Chapter Nine Lorelei
I want some turnips, Elsabett announced.
Vlad stared at her. Turnips? Whatever for?
She threw her hands in the air. To eat! What do you think?Well, of course to eat! That's not what I meant. Why turnips, of all things?
Elsa shrugged. I'm not sure. I just would really like some right now.
Maris¸ka smiled. It's probably a craving. Most women get them at some point during their pregnancy.Is there anything that can be done about it? Dracula asked, still mildly confused.
Other than let her have what she wants? No, not really.
Elsabett studied the parchment map hanging from the wall. There's a village not far from here. I could go there and buy some vegetables.Not by yourself, Vlad insisted. Someone should go with you.I'll go, Maris¸ka volunteered. I still remember how to pick out good produce.Hm. We'll need money. Liebling? Elsabett turned to her husband, putting on her best cute-and-pleading face. He opened his mouth, probably about to say something about how vampires took whatever they wanted, but was unable to resist the innocent charmingness of his youngest wife.
Fine, �ne. The treasury is in the north tower. Don't—! Don't take too much. I have a very limited income, you know. she exclaimed, throwing her arms around his neck and kissing him. You're so good to me, Liebling.
He smiled. As long as you're happy and our son is healthy, I'll do whatever it takes.We don't need your help! Anna, princess of the Gypsies, barked. Van Helsing raised an eyebrow and hefted his crossbow.
That so? he asked, suddenly aiming it at her face. She instinctively leapt back, just as the townsfolk around them cried out in terror and began to �ee to their houses. However, it seemed the gaje vampire-hunter had not been aiming at her, as he �red off a barrage of silver bolts into the sky well after she had dodged out of the way. Anna looked up in the direction of the projectiles and saw two pale, winged shapes diving from the clouds.
Everybody, get inside! she ordered, jumping back onto her perch and unsheathing a handful of throwing knives. One of the vampresses, attempting to veer between the bolts, miscalculated and let out a cry of pain as one of them punctured her wing. Losing control, she spun wildly and plummeted, ricocheting off the statue above the fountain in the town square and hitting the ground hard. She slid for several paces before coming to a stop and morphing out of her winged form. Anna stared hard at the vampress, who had hair the colour of spun gold and was dressed in crimson and scarlet. A new bride? Impossible!
The other bride spun about in midair and dropped to the ground, rushing to her sister. Elsabett! What—! Are you all right? Anna gasped. None of Dracula's known brides was named Elsabett—it had to be a new one. She jumped down and raced toward the unfamiliar vampress, who was moaning and clutching her side.
Stay back! the swordswoman yelled, brandishing a knife at the older bride. Honey-coloured hair—that would be Maris¸ka. Maris¸ka glared at the knife, then its wielder, and circled around to get at Elsabett.
What happened? Were you hit? the vampress asked, concern in her tone. Anna exchanged a look with Dr. van Helsing, who appeared as confused as she was over this uncharacteristic behaviour.
I think one of my wings was pierced, Elsabett groaned, a few tears sliding down her face. I lost control and ran into the statue. Oh, Ye'el, it hurts! Aren't I supposed to regenerate! she wailed.
Shh, shh. It's all right. You'll feel better soon, Maris¸ka soothed, gently embracing the younger vampress. We'll get what we came for and leave.Not without a �ght, you won't! Anna declared, drawing her sword. Maris¸ka glanced at her and rolled her eyes.
Not you, tart, the honey-haired bride hissed. Turnips. Have you any?All I want is some vegetables, and I nearly get killed! Elsabett cried, as Maris¸ka helped her to her feet. I told you we should have walked part of the way.It wouldn't have done any good, Anna growled. Everyone in this town recognises the brides of Dracula on sight. Elsabett limped away, peering around for the produce-vendor's cart. Van Helsing cocked his crossbow and trained it on her, and she gave him a glare so hot it almost looked for a moment as if his hat began to smoke.
What kind of bastard are you, to try shooting down a pregnant woman! Unchivalrous pig! she snarled, hobbling past. He double-took, then whirled around and snatched the burlap sack from his companion's hands. Elsabett ignored him and turned the corner. Ah, here we are.Why does that vampire have a Teutonic accent? van Helsing's monk companion wondered, watching her while absently holding open the sack.
Because I'm from Weimar, Elsabett called. And I'm not a vampire.Sure you're not, Dr. van Helsing retorted. You sure you wouldn't rather havegarlic? Much better for the heart than turnips. Oh wait, your heart doesn't beat, does it!Shove off, human, Maris¸ka snarled, pushing past him in pursuit of her sister. Elsabett? Have you found what you want?Yes, there are lots of nice vegetables here, the golden-haired bride stated, but unfortunately, the vendor has disappeared.
Maris¸ka shook her head. So just take some! It doesn't matter. Elsabett stared at her in shock.
I couldn't do that! It would be stealing, and I refuse to do such a thing.A Teutonic vampire, with a sense of morality? the monk wondered. I'll admit, even I was unprepared for this.Wh—why do you want turnips? van Helsing demanded. You're a vampire! Vampires don't eat! She folded her arms and glared at him.
I said already, I'm not a vampire. Who are you, anyway? A foreigner, I'd think, since your clothes don't look much like the regional style. Her eyes widened. Oh, you're Dr. van Helsing, aren't you?That's right. He shouldered his crossbow and returned her glare, but she laughed.
The world-famous vampire-hunter van Helsing, renowned all over Nosgoth, and you can't even tell the difference between a vampire and a dhampir!I don't care what you are, or what you say you are! Anna shouted, jumping between them. You are a bride of Dracula, and it is my family's sworn duty to destroy you and your creator!Is it? Anna would have expected her to become coldly furious, but instead, she looked merely saddened. My Liebling? Now thatthat's just not nice.He's not nice! the Gypsy princess roared. I don't care what you feel for him, but I loathe him beyond what words can describe, and until he is destroyed, my ancestors can neither rest nor enter Heaven!
Elsabett stared at her. You made a promise like that? Then she shook her head. Nein, it wasn't you. Your forefather. But that's She sighed. Of a sudden, she reached out and gestured in Anna's direction, almost as if pulling on a taut string. The world seemed to—shift, almost imperceptibly, and Elsabett smiled. There you go. Now you don't have to worry about that. Anna looked around, but could not identify what was different. What did you do!I released your family from that unreasonable oath. Now you don't have to kill my husband in order to enter Heaven. Anna's eyes widened and her jaw dropped.
I don't believe it, the monk (Carl?) muttered. What did she do? I didn't see her cast a spell or anything.Well, clearly that's because you're magically inept, Elsabett sniffed. Now where's that vendor? I'm wanting more and more to get back to the Castle as soon as possible. She stalked around the cart, looking into windows and knocking on doors. Hello? Herr Verkäufer? I'd like to buy some turnips! Where are you? The clouds in front of the sun drifted aside, and Maris¸ka withdrew into the shadow of an archway, but Elsabett seemed completely unfazed. Her jewellery, gold and ruby and garnet, caught the light and sparkled like a thousand tiny �ames. A middle-aged man, his beard and hair beginning to turn salt-and-pepper, thrust his head out of a doorway and stared at the young bride.
What are you! he demanded. Why do you want to buy my vegetables?
She looked at him askance. To eat, of course. Why else?But you're a—
Elsabett sighed and glanced up at the sun. Dr. van Helsing, do you have any garlic? she asked, and he took a step back.
Just give me some. A clove or two. Carl the monk cautiously reached into the sack, pulled out a rope of bulbs, and handed it to his companion, who tore off a clove and tossed it in Elsabett's direction. She peeled it, pulled out a chunk, and ate it raw. Now do you people see? she asked. I'm NOT a vampire.Aren't—aren't you the daughter of the family who disappeared not a month after they settled here? hissed a woman, arms wrapped around the neck of a terri�ed child. We all knew you'd been taken by Dracula! And now that you've slain your family, you've come to curse all of us! Frightened gasps and whispers rose from the hidden townsfolk. Elsabett whirled to face her.
My family is alive, she stated, much to the dismay of the Sarafan, who for some reason have decided that killing my father was not enough and pursued us to Carpathia.The Sarafan! wailed the woman, crossing herself and looking heavenward. Only the truly evil provoke the wrath of the Sarafan warrior-priests! Your very existence is blasphemy to all that is holy!
The golden-haired bride growled and spun back to face the vegetable cart. I don't have the time or energy to waste effort on these superstitious peasants, she muttered. You, sir, just sell me a pound of turnips and I'll be on my way. She reached into a pouch tied around her waist and pulled out a handful of gold coins. How much will that be?
He shook his head. I'll not accept your money.
She glared at him. Why not? I'm not going to just take things without paying for them.How do you expect me to believe that those coins aren't cursed, and will let you track me down at night to drink my blood? he snarled. A few villagers whispered to each other of how brave he was, to stand up to a bride of Dracula.
she sputtered. I don't want your blood! I want some damn turnips! The clouds covered the sun again, but her jewels continued to sparkle, as if tiny �ames burned inside them. Honestly, this village is awful! I come here trying to satisfy my craving, get shot, nearly break myself bouncing off a bloody fountain, and can't even buy a pound of #&¶≠ turnips! Her eyes began to shine with green �re, and Maris¸ka rushed to her and attempted to calm down the golden-haired dhampir.
Please forgive her, the older bride said to the vendor in a soothing tone. She's with child, and her temper sometimes gets the better of her.All I want is a bunch of turnips Elsabett wailed softly. Van Helsing, curious and mildly bemused, crept closer and sensed no overwhelming emanation of evil, as he would have expected from a normal vampire. Even Maris¸ka, whom he could tell was actually undead, seemed almostneutral, as if she had been evil but the taint was now fading away, its source stopped. Beyond them, at the edge of town, he thought he saw a �gure leap between rooftops.
Didn't you see me eat the garlic and stand in the sun without bursting into �ame? Elsabett pleaded. Come on now, please. Just sell me some turnips. The vendor gave her another look, but began weighing the vegetables Maris¸ka pointed out. The shadowy �gure leapt closer. Elsabett whirled around and pointed into the air, and a bolt of golden-yellow �re shot from her hand just as a crimson-coated man jumped overhead. He let out an unholy howl of pain and dropped to the ground, burning. Maris¸ka dropped the turnip she had been examining and leapt between Elsabett and the mysterious newcomer, who, judging by his inordinate paleness, was another vampire.
Who are you? Maris¸ka snarled. State your business!
The red-coated vampire rolled a few times, smothering the �ames, then staggered to his feet. His eyes were sunken, his hair black and lanky, and icy-looking shards of crystal dangled from his ears. Frankly, I'm annoyed, he declared in a hoarse yet unintimidating tenor voice. Disgusted at you two. You call yourselves vampires? So many cattle around you, and you lower yourselves to buying vegetables!They're not cattle, Elsabett growled without looking at him, they're humans, who deserve to live just as much as you or I. Well, as much as I, at any rate. Who the hell do you think you are?Ah. You would be Elsabett, the Queen of Twilight, he observed, stalking toward her. Come, now. Don't you at least wish to see my face before I kill you? I'd like to see yours, certainly, as I've been told you're quite the beauty. Elsabett muttered something incomprehensible but probably unladylike, snatching the sack of turnips from the vendor and dumping a double handful of coins onto the table.
So it's me you want? Interesting. Did the Sarafan send you?
The black-haired vampire laughed, a mirthless barking sound. The Sarafan! Hell, no. I don't work for them anymore. Frankly, I didn't think they were still around.Who wants me dead? Elsabett demanded, spinning to face the newcomer. He gasped and took a step back.
My, my. It seems the rumours of your beauty fall short of the truth.I don't have time to listen to your whining! she hissed, clutching the sack of turnips. Maris¸ka, let's go.Not so fast! he shouted. Face me hereor I shall kill every last living creature in this town. Elsabett paused and turned around slowly, her eyes slowly igniting.
was all she said, and then reached out for him with one hand. The air around him seemed to solidify, becoming faintly greenish like glass, and spurts of �ame appeared from nowhere at the vampire's feet. He screamed and began to pound at the inside of the globe, but all in vain. Elsabett placed a hand on Maris¸ka's arm and the two brides disappeared.
The Lord of Nosgoth looked up into the sky, searching for the speaker. It had sounded like Janos' voice, butsomehow odd.
What do you wish of me? he called upward.
Janos alighted in the centre of the nine ruined Pillars, hand in hand with what must have been a female of his race. Odd, that. Were all the males blue and the females fuchsia? I would like to ask a favour of you, he requested, dipping his head.
Kain rose from the throne and strode toward the pair. Ask, but I make no promises.This is my betrothed, Ladmira, whom I thought dead, Janos explained, indicating the woman with him. Happily, I was wrong, and now that we are reunited, we wish to marry. Kain sputtered, unable to keep himself in check for a split-second. I—I am no priest, Janos.You need not be, the turquoise-skinned Sephardi maintained. The traditional ceremony of my race is quite simple. The two betrothed must merely name each other as life-mates in the presence of at least six witnesses. It is usually customary for the pair to exchange some token, but since we—We already have, Ladmira said quietly, a small contented smile on her face. Janos glanced at her and chuckled.
Well, then. Kain, as my ally and brother, would you grant this request to me? Kain looked at the two Sephardi, so obviously and happily in love, and felt a twinge as a memory of Umah �oated to the surface of his mind. Umah, who was even more unattainable than Queen Elsabett.
Very well. He smoothed back his hair and indicated to his lieutenants that they should take their places, and they quickly obliged. For once.
Janos and Ladmira faced each other and clasped hands. Ladmira spoke �rst, apparently to Janos' surprise, saying I take you, Janos Audron, to be my life-mate, the friend of my body and spirit, forever. He smiled nervously, blinked a few times, and cleared his throat.
I take you, Ladmira Tankoji, to be my life-mate, the friend of my body and spirit, forever. Ladmira smiled and embraced him, and a few of the lieutenants clapped.
It's so sweet, Melchiah sniffed, rubbing his face. I think I might cry! Raziel, his part �nished, whirled around and stalked away. Kain sensed an instant of grief, like that embedded in his own lovelorn soul, and followed his eldest son.
he said quietly. Is something troubling you?
The raven-haired vampire said nothing for a few moments, staring into space and letting the wind idly tug at his cape and hair. I knew a woman once. A woman with whom I would have gladly spent the entirety of my unlife.Why did you not?
Raziel slammed his �st into one of the Pillars and leaned against it. We two could never be together. She is from a different clan—a rival clan—of vampires, and she knew that her queen would never allow her to become involved with one such as I.Rival clan, Kain scoffed. In the future, Raziel, there may not be rivals among vampires. The numbers of humanity increase with each passing year, and it is only a matter of time before they gather up the strength to strike a crippling blow to us. If our kind are to survive, we must turn to each other for help.
Raziel glared at him. That doesn't sound like you at all.
Kain shook his head and shrugged. Meeting Lady Elsabett changed me in ways I would never have thought possible.And what of Elsabett, sire? Since she will not be your queen, will you seek to transform one of your own? Raziel asked, the tiniest hint of mockery in his voice. Kain growled and turned away.
There is no room in my heart for other vampresses, Raziel. I will seek no bride.
Centuries ago, long before I raised you as my lieutenant, I knew a warrior. She was strong-willed, deadly in battle, and yet kind-hearted. I would have made her Queen of Nosgoth. But fate, it seems, has chosen to make me miserable. She was taken from me.
Raziel shook his head, uncomprehending. Can you not raise her anew?How? It is dif�cult enough to transform a dead human! Would you like to attempt raising a vampire who's been dead for nearly a thousand years!I would not assume it impossible until it has been tried.
Kain paced angrily. 'Tis moot anyway. I don't even know where her body lies.
Raziel sighed and turned back toward the Pillars. How interesting that you and I have such a thing in common. I would imagine it's rare enough among the living, and all but unheard-of among our kind. Kain muttered without turning around. Are Janos and Ladmira still here?I think they are. Why, does it trouble you that much? Kain growled in response and pushed past his eldest son, stalking toward his throne at the base of the Pillar of Balance. The other lieutenants were engaged in conversation with the two Sephardi, apparently quite happily.
I think it's splendid! Zephon was saying. Why, it almost makes me lonely enough to seek out someone to keep me company.
Turel laughed in an unkind manner. Good luck �nding a woman who'd be willing to put up with you.Who said I would look for a woman? Zephon asked without missing a beat, and the other lieutenants leapt back in horror. The second-youngest son made a noise of disgust. Oh, come now! You're my brothers! I would never dream of doing such a— Kain bellowed, reaching for the Soul Reaver strapped across his back. His lieutenants fell silent, one by one backing away nervously. Making Kain angry enough to even think about drawing the Soul Reaver was never good.
Janos sighed and rubbed his hands together. Well, Ladmira and I'd best be going. I'm sure that the Lord of Nosgoth has many duties that need attending to. My love? The two Sephardi took �ight, rapidly disappearing into the mist beyond the Pillars.
Kain dropped into his throne with a scowl. Zephon approached him hesitantly, trying to look apologetic.
My—my lord? If—if my comment—offended you, I offer my deepest—I don't care what your romantic preference is, Kain interrupted. Just leave me alone. Zephon dipped his head in acquiescence and retreated to his assigned spot. The Lord of Nosgoth was just about to order an attack on the local Sarafan forti�cation when his heart was suddenly grabbed by a faint ephemeral melody, seeming to �oat down from the moonless sky.
The stranger sang a theme
From someone else's dream
The leaves began to fall
And no-one spoke at all
But I can't seem to recall
When you came along ingénue
Raziel glanced at his sire, who gave a nod of permission. The �rstborn leapt into the air, spreading his wings and �ying magni�cently, leading Kain to wonder just how long his son had had those wings. Raziel reached the level of the tops of the Pillars and landed on one, peering around into the darkness.
Looking for me, dear Raziel? asked a strangely-accented but velvety female voice. Raziel whirled around and glared in the direction of one of the other Pillars.
Who are you? he demanded. Why have you come here?My name is Nikhelda the Siren, replied the unknown speaker. As for why I'm here— A streak of black and ivory shot down in front of Kain's throne, and he found himself face-to-face with an exotic-looking vampress— I came to see Kain. Why else?
He took a step back. I've not seen a vampire like you before. Tell me, to what clan do you belong?My sisters and I call ourselves the Lorelei Clan, she breathed, gazing up into his eyes with large, luminous, almost cat-like gold eyes. She was almost his height but very slender, possessed only four �ngers on each hand, and had long narrow ears, like some kind of beautiful animal. What little clothing she wore was black and gold, and faintly rippling sable hair trailed on the ground behind her. Ah, Kain, she whispered. At last. I have been longing to meet you for ages.For what purpose? he questioned. Strangers this forthcoming were rarely well-intentioned.
Nikhelda reached out and took hold of his face with soft, cool hands. I wish to be your bride, she murmured, pulling him close for a kiss.
Kain's mind leapt back in shock, but he could not physically pull himself away for what felt like a very long moment. He placed a hand on Nikhelda's shoulder to stay her and gave her a severe look. Why? No-one has ever before wanted such a thing. How do you expect me to believe you?
Her smile faded. you do not think me sincere?I think that I am very powerful, he said, stepping back and turning partially away, and that there are many who might desire such power for themselves.
She took a deep breath, looking hurt. I desire you for who you are, she said quietly. Being the Queen of Nosgoth would be merely a pleasant perquisite. Dumah wondered, and Turel whapped him.
Kain met her gaze for a moment, then shook his head. I know nothing about you. Now, I'm familiar with the idea of arranged marriages, but you can hardly expect me to wed a woman who literally falls from the sky claiming she loves me.
Raziel landed on the marble with a thunk. Besides which, he seems perfectly content being a single parent.
Nikhelda looked around at the lieutenants and inhaled, causing her décolletage to stretch distractingly. Oh, my. Can it be that my Lordfollows the Greek romantic tradition? The lieutenants made various squawking noises and drew back.
I was wondering why we have no sisters Dumah hissed.
Bloody Hell! Rahab snarled, skittering back and keeping his rear well away from Kain. Sodomy is a sin, you know! Even for vampires!STOP IT, YOU BLOODY IDIOTS! Kain roared. You're all men because there were no women in the Sarafan cryp— He cut himself off.
Raziel asked dangerously. You raised usfrom Sarafan? Kain said nothing, and Raziel laughed wickedly. Ah, what glorious irony! Your capacity for blasphemy never fails to amaze me, Kain.
Nikhelda sighed and crept up behind Kain, wrapping her slender arms around his narrow chest. Lord Kain of Sussex, she breathed. I have seen you in my dreams, you know. Do you know your soul-name, Kain? For I do.
Kain attempted to pull away, but Nikhelda's frail appearance belied her vampiric strength. I don't know what you're talking about, he grumbled.
she whispered in his ear. Do you know now? Kain felt a rush within him, as if his pulse were trying to quicken, and wrenched himself away.
It would never work, he mumbled, stalking away and shifting into what he decided would be his battle form from then on. It took all the willpower he could muster to resist the urge to whirl around, snatch Nikhelda off her feet, and engage her straightaway in human-style consummation, uncaring of whether his sons were watching. Instead, he called out, My lieutenants, follow me. We are going hunting.For Sarafan? Raziel asked from behind him, probably with an evil grin.
The wind suddenly became frigid, as if the season had abruptly shifted from late autumn to the heart of winter. Kain, being undead and thus immune to cold, was not discomforted in the least, but knew that something unusual must have happened.
Sire, what— Melchiah began, but Kain shushed him.
I don't know. Take your brothers and scout the area. This may be the work of a sorcerer. Melchiah nodded and shuf�ed off, folding his arms and shivering slightly.
Bwah ha ha! Melchiah the wimp is cold! Turel sneered. Poor little worm-baby! How weak he must feel! The second-eldest whipped off his half-cape and pranced around. Ah, it's like the warm breezes of summer! I love weather like this!Then why are your nipples sticking out like chair legs? Zephon demanded. Turel shrieked and sent his brother a glare.
Only you would notice something like that, faggot. Zephon's face darkened, and he snatched a small round object fromsomewhere and threw it at Turel's head. The projectile exploded on impact, sending Turel �ying backward into Melchiah, who shattered with a cry of pain and the sound of bowling pins.
STOP IT! I will not allow in�ghting among my sons! Kain yelled, glaring around at all of them. Turel, Zephon, collect the pieces of Melchiah.Why do I have to do it? Zephon threw— Why me? Turel called me a—Don't make me—! Kain hissed, reaching for the Soul Reaver. They bit off their complaints and scuttled toward the pieces of their brother, pointedly avoiding each other's eyes. The chill in the air intensi�ed, and curling �ngers of frost began spreading across the marble slab below Kain's feet. In a sudden swirl of �ake-speckled wind, a cascade of violet twinkles coalesced into a pale-skinned woman, her eyes sunken and haggard and her body clad in �owing but sparse purple garments. Kain gasped in shock.
Umah—! How— she whispered hoarsely, stop mekill me And she rushed at him, claws extended and tears pouring down her face. Kain found himself unable to move, speechless and feet frozen, staring in shock at the woman he had once loved but then slain upon her betrayal. Umah drew closer, baring her teeth, and time seemed to slow down He could not
Nikhelda shot between the two other vampires and grappled Umah, knocking her to the ground. I'll not let you touch my soulmate, whore! she snarled. Kain arched an eyebrow, looking at Nikhelda's out�t, which was far more revealing than Umah's. (Apparently she had been reclothed in the time they had been separated.)
Raziel spat. Only a bit presumptuous, isn't she!
Umah let out a wail of agony. Kaaaaaiiiiin! You—you must— I don't want to— She leapt for him, but was yanked back by a growling Nikhelda. You destroyed me once—!
He shook his head, backing away. I—I cannot—bring myself to—You must! Umah screeched and clawed at Nikhelda, who snarled and backhanded the other vampress. She—she will not let me— Nikhelda advanced on Umah, circling her like an enraged beast, and Umah �ipped into the air and landed on her feet. she cried, charging the Lord of Nosgoth again. Kain jumped out of the way and tried to draw the Soul Reaver, but he knew that he could not make himself strike Umah. There was a grunt from Nikhelda, and he landed on his feet just in time to see Umah withdraw her long-clawed hand from the siren's chest and Nikhelda's heart, trailing dark blood, land wetly on the marble below. Nikhelda's face went slack, her eyes widened, and she slowly collapsed onto the base of the Pillars. Kain suddenly felt as though half his soul had been shredded and fell to his knees, strength ebbing. Umah advanced on him, tears like drops of ice falling from her eyes. The blood on her hands had already frozen solid. Don't let me
Kain vaulted over her head and hit the ground running. He didn't know what else to do. Threatened by the vampress he had loved, and slain for her treachery though it broke his heart, while a woman he had known for not �ve minutes yet to whom he was somehow already deeply attached lay dying on the ground behind him. How had this come to pass? ELSABETT! he Whispered, broadcasting as far as he could, but still running. Where, he didn't care. To the Lake of the Dead? Not even that thought fazed him. How could he continue existing, lovelorn as he was?
Umah, crashing through the forest behind him, suddenly cried out. Kain neither paused nor looked behind, but nearly �attened a raven-haired vampress that suddenly dropped down in front of him. One of her hands shot out, snatching at his long half-cape as he went by and saving him from an ignoble fall.
Are you Kain? she asked in an accent similar to Dracula's. You don't look like you did before.
He whirled around, catching his breath. What of—? Umah was hanging in midair, writhing helplessly as if clutched in a giant invisible hand. Kain sighed and slumped against a tree.
Who is this? Elsabett's voice asked from above him. Kain glanced up and saw her standing upside-down, but apparently quite comfortably, on a thick branch over his head. I think I've seen the like before, actually. Was she trying to kill you? he gasped. I don't— I don't understand why—
Umah screamed weakly. Ahhh! Gods, the pain Please, just destroy me I cannot bear this existence—!Who sent you? Elsabett demanded, stepping off the branch, inverting, and landing gracefully on the ground. First of all, why are you wearing earrings like that?
Kain looked at Umah. He hadn't noticed her earrings before. Silvery loops thrust through her lobes suspended shards of crystal—no, not crystal, ice—that glittered coldly, like malevolent winter stars.
They—they are the mark of—my—creator, Umah whispered. She gave us all earrings, toto show that webelong to her. She shuddered. Kain, she's a Hylden!
He started back. Who's a Hylden! Umah made a strangling noise, as if something was preventing her from completing the word.
Elsabett folded her arms and concentrated. she said �nally, and Umah choked back a sob, nodding.
Elsabett directed, taking one of Umah's hands in hers. I will know soon enough. She closed her eyes, occasionally moving her �ngers as if weaving invisible cloth. The Lost she whispered. Dead vampires, reanimated by Maniskara the Wintry to serve her. She is a Hylden vampire, an anathema to her race. Her goal is to enslave all vampires on Earth, making them her puppets Elsabett shook her head. Instrumental to that is slaying the most powerful vampires of Nosgoth, in order to resurrect them as her—her— The Queen of Twilight's eyes snapped open. Ye'el! What a terrible— She let go Umah's hand and whirled to face Kain. She can compulse her servants, forcing them to do her bidding. Robbing them of their free will! How could anyone—! Such distress was etched in her face that Kain realised mentioning Charm, the Dark Gift he had taken from one of his former allies, would be a mistake. One of her servants came to slay me this very morning. I dealt with him. Kain—do you—
Umah groaned and slumped in the cage of air, her efforts growing weaker. she whispered. I came to love you in the time I knew you. Did you
Kain strode over to her and laid a hand on her freezing cheek. I would have made you the Queen of Nosgoth, he said quietly. I cannot bring myself to slay you a second time.
She looked down at him pleadingly, tears frozen on her face. If you truly love me, then you must. She gasped and thrashed suddenly, trying to work a hand free. Manis— Maniskara will not let me— I hate this existence. I don't want to hurt you. Please, Kain—end my suffering
Elsabett watched in silence, obviously upset by the pain visible in Kain's face. Let me—let me try, she whispered, nudging him. He stepped to one side, and Elsabett strode to face Umah, producing a knife from her bodice. Kain turned away, unwilling to watch the only woman he had ever truly loved die again. He heard Elsabett hiss, and Umah make a confused noise.
Take my blood, Elsabett ordered in a soft but �rm voice. Drink it!
The black-haired vampress gasped. Elsabett, what are you doing! she cried. The child—! Kain dared to peek over his shoulder, and saw Elsabett sheath the knife, lick her bleeding wrist, and lay a kiss on Umah's lips. His knees suddenly buckled, and he found himself sprawled on the mist-covered forest �oor. There was a burst of heat that burnt the fog away in a bare instant, Umah cried out, and he heard Raziel yell from the sky.
I've found them! They're down here, he called back to his brethren, furling his wings and diving down between the branches. Sire! Are you injured? Kain huffed, scrambling to his feet and brushing leaves from his leather pants. Elsabett was supporting Umah, who was limp, panting, and—�ushed. Kain sensed that the older vampress had been dramatically changed—but—?
Umah laid a hand on her chest. Is myis my heart beating! she whispered. Was thatwhat he had noticed but been unable to put his �nger on? Yes! Umah was alive, truly alive, no longer a vampire. Kain dropped to his knees beside her and brushed a lock of hair from her face.
he said quietly, how do you feel?
She threw her arms around his neck and leaned on his shoulder. she murmured.
Elsabett stepped back and sighed. Ah, it worked. She's a dhampir now.You turned her into a—? the black-haired vampress sputtered. You can—!Apparently so, Elsabett said with a shrug and approximately �ve-eighths of a smile. Kain helped Umah to her feet and embraced her, just as his remaining lieutenants burst into the tiny clearing, followed by a somewhat confused-looking Dracula and two unfamiliar women.
Hey, you! Get away from him! Dumah snarled, leaping at Umah and attempting to pry her and Kain apart. Raziel grabbed the younger vampire and dragged him back.
Dumah, you fool, he snarled. Are you blind? Come, let's get back to the Pillars. Kain is unhurt and apparently does not need our help. Raziel began to stalk away through the underbrush, still holding Dumah by the hair, probably more forcefully than was really necessary. Elsabett sent Kain a brilliant smile, gestured to her black-haired sister, and followed the other vampires.
Kain and Umah returned to the Pillars, hand in hand, just in time to see the Queen of Twilight help Nikhelda up, the hole in her chest already healed. The clothing covering it, however, was still torn, and Nikhelda was forced to keep one hand against her bosom to prevent exposing herself to all present.
One of the Pillars, which Kain recognised as the Pillar of Time, suddenly began to glow with a pulsating energy. A luminous �gure materialised before it, tapping his way along with a staff. Kain groaned. Oh, Hells, no. Why in Nosgoth is that bastard here!
Moebius looked around, apparently taking in his surroundings despite the fact that his eyes were pale and glazed with cataracts, and his gaze lit on Elsabett. he shouted, pointing at her with his staff, the orb atop which had begun to glow faintly. You foolish child! You dared to alter the timestream! Have you no idea of the damage that could have been caused!
Elsabett glanced around, but nobody else dared speak. What are you talking about, Grandfather?Do not speak to me that way. I am no-one's grandfather! Moebius ranted, advancing on her. He was easily the angriest Kain had ever seen him. The whelp you carry may be destined to change all of Nosgoth, but that does not give you the right to unravel history!
Dracula leapt between Elsabett and the Timestreamer, growling menacingly. If you so much as touch her—Stand aside, Teppis¸, Moebius snapped. I came here to deal with Elsabett, not waste my time on you. Dracula started back, surprised, and Elsabett pushed past him.
Stop speaking in riddles, old man. What was it I did about which you're so angry? she demanded, folding her arms.
He banged his staff on the ground, and the orb �ashed brie�y, triggering an equally brief but still excruciating burst of pain in every vampire present. Have you already forgotten, girl? Very well, I shall refresh your memory.
You prevented Kain from destroying Raziel, an event that would have set off a long chain of others. Raziel was destined to become a wraith, a Reaver of Souls, and kill �rst his vampiric brethren and then travel back in time to the Age of the Sarafan, where he would slay them in their human incarnations, putting them into their tombs where Kain would, centuries later, raise them as his lieutenants. Raziel was supposed to slay himself! By preventing his transformation into a wraith, you prevented his becoming a vampire, and he nearly disappeared from the timestream. Such a paradox would have caused the timestream to unravel, eventually causing all of reality as we know it to collapse in on itself!
Silence �lled the air for the next several moments, during which Raziel received many glares from his brothers. Moebius continued to glare at Elsabett, though his rheumy eyes seemed unfocussed. Elsabett glared back and tossed her hair de�antly. How do you expect me to know such things? she demanded. My prescience abilities are still somewhat limited.If you see a major event that's about to happen, Moebius grumbled, pacing back and forth in front of her, don't try to stop it. Don't even do anything unless you are actually interacted with. Q.E.D.And who are you, to make such demands of me? she inquired coolly.
I am Moebius the Timestreamer, guardian of the Pillar of Time, he responded irritably, then scoffed. To think the mighty Queen Elsabett starts out like this! Unable even to know the name of the person who confronts her.Möbius? Your name is Möbius? she asked, pronouncing it oddly. Moebius sputtered and shook his head angrily.
No, no! Moebius!It's a Teutonic word, Elsabett stated. It's supposed to be pronounced Möbius.I think I know how to pronounce my own name, thank you! Moebius shouted, gripping his staff as if about to swing it at her. Elsabett reached out for the staff, �ngers extended, and the wooden shaft began to smoke. Moebius dropped it with a cry, shaking his burnt hands.
You said that I nearly unravelled the timestream? Elsabett asked, planting one foot on the orb to prevent Moebius retrieving his weapon. Why are we still here, then?It is lucky for you—and for all of us—that I was able to react quickly enough to save a semblance of continuity, Moebius grumbled, blowing on his �ngers. I was able to send another vampire back in time to do Raziel's work, thus saving the timestream from collapse.Well, if you were able to �x what you saw as such a terrible problem, why come to me? the Queen of Twilight snapped. Do you expect me to do something about it?I expect you to not make the same mistake twice! Moebius declared. The destinies woven by the Wheel of Fate nearly slipped out of control. I can't—and won't—let such a thing happen.Do you control time? Elsabett asked.
No-one controls time, Moebius said arrogantly, as if explaining something painfully obvious. Those with the ability can merely manipulate it, learn to tap into its power like a water wheel draws on a river.Oh, good. So you don't think you're Ye'el. I would have had to cause you some disappointment if you had thought that was the case.
Moebius chuckled and bent down to pick up his staff, which was now slightly charred but apparently touchable again. Ye'el, indeed. He is only one of many—many who are one. Do you not know that?
Elsabett shook her head and growled. I've had enough of you, old man! Why don't you leave before I make your head leave your body!
Moebius glared coldly at her, shifting his grip on his staff. No-one threatens me, he said. I come and go as I choose. Remember this, Ingénue—I will be watching you. Do not give me cause to discipline you again. The orb �ickered, and he faded out.