Chapter Twelve Refugees
Dr. van Helsing paused in the doorway, raising a hand. he hissed. Something's not right.Oh, aside from the unholy creepiness of this entire castle? Anna whispered, still mildly displeased that the gaje had foisted his companionship onto her. I thought the cold and dark and dampness were wrong enough, but then, my family has only been at this quest for four hundred years. What do you think, expert?
He glanced at her, faint exasperation visible on his face. I think something powerful is here, he muttered.
What could be here? I already told you, this castle was abandoned a year ago. Do you think we'll see Dr. Frankenstein's ghost, or something!Keep your voice down! he hissed. What if I told you I think Dracula is here?
She stalked over to him and matched his hard stare. I'd tell you to prove it.
He stepped back and regarded her. The geas on your family has been lifted, you know, he said quietly. Why are you still so intent on killing Dracula?For one thing, I don't believe that the—what did you call it? Oh, it doesn't matter—is gone. And even if it has, I have many reasons to want to destroy Dracula. He is indescribably evil, the source of pain and suffering all over Nosgoth, and I hate him beyond words. Besides which, I want to cure Velkan, and Dracula may be my only hope, as much as I loathe to admit it!I'm quite sure the geas is gone, van Helsing maintained. I've been around sorcerers before when they're using magic, and I felt a de�nite sensation of something shifting. That woman, Elsabett, cast a spell on you, or dispelled something that was there. Don't—don't you feel anything different?
She sighed and spun around. Ever since Ever since I was old enough to speak, I remember being told that it was my duty to slay Dracula. I remember a feeling like—like chains of light but unbreakable iron were wrapped around my soul, and a tiny voice was always just beyond my consciousness, telling me to do what my ancestor could not.
I don't feel that anymore. I feelfree. But I don't like it. I don't trust it, and I think that that woman put some kind of curse on me to prevent me killing her wretched maker!No, that's not it. If she had wanted to �at-out keep you from killing Dracula, she would have planted some kind of compulsion in your mind that would prevent you from taking any steps that might lead to so much as confronting him. I've seen subjugation curses like that before, and you're not under one.How do you expect me to believe you? she demanded. Are you a wizard, well-versed in the arts of magic? Or do you consider yourself an expert only because you've watched the men you hunt conjure illusions?Look, Princess, he growled, turning away and sneaking through the arch, I really do want to help you, but you're not making it easy.You tried to kill my brother! she hissed.
I told you, he's not your brother anymore! A sudden �ash from an adjacent hall was followed by a peal of thunder that seemed to shake the walls. Van Helsing whirled around, hefting his crossbow. Lightning? Inside! Curse it all, that was magic! He shot a glare over his shoulder, then motioned for Anna to follow him. Another bolt of lightning lit the gloomy hall for a �eeting moment, and suddenly moist popping sounds were heard from the other room, accompanied by inhuman shrieks and squeals of delight.
Uh, they're adorable, I guess, came a vaguely-familiar Teutonic-accented female voice from the other hall. But Idon't see much family resemblance.What? You don't think Magda looks just like me? gushed another voice, this one with a Carpathian accent. Come on, Elsa! She's got my eyes! called a sultry female voice, how do you know what your eyes look like? You don't have a re�ection in the mirror!Of course I do! Why shouldn't— Er— Why are you looking at me like that?
Van Helsing nodded to Anna and �attened himself against one wall. She slunk into the shadows facing him, and they crept stealthily into the other room, which now was �lled with the sound of tiny leathery wings. Anna silently drew her pistol as van Helsing readied his crossbow, and they burst into the room simultaneously, letting �y their projectiles. Fluttering, twisted shapes shrieked in pain as bursts of greenish blood sprayed from their wounds, and some of the beasts dropped from the air, causing the adult vampires present to let out unearthly wails of anguish. A white-�eshed, long-winged shape swooped at van Helsing's head, and he felt his hat snatched away and wet warmth begin to trickle down his neck. Still unable to see well through the swarming little bat-creatures, he aimed his gatling-crossbow overhead and loosed several bolts.
Those won't hurt a vampire! Anna cried, frantically reloading her �rearm.
Of course they will! he bellowed, wiping blood out his eyes. They're �lled with holy water! One of the vampresses, stooping at him for another slash, intercepted a projectile and let out a horrendous screech and plummeted. roared a horri�ed male voice. Among the swarming bats, which abruptly began to thin, van Helsing glimpsed a growing dark shape, long and sinuous, like a serpent made of �ame and shadow. Awinged serpent. With legs.
Poreskoro's tail! What the hell is Anna hissed, her gun falling from suddenly-limp �ngers. The pygmy-bats collected on a balcony on the other end of the hall, where a gigantic reptilian creature glared down at the two humans, eyes glowing like blue embers and smoke leaking from its nostrils. A gold-haired woman suddenly appeared behind them, snatched Maris¸ka's body, and reappeared on the balcony, where she engaged in what looked like some kind of bizarre, unholy ritual. The dragon lifted one foot over the edge of the balcony and �owed down to the ground, as smoothly as a slithering snake. Anna fumbled for her gun, unable to take her eyes away from the beast.
it rumbled in a deep and distorted yet somehow familiar voice, HOW WOULD YOU LIKE IT IF I WERE TO MURDER YOUR BABIES?Ga—Gabriel? Who's he talking— Anna began, then glanced at her dumbstruck companion. Your name is Gabriel? Why didn't you—Because I he whispered hoarsely, numbly watching the dragon advance on them.
You forgot your own name! the Gypsy princess hissed. the dragon bellowed, causing the two humans to skitter back involuntarily. HOW DARE YOU COME HERE! WITH THE AUDACITY TO KILL MY CHILDREN AND MY BRIDE! He swung his head low, �xing one blazing twilight-coloured eye on van Helsing, who, despite his long training and normally-unshakable demeanor, found himself breaking out in a cold sweat. ARE YOU NOT SATISFIED WITH HAVING ALREADY KILLED ME ONCE?what is he talking about Anna whispered. Van Helsing shook his head.
DON'T PRETEND YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT I MEAN! The dragon snorted a choking burst of smoke. MIGHTY VAN HELSING, TRAINED BY MONKS AND HOLY MEN FROM AROUND THE WORLD. THE LEFT HAND OF GOD. SUCH A HORRIBLE BURDEN IT MUST BE! The beast reared back, eyes igniting anew.
Left Handof God van Helsing muttered. Light of Atlantishe's right Memories rushed back into his mind, like a melt-freshened stream rushing over its banks to �ood villages in the valley below it, and the world around him suddenly seemed to lose focus. He was only vaguely aware of his legs folding beneath him, suddenly as limp as if never used, and his face hitting the cold stone of the �oor. Anna cried out in shock, but her words seemed muf�ed and incomprehensible.
the monster-hunter whispered. Giants and demons—slender creatures with glowing green eyes and angels that drank blood—fairies and alien rituals in tiny closed spaces beneath a �at white sky—hubris of the Pharaohs—a gleaming white city sinking into the sea—the images �ashed faster and faster—his head felt as if it were splitting open—
came a clarion female voice, as golden as the sun, and the oppressive mists of time forgotten suddenly lifted from around van Helsing. What did you do to him? The hunter raised his head slowly, the speed of his thoughts returning to normal, and looked past the enormous black dragon to see the Sorceress Meritamen, formerly known as Takarul Az-Mavari, one of the most powerful mages of Atlantis as well as the woman who had given birth to him. No, wait. It was only that gold-haired dhampir that had come to town seeking turnips. Why had—? Ahh, it didn't matter.
The dragon took a step back and looked down at the scarlet-clad woman staring up at him from the �oor. I DID NOTHING, it explained. NOTHING INTENTIONAL, THAT IS. —WHY DO YOU GLARE AT ME SO? HOW WAS I TO KNOW THAT REMINDING DR. VAN HELSING OF HIS IDENTITY WOULD CAUSE HIM TO PASS OUT? One of the little bat-things perched on the dragon's shoulder and squawked as if in agreement.
Elsabett huffed and spun around, stalking toward the humans in the chamber. As for you two, she said sternly, why did you come here? Didn't I tell you not to do so after I lifted that curse on the Princess?It wasn't a curse! Anna hissed. And even if you did, I still consider it my sacred duty to destroy Dracula and all his kind! She cocked her gun and aimed it at the dhampir's heart. Perhaps I'll start with you.
The blonde dhampir drew back, an expression of utter horror and disgust on her face, and suddenly gestured in Anna's direction. Kormiras qimtrea! she snapped, and the silver �rearm collapsed into pieces and fell to the �oor. The Gypsy princess danced back, brushing gunpowder from her dark trousers, and glared at Elsabett.
Well, then, if you'd prefer I use my sword she growled, placing a hand on the hilt.
Stop! Just stop! Elsabett demanded. I know you think you're doing Ye'el's work, but I don't think that's the case. Vampires and dhampir aren't evil, certainly nowhere near as terrible as your kind make us out to be. If you would just take the chance to gather proper information instead of assuming we're monstrosities simply because we're different—He's evil, you're evil, you're all evil! Anna cried. It's a well-known fact that Dracula was killed because of his vileness and cruelty, and that he made a deal with the Devil to continue to walk the earth! van Helsing began, but was cut off by the dragon.
IS THAT WHAT THEY say about me? the great creature asked, smoothly shrinking to human size and revealing himself to be the Count. The baby vampire on his shoulder made a noise and �uttered off. I never made a deal with the Devil. Come now, I'm not that foolish! I want to keep my soul, thank you.
Anna blinked, confused. —I don't believe you. You're lying. He shook his head.
I was going to say, van Helsing put in, that the one with the gold hair is not evil. She never was. Oddly enough, I can't feel evil from any of the actual vampires either.
The princess shot a glare at him. What are you on about!
He brushed hair from his face and bent down to retrieve his hat. Hunting evil is my job. It's what I do. I have the ability to sense it, and I can tell from here that the young lady is not evil. He shook himself, and stared at Dracula. In fact, as far as I can tell, Count Dracula is not evil. But that can't— He slowly approached the ancient vampire, trying to appear nonthreatening, and stopped in his tracks, eyes wide. He's not. He's not evil! I don't understand this! How—
Dracula folded his arms and regarded the vampire-hunter calmly. I'm not sure where you got the idea that mycondition is the result of a pact with the Devil, but it is most certainly not true. I was transformed by a creature who called himself Tagerios, claiming to be a—an Ancient something. I don't quite remember what he said his race was—Seraphi, or something?—but I'm sure he was not the Devil, since he was gray and had six feathered wings, as opposed to being red and with a forked tail.
Elsabett turned to him slowly, shocked. Ah, Sephardi! Yes, that's it. He said he was a Sephardi. He glanced at his youngest wife, bemused. she whispered. I think I remember hearing you say that. I knowI've heard the name before. Where did She stiffened suddenly and threw her hands into the air, as if reaching for something high overhead.
The air above her swirled, forming into a vortex shot through with black and pale gray, and the loud cry of a male voice �lled the chamber. The ground and palace shook, as if the earth itself was stirring in response to her spell, and a human-shaped �gure—but winged—abruptly appeared above Elsabett. He dropped to the �oor, panting, and collapsed onto his hands and knees.
he moaned. Giô maslan'dêvAh! You see? Dracula said triumphantly. That's Tagerios. As you can clearly see, he is not the Devil, or even a minor demon. He's Elsabett �nished. Turning to the humans, she continued, Just so you know, the Sephardi, the Sídhe, and the Hylden are three races that have existed on Earth even before the humans.What are you talking about? Anna spat. The Bible clearly states that— A low growl interrupted her, and a gray-furred shape suddenly shot into the chamber with a roar. She spun to face it, automatically reaching for her pistol (which wasn't there), and barely managing to sidestep the monster as it swung at her with one sharp-clawed paw.
Hey, that's one of the werewolves! What's it doing— Dracula began. Anna started to draw her sword, then looked up at the beast and stopped, obviously in anguish. The werewolf, however, had no compunctions, and only a bolt from van Helsing's crossbow in its shoulder kept the creature from shredding the Gypsy princess.
That's the other thing about werewolves, Elsabett muttered. They're far too aggressive! Azdantrèm! There was a �ash of pale orange light, and suddenly a half-naked human man appeared in the werewolf's place, obviously confused.
Ah #¶Ω! What's this? he snarled, pulling the bolt from his �esh. —Anna— Oh, Ye'el, are you all right? I didn't hurt you, did I!I'm �ne, Velkan she sighed, relieved. But what about you? He looked down at his body, which was smeared with dirt and blood, with a few cuts and bruises, but obviously human. I'm not cursed anymore. I'm sure of it. Anna whispered, hugging him. She stepped back and gave Elsabett a look that contained equal amounts of confusion and distrust. But why did you do that?
Elsabett shrugged. Shouldn't I have? He was about to kill you. Besides, you seem happy to have him back.He's my brother, the Gypsy princess explained, slowly approaching the Queen of Twilight. He was cursed over a month ago. Of course I'm happy to have him back. I only wonder what it is you expect in return, because I might be willing to pay it.Return? I want nothing in return! Only to be left in peace with my family. Is that so much to ask for?You should do what she says, Aleera put in. She's a very powerful sorceress, and she might turn you into a toad if you don't.I would do no such thing! Elsabett huffed. For one thing, I don't know how, and for another, what would that gain me aside from more enemies? And I'm not that powerful. Just because I can break curses— Dracula said quietly, the only other magic-user I know capable of removing lycanthropy is the Moonwitch.Well, maybe you don't know very—
Tagerios slowly rose to his feet and took in his surroundings. how long have I been asleep? His gaze lit on the Count, and a smile graced his serious features. Ah, Vladislaus, my son! How goes unlife? Dracula replied, and gestured at the batlike baby vampires still occasionally �uttering about the hall. You're a grandfather now.
Tagerios glanced up, and his face became unreadable. How nice, he murmured.
They're not old enough to feed on their own, Verona explained as she landed on the �oor next to him. I'd better take them to the town and harvest some villagers.No, no! Elsabett cried, turning to her eldest sister. Shadow-jump with them to the Sarafan Keep. Don't kill innocent humans. We're trying to clean up our image, remember?
Verona chuckled. Well, if you insist. You are the sorceress-queen. She reached into the air, called out, and a swirling �ock of spawn collected around her. The gloom in the hall intensi�ed for a moment, then they were gone.
Maris¸ka leapt from the balcony at the other end of the room and glided to the �oor, eyes fastened on van Helsing. That son of a bitch! she hissed, extending her claws. He killed me! I'll tear him to pieces! She quickened her pace into a charge, and a reddish glow near her outstretched hand suddenly solidi�ed into a long curved sword—one of Issei's katana. Red motes of light gathered around her, like �lings to a magnet, and she launched herself into an impressive leaponly to be frozen, midair, by one of Elsabett's spells.
Now, now, meine Schwester, there's no need to lose control. They're just leaving. Aren't they? She sent a signi�cant glare at the humans, and they began nodding in agreement.
Um, of course. Yes. Lovely to see you all again. Let's, eh, do this again sometime, eh what? van Helsing stammered, lifting his hat and dashing from the chamber. Anna and Velkan followed, still mildly confused but far more interested in remaining intact.
Kain glanced up just as a dark cloud, crackling like thunder and shot through with �ecks of gold and white, formed in the air among the Pillars. Janos noticed it as well, and started back in surprise.
That's a powerful spell! What's going— A winged �gure became visible in the murk, which abruptly dissipated, revealing a winged creature not unlike Janos, but with deep brown skin. Janos cried.
The other Sephardi fell to the ground and lay there, breathing heavily. He slowly rolled onto his back and reached one three-�ngered hand heavenward. Ahh, kôa idiran he rasped.
Janos rushed over to the newcomer and dropped to his knees. Dessed garletz anaj khe? Ladmira approached them, silent but clearly ready for anything.
The dark Sephardi made a noise and pushed himself up. Janos Audron—! he cried. Rik'lyad, najtz giô jotero adêv! Ladmira burst out laughing, and Janos shook his head with a smile.
Father? What's going on? Avital whispered, creeping toward the throne. Can you understand what they're saying?I haven't a clue, the Lord of Nosgoth replied. Which I �nd rather annoying.
Janos and Ladmira carefully helped the newcomer to his feet. He looked around in surprise, then turned his attention to Kain. So the Pillars are in human lands now?
Kain blinked. Er, no. I'm a vampire, not a human. He rose from his chair and tossed his half-cape regally. If I may ask, who are you?
The dark Sephardi spread his red-brown wings and dipped his head. Kovarno Draskani, he said quietly. His hair, the same tint as his wings, hung loose around his shoulders and fell to his waist, while his eyes were a very piercing blue, the colour of the sky in the middle of summer. The style of clothing on his body was foreign and unfamiliar, but reminded Kain of Africa for some reason.
My, my! A Sable Sephardi! Nikhelda breathed, rising from her throne and coming forward to stand next to her husband. I've not seen one of his clan since before my transformation. My �rst one, that is. You know, Kain, the Sephardi used to be as populous as the race of Men are today. But after the end of the Formorian Wars, the Sephardi began disappearing. We're not sure why.Formorian Wars? Avital asked.
Yes, as in wars with Formorians. Oh, come now, you're from Danamark, the same as the goddess of my people. Don't you know of the Formorians? Avital shook her head, now even more confused.
There is a horse-drawn carriage approaching, came Turel's voice in Kain's head. I don't sense humans in it. Ah, shit, it's cold. What the
Cold! Kain sent back. What d'you mean? It's not— Then a �ash of realisation hit him, and he glanced at his other wife. he called, would Maniskara come looking for you if you didn't return?
Umah gasped and shrank back. Gods, no—! Don't let her— She suddenly leapt up and dashed to Kain's side, clinging to his arm and quivering in fear. I—I can't— Kain wrapped his arms around her and smoothed her hair back.
he whispered. I won't let her touch you. He raised his voice and called to his lieutenants. Take up defensive formation. Don't let the enemy near the Pillars.We have a defensive formation? Dumah called back. Raziel whapped him, pointing to one side and growling an order.
Meryem rolled her eyes. You said they've become better soldiers since their memories of being Sarafan returned, she muttered. They must have been absolutely abysmal before.
Kain pointed. Go take your position, Meryem. Being the youngest lieutenant doesn't excuse you from duty.I'm twenty-eight, Kain. I'm not the youngest she protested as she stalked off. Avital giggled.
Have I mentioned how grateful I am that you raised a sister for me? she said cheerily, dashing off and beginning to conjure a headwind.
What's going on? Kovarno asked, clearly very confused.
I would assume this area is about to be attacked, Janos said. Kain must have received a Whisper from one of his scouts.
Ladmira grinned wickedly. Good. I'm hungry.What's wrong with that woman? Rahab growled, snatching his polearm from the rack. She's always hungry!You'd be too if you had three babies growing in you, she retorted.
Wh—what! Did she just say— Kovarno sputtered.
Hush! I'll explain later, Janos directed, taking to the air. The sound of horses galloping at top speed preceded the arrival of the anticipated vehicle. As soon as it hove into view, Dumah let out a mighty war-cry and jumped forth, brandishing his sword. He apparently miscalculated his charge, however, and what should have been an intimidating jump off the marble dais supporting the Pillars turned into a head-over-heels �ip that ended with him sprawled on the frosty grass, the blade of his sword sticking out cleanly from his back. Kain smacked his forehead.
The driver of the carriage yanked on the reins, pulling the lather-covered horses to a stop. The door on the side �ew open and a hairless head poked out to survey the surroundings. Ah, we've arrived, he announced. Kain instantly recognised both the newcomer's appearance and voice, and instinctively drew the Soul Reaver. You, human, you can go now. The driver shook himself, apparently taking in his environs for the �rst time, and began screaming in an incomprehensible language that Kain almost thought he understood, but not quite. Marcus, the telepathic vampire slain centuries ago by the Lord of Nosgoth, stepped down with a growl from the carriage and snatched the driver off his seat, quickly draining him of blood and dropping him to the ice-covered grass. Three other vampires exited the vehicle, all former allies-turned-enemies of Kain, and looked around.
Well, how do you like that? Faustus mused, as effeminate as ever if a little paler and more tormented-looking. Kain's built himself a little clan. Isn't that just precious?And made allies, Astrid called from atop a Pillar. In case you hadn't noticed, bitch-tits, his little clan' outnumber you just by themselves. So I suggest you back down now before we go medieval on your asses.Go medieval'? What the fuck is that supposed to mean? Sebastian muttered, glaring up at the blue-winged vampress.
Medieval, you know, the Middle Ages? Between the fall of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance? She dropped to the ground and stalked back and forth menacingly. What are you, brainless �edglings?We're here to see Kain, woman, Marcus called. Don't get in our way.We're all going to get in your way, Raziel snarled, stepping forward. Marcus made a noise and �icked at him, as if obsessive-compulsively shooing away something nasty.
What are you doing here, human scum? Kain couldn't have fallen so far as to accept the living into his army. Raziel made a dangerous-sounding noise, like an angry cat cornered by a dog, and Astrid �ew forth and landed between them.
What's your problem, you ugly fucking turd! Do you WANT us to destroy you?Actually, yes, Marcus explained. Well, to be speci�c, we want Kain to do it. Then he can raise us again and release us from our— he suddenly collapsed with a wail— UNHOLY TORMENT! OH, GODS, THE PAIN—!
Umah caught her breath, shocked, and drew closer to Kain. Oh, MithraI've been in that position She shuddered. The pain, the coldit's horrible
Kain looked down at her. Maniskara raised those traitors as well? she whispered. She must have sent them after me.Hey, look! There's Umah! Our job is done, Magnus cried. Please kill me.
Umah clutched at her husband and nodded. Blood of the Ancients, Kain, do it. Not even they deserve such torment.
He growled. I don't know. All of them save Magnus betrayed me while still serving under my command, then later came after me in the employ of the Sarafan.What of Magnus?I had initially thought he, too, was a traitor, but I was proved wrong. I might actually consider showing him mercy.
Umah looked up at him, tears in her eyes. But you'd let the others suffer as much as I did? Kain thought brie�y on their reunion, remembering the pain he had felt at seeing Umah's agony, and for the �rst time in life or death felt the stirring of pity in his heart. she whispered, if you slay them and then raise them anew, they'll be your minions and not Maniskara's.Why would I want them as minions? he grumbled, gently pulling loose from her and striding down the steps before his throne. So you bastards—except you, Magnus—have come crawling to me, begging for my help. What do you have to offer in exchange? He glanced at the chain-wrapped vampire and added, Except for Magnus. I'll be nice to him, since he didn't backstab me.
Faustus whistled. Mercury's wand, he has changed! I told you it was a viable plan.I said nothing about the rest of you, Kain corrected. I don't care what you ugly buggers do. Magnus is the only one worthy of my mercy.We could kill them anyway, Ladmira offered with a shrug.
You may go ahead once I'm �nished with them, he stated. Now, what is the real reason you have come here? Seeking Umah, perhaps? Marcus squeezed out. But really, we don't care, and what you do with her is your business. We just hate Manis—Mas—kaaaaah—We'll do anything, Sebastian put in. I'll be honest with you, Kain. I never liked your arrogant manner and I still don't, but I'd be willing to serve you forever if you'd just help me. For the love of God, can't you show pity, just once? Please, I'm begging you— he dropped to his knees— Sebastian the Rager, former ruler of most of the vampires of Frankland—why else could I possibly be this desperate!Your voice has changed, Kain remarked. It's lost that peculiar rasping quality it used to have.
Sebastian nodded numbly. Yes. Apparently Maniskk— the Ice Witch didn't like the way I sounded. She tore my throat out and then regenerated it. And if you think that's unpleasant He glanced at Magnus, who idly reached up and �dgeted with the ice shards dangling from his cheek-chain.
It's not that bad, really, he said quietly. As long as I don't pull too hard.
Kain sighed in frustration. Bring Magnus here, he ordered, and Raziel obeyed swiftly. I'll deal with him. The rest of them—do whatever you wish. His lieutenants swarmed the other three vampires as Kain drew the Soul Reaver and ran Magnus through the heart, and Umah collapsed against his shoulder, warm tears leaking from her eyes.
Thank you for doing that, she said softly. Death is horrible, but even it is a release from the control of Maniskara.
He sighed and bent over the nearly-frozen body, which continued to radiate cold but at a much-reduced rate. I will do whatever it takes to keep you happy, he stated quietly, opening a vein in his wrist and using his blood to re-animate his former lieutenant. Magnus convulsed and gasped, clawing at the ground, and then relaxed.
Thank you, Kain, he said hoarsely. I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused you. He pulled himself to a sitting position and, with a grimace, tore the ice-earrings from his lobes and the silver chain from his eyesocket. Dark vampire-blood, still rather lethargic from the residual cold, oozed from his wounds for a moment, and Umah knelt next to him and dabbed at his face with the edge of her cloak. Ah, Umah, you don't have to Then he did a double-take. You're—you're alive!Quite right, she said with a radiant smile. An ally of Kain's transformed me into a half-vampire. It's rather pleasant, actually; I had forgotten how it feels to have blood actually �owing in one's veins. As an added bonus, I'm going to bear a child who apparently is destined to become the next Timestreamer. Magnus said. His companions were thoroughly dead by this point, though Astrid continued to beat Marcus savagely with Dumah's body, which still had his sword stuck through it.
You insult my lover, you insult me! That's what you get, bitttch! she snarled between swings. Dumah moaned and �ailed occasionally.
Say, Kain, Magnus began, slowly rising to his feet, would you mind terribly if I raised the other three stooges and made them my minions?
Kain gestured dismissively. Go ahead. As he staggered off, Janos landed on the marble next to the Lord of Nosgoth.
I took a look around the area, he reported. I didn't see any other enemies.It's later, Kovarno muttered. Will you talk to me now, General Audron?
Kain started back and then stared at the blue Sephardi at his side.
Janos sighed and spread his hands. Well, yes. It was a long time ago. Kovarno cried. Every Sephardi alive knows of you! You soundly defeated the Hylden at the Battle of the Two Rivers, the Vindonir Marches, and the Valley of Black Ice, singlehandedly slew the wizard that sunk Atlantis, and you were the head of the coven that banished the nirrajds to the Otherworld!
Janos blinked. Yes, I was rather busy then, wasn't IThat's my Janos for you, Ladmira said softly. He enjoys kicking ass.Oh, that's my lifemate Ladmira, Janos explained quickly, forestalling Kovarno's obvious question. The sepia-skinned vampire's eyebrows rose, and he glanced back and forth between the two other Sephardi. I know, I know. Inter-clan bonding isn't exactly a common practise, but there aren't many Elders around to chastise me for it, are there?
Ladmira slunk gracefully to his side and latched herself onto him. Besides, we're going to have lovely purple children, she said.
Yes, about that— Kovarno began, confused. I thought the kalmê curse the itznaj-fadalir-kalmê Hylden put on us made us sterile—It's been lifted, Ladmira explained. Partly, anyway. By a human. I sensed it as soon as it happened.Are you certain of that?
She gave him a cool look. You think a woman can't tell when she's in estrus?
Janos nodded. Yes, that explains a lot. I was wondering why you were so eager that night, but didn't give it much thoughtYes, we're all breeding. Isn't it just wonderful? Nikhelda huffed. Kain glanced at her.
Is something wrong, my love? She tossed her hair back and shook her head sullenly.
Sire, do you think we should do something about Dumah? Avital asked hesitantly, approaching the throne and occasionally glancing at her vampiric brother, who was still run through and occasionally losing his balance due to the metre-long piece of steel sticking from his back.
Kain sighed. Yes, probably.Ah, excellent! Meryem hissed, and dashed toward the transpierced lieutenant. She wrenched the sword from his middle, swung it around, and planted it in his head.
Oh Gods! What the— Dumah shrieked, staggering back. Meryem hit the pommel of the blade as if striking a bell, and Dumah abruptly began dancing a furious jig while wailing a camel-herding song at the top of his lungs.
what I meant, Kain sighed irritably.
But it's amusing, Ladmira remarked.
A silvery slash suddenly appeared in the air near Kain's throne, swirling into a portal out of which stepped the frosty-haired young woman who, Kain remembered, had driven off Moebius when he and Umah were— That's my daughter?' he wondered. Grown, of course, obviously time-streamed here from the future. Corpus bones, she looks just like mebut with Umah's eyes'
Hello, Father, she said formally, and turned around to help another individual—violet-skinned, with velvet-coloured wings—through the portal, which collapsed into a mote of light. May I see the Soul Reaver? The other, clearly a Sephardi, looked around with only mild surprise and waved to Janos and Ladmira.
Hey, Mom. Hey, Dad. —Whoa, his hair'sblack. How far back did you take us, Adonathiel?Only twenty years or so, she said offhandedly, accepting the Soul Reaver from a very bemused Lord of Nosgoth. She whirled around and held it in the Sephardi's face, shaking it for emphasis. See, Jarad? I told you it always looked like this! He backed away, raising his hands and letting out a nervous chuckle.
Okay, okay, I believe you. You don't have to put my eye out or anything. As she turned to Kain and returned the Soul Reaver, Jarad took another glance at Janos and laughed guiltily. Damn, he almost doesn't look the same without all those gray hairs.
Janos gave him a look. Gee, thanks.ah, sorry. You probably got most of them from me anyway.
Ladmira squeezed Janos and smiled proudly. You are a lovely child, she said. I can't wait to meet you. The purple Sephardi laughed.
Umm. Yeahof course. Just keep that in mind for the next few yearsWell, now that I've proven my point to you— Adonathiel began, but Jarad stopped her.
No, no, nonononono, Addy. Why leave so soon? I'd like to explore this time period. He gave her a brilliant grin, the kind of grin that would make most members of the female persuasion swoon, but Adonathiel merely stared at him with hooded eyes.
What'd you do this time? she asked. I'm not going to use my abilities to protect you from your parents.That's the thing, he whispered. It's not— The mote of light suddenly burst open as a dark purple hand, armed with black-lacquered �ngernails, punched through and began clawing randomly at the air.
DAMMIT, JARAD! THIS TIME I'M GONNA KICK YOUR ASS SO HARD YOU'RE GONNA ENTER ORBIT! The portal stretched enough to admit the head of the speaker, who looked similar enough to Jarad that he was obviously a brother, but with violet hair instead of nearly-black. GYAAARR! ADONATHIEL, OPEN THIS THING RIGHT NOW!Oh, we were just about to come back, she said breezily, grabbing Jarad by the shoulder and pushing him toward the portal. He moaned and �ailed, but was unable to pull away. Adonathiel moved her hand in a smooth circular motion, and the swirling light increased in diameter. She tossed the now-screaming Jarad through �rst, waved to her still-confused parents, and stepped through. The portal winked out.
Aw, this is great! came Magnus' voice from the edge of the clearing. If only I'd've known, I would've gotten myself some minions sooner!I hate you, Sebastian growled. Dumah continued to sing, but had given up his jig for wandering around in random circles and spinning like a ballerina with dementia. He spun close to Faustus, and Marcus cried out and tackled him.
You should stay away from that one, Marcus directed. He's, ah, peculiar, if you know what I mean.
Faustus made a rude gesture and shouted something that sounded like obscene Roman. You think that just because I'm a homo, I'd try to molest anything of the male persuasion! I do have standards, you know!Hey, Zephon, sounds like a good match for you, Rahab murmured. Zephon backhanded him with a growl.
Don't assume that, just because we have the same romantic preference, we'll be a perfect pair! he barked. By that reasoning, you should be compatible with nearly every woman in Nosgoth, and Ye'el knows THAT'S not true! He took another look at Faustus and sniffed arrogantly. Besides, I don't much care for his hairstyle.What? What's wrong with my hair? Faustus demanded, tossing his ponytail. At least I have some!I keep mine short so it doesn't get in my way, Zephon huffed. Rahab rolled his eyes.
Too bad you can't trim your arse as well. Ye'el, how does THAT thing not get in your way!
Zephon drew back in hurt anger, pulling his half-cape across his rear. Bloody stars, my arse is not that big! What's wrong with you people? Faustus took a brief running start and leapt over their heads, landing neatly on the marble in front of Kain.
Magnus is your minion now, correct? he asked, only a touch of bitterness and resentment in his voice. Kain nodded. Then I suppose I am too, by extension? The displeasure was very audible now. Kain gritted his teeth and managed to squeeze out an af�rmation. Faustus forced his face into a smile. So when do I get a pair of those swanky leather pants? I've always looked good in tight clothing. He twitched his hips for emphasis.
OH for the love of—rutabagas—! Kain sputtered. HELL, NO! GET THEE GONE!And these are the people with which you hang out now? Kovarno asked quietly.
Hang out'? What the hell is hang out' supposed to mean? Faustus grumbled. Kovarno ignored him, dropping to one knee in front of Janos and saluting him by placing one �st over his heart.
I would just like to say now that whatever endeavour you wish to undertake next, I will follow you all the way, he swore.
Janos was silent for a few moments. �attered. But really, I don't thinkGeneral Audron—! Kovarno beseeched, getting back to his feet. Our people have been pushed aside long enough! I am certain that more of us are scattered across the Earth, waiting to be reunited under a leader. A powerful and well-known leader—someone charismatic—who can help us regain our world now that the Hylden do not stand in our way!
Janos stared at the eager sable Sephardi in shock. serious? You thinkI should �nd our scattered brethren andand set myself up asking over them?
Kovarno spread his hands. I doubt there are many who would object to following you.
Ladmira nudged her lifemate and gave him a half-smile. she asked. What are you waiting for, General Audron?
Janos shook his head. I don't know about this. I'm not sure it's a good idea. Believe me, I would like as much as anyone to see our people able to live happy and normal lives again, but I—I'm a general, not a king.Oh, that's right— Ladmira said, and poked Janos again. Ask about the spell.Spell—? Oh, spell! Janos cleared his throat. As you know, I have some skill in the area of magic, and I noticed just before you dropped from the sky—rather literally—that a very powerful spell had been invoked. Would you happen to know anything about that?
Kovarno looked at him askance. I'm a spear-dancer. You're a witch of the Ninth Circle. Wouldn't you know more about that sort of thing than I would?A witch? Kain repeated. Dumah paused in his pseudo-Bacchanalian gyrations long enough to point and laugh.
Ha ha! Janos is a witch! Girly-man, girly-man! The Sephardi in question reached upward and took a deep breath.
Auretz ni dachün! he intoned, and the pale gray clouds in the sky suddenly darkened and discharged a blindingly-brilliant bolt of lightning directly onto the sword in Dumah's head. The noise he emitted was not pleasant.
Hey, Kain, Turel Whispered, there are winged people approaching from a few different directions. Should I try to shoot them down or something?
Shoot them down? How— Kain began, then shook his head. Never mind; I probably don't want to know. What do you mean, winged people? Like Janos?
No, not like Janos. I can't make out facial features from here, but I can tell they're different colours.
Kain sighed and rubbed his temples. Are they human-shaped with the exception of feathered wings?
Well, yes. But not like Janos—he's blue. Kain's eye twitched.
Ladmira looked up, then nudged her lifemate. People coming, she said.
Oh? Sephardi, you mean? How many? he asked. Kovarno scanned the sky, confused. An impressive-looking winged male, but with skin the colour of �int, suddenly swooped down and landed before Kain's throne, his features frozen in shock.
Rik'lyad, kôa Anathê'yakh! he shouted. Just how much time has passed? How could the Pillars have fallen so far into ruin? Where are the Guardians! Kain began.
This is disastrous! the gray-skinned Sephardi continued. How are we supposed to keep the Hylden banished now! Kain and Janos said in unison.
Aahh, fadakosa'gnir! he wailed, covering his face with his hands. Another Sephardi, but of the female persuasion and possessing skin the colour of burnished gold (as well as wild scarlet hair resembling nothing so much as a cascading bon�re), landed near him and furled her wings, looking around in shock.
How long has it been she whispered, kneeling and placing one hand on the marble at her feet. She stared intently at the ground for a moment, not moving, then her eyes widened. Great Sun! Almost three thousand and four hundred years
Janos started forward. Dajanita? Dajanita Majchrios? (author's note: it's pronounced ) The golden Sephardi looked up, and her features lightened somewhat.
General Audron! You're still alive in this God-forsaken age?No thanks to the Sarafan, he grumbled, �ying to her and clasping his right hand with hers. Kain glanced at Ladmira, but she appeared totally unfazed at the fact that her lifemate was making physical contact with another woman. The gray-skinned Sephardi rose to his feet and lowered his head respectfully.
Greetings, General, he said quietly. I hope this day �nds you well. Better than the Pillars have fared, at any rate.About that, Janos said, stepping to the side and doing the same hand-claspy thing (Ah, it must be their equivalent of a handshake,' Kain thought), yes, the Pillars are the focus of the spell that keeps the Hylden banished, but they cannot return to this world simply because the Pillars are crumbling. It would require the opening of a gate, either on this side or in the Otherworld.Didn't they try that once before, and I thwarted it? Kain mused. You remember that, don't you, Janos? I dropped the Nexus Stone into the gateway to destroy it. Janos nodded.
Nexus Stone Umah whimpered guiltily. Kain engulfed her and kissed her on the cheek.
Hush, my love. I have long since forgiven you for that.Aren't you a Pillar Guardian? asked a quiet voice from behind the throne. Kain whirled around, looking for the speaker.
Who said that! he demanded. Ladmira glanced about, then laughed.
Hello, Midnaraj. cried the mysterious voice, and leapt out of hiding to gleefully embrace Ladmira. Kain had only a moment to observe the latest newcomer's jade-coloured skin, black wings, and baggy white clothing before more Sephardi, of a mind-boggling array of colours, began converging on the Pillars. All save a few appeared to recognise Janos immediately, and bombarded him with questions. Kain shook his head, dumbfounded.
Where on Earth did I get the idea that all Sephardi were blue? he muttered. And why are so many coming here?If I may venture a guess, Raziel said quietly, I would assume that the Pillars are the one location in Nosgoth known to all the members of the race. You may recall Janos saying that it was the Sephardi who erected them.I suppose that makes sense, Kain agreed. But why now? Why not ever before? A red Sephardi dashed past, clearly just into his teenage years, laughing exuberantly.
We're free, we're free! he gushed. Kain quirked an eyebrow and glanced at his eldest son.
Perhaps they were all imprisoned somewhere and just now freed, he said with a shrug.
My people! Please, calm down! came Janos' voice, magically ampli�ed, over the chatter of dozens of voices. I cannot answer all your questions at once. I myself do not understand what has happened. However, I do know of another who may have an answer