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Chapter Text

Boris paced back and forth in the library, stopping every few minutes, watching as the sun slowly made its way further down. This only worried Boris, because the sun was sinking lower and lower in the sky, which meant the minutes were passing by before Dracula’s three brides would come out of hiding and cause chaos in the village. 

It was like a sick twisted game to them tormenting those in the village, reminding them at any given moment that they could lose their lives in the most brutal way that the brides saw fit.  

Velkan sat in the chair at the table watching his father pace like a nervous wreck. “Father, please stop pacing so much. Your friend will arrive before Dracula’s brides come out. It’s not like it’s their time to feed anyway. We still have a few days left before the new month begins, and all of them come and feed on the unfortunate who are out wandering around, when the sun goes down.” 

“I worry about Alexander is all. He hasn’t been here since the passing of his wife, Edith. Every day I’m haunted by her screams as she is torn apart by those ruthless flying demons from hell. That very night Alexander told me that he was taking his daughter away, because he feared that Dracula would catch a glimpse of her, and would want to make her his newest bride. Though I can’t blame him for worrying though. Alexandria is his only daughter. He must do all that he can to keep her safe and out of the clutches of the monster who continues to plague us,” Boris said. 

“If Alexander is worried about his only daughter, then why is he leaving her all alone to travel all the way here to Transylvania? Does he not have any fear that the monster who plagues us, will find a way to get his daughter,” Velkan asked while jumping out of the chair, worrying about the young woman that he had fallen for at such a young age. 

Before Alexander took his daughter, Alexandria away, Velkan was going to ask Alexander for Alexandria’s hand in marriage. 

Boris noticed the way Velkan was talking so highly of Alexandria, and how worried he was about her wellbeing at the same time. “It warms my heart that you think so highly of Alexandria. But you don’t need to worry about Alexandria being alone.” 

“What do you mean,” Velkan asked. 

“She is traveling along with him,” Boris said. 

“What?!? Why? Why would Alexander put his only daughter in danger like that? What if Dracula catches a glimpse of her, and decides that he wants Alexandria all to himself? I can’t allow that monster to get his hands on her,” Velkan said. 

“My dear boy, you don’t have to worry about Dracula getting his claws on Alexandria. I have a plan to keep Dracula from getting Alexandria. The reason I have Alexander coming along with Alexandria, is because I want to talk to Alexander about Alexandria marrying you. It’s the only way that we can assure that we can continue the Valerious bloodline, should anything happen to you or your sister, before we manage to find a way to kill the monster himself,” Boris explained before hearing someone knocking on the front door. 

Both Boris and Velkan made their way down to the front door. Boris wasted no time opening the door, spotting Alexander and Alexandria standing there. 

“My friend, please do come in. Be quick now. The sun is going down. And many things have changed since you and your daughter left. And not for the good either,” Boris said as Alexander and Alexandria entered the manor. 

“The monster still plagues the village,” Alexander asked. 

“He does. But only feeds along with his brides once a month. But that doesn’t stop the brides from making their way down to the village, and tormenting innocent people,” Boris said. 

“I see. How many have lost their lives to those devil women,” Alexander asked. 

Boris looked at Velkan and Alexandria standing there in the room with them. “My friend, now is not the time to be talking about things like that. I had invited you to my home to discuss something completely different.” 

“Do pray tell, tell me what it is that you want to speak to me about,” Alexander asked. 

“Come along with me to my study. It will give both Velkan and Alexandria time to catch up a bit, while you and I talk amongst ourselves,” Boris suggested. 

Alexandria looked to her father wondering if he would be alright with that suggestion. 

Alexander noticed the look that his daughter was giving him, and gave a nod of approval. “It’s fine my sweet girl. I trust that the Gypsy prince Velkan, will treat you only with respect that you deserve.” 

“Only respect sir. I wouldn’t dare dream of treating Alexandria any other way,” Velkan said while holding his arm out for Alexandria to take. Alexandria gently looped her arm through Velkan’s walking alongside him as he led her in the direction of the library, leaving Alexander and Boris standing in the entry way of the manor. 

Once Velkan and Alexandria were out of sight, Alexander turned his attention to his friend. “Boris, are you going to explain to me, the reason behind your urgent message that you sent me a few days ago?” 

“My friend, you already know what plagues us here in the village,” Boris began. 

“I do. But that doesn’t explain the part that my daughter plays in all of this,” Alexander said. 

“My bloodline is running out. It is only myself and my two children left to find a way to put an end to Dracula once and for all. Should we fail to finish the task, then my entire family will be damned to walk the earth in purgatory forever, never to enter the glorious gates of heaven. I can’t condemn my only children to that. I asked you to come back, because I would like m y son to marry your daughter; and have them both conceive a baby or two to keep the Valerious bloodline going; at least until we successfully find a way to kill Dracula and allow all of my family as well as my son’s future heirs can make their way into heaven when the time comes. I ask this so I can have grandchildren. That and I can see how much my son, Velkan loves Alexandria,” Boris said. 

Alexander thought about what Boris had told him. He didn’t like the idea of his only daughter being put in danger. But he also knew that the young Gypsy prince wouldn’t let anything happen to his daughter. “Alright Boris. You succeeded in talking me into allowing my daughter to marry your son. But it happens when the sun comes up. I want to marry your son. But it happens when the sun comes up. I want to be here to witness my little girl get married,” Alexander said. 

“Thank you, my dear friend,” Boris said. 

“No need to thank me. But your boy better swear his life to keeping my little girl safe,” Alexander said. 

Alexandria and Velkan entered the library. Upon entering, Alexandria looked around at all the many shelves that contained many different books of all different genres. "Do you have any idea what our fathers are talking about, Velkan?” 

“I believe they may be talking about marriage between you and I. My father worries that the Valerious bloodline will end before we put a stop to the monster that continues to plague us, Velkan explained. 

“You speak of the devil who has wings...the one who has the three wicked brides, who stole my mother from my father and I? The very monster that haunts my dreams,” Alexandria asked. 

“That would be the one. But when we marry, I will do everything in my power to keep you safe. The count won’t lay a single finger on you. Not while I’m around to keep you safe. With me around, no monster will date touch you. And that is my vow to you. So, Alexandria will you do me the honor of becoming my wife,” Velkan asked. 

Alexandria smiled, while trying to hide the blush that was creeping up on her cheeks. “Of course, Velkan. I would love to marry you and live by your side as Mrs. Valerious.”

Chapter Text

Later that night Velkan, Anna, Boris, Alexander and Alexandria all slept peacefully in their chambers unaware of the dangers that took place outside in the village.  

Dracula and his brides made their way through the village, looking for any unlucky villagers who may be walking around, unaware that Dracula and his brides were lurking around, looking to cause a little trouble.  

Dracula and his brides all went their separate ways, looking for anyone who may be brave enough to wander around.  

Dracula was about to round the corner and attack, but stopped and listened in on what was being spoken about amongst the victims unsuspecting victims.  

“Did you hear that the Gypsy King Boris is planning to have his son take on a bride,” the first man said.  

“I heard that. But has anyone seen what the young woman looks like? And would the young Prince Velkan take this young woman and make her his bride,” the second man asked.  

“Any reason why the Gypsy King suddenly wants to marry his son off to the poor unsuspecting victim,” a third man asked.  

“Not a clue,” the second man said  

“Maybe it has something to do with the damn demons that plague our village. Personally, I hope the father of the young woman has enough common sense to not go through with marrying his daughter off to Prince Velkan. If he goes through with this, he’s only subjecting his daughter to death. I hope he and his daughter aren’t staying at the Valerious manor. It would only be painting targets on their backs,” the third man said.  

“They already have targets painted on their backs, being associated with the Valerious family. If the man allows his daughter to go through with Valerious’ plan, then he may as well hand his daughter over to Dracula himself right now,” The first man said before Dracula was greeted with the sounds of screams coming from the three men.  

Seems like my brides got a little hungry and wanted a little snack. Oh well. I was done with those three fools anyway. I have all that I need to know. I may have to go and pay this little woman a visit and get a look at her for myself. She must be a beautiful woman if Velkan Valerious is planning on going through with this arranged marriage to this young woman, Dracula thought to himself as he walked away, making his way over to the Valerious manor.  

Dracula now stood outside of the Valerious manor staring at it; trying his best to figure out which room the young woman would be staying in.  

“Where are they hiding you little love? Where would they hide the most precious gem that they want to keep safe,” Dracula asked himself.  

Alexandria lay in bed struggling to sleep peacefully. While she slept, Alexandria heard the sound of wings flapping outside the window, which had put her a bit on edge. But what made her shut her eyes tightly, was the sound of three men screaming. Not being able to ignore the screams, Alexandria shot up in bed, gasping for breath, while looking around the room.  

Who in their right mind would be out at this time, knowing the dangers that lurk in the dark waiting for unsuspecting victims to be foolish enough to go walking out in the village at this time of night, Alexandria thought to herself as she slowly got out of bed, making her way to the window looking out. Alexandria looked down and spotted a man dressed in all black, with black hair pulled back in a ponytail with two strands framing his face. Alexandria gasped stepping back away from the window. Who is that? Is that man aware of the dangers that lurk around every corner in the village? What if he doesn’t know about it? I won’t be able to live with myself if something happens to him. I don’t think Velkan would mind if I step out quickly just to warn that innocent man of the dangers, Alexandria thought to herself as she put a cover on over her night gown, rushing out of her room, making her way to the front door.  

“Hopefully nothing happened to that man,” Alexandria said to herself quietly as she opened the door getting ready to make her way outside of the door.  

Alexandria took a step outside of the manor looking around for the man only to find that he was no longer standing where he was before. Alexandria made her way to the spot where she had seen him standing, before looking up at her window. How can this be? He was just standing here looking up at my window a moment ago? But now, he’s nowhere to be found. Was it my mind playing tricks on me, Alexandria thought to herself.  

Alexandria was about to turn around and go back inside the manor, when she was stopped by someone speaking up from behind her.  

“My lady, what on earth are you doing out at this hour? Aren’t you aware of the dangers that lurk around the corner of this village,” the mysterious man asked.  

Alexandria turned around spotting the man standing behind her. “I could ask you the same thing. I was woken up by the sounds of screams. I walked to my window and spotted you standing outside of it. I couldn’t sleep knowing that if I didn’t come out here to warn you of the dangers. If something happened to you, I would feel nothing but guilt for the rest of my life.”  

“I know little love. I’m aware of the dangers. I have lived in this village all of my life. I have seen all of the dangers that occurred here. I have lost my mother to one of the many horrors that plague this village,” Dracula said to the young woman. “I haven’t seen you around here before. Are you new to this village?”  

“I’m not. I was born here. But shortly after my mother was killed, my father made the decision to leave the village to keep me safe from the many dangers of the village. My father didn’t want to risk losing me in the same way that he lost my mother,” Alexandria said. “I hope you don’t mind me asking this...and I probably should have asked you this in the beginning, but what is your name?”  

“It’s alright little love. You’re not the only one who forgot to ask for my name. I forgot to ask you for yours as well. I got caught up in worrying about your wellbeing,” Dracula explained. “Anyway, my name is Vlad. What is your name, my little love?”  

This caused Alexandria to blush while looking down, hoping to hide the blush on her cheeks. “My name is Alexandria.”  

Dracula grabbed Alexandria’s hand, bringing it to his lips, placing a gentle kiss on the back of it. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Alexandria. Though as much as I hate to cut our time short, I believe it would be best that you made your way back inside. Don’t want anything happening to a beautiful woman such as yourself.”  

“Perhaps you’re right. I should be heading back to bed. I have a big day ahead of me later,” Alexandria rambling, not thinking about what she was saying; though this caught Dracula’s attention.  

“My little love, please don’t think me rude, but what makes later so special,” Dracula asked.  

“I am to be married. I...I know we just met, but would you like to attend my wedding? It truly would mean a lot to me,” Alexandria said.  

“I’m sorry little love. But I don’t think it would be wise I show up. I would only take the attention away from you and your new husband. But rest assure, that I will be back later on tonight to pay you a visit,” Dracula promised.  

“Wouldn’t you like to meet my husband? He is a good man. I know he will treat me well. That and I would like the two of you to become friends,” Alexandria said.  

“I don’t know if your husband would appreciate that,” Dracula said.  

“Nonsense. Velkan is a good man. And he’s very friendly. I believe that you and Velkan will get along with one another,” Alexandria said.  

“Did you say Velkan; as in Velkan Valerious,” Dracula asked.  

“Yes. Do you know my husband,” Alexandria asked in a confused tone.  

“No. I have heard many things about the young man. Things that you don’t need to worry about before you marry him. But keep this in mind little love, your husband has many enemies who want to weaken him. The moment you take on the Valerious name, his enemies become your enemies. Keep safe,” Dracula said before walking away from Alexandria.  

Chapter Text

The next morning Anna was in Alexandria’s room helping her get ready for her wedding. While Anna helped Alexandria do her hair for the wedding, Anna noticed that Alexandria looked a bit distracted. “Is everything alright?” 

“Huh,” Alexandria asked snapping out of her thoughts. 

“I asked if everything was alright. You seem a bit, distracted. Is there something on your mind? If you want, you can always talk to me about it,” Anna said. 

Alexandria thought about it, deciding that there wasn’t any harm in telling Anna about the encounter that she had the previous night. “I was woken up by the sounds of screams outside my bedroom...” 

“That isn’t anything new. Dracula and his brides come from their castle to feed once a month, then they go back to their castle and do God knows what, until it’s their time to feed again. Is that what is bothering you,” Anna asked. 

“No, I was woken up. And I felt this need to go and look out of my window. So, I climbed out of bed, made my way to the window and I looked down. There out in the streets stood an innocent looking man. He was just standing there. So, I ran out to warn him of the dangers. As I ran out, he was no longer there. I had turned and was about to make my way back into the manor, when I heard someone speak up from behind me. I turned back and there he was standing there,” Alexandria explained. 

Anna stiffened at hearing this. “Did this man give you a name?” 

“He said his name was Vlad,” Alexandria replied. 

“What did this Vlad look like,” Anna asked hoping that it wasn’t who she was thinking about. 

“He had black shoulder length hair, that was pulled back into a ponytail, with two strands framing his face. He also wore dark clothing and black riding boots,” Alexandria said while thinking back to the mysterious man that she had met earlier that morning. “I hope Velkan doesn’t mind that I had invited Vlad to the wedding.” 

Anna looked at Alexandria in shock. “Alexandria, please tell me you didn’t.” 

“I did. I didn’t want to appear rude to the man who helped keep me safe from the dangers of the night,” Alexandria tried to explain. 

Anna gently grabbed hold of Alexandria’s shoulders, turning Alexandria so she was now facing Anna. “Alexandria, the man you met in the early hours, he’s no man. He’s dangerous. He may have allowed you to get away this one time. But that doesn’t mean he will let you go the next time you see him again. You can’t go wandering out of the manor once night falls. Especially when you become my brother’s wife. If that man gets his hands on you, he will kill you before you give my brother an heir.” 

“Vlad wouldn’t do that. He’s not a monster like that,” Alexandria said unknowing that she was defending the same man that Anna calls Dracula. 

“Do you hear yourself? You are defending the very monster that is trying to wipe out my family,” Anna argued. “Did Vlad give you his last name?” 

“He didn’t tell me. I also didn’t think to ask him for it. What are you trying to prove by asking these questions,” Alexandria asked. 

“I’m only trying to keep you safe. The man who introduced himself as Vlad, he’s the monster I’m warning you about. Everyone here knows him as Dracula,” Anna said. 

Alexandria looked at Anna in horror. “You mean I had invited the very man who is trying to kill you and your family to my wedding? Oh my goodness. I didn’t know. How could I have been such a fool and go invite the very man who is trying to kill your family, to make sure that you don’t have any blood relatives left to stop him. I’m so sorry Anna. I didn’t know that. Please forgive me. I’ll do anything to make things right. I’ll even tell Velkan about my encounter with the man that you guys consider to be an enemy. I’ll understand if Velkan wishes to find another woman to take on as his bride, that way he can keep your bloodline continuing.” 

“No need. I’m more than sure Velkan wouldn’t replace you. Velkan has strong feelings for you. Besides, it’s not a good idea that Velkan sees you before the ceremony. I’ll speak to Velkan. I’ll make sure that he understands that you didn’t know who you were talking to when you invited the monster himself, to the wedding ceremony. Wait here for your father to come and bring you to the church. Don’t worry about Velkan. I’ll talk to him, and explain everything that happened,” Anna said before walking away. 

Hopefully Velkan will understand and not call off this wedding, Alexandria thought to herself. 

Anna walked to the steps of the church, where Velkan was waiting for his bride to be. Velkan was a bit chocked to find Anna walking up to him alone. 

Velkan began to grow worried that Alexandria changed her mind about going through with the wedding. 

“Anna, is everything alright? Did something happen? Did Alexandria change her mind about going through with the wedding,” Velkan asked while growing worried. 

“You don’t have to worry about that brother. Alexandria wants to go through with the wedding. But she has a concern of her own,” Anna said. 

“What concern? I promise that I will do all that I can do to keep her safe,” Velkan said. 

“It’s not that. Alexandria was woken early this morning by screaming outside of her window. So, she got out of bed, and looked outside her window. And she spotted Dracula standing outside of her Window, “Anna began to explain to her brother. 

“Why didn’t she come to me about this? Did you notice if Alexandria has any marks on her? Has he bitten her,” Velkan began to ask. 

“Velkan, calm down. She didn’t have any marks on her. But she didn’t realize Dracula is the monster who is attacking us. She ran out to check on him. And she was trying to be nice and invited him to the wedding ceremony. Don’t be mad at her. She didn’t know he was our enemy. She had never seen him before the early hours of the morning,” Anna explained. 

“Now that he has laid eyes on my Alexandria, there is no doubt in my mind that he is going to want her all for his own. I won’t allow that monster to take Alexandria away from me. He can go and find another woman to seduce. Not my Alexandria,” Velkan said. 

“You have nothing to worry about Velkan. After Alexandria becomes your wife, she will be sharing the same bed as you. Alexandria will forget all about her encounter with Dracula. Besides, she will be focused on giving you an heir. Now let’s get inside the church and get this wedding started while the sun is still gracing us with its protection,” Anna said. 

“You’re right,” Velkan said. “Alexander, please fetch me my bride. I don’t want to wait another second to marry her,” Velkan said. 

Alexander walked away to grab his daughter. I know that Velkan will take good care of my daughter. I know he won’t allow those blood sucking monsters to take advantage of my little girl. Dracula won’t take my daughter away from Velkan, Alexander thought to himself. 

Alexandria sat in front of the mirror looking at her reflection in the mirror taking her appearance as she placed the veil on. 

Have I known that the man that I ran out to save was truly a monster, I would have never gone outside. How could I have been so careless by not thinking that Vlad was tricking me, Alexandria thought to herself as someone knocked on the door.

Chapter Text

Alexandria was soon broken out of her thoughts by someone knocking on the door.  

“The door is open father. I assure you that I am decent. So, you may enter if you like,” Alexandria said while continuing to look at her own reflection in the mirror. Alexandria sat by the mirror waiting for her father to enter the room. When he didn’t Alexandria turned to face the door, only to be greeted with another knock on the door.  

Alexandria got up slowly making her way over to the door, gently placing a hand on it, before speaking up again. “Velkan, is that you? If it is, you know that you aren’t supposed to be here. What if one of our father’s catch you outside of the door, trying to get a glimpse of your blushing bride?”  

Alexandria waited a moment, only to be greeted with silence on the other side of the door. “Velkan, this isn’t funny. Go back to the church, before you are caught, and we both end up in trouble with our fathers.”  

Again, Alexandria was greeted with silence before another knock was heard. Not being able to take any more of the games and tricks, Alexandria angerly got up making her way to the door, gripping it tightly, before throwing it open; only to be shocked by the person standing on the other side of the door. “You...What on earth are you doing here? Do you have no shame in showing up outside of my changing quarters on the day that I am to be wed to another man?”  

“Forgive me my dear. I only wanted to come and pay the blushing bride a visit, before she becomes a married woman. Though I must admit, you make one beautiful bride. It’s a shame that you are being married off to someone who is unworthy of calling you, his wife. It’s only a matter of time anyway, before your husband grows bored of you, and goes wandering off, looking for something more exciting,” Dracula said infuriating Alexandria.  

“How dare you speak lies about my soon to be husband. He would never risk his bloodline to be with another woman. And you, not only do you have some nerve lying to me, trying to fill me with doubt about the man that I’m about to marry; but you have some nerve showing up here. You aren’t welcome here...not anymore,” Alexandria snapped at Dracula.  

Dracula laughed at Alexandria’s reaction. “Why so hostile towards me all of a sudden? In the earlier hours, you were not only worried about my wellbeing, but you were practically begging me to come and attend your wedding. Here I show up so you won’t be sad by my lack of appearance, and all of a sudden you change your mind and say I’m no longer welcome here. The worst part of all of this is, I don’t even know what I had done wrong to get uninvited from your wedding.”  

“You know what you did wrong. You lied to me about who you were. You lied to me and made me believe that you were a friend of Velkan’s, and that the two of you had a falling out with one another. I only invited you to the wedding hoping to make things better between you and Velkan. But you only want to see that Velkan dies. Well, I won’t allow that to happen. I will do all that I can to make sure that Velkan remains alive. If anyone is going to die, it will be you,” Alexandria said in a rage filled tone.  

Dracula laughed at what Alexandria had said to him. “You truly believe that Velkan Valerious will live long enough to have an heir with you, so that way the heir may become successful in finding a way to kill me? Is that what you’re trying to tell me?”  

“It is. And I will give Velkan an heir to carry on the Valerious name for as long as you are still alive. I will personally see to it that the Valerious bloodline does not die, until you and your brides are gone from this earth,” Alexandria said.  

“You are a strong-willed woman, who knows exactly what you want. I admire that about you. But it’s only a matter of time before you grow bored with your marriage to Velkan Valerious. And when you grow bored with that marriage, your mind will wander to much more sinister thoughts than you care to admit to having. I know deep down you wonder what it’s like to be with a man such as myself. The only thing that is stopping you from giving into the desires of being with me, is your sense of being obedient to your father and going through with this wedding to Velkan Valerious. But what if I can offer you a way out of this wedding? Would you take it,” Dracula asked.  

“Nothing you offer me will get me a change of my mind. I’m not going to leave my husband to be, standing at the alter waiting for my arrival, all while making him look like a fool. I’m sorry Count, but I have to return your offer. My heart belongs to the man who waits patiently to call me his wife. I suggest you get out of here, before I change my mind about being nice to you; and decide to kill you,” Alexandria said.  

“Foolish little girl. You invited me to your wedding. I think I will hang around for a bit. As for killing me, you will fail like many others before you who have made the attempt,” Dracula said. “Oh and one more thing before I leave you to wait for your father to come, and bring you to the church. I will have you by my side, because I want you. And I’m a man who always gets what I want. So, enjoy what little time you have to spend with Velkan, because before you know it you will be mine. I’ll be seeing you soon, my dear.” Dracula then turned on his heel walking away from a frightened Alexandria.  

Alexandria stood there with a frightened look on her face, before hearing footsteps approaching her. Alexandria quickly changed her expressions from fear to joy as her father approached her. “Father.”  

“Alexandria, I told you to wait inside for me. You know the dangers that lurk in this land,” Alexandria said as he got closer to his daughter.  

“I know you told me to wait inside father. But I got anxious of waiting and was getting ready to make my way to find you,” Alexandria said.  

“And what if you had run into Velkan before the ceremony was to take place? You know that would have been bad luck,” Alexander said.  

“I’m sure Velkan is in the church waiting for you to escort me down the aisle to him. If I were to run into anyone, it would have been you, Anna or Mr. Valerious,” Alexandria said.  

Alexander smiled at the mention of his friend. “Boris would have made sure that his son didn’t get a glimpse of you. He would have made Velkan wait until it was time for you to go walking down the aisle. But enough of that. I came to bring you to your husband to be. He’s more than ready to make you, his wife. Shall we make our way to your waiting husband to be?”  

“I’m as ready as I’ll ever be. Let's go and get this ceremony started, that way my husband and I can be a step closer to giving him heirs,” Alexandria said while accepting her father’s extended arm, walking towards her way to the church. The whole way to the church, Alexandria couldn’t help but feel that her every move was being watched.  

I can’t shake this feeling that something bad is going to happen; and all because I have done something to anger the count. There is no doubt in my mind that he will do something to retaliate to let us all know that he isn’t pleased, Alexandria thought to herself as she made her way to the church, feeling more and more uneasy as she got closer.  

So, precious little Alexandria believes that she can get away with the way that she spoke to me. Poor girl is naive if she believes that her wedding day to Velkan Valerious would go smoothly, without something bad happening. Oh don’t you worry precious little Alexandria. I have something very special planned; just to help you kick off the beginning of your new journey as Velkan’s wife, Dracula thought to himself with a sinister smirk on his lips.  

Dracula’s three brides landed behind him, noticing the sinister smirk that he had on his face.  

“I gather the talk that you had with the young woman that you met last night didn’t go as well as you planned,” Verona said.  

“Last night I had no problem gaining the young woman’s trust. If anything last night all she cared about was my wellbeing. But today, when I go to pay the blushing bride a little visit, her demeanor towards me is different. Today she didn’t want anything to do with me, she was cold hearted towards me. Dare I got as far to say that she even despised me, like the entire Valerious family does. Which leads me to believe that they managed to successfully tell her about who I am,” Dracula said.

Chapter Text

“So, what are you gonna do now, now that the girl knows who you really are? Are you afraid that she will say something to Velkan about your little meeting with her, before she walks down the aisle, to her waiting groom,” Marishka asked.  

“She can try and speak with her husband to be. But I already know that he won’t listen to her. He will be focused on making her his wife, before I come along and before I come along and destroy the ceremony between the two of them,” Dracula said.  

“Surely you aren’t going to allow them to become husband and wife, right? Because the moment they say, ‘I do,’ they might start working on extending the Valerious bloodline; which would only be a thorn in your side that you will never be able to remove, master. As long as that bloodline continues, they will keep trying to figure out ways to get rid of you permanently,” Aleera pointed out. “I say that we kill the girl and call it a night. Then we wait a day, allowing the prince at least one day to grieve the death of the young woman who he cursed by making her take his last name.”  

Alexandria’s father gently wrapped his daughter’s arm around his own, leading his daughter to the church, where Velkan was waiting for her.  

As they were walking his daughter to the church, where Velkan was waiting for her. As they got closer to the church, Alexander began to notice that something was wrong with his daughter.  

“Alexandria, my darling girl...is everything alright? You seem to be a bit fidgety today. Are you nervous about getting married to Velkan? I can assure you that Velkan is a good man, who will take good care of you; as well as keep you safe from any harm,” Alexander said in a reassuring tone.  

“I don’t have regrets about going through with this marriage...nor am I nervous about going through with this marriage. I know that both Velkan and I will have a loving marriage; just as I am sure that Velkan and I will have a big family together and continue the Valerious bloodline like his father wants,” Alexandria said while silently hoping that her father wouldn’t push the matter anymore.  

“My darling daughter, I have been around you long enough to know that something is bothering you. Please don’t try and hide what it is that is bothering you. I’m your father; and I know when something is wrong,” Alexander replied.  

“I had a visitor while I was getting ready to walk down the aisle to Velkan. The visitor knocked on the door. I thought it was you who was knocking on the door. Which at first, I thought was strange that you would knock, to come and grab me to walk me down the aisle to the waiting arms of Velkan. When you didn’t enter, I began to wonder if it was really you standing at the door. So, I got up and made my way over to the door. When I opened it, I was a bit shocked by who I had found standing on the other side of the door,” Alexandria explained.  

“Who was it that was standing on the other side of the door,” Alexander asked, growing more and more worried about what his daughter was about to tell him.  

“I couldn’t sleep earlier this morning. Shortly after I had woken up, I heard screams come from outside. I ran to the window to see if I could find the source of the scream. But when I looked out the window; and I was shocked to find what I thought to be an innocent man. So, I ran out to warn him about the monsters that were lurking around. He said that he knew and told me that I myself shouldn’t be out at that time. Anyway, he told me that he was a friend of Velkan’s. He told me this after I had told him that I am here to marry Velkan. I had found it strange that Velkan hadn’t mentioned this friend, let alone invite him to attend our wedding. Anyway, Anna asked me questions, wondering if I was having second thoughts about marrying her brother, taking their last name, and giving her brother heirs to help continue their bloodline. I had told Anna about the man I met and told her his name; and she froze on the spot when I told her about that man. It was then that I learned that the man who I had shown kindness to, was the very man who is trying to kill off the Valerious bloodline. Papa, do you think that I am making a huge mistake going through with this wedding today? Do you think that we should change the day that Velkan and I get married,” Alexandria asked.  

“Don’t be silly. Why would you want to postpone this wedding? Boris and I have been talking about this for a while now...through letter before you and I made our trip to this village. It’s not like anything is going to happen to destroy or stop this wedding from taking place. You and Velkan will become husband and wife. Trust me my dear girl, nothing bad will happen to come between you and Velkan. Now, put all of those worries behind you. Look forward to the bright future that you and Velkan will share together. Don’t show any fear before your wedding. Don’t want to put Velkan on edge,” Alexander said.  

“But I can’t keep it a secret from Velkan, that a man that I spoke to, was an enemy of his, that might come crashing our wedding, trying to come between him and I,” Alexandria said.  

“If you must say something, try and make it discreet. We don’t want anyone else finding out about the unexpected visitor, that paid you a visit moments before you’re meant to walk down to Velkan and become his wife. Remember you are the beautiful bride, who is about to take on the new role of wife. Keep your head held high. Don’t let anyone see that you’re afraid of something bad happening,” Alexander said before he and Alexandria made their way into the church.  

The moment Alexander and Alexandria entered the church, they wasted no time making their way down the aisle, so they could get the wedding over and done with.  

Alexander and Boris watched as Velkan and Alexandria exchanged their vows, and exchanging rings before Velkan placed a gentle kiss on Alexandria’s lips, before they turned getting ready to make their way back to the manor; only to be stopped by someone standing in the doorway.  

“How beautiful. The promise of love that the both of you exchanged. It breaks my heart that your marriage won’t last long enough for the two of you to procreate more of the Valerious bloodline,” Dracula said before turning his gaze to Alexandria who stood next to a furious Velkan. “You do look beautiful my love. I knew you would make a beautiful bride. It’s only a shame that your beauty is wasted on such a short-lived marriage.”  

Velkan gently pushed Alexandria behind him in a protective manor. “Don’t you dare look at or speak to my wife. I won’t allow you a chance to get close enough to take her away from me.”  

Dracula laughed at Velkan’s sad attempt at shielding Alexandria from his view. “Oh Velkan, you pathetic fool. You seem so sure that you can keep your new wife safe from me? Did it ever occur to you that maybe I already had a chance to get close to her? Granted, I didn’t do anything when I had the opportunity to kill her and take her for myself. But I wanted to prove to your darling wife, that I can be a perfect gentleman. I wanted to prove to her that I’m not the monster that you and your family make me out to be.”  

“Don’t lie monster! Because that is exactly what you wanted! You are responsible for killing many innocent people who have been fed off of. You are also the very monster that turned three whores into monsters like you. You did that so they could keep you company, that way you aren’t stuck living a life where you are alone. I won’t allow you to get your claws on Alexandria, so you can sink your fangs into her, and turn her into your personal whore to play with,” Velkan snapped at Dracula. “The only way that you will ever get close to Alexandria, is over my dead body.”  

Chapter Text

Dracula smirked at hearing those words. “Oh dear Velkan. Don’ t be in such a rush to die. There is a time and place for everything. And I won’t allow you off the hook that easily. I want to make sure that you and your family suffer a lot of pain. Besides that, I want to make sure that you live long enough to witness the death and rebirth of your beautiful new wife. It’s only a matter of time before your marriage ends anyway.”  

“You seem so confident that Alexandria will leave me, and hand herself over to you willingly,” Velkan challenged while taking a step forward.  

“It’s only a matter of time before your darling wife grows tired of being with you. When that happens, I will be waiting to gently take her by the hand and lead her to the dark side. I can already tell that she’s curious about the dark side and wants more than the little sample that I gave her,” Dracula said before turning his gaze to Alexandria. “I know you long to join me and allow the darkness to consume you. You don’t always have to be the well-behaved daughter that everyone expects you to be.”  

“Say what you will Dracula. But I won’t allow you to trick me again like you have before,” Alexandria said causing Dracula to get angry.  

“Don’t think this is over Princess. Because one way or another I will have you. Until then, I will kill until I get exactly what I want,” Dracula said before he and his three brides transformed and flew off to the castle.  

Velkan held Alexandria close in a protective manner, letting her know that he would always be there to keep her safe.  

Alexandria turned to face Velkan. “I didn’t mean to make him upset like that. Now he’s gonna kill innocent people because of me.”  

“He would kill regardless. He was trying to make you feel guilty, that way you would go to him willingly. But with me by your side, you don’t have to worry about him. I will always be around to keep you safe; even if it means putting my life on the line for you because I will. Because you are my everything,” Velkan said, while giving Alexandria a tight hug.  

There is no way in hell I’m letting Dracula take Alexandria away from me. She is my wife. She will help me continue the bloodline, that way we may put an end ot him once and for all, Velkan thought to himself.  

Dracula and his brides made it back to the castle, changing back to their human form.  

Verona, Marishka and Aleera stood to the side as Dracula stood by the window, watching snow fall to the ground.  

“Master, why did you allow Velkan’s bride to live? She will only give him an heir to help keep their bloodline going, which will give them hope of finding a way to kill you,” Marishka said.  

“They haven’t successfully in killing me yet. There is really nothing to worry about my dears. What the Valerious clan doesn’t know is, that I have someone on my side. Someone who needs an ally to fund his experiment. And when the timing is right, I will collect what is owed to me. And we will outnumber the Valerious clan; and make it so that they cannot enter the gates of Saint Peter,” Dracula said.  

Verona took a step forward. “Who is this guest that you are waiting to arrive?”  

“That is my business. While I go and greet our guest. I want you three to stay here and rest. Once I get our guest settled in, I will return and rest alongside you three,” Dracula said before walking away, leaving his brides standing there.  

Dracula arrived at the castle, waiting for his guest to arrive. Dracula knew he didn’t have to wait long, as he heard the sound of a carriage making its way to the castle. Shortly after the carriage stopped, and a man dressed in a white lab coat stepped out looking around in awe.  

“Welcome Dr. Frankenstein. I assume your travels were well,” Dracula said breaking Dr. Frankenstein out of his thoughts.  

“Oh, why yes,” Dr. Frankenstein replied. “You must be the count, who offered me so much to conduct my experiment. I can’t begin to thank you enough for all of the support and opportunity. How will I ever repay you for all of this?”  

“I will think of something. But right now, I want you to get settled in. Get all of your equipment set up and get to work. There is no need to waste time, when you can make history with your current experiment that I heard so much about,” Dracula said.  

“It will take me some time, just to get everything setup. But I will get started on the experiment right after. I don’t want to miss an opportunity of any storms that may come our way,” Dr. Frankenstein said.  

“As long as you make this experiment top priority, I don’t care what you do, but do not make me regret wasting time and resources bringing you here. Keep in mind, there are many others like you who are looking for opportunities to be given anything they need to get their experiments going. So, keep on top of your work. And make sure it’s not all over the place. I don’t give second chances for slight errors,” Dracula explained.  

“I...I can assure you Count; nothing will go wrong with this experiment. I had time to do trial and error before gathering everything I need for this moment. I will prove to the world that this particular experiment will be a success,” Dr. Frankenstein said.  

“I’m holding you to that. I will be popping in occasionally, to make sure you are making progress,” Dracula said.  

“It won’t be done for a while. I’m alone,” Dr. Frankenstein said.  

“I took care of that too,” Dracula said before a hunched man walked in.  

“Good evening. Are you the good doctor, known as Dr. Frankenstein,” the man asked.  

“I am. Who on earth are you,” Dr. Frankenstein asked.  

“I am Igor. I had received word that you required an assistant, with no questions asked. I am more than willing to take the position that you are offering. I won’t bother you by asking you silly questions. I’ll do as I’m told,” Igor said earning an impressed look.  

“Now you don’t have any excuse to get your experiment ready for when the next storm hits. I don’t want any excuses. I want to see your experiment completed. Don’t disappoint me, Victor,” Dracula said before leaving.  

Dr. Frankenstein waited until he was sure that Dracula was no longer at the castle, before speaking up. “I don’t know what it is about the count, but I always get a sense of unease while I’m around him.”  

“You aren’t from Romania. That could be why you feel uneasy around him. Here he is of a high class. That is something that you may be lacking from where you come from,” Igor stated while trying to hide his annoyance.  

“That could be it. Come along. We don’t have any time to waste,” Dr. Frankenstein said before getting to work.

Chapter Text

Alexandria was sitting by the window, watching the quiet village, feeling guilty that she allowed herself to be deceived by the monster. How could I have fallen for his charm? I should have known better; seeing as I was arranged to marry Velkan. But part of me felt drawn to that man. Did he put some sort of spell on me, to make me feel more attracted to him? I can’t allow the count to consume my thoughts. I’m happily married to Velkan now. That and I refuse to fall in love with my husband’s enemy. If the count wants me, then he will only get me...once I’m dead. I won’t allow him to take me alive, only to turn me into a monster like himself. If he kills Velkan, then I will anger him enough to where he will kill me as well, Alexandria thought, before feeling a hand on her shoulder. 

Alexandria jumped and gasped, before turning around finding Anna standing behind her, looking at her with a worried expression on her face. 

“I didn’t mean to scare you, Alexandria. I called out to you several times, but you appeared to be distracted to where you didn’t hear me call out your name. Is everything alright,” Anna asked. 

“No. I feel like I sabotaged my own wedding to Velkan. I didn’t know that I had gone out and attempted to save the enemy of you and Velkan. How could I have allowed myself to have been so naive, to where I was tricked by your enemy,” Alexandria asked while feeling terrible about what she had done. 

Anna stepped closer, pulling Alexandria in a comforting hug. “Don’t blame yourself. That monster took advantage of the fact that you didn’t live here; and he tricked you into thinking that he wasn’t a monster. I can tell you right now, Velkan doesn’t blame you for Dracula’s sudden appearance at the wedding. Nobody knows what that monster will do. He shows up when we all least expect it. That is why when the sun starts to set, everyone is quick to get home and lock their doors up tight. It’s because nobody wants to be out when those monsters come out to feed.” 

“I guess you’re right. But what if Dracula comes, and he hangs outside my window, summoning me to come out t him? I fear that my body may betray me and give that monster exactly what he wants from me,” Alexandria voiced her worries. 

“You have nothing to worry about. I can assure you that my brother Velkan, he will keep you safe from that blood sucking monster,” Anna said reassuringly. “Come along now, Velkan is worried about you. He’s requested that you join him in the library. He knows that you feel that all of this is your fault. He doesn’t want you blaming yourself for any of this. Come now. Let's not keep Velkan waiting any longer.” 

Anna led Alexandria to the library where Velkan stood, waiting for his wife. Anna motioned for Alexandria to enter the library. “Go inside.” 

Alexandria walked into the library slowly, walking towards her husband, who stood in the middle of the library. “You wanted to see me?” 

“I did. I noticed that you locked yourself in our room. We should be celebrating out union. It hurts me to see you tormenting yourself. You had nothing to do with Dracula and his brides showing up. Dracula would have shown up on his own anyway,” Velkan said while gently placing his hands on Alexandria’s shoulders. “Please stop worrying about this. I don’t hold any of this against you. Smile for me my beautiful wife. I don’t like it when you’re upset. 

Alexandria smiled at Velkan. “Thank you for making me feel better. I don’t know what I would do without you.” 

“You don’t ever have to wonder about that. Because I’m not going anywhere. I have every intention of growing old with you; as well as have many children for you and I to raise together. Think you can handle many baby Velkan’s running around,” Velkan asked while smirking at Alexandria, causing her to giggle. 

“If I can handle being your wife, Mr. Valerious, then I believe that I can handle a bunch of baby Valerious’ running around. Though I do feel bad for the people of the village. Many people will be dealing with mini versions of you running around the village,” Alexandria said. 

“There is the beautiful smile. I long to see every morning we wake up together,” Velkan said. “Why don’t we just sleep tonight? We both had a long day today. Tomorrow we can have a good breakfast with Anna, and both of our fathers. Then tomorrow night we can get busy with starting our little family.” Velkan led Alexandria out of the library, to their bedroom. Velkan and Alexandria both got ready for bed, before climbing into bed together. Both Velkan and Alexandria fell into a peaceful sleep, unaware of the eyes that were looking through the window, growling at the sight of Velkan holding Alexandria close to him in a protective manner. 

So, you truly believe that Velkan will keep you safe from me? Not even he can keep you safe. One way or another, I will get my hands on you. And I will make you mine. You will see, the moment that Velkan is no longer around, you will come running to my awaiting arms. I will show you what real protection is, Dracula thought to himself, before flying to Castle Frankenstein, to check on Victor Frankenstein and his experiment. 

Dr. Frankenstein was wrapped up in his work, he didn’t notice Dracula standing there, watching his every move. 

Dracula cleared his throat, causing Dr. Frankenstein to jump and turn, holding his chest as he spotted Dracula standing there. 

“Count, what a surprise. Don’t think me rude, but what are you doing here? I wasn’t expecting you to come to the castle,” Dr. Frankenstein asked. 

“Keep in mind, Victor, I don’t have to announce to you of my arrival. I can come and go as I please,” Dracula said while walking around Dr. Frankenstein, making his way over to the experiment that was on a table, covered by a white sheet. “I came to see how things are going with your experiment. Is it ready to be put to use?” 

“I just finished putting him together. I’m doing one final check of all my notes, making sure that everything is correct. I don’t want anything to go wrong with this experiment. If something goes wrong, it will delay the experiment, and I would have to go harvest new parts; which would take a while,” Dr. Frankenstein explained, annoying Dracula. 

“For your sake Victor, you better hope that the experiment works the first time you attempt it,” Dracula said. 

“I hope you don’t mind me asking this, but why are you so hellbent on making sure that this experiment is a success,” Dr. Frankenstein asked. 

“You don’t have to worry about that. I have my reasons. I just want this experiment to be a success. Much like how I don’t have to announce my presence to you, I don’t have to tell you my reasons for wanting this to be a success. You will be seeing me again, Victor,” Dracula said before leaving. 

I never in my life have met someone as peculiar, like the Count. And I have met many people in my years on this planet. Most of them thinking that I myself am the peculiar man; they have yet to come here to Transylvania and meet the count himself, Victor thought to himself while checking his notes. 

“Is there anything you need, Dr. Frankenstein,” Igor asked from behind Dr. Frankenstein. 

“As of right now, I don’t need anything. If I need something, I will summon you,” Dr. Frankenstein replied.