Elsewhere . . .

In the dense, snowy woods of Transylvania, a lone rider atop a black steed was traveling along an empty, worn dirt road. A small village flanked by a large castle and tall, rocky mountains came into view, and I tipped my cowboy hat to take in the sights. My horse trotted into the sparsely populated town, but what people were there stopped their activities to stare. Even the children looked in awe as they followed behind into the main square. When I stopped, it was my turn to look at the two story buildings, houses, livestock, and farmer peasants who surrounded my beast.

All was quiet until a man stepped forward by a large stone cross in the middle of the square, and addressed me.

"Welcome to Transylvania. What is a stranger like you doing here in our land?"

I studied this man carefully. Judging by his boldness and stature, I assumed him to be the leader of this place, and a healthy, handsome one at that.

"I merely come as an innocent traveler to your humble village," I answered with a slight bow from my saddle. "And may I ask of you, sir?"

"I am Marlus Attulkin, the new king of this land elected after the death of the Valerious family."

Everyone bowed their heads in silent respect, including Marlus.

"I am deeply sorry for your great loss."

"As are we always; may I inquire to the reason for your visit?"

"I'm afraid it's quite personal, but if you'd really like to know, we can go somewhere private and discuss it, along with some other issues."

"Then please, come with me to the castle," he replied as he began to walk off.

I followed behind on my horse down another worn path that led up to a hidden castle overlooking the village and a heavily wooded valley. The huge stone walls climbed up above me as I got off and walked my beast into the expansive courtyard. Once it was settled with food and water, Marlus led me through giant wooden doors into a spacious yet luxurious grand room that boasted the history of Transylvania through paintings, artifacts, and especially weapons on display.

"Welcome to my home," he said as he turned to face me "but I do not believe we are fully introduced, my lady."

"My name is Riana. That is all you need to know for now," I answered as I took off my hat and looked around.

My black boots resounded against the solid floor, and the flame light from the torches illuminated my dark, wavy hair and my smooth face as I walked toward Marlus. He poured some red wine into silver and glass goblets, and I accepted a drink as he crossed over to a window looking out onto the mountains and an incoming storm.

"So . . . what unimaginable thing has brought you to my beloved yet accursed country?"

I stared for a moment at my cup, glanced into his eyes, and looked away.

"I am here for Dracula," I stated.

He almost choked on his sip and spat back into his cup. He gasped for air and tried to recover from the shock I had caused him.

"Are you mad?! No one has spoken his name since I can remember, and I hope that bastard is rotting in hell where he belongs after the great Van Helsing killed him those many years ago. Why are you searching for someone who is finally dead, let alone one of the most feared and hated beings in the world?"

"Because," I answered coolly "there is reason to suspect he has returned to our world yet again, and I have some business with him."

Thunder boomed and lightning began to strike as Marlus watched me suspiciously.

"And how do you know all of this?" He asked while he approached me.

I could tell he was eyeing my curved form hidden beneath my black vest, thin, revealing white shirt, and black pants, but along my slanted belt laid a loaded pistol and a sheathed knife with a silver handle.

"Let's just say I have my sources. Now, we should end this conversation soon before this storm worsens and I won't be able to find any shelter."

"Please, you are most welcome to stay here as an honored guest, for as long as you like."

"I graciously accept your kind hospitality. Thank you," I bowed.

"Come, I will show you to your room if you would like to retire for the night."

He grabbed a lantern from a nearby table and we went up a long flight of stairs to the second floor.

Meanwhile . . .

Dracula paced back and forth along a stone floor and seemed lost in thought. He was grateful to be alive again, but he only had a certain amount of time to fulfill his promise. So far, his efforts have proved somewhat unsuccessful.

A Dwergi servant entered and handed him a paper. He looked it over quickly and threw it to the side with a frustrated look.

"All this searching, and I still have not found the perfect bride. I am almost tempted to take what I've seen and settle for that, but it is not enough. It will take too long to go to all the corners of the world, and to every woman who catches my eye . . . unless I make them come to me."

Then he called back the Dwergi and formulated an intricate yet clever plan.