low voice.
Verity ran into his arms and kissed him passionately. Was it possible to love two men at once? Her mind was a confused mass of emotions. She loved Jon deeply, completely.
But something about Vic touched her very soul.
Vic returned the kiss hungrily; he may never see her again. They at last parted, Vic turned and walked away quickly. He dare not look back, or he felt he would go to pieces in front of Verity, and that would not do.
Verity watched in horror as Vic left. Her hand went to her mouth in distress. She may never see him again, neither him nor Jon! The pain in her heart was raging dreadfully. A few days later and it was time for Vic to leave. He went into the drawing room where his father and grand-father awaited him.
"I must go, I have already said good-bye to mother and the twins." Vic said calmly. "I have to catch the 6:20."
Both men were devastated by this turn of events, but they would not let Vic see their distress. "You remember your promise Dad, you will look in on Verity and the children?" Vic whispered urgently.
"Of course Vic, I promise I shall. Do not worry yourself. We shall look out for each other as we always do in such times." Victor said softly. Vic embraced his father warmly. 'I shall miss you, I shall miss you all terribly. Think of me often. Take care Dad."
Victor tried to keep his tears of sorrow at bay. "Oh do be careful my son, we want you home safe as soon as possible!" Vic went over to his grand-father and embraced him warmly as well. "Take care my dear boy..." Dracula smiled affectionately. "You shall do us proud. I know in my heart there will not be a finer Medical Officer or soldier as you. Remember your blood; you are descended from the bravest knights of old, a long tradition of honour and nobility and service."
"I shan't forget." Vic whispered in Dracula's ear. "I love you Grand-father." And in a moment, Vic was gone. In the meantime; Jane Van Helsing has taken ill very suddenly. With Vic off to France, Dr. Colin Blewett has been called in to attend. Colin had now taken over his father's medical practice full-time.
While Victor looks at his mother with great concern, Edward consults with Colin on the prognosis.
But before he does, he leaned in and whispered to Colin. "I know this is not the time or place, but my cousin Vic tells me you are seeing Sabrina. Let me warn you to stay clear. She is not to be trusted...I fear for you." Colin stared incredulously at Edward. "No, this is not the time, nor is it your business. Sabrina has informed me of your past with her, and I am well aware of how you feel about her. I will make my own judgement regarding Sabrina."
Edward shook his head in disbelief. "Fine, just remember I warned you. Now about mother..."
Colin took Edward's arm. "Let's go in the next room. She may overhear." "What is it? Colin, do not spare me, give it to me straight." Edward said firmly.
"Your mother has a matter of days, if not hours. The pneumonia is in both lungs, there is nothing to be done. The stroke weakened her constitution considerably. I am sorry Edward. The end is near, you should call the family together to say their good-byes." Colin said sadly. Victor stayed behind in the room with his mother. Jane's chest has a ghastly rattle; her breathing is laboured and obviously painful. Victor whispered calmly to Jane, the woman who loved him and brought him up. He is trying to soothe her in her final time on earth. He thought back to the past, all the times she loved and nurtured him, when no one else would. He leaned over the bed close to where his mother could hear him; tears were forming in his eyes. . "Listen my dear brave lady...Let yourself go. Your time here is done. You are at the journey's end. Suffer no more, go where Uncle Edward awaits you. I see him, standing on the shore, his loving arms longing for your embrace." Victor's voice broke.
Jane's last thoughts were of all people, Dracula, and his visit to her...and his offer of kindness. Jane slipped into a deep coma and died a few days later. She is buried on the estate next to the love of her life Edward Van Helsing Sr., in the same family graveyard as Jonathan and Mina Harker.
The family was devastated. A week has passed since the death of his mother. It is dusk, the sun is settling fast in the sky. Edward is taking a walk about the estate, in the distance; he looks over to where both his parents are buried. Never has he felt so alone. Both parents gone, Jon God knows where, if he is even still alive.
Thank God for Sophronia, she has been a great support, Edward thought to himself. He decided he would move back into the Van Helsing home, and bring Sophronia as his bride. They both would be able to help Verity and each other in their grief. Edward walked out to the post box to pick up the mail. He was shocked to find a letter for him, from the British Government. He ripped it open and read the contents.
He could not believe it. He was conscripted into the British Army! Utter madness! He would have to consult Victor immediately. It was decided they would all meet; Dracula included Raynor much to the objections of Edward and Victor. Dracula was adamant, he was a part of the family now, like it or not. And he was a brother vampire.
In a dark corner of the Carfax Estate, there was a remnant of the ruined Abbey that survived the fire, so Victor and Dracula had built a secret room. This is where the historic meeting will take place. Edward immediately explained the letter he received from the Army. The other men listened intensely.
Finally Dracula spoke. "In the old days, we could move about without fear of anyone monitoring us. Now, thanks to this war, it is obvious the government intends to keep better records, to track its citizens. They have a record of your birth no doubt..." Edward nodded. "Yes, it is how they found me I am sure. It is mandatory now to register births, so any of our children will be easily tracked. Also tax records are tightening, money will be harder to hide."
The men all murmured in agreement.
Edward continued. "So, it will become harder to explain why we do not age, as Victor found out at the University.
It is plain we will have to start using other identities, forged documents and the like. Fake births...and deaths." Dracula spoke. "We are somewhat isolated from the outside world here, but Edward is speaking sense. Technology is ruling the world, and it will only accelerate as the years unfold. It will be near impossible to explain our existence. The first order of business will be to fake Edward's death and convince the government of your demise. Then we will have to find you a new identity." Raynor scoffed. "Really gentlemen, do you really feel we have to go to all this trouble? Utter nonsense!"
"If not for us then the children, Nightwood." Victor said firmly. "You have dhampyres, as does Edward. Vic, Garrard, Gabrielle and Sabrina are 1/4. They too will have a longer than normal lifespan, they need protection. It is the prudent thing to do." "How long a lifespan? Does anyone truly know?" Raynor asked.
Victor shook his head. "No, I was told 300 years or more for a dhampyre, but even that it not accurate, there are no absolutes, so it is feasible the 'quarters' could live to be 150 or more."
Dracula sighed. "It is decided. We will begin at once to set up fake identities for us all, and a death certificate for Edward." The meeting was all but over. Raynor got up and sought out Edward. "So we are brothers!" He inclined his head toward Dracula. "And it seems he is our father. Tell me, do you despise him as I do?"
Edward looked at Raynor frankly. "I did at first, but now surprisingly, I do not. I tolerate him. He is wise and has a honourable streak in him I can't help but admire."
Raynor laughed cruelly. "You are a fool. I surmised as much when I heard you let Mina get away from you." "Your mocking words do not injure me, Nightwood. I do not know whom I pity more, you or poor Mina, I saw the love in her eyes when she spoke of you, and the fear.
Do not mistreat her, or you shall answer for it...from all of us." Edward turned and walked away.
Raynor raised an eyebrow, Love? Van Helsing was deluded, and an utter fool!
Dracula came over to Raynor. "Settled into your new home? Darach Castle is rather foreboding and old, your family may not like such cold surroundings, but I suppose they are used to living with you." Dracula smiled slightly.
Raynor pointed a finger at Dracula. "Do not try and exchange pleasantries or make smart remarks with me. I warn you here and now to stay out of my life and away from my family."
"Then why did you move here, Raynor?" Dracula asked softly. Raynor turned and walked away without replying. As the men begin to leave, it occurred to all of them that a fellowship was now forged between them all, a bond. They would be forever linked, by blood, by family, regardless of their personal feelings toward each other.
They had closed ranks, they were, in essence a 'Band of Blood Brothers'. In France, Jon has taken his role in the hospital quite seriously. For the last several months he has been attending to the sick and dying soldiers.
His memory is still a blank page. Dr. LeClerc has tried to talk with him to try and trigger his memory, but it has been to no avail. The Army wanted Jon to go back to the trenches and fight, but Dr. LeClerc stepped in and halted that possibility. So as the months click by, he wonders if he will ever remember...anything. It is now Christmas 1916, and Sabrina continues to see Dr. Colin Blewett socially. As she told her cousin Vic, she will amuse herself with him, like a cat with a mouse, batting it between it's paws before the kill.
She frustrates the poor man, cold as ice one minute, warm as the fire burning in the hearth the next. He has no idea where he stands with her, and it fascinates him to no end.
Tonight Colin has declared his undying love for Sabrina. Sabrina walked away and clenched her fists in anger. Stupid, wretched idiot! This is growing tedious. She did not love him, not in the least little bit. What was she to do? Edward was going to marry her ugly cousin; Mina was expecting another of Raynor's spawn...why should she founder on a shelf?
To hell with it, Sabrina thought with a haughty finality. Sabrina ran into Colin's arms and began to smother him with her probing kisses. She was overwhelming him as she often did with men. There was no doubt she was attracted to him, he was most handsome and had a fabulous muscular body, two things very important to Sabrina in a man.
However, he was not a vampire. A major detriment. In other words he was not Edward, or Raynor for that matter. Colin broke free and backed up a couple of steps. "I need to know your feelings Sabrina, or this relationship must come to an end. I am tired of your games, my patience is spent."
Sabrina grabbed his hand. "Come upstairs and I will show you..." she purred. Sabrina did not waste any time. She soon had Colin Blewett in her arms and on her bed. Yes, he would do for now...until she could make her plans come to fruition regarding Edward and Raynor.
Yes...he would do... Later: "Marry me my darling, you have captured my very heart and soul. No woman has ever moved me as you have!" Colin proposed.
Sabrina thought a moment, why not? He certainly was more than adequate as he just proved. Besides, she needed the security and the money. Harrison Harker would not tolerate her under his roof much longer. A husband might prove a necessary evil. Sabrina held Colin close and purred. "Of course my darling, right away. We shall be a family. My poor dear Aidan needs a father most desperately, and I do love you..." she cooed.
Colin beamed from ear to ear, never was he so happy...more fool him. So Colin wasted no time, he approached Harrison and told him of his intensions with regard to Sabrina. Harrison was secretly relieved. He grabbed the young Doctor's hand and shook it vigorously.
And Harrison Harker gave his blessing and breathed a huge sigh of relief. She would be gone from under his roof, thank God!! Her and that wicked child! One early evening, when Dracula knew Raynor would be out, he quietly appeared in the Nightwood castle. Mina could not believe her eyes, this must be the Count Dracula she had heard so much about.
He had such a proud bearing, a look of confidence she had never seen in anyone else. His face had a dark chiselled handsomeness of a long ago time, it did not look kind, but neither did it look cruel.
"Mina..." Dracula uttered softly. The likeness to his long dead love was astounding. He found he could not look away from her beauty. "Raynor is not here." Mina said quietly. Those eyes! Like staring into a dark, mysterious lake!
"I have not come to see Raynor. I am Count Dracula. I have longed to meet you. You favour your grandmother. You are quite beautiful my dear Mina..." His dark husky voice whispered.
Mina could instantly see what her grandmother saw in this...man.
Dracula continued. "I have come to discuss Raynor with you, if you would permit me. I am quite concerned for him."
"Yes, as am I. He told me of his transformation. He is still affected by it, after all these years." Mina stated with some concern in her voice. "And at your hand, his dear friend..."
Dracula sighed. "I will not try to explain my actions of over 600 years ago, I was a different man then. Suffice it to say; I realize how selfish I was in wanting my friend with me for all time. I have told Raynor this. However, he chooses to live his life wallowing in hate and darkness. I see by the look of sadness on your face he keeps you and the children at arms length. I feel your pain, your love for Raynor." "Why? Please explain to me why I stay with him! He doesn't love me or the children! Not really! He is so cold, so distant! I am afraid to show how I feel, I am afraid to hear that cruel mocking laughter of his!" Mina cried. "Most nights he is gone God knows where, with God knows who, I cannot take much more!" Mina found herself confessing her deepest thoughts to Dracula, she couldn't explain why.
"With some vampires, desire is intertwined with the need to feed. In Raynor's case the only joy he gets out of life is to feed, and physical pleasure. Both at once if possible. Does he feed from you?"
Mina shook her head. "He did when we were first married, but not for many years."
"He loves you too much to subject you to this side of him now. Hence, he goes out. I am truly sorry for you both. Too many centuries of hate has twisted Raynor, I do not know if he can be reached, but my dear, I implore you to try." Dracula said calmly. "I...I can't. He has already broken my heart. When we moved here, he promised a fresh start, but nothing has changed. Even with the birth of our son Julian, I thought things may improve, but they haven't." Tears began to form in her eyes. "He will not allow himself to love, maybe a vampire cannot love!"
"That is not true my dear," Dracula said softly. "Vampires have heightened senses, our emotions too, are heightened. We learn to control these impulses, but it is not always successful. We can feel things very deeply. Love, hate, disgust with one's self, all these emotions can overwhelm us, if we are not careful. I have learned these lessons at last, Raynor has not." Dracula took Mina's hand and kissed it tenderly. "I pray you both find your way to each other, I am still fond of Raynor and my dear, in this short meeting, have grown quite fond of you as well."
Mina looked at Dracula with tenderness. Tears were clustered on her lashes. Dracula in turn was gazing at Mina intensely. Neither one heard or saw Raynor come into the room...
TO BE CONTINUED....
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63 Comment(s) posted so far
On Oct 31, 2007 drewsoltesz wrote:
The two final chapters will be when I return in December from my trip. Excuse any grammar mistakes! Thought bubbles are part of the story. Many thanks to Hordriss (here at TSR) for Vic's WW I uniform! Most of the walls and floors by me here at TSR,(except stone/brick) wood panelling by jsf (TSR)some furniture Vitasims, ladies clothes, 'All About Style' and to everyone else who makes CC!
On Nov 1, 2007 jaundyce61 wrote:
Some may be disappointed there was not a fight between Raynor and Dracula, but not I!! Nicely played! And Edward has found happiness! Awww! Another tragic death!
And I love the meeting of the 'Band of Blood Brothers' LOL! Wonderful chapter! Love how you use all the characters!!
On Nov 1, 2007 MinnieMinPin wrote:
Another great chapter!
On Nov 1, 2007 KatCat wrote:
Another great chapter!
On Nov 1, 2007 caclark wrote:
very good
On Nov 1, 2007 vanessa190371 wrote:
great
On Nov 1, 2007 wrote:
Better and better this is brilliant
On Nov 1, 2007 xtamadea wrote:
Beautifully written and photographed!!! Evil, evil cliffhanger once again. And it will take some time until the next part too. I really feel for Edward and Mina. How alone Edward must feel now that both his parents are dead and his brother (btw, not much about Jon in this part.
please tell more about him in the next part). It's good that he's got the Band and Sophronia. And Mina *sigh*.. I really hate it when men give mixed signals. Btw, Vic's off to war?? I hope he meets Jon!!! So curious of what will happen.. I really hope that the ending won't be too Pearl Harbor (meaning Vic will be killed off, yikes!! 
). And we don't see a lot of Victor now, which is kind of sad. Sabrina.... Has she no shame??? What's with the vampire-complex?? I think she's just really jealous of Mina and she wants to beat her sister in everyway possible. Hmmphh, just because she's 1/4 vampire, that doesn't mean she's better than the rest. I hope Colin will see through her deceptions. Poor guy.. (hey, why not hook him up with Sister Maria? just a thought, LOL..)Anyways (boy, another long comment. I must bore you 
), until December and hope you have a great trip!!!
On Nov 1, 2007 BBKZ wrote:
Awww, Dracula is so handsome!
On Nov 1, 2007 Melody Curious wrote:
So I'm going to have to bite my nails until December for the next installment? Well, it'll be worth it! That last shot of Raynor speaks volumes and I look forward to seeing how that's going to play out. Vic's new hair style? No way, he looks so much better with flowing locks then shawn.
One by one, the human element of the family is passing away. that is so sad, these people we have come to know and love. Seen them through bad times and the heights of joy. Now to watch as they pass into the Summerlands.... Rest in Peace....
On Nov 1, 2007 AshGreg wrote:
awsome story cant wait to see the next one
On Nov 1, 2007 Hordriss wrote:
Thank you for using my WW1 uniform.
My favourite part of this installment was the imaginative conference on the problems of existing as a vampire in the modern world (and I shall be intrigued to see how Edward's "death" is managed, and how his fiancé fits in). Still feeling sorry for poor Aidan... No wonder he's growing up so badly, if all his relatives automatically dismiss him and push him closer to the only one who ever cared about him (unfortunately, Sabrina). I hope there's a better future for him than the odds would seem to suggest, but don't let me influence you. 
On Nov 1, 2007 wrote:
Noooo! You can't do this to us!
Making us wait until december.
You're such a cruel woman, Karen...
Truly inspired writing, and wonderful pictures!
And such handsome men...
On Nov 1, 2007 katty007 wrote:
A nice new part, as usual
Now I understand, how people lived without PCs and TVs! They lived a full life
Oh, and you also have created a perfect vision of a historical period. Thank you and good lack in your trip
On Nov 1, 2007 Miss_Crazy13 wrote:
Love it,love it!!!
Can't wait to see what happens next
Like what Melody Curious says,it's so sad that Laura had past away and now Jane.But Jane sees Edward Sr again and this is how live goes,people are born and people die.And Sabrina is such a bitch,I hope that she doesn't succeed with her plans for Edward & Raynor.Have fun on your trip.
On Nov 1, 2007 candy820 wrote:
I Just love this story and will hate to see it come to an end. I wish I could rate it. Why is there no Rating on this Story?
On Nov 1, 2007 cariadbach wrote:
Beautifully told with amazing pictures. Its like picking up a good book and not wanting it to finish. Have a good vacation.
On Nov 1, 2007 estatica wrote:
My goodness.. is it ok to have a crush on your sim vampires? I was really happy for Edward, finally he was accepted by the woman he loves! All of your characters are really well developed and not one of them is boring or predictable. Raynor and Dracula scenes are particularly awesome, I can't wait to see what will happen to them!
On Nov 1, 2007 sandybvv wrote:
On Nov 1, 2007 GFitz wrote:
This chapter was just amazing! I love the descriptive way you write. Every emotion jumps off the page. I am actually rooting for Raynor and Mina...although I secretly still wish she and Edward would reunite. I doubt that will happen though. I don't believe she loves Raynor...it's just...desire, lust. And Sabrina needs to be taken down. All together evil!
On Nov 1, 2007 Zayury wrote:
Oooo! Too many things I want to say!! This was another FABULOUS chapter!
Great cliffhanger at the end! Jane's death and Vic's words to her before her death were heartbreaking! (You made me cry again, shame on you!) I'm so happy Sophrina loves Edward, and now he will be loved like he deserves! 
The scene with Edward walking on that beautiful bridge and that gorgeous landscape was wonderful! Dr. Colin, well just plain YUMMY!! 
His going to learn a very hard lesson! Okay, now, all those deliciously magnificent Vampyres in one room...my temperature went up quite a few degrees, thank-you very much! 
I absolutely LOVED the "Band of Blood Brothers" line, that was brilliant! "The Band of Brothers" is my favorite War/Series movie of all time! YEAH! "CLAP, CLAP, CLAP" you scored major kudos with me with that line! LOVE YOUR STORY, LOVE YOUR WORK!!! HURRAY!!!
On Nov 1, 2007 wrote:
Very rich, detailed chapter! Dracula having met Mozart, love it! The emotions cover all spectrum's, love, death, tragedy, loss, separation, hate. Love the 'vampire meeting'!! I also love the "band of blood brothers" line..LOL! I must say how much I admire your Dracula character,he truly is the head of the clan! And Raynor continues to be an extremely interesting character!! Well done!!
On Nov 1, 2007 hazabaza1 wrote:
Great! Fabulous! Magnificent! Only a few of the many words to describe your storywriting! *Cough*Writeabook!*Cough!*
On Nov 1, 2007 Lord_Cyrus wrote:
Another Fantastic chapter, they keep getting better and better! and right at the end leaving me wondering what is going to happen next.
On Nov 1, 2007 SongChild99 wrote:
I'm relieved that Edward has finally found the love and acceptance that Mina couldn't (wouldn't?) provide for him.
And even more relieved that Raynor and Dracula didn't have the fight I was thinking might happen..It looks like it might happen now though. 
Whose side to be on - the intense, cold Raynor or the Dracula that I've become so fond of? 
I think I'll be cheering on Dracula. 
On Nov 1, 2007 DevlishDoll91 wrote:
AAH AMAZING!
im so excited! omg i cant wait for the next chapters to come!
On Nov 1, 2007 sara_87 wrote:
Goregoeus!
On Nov 1, 2007 Stesie wrote:
Wow, you're quick!
Great job, keep it up!!!!
On Nov 1, 2007 iron mum wrote:
DECEMBER! I can't wait that long
Brilliant, what else can I say, BRILLIANT.
On Nov 1, 2007 odnavgorode wrote:
perfect
On Nov 1, 2007 binky13 wrote:
Very nice. Have a good time on your trip.
On Nov 1, 2007 plyangel456 wrote:
Another fantastic chapter once again. I love the storys the seem to get better and better and now I cant wait for more!!! Thanks for such an awesome story (so far)!!! plyangel456
On Nov 1, 2007 eshuff wrote:
Blown away!
So many different threads here!
Vic going off to war? Now that's not good, but I love the interaction with Verity!
Edward...chiseled indeed LOL! Sophronia, you go girl! Much better choice than Mina.
And now Mina. Well. Mina and Raynor are HOT HOT!!! He certainly is! And jealous and in love...extremely complex character, fighting with himself. And trying to figure out what he wants and who he is.
Sabrina is a BAD GIRL LOL!!!! Poor Colin, who is hot enough to get anyone. Sabrina needs to have a sign permanently affixed to her head that blinks red for danger.
Beautiful, fabulous decor, wonderful story! I can't say enough!
Beth
On Nov 2, 2007 wrote:
My goodness, you have some hunky men.
Especially Edward and Raynor. Yum. And even though I hate Sabrina, she's sort of awesome at the same time, heh heh. Ahh, I have so much I want to say about this cchapter...I love the Mina-Raynor dynamic, the band of blood brothers was so great, and Dracula made me laugh re Mozart! And Vic and Verity...sweet and sad. I love it, don't know how I'll wait till December!
On Nov 2, 2007 123456789_1234 wrote:
On Nov 2, 2007 sallyhails wrote:
I loved it, the sign of a good writer is to always leave their readers wanting more & you certainly do that
I wait with baited breath for December, have a lovely vacation.
On Nov 2, 2007 SpaciKathy wrote:
On Nov 2, 2007 littleredrainbow wrote:
On Nov 2, 2007 Little Seer wrote:
I hope you have an excellent vacation and tons of fun. Thanks so much for this installment of your story. It truly is very intriguing and brilliantly thought out. Love'n every minute of it. Cheers,
On Nov 2, 2007 drewsoltesz wrote:
Hmmm...not as many comments as my other chapters! LOL! Will answer all your great comments when I return, cheers!!
On Nov 2, 2007 Deanna73070 wrote:
Great job, Karen, as always! I am so glad that Verity and Vic have finally found it in themselves to express their feelings. I am also finding Dracula more likeable than I used to. He seems very family oriented now, which surprises me. I thought he was going to cause more mayhem than good. I'm quite surprised! He also seems to be taking a liking to Mina since she looks so much like her grandmother. Ahhhh, it's hard to say where things are going to go now. Can't wait until the next chapter comes out, but I guess I will have to wait on that until your return. Have a great vacation, Karen!
On Nov 3, 2007 Wigwog wrote:
WOAH!!! Poor Raynor
.
On Nov 3, 2007 sakravy wrote:
Another great chapter,I really like to hear what comes next!Have a very nice vacation!
On Nov 3, 2007 sweetcharming wrote:
wonderful chapter!
I love the plot and the screens are great! Have a great vacation!
On Nov 3, 2007 123456789_1234 wrote:
fantastic
On Nov 4, 2007 Eve70 wrote:
Just the Rx I needed, Karen! Still under the weather, but could not resist this read. Another amazing chapter. I swear, I can feel their emotions. The pics are beautiful, and every line pulls me in, making me want more. I can't wait to see what will happen next!
On Nov 5, 2007 DarkBorderR wrote:
I really enjoy in your storry. The best story ever!
On Nov 5, 2007 mssoftbrn wrote:
oh wow.. as before.. nice work
On Nov 6, 2007 Devalyn wrote:
Now I got the time to read the story, and it was really worth it! I hope Edward will be happy at last with Sophronia, I think after all the suffering he deserves someone who loves him as he is...
And it's good to see that your vampires have feelings - they seem to be family oriented - and I sooo want to slap Sabrina...
On Nov 10, 2007 jaundyce61 wrote:
CAnnot WAIT! for the next installment! HAve a great trip!!
On Nov 12, 2007 WelshWitch wrote:
Drew............your a star!!!! i love it so much. The intensity, drama & passion is just gripping.. I'm so in awe of your writing skills, thank you so much for this wonderful story xXx.
Raynor is the spitting image of my fella lol! (not that it affects my judgement! lol).
Hope your enjoying your trip too.... would love to be travelling across Canada im so jealous!!
Take care, hugs & blessings.
Welshy
x
On Nov 15, 2007 Magical Metamorphosis wrote:
Hi Karen,
Naughty Sabrina checking out Raynor! The Doctor is a real dish! Too bad Sabrina is such a cruel & calculating woman! Dracula & Mina oh my! LOL Can't wait for next installment! Keep up your exceptional writting!
Adore the continuation!
Hugs,
Angela
On Dec 4, 2007 wrote:
oh my GOODNESS. damn. you are just so great. i dont know what to say. the best storytelling i have ever read! 5.0 for a hundred or maybe a thousand time!
On Dec 9, 2007 ~Dragon~ wrote:
I've been reading through the story archives for a while now and this is the first time I've been compelled to post a comment. Excellent story! I read part three and had to go back and start from the beginning, you know how to write a good read
Really looking forward to the next piece!
Go the vampires! Who knew they had so many levels to their personalities
On Jan 13, 2008 SimsBarbie wrote:
The last 6 pics are hot and made me nervous. I can not wait to read what happens next!.
On Jan 27, 2008 cptnemo6 wrote:
Great story!!
On Feb 6, 2008 wrote:
Wonderful work!!! I'm so sorry to be commenting so late, but I truly have enjoyed all your writing thus far! Brava!
On Feb 17, 2008 OpheliaNival wrote:
After a short break I returned to read this, wonderful as always! So many intertwined stories, but still easy to follow... I sort of hope that Vic and Jon will meet in the war
Off to read next part, I'm hooked... 
On Jun 1, 2008 ritakwolf wrote:
On Oct 23, 2008 QG wrote:
Wow, i like all of it so much. i've been reading up on your series and felt the need to comment after this one. they are soo intense and fullof agony and passion . i'm stumped!
On Mar 15, 2009 Kvetoslava wrote:
On May 26, 2009 fabrizioammollo wrote:
Very good job! It's so goood!
On Oct 15, 2009 maxi king wrote: