The Blood Annals: Full version

Ted Moro
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THE BLOOD ANNALSTM
THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE MALKIVAN BLOODLINE
Book I
By Ted Moro
Acknowledgements
I would like to thank my parents and family for supporting me in this
Project. Also I would like to thank my friends at Country Grocer for their support as
Well. This book goes out to all those people who dare to dream.
The Blood Annal
CHAPTER 1
In a world next to our own. An ancient battle is being fought between the
Turks and the Wallachians “ Keep on fighting men we have them on the run. The godless
Heathens will learn the price for invading our lands.” a man garbed in princely armor said.
“ The Order of Dragon will not fail!” A Turkish warrior comes at him, but he avoids the
Sword and impales him on his. As he fights a red haze comes over him battle lust.
As another Turkish warrior comes from behind,the warrior known as Prince Vlad
Malkivan spins and bites him on the neck. A priest from the order watches on in horror
as his master drains the blood from his enemy. “ Sacrilege you have committed a
dangerous sin turn back now.” warns the priest. “ Nonsense I have never felt so alive.
It's as if the blood has renewed me. I feel years younger.” Vlad says to the priest.
“ It's a front to god” the priest advises.” God I don't need any god. I am a God!”
The priest looks on his master in horror and runs away. Vlad turns and engages in
battle laughing. The battle quickly turns in favor of the Wallachians as a battle cry
is heard Viva Vitae. “Victory is ours we have protected our lands from the heathens.”
as Vlad says this the priest that was riding with him comes up to him and says
“ The church can no longer condone this action.” Vlad looks at the priest
“Fine. But we will set an example for any who dare invade our lands again.
Impale them in front of Castle Malkivan for all to see.” The priest looks at horror
at this and leaves.
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2.
“What have you come here for? Have you come for absolution.”
the priest said to Vlad as he enters the church. “ Absolution no I have come to realize
that we do not need the church. After all where was he when we needed him. No I have
come to get rid of him. You can join us you know. After all you believe in
eternal life.” The priest looks at Vlad in aghast and says. “ Get out.” “Fine . Burn this
place down!” Vlad picks up a torch and touches the cross setting it on fire.
3.
Vlad stands on his balcony watching smoke rise from the churches his men
have set fire too. “Oh my love what have you done?” said Elizabetha as she enters
the balcony. Vlad turns with a smile on his face as he sees her. “ I have taken the first
step in making Wallache a true power. Soon Malkivan will be a name feared through
out Europe.” “ But the churches the priest have been nothing but good to us. We were
married there.” said Elizabetha. “ I realize this but they were holding us back. We are a
a new breed my love. A breed that will rise and dominate all of Europe.” Vlad turns and
exits to his room.
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4.
A figure in robes is quickly heading to the pope's office. “ Your holiness
have you heard?” “ I have heard my child. Do not fear we shall deal with this
problem before it reaches the great Roman Empire.” says the pope. The robed
priest nods and exits. The Pope turns towards his adviser and whispers towards
his ears.
“Your majesty you sent for me.” says a knight in the Order of Dracula.
“Yes burning churches is fine but I see much more general. I think it's time
to show the Romans and the rest of Europe just who we are.” says Vlad. The
general smiles and says “ I agree your majesty. I was wondering when you
were getting to this I will ready the men.” the general exits to get his soldiers
ready for combat. Vlad smiles touching his tongue and notices that he has fangs
where his canines used to be. “h mm, interesting” he says to no one in particular
and heads off to his chamber to get ready for the next day.
As day break begins the general is preparing his soldiers for the
invasion of Rome and Europe. “Your majesty the troupes are ready.” says the general
as Vlad enters to inspect the troupe adorned in his new armor. Gone is the knight of the
holy order and enter the dark prince. On his shield is now a bat instead of the dragon. “Excellent general give the order.” says Vlad. The general turns towards his troupes
and tells them to move out.
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“My lord are you sure this is wise leaving the Lady Elizabetha in her condition.”
ask the general. Vlad looks at the general with a look of anger and sympathy and says.
“I understand your concerns general, but I want to see the face of the Roman dogs
when they realize just who it is that is invading.” “Ah I see then lead on my dark prince.”says the general. Vlad gets on his stallion and rides on towards Rome.
5.
“Soon all of Europe will tremble under our grasp general and the age of mortals
will be at an end.” Vlad boasts. “Agreed your majesty. Soon all of Europe will
tremble at your might. But may I ask what are those?” the general says. Vlad touches
new formed fangs with his tongue smiling at the general.”These are what I mean by the
age of mortals coming to end it seems my blood line has the ability to evolve. I and my
wife is a new species.” “ A new species ? And where do the rest of us stand in this
new order?” ask the general. “That depends entirely on you and your men general.”
Vlad explains. “ I have been your loyal servant and your friend and that will not change.”
says the general. “That's what I wanted to hear.” Vlad says and removes his gauntlet.
and bites in to his wrist. “Drink general, drink and become something more than you
once were.” Vlad says.“ Arise now. I knight you Lord General. Captain of the Knights Tepes.” Vlad proclaims .
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6.
The army of the dark prince enter Rome as a centurion approaches Vlad and speaks to
him.”Halt evil one come no farther.” “Is the great Caesar such a coward that he sends
a mere lackey to greet us.” Vlad said as a roman soldier steps to the front and signals
the centurion to stand down. “ I am here evil one. I command you to stand down and
surrender in the name of Rome and the Holy Order. Vlad looks at Caesar with a look of
contempt and laughs. “It is you who should surrender or has the church not informed
of what I am now.” Vlad advances on Caesar and his centurions step forward to protect
their lord. Vlad glares at them. “Join me.” Vlad speaks to their mind. They look at Caesar
and turn and stand beside Vlad. “ What have you done?” Caesar says with astonishment.
“Oh nothing much I am discovering I have some gifts. This being one of them.” Vlad said
mockingly. “You mesmerized them, release them at once.” demands Caesar. “Now why
would I want to do something like that.” Vlad taunts. “Attack he is a demon “ Caesar
and his troupes advance on the army of the dark prince as he draws his sword and engages
Caesar. The battle ensues with Caesar coming at him with his sword, but Vlad blocks
it with ease and surprise. “ General it seems that we have an advantage” The general
looks at his lord and advances on the army with a mad grim on his face. The tide quickly
turns in favor of the army of the dark prince Caesar falls and kneels to face the dark prince and his army. “Finish me.” Caesar relents
. Vlad looks at him and says “ If that is what you wish, but I offer you a choice
join me and you will be part of a great empire. greatest empire the world has ever seen.”
Caesar looks at him and spits in his face. Vlad raises his sword and impales him, then
grabs a pike from his saddle and impales Caesar for an example for all to see.
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7.
Vlad looks on the Roman senate with disgust as they bicker in front of him.
“ We can't tolerate this. First you invade us. Now you sit in a throne of our great lord,
expecting us to bow down before you.” a chancellor says. “First of all your great leader
bowed before me and when I gave him a chance to join me he refused. Now I am going
to give you a chance to join me or suffer the fate of your leader.” Vlad states to the senate.
They all look on and start talking among them selves.
From the door way the general enters and kneels in front of Vlad.
“General how goes it outside ?” Vlad asks. “My liege we have successfully stopped
any trouble that could cause a rebellion or could create a revolt. Also there is this.”
The general unfurls his wings to Vlad. The dark prince leaves his throne and walks
up to his new Lord general. “Demons Caesar was right you are all demons.” a chancellor
exclaims. Vlad looks at the general and smiles.”It is as I thought. We are not demons, but
a new race. For behold we have the ability to evolve even beyond human standards.
Vlad gestures to the general to rise and he does show off his wings to the senate.
“But fear not I will not change everything. The robes you will keep, but on the back
you will have a crest stating your rank and caste.” Vlad says and rises signaling that
the Senate meeting is over. As Vlad leaves the general approaches him and says
“ My liege I fear this is not over” Vlad continues walking and whispers “I know general
mortals fear things that are different. But I think their fear of death will out way their fear
of change.” And they continue walking to plan their next strategy.
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The Senate is in an uproar “ How can he expect us to comply. You saw his general
that is not natural.” A chancellor says. “I know but if we don't we will all suffer the same
fate as Caesar.” another chancellor says. “Easy gentleman. The dark prince is soon going to realize that the Romans are run by a democracy not a monarchy.” The senate leader
explains and looks at them and smiles.
“So with the Roman army under my sway. I think it's time to take on
Britain and the rest of Europe.” Vlad says and sits down in a chair in front of a fire.
“I agree my liege. But I don't think they will follow your commands”says the general
to the dark prince. Vlad looks at him and grins. “That is why I want you to go address
them general. And make sure they see your new wings.” he tells the general “Soon all of Europe will be under my command and a new vampire nation will rise the House of Malkivan at the titler helm.” Vlad says to him self and laughs.
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8.
“Listen to me you Roman dogs” the general addresses the fallen Roman army.
“From this point on you serve only one person and that is the dark prince Vlad Malkivan.”
As the general explains this a roman senator comes up to speak to him. “You cannot
address them so. We work by a democracy here, and we have not yet decided if we wish
to serve him.” The general sighs and turns to the troupes. “I was expecting this. Your
democracy is at an end senator. From this point on Rome serves the dark prince and
Wallache. “ Well said general are they ready.” said Vlad coming from the castle.
“Yes sire I believe they are.” said the general Vlad turns and looks straight through
the senator. “As for you senator I have a message for your senate council.” Vlad grabs
the senator by the throat and drains him of almost all his blood and then lets him go fleeing
weakly to the senate chamber. “ We march in the morn to Britain.” Vlad orders and the
army cheers as Vlad leaves for the palace.
9.
In front of the palace the army of the dark prince stands ready as Vlad
enter from the palace entrance. He looks on his army that is now twice the size
it was before with the Roman army now part of it. His two body guards the Roman Centurions he mesmerized stand by his side as he as he gets on his charger and gives the signal to head out.
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The Isle of Man has been under Roman sway for years now. King Arthur sits
on the throne unbeknown to them that Rome is now a conquered country. Now ruled
by Vlad and he is coming. “ We haven't heard anything from Rome for days now.”King
Arthur says with worry to one of his advisers. “No your majesty there has been no messages
from Rome since a fort night.” his adviser. “ I fear the worst, we must be ready
for an attack. Call Merlinus and tell him to ready the troupes and be on guard.” orders
King Arthur. “ As you wish your majesty.” the adviser says and leaves to do the kings
command.
On the shores of Britain Vlad's army is preparing to head out to
the Isle of Man. “ So tell me what do you know of this kingdom?” Vlad asks his chancellor
who rides up beside him, wearing his new robes of office and caste a bat with a laurel leaf
crown. “The Isle of Man is ruled by a king named Arthur. He is one of Rome's greatest
soldiers.” the chancellor replies. “Will he comply?” Vlad asks. “Don't you mean will
he bow down to you. No I think not.” the chancellor said as the general rides up
from behind and knocks him off his horse. “ W...what did I do?” the chancellor ask fearfully. The general dismounts and walks up to the chancellor with his wings unfurled.
“You will have more respect for your emperor.” the general says and kicks him
in the mid section. The dark prince walks up to the fallen chancellor and looks at him.
“You have to understand we as vampires are fiercely loyal to each other.”The chancellor looks on in fear and nods with a new understanding of the ramifications of his situation.
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10.
“My lady they approach.” a scout says. Guenevere in a tree adjacent
nods towards the scout. “Make sure they don't near the castle.” Guenevere signals to her
scouts. As the army of the dark prince approaches Guenevere signals her scouts to shoot.
Arrows fly from the trees at Vlad and his troupes. Vlad just smiles and nods to his general
who nods and flies off his horse towards the trees. “ Guenevere I presume” Vlad shouts
to the trees. “You will not stop me. Britain will be mine.” As he says this the general
swoops down and grabs her from her spot. “You will not succeed demon!Camelot
will not bow down to you.” Guenevere said to Vlad. Vlad smiles and walks up to her
and takes her chin his hand and says. “Maybe not, but if it doesn't it will suffer a great
loss. Take her away.” His centurions grab her and carts her off where the prisoners
are held. “If this is all they have to offer. Then it will be no trouble at all.” Vlad says to his general.
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11.
In front of the castle Merlinus and his troupes are standing at the ready
for the dark prince and his soldiers in case Guenevere and her scouts have failed. As
they wait a lone scout rides towards the castle from the forest. “ Lord Merlinus she has
failed he still comes.” the scout cries. “And what is the fate of Lady Guenevere ?”
ask Merlinus. “ I fear she has been taken my lord.” says the scout. “ Then it's up to us.” Merlinus proclaims, and he and his soldiers prepare for battle. Merlinus and his men stand at the ready as Merlinus spots Vlad and his men just exiting the forest and advance on the castle.
There is no need for this. Your king just needs to swear allegiance to me and we need not battle.” says Vlad “Arthur would rather die than swear allegiance to you and so would I.”said Merlinus in disgust to the dark prince. “Very well if that's the way you want it.” Vlad draws his great sword and charges into battle. “Viva Vitae!” Vlad cries and he and his troupes charge at the castle. Merlinus comes at Vlad with his Roman short sword but Vlad easily deflects it. “ You call that a sword. It looks more like a child's toy than a weapon.” Vlad taunts. Merlinus looks on in anger and attacks again. Vlad raises his sword and deflects the sword again. “ Britain will never fall to you. I swear this to you.” states Merlinus. “ Why do you persist Rome has already . Vlad taunts. “You lie .Rome can never fall.” Merlinus says in disbelief “No not at all.” Vlad said and signals to the chancellor. The chancellor approaches and when Merlinus sees him he momentary drops his guard and Vlad impales on his sword. “ On ward Camelot and Britain is ours.” Vlad says and he his army storm the castle.
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Inside Vlad comes up to the throne room and approaches King
Arthur. “Kneel.” Vlad says baring his fangs. Arthur rises and comes up to the dark prince.
“I will never kneel to you.” says Arthur defiantly. “ Your army is defeated. Your beloved
Guenevere is a held hostage and your general and friend is dead. So kneel.” demands
Vlad. Arthur seeing his beloved Guenevere held hostage nods in an assent and kneels
in front of the dark prince.
12.
The dark prince looks on a map on the wall of the council chamber. Pins are
posted on Rome and Britain. “So tell me Arthur what do you know of these other
provinces.” said Vlad urning to Arthur. “I will tell you nothing you may have
conquered my land but I will never submit.” Arthur says defiantly. “Oh but I think
you will Guenevere has already consented to join us and soon you will too.” Vlad smiles speaking to Arthur. “I don't believe you. She would never consent to the likes of you.”
speaks Arthur. “But how could I not my love. The chance to age more graciously than any lady has ever dreamed of.” Vlad looks on asGuenevere enters and takes her hand and escorts herto the round table. “You see Arthur there is no use defying me. All your loyal servants even your beloved has joined me.” Vlad tells him. Arthur looks on in despair at his once loyal knights of the Round Table who are now knights of the dark prince.
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“Then the dream is over. Camelot has fallen.” Arthur admits in despair. “ No
not fallen my king but better mightier” Vlad says and gestures to the Round
Table and all the knights sitting there. “I like your castle and your dream is a good
one, but that's all it is a dream. I will take that dream and make it a reality my reality.
From this castle my blood line will rule and hence forth be known as Castle Malkivan.”
“You mean you will keep my dream alive.” ask Arthur. “Yes but it will be my dream
my reality.” says Vlad. “ All right I consent.” Arthur says and kneels down if front
of the dark prince. Vlad smiles and bares his wrist in front of Arthur who drinks from it binding him to the dark prince and becoming one of his loyal servants.
13.
“So with Britain and Rome under my sway. Will I have any problems with
the other provinces?” Vlad asks. “No my lord most of the provinces are under Romes
control,” explains Arthur. “ You mean my control.” says Vlad. “Y..Yes my lord
your control. How foolish of me to forget. The only problem will be Denmark. They
are still ruled by the Vikings.” explains Arthur. “ I have heard of these Vikings
brutal and superstitious. They should be no problem.” says Vlad.
As Vlad turns around to order the attack, he sees Guenevere and Princess
Elizabetha enter the council chambers. “ My love what are you doing here?” ask Vlad.
“ I heard from one of your men that this is going to be our new home. So I came right
away to be at your side.” Elizabetha explains. “I am happy you are here, but are you well?”
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“ I am well beloved, and happy. I would like you too meet your new son” as she speaks
these words a nanny comes in carrying a baby in her arms. “Your majesty meet Prince
Castor.” says the nanny gently handing him over to Vlad. Vlad looks on at Castor and smiles
“ I have a son the invasion can wait. We will celebrate and invade Denmark another day.”
Vlad said and the soldiers cheered for him.
The celebration for the birth of the son the dark prince is being held.
His men and him are celebrating in the banquet hall of Camelot now called Caste Malkivan.
“My love. I have brought you something.” said Elizabetha. She signals to her hand maiden
who leads some poorly stricken peasants beggars and their like to Vlad. “ I call them blood
slaves do you like?” Vlad smiles at her and approaches them. “ I like it what an excellent
idea. You see Arthur your dream is already coming true.” Arthur nods towards Vlad and
drinks his mead. “ My thoughts are that we are not animals but civilized creatures.”
Explains Elizabetha to the dark prince. She walks up to one of the commoners and opens up the wrist and lets the blood flow in to a champaign glass and hands it to
him. Vlad raises his glass of blood and said “ Tomorrow we take our final step in
conquering Europe and beyond. Tothe conquest of Denmark.” He drinks and the knights
follow.
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The dark prince and his army look east towards Denmark and the invasion
to come. “ My lord. I beg your forgiveness but this will not be an easy battle the
Vikings are a brutal race bent on war and conquest.” the chancellor said to Vlad. “ My
kind of people.” Vlad said grinning. “The Insolent toad. He should be grateful that we tolerate his presence.” Elizabetha said with disgust. “ Easy my love we tolerate him because Rome was a city of philosophers and strategist so it is wise to keep them close.”Vlad explains to his wife and they move on towards the sea and beyond too Denmark. He looks on his army the combined might of Rome and Britain under his rule.
“What a glorious site isn't it general.” Vlad says beaming with pride to his general.
“I had my doubts. In the beginning it looked like we might lose the battle against the
Turks.” the genera admits “ But we didn't. I never doubted. I knew I was destined to win.”
Vlad said with conviction and rides ahead. “Soon the Vikings will feel the might of the dark prince and then the world will know my name and tremble.” Vlad said as he looked out across the sea.
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Denmark a land of vikings and superstition. Ruled by Beowulf for the past fifty
years the vikings have lived in peace and only exploring and pillaging once in a while.
A viking rushes towards Beowulf's hut. “ My lord. Ships come baring sails and banners
I have never seen before.” says the viking. “ Send a contingency to go out and meet these
visitors.” Beowulf said to the soldier. “May I ask what you are thinking?” ask a vikings
sitting next to Beowulf. “ I have heard rumors across the sea. A dark army ruled by a
a demonic lord is out to conquer all he can. Me thinks it the work of Loki.” says Beowulf.
“It does feel like something he would do since he was banished from Valhalla.” says
the viking. Beowulf looks at his viking companion and turns and shoes the maiden away
“that was sitting on his lap. “ I think we should be prepared.” Beowulf said and grabs
his war ax and then heads out to meet the army of the dark prince
“Halt Loki your are not welcome here.” Beowulf said. Vlad looks towards
his chancellor and mouths the word Loki. “Loki is a trickster god that they believe
in. According to myth he was exiled from Valhalla for trying to usurp Odin the
reigning god of Valhalla.” explains the chancellor. “Ah I see.” says Vlad and he
turns toward Beowulf and said“ You mistake me for someone else. I am Vlad I
came from a land far away from here.” Beowulf looks at him and his troupes then
at the general and his wings and says “ You look like no man I've ever seen. So I
say you are either minions of Loki or something else.” We look different because
we are a new race.” Vladexplains “But why do I have to prove that to you.”
Vlad signals his troupes and they charge against the viking contingent. The war cry
Viva Vita is heard. “It is an invasion defend your selves.”’ cries Beowulf to his
troupes. The vikings run up to meet the attack of the dark prince’s army.
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“This is not necessary. All you have to do is swear allegiance to me and this
will all be over.” Vlad tells him.“ It is you who should surrender.” says Beowulf as he meets Vlad's blow with his war ax. “We are not like the people you fought before. We are a race of explores and warriors. Proud and mighty.” Vlad bares his fangs and pushes Beowulf back. “It is you who are mistaken. Your pride cannot match my power. I will conquer your land and you will submit to me or die.” said Vlad. The battle rages on as either side neither gives. “Your majesty. We must rest and retreat. We are getting no where.” advises the chancellor. Vlad looks at his chancellor and agrees. “ Arg! retreat. This is not over Beowulf. I will return.” says Vlad and the army of the dark prince retreats.
15.
“Arg what happened?” Vlad said as he paces the command tent.
. “ I warned you your majesty. That this would not be an easy battle.” the chancellor warns Vlad glares at him and the chancellor rises and flies out of the tent as if he was thrown.
“ What was that ?” the general asks surprised. “ It seems I have developed a new power.” Vlad said “So what are we to do ?” ask Vlad. “I've been thinking. What we need to do is learn their weakness.” the general tells him speaking his thoughts. “A spy. Good idea general anyone in mind?” says Vlad “ We captured an injured viking. If we could turn him then we could learn how to defeat them.” the general tells him “Make it so general.” Vlad orders and the general salutes and leaves.
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Chapter 2
1.
..
“You need not fear me. I am offering the opportunity of a life time.” Vlad said
like a true salesman. “I...I know you. Rumor has it that you are a servant of
Loki. So I ask you. What price does this opportunity cost?” says the viking.
Vlad looks at him and walks to the opening of the tent and looks out at his people.
“ What price. What price would you give to practically live for ever . All I ask is information about your people.” The viking looks at him and spits in his face.
“Fine if that's the way you want it. You could have lived forever. Take him away.” Vlad orders. Two guards come up and take the viking away . The viking looks at Vlad with a look of terror on his face pleading for mercy.
“Why do they always resists?It would be so muck easier if they just did what I ask.”
said Vlad. “ Nothing is easy my love. If it were the world would be a boring place.
Now come to bed.” says Elizabetha as she hands over Castor to a nanny. “I suppose
so.” Vlad sighs and heads to bed with his wife.
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“ How goes it?” Vlad asks as he enters. The general looks up from his interrogation “He still won't cooperate .” the general said. Vlad walks up to the viking prisoner and looks at him. “This could have been so much easier all you had to do is cooperate and you could have lived forever.” The viking looks at Vlad with tears in his eyes pleading for release. “Oh well . There is one tactic I haven't tried yet. But after it you will be nothing more than empty shell.” Vlad says and glares into his eyes and probes into his mind ruthlessly riping out the information. The vikings scream in protest from the invasion then stops and stares blankly at the tent wall.”I have what I need we invade in the morn. Get rid of him.” Vlad orders and leaves the interrogation tent.
. “ From what I’ve learned the vikings are very superstitious and have close
family units,Too this purpose I have hired a shape shifter . He should be here soon.”
Vlad said. “Your here . This is Blood Letter. He was exiled from his tribe for drinking
the blood of his enemies.” the dark prince explains. “You have a job for me?” ask Blood Letter.“Yes . I want you to go into the camp and pose as a raven. “ says Vlad. “Brilliant my lord they will surely see it as an omen.” say the general.” If I am right it will cause them to panic and then we will strike.” Vlad says vehemently. Blood Letter bows to the dark prince and leaves the tent turning to raven and flying for the viking camp.
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2.
Beowulf sits in his tent drunk from mead enjoying his temporary victory
over the dark prince. He raises his mead drunkly to salute his comrades but as he does
a raven flies above and land in tree near his tent. “ What are you doing here ? Shoo!”
says Beowulf seeing the raven and trying to chase it away drunkenly with his ax.
The raven just looks at him and sits. “ My lord ravens are ill omens.” a viking says.
“I know this . Don’t you think I do.” says Beowulf angrily and tries to chase it away
again. The raven just looks at him again and says. “Death is near”. Beowulf looks up in
surprise and says . “What did you say.” The raven just looks up at him again and says
“Death is near.” . As he says this Beowulf ‘s seer walks by and sees the raven. “ A raven
this is an omen.” says the seer. “ Nonsense there are always present on the battle field.”
Beowulf said dismissing the shaman’s idea. “My lord have you forgotten that two
Ravens perch on our lord Odin’s shoulders , not to mention that they are carriers of
the souls.” the shaman exclaims. “ We must not take this likely. With these demons
trying to invade. I would tread carefully my lord.” the shaman advises Beowulf.
Beowulf looks at his shaman considering his words carefully and then nods too
him to alert the camp.
“How will we know he succeeded .” the general asks. “We’ll know”
Vlad tells him. The dark prince keeps an eye on the viking camp watching for a sign
when the shaman comes running out of Beowulf’s tent followed by Blood Letter
in his raven form flying towards where Vlad and the general are hiding. “Wait for it.”
Vlad orders and then they see viking running out with their swords drawn looking scared
and confused as they are roused out of their tents at night. “Now attack! Viva Vita!”
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shouts Vlad and the army of the dark prince charge in attacking the vikings catching
them off guard. As this happens Beowulf exits his tent with his ax drawn and rallies
his men. A soldier of the dark prince sees him and charges in to attack him but Vlad
stops him saying “ No he is mine. I told you I would return . Denmark is mine. Surrender
and maybe I’ll let you live.” Vlad said coming at him with his sword. “ Never! I will
not surrender to you demon.” said Beowulf. “ Fine then have it your way.” Vlad
said noticing Blood Letter sneaking up behind. Beowulf. “ You should always watch your back.”Vlad tells him and smiling. Beowulf kneeling injured in front of Vlad looks up
and tells him “Go on be done with it.” “No that would be too easy. I have a better idea.” Vlad said and signals to his soldiers for him to be carried away.
3.
“Ah you look much better now that you are cleaned up.” Vlad said Beowulf looks at the dark prince with a look of hate and disgust on his face. says Vlad to the knight .The knight bows and leaves Beowulf to the care of the dark prince. “ Let’s remove those chains.” Vlad says removing the chains with a grin. “Thank you” Beowulf tells him rubbing his wrist.
. “Maybe my people have misjudged you.” Beowulf says. Vlad just looks at
him and then proceeds to put on a collar like that of a dog wears on him.
“ What is this I thought I was free?” Beowulf said in shock . “ Free huh. Oh no far
from it. You are now my blood slave what better punishment then to serve me all
your life.” said Vlad evilly
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“ Blood slave. What is a blood slave ?” Beowulf asks with
trepidation. “ I’ll show you” Vlad said and slashes his wrist. Blood flows into a chalice
that he is holding underneath his wrist. then grabs his wrist and squeezes it to extract
the maximum amount of blood and Beowulf screams in pain. Vlad takes the chalice and
drinks . Beowulf staggers and falls weak from the lack of blood, “ Oh don’t worry you’ll
feel better in minute.” Vlad says as he watches Beowulf’s humiliating display.
“You called us demons. But we are far from it. We are a new race. Man is not the
top of the food chain anymore. We are !” Vlad says and laughs. “ No you are wrong.
You are monsters . Leaches living off humanity.” says Beowulf holding his wrist.
“Humanity?, humanity. Don’t talk to me about humanity . Man has lived on top
of the food chain too long. He is no longer the humble being he once was.”
Vlad rants. “So what are you going to do now?” ask Beowulf eying him suspiciously.
“There is still a lot to do. All of Europe might be under my control but I won’t
rest until the world trembles under my might.” exclaims Vlad.“Your mad.” says Beowulf looking at him with fear in his eyes. Vlad looks at him and walks over and says completely “ What is that look in your eyes do you now understand how hopeless it was to resist.”
Vlad tells him and grins.
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4.
“Come to bed”she says to Vlad. “Look at him, my love . Such a beautiful child. All I do , I do for him and you.” Vlad says looking at Castor in his crib. Vlad takes her hand and they walk hand in hand to bed.“You sent for me.”asksthe chancellor. Vlad looks up and gestures for him to come forward. “ What do you know of Greece?’ ask Vlad. “Barbarians, sire. Not even worthy of your attention.” says the chancellor. “Well soon those barbarians are going to have a new god and king. We invade at noon, go tell the general.” says Vlad. “Sire” the chancellor says bowing to the dark prince and then exits the tent. “Soon my child you will rule half the world.” says Vlad codling Castor.
Beowulf is sitting in the slave tent looking miserable
and broken as the dark prince enters and walks up to him. Vlad gestures to the
slave master to bring him forward. “ I am here to give you a chance to regain your
honor. I could use your men in the upcoming battle.” Vlad tells him.
“ And if I refuse.” Beowulf said. “ Then you will life in abject slavery with no chance
of gaining entry in to Valhalla.” says the dark prince. “ Valhalla . What do you know of
Valhalla ?” ask Beowulf. “ Do not take me for a full this is a once chance of offer.”
Vlad tells him. Beowulf looks at Vlad thinking about his offer and the way things are now
and nods his consent.
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Chapter 3
1.
Greece a mecca of knowledge and culture. For centuries scholars and scribes
have come from all over to study under the likes of Plutarch to Pluto. The proud
city of Athens the capital of Greece has stood the test of time thanks to it’s current
king Alexander. The myths that originate from Greece will stand the test of time well all others won’t.
. “Sire there are so many scholars and scribes in Greece that I think a great
library will be a boon to us all.” says a scholar. “ A library . We have universities
and temples. That’s a great idea. But not just any library , A great library!”
Alexander rises to make his point. “ This library will be the greatest library ever
built. It will hold every bit of knowledge and information that comes our way and
also from the every other continent. Get right on it.” says Alexander. A scribe raises
his hand to make a point. “ I am afraid it will have to wait. As you know I have been gathering knowledge from other countries. And what I have learned is not good.”
the scribe explains . Alexander looks at him and said. “ And what have you learned?”
“A great darkness is covering the land. Rome has already fallen and so has Britain”
the scribe tells him.. “ But those are great cities second to ours. Do you know where
this darkness came from?” ask Alexander. “ From Wallache my lord.” says the scribe.
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“But that’s such a small country how could this happen.” Alexander asks
“ No one know. According to my sources. I have learned that there was a holy war
war there between them and the Turks. It seemed that the Turks were winning when
a sudden change happened.” the scribe tells him. Alexander looks at the scribe and
paces the room . “ This is not good. This tiny kingdom has become a threat. Set the fires and alert our army. He will not invade here.” Alexander orders and then dismisses them.
2.
The dark prince’s army prepare for the battle ahead. His men stand ready
on both side and salute as Vlad walks down looking at his men. The general
walks up to him and kneels with his wings raised. “This is a great day for us
general. With this final battle all of Europe will be under my banner.” says Vlad
“Yes my lord” the general said and he rises and gives the order to advance. The
army of the dark prince cheers and moves out. “Today Greece. Tomorrow the world.”
says Vlad to him self smiling.
As day breaks Alexander paces his audience chamber with a worried
look on his face. “ My lord the Oracle wishes to see you.” a priestess of the Oracle
says . “ I really have no time for this now.” says Alexander. “ My lord I urge you
to come it is important.” says the priestess. “ I wonder what she wants.” Alexander
says to the priestess. “It is not right to question the Oracle. Just come.”
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3.
My lady I am here.”Alexander says kneeling in front of the Oracle. “Alexander . Soon called Alexander the great. Things are not as they should be.” the Oracle tells him omnisciently.“What do you mean my lady.” ask Alexander. “This prince from Wallache
has created a paradox, and history abhors a paradox.” the Oracle tells Alexander.
. “ What do you mean. Greece is a thriving society. Thanks to me.” Alexander said“You were destined to conquer Europe but this young prince has stolen your destiny and changed the future. Now I see a darkness that will blanket the whole land.” the Oracle tells him. “What can I do?” ask Alexander. “Nothing “ Vlad says as he enters the cave with the head of one of the priest.
4.
“So you are the Oracle of Delphi” says Vlad fearlessly walking past her
protectors and up to her. The Oracle backs away as Vlad steps up to her.
“ I must say it was easy to get into here. This person didn’t put up much of a fight at
all.” Vlad says and tosses the head of the decapitated priestess at the Oracle.
“ What do you want monster.” says Alexander challenging Vlad. “ Why simply
your homeland .” says Vlad. He walks up to him and picks Alexander up with one
hand. “ And by the way it was always my destiny to rule and conquer not yours.”
says Vlad. “You’ll ...You’ll never win. My army will stop you.” Alexander says
choking and struggling in Vlad’s grip. “ We’ll see.” Vlad says and tosses him on the
ground.
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“ I’d just thought I’d pay my respects to the Oracle but look what I found a
bonus. I could end this war right now by slaying you but I came for her.” Vlad
says and walks up to the Oracle and viscously drains her blood and then leaves.
Alexander lays on the ground rubbing his neck looking at the Oracle when
a priestess walks in. “My lord are you okay.” ask the priestess. “Yes I am . But I feel
we may lose this war.” He says and gets up and leaves with the priestess. .
“My lord I wouldn’t take Alexander lightly.” says the chancellor. “ Oh and why
is that ?” ask Vlad. “ He is a brilliant strategist .” says the chancellor riding up to him.
Vlad turns to the chancellor looking annoyed . “ What have you learned about questioning my motives.” says Vlad tossing him off his horse and on the ground below. The dark
prince dismounts and walks up to the fallen chancellor drawing his sword and aims it
at the chancellor ‘s neck. “ Let this be a lesson. Never question my motives.” Vlad
says and rides off with the chancellor’s following behind , The chancellor runs to
catch up and says. “ My lord my horse.” Vlad turns to him and raises a brow saying.
“ I have decided that for now on you will walk.” riding ahead. The chancellor looks at
the dark prince with a sudden look of understanding that the human race is not top
of the food chain anymore and walks on with his face to the ground pondering this.
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5.
The general walks in as Vlad is looking at a diagram of Greece.
“So when do we attack?” the general ask eagerly. “ At night . I’ve decided this will
be a psychological attack. We will attack at dark striking fear into the citizen by systematically destroying their buildings and universities.” Vlad says smiling.
“Brilliant my lord soon they will be groveling at your feet.” says the general.
“Now go and tell your men general we attack at midnight.” The general
salutes and leaves the dark prince musing over the map.
“You continue to amaze me .” says Elizabetha
as she enters the tent. “Oh how so my love.” says Vlad. “You are not the same
man I knew. You have become more ruthless . Not the loyal dog of the holy oder.”
Elizabetha says wrapping her arms around him. “ Thank you my love I’ll take that as
a compliment. Now we should get some sleep as we are going to have a busy night.”
says Vlad.
6.
Night falls on Greece like a dark mist covering the land. The foot soldiers of the
the dark prince enter Athens carrying torches and awaiting the order to light them. Vlad
sits upon his horse watching from a far. He nods to the general and the men advance
lighting their torches. The soldiers of the dark prince ride into Athens burning building
and temples in their wake. The citizens of Greece rush out of their homes in panic to flee
the flames as they watch their homes burn down in despair . In the castle Alexander
watches on from his veranda and shouts. “Damn you Vlad . Fight me like a man.”
Vlad looks at the palace riding off back to the encampment with a smile on his face.
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Alexander faces his advisers with a grim look on his face.” Report”. Alexander says stoically. “My lord the news is not good. We’ve lost several building and the people are huddling in masses wondering when he will strike next.” says a general. “Damn he’s clever. He knew exactly what to do. Post guards at all roads leading to Athens. We cannot afford to lose any more buildings. “ Alexander says emphatically. Out side a loan raven sits and flies off towards the dark prince’s encampment.
7.
Vlad sit casually in his tent drinking a carafe of blood when a raven flies
in and transforms into Blood Letter. Vlad turns to him and hands him a glass and
says. “So.” Blood Letter smiles and says. “ It’s just as you thought they are panicking
He’s order watches on every road. The citizens huddle in masses wondering when
you will strike next my lord.” Blood Letter tells him. Vlad raises his cup and says
“They won’t have to wait long “ The general take his cue and leaves to
ready his troupes for the next attack. As he leaves Vlad and Blood Letter
raises their glasses and toast the upcoming victory.
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As night falls as the army of the dark prince enters Athens stealthily as to not alert th guards of their arrival .The general and his elite fly up a head and dispatch the guards. After the general finishes feasting on one of the guards he wipes his mouth and
turns to order them to advance.
Vlad and his men advance and begin the systematic destruction of the temples.
But as they enter the temples Grecian soldiers advance on them. “Ambush” shouts the general. “ On guard men.” the general shouts and the general and his men a forced to defend themselves against the Grecian soldiers.
8.
Inside the dark prince’s encampment. The general is kneeling in front
of Vlad. “We were ambushed sire.” says the general . Vlad looks the general’s
way and paces saying. “Abraham you are my closest friend and trusted general.
How could this happen.?” Vlad asks the general. The general looks at Vlad somewhat rattled and afraid because the dark prince has never called him by name. “For...forgive
the impudence my lord but they must have anticipated our attack.” Vlad looks at
the general and thinks about what he said. “I am sorry my friend. It just that I thought we
we were winning.” Vlad turns to the general and puts a hand on his shoulder.
“Your right my friend they must have guessed what we were about . Time to
change tactics. I want you and your men to start attacking the temples and
converting some of the priest in to us and slaughter the rest.” Vlad tells him and dismisses
him.
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.
“Excellent idea sire having our men stationed inside the temples to ambush
the dark prince’s men when they arrive to burn and pillage.”an adviser tells him.
“Yes thank you . Keep men stationed at the temples . I think we have not seen the
last of this.” Alexander orders and leaves for his quarters.
In the distance the general and his elite guards fly ahead they look
like giant bats, but as they approach they are clearly men. The general in the lead
signals his men to begin the attack. They split up heading for different temples.
In the court yard a priest stands outside admiring the full moon and giving thanks to his god when he sees the general realizing what is about to happen the priest runs
back to the temple in terror. The general smiles and pursues him. The priest runs but cannot flee the general . The general catches up to him and feast on his blood. He screams in terror and pain as his life ebbs out of him replaced by a darker force. Outside screams are heard though out the temples of Greece.
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. “We have surely lost” He says to himself seeing the elite and hearing the screams
and heads back to bed. Vlad stands outside his tent listening to the screams . His son walks up to him and Vlad puts his arm around him and says “Here that Castor . Those are the screams of pain and victory remember it.” Vlad walks ahead and calls for a horse then rides
off to Athens to claim his prize.
9.
Alexander stands on his veranda looking down with disbelief at the massacre
that is happening below of his temples. “Isn’t it about time you accepted that you’ve
lost.” the dark prince arrogantly speaks as he enters the palace. “I will never surrender to the likes of you .” Alexander tells Vlad as he approaches. “It’s funny that’s what Caesar said before he fell.”Vlad tells him sipping from a cup of wine “Never the less Greece will not be yours.” Alexander tells him and points too the door. Vlad walks to the door and turns . “Very well have it your way but things would have been much easier for you if you had surrendered.” he tells him and leaves
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“Guards, guards.” Alexander shouts and the captain of the guards
comes running into his room. “ Yes my lord what is it?” ask the captain looking
around for what alarmed his leader. “How is it that he got in here?” ask Alexander
annoyed. “I have no idea my lord.” says the captain. “Well let’s make sure that it
doesn’t happen again We’ll do a round robin.” says Alexander . “Yes my lord
so in shifts .” the captain says repeating what Alexander just said. “Exactly . Dismissed.”
Alexander orders dismissing the captain.
“Stubborn fool . You’d think that the desecration of his temples would
weaken him bu no___o.” Vlad said angrily in his command tent.
“Forgive me my liege but this worm wishes to speak with you.” says the general roughly pushing the priest in front of Vlad. The priest looks at his master in fear and stammers. “I wish to thank you for this gift . I had my doubts about my lord's gods.” “Is that all.” Vlad asks. “No, no.” the priest admits. “Well out without.” Vlad tells him impatiently. “It just that if you wish to defeat him you have to do it in combat.” the priest says cowering. “Yes I am beginning to see that.” Vlad admits. “Thank you for the information.” the general nods and takes him away to the slave tent. “You ‘ll see that loyalty is well rewarded”says the general.
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“So combat eh.” Vlad said looking at a map of Athens.In the slave tent the general points to the women. “Take your pick .”“I don’t understand.” the priest admits looking confused. “We prize loyalty as a great asset.” explains the general. “I am a priest and celibate.” the priest insulted tells him.
“Not anymore you’ll find that your needs have changed now that you are of the
new race.” the general states. The priest looks at that women and realizes that
the general is right, but at that moment a slave rushes at the general with a shiv and
stabs him with it. “Arg.” screams the general falling.
Inside the command tent Vlad hears the screams and rushes out to what
the commotion is. The priest eying Vlad rushes up to him. “ My lord it is the general. He
was attacked.” says the priest. Vlad hearing this rushes to the slave tent with two
guards. The general lays prone on the ground with the wooden shiv in his heart.
Vlad walks up to him and says. “My friend.” The general looks his way and says with
a gasping breath. “Do no despair we knew that there would be consequences .”
“No . We were going to conquer the world together.” says Vlad with blood tears in
his eyes. “My lord drink from me.” says the general. “ No what are you asking of me?”
says Vlad shaking his head. “ I am dying.” the general says. “But if you drink from me
I will live on in your blood line.” explains the general . Vlad in tears kneels down
in front of the general and takes his life. Vlad looks at his fallen comrade one last
time and then turns to the priest. “Who did this?” the dark prince demands . The
priest terrorfied points to the captured Grecian soldier. Vlad walks up to the soldier
who is now kneeling in fear of the dark prince. “ He was my friend !” the dark prince
says to the soldier and rips out his heart.
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10.
On the balcony of the palace of Athens. Alexander stands sipping some
spiced wine thinking about the dark prince and stratagizing when a scribe enters.
“My lord news from the dark prince’s encampment.” Alexander turns to the
scribe and says . “So what news do you bring ?” “ My lord the general has been
slain.” Alexander looks at the scribe with a look of surprise . “ Are you sure.”
ask Alexander. “I am sure my lord . The report says that he was slain by one
of the captives.” explains the scribe. “This does not bode well for us. He will
think that I planned this.” Alexander says pacing. “ My lord isn’t this good new?”
ask the scribe confused . Alexander looks at his scribe and walks over to his desk
and writes a message. “ Give this to the captain of the watch.” Alexander says
handing the message over to the scribe. “My lord I don’t understand.” the scribe
asks confused. Alexander looks at the scribe annoyed and says. “You fool
our temples have been violated. When the people hear there will be civil unrest.”
The scribe looks at Alexander and suddenly understands and runs off to deliver
the message.
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Vlad is looking at the map of Athens trying not to think of his friend. “My lord you need to appoint a new general.” advises the chancellor. “ Don’t you think I know that.” Vlad tells him angrily . The chancellor backs away seeing the look on the dark princes face.
“ I realize this and all of Athens to suffer for what happened.” Vlad states and smiles
when an idea dawns on him. “Yes that’s it . I will show them why they call me the
dark prince. As for a new general . I was thinking of Arthur.” The chancellor leaves
to carry out the dark princes orders. “Athens will burn . But not before I make them pay.
As the saying goes suffer the sinners.” Vlad looks at his map again laughing.
“ I fear for our lord” chancellor tells Arthur.
“You should have faith. I’ve learned Vlad may seem cruel but that’s the
way it is in war.” says Arthur. “Yes be that as it is. I fear the death has unhinged
him.” the chancellor counters. “Put your fears to rest. He will undoubtedly recover.”
Arthur tells him “ This was not the reason I came to talk to you. Congratulations you are
the new general.” and the chancellor walks away towards his tent.
11.
“Vengeance is mine sayest the Lord.” quotes Vlad as Arthur walks in.
“Your highness?” ask Arthur. “ It’s what I want. I want vengeance ! I want no building
left standing. I want him to suffer . I want every man , women and child impaled bring
as many as you want but I want it done.” says Vlad vehemently . Arthur gets up and leaves to carry out his lord’s orders. “You will wish you never met me Alexander.” says Vlad and look out his tent towards Athens.
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Inside the council chambers Alexander sit listening to reports come
in from his council, when a scribe rushes in with news. “My lord you have to
come see this .” says the scribe. “ What is it?” ask Alexander. “ Please just come.”
pleads the scribe. Alexander nods and follows the scribe outside with his councilors
following suit.
Outside is total devastation as Arthur and his men ride in Athens
with torches bearing and pikes in the other. They look like the seven horsemen
from the apocalypses. Villagers flee in panic as Arthur and his men ride in setting
fire to building and impaling everyone and anyone they see. From his terrace Alexander
looks on in horror as his people die before him. “ My god it horrible.” says Alexander
in shock. “I’ve heard of this. He did the same thing in Rome . It’s why they call him
the Impaler .” says a councilor and lays a hand on his lords shoulder. “Then we’ve
lost. I realize that what the oracle said is true I should have been more the general
and lead my men into battle then focus on knowledge and culture.” says Alexander
who then walks with a look of defeat. “Your majesty it’s not true . You made Greece
great.” a councilor says to empty ears.
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12.
Greece in no more. Vlad and his army ride in triumph through the ruins of
Athens towards the palace. The dark prince enters the palace and walks in on Alexander
in the council chambers with a flourish followed by Arthur and his chancellor,
Alexander bows before the dark prince “You've won Greece is yours.”
Alexander tells him beaten. Vlad smiles and signals for his sword.
“I am afraid it's not going to be like that. You had my general killed. “ says Vlad
in anger. Alexander looks up in fear and says “ Please believe me I...I had nothing
to do with .” Vlad glares at him in annoyance, “ He was more than my general.
He was my friend and comrade” Vlad says and lops off his head.
“I’ve done it. All of Europe is mine.” Vlad shouts raising the head of Alexander in
the air.. The army of the dark prince cheer for their victory and for the dark prince.
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Chapter 4
Vlad sits on his throne with a look of contemplation on his face. “ So what are your plans now my lord?” Arthur asks . Vlad looks up and sips a carafe of blood. “ It’s time to let the humans know the new order of things.” The dark prince speaks as he steps off the throne and gazes out the window.
“Write this down.” Arthur signals a scribe who comes forward quill ready to
write his lords words. “Let it be known anyone who commits these crimes
will be punished accordingly.” Vlad says still gazing out the window. He scratches
his chin then looks up and says. “ Anyone who commits the crime of theft will
lose their dominant hand be they popper or noblemen.” Vlad pause thinking
then continues and said. “Anyone who tries to commit treason will be impaled
thusly. Anyone who speaks of the foul Christianity will be crucified like their
so called savior. The same goes for the crime of murder and attempted crimes
will also be punished thusly.” Vlad proclaims. “Isn’t that a little harsh my lord?”
the chancellor ask respectfully. Vlad looks his way and walks up to him laying
a hand on his soldier. The chancellor flinches in pain as Vlad squeezes his shoulder.
“You have to understand my friend that I rule here now and things are different.”
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Vlad turns to Arthur and sand tells him “Arthur since you are my new general it's up to you to enforce these laws. Thusly for now on your men and you are the Castle guards and enforcers.” Vlad orders and walks back to his throne and sits down. When he finishes the door opens and Elizabetha comes in with Castor trailing behind. “ My love someone missed you.” Elizabetha tells him smiling as Castor comes and seeing his father races up to him and sits on his laps. “And hows my little prince doing?” ask Vlad to his son. “Fine.” Castor answers shyly . “ That’s good my son. Now hurry on back to your mother..” Vlad says taking him off his lap and shooing him to his mother. “ Go to your room I’ll be there soon.” Elizabetha tells him and then walks up to the throne. “How are you doing my love?”ask Elizabetha.
“ Tired. I am tired of wars, I’ve been thinking there are more subtle
ways to conquer the world. When he’s old enough I think he should marry one of
the Czar’s daughters.” says Vlad. “ He’s only six my love. That’s a long way away.”
said Elizabetha. “Still we should consider it.” Elizabetha nods and said. “ I will
send a message.” “No! I will send the message.” Vlad tells her and leaves the throne
room to his chambers to write the letter.
In the chamber of the dark prince Vlad sits and writes
the letter he is going to send to the Czar of Russia. A scribe stands behind him
ready to deliver the message when he is done. “ Scribe.” Vlad says and the scribe
walks to the dark prince. “Take this to Moscow. Make sure the Czar gets it.” Vlad
tells him and hand over the letter.
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2.
Castor is playing with his toy soldiers when Elizabetha intrudes.
“So how are you doing today my little prince ?” she asks. Castor looks at his mom and
resumes playing with his toys . Elizabetha curious about what he is so intent on playing
walks over and looks at one of the soldiers. “So who is this?” ask Elizabetha .
“Father “ replies Castor shyly and puts him down. “ Oh and who does he fight ?” ask
Elizabetha . “ The Romans” Castor tells her shyly. “ Oh , so tell me my son would you like to have some companions maybe a brother or sister or a friend.” Elizabetha query's.
“I guess” Castor admits not looking from where he is playing. “ We are going to have
guest my son and they have a daughter about your age. “ Elizabetha tells him getting up
to leave . As she doe she looks at her son with fondness.
3.
Nicolai Romanov has been ruling the Russian Empire for the past
Century. By his side is always has been his wife Valeria and his adviser Rasputin.
At this moment he sits on throne listening to scribe sent from Europe by the dark prince.
“ My liege I have traveled a great distance to tell you my lord Vlad Malkivan called
by everyone the dark prince . Humbly request your presence for dinner and to discuss
the union between your daughter and his son.” Rasputin leans towards the throne
and whispers “ I urge you not to go. I have heard bad things about this dark prince”
“ None the less This is a great opportunity” Nicolai whispers back. “ Tell your lord
that we accept the invitation.” says Nicolai. The scribe nods and leaves.
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In his chambers Rasputin paces furiously . “ I ‘m losing my grasp . He isn’t
doing what I tell him to do. Maybe this is a good idea , but not for him but for me.”
says Rasputin to himself and laughs .
Vlad sits on his throne listening to the endless bickering of
princes and lords. “ My lord this young upstart says that the territory belongs to
him when anybody can clearly see that it belongs to me.” the nobleman complains.
“How dare you this land has been in my family for centuries.” the younger one
tells him.. “ Enough !” Vlad orders tired of the bickering. “ I did not conquer all of
Europe so spoiled brats like you could squabble over petty differences.”
the dark prince tells them darkly. “You see what I mean humans hold no loyalties toward each other.”Vlad excalaims. He looks at the two lords and then stands and addresses
all who are there. “ From this day forth all humans are demoted to commoners and
only the new race can be noblemen.” the dark prince proclaims. The assembled look at the
dark prince with astonishment and can’t believe what they hear. “You can’t do this.”
the nobleman outraged tells him. . “I just did.” says Vlad. “Now get these filthy commoners out of my sight.” Vlad orders his guards who escort the now demoted princes out of the court room .
“ Well said my prince.” Nicolai says entering the throne room.“I presume you are the Czar of Russia . If not get out !” says Vlad. “ Oh forgive me. I am Nicolai Romanov and this is my wife Valeria and my youngest Anastasia and this is my adviser Rasputin.” Nicolai tells him introducing himself as he is escorted in.
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“ Please join us in our dinning chambers.” Vlad tells them as he and his wife head out. As they head toward the chamber Rasputin brushes past the dark prince to catch
up with his lord and feels a strange but familiar feeling. “Did you feel that my love?”
ask Vlad. “ Yes he feels like one of us but something is off.” Elizabetha whispers. Vlad
looks to Arthur. “Yes my lord. “ Arthur said coming to his lord’s aid. “ Have some
of your men keep an eye on Rasputin something is not right about him.” Vlad tells
Arthur and he leaves to carry out his orders.
In the dinning chambers Vlad and his guest sit down
and await the feast. “ My cook has prepared a fine feast for us tonight.” Vlad tells them.
“ So what is this about a union?” ask Nicolai . “ Ah right to business I like that.”
Vlad tells him. “ I would like to propose an arranged marriage between my son Castor
and your daughter Anastasia.” Vlad suggests.. Nicolai looks towards his wife and adviser
“ An interesting proposal, and what do I get out of it ?” ask Nicolai
“ A union like this could benefit us both. This union has the benefit of protecting
both our borders.” Vlad says. “Interesting thought . Then I approve.” Nicolai tells him.
“Excellent then lets toast our new union and the arranged marriage of Castor to Anastasia.”
Vlad tells him raising his glass to toast. “ I have never tasted a wine like this. What is it?”
ask Nicolai. “ A rare deliquesce only found here. “I can see this union is going to
have even more benefits.” Nicolai admits raising his glass and drinking the wine.
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3.
As they toast Rasputin looks on not even touching his food and drink.
“Is there something wrong with your drink ?” ask Castor to Rasputin.
“No young one there is nothing wrong I am just not thirsty.” Rasputin.
“So what are you?” ask Castor. “Castor manners.” Elizabetha chides him
“ It is quite alright. What do you think I am ?” Rasputin asks the young prince.
“You look like a wizard. Are you a wizard ?” ask Castor. “In a way I am a holy man
and sometimes a wizard.” says Rasputin. “A holy man. You mean a priest. We haven’t
had a priest here for years.” Elizabetha comments. “Yes I know that.” Rasputin tells her..
“ Can you do tricks ?” ask Castor. “ Some. Come to my room later and I will show
you.” Castor agrees happily and finishes off his meal .
As they finish off their meal. Vlad sees that Castor was talking
to Rasputin. “Castor my son. What were you talking about ?’” ask Vlad.
“ Nothing father. He said he is a holy man and a magician and said he’ll show
me some tricks later. Can I father? Can I go ?” Castor appeals to his dad.
Vlad looks towards Rasputin then toward Arthur who nods “I suppose.
Rasputin I want you to understand that if anything happens untoward to
my son. No matter what powers you have it will not save you.” Vlad warns
emphasizing the point. “ I understand.” Rasputin acknowledges. “But he will serve
me for now on. “ Rasputin said quietly to himself.
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Inside Rasputin’s chamber Castor watches with the awe of a child as Rasputin
does parlor tricks. “Now little one watch this.” He waves his hands and smoke appears
and curls and turns into different shapes and animals. “ Now you will serve me won’t
you .” Castor who has taken on a glazed look nods. “ And you love me don’t you?”
Rasputin says . Castor nods again . As Rasputin gets ready to put him to the test
Arthur approaches the door to check on the young prince.
Rasputin loosing his concentration breaks the spell for a moment seeing Arthur.
“What is it?” ask Rasputin annoyed “ I just wanted to check on the young master.”
Arthur tells him suspiciously. “ He is fine. Aren't you little one.” Rasputin tells him regaining his hold on Castor. Castor nods and Arthur looks worried and tries to step inside
but Rasputin stops him. Arthur looks around the chambers and senses the incense
“What’s that smell . Incense ! What are you doing to the prince?” Arthur ask alarmed.
Realizing he has been found out Rasputin bares his saber like fangs and says.
“You would be wise to stay out of my business.” Arthur smiles baring his own fangs
“ A vampire eh. Why do you think they call my lord the dark prince.” Arthur tells him
and draws his sword. Rasputin realizing that his regular tactics won’t work rushes
at Arthur and runs towards the meeting room. “Guards!” shouts Arthur as he gets
off the floor. Two winged elites rush in front of Rasputin blocking his way and restrain
him. Arthur walks up to Rasputin and tells the guards to follow to the meeting
room.
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Vlad rises and looks to Arthur as they enter the chamber.
“What’s the meaning of this?” ask Vlad. “Yes why does he have my adviser in custody.”
says Nicolai. “My lord you asked me to keep an eye on him and when I enter the young
prince’s room he was in a trance.” says Arthur. Vlad hearing this walks up to Rasputin
and looks him menacingly in the eyes. “I warned you about harming my son.” Vlad says
showing off his double fangs.“My lord that’s not all he is one of us. But Nosferatu.” Arthur said “Really I thought your kind were extinct.” Vlad conveys “ I am the last.” says Rasputin.
“Forgive me my friend. I had my suspicions but now I know I was right.” Vlad said.
“Can we still have this alliance ?” ask Nicolai. “ Of course the marriage will go on as
planned. Now if you’ll excuse I have a trail to attend too.” Vlad tells them all and leaves
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5.
“For many years I have been trying to establish our dominance in
the world.” Vlad tells the council. “But I have grown tired of the endless fighting.
So with the approval of my wife and adviser I proposed a union with Russia but little
did I know that in the heart of that great empire lies a cancerous evil. A throw back
form the dark ages.” Vlad exclaims and points to Rasputin who is chained to the floor
with a vampire cross behind him. The council looks on in awe at one of their own
from another era. “ How can this be?” exclaims one of the council members.
“Never the less he must be punished and then we will study him later.” Vlad
aforementioned. “ So with accordance to my own laws. Since you tried to enslave my
own son to your will. So will it be to you.” Vlad rules. Rasputin realizing
that his fate is sealed if he doesn’t escape tries to flee but the guards draw their
spears and stab him. “You will never enslave me.” Rasputin screams as he is
forced to the ground. “Oh yes you will. But first.” said the dark prince approaching Rasputin. A guard hands him some pliers and forces Rasputin’s jaws open and the dark prince rips out the fangs of Rasputin. Rasputin screams in agony as his fangs are removed.
“We grew out of drinking blood from our enemies a year ago.” Vlad tells him grinning
and tosses them on the floor. “Now you will submit or you will die.” Vlad says
and walks away.
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6.
Castor is in his room playing when Vlad comes in. “Father why was that
man punished.” Castor asks. “He was trying to something bad my son. We’ll talk about
it later. For now I’d like you to meet someone. “ he tells his son as Nicolai enter followed
by a little girl with blond curls. “ This is Anastasia daughter of Nicolai Romanov.”
Vlad says introducing her. “Hello” Castor says shyly . “Would you like to play?”
ask Castor. “Sure.”Anastasia nod and joins Castor. “We’ll let you two gets acquainted.”
Vlad tells them leaving with Nicolai. “That went well.” comments Nicolai. “H mm oh yes
quite well.” replies Vlad.
“ There is no use trying to escape.” Arthur says observing
Rasputin who is charging at the bars trying to escape. “These cells are built to hold
the toughest of criminals.” Arthur tells him as Vlad enters the dungeon.
“So how’s our guest?” asks Vlad. “You can’t do this. I am royalty.” Rasputin
rants reaching out trying to get at the dark prince. “Oh really. Maybe you were once,
but my blood line is the new race. You are like the Neanderthal is to the human.”
Vlad tells him. “If I get free you will all pay.” Rasputin threatens. “How soon they forget.
You have been defanged. Your good health all depends on us.” says Arthur
“We’ll leave you to think on that.” says Vlad and he and Arthur leave with
Rasputin screaming in fury at them as they go.
“So what are your plans for Rasputin.” ask Nicolai
“We’ll see I warned him not to harm my son.” he tells him. “We can learn a lot from
him once he realizes the hopelessness of his situation we can study and learn from
him.” Arthur aformentions. Vlad ,Arthur and Nicolai raise their glasses of Sheri in a toast
to their good fortune and laugh.
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As evening approaches Vlad is preparing for bed when Elizabetha
ask him a question.. “ So what are your plans with him my beloved.”
“I don’t really know yet. It’s complicated. He should be executed for disobeying
me. On the other hand this is an opportunity that can’t be ignored.” Vlad comments..
“My poor prince.” she tells him walking behind and rubbing his shoulders.
“Heavy is the shoulders of he who wares the crown.” Vlad tells her and kisses her
then heads to bed.
7.
Rasputin is pacing his cell trying to figure a way out of his predicament.
“ Will you please be quite.” shouts Rasputin to the man across from him in
despair. “Not so mighty are you now.” a guard teases . Rasputin smiles and walks
up the bars and tells him . “ You want to let me out.” The guard looks at him and
grabs him by the collar. “ You don’t want to try that on me or else you won’t
just be defanged you’ll be blind as well.” the guard threatens. Rasputin looks
at the guard surprised that his powers didn’t work on him. “Don’t look so shocked.
That stuff only works on the week minded like humans.” the guard tells him as Arthur
enters the dungeons. “The prince would like to see you.” Arthur says and escorts
Rasputin out of the dungeon.
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In the throne room Vlad sits looking at Rasputin
and Arthur as they enter. Arthur walks up to the throne and kneels before him and
forces Rasputin to do the same. “ So I’ve been thinking about what to do with you,
Let me ask you something have you learned your lesson.” ask Vlad. Rasputin rises
and draws a stake from his robe he fashioned from his cell. “ Does this answer your
question.” Rasputin threatens and tries to attack him. The dark prince just raises his hand
and Rasputin is thrown across the room against the wall. Rasputin looks at Vlad with
a look of hate in his eyes toward Vlad. “ Yes it does. Killing you would just be waist
so I’ve decided to take your powers and make them part of our blood line. Castor”
Vlad calls to his son. Across the hall Castor enters and walks up to the throne
room and kneels in front of his father. “I want you to drink from him Castor. Every last
drop.” Vlad tells him. Castor looking towards Rasputin nods and drinks from Rasputin.
As he drinks Castor suddenly understands things he didn’t understand before and a look
of understanding dawns on his face. “Father this man has been alive for hundreds of
years.” Castor tells him rising from the dead Rasputin.. “ I thought as much . How else
could be as cunning and powerful as he was.” the dark prince muses..
“ Not as powerful and cunning as you my lord.” his adviser flatters. “True.”
Vlad agrees then dismisses him. “ You may go to my son.” Vlad tells him and
Castor bows and takes his leave. As he does Vlad notices that he has grown taller
after the feasting and wonders what other abilities he has now. Alone in his throne room Vlad thinks “ Interesting . It seems when we take on another vampires power as we change.” Vlad muses to himself. “My lord?” ask Arthur. “Nothing .” Vlad comments and Arthur leaves looking at his king with a look of concern. “I’ll keep this information to myself for now.” Vlad notes and leans backs on his throne and smiles.
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Chapter 5
Castor sits in the library studying ancient text. Over the years he has grown
in to a young man , but all the while keeping a dark secret from his parents. That when
he drank from Rasputin all those years ago he just didn’t acquire his powers but the
knowledge of the dark arts that Rasputin knew. Now in the library he seeks to understand
that power.
“My lord are you sure this is wise?” ask a scribe handing scrolls over
to Castor. “What my father doesn’t know won’t hurt him.” Castor tells the scribe.
“Oh but I already know” Vlad speaks entering the library. “Father. I was going to tell
you.” Castor tells him startled by his father’s appearance. “That’s alright my son. You think
you would make it this far without my knowing.” Vlad comments. “You knew?” ask Castor. “Of course I knew. I know of everything going on in my castle and I approve of your studies.” Vlad tells him leaving the library for more important matters.
2.
“So was it what you expected?” ask Arthur. “Yes he is studying the dark arts.
When he masters what he has learned he will be even more powerful than me.” Vlad tells him.“No one is great as you. You conquered all of Europe.” Arthur states“True but with him
ruling Russia we are one step closer to world domination.”he tells Arthur and grins
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Inside the library now feeling better that his father knows and approves
Castor continues to read from the text. “ So you heard my father whelp. What’s that scroll over there?”Castor demands. The scribe looks at the scroll with a fearful look in his eyes.
“ My lord forgive me but you don’t want that one.” the scribe tell him with trepidation.
“How dare you ! I am of the royal bloodline while you are a lowly commoner.”
says Castor outraged. “ My lord that is the Demon Demigorum. Only high level
mages can use that. It deals with razing and controlling demons.” explains the scribe.
“Interesting . I would like to study that . It could be what I am looking for.” Castor
tells him snatching the scroll from the scribes hand as the scribe runs out afraid for
his sanity.
3.
Inside Castor’s room the smell of incense fills the air as Castor begins the invocation.“ I son of Vlad the dark prince in the name of the Lord of Dark and Chaos
call upon the demons of the underworld to answer my call and come before
me..” Castor commands standing in front of the altar where a pentagram is
drawn and an urn of incense is hung above. “H mm just as I thought nonsense.”
Castor muses and turns to leave. “ I am here.” a voice speaks. Castor turns around startled .
“Who said that?” Castor ask looking around the room. “ I did . Why h ave you called
me ?” the voice asks” Name yourself demon.” Castor demands. "Ha, ha I have gone many names . But you may call me Mephistopheles.” the voice taunts “ I seek a deal with the underworld. To make an alliance between my blood lines and the demons.” Castor states . “An interesting idea. What’s in it for us?” the voice asks “ We would send as many souls to you as we could.” Castor states.
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“I agree to your terms. On one condition that when one of your blood line dies their soul belong to us.” the voice states “ Agreed” Castor tells the demon. “ Very well mortal. If you ever need our help just call upon us we will serve your blood line till the end.” the demon tell him and vanishes Out side the door a lone servant seeing this quickly flees and tells the king what has transpired. Gone unnoticed Castor methodically cleans up the ritual site as he does Vlad steps in and approaches him. “So you were successful?” Vlad asks
“ Yes but for a price. I am afraid I’ve damned us all father.” says Castor.
“ Ah well . It is nothing to worry about. Before I became a ruler. A priest
warned that the path I chose was damning me to hell. So it seems he was correct in
a way.” Vlad tells him laying a hand on his son. “But aren't you worried father?” Castor
ask. “No I see this as a great victory. For as long an our blood line exists then we will
be one of the most powerful rulers on the planet..” Vlad tells him and leaves Castor with
those words.
4.
“So he has made a deal with a demon.” Elizabetha states changing into her
night gown. “ Yes my love, but this deal will make us even stronger.” Vlad tells her
wrapping his arms around her. She turns her head to him and comments “ I suppose and he
does carry the knowledge and power of Rasputin in him. “ Elizabetha remembers
“Exactly if anything he will find a way out this. After all he is a Malkivan.” Vlad
states proudly. “ I guess we shouldn’t worry” says Elizabetha and they head to bed.
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In bed Castor is tossing and turning having a strange dream.
In his dream is a vision of fangs and Mephistopheles laughing at him and Castor
wakes up with a sweat. Upon hearing the commotion in Castor’s room a servant runs
in to see if Castor is okay “ My lord is everything alright?” the servant asks.
“Fine , fine everything is fine. Now leave me.” Castor says dismissively. As
the servant leaves Castor paces his room pondering the dream. “ What could it mean?
Fangs and that accursed demon.” Castor says pondering the dream and he grabs his robe
and heads to the library.
In the library Castor heads over to the books about dreams
and starts reading . As he reads the answer comes to him. “That’s it. I figured it out.
The fangs represent us. Of course we’re not ordinary mortals. We are the new race.
I have the answer.” Castor tells himself smiling. “Mephistopheles” Castor calls out
“What do you desire of me?”Ask the demon. Castor smiles baring his fangs
and attacks “This” he tells the demon biting into the neck of the demon draining all his blood. “Arg!’ Castor screams in pain and falls back holding his head as the blood and power of the demon run through his body. The door opens and Vlad who was outside rushes into the library to see if his son’s alright. “Are alright my son?” Vlad asks of Castor. “I’m fine” Castor replies. “Apparently your not.” Vlad states “What do you mean?” ask Castor.
“Follow me to your chambers. “ he tells his son.
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Vlad leads him to his mirror .“Look in the mirror. You should have come to me first before you tried this.”he tells his son. Castor walks up to the mirror and sees tiny horns protruding from his forehead. “Ah well now they have right to call us demon. “ Vlad says and heads back to his chambers. Castor looks in the mirror again when his father is gone and . “Demon eh . I think they make me look rather distinguished.”he comments and heads
back to bed.
5.
In the mourning the dark prince sits on the throne with the Elizabetha
beside him. “Ah my son we were just discussing you.” Vlad comments looking up and
noticing Castor enters in his new robe. On the back of his new robe is an amalgamation
of his father’s symbol a bat but with horns. “My advisers tell me that this might not
go so well with the public.”Vlad tells him. “That’s true my king. They already fear us. This
might alienate them further.” the chancellor advises. “Forgive my rudeness father., but what do you care what the people think. After all they are of the old race.” Castor tells him
Vlad looks at his son and taking in his words. “Your highness you cannot let this go.”
The chancellor states. Vlad looks at his son . “ That maybe but I have an empire
to run and part of that is listening to the concerns of the people. So since your almost
at the age when you will be married to your betrothed. I have decided to send you to
Russia so you can learn their customs and meet your intended.” he tells him. Castor looks at his father aghast “ What you're sending me away just because of this.” Castor tells him pointing to his horns. “I will not forget this father.” Castor says and walks away from the throne room in a huff. “Yes you will when you have your own kingdom and worries my son.” Vlad comments as he leaves.
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6.
“Father is this really necessary ?” ask Castor “ We’ve discussed this with your
new appearance it might not sit well with the public. Now get your things it’s
time to go.” Vlad tells him as the carriage arrives
On the terrace above Vlad and Elizabetha look down and watch
Castor rides off. “Are your sure this was a wise move my love?” ask Elizabetha.
“Yes I think it was . In the last few years he has become rash and temperamental.
He needs this and besides he will not be alone I sent the chancellor along with him.”
Vlad says and they head back in.
7.
Castor sits in his carriage with the look of insolence on his face.
“This is just an excuse to get me out-of-the-way. He’s afraid I’ve surpassed him.”
says Castor annoyed. “Not so my prince. He’s just afraid what the people might do
if they saw you.” the chancellor says. “Just as well I was getting bored anyways.”
says Castor nonchalantly. “Also it’s a chance to meet your intended. It has been many
years since you’ve seen her.” says the chancellor. Castor nods and closes his eyes as the
carriage rides off towards Russia.
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Chapter 6
1.
Moscow the heart of the Russian Empire. Castor and his retainers are still a few days aways from the palace as the carriage rides on Castor looks out at the dreary landscape when the carriage comes to a stop in front of an inn called the
Sickle and Hammer. As the driver steps out Castor looks out at the inn with a look of disgust on his face. “Driver why have we stopped here?” Castor demands of the driver. “ The horses need rest for the night we can go no further until morning.”the driver explains to Castor.“You better wear your robe your majesty. I doubt the locals will take kindly
to you.” the chancellor advises. Castor grabs his royal robe from his chest and
adorns it making sure the hood hides his face.
In the Inn Castor and his retainers enter the bar
and sit down at a table. As they sit a barmaid approaches them and noticing Castor
cautiously ask them what they will have. Castor glances at her appreciatively and
says coyly. “A hot cider and a night with you.” the barmaid blushes and turns to
the others. “The sames and what my companion forgot to mention is that we need
a room for the night” the chancellor says. “That will be fifty drachmas.” says the
barmaid. Castor hands her one hundred and she walks away with Castor watching
her appreciatively from behind.
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“My prince may I advise you that we should not draw attention to ourselves.”
advises the chancellor . “Don’t be such a stick in the mud. I was not going to
do anything wrong.” Castor tells him. “Just as well it’s best we stay low .” the driver advises.
2.
As they wait for their drinks one of the locals sitting at the bar sees them
and drunkenly walks over to them. “I saw you eying my women monk. I advise you to
stay away.” he says. Castor looks up from his cider the barmaid has just brought and
smirks saying. “ I am not a monk and you are hardly in a position to advise me of
anything half drunk as you are.” Castor tells him arrogantly. “Oh is that so.” says the drunk. In reply Castor slowly rises from his chair and lifts him up effortlessly with one hand.“Yes it is . You are nothing compared to me.” says Castor baring his fangs The drunkard looks at him with fear and asks . “What are you.” “Your better.” Castor replies
and tosses him to the far end of the inn. “We 'd better retire for the night my lord
before we draw more attention to ourselves.” the chancellor advises. Castor thinking it
through agrees reluctantly and they to their room
In their room the chancellor paces back and forth furiously .
“That was completely foolish what you did. Here we are trying not to draw attention
to ourselves and that's exactly what you do.” the chancellor steams. “How dare you
question my judgment. That whelp had it coming, in a few years I'll be ruling this country and I'll make sure that people like him are put in place.” Castor exclaims.
“Until that time I'd advise you to keep your temper down . Your father is right
you are temperamental.” the chancellor states. “I'll think about “ he tells him sullenly.
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2.
Mourning dawns and the carriage carrying the young prince rides
off from the inn . Darkness hangs over head as they ride towards Moscow and the
royal palace. A crow flies over head and watches them go by and then turns around
and flies towards the Carpathian Mountains.
At Castle Malkivan the dark prince sits on this throne as Blood Letter comes in
adorned in his feathered robe with a raven on the back. “So how does my son fair.”
ask the dark prince. “He does well your majesty, He caused a commotion at the inn but
the chancellor calmed things down.” Blood Letter reports. “Just as he should . So what
happened.” ask Vlad. “ Apparently a local didn't take a liking to him. “ he tells Vlad..
“If he continues this foolishness all my plans and schemes for world domination will
fall like a house of cards.” he tells him dismissing Blood Letter. He puts his head in hands
and sighs . “Do not fret my love our son will change . I for see it..” Elizabetha tells him.
“Those are kind words my love but the truth is he is a brash as ever . You cannot rule
a kingdom on balls alone.” he tells her .
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3.
We are nearing the palace my lord .” the drive tells him. “Very good driver.
Thank you. “ the chancellor replies and tips the driver. “Now my lord let's try too
keep an even temper .” the chancellor comments to Castor , “I will try.” Castor tells him
as they approach the palace.. He looks out and sees the beauty of Russian monarchy
and forgets his displeasure at being here. As they near the entrance Nicolai steps out
and greets them. The chancellor step up and bows before Nicolai
“ Your highness may I present Castor Malkivnan son of the dark prince.” he tells him Castor steps up and bows. “My you have grown and changes too I see.” Nicolai says noticing the small horns spouting from his head. “No wonders some of the people are calling you the demon prince. But where are my manners you must be tired please follow me and I will show you too your rooms” says Nicolai and Castor and the chancellor follow
Nicolai into the palace as the carriage rides off.
In the dining hall Nicolai and his family sit as Castor enters.
“Ah my young prince you have finally risen let me introduce you too my
wife Valeria and this my youngest daughter Anastasia. “ Castor bows before them.
“You probably don't remember me but we played together as children.” says Anastasia.
“It saddens me to say that I do not princess.” says Castor.
“Well then please sit next to me as we can get to know each other again.” Anastasia
says. Castor graciously nods and sits next to her, “Those horns are new. Is that a new
fad in Romania these days.” ask Valaria. Castor touches his forehead self consciously.
“No sadly it’s not. These are a result ofdealing with the underworld. One of the reasons
I’m here. My father thinks I’m too rash, but personally I think he’s afraid of me.”
Castor tells him. “ Well we are glad to have you anyways,young prince.” Nicolai replies.
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4.
Castor stands in front of the window in his room looking out at the
palatial grounds . “Beautiful isn’t it” Anastasia says as she walks into his room.
“Yes it is hard to believe something like this exists.” Castor tells her.
“Would you like to take a walk in the gardens with me?” she asks. “It would be an
honor my lady.” Castor says taking her hand. “Please call me Anna.” Anastasia says
taking his hand. “As you wish Anna,” Castor tells her and they leave together.
In the gardens Castor and Anna are walking together. As Nicolai
and Valeria watch from a veranda . “Ah young love.” Nicolai comments. “Do you think the people will accept him?” ask Valeria. “They will have to my love. I am getting too
old and you are no spring chicken.” Nicolai tells her.. “But the way he looks and the way
he acts . He’s so arrogant and rash.” Valeria tells him. “That’s why he’s here .To learn how
to be a good ruler.” Nicolai says to his wife as they head inside.
“So do you think you could like it here?” ask Anna . “With you beside me. I think
I could bare it.” states Castor looking into her eyes. “ Oh Castor you say the nicest things.”
Anna tells him and they walk hand in hand through the garden.
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5.
On a bench Castor and Anna sit discussing there lives as Nicolai comes and
talks to them. “So have you shown him the maze yet?” ask Nicolai. “I was just about
too Papa.” Anna tells him. “Would you mind if I did my child ?” ask Nicolai. “Not at all father,”Anna says and Nicolai gestures for him to follow. “So what do you think of my daughter?”ask Nicolai. Castor turns and looks at Anna with a smile on his face . Anna seeing him waves. “She is remarkable. I’ve never met anyone so beautiful and so full of life.”Castor tells him wistful. “Yes she is all that . Which is why I entrust you will treat her well.”says Nicolai. “You have nothing to fear I adore her,” Castor says smiling.
“That is not the only reason why I wanted to talk to you. Your father
sent you here to learn how to be a good leader and I think there is no time like the
present to learn.” Nicolai comments “Oh but I know all about rulings and that stuff.”
Castor states.. “Not according to your father. You need to learn some decorum. That
incident at the inn must not happen again.” Nicolai says giving Castor a meaningful
look. Castor sighs and says. “Very well I will attend .” “Good now follow me this
maze can be rather tricky if you don't know the secret of it.” Nicolai says and they
continue through the maze.
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6.
In the throne room Nicolai sits on his throne as dignitaries and
royal officials great him and discuss matters of state. Castor stands observing this
with a scowl on his face. “ You can't possibly be serious . We already taxed the
peasants too much. Castor what do you think we should do ?” ask Nicolai.
“We are royals they are peasants. They serve our will.” Castor states matter of factly,
“That is where you are wrong . Here we do things different . Here we serve the people
not the other way around.” Nicolai tells him . “What is it they want minister?” ask Nicolai
“They complain that their taxes are too high they cannot afford the essentials “ the
minister explains. “ But if you take away from the taxes . People like us in the upper classes
won't be able to afford our land.” a prince complains. “That maybe for the better. Everybody
is equal in the eyes of God. Who are we to put ourselves above them.” Nicolai exclaims
Castor looks at Nicolai with disbelief in his eyes . “You cannot be serious. You can't
base your decisions on some two hundred year old book says. “ Castor tells him.
“I would appreciate if you would show some respect . You are here to learn.”
Nicolai tells him annoyed. He turns to the party at hand and says. “You will
here my decision in the morning .” and Nicolai gets up and leaves. “I am sorry
if I was hard on you. But here we do things differently . I have already come to a
decision. We will take some money from away from the nobility that way they
have enough to live off of and we can lower the taxes some. But it is wise to
to let them think that I haven't made a decision yet That way they can cool down
some.” says Nicolai winking at Castor as they walk down the hall together. Castor
nods and smiles seeing what Nicolai has done. “ Now that business is done for today
go see Anna .
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I believe she has been asking for you.” Nicolai says to Castor says and heads off to see Anna. “ I swear that boy has a lot to learn . His father is right . He does have a temper.” Nicolai says to know one in particular.
“So how was the meeting ?” ask Anna. “Boring and tedious.” Castor
complains . “I can’t see how he does it. Dealing with boring aristocrats. You are my
light and the only brightness to my day my love.” Castor tells her. “Let’s go for a walk
I’ll show a place that will take all your problems away.” Anna says leading Castor down
the hallway. “My Nanny used to take me here when I felt like I was left out. Having
three other sisters does that too you.”Anna tells him.
Castor follow Anna down the hallway and into a huge with room filled
plants The royal arboretum . Father had it for mother. He said everyone of
these plants cannot compare to her.” Anna exclaims “It’s breathtaking “ Castor says
looking around in awe of it’s beauty. “Look up . Father had the ceiling made out
like the night sky. The stars are in the same position as the night they married. And
look over there it’s a replica of Micheal Angelo’s painting on the Sistine Chapel.”
Anna tell him pointing to a wall. “ It’s amazing my love thank you for showing me this.
It’s beautiful and just what I needed.” Castor says taking Anna’s hand “Ah there
you are . Are you ready for your lessons ?” ask Nicolai entering arboretum .
“ Yes . This is amazing . It must have cost a fortune.” Castor says.
“What is money compared to love.” Nicolai says. “Yes I know what you mean.”
Castor says glancing back at Ann as he leaves with Nicolai.
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As they enter and Nicolai ascends the throne the prince speaks out. “So have you come to a decision your majesty?” the prince asks as Nicolai sits down. “Yes we will take
a portion from the nobility to alleviate taxes . That way everybody is happy.”
Nicolai tells him. “That is acceptable your lordship. Thank you.” the prince says bowing
and exiting the throne room. “Now to new business . Tomorrow we will have a banquet
to honor the courtship of our daughter too Castor Malkivan .” Nicolai tells them..
“I will send messages to all the nobility post haste your majesty.” s the minister tells him
bowing and leaving as well. “I would also like to take my leave your majesty.
It has been a long day and I am tired and need to prepare for tomorrow.” Castor asks
“Of course . You have my leave.” Nicolai says dismissing him.
6.
The grand ball room of the royal banquet . It is truly a sight to behold. As
Castor enters with Anna on his arm an orchestra plays high above from a balcony.
The ceiling looks like the night sky with the reflections of a thousand candles on the
mirrored ceiling. “Your here good, I would like you to meet some people.”
Valeria tells him. “Oh mother is this really necessary?” Anna asks with exasperation.
“Absolutely if he is going to be king and you a Queen. Then you must be familiar
with all the nobility.” Valeria states. “You must forgive my wife she loves this kind
of thing . You two should go to the banquet and can meet some of the nobility later . If that’s
alright with you my love.” Nicolai asks “That’s fine. As long as they do.” Valeria tells him
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.Castor takes Anna ‘s hand and leads her to the dance floor and they turn and dance.
All eyes are turned on them as the music begins for they are stunning. The demon
prince dressed in his royal blue robe and Anastasia adorned in a white gown looking
like an angel fallen from heaven. Castor dancing looks at his bride with a look of
love and adoration in his eyes as he dances. “You look beautiful .” he tells her and she
blushes and they continue to dance.
“Look at them you think they were made for each other.”
a prince standing to the side states jealously and walks up to Anna and grabs her
by the wrist dragging her by the wrist away from Castor. “Dance with me .” he demands.
As he drags her to the floor Anna looks towards Castor for help. Nicolai seeing his daughter
in trouble steps in to help but Valeria puts a hand on him and says. “No this is for him to do.”As she does Castor moves in on the drunken prince in the blink of an eye and grabs
the prince . The prince startled crumples in pain as Castor continues to apply pressure and says “If this were where I came from . I would have you castrated , be glad you live here. Now go!” The prince quickly gets off the floor and looks at Castor with a look of fear and leaves humiliated. “Are you alright my love?”ask Castor. “Yes thank you what did you say to him.?” ask Anna. “Nothing much just a warning . Shall we dance.” Castor tells her and he leads her back to the floor.
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Nicolai looking on from the side steps up and says “Well I say it’s time for dinner
shall we all adjourn to the dinning hall.” The dance ends and Castor and Anna with
Nicolai head to the hall. As they leave Nicolai notices the besmirched prince and approaches
him. “My wife stopped me from interfering .But I warn you try something like that again
and you will hence forth be my royal stable hand.” Nicolai warns the prince.
The prince looks shocked and quickly hurries away.
7.
.As the banquet begins a great feast is enjoyed by all attended in honor
of Castor and Anna who situated by the Czar and his wife. “Pardon me. A lot of us
are curious about the robe you wear. Is there a special meaning to them or is just the
style where you reside.” a duchess ask. “Yes there is. The robes designate caste.
My father has a bat on his since he is the first of the new race and emperor. I have horns
on mine and our advisers have a bat with a laurel leaf crown since all our advisers come
from Roman stock .” Explains Castor. “So they designate caste. But what about the other
castes like soldiers for example.” says a Russian general. “They have a different symbol
on the back a rook like in chess.”says Castor.
“Forgive them my love . You are just new too them.” she said to Castor. Looking at the nobles Castor comments to his beloved. “It’s quite alright . I would expect them to be curious. If they weren’t then I would be worried.” “Now what that supposed too mean .” A noble says outraged. “ I only meant that your human. I would expect you to be curious. As of myself . I am of the new race, we don’t let our emotions rule us.”Castor says apologetically. “Anna I think you should escort our guest out of here.” Nicolai tells her. “Of course father.” Anna agrees and escorts him out of the dining hall.
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“You have to keep such opinions too yourself my love.” she tells Castor.
“Why I was only stating the truth.” Castor says arrogantly. “In your eyes maybe , but not
everybody thinks the way you do my love.” Anna explains to him. “Maybe you should
show him the city my love.” Nicolai says. “Good idea father.” Anna says and they leave.
8.
The heart of the great Russian empire. They walk down the streets dressed in what they thought was appropriate Castor in his robe and Anna in a peasant outfit . “I love walking the streets. It gives me a chance to see how the other half
lives. Father does it too. Even though mother disapproves.” Anna explains walking over to
a vendor selling fine meats and pays for some and hands one to him and they walk on.
“Beggars . “ Castor states in disgust seeing the beggar. “Alms for the poor,” the beggar asks
looking up at them. Anna drops a few coins in his hat and they walk on. “You have
beggars here. How is that?” Castor asks commenting. “And you don’t.” Anna states
“No the way things are set up everybody serves the greater good.” Castor tells her..
“Maybe that can be done here.” Anna says with hope. “Maybe.” Castor replies and
walks on ahead where he notices a vendor selling fine fabrics. “Anything catch your
fancy my lord.” the vendor ask. “Yes this. I have never seen any material like it.”
Castor says eying a piece of fabric. “You have a fine eye sir . Russian silk . You won’t
find it anywhere in the world.” the vendor says. “I’ll take it .” Castor tells him handing the
vendor a few coins. “That’s beautiful .” Anna says coming from behind and noticing
the fabric. “It’s for you.” Castor says. Anna eyes the fabric adoringly “It’s for your
ceremonial robe when you meet my father.” explains Castor.
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“Oh thank you Castor . But then what is my crest.” Anna ask. “The same as mine. You
are to marry me so your crest will be the same. Only our son’s or daughter’s will be
different.” Castor says “Oh I see . Thank you. I ‘ll have the royal tailor make it when
we get back. “ Anna nods and they continue walking.
As they continue walking they pass a pub where a bouncer is throwing
out unruly patron. “You haven’t heard the last of me. I..I am a prince.” the patron
fumbles. “Ya the prince of nothing.” says the bouncer laughing. He staggers away and
notices Anna and Castor. “You! You did this to me” the drunken prince states pointing
clumsily at Castor. “Are you here for more?”ask Castor to the besotted prince.
“You brought this upon yourself young prince.” Anna tells the prince.
“Who are you wench to accuse me.” the prince ask disrespectful. Anna lowers her hood
and the prince sees who she is . “My ..my lady I ‘m sorry.” the prince says.
“Phew as you should be. A prince of your stature hanging around pubs my
father shall here of this.” Anna warns him waving a hand in front of her face.
“Now leave wretch.” Castor orders him and shoves him away.”Poor soul he really did
bring this on him self.” Anna admits“My love you shouldn’t feel sorry for him. If this
were Wallache he would be executed for such disrespect.” s Castor tells her as they continue to walk.
At the center of the market two men stand are sword fighting.
As Castor and Anna come near. “What’s this?” Castor his curiosity peaked.
“A duel ring they are scattered all over Russia.” Anna explains .
“Interesting. Do you mind my love?” ask Castor. “No you are here to learn
our customs.” Anna tell him. “Thank you my love.” he says disrobing and handing it
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to Anna. Castor walks up rolling his shoulders they spectators look his way as he
as he walks up to the ring. “I challenge the winner.” Castor boasts The duelist
turn and the larger one says. “What have we hear a demon or a man.”
“More like a freak.”the other comments. “Go away little man.” the larger one says and
he turns and they continue their duel. “Fine I challenge both of you.” Castor states
“Both of us. You must be really brave or really foolish.” says the larger one.
“I go for the latter.” the other taunts laughing. “Fine if you don’t want to fight
that’s fine with me. I am only one man.” Castor says turning his back on them.
“Hey it’s his funeral.” the larger one laughs. “Choose your weapon.” the other fighter
tells him. “I choose the rapier.” Castor tells him and draws his sword as the smaller one who commented that he was foolish comes at him but Castor easily deflects his attack
sending him into the crowd. The larger one of the two sees this and comes from behind with his broad drawn raised above his head as he come at him Castor turns and kicks him
knocking him off balance. The smaller of the two retaliates by lunging at him but Castor
deflects his attack back at him and he falls off balance on to his sword. In an extraordinary
move Castor leaps backs and grabs the sword from the smaller one and leaps back up ready for the next attack. With two weapons in hand he comes at remaining the duelist with
the speed of his kind. The brute unprepared for the attack tries to deflect the attack
but Castor uses his second sword to step in and slash his abdomen with his other,
The brute reals and falls in pain. Castor steps up and puts his rapier to his
throat and says “Do you yield?” The brute nods and gets up saying “Who are you?”
“Prince Castor Malkivan.” Castor tells him proudly. “The demon prince.” the brute
admits surprised. “I should have known with those horns.” the brute comments.
“Are you done my love.” ask Anna handing him his robe. “Yes I feel much better
now.” Castor tells her donning his robe and sheathing his sword and they walk away
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Chapter 7
1.
In the palace Castor and Anna are resting up from the excursion in town
when Nicolai enters. “So did you enjoy your outing.” Nicolai asks. “Yes I did thoroughly.”
Castor comments . “Yes I heard . You know the intention is only to maim the other
duelist not kill him. “ said Nicolai with his arms crossed. “I’ll remember that for next time.”
Castor says. “When your done meet me in the throne room.” Nicolai says leaving.
In the throne room as Castor enter s he sees Nicolai sitting with the brute
that he defeated kneeling in front. “ I am not asking for retribution your majesty. I just
want to talk with him.” the brute pleads“Then speak.” Castor tells him walking up to the brute.“Castor this man has something to say to you.” Nicolai explains “I...I have never seen
anyone fights like you I wish to serve you as your body guard.” the brute admits.
“I accept but not as a body guard but as an ally.” Castor says extending his hand. The brute
rise and says “I am Christoph.” “Well met Christoph you were a fine challenge.”
Castor says shaking his hand. “Thank you I will serve you well.” Christoph vows
beaming and leaves with a grin on his face. “That was well done.” Nicolai tells him well
pleased. “I can always use allies and I sense he is actually a good man.” Castor admits.
“Yes he will be a loyal knight in your retinue.” Nicolai agrees and Castor bows
and leaves.
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Outside Christoph waits standing as Castor arrives “Does that hurt “ Castor ask strait forward. “My lord?” Christoph questions. “The wound does it bother you.” Castor says indicating his wound. “Not so much my lord. It is healing quite nicely.” Christoph says respectfully to Castor holding his wound which his covered by a poultice. “So I am headed to my room. To get ready for my date with Lady Anastasia.” Castor says indicating that he should follow. “She is a fine lady my lord.”Christoph comments to his friend. “Yes she is . When I first arrived I was a little leery about this whole arrangement, but then I saw her and I knew she was the one for me.”Castor tells him. “I am pleased for you my lord.” Christoph replies as they near Castor’s room.“Wait here . I’ll be out in minute.” Castor says entering the room.
As Castor changes his cloth a woman changed to the wall
cringes from him. “Why are you so afraid . You should be glad your out of that stuffy
castle in Europe.” Castor coos at her and grabs a goblet and drains some blood sipping
it. Outside Castor comes out dressed to the nine with his white silk shirt , black pant
and a tie. “To the arboretum , my lady says she has a surprise .” Castor tells Christoph
as they leave.
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2.
Inside Anna awaits patiently for her beloved as Castor enters and sees her dressed in
a fine country dress and muffs. “You look breathtaking my love. Oh this is Christoph
my friend and body guard . You remember the man I beat in the duel.” Castor introduces
taking her hand. “Yes of course . So I thought we would go for a picnic. I know this
quaint little park I would like to show you.” Anna tells him. “It sounds delightful my love
lead the way.” Castor replies and they walk hand in hand with Christoph walking behind.
As they enter Castor looks around amazed. “This is it. Do you like it?” ask Anna. There are Oak trees every where and flowers growing in abundance . The park looks like it has never been touched by the hand of man. “This is remarkable place how did you ever find
it my lady.” ask Christoph. “I found it in one of my wanderings through the city.”
Anna expaliains“It’s beautiful my love, just as you are.” Castor says emphatically. Anna
blushes with the compliment and they sit down and commence their picnic. As they
begin to eat a commotion from the oak trees behind them and the drunken prince
emerges out of hiding with a band of ruffians he has hired. “I’d swear you’d pay
for the humiliation and now you shall. Get them!” The prince orders and they attack Castor
and Anna. Christoph draws his sword and prepares to defend his friend. “This it none of
your business. Leave and you won’t get hurt.” the prince snarls. “It is now . I swore an
oath to protect him .” Christoph states . “So be it.” the prince says and comes at him.
Castor seeing his honor defended rises and draws his rapier and commence to cover his
friends back. “I knew you would be here. I followed you from the castle.” the prince
admits joyfully and attacks Castor only to be blocked by Christoph .”Have you forgotten
about me little man “ Christoph taunts and lunges at the prince only to have one of the ruffians come at him. “You handle the ruffians and I’ll handle the prince .” Castor says and they attack together. Christoph jumps in at the ruffians scattering them and attacks.
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As the prince comes in at Castor who easily blocks his blow with his rapier. Then
lunges at the prince getting a shot in and parrying . As this happens Christoph has
no problems with his fight as he mans handles one of the ruffians and tosses him against
the oak tree. One of them seeing Anna all alone comes at her with a leer in his eye
but Castor spots him before he can make a move and tosses his dagger while continuing
to fight the prince. “Where did you learn to fight like this ?” the prince ask breathlessly.
“My father is the dark prince vermin . Does that answer your question.” Castor replies
coming at the prince with uncanny speed. The prince looks on in fear now realizing how
out matched he is but does not back down but comes at him more determined than ever.
“The likes of you do not deserve her.” he says and charges recklessly at him Castor
looks on embarrassed for him and successfully blocks his attack. “You do not seem to
understand the likes of you can never defeat the likes of me.” Castor boasts.
The prince hearing this just gets more angry and in frustration redoubles his attack hoping
to get a shot in “You don’t seem to understand. I am of the new
race and this endsnow!!” Castor tells him as the prince come at him again but this
time Castor ducks and slashes the prince with his sword at his tendons knocking
him down. The prince fallen looks at Castor as he gets up and put the sword
to prince’s neck and says “Yield.” “Never. I will never be beaten by the likes of you.”
the prince says looking at him with contempt. “I will not kill you. You are beneath me.”
Castor said with contempt Anna seeing the prince’s humiliation walks up to him and helps him up and says. “It’s really sweet that you feel this way. But I love him , not you.”
The prince looking stricken and dejected looks at them and nods. “There now you see.
There is nothing for you here.” He looks at and fumbles saying “I..I am sorry.” and then
leaves with his lackeys following. “So that was a row.”
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Christoph says coming from behind. “Yes how did you fare?” ask Castor. “Please those bandits were no match for the likes of me.” Christoph says “Do you think they will return?” Anna ask. “Do not worry my dear I think we have seen the last of him.” Castor says and they return to their picnic.
3.
In his room at the Castle . Castor is changing his clothes when Nicolai
enters with Christoph. “ I heard you had a ruckus at the park.” Nicolai comments.
“Yes but nothing Christoph and I couldn’t handle.” Castor says. “You’ll probably have
to deal with more people like him in the future. That is until you and Anna get married
and you are coronated.”explains Nicolai. “I’m only eighteen your highness. Anna and I
are going to wait till were twenty-five to tie the knot.” Castor says, “Well then it is good
that you have Christoph . Because most of the nobility feel the same way the prince
does that you are less than nothing because of your heritage.” says Nicolai .
Castor shrugs his shoulders and looks at his future father-in-law and says. “It does not
matter I will deal with it when it comes.” Christoph steps forwards and stands beside his
friend and ward and says “Don’t worry your majesty he’s safe as long as I am around.”
Nicolai looks at the two with a look of worry then leaves saying. “ I have another meeting
to attend too I’d like you to be there.”
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Inside the throne room Nicolai awaits the arrival of Castor when he enters the
the room dressed in his new robe. Noticing him Nicolai signals for Castor to come forward
and stand beside him. “Part of being king is to maintain the law. Here we have two people
awaiting judgment. One of them you are familiar with and the other you are not.” Nicolai
says. The prince and a man dressed in farming clothes approach the throne. Castor seeing the prince looks at him with disgust and disdain.
“My daughter told me what happened . Even with my warning you disobeyed. I have no
choice but to remove your title and lands. Go now! I don’t want to see you again. Now
to the other business this man has come pleading for lands so that he may have a place
to live when his travels take him here. How you would you deal with this Castor?”
“What about the prince’s land?” ask Castor. “Good call lad I bequeath land stranger.”
“Thank you your majesty.” and the hooded man leaves. “Now to the last business.
This man was caught steeling from noble. What punishment would you give him?”
Nicolai says to Castor. “If this were Wallache we would have his hands cut off.”
says Castor. “I believe I said we deal with thing differently here .” Nicolai explains
again to Castor. “Explain your actions !” a guard says pushing him forward in front
of Nicolai. “Please your lordship my family is poor and we need money. And the
nobles have more than enough to go around.” the prisoner says. Nicolai looks at the
prisoner considering his words. He is dressed in clothes that look like they have
been warn several times over and considers that .this man would not benefit from a night in jail .
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So he says to the prisoner. “Never the less you have broken the law. I sentence you to
work at the mines . Where you will be paid and the money sent to your family.”
Nicolai tells the prisoner then turns to Castor and explains. “See his is still punished but
I helped at the same time. A good king is fair and just at the same time.” Castor considers
this and then says not quite understanding. “Why should you be. You are in charge not
them.” “You don’t want them to fear and disrespect you or else you could have an
uprising.” Nicolai says to Castor. “That seems fair . But you can’t be too lenient”
Castor says muling over his words. “ That’s why I sent him too the
mines you see.” Nicolai says to Castor who nods and thinks of something else when
Anna enters. “Father are you done the royal tailor says he wants Castor to come for
a fitting.” Anna says to her father. “Well now we can’t have the tailor waiting now
can we.” Nicolai says to his daughter winking at Castor and Anna and Castor walk
off together.
“So what’s this about a fitting?” ask Castor.
“Mother’s idea She thinks you should look more like a Russian prince and less
like a foreigner.” Anna says rolling her eyes. “But I am a foreigner.” Castor said laughing.
“I know . That’s one of things I love about you, but mother has other ideas. So
I’m supposed to take you too the tailor where she is working.” Anna says with a sigh.
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4.
“Ah about time Anna dear. I thought you would be here sooner.”
Valeria chides.”He was with father. I swear between you and father we have no time
together.” Anna said exasperatedly . “Nonsense dear. You’ll have plenty of time
together when your married.” Valeria tells her daughter, “But that’s not for another
eight years mother. Until then we try to get as much time together as we can.”
Anna tries to explain to her mother. “Well ,now I need him for a while dear. Now
then Castor. If you could stand on the pedestal so the tailor can measure you. Your
next my dear I’ve noticed that your dresses have become shabby.” Valeria says fussing
over Castor. “Oh mother.” Anna says rolling her eyes at her mom. Castor steps
on the stool and the tailor takes measurements he looks Anna’s way and shrugs then
comments to Valeria. “I don’t see why I need this. My clothes are fine.”
“Nonsense you are in Russia now. You need to look the part. That robe was
atrocious you looked like a monk.” Valeria says straight forwardly.
“Madam that robe is tradition.” Castor says offended and squirming under the
tailors mensurations. “Well now you live here. We have different traditions here.”
Valeria chides.”You would have me forget about my heritage.” Castor says
astonished. “No of course not you just have to adapt a little now stop fussing.”
Valeria tells him.“H mm tall lad isn’t he.” the tailor comments “Yes he is.”
Valeria says to the tailor looking at Castor. “Can you do anything?” ask Valeria.
“Yes I was thinking royal blue and maybe the suits the Italians are wearing these
days.” the tailor tells her looking at Castor. “Ha. You do realize that all of Europe is under
my father’s sway.” Castor tells him as the tailor fits him for the suits. “Yes but he doesn’t
dictate fashion does he.” Valeria says. “No he believes in free will.” Castor tells him
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“Well then since I know these things. This is how they dress in Italy now.” Valeria chides with her hands on her hips.“Oh you may step down now.” the tailor says to Castor. “Now it’s your turn my dear.”Valeria says to her daughter. Anna sighs and steps on the pedestal as Castor steps down and stretches. “My she has certainly grown out to become a lovely young woman.” tailor comments appraising her. “Keep your eyes to your self if you want to keep
your position.” Castor tells the tailor with a stern voice. “Now my dear he’s just stating
the obvious.” Valeria tells Castor. “Well okay but he should just do his job. If he knows
what’s good for him after all it’s not right for someone like him to look at her like that.”
Castor tell him glaring at the tailor who looks nervous realizing that he means business and
quickly measures her.
In the garden after the fiasco with thetailor Castor and
Anna walk hand in hand through the many rows of flowers. “I’m sorry about that.”
Anna says apologetically. “It’s quite all right my love. I could use some new suits.”
Castor says to Anna as they continue their stroll. Anna walks on ahead where to a
pond where she and Castor sit down. “We don’t get much time together do we.”
Anna says . “No but as your mother stated we have our whole lives together and
every moment I spend with you is precious to me.” Castor says looking in her eyes
and taking her hand. She leans her head on him and they sit and stare at the pond.
Later on as they rise to leave a messenger with a message
“My lord I am sorry to disturb you but a royal carriage approaches.” the messenger
says. “Do you know who it is?” Castor ask his curiosity peaked. “It’s your parents my
lord.” the messenger says. “I wonder what they are doing here.” Castor says scratching
chin. “It looks like you will meet my father sooner than I hoped.” Castor says and they
head into the castle.
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5.
“Ah there you are my son.” said Vlad walking up to greet his son.
“Father what are you doing here?” ask Castor. “Your father was worried that
you might feel resentful towards him for sending you here.” Elizabetha explains
greeting her son. “I was but now I am fine. So how are things at the castle. Who is ruling
in your place while your away. “ ask Castor. “Everything is fine my son. I just thought
that I should come and visit you and... who’s this?” Vlad ask noticing Anna stands next
to his son. “Father,Mother . This is Anastasia.” Castor says. “This can’t be little Anastasia.
The last time we saw you were a little girl. Look at you now.” Vlad comments
on how much she’s grown. “It’s a pleasure to meet you sir.” Anna says curtsying.
“Come we will have a banquet in the honor of our guest.” Nicolai interrupts
telling them.
At the banquet Vlad and guest are sitting and chatting when
Ann and Castor enter dressed in their new clothes “Look at you my son “ Elizabetha
liking her son’s new look. “Apparently it’s all the rage in Italy these days.” Castor comments“Oh it is . I have actually visited Italy with your father.” Elizabetha says commenting on what her son just said.”So Prince Vlad you must tell me how your son got those horns.” Nicolai asks Vlad as he does Vlad looks at his son and smiles. “It’s
actually a funny story, but I don’t want to embarrass my son so maybe later.” Vlad
tells him. “D ah you and I will have carafe in my study where we can talk more privately.”
Nicolai agrees. “Yes then Anna and I can talk about how she mellowed my son.”
Elizabetha tells Anna who looks towards Castor for support and he just shrugs his
shoulders.
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After the banquet in the hallway Castor and Anna walk hand and
hand towards the study and the library. “I am sorry about this my love I had no idea
they were coming .” Castor apologizes to Anna. “That’s alright we were going
to have to meet sometime right.” Anna tells him. “This is one of those things I love about
you your so understanding. You’d better go my mother’s waiting for you.” Castor
teases “And you too . I believe my father and yours are in the study.” Anna replies
to Castor and they reluctantly part ways.
6.
“So you were going to tell me how he got those horns.” Nicolai asks Vlad sitting
in s chair in the study with Nicolai smoking his pipe and Vlad having a carafe of blood.
“First tell me how is he doing ?” ask Vlad . “Your son is a fine boy a little head strong
but...” “Did I interrupt anything ?” Castor ask coming into the study interrupting
what Nicolai was saying. “Ah my son we were just discussing you.” Vlad comments handing his son a glass. “I heard father.” Castor replies and sits down. “Your father was just about to tell me about your horns. I don’t think they’re a fashion statement are they?” Nicolai asks Castor. “Can we please forget about that incident. I was only fourteen. “ Castor
says annoyed. “ I realize that my son, but you had us worried. We thought you were hurt.”
Vlad tells his son sympathetically. Castor looks at his dad
and then nods understandingly . “So how did he get those horns?” ask Nicolai
“My son summoned a demon.” Vlad explains “Which knowledge came from when he
drank from the blood of that traitor.” Nicolai comments. “I wanted to make the blood line
stronger.” Castor says defensively “ Yes but in doing so you nearly damed us all.”
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Vlad replies . “So how did he get those horns?” ask Nicolai a second time.
“In a foolish act . He called upon the demon again and drank his blood.” Vlad
tells Nicolai laughing. “It seems like a good idea at the time.” Castor says sullenly. “Well let us discuss other things the wedding for example . I was thinking of having it here.”
Nicolai tells them.
7.
“This place is beautiful my dear.” Elizabetha tells Anna . “I was hoping you would
like it. It’s a far nicer place to talk then that dreary old library.” Anna says as they
walk in the arboretum. “Castor seems content and happy for the first time.”
Elizabetha tells her. “I love your son a lot “ Anna says “Yes I think he feels the
same way.” Elizabetha tells her ,and Anna smiles at that and they walk on.
“So where do think the wedding should be held?” Nicolai ask Castor.
“Honestly we haven’t thought that far. We plan to wait till were twenty-five.”
Castor explains. “Why so long my son?” Vlad asks of his son. “I still have a lot to learn father. And Anna wants to travel some.” Castor tells him. “Oh really where?” ask Nicolai
“She and I would like to travel east.” Castor replies. “That’s an excellent idea.” Vlad says
seizing on it.”But before I go I am sure that there’s more I need learn here.”
Castor looking toward Nicolai. “Nonsense we can alway continue your lesson
when you come back.” Nicolai answers “That’s right and this will be an excellent learning
experience.” Vlad tells his son. “ I guess and Anna is looking forward to this.” Castor says.
“So it’s decided when you are ready you will leave for the east..” Vlad says taking a sip
of coffee and saying no more.
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In their room Castor is packing his belonging when Anna walks
up to him with a look of concern. “You haven’t packed yet my love?” Castor ask noticing
Ann doesn’t have a suitcase with her. “I don’t understand why we have to leave so soon.”
Anna tells him . “I don’t really understand either, but let’s not question a gift horse in the
mouth. Besides I see this as a great opportunity and when we get back we will get married.”
Castor says to Anna wrapping his arms around her. “You mean it, when we get back we’ll
finally get married.” Anna says “Yes I do.” Castor replies kissing her. She looks at him
happily then leaves to tell her parents the news and pack.
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Chapter8
1.
“This is great news my son. It show you are becoming more responsible.” Vlad
tells Castor as Castor tells them the news. “Well I do love her and I figure why wait
when we’ll both be adults soon.” Castor comments. “Oh a wedding you and I need to get together to discuss wedding plans .” Elizabetha whispers to Valeria. “Oh yes indeed.” Valeria nods agreeing. “Easy my sweet. They haven’t even left yet and you are discussing their wedding .”Nicolai chides. “I’ll miss you my son.” Vlad says hugging Castor. “I know I'll miss you too. But I think I can learn a lot there. The people in the east have some interesting practice that we can use and this also a chance to lay a foundation in the east.” Castor replies and he and Anna head for their rooms to rest for the next day.
Dawn breaks and the carriage arrive as Castor and Anna say tearful goodbyes
to their parents and then leave for the east.
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2.
In the carriage Castor leans backs and looks out seeing his parents and waves.
“You know when I first arrived here I resented being sent here, I thought my father
sent me here because he was of afraid of my growing powers. I now realize he knew
I still had a lot to learn.” Castor comments to Anna. “You were only fourteen you
didn’t know any better. I was like that too. I resented the arranged marriage, but
then I met you and fell in love. That’s how life works.” Anna says and the carriage takes
off to the dock.
Night falls and the carriage arrives in the town where Castor
made quite a row at the Inn. “Isn’t this where you stayed my love when you
arrived?” Anna ask seeing the Inn. Castor looks out and sees the Inn and remembers.
“Yes it is, driver stop here.” Castor says knocking on window. “Just as well the horses
need to rest.” the driver says pulling over to the Inn. Castor steps out and holds his
hand out for Anna who steps out and they head for the Inn. “Why are we here?”
Anna ask “ I wish to make amends” Castor says as they enter the Inn with the driver
in tow.
As they enter the Inn Castor notices how the Inn hasn’t changes much. There
is still sawdust on the floor and at the end the bartender is still the same one from when
he was there those many years ago. “You ! I never thought I would see you again.”
the bartender tells him looking startled. I am not here to cause trouble I am here to make
amends.” Castor explains and reaches into his pouch and hands over one thousand drachmas.“This is more than enough thank you .” the bartender says eying the gold and stashing it away. “You have a good location here. With the right kind of money you could bring some more reputable customers.” Castor comments looking around. “ You think so?” the bartender ask. “Oh yes indeed. I know some merchants who travel this road quite
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frequently and are alway looking for a place to stay.” Anna says to him. “Then thank
you how can I repay you.” the bartender says . “A room would be nice .” Castor says
to the bartender. “Oh of course the best room I can offer you and your lady friend.”
the bartender says escorting them upstairs. “This is my finance.” Castor explains to the
bartender. “Oh then congratulations.” the bartender says to him as he shows him there room.“Oh and don’t worry about those thugs who were here before. I kicked them out and
told them not to return.” the bartender tells them and they enter the room as the bartender
leaves. “Did you really mean what you said about merchants looking for a place to
stay?” Castor ask her as he gets ready for bed. “Yes. I’ll tell my father when I get back
and he’ll make all the arrangements.” Anna tells him as she gets in bed with him.
3.
The harbor is busy as Castor and Anna arrive to catch their ship As they
pass the dock workers and merchants towards their ship . People turn to stare at the devil
prince and his consort . Castor glares at them back and then hurries ahead with Anna
towards the Oriental ship docked at the port. “Why do people have to be so rude ?”
Anna asks as she wraps her fur stole tightly around her. “Pay no attention my love. I
am eighteen now and have learned not to let it faze me.” Castor tells her as they board the
ship. “You are the passengers going the Orient.” a sailor ask Castor.
“Yes we are .” Castor tells him handing a letter from Nicolai . “Ah yes then everything
is in order.” The sailor says taking the letter and escorting on the ship.
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4.
As the ship sails Castor and Anna look out and watch the ship sail.
“Beg your pardon sir. But the captain wishes you and your finance to join
him for lunch.” A sailor says walking up to them. “That’s very gracious of him
tell him we’ll be right there.” Castor replies and they head to the captains den.
At the captains table Castor and Anna are enjoying their dinner
. “So what business do you have in the Orient?” ask the captain. “Just seeing the sights of your wonderful country.” Anna says to the captain.“Ah yes there is a lot to see, but I have never seen anyone as fair as you,” the captainsays to her. “Yes she is.” Castor says agreeing with the captain. “Aye that is why I am afraid I have to do this.” the captain says and two sailors step in and draw swords on them. “What’s the meaning of this?” Castor asked outraged“Yes we have done nothing to merit this.” Anna says “This be a slave ship and you be our prisoners. Your lass will fetch a fair price on the slave market and I know some
people who would like to have you.” the captain says “You have made a terrible
mistake. I would have been a valuable ally, But you will see just who I am.” Castor
says as the sailors escort them to the brig down below.
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In the cells below deck. Castor paces as Anna sits with her hands
head in her hands. “How did this happen?” Anna ask. “I’m not sure , but I think it
must have happened at the Inn. But do not worry my love we won’t be here long.”
Castor reassures her. As they wait a sailor appears from above deck carrying their
supper. “Free us.” Castor demands of the sailor as he hands them their food through
the bars. “And why should I do that ?” the sailor ask laughing. “Because I can make
it worth your while.” Castor grins trying to appeal to his greed. “We already
have your gold what else do we need. No my lad I think you’ll be staying here for
a while.” The sailor says and leaves them to their dinner.
5.
As dawn arrives the captain arrives to see his prisoners. “So where are your
threats now locked in this cage.” the captain taunts “Oh I am not as helpless as I
seem.” Castor says and smiles and looks the captain in the eyes and implants a hypnotic
suggestion. The captain unaware of what he is doing reaches for the keys and drops
them near the cell. Castor swiftly moves faster than the eye can see grabs the keys
and release Anna and himself from the cell.
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With the spell broken the captain looks up and realizes that the
prisoners have escaped and are standing right in front of him. “How did you
get out?” the captain says a bit mystified. “You let us out .” Castor says dangling
his keys and smiles showing off his fangs. “Now we can do this the hard way or the
easy way.” Castor says. The captain looks at him and reluctantly agrees.
Castor and Anna walk up to the main deck with the captain in front to make sure
he doesn’t try to escape or alert the crew. “How far are we from the Orient ?”
ask Castor. “We are nearly there see the dragons.” the captain says pointing
to the sky. Castor and Anna look up in amazement at the dragons flying
above them. “I take it you never seen dragons.” the captain says noticing
their look of amazement. Castor and looks at the captain and says.
“No but my father would love to have these in his army. Where do they
reside?” “Just along on the shore and coast.” the captain says. “Okay that’s one thing
we have to do is capture some for breeding.” Castor says to the captain. “Good luck
many have tried but all have failed.” the captain replies. “Yes but none have been
like me.” Castor says gazing out towards the coast.
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6.
The dock of Osaka is rustling with traffic as the ship carrying Castor and
Anna sails in to port. “I’m going to let you go on good faith.” Castor warns the
captain. “Thank you I promise not to tell” the captain replies “Just try to find a more reputable business.” Anna advises him. “I will, thank ye.” the captain says and
Castor and Anna head towards a kabuki cab and ride off towards the main
city. “So you think you can do it?”ask Anna. “I can try my love that’s all any of
us can do.” Castor says and kisses her on the cheek then turn to the driver and
and says. “Pardon me but do yo know where I can hire some mercenaries?”
Castor asks the driver. “May I ask what sir?” the driver ask.“To capture dragons.” Castor replies.”Ah so you are a dragon slayer.” the driver comments
“No nothing like that I wish too tame them and breed them. Where I come from we have
no dragons.” Castor says “Ah well then you can usually find some at a pub called the
Wretched Man.” the driver says and takes them to their Inn.
Later on in their room at the inn Castor is getting his gear
ready to go to the pub. “Are you sure you want to do this my love you heard
what the captain said.” Anna says worriedly . “Yes I did but this is a chance to
make our kingdom even greater.” Castor says and kisses her on the forehead
and turns to leave.
7.
The Wretched Man is the host to the worst that Osaka has to offer. Pirate
and crooks haunt the tavern as well as men who are down on their luck. As Castor
enters a few men glance his way eying his rapier than turn away as he approaches
the bar. “This is no place for the like of you young sir.” the bartender tell him
as he wipes down the bar. “I am looking for a few men to go on a risky
mission. “ Castor says. “Looking for trouble is more like it.” mumbles a man
sitting at a table. “I am willing to pay handsomely.” Castor says and tosses his
money on the bar. “Now what’s stopping me from just taking it.” A pirate says
approaching Castor. “My sword at your throat.” Castor says drawing his
rapier and pointing at the pirate. “You may be able to stop me but what about the
rest.” the pirate says nodding to his companions who are getting up from their seats
and heading towards Castor and their friend. “Oh then how about we make this a fair
fight and take me on as well.” Christoph says entering the bar carrying his broad sword
over on shoulder. Castor looks up from the fight and sees Christoph smiling with
his newly acquired fangs. “Your father thought that you might need some help.”
Christoph says joining in the fight. “It looks like he did more than that.” Castor says
to his friend. “Yes he thought I might need a bit of an edge. I agreed of my own choosing
to do it.” Christoph says so Castor doesn’t worry. Castor turns towards the bar and says
“So I ask again who is willing to accompany me?” The patron at the bar look down at the
defeated pirates and then some of them step forward for the mission.
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8.
The Isle of Dragons. For centuries it has been a haven for dragons the
persecution of man. As the ship nears the isle Castor stands on the port bow looking
ahead as his friend and bodyguard Christoph steps beside him . “My I ask what are
going to do here?” ask Christoph looking ahead at the isle. “We are going to
capture two live dragons a male and a female and make our empire the greatest
in the world.” Castor says with pride. “A risky business for sure.” comments the
captain. “Yes but think of the glory and fame you will receive for capturing two live
dragons.” Castor says as the ship nears the isle with Christoph looking up and seeing
a herd of dragons flying through the sky.“All right men this no time to lose your cool.” Castor says. “This is far as I go I'll be back for the survivors if there be any .” the captain says to Castor ominously“All right we have a lot of work to do so lets get going bring the nets and don't forget the bait.” Castor says to his men. A sailor drags two small goats to the row boat where Castor and Christoph wait and they head towards the shore.
9.
From the distance the isle is seen as they near the shore, when a roar is heard
from above leagues away. “Here that. Here there be dragons.” A sailor says looking
ahead at the isle. “Be ready men and remember you do it for fame and glory.”
Castor shouts “I’ve heard tales that dragon fire is like you’ve ever experienced”
a sailor says. “Let’s not focus on old wives tales, but keep our mind focused on the
present.” Christoph advised the crew as head to shore. On shore a dragon is seen
in the distance, the men look up and then look towards Castor who is setting up
a tent getting ready for the hunt.
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Inside Castor looks over his equipment as Christoph enter the tent.
“Sire the men are afraid.” Christoph says to his friend. “I realize this it’s only natural.
But once they capture there first dragon it will change to exhilaration.” Castor replies
to Christoph and continues to examine the lances.
10.
As morning dawns Castor and his men head out in to the forest.
The forest of the Isle has been untouched for centuries left alone by man
because it is one of the most feared in the world. As Castor and his men
enter they notice skeletal remains from previous would be hunters the men
look too each other nervously and continue on when Castor signals them to
hold here. He turns to Christoph and hands him a lance then speaks to his
men saying “ Now remember we are not here to harm them just capture
them. Only kill them if it is necessary. Oh remember dragon fear is a
powerful emotion but remember that’s just it . It’s just an emotion it
can be controlled.” Castor says encouragingly and he and his men move on.
As they near the center of the forest a sailor notices that a
tree seems strangely burned and there are remains nearby. “Dragon fire , there
is a dragon nearby alright . Set up the bait. Two men in the trees with the net
and the rest of us in the bushes.” Castor orders. As they get into position a roar
is heard and a huge black dragon flies out and circles the bait that the sailor
put out. Castor looks up and sees it and exclaims. “That’s a male . Alright when
it goes for the bait.” The great dragon circles once more than soars down on the
goat. Castor signals to his men in the trees and they drop the net. The dragon
roars it rage at the sailors at it being captured and Castor and his men move in.
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. “Keep on him we can’t let him escape.” Christoph shouts to the men.
The men rally around the dragon and to keep the dragon grounded but it shakes free
and flies off. Castor seeing that the dragon is about get away grabs small globe and
marks the dragon so they can follow it. “All right it can’t have gotten far follow it.”
Castor adives.. As they follow the dragon through the forest Christoph notices
something. “Isn’t that the goat?” ask Christoph. “I believe it is, we can’t be too far
behind. Come on.” Castor says to Christoph and the men as they continue to follow
the dragon’s trail where they find the dragon resting nearby. Castor and Christoph
quietly sneak up to the dragon. “Alright ropes ready” Castor tells his men as they
approach the dragon. “Wait. Now!” orders Castor . The men throw the ropes on to
the dragon with all their strength and the dragon wails in rage as he is subdued by the
sailors and Castor’s men. “Keep on him!” orders Christoph as his men hold on for
dear life to the ropes . As they do Castor cautiously approaches the dragon. “Sire what
are you doing?” ask Christoph worried for his lord . “We need to subdue him.” Castor
explains as he approaches the dragon and scratches under his chin.
“There we go . Alright get the wagon.” Castor orders and two men come in tow from
the bushes with a special built wagon and load the subdued dragon onto it and hall the
dragon away to the main camp. “Alright there must be a nest nearby. So the female
can’t be far behind. We’ll rest here and continue on in the morning.” says Castor to his
men.
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As morning approaches Castor and his men fresh from the first capture head out
to track and capture the female dragon. As the move through the forest they notice how
it is more restless as they approach the nest. They see birds and other animals fleeing
away from the dragon’s location. “ My lord I fear that I think it know we have it’s mate.”
a Sherpa said as they near the nest. “I know but we can’t turn back now.” Castor tells him
and order his men to continue on.
As they approach the nest a roar is heard as the dragon vents her
rage at the capturing of her mate. As they approach a huge wind blows throw the trees
as the dragon lifts off and heads there way. “My lord we should take cover she approaches.” advises Christoph. “Agreed. Alright crossbows ready and nets ready.”
Castor orders to his men. The archers quickly replace their arrows with the arrows tipped
with the anesthetic Castor concocted and the men head up in to the trees with the nets.
As they prepare the female dragon approaches from up above and rains
dragon fire down on them. “Shields!” Castor shouts to his men as they raise their shields
to protect themselves from the dragon’s wrath. “I fear the Sherpas were right . I think
she is angry with us .” Christoph mentions to him.“She might be . But also I think she is protecting her nest.” Castor tells Christoph as the dragon circles again. “She’ circling again. Alright archers at the ready when she comes down again drop the nets.” Castor tells them. .
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At Castor’s orders the men prepare for the dragon’s next attack, but as they
do a lone archer trembles and the fear inside becomes too much and flees for his life.
“What is that man doing ? Get him back here.” Christoph whispers to one of his men.
But as the man leaves to retrieve him . It’s for too late for the dragon spots him and
comes in for the attack and roast him alive. The men look on in horror and then turn
away. “What was his name?” Christoph ask”Rahab sire” a man tells him “Alright this is why it is crucial to say calm .” Castor tells his men and they nod now understanding.
the consequence . Above the dragon is circlrces again and prepare for another
assault. Castor and Christoph look up and see the dragon and order their men to
to be on the ready. The dragon circles one more time and then drops it’s wings and
prepares to dive in for the attack. “Now fire!” orders Castor and the archers rain
arrows on the dragon. The dragon roars in pain and tries to dislodge the arrows.
“Now !” Christoph shouts and the net is released down on the dragon.
“Hold her down and don’t let go.” orders Castor. “Archers!” Castor orders and
the archers reload and fire again on the dragon knocking it unconscious .
“Well done men . This is a great day for Wallache and Russia.” Castor says
congratulating his men.
At the camp Castor looks over his dragons with a proud smile
on his face as Christoph stands beside him. “Well my friend do you think my father
would be proud of me.” Castor asks smiling with pride. “Oh yes I think he will. “ Christoph
replies.”In the morning we will head back to Osaka. Get some sleep.” Castor says and they
head different ways.
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As morning approaches Castor and his men are busy preparing to disembark
for the mainland when the ship arrives. “So it looks like ye succeeded” the captain says
eying the men dragging the two sleeping dragons on too the ship’s hold. “Not with
a few casualties though.” Christoph tells the captain. “That was expected. I warned ye.”
the captain replies. “Yes you did now lets head off.” Castor suggests and he and his men
head onto the ship and head back to the main land.
11,
On shore the men disembark taking the two sleeping dragons away too
his ship as Castor heads wearily too the Inn.
In the Inn Castor heads too his room to rest from his adventure
when Ann and sees him and come up to him and hugs him. “You were crying.”
Castor said noticing her eyes. “ I was worried that you had died. A sailor came in
and said that a man had died on the expedition.” Anna says to him. “Yes we had a
casualty, but it wasn’t me. It would take more than a dragon to kill me. “ Castor
reassures her. “Now get dressed we’re going out to celebrate.” Castor tells
her.
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12.
At a small diner near the hotel Castor and Anna sit admiring the scenery.
“This sure is a beautiful country. All these temples.” Anna says commenting on
the country side and the temples. “Not as beautiful as you my love.” Castor says
and pulls out a ring. “I thought I should do this right.” Castor says and kneels before her.
“Anastasia Romanov will you marry me?” Castor says. Anna looks on beaming as Castor
holds out the ring. “Yes , Yes. Oh yes” Ann says to Castor as he places the ring on her
finger. “It’s beautiful my love . I’ve never seen such metal” Anna says admiring the ring.
“It’s dragon scale. I had some of it fashioned into a ring.” Castor says. “Oh Castor I love
you.” Anna says and they sit and finish their dinner.
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Chapter 9
1.
As Ann comes out of thebathroom Castor is packing his belongings getting ready for thejourney home. What are you doing?” Anna ask curious why he is packing. “We have to leave soon,The dragons can’t be left unattended and as much as I trust the men we hired. I’d rather make sure myself and beside there is a wedding to attend too.” Castor says winking at her. Anna blushes and then hurries off to pack her belongings too.
On the shore the ship is being prepared for the ride back to the rest as
Castor and Ann approach. The sailor is just loading dragons into the hold as one of
the dragons awaken from the tranquilizer and roars it’s dissent. Castor seeing the dragon
awake quickly kisses Anna and hurries off to help the men. “Careful. If he gets loose
he’ll level almost the whole town.” Castor says as the men struggle to subdue the dragon .
Castor seeing the dilemma looks at Ann and they both search for a way to calm the dragon.
As they do Ann notices a vendor selling fireworks and hurries over.”Do you have any
smoke bombs?” Anna asks the vendor. “Yes I do in all the colors of the rainbow.” the
vendor says noticing how she is dressed. “Yes , Yes that’s fine just give me what you
got.” Ann says and hurries back to Castor with the smoke bomb, “Good thinking my
love this should do.” Castor says lighting the bomb and tossing in the cage . The dragon
roars his rage once again and then lays down . “Now before he comes too.” Castor
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orders his men and they lower the dragon quickly into the hold.
“I can see this is going to be an eventful trip back.” Anna remarks as they
ship.
2.
On the ship Ann is finishing stowing away her belongings when Castor walks
up to her and wraps his arms around her. “So did you enjoy your self?” Castor ask
her. “It certainly was eventful. Did you?” she says back. “Yes considering all that’s
happened I think I’ve had my fill of adventuring for quite a while.” Castor says and they
leave their cabin to above deck.
Outside on the deck Castor and Anna look out onto the ocean.
“We’ll arrive at the part of Moscow in about an hour. So are we going to have more
trouble with the dragons?” the captain ask. “No I don’t think so the drug in their system
should keep them sedated till we reach shore.” Castor explains. He nods and head back to
port to pilot the ship. “Dragons. I can’t believe you captured some. Until now they have
only been a myth.” Anna comments . “Yes that’s how it is in Romania too. Stuff of
myth and legends. But now the world will witness their might under the yoke of Malkivan.”
Castor beams with pride.
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3.
As Castor and Anna continue to gaze out onto the sea. A sailor sees a ship
coming from the north. As the ship nears them Castor notices the insignia on the ship
and shout too the captain to hold off. “It’s a Romanian naval ship.” Castor says as the
ship flanks their ship and a sailor comes aboard bearing news. “My lord urgent news
from Romania.” the sailor shouts. “What news is this?” Castor asks the sailor.
“ A group of fanatics calling themselves the Knights Templar have taken the queen
hostage.” the sailor tells Castor. “My mother has been taken hostage , why?”
Castor ask. “They consider us unclean and declared what they call a jihad on us .”
the sailor explains. “A what?” Castor asks. “A holy war my lord.” Christoph explains as he
comes up above from below deck. “Do you know why they took the queen?” Anna ask.
“Yes they are trying to force the kings hand.” the sailor explains to her. “My father would
never surrender to the likes of mere mortals.” sneers Castor. “That’s exactly what he said
and then ordered to get you right away.” the sailor says. “I have valuable cargo on this ship”
Castor tells the naval officer in charge. “I’ll have my men transport on board. What exactly
is this cargo if I may ask.” the naval officer ask. “Let’s just say it must get to my father
right away/” Castor says and he and Christoph board the naval ship with Anna following.
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4,
On board Blood Letter greets them . “My prince it is good to see you again.”
“My father sent you I assume.” Castor remakrs. “Yes to appraise you of the
situation.” Blood Letter tells him. “So how goes the war.” Anna ask. Blood Letter
looks to her then to Castor and says. “They are fools . They are using weapons blessed
by their leader. But they don’t realize we don’t believe in God.” Blood Letter replies
“My father will gladly deploy troupes here.” Anna says to him. “He already has but they
are not giving up as we hoped.” Blood Letter commetnts. “I might have something that can help.”Castor says . “Yes, your father was hoping you might have something to turn the tides of battle.” Blood Letter says to Castor grins and shows him what he has in the hold.
“Dragons. This will certainly help.” Blood Letters exclaims in awe as Castor shows them
to him.”Exactly what I was thinking but they need to be trained .” Castor explains.
“It so happens that we just recruited a new horse trainer.” Blood Letter says to Castor.
“Maybe his talents can be taken to train dragon riders.” Castor says pondering the situation. “I think so .” Blood Letter says. “Excellent and I will be the first rider leading
the battalion against the enemy.” Castor says and smiles as the ship heads for Romain
shores.
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5.
As the ship docks a battle is seen ahead . Castor looks on in horror at his home as fighting is everywhere and fires can be seen all over Romania. They disembark with
Anna and the dragons following behind to the castle. “My son you have come.” the
dark prince speaks to his son dressed in his armor. “I said I was done with wars but it looks like they weren't done with me.” Vlad tell him as a courtier comes barring Castor’s armor. “Father I come with a gift.” he tells him donning his armor and gestures to the sleeping dragons.“Dragons ! This will certainly change the tide of battle. They will need training though.” Vlad tells him. “I have just the man.” A soldiers steps forth and bows
before the prince and Castor. “May I present Yuri Casonov. Yuri come from the land of Italyto join my army.” the dark prince says to his son. “My prince I am glad too meet you.”
Yuri says offering his hand. “It is an honor . Do you think you are up to the task?”
“I will do my best.” Yuri says and leaves with the dragons. “Come my son we have
much to do.” Vlad tells Castor and he leaves Anna blowing her a kiss.
“So father how fairs the battle.” Castor ask keeping in stride with his father
heading towards the castle. “Not well my son. The knights as they call themselves are
relentless . No matter how often we a battle they come back even more determined.”
Vlad tells him shaking his head. “Do we know anything about these fanatics?”
Castor ask Vlad who begins to reply when Arthur replies for him. “Not much my
prince . Just that they think us unholy.” Arthur says to Castor as nears them.
“Arthur it is good to see you again.” Castor says clasping arms with him.
“It is good to see you too my prince. I just wish it were in better circumstances”
Arthur says to Castor and then turns his attention to Vlad. “My lord I come to tell you
that a representative from the Knights Templar is demanding an audience.”
Arthur tells him.
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“Oh really well then let’s go see what he wants shall we.” the dark prince replies and they adjourn to the courtyard.
5.
“Prince Vlad Malkivan . My name is Father Serilous and I am here to demand you
surrender and that you annex Europe.” Serilous demands of Vlad as they enter. The dark prince looks on in amusement as the good father makes his demands. “Who are you to demand my surrender. I won this land through battle and respect. Who do you serve.” Vlad ask indignity.“I serve the lord high God and the church.” Serilous states with pride.
“God doesn’t exist anymore in this part of the world.” Castor tells him spitting .
“Just because your kind has renounced him doesn’t mean he doesn’t exist.” Serilous says.
“Be that as it may. This is our land and you are invaders. Leave or we will show you our
might.” Arthur says advancing on him. “If that is your reply. Than fine” says Serilous
and rides back to his men as he does a horn is blown and the war continues.
Vlad returns to the castle and plots his strategy. “These fools have no idea who
they are dealing with.” Vlad says annoyed. “I agree father. If they think they can walk
in here and demand our surrender then they don’t know us very well.” Castor agrees as
he and the war council are gathered in the throne room. “How are the dragons coming
along ?” ask Vlad . “ I just spoke with Yuri and he says they won’t be ready until the
next new moon.” Castor says. Vlad sighs and looks to Arthur. “Very well we’ll have
to do without them. Our men are fatigued and I am tired but we will fight.” Vlad says
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“Father what about the Royal Guards?” ask Castor. “Yes that might work.” Vlad says
thinking about what Castor just said. “An attack from above.” Arthur muses .
“ Yes, I noticed that most of our Royal Guards have wings now” Castor comments.” “Your mother's idea . She thought it made better politics.” Vlad explains to his son.
“Get the captain in here .” orders Vlad as Arthur salutes and heads off to carry out
the plan. “Are you sure this will work father ?” Castor ask. “It has too. An attack from the
air is unexpected and I would like to hold the dragons off for another time. Go see
your fiancée then get some rest . We’ll commence our attack in the mourn,” Vlad tells
Castor and then plans out the attack.
7.
At the encampment of the Knights Templar a lone crow sits watching the
proceeding that is happening inside the main tent. “We are winning this battle. Soon
he’ll have to surrender . His soldiers are tired and worn and I think they won’t last in
one more fight. It’s time to bring in the catapult” Serilous says to his generals . The generals
exit to carry out his orders paying no attention to lone crow that was watching them and
then flying away.
At the Castle Vlad sits with his generals discussing there options
and the plan of attack that Castor and him came up with when Blood Letter comes in
followed by the captain of the Royal Guards. “Sire I think they are preparing for a
frontal assault .”Blood Letter announces . “Yes thank you for that information Blood
Letter but I think they are in for a surprise.” Vlad tells him and then noticing the captain
motions for him to step forward.”Ah captain we were just talking about you. I think it’s
time your men joined the fight don’t you think.” Vlad asks grinning.
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“Yes my father was just suggesting an areal attack .” Castor pipes in. “Brilliant idea my lord. My men and I are ready to fight on your command.” the captain says”Don’t be too hasty though I am ordering the centurions to accompany you to keep the archers at bay. Dismissed.”Vlad says to the captain.
8.
As night falls Father Serilous and his men are preparing for the assult
on the castle when a guard spots Vlad’s men approaching. “Centurions.” In his tent
Serilous hearing this rushes out and sees for himself the Centurions approaching from
the distance. “This is wrong they should be fighting on our side.” he comments to himself.
Not noticing the Royal Guard advancing from the air and setting the forest on fire.
“The plan goes well.” Blood Letter says seeing the enemy flee . “Yes very well. Those
fools down there have no idea what their in for. We’ll take most of the infantry out and
by the time their reinforcements arrive we’ll have the upper hand.” The captain replies.
The battle commences on as the archers try to fight off the centurions as the
captain and his men lead an attack from above nearly decimating the infantry.
“They’re coming from above.” A knight shouts spotting the dark prince’s men.
“Damn the centurions are just a distraction. Archers too the air.” shouts Serilous but
they are too late as the remaining infantry men flee for cover as Serilous looks on at the
decimation brought on by the dark prince’s men. He turns away in disgust and says
“Burn the bodies . I don’t want any of my men coming back from the dead.” Then head
backs to his tent to send for more infantry . Inside Serilous paces back and forth thinking
about the problem. “How do you defeat a creature that can out think every move you
make.” he says to no one in particular then notices a winged knight entering his tent.
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“Get out of my presence demon.” Serilous demands. The winged knight ignoring the
father enters and hands him a letter. “My name is Captain Leviathan and I am here on
behalf of my lord the dark prince Vlad Malkivan and he counters your surrender with one
of his own.” The captain tells him as Serilous glances at the note and tosses it away.
At the castle Vlad and Castor wait an answer from Father Serilous.
“You should not worry so my love. I am sure the good father will make the right
decision and surrender.” Elizabetha tells her husband. “I am not sure of that of
mother. Religion and faith and can be powerful allies.” Castor says to his mother.
“ I tend to agree many battles have been won on faith alone.” Vlad tells his wife when
the door to the council chamber opens and the knight returns. “My lord we decimated
his troupes but he will not surrender.” the messenger says. “Oh what fools these mortals
be.” Castor says . “So what’s our next move?” ask Arthur. “I have to think on that.
Obviously decimating his troupes wasn’t enough.” Vlad muses “Maybe were approaching
this all wrong.” Arthur suggests to Vlad. “What do you mean?” ask Castor.
“If you cut of the head the serpent the body dies.” Arthur explains to them.
“Not that will change him.” Vlad says and they laugh.
At the camp of the Knights Templar Serilous is in his
tent looking at the map planning his next move when a figure enters his tent.
“What do you want I told you the answer. No wait... what are you doing unhand me”
Serilous says struggling while outside a guard hearing the commotion quickly rushes
in and sees that he is gone, and calls an alarm . The knights quickly rally to look for
him.
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At that moment Vlad and Castor discuss their plans on how they are
going to turn the good father. “We have to break his faith.” Castor suggest . “Yes but how
do we do that?” ask Arthur. “The same way we changed your mind.” Vlad tells him.
“No that’s not going to work on him.” Castor comments thinking it over . “So how then?” ask Arthur.“We have to convince him that there is no hope for redemption and once he sees this he’ll consent.” Castor explains to them. “So it’s agreed. We work on his faith.” Vlad says and Castor and Arthur nod their agreement.
As they get ready Anna comes in with some carafe and some scones.
“I thought you boys would like something to eat.” she says laying down the tray on the
table . “So how are the plans for the wedding my dear.” Ask Vlad. “Going well my lord.”
Anna says curtsying . “ As soon as this war is over , we’ll get married I promise.”
Castor tells her taking her hand. “You are a lucky man.” Arthur says to Castor. “Yes
and I love her so.” Castor says as Anna leaves.
As night falls at the camp of the Templars all hell has
broken loose as the search continues for the good father. “We’ve looked everywhere sir.
The father is no where to be found.” a knight tells the commander leading the search.
“So who is in command?” ask the commander. “The father left strict instructions that if
anything were to happen to him. We were to get on with the plans and follow your orders.”
The knight tells the commander. “ Very well lets get on with the plans and wait for
the reinforcements.” the commander orders.
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Inside the dungeon of Castle Malkivan Serilous sits in a cell surrounded by the worst of Romania’s citizenry. Here is where all the criminal's reside waiting for there
execution. From the lowest of criminals to those who dare challenge the Malkivan rule
like the good father. As he sits and waits for what is to come Castor approaches the cell r and enters t. “You’ll get nothing from me demon.!”Serilous shouts defiantly. “Now is that anyway from treating your host.” Castor tells him laying a tray of food in front of him. “Oh am I a guest.” Serilous says lifting his arm sup and rattling his chains. “Those are a precaution in case you think of escaping. Here I brought up something to drink.” Castor says taking the cup of the tray and putting it to the father’s lips. “What is this?” Serilous ask Castor. “Blood.” Castor says smiling and looks up in disgust at Castor spits the blood in his face. “Oh come now don’t tell me you didn’t like it.” Castor says smiling and wiping the blood way with his handkerchief. “Your sick . Trying to make me drink my own blood.” Serilous says in disgust. “Oh it’s not yours but one of your men’s. You know what they say waste not want not. Castor replies leaving the rest of the blood behind and taking the tray with him. As he leavesSerilous grabs the cup and drinks it down not aware the Castor observed this and grins and walks away.
“So how did it go?” ask Vlad. “He’ll come over
to our side soon enough.” Castor says to his father and Vlad smiles approvingly then
gestures to the window. “We have other problems to worry about. It seems that the
knight are still advancing.” Vlad tells him.. “He must’ve given orders to attack even if
he was captures. I would have done the same.” Castor replies “True enough a good leader
should always have a contingency plan.” Vlad says to his son. “They shouldn’t be a
problem now that there leader is gone. I’ll go with some men and take care of them.”
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Castor says . “Don’t be so hasty my son. They are still fanatics it would be wise to
remember that.” Vlad says to Castor who leaves to lead his troupes against what
remains of the knights.
Outside the wall of the castle the Knights Templar
preparer for the final assault on the castle when Castor and his men come out of the
castle with swords drawn. “Viva Vita” shouts Castor and he and his men charge the
knights . “For the Order!” shouts the commander and the knights prepare to repel the
attack. As the battle begins it looks to be a one sided assault as Castor and his men easily take care of the knights . The knights valiantly fight on when a horn is sounded
in the distance and the troupes Serilous asked for arrive . In the castle Vlad watches
the battle and seeing that his son needs aid signals for the Royal Guards to join in the
fight .
Outside Castor and his men look hopelessly out numbered but then from the
roof of the castle fly the Royal Guards flying down from above like winged angels
coming to rescue the righteous and defend the weak. The battle begins a new with cheers
from Castor’s men as they forge ahead fighting the knights. “Your hopelessly outmatched
commander . Surrender now and maybe my father will be lenient.” Castor shouts to the
commander. “Never I would rather die . I will never rest till all your kind is wiped out .”
the commander replies and the battle continues. As the battle continues neither side gives in
as soldiers from both sides fall and continue to fight for there leaders Vlad watching the
battle from afar and seeing the situation leaves and heads towards the cell where Serilous
is held. Inside the dungeon Serilous sits listening to the battle outside as Vlad arrogantly
steps inside and takes by him the neck smashing his face to window. “ Take a look at what’s happening outside father,” Vlad tells him. “
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It’s a stale mate.” Serilous replies smugly.“Yes but how long do you think it will last . We are of the new race. Behold even as we speak the men that are injured have recovered.” Vlad ells him pointing out the window.
Father Serilous watches on in amazement and in horror as the
injured slowly rise like zombies rising from the dead. As the soldiers rise and start
fighting again mortal wounds that were once serious and life threatening heal up as if they
were never injured. “ This is impossible.” Serilous says with fear and trepidation in his
voice. “What may be harmful too lesser men is not too us. It takes a lot more to harm
us.” Vlad says smiling. Serilous watches on in horror as he takes in what the dark prince
has just said. “We can go on fighting for days even months without rest. How about you.”
said Vlad making the point clear too him. He looks out one more time and realizes that
the battle is hopeless. “Alright you win.” Serilous admits in defeat to the dark prince Vlad smiles and then orders a guard to let him out.
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9.
A fort night later in the throne room of the castle Serilous
stands awaiting the judgment of the dark prince chained to the vampire cross. On the
throne sits the dark prince looking at him and leaning on his sword. To the right sits
Elizabetha and on the other side of him sits Castor with Anna standing beside him.
“It was only a few years ago today when we were all here before to lay judgment on
another individual.” Vlad says as they all nod remembering Rasputin who was judged
here only a few years ago. “Now we are here again to lay our judgment on another
individual.” Vlad says looking at Serilous. “It is all well and good to have faith and
belief in morals. But when you take it too far you become obsessed. So I put it to you
what should be your judgment ?” Vlad asks of him. Serilous just stares and says nothing
then raises his head in defiance and spits at the dark prince. “Very well! Then I shall decide.
Since you worship a fallen god. Suffer his fate. Crucify him!” Vlad says and order the
centurions to take him away. As he gets carried away Serilous looks on at the dark prince
for forgiveness and fear but to no avail. Out side as the centurions secure the first post in
the ground as Serilous is brought outside. Seeing his fate he struggles to get free but the
guards successfully secure him. “Let this be a lesson. If you want to worship something
that is your choice. But to do not let your beliefs interfere with my laws.” Vlad says and
and orders Serilous to be nailed to the cross just like his savior.
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Chapter 10
1.
As day breaks the city of Wallache is somber after witnessing the death of Father
Serilous. The war has taken it’s toll on the great city. Buildings that have stood there ground
for centuries are being rebuilt and merchants are slowly returning to the streets to sell there
wears.
Inside Elizabetha is talking to the dark prince about the state
of the city and the country. “My love the people are afraid and worried . The war has
left them shaken.”. “What do you suggest I do my love I can’t be every
where at once.” he tells her in the throne room.. “It’s the perfect time for the wedding.”
Elizabetha tells him with hopes that Vlad agrees. “How so?” ask Vlad leery at what
she’s getting at. “The people need something to get their mind of the war and this will
also give them something to celebrate.” she says with hope in her eyes. Vlad looks to her
and sees the look on her face and says. “Very well in the next cycle of the moon we will
have thewedding of Anna and Castor.” Elizabetha nods and kisses him then goes to spread the news.
Outside a crier is a hanging a poster when Castor and Anna walk
by and see the announcement. “Oh Castor it looks like your mother did it we’re finally
getting married.” Anna says happily. “Yes my mother can be quite convincing at times.”
Castor says to her taking her hand and they walk of together to help the citizens in this time
of need.
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2,
“Don’t fret my dear. Let my seamstress do her work.” Valeria says trying to get Anna to stand still “Oh mother your too much. I don’t see why you had to come. I sure Lady Elizabetha could’ve handled it.” Anna says to her mother as she tries to keep still. “Nonsense it’s a lot of work planning a wedding now stay still.” she says to her daughter. “ Yes but does it have to be so tight.” Anna ask wiggling in her dress. “Don’t you want to look your best? Your a princess of the royal blood line.”Valeria says to her wiggling her finger. “Of course but.” Anna says then she is interrupted by a knock on the door. “May
I come in?” Nicolai ask. “Of course we were just about finished anyways.” the seamstress
says and exits with the servants. “I brought a surprise.” Nicolai says as Natasha enters one
of Anna’s older sisters. “Sister!” Anna says and runs up to her and hugs her.
“When I heard about your wedding I came over right away. So is he handsome?”
Natasha asks. “In a devilish sort of way.” Anna says looking her fathers way with smile
on her face. “Well I hope mother isn’t being a pest.” she says to Anna. “As always.” Anna
says sighing. “Oh mother you promised after my wedding you wouldn’t do this anymore.”
Natasha says to her with a look of exasperation on her face. “She’s my youngest I just want
it to be perfect.” Valeria says with a look of innocence on her face as if she didn’t do
anything wrong. “Oh okay but try not to worry too much. I’m sure she’ll make a great bride.”Natasha says and they all laugh.
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3.
In a tavern just outside the gates of the castle Vlad , Castor and Christoph
are having drinks with Natasha’s husband. “Too my son May his marriage be as joyful
as mine.” Vlad says raising his glass to him. “Here, Here.” Peter says drinking up.
“I’m sure it will. And too my lovely bride.” Castor says raising his glass.
“Too the princess and future queen.” Vlad and Peter say together toasting Anna as they
raise their drinks and drink to the future.
4.
Castle Malkivan usually any other time of year it is a fearsome sight
to behold but today it is not. The gardeners and other workers have worked overtime
to prepare for the wedding. The garden of the dead as the dark prince’s country men
call the impaled and crucified in front of the castle has been taken down and buried
and rose bushes have been planted with Lady Valeria’s supervision. In back seating
has been arranged and an arch has been placed in front. Invitation has been sent to all
the houses and nobility far and wide for this event.
Inside Castor is pacing back and forth anxiously awaiting the
moment. “For someone who faced a fanatical group of knights. You sure seem to be
nervous. Where’s that arrogant prince I met in Russia?” ask Christoph. “I can’t help
it. This is different . Facing enemies soldiers I can handle, but this I don’t know.” Castor
says. “Relax my son having second thoughts is natural.” Vlad advises his son.
“You love her don’t you ?” ask Christoph . “Yes more than anything.”Castor says.
“Then you are doing the right thing. I hope I meet someone like her someday.” Christoph
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admits. “You will my friend. Now come on my son it’s time.” Vlad says and escorts him
out.
As the wedding begins Castor comes out of the castle with
Vlad at his side dressed in his royal blue robe. They walk up to the arch and Castor steps
forwards and looks down the aisle awaiting the love of his life. As the music starts the
doors open and Anna dressed in white silk gown looking like an angel from heaven.
Castor looks on and smiles seeing her remembering the day they first met all those
years ago. Anna walks up to the podium and Castor takes her hand .
“We are gathered here to unite these two souls in too one as
everything comes from the one.” The chancellor says and holds a chalice filled with
wine in front of them. “This chalice symbolizes the one of souls. Where we all originated.
Castor?” the chancellor says, As Castor picks up an ornate looking dagger from a dais
and slice his palm letting the blood flow in to the chalice. “The blood symbolizes the
union of the souls between the two who wish to join to become one.” the chancellor says as Castor hands the dagger over to Anna . The chancellor then hands
the chalice over to Castor who takes a sip from it then hands it over to Ann and she sips
from it looking at him. “These two are united as one let no one tare them asunder.”
the chancellor says and Anna and Castor and kiss and everybody cheers .
“Okay let’s head to banquet hall for the reception.” Valeria says and they leave.
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At the banquet the couple get congratulated by their family and near do
well as the feast begins, “Anna I would like you too meet Countess Henrieta.” Valeria
says introducing the countess to her daughter. “You are a lucky lady . If you hadn’t taken
him I would’ve .” the countess says, “It’s a pleasure to meet you my lady. Now if you’ll
excuse me I see someone I know.” Anna says and heads to a young lady talking someone.
At the other side of the room Vlad hands his son a glass of wine. “Well how does it feel?”
Vlad asks of his son . “I feel like I am the luckiest man alive.” Castor admits and they toast.
5.
After the banquet in their bedroom as Castor is changing into his night clothes
he asks “ So what did you think my love ?” he asks her heading getting into bed.
“Oh Castor. It was everything I hoped it would be . It was perfect.” she says with exuberance. “Good now come to bed.” Castor says patting the bed . “Um my love
I have a confession to make.” Anna says a little uncomfortable. “Yes and what’s that my
love.” Castor says laying in bed waiting for her. “There is no need to consummate our vows
you see I’m already pregnant.” Anna says holding her belly. “You are when did this happen?” Castor ask surprised. “Do you remember in the orient when you came back to the
Inn in triumph.” Anna says. “Vaguely I just remember how I proud I was of what I
accomplished.” Castor says . “Well that’s when it happened.” Anna says.
“This is great news my love. An heir to throne. We’ll have to tell our parents. “ Castor
says. “We will my love in the morning.” Anna says and they go to bed.
As dawn arrives Castor and Anna have joined their
parents for breakfast on the veranda. “So how does it feel to be married ?” Valeria
ask of them. “It feels right mother .” Anna replies to her question. “And how about you
my son?” Vlad ask Castor. “I am happy . But we do have an announcement to make.
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Should you make it or should I ?.” Castor ask Anna who shrugs to say go ahead.
“You are going to be grand parents.” Castor exclaims. “This is great news my child.”
Valeria says to her daughter. “Yes indeed. I did not expect to be a grandfather so quickly.”
Nicolai says slapping Castor on the back. “We are going to have to get started on the
nursery.” Valeria says to them. “We already have a nursery my dear.” Vlad says to her.
“That old thing. I will hire the finest carpenters in Russia to build a nursery for this child.”
Valeria says proudly. “Mother the baby isn’t even born yet.” Anna says to her exasperated.
“Let her be. You know she lives for these kinds of things.” Nicolai says to her and Anna
sighs. As they continue on with their breakfast Elizabetha haven’t spoken yet puts in a
word “So have you thought of a name for this child?” Anna hearing her replies “
if a girl Katerina and a boys Joseph.” “Excellent names my child.” Vlad comments
dabbing his chin with a napkin as they conclude their meal.
6.
In the hallway as Castor and Anna are heading to there room Yuri
approaches them . “Castor . Just the man I was hoping to run into.” Yuri calls.
“What news have you for me Yuri?” Castor asks of him. “As you know I’ve been working
on taming the dragons. I must say it quite a challenge since originally I was a just horse
breeder and trainer. But I think I’ve been successful in both respects come see.” Yuri
tells them and they head to where the dragons are penned.
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In a nearby cave Yuri leads them to a nearby
pen . “The problem is when I was handed this responsibility is that I needed a place
to train and breed them. Someplace away from the stables as too not frighten the horses.
Then I remembered this place.” Yuri explains to them. Castor and Anna walk up to the
pen and see a young dragon just recently hatched from an egg nearby and the female
dragon pensively caring for it. “Oh Castor ,look it’s adorable.” Anna says cooing at the
the baby dragon. “Well done Yuri. You’ve exceeded far better than I ever hoped.”
Castor praises patting him on the back. “The male dragon I’ve named Flame Forge and the
female I call Venom. I haven’t named the young one yet.” Yuri explains to them.
“Good I have an idea. We’ll have him named by our son or daughter when he or she
is old enough.” Castor says . “That’s an excellent idea my love “ Anna says beaming and
they leave the cave heading back to the castle.
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7.
Inside Vlad is holding court . “Your majesty. You see with the war against
the Knights Templars our coppers were severely depleted.” the noble speaking to him says.
“I am aware of this and we are working on this.” Vlad explains to him. “Then what are
you planning to do about this?” the noble asks. “Maybe I have the solution.”
Castor says entering the throne room. “You! You are one of the problems.”The noble snipes at Castor. “Then my suggestion is just in time.” Castor tells him and
walks to the throne and says. “Father the dragons are ready.” “Really then all our
problems are solved . With dragons in our service we will be invincible . Armies all over
the world will want our services .” Vlad says proudly. The noble looks at him a bit
astonished and a bit disgusted with what Vlad just said “What are we mercenaries ?”
“Why not? You were looking for a way to replenish our coppers. And here is our solution.”
Vlad tells him matter-of-factly. “There is one more thing. Some good news I think. The
dragons had a baby.” Castor interrupts “This is indeed good news my son.
More like an omen you having a baby and the dragon.” he tells Castor.
“That is why I think our child should name it.” Castor suggests to him. “What a great idea.
On his or her fifth birthday we’ll have a naming day. We will unveil the dragons to the
populace.” Vlad exclaims with emphasis. “I still don’t like this idea.” the noble complains.
“Nonsense this is an excellent idea. So on the child’s fifth birthday he or she will name
the baby dragon and claim it as a gift.” Vlad states and dismisses them .
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In the hallway as Castor and Anna are walking down towards their room.
“I don’t like this idea. A bay dragon is not a good gift for a five year old.”
she tells him . “Do not worry my love. Everything will be fine. I trust Yuri.” Castor says
and they walk down the hall and hear Valeria inside the nursery talking to one of the
carpenters. “ No. No that’s all wrong .” As they continue down the hall Anna suddenly
stumbles and falls. “Anna!” Castor says and catches her. “Are you okay?” he asks of her.
“Yes I don’t know what came over me.” Anna says a little flustered.
“Let’s not take any chances. Let’s take you to the court physician .” Castor says and
escorts her to the office.
7.
“She’ll be fine . We knew there would be some complications. Considering
this will be no normal child.” The physician says after examining her. “Well said doctor.
This child is special considering that one of the baby’s parents is of the new race. That
and how little she eats.” Vlad says looking her way. “That’s true my love you have to
eat more. Especially meat like stake and stuff. If not for you then for the baby.”
Castor tells her kindly. “I hate meat . I have never eaten meat my whole life.” she
tells them. “I know my love but you have to think of your health and the baby’s .”
Castor replies . She looks at him then at the others and sees their concern and says
“Very well for you my love I will do it.” “Thank you . That’s all I ask .” Castor says
and they leave her alone to rest.
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As the days pass by Anna looks a lot more healthier and robust as the
day of birth draws closer. The nursery is nearly complete as Valeria puts the finishing
touches to it as Castor is kept busy with taking care of Anna and his duties as a prince
of the royal court. “Castor my son. You must take it easy. We are not immortal.” Vlad
tells his son with concern. “How can I ? When I have so much to do.” Castor tells him.
“You just worry about your fathering duties right now I will worry about the rest.”
Vlad tells his son. “Thank you father what would I do without you,”
Castor says and leaves to go to Anna ‘s side. “That was really kind of you.”
Elizabetha says entering the room. “I swear sometimes that son of ours takes on too
much. He goes from one extreme to the other. There is no compromise with him.”
Vlad tells to her. “Yes but he is learning.” Elizabetha replies.
8.
In her room Anna is laying down in bed with Castor beside her.
“For now on my love. My only duties are to you and the baby.” Castor says holding her
hand Anna looks up at him and lays a hand on his forehead. “That’s all I ask my love.”
she says to him , but he does not reply for he has fallen asleep exhausted from the
days events. “Well my child . You are going to have such a devoted father.” Anna
says to her baby.
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As the days move on Castor spends more time with Anna making
sure she is comfortable and enough protein for the baby. “It’s finished. Come see.” Valeria exclaims as she enters their room . Ann seeing her mother gets up from bed and says.
“What’s ready?” “The nursery .” Valeria tells them and they follow her to the nursery
with Castor aiding her . As they enter they taken in by the splendor. Valeria has out
done her self designing the nursery. On the left side is a beautiful oak crib. Valeria seeing
them look at the crib and says . “I had the finest artist and craftsman design the crib.”
Valeria says as they enter . Castor looks around and is surprised by the detail on the farthest
wall is a shelf full of the finest toys ever made. “The toys were made by the same toymaker
that made my toys when I was young.” Valeria says to them proudly. “Do we really need all this mother?” Anna ask. “What . Don’t you want the best?”
Valeria ask looking disappointed. “Well of course I just wanted something simple that’s
all.” Anna says. “Nonsense. This child deserves the best.” Valeria tells her daughter.
“Mother I know I said this before, but the child hasn’t even been born yet.”
Anna exclaims. “Anna my love you shouldn’t get so worked up. The nursery is great
my lady.” Castor says trying to calm her down. “Yes I suppose it is.” Anna sighsand sits
down in the rocking chair.
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At the throne room of dark prince Vlad and Nicolai are discussing
the current politics of the realm when Anna storms in. “She always does this.” Anna exclaims vehemently. “Does what my dear?” Nicolai asks a bit perplexed by Anna's out burst.“Does this . The baby isn’t even born yet and she’s already jumped the gun.” Anna
explains annoyed. “Calm down my dear. You shouldn’t get so riled up in your condition.
This is just her way.” Vlad explains to his daughter in law. “Exactly . You know this
my dear.” Nicolai tells her. “I know but sometimes it can be so annoying.” Anna
admits and walks out of the throne room. “What was that all about ?” Vlad ask when
she’s gone. “Apparently she’s a bit upset about not being consulted about how she would
like the nursery.” Nicolai says to him. “Ah. Then it’s a good thing the baby is coming soon.”
Vlad comments and they continue on with their previous discussion.
Later on as the birthing day comes near. Anna is in the nursery rearranging
the nursery to get it ready. As she climbs a ladder to get something Castor comes in and
sees her. “My love you shouldn’t be doing this.” Castor tells her lending her a hand
down from the ladder. “I’m fine . Ow! The baby it ‘s ready.” Anna replies holding her belly
“Then lets get you get to bed my love.” Castor says and escorts her to their bedroom.
“
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In Castor and Anna’s bed chambers they all stand around the bed awaiting the birth of the child . “Steady now my dear it’s almost time.” the midwife says to her and she pushes as the baby comes out. “Is it alright?”Anna ask looking at the midwife. “It’s fine you have a beautiful baby girl.” the midwife says and cuts the cord and hands the baby to her She looks at her baby with tears in her eyes and says. “Everybody I’d like you to meet Katerina Romanov Malkivan.”Anna says and hands the baby back to the midwife so she can rest. “A girl I have a baby girl.” Castor says and gently hugs and kisses his her. see “ Now aren’t you glad about the nursery.” Valeria says . “Now my dear is not the time.” Nicolai says to her.“It’s alright father. Would you like to hold her mother?” Anna says and signals the midwife to hand the baby over to her. Valeria looks at the baby and smile“To think that one day this little one will someday rule our kingdom.” Valeria says and hands the baby back to the midwife.
As Anna rest in her room. They all gather to drink and celebrate the birth in the library. “So a father.” Nicolai says to Castor drinking from a glass of wine
“Yup a father.” Castor says smoking a cigar. “I can’t believe I’m a grand father and I’m
only thirty,” Vlad says, “Thirty? I thought you were a lot older my friend.” Nicolai says
amazed. “No you see our race ages slower.” Vlad explains to him. “Ah yeses the blood.”
Nicolai says to him. “Barbaric if you ask me.” Valeria says disgusted.
“Oh no. Not any more. We fazed out drinking blood from victims along time ago.”
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Elizabetha explains to her. “Yes you see we’re more civilized now. We now drink like
human beings. We are civilized creatures after all.” Castor explains to his mother-in-law.
“So how do you do it then?” Nicolai ask perplexed. “I’ll show you.” Vlad says and claps
his hands summoning a servant who is dressed in peasant garb. “Phew! Did you have to
pick this one.” Nicolai says waving a hand in front of his face. “Yes father he is rather
offensive.” Castor comments on the peasants oder. “None the less.”Vlad answers
and demonstrates by grabbing the peasant's wrist and draining some of his blood
in to a wine glass and then raising it in a toast and drinking it . “It’s still rather
barbaric if you ask me.” Valeria says to him. “Have I missed anything?”
Anna ask entering the library with the baby in her arms. “How are you feeling
my love?” Castor asks of her. “Okay. Feels like I gave birth to bowling ball but other
than that I feel fine..” Anna tells him.”Well here let me take Katerina for a while.”
Castor says gently taking the baby and leads Anna to a chair. “Here my love drink this.”
Castor offers. “I told you I’m a vegetarian .” Anna says pushing the blood away in distaste.”Now my love let’s not get into this argument .” Castor tells her patiently.
“Agreed you need the substance my dear. Your body has been seriously depleted
by the birth.” Vlad explains to her. She looks at him and sees his worry and reluctantly
drinks it.
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“So onto some other new. One of the provinces in Russia wants to become
part of our great empire.” Nicolai tells Vlad. “That is great news. This is something
I anticipated through this union. That the province and other countries would want our
protection.” Vlad says clapping his hands together. “Indeed father your vision is coming
into fruition.” Castor comments“Too Castor and Anna.” Nicolai says raising his glass.
“Well my love . It looks like we are going to rule in an interesting time.”
Castor says to her walking down to the nursery. “Indeed our daughter will rule a great
empire when she has grown up.” Anna replies and puts her in the crib and then she leaves
with Castor back to their room.
“I can’t believe were grand parents.” Elizabetha says putting
on her night gown. “Yes it is rather different but I am proud of him.” Vlad tells her.
“So what’s next?” Elizabetha ask. “Well no matter what I said . It wasn’t quite the truth.
The blood does keep you young physically but inside I feel sixty.” Vlad admits.
“Are you thinking of stepping down.” ask Elizabetha. “Maybe soon my love. I am
getting old and Castor is young.” Vlad says to her. “But he has a lot to learn and you still
have a couple years yet to go.” Elizabetha says to him. “True but we have to accept the
fact that we are not immortal. No matter how much we like to believe that.” Vlad says
and they head to bed.
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9.
As morning dawns Vlad sits on the throne thinking as Castor and Anna come in with
the baby. “My son soon I will have to step down and it will be your turn.” Vlad tells him as he enters“No father you are as healthy as you were when you took the throne.” Castor tells him. “Now son . I know you have to focus on being a good father so I decided that the celebration will be a double celebration. It will celebrate your daughters birthday and your ascension to the throne.” Vlad says to him. “ Huh, Very well father in five years I will take the throne.”Castor sighs agreeing with him.
Inside their room later on Castor and Anna are having brunch.
“So it’’s been set.” Anna says buttering a scone. “Yes in five years we will have a
double celebration, The gifting of the dragon and my ascension.” Castor says with a
heavy voice because now he has something else to worry about. “Why are so upset
about this my love?” asks Anna. “I’m justs not sure I ‘m ready for this. I just became
a father and now this.” Castor says to her still a bit flustered , “This is a terrific opportunity
to be king is a great honor and you don’t have to wait till his death. He is practicably
giving it to you.” Anna says to him. “ I just wish I could understand his reasoning.”
Castor says to her. “There is an old proverb . Do not ask but why not.” Anna says to him.
“You’re right my love , shall we walk in the garden.” Castor says and the two of them
head of to the royal garden.
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Chapter 11
1.
As the days progress Castor and Anna spend more time with their daughter as
the day of her of birth and Castor inauguration comes near. Castor makes a point to study
his fathers laws and spend time with his father learning about leadership and delegation.
In the library Castor is studying a scroll about a law when his father enters and walks up to him. “What’s this law about loosing a hand if your
caught steeling?” Castor ask him as he approaches. “Oh that’s from when I first
established my rule.”: Vlad tells him looking at the scroll. “ But it’s barbaric. Is it so unnecessary. I am already called the demon prince. It would make me into a villain in the peoples eyes.”Castor tells his father appalled. “Well that something you can change when you are a king.”Vlad says to him. “I will. I think a night in the dungeon would suffice.” Castor says to him.“Oh and how will you enforce the rule my son. You have to realize that as a ruler you can’t be lenient or they will walk all over you.” Vlad explains to him. Castor looks at him and yawns as Anna enters to see where her husband is . “Do you know what `time it is. Come to bed.” Anna tells Castor ,who glances at the hour glass and realizes the lateness of the day and puts the scroll back following Anna to their bed.
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As dawn approaches over the horizon Castor and Anna
are having breakfast with Vlad and Elizabetha. “Father, Anna and I would like to spend
some time in Russia. Anna would like to see her parents and I would like to study their
history. Besides I think it would be good for the baby to spend some time with her other
grand parents.” “Oh of course my son. But is Anna well enough to travel?” Vlad ask.
“I’m fine sir. I am actually going a little stir crazy here.” Anna says. “Well then by all
means.” Vlad says. “When will you leave?” Elizabetha ask. “In a few days . There
is still some stuff I need to do here.” Castor tells his father.
Later on in their room Castor sits composing a letter
to Nicolai telling him of their visit. “Is there anything you would like to say my love?”
Castor ask. “No nothing just tell them I’m looking forward to coming home.” Anna answers
leaning over him. Castor finishes the letter and hands it to a servsnt and then stretches
and walks over to the crib to check on the baby. “She’s going to be a real looker.”
Castor says looking at her with a smile. “You think so?” Anna says walking over
and glancing down at her. “If she takes after you she will.” Castor says and Anna
takes his hand and kisses him. “We’re a family.” Anna says. “Yes hard to believe isn’t
a year ago I was this brash young man and now here I am with wife and child.”
He says looking at her. “Any regrets ?” Anna asks “None now we should get to bed we
we have a long day a head of us.” Castor says and they head to bed.
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2.
As Castor and Anna are preparing for there trip Vlad walks in with a bottle. “What’s this father?” Castor ask noticing the bottle. “A gift. He seemed to like this particular one when he was here.”Vlad says handing him the bottle . “Thank you. I ‘m sure he’ll like it.” Anna says .“Are you sure your up to this my dear.” Elizabetha says standing in the doorway looking a bit worried. “I’m fine.” Anna reassures her. “ Are you sure ? You nearly died I'm just concerned.” She replies. “Don’t worry . I’ll be there for her every step of the way.” Castor tells his mother. She looks on at her one more time and then turns to leave.
“Well they sure are concerned aren’t they.” she says packing the last bit
of her belongings. “They’re just worried after all without an heir my father’s plan
for world domination it would not come to fruition.” Castor says and they pick up there
cases and leave.
3.
At the harbor they head to the jetty where the boat is docked. Vlad and Elizabetha
watch as they disembark. Anna turns to wave with the baby in her arms and waves.
As the ship leaves Vlad looks up and senses a darkness approaching.
“I feel they might be in some trouble.” Vlad says waving to them. “ Because of the
storm?” Elizabetha replies to him. “No, not just that but the last letter I got from him it
wasn’t like the last . He seemed pensive.” Vlad says to her worried. “Maybe we should
call them back.” Elizabetha comments. “No they are both grown up now . They have
to deal with things on their own now.” Vlad says and turns to walk back to the carriage
awaiting them.
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On the ship Anna and Castor head to their cabin . “I got the feeling
your father wasn’t telling us everything.”Anna tells him. “I got that feeling too, but
Let's not worry about that now.” Castor reassure sher. “I suppose”Anna replies and they enter their cabin and prepare for the long trip ahead of him. As the ship leaves port and head for Russian waters. Unknown to the passengers and crew that a revolution is happening in Russia at this very moment.
4.
“What do they want?” ask Valeria looking out at the window at the mayhem
outside. “What they always want less taxation and equality.” Nicolai says to her.
“But this has been the way for centuries.” Valeria says worried. “True but that’s
not going to stop them.” Nicolai says as they look on as the peasants revolt.
On the ship Castor and Anna are standing on the port bow
looking out at the ocean. When Anna notices the smoke coming from the east.
“What’s happening over there?” she asks. “I don’t know my love but it can’t be good.”
Castor says as crew member hurries by to help with the ship. “Excuse me. Can you
tell us what’s happening ?” Castor inquires. “There’s a revolution going on. We’ve
been ordered to turn around. “ The crewman answers heading to the port deck. “Turn
around we can’t .” Anna says worried about her parents. “ Go to your quarters. We’ll
tell you more than it comes.” The crewman tells them and heads off. “Excuse me. Maybe you don’t realize but I am Prince Castor and this is Lady Anastasia .” Castor tells the crewman.“Now please let us talk with your captain. My father and mother could in trouble.”Anna says to the crewman. “This is against my better judgment but alright follow me.”the crewman says and takes them to the captain.
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In the steering room Castor and Anna enter. “Excuse me sir. I don’t
mean to rude but my wife’s father and mother are over there.” Castor says approaching
the captain. “Yes I know who you are .” The captain acknowledges and men come from the deck with flint locks surrounding Castor and Anna. “What is this. How dare you. I have a baby.”Anna says outraged. “I know but there is a call out for you and your husband.”
the captain tells them and orders the crewmen to take them to the bridge.
“How can they do this?” Anna ask sitting in a corner with her baby.
“Don’t worry my love we’ll get to the bottom of this.” Castor says reassuring her.
“But it’s going to take some diplomacy.” Castor tells her musing it over.
As the daylight enter the cell that they are held in foot steps are heard
as the captain comes to speak with them. “Sir I realize you are in a difficult
situation, but can you please explain what is going on.” Castor asks.
“I’ll tell you what’s going . There is a revolution and the peasantry is calling
for the heads of your family madam.” the captain tells her. “Oh god my parents. Do
you know anything captain?” Anna asks worried. “As far as I know they are still safe.”
the captain lets her know and says no more and leaves them. “We have to get out of here.”Anna says worked up. “We will and now that we know more we can figure something
out.” Castor says and goes to cots and meditates.
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“Father, Father can you hear me?” Castor says to the air
“Yes my son I can hear you. What seems to be the problem”. Vlad answers from the castle.
“There is a revolution going on in Russia and we have been imprisoned.” Castor says
“Then I suggest you return home at once.” Vlad answers “But what about Anna’s
parents Nicolai and Valeria?” Castor asks with concern. “Have no fear when you return we
shall send a contingency of our armada to deal with this problem.” Vlad reassures him.
“Oh alright. I will do as you say.” Castor says opening his eyes and breaking
contact with his father. “ So what do we do?” Anna asks “We return to Europe.”
Castor tells her. “But what about my parents?” Anna asks worried.
“Don’t worry my love the problem is being dwelt with as we speak.” Castor says
to her and then walks up to bars to speak with the guard. “Excuse me sir . I would like
to speak with the captain again.” Castor says to him. The guard looks up and then says
“I’ll let him know.” And gets back to reading his book and Castor head back to Anna.
“Now we just have to wait.” Castor says and kneels beside her .
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Time passes and Castor begins to wonder if the guard relayed the message
when a door opens and the captain enters. “You wished to see me.” the captain asks
approaching the cell. “Yes I heard that you were ordered to turn around. That’s fine
with us.” Castor tells him. “Oh really and what changed your mind.” the captain
says not believing him. “Nothing really. We discussed the situation and we thought
it was wise to return home.”Castor says to the captain hoping he’ll believe him.
The captain looks on in trepidation not really believing him. “Well that not really
possible since I already sent a carrier pigeon to Russia telling them that I have you
two.” the captain says scratching his head. “Couldn’t you just lie and tell them you
were mistaken.” Anna says to him. “No I couldn’t do that. But maybe I could tell them
the couple on my ship isn’t the ones I thought were you two.” the captain says.
“Thank you captain we appreciate this.” Castor said thanking him. “I ll release
you when I have spoke to the official.” the captain says leaving.
“So do you think they will believe him .” Anna asks. “I doubt it. They’ll probably
want to check the ship anyway.” Castor tells her. She looks at him worried.
“If worse comes to worse, we have to be prepared. Do not worry my love.
Bringing you and the baby back safely to Europe is my first priority.” he reassures her.
5.
As they wait for the captains return a commotion is heard on deck.
“Wait , wait . You can’t just intrude on my ship.” the captain is heard protesting.
“Get ready my love .” Castor says to her as footsteps are heard coming down the stairs.
“The brig is empty. There is no one there. I told you I was mistaken.” the captain is heard
saying to someone. “So you say. But I’d like to see for myself.” A familiar voice is heard
saying as the door opens to the brig. Coming down the stair is Father Serilous looking worse
for wear. “You! How did you survive?” Castor ask surprised to see the good father alive
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“You mean after you crucified me.” Serilous replies with bitterness in his voice.
“You should be by all rights dead.” Castor says staring at him. “I guess I have to you
thank for that. The blood you forced upon me allows me heal much faster.” Serilous replies
showing the scars on his palms then noticing Anna sitting back in the cell.
“And what do we have here. Princess Anastasia I presume. You have been holding
out on me captain.” Serilous says walking in to the cell. “Stay away from her you here
me.” Castor says to him. “Well whats this I think I’ll just take her.” he says
reaching for Katerina. Castor seeing what he is about to do grabs him and slams
against the bars. “ Can you pinpoint the mistake you made.” Castor says bearing his
double fangs. “Now, now . We wouldn’t want to do anything foolish.” Serilous says
to him as his men surround Castor and hold their pitch fork’s at point blank range.
“If they attack, you die.” Castor threatens him. “Now let’s not be hasty. It seems were
at a stalemate.” Serilous says grinning. “Stalemate . Do you here that my love. He thinks
we’re at a stalemate.” Castor says laughing. “You shouldn’t be so cocky with your life
at my whim.” the father says and the men surrounding Castor raise their pitch forks at him.
“Tell him my love.” Castor says to Ann. She looks up at him protecting the baby in her
arms. “At this moment. The dark prince’s armada is heading this way. You see we should
have been half way there already.” she tells him. “Well then I guess I should surrender.”
Serilous says with a grin on his face again and signals to one of his men. A soldier enters
escorting to prisoners as they near Anna and Castor see that it is Nicolai and Valeria.
On seeing her parents Anna rushes to bars with the baby in tow and says. “Mother , Father
are you alright.” she asks. “We are fine my dear. The good father would not dare do
anything in fear of losing his trump card.” Nicolai reassures her.
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“So it is you behind this revolution.” Castor says. “Yes quite ingenious. Don’t
you think? I saw potential and took advantage. Now release me and come quietly.”
Father Serilous says. “ If we are harmed in any way. My father will decimate Russia
leaving nothing left behind.” Castor says direly . “We will fight his men. We will
not be subjugated any more.” A soldier says . “Yes but are you prepared to fight men
who can survive virtually anything. You’ve seen the father ‘s powers well that’s nothing
compared to my kind. Do you really want the blood of countless thousands on your
hands.” Castor says to him. “Don’t listen to him he is a creature of the devil.” Serilous says
to his soldiers. “Still on the god kick eh father. Look at my wife does she look like a
demon.” Castor says to him. “The devil takes many forms and even if she is not. She is
royal and must be eliminated.” He tells Castor. “This can end right now. You can
release us now and there will be no need for warfare.” Castor says to him.
“Yes let us go and we will disappear for ever. Russia will be yours. Just don’t harm
my daughter and grand daughter.” pleas Nicolai. “You think you will win wait till
my father finds out , he’ll leave no stone unturned and when he does watch out
vampires have great memories.” Castor threatens trying to intimidate him. “ You think I fear
him. I don’t take them away.” Serilous says to guard.
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6.
The prison of the Russian revolution is filled with traitors and malcontents
in the eyes of the current monarchy. But right now it is being used to hold those that
support the monarchy from rich nobles to the lowliest of peasants. Castor and Anna are
rudely rough handed by the guards as one of them eyes her lecherously . “I ‘ll be back
for you later. Then we’ll have some fun you and I.” he says chuckling and leaves.
“Anna my dear are you alright?” Valeria says seeing her and walking over to greet
her daughter. “I’m fine mother.” Anna reassures her. “So have you heard of
this priest ?” ask Nicolai greeting his son-in-law. “Yes he tried to over throw our
kingdom, but he overestimated us. Do not worry my friend. When my father
arrives there will be literally hell to pay.
As Castor learns more of what has been going on . At the docks a lone soldier
patrolling the area notices a ship arriving. “A ship.” the soldier shouts to the watch men.
As the ship becomes more visible the men notice that it does not look like one their
ships . As it nears the lone soldier notices that ship is adorned with black sails and
carving of a bat is located at the port bow. “It’s not one ours. It’s the flag ship of the
dark prince’s armada.” he says terrified and runs to alert the others. As it nears the dock from behind more ship adorned the same way appear. As the soldiers watch on in awe
as they approach the citizens and dock workers flea the dock to save their lives.
As the ship near the dock the dark prince’s royal guard take flight heading towards
the soldiers. The soldiers realizing they are out matched who are actually just men
and farmers who have taken up Serilous’s cause drop there weapon and flee with
the citizenry.
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In the prison Serilous hears the noise outside and call for a porter.
“What’s happening?” Serilous ask. “They’re here . The armada.” the porter says
and flees with the rest of the soldiers. “Damn it. Get the catapults you fool.”
Serilous orders . “Father. We are hopelessly outmatched. Release them.” the soldier
pleas and leaves. “Are all of you cowards. They are still mortal.” he says to them
frustrated with their incompetents. “What do you expect ? We are not soldiers . We
will take up your cause but this is beyond us.” the soldier says and leaves with the others.
In the cell Nicolai with his wife and Anna looks up and walks up to the
window hearing the noise outside. “What’s going out there I wonder?” he muses.
“He’s here my father has arrived. I suggest you release us now before he arrives.”
Castor tells Serilous. “Oh you think so . Like I said I am not afraid of him.”
“You should be. My father is the original vampire,. If your Adam
is the father of your kind then he is the father of my kind .” Castor explains.
“Maybe we should my lord. I’ve seen their ships my lord. They are a sight to behold.”
a soldier advises the good father. “That’s what they are built for.” Serilous says exasperated.
“Maybe I didn’t make my self clear. He will literally decimate the entire city. He did it
once before when they murdered his friend and comrade.” Castor explains to the soldier.
“How many times do I have to says this. I DO NOT FEAR YOUR DARK PRINCE.
I have god on my side.” Father Serilous says to them vehemently.
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“Was he always like this?” Nicolai ask seeing the good father leave.
“Oh yes but his cause was different .” Castor answers “Oh and how so.” Nicolai ask
not seeing how that could be different from now. “Father he tried to kill Castor and his
father,That’s not the worst of it though. He almost succeeded in committing mass
genocide.” Anna explians. “You can’t reason with reason him. He reverently
believes what he says. My father tried to explain to him that faith is fine . But taking
it to the extreme is wrong.” Castor explains to Nicolai. “So what do you think he’ll
do to us?” ask Valeria. “Oh probably something to show the power of his god.”
Castor says rolling his eyes. “And what if that doesn’t work?” Nicolai ask.
“Then heaven help us all.” Anna says to him. Sure enough as these words are
spoken Serilous come in. “Now I will show you the power of my god.” Serilous says
and waves to two soldiers to escort them out.
Outside soldiers are building crosses shaped as
as X’s “I thought it was appropriate since you did it to me.” Serilous says to them as
they are escorted outside. “Now my friends. I will show you the evil among us. When
the suns purifying rays come up.” Serilous says to the people watching as they bound
to the crosses . With the suns healing rays rising from the distance it looks like that
Castor and the others are doomed,but as the sun approaches in the distance winged
men are seen flying in the distance. “ Look angels have come to watch the evil ones
die.” Serilous says trying to rally them to his cause, but as they near the people looking
on see that they are not angels but far more terrifying.
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They are the elite guard Vlad’s hand picked soldier’s gifted with the power of flight fighting the front lines and protect him. As they see this the onlookers flee in terror as they come. “Come back.” Serilous says to them as they flee at sight of them and from the distance a distinctive war cry is heard. “Viva Vital.” and from a group of fallen soldiers the dark prince emerges from the fray. Adorned in his black armor and with a sword still bloody from the battle he walks up to Serilous.”You! It seems that I should have beheaded you when I had the chance.”he tells him “Yes but you wont get that second chance.” Serilous sneers touching his throat. “We shall see . Free the prisoners. Serilous is mine.”Vlad orders his men pointing his still bloody sword at him and begins the attack.“Stop! I can’t let you do that. His cause is just.” A loyal soldier says stepping in just as Vlad was about to thrust at him with his sword. “You fool what are you doing? His cause is moot Russia is now part of my empire. So if you want freedom you have to come to me.” Vlad says brandishing his sword at him. “Fine by me.” the soldier says and attack him . Vlad realizing that the soldier won't listen to reason defends himself against the soldiers with little effort and beheads him. “Now it’s just you and me.” The dark prince states pointing his sword at Serilous. “Yes the way it should be.” Serilous says drawing his blade. “Have at you.” Vlad says and the fight begins.
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Vlad realizing that the good father would not prepare for the unexpected
thrust his sword in a forward attack as the good father taken of balance tries to
compensate. Realizing what he is up to Serilous tries to defend himself and realizes
that he is outmatched and calls for a retreat. “This isn’t over yet demon.” Serious says
and retreats with his men
Inside Vlad and Castor discuss what to do next Nicolai. “I’m glad your safe my son.” Vlad says to Castor. “We have won . Yes?”Nicolai says. “Oh no not by far. He’ll be back.” Castor says to him. “This time though there will be no escape . He will pay for what he tried to do and he will know the meaning of fear.” Vlad says.
“My people have been through a lot my prince.” Nicolai says to him
ever the king. “And they will be through more but remember some of them were the
ones attacking us even though it’s not their fault and for that they will be compensated.
A new Russia will rise much more glorious than the last.” Vlad tells him
“What do you have in mind father?” Castor asks with a raised eyebrow. “As if you
don’t know my son. He needs to learn that you don’t attack one of our kind without
there being consequences. A blood price.” the dark prince says. “And what is this blood
price.?” ask Nicolai. “I told you about Alexander. Blood price is what we call vengeance.
But our vengeance is not like you humans. Our vengeance is vengeance ten fold.”
Castor says explains to him. “And how do you mean to do this?” Nicolai asks.
“Basically it mean we don’t just take it out on one person. We take it out on all
the people he knows from relatives to neighbors. That’s why my father said he will
know the meaning of fear.” Castor explains to him. “And he will. Enough talk it’s
time for action. Castor go tell Arthur and Christoph it’s time to attack.” Vlad says.
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“And I am sorry friend this is my fault. I did not think he would survive the punishment
I merited out to him. By all rights he should have died. But do not worry the new Russia
will over shadow any city that has been built before . It will be the jewel of the empire”
Vlad explains to him with a far away look on his face.
7.
Everything is quite as Serilous and his men are encamped in church secure in the
knowledge that Vlad cannot attack them in here. Outside the citizens of Moscow
head home for the night when an ominous cloud covers the night sky and strange
sounds like giant wings are heard in the distance. As the citizens of Moscow look
up curious from the sky three dragons appear. The dark prince’s dragon armada
has arrived. Seeing them the citizens run in terror as flames and venom spout
from their mouth burning and obliterating everything in there wake.
As they fly over head Moscow becomes a city of flames and the homes
and lively hood of many of the good citizens are destroyed in the ensuing disaster
with only Serilous to blame. “Father we cannot win. We have family and homes.
We were never soldiers..” A soldier pleas to him. “Fine go . I will not surrender
to that unholy creature, but know this if you leave now your place in the after life
is forfeit” Serilous tells him with a warning. The soldiers flee to his home as
outside Moscow burns in the ensuing flames.
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Vlad and Castor watch as the fires burn through the night. “My city, my home.” Nicolai says watching his home and city burn. “Do not worry my friend. It’s always hard to let goof the old. But there is hope because from the old the new arises like the phoenix raising up from it’s own ashes and with it victory.” Vlad says consoling him and pointing outside as the soldier arrives that just spoke to Serilous with one of his comrades comes to surrender. “We surrender.’ They say as men escort them to a holding area . “Where is he ? Where is Serilous?” Nicolai demands of one them. “He refuses to surrender. I quote his words. I refuse to surrender to that unholy creature.He is housed up in the temple.” the soldier tells Vlad as he and his comrade are put in the holding cell . “Of course then we will go to him. Castor.” Vlad says. “Yes father.”Castor says as he gets the idea of what Vlad has in mind.
Outside the dark prince and his son stride forward as Nicolai watches
from the store front curiously. As Vlad steps into the court yard he raises his sword
and from the sky two dragon fly down and land in front of them. “Sire” the dragon
rider says as he dismounts and readies them for the dark prince and his son. Vlad nods
and he and Castor mount up and fly off towards the temple.
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8.
Serilous paces anxiously as his men watch on inside the temple
“Sire what are you order.” A soldiers ask . Serilous turns to him and impales him
on his swords and paces some more. Vlad and Castor arrive on the dragons as two soldiers standing watch , walk up and greet Castor and Vlad as they dismount.
As they arrive the two soldiers hesitate unsure of what to do. “Let me make this easy for you.” Castor tells them and impales the soldier on his blade before he even draws a breath. Seeing him fall the other soldier draws his sword and prepares to move on him but suddenly falls and dies looking in on shock from the dagger that is in chest.
Inside the temple Serilous tries to think of a way out when
Vlad and Castor march in. “How did you get in.” Serilous demands of them.
“Guards!”Serilous shouts but no one comes. “Oh they are indisposed.” Castor says
tossing the body of one of the guards at Serilous feet. “Now surrender and come quietly,”
Vlad demands slaying the guard at the entrance before he even moves . “Oh I don’t think so,
and how dare you profane holy ground .” Serilous says to them. “Ha! Holy ground eh.
Let me tell you something about holy ground. Did you wonder why there are no churches
or temples in Romania. It’s because I destroyed them. Burned them down to the ground.
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Just like what’s happening to Russia as we speak.” Vlad says as Serilous listens in shock.
“You see we haven’t believed in your god for years now. And thus we do not fear
them.” Castor explains to him and as if on cue Vlad and Castor dispatch the guards
protecting Serilous simultaneously and advance on the good father.”No wait.” Serilous
pleads but his cries are unheard as Vlad and Castor carry him off.
Back at the encampment a jury trial is being held for the good father.
as Serilous is tied to mock up vampire cross while Vlad sits on his battle throne in judgment.“So after your original punishment. You continued on with your so called cause.” Vlad says leaning back in his throne. Serilous says nothing just stares at him with defiance.
“What nothing to say. Fine then I will speak. Since crucification didn’t work I have
decided that you will die by blood letting.”Vlad says to him. Serilous silent all this time
suddenly realizes that his faith won’t save him form what is about to happen. “No please
anything but that .” He pleads to the dark prince. “What now you speak up. It’ too late
your fate is sealed. Son shall we.” Vlad says and he and Castor advance on Serilous
draining every ounce of his blood. “It is done.” Vlad says wiping his mouth.
“But my city.”Nicolai says to them staring at the ruins. “Don’t worry my friend. The
construction of the new city will begin immediately”Vlad says and signals to his men
to pack up and head back to Europe. “We will return soon do not worry.” Vlad says
as he and Castor head back towards the ship.
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Chapter 12
1.
. The battle has left the once pristine city looking less like the
heart of the Russian empire and more like a ghost town. Nicolai stands at the palace
ruins looking over the remains of his once pristine city. “My beautiful city.” he says
gazing at the ruins “This palace was built a hundred years ago and has seen more than
one czar and now look at it.” Nicolai says wearily. “Father do not worry it is the way
of things the old is replaced by the new.” Anna comforts him. “Yes it was
getting to be bit dreary in there. Well except for the arboretum. “ Valeria says taking his
hand. “Soon they will return and new Moscow will be built.” Anna tells her father
as they gaze out at the devastation.
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2.
On their return to Romania Vlad and Castor walk with pride back into the castle
wearily and tired. “Husband you have returned.” Elizabetha says greeting her husband .
Vlad seeing the love of his life smiles and wraps his arms around and says. “Yes
Serilous is no more.” “Yes but with a terrible price . Oh well at least we got
to try out the dragons. But father I’m curious did you mean what you said?”
Castor asks of him. “Of course in actuality I have been planning this since I heard
about what happened in Russia.” Vlad says. “So you are going to go through with
this my husband.” Elizabetha ask.
“Yes . I have thought about relocating for sometime now with our expanding family
I thought we need someplace new and more suitable for our growing empire. Follow me.”
Vlad explains and head to his private study with Castor and Elizabetha following.
Inside a table is set up with a black cloth covering it. “I’ve been thinking
that we need to show the world we’re not just some upstart nation trying to make
ourselves known. All of Europe knows about us, but to really make an impact on the
world we need to establish an empire and make all the world tremble.” Vlad said
to his son who looks at him and nods “So what do you have in mind father?” Castor asks
as Christoph enters the room “Christoph!” Castor says grasping his for arm and greeting
his friend and body guard. “Where have you been keeping yourself. We could’ve
used you in Moscow.” Castor says to him. “Your father has been keeping me busy.
I am the new captain of the elite. With you and your father in Russia someone had to
keep order here.” Christoph says smiling. “Now that everybody is finally here may
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I present the empire that will shake the world.” Vlad exclaims and removes the cloth
revealing a model of palace that is like no other. The turrets are shaped like bat wings
and on top of the entrance is a bat in flight. A flag stands out side the entrance that is
an amalgamation of Soviet flag and the dark prince’s crest to symbolize the union of the
two empires. “Behold the dark empire.” Vlad says to them with a flourish.
As they look at the palace a paige enters carrying a newly minted
silver crown. “Your highness I have finished the crown you commissioned.”
the jeweler says handing him the crown. The crown is in the shape of bat wings and looks
more like a helm than crown. “Ah yes thank you.” Vlad says taking the crown.
“What’s this ?” ask Castor. “This is the crown I commissioned.” Vlad explains to him
“What was wrong with the original.” Christoph ask respectfully. “That old thing It is still
a hold over from when I and your grandfather served god and church. This crown
symbolizes everything that we are . A new race and a new empire.” Vlad says to the
two of them.
As he says this a servant comes in with champaign and Vlad raises
a glass and says “ To the dark empire .” Vlad says. “The dark empire.” Castor and
Christoph say as they raise their own glasses. “How is Nicolai going to take this?”
ask Castor . “Do not worry . He will still be in charge, he will he my vice ruler when
I am else where.” Vlad says and Castor considers this eying his father and then raises
his to toast too.
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Outside as the workers commence work on the new palace
the citizens of Moscow look on with curiosity and worry as they realize that their old
way of life is coming to an end. The dark prince looks on the construction of his new
palace and smiles dreaming of his new empire. “And where do I fit in the scheme
of things. I am the czar after all.” Nicolai says. “There will be a place for you in
my new Russia. You will be my Vice Ruler.” Vlad says to him reassuringly.
“So I will be your second.” Nicolai says . “In a way yes . If I am away or disposed of
you will be in charge until my son is ready to take throne.” Vlad explains to him
“I guess that is acceptable . As along as it thrives.” Nicolai says “Oh it will thrive
have no doubt about that. It will thrive and it will be glorious. My conquering of Europe
was only the first step in my plan. People say Rome was a great empire, but it is nothing
compared to my dark empire and Russia will be considered the new Constantinople.”
Vlad says relishing the vision. Nicolai looks on worried about his people that they are going
to be trampled in this great plan of his .
As he leaves Castor arrives to come see the beginnings of the new palace.
“So how did he take it?” Castor ask. “As expected. But these are his people I understand that.” Vlad says. “So do you think he will be a problem?” Castor ask
“No I think he’ll come to realize that this is for the best and that once it’s done
this city will thrive like never before. After all look at Wallache.” Vlad says
“Good because I don’t want any trouble Father. These are my parents-in-laws
and I love my wife and child.” Castor says to him in a stern voice.
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3.
In the city Christoph and his men supervise the rebuilding of the homes
and shops that were damaged by the attacks . Under Vlad’s command Christoph
has one man standing by the dragons to let the citizens see them and so they
won’t fear them.
At the site of the rebuilding Vlad stands on a podium and addresses
the nobles who are equally distressed about this new regime. “My friends I
realize you all have questions. So let me try to answer them. From now on
the way of life you know is over.” Vlad tells them and they all look
at him and start to clamor like reporters at a news conference. Vlad raises
his hand to get them to settle down and goes on to explain. “I have decided so that
there will be no more revolutions to initiate the cast system. I did this where I come
from and it worked out well.” Vlad says and the nobles start to object as they realize
that with this in place people that once were below them will be elevated or become
equal in status. “You can’t do this . We have lived this way of life for years.” a noble
says speaking out. “Yes and look where it got you.” Castor tells him waving his hand at
the ruined city. They look on and start to object some more when Nicolai approaches
the bench. “I too was apposed to this in the beginning, but now I realize this will
help with a lot of problems we have here. The homeless will be no more and those
of you who have no talent there will be a place for you too.” Nicolai says trying
to get them to see that this is best. “Yeah I’ve heard first hand what they do to
those with no or less talent. Blood slaves I believe you call them.” a noble says
to them. “ No there are other options you could join the legion and become one of
the elite.” Castor says to them.
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Vlad seeing there confusion says to them. “ Yes we are alway looking for new dragon
riders.” And the noble look to each other again and one says . “We ‘ll think about
it .” Vlad looking on realizes that they misunderstood him. “ No maybe you don’t understand. You don’t have a choice. This is how it’s going to be.” Vlad says and leaves with that to think about as he exits the podium with Castor and Nicolai following him.
“How can he treat us this way?” ask a noble . “Yes he just comes in
and takes over and expects us to roll over.” the noble standing beside him says.
“We have to do something I was born into nobility.” another noble objects.
“And that way of life is coming to an end.” Castor says entering the domicile
where the meeting is being held. “It looks like your father was right.” Anna says
following Castor. “He knew?” A noble says surprised. “Of course. My father has
dealt with the same kind of problem before when he first started this empire in Rome.”
Castor explains. “This doesn’t change a thing . He can’t just come in here
and expect us to accept this.” the noble hosting the meeting voices out.
“Maybe you didn’t quite hear what my father said. You don’t have a choice. It’s done.”
Castor says getting annoyed. “What my husband is trying to say is this for the best.”
Anna explains to them. “How can you say that you are one of us.” A noble interjects.
“Yes that is true but I’ve been to my husband’s homeland . I’ve seen what his rule can
do. There is no poverty and no crime.” she explains to them. “That’s because they are afraid
of the punishment.” A noble states.
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“I know my father’s rules are a bit excessive but he is going to retire soon and I will
be in charge.” Castor says to them. “And how is that going to change things?”
another noble asks. “When I finally ascend the throne I promise to listen to your
concerns.” Castor explains to him. “Then maybe we should dispose of him.”
“Know that’s not what I meant. I love my father and even if you try. I will
personally handle it and believe me you don’t want that.” Castor says glaring
at the noble who backs away seeing the threat. “Th...then what do you expect
us to do?” the noble asks “Accept it. Stagnation is one of the many problems of the
world. People cannot accept change and just get stuck in a rut. Change is part of life.”
Castor says to them. “Why does every thing have to be your way anyways?” Anna asks.
“Because that’s the way it’s always been. We are the upper class and that’s the way
it should be.” the noble hosting the meeting states. “Not any more . Your just going
to have to accept that. Unless you want my father’s wrath upon you. “ Castor says to
them and leaves them to discuss it.
4.
As the rebuilding continues the nobles become more worried as they
the new order take form and realize there is nothing they can do about it.
“I for one am not going to take the prince’s advice . I have a friend in Romania
and he told me that they call the prince the demon prince. I for one don’t want a demon
prince on the throne.” The indigent noble says.
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“What do you suggest we do?” the nobleman he is talking to ask. “We fight back. Take
up arms.” the nobleman suggest. “Is that wise after the decimation we’ve seen done?”
ask the other noble. “I don’t see any other way.” the nobleman who is hosting the gathering
says. Outside unbeknown to the other nobles one lone noble sneaks of to the palace where
the construction is being supervised by Vlad and Nicolai. “ I have information for you.
The nobles are planning an insurrection. Now do what you promised.” the noble tells them.
“What! After the war we just gone through..” Nicolai says outraged. “Thank you your
services are greatly appreciated.” Vlad says handing a purse of gold coins.
“You see there are more ways to skin a cat. It is human nature to always want more.
You just have to play into that.” Vlad explains to Nicolai. “So what do you have in mind
now that you know their plans?” Nicolai ask curious. “Let them have their little
insurrection. My men will be there way waiting to stop it before it gets out of hand.”
Vlad says and nods to Christoph who understands and leaves to gather the elite to keep
watch on the nobles.
On the street leading up to the what will be the new palace. The nobles march
forward toward the new palace with their swords drawn ready to draw blood. In the air
Christoph spots them and signals his men and they fly down and land ahead of them.
“Halt go no further!” Christoph orders them. “Get out of my way lackey.” the noble
in front sneers at Christoph disrespectfully. “I cannot and will not allow to go any further.”
Christoph tells them holding out his hand.
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“And if you think we are going to let your dark prince destroy our way of life.” the
noble leader says. “Listen to you. You sound like a group of spoiled children. You are
Russian. Act like it.” Christoph says disgusted with them. The noble leading the revolt
draws his sword and prepares to attacks Christoph. Christoph seeing that there is no
reasoning with him draws his on sword and says to him. “Do you really think that
you have a chance?” “You are outmatched colonel. By my count there is more of
us than of you.” the noble says arrogantly slashing his sword. “That maybe but you are forgetting one thing.” Christoph says smiling.
“Oh and what’s that?” the noble asks mockingly. “That me and my men are of
the new race.” Christoph says bearing his sabers. As the other nobles realize this
and see that their leaders plan is flawed they drop their swords and run.
“Stop where are you going.” the noble leader says seeing his men flee.
“They’re smart. You should do the same.”Christoph advices. “But this is unfair.
the noble complains. “Ce lei vi.” Christoph says to him shrugging his shoulders.
“That is life.” Castor explains to him. “But what are we to do. There is no place for
us in this new order.” the noble complains. “Nonsense as I said. There will be room
for everybody in the new order. As I explained before there is no need to worry my
father’s rules may be harsh, but they work. You’ll see that in the long run.”
Castor explains to the noble. “And what if we don’t want to accept this new order.
I hear in your homeland they call you the demon prince. I for one don’t want a demon
ruling Russia.” the nobleman says. “They are ignorant . I am not a demon just a man .
The horns came from the foolishness of youth.” Castor explains to him.
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“You say that when you are in charge you’ll be fair, but how long will that be.”
a noble making a point says. Castor runs his hand through his hair and thinks how to
answer that. “Our people are long lived. So it could probably happen when you are an old
man.” Castor says cringing. “So in what twenty to sixty years.” the noble asks.
“Yes about that. So maybe it might not benefit you, but it will certainly benefit your
family and there descendants.” Castor says. “And what if I don’t want this?”
The indigent noble asks. “I can see that there is no pleasing you and besides I was
just placating you till my friend could get behind you.” Castor says and smiles.
“What?!” the noble says startled. “By the order of the dark prince I here by place you
under arrest.” Christoph tells him placing hand cuffs on the indigent noble. “My father will be pleased with this.” Castor says to him grinning.
At the building of the new palace Christoph with the noble trouble maker
in tow approaches the dark prince . “My liege.” Christoph says to him kneeling.
“So this is the trouble maker.” Vlad says looking at the defeated noble.
“What is it you don’t like my country man?” Nicolai ask concerned.”Don’t speak to me
like that you are a traitor .” the defiant noble says and spits in Nicolai’s face.
Nicolai looking at the noble with pity wipes the spit off and says to him.
“Nonsense I am just trying to rebuild our shattered empire.” Nicolai explains.
“Maybe you don’t see the grand picture. The new Russia will be the heart of the
empire. A stint in the dungeon should change your mind.” Vlad says and waves
to Christoph to take him away.
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“You can’t silence us. What you are doing is wrong.” the noble shouts as the door is closed on him. Inside the cell the noble paces the cell and then sits down and closes
his eyes. “I have a question. What is it you don’t like? This new empire will create
a better world where there is no poverty. What could be so bad about that?” Christoph
ask him standing outside the cell. “How can you say that when you are one of us.”
the noble says to him. “Yes but I am not one of you anymore am I.” Christoph
says bearing his sabers. “No you serve that whelp of an upstart prince and his father.”
the noble says to him knowing full well that will get him mad. “Be careful what you
say that whelp as you put it is my friend and commander.” Christoph says with a dangerous
note to his voice. “Friend ha don’t delude yourself. He’s a demon he doesn’t feel love
or compassion.” the noble says to him. “Arg! How dare you.” Christoph says and opens
the cell door to wreck his vengeance on the noble . “Easy he’s just trying to get under
your skin.” Castor says restraining his friend as he enters the dungeon. “Isn’t that right
Jasper.” Castor says to him. “Oh yes we figure it out. You see we couldn’t figure out
how someone could let a total stranger like Serilous in. Then it occurred to us that
he must’ve have someone on the inside. But we have one question why?”
Castor asks of him. “Yes I would like to know that too. Why did you betray
your country and country men?” Nicolai ask coming down the stairs.
“Why because my father was a good man but then he lost everything when
your regime took over.” Jaspers says to him. “Your father . Do I know you?”
Nicolai ask perplexed. “My father was a loyal servant of the former Czar. He
was a great man who believed Russia had a great destiny. Then you came and
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expelled all those who followed him. My father soon died a few months later.”
Jasper says with hate in his heart and tears running down his cheeks.
“I am sorry to hear that , but cheer up you’ll see him soon for the punishment for
treason is death.” Castor says to him. “Then I will die a martyr for others will
follow in my place. “ Jasper says. “Oh you think so. I doubt it , because when they
see your fate . I think they will change their minds.” Castor says and leaves him with
those words.
Outside a crowd is gathered in front of an old tree as they watch as
Jasper is escorted by two guards to the tree. Vlad stands on one side of the tree
with the executioner on the other. “Now I understand that some of you are worried
about the new regime , but there is nothing to worry about this new regime will
benefit all. I know some of you in your fears and uncertainty were actually listening
to this man but he cared not for you but for himself. So I thought the punishment should
benefit his rank. So by my decree he shall die by starvation. Tie him to the tree.”
Vlad says as the guards drag Jasper to the tree who struggles vehemently but to no
avail as the executioner ties him to the tree. As the crowd watches on the other
nobles realize the foolishness of the man and see that they must accept the changes
or suffer the same fate.
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Chapter 13
1.
As the building of the new empire continues the palace
begins to take shape and the citizens begin to see that the dark prince was right
the new empire will better for all. Over head Christoph leads the elite looking
for those on the street who are homeless and leading them to makeshift tent where
they be separated into those who can work and cannot work .
In another tent Castor deals with the remaining nobles and the
working class. Inside Castor addressed them wearing his robe of office to show them
that even he is part of a class. “I realize this is going to be rough on some of you.
While others are going to be raised above you. So this is how it works. All those
with some talent will get a substantial pay raise.” Castor says to them.
“How much?” a labor ask . “How does fifty percent sound.” Castor tells him.
When the others here this they start to talk excitedly and raise there hands to ask more
while others look aghast and start to object. “ Also , also you will be living in your
own part of the city. This is how the caste system works . Artisans and laborers
live in there own parts of town. While the working class and royalty live in
theirs. “ Castor says explaining it to them.
“Further more anyone who has some talent in speech craft will be housed in the palace
and trained to be arbitrators and chancellors. That’s right you will learn how to respect the
wishes of royalty and deal with them.” Castor tells them crossing his arms.
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“So how many of you have had lessons in speech craft?” The chancellor says
stepping into the tent. They look at each other and shrug and one says “Not many of us
as we got older we realized we did not need it since we in a way were royalty.” One of
them states. “Well now you do . That is if you want to continue your pampered life.
So if any of you do come with me. Those that don’t will go with Captain Arthur here to the
barracks.” the chancellors explains as Arthur enters the tent. “All of you maggots .
Your spoiled life ends here. You are going to have to earn your rank.”
As Arthur says this all the former nobles sigh realizing that there life of luxury is over and a new harder life is just beginning serving under the dark prince.
2.
In our world Russia will crumble and fall and become the second largest super power next the United States. But in this realty here and now through the dark princes
machinations the new Russia will dominate the whole world.
As the new empire is being built across the border in Wallache
soldiers are being sent over to bolster the military forces of the dark prince
until the nobles are ready.
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In the training grounds of the barracks a sword fight is being held to
teach the former nobles how to fight . “This brings me back.” Castor says smiling
fencing of an attack from his friend . “Our first meeting. I recall it didn’t go to well.”
Christoph says smiling. “By whose point of view yours or mine. By my point of view
I had the upper hand.” Castor comments teasing him. “Um excuse me what’s the point
of this? We already know how to fight.” The nobles says to them .
“Really. Do you. Fencing and sword fighting are completely different. In a battle
you can’t just go up to a person and say on guard. He’ll liable run you through.”
Christoph says fencing of an attack from his friend. “In war there is no pleasantry’s.
It’s kill or be killed the law of the jungle. That’s what these fencing circles are all
about to test your metal against another opponents . You may think your good
but there is always someone better.” Christoph explains and the fight continues.
“I must warn you old friend this fight will be different.” Christoph says grinning
“We will see won’t you.” Castor says and lunges forward so fast that those watching
see only a flicker. Christoph sensing his attack back steps and swipes his attack to the
side. “Well done.” Castor says surprised by the attack. “I told you this battle will
be different. I am not the same man I once was.” Christoph says and tries to attack
him while he is distracted, but Castor side steps and avoids the blow.
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“Power isn’t everything skill is important too.” Castor says smiling and flourishes
blade ready for the next attack. “Indeed as you taught all those years ago.
I have learned a lot from you.” Christoph says and prepares to attach by changing his
stance and going into the first sword Kata. As he does and breaths as he raises his massive
sword and starts circling around his head letting the sword lead him and at it’s apex he
lunges allowing the full weight of the sword to carry him down and toward his foe.
Castor seeing the sword coming barely avoids it in time. “Well done you have come far
my friend. All right it’s time for you to show us what you can do find a partner and
fight.” Castor orders. The nobles looking indigent find partners reluctantly and head
towards the fencing circles in the courtyard.
3.
At the same time as the nobles who are being trained in the art of war.
Those few who are skilled in speech craft are being lead by the chancellor around the
soon to be finished palace. “I thought I ‘d show you this because through hard work and study this will be your reward For those of you who thought otherwise let me put it to rest . You don’t become a chancellor or adviser over night it takes years of study and patients to become a chief adviser to the crown. Most of you will start out as scribes and scholars and work your way up from there. Now let me show the new learning annex.” The chancellor says and leads them away.
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Inside are rows and rows of books and scrolls that Vlad has collected over the
years of his rule and conquest. “You will all start by studying Vlad's tactics from his previous battles This book is not just good for any soldier but for aspiring advisers and
chancellors as well and from there we’ll see.” the chancellor says and the nobles all
gather at a table and start to study .
As they begin their studies a lady enters the library carrying
some robes. “Ah excellent your robes are here. May I have your attention for a
minute. These are your robes of office. These denote you rank in the caste system.”
the chancellor says and hands them out. “What’’s this . We have our own clothes
and besides we could easily afford our own robes.” a noble says looking at his robe.
“Not anymore all the money you nobles had is now part of the royal treasury and
going towards the building of the new empire.” Vlad tells them as he enters the
library. “My lord.” the chancellor says to Vlad respectfully . “You mean were poor!?”the noble says to Vlad. “You seem to have forgotten . Let me remind you , you are nobles
no more. You now serve the empire and as such you will get a monthly stipend, as
you advance your pay get higher. From now on you earn your keep.” Vlad explains
with a no nonsense tone to them. “This isn’t fair.” a noble whines. “Maybe
I wasn’t clear enough. From this point on you are under my employ.” Vlad
says leaning on the table glaring at him. “Forgive them my lord. They have forgotten
their place . For speaking out of term. You will all adjourn for now and return to
your rooms where you will not speak to anyone for a whole week. Remember silence is
golden.” the chancellor tell them and they leave with sullen looks on their face as they
leave like children being punished .
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3.
At the dragon nest Arthur and the new recruits are standing behind
a fence listening to the dragon master. “Some of you will be called upon to be
dragon riders as such you will serve under me.” Yuri tells them.
“That is why I brought you here . To learn some basics about dragons.” Arthur tells them.
“So first lesson. When you approach one to ride make sure approach the dragon with
respect not like a beast of burden. Dragons are prideful creatures. Talk to it gently
and make your intention clear.” Yuri tells them. “Now observe.” Arthur tells them and
approaches the male dragon. “Remember to show no fear. Now watch.” Arthur
kneels in front of the dragon and respectfully request to ride on his back. The
dragon approaches him and sniffs and recognizes his sent lowers down to consent.
“So who’s first?” Yuri asks of them, but no noble steps up to take the challenge.
“No one? You have to learn this if you are going to be a soldier.” Arthur says to the
lot of them and then they notice the young dragon.
“ Is that the baby dragon . He certainly has gotten big.” Arthur comments .
“Well it’s been five years since they were captured.” Yuri says to him.
“Really then Castor must be alerted . Because the dragon was going to be
named by his daughter.” Arthur remarks and sends a messenger
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At the site where the final finishing touches are being done
to the new palace that Vlad is over seeing. “It going well . Don’t you think?”
Vlad asks Nicolai as he over sees the finishing touches. “Your majesty
a message from Arthur.” the scribe says rushing in with the message.
“Probably just a progress report.” He comments and opens the message.
“Has it been that long already.” Vlad says out loud as reads the message.
“Scribe come here.” Vlad says and write a missive to Castor who at that
moment is having lunch with Anna and his daughter at the arboretum.
“Mommy looks at the stars.” Katerina says pointing to ceiling.
“Yes your grandfather built that for your grandmother. “ Anna tells her daughter
handing her a sandwich. “I can’t remember when we had lunch together.”
Anna says to Castor. “Yes with the construction of the new palace and the
training of the former nobility we’ve barely had time together.” He tells
her. “My lord a message from the prince.” the scribe says to him nervously
“This had better be important.” Castor says and opens the note.
“What does it say my love?” Anna asks of him. “It’s about the baby dragon . It says
he’s come of age.” Castor says scratching his head. “This is wonderful news. This
means the celebration for Kat turning five cans commence.” Anna says to him.
“Are you five little one” Castor says tickling her making her giggle.
“No____ I’m four and a half.” she says still giggling. “That’s right your
birthdays next month. I can’t believe that five years have come and gone
so quickly.” Anna says to her and Castor. “I’m going to be five.” Kat says
matter of factly. “That’s right you are young lady.” Anna says picking her
up and giving her a hug. “And we have a special surprise for you.” Castor
says to her kissing her on the cheek.
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4.
“My love I am glad you are here.” Vlad says seeing Elizabetha come over
with a carafe for him . “I have a job for you and Valeria. I thought you might like.”
Vlad says to her taking carafe and kissing her hand. “That’s good Valeria and I
were just discussing how we both feel left out.” Elizabetha says to him.
“Well it seems five years have gone next month. So I was thinking of having a
double celebration. Katerina will be turning five and so I was thinking we
could celebrate her birthday and also the finishing of the new palace. I’ll
leave all the details to you.” Vlad says to her. “Don’t worry my love I’ll handle all the details . This is going to be a great celebration.”Elizabetha says and heads towards their temporary lodgings. “This is going to be great my friend wait till they see the rooms I have designed for us and Castor and Anna.”Vlad says beaming and they resume supervising the final touches to palaces.
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5.
As the months grow near the new palace comes to
completion and the upcoming celebration is on everybody ‘s lips.
“I hear the sky is going to be filled with fire works.” a peasant says and the
rumors spread. Katerina is a bundle of energy as her birthday draws near
looking for the surprise her parents spoke off.
Outside the castle banners fly and the new palace is decorated for
the upcoming celebration. Heralds and messengers travel all over the realm
inviting people all over for this great celebration. In the markets poster are
put up announcing the celebration . As the news travel the finishing touches
to the palace are being done and spectators come and watch as the palace is
completed and look at it in awe at the majestic and beauty of it. The palace in it’s
final stage does not look anything like the original . The gardens of the new palace are
filled with exotic flowers from all over the world . The steps and walk ways are
made of marble and mortar from the Carpathian mountains. The doors of the palace
itself are handcrafted and stained by the finest artisans in Russia. In all the
the palace itself is a site to behold. On the doorway and from every turret banners
hang with the dark prince’s crest . The inside as well as the outside is just as
amazing. The halls shine from the marble and prism floor holding the sunlight and
reflecting it. As you enter throne room and see the grand throne a site to behold in
this day and era . The throne itself is carved of sand stone and in the shape of a giant
claw and surrounding it are lesser seats for the chancellors and other dignitaries.
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Hanging from behind the throne is an amalgamation of the Vlad’s crest
and the Russian crest of the hammer and sickle. The citizens of Moscow look
in awe at the new palace for they never have seen it’s like before. It’s beauty
rivals that of the Taj Mahal. In the annals of this world's history the palace will
be counted as one of the wonders of the world.
6.
As the day arrives high ranking dignitaries arrive form different
coasts and continents . The citizens watch in awe as they arrive to celebrate
the princess’s birthday and the new Russia. From Asia the Emperor arrives dressed in
fine and silks and accompanied by his Gratia The people look on in wonderment and
envy at her beauty. Not far behind arriving in a chariot is the current president of the
Americas. As they all get seated inside the new palace Anna and Castor arrive with
Katerina following in tow. They all look on as they enter Castor is dressed in his
new robe of office and Anna in her newly commissioned gown. But as they enter
all turn to the young princess whom Anna spared no expense for this day.
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The dress is beautiful made from the finest fabrics and adorned with the finest
silk wings so as she enters it looks like she looks like she an angel come to earth.
Anna and Castor sit down at the front and wait for the arrival of the dark prince.
From the rear the dark prince enters and all rise for the current ruler of the Russian
Romanian alliance. The dark prince is also dressed in his robe of office, but his robe
is different from the one he usually wares . The robe is the darkest blue and the crest
on the back is made of diamonds instead of the usual embroidery. On his head he
wares the new crown and on his arm is his adorning and beautiful wife Elizabetha.
Who in her self is a site to behold dressed in a gown that sparkles in the noon day
sun. When all the dignitaries have arrived and been seated the dark prince rises and
speaks. “ Friends and dignitaries I am pleased to see you all here to celebrate
my grand daughters birthday and the beginning of the new Russian Romain
alliance. “It certainly is site to behold.” the president comments on the
new palace. “Yes it took almost two years to build.” Vlad says to him and then
notices that Castor is having a hard time keeping Katerina quiet. “But enough
of that . I see that Kat is anxious to open her presents. “ Vlad says and they all
laugh looking at her with adoring eyes. “So without further adieu bring out the
dragon.” In the distance a roar is heard as Yanos enters with the baby dragon.
“This is for you my daughter.” Castor says to Katerina. She looks up at him
and says . “For me?” “Yes my love she is all yours. But you should give her a
proper name.” Anna says hugging her. “Glamor. I think I’ll name her Glamor.”
“A fine name granddaughter.” Vlad says . “From this day forth she shall be called
Glamor.” Vlad says and raises his glass.
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7.
“ A toast to my grand daughter.” Vlad says raising his glass again.
“Now to the other business. Soon I will retire and my son Castor will take my
place.” Vlad says to them all. “I was wondering why you called us here.”
The Chinese Emperor says to him. “For this very reason I am tired of being
a conquerer. My family and friends already know this, but I have changed
the focus of the empire. We have been severely depleted after the war and
this battle we had here has depleted our resources considerably. So I am offering
the services of our great empire all that I ask in return is half the spoils of the profit.”
Vlad says to them. They look at each other and think about what they could do with
an army like this a there back. “This is a great opportunity . So what you are saying
is that if there is ever a need we can hire your army.” the U.S. President asks eying
the dragons. “Yes but you have to understand that after a battle dragons sometimes
sleep for years to replenish their energies and fire.” Vlad explains .
“Still to have an army that is near invincible is a great opportunity.” the Chinese Emperor
comments. “We accept your offer.” the U.S. President answers and raises his glass in a toast.
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As the celebration continues Vlad gives the dignitaries a tour of the new palace.
As he leads them the dignitaries look on in amazement at the new Russian palace.
“It truly is a wonder of the world .” the U.S. President tells Vlad admiring the
craftsmanship.”How could you afford this if your poppers are depleted.”
The Chinese Emperor ask of him. “We had some help from the Czar after all
this was his country.” Arthur says just arriving from a meeting.
“Was?What do you mean was?” ask the U.S. President. “Russia is now ruled by
co-rulers just as I understand it your rule Mr. President but see for your self.” Vlad
says and they walk on. As they approach the dragon pens they pass the throne room.
“Amazing ! But what are those circling around the throne for?” the Chinese Emperor
ask looking at the throne room. “They are for my generals and councilors.” Vlad
explains to them and the they look and think that they have over estimated this man.
As they approach the dragon pen the dignitaries suddenly realize what kind
of deal they’ve gotten themselves into. “They’re beautiful.” the U.S. President says
looking on in amazement. As they approach the male dragon looks on in suspicion.
“Easy boy were not here to harm you or your mate.” Arthur says approaching
the male and patting his snout. The dignitaries approach and look on at them and think
just what they could do with these creatures. “With these no enemy will appose you
and all who do will tremble with fear and flea at your might.” Vlad says emphatically.
“We already agreed but this seals the deal.” the U.S. President says to them.
“Excellent , Now if you’ll follow me.” Arthur says and lead them to the library.
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“So how did it go?” Castor ask approaching his father. “Very well considering
that they are humans.” Vlad relents. “So they agreed.” Castor says to him.
“Yes my son. So when I retire or die in wrongful death things should be easier for
you.” Vlad says and they walk together to watch Katerina playing with her new
dragon. “Father I love my dragon. Thank you.” she says running up and hugging
him. “Your welcome but taking care of a dragon is a great responsibility.”
Castor tells her and he and Kat walk off together with Vlad watching.
“So everything went well?” Elizabetha ask walking up to him and taking his hand.
“Yes very well.” Vlad replies and they walk together to the library.
In the library the dignitaries are at the table signing the
parchment that looks a lot like the signing of the declaration of independence.
As they sign Vlad enters and walks up to them and says “So are we all agreed
upon.?” Vlad “Yes we all agree to the terms .” The U.S. President says and Vlad
walks up to them and shakes their hand.“You realize my lord that we are going to be treated the same we were treated before,” Arthur says to the dark prince. “ Do not worry my friend they will all respect us when the world witnesses our might as mercenaries.” Vlad says clapping him on the back.
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8.
Years pass and as Katerina grows up the empire has a reign of peace.
Only the petty problems of taxes and fiefdom are dealt with. With no wars and
no problems the kingdom slowly gains prosperity and notoriety as news of
their exploits and the fear of the dragons spreads. Leaders from across the globe
vie for their military might. Vlad deals with them as the years slowly catch up to him.
In the gardens Castor and Anna are walking together taking a break
from the needs of the people. Katerina who is now a young girl of ten follows behind.
“This is such a beautiful country. To think that monster Serilous nearly was
successful in destroying this.” Anna comments looking out at the city . “Yes he would
have if my father hadn’t intervened and out of that tragedy a new Russia was born.”
Castor replies. “Yes and some day it will be yours.” Anna comments and takes his hand..
“Have you thought who is going to be your co-ruler ?” Anna ask her husband.
“Not much” Castor admits. “You should consider Christoph . He’s your best friend
and has always been at your side.” Anna suggest.
“I’ll think about it” Castor says and they continue walking with Kat trailing behind.
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9.
As Castor and Anna are walking the gardens. Inside Vlad is holding court.
As the ambassador from China takes the stand. “You realize that the dragons are not
at full strength yet.” Vlad says to him. “I realize that my lord as my leader told me,
But if the matter wasn’t urgent we would not even consider it. We are under siege
though ,by a group called the Mongol s.” the Chinese ambassador explains to him.
“Mongols never heard of them.” Vlad says As he says this a general leans over and
whispers in his ear and Vlad nods. “Ah I see sounds like people after my own heart.”
Vlad tells him. “ So will you aid us?” the Chinese ambassador asks humbly.
“We will consider it. Please wait outside.” Vlad asks of him out and the
ambassador steps out to await the decision of the dark prince.
“So how are the dragons ?” Vlad ask Yuri who sitting next to him.
“They are almost ready my lord.” Yuri says to him. “But our forces are not ready
yet.” A general intervenes raising his voice. “What about the nobles?” Vlad ask.
“They are far from ready my lord.” Arthur says to him.
“Do you think they are up to it though?” Vlad ask thinking of all angles.
“Like I said they are still pretty fresh and need a lot more training.”
Arthur. “I see your point my friend but I think this is just what they need
some battle experience.” A general adds to the conversation
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“Well then it’s settled . We accept this offer and I am going to lead this battle.”
Vlad says and they all turn to him in shock. “But.... my lord forgive me but your
place is here.” the chancellor says raising his voice “Nonsense nothing that can
be done here that can’t be handled by my son. Send him in.” Vlad says to the
chancellor and the chancellor signals for the ambassador to enter again.
As the ambassador comes in and sees the looks on some of there faces
and fears the worst. “No need to fear my friend we have graciously decided
to accept this contract.” Vlad says beaming. “Oh thank you my lord I will
relay this message to my lord immediately.” the ambassador says bowing and
leaves. Inside the chancellor is arguing with Vlad. “My lord forgive me but is
is this wise.” the chancellor asks making a point. Vlad sighs and says.
“I understand your concern my friend but I am bored. I haven’t been in
battle for years now and all these bureaucrats tire me out.”
“Still you should not.....”The chancellor starts to says but Vlad cuts him off.
“Enough we leave in the morning.” Vlad says and dismisses the council.
Inside his bed chamber Vlad is polishing his armor with
Elizabetha watching. “My love I tend to agree with the chancellor .Your
place is here and I have a bad feeling about this.” Elizabetha tells him as the chancellor leaves.“Your worries are noted my love but do not worry I will be fine.”
Vlad says addressing her concern. “If everything is going to fine then
why are you writing a note.” Elizabtha says skeptically. “It’s just in case to let
him know of certain things.”Vlad says to her . “Your not telling me something.”
Elizabetha says with her hands on her hips. “Do not worry. Let’s go to bed.”
Vlad says and they get in bed to rest.
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Chapter 14
1.
At the harbor the ocean looks like a battle scene with dozens of
black sailed warships . On the flag ship Vlad stands adorned in his black armor
and gives the order to sail.
As the ships move out from the distance they resemble a black mist
moving ominously across the ocean. Lady luck looks like it is to be on their side
as a strong wind blows from the north. On the flag ship Vlad stands looking out
across the sea breathing in the sea air. “Sire I am still not sure this was a good
idea you leading this battle. Your not in your prime anymore.” Arthur says
reproachfully. “Arthur my friend . You have been a valuable ally, but on this I am
firm. I need to get out I was feeling restless.” Vlad replies to him allaying his concern..
“ I understand that. But what if the myths are true that if you die we die.”
Arthur says trying to reason with Vlad. “ My friend we are far different from
those ancient vampires . They were undead creatures . Have you forgotten?”
Vlad says and takes his hand and places it on his heart to feel his heart beat.
“You see life. Like I said when I met you. We are a new bread. A new race.
What hold s for them doesn’t hold for us.” Vlad says to his friend.
“Yes, but still I would not like to see you die.” Arthur says. “My friend if it is
my fate to die than I accept that. The empire will go on with my son running
it.” Vlad says and walks to the port to check on the men.
As the ships near the Asian border the ambassador approaches Vlad
and hands him a sealed envelope . “What’s this?” Vlad ask taking the envelope.
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“I was to give you this when you neared the border.” The ambassador says.
Vlad looks at him and opens it up. On the letter Vlad reads the orders of what
the emperor wants them to do and shouts to his crew. “Alright we have our orders.
We are to protect the border between the wall and to make sure none get through.”
As the night approaches the ships dock at a small port near the
palace gate and the dark prince and his men quietly disembark and head towards the
great wall. As they near a porter nears them with horses from the palace but as they
t near Vlad and his men they rear up in fright. “What’ wrong boys ?” the porter says
to the horses trying to calm them down. “May we be of service .” Vlad says approaching
him. “You see we’re not exactly human. Weren’t you informed of this.” Vlad asks
showing his fangs. “No we were told that the mercenaries that were hired would change
the fate of the battle.” the porter says quite shocked by the circumstance.
“Incompetent fools.” Arthur says coming from behind. “How dare you!Our emperor
is neither incompetent or a fool.” the porter says to him. “Easy my friend we mean
no disrespect it just seems that maybe you didn’t hear all the message. So as we
appreciate the gesture we will walk.” Vlad tells the porter. “Are you sure ? You must
have horses in your country.” The porter says to Vlad. “Indeed we do my friend
but they have been bred around us, as so they do not fear us.” Arthur explains to the
reluctant porter. “Ah I see. Then I am sorry.” the porter says. “Nothing to forgive
you just didn’t know all the circumstances that ‘s all . Now if you don’t mind
we have a long hike ahead of us.” Vlad says and they continue the long walk
to the wall.
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3
If you have never seen the great wall it is sight to behold .
The wall spans the whole of China. As Vlad and his men near the Great Wall
they all look up at it. “Humans built this.” Arthur comments . “That’s what I hear.”
Vlad comments looking up at it. “So how do you want to do this?” Arthur ask deferring to him.“I want the archers and the elite on the wall and the foot soldiers on the Mongol side.”
Vlad says and Arthur gives the orders. “This may be a tough battle these Mongols are
truly barbarians.” Vlad tells him. “Yes my lord we are ready.” Arthur says to him.
“I hope so because we are probably not going to come out of this unscathed.”
Vlad says and walks away to check on the rest of the troupes.
As evening approaches the camp is filled with anticipation not knowing
what to expect. The air around the camp is deathly quite as if the world has
taken a breath. Then from the distance the sound of hooves is heard and above
the rise the Mongol horde is seen. Compared to the their cousins the Chinese they
are brutish . Dressed in animal furs and wielding axes and brutish looking swords
they advance on the border like a stampede of elephants. The sentry on duty seeing
them approach sounds the alarm as an arrow from a Mongol flies and
silences him. Above the wall fires lite up all along the wall and the battle begins.
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Hearing the horns Vlad quickly adorns his helm and heads out to see.
On the battle field the dark prince’s army stands ready as Vlad steps out and gives the
order to fight. On the wall Arthur commands the archers to stand at ready as the
Mongols charge at the wall. But as they fire a legion of shield bearers comes
forward and position themselves in front of the men and the archers from
the Mongol’s fire down upon the archers upon the wall. “Shields” orders Arthur,
but some of them fall anyways. “Not good, definitely not good. You go tell our
lord the situation.” Arthur orders an elite who salutes and flies off towards the battle
on the ground. Vlad seeing the messenger signals to him and he gives the dark
prince the message. “H mm this Mongol leader is a lot cleverer than I gave him credit
for.” Vlad muses to himself and sends the messenger away.
A lone solldier advances to the front adorned in a bone helm
and a fur cloak. “I am Genghis Kahn . Emperor of Mongolia and I am here to accept
your surrender.” he says to Vlad arrogantly. Vlad smiles and turns to his general
and says “Cocky isn’t he.” then turns toward this upstart and says. “You are either foolish or ignorant. Expecting us to surrender as the battle has just
begun.” “I thought I’d give the option usually when the enemy sees they surrender
immediately” the Mongol leader boasts. “That maybe so. But we are no ordinary
army. Maybe you haven’t heard of me. If so let me introduce my self. I
am Vlad Malkivan called by many who fear me the dark prince.” Vlad introducing himself
and bowing and a royal flag bearer comes forward caring his crest. “Is that suppose
to mean something. I have struck fear and ransacked half this continent.”
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Genghis boast. “Just half ?I have conquered a whole nation.” Vlad says
“It looks like neither of us is going to give up. It’s too bad we are on different
sides. We could have been allies.” Genghis says . “Not possible your people
are too barbaric and brutish to be part of my culture .” Vlad says to him.
Hearing these words Genghis raises his sword and attacks calling his men
to continue the attack.
Knowing a direct assault on the foot soldiers and archers from his archers didn’t
work Vlad signals with sword while fighting off Genghis ‘s attacks. From above
the elite swarm down on the unsuspecting archers like a flock of vultures attacking
it’s prey. Unprepared the archers succumb to the assault before they can retaliate.
Genghis quickly reorganizes his men placing spear carriers sporadicly with in them.
Vlad seeing this quickly calls them back but to late as some of them fall prey to the
spear carriers thrust.
Vlad seeing that his original plan of attack isn’t working
changes strategies and uses a frontal attack with his horse soldiers. Genghis
and his men charge forward with neither giving in and a blood battle rages
on the field as bodies fall from either side. In the years ahead the field where the
battle was fought will be covered with poppies and be renamed “The Red Sea.”
because of the rows and rows of poppies. On the wall seeing that they are
too evenly matches calls for them to regroup. “What are you doing.?”
Vlad ask hearing his command. “My lord we are too evenly matched.”
Arthur says. Vlad looking at his and seeing that they are exhausted admits
that Arthur is right and says. “Arg! Your right. Retreat.” Vlad commands
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At the dark prince’s command tent. Vlad and the generals are discussing tactics.
“How do you fight someone who is your equal?” Arthur asks “Equal? He is hardly
my equal. He may have some of the same traits, but he is still human.” Vlad sneers
. “But how do we beat him ?” a general ask. “Well if it were me. I’d be pretty
smug right now with the victory .” Vlad says musing. “That’s a good point my
lord. So we use that against him.” a general suggest. “Agreed we will advance on them at night. By now they are pretty drunk from celebrating their minor victory. We attack at midnight.” Vlad says and they disperse. As they leave and Vlad prepare for the night raid a messenger arrives from the Emperor. “My lord new from the Emperor.”the messenger says and hands over the scroll. Vlad opens it and says. “Ah good news for once. You go get Arthur.” Vlad orders the messenger.“I don;t work for you.” The messenger says resenting his tone. “Yes but your orders are to cooperate with us.” Vlad tells the messenger who nods
his understanding and leaves to carry out Vlad’s orders.
Outside Arthur enters the command tent upon hearing that his
lord needs him. “What’s the story?” he asks. “Good news the Emperor is sending
some of his troupes. It looks like we might have a chance . Go tell the generals to
hold off the attack. With the Emperor’s soldiers at our command we might have
a chance.” Vlad says and Arthur leaves to tell the generals the news.
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As morning approaches the Emperor’s soldiers arrive and the commander
enters Vlad’s tent. “My lord my name is General Chow and I am at your command.”
the general tells him bowing. Vlad looks up from his discussion with the generals .
“Ah yes commander come join us.” Vlad tells him and the general walks up to the
table and takes a seat. “So here is my plan with the Emperor’s soldiers here to join
us. We do a bluff. We come at them same as before, but what they won’ t
realize is that general’s soldiers will be hiding form the rear and when
they think they have us the general and his men attack.” Vlad says and
dismisses them all.
As dawn approaches Vlad and his troupes prepare for a full frontal
attack while the general and his men silently ride behind enemy lines. As the sun
nears it’s zenith the army of the dark prince advance. The soldiers ride into battle
like a dark tide faithfully following their leader. As they ride upon the Mongol horde
fearlessly the Mongols laugh as they see Vlad and his men attacking. “We tried this
once before and it ended up a stale mate. “ Genghis taunts. “We vampire are a stubborn
lot. Not at least to say resilient.” Vlad mocks . “Fine if this is the way you want to have it.”
Genghis says and orders his troupes to attack. As they flee a cheer is heard among
the soldiers of the dark prince’s army. Vlad turns to his army smiling and says
“We have won for now, so rest up the main battle is just ahead. You too commander.
“Very well this war has just started.” the commander says and leaves with his troupes.
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As night falls the soldiers of the dark prince’s army sleep restlessly as they worry
about the next attack. Inside the command tent the dark price paces restlessly
sipping a carafe of blood as he plots out their next move. “May I come in?’
the commander ask standing outside the tent. “Yes of course. I am just worried
about our next move. So what’s on your mind commander?” Vlad ask.
“Exactly that. Our next move.” the commander says.
“That’s why I’m still up. I’ve been thinking about that too. Tell me how many are
there?” Vlad asks with of concern on his face. “A lot Why do think we call them a
horde.” the commander states “So this wasn’t the main contingent?” Vlad ask.
“No this was merely the first wave. The main contingent is probably near
the Mongol border. Why do you ask?” the commander asks
“That’s what I was afraid of . So if you had to guess. How many?” Vlad ask.
“Mongols span a quarter of the continent . So I’d say about a thousand, maybe
more.” the commander says. “Thank you. Get some sleep your going to need it.”
Vlad says and the commander gets up and then turns to say. “We hired you
because we knew we couldn’t fight them alone.” he says and then leaves the tent.
Inside the tent Vlad continues to stare at the map trying to figure
away to win this war , but then relents and goes to bed. As he sleeps he dreams of
the battle ahead. In it he sees himself fighting but to no avail but from an above
a dark shadow that scatters the Mongols and wins the battle.
In his dream he can’t figure out what it is, but in his mind he has an inkling
and falls into a dreamless sleep.
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As morning approaches Vlad is tying a note to raven to send back
to the castle when the commander steps in. “So what’s the plan?” the commander
ask. Vlad looks up and sends the raven off. “I had a vision last night that we can
win this war.” Vlad tells the commander and keeping the part of his death in the
dream to himself. “Sounds good .So how do we do this?” ask the commander.
“Wait and see. In the mean time I would like to know how the Emperor’s forces
are doing.” Vlad asks of the commander. “So far they are doing okay. . The Emperor
and his men have successfully held off the first attack. They are just waiting from
news from us.” The commander tells him. “Well they won’t have to wait long.”
Vlad says as a raven flies in and transforms into a red skinned man with a Mohawk.
“ Blood Letter my old friend I haven’t seen you for a full cycle.” Vlad says greeting him
clasping his arm in military fashion. “I was just finishing up negotiations with an another
tribe nearby,and decided to come visit when I heard you were here. So I
volunteered to bring you the news. The dragons are ready.” Blood letter says
“Excellent when can we expect them.” Vlad ask. “Tomorrow at the least.”
Blood Letter says. “Good then tonight we celebrate.” Vlad says and hands
him a glass and they raise their glasses toast.
In the camp of the Mongols . Genghis Kahn is planning something
very different looking at his generals. “Tomorrow will be a device victory for us.
For they cannot hold out for ever. I for see this.”Genghis says and his generals cheer.
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4.
As evening approaches Vlad and his men celebrate and relax not
worrying about the momentous day ahead. Fires burn and the men are gathered
around them . While in the center a huge bonfire is lit and men dance and
fornicate with their women and wives forgetting their worries. As the night
passes the men celebrate till dawn and then head to their perspective tents
to rest up for the battle ahead.
Morning comes early and the men dawn their armor in the sky ahead
the sun shines, but in the distance a group of dark clouds approach and as they near
the men see that the dragons have arrived. Vlad steps out and sees the dragons approach
Hearing the men cheer the commander steps out as well as Vlad greets them.
“Yes they are an amazing aren’t they?” Blood Letter says to the commander seeing
the look on his face and steps up to greet them. Vlad steps up and greets the head
rider who kneels before him. “My lord we are at your service.” the riders says.
“Excellent with you hear the tides will turn. When you are ready join me in the
my tent.” Vlad says to head rider. “Yes Sir.” the head riders says and follows him.
Inside Vlad’s tent the commander stands over a stable when the head comes in.
“So I want you and your men to cover us from the air. Your main duty will be the
archers and the catapults leaving us free to take care of the ground troupes.” Vlad
says looking up. “At your command.” the head rider says saluting the dark prince.
“Excellent dismissed.” Vlad orders preparing a message for his son.
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“So it looks like it went well.” Blood Letter says entering as the head rider leaves.
“Yes I think we have a chance. I do have a job for you . If I don’t survive give this
to my son.” Vlad says handing the letter over to Blood Letter. “I understand but that
will never happen.” Blood Letter says taking the letter. “Yes but just in case.”
Vlad says to no one in particular as Blood Letter has already left.
As dawn approaches the men stand at ready to fight as the dragons
perch on near by hill side. Vlad takes a look at his army astride his horse and
note that the war has been hard on both sides with losses on either side. But
now the battle will be finally decided. With these final thoughts the dark prince
signals the attack.
It is a site to behold the great behold the great army of
the dark prince. Never in history has there ever been an army like this one. In the
sky the dragons fly passing through towns on the way to battle. Mothers hold
their children tight as they fly by.
As they approach the territory where the Mongols are encamped . Genghis comes
from his tent and approaches them. “Have you learned nothing ? You cannot win.”Genghis states as his men come to join him. Vlad just looks at him and smiles and raises
his conk shell to his lips and sounds the signal. From the distance a roar is heard
and from far away the dragons arrive and lay waste to the catapults and the land around
him at that precise moment Vlad and his men charge at Genghis and the Mongols.
Seeing the utter devastation around him Genghis in fit raises his sword and comes
at Vlad. Vlad sensing the attack quickly parries the strike and comes at Genghis with
sword and shield. From above the dragon riders charge and take out Genghis archers
leaving the rest the dark prince’s army to advance on the oncoming infantry.
The Blood Annals
As the men pick off the remaining soldiers. Vlad continues to battle
Genghis who just notices his men fleeing the battle scene. “What are you doing?Fight!” orders Genghis. Vlad seeing him distracted comes at him and knocks him down.
“You should have paid attention to the fight.” Vlad says grinning pointing the tip of
his blade at Genghis’s neck. Genghis just smiles and rolls kicking the sword out
of Vlad’s hand and grabbing a sword from a downed soldier. “You didn’t think it
would be that easy.” Genghis says pointing his sword at him. Vlad raises his sword
and bows and they continue to fight.
On the battle field the commander and the general attack the remaining troupes
when suddenly the commander is hit by a stray arrow. “Commander!” Arthur
cries running to his side. “I’m alright it’s just a flesh wound. Come on we have
a battle to win.” the commander says riding ahead and holding his arm.
Arthur looks at him with worry and then they ride on to join the battle.
As Arthur and the commander join his men. The dragons fly ahead
lending their support attacking the Mongols with dragon fire. As the fire
hits the armor of the men disintegrate and the flesh melts leaving nothing
but bone. As the men see their comrades dying in pain they look up and see
the dragons. Seeing the distraction caused by the dragonsArthur orders his to a full on attack. As Arthur and his men attack from distance the main contingent joins the battle
and the war rages on. Arthur shouts to his to men. “Come on men the battle isn’t
over yet.” and rides into battle. As Arthur and the commander ride into battle
The Blood Annals
Vlad and Genghis continue to fight as they do Genghis seeing that his reinforcement
have arrived says. “Ah reinforcements have arrived.” Vlad seeing this says to him “Don’t ... count on your chickens before they’ve hatched.” Vlad says to him. “You seem tired.” Genghis says to him.“I’m not as young as I used to be.” Vlad says between attacks.
“Really I am only 23.” Genghis says and advances. “Ah but with age comes
experience look up.” Vlad says to him.
In the hills the main contingent is being decimated by the dragons
Arthur and the commander’s army. “You may have won the battle but this day is ours.”
Genghis snarls and draws a dagger. “Ah” shouts Vlad grabbing his
stomach and backing away. “Is this how you Mongols fight with no honor.”
Vlad says valiantly raising his sword. “Honor there is no honor in battle it’s
kill or be killed.” Genghis says looking at Vlad with a smile. “And it looks
like I have the advantage.” Genghis says and comes at him with his sword.
Vlad seeing that he has no other option falls and raises his sword
and impales Genghis on it. Then drops his sword and falls with
exhaustion.
As the dark prince’s army advance victoriously.
Arthur looks valiantly for his lord to tell him the news, but finds him no
where. Not seeing him, he begins to worry. “Commander have seen the dark prince.”
Arthur ask . “No not since the meeting.” The commander says now beginning to
worry calls for soldiers and organizes a search. From far away a soldier spots him
and calls to Arthur who comes riding to his aid. “My lord.” Arthur says kneeling
at his friends side. “Ah don’t fear my friend.” Vlad says coughing. Arthur seeing
his lord and friend hands him some water. “It was a glorious battle was it not?”
The Blood Annals
Vlad asks. “Yes. Yes it was.” Arthur says with tears in his eyes “Don’t cry my
friend. I knew this was my destiny.” Vlad says and looks up and then says
“Ah you do exist.” and then lies down and takes a final breath. Arthur kneels in front
of him and checks for his pulse. “He’s dead. You will be remembered my friend.”
he says and orders some men to take him home.
TO BE CONTINUED IN BOOK II
THE DEVIL KING
Ted Moro 02/23/10
Copyright 2010