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Child of The Night
Child of The Night
Summary: I have decided to attempt a slash version of Dracula. This will not cleave to any one
interpretation of the story, though the classic Universal version, and Oliver Stone’s version will be the
greatest influence. I have ’cast’ my story, using a mixture of actors and actresses. Feel free to
substitute your own favorites, but these are mine. In fact, I’d be interested to hear if anyone is going to
be ’wathing’ a different actor in a particular characterization, and why.
Rating: FRAO - Adult
Fandoms: Dracula
Characters: Draculea/Nicolae, ensemble, original character
Genres: Slash
Warnings: Angst, Kink - Incest, Violence
Challenges: None
Series: None
Published: 12/14/04
CoAuthor #1: ---NONE---
CoAuthor #2: ---NONE---
CoAuthor #3: ---NONE---
CoAuthor #4: ---NONE---
Updated: 12/17/09
Index
Back to index
Chapter 2: Chapter 2: Romania, The Year of Our Lord, 1460, a week later
Author’s Notes: Note: My good friend, krss (a Romanian) pointed out that Nicoluiae was not a true
Romanian name. At her suggestion, I am substituting Nicolea (which I like better, anyway.)
Translations of Romanian terms at end of episode.
Part 2
Romania, The Year of Our Lord, 1460, a week later.
On their journey, they passed through the land that he would receive in dowery, if he chose to marry
Elizabeta Varga. Vlad was pleased. It was well tended, and looked as if it would produce abundant
crops. He also spotted a few fine flocks of sheep, and some cattle. He assumed that these would be part
and parcel in the bargain. That was how such things were usually done. He had a large household, and
extra provisions were always welcome.
Varga’s castle was a good bit smaller than Castle Draculea, but well made, well fortified. In the
courtyard, vassals ran to take the reins of their horses. The small party dismounted, and Vlad studied
the area as the animals were led away.
A group of people came through the front entrance of the castle, a plump, gray haired man in their
lead, his hands outstretched in greeting. "Maria Ta Draculea!" He bowed deeply, and Vlad returned a
polite tilting of the head. "I am honored that you will consider my sweet Elizabeta for your countess.
Please, Domn, grace my humble home."
Vlad droned the proper response. "It is I that am honored that you will allow me the possibility of
asking for the hand of your precious child." He glanced over the small crowd that had come out to
greet the visitors, but did not see anyone who looked as if they might be the youngest daughter of the
household. He did, however, see SOMEONE interesting.
It was only a glimpse, really, of someone who hovered at the back of the crowd for a moment,
watching the heavily armed men of Vlad’s entourage with something akin to dismay. He was a slender
youth in a coarse brown smock, the shapeless garment belted at the waist. Vlad wondered that Varga
would allow his household servants to dress so poorly. He caught the boy’s gaze for a moment. The
lad’s eyes were large, velvety brown, and seemed to tilt just the slightest bit at the outer corners. Doe’s
eyes. He slipped back into the castle, and Vlad stared after him, letting his host’s fulsome welcoming
speech wash over him unnoticed.
Who had that been, he wondered. Footman? Steward in training? He was a bit old for a page. A stable
lad or assistant to the gamekeeper or hawkmaster would not have been allowed in the house.
He was led inside, and shown immediately to his room. It was, of course, the most impressive in the
building. Ernestu had probably moved out of it only the day before, so that his noble guest might have
fitting accommodations. "You will wish to rest and refresh yourself before the feast this evening,
Domn. Please, ask for anything you need or crave. My servants are your servants."
*How comforting to hear, Ernestu,* he thought. *For I have a definite craving for one of your
servants, I think. Yes, I believe I need him quite badly.* When the older man was gone, Vlad spoke to
Simion, his aide. "I saw a young man among the household, Simion. Tall, slender. Short, dark hair.
Sixteen or so. Great brown eyes. Bring him to me." Simion smiled, bowing. He had been with the
count many years, and knew him well. The master must be smitten indeed to call for the boy so
quickly upon his arrival, not even bothering to pretend patience. The boy would find himself walking
awkwardly soon, if Simion was not wrong. He rather hoped that the lad would be able to appreciate
what a boon the attention of Vlad Tepes Draculea was.
He asked about, only to be met with blank stares. No, no young male household servant of that
description. Unwilling to return to his master empty handed, he prowled the servant’s quarters, and the
kitchens. Nothing. Reluctantly, he returned to Vlad’s room.
He found his master ready for his desired charmer. He had doffed his heavy travel clothes, and wore
only a thin, white robe. He looked even more angelic than ever, until one noticed that the cloth, when
he moved, molded itself to a very human and needy erection. When Vlad saw that his servant returned
alone, his face darkened into a scowl. Simion said hastily, "My Lord, I tried! He is nowhere to be
found. All the servants deny knowledge of him."
"I’m not blind, Simion, nor a fool. I know what I saw. That boy is here, somewhere." He didn’t add,
*And I mean to have him.* There was no need. Simion knew.
"Patience, Domn. If he is here, I will find him." *Boy,* thought Simion. *I only hope you delight in
men. Otherwise your life will be most uncomfortable for a while. Vlad does not like to be denied.*
Simion continued his inquiry as discretely as he could, while seeing that his lordship’s party was
situated, and their animals well cared for. The servants of this household, he noted with satisfaction,
knew to give the utmost care to the belongings (material, human, and animal) of the visiting nobleman.
But he still had no luck when the time of the feast had arrived. Vlad’s expression was nearly as dark as
the somber formal wear he donned for the banquet. But, when he entered the hall, he arranged his
features into a pleasant expression. He had little love for the social politics of his class, but he knew
what was necessary.
The tables were set up in a U shape, the place of honor being at the end bar. The ranks of the guests
descended as one moved toward the ends of the table. Vlad was escorted with much ceremony to the
place at the right hand of his host, who sat in the very center of the upper table.
The room was already filled with guests, standing behind their seats, and awaiting the arrival of the
favored suitor. Vlad was introduced to them with a short, but excessively flowery speech. He replied
with a few courtly thanks. Then Ernestu said proudly, "Now, Domn, my treasure, my Elizabeta."
The young woman swept into the room, followed by a few nervously giggling maids, and made her
way to the head table. Vlad watched her, with a wry appreciation of the chit’s sense of self
presentation. This was no trembling, shy flower. She had a sense of her own worth.
Elizabeta stood on the other side of her father, and curtsied low. The square cut neckline of her ruby
red velvet dress showed the tops of small, high breasts, the milky white sought by all noblewomen.
She had raven black hair, twisted into a smooth coil at the base of her neck and covered by a small
chaplet of knotted gold cords.
Her eyes, when they met his, were a bit of a shock. They were the very eyes of the youth who had
caught his fancy: large, dark, and slightly tilted. There was even a touch of resemblance in the face,
with the high cheekbones. But her mouth was smaller, where his had been generous, almost lush.
There was something peculiar going on here, he thought.
Being a proper daughter, she did not speak, because she had not been given permission to do so. On
this, their first meeting, she was seated on her father’s other side. Later she would be allowed to sit
beside Vlad, so that they might become at least nominally acquainted.
As the entire company was sitting down, one last guest slipped into the room, taking a seat at the very
end of one table, the humblest seat in the room. There was no mistaking the slender figure with the
close cropped dark hair. It was the youth he had seen in the courtyard.
*So...not a servant,* Draculea mused. No serving boy would ever dare sit at table with his lords.
*What a pity. I’ll have to be a bit more cautious in my pursuit. Still, he must be a very low ranking
member of this house. I’ll just have to move a bit more slowly.*
Vlad kept up the polite illusion of interest in the woman who would possibly be his bride, passing
remarks to her over her father, half listening to the replies. His eyes kept straying to the end of the
table.
The boy ate slowly, almost daintily, pulling his food to tiny pieces before consuming it. Rather than
licking his fingers as most of the lords and ladies did, he wiped them often on a cloth he kept draped
on his lap. When a servant tried to pour wine for him, he covered his goblet with his hand, shaking his
head. Another brought him a carafe of water, and that he accepted.
No one spoke to him as he dined. He was generally ignored, and he seemed content with this. Stranger,
and stranger. Low rank, modest garments, abstinence, short hair... Possibly a cleric? Hm, that might
make things more difficult. But not impossible. Vlad smiled to himself. If the boy practiced celibacy,
it would be a real treat to unleash the energy he was keeping bottled up.
Vlad said conversationally to Ernestu, "You keep a priest? I may wish to make confession later."
"Of course, Domn, of course. The report of your piety prebends you." Vlad lifted his eyebrows
skeptically. He observed the formalities of his religion, but he hardly had a reputation of saintliness,
and he knew it. Ernestu gestured toward a bald man in black robes sitting a little farther down the
table. "Father Mircea is always ready to perform his holy offices. You can generally find him in the
chapel...or the library." He said the last word with the slightest hint of dismissal.
Vlad sat a bit straighter, interest piqued. "You have a library, Vargas?"
His host looked puzzled, but continued smiling. "Yes, Domn. Some very fine volumes." Vlad knew
what he was thinking. The Draculea were renowned warriors. They were not expected to be interested
in anything as soft as literature or learning, unless it involved the martial skills, philosophies, and
tactics. But in fact, Vlad’s ancestors had respected, perhaps even revered knowledge. There was an
impressive collection of books, papers and scrolls housed in Castle Draculea. They were sadly
neglected these days, as the last librarian had died in his father’s time, and had never been replaced.
Elizabeta, eyes demurely on her plate, ventured, "We will have more, as time passes. Nicolea works so
hard, every day..."
Ernestu grunted. "That’s all he’s good for."
"Father, please. It is what he was trained to do. You can hardly expect him to be a warrior or huntsman
with the way he was raised..."
"You can’t blame that on me, girl. I had no idea he’d turn out so soft."
From the sound of things, this was an old bone of contention between them. Vlad found it interesting.
Till now Elizabeta had been the model of a meek daughter, willing to bend to every whim and
command of her father. What was this Nicolea to her, that she defended him?
Elizabeta was continuing. "What did you expect when you sent him to live with the friars? You knew
they were scholars. If you had wanted him to be a warrior, you should have sent him as squire to a
knight. But of course..." her tone was bitter, "You would have had to outfit him, and that would have
been much more expensive. All that was required at the monastery was a few coarse garments and a
pittance for his food."
"Beta! Enough. You act as though he were your brother..." Her eyes now flashed up at him. *Well, this
one has spirit after all* Vlad thought.
"He IS my brother!" Elizabeta’s voice was low and hard now, completely different from the gentle
fluting she had used before. "Albeit we were not nurtured by the same womb, we spring from the same
seed, Father."
*Ah, that explains it. A bastard.* Common enough. The situation seemed a bit unusual, though. From
what he was hearing, it seemed as though Elizabeta and this Nicolea had been raised together, at least
during their early years. Her affection was obvious. Noblemen often provided for their by-blows,
especially if the mother were anyone above peasant stock. But very seldom was an illegitimate child
allowed contact with a legitimate one.
Vlad didn’t think much of Ernestu so far, but he seemed to have done more than his duty for this child.
He had apparently raised it for a time, then fostered it in a place where it would be safe, and learn a
trade. Few would have done as much.
"He reads?" Vlad broke in, and both father and daughter looked at him a little blankly. They had been
caught up in a long running argument. "I admire those who make the effort to learn. I myself enjoy the
library at Castle Draculea."
Elizabeta, sensing a possible champion for her favorite, nodded eagerly. "And he writes, too. Not just
copies, but writes his own thoughts. Oh, he has a beautiful hand! So clear, so perfect. It is an art..."
"May I meet this artist?" It was a way to earn favor in the girl’s sight, and irritate her father. He dared
not refuse his guest anything, no matter how it might annoy him.
Ernestu sighed heavily, and beckoned to a footman. "Bring the librarian."
The footman started down the table. With each step he took, Vlad felt his heart begin to beat faster.
The servant passed the ranks of nobles, and each turned to watch his progress, curious as to who was
being summoned to the table of honor. He walked all the way to the end of the table, and stopped by
the dark haired boy in the rough brown garments, speaking to him quietly.
The boy turned from his plate to listen, then looked up toward the table, his large dark eyes
questioning. There was a dab of some sort of dark sauce on his lips. The summons must have made
him nervous because, unmindful of his napkin, his tongue darted out to lick away the smear. Vlad felt
himself begin to grow hard beneath the table.
The boy stood up and came around the end of the table, walking up the space between the two sides.
The room was very quite as the other diners watched him pass. Vlad could hear the soft pad of his
slippered feet. At last he stood before them.
His gaze flicked over Vlad, moving away quickly to the man who was his father in the flesh, if not the
spirit. Then he looked at Elizabeta, and his eyes grew soft and warm. A small smile graced his face,
making him look even younger, and so desirable that Vlad ached. For a moment, he almost hated the
girl who could win such a look from him.
Then he looked back to Ernestu, his smile fading, and dropped his gaze. His voice was quiet,
respectful. "You commanded my presence, sir?"
"Our honored guest has expressed a desire to meet you." Ernestu’s tone said *though I cannot fathom
WHY*.
The boy again looked at Vlad, then quickly at the floor, a hot flush rising to stain his cheeks. The way
the visiting lord was looking at him was most...disconcerting.
*My God, he is beautiful* Vlad marveled. He spoke kindly. "Look at me, boy, and tell me your
name."
The youth raised his eyes hesitantly. The count’s eyes were blue, and blue should be a cool color. Why
were they so intense, so hot? He barely managed to lift his voice above a whisper as he spoke to Count
Vlad Tepes Draculea for the first time. "If it please my lord, I am called Nicolea Calugarule."
*Ah* thought Vlad. *So, Varga will not risk any of his estate by claiming the boy as a Varga. Nicolea
the Monk, eh? I shall have to see if I cannot make certain that the name does not remain...fitting.*
Translations:
Maria Ta : Your Highness
Domn: lord
To be continued...
Back to index
Chapter 3: Part 3
Author’s Notes: fandom: Movie, Dracula
criticism Yes
archive Yes, let me know where
feedback Yes. poet_77665@yahoo.com
disclaimer: Originally, Bram Stoker
summary: Vlad’s infatuation with Nicolae grows.
notes: In this era, the common people had few rights, and bastards almost none at all. Thus Nicu’s
plight.
’white-livered’ was a term used to denote a coward, someone reluctant to ’act like a man’.
rating NC-17
warnings: m/m relations
Part 3
Vlad’s gaze roved hungrily over the young man standing before him. But he was a seasoned noble,
able to conceal his true emotions when necessary, so he kept his voice mild, and his expression bland.
Only the boy himself seemed to be aware that the count’s interest was more than cursory, and that was
only a suspicion. "The Lady Elizabeta sings your praises, Calugarul. She believes you to be an artist
with the quill."
Another fond glance at the young woman caused Vlad’s hand to tighten on his goblet. "The lady is
most kind and generous. I like to believe that I have some small skill."
"She says that you do not merely transcribe. You do not simply copy what you see, but can write to
express your own thoughts."
The boy’s blush deepened, and Vlad realized why when Ernestu snapped, "With the price of
parchment these days?! He had best not! I’ll not be wasting good paper on the meanderings of a
white-livered stripling." Now the boy paled, and Vlad saw his fists clench at his sides, almost hidden
by his robe.
*So, you haven’t grown a thick skin yet, boy. The old warthog can still sting you with his words.*
Ernestu was continueing. "You haven’t been up to such foolishness again, have you, boy? I hope the
last beating taught you the error of such folly."
Vlad looked at the older man sharply. Yes, servants were beaten for disobedience, and for wasting
their master’s resources. But this... Even if Ernestu were the sort who believed in raising his children
by the rod, it seemed a bit severe for a few sheets of paper.
Nicolae’s gaze dropped again, and there was a barely discernable tremor in his voice. "No, Marie Ta. I
have not forgotten." His shoulders hunched slightly, as if in memory of the painful lesson.
"I would like to see your work, Calugarul. Will you show it to me tomorrow?"
"Of course he will." It took an effort of will to keep from back handing the other nobleman.
Vlad ignored the older man. "When will be a convenient time for me to come to you in the library?"
Again the boy was not allowed to answer for himself. "Any time you please, Domn. It is not as though
he has an important schedule to keep. The scribblings can be done at any time."
Draculae ignored the man again. "Calugarul?"
The youth bowed slightly. "Whenever it pleases you best, Domn. I am there the greater part of each
day. If not there, I am usually in the chapel, or the garden. I am not difficult to find."
"Good." Vlad wanted to continue talking to the boy. Hell, he wanted to pull Nicolae down onto his lap
and plunder that wide mouth with kisses, till he was gasping and sweetly squirming. But he simply
waved a dismissal. Nicolae bowed again, and made his way back to his place at the end of the table.
For the rest of the evening Vlad was a man half distracted. He responded to Ernestu and Elizabeta, and
whoever else was brave enough to speak, with reflexive courtesy. But his mind was on the young man
at the end of the table.
When all the food was cleared away but the sweetmeats, the entertainers came in. The rank of seating
was relaxed, and guests moved about, forming small cliques to watch the minstrals and jugglers.
Ernestu himself moved, finally allowing his daughter to sit beside the man he hoped she would marry.
Seeing his chance, Vlad laid a hand on Elizabeta’s arm, a gesture that was considered rather bold. He
said, "Lady, I believe you miss your young companion. Why not call your Calugarul to sit here with
us?"
Her eyes were grateful, but she said, "You are kind, Count. But my father will not allow him to sit
with me."
"I believe, though, that he will not object if I request his company." Vlad raised his voice above the
hum of conversation. "Calugarul!"
Nicolae stood up again. "My lord calls?"
He gestured. "Come sit with me."
Whispers followed the boy as he made his way around the table, up to the place of honor. When he
came near Vlad, he paused, looking at Elizabeta, and Ernestu questioningly. Elizabeta smiled
encouragingly. Ernestu scowled, and indicated with a jerk of his head that Nicolae was to fulfill the
guest’s desires.
Vlad slid a little to the side, baring a narrow portion of the bench he was seated on, and patted the
smooth wood. "Here, boy. The best seat, I think. You will be able to see everything, here."
Nicolae sat tentatively. The space he had been left was little more than a sliver. He found his side
pressed against the older man beside him. He couldn’t put any more space between them without
risking falling.
Nicolae wasn’t... exactly uncomfortable. He was just very aware of the other man. The count was so
big. Nicolae, though rather slender, was tall himself. Few men of this age could stand flat footed, and
look him in the eyes. But Draculea was at least a half head taller than he, and broader. No, not bulky.
He was too well proportioned for that. But... solid. Very solid.
As the minstrals began a tune about two lovers sneaking off for a moonlit tryst, Nicolae dared to slip a
glance toward his neighbor. He was horribly embarrassed when he found that Vlad was staring back at
him, and he dropped his gaze quickly. It was very bad form to look a superior in the eyes, bordering on
insolence. And insolence was punished. But the count made no remark, and Nicolae began to relax a
little.
*He is a handsome man,* Nicolae thought. *At least Beta will have that. She was so afraid that her
father would wed her to a fat, ugly, graceless old man. The count is none of those things. And he is
rich, and powerful. Beta will be a great lady. Good. She deserves it. But I will miss her...*
"What are you thinking of?"
The question was softly spoken, but it startled Nicolae, nontheless. He jerked, and lost his balance. He
would have fallen, and he had a moment to think *No, please, not before all these people. Ernestu
thinks me enough of a fool as it is.*
But he didn’t fall. A strong arm went around him, catching him and dragging him back safely onto the
seat. Surprised, he turned to meet the count’s gaze, purposefully this time. Those light blue eyes were
once again warm. "I am sorry, Domn."
"For what, boy? You were startled, nothing more. It was my fault for being so abrupt. But answer me.
What were you thinking of, to put such a pensive look on your face?"
It never occured to Nicolae to lie. "I was thinking of the Lady Elizabeta, sir."
"Oh?" There was a coolness in the voice that was at odds with the heat in his eyes. "Yes, she is such a
one to haunt the mind of a healthy young man, such as yourself."
Nicolae blinked. What an odd thing to say. "She is my sister, Domn. I will miss her when... If she
leaves."
"I see." The chill was gone from his tone now. "You are great friends, are you not?"
"She is the only one who has ever loved me," he said simply. His eyes grew wider as he felt the older
man’s arm tighten around him.
Vlad’s thumb stroked the boy’s arm slowly. Beneath the coarse cloth he felt the slightly rounded
firmness of his bicept. His outward appearance was a little fragile, but Vlad guessed that, unclothed, he
would prove to be sturdy, and well built. He very much wanted to see if his surmise was correct.
"That is sad, Nicolae." For the first time, the count used his Christian name. Nicolae could not restrain
a small shiver, but for the safety of his soul, he would not have been able to say WHY. "Some day..."
The hand drifted up, and rested for a moment on his head, smoothing the sleek, dark hair. "Someday,
you will be loved. Deeply."
"It is the fondest wish of every mortal man, Domn."
"No, Nicolae. Not every man. Perhaps only the very foolish, and the very wise."
As they spoke, the minstrals had given way to a man with a trained monkey. Noticing the two so
seemingly deep in conversation, the man urged his creature toward them.
The tiny monkey leaped to the table before the two men, squealing. The younger gave a start, and
would have toppled over if the elder hadn’t caught him again, laughing. The monkey bounced before
him, chattering. It touched a plate of candies sitting before the two men. Then it dropped to it’s knees
and clasped it’s tiny four fingered hands in an attitude of begging.
Nicolae burst out laughing, along with the rest of the company, covering his mouth. Vlad nudged him.
"Feed the supplicant, Nicolae."
Having been given permission to make free with the foodstuffs that he had not paid for, Nicolae chose
a glazed chestnut, and offered it to the little simian. It snatched it away, stuffing it in it’s mouth to
bulge it’s cheek. Then it threw it’s hairy arms around Nicolae’s neck, pressed it’s wrinkled lips to his
cheek, and bounded away again.
The company shrieked with laughter, none more so than Nicolae. Tears of mirth streaked his smooth
cheeks. It was all Vlad could do not to grab him and lick the damp tracks away, then swallow the
laughter with open mouthed kisses.
Seeing that he was watching again, Nicolae choked, "It... Oh, dear. I fear my love has come. And... "
He could scarcesly speak, "And I had so hoped for someone a bit more handsome!"
Now the room truly exploded with laughter. No one, except Simion, stationed near his lord, noticed
that the prospective bridegroom did not join in the merriment. He did not laugh, but he DID smile.
And his eyes never left the flushed face of the boy sitting beside him...
To be continued...
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Ambivalence
Nicolae wished he could have spent a few moments speaking with Elizabeta after the feast, as he was
eager to learn what she thought of her suitor. But Ernestu father made sure that was not possible. He
herded his youngest daughter from the room the moment the prince left, scowling darkly at his bastard
son.
Elizabeta and Nicolae had both been born on the same day, only hours apart. Ernestu still couldn’t
imagine what had possessed him to allow the boy to be raised in his own household. Perhaps his
mother had been a witch? It would be nice to think so, because he wouldn’t feel so obligated toward
the boy. Some how Christina, his wife’s lady-in- waiting, had persuaded him to keep the boy on. On
her death bed, she had extracted a sworn vow that little Nicolae would never be thrown out into the
world to starve. So Ernestu was stuck with him, unless he could find the boy a substantial position
elsewhere.
Nicolae hadn’t had a very happy childhood. Oh, the actual abuse wasn’t so bad, not compared to what
it could have been, or to what others of his station suffered routinely. He knew that, and dutifully
thanked God in his prayers. But it had been... lonely.
Ernestu was indifferent, his wife hated Nicolae as proof in the flesh of her husband’s infidelity, and the
servants either couldn’t be bothered, or were afraid of incurring her displeasure. The only ones who
were kind to him were the religious brothers employed to tutor him and Elizabeta, and his half-sister
herself.
Elizabeta was the only mortal to ever express open, personal love for Nicolae. And Nicolae had to
admit that between the two of them, his love was the greater. He tried not to fault her for it. It was the
world into which they had been born, he told himself. The world functioned on a strict hierarchy,
ranging from God in Heaven, down through celestial beings, to Man, to the Beasts, and down into the
Crawling Kingdom. Those of a higher order were always aware of the gaps. A relationship, even one
as benign as sororal love, was not really permitted between a high born lady and a bastard of dubious
gentility. So he watched sadly as his sister swept out of the room, surrounded by her giggling
entourage. She seemed happy. He was glad of that.
He sat for awhile longer, picking at the plate of sweets before him. This was one thing he had missed
in the monastery. The food there was usually ample (unless there was a fast decreed), but so plain.
Nicolae feared that one of his secret sins was gluttony. He just couldn’t resist the cakes, pies, and
confections that Ernestu’s cooks turned out so steadily.
Nicolae had no idea how charmingly young he looked, rummaging among the sugared almonds and
candied fruit. Several of the women, and not a few of the men, watched him covertly. He was very
tempting: so young, beautiful, and innocent. But he was in Ernestu’s disfavor, and no one was willing
to risk that to try to sample his charms. A few remarked, though, that perhaps the visiting Prince would
not be cowed by Ernestu’s disapproval. He’d certainly kept the boy close enough throughout the
entertainment.
Nicolae finished his meal, still refusing all offers of wine. It had been hotly argued in the monastery as
to whether or not wine should be consumed outside the Holy Sacrament. Some advocated complete
abstinence. Others pointed to the miracle of Our Lord changing water into wine at the wedding feast.
Surely he could not object? Nicolae, as in most things, felt it was better to err on the side of self
restraint. He hadn’t seen all that much of the world, but he knew that strong drink could lead some
men to act in a less than godly manner.
He remembered a certain incident not long before he had been required to leave his sanctuary and
return to the castle. One of the laymen who occasionally helped the friars had found the medicinal
brandy that their healer kept in the still room. Nicu had found the man, drunk, on the floor. The proper
thing to do would have been to alert a senior brother immediately, but... The man, some ten or fifteen
years older than he, had been kind. He had treated Nicolae with rough good humor, making a few
mildly coarse jests that had left Nicu blushing in confusion, and amused the man even more.
Nicolae had stared at the man, sprawled on the cold stone in a drunken stupor. His tunic was rucked up
around his hips, exposing sturdy, hairy legs, marked here and there by a scar acquired in his labors. It
must be cold, Nicolae had thought. He doubted that he could help the man up and to his bed, but
perhaps he could make him more comfortable.
He squatted beside the man and gently tugged at the hem of his garment, trying to pull it down for the
sake of warmth, and modesty. He had been shocked when the hard, callused hand had closed over his
wrist. The laborer wasn’t as drunk as Nicolae had thought, it seemed.
Or was he? Nicolae looked into blood-shot eyes, and the man slowly smiled at him. "Well, hello,
pretty." he slurred.
Nicolae said quietly, "It’s all right. I want to help you."
"Oh, aye, lad, aye. Ye can help me well." Nicolae froze in surprise as the man pulled his own tunic up
higher, and dragged Nicolae’s hand down into the wiry thatch of hair at his crotch. He formed the
boy’s fingers around the thick tube of flesh that was just beginning to stir there. "I been wond’rin when
ye would come ta me, but yer worth waitin’ for."
Nicolae shivered violently, and the man apparently mistook it for passion. He’d been hoping that the
dark-eyed male beauty, who moved among the plain friars like a thoroughbred colt among a herd of
plow beasts, would prove willing, and now it seemed his wishes were being answered. "Aye, lad, for
you. You’re the prettiest piece, man or woman, I’ve seen in dog’s years."
"No, please," Nicolae whispered desperately. "You don’t understand."
Now the man’s hand was moving up under Nicolae’s robe, running along the outside of his thigh.
"S’alright, m’ lovely. I understand. A sweet bit like yerself, locked up here with these dry sticks...
Only ta be ’spected you’d want a taste of a real man."
Nicolae was horrified to feel a stirring in his groin. It was one that usually only came to him late at
night, or else he awakened to it. He started to feel light headed as his blood began to pound in his
veins, seeming to rush directly to that one point between his legs.
The man was moving Nicolae’s hand now, using it to stroke himself. The flesh under Nicolae’s palm
felt heated, and it swelled ever greater by the moment. Nicolae felt the other man’s hand slip around to
tickle at the sensitive skin of his inner thigh, fingers crawling upward toward the center of his heat. He
moaned, and the other man chuckled, a perfectly evil sound, "That’s right, m’pretty. Ah, if ye only had
a set of teats, ye’d be just about perfect."
It was like cold water thrown in Nicolae’s face. What was he doing? He tore his hand away, falling
backward, landing on his bottom. The other man whined in protest, and started to try to crawl over to
him. His penis was now engorged, thick and long, and a clear stream of liquid drooled from the head.
It swayed pendulously as he crawled toward the boy, who was scooting away. "Come back to me,
pretty. I won’t hurt ye, I swear. I’ll be gentle..."
Nicolae scrambled to his feet and fled. He ran to the chapel, and crouched at the alter in supplication,
then went to kneel before the blessed Madonna, lifting his hands in wordless appeal.
He was in turmoil, more frightened than he’d ever been in his life, because part of him had wanted to
remain there on the still room floor, had wanted to allow the drunken, lusting man to crawl over him,
and had wanted to find out exactly what he had meant when he said he would be gentle...
Nicolae prostrated himself, lying on his face on the cold stone, arms outstretched to either side, and
tried to pray. But he was too aware of the heat of his cock, erect and throbbing, pressed between his
belly and the floor. He couldn’t even manage a rote Hail Mary, or Our Father. All he could do was
whisper, over and over, "Please, God. Please, God. Please, God."
Eventually the insistent swelling abated, and his flesh cooled, if his mind did not. He got on his knees
and spent the next hour begging for forgiveness for his lustful thoughts. But he did not dare tell the
priest about them during his next confession. So far he had confessed them only to the Blessed Virgin.
He hoped she understood, and wished that she would grant him peace from the images that had begun
to plague him. Because he kept seeing that swollen shaft of flesh, swaying proudly, glistening...
Nicolae shook his head, looking around the banquet hall. It was almost empty now, most of the
revelers having gone off to bed: their’s, or another’s. Past time for him to be abed, also. The Prince
might wish to come to the library early tomorrow.
Nicolae padded through the twisting corridors, ever lower into the depths of the castle. He often tried
to console himself that since his room was beneath the dank earth, it would mean he was best
protected if the castle was ever attacked. He would have liked a window, though, so he could catch a
breeze, or see by something other than lamp and candle light.
In his tiny room, which really wasn’t much different than his cell at the monastery had been, he lit
only one candle. It was all he needed for his evening’s devotions, and to see himself to bed.
Sitting on the edge of his plain, narrow cot, Nicolae read a chapter from his bible, choosing Proverbs
He liked that book: such simple, clear directions for life. Then he knelt on the cold stone floor and
prayed his rosary, letting the drone of words and click of beads soothe him, as it always did.
He was a little ashamed that his mind did not, perhaps, always remain fixed on the Divine Mysteries as
he chanted the prayers. In penance, he said the beads again, feeling his knees go numb on the hard
floor, and feeling the twinge in one calf that warned of an approaching cramp. Luckily, he finished
before the muscles tensed, and arose.
At last he stripped off the rough tunic. He decided to keep on the smooth linen under drawers that
Elizabeta had given him. She had been horrified to learn that he went nude under his robes. He had
been near dead of embarrassment.
It seemed that one of her ladies had gossiped that the order he had stayed with felt that undergarments
were an unnecessary vanity. Indeed, Nicolae could see how the garments could be considered a
temptation for the earthly clay. They were wonderfully sensuous, cool and smooth against his skin. He
felt almost guilty for his enjoyment of them.
Nicolae blew out the candle and crawled under his thin blanket. He pillowed his head on his arm and
tried to sleep, eventually succeeding... to a point.
He dreamed. He’d had such dreams before, and they were more sensation that sense, more feeling than
thought. He felt washed by waves of delicious warmth, as if strong hands were stroking the length of
his body. He turned on his belly with a sigh, and his now tumescent cock pressed into his thin
mattress. His hips moved unconsciously, rubbing the sensitive flesh against the smoothness of his
drawers.
Nicolae hummed in his sleep, long body writhing slowly to the rhythm of his dream. He felt an aching
emptiness in his body, as if something were missing, as if there was a void that needed to be filled. In
his sleep, he buried his face against the mattress, feeling phantom hands caress his back, his sides, his
neck. Unconsciously, his legs spread...
...and he awoke with a start, feeling the warm gush of fluid that bathed his belly and began to soak into
his bed. He sat up with a cry of shame and distress.
Standing, he quickly stripped off his drawers. There was water in the basin for his morning wash, and
he rinsed the soiled garment, then spread it carefully on his one crude chair to dry.
Nicolae turned his mattress, putting the damp patch on the other side, then started to lie down again.
But he stopped, biting his lip. The dream was still too close. If he slept now, it might return.
Instead, he knelt again on the rough stones, naked this time, and began to pray. He tried to keep his
mind fixed on good works, virtues and charities. But for some mad reason, all he could think about
were blue eyes...
TBC
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Part 6: Courtship
Castle Varga, Romania 1460
Vlad was an early riser, had been all his life. As a prince, he could have theoretically lain in bed as
long as he wished. Being a practical man, in most matters, he knew this was not wise. If the people
thought that their ruler was lazy, it might give certain factions dangerous ideas. Vlad cultivated the
impression that he slept little, if at all.
He arose, as was his custom, in the grey light that signaled the coming dawn. As early as he was,
Simion was up before him. His servant was poking the slumbering coals of last night’s fire into life,
feeding it carefully. He glanced back over his shoulder as Vlad swung his long legs over the side of the
bed, sitting up. "Good morning, Maria Ta Draculea." In the light of day, he was back to the formal
mode of address. "You slept well?"
"Well enough, Simion. It would have been more satisfying had I someone sleek and warm curled close
beside me."
Simion nodded. "Soon, master, I am sure."
"I hope so, Simion. The boy was raised in a monastery. What might those sexless drones have done to
his spirit?"
Simion’s smile was arch. "They aren’t all sexless, m’lord. I believe you know that from experience. I
seem to recall a certain young abbot..."
Vlad chuckled at the memory. "Well, he was an exception. There wasn’t an altar boy in the province
he hadn’t debauched, and half the priests as well." His eyes darkened. "It was a shame he was a traitor.
I really hated having to spear that sweet ass with hard, sharp wood instead of a good, solid cock."
The cleric in question had been foolish enough to have dealings with the Turks, even hiding some of
them in his monastery. He had to die for that, no matter his previous relation with the Prince. If Vlad
had allowed him to live after such a blatant betrayal, it would have seriously undermined him in the
eyes of his people.
So the fair abbot, along with several of his Turkish friends, had writhed his life away on a tall stake, as
thick as a brawny man’s arm, set up in front of Castle Draculea, He had thrashed, naked, as his weight
had slowly forced him down on the sharpened wood driven up his anus, while the man who had
fucked him with such passion not a month before dined placidly at a table that had been set up before
him. He had no way of knowing that Vlad, in his own way, and as much as he felt able, was being
kind. The stake had been sharpened, so that it would pierce more quickly. The Turks had been impaled
on blunt stakes. It took them much longer to die.
Simion saw that he had led Vlad to a memory that darkened his mood, exactly what he had wished to
avoid. He set a kettle of water on the hob over the flames to warm, and stood up. "Will you breakfast
before you take your morning ride, Domn? I have brought something, if you wish."
Vlad stood up and stretched, distracted from the unpleasant memory by the thought of food. He hadn’t
eaten as much as he might have last night. He’d been too preoccupied with observing Nicolae. "Yes,
Simion. I can eat."
He slipped into the simple morning robe that Simion held for him, and went to the table. There was
bread, cheese, sausage, and apples laid out for him. He munched his way pensively through the simple
repast as Simion bustled about the room, setting the bed to order and laying out his clothes for the day.
When he was finished, Simion brought a basin of steaming water, soap, a cloth, and the razor. Hanging
the cloth over Vlad’s shoulder, he worked the fine, scented soap onto his prince’s face, bringing up a
lavish lather, and began to shave him.
Most men of this age, if not clerics, preferred to grow beards, or at least moustaches, rather than
struggle with the daily chore of shaving in an age when only the wealthy could afford to keep fine,
keen edged razors. Simion suspected that the religious did it as a form of penance, using dull blades to
scrape the stubble from face and head.
Shaving was not an ordeal for Prince Vlad. Simion made sure the razor was kept stropped to a hair fine
edge, and he used a special soap, formulated by an apothecary to soothe his prince’s skin, prevent
scrapes, and speed the healing of any cuts. But there were never cuts. Simion was an expert with any
kind of edged instrument. He could either coddle, or destroy. With his prince, he was meticulous.
Vlad was probably aware of the expertise and care, but he took it as only his due. He waited till
Simion was wiping lather and stubble on the cloth to say, "I wonder if he shaves yet?"
Simion did not need to ask who Draculea was referring to. "I expect he does, though that baby skin
might give me the lie. In any case, it can’t be necessary more than twice or thrice a week."
Simion returned to his task, carefully working his way along the strong jaw. "I asked around a bit in
the kitchens, since I knew who to inquire after." He said nothing more as he cleared a patch on Vlad’s
cheek, daring to tease his prince.
When Simion again went to wipe the razor, Vlad blurted. "So? What have you learned? Tell me!"
Simion stilled him by again setting the razor to his face. He smiled inside. This was the only way he
knew he could silence Draculea, and he didn’t dare push it too far. Vlad’s temper was volatile, and
uncertain, and he was very, very focused on the boy right now.
"There is not much to tell. I’m sure you gleaned most of it from the conversation at table last night. He
is Nicolae Calugarul, Nicolae the Monk. Though he hasn’t taken Holy Orders... yet. He is the son of
Varga and one of his late wife’s ladies. She must have had a bit of a hold on him, because he waited
some years before fostering the boy out. Nicolae lived here, and even spent time with Varga’s
legitimate get, till he was ten."
More speckled foam was deposited on the cloth, and Vlad took the opportunity to speak. "He sent the
boy to live among those drones? Criminal."
Simion tilted Vlad’s chin up, stretching his throat. It was a monumental show of trust for the royal to
allow him to glide that glistening blade over the gently pulsing veins in his throat. "You must
remember, my Domn, that Varga does not see the boy through your eyes. Much to the lad’s good, I
might add. He could very well have taken him to his bed in rank incest. It wouldn’t be the first time
that a noble seduced his own lower born get." Vlad grimaced, thinking of his own father. The senior
Dracul had more than likely tumbled a few of his own daughters among the peasants. Simion almost
laid a tiny cut on his chin. "Please, Domn!" he scolded mildly.
"I’m sorry, Simion." Vlad muttered absently. Anyone outside his circle would have been
flabbergasted. A prince, apologizing to a servant? It didn’t happen often, but it happened.
"The boy is older than you think. He was prepared to take orders and enter the monastery as a full
brother. But Varga learned of the gift that was expected, and called him home. The lad was very upset.
He had his heart set on being a friar."
"But WHY?" Vlad snatched another cloth and impatiently wiped away the last specks of soap. He
allowed Simion to wipe his face with a damp cloth, then apply a cooling ointment. "Why would
anyone with blood in his veins choose such a life?"
"I think, Domn, that it was preferable to what he had here. He was not well cherished. Among the
brothers, he received attention, even affection and praise. He is, to all accounts, a very bright lad. He
might be brilliant, if anyone cared to nurture and promote his intelligence. Alas, that requires effort
and expense, and no one is willing to offer either."
He began to assist Draculea into his clothes. "Varga made a vow on his mistress’ death bed that the
boy would be cared for. When it seemed he would have to expend a bit of his gold to keep the boy in
the monastery, he had him brought here and installed him as librarian. This way he has a keeper for his
books and papers without having to pay, and he fulfills his promise by not allowing the boy to starve."
Vlad straightened his shirt carefully, looking thoughtful. "A rather cold life, I would think, Simion."
Simion bowed. "I cannot help but agree, my prince."
"A life he might, perhaps, be persuaded to trade for one with more... warmth?"
"Very possibly." Simion smoothed a wrinkle from the butter-soft leather of Vlad’s breeches, stroking
down one strong thigh, and chose his words and tone carefully. "If the persuader is patient... and
gentle."
"Simion," there was a touch of silky menace in Draculea’s voice. "Are you accusing me of being an
impatient man?"
"My prince is, on rare occasions... impulsive."
Draculea laughed. "Had you been higher born, Simion, I do not doubt that you would have excelled in
politics. You can say the rudest things in the most civil, tactful way." Not waiting for his manservant,
Draculea quickly ran a carved ivory comb through his long, unruly dark hair, arranging it as well as he
could.
He examined himself in the looking glass, a luxury afforded only to nobility and royalty. Cocking his
head, he studied himself, taking in the strong, stubborn features, the light eyes, and the large, hard
body. "What do you think, Simion? Will I lure him, or scare him away?"
"Only ignorance and fear, or innocence, could hold him back, Maria Ta."
Vlad shrugged. "In any case, I must see to exercising Lucifer before I go hunting my little lamb. I
can’t allow my best war horse to grow fat and lazy, any more than I’d allow myself to do the same."
**********************************
Nicolae had taken his meager breakfast from the kitchen and brought it to the library on the second
floor, as was his habit. He spent as much time in the room as possible. He was not disturbed here, and
the presence of the tomes and scrolls around him soothed him as the company of people never could.
Nicolae pushed open the heavy window and climbed up on the wide stone sill, arranging himself
comfortably with his back against one side, knees bent so that his long legs would fit. He cradled his
bread and cheese in his lap and began his repast, staring out into the slowly gathering light. The
window faced the east, and he could watch the sunrise.
The horizon gradually lightened, going from dark blue, to pink, to lavender and gold. The trees, bare
now of leaves, held stark black branches against the changing colors, like dark lace on a lady’s satin
gown. He could hear the occasional sleepy twitter of a bird from the castle garden, around the side of
the building, and the stamp and whinny of horses from the stable on the other side of the courtyard he
was seated above.
Nicolae liked this time of day. It was now that he felt both most alone, and most at one with the world.
Peculiar, but true. It was easier now to turn his mind toward God, and the Divine Mysteries. Although,
he thought guiltily, he seldom did that. Like today.
As he slowly chewed the slightly tough bread, his mind wandered to the banquet last night. What a
feast that had been! They didn’t actually skimp on his victuals here, but it was made clear to him that
every mouthful was a charity provided by his reluctant sire. That was a rather bitter sauce for any
meal.
Last night he had been able to eat without curbing his natural appetites, and he had been a bit greedy.
He blushed now, remembering the relish with which he had devoured fish, fowl, flesh, bread, and
sweets.
Oh, the sweets! He closed his eyes for a moment, face lighting with the memory. How he loved them.
Could he really consider himself a man when he kept this childish love of confections? Varga *father*
sneered at him, asking on occasion if he didn’t want a sugar teat, like they made to quiet the infants
who were sprouting their first teeth, or being weaned from the breast.
Nicu broke off a piece of the bread with a sigh, opening his eyes and dropping his gaze idly to the
courtyard...
...and found himself gazing into sharp, light blue eyes.
Prince Vlad Draculea stood in the courtyard, dressed in dark leather riding breeches, high boots, and a
loose black shirt. An hostler was leading the lord’s great black stallion to him, the magnificent beast
prancing eagerly, breath steaming faintly in the cool air. Vlad had been in the process of drawing on a
riding glove, but he paused, staring up at Nicolae.
************************************
The boy was perched in the second story window like some casual faerie prince, amusing himself with
watching the mortal world, his back to the stone, his long legs curved up before him. The cassock he
wore was pulled up, showing strong, pale calves and surprisingly delicate ankles.
Nicolae had a bit of bread half way to his mouth when they noticed each other, and he froze there.
Vlad let his gaze run over the boy without restraint, not bothering to try to hide his interest, now that
there was no one nearby to note it. He returned his look to the velvet brown eyes, and smiled slowly.
When the boy licked his lips nervously, the smile faded, his expression growing intense. Not knowing
what else to do, Nicolae finished the bread’s journey to his mouth, and nibbled at it tentatively.
He saw Draculea shut his eyes, and a tremor seemed to pass through the long body of the prince. Then
he snatched the reins of his horse from the stable lad and vaulted into the saddle. As he landed, he set
his spurs to Lucifer’s side, jerking back on the reins.
The temperamental stallion took immediate offense, rearing with a squeal of rage. Nicolae gasped as
the huge beast slashed viciously at the air with it’s front hooves. The stable lad dodged to safety,
narrowly missing having his skull split, but that was an occupational hazard. The midnight black beast
plunged and capered, and Nicolae expected at any moment to see the headstrong Prince dashed to the
cobbles beneath him.
But it didn’t happen. Vlad kept his seat as the animal writhed, doing everything it could to throw him.
Slowly the beast quieted. At last it stood still, trembling, its sides damp and heaving. Draculea bent
over, whispering in the flickering ear, stroking the sweat lathered neck, gazing up once again at
Nicolae. He smiled again at the boy. *You see?* his eyes seemed to say. *I am master. Nothing stands
against me for long. All can be broken, but I prefer a bit of spirit in my mounts.*
He turned the beast, and cantered out of the courtyard. Nicolae watched him go, round eyed, and
hugged his knees. "Oh, Beta," he whispered. "Are you sure he’s what you want? We are alike in many
things, but I have led an humble life, dear sister. I know humility. I do not think that you have it in
YOUR nature to submit as such a man would demand."
To be continued...
end part 6
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Chapter 8: More
Author’s Notes: fandom: Movie. Dracula
criticism: Yes
archive: Yes, let me know where
feedback: Yes. poet_77665@yahoo.com
disclaimer: Most aspects owned by Universal and Hammer Studios, Bram Stoker, and Francis Ford
Coppolla (for his style in his ’Bram Stoker’s Dracula movie, and thanks to my beta, Janet, for
FINALLY getting it through my thick skull that it was NOT Oliver Stone. Francis, I am SO sorry. I
don’t even have drugs as an excuse).
summary: Nicolae is reluctant, though intrigued. Vlad finds that he wants more than just a dalliance.
notes: rating: NC-17
Back to index
Chapter 9: Persuasion
Author’s Notes: fandom: Dracula
pairing: Vlad/Nicolae
status: WIP
criticism: Yes
archive: Yes, let me know where
feedback : Yes. poet_77665@yahoo.com
disclaimer: Characters, except Nicu and minor ones, belong to Bram Stoker. Concepts belong,
variously to the Universal, Hammer, and Coppolla versions of the Dracula story.
summary: Vlad states his desires plainly to Nicolae, and tries to convince him to acquiesce. Ernestu is
aware of Vlad’s interest. notes: Children were considered property in this age. Anything short of
murder was fairly well ignored. A bastard child even of a high born noble would have fewer rights and
protections.
rating: NC-17
warnings: Some may object to Draculea’s views on religion, and its relationship to sexuality. An
implication of incestuous leanings.
Back to index
Chapter 10: Coercion
Author’s Notes: fandom: Dracula
pairing: None
criticism: Yes
archive: Yes, let me know where
feedback : Yes. poet_77665@yahoo.com
disclaimer: Characters originally belong to Bram Stoker. Images and concepts from Universal and
Hammer Studios, and the Coppolla film.
summary: Ernestu punishes Nicolae for not accomodating Vlad.
notes: Heavy physical discipline of children and servants was not uncommon, or illegal, in this age.
rating: NC-17
warnings: Violent punishment, and incestuous leanings. Squick factor may be high.
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Elizabeta sat beside Prince Draculea at supper that night, at his right hand as was befitting his
betrothed. Beta had always been the highest-ranking female at her father’s table, but now the
assembled guests seemed to look at her with even greater respect and admiration. At least it seemed so
to her, and she was perfectly happy to accept the added attention. She deserved it, after all. She was
going to be a princess.
But in her new station, Elizabeta did not forget her obligations and promises. She leaned close to the
prince and said confidingly, "The marriage contract is signed?"
He nodded. "This afternoon. I put my seal to it, and it has been sent ahead to my castle archives. Your
father retains a copy."
Draculea’s smile struck her as a little odd. "The boy will come to Castle Draculea."
"Oh, good! I am so happy. Now, I need only one thing to make my happiness complete."
"And what is that, Elizabeta?" Vlad had no objection to keeping the girl happy, as long as it did not
interfere too greatly with his own interests.
"If you will but say that my dear Lena may come with me, I will be fully content."
"Lena... Ah, yes, Abul, your maid. Yes, Beta, she was included in the marriage contract. As long as
she is willing, she will be with you."
"Oh, she is willing, my lord! She half raised me. She is my dearest friend and confidant. I could not
have thrived without her. And she will be a benefit to your house. She is a very clever woman."
The most dangerous kind. Draculea frowned as this thought flitted across his mind. He dismissed it as
unworthy. "Which one is she?" He was a bit curious as to whom his future bride deemed
indispensable.
"There, just down the table on the right." Beta pointed to a thin woman with jet-black hair.
All ladies of the gentry tried to achieve a pale complexion, but this woman was so white as to be
almost ghostly. In contrast, her lips were blood red. I do believe the wench wears cosmetics. I wonder
that Ernestu would let a woman who paints near his precious child. Vlad shrugged the thought off.
Lena Abul was of little concern to him.
Instead he was anticipating seeing Nicu again in a few hours. The boy was still in Simion’s room, and
Vlad intended to spend the night there again, with him. They would leave early in the morning, and it
would be simply too indiscreet to have the boy too close when they encamped on the trip. That meant
that unless they joined again tonight, Vlad would have to remain celibate till after his wedding,
because the ceremony would take place the very day they arrived. "Have you finished packing?" he
asked, not really curious.
"Oh, yes! Lena was invaluable in that. She knows my possessions better than I do."
"Really?" Not a trait I would trust overmuch in a servant. Well, any servant save Simion.
"In the castle, Maria Ta, how shall I live? Do you wish me with you at all times? I must confess that I
am used to my occasional solitude, and would miss it."
"You will have your own room. There is a small hallway that connects it to mine, so that I may travel
to and fro without making it known to all the castle."
"And my maid?" "There is a dressing room that lets off yours that she may occupy. Or there is a
trundle under your bed, which on which she may sleep when I do not visit you. It is your choice."
"Oh, good. I do not think I could sleep if she was not near."
It sounds as if Abul will keep you well occupied. That is good. It would not do for you to feel
neglected, and I fear I will have little time for you. I suppose it is a selfish thing I do, marrying you
when you might have some young man who actually loved you. But you are not being forced into this. I
only hope you do not regret choosing rank over passion.
Vlad had no way of knowing that Elizabeta was in no way giving up her passion for rank.
She was pleased when the prince left the table early, explaining that it would be best for all of them if
they retired, so to be fresh for their journey on the morrow. As usual, her maids accompanied her to
her chambers, whispering and giggling excitedly. Elizabeta did not have as many attendants as some
women of her rank, so the three maids she was being allowed to bring with her, and Nicu, were her
entire coterie.
In the bedchamber, Lena turned to the other, younger women. "Off to bed with you. I know you two,
you will chatter the night away if I allow it, and we need our rest. I will attend my lady."
The other girls didn’t mind. They shared a room, and intended to spend a good bit of time talking
before they slept, no matter what their senior said. They left in a rustling of brocade and scuffing of
velvet slippers.
Lena turned to the young girl she had cared for over six years, smiling. "Well, Beta. So it is set in
motion. Soon it will be accomplished, and you will be a princess."
Lena’s smile became stiff at the mention of the librarian. "Nicu is something of a fool." She did not
like Nicolae. Well, she disliked anyone else who occupied a place of interest or affection in her Beta’s
life. When she saw Beta begin to pout, she said quickly, "I only mean that he cannot see the
practicality of things, Beta. You know very well that he lives in his own world."
Beta sighed. "Yes, Lena, I know. But sometimes I envy him that world. It is so full of goodness and
hope. He wants so much to believe the best of all people."
As I said, my dear, a fool. But Lena did not say this aloud. She did not want to alienate Beta at this late
stage. Her misguided affection for the boy would have to be dealt with later, subtly.
Lena stepped behind Beta and began to undo the many buttons that closed her dress in back. "I
suppose we cannot do without dreamers, but some of us must see to the practicalities of life. You, my
Beta, you must think of your future. Yes, Prince Draculea has chosen you, but men’s attentions can
fade. We will have to be clever to keep your newfound position secure."
Lena slipped the girl’s stiff brocade dress off her, leaving her to stand in her thin silk shift as she laid
the dress aside in a trunk, prepared for the trip to Castle Draculea. Elizabeta went to sit on the side of
the bed as she did this, kicking off her slippers.
"Beta!" Lena scolded as she set the shoes neatly in the trunk (all the travelers would wear sturdy boots
for the journey). "You still act like such a child sometimes."
Beta had unfastened her garters, and was rolling down her fine wool stockings. Her shift was rucked
high, and Lena had a good view of her pale, shapely legs as she pulled the stockings off. "But I am not
a child, Lena. You know that," she said teasingly. Lena licked her lips. "No, Beta. You are a woman."
Lena Abul was in her thirties, and had never married. She was considered by most to be a hopeless old
maid. She was pretty enough, but of low rank, and poor. Even with these handicaps she might have
made a fair match, if it was not for the fact that she was a clever, ambitious woman, and incapable of
concealing either trait for long. Lena had early on determined that she would not be able to better
herself through the common method of marriage. Well, then, if she could not rise through a man’s
help, then why not a woman’s?
This suited Lena fine, as she had never felt desire for a man. Women were much more suited to her
taste: the softer and more feminine, the better. Women actually admired her strength of character, and
her intelligence, and did not view them as a threat.
When Ernestu Varga had begun looking for a woman of gentle birth to teach his daughter to be a lady,
Lena had presented herself. Ernestu was not tempted by Lena’s physical attributes, and knew that she
had no dealings with men, so he saw little potential for scandal, and engaged her. It never occurred to
him that there might be women who fancied other women, though he himself indulged occasionally
with a fresh faced youth. Ernestu was, in many ways, a very stupid man.
Lena took charge of Elizabeta when she was twelve. She was already a charming, pretty child, but
Lena was scrupulously correct for the first few years. She made sure that Beta loved her. She was a
friend, ally, and confidante.
All the while she imbued the girl with the idea that the male of the species was somehow slightly
ridiculous, and physically distasteful. Men were by nature crude, unrefined, and simply not worth the
fuss that was made over them. True, they must be catered to, at least in public, but a cunning woman
could usually get whatever she wanted from them without expending too much energy.
She had told Elizabeta the facts of life when the girl first asked, a shockingly incorrect thing to do. She
had made the girl promise not to tell anyone: father, confessor, or lady’s maid. The act, as she
described it, sounded messy and uncomfortable, if not actually painful. She provided Beta with
sketches of the male anatomy, both at rest and aroused with desire. "I would not have you shocked into
hysterics on your wedding night, child." she had said at the time.
Lena saw to it that there was little chance for Beta to satisfy her natural curiosity. She made sure the
girl was even more thoroughly chaperoned than most girls of her class. The only man with whom she
was ever alone with was her father (thank heavens the pig had not formed a desire for his own child.
Lena would not have put it past him. It was fairly obvious that he’d developed a lust for his bastard,
Nicolae. Maybe that could be fostered, to insure that the boy remained at Castle Varga instead of
going along to Castle Draculea). Lena did not even trust Father Mircea. She sat in the nave while Beta
made her confession, narrowly watching the priest’s side of the booth.
Her attention and diligence had paid off--Lena was the most important person in Elizabeta’s life. It
was to be expected that the girl turn to her when her physical desires began to manifest themselves.
It had started when Beta was just past fifteen. Lena had allowed herself to be caught in the act of
dallying with one of the younger maids. Beta had hurried into Lena’s room to find the older woman
with her hands up under the skirt of the youngest lady-in-waiting, a girl only two years Beta’s senior.
The girl’s bodice had been open, her nipples stiff pink points peeking over the top of her shift, which
seemed to have been pulled down to improve access. Beta had realized with astonishment that those
little buds were wet and shiny. Since Lena had just been lifting her head from the girl’s bosom, it was
apparent that the older woman had been licking or sucking them.
Both of the other women were breathing heavily. The little maid had been flushed, but now a tide of
red flowed from her neck up to her hairline as she frantically tugged at her clothing. Lena pulled her
hands out from under the girl’s skirt, and Beta saw that the older woman’s fingers were also slick and
shiny.
Lena had patted the maid on the cheek, murmured to her reassuringly, and sent the girl out of the
room. Then she calmly sat on her bed, looked at Beta, and said, "You have questions?"
Beta came to sit beside her. "What were you doing with Elise?"
Lena smiled. "Just playing with her a bit. Making her feel good. Making myself feel good."
Lena reached out and touched the young girl’s throat. "Would you like to see? I think you are old
enough now, Beta. You have your woman’s courses, your bosom has filled, your maiden-hair has
grown. You are ready to learn about pleasure. I would like to teach you."
Lena had locked the door to her room, then slowly stripped both Beta and herself. There, on her
narrow bed, she had explored the girl’s untouched body with hands and mouth till Beta was squirming
and whimpering, her sex dripping with desire. Then Lena had knelt between her legs, parted the lips of
her sex, and found the little bud of flesh that had become hard and swollen. She had lapped and
nibbled at it till Beta was arching and crying out, then had thrust her tongue deep into the fragrant, wet
slit and moved it vigorously till she felt the girl’s body clench and shudder in her first orgasm. From
that moment on, Beta belonged to Lena.
Beta grew to be a lovely young woman. She and Lena spent many nights cuddled together in Beta’s
bed, whispering and laughing. Gradually, Lena taught her all the things that women could do together
to give each other pleasure. Now the girl was almost as proficient a lover as Lena, Lena thought that
she’d have to tell the girl to act awkward and shy, if not frightened, on her wedding night. That should
not be too difficult.
Despite their lovemaking, Beta was still a physical virgin. Lena had made sure of that. Whenever she
used her fingers, Lena was careful to penetrate the girl’s slit only shallowly, no matter how Beta
begged her do go deeper, harder. "No, child. You must keep your maidenhead. If you do not bleed on
your wedding night, there will be a scandal. Your husband will have just cause for annulment, and you
will be disgraced. You know very well that your father will send you to wither in some convent if that
happens. And much as I love you, pet, I could not wall myself up by your side." Beta still pouted
occasionally, but agreed. She knew enough of the world to know that what her lover said was true.
Now Lena sat on the bed beside Beta, reached behind her, and removed the pins that held the heavy
coil of her hair in place. It tumbled down the girl’s back in blue-black waves. This was one way she
resembled her bastard half-brother. They had the same coloring, and the same slanted brown eyes.
Lena supposed that if it were possible for her to desire a man, Nicolae Calugarul would have been the
one, since he resembled her.
Lena kissed her, gently at first, nibbling at the tender, pouting lips. Beta parted her lips readily, silently
inviting Lena. The older woman accepted, slipping her tongue in to explore the sweet, moist interior of
the girl’s mouth, even as she tugged the shift down to expose her breasts.
Beta sighed into her mouth, her nipples rising to stiff points as Lena toyed with them. She loved this
so, and Lena never failed to satisfy her, but there was more that she wanted. Pulling back a little, she
murmured, "Can we use The Staff tonight, love?"
Lena stripped as Beta pulled off her shift and stretched out on the bed. From a hidden pocket in her
skirt, Lena drew The Staff. It had been a gift to her from the concubine of an eastern vizier who had
once visited court when she was younger. The barbarians in the east had remarkably novel ideas about
sex. Since their women were shut away from all but their husbands or consorts, and since the men
wanted the women to be satisfied enough not to seek other men, they were allowed toys.
The Staff was a tapered cylinder of wood, about nine inches long. It was near four inches wide at the
base, tapering to about two inches at the peak, and it was fitted in a smooth sheath of soft leather.
Beta eyed it hungrily as Lena climbed on the bed, holding it. She was not allowed to use The Staff on
herself: her virginity must be preserved. Lena had promised her that this would not be so, once she was
married. "When you have been breached, my love, then... Then I will plumb your depths. I even have a
belt and harness it will fit on, so that I may take you in the manner of a man. But I will be more careful
of your pleasure than any of them will ever be. Untill that time, Beta could watch Lena use The Staff,
or she could herself work it into the older woman’s soft, grasping hole, but that was all.
Beta fondled Lena’s tits, leaning down to suckle and nip at the woman’s dark nipples, which thickened
at her caresses. "Let me take you tonight, Lena."
"Yes, Beta. But first, sweet girl, taste me." She spread her legs wide, and Beta eagerly moved up
between them. She parted the coarse, dark curls that covered the slit of Lena’s sex. Pressing the crease
open, she began to lick and suck. Lena lay back with a sigh. She loved this, loved having the young,
beautiful woman, who was her superior in class and rank, service her like a common wench.
Elizabeta ran her tongue over the pink folds of flesh, licking diligently till the small slit began to
trickle with clear fluid. Then she pressed her mouth to the flow, flicking her tongue against the little
opening till she managed to penetrate it. Lena groaned as Beta thrust her tongue in and out of her cunt,
probing as deeply as she could. At last she said, "Now, Beta."
"Lie down. I will position myself so we can pleasure each other at once."
Beta lay down, and Lena turned to face the foot of the bed, then straddled her charge on her hands and
knees, her face hovering over the girl’s groin. The smell of musk was already heavy, and she could see
the glisten of juice on the girl’s sparsely haired sex. "Now, Beta. Fill me, but gently at first."
Beta pressed the tip of The Staff to Lena’s hole and pushed gently. Her lover moaned as the false prick
slowly speared into her steaming sex. Beta watched, fascinated as the dark leather disappeared
between the pink lips into the white flesh. It amazed her how much of The Staff Lena could take inside
herself. Beta was sure that she, herself, would split in two if she tried to do that. But the idea was
intrigueing.
At last there was only a small bit of The Staff outside Lena’s body, enough for Beta to hold. Lena
lowered her head and began to delicately lick Beta’s genitals. She used her thumbs to press aside the
pads of flesh so she could get at the marvelous little bud that gave such pleasure, and proceeded to
drive the younger girl wild with desire.
Beta began to move The Staff, pulling it almost all the way out, then thrusting again, deeply. As Lena
tormented her with soft licks and sucks, she increased the speed and strength of her pumping, till she
was shoving the dildo in and out of Lena in short, hard jabs. Lena enjoyed rough sex, despite her
praise of the gentleness of women, and the older woman was panting so hard that she had to
concentrate to keep devouring her lover.
In reward for her diligence, Lena thrust her tongue deep into Beta’s cleft, licking toward her very core.
Beta moaned Lena’s name, pressing her streaming crotch hard against the woman’s mouth. "Your
fingers, Lena! Please! I feel so empty, I need them!"
"Then fuck me harder, pet, and I will give you what you need." As Beta drove The Staff harder and
harder, jolting the woman on top of her, Lena plunged two fingers into Beta’s wet sex and began to
pump. But she ignored the girl’s cries to go harder and deeper. She would not endanger the precious
maidenhead, even in the throes of passion. Instead she used her other hand to pinch Beta’s clitoris,
hard, while she fingerfucked her. She felt the girl begin to spasm around her probing fingers, as she
wailed in release.
And Lena found her own release, shuddering around The Staff as it plunged in and out of her body.
Ah, there was never a man who satisfied as well, and The Staff was always ready for another round of
pleasure. It did not try to command, it did not sneer at dreams or ambitions, and it could not plant a
whelp in your body. How could it be more perfect?
When they were done, Lena moved off the limp girl and lay beside her, the dildo still deep in her
body. She rather liked to keep it there for a time, after they had made love. Occasionally her or Beta
would reach down and give it a few lazy pumps, keeping the embers of desire glowing for long
moments. She would remove it later, wipe it clean, and return it to the secret pocket. It wouldn’t do to
leave it lying about. Most castle inhabitants would not have guessed its purpose. But Ernestu had a
small collection of indecent literature, and just might have known what it was. She couldn’t risk that.
Beta snuggled against her, but continued to complain about not being able to use The Staff herself.
Lena finally grew weary of her whining, and thought of an amusing way to quiet her, and tighten her
hold at the >ame time. The more humiliation the girl was willing to accept for Lena, the closer they
would be bound.
Lena said thoughtfully, "Well, if you really must try The Staff, there is a way to do so without losing
your virginity."
"Yes, please!"
"I warn you, it will be uncomfortable, perhaps as much as your actual deflowering will be at the hands
of Draculea." She never missed an opportunity to critisize ’normal’ relations.
"Very well. You have committed yourself to this. I will not let you back down. Turn on your belly."
Elizabeta obeyed. She watched as Lena moved the dildo in her dripping pussy for a moment, then
removed it. It glistened with Lena’s juices. "How can you put that in my sex and not break my
maidenhead?" she asked curiously.
"Foolish child. Don’t you know that God gave you more than one hole?" As she spoke, she had spread
the white globes of Beta’s ass. Before the girl knew what was going on, Lena had clapped one hand
over her mouth. With the other, she rammed The Staff into the girl’s rectum.
Beta felt a stabbing, burning pain. It felt as if she were being torn open, split in two. She tried to
scream, but her lover’s hand was tight against her mouth. Lena did not stop. She twisted The Staff,
sliding it deeper into the trembling girl’s bowels. The only lubricant she had used was the oils from her
own body, and she had not taken the time to gently tease Beta into relaxation, as Vlad had with Nicu.
But then, Lena was not making love to Beta now. She was cementing her dominance.
"Quiet, Beta. I know it hurts, but you wanted this. It will be easier to bear in a little while. After a few
times, you will even come to enjoy it." Beta moaned as Lena once again began forcing the dildo in. It
wasn’t easy, given the dryness and tightness of the virgin passage. Lena reflected that it was a good
thing that there would be a wagon or carriage to carry the women tomorrow, because her lady wouldn
NOT want to mount a horse.
At last Lena stopped, with about six inches of The Staff anally impaling her young lover. She wouldn’t
force the entire length into her tonight. That might cause damage. She finally took her hand away, and
listened to the girl moan, her own sex growing even slicker.
"Take it out, please Lena." There were tears streaking Beta’s smooth cheeks.
"No, child. Now that you have it, you must get used to it. You will keep it inside you the rest of the
night, and I will remove it in the morning."
Every time Beta shifted to try to get more comfortable, the false cock would move in her ass, bringing
fresh pain. She tried to sleep, but every so often Lena would grip the base of The Staff and move it a
few strokes, fucking her ass. Gradually it did begin to hurt less, but it didn’t become pleasureable, as
Lena had said.
"I know. You wanted me to fuck you. Very well, if it will make you be quiet."
Lena got up on her knees, throwing a leg over Beta. Beta realized that she was crouched right over the
protruding end of The Staff. "Lena! No!"
"Be quiet, Beta." Lena lowered herself till the thick, blunt end of The Staff butted against her vulva.
Then she pushed down, taking the short exposed end into her own sex and finding a narrow grip with
the circle of her thumb and finger between their bodies. Holding The Staff, she began to move her
hips.
It drove the blunt end shallowly in and out of her own cunt. She began to pump back and forth, and
soon she was plunging the dildo in and out of Beta’s ass as the girl moaned in pain and the beginnings
of desire. Lena continued this till she orgasmed again, ramming the rod all the way into Beta’s
cringing flesh this time.
Leaving it embedded, Lena quickly pumped two fingers into the girl’s slit, and rubbed her clitoris hard
till she came, muffling her scream by biting the pillow. Finally Lena lay back down again. "There,
Beta. That is a little of what a man would do to you, given half the chance. I was only cruel to prepare
you, you know that."
Beta kissed her, leaving wet patches on Lena’s face from her tears. "I know. Thank you, Lena. You
always look after me."
As the girl tried to go to sleep, despite the throbbing agony in her ass, Lena thought smugly. And you
will take care of me, Beta, no matter who I have to deal with.
TBC
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Nicolae went down to the library to wait for his lover to finish with his bath. He surveyed the mess
that he had made of the room that day, shaking his head. It always seemed that you had to create
greater disorder to finally achieve order. Several of the shelves were empty, their contents piled on the
large tables scattered through the room, and the great desk in the corner was adrift in loose documents.
All would need to be sorted, cleaned, catalogued, and replaced in a logical arrangement.
He let his eyes travel over the dozens and dozens of packed shelves. He had barely begun on one tiny
section, and to do this properly would take months, if not years. Instead of being daunted by the
thought, he was elated. He finally had something that would make him feel useful, as if he were truly
using the talents with which he had been gifted.
There was not much he could do in a few minutes about the piles of books and papers, he decided, but
he wanted to make the room a little tidier for his lover’s first visit to his new domain. The maids in the
kitchen were a little surprised when the prince’s new favorite showed up asking for hot water and
cloths.
They were even more surprised when he turned down their offer to have a servant tend to whatever it
was he wanted cleaned. "No, no," he had said cheerfully, hoisting the bucket of steaming water, the
rough cloths slung over his arm. "You have quite enough to do. This is my business." The staff had
exchanged bewildered looks. None could remember the last time any of the people they served had
indicated that they thought the servants were amply supplied with tasks. Most seemed to believe the
staff sat idle, and thus should be assigned more tasks each day. Nicolae had begun unconsciously to
endear himself to Draculea’s household.
In the library Nicolae carefully scrubbed the emptied shelves, then wiped them dry. Finally he sat at
one of the tables and began to wipe clean each volume, inspecting them for any sign of wear that
should be repaired and setting them aside if it was needed. He did not hear the soft footsteps that came
up behind him, and was startled when a hand touched his arm.
"Brother." Beta said, laughing. "Oh, Nicu! Your dress may be richer, but you havel not changed very
much, have you? Still so absorbed in your work." Nicolae stood up quickly, a glad smile lighting his
face. He started to take his sister in his arms, but paused, hands falling to his side. "What is it, Nicu?
No embrace? No welcoming kiss? You love me still, do you not?"
"Beta!" he chided. "You know that the sun will cease to rise before my love for you fails. But before
your vows I was bold enough in my familiarities, considering the breadth of the gap between our
stations. But now? Now you are a princess."
"And I am still your sister." She put her arms around the tall young man, standing on her toes to kiss
his cheek. "There. I hardly think Draculea will scold me for that. And if he does--feh!"
Nicolae laughed, but said, "You must not say such things, Beta. He is your lord husband, and you must
obey him and seek to please him as best you may." He gently unwound his sister’s arms, continuing,
"I, too. He is my master now. All my obedience and respect is due to him, and I must do naught that
would displease him."
"It would be very difficult for you to displease me, Nicolae." They both turned as Draculea entered the
library, coming to the table where they stood. He gave a short, formal bow to his wife, who answered
it with an equally correct curtsey. "Elizabeta. Simion showed you all?" The question was for
politeness’ sake: Draculea knew that Simion had shown Beta everything... that she was MEANT to
see.
"Yes. Your castle is very grand, lord husband. There are parts of it that are..." she hesitated, pretending
to seek words to express herself in a tactful manner, "less cheerful than they might be."
Draculea shrugged. "My mother died more than two decades ago, and the place has not known the
presence of a lady during all that time. It has become a bit grim. You may, of course, do what you feel
fit to make it more to your taste, lady. Within reason."
Beta smiled, but inwardly she winced at those last two words. She had a feeling that Draculea and
Simion’s idea of reason would be a great deal different from Lena’s and her own. Still, there was no
need to worry so soon. Thus far things had gone well enough. The wedding night had been distasteful,
but not as bad as it might have been. At least he had not been difficult to get rid of. Once he was gone
Lena had come to her. Lena had cleaned Beta, held her while she complained and wept a little, then
made her forget him with judicious use of her talented tongue.
"That reminds me, Nicolae. Have you found that you need anything for the library?"
Beta smiled at the glow on Nicolae’s face. He was so dedicated to his work, it was really quite sweet.
It was too bad that he had not been of higher birth and able to indulge his interests, or that he had not
turned his devotions to other more profitable pursuits. He was so charming that he might have made a
life as a courtier, if only he hadn’t been born a bastard. He is handsome enough to be the favorite of
some great queen,*she thought. Watching his animation as he described the materials he was
discovering in his work, she added wryly, *or perhaps a king. But no, he gave himself to the church,
and the church would not have him. Poor Nicolae. Well, he will always have a home with me. I will
insist.*
Beta was not an observant woman. She had since childhood been so wrapped in her own concerns that
she noticed very little of what went on around her if it did not directly impact her own comfort. She
had known that her father disliked Nicolae and was occasionally harsh with him, but had no idea of the
depths his abuse had reached. And now, seeing the gentle interest Draculea turned on her half-brother,
all she thought was that he was being charitable, for her sake.
Nicolae was saying, "Some of the shelves are cracked, Domn, and others have been attacked by
woodworm. They should be replaced before they can break, or before the creatures can transfer their
attention to the volumes. Some of the things eat paper and glue, and..."
"Yes, Nicolae, the shelves will be replaced. I will send men to take the measurements soon. Also I will
have samples of wood brought, so that you may choose the most pleasing material."
"You are too generous, Domn. There is no need to replace all. I can just find the ones that are
damaged."
"Nonsense. After all, Nicolae, it isn’t as if this is a simple whimsy you’ve dreamed up. This library
will be a legacy to my descendants."
Beta watched as Nicolae showed Draculea the list he had begun of the library’s contents, one long
finger running down the items as he explained each one. She marveled at her husband’s patience. He
even managed to seem to enjoy Nicolae’s prattling.
Well, Beta had made her duty appearance, and now she wanted to get back to Lena. She said, "My
husband..."
Draculea looked back to her and, for a moment, it was almost as if he had forgotten she was there.
"Yes, Beta?"
"I hope you will excuse me from joining you for the evening meal. I am a bit tired with the castle tour
this morning, and would like to sup in my room."
"Yes, yes, of course. As you wish. Simply direct the servants to bring you what you require. Sleep
well." He turned back to Nicolae. "And this is a rare volume, you say?"
Beta hesitated a moment, scarcely believing that it had been that simple to gain her freedom for the
night. Though Draculea had said that he would allow her time to recover, she had half expected him to
demand his nuptial rights again immediately.
Draculea did not speak to her again, but Nicolae gave her a soft smile. "Rest well, dear sister. Do not
neglect your prayers. We must both offer thanks for our new lives."
"Yes, Nicolae. Good night." As she went to find a servant and order a meal for herself and Lena, she
wondered when the last time had been that she had prayed. Oh, yes. Just before Draculea had arrived
at Castle Varga. She had prayed that he would find her pleasing, and would make her his princess.
Well, that had come to pass. Perhaps she should pray more often.
When Beta left the room Draculea pulled the chattering Nicolae into his arms and stilled his lips with a
kiss. The boy immediately clung to him, opening his mouth to receive the gentle invasion of his
lover’s tongue. His hands crept up to card through Draculea’s dark hair, then cradle the back of his
head as the kiss deepened.
At last Nicolae pulled back a little, laughing breathlessly. "My lord! You act as if we had been parted
for weeks."
"And so it seemed, Nicu." He kissed him again, nipping lightly at the soft lips, making Nicolae moan
and sigh. "Any parting is far too long."
Nicolae rested his head on Draculea’s shoulder, his hand stroking his lover’s throat. "I would have
gone with you. I am not a hunter, but I could have ridden beside you."
"No, love. It was far too dangerous. The beast I hunted was vicious, and it might have turned on you.
What would I have done had you been injured, NIcu? Besides..." He tilted Nicolae’s face up so he
could meet his gaze, running his thumb over one high cheekbone. "It would have grieved you to see
even such an evil natured creature killed."
"That is true, Domn. Though I can see the necessity at times, it does not stop the regret. Every creature
that walks the earth belongs to God, and some of them he made violent."
"Yes, Nicu. But some of them give themselves over to the Dark One willingly." He jounced the young
man in his arms. "Enough of that! Come back to the room. Simion will have food there for us, and I
am hungry." He kissed Nicolae again, drawing the boy’s tongue into his mouth and suckling it for a
moment before releasing him. "Hungry for many things, Nicu." He took the now blushing librarian by
the hand and led him away.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In her room Lena asked Beta, "So? He has agreed to let you do as you wish with the castle?"
"Yes, Lena. There was no trouble at all." Beta picked daintily at the platters of food that had been
brought by the servants.
"He gave you free reign? Anything?"
"Yes, he said anything within reason."
Lena groaned, shaking her head. "Beta!"
"What is it?"
"Those two words, Beta--’within reason’. Those two words may be used to block us."
"Lena, he has set no limits."
"Not to your face. It will be easier for him to simply deny you when you ask."
"But surely it is only fitting that he set some boundaries?"
"Not if he loves you!"
Beta regarded her, puzzled. "He DOESN’T love me. You know that."
"He should. He COULD. You could MAKE him love you, Beta." "But Lena," she regarded her lover
with dismay. "If he loves me, then I will never have peace. He will want to be with me all the time. He
will come to my bed often. I shudder at the thought."
Lena sighed. "I know, but sometimes sacrifices must be made. Perhaps all it will take is giving him a
son. Men are absurdly grateful for such things." She thought. "It is a bit late tonight. You will make
sure that he comes to you tomorrow."
"Ugh! Must I, Lena?" She pouted. "I still ache. He is so rough."
Lena regarded her with bitter tinged amusement. *La, child, how selective your memory is. I’m sure
I’ve done worse to you, and will again in the future. But since I’ve instructed you in what beasts men
are, you cannot help but view them as such, can you? Such a willing pupil.* "You must, pet.
Afterwards I will send for a bath to soothe your pains. I’ll give you a massage. You like that."
Beta smiled. Yes, she liked that. It always led to sex, and she would want something to wipe the
memory of Draculea’s touch from her. "All right, Lena. It shouldn’t be too difficult. After all, the
serving wenches here are uncommonly ugly. There will be little to distract him."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Draculea had pulled a chair away from the table and now sat in front of the fire. Nicolae sat before
him, leaning back against his knees, staring into the flames. They were quiet. Nicolae finally seemed
to be talked out.
Draculea played with Nicolae’s hair, combing his fingers through the dark silk, gently following the
outline of his skull. Occasionally the boy would sigh, tipping his head back just a little farther. He
thought Nicolae had gone to sleep, and was considering carrying him to bed, when he spoke. "Vlad?"
Again Draculea felt the small, secret squeeze to his heart as Nicolae called him by his Christian name.
"Yes, Nicu?"
"You said that this is my room also. What of the one I was given when I arrived?"
Draculea considered how to best explain the situation. "For show’s sake, Nicolae. If anyone not of the
household inquires after where you lodge, they will be told that you stay there."
"Must we lie?" He sounded very young, and very sad.
"Nicolae, sweet," Draculea bent over him, and the boy turned his head to gaze up at him. "I’m sorry. I
know it hurts you, but yes, we must. Certain things must be done for show. Even the greatest king does
not officially lodge his paramour in his own chambers. It is a matter of respect for Beta. To the world
you will have your own little room." He caressed Nicolae’s face, then his throat. "But you will stay
here, with me. It will not be too hard for you?"
Nicolae got on his knees, turning to face Draculea and put his arms around his neck. "I can endure. I
can endure much, as long as you love me."
Draculea stroked his back. "Never doubt that, Nicu. Heaven may fall and Hell may rise, but I will
always love you."
"You must not make such vows." Nicolae’s voice was soft, but concerned. "Please, Vlad. You tempt
fate."
"The only thing I want to tempt is you, sweet love." He moved his hand into the open front of
Nicolae’s shirt, his fingers finding one small, soft nipple and squeezing. Nicolae gasped, arching
toward his touch, and Draculea smiled as he felt the bit of flesh swell and stiffen. "Do I?" His hand
moved to the other side, bringing the other bud to attention. "Do I tempt you, Nicu?"
"Most sorely, master."
"Would you please me, Nicu?"
"With all my heart." Draculea released Nicolae and spread his legs, beginning to unlace his breeches
with one hand. With the other he reached out and touched Nicolae’s mouth, running a fingertip lightly
over his lips. Nicolae opened his mouth, and the finger slipped inside, stroking his tongue. Nicolae
licked it, gave it a brief suck, them pulled back. His head down, he peered up at his lover through a
fringe of dark hair and said shyly, "With my mouth, Domn?"
"Please, Nicu. If you will."
"I will try, but you know my ignorance. You must guide me." Draculea had opened his garments. As
Nicolae stroked the strong muscles of his thighs, he reached into the gap and lifted out his prick. The
boy gave a shuddering sigh that started Draculea’s blood pounding.
Nicolae moved forward into the open vee of his lover’s legs, and nuzzled his face against the still soft
mound of Draculea’s sex. The older man felt the smooth slide of high cheekbones and the faint rasp of
stubble that was still too new to be harsh. Then Nicolae turned his head and dropped a kiss at the base
of the shaft, just at the point where it joined his pelvis. Cradling the member in his palm, he began to
kiss his way down its increasing length till he came to the tip. There he stopped and, with the very tip
of his tongue, teased the first clear drop of pre-ejaculate from the sensitive slit. He lingered there for a
long moment, lapping softly.
Lifting the stiffening prick, he began to work his way down its underside. Now he brought his lips into
play as well as his tongue, licking, then mouthing. By the time he had reached the root, Draculea was
achingly hard, and pre-seminal fluid flowed copiously. He gripped the chair’s arms as Nicolae paused
at the base and worked on the small spot between his staff and balls. As he licked, Nicolae dipped into
Draculea’s pants, pulling aside the cloth, and eased his testicles out, rolling and squeezing gently.
Draculea’s breathing had deepened, and it came more quickly. "Ah, Nicu, if this is ignorance, then
may you be preserved from wisdom."
Draculea’s hips gave tiny jerks as the boy placed soft, sucking kisses on first one testicle, then the
other. "I do well, master?" His breath was warm against the moist skin.
Draculea’s laugh was a little rough. "The flesh doesn’t lie, boy. You can see what you do to me. But as
sweet as this is, it is still torture. Take me in your mouth, Nicolae."
Nicolae pulled back a little, and ran his fingers over Draculea’s shaft, biting his lip thoughtfully.
"There is so much of you, my lord. I wonder that I was able to hold it all. I do not think I will be able
to swallow such a great staff."
"Take what you can, Nicu. It will be enough. Wrap your hands below your mouth."
The young man gripped Draculea’s staff gently, but firmly, bent, and fitted his mouth over the dark,
engorged head. Vlad moaned, closing his eyes as the wet heat enfolded him. Nicolae sucked a little,
then tentatively dropped lower, taking in another inch. He pulled back up, still sucking, then slowly
lowered again, taking in another inch. He repeated the actions again and again, till gradually he
managed to bury half of the straining staff in his mouth. Pulling free he said regretfully, "That is all I
can manage, master. I’m sorry."
"Oh, God, boy! Do not apologize. That will do magnificently, but continue before I go mad." With a
small smile, Nicolae obeyed. This time he immediately took as much of Draculea into his mouth as he
could and began sucking. Draculea tugged his hair gently, to get him to rise. Nicolae pulled off,
looking up at him inquiringly, and Vlad fought down a chuckle. He mustn’t laugh now, not when the
boy was trying so hard to please him. "No, Nicolae. Up and down, and stroke the bottom."
"Oh. Yes, of course," he murmured, returning to his task. Draculea put his hands in Nicolae’s hair and
urged him along with soft pushes and tugs till he had found a pleasing rhythm.
Finally unable to remain still, Draculea gripped Nicolae’s head firmly, whispering, "Be still a little,
sweet boy. Let me..." Nicolae held onto Vlad’s thighs as his lover began to thrust, fucking his mouth
with short, careful strokes. Vlad resisted the urge to ram deeper. Nicolae was willing, and he was
talented. Vlad had no doubt that soon the boy would learn to take his entire staff down his throat, and
would do so joyfully.
When he climaxed, Vlad tried to pull free, not wanting to choke his lover. But the boy was not willing
to relinquish his prize, and clung to him. His glans was barely captured between Nicolae’s lips when
his seed spurted. As he had anticipated, it startled the boy. He gave a muffled gasp, sperm spilling
down his chin, eyes astonished. But then he gulped, trying to swallow the liquid gift.
Laughing now, Draculea pulled him up onto his lap. He used the hem of his shirt to wipe Nicolae’s
face, saying, "You look like a kitten who has had his face pushed into a dish of milk."
Nicolae hugged him, saying, "I will do better next time."
"You will kill me with pleasure, Nicu. Now," He rubbed the boyâââ‰â¢s crotch, finding
him hard, "I must take care of you."
"Please," he said simply, resting his cheek against Draculea’s hair.
"Yes, Nicu." The laces were opened, and he found the hot length of Nicolae’s sex, and began to stroke.
"I will always take care of you."
"For as long as I live?" There was a haunting need in the boy’s tone.
Vlad kissed him, stroking him firmly till the boy shuddered and cried out his release, spilling liquid
heat over his hands. As Nicolae trembled in his arms, Vlad kissed him again, and his whispered words
were a vow. "Beyond that, Nicolae. Forever."
TBC
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Chapter 33: Part 33: Preparations
Summary: Draculea reluctantly decides he must enter into diplomatic relations with the Turks.
Notes: Please do not rail at me about the archaic concept of ’hospitality’. You can’t tell me that they
don’t still make compliant companions available to visiting dignitaries in some countries.
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Rahazad was not impressed by the first sight of Castle Draculea. Granted it was of imposing size, but
seemed very rough compared to the sultan’s palace. He had kept his eyes open on the trip, noting men
and fortifications. Both were more than he would have wished. Still, the bounty of the land they passed
through convinced him that it was worth the risk.
He noticed the castle’s secure position, with the river at its back and its thick, high walls. A siege
could be both tedious and dangerous if the castle were well supplied and word could be sent to
Wallachian forces stationed nearby.
Rahazad turned his mind from such practical concerns toward anticipation of easing the discomfort he
had suffered on his journey. Rahazad had been raised to be a courtier. His training in the military arts
had been mostly token efforts. He had never yet engaged in true battle. He was used to regular meals
of carefully prepared delicacies, soft beds, and the attendance of comely servants who catered to his
every need and whim. He had not been allowed to bring even a single concubine or body slave. Two
dour men attended the three ambassadors.
As they entered the castle courtyard, Rahazad looked forward to good food, decent wine, and the
chance to bed a serving wench or lad. This was his first time among these infidels, and he found the
idea of their pale skin exciting. So far, though, he had seen no women (not even in the streets of the
village), and the men had been too rough, grizzled, or dirty to inspire attraction.
His hopes rose when he saw the people gathered in the courtyard to greet them, but again there were
no women. Still, as they dismounted he took note of several likely young nobles in the assembly.
The Wallachian prince who came forward to welcome them was a handsome man. His stature was
impressive, and he bore himself with grace, but more pride than dignity. There was a sense of barely
leashed power about the man, and the elder statesmen took note. They had expected this to be an easy
venture, believing from Stefan’s missive that they would find his master reasonable, if not eager to
please. One look at Draculea’s cold expression and the pale glitter of his eyes was enough to wipe
away their hopes of subtly bullying the prince into concessions. Rahazad, more of a fool than his
patron would have wished to believe, saw only that the prince was not to his particular tastes.
Draculea moved forward to welcome the men officially. He studied them closely as Stefan made the
introductions. Mahamoud, Ali, and Rahazad: two wise old dogs and a puppy. He watched the grace
with which the young man made his deep bow, somehow managing to keep the red tassled hat
securely on his sleek, dark head.
That observation brought the ghost of a frown to his face. Soldiers, of course, were not expected to
remove helmets, but it was generally held protocol to greet a monarch bare-headed. He had allowed
the few Jews who came into his presence to retain their skull-caps, in tolerance of their religion, but
this... He decided to give the Turks the benefit of the doubt. He could let it pass, seeing as they were
out of doors.
Draculea’s manner of address was polite, but not in the least fawning or flowery. "My most noble and
respected visitors. I make you welcome in my land, and in my own home."
Mahamoud thought, He tells us that he might have received us in a lesser place, but chose to honor us
in this manner. That is good.
"May God grant that we reach an accord that will allow our hard-won peace to continue."
He reminds us of the losses he has dealt us in the past, and they are considerable.
"May He also grant us the wisdom to recognize the path that will lead us to what He has planned for
us."
And that says that he will not be ruled by his advisors. If they conflict too strongly with his own
feelings, they might well suffer for their importuning. We will have to step carefully with this man, but
we must not appear weak.
The company entered the castle, and Draculea excused himself to confer with Stefan. Simion took
charge of the envoys. He bowed and invited them to follow him up the grand staircase.
Most of the luxuries that Beta had accumulated during her marriage had been moved into the three
rooms that the envoys would occupy. Nicolae, visiting the rooms the day before, had found the
opulence nearly suffocating. The Turks took it as their due. The rooms were side by side along one
corridor. In Mahamoud’s room, Simion informed them that they had only to ask for anything they
needed. There would be a formal banquet of welcome that evening. Negotiations would wait until the
next day.
When Simion excused himself, Rahazad begged leave of his seniors and followed him out into the
hall, saying, "You are called Simion?"
Simion eyed him. He will not call me ‘sir’, but hesitates to call me ‘slave’. Arrogance and caution--an
odd mix. Simion bowed. "So I am, Domn. Is there aught you need?"
"I have a question." Simion lifted his eyebrows in an attitude of polite readiness. "How do you
westerners produce children?"
"I... Domn, I would assume in the same manner as you and your countrymen."
"We require women for this, Simion. That is a commodity that your otherwise rich land seems to
lack."
Ah. "My lord, you have arrived at a time when our women folk habitually make a retreat in order to
meditate and refresh their spirits. However, if you require the comfort and companionship that only the
fair sex can provide, there are a few in the domestic quarters beyond the kitchen. One might be
brought to you."
"Is it permissible for me to visit them there?" He smiled. "I’m sure you can understand my desire to
see which of the fair ones would prove most congenial."
You would pick and choose. Understandable. "Of course, Domn. If you would care to come with me
now?" Simion led the young Turkish noble downstairs. They passed through the kitchen, dodging the
men who bustled to prepare the banquet (none of them daring to mutter about the domesticity of their
assignment).
The women had been instructed to wait in a small common room, which had been furnished simply
but comfortably. As part of their promised pay they had each been provided with a simple set of new,
modest clothes--the sort that respectable women of the merchant class might wear.
They all looked up when the men entered, then stood quickly. Simion they knew, so their attention
fastened immediately on the other man. He was young, not long into his twenties. His clothes, though
a bit dusty from travel, were of strange design. The trousers were loose and flowing, and the colors
were brighter than any they had ever seen outside a flower garden. The effect was exotic.
He was handsome, though his looks were unfamiliar. The hair that peeked from under his cap was
black and a bit coarse. His eyes were nearly as dark as his hair. He was clean shaven, with nut brown
skin. His features were strongly drawn, with an arrogant thrust of nose and jut of jaw. The eldest
whore regarded his wide mouth, took note of the faint, petulant droop at its corners, and hoped that he
would not choose her. This young man believed that many, many things were rightfully his, simply
because he was who he was, and he would not be easy to please.
Rahazad looked the women over silently. Very poor. Even the merchants of Turkey have better slaves
than this. Still, it would not do to disparage their hospitality. Two of them are not so bad, I suppose,
thought they look well used rather than experienced.
"Charming, Simion. Tell me, are there any young men of the court who are..." he considered his
words, "sportive?"
Three of the women looked confused. Marguerite rolled her eyes and murmured something about how
lucky it was that most common folk did not share the noble’s tastes, else it would be hard for a woman
to earn her bread.
"I expect, my lord, that one or two of the minor gentlemen in attendance would prove amenable. If you
are patient for but a few more hours, I do not doubt that you will find companionship." He bowed.
"Shall I show you back to your room? There are tasks to which I must see."
Rahazad waved him on. "I can find my own way." Simion left, and he turned his attention back to the
women.
At last one of them ventured, "You speak our language very well."
"I speak several languages. My Latin is probably the equal of your priest’s, and I speak French and
German as well." His smile was both condescending and leering. "I have a talented tongue. Perhaps I
will demonstrate my skills for you later." As he spoke, he put his hand into her bodice and squeezed,
none too gently, testing the firmness of her bosom (and finding it disappointingly loose.)
The door opened again, and he turned, expecting to find Simion, urging him politely to repair to his
room.
An unfamiliar voice said cheerfully, "Look, Marguerite, I’ve brought you more parchment. You
mustn’t give up, now that you’ve made such excellent progress. I’m sure... Oh." Rahazad gazed at the
man who had just entered the room, and felt an immediate spark of interest.
He was young, still several years younger than Rahazad. He was tall, and his simple clothes showed a
trim body. Hair as dark as Rahazad’s own, but with a satiny sheen, tumbled low on his forehead and
brushed his shoulders, longer than what seemed to be the current fashion in the land.
His eyes were a deep, soft brown. They were large, with a slight tilt that would have made him suspect
that the boy had Mongol blood, if it were not for the fineness of his features, and his complexion. Oh,
his skin! Merciful Allah, the women in his court would kill for skin like that. Staring at Rahazad, the
boy was blushing, and it was like milk and honey poured over rose petals.
The wide, dark eyes flickered away, and he stammered, "I... I am sorry. I..." He laid the parchment on
a table and backed quickly toward the door. "Ladies, if you want, later... If you have time, I... The
library. I’m sorry." He was gone.
There was silence for a moment, then Rahazad breathed, "Who was that?"
Jane piped up, "That was Nicolae the Monk. He is librarian here."
Speaking as if thinking aloud, Rahazad murmured, "He is beautiful." Then he slapped Jane briskly on
the rump. "Come to my room tonight after the banquet."
When he had gone, Marguerite said, "We should have told him."
"So? If he’s stupid enough to make advances to the prince’s sweetheart because his prick leads him on
before he finds out what’s what, it’s his own fault."
This gave the women pause, but at last one of them, Martha, shook her head. "I doubt he’d believe it.
Hell, he hasn’t yet noticed that he gives us all damp drawers, has he?" She patted Jane on the shoulder.
"Well, lass, you’d best set yourself for tonight. I have a feeling that you may learn a thing or two from
that heathen."
Librarian. Rahazad liked that idea. Most courtiers made at least a token effort at training in the
military arts--swordplay, archery, fisticuffs--but a scholar...
The library was easy to find, but it was empty. Rahazad entered and looked about. He was impressed.
The sultan’s ancestors had revered learning, and had built a large library of their own, but this
surpassed it. Could the young man he’d seen really be responsible for this?
Rahazad examined several volumes, noting neat repairs. Sheets of copy work on the table showed
meticulous, but elegant, script. He’s talented. Talented, and beautiful. No doubt intelligent, too. A true
prize. If I could present such a treasure to the sultan it would be a coup. It is not unthinkable that a
servant could be made part of the settlement.
The door opened and the boy entered. He halted when he spotted Rahazad, watching him cautiously
from under a dark fringe of hair.
Rahazad gave him his most open, friendly smile. Nicolae could not help responding with a tentative
smile of his own. Mindful of the visitor’s rank, he made a bow and waited to see if he would speak to
him.
The Turk touched his forehead in a greeting that was meant to flatter the young man (since he did not
believe him of sufficient rank to deserve it.) "Greetings. I am Rahazad ibn Hamara. You are Nicolae
the Monk?"
Nicolae bowed again. "Nicolae, sir. Calugarul, the Monk, is a title no longer appropriate. I left the
monastery long ago, and will not return. I am custodian of this library. Is there anything I can do for
you?"
"There may well be, Nicolae." He indicated the table. "This is your work?"
"Yes, Domn." He went to the table and began to neaten the already tidy contents. "I am now copying a
book that details the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. When I am done, the book will be returned to their
order."
"You write a fine hand. Can you read as well?" Rahazad knew very well that one thing did not
necessarily guarantee the other. There were many skilled copyists who were illiterate.
"Oh, yes, Domn! It is one of my greatest pleasures." His eyes, shining, roamed over the well filled
shelves.
Rahazad stepped closer, and his voice was soft. "What are your other pleasures, Nicolae?"
Something in the man’s silky tone alerted Nicolae, and he looked at the Turk sharply. During his time
at Draculea’s court he had come to recognize when a man desired him. Oh, the nobles of the court
never made any direct advances--they all had better sense than that. Still, Nicolae had learned to
recognize the caressing glances and change in breathing. When Rahazad moistened his lips, Nicolae
knew for sure, and he took a step back. "I pray, Domn."
Rahazad did not take the implied rebuke. He moved closer, saying, "Then you are used to spending
time on your knees. How fortuitous."
Rahazad was between Nicolae and the door, and Nicolae began to try to edge around him. "If you will
excuse me, Lord, I must go."
Still smiling, he moved to block Nicolae’s escape. "No, boy, I am not ready to excuse you."
Nicolae kept trying to move around him, but Rahazad countered every move, seeming to be quite
amused by the boy’s tentative efforts at escape. "Sir, please."
"You’re not an innocent, boy. I will not believe that one such as you could escape untouched at any
court, not even that of your own pope." Nicolae gasped in shock at the sacrilege. Rahazad said, "Come
now, no need to be so skittish, pretty one. I wager I can show you more pleasure than your most
skilled lover."
Nicolae drew himself up with dignity. "Sir, you must not press me. I have pledged myself to someone.
I belong to him, and I want no other."
Rahazad made a dismissive gesture. "He will never know, and I can make you want me." He lunged
suddenly, grabbing Nicolae’s wrist and jerking the boy into his arms.
The grip on his wrist was bruising. Nicolae felt the Turk’s free hand tangle in his hair, holding him fast
as Rahazad brought his lips down on Nicolae’s. Nicolae’s cry of protest was muffled against
Rahazad’s mouth, and the Turk took the chance to thrust his tongue deep into the hot, sweet depths of
the boy’s mouth.
The envoy was enjoying the tensed feel of the body against which he pressed, relishing the librarian’s
obvious reluctance, when the pain struck. He released Nicolae with a yell, clapping his hands to his
mouth in astonishment, unable to believe what had happened. The boy had fled from the library before
he could bring himself to admit that he had, indeed, been bitten.
Stunned, Rahazad dropped into a chair. There was a coppery taste in his mouth. He put a finger in,
gingerly touching his tongue. When he withdrew it, his fingertip was smeared with thin, bright blood.
He grinned. By Allah, a fighter! How long has it been since I took an unwilling partner?
He moved his tongue, sucking at the trickle of blood. Complete and immediate submission can become
boring. He stood up and strolled out of the library, heading for his room. If I can’t persuade the fools
to include the boy in our agreement, perhaps I’ll just take him. After all, he thought as he climbed the
stairs, Draculea is hardly likely to endanger a favorable accord for one slave.
TBC
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Nicolae did not seem to notice, and this irritated her. He is usually so attentive to my needs, she
thought sulkily. Now he scarcely notices me. She sighed again, more pointedly. It could be nothing
more than a bid for attention. Lena looked up, her expression sardonic, but Nicolae seemed oblivious.
At last Beta said, "Nicolae?"
He blinked, and turned on her a gaze that was vague with distraction. "Yes, Sister?"
"Nicolae, I will ask you again--what became of the entry rug? The servants have washed it until the
threads are frayed, and still it is stained. Did you and Draculea muck out the stables, then scuff it with
your filthy boots?"
"Something? What, Nicolae? Did they roll a leaking wine barrel through the hall?"
His voice was sharp. "Beta, do not plague me about this." Her mouth dropped open in surprise.
Nicolae, snapping at her? And of course, he could not bear it. Contrite, he said, "I’m sorry, Beta. I
didn’t mean to be harsh, but I’m worried."
"Why should you worry, Calugarul?" Lena asked. "You do not go to war. You remain here--with the
women." She felt a secret satisfaction at the hurt look in his eyes. No, Nicolae would not go to battle.
The idea was foolish. He was a scholar, not a warrior.
"Ah, but of course! You worry about the prince. Yes, if he should die, things would be hard for you,
wouldn’t they, librarian? Such rich patrons are not easy to come by."
Lena knew what had happened while she was away--she made it her business to learn everything.
While she might not be loved by the servants, she was adept at bribery and bullying, and it hadn’t been
too hard to learn the details.
Beta, as usual ignoring the distress that Lena’s words caused her brother, stood up, saying pettishly,
"All these preparations for war are quite wearying. I will have a nap, I think."
"Yes, Your Highness," Lena said, sarcasm lacing her voice. "Why, you scarce closed your eyes last
night with your great worry." Beta had slept like the dead, her mouth open and issuing unladylike
grating noises.
Nicolae looked concerned. "Beta, if you cannot rest, you must speak to Simion. He has a medicine that
can ease you into slumber. You must not be weak or vexed, lest you conceive, and the child suffers."
Lena started to speak, then changed her mind and instead picked viciously at a line of tiny stitches she
had somehow set crookedly. Draculea had not ‘visited’ Beta for almost a year, but it had been made
clear to Lena that she was not to mention it.
Oh, Draculea still came to her room on occasion--the show of a normal marriage was maintained.
When he did, he would pass a half hour or so drinking wine, perhaps chatting idly with his wife. He
did not touch her. While Beta was more than content with the arrangement, Lena seethed.
Two years. Two years, and still their position was not assured, all because of the doe-eyed young man
watching Beta with such pathetic concern. If only he would die, but he was most disgustingly healthy.
Direct physical action was out of the question--Lena was a physical coward. She had considered an
assassin. After all, she had extorted a substantial horde of silver and gold coins from the merchants she
recommended to Beta. Payment would be easy, but there were risks. She knew that if his lover were
killed, Draculea would tear down the very gates of Hell to reach the murderer. If he did find the killer,
he might not dispatch him on the spot. The dungeons of Castle Draculea were deep, the torture rooms
well equipped, and a man would tell all that he knew, under the right persuasion. There must be a way.
War provides so many opportunities.
Abul did not worry over much for her own safety. She was confident that if the Turks triumphed, Beta
would be spared. High-born ladies with rich relatives were ransomed, not killed, and Beta would make
sure that Lena was protected as well.
Lena realized that she had been musing, and Beta was staring at her expectantly. "My lady, I crave
your leave to remain here. I wish to finish this bit of work." Such a thing would never have been
allowed of any other maid, by any other lady, but Beta merely nodded, and left.
Nicolae got up and restlessly began to straighten the already neat books, shifting them minutely. Lena
watched him, pretending to take a stitch now and then, calculating the best way to torment the young
man. At last she said, in a falsely contrite voice, "I’m sorry, Nicolae. I shouldn’t tease you like that."
He turned toward her, his expression surprised, but hopeful. "It’s all right, Lena."
She shook her head. "No, it’s too bad of me. I know why you are so distressed. You fear what could
happen to Beta, should the Turks overrun the castle."
His hand fell away from the shelf as he took a step toward her. "Lena, don’t you think that she should
be sent away? She could stay with her brother, at Castle Varga."
"Oh, I think not, librarian. It is not so far that the safety would be greater than it is here, and it is not so
well fortified as Castle Draculea." Besides, Beta hates her sister-in-law. She would not be able to stand
living under the same roof with a woman who held more authority over the household than she. "She
is as safe here as she could be anywhere in Wallachia."
"Yes," Nicolae agreed. He spoke to Lena, but his thoughtful look made it seem as if he were thinking
out loud. "The walls are high and thick, and the river is at our back. The gates are strong, and even
now the carpenters and smiths work to make them stronger still. Each hour brings more stores, in case
there is a siege. Draculea has promised to leave a goodly number of his best men here when he goes
into battle. Surely we will be safe."
"We can but pray to God," she said with mock piety. Now to see if I cannot put a bit of fear into your
sweet existence, boy. "Though I am afraid that the Turks will be implacable. I hear that the sultan was
enraged." At Nicolae’s sharp look she nodded, and shrugged. "Yes, I know what happened, but I will
not tell Beta. I do not care to deal with hysteria."
She laid aside the embroidery and folded her hands in her lap. "The second eldest envoy survived the
trip, but died when he was brought before the sultan. I understand that the younger one--Rahazad, was
it? He will live, but he is... damaged. I suppose the sultan will have one of his eunuchs strangle him, as
a gesture of pity. They do not countenance the feeble. It was a high price to pay for pride, and both our
countries will continue to pay for it." Straightening her sleeve, Lena said casually, "The Turks were
here for such a short time. Did you see much of them?"
"I am rather surprised. I hear that they are adept in seeking out the most physically pleasing. Since
there were no women in the castle, that would have been you."
"I stayed in my room or the library. There was no good reason for me to meet them."
"No? I would have thought Draculea would have wanted to display you. We all know how proud he is
of his... library." Lena watched with satisfaction as the blood mounted in Nicolae’s cheeks. He makes
it so easy, taking everything to heart. I wonder... I believe I can frighten him into fleeing, and he would
not survive long without Draculea’s protection. I could be free of him. "Have you heard the latest
news?"
Nicolae nodded, looking troubled. "They did not wait long. Three villages were attacked before the
soldiers could come to their aid."
"Aye, well, that is the way of war. The innocent and helpless suffer... and suffer... and suffer. Bad
enough that they slaughtered the villagers, but what they did to them before..." She shook her head in
feigned distress. "Children spitted on spears. Infants torn from their mothers’ arms, their brains dashed
out on the ground, then the mothers ravished beside the tiny corpses. All this done in the sight of their
captured or dying menfolk."
Nicolae crossed himself, thinking that he must increase his prayers, petitioning for all who had been
struck down with their sins still heavy upon them. Without the Last Rites, their time in Purgatory
would be long. "God’s ways are sometimes harsh, and hard to comprehend. May He grant us strength
to accept."
"Pah! There is no understanding of war. And as to God, it seems to me that war is more from the will
and folly of men. If women ruled we would have peace." She scowled. "We would have peace now, if
the Church had ordered Draculea to seek it. He has always obeyed the Holy Father. But the Church
fears losing Its lands and revenues, and It is willing to sacrifice Its faithful to retain Its earthly
kingdom. After all, " her voice was bitterly ironic, "the faithful can always produce more souls for
them."
She sneered, "I must remember to mention it in my next confession." She considered. "You should go,
librarian. Leave the castle. Perhaps you would be safer in your old monastery."
"I cannot. I cannot leave Elizabeta alone now. She will be so troubled when the prince leaves for
battle."
"You know she cannot. She must encourage her people by demonstrating her confidence in Draculea."
The truth was that Beta had begged to be allowed to remove herself to the court of France, or perhaps
Germany, until the conflict was done. The opulence and ease of one of the more powerful courts
would have suited her and Lena well. Draculea had informed her coldly that he would not have it
known that his wife did not trust him to protect her.
"She would want you to be safe, though she will not mention it. She fears to offend you by seeming to
doubt your courage," Lena continued. *As if she considers the feelings of anyone save herself or me.
Lena moved closer. "You should leave. Hae you any idea what will happen to you if the castle falls?"
He cast his eyes down. "I will die. I fear death, but my soul belongs to God."
"I suppose you would die... eventually. But as I have told you--the Turks desire men as well as women.
The only question is this--if the troops find you, will they turn you over to their officers, or keep you
for themselves? If they keep you, I have heard that some captives have been taken by more than a
hundred in succession." She seemed to think. "They usually die at some point, though that does not
necessarily stop the abuse."
She watched as Nicolae, pale, sat down heavily. "But do not fret. Their officers will surely not allow a
choice morsel like you to remain in the hands of the rabble. Yes, you will only be required to service
the highest ranking officers, perhaps only a dozen or so. Of course they will have more exotic tastes,
and be harder to please. When they grow tired of you..."
She shook her head. "No, they will not kill you then. You will still fetch a fine price on the slave
block, especially since you will have been well trained by then. Or perhaps they will make a gift of
you to the Sultan himself! Oh, what an honor that would be, Nicolae! Though he would most likely
castrate you. How else could he allow you in his harem? But then, a favorite eunuch can become quite
powerful."
Nicolae sprang up, covering his mouth, and rushed to the little commode that Draculea had provided
for his comfort. He jerked it open and emptied his belly into the glazed earthenware pot therein.
Luckily it had been emptied of slops earlier.
Lena watched, well pleased. "Oh, I am sorry if I distressed you, but I feel you should know the truth.
You must be warned, so that you can decide on your best course." She gathered her work and left the
shivering boy. It should not take much more.
A week later
"He is quiet of late, Simion. When I ask him what troubles him, he only smiles and speaks of
something else. When I tried to press him last night..." He smiled almost reluctantly. "he silenced me
with kisses."
"He knows you well, Domn. He has not confided in me, either, but I think it is only natural care. He
knows that the battle you join tomorrow will be fierce." Simion’s eyes were grave. "He does not want
to think you might fail. I try to assure him."
Draculea sighed. "I wish I could allay his fears, but there is a chance..."
Draculea smiled, putting a hand on his shoulder. "Faithful Simion, unwilling to admit the chance of
my failure. I am grateful, but a prince must see the world as it is, and know his own limitations. I may
not return."
Simion’s voice was intense. "Let me go with you, Domn! Let me fight beside you, as I have before."
Draculea’s hand tightened. "I would permit it, if not for one thing. This time I must leave behind that
which I hold most dear. I need you to stay with Nicolae," Almost as an afterthought he added, "...and
see to the protection of the castle and my wife." Simion did not fail to notice the way Draculea had
ordered his charges.
Draculea hesitated. "Simion, you know what the Turks are like, what they are capable of. If rumor of
what Rahazad tried has reached the sultan’s ears, Nicolae..." He closed his eyes briefly. When he
opened them again, they were bleak. "If I fail, and they come to the castle, you must..."
Draculea, the strongest man Simion had ever known, the man that the world believed incapable of an
emotion softer than rage, could not complete the thought. Simion gripped his hand and said gently, "I
understand, Master. We will have a few hours warning. To please me, he will drink wine if I suggest it
will soothe his nerves. The draft I gave him when he was hurt will ease him beyond danger. No pain,
no fear--only sleep." He half drew the knife that hung at his belt. "I will follow him, quickly and
cleanly."
"Thank you, Simion." He embraced the older man. "I can go into battle now with a measure of peace."
Simion dared to return the embrace, and thought what he could not speak. For love of you, my prince,
and for love of Nicolae. I could have envied him, but not when he means so much to you. I know that
you care for me as much as your nature will allow, and I am content. I can take my pleasure well
enough with others, but my heart and soul will always belong to you.
Draculea released him. "I must go forth at dawn. One more night. I will have at least one more night
with my love."
"Yes, my lord. Love him well. Whatever rest you may lose, it will matter little. Being with him will
give you strength."
Draculea took his evening meal with the officers who would accompany him, eating only because he
knew that he must show no weakness. Beta sat at his right, and Nicolae at his left. Beta ate well, but
Nicolae only moved the food about on his plate. The boy excused himself early and Draculea
remained not much longer.
He opened the door of his room to find it lit by many candles, with a lusty fire leaping on the hearth.
Nicolae was bending over a bathing tub in the middle of the room. His feet were bare, and he had
removed his shirt. He set aside the bucket he had just emptied, then dipped his hand in the water. "It is
a pleasing temperature, Domn." He lifted his hand, wiping it across his chest, and the light glistened on
his wet skin. He held out his hand. "Come, master. Let me serve you tonight."
Draculea shut the door and went to him. He stood quietly as Nicolae began to undress him. Nicolae
opened and removed Draculea’s shirt, then sank to his knees before the prince, holding out his hands.
Draculea put his hands on Nicolae’s shoulders and lifted first one foot, then the other, allowing his
lover to remove his boots.
Draculea’s hands still on his shoulders, Nicolae slowly untied his lover’s lacings, then pushed down
his breeches. Draculea stepped out of them, and was naked. Nicolae looked up at him, and his voice
was teasing. "My lord, what must I do to persuade you to wear drawers?" His hands slid up his
Draculea’s thighs. "Would you prove the Turks’ claim that you are a savage?"
Draculea’s grip tightened, and he pulled him upright, pressing against him. "You make me feel like a
savage--a heathen with no though but my own pleasure."
"Not so, Prince." Draculea shivered as Nicolae ran his hands up his sides, skimming his ribs. "You
think of me. You always think of me." He pulled away gently. "Please, Domn, else the water will be
chilled."
Draculea stepped into the water, and let his hands glide down Nicolae’s chest. His fingers came to rest
on the boy’s dark copper nipples, and he rubbed softly. "Join me."
Nicolae lifted each hand to his lips, kissing them in turn. "Not tonight, Domn." He muted his refusal
with a promise. "When you return."
Draculea sat in the steamy water. Nicolae knelt beside the tub. Cupping his hands, he trickled the
warm water over Draculea, then picked up a lump of soap. He smiled as he worked it between his
palms, creating a thick, fragrant lather. "Domn, do you recall when we traveled from Castle Varga? Do
you..."
"The spring? Yes, Nicolae, I remember. How could I forget?" Nicolae’s hands moved over Draculea’s
body, more caressing than cleansing. "When we were done, you lay on the grass and would have slept
there, under the stars." He reached up and touched Nicolae’s cheek. "You were still so shy, yet you
invited me to lie with you. I wish I had."
"No, my love. Things progressed as they had to. You must have no regrets, as I have none." He rinsed
away the soap. When Draculea stepped dripping from the tub he wrapped the prince in a large, thick
cloth, patting and rubbing to dry him. Then, smiling mischievously, he took the ends of the cloth and
tugged Draculea, still wrapped, to the bed. He turned suddenly, swinging Draculea around as if he
were in a sling, and let go, so that he fell back across the bed. Then he threw himself on top of his
lover.
Nicolae lay atop him, bracing on his hands so that he could look down, and his expression became
grave. "How long will you be gone?"
Draculea reached up to hold his waist. "I do not know, Nicolae. It will not take many hours to reach
the battlefield, then..." He shrugged. "Who can say?" His hands tightened a little, his thumbs stroking
over Nicolae’s abdomen. "Their force is large. It may be all day. I may not return until nightfall."
Neither of them would admit what they both thought--that he might not return. Nicolae settled against
him again, resting his head on Draculea’s shoulder. "I want to love you, Vlad. But later, before you
go... will you hold me? When I am in your arms, I feel safe. Nothing of this world can touch me."
Draculea gripped his hair, tipping Nicolae’s head back so that he could reach his lips. "Of course,
Nicolae. I will always hold you when you are afraid." He kissed the boy, then let his mouth trail down
his throat. He paused for a moment, his lips against the warm skin, feeling the strong pulse of his
blood. He knew that with a word or a touch he could speed that blood to a thundering pace, or calm it
to a peaceful throb. He felt humbled by this power that the boy had granted him.
Slowly and gently, he began to touch Nicolae. Nicolae answered every kiss, every caress. They turned
on their sides, Nicolae shifting till his head was toward the foot of the bed, and feasted on each other.
When Draculea had drawn the essence from Nicolae, he pulled away, despite the boy’s protest that the
prince had not yet reached fulfillment.
He made Nicolae lie on his belly, and carefully oiled and loosened his back passage, seeking out the
tiny spot that made the younger man arch and cry out. At last Draculea mounted him, sinking into the
accepting flesh. He almost wept when he heard Nicolae whisper, "I am complete."
He took Nicolae slowly and tenderly. When the boy would have bucked, speeding the joining,
Draculea pressed down on his hips, holding him firmly, and continued his steady strokes. Again and
again he touched the pleasure spot buried so deep in his lover. When Nicolae was whining and shaking
with need, he rolled them over onto their sides. Then he took Nicolae’s rigid, weeping cock in his
greased hands and stroked him to completion. Only when he felt the hot surge of the boy’s sperm did
he loosen his control, and finish with three hard, stabbing thrusts.
When it was done, Draculea held Nicolae, as he had promised. He even managed to sleep, his head on
Nicolae’s chest, as the steady beat of his lover’s heart lulled him. Not moving, Nicolae lay awake,
staring up at the shadowed ceiling, and prayed.
TBC
Don’t worry. I have the next chapter beta-ed, and will post it as soon as I have the corrections made. It
may be less than an hour.
Back to index
The next morning, as the darkened sky turned pearl grey to the east, Nicolae left before Draculea was
buckled into his armor. He slipped away to join the people who had assembled in the chapel. There
Draculea would receive a final blessing from Bishop Alfred and Father Mircea, then would bid
farewell to his household and go forth with their well-wishes and prayers.
Beta, looking a bit groggy, stood before the altar with the clerics. As princess, she had place of honor.
Nicolae slipped to the side, standing near the font of holy water. The prince’s officers waited, standing
between the pews. All were solemn, and silent.
The doors to the chapel swung open and Draculea strode down the aisle, his tread measured--dignified,
but purposeful. Nicolae watched him, his eyes soft and wondering. He had seen Draculea before in the
leather guards that he wore to spar with his men, but the sight of him in full battle dress was something
else--it was awe-inspiring. Surely any Turk that does not flee before him is not brave, but a fool.
Looking neither right or left, Draculea came to the altar, and knelt. It was a tribute to his strength that
he did not require assistance to do this in his heavy armor. After Bishop Alfred had intoned a solemn
blessing and sprinkled him with holy water, he arose, again without assistance.
Making the sign of the cross, Alfred intoned, “Go with God, my son. You fight His battle, and you
shall prevail.”
Mircea echoed the bishop’s gesture, and sentiment. He had wanted to go, also--not to battle, but to
administer the Last Rites to those who would surely fall. Draculea had forbidden him, telling him that
his place was at Castle Draculea, tending to the needs of his little flock.
Beta stepped forward now. She placed a hand gingerly on the cold metal that covered her husband’s
arm, rose on her toes, and kissed his cheek. “Go with God, husband.” After a pause, her voice slightly
flat, she said, “I love you.”
Draculea stared at her. “Thank you, Beta. Be assured that I love you fully as much as you love me.”
He started toward the doors, and his men began to step into the aisle behind him, preparing to follow.
But Draculea stopped. He turned back and walked swiftly to the front of the chapel, brushing aside
those who did not move quickly enough.
Nicolae had closed his eyes as Draculea began to leave. His head drooped, tears spilling down his
cheeks, but he made no sound. He had clasped his hands, already beginning the first prayer, when he
heard heavy footsteps approach.
A hand under his chin tipped his face up, and he opened his eyes to find Draculea looking down at
him. Without a word the prince bent and pressed a fervent kiss to the boy’s mouth. He smoothed
Nicolae’s hair off his forehead, then gently brushed away a tear, all the while staring deeply into his
eyes.
Nicolae sighed, and gave him a trembling smile, putting his hands on either side of Draculea’s face.
Then he reached up and returned the kiss.
There was thick silence in the chapel. Finally Draculea stepped away from Nicolae. He turned an
ironic glance on the stunned Bishop Alfred, then went back up the aisle without further hesitation.
When he was gone, Nicolae went to Father Mircea and said quietly, “Father, will you hear my
confession?”
“Beta,” Nicolae caught his sister’s hand as she began to move away. “Make confession, too.”
“Sister, please. We do not know what today will bring, and our souls should be made clean.” When
she frowned, his hand tightened, and he said in a low voice, “I do not ask for much, Beta. Do this, for
my sake if not your own.”
She rolled her eyes. “Oh, very well! Let me go first, then. It will not take long.”
As the priest and girl entered the confessional, Nicolae turned to Lena. “And you, after her, Lena.”
Nicolae looked distressed. “But Lena, you must not risk dying unshriven.”
“See to your own soul, boy,” she said harshly. “It may be required of you before the day is out.”
“Lena, please...”
Beta was already emerging from the confessional, muttering her allotted Hail Marys and Our Fathers
under her breath. She paused beside Nicolae, saying testily, “Satisfied?”
He sighed with relief. “Thank you, Beta. Perhaps you can persuade Lena to do the same?”
With no further words she swept out... following Lena. He frowned, but took his place in the
confessional box. Father Mircea said, “Well, Nicolae, you can hardly have much to forgive. I heard
you only yesterday.”
Nicolae put his face in his hands, and was silent for a long moment. At last, voice muffled and not
looking up, he said, “Bless me Father, for I have sinned. I have lied to you, and to God.”
Mircea closed his eyes. He only hoped that the boy would not be too severe in castagating himself.
“Tell me, my son.”
Nicolae cleared his throat. “I... I have not made a good confession for over two years. I have taken
communion with sins still on my soul.”
Not wanting to hear what was nothing less than the boy ripping his own heart out, but knowing that he
must, Mircea said, “What are these sins, Nicolae?”
“I have lusted for one of my own sex, Father. I have lain with him. I have fornicated in ways deemed
unnatural by The Church.” His voice dropped. “He is wed. I have made him commit adultery.”
“Nicolae, no one can force another to dishonor their wedding vows. It is a choice.” He paused. “Can
you tell me the name of this person?”
As he had so long ago when he first confessed to Mircea the new longings that so confused him, he
said, “No, Father. I can confess only my own sins. He must look to the care of his own soul.”
“Nicolae,” Mircea said carefully. “Who has this relationship hurt?” Silence. “If it is as I think, not
even the wife of this man you love has suffered. And it is love, isn’t it, Nicolae? It is not just base,
animal lust. Your heart is taken, not just your body?”
“Then be at peace. Eight rosaries tonight before you sleep.” He paused. “Besides your usual prayers.”
Again, as he had so many times, Mircea spoke the words of absolution, smiling at the relief and
gratitude in the boy’s voice. He shook his head as Nicolae went directly from the box to kneel before
the altar and begin his penance.
Mircea sat back, thinking, Alfred must have left the room, else he would be berating the boy. Huh. He
has little room to chide others, with the five bastard children he supports, along with their three
mothers.
Mircea smiled. I thought he would choke on his beard when the prince kissed Nicolae. Men do kiss
dear friends and comrades, but that... No, that was the parting kiss of two lovers. Mircea closed his
eyes and offered up his own prayers. You may punish me when I come to judgment, Lord, but I cannot
condemn them. Bring Draculea home safe, Lord, because I think that Nicolae will not survive without
him.
***
While Draculea’s force was fewer than the Turks, they were fighting to protect their land, their homes,
and their loved ones, and they were led by a man so fierce and powerful that they could not help but be
heartened.
Draculea led the initial charge, mounted on Lucifer. The great beast had been restive as they neared
the battleground, prancing and snorting eagerly. He knew that they were going to war. He had been
born and bred for this, and he had missed it during the late peace. He quivered with excitement,
waiting for the call to battle. Draculea raised his sword, the trumpets blared, and the horse leapt into
action.
The huge black stallion raced into the front line of the Turks. In seconds he was rearing and plunging,
squealing with rage. He lashed out with his teeth and iron clad hooves. Skulls were crushed, chunks of
flesh ripped away. The horse alone would account for more than a dozen kills before the day was
done. And his rider...
The Turkish officers had tried to downplay Draculea’s power and presence, telling their men again and
again that the name Son of the Devil or Son of the Dragon was due only to his membership in the
Order of the Dragon. But the big man in the gleaming armor fought like a demon, wielding a huge
sword that seemed too large for even two men.
The closest he came to being injured was when a lucky mace blow knocked him from his saddle.
There was a moment of danger while he struggled to his feet, but his men closed around him,
protecting him until he was upright and had found his sword again. When his sword was knocked from
his hands, he snatched a spear from a Turk and used it to spit a charging foe, lifting him into the air,
before he retrieved his sword and fought on.
The battle raged through the morning and afternoon, into the evening. Thousands died, and uncounted
men were wounded. The Turks sent wave after wave of soldiers into the fray hoping to overwhelm the
Wallachians, but it was like waves breaking on a rocky shore. The forces of Draculea never faltered,
never gave ground. They advanced, and the ground behind them was littered with corpses, severed
limbs, and the brains and entrails of the unfortunate. So much blood was spilled that the ground grew
spongy, and the men ended up fighting in scarlet-brown mud.
Finally the Turks broke, and ran. Some surrendered. Those who had died in battle were more fortunate
than they. There were plenty of sturdy spears, and Draculea once again demonstrated why he was
known as The Impaler. The battlefield soon grew a gruesome forest of spitted bodies.
Finally, smeared with blood and filth, Draculea stood in the midst of the carnage as his men
slaughtered the remaining enemies. He raised his sword and cried, “God be praised! I am victorious!”
Then he lowered his weapon slowly, looking up at a sky that seemed to blaze, and whispered,
“Nicolae...”
A horseman was sent to bear the good tidings to Castle Draculea, and they began to gather up the
casualties for the trip back.
***
Simion was pacing in the courtyard when the messenger arrived. The young soldier slid from his
sweating, trembling mount, and fell into Simion’s arms. He gasped, “Sir, we are victorious!”
“He is well. Our lord is unharmed, and triumphant. He will return soon. But sir, we have many who
are sorely wounded.”
“Yes. The danger is past, else I would not dare leave my post. I will get my supplies and come at
once.” He turned the messenger over to the other soldiers, and went to collect his medicines.
The Turks knew they were going to be defeated hours before they battle ended. They formed an
insidious plan to exact revenge. A soldier broke through the lines and made his way back to Castle
Draculea, slipping through the forest. When he neared the walls, he loosed an arrow, aiming it over the
castle wall. The men Draculea had left to protect his home were alert, and their archers immediately
took aim on the spot from which the arrow had come. The Turk fulfilled his mission, but he died
bristling with well aimed shafts.
Simion was informed. Closing the case that contained his herbs, drafts, and a goodly supply of
bandages, he hurried to the courtyard. Lena had been there when the message was brought, and
followed closely, curious. Simion approached the arrow, handing his case to a stable lad to be loaded
on a cart. He eyed the parchment tied to the arrow, then untied it, and opened it. He read the message.
“What is it?”
He glanced at the woman, surprised and irritated. “It is nothing but a desperate, futile ploy, meant to
hurt and panic us. It says that the prince is dead, killed in battle.” He crumpled it into a ball. “I
received word not an hour ago that he is well, and triumphant. There can be no mistake.” He threw the
parchment to the ground. “Say nothing of this to anyone. It is better that no one know of this until the
prince has returned to prove the lie.”
The cart rolled out the gate, Simion sitting in the back and tearing a sheet into strips. Lena’s eyes
glinted as she watched them till they were out of sight. When they were gone, she bent and picked up
the parchment, smoothing and studying it. A slow smile spread over her thin face. “Oh, how sad. I
think Nicolae will take this hard.”
She rolled the parchment up again, tied it to the arrow once again, and went into the castle. Father
Mircea had persuaded Nicolae to return to his library. Lena found him there. He sat at the largest table,
staring at the wall.
She went to him, schooling her expression to be anxious. “Calugarul, look!” She showed him the
arrow. “This came over the castle wall not five minutes ago. I cannot find Simion, and someone must
see what this is. Please...”
Apprehensively, Nicolae took the arrow and untied the message. He unrolled the parchment, and read.
Lena watched avidly, and was gratified to see the color drain from his face, and his eyes grow huge
and wounded. “Is it bad news, librarian?” Unable to speak, he handed the page to Lena. Lena
pretended to read the message, and cried, “No! Oh, my poor lady, so young a widow. And you,
Nicolae.” Her voice was sly. “You have lost your patron, and protector. Let me advise you. When the
Turks take the castle, choose the most powerful and offer yourself to him, lest the common soldiers
rend you to bits in their passion.” She gave him a sorrowful look. “If only there were some way you
could escape this fate. I must go and be with Beta.” She left, repressing a chortle.
Nicolae remained where he was for a long moment, staring in horror at the message which had torn his
world apart. “Vlad.” The single word was a bare whisper, forlorn and lost. I should be crying, but I
cannot. I have no tears, I am empty.
He thought of what Lena had told him about the Turks, and he shuddered. I might live, but if I did, it
would be even worse. How could I bear it if they did the things that Vlad has done, but with nothing
but lust and hate, no love? No, it would be better to die. He closed his eyes. I am dead already, though
I still breath. Why should I wait for what will come, and suffer? He pulled a fresh sheet of parchment
toward him, then took up a quill, dipped it in ink, and wrote. When he was done he carefully blotted
the parchment, then folded it and tucked it in his shirt. He picked up the fatal message, left the library,
then hesitated, gazing up the stairs toward Beta’s room. His mouth tightened a bit.
Nicolae went to the chapel and found Father Mircea sitting in the front pew. He sat beside the older
man and said, “Father, I must ask you a question. It is very important.”
“If a person is murdered, if they have made a good confession, and performed their penance, will they
go to heaven?”
Mircea nodded kindly. “Most assuredly, Nicolae.” The boy sighed, obviously relieved. He patted
Nicolae’s knee. “You need not fear, boy. I do not think you will die today, but if you do, your soul is
clean.”
“Even... even if the person will die anyway, and in great and terrible pain?”
“Yes, Nicolae, even then. Death is meted out by God alone. Man cannot usurp that power without
endangering his soul.” He suddenly noticed the boy’s pallor. “Why do you ask me these things?”
“I am sorry, Father.”
“Nicolae, what is wrong?” He noticed the parchment in the boy’s hand and took it. Nicolae neither
tried to prevent him, nor tried to aid him. The priest read the message, then gasped, looking back at his
young friend.
Nicolae looked back at him with dull eyes and said softly, “I am so sorry, Father.” He suddenly
grabbed the priest, lifting him as he stood.
“Boy, what are you doing?”
“Bless me father, for I have sinned. I have despaired.” He wrestled the protesting priest toward the
confessional. Mircea struggled, but Nicolae, though inexperienced, was young and strong. He shoved
Mircea into the box and quickly shut the door. “I have planned murder.” He had the cord that had
bound the message to the arrow, and he used it to bind the handles of both sides of the confessional
together. Mircea threw himself against the door, and could not budge it. “My love is dead, and I must
follow him.”
“Nicolae!”
“Boy, you know I cannot! Please, be sensible. Open the door, and we will pray together.”
“Bless you, Father, but it will do no good. You may pray for my love’s soul. Pray for Beta. She
confessed only this morning, and her time in Purgatory will not be great.” Mircea cried out in horror,
but Nicolae continued with almost eerie calm. “I cannot help Lena. She would not confess, and I
cannot save her from the Turks without risking damning her soul. Try to protect her. And... and pray
for me? Who knows, perhaps God may forgive me... someday.” He went up the aisle, ignoring the
priest’s entreaties, his step firm.
Nicolae went first to Simion’s room. Most of his stores were gone, but he located a few precious
things. One of them was the sleeping draft.
He went to Elizabeta’s room. Lena frowned at him, thinking, Huh. I do not know if his remaining
means that he is a brave man, or a coward. She gave Nicolae a warning look, but the boy shook his
head, telling her silently that he would not tell Beta about the message.
Beta was sorting through a small pile of lace. She glanced up at Nicolae absently, and said, “You have
news, Brother?”
“No, Beta.” She looked up at him, curious. His voice, always soft when he spoke to her, was peculiarly
tender. “I only wish to spend a little time with you.”
Nicolae walked to the table that held the wine carafe and glasses. “Just take a glass of wine with me?
My nerves, I fear, are unsteady. It will make me feel so much better if you and Lena will join me.”
Turning his back to them he poured two goblets of wine, then glanced back at the women. Lena had
gone to Beta and leaned over her, their heads close together as they debated the merits of a swatch of
Venetian lace. He slipped the parchment twist from his sleeve. He poured a small measure of powder
into one glass, then emptied the rest into the other. Picking them up, he swirled the crimson liquid
gently, then brought it to the women.
He handed one glass to Lena, and the other to Beta. When Beta looked at him questioningly he said,
“There was enough for only two drinks. I should not have wine. I have allowed my habits to become
lax of late.”
The two women drank. Lena finished her goblet in two quick drafts, then set it aside. Beta sipped her’s
more daintily. Nicolae watched with some apprehension. She only drank about half of the wine before
setting it aside. He frowned. Would it be enough? And it had to be soon, else someone was likely to
release Father Mircea, and learn of his plan.
Soon Lena was yawning hugely. “My lady, I think I must rest. I am unaccountably weary.”
“Yes, Lena.” Beta yawned more daintily, covering her mouth. “You may take the bed. Nicolae, you
must go.”
“Not yet, Sister.” He watched as Lena stretched out on the bed. She began snoring, almost
immediately. “Just a few moments more. How do you feel?”
Beta blinked, looking a bit dazed. “In truth, Nicolae, I feel odd. My head swims.”
“The room is too warm and close. You need fresh air, Beta. You have taken no exercise for a long
time.” He took her hands, pulling her upright. “Come, I will walk with you.”
She whined. “I do not wish to. Let go, Nicolae, and let me lie beside Lena.”
“Soon, Sister. But come with me just this little while. Please?”
“Oh, very well!” she grumbled. He led her out into the hall.
When she would have turned toward the stairs leading down to the ground floor, he urged her in the
other direction. “No, Beta. It would not be safe to go out into the courtyard. We will walk on the roof
of the castle. There you will be safe.”
He had to help her up the stairs, because she was swaying by now. “Nicolae, I think I should go back
to my room. I... I am really quite dizzy.”
“Soon, Beta, soon. Come to the back wall. The breeze is cool and refreshing there, and the view is
magnificent.” He half carried her to the low wall at the back of the roof. “Do you see, Beta? The
mountains rise all around, and the forests seem to go on forever. Can you help but feel the presence of
God in the face of such beauty?”
She gave a small cry of surprise as Nicolae gathered her into his arms. Always before she had been the
one to offer physical intimacy. Nicolae had humbly accepted whatever absent embrace or petting she
had seen fit to offer him. She looked up at him, and was alarmed at the his expression. It was so gentle,
but sorrowful, and there was a strange brightness in his eyes. “You will rest soon, Beta.”
“Nicolae...”
“I know that you would have wished for Lena to come with you, but she would not go to confession. I
could not condemn her to meet God with her sins still black upon her soul.” He moved suddenly,
climbing up on the wall, lifting her with him.
“Dear God, Nicolae!” Her panic fought with the strange heaviness which weighted her limbs, yet
made her feel light headed. “What have you done? What are you doing?”
“Hush, Sister, it is all right. I spoke to Father Mircea. You are innocent, and your soul will fly to God.
Will you speak for me when you are in heaven?”
She beat at him feebly. “Nicolae, why are you doing this?”
“I alone am left to see that you do not suffer at the hands of the invaders.”
There was silence, save for the wind whistling around the two young people perched on the wall, high
above the rushing river. At last Nicolae said softly, “Poor girl. Your grief has made you mad. Do not
fear, Beta. I will be strong for us both.”
As the girl began to struggle more strongly, Nicolae lifted his face to the sky and murmured, “Father,
we come.” Closing his eyes he whispered, “Vlad, I come.”
***
Simion met Draculea halfway. The prince rode at the head of an only slightly diminished force. The
well helped the wounded to limp along, while the ones who could not walk were piled in creaking
carts. Draculea said, “Good, you got my message. You need not go on to the battlefield. We have
brought all those who survive, and they can be best tended in the castle or village.” He smiled. “How
did Nicolae receive the news?”
Simion looked abashed. “My lord, I did not tell him. I made haste to treat the wounded. But think of
his joy when you stand before him.”
Draculea smiled, imagining the boy’s face wet again, but this time with tears of joy. “Yes. Let us
hurry.”
Simion mounted one of the carts and began to bind wounds. Draculea paced an oddly calm Lucifer
alongside. The great horse had suffered a few small wounds, but his hooves, clotted with drying blood
and brains, proved that he had dealt more blows than he had received.
As he worked, Simion said, “The dogs tried one last ploy to put fear in our hearts, Domn. They sent an
arrow over the walls with a lying message, saying you were slain. I left it wadded on the ground, like
the trash it was, but perhaps you would like to preserve it as a memento.”
“You assured everyone that it was false?”
“No one else read it, so there was no need.” He frowned, tightening a bandage. “Well, no one of
import. Abul was there, but I told her plainly that there was proof of its lie.”
“Lena?” Draculea frowned, feeling a tickle of unease. “If mischief can be done, that woman will find a
way. If she has frightened Nicolae...” He trailed off, a sudden sense of alarm washing over him.
“Simion, if the boy does not know of my triumph, and reads that filth...”
Simion froze, the same idea occurring to him. “No, my lord, surely not. I left the castle only an hour
ago.”
“Much may happen in an hour.” Draculea set his spurs to Lucifer’s sides, and the great horse, even as
tired as he was, leaped into a gallop.
Simion commandeered a horse from one of the officers, and followed Draculea. Though the horse was
no match for Draculea’s steed, it was fresher, and Simion managed to draw near as they came to the
castle.
Draculea knew that something was wrong as he came through the gates. There was both agitation, and
a strange stillness over the castle. He was not greeted by the cheers that would have been normal on an
occasion such as this. The men guarding the gate turned their eyes away.
He flung himself down from Lucifer and burst into the castle. A group of serving girls huddled near
the door, clutching each other and weeping. When they saw him, their wails rose. Draculea took a step
toward them, hoping to find out the meaning of the strange atmosphere, but he hesitated, and looked
down.
The entry rug, the one that had been stained by the blood of the Turks, was stained now with water. It
was almost sopping near the door, and the damp trail thinned as it led into the great hall.
Feeling a nameless dread, Draculea followed it through the great hall, to the doors of the chapel. There
he hesitated. He had known no fear when he went forth to face the Turks, but now his heart felt
swollen with terror. He thrust the doors open violently, and strode into the chapel.
At the front, Bishop Alfred, two of Beta’s maids, and a weeping Father Mircea looked up at him.
Stretched on a bier before the altar lay Beta, or rather what had once been Beta. Draculea came
forward slowly. She was drenched, her long hair trailing down the single step that led up to the altar,
her clothes streaming. Her face was twisted in a last, petulant grimace, and Draculea thought numbly
that if she were to lie in state, the ones who prepared her would be hard put to make her features
pleasant again.
As he came closer, he said, “How? What was she doing near the river? She hated it.”
Father Mircea seemed about to speak, but Bishop Alfred intoned. “You must be strong, Prince. Your
poor bride was most foully slain. But be at peace. Mircea tells me she had made confession earlier, and
a murder victim bears no stain of sin.” His eyes hardened. “But the one who slew her was a suicide.”
Almost to the front now, Draculea caught sight of something small and dark huddled to the side, and
his gaze was drawn there. He staggered, struck and wounded as no foe had ever done.
The black hair covered his face, but Draculea could not mistake him. He knew every curve of that
body, every plain and angle, every square inch of skin. “No.” It was a whisper.
Simion who had come up behind him, flinched in horror. He reached to take Draculea’s arm, to offer
what support and comfort he could. The big man shook him off and stumbled toward the still figure.
When Mircea tried to stop him, he threw the priest off with no more effort than a man waving away a
fly. He went down on his knees beside the still body, then reached out a trembling hand and pushed
the hair back.
Draculea experienced a curious burst of memory. Images of the face of his beloved, in all its many
moods, flashed before him. He remembered the panicked look when he had fled at Castle Varga, the
quiet suffering after his father’s attack, the rapt devotion as he prayed, the tenderness as he held a
servant girl’s child. He recalled the flash of bright temper when he declared his intention to have some
say in his own life, the smile when he made a simple joke, the concern when Vlad had come from his
drill, nursing bruises. He remembered that face burning with passion, glowing up at him, or turned,
flushed and sweaty, to gaze at him over his shoulder as their bodies joined. But most of all he
remembered how he had looked after love, when sleep overtook him, and he lay peaceful in
Draculea’s arms.
That was the expression now. Tired, and peaceful, and very young. He was paler than Draculea had
ever seen him, though, and there were lavender shadows under his eyes that told that he would not
awaken refreshed from this sleep. Draculea touched his cheek gently, and jerked his hand back from
the damp, cold flesh. “Nicolae.”
When his hand dropped, it touched something, and Draculea picked up the sheet of parchment. It was
wet also, and the ink ran, streaking the paper with black, but he could still recognize Nicolae’s precise,
elegant hand. My prince is dead. All is lost without him. May God unite us in heaven.
“Oh, Lord, no!” Draculea gathered the limp body into his arms, rocking it against his armored chest.
He held Nicolae as he had so many times, but there was no stir, no response. Simion had to bite back a
cry of pain when the prince desperately lifted the boy’s arms around his own neck, only to have them
fall back.
Bishop Alfred, watching the scene with distaste, decided it was time to summon the prince back to his
duties. After all, the boy had been only a plaything, and here lay the prince’s bride. “He has taken his
own life. His soul cannot be saved. He is damned. It is God’s law.”
The bishop started when Draculea threw back his head and screamed in denial, even as he gently
lowered the body once again. He lunged to his feet and lashed out. The font toppled, the heavy stone
bursting apart as it struck, and the holy water flooded the floor. Before the bishop could react to this,
Draculea had turned on him.
Pointing at Alfred, eyes blazing the pale blue of a candle flame when a lost soul passes by, he
screamed, “Is this my reward for defending God’s church?”
Draculea scowled at him, and the cleric cringed away, lifting his cross in defense. There was an unholy
light in Draculea’s eyes, one that caused more than physical fear. Glaring at the frozen bishop,
Draculea snarled, “I renounce God! If he can damn one as innocent and good as my Nicolae, I
renounce the hateful being. I shall rise from my own death to avenge his with all the powers of
darkness!”
He had dropped his sword when he spotted Nicolae, but now he took it up again. He lunged over the
altar and jabbed the blade at the cross carved into the stone wall. Such was the force of his grief and
rage that the blade smote through the stone, sinking in easily a third of its length. He left it quivering
there.
As he turned back the witnesses gasped in horror. Mircea and Alfred instinctively crossed themselves,
and all others but Simion fled. Blood spurted from the stone, as if Draculea had thrust his blade into
living flesh. It streamed down the wall and began to gather in a crimson puddle. Suddenly, though the
day had been clear, thunder boomed overhead.
Snatching the communion chalice from the altar, Draculea held it beneath the grisly flow, letting it fill
with the scarlet liquid. He raised the chalice high and shouted, “The blood is the life, and it shall be
mine!” Then he threw back his head and drained the chalice.
Again there was thunder, as if the very sky would split. The blood from the cross increased, flooding
down to wash against Beta’s corpse, thinning but little when it struck the water that had dripped from
her garments. Bloody tears began to stream from the eyes of the Madonna, and all the other small
icons and carvings. The very walls of Castle Draculea shook and groaned. Bishop Alfred fled in
babbling fear, crossing himself even as he ran. Never again would he be persuaded to come within
even a day’s ride of Castle Draculea.
As the Bishop hurried out of the chapel, Draculea screamed, the chalice falling from his hands. He
ripped at his armor, slicing his hands as he tore it from his body, snapping the straps that held it in
place. His entire body felt on fire, as if he was being burned from within. Simion shuddered when he
saw that his master’s eyes were no longer cool blue, but blood red.
Draculea turned and staggered back to where Nicolae lay. He dropped to the floor and once again
pulled the dead boy into his arms. Gently caressing the pale face, he whispered. “Do you see what I
have done, Nicu? I have damned myself for you. Now you must return. I know it will be hard, little
one. You are wandering in cold and dark, and it will not be easy to find your way back, but you must
try. All you have to do is return to this world.” Draculea could feel himself weakening. “Just come
back to this earthly realm, Nicu, and I will find you--this I swear. I will wait for you, Nicolae, no
matter how long it takes for you to find your way home.” Darkness was closing in. He touched his lips
to Nicolae’s cool mouth. When he sat back, blood was a vivid smear against the boy’s pale lips. “But
you must come back.” As he slid into unconsciousness, Draculea murmured, “We belong to each
other.”
Simion approached them slowly. He touched Draculea’s back, then his throat. Finally he cupped a
hand before Draculea’s face, covering his mouth and nostrils. He looked to Mircea, his expression
devastated, and moaned, “He is dead!”
Mircea, crossing himself over and over in a gesture he scarcely seemed aware of, whispered, “No,
Simion, I doubt he is truly dead.”
“I will see to the burial of those other two poor creatures. Beta will lie in the Draculea crypt.
Nicolae...” he closed his eyes in pain. “He cannot lie in consecrated ground, but I will not have him
cast out into the rough wilderness. I will see him placed somewhere he can rest with a bit of dignity,”
Mircea grimaced, “if he can rest at all. Then I will leave this place.”
As Mircea moved to begin his tasks, Simion caught his arm and said fiercely, “Tell me what you
mean! My lord is dead! He does not breathe, his heart does not beat. I tell you, he is dead!”
Mircea gently pried Simion’s hand away, “And I tell you, Simion, that though he does not live, he is
not dead.” When Simion would have protested this nonsense, he looked at the priest’s grieving face,
and stopped. Before he left, Mircea said sadly, “God is not mocked. Do you think that He would allow
Draculea to escape so easily?”
TBC
Back to index
For a long moment Simion could only stand and stare at the two still figures intertwined on the now
gore-flooded floor. Mircea returned in a moment with two shaking soldiers, bullying them along with
threats of divine retribution if they neglected their duties through cowardice. Mircea gently disengaged
Nicolae from Draculea’s embrace, and the soldiers carried the limp body away.
Draculea was now stretched out on the floor, his arms extended after the leaving men, as if still
reaching for his lover. He looks so alone. Simion gathered himself. He stripped off the rest of
Draculea’s armor, so that he would be able to lift him. He did not try to call for assistance. If they are
such cowards that they will abandon him now, then curse them all, he thought fiercely.
It was not easy. Draculea was bigger than he, but somehow Simion managed to heft the limp body
over his shoulder, and thus carried him upstairs to his room. There he laid Draculea on his bed, and
once again examined the prince.
He frowned. There was no breath, no fog when he held a brightly polished piece of metal before his
nostrils. He opened the prince’s shirt and laid his ear against his broad chest, holding his own breath as
he listened. No sound, and the blood-smeared flesh seemed already to be cooling.
The priest said that though he does not live, he is not dead. I have heard of men who have taken fits
and seemed dead, then awakened in their graves. He shuddered. That will not happen to you, my
prince. I will sit beside you till you either awaken, or the rot sets into your flesh.
The water from the previous night was still there. In normal times that negligence would have earned
someone a beating, unless kind Nicolae had pleaded their cause. Simion would have preferred hot
water, but he would not leave Draculea, lest he be away when his master revived. Instead he stripped
Draculea and washed him carefully, removing the blood of battle, and the blood of the chapel. His
hands stayed steady, but inside he quaked. He was a brave man, but the grisly sights in the chapel had
shaken him badly. All that held him steady now was his sense of duty--Draculea needed him.
When he was done, he covered Draculea with a clean sheet. He began to draw the sheet up over his
head, then hesitated, looking at the pale, stern features. Finally he folded the sheet neatly down over
his breast, pulled a chair up beside the bed, and sat down to wait.
Some time later there was a knock at the door. Simion did not respond at once. When it came again, he
arose and went to the door. He was a little surprised--he would have thought that the castle staff and
Draculea’s men would have fled by now. Most of them were a superstitious lot, and news of what had
happened would have spread quickly, attaining even greater violence and eerieness as it was passed. I
would not be surprised if by now they had Satan himself appearing in fire and smoke to present
Draculea with a contract for his soul, to be signed in blood.
Outside there was a swarthy man--one who did not seem as nervous as Simion would have expected.
Simion examined him closely. "Yes?"
"Why do you bother me with this now? You know the penalties."
Again he bowed. "Yes, sir, but this case is different." The man had a thick accent. So, this was one of
the gypsies. While most people drove the gypsies from place to place, cursing them for thieves and
scoundrels, Draculea had welcomed many of them into his service, and decreed that they were under
royal protection. The gypsies did not forget such kindness, and were loyal to the prince. "A woman
was caught in the stable, trying to steal one of the prince’s horses. Not a peasant woman, sir, nor yet a
court lady. She is the personal servant of the dead Princess Elizabeta. She had a goodly quantity of
silver and gold with her, and we fear she may have stolen it from the castle, though she claims it is her
own, and offered to pay for the horse."
Lena? I thought perhaps Nicolae had done away with her, too, but it seems I was wrong.
The man shrugged. "We would have executed her, but I remembered that..." he cocked his head and
said consideringly, "that Prince Draculea was not fond of her. We thought that perhaps the prince
would like to deal with her himself."
Simion nodded slowly. "You did well. Yes, he will most definitely wish to tend to her if..." Simion
shook his head slightly. "When he awakens. Take her to the dungeon. No one is to touch her, mind,
without express orders. See that she has food and water, for now." He gave a small, cold smile.
"Garnish it as you wish."
The man snickered as Simion shut the door. The fastidious Lena, so picky about her food and drink,
would find it less than perfect now. If she could not handle the taste of spit, piss, and possibly shit, she
could starve. He had a feeling, though, that she would not turn down whatever was offered for
long--her desire to survive was too strong for her to allow herself to starve simply because a guard
dirtied her food.
Simion sat back beside Draculea. I promise you this, Domn--If you do not awaken, I will see that her
food holds more than what the guards gift her with. I have certain drugs that can kill as well as cure.
For your sake, and Nicolae’s, I will see that she takes hours to die. She will think that her belly is full
of broken glass, and her veins are full of acid, and I will stand and watch each shudder until the Devil
comes to snatch her black soul to hell.
Simion sat and waited. The fire that had been built earlier burned down to embers, and the embers
burned down to ashes. Occasionally he would hear distant footsteps, or whispering voices, but not
nearly as many as one might expect in a castle the size of Castle Draculea. Not in a living house, in
any case. I think that the same fate that has befallen our master has taken the castle. It is fit, since he
is so much a part of this place.
The dawn came, and the day began to pass. Twice silent gypsies brought food to the room. They
would place it near Simion, stoically study the still form of the prince, then leave. Simion knew that,
though all the others had fled, the gypsies would remain until he told them that there was no hope for
their master.
He ate, only because he knew that he must retain his strength, the better to serve Draculea. If Draculea
was indeed dead... He had told his master what he would do in that case. He kept his knife at his belt,
ready.
The day wore on. He knew that night was approaching when one of the gypsies came and built another
fire on the hearth. This time the man approached Simion and waited patiently to be noticed. Simion
decided that the man had enough sense not to bother him unless he had important information, and he
gestured at him to speak.
"Sir, I thought you would wish to know. The master’s young companion has been buried below the
castle. My men dug the grave, for the old priest would never have managed."
The man shrugged. "It is not necessary, sir. It was our duty, and the men liked the boy. He was always
courteous and kind," he smiled grimly, "though he did plague us to learn his scratching. The priest said
some words over the grave. It was not the full burial ceremony, but he blessed the boy, and said a
prayer for his soul."
Simion shook his head. "I knew that Mircea would do all that he felt he could. He is gone now?"
Simion’s voice held a touch of grim satisfaction. "So, she received full ceremony, but he buried
Nicolae first. Good." He waved the man away. "Two more days, friend. If Draculea has not come to
his senses by then, we will bury him, and your people are released from fealty."
He bowed, saying, "Sir, my people do not swear allegiance lightly. Should the time ever come when
we are no longer needed by the House of Draculea, we will know."
He left, and Simion turned his attention once again to his fallen master. Aside from his pallor, he does
not look dead. He seems only asleep. Asleep, but not at peace. The look of calm he had achieved with
Nicu is gone.
Simion closed his eyes, remembering his lord in all his many moods. He did not see the faint twitch of
movement beneath Draculea’s eyelids, the subtle shifting that was so like that which accompanied a
dream. There was a minute lifting under the sheet as long fingers spread slightly, and flexed. There
were many infinitesimal motions, but the chest never rose, and the skin above his pulse points did not
vibrate with the throb of flowing blood.
Draculea’s eyelids lifted. The eyes that stared up at the ceiling were as flat and cold as stone. Then
there was a spark in their depths. Rage and grief flared, bringing the dead stare to life.
Simion had been slipping into a doze when he heard a scream that sounded as if it came from the pits
of Hell. Even before he could open his eyes he felt a body collide with his own, knocking him from his
seat and carrying him to the floor.
Simion fought frantically, but it was as if the thing on top of him had the strength of ten men. Cold
limbs wound with his own, pinning him so that he felt as helpless as a child.
There was a low, inhuman snarl close above him. He opened his eyes to find a face both familiar and
hideously strange hovering above his own. It was his master, Draculea, but something souless looked
out from his eyes. He glared down at Simion. His well-cut lips wrinkled back like those of a wild dog
scenting prey, and Simion moaned when he saw that the canine teeth had grown. They were fangs,
near an inch long, the needle points glistening. "Nosferatu!" he whispered.
Simion was further shocked when Draculea agreed in a harsh voice, "Nosferatu." Simion had thought
that all that had been Draculea had fled, leaving only a fleshy shell, inhabited by a demon, but he could
see that the essence of his master still remained, though he was not at that moment in control.
A large hand seized Simion’s hair, dragging his head aside and stretching his neck while the other
hand ripped at his shirt collar. Simion used the freedom of his hands to try to fight, but the dread being
ignored his struggles with near contempt.
Simion recalled the legends of the Nosferatu. These creatures awakened into their new existence with
an obsessive desire to feed. Only those who had the greatest will in life retained a shred of sanity or
reason beyond death, and even they were mad until they had their first sup. It seemed hopeless, but if
he hoped to avoid slaughter, he had to try.
The mortal gasped, "My prince, mercy! Let me live, that I may serve you."
"You may serve me beyond the grave, human," he said thickly. He pressed his face to Simion’s throat.
Though he did not breathe, he drew in great lungsful of air, enjoying the rich, warm scent of life.
Simion could feel cool saliva against his skin, and the hard press of fangs above his jugular.
Simion, desperate, cried out, "Nicolae will grieve when he returns, if you kill me."
The body above him stiffened. Draculea lifted his head and stared into Simion’s eyes, mouth slightly
open. Simion watched in amazement as the fangs slowly, agonizingly withdrew, shrinking into the
gums till they were of normal length. Draculea, voice still rough, said slowly, "Yes. Yes, he will."
Moving slowly, as if every motion hurt him, Draculea crawled off of Simion and sat on the floor, his
back against the bed. Simion sat up, rubbing his throat, resisting the urge to scramble away.
Draculea stared off, not looking at his servant. At last he said, "You should go. I cannot account for
my actions now. I do not want to kill you, but..." He closed his eyes. "Simion, I burn. I feel as if I have
not eaten for years, and I thirst as if I have never moistened my tongue with a drop of drink. Molten
lead pours through my veins, and I know that only one thing can ease this torment." He slid his gaze
toward Simion and said quietly, "Leave, old friend. Flee, lest I lose control of the beast that has
awakened inside me, and slay you."
"Not so, lord. I bound myself to you many years ago, of my own choice."
"You do not know what I would require of you to remain in my service. I free you. Go."
"No, my prince. I know well what you need. Did I not witness your vow in the chapel? Have I not
heard tales of the Nosferatu from my youngest years?" Simion pulled himself to his knees before
Draculea, and drew his knife.
Draculea gave a humorless laugh. "Do you seek to shorten my suffering, Simion? Then you did not
pay much attention to those tales you mentioned, unless that knife is pure silver. Even then you would
be hard pressed to kill me, my friend." Draculea bent his knees up, wrapping his arms around them, as
if chilled. "The undead are not easy to dispatch."
"Nay, prince. I do not seek to kill you--I intend to aid you. I can give you what you need now." Simion
slashed the blade across his left palm, the one closest to his heart, and dropped the knife. Blood began
to flow thickly from the wound, and he brought his hands together, cupping them, before it could spill
on the floor.
Draculea watched in amazement. Every fiber of his being screamed at him to throw himself on the
man and take what he needed. But Draculea’s will was as steely in death as it had been in life, and he
resisted, though it made him tremble with strain.
As the blood welled and pooled in his hands, Simion said, "I swore a blood oath to serve you, prince.
This is but the next step." He lifted his hands toward Draculea, offering them. "Drink, Maria Ta."
When Draculea hesitated he said softly, "Please, Vlad. Let me give you this gift."
Draculea moved so swiftly that Simion flinched, but he did not lose a single drop of the precious
blood. He felt cold, inhumanly strong hands grip his wrists. Draculea studied his face, and Simion
nodded gravely. Slowly Draculea lowered his head.
The smell was driving him mad. He could feel the ache as his fangs began to lengthen again. He could
sense the hot, sweet pulse of blood just below the skin of Simion’s wrist, and he could imagine ripping
the flesh open and drinking from the crimson flood. But a pool of the life giving elixer was just below
that throb, and it was being offered freely. Draculea bent his head lower, put out his tongue, and
dipped the tip into the blood.
A bolt of heat and pleasure, something much more than the enjoyment of taste or the anticipation of
satisfying bodily hunger, swept over him. He pursed his lips and sucked up a mouthful. It was warm,
salty and sweet all at once--it was delicious. He swallowed and hastily sucked up another mouthful.
The liquid traced a line of heat down to his belly. The sharp pain that had settled there eased almost
immediately, and when the second mouthful joined it, a warm glow began to spread.
Draculea continued, eagerly sipping the blood till the liquid was gone. The wound had stopped seeping
and all that was left was the film over Simion’s palms and fingers. The insistent edge of Draculea’s
hunger and thirst was gone--now he was simply savoring the taste. He pulled Simion’s hands apart, not
releasing his wrists, and began to lick the last of the blood away.
There had been a change. When Draculea had first gripped Simion his hands had been icy. Now...
They were still not normal, but the flesh seemed to have warmed a bit. It is the blood, he thought. It
warms him. I think that if he took enough he would be as he was--warm, with the color of life. But I
fear that taking that much from a single victim would mean death. As he thought this, Draculea was
licking his palm. Simion bit his lip at the cool, wet caress.
The heat of the blood he had drunk spread through Draculea’s body, igniting a familiar fire in his
loins. Now that one appetite had been sated, he found himself beset by another need. For so long he
had shared this desire with Nicolae alone, but before that, Simion had often cared for him when his
lust rose.
He moved to take one of Simion’s fingers into his mouth, sucking it strongly. Simion drew in a deep
breath as he felt the sharp edge of one fang, but Draculea was careful. He curled his tongue around
Simion’s finger, sliding it slowly in and out between his lips, staring at his servant. He released one
wrist and let his hand drop to Simion’s crotch. He murmured in approval when he found the warm
bulge of his erection. Draculea was not the only one who found this sharing erotic. Draculea
murmured, "I still hunger, Simion."
The older man reached up and touched his face softly, and said, "Then take what you need, my lord."
Simion began to unlace his breeches as Draculea turned back toward the small table beside the bed.
The bowl of scented oil was still there. Had it been only two days ago that he had used it on his
beloved, gently and patiently stretching him so that he could accomodate Draculea’s lust-swollen flesh
with ease and pleasure?
Simion was throwing aside the breeches when Draculea turned back. The prince spread the sheet that
had covered him, needing only a few quick motions, then urged Simion over onto his belly on the
floor. Simion spread his legs as he lay down, and Draculea moved between them, kneeling. As he
spread the other man’s buttocks he said quietly, "I’m sorry, Simion. I will not be able to hold back for
long, I fear, and my flesh is still cool. It may be... uncomfortable."
Simion reached back blindly. His hand briefly gripped Draculea’s forearm, and he squeezed. "I want
this, prince, more than you can imagine. Let me help you in this way. I promise you that, in doing so, I
take also what I need." He gasped as the first well-greased finger slid deep into him, but it passed over
his pleasure spot at the first stroke, and the gasp became a moan of pleasure.
Draculea worked quickly, his touch hard, but not brutal. After only a few strokes he added a second
finger, and a third followed quickly. It was a little uncomfortable, because Simion had not indulged for
some months, but this was his beloved prince, and it was welcome.
Draculea took another portion of oil, anointing his rigid cock liberally, then stretched himself over
Simion. The servant closed his eyes as he felt the slick, cool nudge of Draculea’s cock at his back
entrance. Then Draculea breached him with one long, smooth stroke, entering him fully.
It was a bit of a shock. The familiar heat was absent, but he was still as long and thick and filling as
ever he was--and still as active. He began to thrust quickly, letting himself rest fully on the man
beneath him, his weight carrying him deeper, and deeper still. Simion grunted with pleasure as the
broad head rubbed over his special spot, sending waves of ecstasy through his body. He wormed his
hands beneath his body. His palms were still damp with Draculea’s cool saliva and his own warm
blood as he gripped his own stiff prick and began to stroke himself.
Draculea grabbed his hips and pounded into him, striving against the man who writhed beneath him,
pushing back to take as much of Draculea’s cock as he could. Despite what Draculea had said, he did
not falter, nor did he slacken. Simion cried out, spilling his seed as Draculea continued to fuck him.
The blond man lay limp and shuddering as his prince continued to rut, never slowing. Draculea
continued to strike the sensitive spot deep inside, and Simion, much to his own astonishment, found
that he was growing hard again.
Simion quickly came a second time, and still Draculea stroked into him. When he felt his body weakly
beginning to stir a third time, Simion pleaded, "Please, lord. I cannot do more. Take your pleasure of
me."
In response, Draculea put his arms around Simion’s waist, and reared back. He rose to his knees,
pulling Simion with him, and reached around. One hand closed around Simion’s cock. The servant’s
sex was tender, but still engorged. His flesh was slick with the seed that had alread been spilled, and
Draculea’s hand moved easily. Draculea’s other hand closed over Simion’s throat and squeezed.
Simion gasped, but the grip did not tighten. Draculea held him there, immoble, in a grip that was
almost gentle, but hinted at untold power.
Draculea squeezed and pulled firmly at Simion’s sex while he pumped strongly into the man’s anal
passage. Suddenly he stiffened. As Simion felt a warm pulse of liquid in his bowels, he also felt
Draculea’s teeth sink into his neck, just where it joined his shoulder. He screamed with mingled pain
and pleasure as his final orgasm, weak, but still stronger than he could have imagined, forced the last
few trickles of sperm from his body. He fell unconscious.
When he awakened he was fully naked, stretched out on his belly in Draculea’s bed. The prince lay
beside him, and he was idly licking an aching spot on Simion’s neck. Simion felt weak, and Draculea
was warm against his side, his color high. He has drunk.
Simion listened to his own body for a while, sorting through sensations, and came to the conclusion
that he was in no danger of dying--at the moment.
Draculea rested his head on Simion’s shoulder and whispered, "I am sorry, old friend. I thought I
could control myself."
"You did, Maria Ta," Simion said thickly. "If you had not, I would not have awakened."
Draculea’s voice was grim. "Or you would have awakened, but you would have awakend as I did. I
almost..." Draculea hesitated. He had been about to say ’killed’. Instead he said, "I almost turned you."
"But you did not." He sat up, a little painfully. Glancing at the prince, he saw that Draculea had
retrieved and donned his breeches. Simion took hold of Draculea’s wrists and turned them, examining
his hands. "Domn, you cut your hands in the chapel. I saw you slice them on your armor."
Draculea looked. "Did I?" he said vaguely. The skin was unbroken now, save for a few old scars. He
shook his head, as if it mattered little. Rubbing his knees, he said in a low voice, "I went to the chapel
while you slept. Where have they taken him?"
Simion put his hand comfortingly on the prince’s back. "I am not sure, but not far. Mircea said that he
would see Nicolae decently buried. He could not have done it alone, and the gypsies will know where
he lies. He is beyond any trouble of this world now, Domn, but you have things to which to attend."
The look Draculea turned on Simion was sardonic, as if questioning that the servant would direct the
master. Simion said simply, "Lena."
Draculea jerked, throwing his head up, eyes wild, much as Lucifer had when he had first scented
battle. Simion watched in amazement as a red spark flickered in the depths of the prince’s eyes. A soft,
rumbling sound emanated from his throat. "Le-e-na." It was almost a sigh.
"We have her, Domn. She is held safe in the dungeon, awaiting your pleasure."
Draculea looked at Simion, and smiled. Simion flinched. There was something... wrong. The plains
and angles of Draculea’s face seemed subtly shifted. The brows were thicker, arched in peaks, the
cheekbones highter, the jaw wider, longer. He smiled, and Simion saw that again the canine teeth had
elongated and sharpened into fangs that would have shamed those of the most fierce wolf ever to have
been taken down in Wallachia. He was still unmistakably Prince Draculea, but it was as if his features
swam behind others--behind a face that could only be described as demonic.
His voice was soft. "Awaiting my... pleasure." And again, he smiled.
TBC
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Chapter 41: Chapter 41: Torture
WARNING: PAY ATTENTION, PEOPLE! When I put the WARNING at the head of the story, you can
know that I mean business. This is a very dark, very violent, very NASTY chapter. Vlad has reverted to
WORSE than he was before Nicolae, and he takes his revenge on Lena VERY thoroughly. This chapter
will include graphic scenes of torture--mental, physical, and sexual, also death and blood drinking. If
you are at all squeamish, PLEASE be cautious in reading this. You might want to be careful about
eating this near or just after mealtime. You may want to skip it. If you decide to go on, you have been
warned. Consider having something funny or light and sweet to read or watch just after this. It has
images that would be very heavy to carry in your mind the rest of the day.
Pairing: Draculea/other
Notes: You can see examples of the heretic’s fork and inquisitional chair at this url
http://www.torturamuseum.com/instruments.html Other instruments mentioned can be viewed at
http://www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Basement/9560/tdevices.html
To anyone who thinks I was too vicious and graphic: I didn’t use The Pear *shudder*
Summary: Dracula accomplishes his revenge against Lena.
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Chapter 42: Chapter 42: Looking Forward
Summary: Draculea begins to settle into his new ’life’, and discovers a way to keep a friend with him
through the ages.
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Chapter 49: Chapter 49: Intervention
Fandom: Dracula
Pairing: Rock/Rill
Archive: If I sent it to you.
Disclaimer: Recognizable characters courtesy of Bram Stoker.
Summary: Rock makes Rill suffer after his interlude with Draculea.
Notes: I had fully intended to have Rock and Rill vampirized by the end of this chapter, but my muses
ambushed me and knocked me over the head wiht Rock’s assholeness. By the time I regained
consciousness the episode was 4/5 finished, and it would have been WAAAY too long if I’d gone on.
Next time, promise. Vlad sires!
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end
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Chapter 58: Chapter 58: The Third, and Retreat
Fandom: Dracula
Archive: Lists it’s sent to, but I may ask to remove it if I find a publisher.
Disclaimer: I believe Dracula is in the public domain. Original characters are my creation, and
copyrighted.
Websites: http://www.angelfire.com/grrl/scribescribble and http://www.angelfire.com/grrl/foxluve
Summary: A new vampire awakens, and finds a place, and Draculea grows weary of the world.
Warnings: Intimations of Satanism.
Notes: mon porcelte doux--my sweet piglet, petit--little one, que je suis à faire avec vous?--what am I
to do with you?
Rating: NC=17
Child of the Night, Part 58: The Third, and Retreat
The Year of Our Lord, 1713
The Next Night
Versailles, France
Rill’s eyes were worried. "He never came back, my lord. I fear for him."
Draculea regarded the boy, seeing how troubled he was. Simion sat beside his young lover, his arm
around him comfortingly. "Be calm, Rill. Perhaps he found himself farther afield than was safe when
dawn approached, but he knows well enough what he must do to remains safe. Surely he found some
dark place where he would not be disturbed."
Despite his words, Draculea was not at all sure of what he had said. Rock followed the rules set down
for his safety only grudgingly. He hadn’t yet felt the sting of sunlight and might not yet really believe
it could be so dangerous to his kind. Draculea no longer ventured from his inner rooms on even the
most overcast or rainy days. He suspected that the longer he existed in his present state, the more
vulnerable he was to the ravages of the day. If this was true then he risked much more than a simple
burn if sunlight struck his skin.
Rill wiped his nose, sighing. "I suppose so. He just WON’T take proper care, though. I don’t suppose
I’d be so upset if I wasn’t worried about Sinn, too. I was going to ask him about Rock. Sometimes they
are together," he said matter-of-factly. He didn’t notice the look exchanged by Simion and Draculea.
"so I went to his room, to see if Rock was there. But Sinn wasn’t there, either. I asked the girl who
takes care of his room, and she said she hadn’t seen him. That might not mean anything. I mean, Sinn
doesn’t have much to do with the servants. But none of the courtiers remember seeing him, either."
The look he turned on Draculea was both anxious and hopeful. "Do you suppose they are together?"
Simion gave him a squeeze. "I wouldn’t be at all surprised, love. Don’t trouble yourself about
him--he’ll turn up."
Draculea ruffled the boy’s hair. "If it makes you feel better, I shall look for your friend and your
brother."
Rill gave him a bright, grateful smile. "Thank you, my lord." He nodded. "You will find them." His
trust was simple and complete.
"Now, I know that you are not comfortable with the court, Rill, but you need to keep occupied while
Simion and I search. There is always a group of elderly ladies in the small blue salon--go sit with
them. You know enough French now to make a little conversation, and they will be pleased to have a
handsome young man seek their company."
Rill rolled his eyes. "They always want to pinch my cheek or pat me on the knee. Very well." He gave
Simion a kiss, then left.
Draculea watched as Simion smiled softly after his lover. "It’s good to see you two together, Simion. I
have never seen you so content."
"He completes me, lord," Simion said simply.
Draculea nodded sadly. He could well understand how his friend felt. If he still prayed, he would have
petitioned God to keep Rill safe--for Simion’s sake. He knew the agony of losing a soul mate. "Can
you tell me anything about this mystery, Simion?"
"Sinn and Rock have been intimate, my lord. It would not be surprising if they were together, but I am
at a loss as to where they might have gone."
Draculea grunted. "I have suspected that they had formed a liaison. I am not as inobservant as either of
them believes. I also think that Rock has been supping from the Vicomte."
Simion scowled. "Against your express orders? I wouldn’t have credited him with the courage."
"Oh, it isn’t courage, Simion. It’s more arrogance, and stupidity. I’ve noticed how pale and languid
young Barbee has grown lately. While it is fashionable to take arsenic to achieve the delicate pallor
and air, Sinn is too careful of himself to risk his health. He wants to live too badly. I wouldn’t put it
past Rock to try to ensnare Barbee, and use him to finance his escape." Draculea laughed shortly.
"He’s chosen badly. Sinn puts up a good front, but his funds are limited. He makes do on an allowance
from his father and whatever gifts his admirers provide." His eyes narrowed. "If they HAVE fled, they
won’t get far. Still, we had best exhaust all local possibilities."
"Yes, lord. I will search the domestic quarters. I will cause no suspicions there. But what shall we do
about the private rooms?"
"We need not enter them, Simion. The bond between a Nosferatu and its childe is strong, and grows
stronger with time. If I reach out with my mind, I can sense Rill and Rock. I know that it works when
they are nearby, but I cannot be as sure it will succeed if Rock has put a great distance between us. I
can’t help but feel, though, that it cannot be broken. I need only stand outside the rooms and FEEL for
him--then I will know if he is there."
They began their search. Simion spoke with the servants, and none had seen Rock since the previous
day. Draculea brought Sinn up with every courtier he met, and it was the same. Vlad either entered or
paused outside every room in the palace, reaching out with his inner being, but he found no trace of
Rock.
No PRESENT trace. His wayward childe’s scent was thick in Sinn Barbee’s room. Draculea stood in
the center of the room, turning slowly, searching the atmosphere with every fiber of his being. Simion
came to the room and found his master sitting on the neatly made bed, staring blankly. "Master?"
"There has been death here, Simion. I smell it."
Simion cursed quietly. "There is no sign of either of them, my lord. It looks as if Rock killed him, then
fled."
"I have no doubt of that."
Simion paced. "Someone will notice Barbee’s absence soon, and there will be questions. Everyone
knows how close he has been lately with Rill."
"Remain calm, Simion. Nothing will happen to your lover--I won’t allow it. But I think it best that you
begin packing, and notify the gypsies to be ready to move at a moment’s notice. We may have to leave
quickly."
"We can’t go with that bastard still running loose."
"I know that, and we won’t. It may take a day or so, but I believe I can find him. But not now--the sun
will be rising soon. How is Rill?"
"Near frantic with worry that Rock has still not returned. When will he be free of this compulsion, my
lord? The filth did naught but use him, and still he is loyal."
Draculea sighed. "The most abused can love the deepest, Simion, even where the love is undeserved.
Nicolae grieved for Ernestu, when most others would have danced on his grave. Try to keep the boy
calm for awhile longer, Simion."
~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**
The next evening Draculea found himself faced with a determined Rill. "I want to go with you."
"No, Rill," Draculea’s voice was gentle, but firm. "I don’t know how long I will be gone. If I were
caught away from the palace, it would be too hard to find shelter for us both. Besides, Rock or Sinn
might return. You should be here when they do."
Rill nodded reluctantly. Draculea thought it very unlikely that Rock would return on his own, and he
was now sure that Sinn COULD not. The ambitious, smooth young courtier was probably resting in a
shallow grave, if Rock had taken the trouble to bury him. It was likely that he’d already provided a
meal or two for some forest scavenger.
But Draculea was wrong in that. As he mounted his horse and set off with one of the gypsies in search
of his runaway childe, Sinn’s body was still quite untouched.
The hollow log Rock had chosen for his final resting place had been the home of a large, ill-tempered
badger. It had been very displeased when it had returned to find the cold, cloth wrapped bundle stuffed
in its lair. In fact, it had worried at the sheet until it had ripped a hole in it, exposing two pale, bare
feet. He’d been about to bite when he’d stopped, nostrils flaring. An old denizen of the woods, he was
familiar with carrion, and its scent, but there was something different here.
This smelled dead... but not quite. There was something wrong here, something so wrong that he
backed out of the cozy den and waddled off into the woods, seeking shelter elsewhere. Later a fox
came sniffing around the log. It jerked back, bushy tail bristling, large bat-like ears lying close to its
skull, then ran away, whining.
Sinn’s body lay undisturbed while the blood of the Nosferatu, the blood he’d ingested many times
while drinking Rock’s seed, percolated through him, changing him.
~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**
Draculea had been forced to take shelter with the rising of the sun, taking a room at a small inn. His
gypsy sat up, guarding him while he slumbered.
By the next evening his frustration was intense because he’d managed to pick up the trail of his errant
childe. He’d come across the carcass of a cow, its throat ripped. At a wayside tavern, he’d heard
babbled gossip about a red-eyed devil that had tried to attack a young couple walking home. It had
only been driven off when a group of men in the tavern had heard the screams and gone to investigate.
As it was, the young man was unconscious for hours, and the girl suffered a great wound in her neck,
nearly bleeding to death before an old granny woman had stopped the flow with an herbal poultice.
*The fool! Two nights away from my supervision and he has the countryside in an uproar! Killing
innocents, and so boldly that he is nearly captured. He’ll be the ruin of us all if he isn’t stopped. Well,
he can’t be far. Damnation, it’s time I took him back to Transylvania. At Castle Draculea he’d be
isolated enough that he could cause no trouble. I’m weary of this traveling, anyway. I’d hoped that I
might find Nicolae, but it seems a fruitless dream. I might just as well go home and await his return.
He’ll find some way to come to me.*
Draculea set off again, knowing that Rock had to be nearby, feeling his presence at the edge of his
awareness. The gypsy followed as best he could, though he had to stay on the roads. He was driving a
small, light wagon, which carried Rock’s sleep box. Beside it in the bed of the wagon were also
several lengths of chain and stout padlocks. Draculea did not intend to allow Rock to escape once he
was captured.
**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~
Sinn’s awareness burst up through layers of nothingness, and he knew immediately that this was not
an ordinary awakening. He came awake to cold, and utter blackness, and raging, consuming hunger.
And he found that he couldn’t move.
Oh, that wasn’t strictly true--he COULD barely move his arms and legs, but he was restricted. He was
wrapped in some sort of cloth, but beyond that, there was a more solid barrier. *I died,* he thought.
*This cloth is my shroud, and the walls beyond my coffin. How shall I ever get out if they buried me
deep?*
Most people would have panicked, going over into hysterics, but Sinn was not most people. Despite
the thirst clawing at his throat and the hunger gnawing at his belly, he was able to assess his situation.
*I’m not breathing. Good--I won’t have to worry about suffocating at least. That means I have a little
time.*
For a few moments he lay, considering all the details he could gather. Gradually he concluded that he
had not been buried. He could hear things that he wouldn’t have been able to if they had been muffled
by soil. And he wasn’t in a coffin. The barriers on the other side of the cloth seemed rounded instead
of squared off, as a casket would be.
He felt a slight shifting of air around his feet and his head, so that meant there were openings. He
wiggled, shifting himself minutely ahead. Luckily, the sheet hadn’t been wrapped too tightly around
his head, and he was able to gradually work his way out of it. When his head was clear he paused to
look around.
*I shouldn’t be able to see anything, as dark as it is, but I can, and this is NOT a coffin. What did that
dog do to me?* He continued working his way forward. First, his head was clear, then his shoulders.
He was outside, in the forest. *The bastard! He tossed me away like trash!* He got his arms free, and
was able to pull himself the rest of the way out.
Sinn stood up, brushing dirt and twigs out of his hair, swearing softly. *Well, the pants were already
ruined with the wine. Now I’ve lost the rest of the clothes, and...* He paused, his eyes widening, then
he laughed. *I died. I came back. I am a Nosferatu, immortal, and I’m worrying about my wardrobe!*
He sat on the log to think, wrapping his arms around his belly in an attempt to calm it. *I can’t stay at
Versailles now, not unless I have someone to keep watch while I sleep.* He tipped his head, thinking.
*If Rock is Nosferatu... He can’t be the only one. Yes, I remember now. That illustration in the book
HAS to be Draculea himself. So, Rock is Draculea’s creature. Does that mean that I am Rock’s?* He
frowned. *I don’t think I like that. If I have to belong to someone, it should be someone more
powerful. I need to get the prince to accept me. I think I could spend eternity safely under his
patronage. But he hasn’t been so readily charmed. Rill will plead for me, I’m sure. Rill...* He shook
his head, recalling the chill of the boy’s flesh, the strength of his grip. *Damnation. A clutch of
vampires living at Versailles, and no one aware of it! And Louis prides himself on the intellectual level
of his court.*
The hunger finally overwhelmed him, and he got up and began walking through the woods. He knew
what Nosferatu fed on, and there should be someone nearby he could use to slake his thirst.
He hadn’t gone far when he came upon a path that looked familiar. Sinn paused, grinning. The
moonlight glinted off fangs, and his green eyes momentarily sparked red. This path led to Tisane’s
cottage. "Perfect," he whispered, hurrying along the path.
~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**
A thin wail pierced the incense thick air of the cabin. "Oh, hush, brat!" snapped the witch. "I know
you’re hungry, but I have nothing for you. In any case, there’s little point in feeding you now." She
poked a long, bony finger at the naked infant who squirmed on her bed, and she smiled horribly. "The
Master won’t care if your belly is empty when I send you to him."
The little girl, no more than two or three days old, blinked and wailed again. Her first two days had
been relatively pleasant and peaceful. Her young mother had nursed her and cared for her, even
rocking her gently to sleep. She’d cried when the great, rough man, her grandfather, had taken her
away.
The infant, who had not even been officially named, hadn’t understood their words, but the mother’s
father had assured his daughter that the baby would be placed with a respectable family, who would
raise her as their own, without the stigma of illegitimacy. That was what the baby broker had told him,
and perhaps he even believed it. In any case, the man who had taken the baby ’as a favor’ had sold it to
Tisane for a purse of silver. He wasn’t unaware of the significance of the thirty coins, or what the evil
looking crone might have planned, but he wasn’t overly concerned about it, either.
Tisane left the baby on her bed, confident that it was not yet old enough to move to the edge. She
wouldn’t want it to fall and kill itself. No, no, that wouldn’t do at all. The proper ritual had to be
observed for her master, Satan, to receive the child’s soul. Otherwise, it would simply fly off to Limbo
to await the Second Coming. Any spell in which she used the body parts would have much less chance
of working properly, and she intended to render down the fat for another try at that invisibility salve.
She got a large, ancient book down from the shelf and opened it, muttering to herself as she read the
recipe. She needed to have most of the potion ready in the cauldron, so that the blood could be added
immediately, while it was boiling. She began to throw in various herbs and items.
There was a knock on the door, and she looked up, cursing. She had no appointments scheduled for
tonight. Whoever was brave and foolish enough to bother her now would be sent packing, perhaps
with a smarting head to remember her by.
She hobbled to the door and called, "Who troubles a poor old woman?"
The voice that answered was familiar. "Madame, it is I--Sinn Barbee."
"Sinn?" She frowned. After his first visit she had told him that he must make arrangements, and could
not just show up at her door. He was usually more careful about obeying directives, knowing that he
needed to stay on her good side. "What do you want, boy? I am busy tonight."
"Something has happened, Tisane--something marvelous! Let me in, so that I can tell you."
Tisane glanced back at the baby, who had grown quiet, save for a few low whimpers. Perhaps she
SHOULD let him in. If she got him to participate in the ritual, it would bind him even closer to her
will. Once he had damned himself by committing infanticide, he wouldn’t dare try to pull away from
her influence. Besides, she thought with a hard smile, she enjoyed causing others to commit cruelty.
She unbarred the door and opened it, stepping back.
He had moved back, just beyond the reach of the feeble light that came from the cottage. All she could
see was a vague outline, a shadow. "Well?"
"Ask me to come in, Tisane." The voice was a whisper.
She snorted. "You need an invitation after all this time? Very well." She swept him a mocking curtsey.
"I bid you enter, young lord."
"Thank you." He stepped into the cottage, shutting the door behind himself. "I wasn’t at all sure I’d be
able to get in without your permission. Some of the legends say that we can’t."
Tisane didn’t understand what he was talking about, but wasn’t about to admit it. "What was it you
wanted to tell me, boy?" She frowned. "And what has happened to you?" She took in Sinn’s
appearance. The young lord had always been very careful off his appearance. Now his clothes were
filthy--stained and rumpled, even torn in places. His hair was full of leaves and twigs, and... She
blinked. His feet were bare, the pale arches streaked with mud. Had he been walking through the
woods BAREFOOTED?
Now she noticed how pale he was. "What has happened, Sinn? Were you robbed?"
"No." He took a step toward her, and she instinctively moved back. He was smiling, teeth gleaming in
his dirty face. "Well, I suppose I was, in a way. I was robbed of life, Tisane. I was killed."
She laughed harshly, but quieted when he laughed with her--a silvery, unearthly sound. "What are you
playing at, boy?"
"Don’t you believe me?" He came toward her, and she continued to back up. "Come, Tisane! You
worship the devil--surely you believe in his creatures?"
"You... you are a ghost!" she said faintly.
"No. Ghosts are incorporeal--I’m quite solid." He gripped the edge of her heavy table and heaved it
over with an easy gesture. "You see? A ghost might scare you to death, but that would be all. They
can’t touch you. Nosferatu, on the other hand..." He smiled. Firelight glinted off long, sharp fangs.
Tisane screamed and fell back against the wall. There was no more room left. She crossed herself
frantically, and Sinn sneered. "Oh, PLEASE, Tisane! It isn’t as if you BELIEVE in the power of the
cross."
Tisane cast her eyes upward and cried, "Master! Master, I have served you faithfully. I have sent you
many souls! Protect me!"
Sinn paused, cocking his head, a faint smile curving his lips. "Why do you look to heaven when you
pray to the devil, you foolish woman? In any case," he reached out quickly and seized her throat. She
screamed, clawing at his hands, and he ignored her efforts. He whispered, "I’ve been to hell. I’ve seen
your master." His smile was cruel. "He told me to remind you that he is the Father of Lies. You
expected a high place in Hell? You’ll be the lowest slut in Hades, Tisane. The demons will bugger
you, when they aren’t busy roasting your withered carcass. And now it’s time to go to your reward."
He jerked her to him, shoving her head to the side, and sank his fangs deep into her wrinkled neck.
Sinn wasn’t sure what he had been expecting. Tisane was so old, so debauched, so wicked, that he had
thought her blood would be thin and sour. But it filled his mouth in a great, salty-sweet gush, and he
found himself drinking eagerly. She managed to pull her head away once, and he growled his anger
and frustration, pinning her against the wall so violently that her rib cage was crushed. It didn’t
matter--she wouldn’t need to breathe for much longer.
He drank until the woman stopped struggling, then kept on drinking until the stream of blood ran
weak. She’d stopped breathing by then. He pulled his mouth away from the wound in her neck, and it
barely seeped. There was not enough blood left in her body for it to flow freely. As he held her there,
he felt the faint throbbing beneath his hands cease. She was dead.
Sinn pressed his bloody lips against the dead woman’s forehead. "You didn’t give me what I wanted,
Tisane, but I suppose you helped me find it. Enjoy your eternity in Hell. Perhaps I’ll see you there
someday, though I hope it’s not for a long, long time." He whispered, "You know what I said about the
demons buggering you? I rather think I might like it."
He dropped her and just stood for a moment. The raging hunger/thirst that had plagued him since his
awakening was gone, and he felt pleasantly sated, almost like he did after sex. He thought he was
going to enjoy this unlife.
But he couldn’t stay here. People sought out Tisane, and though few would complain officially if
anything happened to the old woman, private inquires would be made. He had to establish himself
firmly with Draculea, and hopefully talk him into leaving Versailles.
He heard a thin cry and looked down at the crumpled body of Tisane, nudging it with his toe. No, she
was quite dead. He walked to the bed and peered down at the naked baby girl. Then he looked at the
bedside table. It held a deep basin, and a very sharp knife. Sinn looked back at the dead witch, and
murmured, "Why, you filthy murderess." There was more surprise in his voice than condemnation. "I
wonder how many tiny bones I’d find if I dug up your vegetable garden?"
Sinn reached down to pick up the baby. The infant stiffened, and began to whimper. Sinn clicked his
tongue. "Ah, la! Yes, my hands are still cold, aren’t they, mon porcelt doux?" He flexed his fingers,
examining them. "Though I think they are warmer than when I awakened." He pulled the slip off the
pillow and wrapped the baby in it, then picked her up. "There! Better, cheri?"
The baby quieted, and regarded him with wide eyes. He bounced it gently. "Que je suis à faire avec
vous, le petit?" He cradled the baby close and rubbed his nose against the baby’s cheek. "So soft, so
warm." His voice dropped to a whisper, and he felt his fangs pricking at the inside of his lip. "So
sweet..."
~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**
This wasn’t how it was supposed to be. Rock picked straw out of his hair as he contemplated the
unfairness of the world. Why hadn’t he thought to steal a few trinkets from Sinn’s room before he left?
Surely, a snuffbox or a pair of gold cuff links would have supported him nicely for a few weeks, until
he could set himself up somewhere and start a stable of whores. Instead, here he was.
He looked around at the dim, ramshackle building. After that fiasco outside the tavern he’d known he
couldn’t afford to stay at a public place, so he’d taken refuge here. The old stable was half collapsed,
and hadn’t been used for some time. He had been certain that no one would bother to pick their way
through the tumbled maze of trash and fallen beams, and the roof at the back was still solid. Just in
case, he had built a lean-to against the wall, sheltering himself even further.
*This is too much! I never slept this rough, even when I was still in that hellhole where I was born. I
need to find someone with a bit of coin tonight.* He started to pick his way toward the exit. *And I’ll
need to get myself another horse, too. Damn that nag for running. I should have just drained it when...*
As he stepped out into the open a hard hand fell on his neck. He was lifted and thrown back into the
derelict building.
He was half stunned when he landed. The door he’d come through was a lighter square against the
surrounding blackness, and a tall silhouette--a silhouette with two glinting red eyes, suddenly blotted it
out. "Did you really think you could escape me, fool?"
Rock realized he had no chance of besting Draculea, and he leaped to his feet, seeking to run. Draculea
caught him by the back of his coat, threw him down, and jumped, landing on his right knee. There was
a muted crack, and Rock screamed at the bolt of pain. Draculea repeated the action on his other leg.
"Perhaps this will help remind you not to run from me."
Rock tried to scoot away from him. Draculea frowned, then stamped again, breaking his right leg at
the thigh. As Rock howled Draculea said, "We add hard-headed to your list of faults." He broke the
left leg again. "Stop trying to escape, dog. Take your punishment."
Though Rock had learned something of fighting during his time in Budapest, he would have been no
match for a warrior who had been training regularly for centuries before he was born, not even
uninjured. It would have been frightening if Draculea had been fighting in hot rage, but instead he
attacked with a cold silence that was terrifying. The methodical nature of the attack was inhuman.
The beating he’d received when he killed the stable lad years ago had been bad. He’d been afraid he
was going to die, then he’d been hoping that he’d die, but this... Rock had never experienced such pain
in his life. As Draculea continued to pummel him, he realized that this was going to be much, much
worse.
Had he been living he would have died quickly. The blows from the elder vampire’s fists and feet
crushed internal organs, tore sinews, and splintered bone. Finally, Draculea stood above him, fists
clenched at his side, and waited. When Rock stirred and tried to crawl away Draculea beat him again.
Finally Rock lay still.
Draculea squatted beside him. "Do you still live, Rock?" He was answered by a small groan. Draculea
nodded to himself. "So I thought. The legends are specific in the methods that must be used to kill a
Nosferatu--a stake through the heart, the removal of the head... I think I’d finish with burning, just to
be sure. But I’m not going to do that, Rock. Do you know why?"
Somehow Rock managed to form words, "...hate me..."
"No, I don’t hate you. You disgust me, you fill me with contempt, but you aren’t significant enough
for me to hate you. One reason I’m letting you continue your miserable existence is the same reason
that I created you in the first place--I don’t want your brother to suffer. But do you know the main
reason?" Draculea put his hand in Rock’s hair and pulled his head up. There was the faint grating of
bones. "You’ll live because you’re mine, Rock, and I don’t throw away what’s mine. You’re going to
survive, and heal eventually, and serve me again."
Draculea stood, keeping his grip in Rock’s hair, and used it to drag him out of the stable. The wagon
was pulled up nearby, the gypsy waiting patiently on the front seat. He stepped down into the bed of
the wagon and opened the lid of the box. Draculea unceremoniously dropped Rock’s limp body inside,
and the gypsy dropped the lid. He silently offered the prince a hammer and a handful of nails, but
Draculea shook his head. "I’ll let him out--eventually." Instead, he wrapped several lengths of heavy
chain around the chest, from side to side and end to end, securing them with the padlocks.
When he was done, he rapped on the box. "Can you hear me, Rock? You had best become accustomed
to that space--it’s your new home. I’ll probably let Rill feed you, like he did before, but it will be
awhile. I’m not worried about letting your hunger build. I’m sure that when I allow Rill to bring you
rats you’ll still not have healed enough to be of much trouble."
Draculea mounted his horse, and they started back for Versailles, riding quickly to reach the palace
well before dawn.
~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**
The second gypsy was waiting at the stables. Draculea directed some of the palace stablemen to put
away the wagon and horses, then he followed the two men as they carried the box into the palace.
There was much speculation among the men as to what sort of treasure the prince had brought back. It
must be very valuable indeed to merit the chains.
He had them take the chest to Rill’s room. He was sitting with Simion on the bed, and looked up
quickly when they entered. His eyes fastened on the box, then flicked questioning to Draculea. "Leave
it," Draculea told the servants. They deposited the box, then left.
Rill came over and knelt beside the box, putting his hands on it. "Rock?" he said softly. He pressed his
ear to the lid. "Rock, can you hear me?" From inside there was a faint moan.
Rill looked up at Draculea, wide eyed. "I had to, Rill. You know that."
Rill nodded sadly. "Yes. He has to learn." He stood up and hugged the prince. "Thank you for not
killing him."
Draculea patted him gently, then pushed him back. "Rill, I have sad news for you. I’m afraid that Rock
killed your friend, Sinn."
Rill’s eyes grew large, and red tears welled up in the corners. He looked at the box. "Rock, how could
you? Sinn was my friend."
The door to Draculea’s room opened. "I hope I still am your friend, Rill."
For the first time in a long, long while Draculea was surprised. He would have wagered that Sinn
Barbee was at least three days dead, but there he stood. He was dressed in simple clothes, and looked
freshly scrubbed, his face pale and glowing.
"Sinn!" Rill ran to him and threw his arms around him. Simion stiffened in displeasure, but he said
nothing. He knew that Rill only felt friendship for the young lord, but it still rankled. "The prince said
Rock killed you."
Sinn smiled gently, patting his cheek. "He did, mon petit."
Draculea stalked over to him, pushing Rill aside. He gripped Barbee’s arms and stared into his eyes.
Sinn remained still, unperturbed. His smile broadened, and there was the glint of fangs.
Draculea cursed, shoving the young man away from him. "He turned you!" Draculea kicked the box.
"I should have killed you when I had the chance, you snake!"
Sinn smoothed his sleeves. "Yes. I don’t think he intended to, but he wasn’t thinking very clearly. You
see, I’d found a book in the palace library. It had a rather good picture of you in it, though I must say
that you’re much more handsome without the mustache."
Draculea rounded on him again. "You’re too damn calm for a newborn. Who have you killed?"
Sinn didn’t try to deny it. "Tisane the Witch."
Draculea scowled. "Some harmless old madwoman?"
"Mad perhaps, but hardly harmless, prince. I think I can prove her worthiness of death and my
worthiness of life to you." He gestured toward the room behind him. "If you will just look?" Draculea
went into his room, followed by the others. When he looked at Sinn questioningly, the young vampire
indicated his bed. Draculea went to it.
There was a tiny infant, swaddled in a cloth, sleeping on the bed. "I stopped in the kitchen and got
some warm milk for her. She was very hungry." He smiled. "The kitchen maids didn’t want to let her
go. I suspect that they think she is my bastard." When the others looked at him sharply, he shook his
head. "No, I’ve been careful of that. She’s just some nameless waif, a castoff I found in Tisane’s
cottage."
Sinn tossed a knife down on the bedside table. "I found this near her, and there was a cauldron on the
fire. Do you know what witches do with unbaptized babes, prince?" Draculea scowled. The spells that
called for the bones, fat, or flesh of an unbaptized baby were notorious.
Sinn was still speaking. "I burned the cottage before I left. Tisane kept plenty of oil, and the place
burned merrily. I could have left this mite there on the bed. Or I could have supped from her." Rill
made a horrified moan. "No, child, I didn’t harm the baby. I’ll admit I thought of it, but no. Prince
Draculea, to prove to you my willingness to submit to your will, I bring her to you. You decide what to
do with her."
Draculea went and sat in his desk chair, watching Sinn. Rill lay down on the bed, examining the baby
with rapt attention, and Simion sat beside him, watching his lover. Draculea said slowly, "You’ve been
trying to ingratiate yourself from the very beginning, haven’t you?"
Sinn shrugged. "I do not deny it, my lord. I admit that it was because I thought that perhaps I could be
an important man in your court rather than an insignificant one here. Now... Now I want to be with
you because I am your kind. I know only enough of this new life to know that I need to learn more. I
want a protector, Prince Draculea. In return I offer my loyalty and my service," he smiled seductively,
"in any manner that you choose."
Draculea rubbed his face, sighing. "I never intended to make more of my own kind. Rill, though I have
come to love him, was an accident. I made Rock only for Rill’s sake, and now you... You were made
through selfish ignorance. Still..." He sighed again. "you’re here. You restrained yourself from killing
an innocent, and Rill likes you. He’ll need someone else for company till his brother heals enough to
leave that trunk."
He stood. "I’ve had enough of the world for now. We’ll be leaving tomorrow night for Transylvania."
Sinn nodded. "I can be ready with no trouble. I’ll just leave a letter with Destoup to send to my father.
I’ll tell him I’ve been given a place in your court. He’ll be happy, as he’s been wanting me to take
some sort of position. Once he thinks I’m settled, I doubt that he’ll bother about me anymore."
"My lord?"
"Yes, Rill?"
"Can we keep her? She’s very sweet."
"Rill," Simion said gently. "She isn’t a kitten we can adopt. She needs to be with a family, a mama and
a papa."
Rill gave him a blank look. "I didn’t like it when I was with my mama and papa."
Simion hugged him. "They aren’t all like that, Rill. There are some good ones."
"I have a suggestion," said Sinn. "I have a groom named Rustan. His mother and father work in my
father’s house. I need to get rid of him, in any case, if I’m to go with you. I can send her home with
him."
"Will she be safe with them? Will they welcome her?" Rill asked.
"I believe so. I seem to recall that they are fond of children, and they are so respectable that it is almost
painful."
Draculea thought about this. "Yes. I’ll send a purse along to pay for her care for the next few years."
Simion tugged Rill up off the bed. "Come, Rill. The more you stay with that baby, the harder it will be
to say good-bye. Come help me pack. My lord," he addressed Draculea. "I will send word to this
Rustan that he must attend his master here." They left.
Draculea regarded Sinn silently for a moment. He reached out and touched the young vampire’s cool,
smooth cheek, looking into his bright, deep green eyes. He seemed to be talking to himself. "I never
wanted a bride. I was forced by state duties to take one. Then I met my true love. He was no spouse, he
was my mate, and I lost him. And now... now it seems that I have again, in a fashion, wed myself to
others. I have bound you three to me with ties of blood, but there is no true love. Our souls do not
touch. No, none of you are a mate--you are only brides."
end part 58
TBC
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end part 67
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Rill and Renfield were passing through the Great Hall, very slowly, in Renfield’s case. Rill moved
before him chattering brightly, gesturing to items that Renfield could not see in the gloom, and relating
their stories and histories.
"And that tapestry there--the one with the unicorn? It was embroidered by the prince’s own mother,
years and years ago. Simion said that she wanted to remain a unicorn catcher all her life, but had to
marry the elder Draculea." Rill’s voice was puzzled. "Simion wouldn’t tell me what you had to do to
be a unicorn catcher. He just laughed, and said that no one at Castle Draculea had possessed the
necessary asset for a long time."
Rill’s keen ears caught a small, muffled thud, and a nearly inaudible curse. He turned quickly,
hurrying back to where Renfield was rubbing his toe. The clerk said ruefully, "I’m sorry, but I didn’t
expect a chair to be sitting so far out in the room." He looked around doubtfully. "We are in the center
of the room, aren’t we?"
Rill shook his head. "What kind of host am I? Wait a moment." He hurried over to the wall and pried a
candle loose from its sconce, easily wresting it from its thick bed of wax drippings. He went back to
Renfield, lit the taper with his own candle flame, then offered it to Renfield. "Just hold it tipped
forward, so that the hot wax doesn’t drip on your hand." He’d begun to turn, but now he hesitated.
"Unless you like that?"
Startled, Renfield said, "Good lord, no! Who enjoys being burned with hot wax?"
Rill shrugged. "Sinn calls it a different kind of kiss. We go up these stairs. I was going to put you in
the room that the princess once slept in, but the master said that you’d probably have nightmares. I
don’t think he liked her very much."
With the second candle, there was just enough light for Renfield to pick his way safely after Rill. The
boy kept up a running commentary. As they mounted the stairs, he told Renfield of how the hall rug
had once been stained with the blood of the Turkish diplomats who had been foolish enough to offer
insult to the crown of Wallachia. Renfield shuddered as Rill described the punishment they had
received; marveling at the matter-of-fact way the boy related it. "But you can’t see the blood now. The
princess was angry about it, so they had to change it. Simion called it foolishness, worrying about
household decorations when the land was on the verge of war."
They were making their way down a corridor that was so dark it almost seemed like a tunnel. "You
learn your history from Simion?" Renfield asked.
"Oh, but he..." Rill stopped abruptly, casting a worried glance at Renfield.
There are too many abruptly ended sentences in this place, Renfield thought. "Yes?"
"Here is your room." Rill opened the door, ushering Renfield in.
Renfield stopped just inside the door, looking around. "Oh. Oh, my." If this was one of the less grand
rooms, what must the staterooms be like? There was huge bed--easily big enough for a family to sleep
comfortably, and it was piled with pillows and soft, thick spreads. A heavy desk of dark, carved wood
sat at one wall, with a well padded, leather chair before it. A small table, with an equally comfortable
chair, was nearby, decorated with a small vase of flowers. The desktop held neat stacks of paper and
envelopes, pens, inkwells... Everything Renfield might need in his work. There was a fireplace, with a
cheerful blaze leaping behind the screen, and the floor was covered with a thick rug, its pattern woven
in rich, muted colors.
"Do you like it?" There was pride in Rill’s voice, but also a hint of anxiety.
"I... I hardly know what to say. It’s quite magnificent, Rill. Thank you."
Rill’s smile spread to a grin of satisfied relief. "Do you like the flowers?"
"Yes, they’re very pretty. I don’t believe I’ve seen them before."
"They only bloom at night. I picked them just before we went to fetch you."
Renfield spotted his bags sitting at the foot of the bed, and almost drooped with relief. "There they
are!" He hurried to them, hefting one up onto the bed, and opening it.
Rill followed him over, peering into the opened bag curiously. "I can help you unpack."
Renfield started to demur, but then thought there’d be no harm in it, and it would make the boy happy.
He handed over a small bag. "Here, these are my shaving things. You can put them over on that
dresser, by the basin, if you wish." Rill took the bag and went to the dresser, while Renfield put the
second bag on the bed and opened it, looking for his case of documents. He heard the quiet clatter and
click of the boy setting down his various shaving supplies--then there was a gasp, and the sound of
shattering glass.
He turned quickly to see a small pile of glittering shards near the boy’s feet. The look Rill gave him
was apologetic, but somehow opaque. "I’m sorry. It startled me."
"Startled you?" repeated Renfield, bewildered.
"It’s been such a long time since I saw a mirror. We don’t keep them here at Castle Draculea." He
noted Renfield’s puzzled expression and shrugged, smiling. "Sinn is always complaining. I think that
he used to really enjoy looking at himself. He’s always fishing for compliments. If you really want
him to like you, flatter him. He’ll think that you’re doing it for some personal reason, but he’ll like it."
The boy may be simple, but he seems to have an instinct for some things. "Thank you, Rill."
Rill toed the glass shards. "Simion will clean this up. I don’t like to touch them." He went over to the
bed and peered into Renfield’s case with childlike curiosity. He was so blissfully unmindful of
whatever offence this could cause that Renfield hadn’t the heart to be annoyed. Rill pointed into the
bag. "What’s that? It looks important."
"It is indeed." Renfield lifted his case out and brought it to the desk. There he unfastened the latch,
opened it, and began to unpack the papers inside. "This is all the information about the properties I
want to recommend to the prince."
Rill poked at one of the pages. "Are they in the city? I don’t like big cities much."
"Some of them are, but there are others that are outside London. Most have enough land for you to
keep horses, if you wish. I have pictures of them all. Would you like to see them?"
"Yes, please!"
Renfield reached into the case, feeling for the packet of pictures. It seemed to have gotten wedged into
a corner at the very bottom, and he unloaded everything, trying to make enough room to get a good
grip on the packet, so he could pull it out without risking a tear in one of the photographs.
There was another gasp from Rill, but this one sounded more wondering than startled. "Oh!"
"What is it?" Renfield followed Rill’s gaze, and felt a sudden flash of embarrassed guilt. It was
Jonathan’s photograph. Rill reached toward the portrait, and Renfield felt the urge to grab his wrist,
keep him from touching it, but the boy stopped short of contact.
Now it was Renfield’s turn to be surprised. From the way the boy spoke, one would think that he
knew Jonathan--but that was impossible. "He gave it to me," Renfield lied. "Just before I left
London--as a remembrance till I returned."
Rill cocked his head, turning his gaze from the photograph to Renfield. "He’s your friend?"
"Yes."
"You know."
Renfield was spared the mortification of answering, or the effort of evading. There was a polite tap at
the door, and Simion entered, carrying a glass of wine. "How do you find your room, Mister
Renfield?"
"It’s marvelous. I feel like visiting nobility rather than a poor clerk," said Renfield gratefully.
Simion caught sight of the broken mirror and made a tsking sound. "I see there’s been an accident. I
hope there were no injuries. No? Good." Simion set the glass on the table. "The prince has sent this
final glass of wine from his special stock, to ease your sleep after your journey, and Rill, leave off
tugging at my sleeve. I’ve seen the mess, and I’ll take care of it."
Rill had hurried to Simion, and had been insistently tugging on his shirtsleeve, demanding attention.
"Not that, Simion! Come see." He pulled Simion toward the desk. Simion gave Renfield a
commiserate look, as if to say, ’What can we do but humor him?’ But Rill snatched up the picture of
Jonathan before Renfield could move to stop him, and thrust it into Simon’s hand. The older man
glanced down at it--and his expression froze.
He was silent for a long moment. Rill held his arm, laying his head against the older man’s shoulder.
"It’s him, isn’t it?"
"But Simion..."
"I said be quiet," he snapped. Then instantly he turned his head, dropping a kiss on the boy’s dark
curls. "I’m sorry, Rill, but you’re too impulsive." He looked at Renfield, and there was a speculation in
his gaze that hadn’t been there before. "Your friend bears a small resemblance to someone Rill has
seen before. May I ask you his name?"
Renfield stared at the two men. What possible interest could they have in Jonathan? The intensity of
the stocky man unnerved him, and he was reluctant to tell him. An old superstition flitted through his
mind: to know someone’s true name is to gain power over them.
Simion seemed to read Renfield’s emotions, if not his thought. He handed the photograph back. "Yes,
you’re quite correct--it’s rude of me to inquire." He indicated the photograph with a flick of his finger.
"But I would suggest that you keep that safe in your documents case, Mister Renfield. I am sad to say
that there are certain persons who are not shy about appropriating anything that takes their fancy." He
gave a short bow. "Sleep well. The prince will be available after sunset tomorrow." He patted Rill’s
arm. "Come, boy."
Rill bade Renfield goodnight, and followed his friend out. His lover, thought Renfield. I’m almost sure
of it. He sat on the bed, cradling Jonathan’s portrait almost tenderly, gazing at the handsome, gentle
features. He traced the lines of the well-loved face, and murmured, "And no one here seems to find it
disgusting, or even odd. What would that be like? To be able to love, and not hide it?" He sighed,
slipping the picture under his pillow, then went to the table for the glass of wine. He removed his
jacket and tie between sips, then sat at the desk to go over the papers once again. But he found himself
nodding. When he jerked upright after his head had almost touched the desktop, he gave up, got into
his nightshirt, blew out the candles, and went to bed. He was dozing almost before he had the covers
pulled up.
Rill followed Simion down the hall to the landing. Simion paused there, staring off at nothing as he
thought. Rill waited patiently for several moments. He knew that his lover would not purposefully
ignore him, and he had only to wait till the older man sorted through his thoughts. Finally Simion
looked at him. "I’m sorry I spoke harshly, Rill, but really--you must be careful what you say."
Simion cupped Rill’s cheek. "I know. You ache for the prince as much as I do. You want him to find
his lost love again."
Simion closed his eyes briefly, and a hundred living images of Nicolae raced through his mind. Dead
for more than four hundred years, the boy’s memory was still living to Simion--and one other. He
looked at Rill. "I don’t know, Rill. I can’t be sure--but oh, God... It was like looking at the portrait in
the library. The same hair, eyes, mouth, expression..."
His younger lover’s voice was eager. "No, child, no. Don’t disturb him tonight. There aren’t many
hours till dawn. He’s come back to himself a little since he began this project, but he still needs more
rest. And to spring this on him suddenly..." Simion shook his head. "You must let me tell him. You
wouldn’t want to risk your new friend’s life, would you?"
"He might not mean to, my love, but..." Simion sighed. "He’s waited so long, and the hurt has gone so
deep. If the hope was suddenly presented--he might not be able to control himself, and in his desire to
get Mister Renfield to tell him where this person is..." Simion gripped Rill’s hair and shook his head
gently, saying chidingly, "Mortals are fragile creatures, Rill. You know this."
Rill giggled. "Yes. We don’t want Mister Renfield to break." He frowned suddenly. "Rock won’t play
with him, will he?"
"That doesn’t always stop Rock." Rill thought for a moment, then said, "But he usually behaves, and I
think he knows that the prince would be very, very angry if he hurt my new friend. Sinn would, too."
"Yes," said Simion dryly. He saw the French vampire coming up the stairs. "Sinn would be quite
annoyed if his own amusement was spoiled by Rock’s selfish destructiveness." Simion raised his
voice, speaking to Sinn. "He’s probably asleep by now, Barbee, so he’ll be of little use to you."
Sinn didn’t stamp his foot, but his voice was pettish enough to indicate that he wanted to. "Pah! You
are right, Simion. I have no desire to handle a limp, unresponsive body. Molesting the unconscious
might be Rock’s style, but it is not mine." He straightened his cuffs. "I am not a lover of the dead."
Rill said innocently, "But you are. Rock is dead, and so is the prince, so..."
Simion was biting his lip to keep from laughing. Sinn rolled his eyes. "One is constantly amazed at
your literal turn of mind, cheri. So, there is to be no sport tonight--bien. I can wait. But Simion, I
would ask a favor." Simion raised an eyebrow questioningly. Sinn shrugged. "A small thing, but when
I am ready to rendezvous with the little Renfield, it would be nice if I could caress him with hands that
provoked a shiver through desire, and not chill. Could you...?" he trailed off inquiringly.
Simion snorted softly, but said, "Well, the master just gave me drink this evening, so I suppose so.
Come to me before you go to him."
Sinn gave him a sunny smile, rubbing his hands together. "Thank you, Simion! You are a man of the
world, and a gentleman. Now, I must go and check to see that all of Rock’s most recent, um,
decorations have faded." He bustled off, muttering to himself about ’the difficulty of checking one’s
back for bruises when one could not use a mirror.’
Rill watched him go, his expression puzzled. "Simion, why does Sinn always want to be told how
beautiful he is? Doesn’t he know it by now?"
Simion hugged the boy. "It’s just as well that you do not move in society, my love. You are far too
honest."
"Generally, yes. But there are some things that we simply do not say, because it is easier all around if
they are left unsaid. Then there are some things that SHOULD be said, but only at a certain time. That
is why we will not tell the master about that photograph--not yet. Now," he slapped Rill’s shoulder
lightly. "There is still an hour or two before you must go to your rest, and I have no duties. What shall
we do?"
"Very well." They started toward the room that Draculea had given to Rill to house his toys. There was
usually a huge battle set up over most of the floor. As they walked, Simion said casually, "Though I
thought you might prefer to make love."
Rill stopped abruptly, eyes widening as he stared at his lover. Finally he said, "Can’t we do both?"
Simion laughed, putting his arm around the boy’s shoulder as they continued. "If I remember
correctly, there is a fine couch in your game room, so I don’t see why not..."
end part 69
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Chapter 70: Chapter 70 - Enticements
Author’s Notes: Fandom: Dracula
Pairing: Renfield/Sinn
Rating: NC17
Summary: Sinn seduces Renfield, rather aggressively, and the clerk’s slide into insanity begins.
Archive: List archives and the WWOMB. I will ask for removal when I have a publisher.
Disclaimer: Copyright extends for 75 years past the author’s death. Bram Stoker died in 1912--thus
Dracula is in the public domain. I mean nothing but respect for the actors and actresses who portray
the recognizable characters in various movies.
Warnings: Non-consensual sex. Renfield may have a physical response, but he’s devastated by this.
Notes: moue--pout: a look of discontent with the lips pressed together and forward,
poupee--doll mais non--but no
rien--nothing
helas--alas
la peu de tache magique--the little magic spot
mon petit amoureux--my little lover
le cheval de passe-temps--the hobby horse, literally
’the horse of pastime’
frottage--friction, the term for sexual stimulation
through rubbing
mon dieu--my god (notice the non-capitalization--Sinn
isn’t much of a believer in God).
He began to rock slowly, rising and falling only an inch or two. As he increased his speed, he
increased the length of his strokes. Soon he was almost pulling free, only to slam down again, taking
Renfield’s entire length each lunge. He reached back and down, finding the man’s testes, and
massaged them, shifting the balls inside the soft, furry sac. Renfield gripped the sheets so tightly that
the muscles in his arms stood out, his knuckles bone white, as pale as his twisted face. He looked like
a man caught in a mixture of agony and ecstasy, unable to decide which was more powerful. His hips
were jerking helplessly as Sinn rode him, adding his own strength to the union, and delighting his
partner.
Sinn climaxed, his essence jetting across Robert’s chest and belly in warm crimson streaks. Robert
saw, and screamed, trying to throw Sinn off. His terror mingled with his onrushing orgasm, jumbling
blood, sex, pain, fear, and death in his mind. Sinn swore, suddenly realizing that he had forgotten how
this little peculiarity of vampire physiology might affect an unsuspecting mortal, but he wasn’t about
to relinquish his control of this encounter until he was fully satisfied--that meant that Renfield had to
be coaxed into release. Sinn had to know that he could command this from his bedmate, even though
he was frightened near to senselessness.
He succeeded. Again he pinned Renfield’s arms to the bed, and drove down on him ruthlessly. His
back passage had begun squeezing as he came, and now he bore down deliberately, milking Renfield’s
embedded cock with his strong, well practiced anal sheath. Renfield’s scream turned into a howl as he
had his first orgasm induced my another man. Sinn threw his head back, adding his own cries as the
liquid that burst from Robert’s quivering prick seemed to scald him. He froze, biting his lip,
concentrating on the pulse, and squeezing, squeezing...
Finally he collapsed on top of the now still Renfield. He hugged the man, almost purring in lazy
satiation. "So good, Robert. So good." He was answered by whimpers. He rolled off the other man
and sat up, examining him. Renfield stared up at the ceiling, lips working. "Why so distressed, mon
ami?" Sinn dabbed his finger in the bloody semen that beaded on Renfield’s pale chest. "This? I
should have warned you. It is only a personal peculiarity." He smiled. "Caused by something I drink,
I believe. Do not let it trouble you. Now, shouldn’t you get ready to meet
with the prince?"
When Renfield didn’t move, Sinn sighed. He went to the dresser again, wiped himself clean with
brisk efficiency, and dressed. Then he brought a cloth to the bed and gently wiped away all traces of
sex, stuffing the dirtied cloth in the commode. One of the gypsies should be up to empty the slops
later, and he would dispose of it. "He is a patient man, cheri, but after all... A prince is not kept
waiting, yes?" When Renfield was unresponsive, Sinn finished dressing him, as if he were a doll, right
down to his carefully starched collar and cuffs. He ran a comb carefully through the fine, light brown
hair, and said, "There--most presentable." Renfield stared blankly, and Sinn sighed. "Rien." He
slapped him.
Renfield blinked, and his eyes seemed to focus. "Sinn?"
"Are you ready to present your properties to the prince?"
Renfield stared at the cool, immaculate Frenchman. *Did I just have a nightmare? I remember
waking up, and starting to shave...* He touched his own cheek thoughtfully, and found it smooth
shaven. "Um... Yes. Yes, of course. Did... I oversleep?"
Sinn smiled. "Not by this household’s standards. Gather your things, and go down to the little room in
which we gathered last night." He paused at the door, smiling back. "If you have time later, seek me
out. If you wish to play games, it need not be Rill’s soldiers. The boy has the most remarkable
selection of toys, though." The smile grew wolfish. "I am most fond of le cheval de passe-temps."
"Pardon?"
"How do you say it in English? Ah! The hobby horse."
For no reason he could pinpoint, Renfield felt a chill as Sinn laughed, and shut the door.
end part 70
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They all looked at Rock, who was lounging back in his chair. He stared levelly back at the Prince, and
he gave a small, feral smile. Draculea said slowly, "Simion, take Rill with you to fix the letters."
Simion regarded Rock, then silently urged his lover up, and led him from the room. Rill went
willingly, happy to be on any errand with Simion.
For a long moment, Draculea and Rock regarded each other in silence. Finally Draculea said,
"Speak."
Rock shrugged. "Sometimes cruder methods succeed where sophistication fails."
"And, if I remember correctly, your methods are as crude as any." Rock bared his teeth in an
almost-smile. He’d never claimed to be anything but what he was. "What do you plan?"
"I do not know. How can I tell until I see how he reacts?"
Draculea stared at him. He knew very well that Renfield’s fragile spirit was in the balance, but on the
other side of the scale was Nicolae. There was no doubt as to which direction the scales would tip.
"Be careful of him, Rock," Draculea warned. "If he dies, or if his mind is destroyed, then the purpose
is defeated. And I would prefer that he remain... undamaged. Your brother is fond of him, and I
would not have him distressed."
Rock nodded, standing. His movements were quick, and he was almost vibrating with eagerness as he
headed for the door. Draculea sighed. "And so another sin is laid to my account." He closed his
eyes. *I do much for you, Nicolae. But you are worth it, my love.*
~~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~~
Renfield sat on the edge of the bed, rubbing his face distractedly as he stared at his pocket watch.
*Oh, God, I’ve lost more time. What is HAPPENING? I feel as if I’ve been in a siege, as if I’ve been
battling something, or someone, long and hard. I’m so tired.*
He went to slip the watch back into his pocket, and hesitated as he felt something else. *What’s this?*
He drew out a silver crucifix on a thin chain. *Oh, yes. That girl gave it to me. What did she say?
Something about a man losing his soul in the pursuit of profit. And the old lady. ’Wear it for your
mother’s sake.’ They acted as if I were about to walk into a lion’s den.* Renfield’s head jerked up as
a wavering howl sounded somewhere nearby. *Or maybe a wolf’s.* After a moment’s hesitation, he
donned the chain, slipping the crucifix inside his shirt. He let his hand rest over it, and wished he was
a religious man. Perhaps it would make him feel more secure.
The door opened, and he looked up wearily, expecting Sinn again, or perhaps Simion. He would
welcome Rill--the boy’s cheerful, sweet nature was soothing. He was the only one with whom
Renfield could feel
comfortable in this household. He was surprised to see Rock shutting the door behind himself. The
blond man had been a sullen, near-silent presence during his stay. He seldom had anything to say, but
Renfield was always aware of his watching. The man’s gaze was like a physical weight. "Oh, Rock.
I’m sorry that I’ve been so long. I just... I lost track of time."
"That happens here." Renfield watched nervously as Rock turned the key in the lock, then leaned back
against the door, staring at him. "Years can just slide by, before you know it. Decades. Centuries."
"Yes, I suppose it can seem that way."
"No ’seem’ about it, Englishman." He started over toward Renfield. "Have you any idea how long
I’ve been trapped in this hellhole? Trapped under the thumb of that devil Draculea, without a breath
or a moment to call my own?"
Renfield stood up, reluctant to be near the bed while he was alone with this man. He couldn’t
remember ever feeling sexually threatened, but he had no trouble recognizing it now. "You should
leave, then."
Rock barked with acid laughter. "Think I haven’t tried that? You don’t know what he does when you
run." His eyes narrowed. "I could SHOW you--if you run from me."
Renfield back up quickly, his heart suddenly hammering so violently it seemed impossible it wouldn’t
tear through the fragile walls of his chest. He tried to keep his voice steady, knowing instinctively that
a
show of fear would only excite Rock. He ignored the last threat, saying, "I’m sure you could find
employment elsewhere."
"You don’t understand." Rock kept coming, stalking Renfield till the clerk’s back was against the
wall. "I’m not his employee. I’m not even his servant, or his slave. I’m his creature, Robert. I’m
owned, body and..." He smiled nastily. "I was going to say body and soul, but I gave up my soul a
long time ago--probably BEFORE he killed me."
"You’re mad," Robert whispered, appalled. Insanity was a terrifying thing. You never knew what a
lunatic was capable of doing.
Rock shrugged. "I suppose I am. It would be hard to go through the long years without going at least
a little mad. But sanity aside, Robert, you and I have business together. You have something that the
prince wants very, very much, and Draculea isn’t one to be denied. Sinn hasn’t been able to coax it
out of you, so..." he reached out and fingered the soft collar of Robert’s shirt, "they’ve called for an
expert in more forceful techniques." He tightened his hold, leaning in to force his mouth against
Renfield’s.
Renfield, terrified, reacted more violently than he ever had in his life. He brought his arm up,
knocking aside Rock’s arm. Rock didn’t release his grip, and there was a ripping sound as Renfield’s
shirt tore. The crucifix glinted. Rock fell back so quickly that he almost stumbled, hissing in anger
and surprise. For a split second his face seemed to melt and reform into something monstrous. It was
like the flickering of a candle flame, but it was too clear for Renfield to pretend it hadn’t happened.
"Oh, my God! What are you?"
"You English--you’re so enamored of the modern and the scientific that you scoff at the dark legends.
You must know of Nosferatu, Renfield. Every country has its tales. Some of them are true."
"Vampires? No, it’s not possible." But the clues were clicking into place--the household’s odd
timetable, the shunning of mirrors, the dread of the locals.
"As you say." Rock’s smile was sharp. "Then remove that foul bauble. You believe in it no more
than do I."
Renfield shook his head. "I might be ignorant--horribly ignorant, but I’m not stupid!" He began to try
to edge toward the door. He had to get help, but whom could he trust? *Not Sinn. He’s part of this,
somehow. And Draculea--I can see him being as dangerous as Rock says. Simion is Draculea’s man.
Rill! Rill will help me.*
Rock shifted, cutting off his escape route. "Take it off, Renfield, or you’ll suffer for it. You’ll suffer
even more than I had planned." Instead, Renfield lifted the tiny ornament toward Rock. Rock snarled,
wavering as if undecided. Then he lunged. He snatched at the necklace. Renfield felt the chain snap.
Almost in the same motion Rock hurled the necklace violently, howling in rage and pain. There had
been a brief, sizzling sound, and a smell like rotten meat roasting. A thin curl of smoke wafted from
the hand that had seized the crucifix, and Rock clutched it to his chest, muttering. Renfield could see
that the flesh had been destroyed on his palm, charred in the shape of a cross, and with raw flesh
showing through. There were also thin red lines on Rock’s fingers and wrist, where the silver chain
had lashed him.
When he looked back at Renfield, his eyes glowed yellow. "It was a good try--silver and religious
objects are among the few things that can harm a Nosferatu, and when they are combined..." He
whined, and licked at the scorched skin, like a dog trying to soothe a hurt. "It was a good try, human.
It burned like fire, but I can reach into fire for something I want badly enough, and I want you."
Renfield tried to run, but Rock was on him before he could unlock the door. He shouted hopelessly as
he was dragged back, and thrown face-down on the bed. A hard hand pressed down on the small of
his back,
pinning him like a butterfly to a corkboard. Like the trapped insect, Renfield thrashed and fought, all
to no good. Not bothering with buttons, Rock simply tore the Englishman’s pants down, ripping
through the thick waistband as if it were gauze. Renfield felt cool air on his bare buttocks, and
realized with horror exactly what Rock meant to do.
Suddenly he was released as Rock reached to open his own breeches, and Renfield tried to scramble
away. His legs tangled in his shredded clothing, and Rock caught his feet and dragged him back. "No,
pretty boy, you won’t get away like that. You’re mine, and I’ve been waiting for a tender piece of ass
for ages. Sinn says he thinks you’re a virgin--at least as far as being mounted yourself. Are you?"
"Please, let me go!"
"Answer me, milksop! Ever had a man inside?" He grabbed Renfield’s ass, thumbs digging into the
crease and spreading them roughly. "Ever had this sweet peach split?"
"No! God, please, don’t, please..." Renfield was degenerating into babbling and whimpers.
"I didn’t think so. Look at that hole--as pink, soft and tight as a rosebud." Rock used his knees to
force Renfield’s thighs apart, dropping down on his body. "Time to blossom."
There was a stab of pain that lanced deep into Renfield’s bowels--cold and burning, all at once, and he
gave a thin scream. Rock roared with triumph and pleasure as he finally was once again buried in the
hot, tight flesh of a reluctant victim. Rock pounded into Renfield, using his weight to keep the other
man trapped as he plundered his body. He fucked ruthlessly, using long, powerful strokes, then short,
brutal jabs, causing as much pain as he could. Finally Renfield was reduced to weak moans and
squirms. As he felt his climax approaching, Rock grabbed hold of Robert’s soft brown hair, forcing
his head up and aside, then sank his fangs into the smooth, warm skin of his neck. A burst of hot,
salty-sweet blood, rich with terror and shame, flooded his mouth, and he drank greedily. But he
stopped himself long before it was too late, and satisfied himself with spraying his bloody seed deep
into the now limp human’s aching core.
When he was done, he pulled out briskly, wringing another groan as his softening cock slid free of
Renfield’s abused asshole. He flipped the smaller man over onto his back and studied him critically.
"Huh. Still soft, little man?" Rock gave Renfield’s limp prick a cruel squeeze. "That will change
eventually. I can make you learn to like it. But there’s plenty of time for that. What I need now is
information." Renfield stared up at him blankly, giving no indication that he understood. "Your
friend, Harker. Draculea fancies him. He’s convinced himself that Harker is a long-lost
lover--reborn. Just tell me his address," Rock stroked Renfield’s cock roughly, "and I’ll see that you
have a prize."
"Jonathan?" Renfield’s voice was choked. "You want Jonathan?"
Rock smiled lasciviously. "Oh, I wouldn’t mind a taste--I’ve seen the picture. But Draculea has plans
for that particular sweetmeat. He’s bound to grow tired of him eventually, so who can say?" He bit
Robert’s throat, not drawing blood this time--only bruising. "Perhaps we three can play games."
Renfield’s eyes were huge, shocked and horrified. "No, not Jonathan."
Rock frowned. "Yes. See here, Englishman--I may not be as accomplished in the finer arts of torture
as Simion, but I can cause pain well enough. You’ll tell me what I want to know eventually. The
question is if you’ll survive the telling."
Renfield shook his head vehemently. "No. I won’t tell you. I’d rather die."
Rock said softly, "People say that all the time, but they don’t know what it means. If you don’t tell me
what I want to know," he put his lips against Renfield’s ear and whispered, "I promise that you WILL
understand."
~~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~~
Two days later
Rill knelt before Draculea, looking up at him with anxious eyes. "Please, Domn."
Draculea held the picture that had occupied so much of his waking time. He paused in its study and
looked at the dark-haired Hungarian boy. "What is it, Rill?"
"Domn, I can’t find Renfield. I haven’t seen him for ever so long, neither have the Rom, nor Simion.
Sinn just laughs and pats my head when I ask him. I’m afraid something has happened to him."
"Don’t be distressed, child. He was warned to stay within the castle. Are you afraid the wolves have
taken him?"
Rill looked down at the floor. "No, prince. Perhaps the wolves would have been more kind. I haven’t
seen Rock, either." When he looked at Draculea, there was nothing as sophisticated as suspicion in his
eyes--only sad questioning. "Simion will not let me go to the lower levels. You told me he wouldn’t
be hurt."
As necessary as he knew his decision to have been, Draculea felt heavy-hearted. "Rill, you know that
I must find Nicolae." Rill nodded. This was a fact, nothing to be questioned. "Mister Renfield knows
where he is, but he will not say. For some reason he believes that I mean his friend harm."
"Harm? But Domn, you LOVE him."
"Renfield doesn’t understand this, Rill. He is--misguided. We have tried to persuade him, but were
not successful."
"But ROCK! Oh, Domn, could you not have let me ask? I could have explained it to him."
"Boy," said Draculea grimly, "this is something that he would never have been able to grasp. I had no
choice. Still, I gave Rock strict instructions that he was to be careful." He stood up. "I will seek your
Renfield." He patted the boy’s dark curls. "Do not despair, child. Rock will surely have the answer I
seek by now. If not..." He shrugged. As he started for the dungeon, he thought, *If not, I will TAKE
the answer, but I fear you will be left with little more than a warm and breathing doll when I am
done.*
~~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~~
Renfield was curled naked in a pile of dank, musty straw, hugging himself. He shivered, but could not
tell if it were from cold, fear, or the pain, which never seemed to quite leave him.
Rock never left him. During what had to be the daylight hours, he would fix Renfield to a rack or tie
him to a cot while he slept the sleep of the undead. When he awoke, the torture would begin again.
Rock favored rape as his chosen method of punishment, but beating was not neglected. When Rock
could no longer will his flesh to perform, he had various devices he used as a substitute--bottles and
polished sticks, thick, blunt metal clubs. Renfield had stopped crying a long time ago.
Rock still questioned him. Occasionally he would pause from thrusting himself into Renfield’s
cringing flesh, once again demanding Jonathan’s address. Renfield would shake his head, and the
abuse would resume. Robert had long since realized that the question was only an excuse for Rock to
take his pleasure. He didn’t really care whether or not he got an answer. Robert had also accepted the
fact that he was going to die. So be it, but he would leave Jonathan safe, taking the information of his
whereabouts to the grave.
He heard a voice, and the ceaseless pounding into his ass stopped. He was bound across a table, on his
belly, and a hard hand gripped his hair, lifting his head. Through his swimming vision he saw
Draculea. The prince watched him with grim coolness. Finally he said, "Why do you resist, human?
Don’t you know that I will kill you if I must?"
"You won’t have him," rasped Renfield.
There was a minute softening in Draculea’s eyes. "You must love him very much, to defend him so
bravely. But I love him, too, Robert."
"Can’t." All he could manage was a whisper. "Something like you. Soulless. Can’t love him."
Draculea’s expression hardened. "I gave up my lands, my throne, my life, my very SOUL for him,
human! I have waited for him to return to me, down through the centuries, in my loneliness and grief,
and now that he is almost within my grasp I---will---have him!" His eyes began to burn, fixing
Renfield’s gaze. "You will give him to me."
Renfield knew there were only two things that could prevent Draculea from making good his promise.
He would have to die, and as much as he wished that, he simply could not achieve it. He had tried
many times
during Rock’s torture. He would have to die, or...
Renfield took a deep breath, and chose the only other option. He let go.
Rock frowned at the first low, ragged chuckles. They continued, building slowly. He had seen many
unearthly things in his long unlife, and little fazed him, but this sound made the hair prickle at the back
of his neck.
Draculea could have understood almost any response, save this one. He shoved Renfield’s head back
till the man’s neck was arched like a bow. There was absolutely no tension in Renfield’s body--he
was limp, almost inert. The only sign of life was the low, almost purring string of giggles that issued
from his faintly smiling mouth. He sounded as if he was enjoying some clever, private joke...
But his eyes were screaming.
end part 73
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Chapter 76: Chapter 76 - Blood Bond
The Year of Our Lord, 1882
Transylvania
Draculea extended a hand. "I fear that the steps are rather high."
Jonathan paused. It was a big hand. Though the joints were slightly swollen and the skin papery,
sprinkled with faint age marks, it was still obviously strong. *But the nails... I know that the
Mandarins
keep long nails as a sign of status, but surely European nobles don’t follow this fashion?*
"Please, young man."
Jonathan realized that his hesitation must seem rude. He gripped the proffered hand, and the fingers
closed over his own. It was cool, but he had not time to think about this as the prince drew him up into
the
carriage. Yes, there was still strength in the elderly prince. He didn’t strain, didn’t even lean forward
as he helped Jonathan up the steep step.
There was a moment, just a moment, when it seemed as if Prince Draculea would draw Jonathan down
to sit beside him. Then he released his grip, and Jonathan settled on the seat opposite him. "Thank
you, sir." He reached into his pocket. "I have here my letter of introduction."
"Do not bother."
He smiled, and Jonathan felt a stab of admiration. Dentistry was gaining ground, but there were still
very few people of the prince’s age who possessed such a magnificent set of teeth. *I suppose royalty
can afford to take more care.*
The prince was continued. "I can read it later if you like, but there are no need for such formalities. I
know who you are." His eyes seemed to glitter. "Indeed, it is unlikely that you could be anyone else."
"Yes, I suppose you’re right. There wouldn’t be too many people just wandering about in this
wilderness at this time of night. I must say that this courtesy is most welcome after the rudeness of my
previous coach driver. Robert Renfield had written me about the shocking state of their service, but I
thought he might be exaggerating a bit, as travelers sometimes do."
"Things are primitive in this region, Mister Harker--primitive, and wild. I will take this opportunity to
warn you that you should remain within the castle walls during your stay. Beasts still roam the forests,
and many of them are both vicious and bold."
"I heard the wolves while I was waiting." He laughed nervously. "It gave me quite a turn. The largest
predator I’ve ever seen outside the London Zoo was when I was spending the summer in the country.
A vixen got into my landlord’s henhouse, and it was quite a to-do." He noted the prince’s intent, but
somehow amused, gaze, and felt himself flushing. "I’m sorry. I know I run on..."
"Do not apologize. I enjoy listening to you speak. I hope you will not limit yourself only to business
in the days to come. I am rather isolated. While the members of my household are congenial, I
sometimes
long for contact with the world outside my small sphere. Renfield was that for me, telling me much
about your England--and about you."
"Me?"
Draculea nodded. "He considers you his best friend, Jonathan." He paused, seeing the surprise in the
young man’s face. "I hope you do not mind? I realize that using your Christian name so soon is a bit
presumptuous, but I feel that I already know you."
"No, it’s fine," said Jonathan automatically. Who was he to object if such an important man wished to
use his given name? *Some people do that to those they see as their inferiors--servants, children, and
pets, but it doesn’t feel like that. It doesn’t feel condescending.*
The prince was continuing. "Good. And how is friend Robert? He reached home safely?"
Jonathan’s expression grew troubled. "So they tell me, sir. I wished to visit him, but my employers
insisted that there be no delay. They tell me that he has gone to a most reputable sanatorium. There,
God willing, they can calm him, and bring him back to clarity. I’m afraid that Robert has always been
high-strung, and the stress of travel, and the responsibility must have proved too much for him."
Draculea’s eyes were hooded. "Yes. I feel great guilt that he came to such a state while under my
care."
"Oh, you mustn’t blame yourself. Sometimes these things can’t be fully explained." Jonathan glanced
out the window. "Is it far to the castle?"
"No, not far. We will arrive in less than an hour."
"I rather wish I could arrive in the daytime, so that I could see the castle to its best advantage." He
smiled. "I’ve always liked the idea of castles. I even managed to visit one or two ruins in Scotland
when a friend invited me to go with him on holiday." He frowned slightly. "I enjoyed it, but there
was... I kept thinking how sad it was that they were deserted. I imagined what they must have been
like when they were filled with people, busy. Not with the great machinations of history, you
understand, but just normal people, going about their everyday lives. Silly, I suppose."
"Not at all. Some of us feel great kinship with the past."
Jonathan laughed. "I wish my father felt the same way. He says my mother infected me with her
romanticism while I was an impressionable child. Why should I waste my time dreaming about ages
gone by when I should be attending to the present--and the future?"
"Some people--old souls--are drawn to the past."
"Old souls? You refer to reincarnation?"
He nodded. "An Oriental concept, but one I find too compelling to ignore. I suppose it conflicts with
your own beliefs."
"Um, officially, yes. The Church of England does not believe in the soul’s return to earthly realms,
but I find that I can’t completely hold with that. Reincarnation would explain many things."
"I can see that we will have many things to discuss, Jonathan."
"I look forward to it. My landlords are wonderful people, but their conversation is... I won’t say it’s
limited, but there’s only so much I can say about the garden, and I refuse to discuss politics or religion
with someone who owns the roof over my head."
Draculea laughed. "Very wise. You must not feel limited when you are with me, though. I want to
know all about you, Jonathan Harker." He leaned forward slightly.
The dim moonlight smoothed the harsher marks of age, and Jonathan thought for a moment that this
must be what the prince had looked like in vigorous middle age. Before he could censor himself he
said, "And I, you." At the other man’s smile, Jonathan said hastily, "So that I can better serve your
needs."
"Yes. I can see that you dedicate yourself to others." He studied his companion for a moment, then
nodded, saying, "We are going to be important to each other, Jonathan."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"We approach the castle," remarked Draculea. Jonathan started to lean out the window, eager for a
glimpse of the castle, but he caught himself. "No, go on," Draculea urged him. "My heart still lifts
when I come in sight of my home, even after all these years."
Jonathan removed his hat and leaned far out the window, gripping the coach’s side as he peered
ahead. Despite what he’d said before, he couldn’t help but feel that Castle Draculea was very
impressive by moonlight. The surrounding walls were tall, but the castle loomed behind them--at least
three stories tall. It looked massive. *One could easily get lost in a place like that,* Jonathan
thought. *I’ll have to be careful.*
The gate was standing open, and they drove through into a spacious courtyard. Jonathan noticed two
swarthy, roughly dressed men standing just inside the gate, studying the carriage. When they saw him,
they
began whispering to each other hurriedly. He couldn’t understand why they would look so curious.
Englishmen were rare in these mountains, but surely they’d seen Robert during his visit. The two men
hurried,
grabbing doors on either side of the entrance, and pushing them to. They weren’t small men, but
Jonathan could tell that they had to strain to move the heavy doors. There was a muffled thud as a bolt
as large as a man’s leg was dropped into place, barring the gate.
The coach drew up before the shallow flight of stairs that led to the castle’s main door. Even as the
horses stamped to a halt, the door opened, and three men came out. One (he looked like the youngest),
hurried down the stairs. His face was alight with joyous curiosity, as if a visitor was the greatest treat
he could imagine. He opened the door, jumping nimbly onto the step and leaning into the coach. His
eyes, large and dark, fixed immediately on Jonathan, and he smiled, as if greeting a great friend, just
returning from a long absence. "It’s you! Oh, it IS you!" He looked at the prince, saying eagerly, "I
knew it, Prince. He..."
"Rill," said Draculea sharply. The boy stumbled to a halt, biting his lip contritely. Draculea’s voice
was not harsh. "This is Jonathan Harker, the young man that Mister Renfield counts as such a friend.
Jonathan Harker," he said, slowly and distinctly.
The boy stared at Draculea, then said slowly, "Oh, yes. Of course." He smiled at Jonathan, offering
his hand. "I’m Rill."
Jonathan was used to the rigid social protocols of home, but instead of being offended by this
brashness, he found it oddly endearing. "Hello, Rill." He shook hands, absently noticing that the
boy’s hand was just as cold as the prince’s had been.
"Rill is..." Draculea seemed to consider. Finally he said slowly, "My ward. He is one of three young
men that I have taken into my care." Draculea shrugged. "It can be lonely when you have outlived
most of your contemporaries. Rill, we should go inside now. I am sure that Jonathan is weary from
his journey."
"Oh, beg pardon!" Rill quickly stepped back down. "I will get the bag."
Draculea gestured toward the door. "Please."
Jonathan wasn’t entirely sure on the proper order of disembarking, but if the prince wished to allow
him to go first, then that was as it should be. The first rule of manners was that the upper classes
MADE the rules. Rill gave him another smile as he stepped out, then the boy reached up to take
Jonathan’s bag from Simion. Jonathan, mindful of the prince’s age and station, turned to offer him
assistance. The prince accepted his hand gravely, but seemed to have little trouble with his descent.
Simion jumped down off the seat, and one of the men from the gate clambered up, taking the reins and
starting the coach toward a large outbuilding--obviously a stable. The other two men came down the
shallow steps, and again Jonathan felt a moment of deja vu, though not as strong or as clear as the one
he’d experienced on the road. He had spoken of seeing predators at the London Zoo, and now that
memory flickered through his mind.
He had been very small, no more than five. He had stopped before the wolves’ cage, and two great,
shaggy beasts had risen from the shadows in the back and stalked toward the bars, their lambent eyes
fixed upon
him. They drew closer, closer... Black lips wrinkled back from ivory fangs. He hadn’t cried, but he
had turned, burying his face in his mother’s skirts. She had stroked his hair, assuring him that the
beasts were only attracted by the smell of the roasted peanuts that Jonathan had bought to feed the
monkeys. He had not been convinced, but he had been comforted by her touch, knowing that she
would let no harm come to him.
*Why should that memory come back to me now?* he thought as the two men moved toward him.
But there was no denying the sudden apprehension he felt. Then he felt a touch, and glanced to the
side. The prince stood there, his hand resting on Jonathan’s shoulder, his pale gaze fixed on the
approaching pair. The apprehension did not disappear entirely, but somehow, with the prince beside
him, it eased.
"This is Rock, Rill’s brother, and Sinn," said the prince.
Jonathan shook hands with them both, and he wondered again at the coolness of their hands. He knew
that England was considered notorious for its tendency toward chilly rooms, but Jonathan had always
enjoyed
his creature comforts. He hoped that the castle would not prove to be too damp and cold.
The blonde man gave only a curt nod of greeting, but the dark haired one, Sinn, made a slight, courtly
bow as he shook Jonathan’s hand. "What a pleasure to meet you at last! I’ve been quite looking
forward to this. Dear Robert was very free with his words in your favor, Jonathan."
*It seems I’m to be on familiar terms with the entire household,* Jonathan thought resignedly. *Well,
when in Rome, do as the Romans do.* "Thank you. Robert wrote a great deal, but he was reticent
about his hosts, not wanting to gossip. I look forward to becoming better acquainted with you all."
Sinn’s smile was brilliant, and just a touch off-putting. "I would like that very much," his eyes slid to
the prince, and he tilted his head deferentially, "when you are not busy with more important matters, of
course."
"You must be cautious of Sinn," said Draculea dryly. "He flatters as naturally as most men breathe."
As they entered the castle, Draculea said, "Are you hungry, Jonathan? Our fare here is simple, so it
would be no trouble to provide you with a meal."
"No, thank you. I made rather a pig of myself at the last way station, but the proprietress had a superb
cake that I just couldn’t pass up."
The prince smiled. "You have a sweet tooth." It was a statement, rather than a question.
"I’m afraid so. My father says that I’ll never grow up in that respect." He smiled. "He’s always
predicted that my teeth would rot from all the sugar. I think he’s rather disappointed that they
haven’t." Jonathan was glancing around the great entrance hall. There were a few candles flickering
along the walls, but not nearly enough to dispel the gloom that gathered in the corners. *What a
shame that such an impressive place is neglected.*
The prince noticed his look. "Yes, the castle is not at its best. The proper upkeep would require a
veritable army of servants and, as you have noted, the locals are reluctant to come here." He
shrugged. "We make do with the Rom," he patted Rill’s shoulder, "and Rill insists on helping."
"I cleaned your room," Rill offered eagerly. "It’s the nicest one in the castle."
"How kind." *He’s exaggerating. The grandest room will belong to the prince, of course.*
They were passing through the hall. Simion went ahead and opened a door to the side. Jonathan was
relieved by the brightness and warmth that flowed from the room. It proved to be small, at least
compared to the spaciousness of the other room, and very cozy. A fire snapped vigorously on the
hearth, and several lamps burned about the room. As the prince ushered Jonathan into the room, he
turned to the others. "That will be all for the night." His voice was firm.
There were various reactions. Rock scowled and Sinn shrugged in blase resignation, but Rill was
obviously disappointed. Simion took his hand, murmuring to him, and the boy nodded in acceptance.
He looked
appealingly at Draculea. "Can I say goodnight to him?" Draculea nodded, and Rill went to Jonathan.
"Do you like soldiers?"
The question took Jonathan off guard. "I... I greatly admire men who will fight for their country."
Rill laughed. "No, no! Toy soldiers."
"Oh, you mean the tin and lead ones? Yes, I do. I had some when I was a boy." His voice was tinged
with irony. "They were one of the few things of which my father approved."
"I have a lot. I’ve tried to count them, but I keep losing count. Would you like to see them
tomorrow?" He looked at the prince. "If you have time?"
The prince smiled at Rill, then looked at Jonathan, lifting his eyebrows. "Yes, Rill, I’d like that very
much."
Rill’s smile was joyous. "Goodnight, then, Jonathan. I hope you sleep well." He hesitated. "You
might dream--Robert did. If you dream, don’t be afraid. The prince won’t let anything hurt you." He
turned and went to Simion, who put an arm around his shoulders and led him away.
The prince shut the door. "You made Rill very happy." He gestured toward one of the chairs before
the fire. "Please, sit."
Jonathan laid his hat on the table and took the seat. "I was glad to do it." He smiled. "I like toy
soldiers, but I haven’t thought of them for years. Rill... he hasn’t grown up, has he?"
Draculea studied him. "You are kind, Jonathan. Most people would be much harsher in how they
characterized Rill, but I believe your view is right. He is still a child in many ways--good-hearted, and
innocent. Will you take wine?" Jonathan hesitated. "Jonathan, we are not talking business now."
"I do not drink much." Jonathan’s voice was almost apologetic.
The prince moved to the sideboard that was against the wall behind Jonathan’s chair. "One glass?"
The prince unstoppered a cut glass decanter, pouring the rich, red wine into a narrow goblet.
"Just one, then. Is it very strong?"
"Yes, it is potent." He glanced at the small ewer of water that sat beside the decanter. Jonathan had
turned slightly in the chair. He was holding his hands out to the fire, drinking in the warmth.
Draculea watched the turn of the long, elegant hands. He could see only a thin slice of Jonathan’s
face, the barest profile. The flickering light gilded the strong, beautiful features, and Draculea’s hand
clenched on the ewer handle. "I could mingle it with water, if you like."
"Yes, please."
Draculea released the ewer, and brought his hand to his mouth. Never taking his eyes from the young
man before the fire, he bit down, opening a small gash in the pad of his palm. The blood welled out,
liquid and vibrant with the blood he had taken from Simion earlier. He held his hand over the goblet
and let the blood trickle into the goblet, watching as the darker red swirled and dissipated in the
crimson of the wine.
Jonathan looked up to find the prince standing beside him. *He moves very quietly--they all do.*
Draculea offered the glass. "This is a very rare vintage, and I want to get your opinion of it."
Jonathan accepted the glass. "You won’t join me?"
Draculea sat opposite him. "I seldom drink wine. Certain pleasures have lost their savor, but others
have taken their place. Try it." Jonathan took a sip. He’d never really enjoyed wine, and was trying
to think of something complimentary, but not false, to say.
There was the tartness he’d been expecting, but even as he noted this, it seemed to change. It was the
most complex, subtle taste Jonathan had ever experienced. There was sweetness, but a salt tang as
well. There was also a hint of spiciness that he couldn’t identify. He sipped again, hoping to gain
some clue to the elusive ingredient.
"Well, I believe that you enjoyed that."
Jonathan looked down, and was surprised to discover that he had drained the goblet. "It’s very
warming, but delicious. I’ve never tasted anything like it. Is it spiced?"
Draculea steepled his fingers under his chin. "There is a special ingredient."
"What is it?"
Jonathan was running his tongue over his upper lip, seeking a last taste, and was unaware of how the
prince’s eyes lighted at the sight. "Perhaps I will tell you--soon."
end part 76
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Jonathan reluctantly set the empty glass aside. He would have liked another taste of the wine, but he’d
already specified one glass, and he knew he had to stick to that. He couldn’t have the prince thinking
that he was changeable. If he was going to be here for a number of days, perhaps he’d have a chance
for a bit more. "I know that Robert left the documents here, but the partners have sent along
particulars on additional properties. If you’d like..."
Draculea was shaking his head, smiling faintly. "You English are such a conscientious race. Robert
was just the same, ready to spring directly into business. I prefer to know a bit about the men I do
business with, Jonathan. We can spend at least this first evening in conversation, don’t you think?"
"Of course, but," Jonathan chuckled, "I’m afraid that you will be quite bored. I’ve had a very
conventional life."
"But your are seeing it from the inside, my friend. I want to know all about you. Tell me about your
parents."
Jonathan smiled, "Well, my mother was a dear woman. She loved me very much," the smile faded,
"and I lost her too soon. She died when I was six."
"Your father raised you alone?"
Jonathan’s expression became carefully controlled. "No, I didn’t say that. Despite what he might tell
you, he had very little to do with raising me. That was taken over by the school staff during term and
the housekeeper or a paid host during the holidays. He bothered himself enough to pay my expenses,
all the while making sure that I was properly grateful, and he was very free with what he called
correction and advice. I’ve thought about it a bit, and I think that complaint and criticism are much
more accurate terms."
Draculea folded his hands together, hiding them in his lap. He was fairly sure of his control of his
expression, but sometimes his hands got away from him, and he knew that the answer to his next
question could very well make him careless. "He didn’t beat you?"
Jonathan blinked in surprise. "No, nothing like that. Not even when I was small, and I know from
some of the other boys at school that was quite rare. No, he never struck me. He had other ways of
showing his
disapproval." He rubbed his arms unconsciously, remembering a few bruises that had been inflicted
when his father took hold to emphasize a point. "The thing was, that was pretty much all he showed
me." He paused, then shook his head. "I can’t believe I’m telling you this. I’ve never spoken of it to
anyone--not even Mina."
"Who is Mina?"
"Miss Wilhelmina Murray--my fiancee." Draculea was silent for a moment. Jonathan had no way of
knowing the sudden, roaring anger that had leaped up inside the prince, for Draculea kept his
expression carefully neutral. It took him a moment to be sure that he had control of his voice, though,
and Jonathan became curious about the lag in conversation. "Sir? Are you...?"
"I’m sorry, young man. I’m afraid that my mind wanders a bit. It’s just that you seem very young to
be contemplating marriage."
Jonathan sighed. "That’s what my father said, among other things. Oh, he had no objections to Mina
as long as we were just keeping company together, but when we told him that we wanted to get
married..." Jonathan shook his head, his expression tightening. "He was insulting to Mina. He said
that she might be respectable, but that I could certainly do better. I couldn’t have that, so we left. I
haven’t spoken to him since."
"How long have you known this Mina? Were you childhood sweethearts?"
"Not really. I met her when I was fifteen or sixteen, at a dance. Her friend Lucy was teasing me, but
Mina was kind. We started to correspond after that, and we saw each other again at dances and on
joint outings."
"You fell in love."
"I..." Jonathan could feel himself flushing under the prince’s intent gaze. "Sir, that’s hardly an
appropriate subject." Draculea sat back a little, and his face was shadowed by the tall side of the chair,
but somehow Jonathan could still see his eyes--FEEL them.
*He must speak of himself, so that I may know of this present life, and lead him to remember the
former one. But the English are close-mouthed. Already he has allowed more familiarity than he is
comfortable with. He has taken my blood, that should help.* Draculea
reached out with his will, with his spirit. He exerted gentle force, making it more of a suggestion than
a command. "But my friend, what could be more natural than to speak of your love, of the one with
whom you will spend your life?" He hesitated. "Surely you’re not ashamed of her?"
Jonathan had felt the first stirrings of stubbornness, and had been prepared to refuse flatly any further
discussion of his private life. But this statement required a response. Jonathan had never questioned
loving Mina. In fact, he’d never really thought about it--he’d just assumed that he MUST, since they
were getting married. "No! It’s just..." *He wants me to speak about the woman I love. I should be
bursting to sing her praises, and tell of how deep and sweet my love is. Only poets, romantics, and
women speak of love.* Jonathan gave himself a mental shake. *When did I become my father?*
"When did you first know that you loved her, Jonathan?" Jonathan was silent, staring at him. Vlad
pushed a little harder, and could feel the change, though it was subtle. It was not so much a lowering
of defenses as it was a thinning. It was like something inside the young man’s psyche was stirring,
pushing toward consciousness. "Yes, sometimes that is difficult to pinpoint," he smiled, "But some of
us can point to it directly. We may not have recognized it when it happened, but when we look back,
it becomes clear. If you cannot say when you knew that you loved her, then can you tell me of how
you proposed?" He cocked his head. "It wouldn’t be too personal?"
Jonathan thought, his expression crinkling in puzzlement, as much at his unexpected willingness to
speak as to the thoughts that the prince’s questions had stirred. "You know..." he laughed a little
nervously, "I can’t remember ever actually saying the words. Mina kept talking about weren’t we
great friends? Didn’t we get on well together? Didn’t I enjoy spending time with her? That was all
true, and I always agreed. And she spoke of how wonderful marriage is, the natural state, and how
everyone needed someone, and wouldn’t it be awful to go through life alone? And I agreed with that,
too. I told her that I felt that sometimes you just KNEW that there was someone special that you were
meant to be with." His tone was apologetic. "I know it sounds dreadfully sentimental, but that’s how
I’ve always felt--that there was someone I belonged to."
"Belonged to..." It was almost a whisper.
Jonathan blinked. "Did I say that? I’m sorry, sometimes I ramble. I meant belonged WITH."
"I see nothing wrong with your first choice of words, Jonathan."
Jonathan shook his head. "Mina would have a fit if she heard me say that. She’s a bit of a suffragette,
and would say I am advocating nothing more than domestic slavery."
"She’s wrong. There is nothing wrong with belonging to someone--as long as they belong to you in
turn."
The young man looked into the fire. "That sounds ideal, but I can’t imagine it happens often."
"Not often, but when it does... Think of it--to be a part of someone else, and they a part of you--body,
heart, and soul."
"It would be glorious," Jonathan whispered. He sighed, then smiled thinly, "But I have to be
practical. In any case, we kept talking, and one day she was telling me how happy she was, how
happy she’d make me, and should we be married in the summer, or the fall?" He shrugged helplessly.
"How could I say anything after that? She’d already told our friends, and I couldn’t let her be
humiliated. And besides, a man must marry, so I’ve been told."
"The world has changed only on the surface, I fear. Too often marriage is still more duty to society
and others than it is love, and I can’t help but feel that love should come first." Jonathan shot a glance
at him, and Draculea said, "This attitude surprises you?"
"Frankly, yes. It isn’t one that I’ve encountered often from people your..." he trailed off in
embarrassment.
"Someone my age? You needn’t be embarrassed, Jonathan. Yes, I am quite old, older than you could
imagine. But the years have not faded my belief in love--its power, and its vitality. You have said that
you feel that there is someone you are meant to be with. Can you tell me more about this person?"
Jonathan thought. "Not really. It’s all very vague. I think it was clearest when I was very young,
before my mother died. Since then there has been so much..." He thought for a moment, trying to find
the words to express what he felt, and the prince waited. At last he said. "Things seemed clearer then,
even if I didn’t understand it all. It’s as if what I once almost knew has become buried under layers of
time, and experience, till it’s very dim and far away. I knew that there was someone, one special
person, that I was meant to be with forever. They told me so."
Draculea tensed slightly. "How so?"
Jonathan shrugged helplessly. "In dreams, I suppose. I seem to recall looking out the window at
night, and listening to them. They were very faint, very far away, and they said that I belonged to
them, that they
had waited for me for a long, long time. That I would go to them someday. My mother found me at
the window once. It frightened her, and she ordered me not to do it again. Now I can see why she was
distressed, but then I couldn’t understand it. You see, I wasn’t afraid. The voice didn’t frighten me--it
made me feel safe, and wanted." He looked down at his hands. "She must have been right--it had to
have been a dream."
"Do you dream often?"
"Yes, I do. But you know, they don’t seem to be like other people’s dreams. They’re just dreams of
LIFE--in a different time and place, but just an ordinary life. Talking to people, working... Working
among books, that’s very clear." He smiled. "I like that idea. It was one of my first choices for a
career, after the Church, but Father objected, of course."
"Somehow that does not surprise me. Tell me more about these dreams." *For the true self is
revealed when the waking self is at rest.*
"Well, there’s never anything phantasmagorical about them," his face twisted briefly. "No, I lie.
There has been blood, at least once. For some reason I remember long streaks of blood on a rich rug.
I haven’t had that dream very often, thank goodness. The other one, the one that bothers me the
most..." He took a breath. "I’ve awakened in a cold sweat more than once, but I understand that many
people have the
same sort of dream, so I suppose that it isn’t particularly significant."
"What is it?"
"Falling." Draculea turned his face away so that Jonathan would not see the spasm of pain that marred
his features. The young man continued. "I dream of falling from a great height, never landing. And
you know, the funny thing is that I’m not frightened while it’s happening. I should be terrified, but
there’s another emotion that suffocates any fear I might feel."
"Sorrow."
Jonathan looked toward the prince in surprise. "Yes. It isn’t simple sadness, either--it’s grief, and
despair. I remember how I felt when my mother died, but this is even stronger. It’s consuming. It’s
as
if the grief will kill me before the fall can, and I’ll welcome death as an end to the suffering. I don’t
know where this comes from. I’ve led a good life. Compared to the tragedy that others have borne,
I’ve suffered little."
Jonathan shifted uncomfortably, and Draculea could feel him pulling away, mentally and emotionally.
The young man sensed something here, something deep and powerful, and it made him instinctively
uneasy. It
was time to end this conversation before Jonathan felt the intrusion into his will, and took alarm. "I
fear that I have been a bad host." When Jonathan started to protest, Draculea said, "No. You are
weary with your travels, and I have been selfish in keeping you up simply to amuse me. You are quite
tired."
"No, prince, truly."
"But you are, my friend. Your eyes grow heavy lidded. I can almost see the drowse stealing over
you."
Jonathan did feel a lassitude creeping over him. *The warmth of the fire, and the wine...* he thought
vaguely. He tried to push away the feeling. *I mustn’t doze before the prince.*
The prince was still speaking. "You look very young in this light, Jonathan--almost like a sleepy
child. Very innocent."
"Perhaps you’re right, sir. I AM very sleepy."
"Then you must to bed." The prince stood. "Come, and I will show you to your room."
The prince took a candle and led Jonathan out once again into the Great Hall. Most of the candles had
burned out, and it was very dim. The prince was not much more than a shadow as he moved before
him. "Follow closely. The twists and turns of this old place can be confusing for one unused to it."
Jonathan had thought that the walk would drive away the oddly sudden sleepiness, but it only seemed
to increase. At the top of the stairs he stumbled and would have fallen if the prince hadn’t turned
quickly,
catching his arm. "I’m sorry. I’m not usually so clumsy."
"No," the grip on his arm was firm, but somehow gentle. "You are one of the most graceful people I
have ever known." Before Jonathan could respond to this odd remark, the prince said, "Here we are."
They stepped into the room, and Jonathan looked around. "My word. Rill said that I had been given
the grandest room in the castle, and I thought that he was merely being polite."
"No, he spoke the truth."
"But Prince, surely YOU should have this room."
"No, young man. I have not slept here for ages." He looked around the room slowly, then let his eyes
rest on Jonathan’s face. "There are too many memories." He set the candle down on a table. "I will
leave this
with you--I know this old place so well that I could make my way even if I should lose my sight. I
hope your dreams are pleasant."
The weariness was creeping back. He ran his hand over the bed’s velvet coverlet. It was old, but
clean and smooth. The bed looked almost sinfully comfortable, and he felt an overwhelming urge to
sink into its soft depths. "Thank you. I’m sure they shall be."
The prince bowed slightly, his eyes fixed on the slim young man standing beside the bed--new, yet so
familiar. Then his eyes drifted to one corner of the room, where a tapestry hung, and he thought of the
door behind the faded hanging--the door, and the hall that led to another room that did not hold the
happy memories that this one did. He looked back at Jonathan and said quietly, "No dark dreams,
Jonathan.
Dream only of sweet things. Dream of that one person you are meant to be with." He inclined his
head, and left the room, shutting the door softly.
In the hall he hesitated a moment, then pulled a key from his pocket and locked the door. He would
give the key to Simion, who would see that the door was once again unlocked before the sun rose.
Rock had been warned in the harshest terms to behave himself, but...
He had known for some time that Rock was insane. He believed that it had begun long before he
became Nosferatu, probably during his first years, under the abuse of his father. Rill had escaped that,
and his
brother’s abuse, with his sanity and sweet nature intact, but Rock had soured, and grown poisonous.
The long years of enforced submission had made him even more unbalanced. After what happened
with Renfield, Draculea was no longer sure that the blonde vampire was sane enough to consider his
own best interests. And if he dared to harm Jonathan... There was no question--Rock would die. The
only question would be how swift Draculea’s vengeance would be. But for now, the locked door
should keep Jonathan safe.
Draculea waited for a moment, hand pressed to the door. After a moment he turned, walked a few
yards down the hall, and removed another key from his pocket. The key grated in the long unused
lock, but it turned, and Draculea stepped into the long sealed room that had belonged to the former
lady of Castle Draculea--his long dead wife, Elizabeta.
end part 77
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Jonathan looked after the prince. *What an odd man. Odd, but there’s something... I don’t know.
Perhaps compelling is the right word?* He yawned, stretching hugely. *I can’t remember the last
time I’ve been so sleepy. I feel like I’m weaving on my feet. I really ought to stay up long enough to
go over the papers one more time, but..." He touched the spread again, fingers scratching at the thin
velvet. *The household schedule is turn-about, though. I should have time to review the documents
during the day. I suppose it will be all right.* He yawned again, and thought wryly, *It had better be,
else I’ll find myself asleep face down amid the papers.*
He set his shoes neatly beside the bed, and sat on the bed to take down his socks. By the time he’d
tucked them and the garters in his shoes he was yawning again, eyes drifting shut. He shook his head,
but it didn’t help much, so he quickly removed his collar and cuffs, putting them on the bedside stand.
He got out of his jacket, but it seemed like such an awful lot of trouble to get up and walk all the way
over to the chair to hang it neatly. He draped it over the foot of the bed, and began to unbutton his
shirt.
The softness of the mattress seemed to be pulling him down inexorably. *Perhaps I’ll just lie down for
a moment, just to test it.* He stretched out on the bed, settling his head on the fat pillow. The last
thing he thought as he drifted off to sleep was that Rill must have fluffed it for him, and wasn’t he a
thoughtful boy?
*****
Vlad had never felt the urge to linger in the room of the lady of the castle--not when his late mother
had occupied it, and especially not when his own wife had resided there. Still, he knew that he had to
spend a bit of time there--he couldn’t simply pass directly into his own room. Jonathan had already
been tired, and since he was unused to strong drink, the wine should have worked with the suggestion
of sleepiness that Draculea had planted.
He moved about the room restlessly, the hem of his robe brushing the thick dust that coated the floor.
He paused before a tall object, one that was shrouded in a thick cloth. He eyed it, thinking, *Simion
must
change the drapery occasionally. I think it would have rotted away by now if he hadn’t.*
He reached out and touched it. Despite what Rill had told Renfield, there WAS at least one mirror in
Castle Draculea. Vlad had ordered the others destroyed not long after he had turned. He felt he did
not need the empty expanses of glass to remind him of his new state, but for some reason he had had
this mirror spared. It wasn’t from any fond memories. His mother, despite her faults, was not a vain
woman, and he could not remember her ever gazing into this glass. Elizabeta had been different. He
knew that she had spent long moments sitting before the mirror while Lena brushed her hair, but he
was fairly sure that Beta had watched her maid in the mirror, and not her own reflection.
*She said that a mirror offered the truest representation of mankind, and I told her that they showed
only the outer flesh. A mirror would serve no good purpose unless it could show what was inside, and
if they could, what would be revealed would most likely horrify us all.*
He stared at it a moment longer, then reached out, and pinched the fabric, pulling. It slid down with a
whisper, and dust puffed up as it settled to the floor. Even in the darkness, Vlad could see clearly, and
what he saw was... nothing. The room behind him was clearly reflected, and it looked as empty as it
had been for the past centuries.
*And for me it does not even show the flesh. Perhaps it now does what I speculated--and shows what
is inside me--nothing.* He shook his head. *No. I might have believed that a month ago. I felt
empty then--hollow. But not now.* His eyes turned to the small door in the back corner of the room.
*Not now that my Nicu has returned to me.*
He was moving before the thought was fully formed. His fist smashed into the mirror. There was a
brittle crack, and a line split the glass, running from corner to corner. The reflected image seemed to
flicker slightly, shifting and distorting subtly as the reflecting surface was divided. The sound, and the
shock of sensation up his arm satisfied something deep inside Draculea, some need that he hadn’t even
known he possessed, and he struck again--harder. The glass crunched, breaks spidering out from the
point of impact.
He was drawing back to strike again when caution made him stop. He knew very well that the walls
of the castle were thick, and that the sounds generated in a room seldom traveled beyond, but he had
no wish to test the possibility--not with Jonathan in the room next door. Instead he stood for a few
moments, staring at the cobweb shape of breaks that radiated from the crumpled center section of the
mirror.
He flexed his hand idly, hardly noticing the sting of sliced skin. What did it matter? It would heal in a
matter of hours. During the few days before Jonathan arrived, Draculea had begun to feed from
humans again, but he did so sparingly, still taking most of his sustenance from rats, or the castle
horses. Already there were changes. Faint sprinklings of black strands were shot through his hair,
though still almost buried by the gray. The age freckles on the
back of his hands were beginning to fade, and the knuckles were a bit less swollen now. Simion had
noted the changes. He was sure that it was because the Prince was finally taking proper nourishment,
and he thought that given time and enough human blood, Draculea would regain his youthful
appearance, and vigor.
He forced himself to wait a few more minutes, but knew that he could not long resist the compulsion.
Still he tried, pacing the room like a caged wild thing. At last he thought, *The longer I delay, the
greater
chance I will lose all control when I am finally with him. Better to go now. If he is still awake, I can
make some excuse about wanting to amuse him with the revelation of the secret passage.* He told
himself
this, though he was not at all sure that he would be able to resist reaching out for Jonathan, no matter
how aware, or reluctant, he was.
As Lena had speculated all those years ago, there was no lock on the door that led to the hallway.
Draculea walked the scant yards, feet silent on thickly dusted stone, his eyes fixed unwaveringly on
the door at the other end. This one COULD be locked--but it was not. He had made sure of that
himself before they went to fetch Jonathan Harker.
The latch had been well oiled, and it made no sound. The door swung inward, and Draculea saw the
back of the tapestry that hid the passageway. The tapestry was thick, but there was still a faint rim of
light around the sides, and at the bottom. Draculea hesitated. *Damnation! The candle still burns. Is
he awake? I would have wagered what life I have that he would be asleep by now. The wine, warmth,
and compulsion should have seen to that.*
Draculea listened carefully. The senses of the Nosferatu were keen, and he heard no sound of
movement. He concentrated even more, willing himself to greater acuity. The room was still save an
occasional muted snap from the fire, and... Yes, there... the gentle suspiration of breath, the steady
rhythm suggesting deep slumber.
Draculea closed his eyes for a moment. He had never before felt the need to enter this room with
stealth, not unless it was in care that Nicolae not be awakened from a peaceful slumber. He put out his
hand and swept aside the tapestry, stepping softly into the room.
The light was nothing but a faint red-gold glow, from the low burning fire and the single candle, but it
was enough. Draculea approached the bed slowly, almost fearfully. With the very reason for his
existence
within his grasp, he was almost afraid to realize his heart’s desire. Then Draculea saw him.
The clothing was different, and the hair. The first time he had seen Nicolae, the boy’s hair had been in
a monk’s crop--no more than two inches long. The last time his hair had fallen over his shoulders in
waves of dark silk. Nicolae had let it grow solely for the pleasure it gave his lover. Now the hair was
caught between the two lengths. Disturbed from its carefully combed style, it tumbled across Jonathan
Harker’s forehead, strands straying down to where his high collar would have risen, had he been
wearing it. Instead of the drab brown monk’s habit, or the simple but rich clothes Draculea had once
provided, he was clad in gray trousers and a severe white shirt, half-unbuttoned. Yes, some things
were different.
But so many more things were the same--the long, sturdy lines of his sprawled body, the firm curve of
his mouth, the fairness of his skin, the sheen of his hair, the elegant shape of his hands as they lay open
and relaxed--all these things, and more. He might bear a different name, this flesh might be new, but
he WAS Nicolae.
Draculea moved to the side of the bed and stood staring down at him. Jonathan was deeply asleep, but
HOW deeply? Draculea knew that he would not be able to leave this room without touching his
beloved somehow, but the boy must not awaken. Nicolae had to be coaxed to awareness gradually. If
Jonathan was abruptly presented with the situation, he was unlikely to accept it. No, he would
probably do what any reasonable modern man would do in a like situation--balk, and flatly refuse to
accept the truth, no matter what his heart told him.
So Draculea again reached out with his will, pushing Jonathan’s consciousness deeper into the fog of
the unconscious. *Do not think, my dear one. Only feel. Let your instincts and your physical desires
hold sway tonight. You are there, Nicolae--I can feel you. You have to know how much I need you.
Please, my love. Give me tonight, and I will be able to be patient till you again find your way to
awareness.*
Draculea put one knee on the mattress. It dipped with his weight, but Jonathan Harker did not stir.
Draculea reached out and lightly touched the sleeping man’s hair, lifting a thick lock, and drawing it
between his fingers. Draculea felt himself begin to tremble at the familiar smooth slide. He watched
closely, but Jonathan slept on. Growing bolder, Draculea brushed the back of his hand gently down
Jonathan’s cheek. He felt the very faint roughness of stubble, and smiled fondly. Nicolae had been so
proud when his beard had finally become strong enough to justify shaving. It hadn’t been required
more than thrice a week, but Simion had patiently shaved him whenever he asked, assuring the prince
that he took extra care, lest the delicate skin be irritated.
Satisfied now that Jonathan was in a sleep so deep that it could rightly be called a trance, Draculea
moved to undress him. This would be the test. If Jonathan awakened, Draculea could claim that he
was
just helping prepare his guest for bed. It would be a flimsy excuse, one that the Englishman would
rightly suspect, but the desire to cause no strain on their business relation would probably keep him
from demanding an explanation.
Jonathan did not awaken. Draculea slipped off the shirt, peeled down the trousers and drawers, and
dropped them carelessly on the jacket that already lay across the foot of the bed, then took a moment
to simply savor the sight.
Jonathan moved, and Draculea tensed, but it was the slow stretch of a sleeper. His toes pointed, and
he rolled away from Draculea, onto his side, cheek snuggling down onto the pillow. Vlad was
presented with the long sweep of his back, leading down to the pale double curve of his buttocks.
Draculea swiftly pressed a hand to his mouth, stifling a groan. *I have to touch him, but how can I
risk it?* Then he remembered that first time so long ago, after Ernestu had beaten him. He hadn’t
thought there was a way then, but somehow...
He removed his outer robe and, still wearing his loose shirt and trousers, crawled onto the bed behind
Jonathan, lying down close beside him. This close he could feel the heat of the young man’s body,
smell the scent of his skin and hair. He passed a hand over Jonathan’s shoulder and down his arm,
barely skimming. Jonathan didn’t react; his breathing remained deep and even. Draculea reached out
and slipped an arm over Jonathan’s body, sliding it over his waist. Then he shifted closer till he was
pressed against him. Then he became still, and simply experienced the joy of holding Nicolae in his
arms again.
*I could stay like this forever,* Draculea thought, closing his eyes. *I could spend eternity content.*
*****
Jonathan was dreaming. It was a familiar dream, one that he had come to look forward to, and hope
for.
He was no longer alone in his bed. Someone had joined him, cuddling up close behind. He had never
shared a bed with another, and there was no reason why he should know this feeling, but he did. He
could not remember a time when he had NOT known it, but it was buried so deep that it was only a
ghost of a memory, except when he slept.
He thought that other men must experience something like this, because there had been discussions
when he was at school. Sniggering fellow students had whispered about their own ’night
visitors’--dreams that were so vivid that they’d awaken with their members stiff, or with cooling
semen spread on their bellies or thighs. Jonathan hadn’t joined in the talks, because while his dreams
shared some of the same characteristics, there were distinct differences.
For one thing, the body that moved up behind him in his dreams was not soft and rounded. It was hard
and muscular. The hands that touched him, drawing such sweet responses, were large and firm,
slightly rough.
No, he never spoke of these fantasies, because he knew that they would be met with astonishment, or
derision. But somehow they seemed RIGHT. He hadn’t had the dream for a number of years, and he
had missed it. Now it was back, and more vivid than ever. He welcomed it, unconsciously shifting
toward the presence.
*****
Jonathan sighed and squirmed slightly, pressing back against the prince, deeper into his embrace, and
Draculea knew that he had been lying to himself. Just holding his reborn love would not be enough.
His hands moved over the smooth planes of Jonathan’s chest and abdomen, stroking slowly, relearning
his texture and form. His fingers found a soft nipple, and he rubbed and pinched gently, feeling it
begin to stiffen. Jonathan’s breathing increased a little in speed.
Draculea let his hand slip lower, till his fingers brushed springy curls. Finally he allowed his hand to
close over the warm flesh at Jonathan’s crotch, molding his palm around the smooth column of the
younger man’s sex. He made a quiet murmur of approval when he found that the boy was already
half-aroused. He closed his hand loosely around Jonathan’s cock and stroked lightly, feeling it begin
to swell, filling his fist. *Sweet Nicolae,* Draculea thought. *Always so responsive to my touch.*
He tenderly kissed the back of his lover’s neck, and was rewarded with a small shiver, and a breathy
exhalation. He couldn’t resist any longer. Draculea stopped his ministrations long enough to unfasten
his
own trousers, freeing himself. Draculea had begun to stiffen while he was still standing in the
passageway, anticipation stirring the blood he had taken only an hour before from one of the willing
Rom. His cock was hard now, eager to seek the sweet sanctuary of Nicolae’s body as it had so many
times before.
He couldn’t do that--not yet. Jonathan Harker had tasted the blood of Draculea only once, and the
prince wanted a more certain hold before he consummated their union. Till then he would have to
content himself with less than a full joining, but all contact with his love was a joy--physical and
emotional.
Draculea pulled a large handkerchief from his pocket and draped it over Jonathan’s bare hip, putting it
where it would be ready to receive his seed. He parted Jonathan’s buttocks, and traced a finger down
the cleft. Jonathan shuddered and moaned. The crinkled star that marked the entrance to his body
flexed, as if trying to draw Draculea in. It was all that the prince could do to resist sliding a finger
deep into the tempting passage, beginning the slow, delicious chore of stretching the tiny hole enough
to accommodate his hungry flesh. But he did not. Instead he once again spooned up against Jonathan,
laying the solid length of his sex between Jonathan’s buttocks, letting them cradle him in a snug
embrace.
When he was positioned to his satisfaction, Draculea again found Jonathan’s erection. He began to
pump the boy, slowly and firmly. At the same time, he moved his hips, thrusting against Jonathan.
The damp friction was exquisite.
Draculea felt a smear of warm liquid on his hand. Immediately he circled his fingers around the head
of the boy’s penis, finding the ooze of pre-ejaculate that flowed from the tip. He used it to slick the
velvety skin of Jonathan’s erection, letting it make his hand slide even more freely.
Jonathan’s breathing had become ragged. His head tipped back, till it rested on Draculea’s shoulder.
The prince gazed down at him as he pumped the boy’s thickened flesh, and slid his own erection back
and forth in the not-quite tight enough embrace of Jonathan’s cleft. Vlad could feel himself
approaching his climax. He was both elated and dismayed. This was what he wanted--completion
with his love--but it was coming so soon.
The physical pleasure was sweeping through Jonathan’s dream. He whimpered with need, body
moving with unconscious will to press more tightly to the shifting, thrusting presence at his back. His
head dropped back even farther, twisting...
*****
If only he hadn’t moved, if only he hadn’t made that soft, yearning sound, Draculea might have been
able to resist. But the boy shifted back, as if begging for a firmer touch, and he arched his neck, baring
his throat in a gesture of natural submission. All the need, longing, and hunger of over four hundred
years rose up in an instant. Draculea’s hand tightened around the boy’s rigid prick, stroking and
squeezing roughly. The ache of his fangs extending only seemed a part of it all, as Draculea bent his
head and sank them into the smooth skin of Jonathan Harker’s throat.
The pain in Jonathan’s throat mingled with the sudden burst of hot pleasure that rose from his crotch
and spread through his body. The combination pulled him toward consciousness, and something else
seemed to rise inside the young man. It was as if a splinter of something buried deep in his self, a part
that had always been there, but always hidden and sleeping, had awakened also. For a brief second it
struggled toward the surface, confused.
Draculea drank from Jonathan, and it was the sweetest, most satisfying meal he had ever taken,
nourishing him more than physically. He swallowed once, twice, three times... He allowed himself no
more than a half-dozen strong pulls. When the young man’s orgasm ended, his flesh beginning to
soften in Draculea’s hand, the prince forced himself to stop. He released Jonathan’s sex and snatched
up the handkerchief, just in time to catch his own spend before it could streak the sheets and
Jonathan’s flesh with blood that could not be explained away.
As Jonathan’s breathing fell back to the slow pace of deep sleep, Draculea licked the seeping wounds
on his love’s neck till they no longer bled, and the healing had begun. Then Vlad licked his lover’s
essence from his hand, relishing every slick, slightly bitter drop.
They lay there for a while longer, Draculea cradling the sleeping, sated boy back against his chest.
How he wished he could simply drift off to sleep like this, then awake to find himself watched by a
pair of
dark, sleepy, contented eyes. But no, that was too much of a risk. It would be Jonathan Harker who
awoke, not Nicu--and Jonathan wasn’t ready for this.
Reluctantly, Draculea arose. He looked at Jonathan again, seeing the flush of arousal slowly fading
from his face and throat. So beautiful. The fire was very low now, scarcely more than embers, and the
room might become chilly. Jonathan was lying on the bedspread, and to move him would be to risk
waking him. After a moment’s though, Draculea turned up the side of the spread, just managing to
enfold the sleeping man.
Draculea refastened his trousers, then picked up his robe. He went to the tapestry, moving slowly,
head turned to watch the bed over his shoulder. Jonathan never stirred. Finally Draculea moved aside
the tapestry, stepped back into the corridor, and shut the door once again.
He paused, leaning against the chill stone wall, letting his head drop back against the stone. It was
ironic: his love had finally returned, but in some lights he was still far away. He was close by, but
Draculea could not embrace him, touch him, kiss him as he wished. Nicolae was still buried deep
inside Jonathan Harker--there, and not there. Draculea straightened and went back down the passage,
through the room, and out into the hall.
Simion was standing at the end of the hall. He said nothing as his master approached, but he watched
him keenly. There was fire in Draculea’s eyes, but also the beginning of peace. It was a look that
Simion had not seen for a long, long time. There was more energy in the prince’s step, and he thought
he detected a faint flush of natural color in the usually paper-pale cheeks.
The prince stopped before Simion, and they regarded each other silently for a moment. At last Simion
embraced the prince. Draculea returned the embrace, letting his head rest on his old friend’s shoulder.
Simion felt the big man begin to tremble. Draculea did not breathe, and the first hint Simion had that
he was weeping was the warm moisture of bloody tears against his neck as Draculea whispered, "At
last, at last, at last..."
end part 78
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Chapter 80: Chapter 80 - Degrees of Madness
Author’s Notes: Notes: //written words// peignoir--noun: woman’s dressing gown: a woman’s
loose-fitting dressing gown, bathrobe, or negligee
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Mina watched Lucy as she finished her primping, seated at her vanity. "Lucy, tell me you aren’t really
doing it."
Lucy glanced at her friend’s reflection in the mirror, her brown eyes wide and innocent. "Doing
what?"
"You aren’t having all three of those poor men over here at once."
Lucy frowned slightly. "Goodness, Mina, there’s going to be a whole slew of men over here today for
tea. What three do you mean?"
Mina slapped her shoulder lightly. "You are wicked! You know very well that I mean Arthur
Holmwood, Jack Seward, and Mister Morris."
Lucy pinched her cheeks vigorously, pinkening them. "But Mina, I could hardly leave any of them
out. Jack lives next door, Arthur is the most prominent gentleman in the area, and Mister Morris is a
distinguished visitor. It would be a deadly insult to leave any of them out."
"And the fact that all three of them are courting you is of no consequence?"
Lucy giggled, shrugging. "Oh, there IS that." She turned her head and glanced up at Mina, eyes
sparkling. "All right, I’ll admit that I enjoy having a fuss made over me, and with rivals present, there
will be some very fancy attendance being danced."
"And that means a lot to you, doesn’t it?" Mina said wryly. "You need the attention, and the
catering-to."
Lucy shrugged. "I’ve never pretended to be anything but what I am. Yes, it’s important to me."
"The men?"
Lucy heard the sharpness in Mina’s voice, and reacted immediately, getting up and going to her. She
sat beside her friend on the edge of the bed, taking her hand. "The men, but only because that is where
the power lies," she said softly. "You know that, Mina. While women have made great strides, we are
still far from being equal to them, at least in the eyes of the world. We all play the game--even you.
Do you deny that you’re marrying Jonathan for more or less the same reasons?"
Mina looked down at their clasped hands, then lifted them, turning Lucy’s hand, and kissed her palm.
She sighed, "No. He’s a sweet boy, and I know he’ll be good to me, but the main reason we’re
engaged is that it’s expected." She looked up at Lucy, brown eyes fierce, and said, "And I don’t want
to spend my life in a dusty office, typing my fingers to the bone. Or end like my mother, doing my
own cooking in a tiny house, with no help but a girl to come in thrice a week for the heaviest work.
Jonathan is personable, and clever. He isn’t ambitious," her voice took on a hard edge, "but I am."
Lucy kissed her. "And with you to guide him, he WILL succeed. You’ll marry him when he returns
from Transylvania?"
"As soon as is decently possible."
"Then I ought to go ahead and make up my mind." She stood up, smoothing her skirt. "I think I
should be ready to make an announcement this weekend. Let’s hurry down. It would be most
impolite if we weren’t there to greet our gentlemen callers."
Lucy’s father, Peter Westenra, welcomed the two young women into the parlor with a good natured,
"Ah, the flower of English womanhood!" He kissed his daughter’s cheek. "You’re just in time, my
dear. Watkins just headed for the front door, and I believe that will be Jack."
"Oops! This flower of English womanhood had best arrange herself, then!" Lucy quickly seated
herself decorously on a small love seat. "Mina, quick! Act interested--we mustn’t let him think we’ve
just been waiting for his arrival. He’ll get a swelled head."
The butler led Jack Seward into the parlor, saying, "Dr. Jack Seward."
Lucy held out her hands, face lighting in welcome. "Jack, how lovely!" She sounded as if she’d just
been given a surprise treat.
Jack had been shaking hands with Lucy’s father, and now his smile was wide, and almost foolishly
pleased. He started toward Lucy eagerly--too eagerly. His gaze was fixed firmly on Lucy, and he
didn’t notice the small footstool in his path. As he stumbled and fell, Lucy gave a small shriek that
was as much laughter as it was distress. Still she hopped up and hurried to help him to his feet,
exclaiming, "Oh, poor, poor Jack! Here, let me help you."
Mina went to add her assistance, and between them they got Jack to his feet and shepherded him
between them to sit on the love seat. He was overwhelmed by the feminine attention, protesting that
he was perfectly fine, even as he rubbed at his aching shins. Lucy sat beside him, saying, "Mina,
please get some sherry for my poor, wounded Jack." She batted her eyelashes at him. "Unless brandy
would be better? I don’t know about such things, but you’re a doctor. You must tell me what is
right."
Jack was about to melt under the admiration. "Sherry would be..."
"Sherry, Mina." As Mina went to the decanter on a nearby table, Mina continued, "Are you
CERTAIN you’re all right?" She touched his leg gently, and felt smug when she noticed his small
shudder. "Perhaps I ought to check and see if you’re bruised?" She gave a mock gasp, covering her
mouth. "Oh! What you must think of me--suggesting that I look at your bare limb."
"Lucy..."
Watkins was again at the room’s entrance. This time he was accompanied by a tall, rugged man
dressed in a Western cut suit, wearing boots, a string tie, and a dark Stetson hat. "Mister Quincy
Morris."
As Quincy shook hands with Mister Westenra, Lucy patted Jack again and said, "Mina, look after dear
Jack. I have to be a good hostess and greet Mister Morris." She stood up and swept over to the
American, hands outstretched, smiling brightly.
Mina handed Jack the sherry, noting how his expression dropped with disappointment. *Poor Jack.
You haven’t a chance, but you needn’t be jealous of Mister Morris. Lucy would never marry any
American--except possibly an Astor or a Rockefeller. Even those would be doubtful, since the
Americans don’t believe in titles. No, Quincy Morris isn’t really your rival.*
Quincy Morris was a cattleman from Texas. He owned a ranch larger than several English counties
put together, and ran enough cows to comfortably feed the beef-loving population of several more
many times over.
He was also a good-hearted, rather simple man who held high regard for women in general, and
’ladies’ in particular. He was no match for Lucy. He had been charmed at first sight, and smitten in
less than five minutes. Mina regarded him with almost as much pity as she did Seward. *There’s
another one who doesn’t stand a chance, and doesn’t HAVE a chance. It’s just as well. Lucy can
barely stand being here in the country, away from the bustle of London. She’d never survive in the
wilderness of Texas. She’d go mad, and drive him mad along with her.*
She was flirting with him shamelessly, but doing it in such an innocent manner that she seemed totally
unaware of what she was doing. Mina knew that Lucy was perfectly aware of the effects that her
actions were having. Mina assessed the soft look in the Texan’s eyes, and found herself sympathizing,
rather than pitying. Lucy could make you want to protect her and care for her. It was one of her
greatest strengths.
Quincy said quietly, "Miss Lucy, we haven’t known each other long in days, but I feel as if I know you
well. Sometimes... Sometimes when you meet someone, it’s as if you’ve known them forever."
Lucy made a pretty little expression. "Oh, Mister Morris, that is the sweetest sentiment."
"I was wondering... Do I dare hope...?"
Watkins appeared once again, his bearing just a little straighter, his expression a touch more haughty,
and began, "Lord..."
The slim, dark haired man who strode smiling past him was greeted by Lucy with a squeal of,
"Arthur!" as she abandoned Quincy to rush to the newest arrival. The enthusiastic greeting of another
man must have stung Quincy. He had to have recognized the emotion and intention in it, because
Mina saw the fragile hope die in his eyes. The truly sad thing, though, was that the deeper emotion
(perhaps even love?) did not die also.
Arthur Holmwood accepted Lucy’s greeting with the satisfied, smug smile of a man who took it as his
due. Mina felt a jab of bitterness, but could she really fault him for this? It had been bred into him.
All his life he had known nothing but power, privilege, and adoration. He’d never wanted for the most
trivial of things, so it was difficult for him to consider that he might be denied anything important.
Lucy and Arthur whispered together for a moment, then his smile broadened, and he went to speak to
Lucy’s father. The two men left the room together, and Mina excused herself from a now forlorn
Jack. She took a whiskey to Quincy, then hurried to Lucy. "Well?"
Lucy’s smile was as smug as Arthur’s had been. "You’ll just have to wait, with everyone else."
"You wicked thing! Well, I don’t have to wait--I know."
"What do you know?"
"That you’ve chosen Lord Holmwood. The only possible reason for your father and he to scurry off
together for a cozy private chat is that he is asking for your hand." Lucy smiled slowly. "I know you
too well, Lucy. You can’t keep anything from me."
She laughed, leaning over to kiss Mina’s cheek. "I wouldn’t want to, Mina. Dearest, dearest Mina."
She took Mina’s hand, her voice lowering, and whispered, "I will marry Arthur, and we will get on
well. I’ll make him a commendable wife, I will give him an heir, and we will both live our own lives.
I’m very fond of him, but you--Mina, our souls belong to each other. We’ve always known that. It’s
rather like Mister Morrison said--sometimes you meet someone and instantly, it’s as if you have
known them from the beginning of time."
Mina nodded, and the two girls embraced. The men in the room saw only two close friends sharing a
warm moment. Mina, her lips close to Lucy’s ear, murmured, "We’re so lucky, Lucy. We are
unique. No one--no two people have ever shared anything like this."
~*~*~*~*~
"Prince Draculea, Rill has mentioned that you have a library."
They were once again in the small room where Jonathan had spent his first evening. The prince,
seated across from him at the small supper table, folded his hands. "Yes. Long ago, it was the finest
private collection in this part of the world."
"I’d love to see it."
"You like books?"
Jonathan smiled. "My first ambition was to join the church, and the second was to be a librarian."
"That sounds very like you." The prince studied the young man, his eyes unreadable. "Not now,
Jonathan." Jonathan was a little surprised. So far, the prince had denied him nothing, sparing no
effort to cater to Jonathan’s needs and, indeed, whims. The prince noticed his disappointed
expression, and said, "I didn’t say never. Just--not now."
"I see." He didn’t, though. He wondered if there was anything in the library that Draculea felt was
unsuitable for the eyes of an outsider. *Perhaps it’s only that it has fallen into disrepair, like the rest of
the castle.* The thought of a fine collection of books lying neglected didn’t exactly offend Jonathan,
but it made him want to DO something about it. "I was wondering if you’d come to a decision about
the properties."
Draculea sighed. "You are a conscientious young man. You won’t rest till I give you an answer, will
you?" Jonathan smiled. "There are several that I find attractive. I certainly want two in various parts
of London, but I also want something a little farther out. What was the one you were telling me
about--the one that’s close to your fiance’s friend’s home?"
"Carstair’s Abbey. It’s not in the best of shape, but it wouldn’t take much to fix it up. If you’re truly
interested, my firm could contract the work out, and have it ready any time you wished to go over to
England."
"That will not be necessary." He made a vague gesture. "As you have seen, I am not overly
concerned with such things. Please write your employers making the arrangements. Simion will see
that letters of credit are arranged at the Bank of London to cover the transaction."
Jonathan beamed. "Thank you, sir!"
Draculea returned his smile. "This pleases you, my friend?"
"It means that I have fulfilled the trust that my employers, and others, placed in me."
"Duty. Yes, you would be devoted to that."
Jonathan hesitated, then said, "Prince, you are a constant source of surprise to me. Are you really so
wise, or am I so transparent?"
Draculea chuckled. "Not precisely transparent." His eyes gleamed. "It’s only that some people are
easier to know than others. You have depths, Jonathan, but none of them are devious."
Jonathan regarded the prince, and noted that there seemed to be more color in his face than usual.
*Perhaps it’s the firelight. I’ve always heard that firelight and candlelight was flattering to women. I
suppose the same can hold true for men. He looks revitalized. I’d almost swear that his skin is less
crepey, and that his hair is darker. He’s a handsome man now. When he was younger, he must have
been... beautiful.*
They talked for a long time. Near dawn they parted, with Jonathan heading up toward his room. He’d
reached the top of the stairs, when he was startled by someone stepping out of the shadows. It was
Sinn. He noticed Jonathan’s startled look and gave him an ingratiating smile. "Did you have a nice
chat with the prince?"
"Our conversations are always most stimulating."
"Stimulating--there’s a word to conjure with." Sinn stepped closer. "He keeps you to himself. We’ve
hardly had any time together."
Jonathan fought down the urge to step back. "The business..."
"Piffle. You know very well that he could have conducted the business the very first day you arrived.
No, Jonathan, you are being kept here as a... companion."
"But he has companions--Rill, Simion, you, Rock..."
"We’re not the companions he wants. We can’t give him what he needs, though heaven knows I’ve
tried," he smirked. He moved closer. "Rock hasn’t made an effort, but he served a purpose, for a
time. But he’s been waiting for you..." He smiled. "For someone LIKE you, for a long, long time."
He reached out, and Jonathan stepped back so quickly he almost stumbled. Sinn laughed. "You
needn’t fear me, mon petite. I’m a sensible soul. I won’t try to trespass, not when I know what the
results would be. I just want to let you know that I’m your friend." This time he did touch Jonathan,
delicately straightening his collar. "Not everyone in this castle can say that, Jonathan. Remember it,
won’t you?"Still smiling, he backed away, moving into the shadows. The last Jonathan saw of him
was the gleam of his smile, and a brief red flash.
But that had to be a mistake.
Sinn’s eyes were green, weren’t they?
end part 81
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The portrait was well illuminated, but somehow Jonathan felt as if it weren’t quite in focus. He
frowned, studying it intently. Suddenly something seemed to shift. It was as if a layer of gauze had
been ripped away, leaving a clear, undeniable image. Jonathan froze, his heart suddenly hammering in
his chest, his head light. *It’s me. It doesn’t just LOOK like me, it IS! Aside from the hair length, it
couldn’t be a closer likeness if I’d posed for it myself. Good lord, it’s as true a likeness as the
photograph I had taken. I think it’s actually better, because this one has the tint of life...*
A hand tightened on his arm, throwing him out of his stunned contemplation. "Yes, you recognize
yourself, don’t you?" There was dark satisfaction in Rock’s voice.
Jonathan whispered, "My family doesn’t even come from this area--my ancestors are all English. My
father never lets me forget that fact. This is impossible."
"And yet here it is. You still haven’t learned, have you? What might be impossible elsewhere is not
even improbable here, Nicu."
Jonathan’s head swiveled around toward Rock. "What did you call me?"
Rock’s smile widened to a sharp grin. "I think the proper name is Nicolae, but the pet name, the
lover’s name, is Nicu, yes?"
Jonathan jerked away. "It’s my mother’s name for me. She’s the only one who has ever used it."
Rock was shaking his head. "No, not the only one--not even the first one. Can’t you remember
anyone else using it? Try. Think very, very hard. A voice whispering in the dark, or calling from far
away..."
Jonathan shuddered as a brief memory flicked through his mind. He was very small, kneeling in the
darkness of his bedroom, before an open window. He had closed his eyes, and a breeze had moved
against his cheek, like the soft caress of cool fingers, and he heard... *Didn’t I hear? Mama was there,
and she didn’t hear, but then why was she so frightened? Someone was calling me, and the voice
sounded so sad.*
Again he felt a cold touch on his face, but it wasn’t gentle. A hard hand gripped his jaw, pushing him
back against the face of the fireplace. "I never met you your first time on Earth--if it WAS the first
time. For all I know you and that devil have been dancing with each other from the beginning of time,
and will continue till Armageddon. I don’t care. You’re here now." Rock’s touch softened till he was
cradling Jonathan’s face, and his voice was almost thoughtful. "And you’re beautiful. All that
nonsense about fate and destiny aside, I can see why he wants you."
Jonathan had been alarmed, but the look in Rock’s eyes brought on a flare of true fear. "You’re mad."
Rock nodded agreeably. "Yes."
end part 83
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end part 84
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Rill paced the great hall nervously. Things had been going so well. Jonathan had been warming to the
prince--Rill could tell. He had begun to imagine the future. He could envision an endless span of
nights which he would spend with Simion, and the prince would spend with Jonathan. It would be a
time of peace and contentment. The prince would be happy with his beloved, and all would be well
with his household. Even Sinn would be happy, spending his time in sparkling conversation with
Jonathan and Draculea...
Rill stopped his pacing, frowning as it occurred to him that Rock had been nowhere in these pleasant
fantasies. No, even if he was not actively fomenting trouble, his sullen presence would be a blot on
the castle’s atmosphere. Rill didn’t realize it, but he had somehow known that his brother could not be
a part of any happy future.
What of Rock now? Rill paused and gazed up the staircase. There hadn’t been time to get much
information out of Simion when the older man had hurried back downstairs, shouting for the Rom to
prepare the coach. While the team was harnessed Simion had told Rill what had happened--Jonathan
had gone over the edge of the roof, in an effort to escape Rock. Draculea had attacked Rock, and then
gone after Jonathan. Now Simion had to go after him, to help with Jonathan, and to see that they both
returned to the castle safely.
Rill understood this, and he accepted the fact that he could not go, too. Since being with Simion and
the prince, he had learned his own worth, but he had a practical streak--he knew he had limitations,
and he would only have been a hindrance on such a mission. Perhaps there was still something he
could do. If the prince had not thrown Rock over the edge of the roof, his remains would still need to
be dealt with.
*I can help,* he thought. *I’ve talked with the prince, and learned some of the things that must be
done.* He started up the steps. *If nothing else I can bring him inside, so that Simion doesn’t have
to.*
He went to the roof and stood just outside the door, scanning the area. A mortal man might not have
seen the dark figure sprawled across the roof, but Rill was not a mortal man. He approached
cautiously. Though Rock was an impulsive sort, he was cunning, and quite capable of lying in wait till
a victim came within reach.
As he got closer, though, he moved with more confidence. Rock didn’t look as if he’d be much of a
threat now. Finally Rill squatted down beside the body. He cocked his head, studying it. He’d seen
death many times in his long life with the prince. Though a gentle soul, he’d dealt death himself
during fights with over-ambitious mortals. Once or twice, when protecting Simion, he’d reached a
state of viciousness that could match anything his brother was capable of.
Rock’s head was lying a few feet from the body, tilted over so that one pale cheek rested on the cold
stone. Even from this angle, Rill could see that the back of the skull was still a mess of brains, bone
chips, and thick, congealed blood. Rock’s eyes were slitted, showing a bare rim of white. Rill found
that curious. Considering the method of his brother’s final death he would have expected a much more
violent, or at least alert, expression.
"De-cap-i-ta-tion," Rill said slowly. He nodded. *Yes, the prince said that this might be one way to
kill our kind." He frowned. "He wasn’t sure if it was enough, though." He watched Rock a moment
longer. "It LOOKS like it was enough. But if it takes three days for us to rise the first time, might not
there be a lag, then a resurrection, when something like this happens?*
"Rock?" he whispered. He poked the body in the chest. There was no rise or fall, but of course that
meant nothing. After all, Nosferatu only needed to breathe in order to have breath for speech. He
poked again, and still there was no response. He looked over at the head speculatively, then stretched
out his hand and prodded it. "Rock?" The cool flesh gave slightly at his touch, but nothing more. He
was almost satisfied. One more attempt... "Rock, are you there?" He poked the pale cheek again.
The half-closed eyes suddenly snapped open. Eyes that should have been dim and unseeing darted
back and forth, then fixed on Rill. The boy was so startled that he sat down suddenly, thumping
gracelessly onto his backside. "Oh! Rock, you’re still... You’re not really dead." The head bared its
teeth, and Rill frowned. "And you’re still being bad. You know very well you deserved what you
got."
Bloodless lips writhed, but without lungs Rock could not draw air to create speech. He seemed to
realize this, and his expression showed rage and frustration. "You did!" Rill insisted. His expression
hardened. "You’re still alive, so you deserved MORE. The prince will be angry when he finds out
you didn’t stay decently dead." Again Rock’s lips moved, forming unspoken words. Rill had no
trouble understanding his meaning, though. His brother had verbally abused him with exactly the
same terms often enough for him to recognize the form without the tone.
Rill caught a small movement out of the corner of his eye, and turned his head for a closer look. The
fingers of Rock’s headless body were twitching. As Rill watched, the twitching strengthened, and the
hands lifted slowly, wavering in the air above the body.
"What are you doing, Rock?" asked Rill suspiciously. He looked over to find that Rock’s eyes had
fixed intently on his corpse. He was staring at it with fevered concentration, gnawing at his bottom
lip. One of the hands started to grope across the stones in the general direction of his head, and his
expression grew even more determined.
Puzzled, Rock looked back and forth between the two parts of his brother’s body. Sudden
understanding struck. Rock wanted to put his head and body together once again. If the head was
pressed to the stump of the neck long enough... Rill had never heard of such a reattachment
happening, but who could say? He knew that no human could ever have recovered from some of the
punishments Draculea had inflicted, but Rock had. Oh, it had occasionally taken months, but he had
eventually been his old self again--physically. The insanity and bitterness had grown with each injury,
and after something like this... Well, it was unlikely that he’d ever be even marginally safe company.
"No, Rock," Rill said firmly. He reached out and picked the head up by the hair. Rock’s expression
became even more agitated, mouth working hard. He repeatedly cut his eyes toward his body, and Rill
caught the meaning easily. "I’m not putting your head next to your body--I’m moving it farther
away."
He carried the head back to the door, but hesitated before going inside. He sat down to think, crossing
his legs, and holding his brother’s head in his lap. Rock glared up at him, but Rill’s returned stare was
steady. After a moment he said, "I have to think about this, Rill. You’re supposed to be really dead. I
can’t imagine the prince would have done this if he didn’t mean for you to be really dead." He
watched Rock’s lips work, then heaved a sigh. "No, I agree with him this time, even if you are my
brother. What should I do?" Rock closed his eyes in frustration. When he opened them again, he
began to form words very slowly and clearly.
Rill shook his head. "I don’t believe you. I don’t believe you’d go away and never bother us again.
And even if you did," his voice hardened, "you’d hurt other people. You like hurting weak people,
Rock. You’ll never stop--not until you ARE really dead. The prince shouldn’t have to worry about
you when he comes back. He’ll need to give all his attention to Jonathan. No, you should be finished
when he gets here. Maybe I can help." Ignoring Rock’s horrified and enraged expression, Rill set the
head down near the door.
Rock’s gaze went immediately to where his body lay near the edge of the roof. Rill noticed, and
looked back. The beheaded body was twitching feebly. As Rill watched, one knee bent slightly, and a
tremor passed through the thigh as the corpse braced itself, readying for a try at getting upright. The
leg collapsed quickly. Rill, curious, said, "Can you still direct the rest of you, or is it doing it by
itself--like a snake after the head is cut off?" The body kept moving. Rill shrugged. "Better not to
take a chance." He turned the head so that it faced the blank wall. "There. You can’t give it
directions now."
He went back into the castle, thinking, *Now, what were the methods the prince said would be most
likely to work? A sharp spear of wood through the heart... I think if the prince had used a silver edged
blade, it might have done the trick. Then there’s fire...*
What thoughts passed through Rock’s mind in the next few minutes, no one can say. There’s little
doubt that there was hatred and anger--that had never been absent for long during his time on earth.
But now there was something different--something that might be a sense of impending
mortality--something he long ago had ceased to consider. Now it brought fear, and panic.
Rill returned shortly, carrying a bag and lit candle, and trailed by an interested looking Rom. The
gypsy almost skidded to a halt when he got a look at what was waiting for him on the roof. His eyes
darted from the head near his feet, to the body lying in a small pool of nearly-black blood at the edge
of the roof. The Rom who served Prince Draculea were the chosen of their clan, raised with the
knowledge of the Prince’s ways, and hardened to them, but this...
Rill noticed that his companion had fallen behind, and turned back to him. There was a touch of
impatience in his voice as he said, "Hurry! We don’t have forever, you know, and I need your help.
You know there’s part of this I can’t do."
The gypsy nodded, fumbling in his pockets. "Hai, Domn."
"Good." Rill started away, then turned back. "You’d better peel it, just in case." He started off, but
turned back again. "But it might be the peel that does the trick, mightn’t it? Peel some of them, but
leave the others whole."
The gypsy gave him a look that said that all gorgio were a little crazy--even his masters. "Hai, Domn."
"Lots of them."
Rill bustled off again. The Rom and Rock regarded each other warily. Rock was well aware that he
wasn’t well liked by the Prince’s followers. They all knew what he would do to them if he was given
free rein, and they were aware of his history with the gentle Rill, who was considered more of a pet
than a superior.
Rock heard a clatter that distracted him from these thoughts. He couldn’t turn to look, but by rolling
his eyes he could just glimpse where his body lay. What he saw sent another bolt of terrified panic
through him. In a pile at Rill’s feet was a pile of objects--what looked like a flask of lamp oil, a heavy
mallet, and a piece of wood that had been sharpened into a stake.
A crinkling sound drew his attention away from this horrifying scene, and he looked back at the Rom.
The gypsy was flicking away what looked like nearly transparent wisps of paper, and a pungent scent
assaulted Rill’s nostrils. Even though he no longer had a stomach to be affected, he felt sick at the
smell. The gypsy noticed, and smiled. He reached down and picked the head up by its hair. Rock
opened his mouth in protest, and the gypsy poked in the first bulb of garlic.
~*~*~*~*~*~
As he approached, Simion noticed the smoke rising from the castle. He frowned, wondering. While
fires weren’t forbidden, they weren’t encouraged, either. The less evidence of occupancy they
provided the outside world, the better. In any case, the source seemed to be the roof, and he couldn’t
imagine any reason for kindling a fire there. He made a note to himself to check on it as soon as
possible, but the prince had to be settled first--if that were possible.
At first it didn’t seem it would be possible. Two of the Rom came out to take care of the coach, and
Simion escorted the blanket draped prince into the cool, dim interior of the castle. Draculea had barely
entered the shadows before he threw off the cover, as if it were smothering him. He stalked a few
paces, then turned, staring back at the door, and Simion said quickly, "No, Domn!"
"I believe I could do it, Simion."
"You might survive, my lord--MIGHT. But by the time you once again reached the village you would
be so weakened that it’s unlikely that you could retrieve him from the chapel. And I believe you
would be so weakened that you might fall prey to those who now have him." Draculea glared, and
Simion made his voice sharp. "Would you do that to him? He believed once that he lost you, and the
pain drove him to an act which he thought would eternally damn him."
Draculea whirled away from him, lashing out. There was a tall candle stand nearby, and he smashed it
aside, the thick metal bending with the force of his blow. Then he stood with his back to Simion, fists
clenched at his side, body tensed, and trembling. Finally, voice low, he said, "Impatience?"
Simion went to him, putting a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Your will is stronger than any I have
ever known, Domn," he said quietly, "and your love is the same. But all--ALL of us--must bow at last
to physical limits--even you. You neglected yourself for far too long, and it will take a little time for
you to regain your strength. Your Rom stand ready to help you, even unto sacrificing themselves--as
do I."
Draculea drew a deep breath, gathering himself. "I know, Simion, but I won’t do that." He turned
back to look at his friend, and there was wry pain in his voice, "But not for noble reasons, I’m afraid. I
might have used brute force in my time, but I have been trained in strategy as well. As much as I long
to rush, to personally wrest my love away from those dogs, I know that such an attempt might well
fail. You’re right--I must regain my vigor, at least a bit of it. In the meantime, I can do what a prince
does--I can send my ’troops’. Send some of the Rom to keep watch on the village." His eyes
narrowed. "I don’t trust them not to do something foolish. Then send three of the Rom to me."
Simion nodded. He would warn the gypsies of what to expect. All had been donors to slake the
vampires’ thirsts, and to serve the prince was seen as a particular honor--but within their memory,
Draculea had not taken more than a few mouthfuls at a time. Vlad would not drain them--he’d said as
much--but the volunteers would be weakened for a few days. "To the basement, Domn?"
"No, to my old room." He turned and started up the stairs, muttering, "I’ll feel closer to him there."
Simion relayed the Prince’s orders. Before the gypsies scattered to obey, he spoke to them. "As I
returned, I saw smoke from the roof. What does this mean? I can think of no reason for it."
"It was your sweetheart." Simion turned to find Sinn lounging in the doorway. "You didn’t bring
back the young beauty? What a shame. Those peasants can’t possibly appreciate him as he deserves."
Simion ignored these drawling observations, concentrating on the first declaration. "Are you sure?
Rill has always been cautious of fire."
"Oh, I’m quite certain."
"But why?"
Sinn smiled, a thoroughly unpleasant expression, and Simion felt a chill, because he knew how
amusing Sinn found anything ugly or hurtful. "I think you ought to ask him that yourself. He’s still
up there." At Simion’s alarmed look, he amended his statement. "No, not outside. Last I saw he was
on the upper landing, keeping watch on his little blaze from that vantage point. He’ll be safe enough
as long as he doesn’t lean out, though I don’t imagine he’s very comfor..." Simion hurried out. "Well,
this place has never been a sanctuary of fine manners." The Rom weren’t listening--they were rushing
to obey their orders. Sinn sighed. "I suppose I’d best resign myself to complete brusqueness for
awhile."
~*~*~*~*~*~
As Sinn had said, Rill was at the very top of the stairs, in the tiny hallway that led out to the roof. The
door was open, and later in the day his chosen spot would have been dangerous. But in the early
morning the sunlight slanted in at too steep an angle to reach where he sat. He was gazing out into the
daylight, squinting in concentration. As Simion neared, Rill spoke, without turning. "You didn’t get
him, but he isn’t dead yet."
Simion went to stand behind him, gazing down at his dark, curly head. "How do you know that?"
Rill shrugged, then touched his chest, over his heart. "I can feel it. I felt it when the prince once again
was close. He’s still so sad, and angry--very angry. But he isn’t despairing, as he would be if
Jonathan had died, so there must still be hope."
"Some of the villagers took him in. Persuading them to return him to us may be--problematic. Rill, as
I returned I saw smoke from up here. Sinn says that you set the fire."
"Yes." He twisted his head to look up at Simion anxiously. "I was careful that it was on the bare
stone, with no wood near."
"Yes, that’s the way to do it. But why, Rill? The night was mild, and even if it were chilled, there are
always fires lit at the castle hearths."
"Oh, it wasn’t for warmth. I was trying to destroy something." He frowned. "I don’t know how good
a job I did. I can’t go check on it."
Simion turned his gaze toward the object of Rill’s attention, and felt a sudden jolt. *I’m preoccupied
by the prince’s worry, but that’s no excuse for taking so long to realize what is going on,* he chided
himself. Even at this distance he could tell that it was a body. More specifically, given its location, it
was ROCK’S body. "Rill, what have you done?"
"As I said, tried to destroy it. He wasn’t QUITE dead, Simion. I remembered how he walked out of
the library, and I decided I’d better make sure. It was a good thing, too. Do you know, he was trying
to find his head?"
A smell like roasting rotted pork drifted to Simion. The headless body was well charred, but far from
being reduced to ashes. The fire was almost out. Simion saw an occasional tiny flame licking over
blackened flesh. "Sometimes dead things will still move for a little while, Rill. You remember,
you’ve seen it--snakes, lizards..."
He made a dismissive gesture. "That’s just thrashing. They’re not trying to DO anything. Rock
wanted to stick his head back on, and I think if he could have held it on his neck long enough, it just
might have happened. Lizards grow new tails, you know." The thought hadn’t occurred to Simion,
but it made sense. Still... Rill was continuing. "I was going to burn him and throw the ashes in the
river, but he burned, but he didn’t BURN."
"You should go to sleep now."
"But the job isn’t nearly finished."
"I will see to it from here. I have things to do, but I can take care of this. Go and rest."
Rill got to his feet. "If you’re sure." He hugged Simion. He sighed, and rested his head on the older
man’s shoulder for a moment. "I just can’t seem to do anything right."
Simion returned the embrace. "Dear one, you’ve done all that you could. You’ve been very
thoughtful, and very ambitious. You cannot know how much the prince will appreciate this, once
things have settled a bit." He released him with a gentle push. "Now, go and sleep."
When Rill was safely away, Simion turned his thoughts toward the offal on the other side of the roof.
The thing to do would be to bundle it up for removal. He was considering the best method when he
noticed a rough sack on the floor near his feet. That would be ideal. He should just be able to cram
Rock’s body into it. He picked up the sack, and realized that it wasn’t empty. There was a sizable
lump resting in the bottom. Curious, he opened the sack and peered inside. He caught a glimpse of
blood clotted strawberry blonde hair. He reached inside.
Rock’s eyes were half closed, and faded, unfocused stare told Simion that this might very well be the
final death for him. The vampire’s mouth was slightly open, giving him a rather stupid look. Simion
caught a glimpse of something pale between his lips, and frowned. It should be far too soon for
maggots. Could it be a broken tooth? Simion lifted the head for a closer look, poking experimentally
at the mystery object.
There was a soft thud as something fell near his food. He glanced down, and saw what looked like a
small lump of wax. Curious, he picked it up and examined it. It was slick and springy to the touch.
He squeezed it experimentally, and jerked his head back from the pungent scent. "Garlic!"
Simion hooked a finger into Rock’s mouth and pried it open a fraction. The mouth was crammed with
garlic. At his rummaging, several more cloves fell from the ragged neck stump. Simion threw back
his head and laughed. Finally he stuffed the head back into the sack and wiped his eyes. "Oh, my
love! And some would call you stupid."
end part 87
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The Rom who took Simion’s horse had a fresh wound in his neck, and so did the two that he passed in
the great hall. This worried Simion a little, but only a little. None of the men seemed physically or
emotionally distressed, so the prince must not have gotten more than a few mouthfuls from each, but it
had been many years since Draculea had taken sustenance from a human. It had not even been within
the lifetime of these men, but service to the prince was hereditary--they had known what might be
expected. Vlad knew their worth, and was grateful for their fierce loyalty. In all the long years of
their servitude, the Rom had never lost a man to the prince’s anger, or carelessness. But Draculea had
never been so close to achieving his heart’s desire.
Simion hurried up to Draculea’s room. When he entered, the prince was bent to the neck of another
Rom. The servant’s head was thrown back, his teeth bared in a combination of pleasure and pain as
his master fed. Simion hesitated, wondering if he should speak. It didn’t come to that. After a
moment Draculea lifted his head, licking his lips. A thin trickle of blood escaped from the wound,
winding its way below the man’s frayed collar. Draculea pulled out his fine linen handkerchief and
pressed it to the punctures. The servant didn’t move, and Draculea said quietly, "It is enough, my
good servant."
The man shook his head slightly, his eyes clearing. He reached up to take hold of the cloth, and
realized what it was. "Dom, I cannot..."
Vlad interrupted him, "Your wound was honorably earned. I thank you." Even with his recent loss of
blood, the man flushed with pride at Draculea’s praise. Bowing, he left the room. Simion knew that
the handkerchief would be carefully preserved, and probably passed down to the man’s son.
Simion stepped further into the room and said, "My heart is heavy with sorrow, my lord."
Draculea had turned his back to Simion, and he did not look around. His voice low, he said, "You do
not need to tell me, Simion. He is not with you."
"The villagers moved swiftly, Domn."
"Of course they did. They were protecting an innocent from a fiend." His tone was flat, but dripped
with irony. One hand lifted slowly to rest on the heavy, wooden post of the bed. "I would think better
of them if that were all it was, Simion. But I cannot help but think--is it possible that what drives them
to such measures is more the desire to deny me that which I so clearly desire?"
Something very strange was happening as Draculea spoke. The air in the room seemed charged, as if
sparks might leap at any moment, and Vlad was the center of that unseen energy. Then Simion
noticed his hair.
It hung halfway down the prince’s back, freed from its customary braid. It had been white for many
years. Since Jonathan had come to the castle, and Draculea had resumed taking human blood, Simion
had noticed it darken a little, and then it had gone from white to iron gray, with darker strands
appearing at his temples. Simion wasn’t sure what had been making the change--the nourishment of
the body--or the soul. But it had been clear that Draculea was regaining some of the vitality that had
slipped away in ennui. As Simion watched in wonder, it seemed that dark ribbons twined through
Draculea’s hair, streaking from crown to end before his very eyes. In moments the hair was a thick,
healthy salt-and-pepper mixture. And his hand...
The sleeve of Draculea’s robe had slid down, baring his wrist. The wrist was thin, with prominent
tendons, and the hand looked almost too big for it. It was a little bony, knuckles swollen, and was
mottled by age spots. Now the blemishes faded as the skin, which had been loose and finely wrinkled,
like tissue paper, tightened, and smoothed. But it wasn’t that the skin was tightening, but that the flesh
beneath was firming and filling out.
The hand no longer seemed too large for a frail limb. It once again looked strong and capable. The
nails, which had been yellowed and curved, like a Mandarin’s, were once again blunt and
no-nonsense. Draculea turned back toward Simion. In that one motion he seemed to grow several
inches.
Nicolae had known Draculea in his prime. Jonathan Harker had met an elderly man. What stood
before Simion now was something in between--a man in vigorous middle age. Nicolae would know
him, because he had dreamed of sharing his life with Vlad. It was doubtful that Jonathan would even
recognize him as the same man he had known.
Simion tried to speak, but his voice failed him. Draculea smiled. "Am I so changed, old friend? I
have felt it racing through me. For a long time I have not been at home in this body--my spirit has
ridden uncomfortably in my flesh--but now..." He closed his hand into a fist, looking down at it,
considering. "I had no reason to go on with this sham of life. Now I do, so life is returning. It is
well."
Simion nodded. Many men might have turned and left quickly, but Simion knew Draculea, and knew
his friend would not think less of him for the tears that slipped down his face.
~*~
Rill awoke to warmth, and he smiled, eyes closed. He burrowed closer against the sturdy body beside
him, and felt strong arms tighten around him. "Simion," he murmured.
"Yes, sweet boy." Simion stroked Rill’s hair. "Are you hungry?"
"Mm." Simion cradled the back of his head, pulling the boy’s face to nestle against his throat. He
shivered as Rill sniffed him, then licked delicately. He felt the edge of Rill’s teeth, but not the points
of his fangs. There was a brief pinch, then Rill removed Simion’s hand and sat up. He gazed down at
his lover and said, "No, you’ve given to the prince several times in the last few days."
Simion reached up, trailing a hand down Rill’s cheek. "I am strong, my love."
Rill took his wrist, and kissed his palm. "I know. And I know you’d let me drain you if I needed it,
but I don’t need it. I’ll visit the stable in a little while." The castle horses had been born and raised
here. They had known Nosferatu all their lives, and they were not terrified of them. They would stand
quietly if one of the vampires they knew needed a meal. But they still carried faint traces of warhorse
bloodlines. Anyone unfamiliar--natural or otherwise--took a risk approaching them.
He turned, sitting on the edge of the bed, and said, "You didn’t find him."
"They had sent him away before we arrived."
Rill looked up at the ceiling, his attitude one of someone listening carefully. Again Simion thought
that though Rill was simple by the standards of the world, he had always been gifted with sensitivities
that the ’normal’ world could never share. Rill turned his head, looking back at him, and his
expression was relieved. "The prince... I was afraid for him, if you didn’t bring Jonathan back. But
he... he hasn’t fallen back into despair."
"No." Simion moved up behind Rill, putting his arms around the boy’s waist and resting his chin on
his shoulder. "I feared that, Rill. I wouldn’t have credited it, but it seems to have revitalized him."
"He has something to strive for now," said Rill. "He’s going to go find Jonathan."
"Yes, he is. We don’t know where he is right now, but we know where he will be taken. They are
sure to return him to England. Before I came to bed, I sent letters to his Jonathan’s firm in England,
authorizing purchase of several of the properties. Some are in London, near where he worked. One is
near where his fiance is staying. They will bring him to one of those places. My guess is the country.
I have seen his letters. His Mina stays with a wealthy friend--a lady. She will wish to have him near,
so that she can care for him."
Rill muttered, "The prince won’t like that."
Simion smiled against his back. "No, he won’t. He wishes for Jonathan to receive the gentlest care,
but not from one who has the boldness to think of him as her own."
"He shouldn’t be jealous. Jonathan thinks he loves her..." he frowned. "No, that isn’t right. He thinks
he SHOULD love her. But part of him knows who he belongs to." Rill turned back to Simion,
embracing him. "Simion, Robert is in England."
"Yes."
"I know that the prince will go to England to find Jonathan. Could I go, too, and look for Robert?"
"Rill, this will be a long trip, and there will be risks. The prince will not have time to look for Robert."
"I know, that’s why I want to go. I can look for him, while you and the prince look for Jonathan."
"Alone?" The idea horrified Simion. Rill had been sheltered during his unlife, never without
protection.
"I can stay close to you and the prince, but explore on my own." He turned in Simion’s arms,
embracing him. "It isn’t right, what happened to Robert. I’m not mad at the prince--he didn’t mean
for Robert to be hurt. But it happened, and he’s alone now. Please, Simion. He’s my friend."
"I’ll ask him, Rill, but it must be his decision."
"I understand. Tell him I won’t be a bother. I’m strong, and fast. I won’t hold him back."
"I know, Rill. You’ve never been any trouble."
"I want this, Simion." Rill looked into his eyes, his expression serious. He wasn’t wheedling or
coaxing, he was expressing a direct, sincere desire. "He needs me. I can take care of him."
Simion felt his heart swell. With all the abuse and exploitation he had experienced in his youth, Rill
had developed a love for all things vulnerable. He was the gentle champion of kittens; he nursed the
stoic Rom when they were injured. Simion still remembered his wistful tenderness with the baby that
Sinn had rescued from the witch so long ago.
While Rill had no doubt that Simion loved him, he knew that Simion didn’t NEED him--not in a
practical sense. Renfield was a different matter. The Englishman had never been strong--physically
or emotionally, and now he was broken. Rill was right--he needed SOMEONE. He needed to be
cherished, not just provided with the basic necessities of life. Simion had a feeling that he wasn’t
likely to get what he needed in England. "I’ll do what I can, Rill."
Rill smiled brightly, then clapped his hands. "I’m going to England!"
Simion laughed, but it was a little rueful. What a wonderful and terrible thing it was to be trusted.
~*~
From the Journal of Dr. Jack Seward
//Renfield has quickly become my most fascinating case. The man’s delusions are
elaborate--bordering on the baroque. Just when I think I have plumbed the depths of his madness, a
new layer of fantasy is revealed. Now he believes that he is communicating with someone in
Transylvania--the country where he experienced his breakdown.//
//I have encountered many patients who believe that they have communication with God, the Devil, or
demons and angels. Some patients complain of being bothered by the voices of mysterious
’others’--unseen people who whisper to them.//
//The odd thing is that these ’communications’ do not distress Renfield. After that one incident in my
office, he has been much calmer.//
Jack Seward put down his pen and took a sip of brandy. Calm, yes--but still far from sane. Despite
his best efforts, the man still continued with his disgusting ingestion of every insect or spider he could
capture. And the warders told him that they had confiscated a mouse from him. Renfield had
protested vehemently that it was a pet, and indeed, the little creature had been remarkably plump. Jack
had seen asylum mice before, and they tended to be tiny, scrawny creatures. Jack had asked Renfield
if perhaps he had been fattening the little beast. The man had become sullen, then smiled slyly and
said that it was all right--mice and rats were all right. Even the master ate those.
Seward closed his eyes, remembering that smile. It had been almost feral, but there was a bright,
disturbing intelligence behind it. That was frightening--the thought of an intelligent madman. He was
fairly certain that Renfield was no danger to anyone, save possibly himself, but there was always a
chance. Seward had begun to wonder if he was justified in spending so much of his time with this
particular patient. But Renfield was such a fascinating case...
*Hell, no one’s here to see, so why not admit it? My interest went beyond clinical a long time ago.
It’s personal.*
Seward dealt with the intricacies of the mind. He had admitted to himself long ago that, while his
preference was for women, he could occasionally consider a man with sensual appreciation. But why
Renfield? Lord knows he wasn’t the most physically beautiful man he’d ever met. He was small and
pale, slender almost to the point of delicacy. His face was all points, and angles, and big, dark eyes.
The eyes... That was part of it. The eyes of his patients were most often clouded by confusion, or
empty of any real spark of awareness. Renfield’s eyes showed so much more. They were by turns
wounded, thoughtful, and amused. Perhaps it was the amusement that intrigued Seward the most.
What in God’s name could the man find amusing in his grim situation? Sometimes Jack suspected
that HE was the cause of Renfield’s secret mirth--that the little man looked upon Seward’s attempts to
analyze him, and found him ridiculous.
Perhaps it wasn’t so strange that he found Renfield attractive. After all, he loved Lucy, and SHE
found him ridiculous. Oh, she was always sweet, when she could be bothered. When there was no
one more interesting around. And every time he was ready to pack it in, to finally admit to himself
that loving her was hopeless, she would once again turn her teasing attention his way, and he would be
captured again. A deeply buried part of himself realized that this was a game to her--that she would
keep him on her string for as long as she could, while searching for someone more suited to her
taste--and then he would be cut adrift. No, he’d never have Lucy. He drained his brandy, and poured
another.
He wasn’t sure exactly how much he drank--more than was usual, more than was good for him. He
wasn’t even aware that he was drunk till he found himself walking across the main floor, bouncing the
master ring of keys in his palm.
The warder who was patrolling the upper level paused and looked over the rail, watching the doctor.
Seward stopped before one door and stood staring at it, swaying slightly. This was curious. Seward
did not make night visits to the inmates, not unless he was called for some emergency. Then Seward
shifted, one hand ghosting down, rubbing his thigh, and the warder smiled.
So, that was how it was. The doctor dismissed those two for interfering with the inmates, and now he
was going to have a bit of sport himself. Ah, well--he wouldn’t be rough with the poor creatures, like
those others had, so where was the harm? He turned away and resumed his rounds.
~*~
He stopped before Renfield’s cell, and hadn’t he somehow known that this was his destination? He
just stood, looking at the blank door, with its shuttered window. He tried to will himself to turn
around and go back to his rooms. A dose of laudanum would take away these tangled feelings. Then
he heard the whisper from the other side. "Why are you waiting, Doctor?"
Jack blinked. *How did he know? How did he even know anyone was here, much less that it was I?*
Then he shook his head slightly. *A guess. He might be insane, but he’s still clever.*
"Please, do come in. I’d admit you myself, but..." He chuckled, and Seward felt the hairs rise on the
back of his neck. Still, he fitted the key into the lock. The cell was dimly lit by the moonlight that
streamed through the bars of the open window. Renfield, dressed in the rough nightshirt that was
given to all patients, male or female, was sitting on the edge of his cot.
His hands were folded neatly in his lap. He smiled cordially, and aside from his attire, and the glitter
of his eyes, he might be any man sitting in his own front parlor, receiving a guest. "I’m afraid that I
can’t turn up the lights--no gas, you know. And no lamp, or candles." He chuckled again, and Seward
could hear the undercurrent of madness below the jovial sound. "I’d complain about the
accommodations, but when I consider the fact that I pay no rent or board, it hardly seems grateful. In
any case, I’m afraid," he gestured toward the window, "you’ll have to make do with ambient light."
He quirked an eyebrow. "Unless you’d like to leave the door open?" Seward stepped into the room,
shutting and locking the door behind himself. "No, I thought not."
Seward slipped the keys into his pocket. Renfield patted the mattress beside him. "Please have a seat.
I’m afraid that this is the best I can offer you." He dipped his chin and looked up at Seward,
murmuring, "I know it seems terribly familiar, but what can one do?" Seward lowered himself to sit
beside Renfield, and Robert said, "Now, then. How lovely to have an unlooked-for visitor. To what
do I owe this pleasure?"
"I... I just came to see..."
"Yes?"
"I thought I’d check to be sure the bad dreams hadn’t come back." Renfield had been troubled, off and
on, by hideous dreams, nightmares that brought him awake screaming and crying. They had become
fewer within the last several days.
"Ah, the nightmares. No, not for the last two nights." Renfield propped his elbows on his knees, then
his chin in his hands. He glanced sideways at Seward. "I’ve had dreams, yes." He smiled, and
Seward was shocked to see the tip of his tongue peep between his teeth. "But not unpleasant ones--oh,
my, no. Would you like to hear about them?" Seward was silent. "That’s part of your profession,
isn’t it?"
Seward cleared his throat. "If it will help you."
"It’s a very simple dream. I’m here, in my own little room, and it’s night, just like it is now. So dark,
so quiet. And then someone is outside my door. I don’t know who it is, but I’m lonely, so I ask them
in. Some visitors must be invited in. They’re either too shy to take the initiative, or..." His voice
faded, and for a moment his eyes were unfocused, his gaze far away, "or they can’t, for some reason."
Just as suddenly he was back. "I invite, and he accepts. He comes and sits beside me."
"Who is this visitor?" Seward could scarcely recognize his own voice. It sounded thick.
"I don’t know," said Renfield pensively. "He’s a stranger to me." He lowered his lashes. "But a
handsome one. I can tell that he wants something, but he won’t say what it is. Maybe he CAN’T say
it. I’ve never been able to. Then I realize what it is. He’s hard, you see. Like this."
Seward felt frozen as Renfield lifted his gown up around his waist. Robert was aroused, his rigid
member jutting between his spread thighs. Seward tried to avert his eyes, but found that he couldn’t.
He watched, fascinated, as a clear drop of fluid welled up from the slit at the tip.
Then Renfield’s hands were at his fly, undoing the buttons. Seward grabbed his wrists, and Renfield
said quietly, "But doctor, don’t you want to know the rest of the dream?" Seward’s hold loosened.
Damn it, he DID want to know the rest.
Renfield turned his hands, taking hold of Seward’s own hands, and moving them
to his side. Then he went back to opening Seward’s trousers. "As I was
saying, he’s hard, and I know that he’s come for me."
"Are you afraid?"
Renfield’s smile was soft. "Oh, no, no. I know he’s going to be gentle with me--not like the others.
He won’t strike, or bite. He won’t make me... make me do the same. I don’t like that. I only want to
give pleasure, and the other two haven’t let me. But he will." Robert’s hand slipped inside the gap
he’d created, and Seward closed his eyes as soft, warm fingers found his heated flesh.
Robert was whispering as he bared Seward’s cock. "You see, I can’t have the one I want. I realize
that. I never really thought that I would, I never dared hope that high. No, I can’t have him,"
Renfield’s hand curled around Seward’s staff, stroking slowly, and Jack bit back a moan. "But my
dream visitor... Yes, I can have him. Or rather, he can have me. I think he’ll be kind." Renfield’s
hand moved slowly, his thumb rubbing at the damp head.
The madman’s voice was low and seductive, and Seward wondered vaguely if he was being
hypnotized. The cold, clinical voice in the back of his mind scoffed at this. *Nothing so scientific,
Seward. You’re just drunk, and lust-dazed.*
Renfield was masturbating as he caressed Seward, and it WAS a caress--his touch almost tender. Then
Seward’s eyes snapped open as he felt a warm breeze ghost across his cock. He looked down to see
Renfield bent over his lap, lips pursed. "What are you doing?" Seward wasn’t a virgin, but he’d never
been with anyone but prostitutes, or the asylum laundresses. These women were quick and efficient,
bringing him to erection with their hands, and letting him find completion with a few quick jabs in
their slick flesh. Their mouths... There had been a kiss or two, but it had been perfunctory. They’d
never offered more, and he’d never dared suggest it, though he HAD wondered.
"I’m showing you. He tastes me--like this." Renfield’s tongue crept out and swiped, almost shyly
across Seward’s glans. The bigger man shivered at the sensation, groaning deep in his throat. "I think
he finds me sweet, because he does it again." Renfield repeated the action, his agile tongue curling
around Seward’s cockhead. "I’m leaking, and he treats it like nectar." The tip of Renfield’s tongue
flicked into Seward’s slit. When it passed, a heavy bead of clear fluid oozed out, spreading in the
saliva that Renfield had left. Renfield lapped softly several times, then whispered, "He treats me like a
sweetmeat." He slipped the head between his lips, sucking.
"Oh, God," Seward moaned, letting his head fall back against the wall as Renfield slowly devoured
him. There was no hurry in Renfield’s courtship, no furtiveness. He licked and sucked with deliberate
relish, pausing now and then to inform Seward of what he was going to do next, holding the rigid,
spit-slick penis against his cheek as he spoke. At first Seward might have told himself that he was
only allowing Renfield to have his way in order to get an insight into the man’s illness. But when
Renfield rummaged deeper in the doctor’s trousers, talking about how his dream lover had moved
down to lavish attention on his stones, Seward had found himself eagerly spreading his legs to give
him better access.
Soon the hot, soft mouth was sucking and plucking at the velvet soft skin of his testicles. A scrape of
teeth sent a bolt of terror up Seward’s spine--but he didn’t wilt. It was immediately soothed with
lavish licks, and then one of his balls was actually drawn into the hot cavern of Renfield’s mouth,
while the lunatic’s hand moved strongly on his straining cock.
Renfield’s voice was breathless. "And when he could feel that I was close, he took me fully."
Renfield’s head dropped, and Seward cried out as he was engulfed from tip to root. Renfield’s hand
tightened on his balls, nails pricking lightly, and he worked his throat muscles. Seward gasped deeply,
thrusting even deeper, feeling the little man choke. But Renfield didn’t pull back. He held tight,
sucking strongly. Seward felt as if he were dissolving as his climax washed over him. His seed burst
out, thick and strong, and Renfield swallowed greedily, drinking it down.
Seward didn’t quite lose his senses, but for a moment he wasn’t really aware of what was going on.
When he came back, Renfield had allowed his softening cock to slip free. Now he was cleaning it
with short, lazy licks, removing every drop of semen, his fingers kneading at Seward’s thighs, almost
like a contented cat.
Seward noticed that his partner must have found his own release. Renfield’s cock was only half hard
now, drooping down, and there was a new, glistening puddle on the floor before him. Seward felt
suddenly sober, and cold. He was sitting in a cell at an asylum, trousers open, with a lunatic obscenely
caressing him.
He shoved Renfield away, and the little man fell back, boneless. He didn’t seem offended, though.
He stretched, then pulled down his gown as Seward stood and swiftly made himself decent again.
Renfield’s voice was complacent. "And then he goes away. He’s gotten what he needed, you see.
But I think he’ll be back."
"No." Seward’s voice was shaking as much as his hands. Renfield shrugged, but he didn’t look
convinced. Seward went to the door, but turned and looked back at Renfield, and said simply, "Why?"
Robert propped himself up on his elbow, and his gaze was direct, with no hint of pretense. "Because
blood isn’t the only fluid that carries the essence of life." He smiled, and licked his lips.
Seward shuddered, and suddenly recalled Renfield’s hands wandering over his body. He dug
frantically in his pocket, and felt a burst of relief when his fingers closed around the keys. The relief
seeped away when Renfield giggled and said, "No, I didn’t pick your pocket. Why should I steal your
keys?" He lay down, closing his eyes. "After all, they’ll be coming for me soon..."
end part 89
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Lucy came into the dining room, yawning daintily. "I’ll have you know, Mina, that you are the only
person for whom I will rise at the crack of dawn."
Amused, Mina looked up from her plate. "Lucy, it’s gone eight o’clock. Your father breakfasted an
hour ago, and has gone for a ride."
Lucy sat across from her and took a piece of toast from the rack in the center. She spread it thickly
with butter, then reached for the marmalade. "Anything before ten o’clock is the crack of dawn,
Mina. Be mother--pour me a cup of chocolate."
Mina took up the chocolate pot and poured out a cup of thick, fragrant chocolate, then picked up the
cup and saucer and offered it to her friend. Lucy took it, and Mina took up the newspaper folded by
her plate. She watched at Mina dropped a couple of sugar lumps into her cup. "Lucy! You’ll give
yourself diabetes."
"Nonsense. I’m frighteningly healthy." She munched her toast hungrily. "You have no idea how hard
it is to keep the men convinced of my fragility."
The butler came in. He was carrying several envelopes and a letter opener on a small, silver tray. He
offered it to Lucy. "The morning mail, Miss Lucy."
"Mm, drat," she mumbled around a mouthful of toast. She swallowed, wiped her fingers on a napkin,
and took the envelopes.
"Shall I wait for replies, Miss?"
"What? Oh, no. No, of course not. I’m not going to snatch up paper and pen and dash off replies
now." She took the letter opener, then made flicking motions at him with it, "I’ll let you know
later." The butler gave her a shallow bow and left the room, thinking that it was a shame that
employers weren’t required to have references. He’d have had an interesting thing or two to write in
Miss Lucy’s character.
"Anything interesting?" asked Mina.
"Oh, it’s the usual lot of invitations and duty notes thanking Papa and I for visits they paid us. Oh.
Mina, here’s one for you, and it’s not from Jonathan, or your mother." Mina put down the paper,
interested, and reached for it. "It’s from a law firm. Mina, what HAVE you been up to?"
Mina read the outside of the envelope. "It’s from Jonathan’s employers." She accepted the letter
opener from Lucy and slit the envelope open.
Lucy saw her friend’s apprehension and said, "Perhaps Jonathan has had a great triumph, and they’re
bringing him home with a salary rise and an advance in position."
"How little you know of business," said Mina. "A letter from an employer is seldom good news." She
started to read.
Lucy watched a series of emotions flit across Mina’s face. She got up and came around to her side.
Putting her arms around Mina’s neck she said, "What is it, Mina, dear? Is it really bad news?"
"I..." Mina clasped Lucy’s hand with her free one. "It’s both bad and good. Lucy, Jonathan has been
hurt."
"Oh, poor Mina!"
Mina took a deep breath. "It isn’t good, but they think he’ll be all right. They’re sending him home.
Lucy, could..."
"Of COURSE he’ll come here! We can get nurses to watch him day and night."
"But I’d want to..."
"Yes, you’ll want to nurse him yourself, but you can’t do it all. And I’m sure that dear Arthur will be
happy to see to him personally."
"That may be necessary. They say that he has had a head injury, and he was unconscious for several
days." Her hand tightened on Lucy’s. "He... he might not come back to himself. Lucy, what will I
do?"
Lucy kissed her. "It’s going to be all right. I’m sure he’ll get better. You know that you can stay here
as long as you like, and if Jonathan needs help... He’s special to you, Mina, and so he’s special to me.
Now, stop troubling yourself. It may not be as bad as you fear. He’s well enough to travel, isn’t he?"
"Yes." Mina wiped her eyes. "There is that." She hugged Lucy. "I don’t know what I’d do without
you."
Lucy stroked Mina’s hair. "When will he arrive?"
"They’re not sure, but soon--two or three days. A man, some sort of church servant, I think, will be
accompanying him."
Lucy rang a small hand bell on the table, and the butler came quickly, "We’ll be receiving Miss
Mina’s fiance soon. He’s been injured, and will convalesce here, so I’ll need a comfortable room
made up for him. One in the back of the house, I think, overlooking the garden. Yes, the blue
room--the one with the balcony. Then when he’s well enough he can sit out in the sun. There’s a little
dressing room adjoining, perfect for a nurse. Have it prepared at once. Oh, and tell Cook to be sure
that she has plenty of food that’s
suitable for an invalid--lots of strong, clear soups, puddings, cereals, white meat of chicken--you know
the sort of things." She again made shooing motions at him. "Go! Hurry!"
The butler bowed and left to carry out the orders, thinking, wryly, *She’ll quite wear herself out with
giving directions.*
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Onboard The Celestine
First night out
The captain poured the ship’s owner another tot of rum and watched narrowly as the older man swilled
it down. He was sick of working under the sot, and so were the other three men on the crew.
They’d discussed things in their last layover, and had come to a conclusion. The next time they had a
rich enough cargo, they’d simply disappear. Piracy was well past its heyday, but it would never
completely die out--not as long as men such as he still sailed.
The captain had connections. With the co-operation of the crew it would be easy enough to take the
ship, sail it to a discreet little dock that he knew of, and dispose of both the cargo and the ship itself.
But of course the owner, and any passengers, would have to find a snug berth at the bottom of the sea,
and if he was going to be committing a hanging offense, he wanted to be sure that the gain would be
worth the risk.
"What is it in them crates, then?" he asked.
The owner glanced at him before returning his gaze to the bottle. "Never you mind. All you need to
know is that we’re being paid well to move them."
"Must be being paid VERY well, if that’s all you took on. We could have waited another day or two
and shipped fully laden."
"And I’d have been a poor business man if we had. The customer is paying me near triple the usual
fee for a fast passage."
The captain’s eyes widened at this, but he carefully avoided any other reaction. The owner must be
even drunker than he’d though to let that fact slip. None of the extra money would find its way down
to the crew--not unless it was taken.
"Well, I can’t imagine what could be needed so urgently in England. Don’t think medical supplies or
equipment would be packaged so crudely."
The captain snorted. "Did you think that the men in charge of it LOOKED like doctors? Gypsies!"
He spat on the floor. "Though the man who commands them might actually have a bit of quality. The
old rich--they dress like that. Quiet and simple, but good quality."
"So you think that he might be a toff? Wouldn’t he be on one of them fancy liners, then? They have
room enough for his crates. There’s only... let’s see... Nine. Yeah, one of the fancy ships could
handle that easily enough, and he’d be nice and comfortable in one of those state cabins. He’d be
among his own kind."
The owner held up a finger. "Ah, but what if he doesn’t WANT to be among his own kind? I think
he’s laying low, this one."
The captain pressed more rum on the owner, and continued his probing. He got no more information,
and came to the conclusion that was indeed all the captain knew. He’d have to find out a bit more on
his own before he decided whether or not to move. It might not be easy. So far there had been at least
one of the passengers standing watch by the cargo hold at all times.
He left the owner laying across the table, snoring, and went up to the wheel. The first mate was on
duty. He looked at the captain expectantly, saying, "Well? Are we to remain honest seamen?"
The captain laughed. "I’m not sure yet. There’s some cash to be had. The old fool took on," he
hesitated, "double his usual fee, and I know that he must have brought it with him. But that’s not
worth the risk. We need to know what’s in those crates."
"I think it might be something good," said the mate. "The cook knows a few words of Romany, and he
was listening to the gypsies talk over supper. He heard ’em mention a prince."
"Well, now! Yeah, there’s still a good number of them minor royals out there. Probably from some
tiny little country we’ve never heard of. Their fortunes are nothing compared to Victoria’s, but they
do well enough by the standards of such as you and I."
"Maybe one of them has decided to buy himself a nice manor house to go with his castle. Maybe he’s
bringing over some of his royal hair-looms. You could fit a lot of silver knickknacks into those
crates."
The captain nodded, and thought, *And not just silver. I’ve heard tales of the types of golden, jeweled
gewgaws the blue bloods like to gift each other with. One or two of those fancy Easter eggs couple set
a prudent man up nicely.* "I think this may be the time to find our independence, but I’d like to be
sure. Have the cook keep his ears open, and tell the others to look for a chance to get below and sniff
around a bit. But tell them to be careful. Those Rom look rough--they probably won’t have a problem
with defending their master’s property."
"Nice to hear you being so worried about their safety."
The sarcasm was unmistakable, and the captain shrugged. "Docking isn’t easy when you’re short
handed, but it’s possible. Besides, fewer shares mean bigger shares, eh?"
The mate grinned at him. They understood each other.
end part 91
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end part 92
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Chapter 94: Chapter Ninety-four: Preparation, and Visitation
Author’s Notes: Fandom: Dracula
Rating: FRT
Summary: Quincy reflects on why he’s really interested in Lucy, and Vlad finally arrives in England.
Disclaimer: Characters and concepts borrowed from, and inspired by Bram Stoker’s Dracula, which is
now in the public domain. Original characters and the story are copyrighted by the author. Do not
distribute without author’s permission.
Notes: childe--youth of noble birth (pl. childes). Isn’t this how Draculea
would view his ’children’--Rill and Sinn?
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The Julyan arrived late, but safe. It sailed into London harbor around noon the day after the storm.
Jonathan argued with Lukas that he should simply deliver him to his former lodgings. He had no
doubt that Mrs. Halifax would be delighted to take him in and nurse him till he regained his full
strength.
Lukas replied patiently that it was out of the question. He had promised the good abbess that he would
deliver Jonathan safely to his intended at her friend’s estate, and he would do so. He had promised
God that he would watch over Jonathan until he was convinced that the young man was, indeed, safe,
and he would do so. He still refused to tell Jonathan exactly WHAT the
danger he feared was.
Jonathan would have left the ship when Lukas went to arrange transportation (crawling if necessary),
but he didn’t get the chance. Lukas had told the crew at the beginning of the voyage that his charge
was delicate, and... excitable--given to flights of fancy. When Lukas explained the situation, the first
mate was happy to purchase the train tickets, and arrange a carriage to take them to the station.
Jonathan was not left alone for a moment. The station provided a wheeled chair, so at least he was
spared the humiliation of being carried to the train in Lukas’ arms. Since the train’s door and corridor
were so narrow, he managed to convince Lukas to let him walk to their compartment--supported by
Lukas, and a porter.
Lukas insisted that Jonathan recline on one of the bench seats, as he sat on the other. They had the
compartment to themselves at the beginning of the trip, and they remained alone. Several times
Jonathan saw a passenger pause and look through the glass panel set in the door. His expression
would be vaguely sympathetic when he looked at Jonathan, but then his eyes would
wander to Lukas, and he would quickly move on.
The trip was long. Jonathan kept hoping that Lukas would fall asleep--then perhaps he’d be able to
slip out. He wasn’t sure what he’d do if he managed that. Ask for help? What would he say? That
Lukas was over-solicitous in his care? That the man’s religious fervor made him nervous? That he
seemed to have focused that fervor on Jonathan himself, like a missionary grimly determined to save
an endangered soul?
No, Lukas didn’t sleep. He quietly read his Bible, or said his rosary, but he showed no sign of
sleepiness or, indeed, weariness. It was Jonathan who dozed, lulled by the rhythmic motion of the
train and the knowledge that, despite his disturbing company, he was once again in a comfortably
familiar land.
Perhaps he wasn’t quite as recovered as he thought, because he slept for most of the trip, awakening
only when they finally pulled to a stop at their destination. Again Jonathan hoped that he might have
at least a few minutes alone while Lukas arranged their transportation to the Westenra estate, but the
station clerk proved to be infuriatingly obliging. It seemed that he had
a cousin who lived just by the station, and was in the habit of ferrying travelers, for a very reasonable
fee. As he was bundled into the back of the man’s wagon, Jonathan thought that he was heartily sick
of traveling. All he wanted to do was settle in one place and stay there for a century--or the rest of his
life, whichever came first.
The trip to the Westenra estate was short, but Jonathan felt weary by the time they arrived. The driver
pulled the wagon to a halt in the drive before the front door, and looked back at them. "Here we are.
Ya goin’ ta need help shiftin’ him?"
"I have no doubt that there will be plenty of willing hands. Go let them know of our arrival."
The driver looked surprised. "What--knock at the front door?"
Lukas snapped. "Do not delay! This young man is to be an honored guest--he’s expected. Now is no
time to worry about encroaching on your betters."
The driver obeyed reluctantly. He hopped down and approached the door. He pulled off his hat
before he knocked. The door was opened quickly, and a supercilious-looking footman gazed out at
him, then said, "The tradesman’s entrance is at the back, but they’ll not be taking deliveries at this
hour."
He started to close the door, and Lukas called sharply, "You are expecting Mister Jonathan Harker."
The footman was galvanized. "Mister Harker? One moment--I’ll get assistance to bring him in." He
disappeared inside, but only for a minute. News could be spread quickly in an English country house.
In no time four sturdy footmen had come out, bringing a blanket to be used as a litter. While Jonathan
protested futilely that he should be allowed to attempt to walk, he was lifted in the sling, and the
footmen began to carry him to the house.
Before they could reach the door, Mina hurried out, followed closely by Lucy. "Jonathan! Oh, my
poor darling." Luckily the footmen had a firm grip on the blanket. They didn’t drop him as Mina
pushed in close, half-embracing Jonathan.
Jonathan waited for the sense of relief and joy that he knew should come at his reunion with the
woman he was to marry. Instead all he felt was a vague sense of discomfort, and embarrassment.
There was something not quite genuine about Mina’s effusive greeting. She’d never been so
emotionally demonstrative before. He was almost grateful when he heard Lukas say, "Young lady,
please--he is not well."
Mina pulled back a little, allowing Jonathan to breathe, and frowned at him. "Who are you?"
The man bowed. "I am Lukas Kreski, porter of the church in Tepeslau. I helped Father Josef when he
found Mister Harker on the bank of the river. I have been his caretaker during the journey here."
"Well," said Lucy. "You must stay with us for a day or so before you return to your home. We’ll find
you a room in..." She was about to say ’in the servants’ quarters’, but it occurred to her that Lukas did
not quite fit into the domestic class. "A comfortable room. Have funds been provided for your
passage home?"
"The Lord will provide," said Lukas calmly. "But my return journey is of no concern now. I will be
staying to look after Mister Harker."
There was a brief silence while Lucy and Mina tried to assimilate this declaration. The footmen
exchanged amused glances. The entire domestic staff knew of the grand nursing plans that Lucy had
been nurturing. They also knew that her nursing would consist mostly of fluttering about in a lacy
apron, occasionally fluffing a pillow, feeding the invalid a few spoons of broth, and perhaps reading
aloud to him--if she wasn’t too bored.
Finally Mina said stiffly. "That is most kind of you, but hardly necessary. It is my duty, as his
betrothed. Lucy will help me, and as you can see," she gestured at the patient footmen, then to where
one of the maids waited in the doorway, "there are ample helpers. We do not know how long Jonathan
will need assistance, and we couldn’t possibly ask you delay your return till..."
"I’m told that Mister Harker has at last arrived." Mister Westenra strode out of the house, going
directly to Jonathan. "Well, my boy. You’ve had quite an adventure, haven’t you? But you’re safely
home now, and we’ll take good care of you. Lucy would never forgive me if I didn’t give Mina’s
intended every accommodation I could." He looked at Lukas. "And who is
this?"
Before Lucy or Mina could speak, Lukas bowed and said, "Lukas Kreski, sir. I rescued Mister Harker
from the river, and I have sworn that I will not leave his side until I, myself, am satisfied that he is
completely well, and completely safe."
"That’s an admirable sentiment. Are you trained in caring for an invalid?"
"I alone have tended Mister Harker during the journey. He was entrusted to me by the Abbess of the
Little Sisters of the Five Holy Wounds, and she would not risk the health and safety of anyone she had
placed under her care."
"That’s fine, then. It isn’t easy to arrange for trained nurses out here. The only ones nearby are at the
asylum, and I’m sure Seward couldn’t spare any of them. Besides, they’re jobs are more keeping the
lunatics in line than actual nursing. Lucy," he patted his daughter’s arm, "This will free you to get on
with your plans for the Count’s visit tomorrow night. I know how you fret over every little detail.
Peters, take Jonathan to the spare room over looking the back garden. That way he’ll be close to both
of you ladies, and you’ll be able to cosset and spoil him to your hearts’ content." Satisfied that
everything had been arranged, Mister Westenra nodded, and went back inside.
There was another short silence, then Lucy laughed. "Well, there’s a reason why Father has been so
successful. He sees a situation, he settles it, and he moves on. It looks as if Mister Kreski will be
staying with us for a while. There’s a small room for a lady’s maid just down the hall from Jonathan’s
room--that should suit. Come along, Mister Kreski, and I’ll show you where Jonathan will be staying.
You can tell me if you need anything that hasn’t been provided." She led him into the house.
The footmen were prepared to follow, but Jonathan grasped her hand, tugging, urging her to bend
down again. She did, refraining from embracing him this time. "Mina," he whispered. "Please, send
Lukas away."
"Jonathan, you heard what Mister Westenra said, and it DOES make sense. I don’t particularly like
the man, but he seems competent."
"You don’t understand, Mina. There’s something terribly wrong with the man."
"But what?"
"For one thing, he’s a zealot. Religious fervor is one thing, but he’s taken it to unwholesome lengths."
"How so?"
Jonathan stared at her. He couldn’t say it. He couldn’t tell a well-bred, sheltered young woman like
Mina about Lukas’ insane self-mutilation. "You must trust me on this, Mina. The man is a danger--to
himself, if not to others."
She shook her head, pulling away. "You’re not thinking clearly." She touched his head gently, and he
winced slightly. The lump was much reduced, but still had not completely receded. "My poor
Jonathan. Don’t worry--I won’t let anything harm you. Everything will be all right now. You’re back
in England," she smiled, "and what is there to fear in England?"
end part 99
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