Hello my dear friends After a longer time, I am here to post another chapter. As promised last time, the Balaurs return to Transylvania for the summer holidays. The Poenari castle, after almost 8 years in reconstruction is finally ready to host the famous dynasty. This is the first chapter to take place in the home of Dracula family.

Alexander and Aurora enjoy the beautiful day outside, playing in the courtyard various games until they hear a painful growl. Both quickly identify the source of such agony and decide immediately offering their help. Leaving the safety of the Dracula fortress, they step into the dark Carpathian forests...

Chapter 30: Little Balaur bravery

It's been a week since the Balaur family arrived to Transylvania. Seven days passed since the entire Dracula dynasty stepped through the large gate of the Poenari Castle. Alexander and Aurora stared in an utter awe at the majestic walls of the mostly reconstructed family heritage for a significant amount of time already. Immediately, the feeling of being a part of a fairy-tale overwhelmed them and when they climbed from the car to take a look at the Beauty of their summer home, they completely forgot to move. The feeling of being an aristocrat hasn't passed yet and surely will not leave their little souls anytime soon. Here they are the real princess and the real prince of Transylvania and all adjacent lands. Being unattended, since their father is overseeing the installation of the crystal chandeliers all over the castle and Agatha had to visit the local supermarket, they decided to play the hide-and-seek. So far, Alexander is the winning one ...

- How come you always find me so fast, Alex! - Aurora complains again, frowning and giving a look full of suspicion to her older brother. - Have you even counted to 100? Aren't you cheating? Because if so, then it is a behaviour not fitting the boyars! - when Alexander found her quickly the first time, she just thought, he had luck. Still, they are just getting to know the castle and all its hidden nooks and cranes, however when he succeeded the second and third time as well, a suspicion started to grow in her mind. Alexander vehemently shakes his head.

- I never cheat! - he sounds quite offended, which is more than visible. He frowns just like his sister. - I am worthy of my boyar title, Aurora. -

- Then how is it possible, that I am looking for you 20 minutes at least and you find me always so quickly, hm? - then and idea, possible explanation comes to her mind, which saddens her. - Are you wandering through the castle during the night? Without me? - even such a thought breaks her heart! After all, the sibling duo does everything together, the more when it concerns such exciting adventures. Alexander though keeps shaking his head.

- No, I haven't. - he refuses such an idea. Aurora has had it enough, so she demands the direct clarification:

- Then explain it to me, Alex. - the boy only shrugs his shoulders, his expression changes from offended to sheepish one.

- Well, - he starts slowly revealing the truth. - It's quite easy, Aurora. The secret is ... -

- What? What it is! -

- The mist. It is always somewhere near you when you try to hide. - Alexander finally explains. He noticed it the first time here in between the walls of Poenari Castle.

- Are you joking? - it's not funny at all! Aurora would like to shake her brother until he will stop lying and reveals the truth... I have never noticed it! It's impossible!

- I am not, Auri. - he defends himself, trying the name he uses only when his sister becomes angry. - Look, I only noticed it here. Before, we usually played outside and there ... well, somehow, I omitted it, though now that we play inside the castle, it surrounds you always as an aura. You haven't really noticed it? -

- No. - she insists on her own, though no more suspects her brother of lying. He looks too honest and she can read almost all of his facial expressions. - How come you have no fog around? - here the boy saddens a bit ... it can mean only one thing ... Aurora is slowly discovering her vampire abilities and he is not.

- Maybe your superpowers are manifesting already. - he replies in a sad tone of his voice, wishing to be showing something magical as well...

- Really?! - now her eyes sparkle with joy, nevertheless, she immediately realises, that Alexander dreams about his superpowers as well.

- Hm. -

- Maybe you have different superpowers, Alex. - she tries to cheer him a bit, even caresses his shoulder with a gentle smile.

- Like what? - his tone of the voice is a bit sulky.

- Well, you are much stronger than I am and our horses listen each and every of your orders, even though you don't voice them. -

- Do you think so? - a sparkle of hope returns to the innocent ocean-blue irises of Alexander when Aurora nods. - Maybe our superpowers will be different, divided between us, so ... - though his musing is unexpectedly interrupted by a strange sound, that echoes throughout the entire courtyard. - Did you hear it too? - Alexander asks, meanwhile Aurora nods.

- Sounds like a wolf. - the howl is though strange. Not full of joy or strength as usually. - Being in pain, don't you think? - immediately, a deep wrinkle of worries crosses their foreheads.

- Yes. -

- We should search for that wolf, Aurora. - Alexander enthusiastically exclaims, not feeling a hint of fear, which though resides in the heart of the little girl.

- But we are forbidden to leave the Castle without mommy or pappa. -

- Though there have to be an exception when someone is endangered. - he tries to persuade her, taking her hands into his, giving them a gentle squeeze. - We should go. It will be quick, Auri, don't worry. I will take my sword and protect you. -

- Fine. - the little girl agrees that it is their duty to protect the animals of their lands and if a wolf is in danger, she takes it personally. After all, she loves those fluffy animals. - I will take my sword as well. Just in case. - both hurry to their fancy bedroom with thick tapestries covering the walls and a woolly carpet lying on the wooden floor. Both rummage quickly trough their treasure chests, finding the fine wooden swords with two dragons chasing each other. Then, in a hurry they leave the Castle and shortly after the courtyard as well. The adventurous search begins and the 7-years old duo cautiously enter the forest next to the castle. After all, it seems to be the source of the painful howling. Holding their hands as not to get lost, both feel a little anxiety though the courage to help as well. The echo intensifies ...

-/-

Finally, after quite a long track, they spot a small wolf pack in an unusual formation. The largest black wolf is encircled by 4 other wolves ... much smaller ones that seems to ... attack him? No. Impossible! Both kids seem to think. All the other black wolves are though constantly jumping to the wolf, nagging him, nevertheless, the wolf in danger, seems to welcome all the attacks. Aurora and Alexander stop at first. They are used to wolves, of course. They played with them since being little toddlers, though these ones are strangers ... however, the omnipresent courage whispers them that there is something amiss and they get even more convinced about their persuasion once the black wolf pulls his leg just to howl even more dramatically.

- It's okay, wolfie. - Alexander announces their presence. Momentarily, the entire pack looks at the kids, freezing at the spot.

- We came to help. - Aurora joins her brother, looking at him questioningly, her voice a bit shaky.

- Are you hurt? Can we take a look? - the black pack is alerted, though nothing indicates an attack, thus the young Balaur duo walks towards them slowly. Once they approach the beasts, three smaller pups and the she-wolf step back, revealing the reason of their concern. The leader of the pack growls in an obvious agony, his leg bleeds heavily as it is stuck in some strange-looking piece of metal.

- What's that? - Aurora asks her brother who lacks the answer as well.

- I don't know. - he nears the suffering, nevertheless, watchful animal, carefully kneeling, avoiding the mysterious piece of metal. - It seems like a necklace ... enormous one. -

- Maybe some ancient giant lost it here a long time ago! - Aurora squeaks and seeing the agony in wolf´s eyes, overcomes her own uncertainty and brushes his fur which lacks the gloss of Luna's or any of their English wolves. - We will save you, wolfie, don't worry. - and she gives a look to the small wolflings hiding behind their mother as well and reassures them with a bright smile. - You will get your pappa back, puppies. - soothing is necessary, surely, and calms the wolves visibly, though Alexander takes a different task. He is trying his best to think about some solution how to free the poor animal from some Giant´s necklace as they named the poacher trap.

- We need to open it up, Aurora. - Alexander evaluates at last and looks at her sister. - With the swords. Both. - then he takes his sword and basically instructs his sister to do the same. - Come here and put your sword exactly here. - he is the first to demonstrate. Both swords are placed in the correct position at last, now they need to push with all their joined strength. It´s heavy task and at first the rusty iron resists all the pressure, however, the little Draculas never give up and push even harder ... first cracking of the fine oak swords can be heard, though the heavy mouth of the trap seems to give in at last and slowly opens. It´s just a moment and Aurora´s sword breaks, closing the trap, however, the wolf managed to pull out his leg in time. Now the animal, hobbling on three legs approaches his family and then his saviours...bleeding is still present, the injury looks bad.

- Come with us, wolfie. All of you. - Aurora gifts the pack with a sweet, compassionate smile. - I will take a look at you. My mommy is a doctor. -

-/-

Aurora, sitting on the old blanket, sharing it with the injured wolf, thoroughly inspects the deep cut covered in the smudge of drying blood. She frowns, her eyes are saddened, which is well noticed by her brother who feels rage mixed with similar emotion of sadness. How could this happen? Who could have done that ... he seems to think, though is not allowed to give it further musing as Aurora finishes her inspection:

- I will need the first aid kit, Alex. - Aurora sighs again and pets the tamed wolf. - Do we have one in pappa's car? - she gives her brother a hopeful look as she cannot remember from which car, they took the kit when Alex hurt his knee last year in the vineyards of their Carcassonne summer residence. Alexander indeed tries to picture in his mind the contents of the black family car.

- I think so. - after all, he helped his father taking the luggage from the car trunk just a week ago. - I will bring it to you. Give me a sec, Auri. - before he though leaves, he reassuringly caresses the shoulder of his distressed sister. His role is replaced by three little pups that remind her so much of Lesana´s wolflings back at their English home and thus she smiles. She misses her wolves, particularly those little ones, who are very playful as well as their mother and grannie Luna. These are though completely black, even if equally full of fun and inclined to cuddling just like now. A few minutes of relieving wolflings´ presence disperse the initial sadness and when Alexander with a victorious smile returns with an orange first-aid kit, her resolution to make everything better only grows.

- Here it is, Auri. - Alexander smiles and sits down next to her, handing her the precious box. - Now we will fix the wound ... or you will. - he prefers the play with the remaining uninjured wolves.

- Fine, but I will need your assistance, Alex. - she struggles to open the box, that's obvious. - First with the kit opening. - in no time the small hands of the courageous and strong boyar open the "chest of treasure" and then he waits for further instructions. Not so surprisingly, this wouldn't be the first time he helps his sister in this way. She likes to play the doctors and surgeon games, often treating her sick dolls and in return, she willingly plays a princess in need of rescuing.

- I will need a cotton tampon. - Aurora, already with blue sanitary glows, which are not her size, instructs at first, relieved to see her brother brought a bottle of water too. Soon he hands her one tampon soaked in water, to remove the drying blood. - I will take care of you, wolfie. Don´t worry. - and cautiously, she wipes the blood surrounding the deep cut. Tampon after tampon, the red colour is almost gone even if a few new droplets of blood escape the injury anew. Aurora looks at her older brother again, rummaging through the emergency box, looking for a certain brown bottle.

- Here, the disinfectant solution. - again thinking a few steps ahead, Alexander hands his sister the small spray bottle, which their mom uses quite frequently every time they scratch their knee or cut their fingers. Aurora gratefully takes the small bottle, giving her brother a gentle smile and looking quickly at the wolf, informs him about the next steps as if he should have understood each and every word:

- It will sting a bit, wolfie, but don't worry. In a second the pain will be gone. - she sprays the hurt leg, noticing that it indeed sting, as a small growl escapes from the giant muzzle. Still, the wolf and his family do not express any hint of wildness or dangerous behaviour ... they know they are safe after all, sensing very well who takes care of them. To avoid any further contact of the wound with dirt, Aurora quickly covers the cut with a sterile gauze dressing and skilfully bandages the adjacent area of the wound.

- Now, it will heal, don't worry. - Alexander reassures the wolf and gives his sister a glimpse, to check if she is all right as well. - You did a great job, Auri. - he praises her and helps her to clean the mess. - One day, you will be a great doctor just like our mommy. - such kind words improve her mood significantly. That's her dream ... that and having her own fairy-tale kingdom, of course ...

- Do you think she will be ... uhm ... displeased that we sheltered these cuties? - and wandered through the forest even though we are forbidden to do so without mommy or pappa accompanying us... both seems to think at the same time. However, Alexander, quickly finds a reason why such "anger" shouldn't be a thing.

- We did the right thing, Auri. - he reassures her, adding even a valid supportive argument. - Pappa said that the landlord should always take care of his lands and we did so ... -

- I hope, mommy will be of the same opinion and pappa too. - the concerns now remain, but she is glad, Alexander shares her opinion ... they seem to always find an agreement in the most important things. The wolf tries to stand up on all four legs, though has obvious difficulty to use the wounded limb. He whines, before deciding to lie down on the blanket again and his family immediately joins him with no intention to leave him alone. Aurora and Alexander now eye the cute family scenery and are pleased that the wolflings seem to be too curious and join them shortly.

- Maybe we can name them, what do you think? - Aurora asks as the small black pup licks her face, making her giggle. - You can be ... ehm ... Luminita. - the she-wolfling seems to like the name ...

- And her mum will be Lumina and you, - looking at the big black wolf, he needs to contemplate a bit ... Alex, during their walks though the castle attentively admired each and every painting of his ancient family and know tries to remember some of the male names ... - Mircea. - such a name he saw a few times, the most popular, at least in his opinion, is Vlad though wolfie cannot be named like our pappa. - And the other pups will be Radu and Farro. - names are given (although the wolves still do not react on them when called) and the little boyar forms a plan in his mind, wanting to run back to his knightly-decorated room for a ball ... though his plans are interrupted by a beloved voice.

- Aurora? Alexander? - Agatha's jolly voice resonates in the courtyard. - Where are you, darlings? I have something for you. - the twins look at each other thinking quickly. They know better to answer. After all, they missed their mommy and are curious what she brought them from the town ... equally, they know, they as well as the wolf family will be discovered sooner or later. Aurora looks at the black wolf, inspecting his leg again and notices a smudge of blood on the bandage. He should have not stood up ... the cut seems to open again ... Alexander notices the same and bravely stands up ... they need mommy to take a look at their friend as well.

- I will bring mommy and explain all, alright? - Aurora only nods, tears of sadness returning back to her beautiful blue irises again.

- Mommy is the best doctor in the world, she will take a better look. - seeing the distress on the face, even the wolf, sharing the feelings of their little vampire friend, start howling, little puppies licking the pain away ...

... Meanwhile, at the courtyard ...

Agatha is quite surprised that her kids did not greet her immediately by the gates. After all, they spent the majority of the sunny days here, practicing the fencing with wooden swords, fighting the straw figures, which the Pelletier brothers together with all the decorative armour brought a month ago from France. Ever since the arrival of the Balaurs the last week ... shrugging her shoulders, Agatha walks further with two big bags of food and presents, suspecting that her kids are again discovering all the nooks and cranes of the magnificent, finally inhabitable Poenari Castle, mostly reconstructed to its original glory. They got lost a few times, but luckily, found a way back to their parents and if they did not admit it, the adult Balaurs wouldn't notice...

- Mommy! - Alexander suddenly greets her, stepping from the spare storage room of the former armory.

- Hello, Alex. Where is Aurora? - she would expect to be greeted by both as they rarely wander without each other ... Agatha starts to worry...she might be with Vlad...but then Alex wouldn't be here...

- She is ... uhm ... inside. - now, Agatha can see a hidden secret in the facial expression of her son.

- Alex, what is going on? - her voice remains calm, though the little boyar knows it might be not the best sign ...

- Well, she is taking care of a wounded ... -

- Wounded? - momentarily her eyes widen in worries and she quickly walks towards Alexander. - Who is injured? -

- Mircea. - taking the last piece of courage, he takes Agatha's hand into his own. - Our new wolf. - Agatha's eyebrows almost connect into one when she frowns, not remembering any wolf being mentioned before.

- Come, mommy. You have to help him. He is bleeding and even if Aurora took care of the wound, it will need your expert look as well. -

- Flattering like your pappa. - she sighs, though follows his steps. There's no sense in being angry so far. Long ago has she learned that each and every wolf has a natural respect for vampires and wouldn't dare to harm them...quite the contrary. Finally, a minute later, Agatha enters the provisory veterinary clinics of her twins. Immediately, she spots the open first-aid kit and used cotton tampons in a plastic bag, a bowl of water and a half-empty disinfectant spray next to it and of course a pack of wolves, one of them with a bandaged leg, which is already soaked in blood anew.

- Mommy! - Aurora briskly stands up and hurries to Agatha, wrapping her arms around her waist. - We need your help! Mircea is injured and the wound is still bleeding ... I tried to stop it, mommy, but ... - with a sob, she buries her face into Agatha's stomach. All remorse is immediately gone.

- Let me take a look at him, alright, darling? - she says gently and strokes the black curls.

- Thank you, mommy. -

- Now, will you introduce me to your new friends and assist me? -

- Yes, come. -

And so, they approach the wolf again. Agatha kneels down to the black beast, cautiously taking the injured leg into her hand and starts unwrapping the bandage. She is pleasantly surprised seeing how good the wound is wrapped and the material correctly used. Professionally. If the cut was shallow, no further intervention would be needed. Seeing though the depth, Agatha grimaces in disgust and anger. It´s not a scratch as she would think, it's not a wound caused by another animal, it definitely was caused by a device constructed by a man. Poachers. Definitely. She is only surprised that the cut doesn't reveal bone ... Probably the leg wasn't captured for a long time ... then a realisation comes and her eyes widen anew ... How and where did my children found the wolves?

- Do you think, mommy, that stitches will be needed? - Aurora asks, pointing at the injury again. Agatha has to focus on the wolf again, so far keeping the horribly scenarios of the encounter with wolves in the background of her mind.

- Yes, honey. -

- Shall I bring the sewing kit, mommy? - Alexander, thinking very quickly and rationally, asks almost immediately.

- Well, the sewing needle will need to be enough, -

- Next time, we will bring some surgical kit as well, right? - now Aurora asks, because Alexander is leaving the room again, returning to the castle anew. - We need to take care of our animals as good landlords should. That is correct. -

- It is, Aurora, though the landlords need to be adult to have such responsibilities. - Agatha explains even if it is not needed. Still, she has to emphasize it for future. - Now, before Alex returns, tell me how you found the wolves. -

- Do you promise you won't be angry, mommy. - Aurora asks cautiously with big puppy eyes.

- I do. - thus, trusting her mother completely, Aurora with a wolfling in her arms, starts her narration from the very beginning ...

-/-

All the chandeliers are finally installed, the last decorations already at place ... Count Dracula is highly satisfied with the outcome of costly and long reconstruction of his family heritage, and even more so because his beloved family evidently enjoys the summer stay as well. Pleased with all the work he has done and well ... supervised mostly, he closes the heavy gates and intents to look for his family. He can see that Agatha already returned from the town as her car is parked next to his and thus, he believes, she is now with twins maybe already giving them the medieval-styled dresses they wished for so much ... after all, he promised them a proper, even if quite a private, ball. They might wait for me in the gallery ... he concludes as the ballroom was lacking their presence since there the installation took place. Already walking towards the Castle´s main entrance, a wolf´ howl catches his attention.

- Wolf? Here? In the castle? - he frowns, immediately locating the place from which the sound originated. Running quickly to the former armory room, he already thinks of the worst. His worries are luckily only short-lasting as the scenery in front of him is quite harmless. Nonetheless, Vlad Dracula is shocked. The last thing he expected to see was a wolf family, particularly the possibility of his wife sewing a wound of a black beast.

- Pappa! - Alexander notices his presence as the first one. - We are saving Mircea. - he informs him, meanwhile Count´s shock grows. He hasn't heard that name for ages, thus he frowns confused even more.

- I see ... but what is going on? - he looks at Agatha who finishes the surgery, meanwhile his kids comfort the fearing wolf. - Agatha? -

- A sec, Vlad. - instead of answering his question, she looks at Aurora who just waits for further instructions. - Honey, will you bandage Mircea´s leg as before? - the little girl, future doctor Balaur eagerly nods, so Agatha can get rid of dirty gloves and face her husband.

- Short version of the story is following: Our children have found an injured wolf, freed him and brought for medical care ... they took care of the wound surprisingly well, though I had to stich it because it was very deep. -

- What?! Where?! When?! - Dracula's eyes widen in horror at first.

- In the adjacent woods, honey. But calm down, all is as it was before ... apart from the wolves that will probably stay with us for a few days ... - Dracula just sighs and seeing the well-telling look of his wife, decides not to argue further. Just like his kids, she has a weakness for wolves ... he rather nods and looks at his daughter again. Aurora´s face is still gloomy as she finishes the bandaging and strokes the black wolf.

- Who did this to Mircea? - she asks with concerns, looking at her father, who never lacks answers. - I know it wasn't another wolf! Someone tried to bite off his leg, pappa. -

- Yes, pappa. We found a giant´s necklace or ... - now when he thinks of it, it reminds him of something else ... - giant´s teeth prothesis ... - Alexander describes the device that caused such a harm, though yet no one explained what it was. Dracula almost laughs, he adores the vivid imagination of his children, though he keeps his neutral facial expression and answers.

- It was a trap, honey. - he replies calmly, kneeling down to Aurora's level and strokes her thick black hair, she inherited from him. - Bad poachers probably wanted to catch a deer or a roe, so they laid the traps and Mircea. - it became quite normal through the years, that Dracula addresses all the animals, his kids named, by their given names, though this one leaves his mouth with a bit of reluctance. Strangely that they named the wolf after my "dear" brother...where did they get that from? - was unlucky and became a victim. -

- People did that? - Alexander is shocked, his eyes widen in disbelief. - No bad giants? - Dracula nods...

- Traps? - Aurora squeaks, her pupils dilate and even more teras fill up the beautiful two blue oceans. - Pappa, we have to protect our animals! - she pleads and quickly hugs her father, who didn't expect such a reaction. Giving it a second thought, however, he realises that this request is exactly what his daughter would voice out. My little sweetheart...just like her mother, always concerned for the good of others.

- I will join you on the crusade, pappa! - Alexander leaves the wolf´s side too and with a look of determination, caresses the back of his sister. - Don't worry, Aurora. The bravest boyars, who ever existed, are at you service. Right, pappa? - Dracula doesn't quite share the enthusiasm of his son. Definitely, he has no need to rummage through the forest looking for metal traps.

- Uhm ... - He would rather take his family on a horse ride through the meadows belonging to his castle. Basically, anything else than the activity his children has already proposed, would suit him better.

- We will search through our lands and destroy all the dangers. No other wolf will be harmed. - these words obviously improve the mood of the little princess, that no longer clings to her father with her all strength, but slightly raising the saddened face covered in tears, gives her brother a small smile.

- Thank you, Alex. You are the best brother boyar ever. - she praises him and with the same adoration, gives a glance to his father a well. - You and pappa, are so brave. - Dracula is lost at words and realises very well, that he should object, though his attempts are interrupted by Agatha returning the storage cellars. When did she leave? How did she manage it so fast ... my sexy vampiress.

- Look what I brought for Mircea? - Agatha smiles widely, doing her best to cheer up her kids, who looked devastated before she exited the room. - A nice portion of pork meat so he will get better faster. -

- Thank you, mommy. - Aurora leaves the safety of father's arms and quickly wipes off the drying tears from her face. - Mircea will be grateful. - and taking the piece of meat from Agatha's hands, Aurora directs her steps back to the black wolf, who is already dreamily looking at the tasty portion of meat ... just like the rest of his family.

- And we have a plan, mommy. To avoid such troubles next time. - Alexander says proudly, Dracula already knowing what a trouble he will find himself in ... he sighs in defeat, which Agatha immediately notices. - Pappa and I will go for an expedition and destroy all the poacher´s traps and the forest will be safe for all animals, because that's what boyars do. - Agatha became quite used to the heroic character of her son, which is definitely supported by Dracula by all means possible, though the older he grows, the more dangerous it is and she just feels more and more anxious about it.

- Vlad? - Agatha rather addresses her husband directly. After all, he was left with their children and the injured wolf just for 5 minutes alone (enough time for them to narrate their adventure anew) and in such short time, allowed such foolishness. With raised eyebrows, she demands explanation.

- Well, - he shrugs his stout shoulders and stands up, - such proposition was made, yet not approved. - both children give him a surprised look and he dislikes it as he hates disappointing them, so he quickly adds: - I mean, not completely. We still meant to discuss it with you, my love. - kids now pleadingly look at their mother. - Right, darlings? -

- Yes, mommy. - the first one to speak is Alexander. - It was my idea. -

- And I fully support it. Alex made me happy again after coming with such a great plan. - the little girl with two black fountains on head uses her strongest weapon and hurrying to her mother, quickly hugs her. Adding big puppy eyes is really helpful and Agatha just sighs, looking again at Dracula. See? His eyes seem to say. I am not fond of that idea either, though try to tell them "no".

- Pappa, can go. - this seems to be the most reasonable decision, which however, doesn't bring joy to Dracula's face. Me again? Now Agatha clearly hears him.

- I will join him. - Alexander protests and literally joins his father, standing next to him in a straightened posture. True boyar. - I will be cautious, mommy, I promise. -

- Alex, it is very dangerous. Such devices are well hidden. What if you miss one and your leg gets trapped, hm? - even such an idea makes her weak ... - Do you know how painful it can be? -

- I will take my longsword to poke the soil around me. - well-chosen tactics, eliminating the danger. Really, clever. Honestly, intelligence of both children is highly above the average of their age group. - Let me help pappa, please, mommy. -

- I need to speak with pappa at first. - she seems to be slowly giving up ... - Vlad? Can you please follow me? -

- Yes, darling. - and he follows her out of the cellars.

- Just for your info, Agatha, I am not keen at all to rummage through the forests. Believe me, I would rather play chess or take you all for a ride on the meadows. -

- But they are right, Vlad. - always compassionate, Agatha quite agrees with their children. Something must be done. - The traps are dangerous and have to be removed. - Dracula frowns. - What if Aurora or Alexander stumbled upon them, hm? - This is not the kind of support he hoped for, though the last point seems more than reasonable.

- Even you, honey? - Dracula surrenders with a heavy sigh.

- Hm? - big puppy eyes and the gentlest tone of her words are the most dangerous combination ... - It's no danger for you. You are the best for it, my brave warlord. -

- Agatha, don't use the sweet voice now. - he murmurs in defeat, so Agatha ads the last nail to the coffin.

- My love, I was thinking of a little night adventure ... just you and me ... the Poenari forest ... a little vampire hunt, this time out of our minds ... - Dracula's jaw drops in awe. Attractive idea. Nevertheless, Agatha's at first excited expression fades eventually away. - But now...it's too dangerous... I don't want to get my leg ripped off just because of a sexy time with my lovely vampire husband. Bedroom would have to be enough for us. -

- Agatha! You are blackmailing me! - Dracula growls. Already that idea excites him... Agatha though carelessly shrugs her shoulders ...

- Take it or leave it, Count Dracula. -

- Fine. - he agrees finally. - But let me take Alex. -

- No. - is this a kind of a "revenge"? She asks herself.

- Yes. - her husband insists on this little condition and quickly explains why. - Look, Agatha, the last thing I want is to hurt him. I will take a look at him. He can sit on my shoulders, serving as an additional pair of eyes. -

- And once you disappear of out my sight, he will use his feet and search by his own. - he knows both her boys very well.

- If so, he will walk by me, holding my hand. Alex is a clever boy even though he is just 7 years old. You want to have a perfect man out of him and I want that too. He will be much better than I ever was and it has to start somewhere. - his boy needs to be a proper gentleman without killing intentions. - The right values are very important, correct? And bravery, service to others and empathy are a great start. Our son is a brave boy with high intelligence and in different times would be an ideal boyar and ruler. Much better version of me, because he has your heart and those attractive irises of yours as well. -

- You are a foxily man, Vlad. Soft soaping me this way. - she huffs, though gives up eventually ... Dracula purrs.

- As if you were any different, Agatha. -

- Fine. - she agrees finally. - Take Alex with you. - nevertheless, adds a little threatening. - But I warn you, if anything happens to him ... -

- You will stake me, I know. - Dracula chuckles, though doesn't expect Agatha´s negative answer ... and that wicked, provocative smile!

- No. Much worse. -

- What could be worse? - he can't think of anything worse than that.

- You being locked out of our bedroom. - Agatha answers and as a reaction, receives shocked gasp.

- That would be a punishment for your too, darling! -

- Well deserved in that case, so bring him back unharmed, alright? -

- Yes, my love. - with the final agreement being made, both return back to the storage room, veterinary clinics. The plan is clear, Balaurs will divide into 2 little groups ... one making sure that all the dangers are gone, the other taking the best care of the victims ...

-/-

Heroic longswords of medieval ballads are replaced by heavy iron sticks as the warlord with his boyar son search through the dark forest of Carpathian Mountains for any traps which might endanger the inhabitants of these lands. Carefully, taking one cautious step after another one they wander through the woods and carefully probe the land for any signs of iron chains or rusty snares. So far, they have been quite successful. Dracula proudly caries 7 heavy traps with thick chains which still carry the marks of dried blood. Even Alexander holds his sign of victory. His keen eyes spotted a thin steel cord tethered around one of the older trunks and he can´t stop cheering about it.

- I have never felt so heroic as right now, pappa. - Alexander chuckles as he proudly caries the dangerous snare on his left shoulder. Holding the iron stick in his right hand, he pokes the land every now and then to try his luck again, maybe discovering another danger, even if still walking closely to his father, who listens with a smile on his lips, nevertheless, contemplates quietly. Girls could have joined us ... not that dangerous at all...if Alex manages, Aurora and Agatha would too ... his mind is a bit grumpy, even if one look at his little boyar brings smile to his face ... in the next moment however, Dracula's movement is abruptly stopped. Suddenly his leg is trapped, his body pulled back and the forest echoes with a distressed scream!

- Pappa! - Alexander´s eyes widen in shock. The worst possible thing that could have happened just became true.

- Shit! - Dracula hisses, his eyes angrily searching for the well-hidden trap that he somehow oversaw...fuck! it could be Alexander's leg! Damn it...fucking poachers...

- Pappa! You are hurt! - the boy cautiously moves to his father, who kneels quickly down and easily opens the fangs of the giant's teeth. Standing up, he turns to his son and gives him a smile full of reassurance. The scream of surprise is gone, being replaced quickly by dropped jaw in utter astonishment. Alexander Balaur cannot believe his own eyes.

- I am alright, Alex. Don't worry. - Following, with one strong, forceful pull, Count Dracula breaks the chain, adding it to the rest of iron trophies.

- You are so brave, pappa! A mighty warrior! Nothing hurts you! - real superhero ... I will be just like him one day ... Finally, Alex closes the distance of two steps to his father and lifting Dracula's right jeans-leg, yelps from surprise again. There's no blood, no imprint of the sharp teeth, no deep cut. That's strange. - You are not hurt? - Alexander asks, quickly searching for those chocolate eyes of his father. Dracula shakes his head in an answer.

- Not anymore, Alex. -

- How so? - the little boy doesn't understand at first, though his quick mind comes with an answer as well. His pappa has perfect regeneration skills. - That's wonderful. Another superpower, right? - the excitement is contagious as it seems, even Dracula starts to laugh ... he is a true superhero with unique superpowers ... and immortal as well as most of the characters from the comics universe ... the joy is though only short-lasting because a sooner event reappears in his mind.

- Will I have your superpowers as well? - his cuts or scratches after all never healed so quickly.

- Of course, Alex. You are my son. - Dracula reassures him without the slightest doubt. - Once you will be older, you will have all of them. - Alexander frowns, shrugging his shoulders. He is decided to share his worries.

- But Aurora already has some superpowers, only I don't, even though she says I am much stronger and faster than her and also Hector and Minerva listen to my orders even if not voiced, but I think, she just wants to comfort me. - he complains poking the soil covered in moss as he avoids the eye contact with his father. He is ashamed a bit. Dracula doesn't understand what the boy means. In his knowledge, both kids can communicate with animals in some special way and are highly intelligent. What else could it be?

- What do you mean, Alex? What superpowers are you talking about? - Alexander just sighs and rolls his eyes, still staring at the ground.

- I noticed it only today, pappa. - he starts with a saddened voice. - Aurora and I played high and seek inside the castle and I have found her quickly every time, what surprised her. - he pauses for a while tilting his head to another direction. - She even thought I cheated, but pappa, - finally he raises his head and looks directly into Dracula's eyes. - I never cheat! Do you know how is it possible that I found her so quickly? - Dracula just shakes his head.

- There's always a cloud of fog somewhere around her...as an aura, pappa. - Dracula's eyebrows travel up to his forehead in surprise, almost touching his hairline.

- Really? - that's very interesting news. His baby girl already casts mist, though probably without the knowledge how to control it ... Amazing! So soon? Incredible!

- Yes, pappa. I don't know how she does it ... neither does she, I think. - his sister wouldn't lie to him. That's certain. - If Aurora knew, she would show me sooner and teach me. We are the best friends, you know? ... I want to have such superpowers too, pappa. - he finally admits with a bit of jealousy of his sister. - We are twins, right? All should be the same. -

- Oh honey, definitely similar abilities will manifest later and you will quickly learn how to do amazing stuff with it, controlling each and every of your actions. - Dracula gently strokes the hair of his son. - When I was a little boy like you, I couldn't speak with animals and any wolf would easily eat me as a starter. - Alexander didn't know it. He supposed that his pappa had always such amazing superpowers.

- And when did you get them? - he wonders.

- In adulthood. - basically, afterlife. Nevertheless, he can see that this answer didn't please his son. Of course, if Aurora has something he doesn't, especially something so unique, he is sad and this time for sure he knows, that their parents just can´t give it to him even if they wanted to. Encouragement comes rather quickly. - But I strongly believe, you will get them sooner than I did. -

- Do you think so? - he needs to believe that ... when pappa says so, it will be true. He always knows best ... and mommy even better ... - I hope so too. - still, he confesses a disappointment. - It is not fair, you know? And Aurora doesn't even like it ... because it´s easier to spot her when we play. -

- Then you are the lucky one to miss it at this time. Always winning. -

- I suppose. - giving it a second thought, his pappa is right. Casting fog isn't that cool as giving orders to wolves and horses.

- Now, let's continue in the search, my brave boyar. We need to find all the treacherous traps so the wolves and deers of our lands are safe from cruel poachers. - the discussion is closed this time. There are much more important tasks which needs to be completed. Heroic spirit returns to the brave little heart.

- You are right, Count Dracula! Let's find them all. - with newly discovered eagerness they continue and Dracula to cheer his son even more, uses the power of suggestion once again, soon turning the forest into a magical world ... with unicorns, giants and elves, simply all the mythical creatures he adores...

-/-

Meanwhile gentlemen "play" outside, the Balaur ladies occupy the cosy, luxurious master bedroom, which is full of girlish chatter. Aurora smiles in satisfaction as she sits on the ruby-coloured taboret in front of the mahogany dressing table from the late 18th century. After the saddening events from earlier today, a cheerful activity was needed and what could be better (apart form the successful rescue mission and effective medical attention) than a fashion escape to the glorious past.

- This dress is the most beautiful dress ever, mommy. - Aurora rejoices again, grinning into the large mirrors in which she can observe her mom focusing on her hair-style. Lifting head, Agatha returns the wide smile and places a sweet kiss on the top of Aurora's head.

- I am glad you like it, sweetie. -

- I am sure that such were worn only by princesses. - even if not understanding finances or the cost of regular things, Aurora is sure they were much more expensive than her regular dresses. - Do you have such as well? You know, for the ball? - the BALL. She has been talking of nothing else than the upcoming private event with limited number of attendees, mostly only family friends ... which her father promised to organise at the end of their summer stay. Agatha nods, maybe in similar excitement that is very contagious within her family...

- Of course, honey. Mine are very similar. - fastening the second hairclip, Agatha begins tangling the first braid. - To be more specific, I believe that if we were the same height, we would be quite undistinguishable. - Aurora giggles anew, shrugging her shoulders in a cheerful manner.

- Do you think so? That would be great. - observing herself and Agatha in the mirror she tenderly smiles. Mommy is the most beautiful woman ever ... and says I am just like her ... though there is a slight, though notable difference ... - But I have pappa´s hair, mommy. Other than that, I agree. - first braid is finished pretty quickly; another pair of fancy buckles fasten the loose raven-black locks ... - Will you show me your dress when you finish my braids? -

- Hmmm. - Agatha teasingly pretends thorough contemplation. - You, young lady, definitely deserve a reward for such your masterful surgeon skills which you used today... - Aurora impatiently wiggles, longingly staring at the reflection of her lovely mother, who seems to be immersed in really deep thoughts ... the little girl though cannot take it anymore ... Alex is on an adventurous expedition and princess-styled afternoon can be equally rewarding ...

- And seeing you in your new dress would be the best reward ever ... and if you let me do your hair-style too ... mommy, please. - sweet voice and honest plead in Aurora's eyes always do the magic. Agatha, not being able to pretend the reluctance further, only nods and hugs her daughter from behind.

- If you style my hair like the last time, then I have no objections, Aurora. -

- You liked it that much?! -

- My favourite one, darling. -

- Okay, mommy. - Aurora happily clasps, already visualising the final result on Agatha's head. - Finish my braid so I can hug you too and then we will make a princess out of you as well. -

- Deal. - within a minute, Aurora proudly checks her two thick braids and gasps from surprise when Agatha places on her head a special brocade headband which perfectly corresponds to the style of her new royal gown. - What a beautiful girl you are, Aurora. Always, but now even more, my little princess. - whispered words make her blush. Happily, though, she hugs Agatha and releasing her, impatiently waits for her return from the neighbouring closet (in past era lady´s maid room) where she changes into proper robe.

- What do you say, Aurora? - in a moment or two, Agatha returns dresses in a similar gown, with a red, long skirt and nicely decorated top ...

- You are just like me, mommy! - the little girl rushes to the Countess, hugging her tightly around the waist. - So pretty. Now, lets style your hair. Come. - Aurora takes Agatha's hand into her own and directs her to the little taboret. Taking the brush into her small hands, she starts styling the rich hair of her mother into the perfect fashion. She loves the colour, fragrance and textures, often wishing to have such hair as well ... and since that´s not possible and she kind of likes her raven-black hair, she enjoys at least playing with Agatha's hair. Sign of trust...

-/-

- Mommy? - finishing the last touches, Aurora addresses her mom with a slight insecurity. The change of the tone of her voice immediately catches Agatha's attention.

- Yes, darling? Is something bothering you? - she asks kindly and turns to her.

- Well, ... today, Alexander and I played hide and seek inside. - she swallows empty and looks at her mother. - And something strange happened. -

- Strange? - Agatha repeats confused, Aurora nods ...

- Alex found me each and every time pretty quickly and do you know why? - not waiting for an answer though, Aurora continues. - Because there was a mist above me ... Alex said, I can cast a cloud of mist when I am hiding. -

- Really? - it's shocking. Well, not completely ... however, isn't it too soon for such abilities to manifest? The vampiress asks herself. - And do you know how you did it? - she herself had to spent a lot of time to learn this skill, though her children are natural talents. Aurora though shakes her head.

- I just wanted to be unseen by Alex so I could win. - at least in her memory, she tries to return to her hiding place behind the thick tapestry, hearing the echo of Alexander's counting ... 98, 98, 100 ... I am on my way, Auri! ... and then the resonance of his silent steps.

- I closed my eyes, - soon she hides her blue irises behind the curtain of her long lashes ... - and held my breath but a moment later, Alex discovered me ... - and in that very moment a little, almost unspottable cloud of fog levitates above her head. There it is! ... Agatha's jaw drops in awe.

- Unbelievable... - her whispered words get Aurora's attention. Her eyes open again, breathing is regular and the cloud of mist is ... gone.

- What? What happened? - Aurora tilts her head back to check if there is mist to be seen, though is disappointed to notice none.

- Alex was right, honey. - Agatha responds calmly, though Aurora huffs still a bit disappointed that she did not see anything and that such a trait could easily betray her...

- But I don't want to be found so quickly, mommy. - she prefers winning over losing ... no wonder ... everybody does ... Agatha though tries to lift up her mood and thus proposes wisely.

- Then don't close your eyes and all will be fine. -

- Really? - could it be so simple? Both seem to ask, nevertheless, Aurora starts believing it ... her mom never lies ... she knows everything ...

- You might give it a try ... once you opened your eyes, after all, the magic was gone ... -

- I hope so. - she huffs and momentarily turns around ...

- Where are my beauties? - a well-known voice of Count Dracula resonates through the corridors as he ascends the staircase.

- We are already home... - Alexander proudly announces, clinging sound accompanying the happy lilt in his words...

- Hooray! - Aurora exclaims, forgetting quickly all the troubles and getting Agatha's hand, rushes to the door to greet the heroes... - We are here, pappa! - soon the male duo emerges with a bunch of "trophies".

- My, my ... ladies...you look so nice. - Dracula evaluates the appearance of both his girls ... eventually resting his eyes on Agatha's ... breasts ... the vampiress just rolls her eyes ... thinking of sex again, aren't you, my dear? His hungry look is obvious in her opinion, even if she has to admit, that those rusty chains, hanging over his shoulder (why did he brought them with him inside...) make him even sexier ... strong, brave, mighty warlord ... my hot husband ... Musing is interrupted by Aurora's shocked yelp as she quickly counts the final number. - So many? - her eyes widen. Such danger waited for innocent souls outside there, in their beautiful woods?

- Yes, Auri ... - Alexander proudly nods and walks closer to her, so she can see in detail those horrific devices ... - if only you saw how pappa broke each chain! I myself found 4 traps. Take a look. -

- Alex, you are so very courageous. - how pleasing such words are for the little boyar.

- Do you want to take a look too, mommy? - Agatha finally detaches her eyes from Count Dracula ... (her mind stripped him already) and with a well-hidden blush rather focuses on her son.

- Amazing ... boyar worthy of ballads and songs. - she praises her little boy.

- Am I? - he takes a deep breath, his heart-warmed. - And pappa deserves a ballad too. - Dracula has to chuckle...there are books about him ... nevertheless, probably none of them describes him in a positive light, definitely not celebrating him and his deeds ...

- Oh yes! And I will write a ballad about you and your bravery today, Alex. - Aurora quickly agrees. It is so exciting and she want to know more. - Tell me all, so I can describe it accurately. - Alexander eagerly nods.

- Let's visit Mircea and his family ... you can write it there when I narrate the story to them as well... - that sounds like a great idea. Momentarily, after Dracula is rewarded with a quick hug and gentle smile from his daughter, the twin tornado hurries downstairs. Agatha wants to stop at least her daughter and remind her of the fancy dress she wears now, though such eagerness shouldn't be stopped. She rather nears her grinning husband, standing there under their family portrait proudly, looking just godly ...

- What a beautiful dress you have, my dear Agatha. - he adores this look reminding him of all time...even though the presence is incomparably better ... the perfections itself whispers in a purring tone, so Agatha chooses similar tone as well, nearing him excruciatingly slowly.

- What a bunch of rusty chains you wear, my dear Vlad. -

- All of them removed because of you, my love ... so your perfect leg won't be ripped off when we set off for the HUNT. - the way he pronounces the last word ... perfect seducer ... even licking his upper lip in a provocative manner!

- The sooner, the better, my dear vampire lord ... -

- The sooner, the better. I promise. - to seal his words, Dracula nears his wife and taking her into his arms, kisses her senselessly...now, there is nothing standing in their way ...

- TBC -

Thank you, guys, for reading another Second Chance chapter. I hope that you enjoyed their little adventure. As you could notice, this was a more kiddos-oriented chapter, nevertheless, I hope you liked it as well, not minding the limited appearance of our favourite couple. Don't worry, since the forest is ridden of any poachers' traps, it is open for some adult adventures as Agatha hinted as well if all goes well, next chapter will come at the beginning of December. Until then, stay safe and of course, the most important thing (for me at least) leave a comment to warm (or criticise) my heart