A/N: Hey everyone how's it going? Just a quick note to say thanks for all the kind words, I'm quite happy with how this fic is going so far, and I hope that all of you are to. If any of you have read Amelia's Journey and the Rise and Fall of Kraven some of these scenes may be a little familiar to you, but I figure I should be as consistent as possible with regards to the timeline. I also want to say a merry Christmas to everyone who has read and reviewed my story. I especially want to say thank you to Melissa/ London Vixen who has reviewed pretty much every chapter of every story I have ever Written, I wish you all the best my dear and look forward to reading all more of your story. You continue to inspire me Vixen, XXX your humble servant, THE CARDINAL SIN
Book I: The Three Dynasties
Chapter X
A Deal With the Devil
"Toward the end of his ruthless life, when the next breath meant more to Viktor than silver or gold, Markus came to him with an offer, a reprieve from sickness and death… Immortality." Andreas Tannis, Official Coven Historian (In Exile 2002).
Hungarian Territory: Western Kingdom 548 AD.
Two years, it has been two years since Markus had transformed into this creature of the night, two years since his father and his armies had abandoned him. He had fought a relentless one man campaign against the creatures that inhabited what were his families lands. In the first year of the infestation the night had been the beast's greatest weapon, now it was their curse… for now Markus could hunt them, and hunt them he did, one by one. The more he became accustomed to his new abilities, the more he came to love them. Although his senses were always more acute, he was now aware of everything, he could see, hear, feel, smell and taste his prey from great distances… and the strength, the speed and agility, that alone was worth the sacrifice of the daylight. But there was another ability that had proved most useful in his quest to rid what should be his lands of this plague, he could navigate walls and trees, like a spider, clinging upside down with his hands, his feet to, but only when bare foot. He used this new found ability to scurry to the tops of the highest trees in the forest, to leap from bow to bow surveying his prey from above. The beasts, though agile, tended to stick to the ground, and when one wandered away from its pack, it would be easy pickings for him. He spotted a lone beast circling the remains of a deer, he allowed his eyes to glow their vampiric blue as he drew his sword and silently descended the tall tree, as he landed he swiped at the creatures back, the mighty beast howled in agony as blood spilled onto his matted black fur, the snarling wolf turned and began swiping at Markus with his razor sharp claws, Markus easily dodged the frenzied attacks, the creature was acting on pure instinct, nothing more Markus grew tired of their little dance, he thrust forward with his sword, piercing the heart of the creature, then with one spinning motion he severed the head of the mighty beast, sending it slumping to the ground. He dragged the carcass of the creature out of the trees onto a path, so that the human hunters that stalked these woods during the day could purify the remains with fire. He took a moment to compose himself, before letting out a deep sigh, this had been an easy kill, but they were not all easy, and with no allies this was becoming a lonely existence.
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Northern Hungarian Territory, Ördögház: 548 AD
A young man walks through the passageways of his Masters castle; his master was near death, leaving his daughter as his only heir. The young man, now acts as a high ranking member of his masters court, however that is only because so many of his predecessors had been slain, by an unknown enemy, an army of beasts were rampaging across his Masters lands, as if Hell itself had unleashed them. Taking a deep breath the young man approaches his Master's door, a man in armor stands aside and allows him to enter.
"My Lord" he spoke humbly, his head bowed. He looked at his master, lying almost motionless on his bed, being tended to by a beautiful young girl, who was mopping his brow.
"Who's there?" the Old Man choked "What do you want?"
"It is your loyal minister My Lord" he said in servitude
"My Minister?" he coughed "Castor? Castor is that you my friend?"
"No father" the young girl tending to him spoke gently "It is Kraven, Castor's replacement."
"Kraven?" the Old Man questioned in a confused tone
"Do you not remember me My Lord?" he asked
"Of course I do!" he barked "Now what do you want... Kraven?"
"There has been another attack My Lord." He began; his head still bowed "Antother one of the villages in our boarders has been massacred sire."
"Bah" the Old Man spat "These beasts have no honor!"
"Be calm father" the young girl urged
"I can not be calm! Why are my Generals allowing such trespasses into my Dominion? I want them exterminated! I do not care if you have to send every soldier I have!"
"Our ranks are depleted My Lord" reported Kraven "We only have your personal body guard left."
"Then summon Arthur!" the Old Man demanded "My ally to the South will provide us with men, together we will conquer this enemy just like Old times" the old men began to laugh "This will be a glorious battle."
Kraven and the young girl exchanged an uneasy glance with each other, "But Lord Viktor, Arthur is dead."
Viktor hesitated, "My lifetime ally is dead" he swallowed hard and allowed a single tear to roll down his cheek "Sonja when did this happen?
"Three years ago My Lord." She said sympathetically "Do you not remember?"
"Three years?" he questioned "That can not be"
"His daughter now rules the lands to the South" Sonja told him as she stroked his hair
"Amelia?" Viktor said in disbelief, "Amelia rules?"
"Yes my Lord." Kraven nodded "And her Army is suffering the same as ours."
"This is a grave shame" said Viktor shaking his head "My army defeated, my Generals perplexed and my people suffering, what I would not give for ten more years, just so I can see this enemy defeated."
"You have done your best for us father" Sonja whispered, trying to offer her father some comfort.
Viktor managed to lift a frail arm and take his daughter by the hand "No my daughter" he croaked "I am a broken down old Warlord, without my ability to defend my people I am nothing. Is there no one that can help?"
"There may be one person My Lord?" Kraven spoke cautiously
"No" Sonja chastised him.
"Who" demanded Viktor.
"It is of no concern Father" Sonja reassured him "Your Generals are not taking him seriously."
"Who!" spat Viktor?
"Markus Corvinus My Lord." Said Kraven
"Corvinus?" Viktor repeated "They have not been in power for a lifetime."
"He claims to have intimate knowledge of the beast My Lord, but he will only speak with you."
Viktor wearily closed his eyes "Summon him" he commanded
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Hungarian Territory: Western Kingdom 548 AD.
Markus Corvinus stalked through the night, just as he did every other night, his lonely hunt, his seemingly never ending quest put him into battle after battle, yet he was no closer to finding his brother. He stopped to rest if only for a moment, however he heard something, his eyes widened the heavy thud of approaching animals, were the beasts after him, they had rushed him before, he drew his sword and awaited his fate. He listened to the thud, before laughing silently to himself, it was not the sound of the creatures charging, but rather the sound of horses, galloping horses, carrying armoured men. "Why?" Markus said out loud, the humans do not venture this far into the woods, not at night, not anymore. Before too long two columns of horsemen, all heavily armed, their riders wearing well constructed chain mail, and thick leather body armour, they all wore helmets with a black crest of feathers, and one of the riders carried a banner, bearing the standard of the Teleki clan.
"Well, what do we have here?" Markus exclaimed as the riders came to a shrieking halt. "Look at you all, all dressed up like Romans… very fetching. Tell me, have you come to make war on me as well as my brother?"
The lead rider brought his horse closer to Markus before removing his helmet, "Lord Viktor desires an audience with you."
"Kraven." Markus half sneered "I knew Viktor would take me up on my offer, however I was rather hoping it would not take him two years to do so."
"Well now he is willing to discuss your proposition, you are to return with us to Ördögház."
Markus considered Kraven's offer, taking a moment to work out how long he had been out, there was no way he could get all the way to Ördögház before sun rise "We will stop by my fortress first." Markus nodded.
"Why?" Kraven demanded.
"I can not possibly meet Lord Viktor wearing this tattered blood stained armour… I must change, besides, I would prefer to travel at night.
Kraven looked over his shoulder to the small force that accompanied him "Very well." Kraven shrugged.
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Northern Hungarian Territory, Ördögház: 548 AD
Viktor Teleki, a warlord who had spent his entire life fighting for more land, more money and more glory, now found himself in the most grueling battle of all, the fight for his next breath. His withered features bore an expression of pain, as his frail hands clawed at the bed sheets. "Father." A soft, song like voice spoke to him. Sonja, gently ran her fingers through his thin white hair.
"What is it… my daughter?" Viktor whispered as he managed to bring his ancient claw like fingers up to her purple headdress.
"Markus Corvinus is here father." Viktor merely stared at his daughter with a confused expression on his face. "Do you not remember father? You wanted to see him."
"Corvinus…" Viktor struggled to remember. "Ah… ah yes. Send him in."
Sonja gently kissed her fathers forehead as she made her way to the door and opened it for Viktor's visitor. "Do not upset him." Sonja spoke sternly.
"You have much of your mother in you." Markus bowed slightly, as he walked past her into Viktor's chambers. "Hello Viktor." Markus greeted him, as he stood at the end of his bed, he wore a floor length green robe, embroided with gold and jewels, his fiery red hair swept neatly back over his shoulders. "It pains me to see you like this Viktor." Markus continued as he pulled up a chair to Viktor's bedside and sat close to him.
"Somehow I… doubt that." Viktor half choked.
"I mean it." Markus nodded "You have always been a most worthy adversary, it does not seem right to see you like this."
"Unfortunately… time is an enemy… even I can not overcome." Viktor mumbled as he struggled to maintain consciousness.
"Do not be so sure. Perhaps you could defeat time, if you had the right ally."
Viktor let out a slight laugh, though it was broken with coughing "Ah yes…" He continued in a raspy voice "…my Council told me about your… willingness… to share… your families… little secret… I may be… I may be dieing, but I am no… fool."
"Only a fool would turn down this offer Viktor." Markus said sternly.
"If… you had the ability to… pass on your… Immortality, your father… your brother and… yourself… would have turned your army a long time ago."
"It is true, we never used to have the ability to pass on our legacy to others, however all that changed when William was bit by a wolf, the monster he transformed into has the ability to pass on all of his traits to those it bites. I to have that ability now."
"What were you bitten by?" Viktor whispered "A rat?"
"Close." Markus nodded as he leant over Viktor and revealed his Vampiric features "A bat. One bite from me and you to may live forever. Over these last two years, I have turned others, unfortunately I found it necessary to dispatch all of those, people, but I can pass on my gifts, I can make people as strong or as weak as I want."
"And what… is… stopping you… from dispatching me… when my usefulness runs out?"
"Firstly, I give you my word that I will make you as strong as I am." Markus insisted.
Viktor again managed a slow laugh "And how would I know until it is too late."
"There is a way, once I have bitten you, you must bite me, so that the circle is complete. Then you will be as strong as I am." Markus nodded.
"Why me Markus?" Viktor choked "Why do I deserve this generosity?"
"I need your army." Markus told him bluntly. "Once you have been turned, together we will turn the rest of your army, it is the only way we can stop these beasts."
"Perhaps you have not heard…" Viktor grinned slightly "… but my army is depleted, I only have my personal bodyguard at my disposal."
"That is still hundreds of men Viktor." Markus pleaded with him "And we can turn more once the time is right."
"My army will… remain under my control." Viktor coughed at him.
"Very well." Markus nodded "But I will need your word that you will consult me on all matters, we would be equals."
"Equals." Viktor nodded "Together we will destroy all of these animals."
"Not all of them." Markus corrected him "You see my power comes at a price, we will be unable to walk in sunlight again, it is lethal to me. The humans will ultimately send mobs after us, then they will send armies, we need something strong enough to stop them during the day. A pack of hell hounds should do the trick… providing we can tame them."
"Ah… and I suppose your brother is one of those?" Viktor asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Well no." Markus told him "William is the strongest, he is to dangerous to be put to work, but nor can he be killed."
"And why is that?" Viktor asked, his curiosity tweaked.
"Because he is the first, the source of the blood line, if he ceases to exist so will all of those like him… and then what would we do?"
"I see your point." Viktor nodded "Losing all of those potential slaves would be… a great loss. But if William can not be killed… or put to work… what will become of him?"
"In the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, deep within a black forest, there is a fortress. A huge open air structure built by my father to combat the people of the East, that is how our territory has been able to stretch so far. This fortress has been abandoned for years… its walls are as tall as the tallest trees, it is completely enclosed. I recently hired some human laborers to make some alterations, trees were planted within the fortress to make it resemble the wilderness, and its walls have been adorned with silver so as no Lycanthrope can escape… I intend to keep William and a few companions in this fortress, have it guarded by mortals during the day and by our kind at night. I will keep him there, controlled… until a cure can be found."
"Acceptable." Viktor nodded "But tell me… if killing William will result in the death of his bloodline… what will killing you do?"
"What do you think?" Markus grinned through fangs. "Unfortunately Viktor, the only way for you to stay immortal is if I stay immortal."
"It would appear… that it is time for… me to… sell my… soul."
"A wise choice Viktor." Markus nodded as he leant over Viktor piercing his wrinkled neck with his ivory white fangs. The old man convulsed as Markus's vampiric legacy began to flow though his veins, before he finally collapsed into unconsciousness. "And now we wait." He sighed in boredom.
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Viktor's eyes opened widely as he sat bolt upright in what was to be his death bed. Markus breathed a sigh of relief as the old man began to stretch, and for the first time in a year, was able to get out of his bed. "How do you feel?" Markus asked nervously.
"Strong." Viktor breathed heavily as he clenched his claw like fist "Stronger than ever before."
"This is just the beginning Viktor." Markus smiled "We have much to attend to."
"I am well aware of that Markus…" Viktor cut himself off mid sentence as he was drawn to a strange sound, he cast his glance to the other side of his bed only to be confronted by a four legged animal covered in white fleece. "Markus why is there a sheep in my bed chamber?" Viktor asked, clearly baffled by the situation.
"Ah yes…" Markus nodded "… the purpose of the sheep will become very apparent in a few minutes. In the meantime we need to discuss the turning of your army. Although I am sure that you want to turn your daughter and certain members of your court first, once that is done we should concentrate on the most battle hardened of your troops, your heavy cavalry."
"Ah yes…" Viktor nodded sounding somewhat distracted, as he took a large gulp of water "…but should we not turn my commanders first, so that they may turn their troops, it would be much quicker that way."
Markus watched on in amusement as Viktor continued to drink water in the vain hope of quenching his thirst. "There is a problem with that Viktor, you see although everyone I have bitten has been successfully turned, my experiments have shown me that when one of those men that has been turned attempts to bite someone, the bite usually always results in death."
Viktor could barely concentrate on what Markus was saying, his eyes remained transfixed on Markus's jugular. "This is where the sheep comes into it." Markus smiled slightly.
"What do you mean?" Viktor demanded as his ivory white fangs extended for the first time.
Markus grabbed the animal by the scruff of the neck and flung it towards Viktor "Listen Viktor…" He encouraged the old warlord "…listen to its pulse, it's deafening is it not?"
"Yes…" Viktor nodded, almost salivating as the animal made a gentle baaing noise at his feet.
"Drink Viktor…" Markus encouraged him "…quench your terrible thirst."
After a moments hesitation the old warlord knelt before the frightened creature and violently pierced its neck with his fangs, the creature struggled in vain to escape Viktor's grip as claret spilled into the old warlords mouth. Viktor did not release his grip on the creature until seemingly every drop of blood had left its body, only then did he allow the carcass of the drained creature to fall to the floor.
"Better?" Markus asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Much." Viktor nodded as he wiped the blood from his mouth, and looked upon his hand in disgust.
"It gets easier." Markus shrugged.
Viktor did not answer him "If you are the only one who can guarantee a person will be turned, how do I know I will not destroy my army by trying to turn them?"
"At the moment you will." Markus nodded as he rolled up his sleeve and held out his wrist "Now I am afraid you must drink from me."
"This is most undignified." Viktor hissed as he took Markus's wrist and sank his teeth into his flesh. As soon as Markus's blood flowed into Viktor's mouth the old man felt his power increase drastically, as if he had been imbued with the Holy Spirit itself.
"How do you feel?" Markus asked with a raised eyebrow?
Viktor clenched both of his fists and flexed his regenerating muscles, making him feel younger than he had in decades "Ready…" Viktor's voice seemed to bellow "… I feel ready."
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Kraven sat in a large stone room accompanied by Viktor's generals, and other high ranking members of the court. Viktor had been speaking with Markus Corvinus for hours. The Corvinus clan had been the pariahs of East European nobility for years, ever since the transformation of William Corvinus, and the disappearance of his father Alexander, Markus Corvinus and his younger brother Henry had been unable to keep a grip on the families lands. Kraven wondered to himself what Markus could possibly know of the beast that they had not already found out on the battlefield , and what he wanted from Viktor, however his thoughts were interrupted by a sight he never expected to see. The huge wooden doors of the room had been flung open with an incredible force, a dozen men did not have that kind of power, standing in the doorway was Viktor, he was out of bed, dressed in his armor and had the unmistakable aura of strength about him. Kraven watched as all the soldiers in the room dropped to a knee.
"Father" cried Sonja as she ran towards him. Viktor lifted her clear off the ground in an embrace "Father, what has happened to you?"
"Something wonderful, my beautiful child" he smiled "something wonderful"
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Sonja Teleki's eyes opened widely as she set bolt upright in her bed. "Father…" She breathed heavily as she brought her hand to her neck "…the wound… the bite." She panicked.
"Sshhh my sweet child." Viktor spoke soothingly as he perched on her bed, and ran his claw like hand through the blonde ringlets that made up her hair. "It has already healed."
Sonja threw her arms around her father and held him tightly "What have I become father?" She almost wept.
"You have become better my dear." Viktor smiled "You need not fear anything again."
"I want to see." She mumbled as she nodded to the gold plated mirror that rested at her bed side, Viktor grabbed the object and held it level with his daughters youthful face, Sonja nervously raised a hand to her mouth and traced her new fangs with a finger. "My eyes…" She whispered.
"They are beautiful." He whispered confidently "Your mother would be so proud of you. You are immortal now, you are my immortal daughter."
"My soul… am I a wicked person now father?" She asked, her voice full of fear.
"No my dear, we are far from wicked. We have willingly accepted this fate so that we may rid these lands of the savage beasts that torment its people… our people. Come my daughter, our future awaits us."
"Yes father." Sonja nodded as she covered her head with a silk head dress and took her fathers arm. The two exited Sonja's room and made their way through the fortress of Ördögház, Sonja clung tightly to her father's side as she looked on with terror as the soldiers under her fathers command passed them in the corridors and courtyards, each one of them had a gaze of shining azure, they, like her, liker her father, they were all immortal now.
"My Lord." A voice called out as a set of hurried footsteps rushed to catch up with them.
"Ah Kraven." Viktor smirked slightly as the handsome courtier approached them "How are you finding your new abilities."
Kraven allowed himself to smile as his eyes turned their own magnificent shade of blue "It is amazing my lord, I still can not completely comprehend it… immortality."
"Well do not get to used to it." Viktor spoke firmly, "We still have a war to win."
"Yes My Lord." Kraven nodded eagerly "Your army is ready My Lord, when do we ride?"
"Tomorrow at sundown."
"Where are you going father?" She asked nervously,
"South." Viktor told her simply "I need more soldiers… Amelia will give them to me."
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Amelia stood alone in a great stone room; the ancestral palace had been in her family for generations. Following the death of her Father she had become ruler of her family's territories, however her power came with a great burden. Her army had been suffering defeats from a seemingly undefeatable enemy; these wild beasts were tearing through her territory and killing her subjects. There were also the political problems she faced, being a young woman, it was hard to gain acceptance from the warlords who controlled the territory around her. The only reason her territory had not been swallowed up by the other kingdoms was the fact that Viktor, the ruler of the lands to the North of her was honoring an alliance he made with her father. She preyed for an end to the violence, however her faith was failing, she felt God had abandoned her. Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a man's voice. "Princess Amelia." The man spoke.
"What is it" she asked the man in armor standing in the huge doorway.
"There is an army marching on the castle Princess" He reported
"Who's Army?" She asked nervously
"Viktor is at its head Princess."
"Viktor?" She said in disbelief
"Yes Princess, and Markus Corvinus is riding at his side."
"When will they arrive?" Amelia asked
"Several days princess, they only march at night, they shelter during daylight hours."
"I see." She said coldly.
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Amelia sat in a room with her frail old viceroy, Viktor's army was only a few hours away.
"Why is Viktor doing this Eli?" She asked him.
"I do not know princess" was the old mans response "Maybe he has found a more desirable alliance with Corvinus."
"What does that mean for us?" She asked
"It means you will have to accept Markus's marriage proposal, and allow him claim your territory."
"I do not want to" She snapped
"Princess you must have a husband!" The old man snapped and began to cough.
"Princess" A voice interrupted "Viktor is at the gate."
"Tell him I will speak with him" She told her soldier.
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Amelia sat on her throne flanked by men wielding crossbows, her ancient looking viceroy Eli stood hunched behind her throne, Viktor, Markus and their bodyguards were stood in front of her.
"Why all the security Princess?" Viktor asked Amelia pointing to the bowmen surrounding her.
"Why have you come here with an Army Lord Viktor?" She replied.
"I have an offer for you Princess." Viktor smiled slightly
"And what would that be?" Eli interrupted on his mistresses behalf.
"As I'm sure you are aware.." Viktor began "There is a new threat to our lands, a plague of Beasts rampaging through our territories. I need your help to stop it, you and your army combined with my forces, and Markus's knowledge of the beast. Together we can stop them. Will you stand with me Princess, as your Father did?"
Markus then stepped forward and added to Viktor's emotive speech "I can guarantee the sovereignty of your lands, my Princess; I can bring peace and security to your people."
Amelia considered what had been said, she cast her glance towards Markus "If I were to join you, I will not be bound by any ideas of marriage. This alliance would be one of convenience; I am not accepting your proposal. I reserve the right to choose a husband when I see fit."
Markus hung his head in rejection "Of course" He conceded.
Amelia continued "Say I do accept this alliance, what happens when our enemy is defeated, elements of your army will still be in my lands, and the son of Corvinus will have a new opportunity to build a power base, and pursue his ambitious infatuation with me." She stopped and sighed "Viktor, the alliance you and my father formed is beneficial to us both, and will be honored. However I do not see what Markus can offer me or my men."
Viktor smiled, and held out his arms in friendship "Immortality" he whispered.
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Amelia and Eli listened in amazement as Viktor and Markus had explained the events of the last few days. Could it be true… could Markus really have found a way to pass on his legacy?
"An interesting story Viktor." Eli nodded "How can we be sure that it is true?"
"Oh come now Eli!" Viktor spat at the old Viceroy "How many times have we fought by each others side? Do you honestly believe that I would do anything to harm Amelia… do you even think I am capable of betraying her?"
"These are desperate times Viktor." Eli spoke gravely "At times like this who knows what you would be willing to do."
"Very well…" Viktor sighed in frustration as he swept his riding cloak back over his shoulders and unclipped his armour, allowing it to the floor.
"What are you doing?" Amelia demanded.
"You!" Viktor called to one of the bowmen that flanked Amelia. "Fire." The bowmen just stared blankly at Viktor for a moment "What are you waiting for?" Viktor demanded "Shoot me in the heart!"
"Viceroy?" The bowman swallowed hard as he turned to Eli for some sort of guidance. The old Viceroy studied Viktor's expression for a moment before giving the nervous bowman a slight nod. The young soldier squeezed the trigger of his cross bow sending a silver tipped arrow exploding through Viktor's chest. The old Warlord did not even flinch as he turned to show the arrow to the men that had accompanied him, all of whom began to laugh slightly.
"My God." Amelia whispered as Viktor wrenched the arrow out of his chest and dropped it to the ground "You are immortal."
"Yes I am." Viktor nodded "As is my daughter, my army, my entire court in fact. And we are willing to offer the same gift to you."
"Go on…" Amelia spoke coldly, in a vain attempt to hide the fear in her voice.
"We will turn you, your court and your army."
"And why would you be so generous?" Eli asked cynically.
"Because we need your help to contain William." Markus answered the old Viceroy.
"This is the worst kind of heresy." Eli hissed "Viktor I expected more of you than to…"
"Thank you Viceroy." Amelia spoke coldly, holding up a single hand to cut him off. She shifted her bodyweight in her throne, taking a more relaxed position she turned her attention back to Markus and Viktor. "Tell me more." She spoke coldly as a slight smile crept across her face,
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Hours had passed, Markus and Viktor had explained their plan in every conceivable detail. Markus's ability to turn, the plan to enslave the Lycans, William's sanctuary, it all seemed so perfect to Amelia. Even the thought of never seeing the sun again did not bother her, when compared to an eternity of power, a chance to remain young and beautiful forever, but more importantly the power to avenge her father.
"And I would be as strong as the two of you?" Amelia asked sternly
"Yes My Lady." Markus nodded with a smile "Two bites, one from me, one from you… and you will be one of the strongest beings to have ever lived."
"It seems I have little choice then." Amelia began in a dry monotone voice "If I am to defend my territory, my people… I will accept your offer Lord Corvinus."
"Princess!" Eli pleaded
"I have made my decision Eli." She snapped back
"Princess please… at least let me go through this bite first… let me make sure it is safe for you. Your father would never forgive me if I let anything happen to you."
Amelia let a smile fall across her face as her most loyal advisor stepped forward "Very well Viceroy." She told him warmly "Thank you."
"So which one of you will get the pleasure of biting into my wrinkly old neck?" Eli teased the two war lords.
"I think I will leave this one to you Viktor." Markus smiled slightly.
"You are too kind Markus." Viktor sneered as he bore his fangs.
"Shall we not do this somewhere more private Viktor?" Eli suggested
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The whole time Eli and Viktor were gone Amelia remained on her throne. She lounged back in a seductive manner, resting her hand on her chest and being sure she did not break eye contact with the man that was to have been her husband. It was the only thing she could do to keep him off guard, it was the only advantage she had. The bowmen and soldiers that surrounded her were not even slightly intimidating to Markus and his immortal bodyguards. Seduction was the only weapon left in her arsenal, whatever powers Markus may possess, he was still a man.
The doors to her throne room finally opened, she tensed up slightly as Viktor came sauntering through. "Where is my Viceroy?" She demanded in an almost petulant tone.
"I am here Princess." Eli replied as he to entered the throne room and bowed to his mistress.
"Did it work?" Amelia asked nervously
Eli smiled as his teeth extended into fangs and his eyes turned an electric shade of blue "It worked." He nodded.
"Well then…" Amelia nodded as she turned her attention back to Markus "…it would seem that you and I have some business to attend to."
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They had retired to Amelia's chambers, for she did not want her subjects gawping at what was to come. In the luxurious surroundings of her chambers she stood before Markus Corvinus, a mixture of fear and excitement coursing through her veins. "I imagined our wedding night would have been something like this." Markus spoke softly as he brought a hand to her silky white cheek.
"So how do we do this?" Amelia asked nervously.
"Just one bite." He reassured her.
"Will it hurt?" She asked as she tried to mask her fear.
"It does not have to." He spoke warmly, doing his best to put her at ease "May I?"
Amelia hesitated for a moment before giving a nod, Markus took a step towards her, studying every one of her delicate features, he removed the golden laurel reef that adorned her head, before gently removing the thin veil of turquoise silk that acted as a headdress, as he discarded the silk veil, her raven locks fell about her shoulders, contrasting perfectly with her ivory white skin. She was wrapped in a shawl of the same material as her head dress, as Markus brushed her ebony locks away from her face she hesitantly unwrapped the shawl, revealing her bare shoulders. "You should sit." Markus whispered to her, as he guided her to the edge of her bed, sitting down next to her he placed a hand on her shoulder, savoring every second their flesh touched. Amelia sat awkwardly, a mixture of nerves and embarrassment took hold of her. As his hand continued to rest on her shoulder, Markus eyed the dress she was wearing, although it did not cover her shoulders, it was ties behind her neck in such a way that it prevented Markus from reaching the area he needed to. "I uh… I need to get to the vein." He told her, this time his voice took on an embarrassed tone. Amelia nodded, as she reached behind her neck and untied the gown, allowing the silk to fall away from her flesh. She clutched at the gown with one of her hands so as to not show too much cleavage and nervously awaited Markus's approach. "Are you ready?"
"Just so you know… it is just one bite Markus. Nothing more."
Markus nodded as he leant into her, savoring her sweet scent he allowed his mouth to linger over her neck, as his fangs elongated. Finally he could wait no more, he surged forward, his ivory white fangs pierced her silky white flesh, causing the young Princess to gasp "Oh… my…" she moaned, as her warm claret flowed from her neck into the mouth of Markus Corvinus. "Oh God…" she moaned as she felt herself lose control of her body, Markus quickly shifted his position so that he could support her, the two now faced each other as Markus continued to drink deep from her beautiful neck, she was the sweetest thing he had ever tasted, "Markus…" she moaned as she instinctively moved closer to his embrace, digging her fingernails into his side "Oh Markus…" she moaned, once more in ecstasy, before falling into unconsciousness.
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Her eyelids slowly fluttered open as she came to. She was lying on her bed, she sat bolt upright as for the first time in her life the world seemed so clear to her. Her senses were so acute, she was aware of everything around her, including the man that was perched at the foot of her bed.
"How do you feel?" The flame haired man asked her softly.
"Thirsty." She told him, a little confused by his presence.
Here." Markus said gently as he passed her a golden chalice, filled with a warm liquid "This will quench your thirst. Do not be alarmed, it is not the blood of a person."
Amelia hesitated for a moment before lapping up the liquid as if it were ambrosia "I feel so strong." She spoke excitedly.
"You are." He assured her "Right now you are stronger than any man, you are as strong as Viktor's warriors, as strong as Eli."
"But not as strong as you or Viktor." Amelia asked him suspiciously.
"Not yet." Markus corrected her, as he rolled up his sleeve to bare his wrist, in order to be as strong as us you must drink from my blood, you must drink from the source. Only you and Viktor will have this privilege, only the three of us will be strong enough to lead our new bloodline."
"Markus…" Amelia began nervously. "About the way I acted, during the bite, I do not want you to get the wrong idea. I am still very fond of you, but I do not intend to give you my body."
"I understand." Markus sighed in frustration
"I am glad." Amelia nodded awkwardly "Shall we proceed; I would like to start turning my army as soon as possible."
"Viktor and I have already started to turn your forces."
"What! When?" Amelia demanded.
"You were unconscious for seven hours Princess." Markus told her in a condescending tone.
"And what makes you think you have the authority to start turning my men."
"We got the go ahead from Eli." Markus told her.
"Why would you do that?" Amelia demanded petulantly.
"Viktor and I were discussing something on the way here Princess, we put it to your viceroy and he agreed."
"Agreed to what?" She sighed in frustration.
"We think it would be inappropriate for you to turn your men." Markus told her in a somewhat patronizing tone.
"On what grounds?" Amelia asked in bewilderment
"Well as you know, the biting process is an intense physical experience. You can not deny that you became… aroused, when I bit you."
"How dare you!" She spat indignantly.
"My point is Amelia, that it would not be right for a young woman, especially a young woman who happens to be the ruler of a kingdom… a princess, to be alone in what could be seen as an intimate situation with her soldiers."
"But it is alright for you and Viktor to be in that situation?" She demanded.
"Viktor and I are able to keep it more… professional, there is nothing intimate about it."
"Oh and because I am a woman I am unable to keep a sensible head on my shoulders?"
"The decision has been made Amelia." Markus said firmly "Before I give you my wrist, before I allow you to drink, to become as strong as I, you must agree to my terms. Now, it is not like you will be unable to have whoever you want turned, just say the word and Viktor or myself will be happy to grant them immortality."
"Oh I see what this is about." Amelia laughed to herself "If I want someone turned I have to ask the great Markus Corvinus to do it for me, this is about control Markus, I will not give you my hand, so you seek to control my influence in other ways. Pathetic."
"The decision has been made Amelia." Markus reiterated, "I am going to need your word."
"Very well." Amelia nodded "I give you my word, on my father's grave I will not turn, nor attempt to turn a single person as long as I live… even if it is for all eternity."
"Very good." Markus nodded as he held out his wrist to Amelia. "You should drink now."
Amelia took his wrist and violently bit down into his flesh, there was no intimacy this time, no moans of ecstasy, this time it was all about business. She drank deep for several seconds before finally pulling away, "You can get out of my chambers now." She spoke coldly as she wiped the dry blood from her mouth.
"Good day to you My Lady." He bowed
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The night air was cold, the wind biting, the savage lands seemed a most formidable sight. The howls of the lycanthropic hell hounds echoed in the air. These monsters had been a plague on the native lands, but no more, for now the odds had evened up, more than evened in fact. Where as before only Markus Corvinus and his immortal father had been able to challenge these beasts on an even footing, now an entire army imbued with the strength of the Corvinus bloodline was ready to march on the infestation, and march they did. The eerie silence of the night was shattered, however tonight it was not just howling that shattered the disturbing peace of the land, now the sound of horses, dozens, hundreds of them thundered through the forests of the Magyar Savage lands. They ride in columns, uniformed in roman style armour they charge undaunted into the savage forests. These pale riders, everyone of them possessing a pair of eyes that glow an eerie blue are the elite troops of this region, the personal bodyguard legions of Lord Viktor Teleki, and Princess Amelia Vorenus. The columns all ride under the banners of their leaders, the standards of the Teleki and the Vorenus waving furiously in the cold night air. The riders come to a stop at the edge of a clearing, the columns separated, allowing the army to separate into their units. Once the men were in order, the sound of more approaching horses could be heard, this time there were only three. Entering the clearing at a slow trot the three riders bring their horses to a halt at the head of the army, two sets of azure blue eyes, and a single set of emerald eyes scan the dense forests that lay ahead of the clearing.
"And so it begins." The middle rider speaks up.
"Remember our bargain Viktor." The man to his right speaks up.
"Do not worry Markus, we will get your brother to his sanctuary." Viktor smiled slightly. "Are you ready my dear?" He asked the woman to his left.
Amelia did not answer Viktor for a moment, she cast a glance over her shoulder to one of the standard bearers of her army, she was humbled as the standard of her father blew furiously in the wind. She was adorned in a custom made suit of Romanesque armour, designed to mimic the suit worn by her father, her head adorned with a hand sculpted ornamental helmet, complete with a crimson red crest of the Vorenus family. She drew her sword, the long slender cavalry sword with which her father had slain so many. "I was born ready." She replied coldly, as she raised her sword high in the air, and with a powerful battle cry galloped away from Viktor's and Markus's side leading her portion of the army deep into the savage forests.
"She is headstrong." Viktor sighed "Just like her father. Come Markus, make sure you stay close to me." It was now Viktor's turn to raise his sword high above his head, and set off at a gallop, with Markus and his army close behind him. Markus's plan had finally come together, he had his immortal army, yet he could not help but feel slightly vulnerable. For there was not one Corvinus standard being displayed by this army. Still there was no time to worry about that now. For he had a war to wage.