Hello my dear readers here's the second part of the Carcassonne adventures. The day after the ice-cream tasting, the annual festival takes part and since Agatha won the bet, bot Balaurs attend it dressed in period clothes … Both look stunning and everything around makes the truly believe they returned to the 15th century …
Thank you all for the kudos and reviews! I appreciate it highly and always look forward to reading them.
CHAPTER 15: Conquered City
He stops at the blacksmith's stand that he hasn´t noticed the day before. As in awe, he eyes various collection of ancient weapons, mainly swords. It´s been some time, since he used one and now, being immersed in that aura of a long-gone era, a sudden urge to own one crawls into his mind.
- Don't you dare even thinking about it, Vlad. - as if she read his mind, Agatha Balaur directly disagrees.
- C'mon, darling, it´s a special day. Just look at these beauties. - murmuring tactics of a handy warlord is working. Agatha rolls her eyes at him, which basically means approval. - Falchions, rapiers and even longswords. - he names all of them, eagerly introducing their qualities to his beloved wife. - But look here, Agatha. What a masterpiece! - not paying that much attention to the blacksmith, Dracula´s attention is immediately captured by a shiny, new-looking yet majestically ancient sword. That captivating, straight, double-edged weapon with a single-handed, cruciform hilt and a blade length of about 75 centimetres (according to his rough guess) is a must-have piece. - I had 6 of these, Agatha. - and many more that decorated the stone walls of his large dining room, where all important strategic meetings with his boyars took place …
- I can still remember at least one of them. - and those many corpses that had been slayed by it … Dracula tries innocent smile, but fails … neither less to say, that was a part of ruler´s life. Protection of his land and people was an adequate apology for his mortal deeds … those of his immortal life, however ... - Surely you don´t need it anymore. - nevertheless, she can see the look of a little boy that wants a precious toy and will do anything to get it … even beg. Puppy eyes are back but have no relevant effect.
- Every man needs a sword. - pursing his lips, he might even cry … at least this is the impression his look now presents … what a spoiled little boy I have … the vampiress sighs.
- Maybe one born and lived in the 15th century, which you no longer are. - now even Agatha grins with satisfaction.
- Hm. Let me disagree and rephrase my words. - immediately he takes her into his arm. The old merchant just grumps and hands a few swords to possibly his sons. - Every Count needs one to protect his castle and lovely Countess. So technically … and practically… - a kiss or two follow. After their lips part again, Agatha huffs in defeat. She allowed him a horse, which keeps him occupied when she has a work to do. Surely, a sword that will most of the time hang on a wall cannot do any harm.
- One. - cheerful Dracula rubs his hands with a victorious smile on those nicely cut lips and adds:
- For today. -
- Don't try your luck, Vlad. -
- Alright, alright. - returning back to the stand he directly addresses that merchant. - What are these albions priced for, good man? - he asks the blacksmith, an old greying man, that looks quite surprised that the tall man in front of him even knows the name of it.
- They are not for sale, sir. - that explains the absence of price tags. Agatha breaths out in relief, Dracula frowns, the blacksmith points on a board that says: Display of most common medieval weapons.
- Surely, we could agree on some good price. - after all, Dracula is used to get everything he wants and knows very well the power of fortune ...
- Sir, these are no replicas as you might have noticed. -
- I am not looking for a replica, - now the warlord impatiently frowns. - but for an actual sword and I like this albion with the boat-shaped pommel. You don't have to worry that I will hurt myself. I know how to handle a sword and if you wish and find me a good opponent, I´ll gladly show you my capabilities. -
- Vlad. - Agatha´s tone of voice is directive. Only that they need … a fight … the old man emits a short laugh, amused by Count´s words. Well, it´s obvious that he knows something (much more than that), at least can name the specific type of pommel, but that doesn't mean anything.
- Both my sons are professional swordsmen, sir. -
- Are they? - the warlord that killed hundreds if not thousands of men during his mortal life chuckles. Agatha vehemently rolls her eyes and has every urge to grab him by the arm and drag him far away from the stand. However, she knows how brittle his ego is …
- If you want to show off your skills, well, let's see what a warrior you are. - not only Dracula senses the mocking tone of merchant's voice. - In 5 minutes, demonstration of the art of medieval fight takes a place. You can choose with who you want to fight. -
- Fine. What will I get when I win? - his victory is certain. Dracula has no doubts, though the old man has different opinion:
- When? - he smiles mockingly. - Rather if … my sons know how to handle a sword. They are professionals! -
- I assure you I will defeat them. - Count´s confident words do not persuade him; thus the old man rolls his eyes and offers:
- You can keep the sword you will fight with. Agreed? -
- Agreed. - Agatha starts to feel nervous. Of course, she is not worried of a possible loss and its consequences. She very well knows in what kind of a danger Dracula's opponents are. What if he cuts them and the blood fragrance will wake up the beast inside of him? Will he be able to keep his mind focused on a single task or will he slaughter half of the city. Thus, she grabs his arm, and pulls him closer.
- This wasn't in our plan, Vlad. Remember? We should have taken part in the parade, dance, laugh … now, there is a real danger. What if you … -
- Lose? - such assumption offends him and it´s visible.
- No. - Agatha shakes her head. - Hurt that poor man and … sweetheart … there might be blood. -
- There won't be, I promise. - at this time, doctor Balaur has no chance to persuade him otherwise. He accepted the challenge to duel and if he suddenly decided otherwise, it would cast a shadow of cowardice on him. That´s something he could never have allowed … neither would she.
- Hurt someone and I will cage you in the cellar. -
- I know. - now the warlord, with a partial agreement of his wife, returns back to the stand and selects his sword, pushing the erotic imagination of possible cage imprisonment to the back of his mind. Maybe once ... The weight of albion suits him perfectly and pommel´s material is comfortable for touch. Few empty cuts through the air and swirls of his hand reassure him, that this is the correct weapon for his hands. In a minute or two, a tall man (smaller though than the Count) joins him and eying him scrutinizingly, evaluates his opponent.
- Alright, Mr? -
- Balaur. And you? -
- Chatelier. - he answers proudly and then, with not that zealous look on his well-tanned face, adds: - To be honest, I am not that eager as my proud father to fight you here. It´s unfair towards you as many people can stand by and watch, however you agreed, provoked that combat. - Vlad has to chuckle … at least in his mind, because now he pretends interest and utter focus. He catches a word or sentence describing the masterful skills of his opponent every now and then, but honestly doesn't care. - We will agree on some rules and no one has to get hurt. -
- I have no intention to kill or harm, Mr. Chatelier. - no matter the sympathies, Count remains polite, a perfect example of a gentleman. - All I want is this beauty and I always get what I want, right Agatha, my dear? - Agatha standing in a short distance just smiles in response, little bit nervous from the upcoming moments as if it was her to fight. A superior expression returns to Count´s face as he listens to all the rules he honestly tends to follow, meanwhile Agatha observes those two, thinking that they tease each other like two boys, trying to prove how much better they are than the other one. Her husband was always a show-off, she knows that and it angered her, frustrated most of the time but now … as he said, given everything that surrounds them and really gives the impression of a medieval fair, his mind is trying to persuade himself that he returned back to his most famous era. Her warlord returns back to her in a while, already with something resembling protective pads and a shield to block the attack. With a huge smile he stops in front of her in all his attractiveness and stages himself into a pose of perfection. Smirking, he winks at her and asks:
- How do I look, love? -
- Much better than the last time I saw you with a sword. - no blood, clean face and clothes, no corpses shattered all around. - That doesn´t mean though I approve your obsession with that sword and need to prove you are the best. -
- Which I surely am. -
- I don't doubt that. - nevertheless, Agatha raises her eyebrows and gives him a clear-cut look. - But remember, no blood, no injuries. And don't say that I am a doctor! - those words are definitely on his tongue. She can see his mouth already opening. - I want to have a pleasant evening in your company, listen to your bragging about those times your heart still beat. Nothing can ruin it, alright?! - no negotiation is possible, that's certain. Noble knight of the Societas Draconistarum obediently nods.
- Will my beautiful Countess wish me a luck and kiss me? -
- She will. - caressing his shoulders, Agatha leans forward and fulfils her promise. It´s a sweet, yet short kiss, nevertheless, it brings desired happiness. Now the combat awaits him …
-/-
It´s been 15 minutes already since the troubadour announced upcoming sword contest. Immediately the spacious square became overcrowded and Agatha almost lost her prestigious position at the front. From then, even more people came to take a look on the show. Count Dracula could have won already and Agatha knows that, however, it´s more than obvious how much he enjoys the fight. Without a doubt he has surprised the old blacksmith and his sons even more. Like an excellent dancer he moves with his sword. Pirouette here pirouette there, stride forth, dodge back. His shield catches few unnecessary strikes, though he never stops smiling. Even that proof of self-confidence increases the nervousness of the older Chatelier. Meanwhile the crowd shouts loudly, cheering, enjoying the martial art demonstration, supporting its favourite swordsman according to sympathies.This entertains Count even more. It´s time to add a bit of spice to the game …
- Let's call your brother, Mr. Chatelier. I am getting bored and so are the people. - he provokes with a mocking tone of voice and wide grin. His boldness is rewarded by a strong cut, that he expected and avoided deftly. How predictable swordsman's tactics can be?! Dracula keeps smiling, eyeing the man in black leather fighting clothes with an obvious provocation. In those eyes a hint of ridicule can be noticed. An attack follows. With a one strong blow, aimed at his opponent, the steel blades finally cross in an audible clank. Count Dracula, limiting himself to his human strength, pushes forward, lunging. His strength is in those stout shoulders and long arms and even though his hands are not accustomed to his new sword the way his opponent´s are, his movements and firm grasp are more natural. The crowd gasps in astonishment when Chatelier loses his balance and is not able to regain it back. In the first moments, that poor man feels troubling vibration in his arms, that he spreads to his side. Hard hands that work with steel and iron lose the grip, letting the sword fall to the ground in the same moment, Roger Chatelier lands on his back. That´s the turning point when his brother joins the fight, but as well as his older sibling cannot near the art of one of the most famous warriors that trained his fighting skills since an early childhood and used them in real battles. Each incorrect cut or hit could have meant death and he capably avoided all the dangers. Basically. Now it´s two against one, as Roger managed to stand up and claim his albion once more. Two almost identical faces stare at him, quickly evaluating Count´s next steps, though hesitate to strike only a second. Count would like to taunt again, however, has to agree that he has much more advantages and experience than those men. Standing in between them, he lowers the sword for a while and with a provocative gesture of invitation to come closer, teases the sibling duo that stands no chance:
- C'mon boys! - from both sides, Count Dracula is being attacked, yet not a single blade touches him. With the shield in one hand and the sword in the other one, he repels the attack and jumps back to have them both in a plain sight. He hauls off and with a battle cry attacks them both at the same time. Ear-tearing sound of clashing weapons fills the immediate surroundings. Roger´s blade clashed with Dracula´s at the same time, meanwhile the younger brother blows from the left side. Nevertheless, sooner than he could cause any harm to the vampire, Dracula eliminates Roger and in a blink of the eye, almost immediately blocks the strike of the younger one with a shield and with one kick, sends him to the ground. Both brothers hit the dirty stone paving. The fight is over, blade of Dracula´s sword victoriously pointed on them.
- Impressive skills, I admit, - he nods downwards, looking at them with amusement in his brown eyes. - but you cannot simply win over someone who was born with a sword already in his hand. - Agatha, whose ears don't miss Count´s words, would have expected an outburst of laugh or more mocking words, however, Vlad behaves and even offers a hand to the fallen. Now all the by-standers applaud and Agatha finally breaths out in a complete relief. The worst is over. No blood was spilled. All three swordsmen stand on their feet, shake each other´s hand, sealing the peace. Even the oldest Chatelier joins them and admits the loss by gifting Count Dracula the sword he wanted. Eventually, still followed by an applause, Count joins his Countess. Smiling from ear to ear he takes her into his arms and burying his face into her hair, places a small peck on her neck.
- Now we can enjoy the rest of the evening together, my love. - finally securing the sword on his belt, he caresses doctor´s cheek.
- I hope so, Vlad. - the tumult finally calms down; people are leaving the place of what they thought was just a part of the festival show. Agatha appreciates the loss of interest and comments Count´s saddening expression. - You just love being the centre of interest, don't you? - the named one, rolls his eyes but shrugs, finally smiling anew. His wife pays him more attention than anyone before and that´s all he needs to be happy.
- If only you knew. -
- I do. - it´s time to go, so Agatha releases Count´s hand and gives him last order: - Now, Vlad, say goodbye to your game pals and then we will go to the Castle. I want to dance. - the directive sound of her voice makes him chuckle. She sounds like …
- Yes, mom. - he rather hurries, because that expression on Agatha´s face certainly means a huge trouble for him … nevertheless, Count smiles, realising very well what he is doing … and risking …
-/-
The sky above Carcassonne is slowly turning reddish again, however this time the day is not dawning, but nearing its end. Through the ancient fortified city, a crowd of hundreds of people walks, with torches in hand, singing, cheering, enjoying the spirit this evening has. It´s the end of the month, the last Saturday, July 31st and the annual festivities in Carcassonne end and as it is custom, history comes to life again. Almost everyone is dressed in the traditional, period costumes and Count and his Countess are not an exception. They fit quite well in the crowd, though as it became quite a rule, tanned Dracula is the tallest one and stands out from the crowd, just like Agatha. It´s new and in its own way a strange, experience. Never before has he marched with common people, mortals and it surprises him, that a year after he gave up his murderous lifestyle, he has no particular desire to slaughter a single person now. He is well fed, holds Agatha´s hand and enjoys the look of her face. Awe. That would describe it quite well. Although she could have travelled a world before, she limited vacation time and never actively took part in anything similar. In a kind of way, her life remained quite ascetic until he returned back to it.
- Are you alright, Vlad? - Agatha, dressed in a long, short-sleeved dress with modest V-line, asks suddenly her absentmindedly looking husband (that was just lost in her features as so many times before).
- Absolutely. Why? -
-It´s a huge step forward, darling, isn´t it? Being with so many … you know regular people in such a close contact. - always, even now, is she carefully watching his reactions, moreover if so many tasty people surround them. - And you look a little bit lost. - the last remark causes an outburst of laugh.
- I´ve never been better. - he answers, but corrects himself immediately, with a provocative, ambiguous, joyous smile. - Well, I have been. With you. In a different surrounding. You know ... Those were and are the best moments … - Agatha´s not so pale, however not as tanned cheeks as those of Count are, feel a need to blush. Count though quickly returns back to the original topic. - I can however assure you that I am not hungry or thirsty. And that perplexed look, honey … I cannot help myself but have to dream about you even if I am awake. - only now she rolls her eyes at him, just to suppress another outburst of giggle.
- C'mon, Vlad. Get out of the bed for a while and enjoy the fresh air. -
- It might surprise you, but I was not thinking about making love with you. - Agatha doesn't entirely believe it. His face says otherwise. In a well-known gesture, Count runs his fingers over his crimson-red lips and looking inf front of him, muses happily:
- My life has never been better, my dear. - with another quick peck, Count fully focuses on the route that nears the Castle, but doesn´t miss the response from the lips of his wife, that feels absolutely the same way …
-/-
Warm, summer night couldn´t eventually be any better. The sky looks like an atrament blue canvas, on which someone spilled a white colour of Milky Way and its thousand stars. Modern electrical lights do not unnecessary spoil the medieval look and the majestic castle is lit with hundreds of torches, that the crowd brought with and placed into prepared stands. The stone floor of the courtyard is now almost invisible as numerous feet dance on it in the rhythm of the Troubadours. In the crowd 2 figures outstand. A tall, black-haired man with a slightly tanned skin, dressed in a luxurious black attire with a red coat of arms on the back … (surprisingly a black Dragon dominates it, even if not the one representing Dracula dynasty) and a bright-new sword on his belt… Agatha even offered him his ring to wear for this special night, however superstitious warlord didn't want to hear about it. Ring is yours, love and so shall it remain. He said. Red colour suits Agatha as well and the adjacent circlet headband allowed her hair to freely fall on her shoulders. Now the aristocratic duo dances. As the rest of the attendees. Slower pace of the ballads allows the couple to muse once more and since Agatha already told him everything about the city, Dracula in a dream-like state burrows his face to her fragrant, loose hair. He allows himself to close the chocolate eyes for a moment and is lucky to find only a void. This means, he is not dreaming and that´s what matters now. However, returning back to the world of light, he notices almost immediately something disturbing.
- Agatha, have you noticed that man to the left? - he asks suddenly, interrupting the pleasant silence filled only with the music. - He is circling around the crowd and watching us. I am certain. - he eyes him, but as soon as Agatha responds, he focuses on her instead.
- Don't be paranoid, Vlad. - Agatha would rather listen to the music, not troubling herself with people around. - If we were under surveillance, we would have been already attacked … and definitely not in the middle of such a huge crowd. - either way, Countess lifts her head from Dracula's shoulders and at least tries to search for the suspect. Nothing. That puzzles even him. A frown returns to his forehead, even his voice has a defensive tone.
- I swear he has been looking at us, darling! - moving her hand from the fine fabric of Dracula's shoulder, Agatha tenderly caresses his cheek and in a soothing voice whispers.
- Even if, he might have had different reason. Don't jump immediately to speculative conclusions. - she wants to relax tonight … at least until they reach rented villa on the outskirt of the city.
- Do tell me what other reasons to stare at us might he have? - now the Countess sighs s bit as she notices a huffy, childish protest. Nevertheless, she has no intention to engage sarcasm into this evening and thus, patting softly his stout shoulders, simply praises him:
- Such a handsome, tall, attractive man can catch an eye or two. Don't you think? Maybe he has been staring at your fine ass, my sexy Count. - with a spirited smile, that plays on her face, she decides to capture those tasty lips forming a surprised "O". Leaning closer towards her husband, Agatha Balaur kisses him before he can protest … not that he would like to.
- Do you think so? - such words are always welcome, especially when coming from her lips. Amused doctor confidently nods.
- Yes, Vlad. I think you are a stunning man, my sexy husband and yes, I believe that is the reason of their attention. -
- Alright. - he huffs in a defeated manner, nonetheless, with the next breath, he smiles again and pressing Agatha toward himself even more, swirls them masterfully to another part of the courtyard. Again, his confidence reaches its usual level and his proud face, perfect posture of a warrior, create an aura of an undeniable, true aristocrat. He is the only one that doesn't need to pretend anything and in a sense of this fact, even Agatha. By marriage she became a Countess too and her behaviour is ladylike more than enough. - In the moments like this, I miss my era the most. - or specifically some aspects. Comfort of the 3rd millennium, however, cannot be compared to anything …
- In the moment like this, I wish I was part of that era as well. - her memory brings her immediately to splendorous ball hall of Peterhof. - But only for a while. Other than that, I am satisfied with this century. -
- So am I. - his words are sealed with another quick peck and a girlish giggle, that escapes Agatha's mouth. How adorable and sweet can she be! And indeed. So unlikely, Countess Dracula feels carefree in the arms of her husband. Something so unusual and up until recently pathetically rare. Again, their minds focus on each other and the melodic music in the background. That lasts though only 5 minutes. - Agatha, I don't want to panic, but the same man is watching us AND approaching closer. - they are surrounded by many similar couples and have no place to hide. Those nearing steps of a plump middle-aged man are noticed this time by Agatha as well. She frowns and looks around as if looking for some escape route. No trouble must happen today. Being on eyes of mortals, they cannot just transform into a thick cloud of bats like 3 nights before.
- Calm down, darling. It will be alright. - she can sense the growing tension in Dracula's body and knows very well what consequences it might bring. That funny looking man however, doesn't look like a secret agent, rather more like a clerk. He is hurrying to them, passing through the crowd and apologizing to everyone who comes to his way.
- Parles-tu français? - do you speak French? The man is asking them as soon as he stands close enough to the uneasy looking couple.
- Yes. - both answer in French. The face of the stranger immediately shines with happiness. Balaurs´ confusion on the other hand only grows.
- I apologise for interrupting you in the middle of the dance, nevertheless I have a question to ask and something to announce. - no secret agent … his accent is definitely belonging to someone living exactly here the entire time … Agatha thinks, though Vlad is still suspicious. - My name is Jacques Hermeli and I am the Chairman of the City Historical Committee, - at first, worries and remorse, hit them both. He knows about the trespassing. They seem to think at the same time. Though Mr. Hermeli, noticing absolutely no distress continues in explaining. - and you have been chosen for the honourable role of this year´s festival´s Count and Countess. Mr. and Mrs.? -
- Balaur. - Agatha reacts faster than her husband, who froze in a shock. - Don't get me wrong, Mr. Hermeli but we haven't taken part in any competition. You must have mistaken us with someone. -
- Mrs. Balaur, I assume then, this is your first festival, isn't it? -
- It is. - clutching Dracula's hand, Agatha answers this question as well.
- The committee each year choose someone from the crowd to represent the aristocratic dynasty of Carcassonne and receives the title Vicomte and Vicomtesse of Carcassonne. Everyone can become a ruler for one night and this year, the lucky star is yours. - if only he knew who they are, he would omit those words. - Allow me to say, that my eyes have never before spot someone who looked so aristocratic and worthy of this role. - now, relief finally fills them both. - My colleagues noticed you at the South Gate square and informed me about your fencing art that overcame that of professionals. Like a warrior, they said. - Dracula wants to burst in laugh. His identity was revealed, even if nobody realised who the masterful warlord really is. This is something he was talking about few nights ago. Winning the non-existing battle with only his charm and good manners, claim the castle and conquer the La Cité …
- Really? - Dracula pretends surprise, but in Agatha's eyes, fails miserably. The current situation amuses him and feeds his ego even more at the same time. - What an honour such a praise and opportunity it is, isn't it, my dear? - unsuspiciously, Agatha rolls her eyes at him, but looking at the Chairman, agrees with a polite smile.
- Given your reaction, I suppose, we are agreed? - Mr. Hermeli is truly satisfied with the outcome of this year´s luck selection. As he mentioned the looks of Mr. Balaur and his wife give impression of true nobility a when real Count Dracula nods with a huge smile, the plump man knows he won.
- Certainly. - Dracula looks at his Countess with a mischievous grin, which only she notices. - Why not? Who wouldn't want to be a Count? Even if for one night. - luckily, he omits theatrical behaviour that he enjoyed in the past when speaking with someone of lower status just to have fun.
- Exactly. Now, please follow me. - following, Count offers his arm to his Countess.
- Shall we, my dear? - even if she had a choice, she would agree by all means. Heavens, I am behaving just like him! However, this fact amuses her.
- Without doubts. - and accepting his kind offer, the Count and Countess Dracula of Wallachia follow the Chairman of City´s Historic Committee to become tonight's Vicomte and Vicomtesse of Carcassonne.
-/-
Sitting on a high chair, with the symbolic keys to the City and the Castle as well, Vicomte and Vicomtesse of Carcassonne have a great view at the crowd, whose part they were just an hour ago. As a royal couple, they ascended to the stage and took their throne to rule for one night. Agatha still cannot believe that all the people applaud them (or their special role in this festival ceremony). What´s more, she realises very well how unlike of her this is. Up until 8 months ago she would have said a strict no to such an offer and not care if her husband pleaded her with either words or big chocolate puppy eyes. Nothing would persuade her … even travel abroad with him … and how she enjoys it! Fanfares. Cheerful chanting of the masses. Ovation of those excited people. Suddenly a bold idea hits her. She wants to try something …
- Give me your hand, Vlad. - she turns to him, immediately noticing the joy in his face, which she wants to multiply.
- You want to hold it? -
- Yes, I do. - the proud warlord complies with no suspicion, his satisfaction only grows. Now Agatha, closes her eyes, focusing fully on her task. Her concentration must be absolute, this is after all a huge crowd, not just one person, but she trusts herself and her abilities. Emptying her mind, she feels a complete void, state of no thoughts and outside notions. Now she hears no music in the background, no voices, perceives no touch. All she can sense, think about, is Vlad´s wish to be perceived as the mighty warlord once again and his fame being recognized by everyone. She is stronger than she thought, however, at this time, she fully realises it. Opening her eyes again, everything is silent and her husband quickly turns to her in an obvious shock. He is the only unaffected by her … miraculous skills.
- Agatha? - he addresses her, not quite understanding what´s going on … yet. The named one just smiles mysteriously and biting her lower lip, answers a question that hasn't been asked.
- I don't want to be just a Vicomtesse, my dear Count. - she explains further with the same mischievous grin that adorns his face. Dracula cannot believe his own ears!
- What do you plan, my love? - he suspects, but has some doubts that his conclusions are correct.
- Watch. - again, eyeing the dead-silent crowd, she sends a subconscious impulse, order for the poor souls to follow. Within a minute, silence is replaced again with a cheerful ovation:
- Salvo to the Count and Countess Dracula of Wallachia and Carcassonne! Long live our rulers! Hooray! - Dracula's jaw drops down in a pure astonishment and an honest disbelief! Once he looks at his overly satisfied and proud wife, once at the people in trance-like state that constantly repeat the ovation.
- Heavens! - he manages to say and smiles in awe. - My dear, you are such a powerful woman, vampiress! Do I need to be scared? -
- That I´ll manipulate your mind, Vlad? -
- No. - even if … it might happen that she becomes more powerful than him. - That you will dominate the world. - now Agatha bursts into laugh.
- I won't. I enjoy my little world without aristocratic duties. -
- Now it doesn't seem so. -
- Oh Vlad, just enjoy the moment. Your people are calling your name. - so many faces look at them, with empty eyes, yet smiles. - Let's get one more applause and then, I´ll stop them. -
- Do you have to, my dear, powerful Countess? - he could get used to this very easily … even if it might get boring after a while … but not yet. - I quite enjoy it! My people never chanted this way. - and the reason is well-known. - Only when we won the battle though. Fine, I´ve had this, but you did not. - alright, he must admit that this is not the first time ...
- Yes, I must return them their free will. - anyway, she is not sure how long she can hold the power over the minds of so many people.
- Salvo to the Count and Countess Dracula of Wallachia and Carcassonne! Long live our rulers! Hooray! -
- Once this is over and we have one last dance … we can indeed visit a different bedchamber of our castle tonight. - this is enough to persuade him. What are all the cheers and fame compared to the loving touch of his wife? Nothing.
- As you wish, my powerful Countess Dracula of Wallachia and Carcassonne. - taking her hand into his, Count Dracula kisses the top of it and with seducing smile, murmurs: - I am yours to command. - that definitely is true in the bedroom … Agatha teasingly raises her eyebrow, which Count repays with an innocent smile.
- Ready? - it´s time. Count Dracula nods and before she could do anything, kisses her on the cheek.
- Ready. - Countess smiles, but eventually, once more has to focus fully. Momentarily, all the calls to glory of the rulers are silenced and after a second replaced by the troubadours and previous noise of hundred voices. No one noticed anything suspicious. The coronation is finished within next 5 minutes and after receiving some small gifts, Count and Countess, hand in hand, descend the stage and as promised, take one last dance before leaving … The ancient castle has many bedchambers and they need to try all of them …
- TBC -
As you can see, Agatha's vampiric abilities are growing stronger and with just a little will, she can do amazing things.
I hope that you enjoyed our warlord fighting once more and being celebrated by the crowd. He certainly loved it!
Let me know your impressions!