Disclaimer: See the prologue
Italics indicates thought.
Underlines and italics indicates Saito's thoughts
Bold and italics indicates a location.
Bold text (Outside of any normal context) indicates a specific time period
As his new task begins, the mage must find new allies:
Allies who have faced a different kind of darkness.
Long ago, the Belmont clan began a mission that would last to the present day.
Their task? To forever hunt the minions of darkness.
However, now there is an evil much stronger than Dracula,
And old enemies must put aside their differences if they are to survive...
-Prophecy di luce e di ombre: Lines XXXV-XL
Chapter 2: Belmonts, Forgemasters, and New Problems
Last time on Requiem of Shadows:
Saito finally explained the finer points of his plan to counter the newly resurrected Lord of Terror. After handing out the assignments and allowing everyone a break to prepare themselves, the mage proceeded to use his own power over time to send each of the teams on their way. Each team went to a separate time period, and was determined to bring back a certain set of individuals. Our first stop is 1100, where the Baron Leon Belmont has just learned of a disturbing development...
Belmont Mansion: Walachia Province: Transylvania
Time Period: 1100 AD
Leon looked out of his study window and sighed out loud. Darkness would be coming soon, and he had to prepare himself for another night of searching for his former friend, Matthias Cronquist. He stood up and stretched before turning towards the door. However, he suddenly stopped when he heard two voices out in the hall. "Excuse me, Sara. Do you happen to know where your husband is?" "I think he may be in his study, Niteshade. Why are you asking?" "Well, it appears that Master Bernhard just discovered something awfully important about the recent monster attacks." "Well then, what is it?" The blonde-haired succubus jumped slightly and then whirled around to face the Baron. "Why in the hell did you do that?" she demanded, her red eyes flashing dangerously. Leon immediately made a mental note to never try that stunt again. "I'm sorry. It's just that I didn't expect you to be here until after dark." The young woman turned away shyly. She had taken a liking to him when they had first met in Dragon's Rest, nearly five years ago. "Master Bernhard has just confirmed that the recent attacks were not caused by Matthias." The Baron raised an eyebrow at this statement. "Then who else would have the kind of power to raise stronger and stronger monsters?" His answer came in the form of a new voice, one that he had never heard before.
"The answer you seek lies in the future, Leon Belmont. That is why I am here." Niteshade spun on her heels, preparing to attack when she suddenly saw who was speaking. Her eyes widened with shock, and she fell to her knees and immediately bowed her head. "I never thought that your kind actually existed. Please, forgive me." Leon looked down the corridor in order to see who the succubus was talking to. When he saw the figure, his jaw dropped in amazement. "Are you..." an angel? Yes, Master Belmont. I am the leader of all angels both visible and invisible. "My name is Michael Lamington. As you might be able to tell, I am a little unfamiliar with the customs of this time period. Please forgive my interruption." "That's alright, Master Lamington," a soft voice said from behind the Belmont. Leon looked back at his wife, concern visible in his bright blue eyes. "Are you sure about this, Sara? I mean, he could be here to take you away from me forever." The dark-haired young woman shook her head, and then gazed into her husband's eyes. Her own were light green, and they shone with hope and sincerity. "I am certain that he is here for an entirely different reason. Isn't that correct, Master Lamington?" she asked the angel.
Michael smiled before responding. "That is correct, Lady Sara. I am here to ask for your help." Leon raised an eyebrow quizzically as the Seraph offered his hand to the young succubus on the floor. "There is no need to be so formal with me, Niteshade. Besides, you are not the only one who refuses to believe in angels." She raised her head, tears gently glittering in her eyes. "Thank you, Master Lamington. It's just that there were rumors abounding of an angel who was walking among us at the time." "I don't doubt that you received your information from Gandalfi, correct?" The succubus smiled and then nodded. "I think that my master would like to have a few words with you before you vanish with Leon and Sara." Michael smiled at this comment. "To tell you the truth, I am not here to ask for help from just the Belmont." Niteshade's eyes grew wide, and then she quickly bowed. "I will lead you directly to Dragon's Rest, Master Lamington." "Thank you, child." Leon was quick to interrupt with a question of his own. "Do you think that you could stay here a little bit longer, Niteshade? I need to make sure that all of my affairs are in order before we leave." "Go right ahead, Master Leon. Besides, I'm certain that you are not the only one who needs to prepare," she called, with a mischievous look at Sara. Leon's beloved wife turned away, blushing furiously. "Just give me a few minutes, and I'll be right there," she called as she headed back towards her room.
Ten minutes later, everyone was prepared for the hazardous journey ahead of them...
Leon checked his pack one more time, and was satisfied that he had everything that he needed in order to survive. Checking to make sure that his broadsword was strapped tightly to his belt, he then carefully hooked the final piece of equipment onto his right hip. The VampireKiller whip glowed softly, and then the light faded as it took on the appearance of an ordinary whip. Leon was back in his old hunting outfit, the one he had worn when he first set out to find the vampire who had kidnapped his beloved. He was once more dressed in red, white, and black. The gauntlet on his left hand glittered in the moonlight, reflecting multiple colors as it finished recharging its energy supply. The Baron then turned to his wife, and he could not keep himself from smiling. Sara had completely unbound her long hair, and it hung to the middle of her back. She had changed into a slightly shorter dress, and her arms were bare. However, this did not mean that she was completely harmless. Like her husband, she knew how to wield a whip, and she used hers with deadly efficiency. In addition, she had learned how to use a longsword while studying under Joachim Armster, the vampiric swordsmaster-in-residence at Dragon's Rest. Finally, she had a wide range of magical and telekinetic powers, all thanks to her encounter with Walter Bernhardt. She looked at her betrothed and gently smiled before she finished wrapping her whip around her waist. "I'm all ready to go, dear."
Niteshade had her own range of psychic abilities, in addition to her own nasty claws. She had learned how to add elements to her projectile attacks from a wandering mage, and she had also learned how to change her normal claws into steel ones. She grinned wickedly as she displayed this ability to the Seraph. "What do you think, Master Lamington?" Michael rolled his eyes lightly before he asked her a surprising question. "Who taught you how to do that?" "Well, he said that he was just a wandering vampire, searching for an old friend." "Do you happen to know this wanderer's name?" The succubus thought for a moment, and then she shrugged. "I can only remember part of his name, but that's about it. I think he said his name was Mirer, or something like that." The Seraph's eyes grew thoughtful as he pondered this new piece of information. "So, Mirer Link was here not too long ago, correct?" Niteshade stared at Michael in astonishment. "How did you know the rest of his name?" "That is because he is one of the others that is being sought." "Why?" the young woman asked, but the Seraph merely shook his head. "I will explain everything once we reach Joachim and Walter. Agreed?" "Agreed."
The Seraph adjusted his own white broadsword, and then he checked his pack. Satisfied by what he found there, he turned to the rest of the group. "I would lead you all, but I do not know the way. Niteshade, do you mind showing us?" "Not at all, Master Lamington. However, we must travel swiftly. There are some things out there that are best left alone." The angel nodded, and then he gestured for Leon and Sara to immediately follow her. The baron raised an eyebrow, and the Seraph merely sighed. "I have much more experience dealing with demons than you ever will. I'll bring-up the rear, and make sure that we are not ambushed." At this, Leon nodded, and then he led his wife out into the darkness. The Seraph looked around once more, and then he swiftly followed the Belmont and his bride.
Once outside of the manor, Niteshade beckoned for the trio to hurry. "Quickly, everyone. There are werewolves coming, and I would hate to be caught in the open like this." Leon nodded and then he picked up the pace. It took them only a few minutes to reach the Forest of Eternal Night, and a few more in order to reach the house of Rinaldo Gandalfi. Leon raised a hand, signalling that they could rest. "Niteshade, go and alert both Bernhard and Armster that we are being pursued. We will stay here for the time being. Besides, I need to resupply." The young succubus nodded, and then she hurried north, towards the entrance of Dragon's Rest.
Leon walked up to the front door of Rinaldo's Cabin, and he knocked three times. The door opened, and the elder man looked out with a smile. His white hair stood out like a beacon, and his eyes glittered a brilliant blue as he stepped out to embrace his old friend. "Leon! It is good to see you once again. What brings you here this time?" Leon rolled his eyes before turning to his two remaining companions. "Sara, I'm sure that you remember Master Gandalfi." His wife nodded, and then flashed the alchemist a brilliant smile. Leon then turned to his other companion. "Master Lamington, I would like to introduce you to the man who helped me create Vampire Killer, Rinaldo Gandalfi. Master Rinaldo, I would like to introduce you to Michael Lamington." The Seraph stepped forward with a gentle smile on his face, and Rinaldo's eyes widened in surprise. "Are you truly...?" "Yes, I am truly an angel, Master Gandalfi. We are in need of supplies, for we face a fairly hazardous task ahead of us." The alchemist smiled and then beckoned the three into his cabin. "Come in, then. I prefer to do my business away from the darkness." The Seraph nodded, and then they all proceeded inside.
After five minutes of catching up and purchasing supplies, the three headed north towards Dragon's Rest, only to make a horrifying discovery...
It was Sara who first saw the young succubus sprawled on the ground. What scared her even more was the fact that Niteshade wasn't moving. "Niteshade!" the younger woman cried out in alarm as she tried to rush over to her fallen friend. However, she was restrained by the Seraph. "Let me go, you stupid angel!" "Unless you want to die, I suggest that you stay right where you are," the Seraph whispered. "I count at least twenty-nine werewolves, and they appear to have us surrounded." Sara swallowed hard before looking around. It appeared that the Seraph was correct, as multiple pairs of red eyes shimmered in the darkness. The trio who were still standing were surrounded by snarling figures, and the Seraph saw that only one solution was open to him. He turned to the baron. "Leon, I want you to get Niteshade back into the tree-line. Take her as far from the light as possible." The Belmont looked at the Seraph, slightly puzzled. "Why should I do that?" "Because she is still vulnerable to holy attacks. That is why I am asking you to do this." Leon swallowed hard and then nodded. The Seraph stepped forward and drew his broadsword. "If any of you want to go after any of the others, then you will have to pass through me." The snarling intensified, and then one of the wolves rushed him. The angel didn't even blink. Instead, he flicked his left hand in the direction of the charging beast, and slit its throat with an energy blade. "Who's next?" the Seraph snarled, his face suddenly changing into a furious mask. The werewolves moved up to surround only the Seraph, leaving Leon and Sara alone. The two acted quickly, lifting up the young succubus and carrying her back towards Rinaldo's cabin. When the Seraph could no longer see them, he gave a grim smile. "It is time that I finish this once and for all." He then looked up, and spotted a red-cloaked figure staring out one of the windows. Bernhardt! I need both you and Armster to stay out of the light until I tell you that it is okay. Do you understand me? Yes. I understand you perfectly. What are you planning on doing? Unleashing Armageddon. The master vampire and his second-in-command quickly scrambled deeper into the shadows, as the Seraph finally released his wings. He flapped them twice in order to get airborne, and then he soared high above the circle of werewolves. What happened next would be forever remembered by Leon and his beloved.
Six seals appeared surrounding the Seraph, and then he spoke three words as the final seal appeared directly beneath him. "Father, forgive me." The light energy that blasted out of the seal shot down with tremendous force, and none of the werewolves had the slightest chance to move away. They were all obliterated instantly by the holy attack, and the Seraph landed within the center of a slightly charred circle on the ground. Turning, he called back into the woods. "I took care of all of them, Leon. Hurry up and bring Niteshade." There was a slight rustling, and then Leon and Sara emerged, carrying a badly injured Niteshade. "We need to get her into the keep now," Leon insisted. The Seraph nodded, and then he lead the way into the great castle. They had finally arrived at Dragon's Rest, and not a moment too soon.
Main Hall: Dragon's Rest
Time Period: 1100 AD
"Walter!" Leon roared as soon as they had crossed through the main courtyard. The red-haired vampire was quick to put in his appearance, entering in a swarm of bats before taking on his human shape. "What is it this time, Belmont? I thought that I sent Niteshade with a message." "You did, but right now she is badly injured." The vampire's golden eyes widened slightly. "WHAT? How?" "There were werewolves trailing us as soon as we left the manor. I took care of all of them as soon as you and Armster were away from the light." Bernhardt turned to look at the silver-eyed man, and then he raised an eyebrow. "And you would be...?" The Seraph sighed before he explained. "My name is Michael Julius Lamington. I hold the title of Seraph, leader of all angels. Any other questions besides why I decided to come here?" Bernhardt blanched, and then he shook his head quickly. "Good. By the way, do you know where Armster is?" "I'm right up here, Master Lamington," a voice called from the top of the stairs. Sara looked up and smiled gently at her weapons-instructor. "Hello again, Joachim."
Joachim Armster was quick to descend the stairs and give his only pupil a hug. "I am glad to see that my training has not gone to waste," he said, gently teasing her before he turned to her husband. "Leon, it has been too long since I last saw you." "The feeling is mutual, Armster," Leon said with a smile as he shook the man's hand. He then turned worriedly back towards the young succubus lying on the floor. "I sent her to warn you, but she was ambushed just before we reached the gates." Armster's blue eyes were creased with worry as he looked at the injured young woman. He then turned to the Seraph. "Is there anything that you can do to help her?" The Seraph thought for a moment, and then he shrugged. "I have an idea, but it might not work." "Well, trying this idea of yours is better than just sitting around and doing nothing. Let's see what you can do."
The Seraph knelt down next to the young succubus, and then he removed his agate pendant. The stone gleamed silver in the moonlight, and then it vanished as he placed it within Niteshade's crossed hands. He bowed his head, closed his eyes, and then reached out with his mind, using the pendant as a conduit to reach the mage. Saito! I need your help. What is it, Michael? We were attacked by werewolves, and Niteshade was gravely injured. I'm not so sure as to whether my power will transfer that well over such a distance, but I might as well try. Michael felt the weredragon gathering his powers, and then he heard the mage speak a single word. "Brisingir." What happened next astonished everyone in the room.
Suddenly, blue flames erupted from the pendant grasped in Niteshade's hands. Joachim gasped and lunged towards her, only to be restrained by the Seraph. "This is for her own good, Armster. Stop struggling with me." The vampire instead redoubled his efforts to break away from the angel. "Why are you torturing her so? Make it stop!" SILENCE, ARMSTER! a mental voice roared out to everyone in the room. Joachim's eyes widened in shock, and then he slowly stopped struggling. What are you doing to her? Why are you torturing her this way? all heard a mental chuckle, and then the man explained. Allow me to explain something to all of you. There are two different kinds of fire: one that heals, and one that destroys. Most often, I use the destroyer, commonly called by the ancient name of tsunum. On other occasions, I use the healing fire, called brisingir. Any questions so far, Joachim? Who exactly ARE you? Saito chuckled again, and then he responded honestly. I am the reason why the Seraph is there to retrieve all of you. Dracula has vanished from the timeline, and I need all of your help in order to set things straight. Joachim paused for a moment, considering the man's words. Then...
I agree to help, as long as Niteshade is alright. Her wounds have completely healed. Go and see for yourself if you do not believe me. In the meantime, I have a bus to catch. Until later, Michael. Until later, Oricaltos. With that, the mage's presence vanished, back to the year 2040. Michael released the vampire, and Joachim immediately rushed over to Niteshade. He knelt down next to her, and his eyes shone with tears when she opened her own eyes once more. "What...happened?" she asked, slightly puzzled as to why she was lying on the floor inside of Dragon's Rest. Joachim smiled at her, and then he helped her to stand. "To give you the short version, someone called the Oricaltos healed you right after the Seraph gave you something." Niteshade looked down at her hands, and then she noticed the chain that was wrapped around her left. She slowly unwound it, and then gasped when she saw the agate that was suspended from it. She turned to the Seraph, blushing furiously as she held the stone out to him. "I just have to know: where did you get this stone? I mean, it matches your eyes and hair perfectly!" The Seraph lowered his eyes, slightly flustered as he took the pendant from the young woman. "It was a gift from a close friend of mine, one who needs our help." "You mean to tell me that the pendant was a gift from the Oricaltos?" Sara asked, and the Seraph nodded. "This is also the key to return all of us to my time. Do not be alarmed, for you will not be the only ones who we are grabbing from different time periods." They all nodded, and then the Seraph turned to look at both vampires. "Are both of you prepared?"
Walter smiled as he swept his cloak to one side, revealing a double-edged rapier. He flashed his fangs wickedly, and then chuckled. "I am as prepared as I will ever be. I also have weapons other than those that you can see." "Including your hands," the Seraph stated, noting how both of the vampires suddenly stared at him in shock. "Niteshade told me that you had a visit from another traveler, going by the name of Mirer Link, correct?" Both vampires nodded, dumbfounded that the Seraph knew about Mirer's unique ability. "Joachim, are you also prepared?" The vampire responded by opening his cloak and showing the Seraph three of the five swords that he always kept with him. He then grinned wickedly as he conjured the five in a circle around him, and then he made them vanish once again with a single thought. "However, I am in need of a sword of my own, as is Niteshade." The Seraph smiled before turning to open the Time Gate. "I am sure that the Oricaltos will be more than willing to accommodate you." After he had established the main portion of the Gate, he called through it to make sure that he had connected to the correct point. "Kurtis! Can you hear me?" "I can hear you fine, Master Lamington. Do you have everyone with you?" "Last time I checked," he called back, chuckling slightly. "You might want to get out of the way, though. I would never forgive myself if you got run-over in the confusion." "I'm ready when you are, Seraph. Send them through." The Seraph turned and nodded at his newly-found allies, and then he gestured towards the Time Gate. "I need to stay here and make sure that no one else comes through." Leon nodded, and then he held out his hand. Sara willingly took it, and they walked through the portal together. Next was Bernhardt, who reverted to his bat form just before passing the threshold. Joachim looked at Niteshade, and then he shyly held out his hand. Niteshade looked at the Seraph, and then back at the vampire. Blushing furiously, she accepted the vampire's hand, and then they passed through the Gate. Finally, it was the Seraph's turn. Kurtis! I'm coming through the Gate now. As soon as I get back, seal it. Yes sir.With that, Michael Julius Lamington passed through the Time Gate, returning to his own time. The Gate promptly collapsed behind him, never to open again (at least, not without approval first).
Meanwhile, at the same time, Setsuna is running into a minor problem...
Eternal Forest: Walachia Province: Transylvania
Time Period: 1453 AD
As soon as Setsuna stepped out of the portal, he ran into a major snag: he had no idea which direction to take. After wandering around for three hours, he realized that he was hopelessly lost. Looking around to make sure that no one was watching, he bowed his head and touched the double-cross charm directly over his heart. He then opened his mind, and began to speak. Flonne, can you hear me? Mister Setsuna! How were you able to find me? The hybrid smiled lightly, and then he responded. You and I both share a special connection. Because you were trapped within my double-cross, I can now use it to communicate with you, no matter how far apart we may be. Awww... That's really sweet of you, Mister Setsuna. Is there anything that I can help you with? Well, my gate ended up dumping me in the middle of a forest, and I have no idea how to get out. The young fallen angel sighed on the other end of the connection, and then she responded. What direction are the shadows all pointing? Right now they are pointing behind me. What time is it where you are? The hybrid checked his watch, and then he responded. It's a little bit after 2 AM, local time. Then those shadows are facing east. If you were to face the direction of the shadows and then turn left then you would be facing north. Thank you, Flonne. I will keep that in mind.
The hybrid removed his hand from the charm, and then he oriented himself in the way that Flonne had directed him. He started to walk, and he soon came across a small cabin in the middle of a clearing. Well, I might as well see if I can find out any information. He walked up to the door, and knocked three times. There was a brief pause, and then the door opened to reveal a slender young woman wearing a white dress. She looked at the young man curiously before inviting him inside. As soon as she had closed and locked the door, she drew something beneath her skirt, and remained facing the door. "What are you?" she asked suspiciously. Setsuna sighed aloud, and then he proceeded to explain his nature. "I am a hybrid of angel, human, and demon." At that point, the woman turned around, and the hybrid could suddenly see what she had been concealing. His eyes widened slightly, but then he visibly calmed down. However, his mind was suddenly screaming at him. Look at that whip! You know that you have seen it before. Try to remember where you saw it. He closed his eyes, relaxed, and then the answer hit him. He slowly whispered the name, almost reverently. "VampireKiller." The blonde-haired woman smiled wickedly, and Setsuna could see that she had every intention of making his life miserable. "That's correct, demon," she sneered, allowing the hatred and disgust to shine in her green eyes. "Who are you, and what do you want with this whip?"
The young man seated before her quickly bowed his head. "Please forgive my intrusion, Lady Belmont. My name is Kyuuseishu Setsuna, and I was sent here to ask for your help." Sonia Belmont slowly lowered her whip, but her eyes were still glittering dangerously. "Why would you need my help?" she asked, her voice still carrying a threatening tone. The hybrid raised his head, and his face was solemn. "There is an evil out there, something far greater than Dracula, and your aid is required to defeat it." She raised an eyebrow at this statement, and then she pulled up a chair. "What kind of evil are we talking about? Is it another demon?" The hybrid nodded, and then he raised a hand to cut-off her next question. "I know that it may seem a little strange, but there are demons out there who are stronger than the Prince of Darkness. I should know, because my companions and I faced this one before." "Well then why do you need my help? If you beat it before, then why would things be any different now?" "Maybe it is because our foe is not only exponentially stronger, but maybe it's the simple fact that he has command over all of Dracula's forces throughout time, including the monsters here." She sat and pondered this new piece of information for a moment. Then, her eyes lit up. "So that's the reason why monsters are still attacking us, even though I already defeated Dracula!" The hybrid smiled at her, and then he spoke one word. "Precisely."
Sonia Belmont rose from her seat and lazily stretched. "I need to go change into something more suited to this type of work. Do you mind waiting out here while I change?" "I don't mind at all," the hybrid responded honestly. The Belmont nodded, and then she disappeared into her own room. Once inside, she closed and locked the door before proceeding to the trunk that was sitting at the foot of her bed. She opened it, and then gently smiled as she saw that everything was still intact. She removed her dress and tossed it onto the bed before she slid back into her green armor. It was a little bit tighter than usual, but she still managed. Turning around lightly, she sat don on the bed to pull on her knee-length boots. Throwing on her red coat, she belted it around her waist once more. Her eyes glittered merrily as she thought of what her son would think if he saw her now. She turned back to the trunk and dipped her hand into it one last time. She smiled when she came into contact with a small leather bag. Pulling it out, she checked the contents, and she smiled when everything was intact. Hanging VampireKiller from her right hip, Sonia drew the five mystic weapons out of the bag. She looked at them all, and then she finished with her armaments.
Her knives (for she always carried two) were placed within easy reach: the first one was located at her left hip, while the second was hidden in the top of her right boot. She looked at the stopwatch, closed it, and then put it into her right coat pocket. She placed the flask of holy water within a small slot on her belt, which was located just inside of the circle formed by VampireKiller. She then attached the boomerang to the back of her belt. Hefting the ax, she took one look at it and then shoved it into her pack. Checking herself once more in the mirror, she then proceeded to head back into the main room.
Setsuna could not keep his jaw from dropping when Sonia walked back into the room. However, it took him only a few seconds to recover, because something else was demanding his attention. He shut his mouth, closed his eyes, and relaxed, allowing his mind to reach out into the darkness. He immediately found out just how close the problem was, and his eyes snapped open once again. "There are several skeletons and zombies just waiting to ambush us as soon as we walk through that door." Sonia nodded, and then she looked towards the back door. "It looks like we are going out through the front door after all," she said, noting that the back door had a sizable barricade in front of it. Setsuna nodded, and then he bowed his head, muttering softly over something. He then slowly raised his head, and grinned wickedly, delight shining in his golden eyes. "Open the door. I have a surprise that these fools will not survive." The Belmont grinned back at the hybrid before she walked over to the door and opened it. Immediately, Setsuna threw the object out the door, and then he called out one word. "Luminata!" There was a brilliant flash of light, and then Setsuna smiled. "They are all gone now, never to return and bother you again." "Thank you, Setsuna," Sonia called as she walked out the front door. She then bent down and scooped something off of the ground. Staring at it curiously for a moment, she turned and tossed the talisman back to the hybrid. "I believe this belongs to you." Setsuna smiled as he reached up and caught the double-cross. "Thanks. Now, let's get moving. We don't have much time before more undead show up here." Sonia nodded, and then she followed the hybrid out into the darkness.
As the two of them were walking together, Setsuna removed something from his shirt and was occasionally consulting it. Sonia looked at him strangely and then she raised an eyebrow. "What is that for?" "Oh, sorry. I'm just making sure that we are going in the proper direction." "How will you be able to tell?" That's because it will start to...ah, there it goes!" he said as the small object began to glow softly. As they proceeded deeper and deeper into the forest, the glow grew stronger and stronger. When he walked into one particular clearing, he accidentally kicked something. He then smiled before turning back to his traveling companion. "This is it, Lady Belmont." She looked at the young hybrid suspiciously. "How are you so sure about that?" "Because I left something irreplaceable of mine here, and I cast a spell on it to make sure that I would be the only one who could move it." The hybrid then crouched down on the ground, searching for something. Sonia crouched down next to him, and she looked directly into his eyes. "What are you looking for?" "It's a fairly small charm that looks like a cross between an obsidian arrowhead and a lapis lazuli." "Is this it?" the Belmont asked, pointing down at the small talisman lying on the ground. "That's the one!" Setsuna said happily, picking it up and replacing it on a chain around his neck. He then stood up, but Sonia was rooted to her spot. She studied the symbol on the ground, and then she looked up at the dark priest. "Is this how you came here?" she asked, pointing at the seal on the ground. Setsuna smiled, and then he crouched down over it before pulling out the vial once again. "It is time to show you how this thing works," he said as he flipped the top off the vial. He then poured the contents over the seal. Grabbing Sonia's arm, he pulled her back a few steps and waited for the Gate to activate.
Soon enough, the Time Gate spun into existence once more. Setsuna smiled, and then he gestured for the young woman to go through. "You need to go first, unless you want the portal to close on you." Sonia looked back at the hybrid, and then she smiled . "That works for me!" She then strode through the portal, and Setsuna, slowly shaking his head, followed after her. As soon as the hybrid had crossed over the threshold, the Gate promptly collapsed back into the seal, awaiting the return of the mage who had placed it there.
And so, two of the Belmonts have returned to the forge, but what about the others? We now join the Devil Forgemaster and his wife, who are about to receive some disturbing news...
Baljhet Mountains: Walachia Province: Transylvania
Time Period: 1480 AD
Hector and his wife Julia were just returning from a walk in the Aqueducts when Saint Germain contacted them. Lady Julia, it appears that I am no longer the only time-traveler here. The blonde-haired woman held up her hand, and Hector settled down on a nearby rock to check his supply of materials. What do you mean by that, Saint Germain? Well, I have an ability to sense when Time Gates are opened, and one just appeared in the throne room of the Abandoned Ruins. I'm not exactly sure what it means yet, but it does not bode very well at all. I understand, Saint Germain. Hector and I will head down and check it out. Be careful, Julia. The Belmont is also in the area, and he might not recognize you. I'll be careful, old man. Just let me know if you find anything else out. Fine with me. Good luck.
Julia opened her eyes and looked over at her husband. "Saint Germain just told me that we have a few more visitors from a different time period." Hector rose and stretched lazily before turning to look at his chosen. "Where are they?" "He said that they were up in the throne room in the Abandoned Ruins." Well then, let's get moving," he said, reaching over to wrap her in an embrace. The two then proceeded in the direction of the portal that would take them directly to the throne room. Hector held up one hand, and Julia stopped, her blue eyes lightly glittering as she heard voices coming from the portal. "Nicholai? I thought that you said that there was some sort of Portal around here." "I know that it's somewhere around here. Just keep looking, Rena. Besides, how do you think that the light Forgemaster got out of here when the door sealed?" "...Very good point, dear," the woman conceded as she continued to search through the debris below. Hector looked at his wife and smiled. "Well, it appears that they know me as the 'light Forgemaster'. I wonder what will happen if I drop in on them?" Julia grinned wickedly, mischief shining in her blue eyes. "Why don't you go ahead and give it a try, Hector? I'm sure that they won't be expecting you." The Forgemaster grinned, and then he stepped into the portal, disappearing into the throne room.
Throne Room: Ruins of Dragon's Rest
Time Period: 1480 AD
"Well, there doesn't appear to be anything over here, Nicholai. I have no clue as to where that portal might b..." Rena Krichevskoy stopped speaking as soon as Hector landed in the room. Nicholai was quick to turn, his spear already rising in his hands. "Rena? Are you alright?" "I'll be fine, Nicholai, but I'm not sure if that will last." "I see what you mean, dear" the former Overlord said as he began to circle around the well-built man who had mysteriously appeared in the center of the room. He stopped when he noticed something else moving in the corner of the room, something that he had nearly destroyed on their arrival. "LOOK OUT!" he shouted at the man as a fist came soaring in from the far corner. However, it appeared that the man had heeded his warning, and he managed to duck just in time to avoid a pounding headache.
Hector spun on his heels and then swore under his breath. Something had reactivated the Crazy Armor, but he had a feeling that it was not the only other people in the room. He turned to face the armor, drawing his laser sword in the process. He snapped on the blade, and was satisfied to find that the color of the blade had changed to blue, rather than remaining that annoying pink. He quickly lashed out at the monster, but it somehow managed to dodge under the blow. Closing in, the monster was determined to finish him off once and for all, but then it suddenly stopped. Hector's eyes widened slightly as he saw several ice spikes fall out of the blue to pin the monster in place. He turned and raised an eyebrow at the two behind him, and then he noticed that the young woman was softly chanting under her breath. She raised her head and looked directly into his eyes. "Hurry up and finish that damn thing off! I'm not sure how much longer I can hold it!" Hector nodded and then he turned around once more. He unleashed several slashes, and then he rushed forward, impaling the armor right where its heart would have been. The armor slumped over, finally deactivated. It was then that the Devil Forgemaster saw another mark on the back of the monster. It was a mark that was too familiar to him. He looked out into the shadows near the door, and then he smiled before calling out. "I know that you are there, Belmont. You can stop trying to hide from me."
The dark-haired man put away his whip and stepped into the light. Ice-blue eyes met light-silver as the man stared down the Forgemaster. "It's been four years since we last fought, Hector. I thought that you had just given up and died." The Forgemaster scoffed at this comment, and then he smiled. "It is good to see you as well, Trevor. How is your wife faring?" "Sypha is actually doing quite well." "And she is also her usual, stubborn self, dear," came the voice of a young woman from just beyond the doorway. Trevor Belmont's eyes widened as he spun around to face the only other way out of the throne room. "Sypha! I thought that I told you to stay home this time. I won't have you threatened again, especially since that damn madman is back once more." Hector stopped and then he slowly turned to face the Belmont. "Do you mind describing this madman?" "Not at all, Forgemaster. He was about your height, and he had green eyes and red hair." The Devil Forgemaster immediately swore out loud. "Son of a...! Are you certain?"
"It appears that your 'friend' might have just found us, Master Hector," called Krichevskoy as he bent over backwards in order to avoid a thrust from Cahuvre-souris. Isaac swore at the vampire in a demonic tongue, and then he lunged forward again. However, he quickly found that his attack had been blocked by the Longius. Nicholai Krichevskoy smiled wickedly at the dark Forgemaster. "Let me take a guess as to why you are here, idiot. Baal sent you to eliminate both the Belmont and the Forgemaster, correct?" "YES, damn you!" Isaac yelled as he lunged once again. Nicholai didn't bother to block this thrust. Instead, he merely stepped off to his left side, and then he raised his right arm in a cross-block that dropped Isaac onto the floor, gasping for air. "How is it...possible? No human has ever...beaten me with a...spear before." The former Overlord grinned down at the writhing man. "Who said that I was human, Forgemaster? I'm a vampire, but I refuse to serve the darkness that surrounds the Lord of Terror. Now go crawl back to your master and let him know this: the Oricaltos is coming, and he will be bringing a new kind of army with him. Now GO!" Krichevskoy roared, casting the dark Forgemaster into the newly created Time Gate. Saito! It appears that Baal might be catching on to us. Is the Belmont still alive, Nicholai? Both he and his wife are still intact, and the same goes for the Forgemaster. Have you explained yourself yet? Nooo... Then I suggest that you do that quickly, unless you want to fall prey to VampireKiller. I understand. Then seal the damn Gate! YES SIR!
The former Overlord had just finished resealing the Time Gate when his sixth sense went off. He immediately turned around in order to find that Trevor had already begun his whip stroke. He tried to bring up his spear, but he immediately realized that he was too late to save himself. However, neither man thought that Rena would intervene. The young witch threw herself into the path of the whip, taking the blow that was meant to kill her husband. She gasped in shock and pain as the whip bit deeply into her chest, and then she stumbled backwards, directly into her husband's arms. "RENA! Don't you dare die on me, my love." "I'll try...dear. Please...forgive him." The witch closed her eyes, and Nicholai immediately knew that she had gone into a trance to try and heal her injuries. He looked up at the Belmont, tears of grief shining in his red eyes. "Why did you do this? Is it just because I am a vampire, and you assume that all vampires are evil?" The Belmont hung his head in shame, and Nicholai looked sadly at his wife. "She is only human, but she loves me for who I am. She learned to look beyond prejudice, and she found love." He then looked directly at Trevor, and asked him a slightly strange question. "Did your mother ever tell you who your father truly was?" The Belmont shook his head, and Krichevskoy tilted his own to one side. "Haven't you ever wondered why Alucard was so willing to help you nearly seven years ago?" Trevor stopped, and then he thought for a moment. "Come to think of it, I never thought to ask. What are you suggesting?" Nicholai shrugged, and then he sighed aloud. "What I am suggesting to you, no, telling you what I know as fact, is this: Your father is the first-born son of Dracula. He goes by the birth-name of Adrian Fahrenheit Tepes, but he is most commonly referred to as Alucard. Does that name ring a bell, Trevor?"
The Belmont stopped, and then he looked directly at Krichevskoy. "Are you saying that I was forced to destroy my own grandfather? Are you out of your mind?" "No, I am not, young man. Think about this for a moment: Alucard was a dhamphir. He was born as a half-human. Therefore, any relations that he had could have been one of two results: They could have come out as a half, just like him. OR they could have come out as human." Hector turned and looked at the vampire in amazement. "Why in the hell do you know so much about the nature of dhamphirs?" The man smiled and shrugged. "Maybe it is because my own son is one." Trevor fell to his knees and bowed his head. "I am incredibly sorry about this. I had no idea why you were here, and I struck without provocation." He looked up, and was surprised to find that the vampire was offering him a hand. He slowly rose, and then he looked eye-to-eye with the former Overlord. "Is there anything that I can do to help?" "Well, for starters, you could invite your wife to join us. You too, Forgemaster," he said, looking pointedly at Hector. The man swallowed hard, and the he called out to his wife. "It's alright to come down, Julia. Besides, your expertise is required." The young woman was quick to descend, and she covered her mouth as soon as she saw what had happened to Rena. Looking up at Trevor, her eyes were filled with tears. "I could have told you that she was human. Why did you strike her down?" "It was unintentional. However, if I had known that she was the wife of our vampire here," he said, jerking a thumb in Nicholai's direction, "then I would not have struck." Julia slowly shook her head, and then she looked out the door. "Sypha? Is that really you?" There was a momentary pause. Then...
"Julia? I thought you had died five years ago!" cried the young woman as she rushed into the room. Disregarding her robes, she tightly hugged Julia, and then she looked down at the unconscious woman. Sypha Belnades then shot a nasty look at her husband, her bright blue eyes glittering with displeasure at what he had done. She then turned back to Rena, and she knelt down beside the young witch. "She is in a healing trance, but I am unsure whether or not we can help her." She then looked at Nicholai, and then she tilted her head to one side. "I heard a story about those type of pendants once. It was said that an agate was used to heal the succubus Niteshade of mortal injuries that she received during the year 1100. What is so interesting about that story is the fact that the healer was a silver-haired, silver-eyed man with wings." Nicholai's eyes widened, and then he saw that Rena was holding her pendant under crossed hands. "I think I may know how he was able to heal her." "Really? Why would you know that?" "Maybe it is because I personally know the man who healed Niteshade?" At this, Sypha's eyes grew wide with astonishment. "How is that possible?" Nicholai sighed, and then he explained. "There were several of us, gathered in one place, at one time. We were sent out in teams, sometimes as individuals, to bring back those who had faced and defeated Dracula. You see, we have a bit of a problem..."
"I think that I might be able to explain it better than you can, old man," came a call from the portal. Krichevskoy turned to the Englishman and narrowed his eyes. "I know much more about this than you ever will, Saint Germain. Don't get me started." The Timekeeper sighed, and then he turned away. "If you insist, Krichevskoy." The vampire turned back to his audience, and then he shrugged. "There is an evil out there, something even greater than Dracula. It has managed to trap him, in his own keep, in the year 1666. It is our job to set Dracula free, and to send this demon back to his proper place. However, we cannot do it alone." Looking around the circle, he finally got down to the point of his talk. "I am here, by the orders of the Oricaltos Saito, to bring you all back to our own time period in order to help us win the final battle. Are there any questions so far?" Julia raised her hand, and the vampire nodded that it was alright for her to ask. "I'm sorry if this question is a little late in coming, but, exactly WHO are you?" "My full name is Nicholai Alexander Krichevskoy. The woman who is currently lying on the floor is my wife, Rena Maria." Sypha was the next one to raise her hand. "Yes, Belnades?" "Exactly how did this friend of yours heal Niteshade?" "Well, if I believe correctly, he implored the Oricaltos for help, and our leader answered him. Now, if you don't mind, I need to ask him a question." Everyone fell silent as the former Overlord reached out across time and space. We have another critical injury here, Saito. Who is it this time Nicholai? The mage then stopped, and thought for a few moments. I've never known you to be one who easily panicked, Krichevskoy. What happened? Is it Rena who is injured? Yes... Sweet mother of all... Is she still alive? She has gone into stasis for the time being. I take that as a yes. Well, I healed Niteshade through the use of the holy fires. Which of the ancient words do I use when I channel? Brisingir. Thank you, Master Onago. How many times have I told you, Nicholai? I am unworthy of the title of "Master". Now get moving. Your wife is waiting for you. Yes sir.
Sypha saw the vampire's eyes come back into focus, and then he knelt down next to his wife. "Is there anything that I can do to help, Master Nicholai?" "Lend me your strength, so that I might not fall when this task is done." She quickly knelt on Krichevskoy's right side, and Julia took a position on his left. They both felt him gather his power, and they used theirs to amplify it. Nicholai was slightly surprised, but then he smiled lightly. Thank you, both of you. "Brisingir." It was a single word, but it immediately sent a shiver down the spine of everyone present. Then the blue flames appeared, washing over Rena's body, healing the massive injury inflicted by the holy whip. The flames eventually died after five minutes, leaving Rena unharmed. The young witch opened her eyes and gently smiled up at her husband. "Thank you for asking him, Nicholai," she whispered lightly as she leaned up to give him a kiss. He smiled, and then he helped her to rise. Turning, he faced the Forgemaster and the Belmont, and then he raised an eyebrow. "What do you two have to say about my proposal?" Hector and Trevor looked at each other, and then they both nodded. "We are all going." Nicholai smiled, and then he looked curiously at Hector. "Is it just me, or are you missing something?" "You mean these?" Hector asked, holding up the bag where he kept his Innocent Devils when they weren't in use. "Not only that, but don't you have another sword?" The Forgemaster grinned sheepishly as he looked at the vampire. "To tell you the truth, I ran out of materials before I could finish my last sword." Nicholai smiled, and then he turned to open the Time Gate. "I am sure that the Oricaltos will be more than willing to forge a blade for you." "Really?" Hector asked, his eyes slightly wide. Nicholai chuckled, and then he turned to respond. "Of course he will be. Not only that, but I think you might find that he is a rather avid pupil as well. Are you coming or not?" the vampire called, pointing at the Time Gate. The last of the Devil Forgemasters smiled as he shut down his beam saber, replaced it on his belt, and then strode through the Gate. Julia was quick to follow her husband, and then Trevor and Sypha entered hand-in-hand. Nicholai looked at his wife, and then he bowed deeply. "Ladies first," he called, with a mischievous sparkle in his red eyes. Rena clamped a hand over her mouth to keep from giggling, and then she passed through the Gate. Nicholai merely shook his head as he destabilized the Gate, and then he leaped through just before the opening collapsed. He ended up coming out with a roll, and he nearly took out Kurtis upon his arrival back in Onago's forge. Standing up, he looked around once, and then he sighed aloud. "It's good to be back."
Dracula's Castle: Walachia Province: Transylvania
Time: 1666 AD
Baal was furious when the Devil Forgemaster returned with nothing to show for his efforts except for a warning from Krichevskoy. Dismissing the man, the Lord of Terror summoned Shaft moments later. "Yes, my lord?" the dark priest asked, still slightly terrified of the demon that he had summoned. "I need you to find and eliminate all traces of the Belmont family. I want them to be eradicated!" Y-y-y-y-y-y-y-yes, sir!" Shaft called as he hurried away, determined to stay away from the foul tempered demon. Looking for solace, he grabbed one particular young woman and roughly marched her down into the basement. He looked into one of the cells and smiled. "Feeling a little lonely, Prince?" he sneered through clenched teeth.
Vladislav Tepes III il Dragulia, more commonly known as Dracula, raised his head and looked at the man who had become his jailer. His blood-red eyes glittered merrily as he commented. "I take it that you have finally discovered that Baal is insane?" The sneer faded from Shaft's face, and he quickly looked around to make sure that no one was watching. He then leaned closer to the bars as he whispered. "I hate to admit it, sir, but you are right on that account. However," he snarled wickedly, "Master Baal decided that you deserved some company." Unlocking the door, he shoved the young woman onto the floor next to the Count. He then locked the cell, and turned away, laughing madly. "I think I know exactly how I will stop that accursed Soma Cruz from reaching the sixth seal! However, I need to find it first..." He continued talking to himself as he walked away, but the count's attention was on the woman who had been shoved into his cell.
He took one look at her, and then he blinked in surprise. The woman groaned aloud and then sat up, tossing her hood back to reveal perfect features. Vlad's eyes widened, and then he smiled gently. "Lisa? Is it truly you?" The young woman looked over at her cell-mate, blinked twice in surprise, and then she threw her arms around the count's neck. "Vlad! I thought I had lost you forever!" Lisa wiped happy tears from her brown eyes, and then she looked into those of her husband. "Do you have the seal?" she asked, slightly curious. Dracula smiled wickedly, and then he lifted his left hand to reveal the sixth seal. "I just need to find a way to relax and enter the Chaos stream. That way, I can give this to Soma Cruz in 2040. However, I just hope that he can make it through whatever Shaft has planned for him."
Author's note: Well, it appears that the first three have met with success, but what about the rest of the group? Will they meet with similar results, or will the mage's plan fall into ruins? Find out on our next installment, Belmonts, Kischine, and More Obstacles. Also, please remember to READ AND REVIEW. Thank you.