Through My Eyes:
Concerning the events before, during, and after the destruction
Of the vampire known as
Dracula
From the journal of Dr. Jacob Van Gorst
Chapter One
By
Ggunsailor
Hi gang!
I have decided to write this story because, after seeing "Bram Stoker's Dracula" (which, might I mention, is an AWESOME film!), it got into my head and wouldn't get out. Think of Van Gorst as the Transylvanian equal to Van Helsing (and just as famous).
Summary: Jacob Van Gorst, a renowned Transylvanian doctor, is the descendant of Cesare, the head priest who damned the bride of Dracula. And his family has kept the secret of the Vampire King for generations. This here is his journal that he kept throughout the occasion when he helped his best friend and close colleague, Abraham Van Helsing, destroy an immortal monstrous beast, and an undying prince find serenity with his bride…
Disclaimer: I don't own Bram Stoker's Dracula. Francis Ford Coppola, Columbia Pictures, and Bram Stoker do. However, I do own Van Gorst and other characters; if you want to use them please do so only with my permission. There are loads of spoilers for those who haven't seen the movie.
Rated: R for adult themes, violence, and sexuality
Note: It's written in the style of the novel; i.e. journal entries, letters, etc, the same way Stoker's novel is written.
Feedback: Yes, please!
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I am writing this because I feel it necessary. The others have of written of their experiences. And so shall I!
For this, I shall refer to my journal, which I kept during the events that transpired.
This writing is dedicated to Quincey P. Morris and Lucy Westenra.
May their souls be at peace.
-JACOB VAN GORST
London, 1904
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20 May
I have been watching the monster's castle for several days now. I know he is up to something; I just can't be sure what. I know it has something to do with the men from England. One has already come and gone; perhaps they will send another. Maybe.
My watching has a just cause. For many generations my family has kept the secret of Dracula, and how he became King of the Vampires. Ever since I was young, I knew the secret was important, but never knew what it truly was until the day my father left this world. When he told me, I was amazed and horrified.
"Jacob," said he "our family knows this because our ancestor was the head priest who witnessed how it began. It has been passed down in the hopes that one day--" This he greatly empathized "—one day, it shall save the world!"
Since then, I have gained such an interest in the supernatural, I have an expert because of it. The only one who equals my knowledge is my best friend and close colleague, Abraham Van Helsing. We both went to the same school, and have shared experiences together. He regularly sends letters to me, and I to him. He is the only one out of family who knows the secret.
It's growing late…and cold. I think I shall go back to my room at the inn. I'll learn nothing tonight.
What in heaven's name is that devil up to?
Later: Morning 26 May
A very curious thing!
Last night, I went to my normal watch spot and beheld a strange sight.
A carriage was coming up from the Borgo Pass! I could just make out the lantern that hung from its side, bouncing and jostling with the motion.
I reached my spot and crouched down, praying that the thunder didn't signal a coming storm. The blue flames appeared, and the carriage went through. Taking out my field glasses, I focused them onto the passenger.
It appeared to be a young man in his early 20s. He was dressed the same way that other Englishman was. The replacement, no doubt. I watched as they went through the gates, which shut with a clang. As this happened, the wolves set up such a din. Then, they stopped.
I crossed myself and kissed the silver cross I wear around my neck, praying that I would not see his corpse, dead or undead.
May God protect him in that house of horrors…
31 May Morning
It's been seven days since that young man went into Castle Dracula, and I have seen neither hide nor hair of him. I do know that he is alive! I have seen proof!
Last night, I resumed my watch and saw the Count leave in his wolf form. He ran fast, but as he passed by me, I saw three letters in mouth. Only the young man could have written them! No sooner had he left then he came dashing back. This time, he carried something moving, and I caught the faint cry of a baby. Ah, some poor, unhappy mother would miss her child tonight!
Right now, it's morning. The Count's Gypsies have arrived; fearless, loyal warriors that serve him to the death. They have begun filling boxes with decrepit earth from his crypt. So far, they have filled 25 boxes. I have counted another 25 waiting to be filled.
Why does he need 50 boxes of earth?
I must look into this further. I must wait for the right moment to get into the castle.
27 June
Aha! The moment is at last ripe!
All the boxes are filled, and the Gypsies just left with them. It being noon, I'll have no problem dealing with the Brides, or the Count, for that matter.
I hope I find the young man alive.
Later: I am shocked and astounded!
When I entered the castle, I found no resistance and made my way to Dracula's study. I have gone over countless blueprints of the castle, so I knew where to go.
Upon entering, I found a mess. Books lying on the desk, papers scattered everywhere, most of them dealing with real estate. Behind the desk was a map of London, which ten locations had been circled many times. Also many English newspapers and magazines(none of a recent date). Why did the Count need those? Alas, of the young man I found nothing. However, I did find out his name. And his purpose.
His name is Jonathan Harker.
A young solicitor from London, he came on account of Dracula's dealings with his law firm, Hawkins & Thompkins. I've found his journal; the last entry dated May 30. I hope he hasn't met an unseemly fate---
Just got word from a contact in the port of Varna. A Russian ship, the Demeter, set sail for London this afternoon carrying "fifty boxes of 'experimental earth' ". Is it the Count?
If so, does it mean that Dracula plans to set himself in London?
I hope and pray that is not his purpose. However, I found something far more sinister.
On the desk was a picture locket, that kind that one carries in their pocket. When I opened it, I saw the picture of a beautiful young woman…and was dumbfounded.
The words below it read "Mina".
But she looked like Elisabeta……..
Letter to Jacob Van Gorst, M.D., D.PH, D.LIT, ETC., ETC., Transylvania University, Turda, from Abraham Van Helsing, M.D., D.PH, D.LIT, ETC., ETC., Antwerp.
"My dear Jacob,
I am in need of your skills.
An old student of mine and a dear friend, Jack Seward, has asked of my assistance with a patient. It seems she is somewhat bloodless, but has none of the usual signs. I only know of what Jack has written.
It may be something mental, but he wants me to see for myself. Send me an answer soon. Until then, my friend.
"Van Helsing"
Letter to A. Van Helsing from J. Van Gorst.
"Abraham,
Of course, I'll come. There are some things I wish to discuss with you, and your student's case has me interested. I must get my books and papers from my home in Turda. Then I shall join you promptly in London. Until then, comrade.
Your best friend
"Van Gorst"
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Yay! Chapter One is finished!
Turda, by the way, is an actual city in Transylvania.
Chapter Two shall be up soon!
Finished 10/14/06 6:00 p.m.