Chapter Thirteen Dawn and Twilight
A sharp rap on the door caught Umipa's attention. She put her whetstone on the �oor, reverently laid her blade on its silk bed, and hopped to her feet to answer the summons. It was, naturally, Maniskara.
Yes, Mistress? she asked. Her tutor looked highly displeased, but the young Hylden knew that the anger did not lie with her, or she would have already ceased to be. What is the matter?I did not want to have to test you so soon, the ancient Hylden rasped, for I do not think that you are as strong yet as you can potentially become. However, it seems I have no other options.
My triple-cursed servants have all disappeared. I charged them with �nding their sister', whom I can no longer sense, and now they have apparently met the same fate—whatever that might be. You and I, Umipa, are going to collect them.
Umipa swelled with pride. I am pleased, Mistress, to be able to serve with such an admirable warrior, she said. I am ready for whatever you may wish of me.See, Vlad? That wasn't so hard, Elsabett cooed, hanging on her husband's arm. All you had to do was go to a museum and buy some paintings and things.It's not that it was hard, he protested, it's that I had to spend money which can't be replaced. I don't have an income, you know! The gold in the north tower is all the money we have!
She gave him a look. For pity's sake, Vlad, you're a nobleman. Why aren't you collecting taxes from the people who live on your land?I don't think anyone lives nearby anymore he muttered. Word got out a few centuries ago that I had become a vampire, and people started deciding to live elsewhere.
Elsabett? echoed Janos' voice into her mind. I need to ask you about a few things. You don't mind my stopping by, do you?
She glanced at her husband and asked. He shrugged. I don't see why not, she Whispered back.
Well, then Moments later, the blue Sephardi dived into the great hall through a window, �anked by Ladmira and Tagerios. Following them was aof other Sephardi, many of them different colours. Janos and his entourage alighted on the �oor near her, and he folded his arms sternly. I was wondering if you could tell me anything about
Elsa clutched at Vlad's arm before her knees could give out. oh my she said weakly. I had no ideaI—I did cast a spell, she admitted. I don't remember exactly what I said—for a moment, it almost seemed like—like someone else's memories took over—but I remember something about Janos' eyes widened.
So you're saying that you used magic to free every Sephardi on Earth that had been magically imprisoned? he asked.
I guess so, she said meekly. Why? Isn't that a good thing?Yes, yes, of course it's good, he told her, turning partially away. I just needed to know, because people were asking questions and I didn't have an answer. He said something in his native tongue to Tagerios, who nodded and passed the explanation along.
Oh! Great Sun, is that what humans have been sculpting? asked a female voice, and the speaker pushed her way to the front. She was yellow-skinned, with �uffy scarlet hair and leaf-green eyes, and Elsabett watched as the golden Sephardi winged over to one of the statues Vlad had purchased earlier. Janos suddenly pointed in the Queen of Twilight's direction, and the Sephardi to whom he was speaking—unfamiliar, dark-skinned, and apparently somewhat youthful—stared at her, impressed. She felt the need to approach and explain herself, and Vlad was left standing alone. He glanced over his shoulder brie�y, double-took, and then whirled around with a high-pitched scream. Michelangelo's David was now about a metre shorter, had large feathery wings, and was wearing some kind of pleated kilt, while the �re-haired Sephardi �uttering next to it was currently touching parts of the statue and causing them to change colour. She spooked, nearly falling from the air, and then sighed guiltily. Oops, I forgot Powers like mine frighten humans, don't they? Sorry about that. Dracula was still unable to speak, but continued to make odd squeaking noises and point a shaky �nger at the modi�ed, and subsequently less priceless, piece of art.
Do—do—do—do you have any idea how much I paid for that thing—? he �nally hissed. The redhead landed on the ground, looked confused for a moment, then comprehension �ickered across her face.
Ah, humans are still using money, are they? she asked.
Vlad sputtered helplessly, and Elsabett turned around and rushed to his side. Look—look—what she—did—! he squeezed out. Elsabett considered it brie�y, then smiled.
I like it, she observed, and returned to her conversation with Janos. Dracula could tolerate the brain-melting shock and indignation no longer and passed out. Elsabett glanced over her shoulder and made a disappointed noise. Ach, Mist. My husband has broken. Janos said after a deep breath, there is something I feel I should mention to you.Yes? Do you wish to speak privately?
He shook his head. No, here is �ne. I don't want to offend you, but I am somewhat unfamiliar with your faith. Does it include the concept of reincarnation? She blinked. I feel I should know what that word means, but I can't quite place it. Something of Roman origin, isn't it?Correct. It comes from the components re-', meaning again', and incarnation', meaning roughly birth'. It is the idea that after a person's death, his or her soul remains in this world and is born into a new body. Some religions, I understand, believe in the concept of an afterlife rather than in reincarnation.
She nodded. Khristos Yehoshua taught that any who accepted him as the Messiah and Son of God would be granted entry into Heaven when they died.
Janos sighed and idly ran a hand over his hair. Then you do not subscribe to the concept of reincarnation?No, I'm afraid not. Why do you ask?
He turned away and paced, his wings occasionally �icking anxiously. I have a strong suspicion about something, but I do not wish to reveal it to you if it would go against your faith. she said. My faith has already been turned upside-down by the events in the last month and a half. I don't think you need to worry about saying something that will upset me. She took a breath. If you need to tell me something, by all means, please do.
Ladmira broke away from her conversation, a concerned look on her face, and moved quickly to Janos' side. She said nothing, just laid her hand on his arm, but he shook his head as if in answer to a question. Giô garletz'dêv, he told her, and turned back to face Elsabett. To be truthful, I began to wonder from the moment I �rst saw you. I was not at all surprised to discover that you have great magical talent, even though such strength is exceedingly rare. And what you told me a moment ago of freeing my people, that it felt to you that another person's memories took over you for an instant, leaves no doubt in my mind.
You, Queen Elsabett, are the reincarnation of Takarul Az-Mavari. She was one of the most powerful mages of Atlantis, and continued to practise her art even after the Island was destroyed. I knew her during her life, thousands of years ago, and you bear such similarity to her that it cannot be coincidence.
Elsabett's eyes widened, and she felt her heart skip. Her mind swirled, as if funneling an eon's worth of revelations, and sudden memories �ashed through her mind like lightning-fast dreams. Atlantis—! It had been a paradise, founded by the three ancient races long before the humans had discovered how to even settle in one place and grow crops, much less wield magic. Atlantis had been a neutral ground for all—humans allowed to settle there had to abandon previous nationality and especially enemies—and a marvel of magical and technological achievement. But why had it—? Az-Mavari's memories supplied the answer to the un�nished question. The Hylden, near the beginning of the centuries-long war between their race and the Sephardi, had been banished from Atlantis, and in retaliation, had devised a powerful spell that destroyed the island and most of its inhabitants. Only a few had survived. Elsabett had another recollection—a child, destined to be a warrior, born from her body but not of her �esh— Why? If Az-Mavari's memories had the answer, Elsabett did not hear it, for the shock of her past lives' knowledge overwhelmed her mind and she soon wound up on the �oor next to her husband.
Alucard strode regally down the crimson carpeting and dropped to one knee before Janos, who was seated on an elaborate throne and wearing an exotic-seeming crown. You summoned me, King Janos?Yes, Karel. He waved a hand dismissively. Stand up. You don't need to bow to me. Elsabett's son obligingly rose to his feet, but remained in a respectful stance. Kain, Raziel. Come here. The two vampires moved silently from their positions on either side of the room to �ank Alucard.
I have summoned you here, Janos said, steepling his �ngers, to reveal your destiny. The fates of you three are inexorably linked. You, Kain, the Guardian of Balance; Raziel, the—
Elsabett's eyes abruptly snapped open. The yellow Sephardi, leaning over her and chewing something, made a noise of acknowledgement and waved a hand. She's awake.
Janos immediately appeared over her and opened his mouth to speak, but was roughly shoved aside by Vlad. My love! Are you well? Is something the matter? He tenderly took her hands in his and pulled her to a sitting position. What happened? she whispered. I—I'm all right now.I am truly sorry, Queen Elsabett! Janos cried, kneeling near her. I should have realised that dumping information on you the way I did would be disastrous. He raised one hand and reached for her shoulder. If you are still feeling any unpleasant effects, I can—
Dracula shot Janos a glare and made a low growling noise. You're the one responsible! If you touch her again, I'll—!No, Vlad, she said, pulling herself slowly to her feet. If Janos requires discipline for something he did to me, I shall mete it out. She whirled around and stared at the gold-skinned Sephardi, who was still eating, and noticed that her arms were full of peaches. Eep, sorry! she squeaked, and dipped her head. How rude of me! I am Dajanita Majchrios, Your Majesty, and I am eternally grateful to you for lifting the curse on my people. She took another bite of the half-eaten peach clutched in one of her hands. Elsabett felt a bewildered expression forming on her face, and Janos quickly stepped in to enlighten her.
The curse of vampirism, as you know, makes those af�icted by it unable to receive sustenance from anything but blood, he explained swiftly. When the Sephardi were cursed, many millennia ago, this forced change drove many of my people mad.In other words, Dajanita said between mouthfuls of fruit, I haven't had peaches for eons. She emitted a squeal of pure delight. Rik'lyad, it's paradise!
Elsabett turned to Janos, about to pose a query, then thought better of it and rephrased her question. Do I want to know what Rik'lyad' means?It is merely the name of our chief deity, he responded.
Chief? I thought he was the only one, Dajanita protested. Janos seemed to agree with her, began correcting himself, then stopped.
—Is he? That's odd He looked around, as if suddenly noting the absence of something long taken for granted. Now that I think about it, II don't think I can sense his presence in my mind anymoreLet me have one of those, Elsabett requested, and grabbed a peach from Dajanita's armful. Dajanita's eyes had taken on a distant expression, and she shook her head abruptly.
I think you're right, she said quietly. could it be that he hassevered all connections with his chosen people
MY CHILDREN, came a deep voice from nowhere that echoed in their minds, I HAVE NOT FORGOTTEN. I SENSE THAT YOUR SOULS CAN ONCE AGAIN BE SPUN INTO THE WHEEL OF FATE
Elsabett clapped her hands over her ears in a futile attempt to shut out the voice, which was somehow eldritch and terrible, something that seemed to snatch her spirit from her body and toss it about like a leaf caught in the winds of a storm. Horri�c images �ashed through her mind, of long sinuous tendrils, arms like that of an octopus' but hundreds of times larger, coldly blinking eyes with pupils shaped like hourglasses—
She screamed, unable to contain her horror. NO! THE—THE ELDER ONES—! Her mind convulsed, seeming unwilling to accept knowledge of something so different from the reality she knew, but a vision suddenly �lled her mind—a memory from her previous life?—of her hands, adorned with arcane tattoos and glistening jewelry, raising up before her a sphere of intense light. The writhing darkness around her drew back, burbling and hissing, and one mighty tentacle took a blind swipe at her. An unearthly cry, born of no humanoid throat, sounded in her ears, and the blackness collapsed in on itself. Elsabett's mind stopped twitching, became stable, and the vision faded. Janos and Vlad each held one of her arms, gently supporting her, and she shook her head to clear it and stood up.
she said quietly, I am afraid I may need to reciprocate your shaking of my faith. He gave her a look, bemused but willing to hear her out, and she went on. You—you must not worship Rik'—Ryaaakh— (Do not say his name! It gives him strength! she heard Az-Mavari hiss) —the—Elder God—Why is that? Dajanita asked.
Janos blinked, and turned away. Hmm. That's very odd. I know he has been our patron for time immemorial, but II cannot remember ever being told why we revere him so.I can, Tagerios said, stepping forth. He is not of this world, but came here many ages ago, and offered our people eternal life if we would surrender our souls to him at death for him to spin out into the cycle of rebirth.
Janos shook his head. But that doesn't make sense. Reincarnation happens naturally, as automatic as water rains from the sky, evaporates, and rains again.
YOU DARE TO QUESTION ME! the terrible voice rumbled. DO NOT FORGET YOUR PLACE, LITTLE JANOS! I CONTROL THE WHEEL OF FATE AND THE FLOW OF TIME!
Elsabett gasped again as another revelation �icked past her eyes. The being had indeed come to Nosgoth from elsewhereand, after making himself comfortable deep within the earth, began to coerce the Sephardi to worship him. Gradually they turned from their other deities—creatures of light and air, Elsabett seemed to recall—and when they tried to convert the Hylden, who at that time had not been their enemies, the Hylden refused, and the Sephardi began a long holy war. This was the war that had led the Hylden to destroy Atlantis, to populate the world with monsters, and �nally the Sephardi to end the con�ict by banishing their former allies to another plane of existence, erecting the Pillars of Nosgoth as the lock that held closed the door.
she hissed, staggering back. Oh, Ye'el, it's—it's not right! Her head spun, and she grabbed at Janos' shoulder to keep from collapsing. You only worship the Elder God because he mind-fucked your people!
THIS GIRL IS FAR TOO IMPUDENT! came the mental roar from deep within Nosgoth. Janos went very pale as the creature's anger buffeted him like a cruel winter storm.
Actually, we prefer the term he whispered hoarsely.
AND YOU, JANOS AUDRON, ONE OF THE MIGHTIEST OF YOUR RACE, HAVE LOWERED YOURSELF TO CONSORTING WITH VAMPIRES?
Lord Elder God, Janos said weakly, Queen Elsabett is not a vampire.
QUEEN ELSABETT? SHE IS NOT YOUR QUEEN! HOW DARE YOU SHOW HER SUCH RESPECT! the Elder God demanded. The dark stones paving the hall �oor suddenly burst upward as a writhing tentacle, as broad as a tree trunk, shot out from nowhere and slammed down. Verona had the misfortune to be nearby at that moment, and was �ung screaming out a window into the morning sun. YOU, GIRL, ARE A MERE HUMAN! DO NOT ANGER ME FURTHER!
Elsabett ignored the monster's reproof and ran for the window, leaping out and falling after her sister. She could have shifted into her winged form, but feared her downward speed if she did so would not be adequate to reach Verona before it was too late. As it was, the older vampress had already caught �re in the harsh rays of the sun, due to her singularly vulnerable quality. Elsa stretched her hand down as far as she could, willing the air below her sister to buoy her up, and the Shadow's fall began to slow. The moment Elsabett's �ngers touched Verona's skirt, she manipulated the �ow of Motion as hard as she could and jinked directly into the hall she had been in only a moment ago. Vlad rushed to them, distraught, as the Ingénue quenched the �ames engulfing her sister with barely a thought and bent over her. Verona's breathing was shallow and ragged, and Elsabett feared that no amount of feeding would restore her eldest sister.
! How bad is she? Dracula panted, falling to his knees next to her.
Gravely wounded, Elsabett replied. I think the only way to save her is to transform her into a dhampir.Then by all means—! Vlad began, but Elsa looked up at him sadly and shook her head.
I transformed Maris¸ka only a few hours ago. For the child's sake, I probably shouldn't sacri�ce so much of my blood again so soon. Vlad grimaced and hung his head. Elsabett felt a hot tear sliding down her cheek, and buried her face in her hands. Ye'el! Is there nothing I can do? Az-Mavarihelp me!' Her heart suddenly seemed to rise in her chest, as if buoyed by hope. Magic �owed around her, stronger streams than she had ever felt, and Verona suddenly thrashed and then relaxed. The burns on her �esh faded away, her ice-blue eyes �uttered open, and colour �lled her face.
she asked quietly. announced a female voice, completely unfamiliar yet brilliant and commanding, from the window. Elsabett jumped to her feet, spun to face the speaker, and took in the sight of a winged woman, like a Sephardi but possessing more catlike features. Her skin was milky white, luminous as the moon, and her eyes were large and green. Eight perfect wings spread from her back, and �owing yet practical robes of a foreign style covered her body. Tagerios gasped, and Elsabett heard him drop to his knees.
DO I SENSE IMMINENT BETRAYAL? the Elder God broadcast. Elsabett shivered uncontrollably, and Vlad, who was apparently unable to hear the voice, attempted to comfort her despite his confusion.
The white cat-Sephardi looked around and chuckled, as if noticing the antics of a boisterous child. Why, Squiddy, you've grown so much, she said. I'm surprised your father hasn't come back to claim you.
CL—? CLAIM? the Elder God roared. THIS WORLD IS OURS! WE DWELT HERE ONCE AND WE WILL AGAIN!
Yes, that's what the Ancients said as well, and look where they are now, she replied nonchalantly. Oh, Elsabett, dear. Are you all right? Let me give you a hand. She strode over before Elsabett could react, and the beautiful creature gracefully helped her up from the �oor. You're feeling tired? Here— She laid a delicate hand on the young dhampir's cheek, and energy suddenly coursed through her— that should help.
Tagerios, his complexion exceedingly pale, crawled over to the two of them and looked up at the cat-Sephardi in awe. When she glanced at him, he jerked his head down in modesty.
Ah! Tagerios Ris¸edron! she said happily, crouching before him. It's all right. What, do you think you're not allowed to look at me? I took a material form, didn't I? He raised his eyes a fraction, and she patted his shoulder affectionately. I remember your mother. She was one of my most devoted priestesses. It's such a terrible shame what happened to her. Elsabett repeated. Excuse me, but— the cat-Sephardi said happily before Elsabett could �nish your question. She bobbed to her feet and dipped her head with a smile. Goddess of the moon, motherhood, and mischief. Elsabett began, as the Sephardi present gasped in awe and drew back.
someone cried.
The Laughing Lioness! It's—it's— Someone near the back of the throng fainted, and the others quickly fell to their knees in reverence. Dracula edged closer to Elsabett and nudged her.
Dare I ask what is going on? he whispered.
You could, but not to me, since I myself am confused, and that should tell you something, she replied quietly.
MY CHILDREN, the Elder God broadcast, and Elsabett almost thought she detected a hint of desperation, DO NOT LET THIS—THIS CREATURE CORRUPT YOUR MINDS! I AM YOUR TRUE PATRON, THE ONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED YOU THESE PAST MILLENNIA—WHERE WERE YOUR OLD DEITIES WHEN THE HYLDEN CURSED YOU? OR WHEN THE HUMAN CRUSADERS NEARLY WIPED OUT YOUR RACE? There was a brief pause, then: THEY ARE FALSE GODS! ONLY I AM THE TRUE DEITYI AM THE HUB OF THE WHEEL OF FATE
Andhahim rolled her eyes. If memory serves, this is the creature who led countless Sephardi to kill themselves when he realised that the Hylden's curse had made them immortal.
Elsabett turned to her. Wait, that doesn't make sense. If they were immortal, how could they—Immortal only in the sense that they do not die of old age. Rikky claims that he spins souls into the great Wheel of Fate and controls the whole death-and-rebirth thing, but that's not true, as it happens naturally. Rik'lyad is actually the offspring of an ancient and powerful alien being, one who once tried to settle on this world with hordes of his spawn, but we drove them off. They are horrendous, evil, parasitic creatures. She raised her voice and glanced around the hall. Actually, Squiddy, don't you think it's rather ironic that you hate vampires so and yet you yourself are an even greater parasite?
I—I—AM NOT A PARASITE! the Elder God bellowed. I USE THE SOULS FREELY GIVEN TO ME TO FUEL THE ENDLESS CYCLE OF BIRTH, DEATH, AND REBIRTH!
Freely given Andhahim snorted and spread her hands. I hardly call coercing my sister's children to worship you free'. And the things that happened in the wars between them and the Hylden! So un-Sephardi-like. The Hylden deities are none too pleased, you know, and it's all we Czavjanir can do to keep them from destroying you. You wouldn't want that, now would you?
IF YOU DESPISE ME SO MUCH, Rik'lyad growled, IT SEEMS ODD THAT YOU WOULD NOT WISH FOR MY DEMISE.
Oh, I do! Andhahim said, steepling her �ngers. It's merely that the Tselavrakshi aren't destined to destroy you—that's Az-Mavari's task.
Elsabett spooked. Oh, you shouldn't have a problem, Andhahim told her with a sly wink. You took on another of Cthulhu's spawn back before Atlantis fell, and Rik'lyad is far weaker than that dark scumball was.
Elsa turned away, rubbing her temples. I'm sorry, but this is a lot of information to take in, and frankly, it's starting to make my head hurt.Oh, that's all right, Andhahim said understandingly, patting her shoulder. In your place, my head would probably hurt too. Don't worry about things, though. You've got a glorious destiny ahead of you, but if you keep fretting about it, you'll trip over tomorrow. Elsabett chuckled. There you go, with that pretty smile of yours. Now, I've got to go speak with some other people, but if you need me, just call, okay?What does mean? Odd-sounding word' Elsabett thought, but nodded. Ah, before you go—II want to—
Andhahim paused in herding the confused Sephardi toward a window. Go �nd Ghanja-Tel and talk with him, she suggested. He'll be able to help point you in the right direction. Elsabett repeated, watching the goddess (was she really a divine being? It didn't seem possible) usher her children' out into the sky and �y away after them. Oh, oh—! Ghanja-Tel—I know who that is, that's—
Anna poked her head out the door, saw nothing, and took a step out, still craning her neck to peer up onto the roof. Dr. van Helsing, she called impatiently, how long do you intend to stay up there?Oh, he's in one of his moods, the friar Carl muttered, shuf�ing past. Nothing to be done. You'd best just leave him alone until he feels like coming out of it.Leave him alone—? she sputtered, glaring at him. He's been sitting on the roof for nearly two hours! Aren't you at all concerned about him?
Carl rubbed his hands together, seemingly trying to decide between shrugging and nodding. I—well, I— He sighed. You don't know him like I do. He's a very solitary person, Dr. van Helsing is. From what we know, he has a very troubled past, buthe doesn't seem to remember any of it. Well, almost any of it.Apparently that included forgetting his name as well, the princess put in.
His—his name? You mean it's not—His �rst name, Carl! The man forgot his own �rst name! Anna explained.
It was a curse, called a voice from high above. I lost my memory because of a curse.Van—van Helsing? Are you all right up there? Carl asked, pushing past Anna as politely as he could.
The monster-hunter landed in front of them abruptly, startling his monastic friend, who jumped back. The Sarafan, he said simply. I worked with them for a few months around AD 400. When I mentioned my origin, they said I was no better than the vampires they were hunting and slapped a curse on me.Your—your origin? Carl asked, self-consciously brushing nonexistent dust from his habit.
I was engineered, van Helsing stated. A super-soldier. The Atlanteans—human, Sídhe, and Sephardi—bred me as a counterpart to the monsters the Hylden were setting against them. Anna repeated. Shi? Sephardi? What are you talking about?Fairies and vampires, he elucidated. The �rst vampires. Not evil. No, not evil in the least. Now the Hylden, with their constructs and demons—they were evil. He slammed one �st into his palm, an uncharacteristic show of anger. The Sephardi weren't vampires then, though. The Hylden cursed them. The Sephardi had the sense to end the wars between them by banishing the Hylden to another dimension, but the Hylden wouldn't accept that, no. They had to put a curse on the Sephardi, one even worse than the one the Sarafan gave me! I saw the man who had raised me go insane and kill himself!Uhh, um, maybe you should come inside, Carl suggested, putting a friendly hand on his companion's shoulder. I brought some nice tea with us from Rome—�ne stash-quality stuff straight from India—it'll calm you down right quick. I mean, you've got to be feeling a bit frazzled, with that unfortunate happening earlier—What do you mean, unfortunate? van Helsing demanded.
Well, you failed to kill Dracula, didn't you? Carl asked.
He grunted. I didn't fail. I chose not to. Now, before you start— because Carl had raised one hand and opened his mouth to protest— I know that that's why his Eminence sent us here, but I know what my senses told me back in that castle, and Dracula is not evil. I don't expect you to believe it. I still don't quite believe it myself. But I'm not going to kill him. Besides which, he's married to— He cut off suddenly, realising what he was about to say, and shook his head.
Carl probed. You mean his brides? What about them? The monster-hunter said nothing. Ohh, van Helsing, come on! You can con�de in me. Besides, we're going to have to tell the Order something. They'll be none too pleased when they �nd out you—She's my mother! he hissed, and stalked away. Are you satis�ed now! He whipped his hat off his head, raked �ngers through his hair, and angrily replaced the headpiece.
Mother Anna whispered. No, I—I can't deal with this anymore. Dr. van Helsing, if the villagers hear you saying such things, they'll— said a Teutonic-accented female voice, and the golden-haired dhampir suddenly appeared near van Helsing. We need to talk.
He nodded wordlessly and sighed, a resigned quarter-smile on his face. Doffing his hat, he turned to the young woman and regarded her. She was nearly a head and a half shorter than he, but there was nothing belittling in the way he looked down at her. So how long ago did you �gure it out? he asked, and in response to her quizzical look, continued with You didn't seem to recognise me in the castle, but now you remember who I am. Did you get your memories dumped on you as unceremoniously as I did?
She chuckled. I suppose you could describe it that way. Janos didn't mean for me to react the way I did, but it was still a lot of—
He put his hands on her shoulders, stopping her. Janos? You mean Janos Audron is alive!
Elsabett saw the fervour in his eyes and nodded. Yes! He's doing quite well, actually. Ah, you remember him now, yes? That's right, he was one of the ones who helped to— She blinked and drew back. Well, that's an odd and therefore delicate subject. But at any rate—Oh, thank Danaan! he breathed. When that Sarafan bastard cut out his heart Elsabett demurred, that's—that's been remedied. No, he's �ne, here in Nosgoth and quite content, as he's been reunited with his lover. But back to the matter at—His lover? Was she one of the ones who disappeared?I don't— Elsabett paused and stared up at him. Wait, what do you mean
He gave her an odd look, then comprehended. Oh, right. You probably wouldn't remember—I thought many of the Sephardi killed themselves because they thought their false deity had renounced them.Yes, that's right, many did. Others were trapped—caught in spells and locked away in some extraplanar space by an unknown warlock. I always wondered if it had been a Hylden who somehow managed to escape the Binding.
She nodded. I suppose those would be the ones I released today. he repeated.
she explained. But never mind. Go on.Er, I hate to interrupt— Carl broke in hesitantly, looking slightly guilty, but I—I don't exactly think this is—
Elsabett sighed. You still think I'm a vampire? she huffed. What will it take to prove to you? Then she snapped her �ngers. I've got it. She disappeared suddenly, and in the several seconds she was gone, several questioning-bordering-on-accusing looks were sent at Dr. van Helsing. Abruptly, she reappeared, and held out one clasped hand in Carl's direction. Do you see what I have? she asked.
He took a step forward, and his eyes widened. It's—it's a rosary, he exclaimed.
That's right, she said, �ngering the red and blue beads and the silver cruci�x dangling from one end. As you can see, I am not bursting into unholy �re at its touch. Carl protested, and she began praying.
Blessed Father, who dwells in Heaven, most holy be your name. May your will be done. May your kingdom come, and your holy judgment be passed on all the Earth as in Heaven. Feed to us our daily bread and forgive our sins, as we forgive the ones who have sinned against us. Let us never stray into evil. Yours is the glory, forever and ever. She spread her hands and regarded him coolly. No lightning, no brimstone.
Anna sighed and looked conscience-bitten. Actually, Carl, she said quietly, even if she is a bride of Dracula, she seems toto have a kind heart, of all things. She—she saved Velkan.What do you mean, she saved Velkan? he asked.
Removed the curse of lycanthropy, she told him. And asked no payment. I had feared she'd want my soul, or blood, or �rstborn child, but no.I try to be a nice person, Elsabett put in. Except to the Sarafan. Growling, she clenched her hands into �sts, and her eyes �ashed green. Sanctimonious bastards.Hey, now— Carl protested, taking a step forward, the Sarafan aren't bad people, even if they've gotten a little arrogant from being powerful for so—My father, Elsabett said in measured tones, and Carl trailed off, was a Sarafan knight. He always worked hard, and sometimes we wouldn't see him for weeks. All he wanted was for us to be happy. He never shirked his duty, never did any less than what was expected of him, all his fellows loved him— her eyes ignited again— and his commander killed him. Slew him, in cold blood, because of a stupid prophecy!A prophecy? What—what prophecy? Carl asked, rubbing his hands together nervously.
From what I heard, she said, glaring at him, he was said to be fated to sire a powerful vampire. What I've come to think is that perhaps the prophecy was true to some extent, and referred to me. However, I am a dhampir, not a vampire. Besides which, if it did refer to me, they have failed, because they should have killed him before my parents wed.Aren't the Sarafan associated with the Church? Anna asked, turning to Carl.
He shook his head. No, no. They've always been separate, even before all the fuss with Luther back in the sixteenth century.
Van Helsing let out a grunt that may have been intended as a laugh. I remember that.
Carl sent an exasperated look at him, but went on. The Sarafan were founded almost two thousand years ago, around the time of the birth of the Khristos, by Malek, who was one of the sorcerers bound since ancient times to guard the Pillars of Nosgoth.Ah, so you do know some things besides how to concoct explosive goo, van Helsing chuckled. Carl shot him a reproachful glare.
The Circle of Nine—that is, the Pillar Guardians—had become concerned with the number of vampires in Nosgoth, and so Malek—who was the guardian of the Pillar of Con�ict—founded the Sarafan, an order of warrior-priests dedicated to wiping out the vampire scourge. Elsabett hissed, whirling to face him, that—that's not right! It was vampires who created the Pillars! To fend off Carl's stare of disbelief and horror, she continued, The Sephardi—the �rst vampires—banished their ancient enemy into another realm and created the Pillars as the focus to keep them bound. Without vampires to guard the She trailed off, horri�ed, as a memory suddenly �oated unbidden to the surface of her mind. In the vision of Kain she had had interrogating a Sarafan—the human had spat his de�ance by mentioning the Pillars' purpose— It must be only a matter of time before the evil force returns to destroy our world!Ye'el, the Hylden! she shrieked, staggering back. Oh, Ye'el, they could return—! Van Helsing grabbed at her shoulder to steady her, and she shook her head in disbelief. But it It was only a misunderstanding the Sephardi didn't—didn't mean to—Didn't mean to—! the monster-hunter barked. What, banish the Hylden? Of course they meant to banish them! Can't you remember the atrocities the Hylden committed in their long wars with the Sephardi? If not, Az-Mavari, I can refresh your—No, Ghanja-Tel, she said �rmly, and he immediately fell silent. Clearly you misunderstand as well. The whole con�ict between the Sephardi and the Hylden began because the Hylden refused to acknowledge the deity of the Sephardi. A deity who, it turns out, is unworthy of reverence and who coerced the Sephardi to worship him. It's because of his complaints about spinning souls in the Wheel of Fate' that so many Sephardi lost their minds when they became immortal. He's the cause of this! It's that creature, the—the Elder God, who is the real enemy! Van Helsing still seemed unconvinced, so she barged onward. Its name is Rik'lyad, Ghanja-Tel, and it's a spawn of Cthulhu. Doesn't that name mean anything to you? His face went slack, his eyes opening wide in fearful cognisance.
Laibotri kalt-assanar kani Lriiz, van Helsing muttered, furrowing his eyebrows. He was about to say something else, but Elsabett cut him off by letting out an indignant noise and slapping him.
Where did you learn language like that! she snapped. You know better than to say such things!Of course, he said offhandedly, and Anna could tell he didn't really care. Cthulhu, you say? You realise that you've defeated spawn of his before, aren't you?Is she really— Carl began, and van Helsing waved a hand in his direction.
I said I was genetically engineered, he explained, and Carl blinked in confusion but then nodded. I �gured you'd be able to understand terms like that. She isn't my biological mother, or even the reincarnation of her, since I have none as such. But she chose to bear me so that I would be steeped in magic.And then she raised you?Her, and about a dozen other mages. Why is this important right now, Carl? Haven't you picked up from the conversation that an ancient creature so dark that the word evil' doesn't even begin to describe it is of a far-higher priority than destroying a vampire who, apparently, is about as dastardly as your grandmother?He certainly talks a lot more than he used to, Anna remarked quietly. Carl blew past her comment, instead �xating on what van Helsing had said.
What do you know about my grandmother! he demanded defensively. She was a sweet old lady!THAT'S MY WHOLE POINT! the monster-hunter bellowed. Lady Elsabett, is it possible we could take this discussion elsewhere? I appreciate my companions' concern, of course— he glanced at Carl and then Anna, and his gaze seemed to linger a moment longer on her— but I'd prefer to not have to de�ect questions while trying to carry on a conversation.
Elsabett gave him a nod. She held out her arm. Hold on. I'll jink us somewhere. Carl repeated. Now that's a word I haven't heard in a— The rest of his statement was lost as Elsabett and van Helsing vanished from the little house in Carpathia and appeared in a vault-ceilinged hall, the alabaster-tiled �oor tinged with varied hues from stained-glass windows set into the marble walls. Van Helsing looked around and made a surprised noise.
This is the Sarafan stronghold, he said quietly. What are we doing here? They'll kill you on— Elsabett muttered, don't—don't worry about me. A guard striding down an intersecting hallway glanced in their direction, did not recognise them, and drew his sword.
Halt, intruders! he ordered in Bohemian-accented Teutonic, taking up a �ghting stance. Identify yourselves!
Elsabett smiled wickedly. My name is Elsabett, bride of Dracula, she said sweetly, and as the Sarafan's eyes and mouth widened in shock, she sent forth a ball of �ame that engulfed the soldier's body and quickly left a smoking corpse on the �oor. Too bad about the mess, she murmured, almost genuinely apologetic for the indelible burn-marks now coating the tiles. Glancing over her shoulder, she made a �icking gesture with one hand at van Helsing, somewhat self-conscious about her inhuman thirst even after more than a month in its grip. Van Helsing made a noise of acknowledgement and turned away as she drained the dead Sarafan of blood, but not thirty seconds later, a cry of horror sounded from the other end of the hall as a second soldier noticed her choice of beverage and van Helsing's apparent indifference.
Who are— What in the name of—! Elsabett heard the baring of steel. You—you—daring to let—! The newly-arrived knight was apparently so chokingly furious that he could sputter no more than a few words at a time. Vampire scum! DIE! He launched himself into a charge just as she �nished drinking, and she spun around just in time to see Dr. van Helsing stick a boot out in front of the mail-clad warrior, whose momentum was suf�cient to send him �ying for a good metre and a half before he landed heavily on the �oor, chipping the tiles and letting out a pained grunt. Elsabett strode over to him, wondering if he had injured himself, and crouched next to him.
Are you all right? she asked, and he looked up at her with an astonished noise. She smiled, letting her fangs show. Good. Healthy blood tastes better. And, without further ado, she crisped him. As she bent over the body to sink her teeth into the neck, a husky, familiar female voice interrupted her with an indignant sound.
I wanted that one, Ladmira protested, pushing past a very confused van Helsing and stopping just beyond the dead Sarafan, crossing her arms sternly. Elsabett huffed, but was willing to acquiesce.
I just had one anyway, she said with a shrug, pushing the body toward the red Sephardi. There are plenty here for both of us.
Ladmira smiled slightly as she dropped to one knee and drained the corpse. True enough, she remarked.
So how is Janos holding up? Elsabett inquired, dumping the �rst body atop the second one and incinerating them. Van Helsing scratched the back of his neck nervously, having dif�culty reconciling the dichotomy of this vampiric woman and the kind-hearted sorceress who had nurtured him. He seemed none-too-pleased that so many of his kin were turning to him for leadership.
Ladmira chuckled and spread her hands. He's modest.
Elsabett nodded. Well, I've always thought that's a better quality than being arrogant. She sighed and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. He will be King, you know. I've had visions.
The Sephardi woman nodded. I know he will. I think he does too.
Dr. van Helsing approached, clearing his throat politely. Pardon me if I can't remember your name immediately, he said, extending a hand to Ladmira, but I'm sure we've met.
Ladmira's eyes widened a hair. she said simply. Been a long time. She stared down at the proferred hand, unsure what to do, and Elsabett gestured that she was intended to shake it.
Ladmira Tankoji, she reminded van Helsing, and he inhaled and nodded.
Yes, of course! I remember now. Janos Audron's betrothed, yes? Ladmira smiled proudly and shook her head.
she said, and folded her hands over her belly. And helping to repopulate. He took only a moment to read the body language and gasped in surprise.
But—how is that possible? I thought—It seems I destroyed the curse on the Sephardi, Elsabett put in, or part of it, at any rate.Oh, yes, I forgot, Ladmira said, rubbing her hands together. Thank you! And she threw her arms around the Ingénue's neck with such vigour that the younger woman was borne back, almost losing her balance.
called a Sarafan from several halls away. What were you yelling about? Van Helsing glanced about, one eyebrow twitching as he reached into his coat for his bizarre spinny-blade-thing-weapon.
I think Carl would be rather upset to see what I'm about to do, he muttered, but I'm beginning to recall just how the sacred warrior-priests' reacted to �nding out that I was raised by vampires. He squeezed a switch, and the curved blades whirled. Actually, if memory serves, they were intending something rather worse than destroying my memory. As the armour-clad, and thus inescapably loud, knight came stalking down the hallway to check on his brother, Dr. van Helsing whirled around and tossed the pointy gadget at the corner of the two passageways. Impeccably timed, it intersected with the Sarafan's head just as it came into view. Ladmira raised an eyebrow.
she said.
Van Helsing chuckled. Still as outspoken as ever, eh, Ladmira?Of course.
The monster-hunter bowed his head graciously to Elsabett, extending one hand toward the splattered Sarafan. he offered. Elsabett grinned.
How polite you've become, Gabriel, she said teasingly. Weren't you trying to kill me only a few days ago?That was before I remembered what the nadra was going on, he explained. Elsabett squeaked and shot him a vicious glare.
What have I told you about using that language? she demanded, stalking past him and straight into Dracula. Wait, what the hell? When did he get here!
he sputtered, grabbing her before she could lose her balance. Honestly, I've never met a woman as peripatetic as you! Gallivanting all over Nosgoth like you own the place!Well, I am on good terms with Kain, she replied without missing a beat. So you could almost say I do own—That—you know that's not what I mean! the Impaler protested. To speak truth, I just don't trust you with him. He sent an evil look at van Helsing, who was taken aback in shock.
I'm appalled you would suggest I would do anything untoward to the woman who gave birth to me, the super-soldier cried. Dracula made a choking sound, turning an odd colour that would suggest apoplexy in someone with a functioning circulatory system. Elsabett grabbed his shoulder and shook him.
Vlad, Vlad! Are you all right? Snap out of it! Dracula pointed past her with a shaky �nger, emitting weak whimpering sounds.
He—he didn't just say—what I thought he— He pointed at Elsabett, then back at van Helsing. You—you lie! My bride Elsabett was a virgin before I— He cut off mid-sentence. You—you weren't satis�ed with killing me and then Maris¸ka, were you, Gabriel! You had to come back and kick me while I'm down! Ladmira snickered. His name is Ghanja-Tel!I didn't say she was my mother, Dr. van Helsing elucidated. Just that she gave birth to me. Dracula spread his hands and shook his head, still horror-struck.
It's complicated, dear, Elsabett said quickly, edging around her husband. Now, if you don't mind, I'm going to drink that Sarafan your arch-nemesis was kind enough to kill for me. Vlad glanced at his onetime murderer, even more confused. Van Helsing shrugged and grinned.
Kind of turns your whole world upside-down, doesn't it, Dracula? he asked. Oh, and I suppose I should apologise for killing you. I didn't really have a choice, you see. I hadn't regained my memories yet.
Elsabett rose from draining the Sarafan and poked her husband, who had frozen.
He shook his head as if to clear it and smoothed back his hair. I need a stiff drink, he muttered. I think I'll go to a pub somewhere and drain an alcoholic.