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Post by Santino 1 on Sept 12, 2006 6:29:18 GMT 1
The following evening I awoke with a ravaging hunger.
Quickly, I greedily drank from my victim. Her blood, hot and delicious as it flowed down my parched throat. Having only returned from the grave a night ago it was going to take no less than two more victims to fully restore my robust physique.
Carelessly flinging my third victim of the night to the cold ground. I looked up into the night sky. I was in the City of the Angels. Los Angeles that is. According to the thoughts I had read from my lovely and now quite dead meals.
Cover the kill?
The once most important rule to follow, and I did so. At one time. But that was a different vampire who had sought to right his wrongs, of which I had many. I shall never deny my heinous past.
The past which although I have never told anyone has been seen fit to be put in print in several books for common meek mortals to read whilst they whittle their pathetic little lives away. And by whose permission were the events of my life chronicled?
Certainly not I.
I who once governed an army of vampires for two Millennia. And it was during those times. That I. Santino, Dark Coven Master of all masters of the "Children of Darkness" once wrote those rules and enforced them to all of my preternatural abilities.
And what of the little cherubic imp Amadeo? Yes, I stole him from his vampiric father. The ancient Roman who once had a chance to burn me to a cinder but due to his deep love for all things living he had spared my life the night that I and my two cohorts had come upon his Villa in ancient Rome and demanded he and his vampiric consort Pandora, join us in my newly formed religion.
Ah, but what were such things to Marius? He who saw beauty in all things and would often spend entire nights struggling, painting furiously to capture beauty on canvas. And truly, he was gifted. He never knew how I often coveted his fine talent. How if I had only the smallest talent that he so often took for granted. I might never have turned into the zealot that I once was.
But we all search for that which we do best. Could I help it that my calling happened to be Coven Master of all Vampires. Marius surely could have taken on the role. But he simply chose not to. Preferring to indulge in his immortal life surrounding himself in beauty and the pursuit of those to whom we as vampires can never truly possess.
Fledglings.
Those beautiful freshly made vampires. Who for all their seeming immortality, lived each night as if it were the first. Indeed, at least a millennia had to go by until the novelty of our vampire eyes finally wore off. And then reality sinks in as you finally discover that life is just life. Be you immortal or mortal. And everyday is just another day to find something to occupy your ever increasing immortal boredom.
And speaking of beauty. Just what was The Brat Prince's "Beautiful One" up to anyway?
Smirking wickedly I turned away from my victims and took to the night sky. My destination. New Orleans. My prize. The most beautiful of all vampires. One who was made by the Brat Prince himself to be a possession...and nothing more.
Perfect for my plan. For Monsieur de Lioncourt is the most powerful of all vampires having partaken directly from the most ancient of all founts.
Akasha, our now dead Queen whose blood still flowed in the veins of the ever prancing peathingy.
And so I knew now what I must do. Capture his most treasured of fledglings. The weakest of us all. The one whose most human of hearts and laser emerald eyes would bring the Brat Prince down from his high pedestal. And make him bow down to me as my former coven members once did oh so many centuries ago.
Ah, the politics of old. How I do miss them. And I shall have my coven once again and rule as I once did.
For I am Santino.
And I shall have my just reward!
And as I flew through the night skies. I felt a sudden pull into the deep crevices of my vampiric mind.
NO!!! It's impossible! No one knows that I still exist! And the twins surely do not know I have risen! But this was a different kind of mind reading. It almost left me dazed and entranced as I traveled past city after city.
And as cold and cruel as I know quite well I can be. This vampire who so valiantly read my thoughts seemed to be even more sinister than I. Ah, a true brother to my dark heart. And as I neared the beautiful city of New Orleans. It dawned on me with a sudden fascination that this vampire was like no other. Far more powerful than Marius or myself. Perhaps more so than our own d**nedest creature.
And he was beckoning me with the mind gift. His thoughts eerily creeping into my own sending the preternatural hairs on my arms and head to rise and causing the blood in my veins to course rapidly as my heart thudded excitedly in my chest. He was calling me. Seeking me. Inviting me to his dwelling. And just as I touched down upon the ground on the street of Rue Royale.
He gave me his name and my eyes widened in awe and wonderment. Could it be? Could it be possible. The most fictional and evil of all vampires? Could it be?
And as my mind continued to sink into the realization that yes, it could quite possibly most definitely be.
He sent me his name and location.
Dracula....Transylvania, Romania.
And after briefly accepting his invitation. I smiled wickedly as I made my way to the most infamous of vampiric addresses.
Ah, what better place to hide and starve The Pretty One! A dark and ancient castle, with dungeons no doubt!
And with a plan set into my mind. I went in pursuit of the most beautiful of all vampires. And the Brat Princes most fatal of all loves. And yet, the least cherished. But that often happens when you take a possession for granted.
Time to teach the Brat Prince a lesson he is long overdue[/color]
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Post by Santino 1 on Sept 12, 2006 17:59:09 GMT 1
DRACULA
I stalked through the rain drenched streets after making my call to the vampire known as Santino. I had heard of him, of course, but only through the briefest of accounts. Other Vampires I had heard of more, Lestat de Lioncourt (I believed to be his name) the vampire come rock star. I chuckled at the thought. Modern music sure was something compared to the old ways. And of course Louis, the beautiful treasured one of Lestat. I had read his book, most amazing that such vampires had no fear of attack from mortals. Amazing, after I had lived my life, both mortal and otherwise in the utmost secrecy.
Raised in an orphanage where there were no secrets, no way to hide, no where to run when the doctors wanted something extra after their examination...anger coursed through my veins and my grip tightened to a vice like pincer. The young man in my hands gurgled before the snap of his flimsy neck broke the quiet of my thoughts. I shrugged, unconcerned and threw his now useless body to one side. I really must think AFTER I have done with my meals. Chuckling to myself again I left the darkened alleyway and walked out into the village street. I grabbed another innocent victim and drained her dry in an instant, revitalised I set my sights on my target....
The night before I had entered into a small town bar and walked to the counter.
“I need a guide of the area, someone to show me around, there’s somewhere I want to go...”
The dark haired barman quickly took in my pale face and black lines from my eyes. He spoke back to me in fractured English, a heavy accent and with a foul look on his face.
“I can guess where you wanna go. The Castle huh? Bloody wannabe vampire.” He snorted and sickly cigarette smoke spurted from his nostrils. “I hate your kind...” (This phrase made me laugh, as he did not understand its true relevance) “Think you’re...you’re so...so...” I made a vain attempt to help him out.
“Dead?” I suggested. Smiling slightly.
“What? What are you talking about?”
“Are you saying we think we’re dead? Anyway, you’ve left the topic. You’re right, vampire wannabe right here, I want to see ‘The Castle’ where is it? I’d appreciate a guide, someone who knows the area.” I flashed him a wallet full of cash and his eyes gleamed. He suddenly became a bit more helpful.
“Sure man, sure. There’s a guy who drinks in here by the name of Olan, he’ll show you there, knows a lot about it that isn’t in the guides.” He winked at me, and although it grieved me to do so, I smiled back and handed him several folded notes. I turned, and left his filthy establishment. Two hours later, with a map in hand, and arrangements to meet with Olan the next night I took my money back from his blood spattered wallet. Feeling freshened from his blood, sullied by years of smoking, but blood nonetheless I returned to the basement where I was staying.
Yes, my target. It rose hundreds of feet into the air, immense and beautiful. Hewn from the strongest of stone, it stood atop the mountain, its red spires reaching to the black, cloud strewn heavens. I gazed in awe. Was this truly my ancestral home? Where I belonged to be? Well, I suppose time will tell. But my path to victory was littered with potential problems. What if I arrive, and find it truly empty, full of discarded crisp packets from tourists and cobwebs but no hidden meaning, no throne for me to rest on, no ancestral father. And do I go tonight? With Olan as my guide, or do I wait for Santino, wherever he may be. That last decision was an easy one. With Olan leading the way we walked up the narrow winding path that led to the rear gates of the legendary Castle, home to the most famous of all vampires. And I an orphan from the poor end of London was set to take his ancient throne.
“So yeah, this is the castle alright. Don’t see why you want to break into it at night though.” Olan muttered as we climbed higher up the hill. “I have to get inside without the crowds, you know. There’s something I want to find.” I replied, thinking quickly off the top of my head. Not that I had any qualms about killing him up here if he found out too much, I was sure no one would miss one of the towns useless drunks. But still, too many people disappearing around the castle would only attract unwanted police attention. Especially after the barman’s body wasn’t that well hidden in that skip. I chuckled to myself again, but coughed to cover it. “But there’s not really anything in there anymore. I mean there’s a load of imitation stuff, and a few bits and pieces of the original. But hey, what do I know...”
“Nothing.” I whispered under my breath. “there might be a few hidden rooms lying around that the tourists don’t get to see. Wouldn’t surprise me. Vlad was a seriously weird guy by all accounts. Lord only knows...” He quickly crossed himself, I shuddered. “what he had built up there.”
My heart fluttered at the thought of it. I was excited, a feeling my immortal body was very rarely host to. We had reached the back gates. They were high and solid, but less ornate than those at the front. I could break the lock, but I didn’t want to show my powers off in front of the mortal. Luckily lock picking was one of the skills I had developed with my nimble fingers and quick brain. Within a few minutes the locks were undone, and the gate swung silently inwards to reveal a welcoming courtyard to my ancestral home. The next step was to get inside. And to find his Lordship...
SANTINO
Transylvania, Romania.
Indeed, there before me stood this most ancient and magnificent tower of all castles. Slowly I landed mere inches from the heavy iron wrought massive door. My hand reached forward to pull the ancient door bell. Laughing silently, I smiled. Thinking how ludricrus it is for me to use such a thing.
Indeed, how differenlty things would have turned out for Marius and his then so sweet little imp had I simply rang the doorbell on that long ago, yet so well remembered night.
Smiling wickedly at the sweet and endearing memory. The tender yet shrill screams of the marble gods collection of impressive mortal boys. Yes, even today. Their screams of sheer terror and agonizing pain still rang through my mind.
Such sweet innocents they were.
Were it that I could cry I almost would have shed a tear. But petty mortal tears are not for me. And it is such a waste of blood.
Placing my hands upon the ancient door, I closed my eyes and concentrated. Centering my thoughts on the strongest and most different of all known vampires. The king himself. Dracula.
DRACULA
Rain had started to fall from the dreary night sky as I strode cautiously through the courtyard. High towers and walls rose all around me, commanding and imposing monuments of pale stone. Gargoyles leered down at me, they looked knowledgeable, they already knew what I had yet to discover. I dismissed my guide once we reached a large, barred oaken door, buying his continued silence with a comfortable amount of money. I picked the locks (not wanting to leave any trace of me behind) and stepped into a dingy entrance hall. Signs in various languages pointed out different parts of the castle that may have been of interest to me had I been just another tourist. The north tower, The grand hall, The dungeons. What I was here for would not be shown on any sign, that much I was sure of. I sighed; I had but a few hours before darn to find some trace of him...I must find him.
Then a whisper rose at the back of my mind...I was not sure exactly where it had come from, but it was deep and cold and made the hairs on my neck stand on end.
“My son...at last.”
So he was here! I felt jubilant, but at the same time worried, what would happen now? I called with my mind, trawling though the dust and the stone for some clue as to where he lay. But there was nothing, he did not answer me. I knew he was here, but where? Surely he lay hidden, obscured in some secret chamber. But how was I to find something so well hidden that its mere existence had slipped into legend and myth? And then came the whisper again.
“Seek for me where mortals lie, follow the scent to where I die.”
I scanned the signs on the walls, one did indeed point to His Lordships bedchamber. But surely he was not there, in front of the visitors’ very gaze.
I hurried there, flying down corridors and up long, elegant flights of stone steps. The door stood open, with a rind of silken rope barring access. I stepped over it, feeling as though I was walking into a most sacred cathedral in which lay the grand relics. A large four poster bed stood against one wall, crushed velvet drapes, deep purples and crimsons hung down from the dark mahogany. IT was simply beautiful; tapestry’s lined the walls depicting ancient battles and great heroes. A vast arched window was set in the wall opposite the bed; it gazed out over the stunning landscape. There was a smell too...too faint for mortals to notice, it was of age, but that masked the faintest tint of blood. It came from a large wooden and metal chest that lay in the corner. It was bolted down hard to the flagstones of the floor and looked as though it hadn’t been touched for centuries. I approached it eagerly. The lid seemed to be built into the box itself; there was no way to open it. I tried to lift it, but even with my immortal strength I could do no more than heave in vain. It was impossible. But the something in the lid caught my eye. I grabbed a candle from the wall and lit it, shining its light over the chest. It glinted. Inlaid into it was an intricate web of glass, it ran in the most amazing pattern across the surface. I was entranced; I felt I could have stared at it for days. In the centre was an ornate cross with an oddly shaped hole. I wondered...what did this mean...once more I smelt the tang of blood in the air...follow the scent. I removed my cross, my beautiful sanguine cross from my neck. I took it in my hands and turned it over and over. In the bottom was the smallest hint of a needle. At once I placed it the hole in the lid and pushed it down hard, something clicked and I heard the glass vial crack. Its contents began to seep out into the maze of glass. It ran, moving quickly though the pattern so that it looked as though it was flowing through the veins. All the while there was a low grinding noise, as though of bolts being drawn back. Suddenly the lid slid forwards a fraction of an inch, not much, barely even noticeable but it was enough for me to get my grip on. It was still heavy, even for me as I pulled it up. Then I saw it, a steep stone staircase running down through the floor and into darkness.
The next night I arose from the crypt and lay down on the bed. The memories of what had happened swirling deep in my brain, I was no longer myself. I WAS Dracula, ancient of vampires; I felt his life, his memories, his thoughts and his blood pumped through my body. I sighed deeply, relaxing with my new found power and strength. Then in the distance I heard a sound, it was crisp despite the thick walls of stone between it and myself. I laughed out loud, it was a doorbell! But who...how...
I thought deeply...surely he couldn’t be here already...but maybe...
I flung on the cloak I had been given, it was black, with a deep crimson velvet lining, it felt right somehow...it fitted me perfectly and it flowed with grace, elegance and a hint of subtle malice as I trod down the staircases towards the great entrance hall. I opened the door swiftly and there he was. He looked as I imagined him, slightly taller than myself with a head of dark hair. He was eyes were sharp and full of fury, loathing. This man had plans for this place, and I was in precisely the mood to listen to them. We shook hands, exchanging glances before I even introduced myself.
“Greetings Santino, I am, as you are now aware, Dracula. Welcome to my not so humble abode. Before we proceed with the formalities *here I laughed again* would you care to join me on a hunt? I feel the thirst....”
SANTINO
Slowly the door opened with a loud creak, a sudden gust of cold wind blew past me and in the darkness, a gaunt and pale face, dark hair and sharp ckeekbones and the most piercing eyes I have ever had the pleasure to look into. I gasped only slightly, catching myself before I flew off into the night at the fastest speed possible. The blood within my veins surging forward and racing my preternatural heart to an alarming rate. But I must remain calm, I have traveled such a long way, I must come and speak to this, the vampire of all vampires. I need his assistance to regain that which I once had. And then "Children of Darkness" shall live and reign surpeme once again!
A slow smile spread across my face, widening in wicked delight showing the gleaming whiteness of my sharp fangs, but alas. No need to hide such things here.
"I am most pleased to make your grand acquaintance Count Dracula. And yes, I am quite thirsty as well. Tell me, where do you dine in this, the farthest parts of Romania. Shall we hunt the Evil Doer as my delicate brothers do? Or shall we wine and dine the beautiful and volumptous wild young modern women of your village nearby. Perhaps we shall find an innocent school girl, on her way home from the library, walking in the seeming comfort of the darkness as she looks up into the stars and wonders with sublime innocence, "Do vampires really exist?" While clutching in her sweet little mortal hand, a copy of "The Vampire Lestat" while her other hand holds your own tale of the undead, "Dracula"
"Or perhaps you have a haven of beautiful vampire brides in this your wonderfullly not at all humble abode. Most impressive I must say! I could have used such a castle over two hundred and forty five years ago. Pity we have only just met, we could have had a divine time back in the renaisaince era. But alas, there is.....plenty of time to play catch up, is there not?
"Come my new friend and ally. We have people to kill, blood to drink, and sweet delicate fledglings to steal. Ah, but not in one night, my dear new friend. First we shall sate our thirst. Now please." I said motioning to the still open door. "You lead the way, this is after all your territory, and when we are done, I have a business proposition I shall like very much to discuss with you."
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Post by Santino 1 on Sept 12, 2006 18:19:25 GMT 1
DRACULA
“Ahh Santino” I sighed softly. “Why feed only on the evil doer when those that do right and are just have so much more of a refreshing taste?”
We set off for the town at once, striding across the courtyard and through the wide, arching gates that I now held the keys for. The full moon shone high and bright above the towers behind us as we walked down the path. We talked quietly, getting to know each other better. I had heard of him, but not nearly as much as he had heard of me or my forefather. But now there was no forefather, I was Dracula incarnate, inside and out. I listened quietly as he recounted some of the tales of his time as a coven master, ruler of a small army of vampires. The idea fascinated me, I was eager to hear more, but now was not the time. He laughed as I told him of those nearby that were ripe for the harvest. The tourists who longed to learn of true vampires, we could bring their wishes...then the believers, those who believed the folklore and legend and lived forever in fear of it, they would now have new demons to be afraid of...the monastery were the nuns and monks lived, worshipping god and befouling Satan.
The town still had many people out on the streets as we walked into it, my cloak billowing out behind me as the wind gusted around us. Before long I had spotted some prey for us to watch. They stood outside one of the bars, unsure whether or not to enter, expensive clothes and designer shades. They were talking animatedly, flashing brilliantly white teeth. I smiled and walked towards them, wondering what their reaction would be.
“...looks like a pretty boring place. I’m glad we’re not staying here long.” Said the man to his partner, before they noticed me standing nearby and watching them. “You got a problem mate?” He asked, non-too-politely as his eyes took in my dark appearance. I felt Santino’s presence behind me, observing my style. “No problem at all sir.” I responded, giving a brief, courteous bow. “I was merely wondering whether you and your lady friend here were going to be entering the bar soon, I’d like to buy her a drink” I gave her a brief smile and a wink. I could sense her heart beating faster as she blushed beneath her make up. He however, was less pleased with my answer. “What the hell are you talking about? What business of yours is it if we’re going in or not? And no, you can’t buy her a bloody drink.” He was getting angry as I merely smiled in return. “Shame, but oh well sir. Perhaps another time. Or...” I whispered. “Perhaps I could take a drink instead.” I moved closer to them so fast that to them I re-appeared by their side. I focused my mind on the lady’s feelings and she blushed again as I smiled. Her heart fluttered as I swooped in and kissed her hand softly. Her husband almost roared with rage at my performance. He raised his hand to strike at me, but before he could even attempt it, Santino had seized him from behind. I attracted the lady’s attention once more as he was dragged unceremoniously down the alleyway. I linked my arm through hers, and with a force of will walked her down after Santino. But he had disappeared. I could feel him, viciously draining the man whose blood still boiled in anger. I turned the woman to face me and bowed once more, she giggled, not knowing what to make of me. I pulled her close to me and breathed in her scent, perfume...nothing but cheap perfume.
“You’re not worth my trouble...” I muttered too quietly for her to hear or understand. I sank my teeth deep into her neck and drank, the blood flowing, warm and rich over my lips. I let her fall behind the dustbins and saw Santino striding back towards me, looking refreshed and pleased with the evening so far.
“Now, Santino. Before we head back to my abode and discuss your plans, which I am extremely looking forward to hearing.” I made a polite gesture with my arms here. “There is someone I would like you to meet, a girl that will, if she consents, be staying with us up there. Her name is Lisbeth; I met, or found her wandering amongst the graves at a cemetery a few dozen miles from here. She was alone, but I could tell instantly that she was one like us...well...almost. She gave off such power; such feeling engulfed me as I approached her. She knew who I was, she could feel my bloodline. She spoke to me even before she turned around. Asking me why I was here. We talked of history, of religion, of those that are misguided and do not understand those that have been born with power, with gifts or curses. I asked her if she was interested in joining me, or whether she walked alone purely by choice. She said she would like to meet with me again, to discuss things.”
We swept out of the town and down a long country lane untill the steeple of a church became silhouetted against the night sky. After a short while we reached the gateway to the churchyard and I stepped inside, Santino hesitated. I glanced at him, and motioned to a bench by the gate. He sat down as I went in search of her. I soon saw her, walking amongst the tombstones, moving so smoothly it appeared that she floated just off the ground, like a spirit of the night. She turned just before I reached her, her long dark hair falling elegantly over her face. I looked deep at her, my eyes running over her flowing black dress, I took her cold, white hand and bent down on one knee to kiss it softly. For the briefest of moments I swore I saw a smile flicker over her lips, but the next moment it was gone, leaving no trace of evidence that I had not imagined it.
“Santino has joined me, we have plans to discuss. Perhaps you would like to join us at my castle this night?” I asked her politely. She did not reply with words, but I could feel her response, palpable in the aura around her. We turned and walked back to the gates together to join Santino.
SANTINO
“Ah, Santino” He sighed softly. “Why feed only on the evil doer when those that do right and are just have so much more of a refreshing taste?” "Indeed!" I replied all too eagerly, the thirst of the blood had been building in me as I had only just flown across the entire world in one night, and trying my utmost not to show my fatigue. I was anxious to replenish my strength. "The blood of the pure and the innocent has a deliciously unique taste to it does it not?" I asked smiling at him wickedly, my eyes narrowing as he returned his reply with a wicked grin of his own.
Moments later, we arrived in a small village not to far away from his Castle. At a modern bar a young couple were deeply entranced in each others presence. Until the lovely young lady got hold of the look of intense desire in my new companions eyes. Then suddenly, and quite comically. All thoughts of love and devotion for there young man left her, and I could hear her heart beating rapidly as my new friend leant into her and lightly stroked her soft and smooth mortal chin.
I stood back almost entranced myself. His every movement was grace within itself. Yet a dark and eerie grace that few have ever come to know. An aura of malice seemed to emanate from deeply within him, and yet. The young lady's eyes shown with an utter devotion, to this the new master of her heart. A young and tender heart, that very soon. Shall beat never more.
Her lover had become quite agitated, and he began spewing words of warnings to leave his beauty alone. I merely stood by the side quietly, not saying a word, merely doing as I always do. Observing in the silence for which I am known for. But screams and rants and raves are quite a bore to me. How often I had hundreds of vampires killed in one night, burned before my very eyes simply because their screams of torturous starvation....bothered me. And this one was no different than those horrid vagrants now. And as often does when I become impatient. I decided to "hurry" the party along. And so I assisted my new and illustrious friend in the kill. He shall have the beautiful girl, filled to the brim with love and devotion. And I will partake of the blood of her lover. His blood, filled to the brim with malice, and anger and rage. Ah! What delicious blood it is! The rage in his mortal blood, filled to the extreme. Enlivening my every preternatural bone and fiber of my body.
Satisfied with fresh and quite furious blood now flowing through my veins, I returned to my new companion. Who stood there smiling in the dark alley to which we had taken our "meals" and being the non-chalance vampires that we are, left them where they lay. Like common alley way trash, their pitiful bodies heaped up and against bags waiting to be disposed of. Refuse. As easy to get rid of today, as it was and has been for centuries before. Why my delicate brothers concern themselves over "hiding the kill" and "leaving no signs of our presence" truly confounds me, ah but then. What care I truly for such things. Those that feel the need to live by rules, like the ever modernistic and yet ancient Marius. I smiled at the thought as I came upon my new friend and now immortal comrade. Indeed, my old nemesis de Romanus shall have his fun in the sun.....soon enough. But first. To convince the most evil of all vampires to join me in this my quest, my justice. My just reward!
“Now, Santino." He said gesturing with his luminously white hands. "Before we head back to my abode and discuss your plans, which I am extremely looking forward to hearing. There is someone I would like you to meet, a girl that will, if she consents, be staying with us up there. Her name is Lisbeth; I met, or found her wandering amongst the graves at a cemetery a few dozen miles from here. She was alone, but I could tell instantly that she was one like us...well...almost. She gave off such power; such feeling engulfed me as I approached her. She knew who I was, she could feel my bloodline. She spoke to me even before she turned around. Asking me why I was here. We talked of history, of religion, of those that are misguided and do not understand those that have been born with power, with gifts or curses. I asked her if she was interested in joining me, or whether she walked alone purely by choice. She said she would like to meet with me again, to discuss things.”
"She seems like a creature ready to capture my heart." I replied smiling politely, 'Hmmmmm.....this should be quite interesting, it seems the Count has an acquaintance that shall be joining us. I shall have to keep a close watch on her, no one can get in the way of my plans. But then, I am sure the Count wouldn't be in the habit of befriending the weak and the timid. I thought smiling. Indeed, this powerful female may come in quite handy. Quite useful in my plans as I always did have several Coven masters. Why not a Coven mistress? Hmmmm?'.....the thought intrigued me to no end.
With barely a whisper the Count took to flight, and I followed. Deep into the night skies we flew and scant seconds later, we approached a dark and foggy cemetery, up ahead in the distance. A church. It's tall steeple illuminating the night skies like an insect reaching up to grasp a thing which it shall never attain.
He left me sitting in the on an old and rotting bench at the gate of the ancient churchyard. And when he returned, a woman of the most alluring beauty I could have ever imagined followed his steps, she seemed ethereal in her beauty, too unreal too believe. And for just a moment, my mouth almost gaped in awestruck wonder of her beauty.
Her skin was almost transparent in it's luminescence. Her eyes seemed to sparkle and glow as they both approached me with soft and graceful steps, their feet barely touching the ground. It seemed as though she were there, and yet she were not. As though she were but an apparition, and for just a moment. I wondered if the whole evening were but yet another intensely vampiric dream. And I still lay in the iron coffin, watching the decades flash before me as the utter silence engulfed me one more night, reminding me of the horrid night the warrior like vampire Thorne, severed my head from my body. And Marius and Maharet stood there, as the Brat Prince is fond of putting it. "Like two baffled idiots at the zoo." And they did nothing. I shall never forget the look in their unflinching eyes. The look of indifference and uttermost uncaring hearts.
Well....I don't give a d**n either.
All at once, a beautiful whisper of a voice broke me from my thoughts. And I knew this was no dream. And my plans were in the beginning of its infancy. And my just rewards would soon be there for the taking.
SANTINO
I smiled at my new allies as I sat back into the comfort of the large and centuries old chair.
The count had lit a fire in the enormous heath before us, and the large flames were illuminating our pale skin and adding an eerie glow to the cathedral like walls and ceiling around us.
As I sat back in the chair and drank from the goblet he had given me. I mused inwardly, It had been centuries since I had held anything less than a hot throat or a warm wrist to my mouth and I was a bit apprehensive. Terrified I might completely embarrass myself in front of the Count and his lovely lady friend.
But no. The concoction in the goblet, a variety of different bloods mixed together. Fired my old bones and left me wanting more! I smiled once again as the blood from the goblet tainted my lips.
Oh how good this felt! To be amongst friends. Friends who could truly appreciate who and what we are! And no mundane discussions of mortality and humanity, no endless brooding and annoying prattles of why we exist!
Live in the here! Live in the now!
For how else could any immortal survive centuries without surcumbing to the madness which took so many of our ancients in the past.
The rogue Magnus, who threw himself into the very pits of hell as his beautiful infant witnessed in shocked wonder and grief. The ancient queen Celeste. Who disappeared one night, never to be seen or heard from again.
"Indeed, my illustrious Count. You are quite real!" I answered with a husky chuckle.
"But on to my business at hand." Drinking down the last of my ruby wine, I licked the rim of the goblet and my lips simultaneaously,marveling that I had never done such an action in my mortal life. Growing up in the poverty stricken streets of Italy, one didn't get ones hands on a fine goblet very often, ah...but that is another tale to tell. Looking at my new predecessors directly in the eyes. I leant forward and began my request.
"A bit of my life has been chronicled in various books as told by the Vampires Louis, Lestat and Armand, and least I shall forget. My old nemesis. Marius de Romanus. I have had difficulties with the old Roman in the past. Difficulties which could have easily been avoided had he simply seen my way and accepted my offers. But he did not, and at long last. He forced me to take from him his most beloved treasure. But that is not the treasure that I quest for. No, the vampire Armand, so named by my own self I might add, for the moment. Is not what I desire. Nay, I desire to have within my possession the....weakest link. You might call him. The weakest link of all vampires, the most *nearly human* He is the picture of perfection, this beautiful one. And as deadly as a gentle wind blowing on a moonlight night. His powers are fragile. His thoughts sublime and sweet. His demeanor brooding. His fears. Outstanding! Now understand, dear Count. I have no desire to make this one my own. No, I have much bigger fish to fry as the mortal saying goes. But with the capture of this sweet dark angel. I set the bait to entrap and ensnare my enemies. For you see my dear Count. They think I am dead. Perished that is. By the sword of a rogue and revenant vampire so called Thorne. This one has disappeared, and I can glean his thoughts from no one. And so it is with this that I come to you on this beautiful and sinister night. And request your assistance in helping me to bring "The Children of Darkness" together once again. And you shall help me reign as head Coven master to an army of vampires, the likes of which you have never seen! And together, we shall apply discipline and order to this, our realm of darkness. And the rules shall once again live and strike fear in the hearts of my delicate brothers. For tomorrow night. I will go the city of New Orleans and capture this delicate and beautiful creature, and take him to your castle and place him in your deepest and darkest dungeon. Shackle him tightly and leave him to starve as he calls and begs, pleads for his maker to come to his rescue. And the only ones who shall hear his cries for help and mercy. Are your beautiful children of the night. And his echoes will mingle with their howls, and create a beautiful and macabre symphony to our utter enjoyment and delight!"
"So tell me my Count, the King of all vampires. May I partake of your wonderous castle for this simple deed to which I am about to perform. Will you and your lovely lady assist me in this sublime venture? Tell me now my dark lord. The vampire Louis awaits his capture."
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Post by Santino 1 on Sept 12, 2006 18:33:57 GMT 1
DRACULA:
'Santino told us of his plans, his wishes, what he hoped to achieve through the capture, imprisonment and starvation of this Louis. I nodded as he talked, finding it difficult to keep a wicked smile off of my pale face. I sipped elegantly from my goblet, the warm concoction easing my muscles so I relaxed into the leather armchair. Santino was becoming quite...well...excited about his plan, and his confidence and enthusiasm for even this darkest of ideas was quite infectious and I found myself leaning forwards on my chair, eager to hear more of it.
He finished his speech, looking at me inquisitively, apparently waiting for my response. I stood up once more and spoke aloud, my voice echoing slightly off the dark stone walls.
“Santino. I hereby pledge myself, my castle and my resources to your cause. I long to see this....Louis” I spat the name out of my mouth as though it tasted foul. “Locked up securely in my dungeons...lord knows they haven’t been properly used for centuries...only looked at by these d**n tourists. His moans and howls of despair will be music to my ears.” I felt the blood of the ancient Dracula stir within my veins. It was almost as though he was now talking through me, his voice leaving my lips. “I long for the name of Count Dracula to be spread through the world of the undead, for it to be synonymous with evil and malice. I can’t speak for my companion here...” I motioned to Lisbeth with a wave of my hand; she sat patiently watching me speak. “But I am willing to help with your plan Santino. You have but to ask how I can assist you and I will do what I can what I can, as long as you can make sure you keep whoever you bring here well hidden enough so as not to alert my day visitors.” I gestured to the fireplace and the goblets. “This must be disposed of and returned to normal by morning. People have stayed here recently so it should not be noticed that a fire has been lit, and the flickering light through the windows will do no more than arouse the paranoia of ghosts in the townspeople. But we must be wary, we don’t want an old fashioned mob on our hands before your plan has reached fruition.* I smirked, looking into Santino’s eyes as I said this. “But don’t worry, you can comfortably share my sleeping quarters here, and they are very safe indeed. Come, dawn is approaching.*
I lit a torch from the fire before extinguishing the blaze and led the way out of the sitting room. The two of them followed me along dark corridors and eerie stone flights of stairs, through a maze of hidden passages. It was incredible, I had only been here a few nights, yet with the blood had come memories, knowledge. Knowledge of the surrounding area, the myths, the legends and the truth, and of course a foolproof understanding of the castle and all its secrets. For if anyone ever knew how to navigate within its walls, its true owner did.
Eventually we reached the oaken doors of the master bed chamber. I turned the handle and we stepped inside, closing the door carefully behind us. I stood in front of the huge chest in the corner of the room and stood in front of it.
“There’s only one way to open this, and I don’t know if it works with any blood but mine...”
I pressed my teeth against my forearm untill a droplet of blood fell gracefully into the cross. The same ratcheting and grinding noise issued from it and the lid slid forwards. I raised it and heard Lisbeth draw a surprised gasp behind me. I turned and smiled at her before stepping onto the top step and slowly descending through the floor level. I heard Santino close the lid once all three of us were on the stairs, the passage was very narrow, at the corners I had to turn sideways to fit through them. Further and further we went untill we reached a black wooden door. The handle was stiff, and the door exceedingly heavy but it opened smoothly, my thoughts raced back to me of the first time I had opened this door.
I had expected a replication of the stairway leading down here, dank and dark, but it was not so. The door opened to reveal a large, rectangular room with a vast, ornate fireplace set into the far wall. Hangings decorated the rooms, and racks of black candles stood in the corners. The floor was made of the same dark flag stones, but into some of them was carved images. A cross here, there a symbol I did not recognise. Into one wall a large stone had been removed so there was a hollow a few feet long and the same deep. A selection of objects were placed here, things that the owner must have collected over the years. I walked over them, gesturing to the others to look with me. There was a skull that appeared human was it not for the long and still razor sharp teeth that protruded from the bone. Then there was a stake, half a foot long and made of hard, dark wood. Santino picked this up and turned it over in his hands, laughing. He pointed it at my heart with a raised eyebrow, looking questioningly. I laughed out loud and shrugged.
“I honestly don’t know.”
I turned away from the wall. In the centre of the room were half a dozen large stone coffins, raised off the floor on plinths. Each one had a different symbol carved into its lid; I headed for the one in the middle of the six, with the cross engraved deeply into the stone. I slid the lid to one side and stepped into it.
“Well, it’s been a pleasure to make acquaintance Santino. Both of you should be most comfortable here. Untill the evening then...”
I settled back into my coffin, and closed the lid above me.'
SANTINO:
His methodical laughter was music to my ears and as his smile became ever more wicked, I could feel the pure evil emanating from him as I have rarely felt from others of my kind. Truth be told, only our late queen Akasha ever emanated so much evil. For a mere moment, I almost backed out of my plans. Would it be so hard to simply remake my life. I had all eternity after all. I could simply re-invent myself. Become like and Marius and Lestat and even my once most valued pupil and darkest master of all. Armand. They held themselves in modern society as mortals would, giving themselves haircuts! Knowing d**n well their hair would grow out every night! Truly a reminder of the evil fiends they pretend not to be. And what of me. I am what I am. And although I no longer prescribe to the reasons that I once founded the "Children of Darkness" Those fanatical religious delusions which held me to my position as "Dark Lord" of the "Children of Darkness" Neither could I be mocked! Beheaded like a common criminal! Laid and buried like some lost and forgotten revenant vampire! True, I was never the most loved of the "Coven of the Articulate" But I had respect! Or so, I thought I did. And I will have that respect once more. It is mine for the taking in one form or another. And that form shall have beautiful green eyes, and a soft spoken voice, long silken black hair. A beauty to be broken. As I once broke the precious little imp!
Oh! How quickly his maker will forget him! And after a time, his maker will come into my new lair. Come to retrieve his precious Louis lover! And the soft spoken voice of Louis de Point du Lac shall emanate from these old stone walls like screams from the eternally d**ned! As they once did in the catacombs of "Les Innocents" Oh how I do miss those old times! Hmmmm....Now there is a thought....Perhaps the Count might allow for a few renovations to his dungeons. Add a few catacombs to his dungeon cells!
In due time, we shall have quite a full registry at Castle Transylvania! And the tourist shall think the howls and screams are mere theatrical illusions! My eyes sparkled as I considered the mere thought of enslaving a few modern vampires to perform a few theatrical shows! Pity we lost the Vampire Nicolas de Lefent in the eighteenth century, his plays would have come in handy. His cynicysm always did impress my old evil heart! But then, Lestat claims his beloved Louis is but the very twin of his Nicolas.
I wonder......How long would it take for a soft spoken, thought provoking sweet faced vampire to become the evil and sinister twin of himself? Would it take a few mere weeks to break Monsieur Point du Lac? Or a few years starving in a dungeon cell? Time will tell! Indeed! Time tells all truths! So let it be done!
I smiled at my new ally as he gave me the use of his ancient castle. His words ringing in my ears as he held his goblet of blood in a toast for our new alliance.
"Santino. I hereby pledge myself, my castle and my resources to your cause. I long to see this....Louis, locked up securely in my dungeons...lord knows they haven’t been properly used for centuries...only looked at by these d**n tourists. His moans and howls of despair will be music to my ears. “I long for the name of Count Dracula to be spread through the world of the undead, for it to be synonymous with evil and malice. I can’t speak for my companion here... But I am willing to help with your plan Santino. You have but to ask how I can assist you and I will do what I can what I can, as long as you can make sure you keep whoever you bring here well hidden enough so as not to alert my day visitors, this must be disposed of and returned to normal by morning, he gestured to the fireplace and the goblets. People have stayed here recently so it should not be noticed that a fire has been lit, and the flickering light through the windows will do no more than arouse the paranoia of ghosts in the townspeople. But we must be wary, we don’t want an old fashioned mob on our hands before your plan has reached fruition, but don't worry, you can comfortably share my sleeping quarters here, and they are very safe indeed. Come, dawn is approaching."
Silently I followed him as he led the way by torch, his lovely Lisbeth virtually floating by his side. And we walked and walked through a maze of different stairwells, our footsteps gently echoing throughout the large castle, giving the place a more than eerie atmosphere. Finally we came upon a small room, than placing his fangs to his wrist he cut his wrist open. Letting his ancient blood drip onto the ancient lock, it suddenly popped open, revealing another room with several coffins. As we entered the large and rectangular room I noticed a collection of eccentric objects, one of which was a skull with very pointed and large fangs.
"A misbehaved bride perhaps?" I asked with a smile, and then I picked up a stake, and jokingly pointed it at my new accomplices heart raising my brow as he smiled back and answered.
"I honestly don’t know.”
Then in an elegant gestured, he turned and walked over stepping lightly into one of the coffins. Then just as quickly he turned back to me and said in a simple and dark tone reminiscent of the old Bella Lugosi Dracula, his anceint Romanian accent sharply thickening.
“Well, it’s been a pleasure to make acquaintance Santino. Both of you should be most comfortable here. Untill the evening then...”
"Indeed! Quite a pleasure!" I responded as I quickly made my way to the nearest coffin and easily slipped inside. Preferring to slide the lid closed with the mind gift. I had to practice my powers as I had much work ahead of me. As the darkness quickly enveloped me, I closed my eyes and slunk into my dreams, honing my mind on the simplest of vampires in the New Orleans area.
Cries! Screams for help from a young girl. A freshly made vampire. Her residence. The morgue! And she was terrified she was going to be cut to pieces while still alive! Once again a terrified sweet faced Louis, looking lovingly at his maker as he ranted in French and English that he wanted no part of the young the young girl who had been brought to his home. The same young girl that now lay hopelessly and terrified at the city morgue. Another female. A bit older. Very sensuous, but a bit confused. Her mind a swirl of different thoughts of who really loved her and who really deserved her love, and in her tortured cynicysm, she gave herself freely and absolutely to the Brat Prince. The Brat Prince of all Vampires who as usual forgot his beloved Louis while he made mortal love to this vampiric albeit confused beauty. And what was her name again? Ah yes, Sybelle. The mad pianist who played the Appasionata over and over again. Giving us quite a preternatural headache at the time, but of course. We were the "Coven of the Articulate" Much to proud and polite to tell her to stop that racket!
Oh but I wanted to! Hmmmm.....but then again. It would be kind of nice to hear that lovely tune being played over and over again here at my new residence! Oh yes! It would indeed! And such a sweet little mind, I could easily bend her to my very wishes! As I once did the sweet little Amadeo. But on to new things, new adventures. Who wants sloppy seconds anyway! Or then again.....smiling wickedly in the darkenss! Oh yes! This shall prove to be much fun!
When I awoke the next evening, I quickly said my goodbyes. Thanking the grand Count for his lavish hospitality.
"And soon enough!" I said to him." "We shall make use of your wonderful dungeons and the chains that still hang upon those stone walls!" Then giving his lovely Lisbeth a simple and elegant kiss upon her delicate hand. I made my way into the dark and foggy night, and flew off into the night skies. My destination. New Orleans, where a certain green eyed beauty awaited.
And then, my just reward shall begin! And soon the name of Santino shall pass all their lips as the screams of the weakest of fledglings resound within the castle walls of my new friend and ally. Count Dracula!
May they all cut their tongue as they hiss my name!
"Beware the Dark Lord Santino has returned and he desires the blood of the sweet, the beautiful. But the not so innocent!"
"But then again....don't beware at all! The element of surprise is so much sweeter! Like the blood of Louis slipping down my throat in gentle rivelets! Oh yes! Candy is Dandy but Louis is MINE!" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thread to be continued at Louisiana....here there and everywhere! You never know where I shall appear! Twisted Evil
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