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THE VAN HELSING CHRONICLES PART VIII
This is the conclusion of the Chronicles, as we pick up our story, Vic Harker has found his friend Jon Van Helsing at a batalion aid station, but Jon does not recognize Vic at all...
This is the conclusion of the Chronicles, as we pick up our story, Vic Harker has found his friend Jon Van Helsing at a batalion aid station, but Jon does not recognize Vic at all... Vic approached Jon. "Don't you know who I am?" Vic asked gently.
Jon shook his head. "No sir, I am sorry I do not. Do...do you know who I am?" Jon's voice began to rise. "I have had no memory of anything in my past for well over two years!! I implore you, if you know something, please tell me!"
If Vic were a lesser man, a man of immoral and impious thoughts and deeds, he would back out now, not tell Jon his identity, go home and claim Verity as his own.
But that was not Vic, not in the slightest. His honour would not even consider such an abhorrent thing.
He looked sadly at his friend. Sad because Verity was now forever out of his reach, but overjoyed he had found his dear friend. "You are Captain Jon Van Helsing. I am Victor Harker. We grew up together outside London. We are close friends. You have been reported missing to the family all this time. We thought you were dead. Your wife and children have been frantic for any news."
Jon began to blink. "Wife...children?" Sister Maria entered the room, she had overheard what Vic said to Jon. "You know Paul?" she cried. Vic looked at Maria strangely. "That is what we have been calling him since he has been here." she explained.
"You mean Jon has been at this aid station all this time?" Vic could not believe it!
Maria looked away; she felt as if her heart would break, She knew it, all this time. She knew a man as astonishing as Paul would have been married long ago. She let her girlish dreams of a handsome knight sweeping her off her feet get in the way of reality. She blinked back tears of sorrow.
Jon Van Helsing...married, with children. Maria turned back toward the men and put a brave smile on her face.
"Jon, we must get you to the main hospital at Chartes. There are Doctors in attendance that has treated men like you; with memory loss...they call it a form of 'shell shock'. Perhaps they can trigger your memory!!" Vic cried excitedly.
Jon looked dubiously at the Captain. " Alright, I suppose it couldn't hurt..." Back at Darach Castle: "Do you realize Raynor, in close to the 15 years we have been together, there is one word we have not spoken to each other, even in jest? Not since our wedding night, when you coldly and callously told me you did not believe in love, have we even whispered of it. I want to talk about it now, please I beg you."
Raynor did not speak. Raynor sat down. Outside the wind blew fiercely, thundered rumbled ominously nearby. But it could not match the turmoil swirling in his soul.
Mina knelt in front of him. "I despised you for tricking me so, for making me believe you actually loved me. I was hurt...I am still wounded. And when someone is hurt, they lash out, as we so often do to each other. I want it to end, the pain, the hate...because I must tell you Raynor; I love you deeply, and have almost from the beginning. I tried hard not to. Especially when you were so cold and distant, but I loved you then...I love you still." Raynor sat motionless in his chair. He did not move, nor speak. His grey eyes, glinting like polished metal, were as dark and stormy as the weather outside.
Mina stood. "Did you hear what I said to you Raynor? I love you with every fiber of my being! I cannot bear the thought of not being with you...for any sane woman would have left long ago in the face of such neglect and indifference. But I stayed! And the reason is love!!" Raynor said nothing; he did not flinch or bat an eye. Mina turned and began to cry. It was useless; it was too late. He has no soul, no love, no feeling for anything. She exposed her deep true feelings to no avail.
The sound of her soft sobbing intertwined with the sound of the rain beating against the windows.
Raynor sat motionless, but inside his emotions were on full boil. Raynor at last stood and went over to the window; he watched the storm. Mina knelt once again.
"Have you nothing to say? I have laid bare my deep feelings of love..." Mina whispered.
"My soul is muddied and murky; my heart is black and shrivelled, darkness rules my thoughts, hate is the only emotion I know. It is better not to love me." Raynor said, his gravel voice thick with emotion. "Perhaps, but I love you nonetheless Raynor. Nothing you say will stop me from loving you." Mina said hoarsely.
Raynor smiled slightly. "Nothing? Do not be so sure Mina...Since we are confessing and laying our souls bare, I have something to tell you. It is not pretty. It is the actions of a fiendish and treacherous man." "What is it? Raynor, please I want you to tell me what it is, what you are feeling!" Mina cried.
"I am a monster, my sweet. These past months I have been finding solace in the arms and in the bed of your sister Sabrina. Not some random stranger as I have done in the past, but your half-sister. So you see, you are wasting your love and affection on me." Raynor said firmly.
Mina said nothing. "Come on Mina!" Raynor roared. "Get angry! Tell me you loathe the very sight of me! Tell me I make you sick! Tell me I am an inhuman fiend! Here is another piece of news, Sabrina claims she is with child and I am the father! Only a horrid beast with no regard for anyone would behave so!"
"I see no beast, I see a man." Mina whispered. She wanted desperately to heal the great gaping hole that threatened to suck away the last of his humanity. Raynor waited for Mina's onslaught of rancid words. She said nothing. She let out a deep breath.
She was tempted to lash out, Sabrina, of all people!! But she knew she could not. She had to stick to her plan and speak only of love, or all would be lost.
"That is a disturbing piece of news Raynor," Mina said, fighting to keep her voice steady. "But it does not lessen the love and affection I feel for you." "I know you have been hurt all these many, many years. I know hate has rotted away your insides.
I know you believe you have no feelings or emotions, but you do Raynor. Look at how you reacted to poor Ulrika's illness and death..." Raynor flinched at his poor little girl's name. "I know you will not let yourself grieve for her, you have not been to her grave, because you do not want to feel." Mina ran into his arms. "Oh my love, if you would just let the children and I get close to you, if you would just open up your heart to us, even a little bit, I know it would ease this pain you have carried all these years! Promise me you will at least try!"
Raynor sighed deeply, and his handsomely etched face that had the look of a man who rarely smiled, did indeed break into a smile. "Mina...it will not be easy, I promise I will try." he said tenderly.
Mina held him closer, her heart soaring...it was a start! It was dusk the following evening, and Raynor apperated in Sabrina's bedchamber. He had one final thing to do before breaking it off with Sabrina forever.
The air crackled and hissed, a purple/blue flame lit up the room.
'About time!' Sabrina growled to herself.
"Raynor my dear..." Sabrina cooed. "I am so pleased you are here at last! Come my darling, my arms await you!"
"I told you last night it is over. It was ill-conceived at best, and I will not be returning ever again." Raynor said flatly.
"Well, you still have to give me the second bite...you promised! Come!" Sabrina urged, a hint of desperation in her voice. "I think not. I am not a man to be manipulated by the likes of you, and I do not take kindly to trickery. There will be no 'second bite'...if you aspire to be a vampire; you will have to earn it as your grandfather said. Look to him. For I want no part of it...or you." Raynor said simply, without emotion.
Sabrina began to seethe. "I will tell Mina! I will tell her all the nights you were here, with me...in my arms! I will tell her about the child!!!" she screamed. Raynor began to disapperate. "I have already told her everything, so you have no hold over me. Look elsewhere to play your little games, I am no longer interested in them...or you."
With a soft hiss, Raynor was gone.
Sabrina's rage was total and complete. A few nights later, Colin and Adian are having a light supper.
"Where is mother?" Aidan questioned.
"She is lying down, Aidan. I should tell you that your mother is expecting a child." Colin stated.
Aidan started straight ahead, then he shrugged. "Well at least this one will not be a dhampyre, shame really." Colin blinked, his brows furrowed in confusion. "Dhampyre? Whatever are you talking about Aidan?"
"It is what I am! Half vampire, surely mother told you there are vampires in the family, that my father is one! Mother herself is 1/4, so mathematically I suppose I am 3/4's vampire!" Aidan chuckled at his little joke. Colin shook his head in disbelief. "What did you say?"
Aidan snorted at the distressed look on Colin's face.
"Do you mean to tell me mother has not told you any of this? Typical! I suggest you speak to her, it is quite a tale." Aidan pulled back his chair and left the room, leaving Colin utterly shattered. Slowly Colin got up and began to clear away the few pieces of crockery from the table. Vampires...dhampyres, that means Edward Van Helsing...and who else in this family?
His shocked thoughts turned to his wife. I wonder what else she has been keeping from me, Colin thought with some dismay. Many days after Mina's frank and heartfelt confession of love, Raynor was still having trouble dealing with it all. He went for a walk, and soon found himself in the graveyard where his poor young daughter was buried. He did not attend the funeral, as it was held in the early morning.
But since he was doing everything he could to avoid his emotions, this was the first time he set foot in the cemetery. He soon located Ulrika's stone.
As soon as he saw the nameplate, he began to howl in agony. He knelt in front of the tomb; the ground was still fresh and loose under his knees. Wave after wave of grief washed over him, but he did not fight it this time.
Raynor let the intense feelings of love and grief seep into his very soul. He choked back sobs, and at last let himself mourn...and feel. "My little love, forgive your wretched father, forgive him for his preceived coldness and seeming indifference. I am greatly flawed; know I loved you dearly, even though I was incapable of saying the words. I swear to you now, I will make it up to your brothers and sister, and your beloved mother, who I have wronged terribly.
Rest my love...sleep." Raynor whispered, his voice cracking with emotion. Raynor stood and began to wipe away the hot tears that had collected in his eyes.
He suddenly felt as if a dark cover had been lifted from a corner of his heart.
Yes, he would try to learn to love again, with the help of his family. No matter how long it took.... Colin has been so busy with his many medical calls; he has not had a moment to talk to Sabrina about Aidan's declaration. He found her sitting alone in the parlour.
"Sabrina, I wish to discuss something Aidan told me, about vampires being in your family. Surely the lad is mistaken, surely this is some sort of fantasy of his." "Oh for God's sake Colin, what of it? Why must you make a big deal out of everything?" Sabrina snapped exasperatedly. " So what if there is?"
"I should have been told! Who else in your family?" Colin's voice began to rise.
"My grandfather is, Edward, Raynor Nightwood, and Uncle Victor is a dhampyre, as is many others. What is it to you?" she hissed.
"And you Sabrina, you have this...this blood running through your veins?" Colin whispered in disbelief.
Sabrina chuckled evilly. "Yes, I do. I revel in it. If I had my way, I would 100% vampire. And I will become one, mark my words. I will do whatever it takes, no matter how long it takes. The vampire blood enchances the senses, emotions. I want to feel it all, experience it all!"
She moved toward Colin with a hungry look...she grabbed him and literally devoured him. He pushed her away roughly. "I must tell you Sabrina, I have never liked your aggressive manner with regard to your gestures of affection. Pushy overbearing women I find most abhorrent." Colin said coolly.
"Not every man is like you, I have known many who enjoy the fact I take the upper hand. Raynor Nightwood comes to mind!" Sabrina spat maliciously. Colin's eyes narrowed, "What are you saying now, Sabrina? That you have been with other men? Somehow that does not surprise me. Are you claiming you have been with your brother-in-law? Is that the knife you use to plunge into my heart?"
"Yes...I have been with Raynor. Many times while you have been out attending your Doctor's duties. It was glorious, beyond anything I have ever experienced with you...and this child I am carrying? It is his, not yours!" Sabrina turned and left the room.
Colin stood, he let the shocking news sink in.
And in that moment he felt any love he had for Sabrina seep out of his heart. Harrison Harker was no better and he was fading fast. The 'Spanish' Flu as they were now calling it, had Harrison tight in it's grip. After his daughters and grandchildren said their farewells, Victor was left alone with his dear friend and half-brother.
They have been through so much together, to have it end like this...Harrison should have had many years left, he was only 55! Victor watched his dear brother struggling to breathe. He began to weep softly. He wept for the entire family, and especially Carolina and Verity, who were fighting for their very lives over the same horrid illness.
He wept for himself, for he knew he would be spending the decades to come standing next to loved ones deathbeds. He did not know how he would endure it. The next night, after Raynor's emotional scene in the graveyard, he sought out Mina, who was tending to little Julian in the nursery. He stood and watched the two; a great wave of emotion was starting to fill his heart. He smiled slightly.
"Mina..." Raynor said in a soft, warm and lush voice.
Mina turned at the sound, her heart leapt. She put Julian on the carpet next to his toys. " I cannot change what I am...what Garrard made me. You see my sweet, pledging my heart forever holds no appeal for me; I find it appalling. That is why I have not formed any lasting relationships over the years. However, I am willing to try for you...and the children. It will not be easy, but...but I care for you all, as much as I am able at the moment. Let us all try together." Raynor whispered. "A man makes himself, Raynor. He chooses his own path. You can do this. I know it, and your pain is mine, I take it all into my heart." Mina voice quivered.
"Do you still fear me, my sweet?" he asked, his eyebrow rose.
"My love is greater than my fear, I have enough love for both of us. Raynor, You do love me, even a little bit?" Mina said, her voice thick with emotion.
"Yes my sweet, I do. And I will pledge my heart such as it is to you all. You are the promise of dawn in my endless night." he whispered in a low and smoky voice.
Mina beamed from ear to ear, she has never been so happy. Perhaps at last, they can enjoy life, and each other.
She would help Raynor to love and feel again. Jon and Vic have made it to Dr. Stockton, who has been working with soldiers suffering from all manners of psychological aliments. They have had a few meetings with him already; they are hoping this meeting will break the logjam in Jon's memory. Vic has not contacted the family as yet informing them of Jon's reappearance, he wants to wait after today's meeting to see if there is any hope of a spark of memory returning.
Dr. Philip Stockton finally arrived. He explained to the two men he was going to use hypnosis, it was proven successful in other war-amnesia patients.
He also explained it may not be successful and to prepare for that eventuality.
The two men listened with a good deal of apprehension. Dr. Stockton lured Jon into a deep trance. He spoke to Jon softly, urging him to recall his last memory before he was found wandering about the countryside.
Jon began to speak in a low urgent tone. He told the Doctor of the attack on his trench, how it had collapsed on him and his comrades, how the constant bombardment blew apart his friends in front of his very eyes. Jon began to shake, reliving this horror he had witnessed. "And do you now remember who you are?" Dr. Stockton whispered. "Think back to just before the attack...what you were doing, who you were talking to. Tell me what you remember..."
Jon looked at the Doctor. And as if someone had opened a shade on a window to let in the light, he recalled memories just before the attack. He told Dr. Stockton.
With further careful probing, the memories came flooding back at last. The wall in his brain had been breeched. Dr. Stockton brought Jon out of the trance. The men sat silently for several moments.
"What is your name?" Dr. Stockton said firmly.
Jon looked over at Vic. "Jon Van Helsing..." Jon said with a quiet whisper.
"And who is this man sitting next to you?" Dr. Stockton asked.
Jon stared at Vic intensely. "Victor Harker Junior...Vic."
Vic felt tears form in his eyes. Jon was back... Harrison Harker passed away a few nights later. James Carberry, Sophronia's young brother and Harrison's nephew came down from Scotland, as he was the executor and solicitor over Harrison's estate.
He called the family together after the funeral for the reading of the will. Verity was not there, as she was too ill. Mina stayed with Verity to attend to her. Edward Van Helsing went to represent the two sisters. Also in attendance besides Victor and Edward were Sabrina and her husband Colin Blewett. A small devious smile curved about Sabrina's cruel mouth as she waited expectantly for what she was going to get from the estate. It was hard for her to keep the look of avarice and greed off her face.
"We are gathered here to read the last will and testament of Harrison James Harker, late of this parish..." James began. After reading the preliminaries, James got down to the dividing up of the assets.
"There is a substantial sum in the estate, Uncle Harrison was very shrewd with his investments, the total is 346,000 pounds sterling, which is to be divided evenly between Mina and Verity. The house and all its contents and the law practice and it's furnishings are to be left to Victor and Carolina. There is a small stipend for his niece and nephew, Sophronia and myself, the rest is to be passed down to the remaining grandchildren and nieces and nephews at the discretion of the providers."
Sabrina blinked rapidly. "That's it? Why are I and my family not mentioned?" "You are not in the will, Uncle Harrison specifically states here that you are not to receive any part of the estate or its proceeds from any family member who benefits." James said coolly.
Sabrina stood and began to screech at the top of her lungs. "This is unfair!!! I may not be his daughter, but Laura Harker was my mother! I should be entitled to something!! That son of a..." Colin flinched. "SIT DOWN!" Colin roared, cutting Sabrina off mid-sentence. "Enough of your childish behaviour! Harrison Harker is entitled to draw his will the way he wants! Stop this foolishness at once!"
Colin was highly embarrassed by Sabrina's overwrought scene. This was yet another unattractive side of his wife he has been exposed to of late; it was turning his stomach.
Sabrina continued her tantrum, she railed against Harrison, called him all manner of foul names,
Victor, James and Edward left the room in disgust and aversion. Jon and Vic were about to leave, it was a couple of weeks after the armistice was signed on Nov 11 and they both managed to get expedient honourable discharges. Jon could not leave without saying good-bye to Maria.
He tracked her down at the cathedral; almost all the patients were gone, transferred to other accommodations. Maria was seeing to the dismantling of the makeshift hospital. "Maria, I could not leave without seeing you, to say good-bye. Mere words cannot express the gratitude over...over everything you have done for me."
Maria stared into those glorious blue eyes. The pain moved through her heart, to not look into those eyes ever again, to never hear his kind, gentle voice. Her time with him was a gift, to hope for more would invite devastation. "Will you be taking your vows now; will you become a nun?" Jon asked delicately.
"I do not know, Perhaps but somehow I think not, my heart is no longer in it. I think perhaps I will go into nursing; I seem to have an aptitude for it. Perhaps I will be useful in that regard."
Yes, her heart was not longer for God; it belonged to Jon Van Helsing. Jon pulled her close. "I want you to understand, even though my memory has returned, it has not pushed the feelings I have for you out of my heart. They are pure and just, and I will not deny them, not to you, nor to myself." He pressed a piece of paper in her hand. "This is my address, I want us to keep in touch. Say you will write me and let me know what you are doing. I do not want us to lose contact Maria, not ever." Maria felt tears cluster in the corner of her eyes. She could not deny him anything. "Yes, I will write you Jon, if you wish it. I care for you as well, more than I should. Oh be well, be happy! I shall miss you. Your family is very lucky to have a man such as you." Her voice broke as she gathered Jon in a warm embrace.
Jon grabbed Maria and kissed her deeply. Not a friendly kiss, but a kiss with all the feeling in his heart. He was going home, to his beloved Verity and his family...but he could not deny the depth of affection he held for Maria, and he did not hold it back.
Maria grabbed him and returned the kiss. This would be all she had to remember him by, and she was going to make it last.
They at last parted, and Jon hurried off without looking back, leaving a bereft Maria...who it seems will never become a nun. Jon and Vic finally arrived at the Van Helsing home a couple of days later; it is late afternoon. Edward ran to the two men. "We got your telegram a couple of days ago, you cannot imagine the joy we felt at the news! My dear brother! And Vic, so glad you are both home safe!" Edward grabbed Jon and gave him an affectionate hug. "Close to three years, and no word. You cannot imagine what we all went through, what you must have went through. Vic no doubt told you about Mother and Aunt Laura."
"Yes Edward, he did. I am saddened over the news." Jon said soberly. "Edward, where is Verity? Is she out somewhere? And the children, are they home?" Jon asked eagerly.
Vic smiled as well. He too was anxious to see Verity. Though it would pain his heart to see Jon and Verity reunited, it would also give him great contentment to see the two people he loved most back together. "My dear brother, Vic...I do not know how to tell you this, Verity died over 5 weeks ago, from the flu. She died barely 1 week after Uncle Harrison succumbed to the same thing. We are all shattered. My wife Sophronia and I have been staying here, looking after the children, they have taken it rather hard, I daresay..." Edward whispered sorrowfully. Vic dropped to his knees in utter torment and grief. "NOOOO!!" he cried torturously. Jon began to weep softly. The news was devastating to them both.
Edward felt totally helpless; his heart ached for them all.
"I will leave you both with your grief..." Edward said sympathetically, he turned and went upstairs. Jon finally recovered enough to help Vic to his feet and get him over to the nearby divan. Vic's legs were shaking horribly. Jon could read Vic's face quite plainly; he saw the deep love for Verity etched into his dear friend's agonized look.
"Vic, I know this is really not the time to discuss this, but did something happen between you and Verity while I was away?" he asked softly, without anger.
Vic cleared his throat. "Not really, we shared a few kisses. Nothing more, she loved you Jon, she made that quite plain to me. I would never take advantage of her vulnerability and grief..."
Jon felt tears come to his eyes again. "I know Vic...I know you would not." But Jon was astute enough to realize Verity must have returned some of Vic's feelings.
Vic rose; he steadied himself. "I...I must go to Carfax, they are awaiting my arrival."
Jon just nodded slowly, the men parted. Adelaide and Warner could be heard shouting from upstairs, Edward no doubt told them of their father's arrival. The clamour upon the stairs was noisy indeed; Jon quickly dried his eyes and put on a brave face for his dear children. They ran to him.
"It is you, you are really here?" Adelaide said, her voice quivering.
'Yes my treasure, it is daddy, I am here and I will never leave you again..." Warner ran into his father's arms and hugged him close. He never wanted to let go. The two children; though still devastated over their mother and grandfather's deaths, were so relieved to see their father, it lessened the loss somewhat. They were both sure they would never see him again...now here he was.
Jon embraced his children...but Verity, his beloved, his love, his life...God why? His heart was throbbing with loss and pain.
His homecoming was bittersweet in the extreme. A few weeks after the reading of the will, Sabrina tracked down Edward working alone in Victor's attic study.
"I thought I told you we were to never meet alone Sabrina, get out!" Edward spat angrily.
"I will only be here a few minutes, I want to discuss the will with you..." She whispered.
Sabrina stared at Edward with intense longing. He still could stir her blood; she still wanted to possess him, body and soul. Edward got out of his chair. "The will is final, there is nothing to be done further. Uncle Harrison was far wiser than I ever gave him credit for. Now, I say again, get out Sabrina!"
"What about your own son, Aidan gets nothing!! Does that not concern you?" Sabrina screeched.
"Not particularly, no. If you are in need of money, see your grand-father! He has untold riches scattered all over Europe! Why this fuss and bother over the Harker money? Grow up Sabrina!" Edward roared, his voice dripping with hostility. In one swift motion, Sabrina reached into her side pocket and removed a vial full of a liquid substance. She splashed it fiercely onto Edward's face. He turned, trying to avoid contact, but it caught the right side of his face full force.
The pain was immediate and unbearable.
Sabrina began to smile most cruelly. She swore she would make Edward pay! And now she has... Edward's hands went to his face. "What have you done? What was that liquid!" His skin began to sizzle; it felt as if a fire was burning in the hollow of his cheek.
"You have defied and rejected me for the last time! It was Holy Water, blessed by the Vicar himself! Surely you know what holy water can do to a vampire!!" Sabrina cackled evilly. Edward removed his hands; already the damage was quite evident on his cheek. A large angry, red burn covered an alarming portion of his face. Edward was in extreme pain, a pain so intense he could barely see straight. He reached up and felt his cheek, he flinched at the touch, he could feel the burnt, ragged skin between his fingers.
"You filthy evil witch! You are twisted, sick!" Edward cried. Edward started to move toward Sabrina in a menacing fashion. "Get out," he hissed horribly. "Or you shall die this day by my hands...GET OUT!"
Sabrina turned and ran from the room. "I am glad I did it! You are not so beautiful now, your pathetic wife will turn from you in horror!" Sabrina's maniacal laughter could be heard all the way down the stairs. A week later, Sabrina has come to Victor's home. "Well I am here as you demanded Uncle Victor...what is it? I have my newborn daughter to see to." Sabrina snapped irritably.
"There has been a meeting Sabrina, a meeting to decide your fate within the family. I am here to deliver the results of that discussion." Victor said calmly. Sabrina got off the sofa. "Meeting???" she began to laugh mockingly. "Of meeting of whom?"
"Everyone that matters...Edward, Raynor, father and myself. I am here to tell you Sabrina you have been banished from the family and from this district. We no longer want anything to do with you, we never want to see or hear of you again." Sabrina could not believe her ears. She stared at her uncle incredulously. "You cannot be serious...' she whispered.
"You are to leave for Vjovdina at once, Father's servants will meet you and see you safely to the castle there, where you will stay until told different. You are to have no contact with any member of the family until further notice."
"You are all mad!" Sabrina hissed. "Us mad!? You have brought nothing but pain and heartache!! Since you reached the age of reason you have been a thorn in the side of us all! Where do I begin...with Edward? Up to your latest despicable act, disfiguring him! Your games with Raynor and Colin...and everything in between...it ends here!" Victor thundered. "You have no authority over me! My husband will not stand for this! You cannot separate a mother from her children!" Sabrina scoffed.
"We can and we will. Colin has been made aware of our decision and he has agreed. He will be starting divorce proceedings immediately. You will also be signing papers relinquishing all claims to your children."
"You can't do this..." Sabrina cried furiously. Victor's emotions bubbled over. "Accept it! Your time here is done! You are exiled from the grace and protection of the family. There was a much worse fate for you before us, but father talked us out of it, so be thankful for his intervention, his mercy! You do not deserve it! You are not worthy of his love and compassion!" "You make me sick, the whole lot of you! Vampires indeed...never a more cowardly bunch! You think you are so noble, so honourable! You are pathetic excuses for vampires! Hear me, Uncle Victor...there has to be more vampires in this world than just you lot, believe me, I will find them! Then you will all be sorry for treating me so!" Sabrina raged. "Parasite! You wretched half-breed!!" "You are my brother Peter's daughter to be sure...you have no humanity. The children will be taken care of. Colin will attend to his daughter; Aidan will be going with Edward and Sophronia. I pray your son has not your wretched soul...now go pack your bags, you leave tonight!" Victor said through clenched teeth.
Sabrina began to screech, the sound was of a ghastly banshee.
Victor smiled slightly. Yes, it was good she was going...Good Riddance! It has been a couple of weeks since Sabrina's banishment. Vic stopped by the Blewett's to visit Colin and examine the newborn child. The two men went into the nursery to have a look at Charity.
Vic gently and carefully lifted the newborn into his arms, he cooed at the child and talked softly to her. What an extraordinarily beautiful child, Vic thought to himself. Victor held Charity close. For many minutes he stood, finally he spoke. "I am able to tell Colin, if there is a vampire around, I can sense their aura, if you will. It is like an alarm in my head." Victor paused.
"I can assure you that Charity is your child, the aura is so light it hardly registers, if the baby was a dhampyre, in other words, if Raynor was the father, I would know...trust me." Colin began to weep. Not only out of relief the child was not half-vampire but also the fact the sweet child was his.
"I...I am sorry to carry on so, Vic. It is just a relief to know for sure."
"Are you going to be alright Colin, raising this child alone? You will bring in some help?" Vic asked gently.
"Colin sighed. 'Yes, I am looking for a nurse now as we speak. I cannot believe what has happened...Sabrina..."
"It is for the best for everyone concerned, Colin." Vic said quietly. "Especially this child. God knows what her influence has perpetrated on Aidan, at least Charity will be spared Sabrina's wretchedness." After leaving Colin and his daughter, Vic made his way over to see Edward. After examining the burn on his face, he said, "I have spoken to grandfather, he has knowledge of the effects of holy water on a vampire. The burn thankfully will heal itself with no lasting effects or permanent scarring, but it may take several months to do so." "We cannot cover it or bandage it, it will hinder the restorative process needed for it to heal quickly. I am sorry Edward. It will also continue to cause you extreme pain until it is completely healed." Vic continued.
Edward sighed deeply. "Not permanent, thank God..." his voice trailed off. Edward changed the subject. "How are you doing Vic?"
"You mean Verity, of course. I grieve still. It will take sometime to get over her." Vic said in a low voice.
"I know this is little solace now, and the situations are not the same, but I felt the same way after Mina, it did take some time, but I did move on. I fell in love with Sophronia. It will happen to you Vic, the pain will lessen."
Vic nodded but did not speak. It is Christmas 1918. The' Great War' is over, the deadly hold the flu epidemic held over the families has all but passed, though it still raged throughout the world. Carolina Harker was making a slow and steady recovery. She is still weak, but with Victor's tender care and love, she will get well.
Victor cannot believe all they have been though, the loss, the heartache. But his immediate family was still intact. Victor went over and held out his hand for Carolina. "Strong enough for a dance, my love?" he whispered huskily.
Carolina slowly got out of the wheelchair and went into Victor's strong loving arms. They waltzed closely to the sounds of the Victrola, the fire crackled with intensity in the hearth.
"I am afraid I still do not look well, and a few more lines and wrinkles have appeared". Carolina laughed softly.
"My love, you could be a wrinkled as a prune, it would matter not to me. You know that." Victor whispered. Victor silently thanked providence for this second chance with his love; when he thinks of how close he was to losing her, it shook him to his very core. He knew he did not have much longer with Carolina in years, but he was going to get the most out of them.
Victor bent her back and kissed her passionately and deeply. He would never love like this again...never. And as the family gathered on Christmas Eve, the joy of the season brought a peace and serenity to them all that had been missing for quite sometime.
Whatever the future would bring, they would see it through together...
The End.
...For now.
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64 Comment(s) posted so far
On Jan 4, 2008 drewsoltesz wrote:
Many, many thanks to everyone who stuck with me through my first large multi-chapter story and left such wonderful comments. The comments mean the world to me! Also thanks to all the creators of CC, or these period stories would not be possible!
I may return to these characters, I will not delete them...besides I left a few possibilities, (what about Dracula and Raynor's daughter, what about the cure?)for a continuation someday. For now, I will be working on a novel (28,000 words and counting!) and I am also working on a Western Sim Photo story (check out my recent screenshots at my mini-site!) Cheers!!
On Jan 5, 2008 katty007 wrote:
I'm so happy, that the story has a happy end! It was really nice to read it from the beginning to the end (if it is the end
). While waiting for its new chapters, I read all your other stories and became a real fun of your writing
So, thank you!
On Jan 5, 2008 captainlicious wrote:
Yay! There's gonna be another part
I love that this story has a happy ending, too 
On Jan 5, 2008 Claudia35 wrote:
On Jan 5, 2008 lordeverglot wrote:
good one, good job!
On Jan 5, 2008 Devalyn wrote:
A bittersweet ending - I feel sorry for the dead, poor Verity...
I don't want the story to end - it happened so suddenly - I just woke up, came to TSR, and a new Van Helsing story was waiting here - I never thought this would be the end, so please, continue!
On Jan 5, 2008 sandybvv wrote:
what a marvelous story, I loved it from start to finish. I enjoyed reading all of it,You have done a wonderful job... I was not into Vampire's stories at all, but now I love YOUR story
one of my favorites if I must say, the characters were beautiful from inside and out. Great job! I will be so happy to read anything from you, so please let me know if you post a new story 
And Best luck with your Novel! Happy New Year! 
On Jan 5, 2008 KatCat wrote:
On Jan 5, 2008 aaaaaaac wrote:
Glitter Text @ Glitterfy.com
On Jan 5, 2008 Zayury wrote:
On Jan 5, 2008 binky13 wrote:
Wow great job on your story.
I loved every chapter of it.
On Jan 5, 2008 Saoz wrote:
/me stands up and applauds wildly.
What a perfect ending! You gave us just enough to be happy (Raynor and Mina are going to try to be happy; Sabrina has been exiled; Caroline has recovered, and she and Victor are happy once again; Jon is back home), but left enough open that we can either fill in for ourselves what we think may happen (I choose to think Sabrina never fulfills her desire to become a vampire and eventually dies in exile 
) or for you to come back if you find the time/desire to continue this story (which I doubt would include such an ending for our favorite villainess.) Bravo! (And way to go on your novel!)
On Jan 5, 2008 fizz bomb wrote:
WOW, amazing, I will miss the Van Helsing's thank you for such a gripping and enthraling tale
On Jan 5, 2008 jaundyce61 wrote:
What a great conclusion! It is so nice to actually see an end to a multi-chapter tale, as so many here do not! You wrapped up the plot lines wonderfully! Raynor and Mina, such emotion, and verity! How sad! Will Jon find happiness with Maria? I hope someday you do continue with these characters! Sabrina, what a villainess! You are to be commended!!
(and Colin is a sweetie!)
On Jan 5, 2008 sweetcharming wrote:
It's over?
I can't believe it! I really hope you make a continuation, because I really enjoyed the whole story, the way you developed the storyline, how the characters changed, how the story ended...a really amazing story and I'll miss it! 
You are a wonderful and great author and I'm waiting for more tales by you!!!
On Jan 5, 2008 SongChild99 wrote:
On Jan 5, 2008 Hordriss wrote:
Some influence from "Brides of Dracula", possibly?
Not that any Hammer film ever had a story to match this... You capture wonderfully the wretchedness of those good old days: war, epidemics, loveless marriages of convenience etc., but then counterbalance it with such pathos and nobility in your characters with notable exceptions... BTW, I love the irony of vampire-groupie Sabrina throwing that tantrum in which she lectures Dracula's own son on what a vampire ought to be, and ranks the great Count himself with the "pathetic excuses" for vampires. I think this is probably a chillingly true reflection of how the minds of fanatics and selfish devotees really work. One might note, for example, that your average radical Islamic terrorist is a recent convert, rather than someone who was born into the religion and thus actually knows and understands what it's about.
Poor Verity... and poor Victor, facing the imminent death of his wife and too noble to take the easy way out (Accepting daddy's offer to vamp them both, as I recall). But that's why we love the guy. 
So sad, though.
I agree that the Holy Water should be deadly, BTW, but it does raise the question of why God, in your universe, is so apparently unjust as to take Sabrina's cause in this conflict and hurt the nicer person (unless, possibly, for the greater good that sees Sabrina exiled). There could be any number of reasons, to be honest, but that's the sort of point it might be an idea to expand upon, in any continuations. Your additions to vampire mythology have been almost as interesting and intelligent as your storytelling itself.
On Jan 5, 2008 SpaciKathy wrote:
I'm very sad that this part is the last one of this fantastic story. But the story is fantastic, it was great to read them. And I must say, your pictures are so realistic and beautiful, very good job.
On Jan 5, 2008 estatica wrote:
I was anxiously waiting for this last chapter and now that I finished reading, I don't even know where to start! I was really sad for Verity, but I understand why you chose to make her disappear in this last chapter. I do hope Vic finds someone to love as Jon already has and finds happiness at last. Raynor and Mina were great too, it was with some relief to see they finally sorted things out. And Sabrina, I can really see her as a vampire in your future stories, she is probably the best vilan in TSR archives! And last, but not least, the last scene with Victor and Carolina surrounded by family is absolutely wonderful, making this the perfect ending!
On Jan 5, 2008 wrote:
I will definitely miss this terrific story, but I'm glad you left some of it open-ended - the next generation, Jon & Maria, and so forth - and I hope you come back to it someday. In any case, you did a fabulous job and I'm very much looking forward to your next project, whatever that may be. Beautifully shot, beautifully written, thank you!
On Jan 5, 2008 cariadbach wrote:
On Jan 5, 2008 DarkBorderR wrote:
Oh, it was fabulous! Is this really end? I'll miss them!
On Jan 5, 2008 iron mum wrote:
FANTASTIC
I love it, I hope "the witch" meets a bad end she is truly horrid.
How did you get Vic to go on his knees like that, i've been trying to get a shot to look like that for days but can't
Desperatly waiting the next part.
On Jan 5, 2008 wrote:
A wonderful tale , thank you for sharing with us all
On Jan 5, 2008 Deanna73070 wrote:
Karen!!!! What a MAGNIFICENT ending to this story!!! I am so happy that Raynor and Mina found a way to communicate!! And as for Jon, I have a funny feeling he will be calling Maria to come for a visit. On the other hand, Sabrina got EXACTLY what she deserved!!!! I wanted to jump into the story myself and slap her! lol One last thing, I'm hoping that your ending "The End...For Now" will spark another saga on this story as we surely have to check in with Jon to see how he has gone on with his life and to see how "well" Sabrina is fairing so far away from the family. I'm wondering if she will find another vampire to make her what she wants to be. Just marvelous, Karen!!! I have enjoyed these chapters so much, and I was wondering when this final chapter would be published....was actually looking for it these past few days. Just WONDERFUL! I can't say enough, but I will since this post is getting a little long..lol
Deanna
On Jan 5, 2008 wrote:
What can I say that hasn't already been eloquently said by so many others? Astounding achievement! Raynor's heartrending graveside declaration was very moving! And Jon regaining his memory was gripping, as was the disfigurement of Edward! You tied up the plots but left enough open if you decide to continue sometime, I encourage you to do so...the best storyline here!!
On Jan 5, 2008 Melody Curious wrote:
Oh I am so glad that they kicked Sabrina into touch! She has had that coming for so long. I guess I'll just have to wait to see what the future may/will bring for one of my favourite story families, I just love the way things flow and how it changes with the coming years.
Brilliant work, good luck with the novel!
On Jan 6, 2008 wrote:
Beautiful work as always, Karen!
The happy - yet open - ending leaves me hoping you'll come back to this tale in the hopefully not to far away future.
The scene at the cemetery with Raynor grieving over the loss of his young daughter was heartbreaking. I know so well what that feel like, and have to admit to not going to my own little girl's grave very often. I just don't have the heart...
So - a novel in the making? Tell me more, please, please, please! You know my email.
On Jan 6, 2008 jdgunraj wrote:
I loved these stories! You do a wonderful job of building up emotional scenes that aren't trite or sappy. I also love how you don't dish out the typical happily-ever-after endings. Your characters have a lot of depth and I really appreciated the romantic complications. It's great to see story characters who resemble real people with varying desires. I can't wait to see what you'll write about next. Keep up the great work!!
On Jan 6, 2008 spicylove wrote:
omg the photos are good the story is amazing why did it have to end?? keep up the good work you got mad skills
On Jan 6, 2008 AshGreg wrote:
awsome story camnt wait to see the next one
On Jan 6, 2008 wideopeneyes wrote:
Aw that was a great ending! You tied up all the storylines well. Thanks for sharing with everyone!
On Jan 6, 2008 BBKZ wrote:
You are the greatest writer here at TSR! Van Helsing Saga is the best sim-story! I love all details, everything is so interesting and surprising. This is really incredible what you made in this game! Perfect work!
Thank you 
On Jan 6, 2008 mangooo1 wrote:
Oh, really great ending
Thanks for sharing the whole of your stories. Though while I was reading I thought about some possible continuations 
(I thought that the future-nurse of Colin would be Maria) 
But that was wonderful, really 
On Jan 6, 2008 Petulah wrote:
wow, great story!!
On Jan 6, 2008 panda_bears1 wrote:
I understand why no ratings, but shhh, don't tell anyone (panda_bears1 sneaks drewsoltez a 5.0) Darn, u caught me! I really, honestly loved this story from start to finish.
Sometimes it's nice to leave a story open-ended, if you decide not to continue-I think it already has a lovely ending! Almost like a movie (everything doesn't always continue until happily ever after) What more is there to say, hmmmm. Nothing but I LOVED it!
On Jan 6, 2008 eshuff wrote:
The shots are gorgeous, perfect, and capture every emotion, but what a bittersweet ending...
Sad, honorable Vic. Calm, reasonable Edward, and no burn can ever lessen his beauty. Poor Jon, although I think he has happiness ahead of him. I would have preferred to see Sabrina turned into a toad, but locked up in a castle with no windows or doors might be an acceptable alternative!
And Raynor....I LOVE that guy!!! Well, ok, in an entirely esoteric way, but wow!!!!
After spending so much time with these people, who have come totally to life for me, it might be hard to part with them....just a warning!
I love it, love it. Beautiful and perfect!
Beth
On Jan 6, 2008 Miss_Crazy13 wrote:
It's sad that the story ends.
.Still it's also sad that Harrison and Verity died.
But it was such a beautiful end, all those emotions!!"
I'm glad that everything between Mina & Raynor is now okay and that Carolina has fight off the flu.Finally Sabrina is out of the picture, yah
I hope that someday you will continue this story, because I'm curious what will happen to them.
Ciao
On Jan 7, 2008 GFitz wrote:
This was such a heart wrenching, emotional ending. I am so happy that Raynor has attempted to open his heart and the evil Sbrina has been banished. I sense I know who the nurse may be caring for Charity...thrilled with the hope that this is not the end...wonderful job! ~gayl
On Jan 7, 2008 GFitz wrote:
Sorry I have to just say one more thing...I think the way you have made your characters multi faceted was fabulous. In particular Raynor who could have been the typical monster but in fact was very human. How often we hide our true feelings to protect ourselves. Although I rooted for Mina and Edward to find each other, I was happy with how things ended.
On Jan 7, 2008 xtamadea wrote:
and so it ends.... sigh
but I'm really happy that you ended it with a BANG!!!! you are truly fabulous, Karen!!!! beautiful endings that I didn't see coming. sad though that verity is dead, especially after Jon has recovered memories of her and after Vic returned. Verity's children sure are strong. If you continue this story someday, I hope you continue to develop their character. TOTALLY happy that Sabrina is banished!!! she really has no shame, always treating everyone like trash (disfiguring Edward's face too, eeeeeekkkk!!!!
), and she wanted a part in Harrison's will?? I do wonder what will become of her children, especially Aidan who's going to live with daddy Edward and Sophronia. He has a glint of menace in his character, and I think he has never quite liked his own father. He would be better if he stayed with Colin (poor dude btw!) whom he respected more. Also really happy that Raynor is going to work on being a true family man. I've had enough of his fightings with Mina, a woman he loved but he was to proud to admit it. You're working on a novel AND a photo story?????? Wow, really, you never stop to amaze me.
You go, girl!!!! _xta_
On Jan 8, 2008 sallyhails wrote:
OH my...words escape me, I absolutely loved it, I'm also sorry to see it end. You actually stunned me & brought tears to my eyes when I read Verity had died before Jon could return to her, I'm glad Sabrina got what she deserved & was happy to see Raynor & mina finally admit what was so plain to see for so long. What a perfect ending, I love the fact that you didn't conclude everyone's story, now we can sit & ponder on how we'd like it to end. Well done on a fabulous story, one of the best I've ever read.
On Jan 8, 2008 wrote:
So glad you let me know this was up. I would not have wanted to miss this superb ending to an amazing tale. I'm lost for words. I think I am going to have to read it all again
On Jan 9, 2008 candy820 wrote:
This was the Greatest Story I've ever read from begging to the end. Thanks so much for sharing all of your talent with everyone.
Hope you let me know if you write more stories here.
On Jan 10, 2008 simmgirl wrote:
Beautifully written, I loved it!! Thankful Mina got her family back. Thankful the flu epidemic is over as well. You do a wonderful job at holding the reader's attention. I look forward to the next part.
On Jan 10, 2008 Kenvjo wrote:
On Jan 10, 2008 ronnie211797 wrote:
Sorry I heaven't been around to rate you lately. I love the conclusion, it certain captured my imagination and ran away with it!
On Jan 11, 2008 Stesie wrote:
Oh man, it's over
Oh well it was a great story, loved it!!
On Jan 13, 2008 SimsBarbie wrote:
This story is definately paranormal novel material. It truly feels as if i'm reading one of my other vampire books. I can not say how fun and exciting your story has been. I'm so thankful for all the work you do in putting this together for us. (And I'm sure for yourself too.)
Jon is so cute! Is that his nurse friend that willbe taking care of colin's baby? hehe
On Jan 13, 2008 drewsoltesz wrote:
Thanks for the comments! I'll answer them all, I promise! I may return to these characters someday...never say never! Cheers!!
On Jan 16, 2008 hazabaza1 wrote:
What's with all the death in this story?!?! Also, what's with most storys I like all ending?! Oh well. A great part, nonetheless! (Book yet? Yes? No?)
On Feb 6, 2008 wrote:
A wonderful ending, just perfect!! I am always so astounded by your writing!! Brava and well done, indeed
On Feb 7, 2008 Little Seer wrote:
Wonderful and Amazing as always. I wish you luck in all your endeavours (not that you need it). Your writing abilities are astounding. Cheers
On Feb 17, 2008 OpheliaNival wrote:
Amazing ending, it was perfectly bittersweet
It was so sweet when Colin heard that the daughter was his and also the arrival of Jon was hard to watch "dry-eyed", you certainly leave possibilities open if you ever decide to do a spin-off... Thank you for sharing this with us, I have enjoyed every second of it! 
On Feb 29, 2008 primavera77 wrote:
On Mar 12, 2008 DevlishDoll91 wrote:
Awwww! Omg that was amazing!
On Apr 19, 2008 varrnas wrote:
I just finished reading all 8 of these van helsing stories and I must say they were all wonderful! So complex! And if you do continue this multi-chapter, which I pray you will, will you kill sabrina off please? lol I hate her so much!
On May 25, 2008 wrote:
This storry is the best pleas pleas make the next part
On Aug 11, 2008 drkfirecloud61 wrote:
Awesome story. It was very entertaining.
Good luck with your book!
On Oct 23, 2008 QG wrote:
all has been said before! wonderfull: i especially like the way they all came together as a family, well except Sabrina( even though i don't like her, i like the character, if that makes any sence?) and that everyone came to the realisation that everything or anyone isn't black and white.... and makes it very realistic, together with the setting and the love and loss. it all ties in together so well! i love it
On Mar 15, 2009 Kvetoslava wrote:
On May 26, 2009 fabrizioammollo wrote:
The story is great, multifaced, credible and heart-warming. In other words an amazing job!
On May 30, 2009 Justicia wrote:
I enjoyed this story veeeerry much! Since I live in Vojvodina I have to tell that it is a bitt scary for having Sabrina around here.
On Oct 15, 2009 maxi king wrote: