Your heart of steel so fearless.
Your will so fierce.
So kind you are to the weak,
Yet merciless to your enemies.
Your neck so white,
Your arms so slender,
Your strength so great!
Your chosen path you follow, without doubt or hesitation.
Earning your followers' adoration.
Far off into the distance you stare.
Is what you see with those eyes the future?
Or do they gaze on some past Hell?"
-Princess Mononoke's "Lady Eboshi"(Don't you think they fit Shirra/Cassandra perfectly?
Velkan felt like lying on the carpeted floor forever. His stomach hurt like Hell. But the scent of Cassandra was absent in the room. He got up-and shook Gabriel and Carl awake. The ladies were already attending to Anna's arm, which was pierced by the shattered glass.
"He got her-again."
"We have to go back."
"Let's go then,"
replied Karen grimly.
Alina then turned to the others.
"All of you, follow me. I have an idea."
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Despite wearing peasant attire and her hair and face slightly smudged with dirt, Shirra still looked lovely. She looked at her sire, her face expressionless.
"Where are the others? What did you do to them?"
"Are you-
"Tell me, Dracula."
Her voice had an edge now. He inhaled her scent: Rising anger, like the fumes of a strong perfume. Tasty.
"They live, kislany (Thanks imajere)...they are too interesting to kill so soon."
"Don't you dare lay a hand on them, especially my mother and Alina!"
"Softer dear, I am old but I am not deaf (LOL. My folks always say that to me!)."
"They are all I have to remember-
"Are you so sure you want to return, kislany? Back to those self-righteous fools who despise you and force a fair raven to become a common bird? To your father who broke you like he would a wild horse-?
"He does not know his strength!"
She hissed, in a surprised defense.
"Let me finish. Do you really think everything will be fine and dandy when you return home? Or when you become human? Do you think that by marrying and settling down and raising five children will Society finally accept you? Alas, No. You never fit in, even before you became a vampire, Shirra. It was from your sweet mouth I heard that."
He continued, pressing his fingers against her cheek, which slid down to her ivory neck, and down the valley between her bosoms. She gripped his hand tightly, and said,
"I never cared about conforming, My LORD."
She said coldly.
"What is this-
"I still respect you Dracula, but my family still holds a place in my heart, whether dead or not."
"Cordelia, why do you do this?"
He whispered, in a tone so sad she visibly softened.
With that one word, Memories of a past not her own rushed through her brain...
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The year was 1459, Romania.
Vladislaus Dragulia was restless and bored. His good friend Gabriel was talking to a bright young woman with wavy dark locks and dark warm eyes. Her name was Allegria Valerious. He allowed himself a smile. FINALLY, the grim brooding one of the two had an interest in the fairer sex.
"Lovely gathering, isn't it?"
a pompous looking woman in a disgusting orange dress (ACK!) said to him. He forced a smile and nodded.
"Really, good sir, you look like a fine man. I would be more than happy to give you my niece's hand in marriage-
"Good lady, I have NO intention of marrying now-whether it is her-or a part of her body,"
She didn't listen. She parted two red ridges otherwise known as her mouth and yelled:
"CORDELIA!!!!!!!!COME DOWN!!!!"
Dracula was nearly swept off his feet by her supersonic voice. His ears would take weeks to recover. He swore he heard the glasses and mirrors break before going deaf. To his surprise, a young girl-or was it a boy? - slid down the banisters (think Legolas) wearing pants and a ruffled blouse. As she landed gracefully, she slipped and landed at his feet.
"Usually I don't fall at men's feet,"
she replied wryly. Everyone save Dracula rolled their eyes. He helped her up.
She looked hardly 17. Her hair was shoulder-length and rather wavy. She wore no make-up, yet her plainness enchanced her unorthodox charm. And, her hair and eyes were dark-like his. This might actually be interesting.
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"Call me Cordelia. I lived with my aunt, after my parents died."
"How old were you then?"
"7, I think. Why do you look so surprised-let me guess, you're wondering why I'm so happy? Well, they wanted me to grow up as a happy child. Besides mourning isn't going to bring them back."
Both were strolling outside the gardens, enjoying the cool air. Dracula had to keep up with her: she spoke so very fast.
"Enough about me-what about you?"
"I'm just a soldier, Cordelia."
"And I'm just an abnormal socialite who no one likes because I wear male clothes, HATES dancingand SEWING (I HATE IT! I SUCK AT SEWING..Sorry, had to let it out) and prefers fencing to tea any day."
"There's no sin in that."
"If the world had more people like you-it would be more bearable."
"Really?"
"May I fall into the fountain if I lie-Yeargh!!!"
She had tripped and fallen into-you guessed it- the fountain.
"I suppose you're telling a lie then?"
"Shut up and get me out,"
She growled-but there was a laugh in her tone.
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"WHAT?"
gaped Cordelia, after all the guests had left.
"Don't you think you make a wonderful couple? "
"Aunt Mariah, there is NO way in Hell am I getting married or having a child-
"Become a nun then-
"NEVER!"
"For crying out loud, you're 17! Why can't you settle down-
"I want freedom! There is a whole world out there I want to explore....but you'll never understand..."
With that, Cordelia went to her room.
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"I knew it."
She growled. She was wearing a red gown-V-necked, empire waist. Her hair was in a bun –she looked lovely. She thought she looked like an idiot. She had no idea Aunt Maria had set her up-and had sent Dracula to court HER. Dracula was no more entertained by this.
"Well...so, here we are, in a garden, sitting on a bench. What do we do?"
"Talk?"
"Wait..."
She said.
"I have a little trick to teach her a lesson...."
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Aunt Mariah smiled. At last, she would have a little grandchild-sort of- as soon as the two got together. Then, as she passed Cordelia's room-she head a most controversial conversation:
"What? Now? So soon? But Vladislaus (the priest who christened him must have been very thirsty afterwards), I'm having a headache!"
Mariah stopped in her tracks. And listened.
"So? I need it now, Cordelia! Tell you what, you go on first, then I join you!"
"No, you first!"
"Forget it! Why don't we BOTH try at the same time?"
Gasping, moaning and a cry of pain (or was it pleasure?) followed. Mariah made the sign of the cross.
"Sweet God-
And passed out. Upon hearing her faint, the two pranksters left the room, laughing in each other's arms. You see, Dracula's earring had fallen into a hole in the ground and they were trying their darnest to get it out. They decided to make it sound...controversial to scare Mariah.
"That was cruel."
"But fun."
Added Cordelia. Both burst out laughing again.
"I thank you, Cordelia."
"What for?"
"War has destroyed much of the joy in my heart. You made me forget the horrible memories-and taught me to laugh. "
"Did I?"
"Yes. What shall we do with your Aunt?"
"We better bring her back into her room and wake her. She doesn't add to the décor."
"True."
After placing her on the bed and rousing her, they apologized for their prank. Even Mariah had to laugh at such a naughty prank. With that, he took his leave. She saw him to the door.
"When will you return, My Lord?"
"We'll see."
With that, he kissed her hand and left.
Cordelia watched him leave. For someone to tolerate her-and laugh with her...that was a rare man indeed....
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3 YEARS LATER....1461.
(This scene is stolen from "Frida"-one of my favorite Art movies!)
The maid placed a veil made out of Spanish silk over Cordelia's head. She looked exceptionally beautiful wearing her late mother's wedding gown, made of Spanish silk too. It was an off-the-shoulder number, with English lace round the sleeves.
"You look wonderful, Lady Cordelia,"
sighed the maid.
Cordelia was amazed at the transformation. Gone was the scruffy, tomboyish, smart-mouthed tomboy. In its place, a glowing bride on her wedding day. But..it wasn't right. She smiled as she thought of something...
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OUTSIDE....
"...For the 69th time, Vladislaus, will you STOP pacing around the floor?! You are making me dizzy!"
Allegria, the future wife of Gabriel Van Helsing, laughed at her future husband's outburst. Her cousin was never the same after he met the unusual Cordelia. Everyone was surprised-and a little disagreeable-at their union: She was 19, he was 29. They had a 10-year gap between them both. And, he had an ugly past few wished to disclose. Both Mariah was too ecstatic to care. She had nearly broken their backs when hugging them upon hearing them ask her permission to be wed. ("Typical-kill the messenger," she had gasped.)
The door swung open-Mariah groaned. Allegria laughed. Gabriel raised his eyebrows-and Dracula had to smile. Trust Cordelia to surprise him...
She wore black pants, dark snakeskin boots, and a white ruffled blouse. Over it, a red brocade jacket Her hair was in a ponytail and she wore hoop earrings. (Speaking of which, I lost one of MY earrings down the drain yesterday-now I wear ONLY ONE earring ...Hmmm) She held a bouquet of roses- white and red- to finish the effect.
"Sorry if I took so long,"
She said.
"No,"
Dracula said, taking his bride's hand.
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Allegria and Cordelia were having a nice talk over tea. Allegria was thrilled when Cordelia had thrown the bouquet after a short and simple ceremony-and SHE caught it. Gabriel's eyes met hers-and he had smiled. It had been 2 weeks ago. As usual, both men were out. That did not bother the women. Both were good friends and enjoyed each other's company.
"I still can't believe I'm actually married!"
"You better believe it, cousin-in-law!"
Both giggled like naughty schoolgirls.
"Let's go riding after dinner."
"Certainly."
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Both enjoyed the cool air of the Night. Tonight was the Full Moon Night, where nothing was what it seemed. Or so they say.
After an hour or two of riding, both decided to go home. However, unknown to them, there were bandits by the roadside waiting for prey like them to come. Cordelia suddenly stopped where she was.
"Wait, I hear something."
"What?"
asked Allegria.
"Ride Like The Wind!"
She barked to their horses-and they raced back to the manor. Alas, the bandits too had steeds that were equally fast. Cordelia cried to Allegria to go get help-just before the bandits caught up with her.As Allegria sped off, she unsheathed her scimitar and hissed,
"Bring it on,"
even though they outnumbered her 10 to 1.
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Luck was on Allegria's side. Gabriel and Vladislaus had just returned from an early victory in battle. Upon hearing the news, all three sped towards the bandits.
"Only Heaven can save you now,"
sneered the 6 bandits . Standing among the 4 dead ones, and having been stabbed in her stomach, the situation looked bad.
"Why don't we help her?"
In a flash, Gabriel, Allegria and Vladislaus joined in the battle. Soon, the three had the upper hand. Vladislaus had just finished off a fat one when another-the last one- was about to stab him in the back-literally. Suddenly, a figure moved before him-and then a scream of pain. Gabriel took that bandit down-and saw Cordelia clutching her chest. She had taken the blow for her husband. Blood was all over her fingers and blouse.
"Oh God no,"
whispered Allegria. Vladislaus caught her as she fell.
"Forgive me...I should not have gone out tonight-
"Say no more. You will live-
"Please kiss me, my Love."
As he did, she closed her eyes. And she was gone. Dracula wept with rage-at God, himself...at the world. Gabriel held Allegria, joyful that she was alive and saddened by his friend's loss. Then, it rained. It was as if Heaven wept with Dracula.
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THE NEXT DAY
"My angel lies as if asleep,
Upon the velvet, scarlet and deep.
Her raven-dark hair wrapped around her lithe form,
Now marble-cold, though it was once warm.
Her intense black eyes, so filled with joy and no hate,
Are now eternally closed, like a padlocked gate.
Her soft, ivory skin in screaming contrast with her funeral dress,black as the night.
She , who was once mine, is now Death's fair Bride.
A solitary white rose lies clasped in her cold hands,
To have her back, I would pay the price of many lands.
She laid her life down-Christ-Like-for my sake,
How ironic it is that she smiles serenely while those
who loved her weep for her at her wake.
My Love, though I know I will see you again,
I shall never ever be the same again."
-Elegy To A Departed Loved One(Written by Enigma40)
The funeral service was simple and short. Only Mariah, Allegria, Gabriel, Vladislaus and a priest were present. Cordelia looked so peaceful and beautiful, even in Death. Ironically, she wore her Mother's wedding dress. She held a single white rose. After the service ended, Gabriel wanted to comfort his friend-but Allegria stopped him.
"He needs to be alone now..especially after what happened earlier."
Sighing, both left.
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Dracula simply lay next to Cordelia's coffin. He had no more tears to cry. He just lay there for about a week.
I'M SO TIRED OF BEING HERE
SUPRESSED BY ALL MY CHILDISH FEARS
AND IF YOU HAVE TO LEAVE, I WISH THAT YOU WOULD JUST LEAVE
YOUR PRESCENCE STILL LINGERS HERE AND IT WON'T LEAVE ME ALONE
THESE WOUNDS WON'T SEEM TO HEAL
THIS PAIN IS ALL TOO REAL
THERE'S JUST TOO MUCH THAT TIME CANNOT ERASE
Gabriel had tried to comfort him yesterday. Dracula had brushed him off, telling him to get lost and leave.
"It's not your fault, Vladislaus-
"WHAT THE HELL DO YOU KNOW? IF I HADN'T LEFT, I COULD HAVE SAVED HER! -
"The fact is, she is gone. It is no one's fault. She sacrificed herself for you-
"GET OUT! ALL OF YOU! LEAVE!"
They left-leaving Vladislaus with Cordelia's corpse all night.
WHEN YOU CRIED I'D WIPE AWAY ALL OF YOUR TEARS
WHEN YOU SCREAMED I'D FIGHT AWAY AL OF YOUR FEARS
I HELD YOUR HAND THROUGH ALL OF THESE YEARS
YOU STILL HAVE ALL OF ME
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Whoever said Time was a great Healer lied. Weeks passed-and the pain in his heart had not died. She haunted him and slowly destroyed his sanity. He had screamed to God, asking why she had to die. There was no answer. And slowly, he went mad.
YOU USED TO CAPTIVATE ME BY YOUR RESONATING LIGHT
NOW I'M BOUND BY THE LIFE YOU LEFT BEHIND
YOUR FACE IT HAUNTS MY ONCE PLEASANT DREAMS
YOUR VOICE IT CHASED AWAY ALL THE SANITY IN ME
THESE WOUNDS WON'T SEEM TO HEAL
THIS PAIN IS JUST TOO REAL
THERE'S JUST TOO MUCH THAT TIME CANNOT ERASE
WHEN YOU CRIED I'D WIPE AWAY ALL OF YOUR TEARS
WHEN YOU SCREAMED I'D FIGHT AWAY ALL OF YOUR TEARS
I HELD YOUR HAND THROUGH ALL OF THESE YEARS
YOU STILL HAVE ALL OF ME
I TRIED SO HARD TO TELL MYSELF THAT YOU'RE GONE
BUT THOUGH YOU'RE STILL WITH ME
I'VE BEEN ALONE ALL ALONG
WHEN YOU CRIED I'D WIPE AWAY ALL OF YOUR TEARS
WHEN YOU SCREAMED I'D FIGHT AWAY ALL OF YOUR FEARS
I HELD YOUR HAND THROUGH ALL OF THESE YEARS
YOU STILL HAVE ALL OF ME
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Allegria tried to open the door-but it was locked. She looked in horror, at the many dead people around her. Blood splattered the walls.
"Hello, cousin,"
purred Vladislaus, licking the bloodioed blade of his sword. Madness was in his eyes.
"Vladislaus! Cease this madness!"
"You sent Cordelia to her death, cousin,"
He hissed.
"I never meant to-
In a flash, he slashed her neck. She gasped as he stabbed her in the chest. As she lay dying, he drank her blood. It was sweet. Just like the other luckless souls of the servants –and Mariah's-(a/n: He is in the house which Cordelia and her aunt shared).
"Well Gabriel..now we are even, no?"
He laughed cruelly, depositing Allegria's body on the floor like trash before leaving. Revenge was truly sweet.
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Gabriel glared hard at his old friend. He had grieved greatly upon finding Allegria's corpse.
"Monster,"
he spat, tears in his eyes.
"I was hungry, my friend-
"Don't call me that! You shall pay for your sins, Monster!"
Vladislaus and Gabriel fought for what seemed like hours. Then, Gabriel made a surprise attack-and sliced off Vladislaus' ring finger-and slammed the sword into his black, black heart.
"Now, we are even,"
hissed Gabriel. That was for his Allegria.
Vladislaus laughed bitterly, before falling into a heap, dead. Gabriel took the ring. He wanted to destroy it-but he couldn't. For all his evil, Vladislaus was still his friend. Sighing, he put it on-and cremated his corpse.
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At long last, the memories released Shirra.
"I know now.....Cordelia...she died to save you...you went mad with grief....Gabriel killed you..."
"How did you-?"
It appeared Dracula's blood-and his memories- flowed through Shirra's veins.
He laughed bitterly.
"Yes...I loved a woman-she was so much like you....she died-for me. At that time, I could love-and I knew what it was...and Gabriel was my friend...When I first heard about you, I WAS mildly interested. And what piqued my curiousity even more was your picture: So much like Cordelia's..."
He drifted off and turned away. Shirra felt a new understanding-and symphaty flow through her.
"My Lord?"
She got out and went to touch his shoulder.
"Stay with me, Shirra. You shall never fear Death nor Age again."
"I cannot. I am NOT Cordelia, my Lord."
"Does it matter? Do you not love me?"
"I-
Just then, a loud BOOM resounded-and cries of pain –of the other vampires- followed.
"Van Helsing.."
He hissed.
The battle had just begun. (Song in CAPITALS ws My Immortal-Evanescence)
Your will so fierce.
So kind you are to the weak,
Yet merciless to your enemies.
Your neck so white,
Your arms so slender,
Your strength so great!
Your chosen path you follow, without doubt or hesitation.
Earning your followers' adoration.
Far off into the distance you stare.
Is what you see with those eyes the future?
Or do they gaze on some past Hell?"
-Princess Mononoke's "Lady Eboshi"(Don't you think they fit Shirra/Cassandra perfectly?
Velkan felt like lying on the carpeted floor forever. His stomach hurt like Hell. But the scent of Cassandra was absent in the room. He got up-and shook Gabriel and Carl awake. The ladies were already attending to Anna's arm, which was pierced by the shattered glass.
"He got her-again."
"We have to go back."
"Let's go then,"
replied Karen grimly.
Alina then turned to the others.
"All of you, follow me. I have an idea."
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Despite wearing peasant attire and her hair and face slightly smudged with dirt, Shirra still looked lovely. She looked at her sire, her face expressionless.
"Where are the others? What did you do to them?"
"Are you-
"Tell me, Dracula."
Her voice had an edge now. He inhaled her scent: Rising anger, like the fumes of a strong perfume. Tasty.
"They live, kislany (Thanks imajere)...they are too interesting to kill so soon."
"Don't you dare lay a hand on them, especially my mother and Alina!"
"Softer dear, I am old but I am not deaf (LOL. My folks always say that to me!)."
"They are all I have to remember-
"Are you so sure you want to return, kislany? Back to those self-righteous fools who despise you and force a fair raven to become a common bird? To your father who broke you like he would a wild horse-?
"He does not know his strength!"
She hissed, in a surprised defense.
"Let me finish. Do you really think everything will be fine and dandy when you return home? Or when you become human? Do you think that by marrying and settling down and raising five children will Society finally accept you? Alas, No. You never fit in, even before you became a vampire, Shirra. It was from your sweet mouth I heard that."
He continued, pressing his fingers against her cheek, which slid down to her ivory neck, and down the valley between her bosoms. She gripped his hand tightly, and said,
"I never cared about conforming, My LORD."
She said coldly.
"What is this-
"I still respect you Dracula, but my family still holds a place in my heart, whether dead or not."
"Cordelia, why do you do this?"
He whispered, in a tone so sad she visibly softened.
With that one word, Memories of a past not her own rushed through her brain...
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The year was 1459, Romania.
Vladislaus Dragulia was restless and bored. His good friend Gabriel was talking to a bright young woman with wavy dark locks and dark warm eyes. Her name was Allegria Valerious. He allowed himself a smile. FINALLY, the grim brooding one of the two had an interest in the fairer sex.
"Lovely gathering, isn't it?"
a pompous looking woman in a disgusting orange dress (ACK!) said to him. He forced a smile and nodded.
"Really, good sir, you look like a fine man. I would be more than happy to give you my niece's hand in marriage-
"Good lady, I have NO intention of marrying now-whether it is her-or a part of her body,"
She didn't listen. She parted two red ridges otherwise known as her mouth and yelled:
"CORDELIA!!!!!!!!COME DOWN!!!!"
Dracula was nearly swept off his feet by her supersonic voice. His ears would take weeks to recover. He swore he heard the glasses and mirrors break before going deaf. To his surprise, a young girl-or was it a boy? - slid down the banisters (think Legolas) wearing pants and a ruffled blouse. As she landed gracefully, she slipped and landed at his feet.
"Usually I don't fall at men's feet,"
she replied wryly. Everyone save Dracula rolled their eyes. He helped her up.
She looked hardly 17. Her hair was shoulder-length and rather wavy. She wore no make-up, yet her plainness enchanced her unorthodox charm. And, her hair and eyes were dark-like his. This might actually be interesting.
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"Call me Cordelia. I lived with my aunt, after my parents died."
"How old were you then?"
"7, I think. Why do you look so surprised-let me guess, you're wondering why I'm so happy? Well, they wanted me to grow up as a happy child. Besides mourning isn't going to bring them back."
Both were strolling outside the gardens, enjoying the cool air. Dracula had to keep up with her: she spoke so very fast.
"Enough about me-what about you?"
"I'm just a soldier, Cordelia."
"And I'm just an abnormal socialite who no one likes because I wear male clothes, HATES dancingand SEWING (I HATE IT! I SUCK AT SEWING..Sorry, had to let it out) and prefers fencing to tea any day."
"There's no sin in that."
"If the world had more people like you-it would be more bearable."
"Really?"
"May I fall into the fountain if I lie-Yeargh!!!"
She had tripped and fallen into-you guessed it- the fountain.
"I suppose you're telling a lie then?"
"Shut up and get me out,"
She growled-but there was a laugh in her tone.
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"WHAT?"
gaped Cordelia, after all the guests had left.
"Don't you think you make a wonderful couple? "
"Aunt Mariah, there is NO way in Hell am I getting married or having a child-
"Become a nun then-
"NEVER!"
"For crying out loud, you're 17! Why can't you settle down-
"I want freedom! There is a whole world out there I want to explore....but you'll never understand..."
With that, Cordelia went to her room.
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"I knew it."
She growled. She was wearing a red gown-V-necked, empire waist. Her hair was in a bun –she looked lovely. She thought she looked like an idiot. She had no idea Aunt Maria had set her up-and had sent Dracula to court HER. Dracula was no more entertained by this.
"Well...so, here we are, in a garden, sitting on a bench. What do we do?"
"Talk?"
"Wait..."
She said.
"I have a little trick to teach her a lesson...."
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Aunt Mariah smiled. At last, she would have a little grandchild-sort of- as soon as the two got together. Then, as she passed Cordelia's room-she head a most controversial conversation:
"What? Now? So soon? But Vladislaus (the priest who christened him must have been very thirsty afterwards), I'm having a headache!"
Mariah stopped in her tracks. And listened.
"So? I need it now, Cordelia! Tell you what, you go on first, then I join you!"
"No, you first!"
"Forget it! Why don't we BOTH try at the same time?"
Gasping, moaning and a cry of pain (or was it pleasure?) followed. Mariah made the sign of the cross.
"Sweet God-
And passed out. Upon hearing her faint, the two pranksters left the room, laughing in each other's arms. You see, Dracula's earring had fallen into a hole in the ground and they were trying their darnest to get it out. They decided to make it sound...controversial to scare Mariah.
"That was cruel."
"But fun."
Added Cordelia. Both burst out laughing again.
"I thank you, Cordelia."
"What for?"
"War has destroyed much of the joy in my heart. You made me forget the horrible memories-and taught me to laugh. "
"Did I?"
"Yes. What shall we do with your Aunt?"
"We better bring her back into her room and wake her. She doesn't add to the décor."
"True."
After placing her on the bed and rousing her, they apologized for their prank. Even Mariah had to laugh at such a naughty prank. With that, he took his leave. She saw him to the door.
"When will you return, My Lord?"
"We'll see."
With that, he kissed her hand and left.
Cordelia watched him leave. For someone to tolerate her-and laugh with her...that was a rare man indeed....
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3 YEARS LATER....1461.
(This scene is stolen from "Frida"-one of my favorite Art movies!)
The maid placed a veil made out of Spanish silk over Cordelia's head. She looked exceptionally beautiful wearing her late mother's wedding gown, made of Spanish silk too. It was an off-the-shoulder number, with English lace round the sleeves.
"You look wonderful, Lady Cordelia,"
sighed the maid.
Cordelia was amazed at the transformation. Gone was the scruffy, tomboyish, smart-mouthed tomboy. In its place, a glowing bride on her wedding day. But..it wasn't right. She smiled as she thought of something...
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OUTSIDE....
"...For the 69th time, Vladislaus, will you STOP pacing around the floor?! You are making me dizzy!"
Allegria, the future wife of Gabriel Van Helsing, laughed at her future husband's outburst. Her cousin was never the same after he met the unusual Cordelia. Everyone was surprised-and a little disagreeable-at their union: She was 19, he was 29. They had a 10-year gap between them both. And, he had an ugly past few wished to disclose. Both Mariah was too ecstatic to care. She had nearly broken their backs when hugging them upon hearing them ask her permission to be wed. ("Typical-kill the messenger," she had gasped.)
The door swung open-Mariah groaned. Allegria laughed. Gabriel raised his eyebrows-and Dracula had to smile. Trust Cordelia to surprise him...
She wore black pants, dark snakeskin boots, and a white ruffled blouse. Over it, a red brocade jacket Her hair was in a ponytail and she wore hoop earrings. (Speaking of which, I lost one of MY earrings down the drain yesterday-now I wear ONLY ONE earring ...Hmmm) She held a bouquet of roses- white and red- to finish the effect.
"Sorry if I took so long,"
She said.
"No,"
Dracula said, taking his bride's hand.
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Allegria and Cordelia were having a nice talk over tea. Allegria was thrilled when Cordelia had thrown the bouquet after a short and simple ceremony-and SHE caught it. Gabriel's eyes met hers-and he had smiled. It had been 2 weeks ago. As usual, both men were out. That did not bother the women. Both were good friends and enjoyed each other's company.
"I still can't believe I'm actually married!"
"You better believe it, cousin-in-law!"
Both giggled like naughty schoolgirls.
"Let's go riding after dinner."
"Certainly."
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Both enjoyed the cool air of the Night. Tonight was the Full Moon Night, where nothing was what it seemed. Or so they say.
After an hour or two of riding, both decided to go home. However, unknown to them, there were bandits by the roadside waiting for prey like them to come. Cordelia suddenly stopped where she was.
"Wait, I hear something."
"What?"
asked Allegria.
"Ride Like The Wind!"
She barked to their horses-and they raced back to the manor. Alas, the bandits too had steeds that were equally fast. Cordelia cried to Allegria to go get help-just before the bandits caught up with her.As Allegria sped off, she unsheathed her scimitar and hissed,
"Bring it on,"
even though they outnumbered her 10 to 1.
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Luck was on Allegria's side. Gabriel and Vladislaus had just returned from an early victory in battle. Upon hearing the news, all three sped towards the bandits.
"Only Heaven can save you now,"
sneered the 6 bandits . Standing among the 4 dead ones, and having been stabbed in her stomach, the situation looked bad.
"Why don't we help her?"
In a flash, Gabriel, Allegria and Vladislaus joined in the battle. Soon, the three had the upper hand. Vladislaus had just finished off a fat one when another-the last one- was about to stab him in the back-literally. Suddenly, a figure moved before him-and then a scream of pain. Gabriel took that bandit down-and saw Cordelia clutching her chest. She had taken the blow for her husband. Blood was all over her fingers and blouse.
"Oh God no,"
whispered Allegria. Vladislaus caught her as she fell.
"Forgive me...I should not have gone out tonight-
"Say no more. You will live-
"Please kiss me, my Love."
As he did, she closed her eyes. And she was gone. Dracula wept with rage-at God, himself...at the world. Gabriel held Allegria, joyful that she was alive and saddened by his friend's loss. Then, it rained. It was as if Heaven wept with Dracula.
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THE NEXT DAY
"My angel lies as if asleep,
Upon the velvet, scarlet and deep.
Her raven-dark hair wrapped around her lithe form,
Now marble-cold, though it was once warm.
Her intense black eyes, so filled with joy and no hate,
Are now eternally closed, like a padlocked gate.
Her soft, ivory skin in screaming contrast with her funeral dress,black as the night.
She , who was once mine, is now Death's fair Bride.
A solitary white rose lies clasped in her cold hands,
To have her back, I would pay the price of many lands.
She laid her life down-Christ-Like-for my sake,
How ironic it is that she smiles serenely while those
who loved her weep for her at her wake.
My Love, though I know I will see you again,
I shall never ever be the same again."
-Elegy To A Departed Loved One(Written by Enigma40)
The funeral service was simple and short. Only Mariah, Allegria, Gabriel, Vladislaus and a priest were present. Cordelia looked so peaceful and beautiful, even in Death. Ironically, she wore her Mother's wedding dress. She held a single white rose. After the service ended, Gabriel wanted to comfort his friend-but Allegria stopped him.
"He needs to be alone now..especially after what happened earlier."
Sighing, both left.
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Dracula simply lay next to Cordelia's coffin. He had no more tears to cry. He just lay there for about a week.
I'M SO TIRED OF BEING HERE
SUPRESSED BY ALL MY CHILDISH FEARS
AND IF YOU HAVE TO LEAVE, I WISH THAT YOU WOULD JUST LEAVE
YOUR PRESCENCE STILL LINGERS HERE AND IT WON'T LEAVE ME ALONE
THESE WOUNDS WON'T SEEM TO HEAL
THIS PAIN IS ALL TOO REAL
THERE'S JUST TOO MUCH THAT TIME CANNOT ERASE
Gabriel had tried to comfort him yesterday. Dracula had brushed him off, telling him to get lost and leave.
"It's not your fault, Vladislaus-
"WHAT THE HELL DO YOU KNOW? IF I HADN'T LEFT, I COULD HAVE SAVED HER! -
"The fact is, she is gone. It is no one's fault. She sacrificed herself for you-
"GET OUT! ALL OF YOU! LEAVE!"
They left-leaving Vladislaus with Cordelia's corpse all night.
WHEN YOU CRIED I'D WIPE AWAY ALL OF YOUR TEARS
WHEN YOU SCREAMED I'D FIGHT AWAY AL OF YOUR FEARS
I HELD YOUR HAND THROUGH ALL OF THESE YEARS
YOU STILL HAVE ALL OF ME
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Whoever said Time was a great Healer lied. Weeks passed-and the pain in his heart had not died. She haunted him and slowly destroyed his sanity. He had screamed to God, asking why she had to die. There was no answer. And slowly, he went mad.
YOU USED TO CAPTIVATE ME BY YOUR RESONATING LIGHT
NOW I'M BOUND BY THE LIFE YOU LEFT BEHIND
YOUR FACE IT HAUNTS MY ONCE PLEASANT DREAMS
YOUR VOICE IT CHASED AWAY ALL THE SANITY IN ME
THESE WOUNDS WON'T SEEM TO HEAL
THIS PAIN IS JUST TOO REAL
THERE'S JUST TOO MUCH THAT TIME CANNOT ERASE
WHEN YOU CRIED I'D WIPE AWAY ALL OF YOUR TEARS
WHEN YOU SCREAMED I'D FIGHT AWAY ALL OF YOUR TEARS
I HELD YOUR HAND THROUGH ALL OF THESE YEARS
YOU STILL HAVE ALL OF ME
I TRIED SO HARD TO TELL MYSELF THAT YOU'RE GONE
BUT THOUGH YOU'RE STILL WITH ME
I'VE BEEN ALONE ALL ALONG
WHEN YOU CRIED I'D WIPE AWAY ALL OF YOUR TEARS
WHEN YOU SCREAMED I'D FIGHT AWAY ALL OF YOUR FEARS
I HELD YOUR HAND THROUGH ALL OF THESE YEARS
YOU STILL HAVE ALL OF ME
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Allegria tried to open the door-but it was locked. She looked in horror, at the many dead people around her. Blood splattered the walls.
"Hello, cousin,"
purred Vladislaus, licking the bloodioed blade of his sword. Madness was in his eyes.
"Vladislaus! Cease this madness!"
"You sent Cordelia to her death, cousin,"
He hissed.
"I never meant to-
In a flash, he slashed her neck. She gasped as he stabbed her in the chest. As she lay dying, he drank her blood. It was sweet. Just like the other luckless souls of the servants –and Mariah's-(a/n: He is in the house which Cordelia and her aunt shared).
"Well Gabriel..now we are even, no?"
He laughed cruelly, depositing Allegria's body on the floor like trash before leaving. Revenge was truly sweet.
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Gabriel glared hard at his old friend. He had grieved greatly upon finding Allegria's corpse.
"Monster,"
he spat, tears in his eyes.
"I was hungry, my friend-
"Don't call me that! You shall pay for your sins, Monster!"
Vladislaus and Gabriel fought for what seemed like hours. Then, Gabriel made a surprise attack-and sliced off Vladislaus' ring finger-and slammed the sword into his black, black heart.
"Now, we are even,"
hissed Gabriel. That was for his Allegria.
Vladislaus laughed bitterly, before falling into a heap, dead. Gabriel took the ring. He wanted to destroy it-but he couldn't. For all his evil, Vladislaus was still his friend. Sighing, he put it on-and cremated his corpse.
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At long last, the memories released Shirra.
"I know now.....Cordelia...she died to save you...you went mad with grief....Gabriel killed you..."
"How did you-?"
It appeared Dracula's blood-and his memories- flowed through Shirra's veins.
He laughed bitterly.
"Yes...I loved a woman-she was so much like you....she died-for me. At that time, I could love-and I knew what it was...and Gabriel was my friend...When I first heard about you, I WAS mildly interested. And what piqued my curiousity even more was your picture: So much like Cordelia's..."
He drifted off and turned away. Shirra felt a new understanding-and symphaty flow through her.
"My Lord?"
She got out and went to touch his shoulder.
"Stay with me, Shirra. You shall never fear Death nor Age again."
"I cannot. I am NOT Cordelia, my Lord."
"Does it matter? Do you not love me?"
"I-
Just then, a loud BOOM resounded-and cries of pain –of the other vampires- followed.
"Van Helsing.."
He hissed.
The battle had just begun. (Song in CAPITALS ws My Immortal-Evanescence)