Part 1: Quest of the Vampire Killer.

"Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

John: 20. 29.

Chapter 36: Psycho warrior.
Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 21st. of December 2098 A.D.
The shuttle was finally secured within the landing area. Snow came blowing in through the large crack in the cliff's face. The door below the front of the aircraft opened. Two figures walked down. One was tall, dressed completely in white and with a cane in hand. Shaft, known as the white wizard among the New Order's supporters, was one of the Dark Lord's most trusted servants. The other was a small fragile woman, beautiful although she wore nothing but plain black robes. Actrise was fair, fair as fair could be With a huge wavy golden hair and blue eyes, like pale sapphires. The white witch stepped forward to meet them. Liza Bernhardt could not help but envy Actrise her beauty. "Greetins." She said with a slight bow. This was her domain. Neither of them was the Dark Lord. "Thank you my lady." Shaft bowed his head in turn. His voice surprised her. With the beak of a nose and the dark raven like eyes she would expect a shrieking cold tone. Instead it was deep and warm. His soft tone was a pleasure to hear. His long white hair and beard blew in the wind. "I am afraid we cannot stay at your court." Actrise said a soft smile appeared upon her crimson lips, exposing her fangs. "I know." The whit witch said. "We will leave the shuttle here." Shaft explained. "It is nowhere else it might lad." Actrise added. "Of course." Liza Bernhardt smiled, exposing her own fangs. Her eyes hung with the white wizard. Shaft smiled, his white must ache almost hid his fangs. "Is there anything else I might do?" She asked. "I do not think so." Shaft said. "We have all we need." Actrise opened her hand. Liza Bernhardt stepped backward. She recognised the item all to well. "Yes." Shaft said. "It is a mind trap." Actrise closed her hand and the terrifying object disappeared. "If the accursed princess or anybody else of the dark wanderers are here." Shaft said. "Please tell them we have begun our search." "O course." The white witch said, bowing her head. They bowed in return. Then they where gone. Liza Bernhardt turned and left the room. She had her own tasks to attend to. They had not requested the dryad as she had expected. The Belmont was somewhere inside the mine. She could feel his presence. The white witch wondered what she should do with him. Of course. She could turn him into ice. But that held no entertainment. She dismissed the matter out of hand. The Master would have to decide for her.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Ice. It was incredible Edward thought. The entire cave hall looked to be created out of solid ice He did the sign of the cross. This was not what he'd expected. Pixie and Rose had told him it would be this way he hadn't actually believed them. Not until now. Magic. That was the only true word for this. An eerie lue light shone from the frozen walls and made it easy to see. Edward shook his head. Beside him, just to the right, lay the river who gave the lake in the other cave its water. Edward grunted. This was mee gibberish. He cracked his chin-whip before he went forward. The sound of flapping wings was the only warning. A swarm of bats came flying toward them. No, Edward told himself. Whatever these creatures where, they weren't bats. The glow around them originated from something else than ordinary bats. "I don't like this." Pixie muttered. "Those are mimic." Rose told him. "Evil spirits who imitate the natural powers of their surroundings." "I know." Edward grunted. He combined the Mercury and Salamander cards. The whip was turned on fire. Edward whipped at them. The swarm spread. He quickly combined the Diana and Salamander cards instead. Edward flailed the whip around, making fireballs become spread around. From the nearby river a pack of mermen appeared. Edward snarled. He combined the Pluto and Salamander cards. Edward held up his throwing-cross and a multitude of crosses was thrown outward. He could've used his bloodline power. But that would've been a waste of energy. The mermen spread as they breathed a chilling mist around. It was difficult to breathe. Edward choaked as he fell on his knees. "Eat this." Pixie told him. Edward felt something being pressed against his lip. He quickly did as she told him. "Apple of life." Rose whispered, awe in her voice. Pixie blushed. Edward had no time to spare. He got to his feet, whip in hand. He threw some knives at the nearest enemies before whipping the other into oblivion. There came more of them but Edward was already on the run. He only stopped to throw his cross at those mysterious bats. Then Edward entered the next cave. Edward scratched his head. Why didn't they follow him true. An eerie mist shrouded this room. The river was frozen here. Edward felt like being back inside the Ravenberg power-plant when that area had frozen over. Shapes moved in the mist. Edward shuddered. "I have a bad feeling about this." He told the two fairies. "Don't be afraid." Pixie assured him. "I'll help you master Edward." Rose inquired. Edward couldn't help but smile. The tiny creatures where helpful friends he wouldn't be without. Still he didn't understand why they connected so strongly with him. It was like they where human girls fighting over the same man. Edward dismissed the matter as he moved forward.

Abandoned castle, Warakiya. The 21st. of December 2098 A.D.
Lord Aaron Grey, remote decendant of sir Dorian Grey, walked back and forth before his fireplace. "My lord." He turned. Bronze Labanga and Yukuri Wong stepped into the room, bowing before him. He impatience waved his hand. "Are there any traces of my sister?" Aaron demanded. "No my lord." Bronze defensivly said. "Lady Megan has evaded us somehow." Yukuri picked up the report. "We are not quite sure yet. But most likely she have had some help to escape." Aaron snarled. It annoyed him how Megan had hidden herself from him. The fact he supported lord Dracula's New Order should not have split them. Their tribe should've kept together. Ma-beasts where really rare among Dracula's followers. "My lord." A knight stepped inside. "The warlock lord is here." "Let him in." Aaron said. "Very god." The knight saluted and left the room. The vampires sunk down on one knee while Aaron stood at attention. The door was opened and Aaron felt his blood turn cold as the powerful hand of the Dark Lord Dracula stepped inside. "You might leave us." He told the two vampires. They quickly left the room. Aaron invited the undead king to sit. "I am not here to exchange pleasantries." The cloaked and hooded wraith coldly informed him. "The Dark Lord Dracula has sent me." Aaron nodded. He should have expected this. The warlock lord did not arrive for smalltalk. "You are to leave Greymark. The undead king decreed. Aaron bowed his head. "You are to report to Gilles De Reis in the Barnsdall castle." "I must ask that I must withdraw the necromancer then." He informed the warlock lord. The powerful dark soul nodded. "It shall be done. Here." The warlock lord handed him one of the precious portal-keys. "I will leave at once." Aaron got to his feet.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Edward continued walking. The silence began gnawing on his nerves. A few bats came fleeing through the air. Edward threw his cross toward them. He used his bloodline magic to make it split into multiple boomerangs. Edward touched his left arm. One of those bats had frozen him there. "Rose." He finally said. "I'm here master." She flew toward him. "You must go and do something for me." Edward told her. "Can you do me that favour?" He asked. Rose light became a devoted red. "Just tell me about it." Rose told him. Edward nodded. "You must go and find Saria." He described her, Rose nodded before darting away. "You like her." Pixie suddenly asked. "Don't you?" Edward shook her head. "It's not that I hate her." He told her. "But it's not possible. She's a good friend and helper. Like you are." Edward finished. Pixie fluttered about. Edward didn't mind. Some of the figures lurking about were drawing near. A bone-shattering howl was his only warning. A huge white wolf-like monster lunged toward him. Edward brought up his chain-whip just in time. The warg howled in pain. It rolled over and got back up on its feet. Edward watched carefully as it began circle him. Edward held the whip in one hand and the holy water in the other. He'd found it inside a candle and was rather thankful for it. Suddenly the warg came at him again. Edward threw the vial. The holy water hit it right in its face. The warg howled. It fell to the ground and burned away into ashes. "The Lord forgives me." Edward whispered, making the sign of the cross. "You did what you had to." Pixie told him. Edward nodded, smiling somewhat. "I know." Edward gathered himself. He continued walking. The mist thickened around him. Edward wondered how big this cave actually was. The sound of paws against the floor made him turn in time. From the fog came another warg silently toward him. Edward brought out his sword. He hung up the hain-whip and then drew his Bowie. The warg was quick. Suddenly it just was ther. It lunged at him. Edward tried to stab at it. The warg somehow changed direction and bite at his legs. Edward staggered backward. He fell backward, dropping his sword. The warg lunged forward. Edward stabbed it in the heart just as it was ontop of him. For a frightful moment it was like the beast was neither living nor dead. Edward stabbed at it repeated times. Finally it lay dead. Edward gasped fo breath. He dryed off the Bowie on its fur just before it began burning. With a cry of pain and disgust he kicked the burning corpse away. "Are you alright?" Pixie worriedly asked while flying closer. "Just a little freaked out." Edward confessed. "Nothing to worry about." He assured. Edward began walking. Again he heard the sound of paws against the floor. "God wit me!" He shouted. He combined the Mercury and Salamander cards. The burning whip made Edward see clearly the two advancing wargs. Snarling he flailed the whip at them. He was not intend on being ambushed this time.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Saria sat in her cell, singing softly. It was all she could do to keep her warmth. Saria didn't like this place. She shivered slightly. It wasn't the cold who troubled her. The entire mine was shrouded in the power of the darkness. Not since the battle against Elizabeth Bathory Saria had felt this way. Still, this was different. "Saria." She looked toward the door. A boy stood there, watching her. It wasn't that he wore only small shoes, knee-long red trousers and a plain silk shirt with lacework on it who frightened her. Saria figured it was something about his eyes. Blue immovable orbs stared at back at her. The shoulder-length blue hair didn't make Saria feel better. There was something about this boy. He carried an evil star around his neck, dangling loose about his chest. He was so pale that his skin almost had a blue glow of itself. "Who are you?" The question was a mere whisper. He smiled. "You might call me Rudolf." He said in a mooching tone. Saria didn't feel funny about it. "What do you want with me?" Saria thought she already knew the answer. The mad witch must've told him about her believes. Rudolf's smile grew broader. Saria noticed he was actually rather cute. Cute?! Was she going crazy? "I have come to set you free." He told her. "And what must I do in return?" Saria asked in a defensive tone. Rudolf waved his hand. "Nothing really." She didn't believe him. A glimmer of steel appeared in his eyes. "Don't take me for a fool." He said. "I mean what I say." Saria shook her head. "Go away." She tried to sound calm. "Leave me alone." Rudolf spread his hands. "I want nothing of you." He said. "I ask nothing from you." A near pleading tone entered his voice. "Why cannot we be friends?" Saria looked away. "Just leave me alone." Now it was she who pleaded. Saria hated herself for doing this. Rudolf gave her a wounded look. Saria didn't buy it for a second. "I know you are the chosen one." Rudolf suddenly said. Saria spun toward him. "That's just madness." Saria stated. "Is it?" The smile appeared upon his face. "What if it isn't madness?" Rudolf tempted. "Think about it." His smile grew broader again. "You could just reah out. They would give you more power than you might ever believe." "Get away from me!" It was a desperate scream. Rudolf laughed. Then backed away. "I leave you." He told her. "But rethink your options." Again he laughed. "I am the only person which will let you rule as you chose." He was gone. Saria put her head in her hands. What was she going to do? She was so afraid. Then Saria noticed she was crying.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. Of December 2098 A.D.
Edward dryed off of his Bowie on the warg's fur. He'd killed four more of those beasts since the first had lunged at him. Edward put back the Bowie. He'd reached the far side of the chamber. From here lead three alternate entrances. Two of the exits where frozen. But that opening atop the stairs seemed to be open. Edward activated the mechanism which closed the door leading inside this eight-sided room. At least there was no mist in here. "Watch out!" Pixie made him look up in time. Bats came flying toward him. "Curse it!" Those basdards was really growing smarter. Instead of attacking in a cluster they came at him in a spread position. Edward cracked the chain-whip. He combined the Mercury and Salamander cards. Then he waited. Suddenly two of them came toward him from two different locations. Edward slashed the whip at the right one. It shattered into fire. Just then he threw a vial of holy water at the left one. Three bats came at him. Edward grinned menacingly. Not he got them. Edward summoned his bloodline power and made holy water flash before him like a wave of fire. It was a trick he'd heard was a favourite of John Morris. The bats where taken completely by surprise and was turned into ashes before they could even move. There was still some bats about. For the moment they kept their distance dough. "Wrn me if they attack." He told Pixie. "Of course." The fairy fluttered about as Edward crossed the floor. He was about to walk above a frozen pond as it suddenly exploded. A pack of mermen appeared. "God with us!" Edward cried while swinging his whip. "Bats are coming in!" Pixie screamed. "Twisted!" He roared as one merman wounded him. Edward then stabbed it in the heart with his Bowie. He then dropped the whip as he sprinkled holy water in a circle around him. Edward summoned his bloodline power. A ring of fire extebded around him. Edward fell gasping to the floor. It was tearing using so much energy. Edward gathered himself. He picked up the chain-whip, and then got to his feet Then Edward whipped down the candles inside the room. The crystals really came in handy. It was the food which made Edward truly thankful. It replenished his energy. Three bats still fluttered about, they didn't concern him. With Pixie flying around he walked toward the steps leading onward. Edward scrathed his head. Another long corridor reached out before him. What confused him however all the frozen sculptures where. Edward shook his head. "I hope Medusa isn't about." Pixie shone a worried purple. Edward nodded. "I don't like it either." He confessed. He cracked the whip before continuing onward. A cold wind blew. Edward shuddered. Something was amiss here. Then, some metres before him, a figure emerged. First Edward was afraid it was one of the infamous frozen shades. But this apparitions was not transparent. It was a woman, or something which looked like a woman. Whatever she was, she was dressed in loose red garment. Rich locks of silver hair fell down and almost hid her face. "Who are you?" Edward asked in a defensive tone. "Stay away from her." Pixie suddenly warned. "I know who she is. It's a frozen half!" The last statement came like a cry. "Eternal frost!" The witch cast her spell. Edward nearly lost his breath as a wind blew snow and ice right toward him. Soon Edward found himself struggling through a bone-shattering blizzard. He struggled forward. The frozen half laughed at him. Now more bats also came flying. Edward desperately combined the Apollo and Salamander cards. The enflamed explosion shook the corridor. Bricks of frost fell from the ceiling as multiple sculptures shattered. "Forgive me Lord." Edward whispered. The bats kept their distance. The frozen half staggered backward. He knew what he had to do. Edward didn't like it. With a throw of his hand Edward sent the throwing-cross toward the frozen half. The witch screamed as the weapon cut through her chest. Edward swallowed as blood and pieces of flesh was spread about. The frozen half gave him a final hateful glare. Then she exploded. Even with her gone the wind continued blowing. Edward gathered himself. He threw some holy water at the bats. Then he ran.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Rose fluttered back and forth between the cells. The ice made it difficult to reach out to feel the living. The cells had been empty this far. Rose didn't feel proud of herself. Master Edward had asked her to find Saria. She'd promised to do so and had fond nothing. Rose was starting to feel worry too. What if the New Order had brought Saria away from the mine? Rose felt someone coming. She hid behind a stalagmite of ice. A boy with blue hair and eyes passed by. Rose felt instinctively that he was evil. It was like a shadow was gone when he was no longer to be seen. Rose shot onward. She had to find Saria before the blue-eyed monster returned.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. Of December 2098 A.D.
Edward struggled forward the magical blizzard nearly strangled him. He slashed the whip. The frozen half screamed and shattered into ice. Edward leaned heavily against the wall. He'd fought against bats and frozen halves all through the corridor. Edward gathered himself. He and Pixie entered the new chamber. Edward came into a large room, like those stadiums he'd seen in old movies. At the far end another corridor led onwad. Edward stepped forward. Then he quickly cracked his chain-whip. Edward had just clear memories of those monsters to act defensively. The ice-dancers where graceful, no doubt. Edward didn't like them anyway. Lizards had never been his taste. It puzzled Edward how they could grew hair when the male lizards didn't. He shook his head. It was all rubbish anyway. It was five of them. Edward had to concentrate. Their grace and slender was truly troublesome. Two ice-dancers moved toward him, spreading frost in their wake. Edward combined the Diana and Salamander cards. Suddenly the frozen discs came at him. Edward slashed the whip and released an onslaught of fireballs. They withdrew. Edward combined the Mercury and Salamander cards. His whip started burning. Edward leached and whipped at one ice-dancer. She became set ablaze. The second ice-dancer sent a barrage of icy discs toward him. Edward shivered as they hit him. They would've cut him into pieces if they'd hit him square on. Edward gathered his strength. The ice-dancer moved in again. Edward threw holy water at her. He dived away from the explosion and threw daggers at the advancing ice-dancers. One was hit in the heart and collapsed into a pyre. The other two managed to dodge. One of them wounded Edward with a series of thrown icicles. "Apple of life." He ate the fruit. Then Edward was back to battle. He combined the Diana and Salamander cards to counter the second and third wave f ice. Edward threw the boomerang-cross and cut one ice-dancer into pieces. Then he threw some more holy water at those twisted bats. Edward screamed as a series of sharpened icicles dug into him. The mail supported him, but the cold was near overwhelming. Bitting his teeth together Edward sent another dagger forward. He missed. He summoned hs bloodline magic and made the dagger split into three. He hit her in the belly. The ice-dancer looked up at him. Then she fell to the floor, dead. "Apple of life." Pixie flew toward him, supplying him with one of her fruits. "I hope Rose might learn that spell." Edward said when finishing eating. "Why do you say so?`" She demanded to know. Edward blinked. "Well, you must return to Al sooner or later." Pixie shone a shameful red. Edward threw the core away. Then he walked across the large room, defeating some bats along the way. He entered another corridor. Onward the corridor led into another large chamber. However, mid through, another corridor led downward. Edward pondered the question for some time. Then he started going downward. The New Order used to keep their prisoners in the deeper portions of their domain. Edward was disappointed dough. The corridor suddenly stopped. Clearly the ceiling must've caved in. Edward scratched his head. Then he combined the Venus and Golem cards. They would give him protection against stone magic. They also had another effect however. With new strength Edward began pulling away some of the rocks. He blinked. Beyond the rocks lay a chamber. The corridor didn't lead further onward. Then Edward felt sick. He understood what had happened. Some rule spirit once trapped a group of miners in here. "May the Lord make mercy upon their souls?" Pixie nodded. Then she did the sign of the cross. It was the first time Edward saw her do such things. In some strange way it comforted him. Edward stepped into the room. He had a feeling there where something here, calling for him. Not knowing what else to do he began searching through the dead. He soon found it. Although Edward didn't knew what to do with the two bottles. Still, he had a strong feeling these things would come in handy later. Edward shrugged. He put them into his backpack and returned to the corridor. He stepped forward and then entered the new room.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Saria didn't sung anymore. Instead she went back and forth inside her cell. Saria just couldn't forget about Rudolf's words. They disturbed her. He disturbed her. Saria shuddered by the mere memory. If she'd only had a cross or something. Saria decided she would join Edward's religion if she ever got out of here. She grunted. There was nothing here she could work with. The warmth of the plants Saria grew wasn't enough to destroy these strong walls. A light appeared outside her cell. Saria moved into a defensive posture. If it was Rudolf again she would at least give him a blow. The light came closer. Saria's heart leaped. Was it Marcia who had come to help her? Or was Adrian here? The fairy who entered was neither Marcia nor the fairy-familiar. It was a fairy Saria had never seen before. Her expersion grew darker. Was this another tricks? "Mistress Saria, is that you?" The fairy asked. "What about?" Saria defensibly shot back. "If you are Saria." The fairy explained. "I m here to find you." Then she added. "It was Master Edward who sent me." Saria sat down. "Glory be Christ" It was the first time she said such. It felt good. Then she got grim The white witch had used black magic to hide her. She told the stranger fairy about it. "Is there any way he might break the spell?" She asked. Saria frowned. "I once heard only the fires of Hell might melt the frost of the underworld." Now it was the fairy that shone thoughtful. She shone a bright purple. "I think I saw something in one hall." She slowly said. Then she blazed a clear gold. "We'll help you." The fairy said. "Wait!" Saria shouted. The fairy turned. "Who are you?" She asked. The fairy smiled. "I'm Rose." She said. Saria returned the smile. "Rose." Saria dryed a tear away from her cheek. "Thank you." "Don't loose hope." Rose softly said. "I know what despair is. It's nothing but darkness." Saria nodded. "I think I know what you mean." Rose flew around her, making Saria feel better. Then Rose was off. Saria looked long toward where she'd been. Edward was on the way to save hr. It warmed Saria's heart to do so. But she was unsure if she wished to pose as the lady in distress. Saria reached out for her life-tree pendant. The white witch hadn't harmed it. Saria smiled when reaching it. The smile vanished. Something was wrong. It was shining with a golden glow Saria hadn't felt before. It was like she should know it. Saria shuddered with fear. What was she going to do? Things were going to far for her to follow. "Edward's God." Saria whispered. "Please help me."

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Edward scratched his head. Then he put his hat back on. The mine was all twisted. This room was like that stadium room. But this was no plain chamber. Huge stalagmites of rock and ice hung from the ceiling. Pillars and stairways of icy stone towered above him. Edward touched his crucifix. The enemy had to either be an artistic master or complete lunatic. Then he saw them. Atop one pillar a giant torch looking like a boiling-pot. The only problem about it was that it was lit with a mysterious blue fire. Edward slightly shudder. It was like Hell's fire. Still, he felt an eerie attraction toward it. Edward shook his head. He cracked the chain-whip. More of those bats were flying in. Edward flailed at them. One of them shattered into flames and burned into ashes. He screamed as yet another froze him upon contact. Edward threw his boomerang-cross and another bat went down. He ran forward and threw holy water around. More bats exploded but there was more of them coming. The feries fluttered around his head, cheering him on. Not knowing what else to do Edward began climbing one of the nearest staircases. "Edward!" Pixie's warning came just in time. At the other end of the catwalk a frozen half appeared. He dropped himself to the ground just as a powerful wave of snow shot just past him. Edward got back up and threw the boomerang-cross and made flames burn around it. Edward made the sign of the cross. The enemies often forgot he was of Belmont linage He could use powerful bloodline magic, not only the DSS-cards. No matter anyway Edward thought. They where all gifts of the Lord. Edward then crossed the catwalk. Upon the next pillar was a chest embedded in ice. Edward put back the chain-whip. He swung his sword at it. When he struck it sounded more like steel than ice. "It's magical." Pixie told him. "It's produced through black magic." Rose filled in. Edward shrugged. "Tell me about it." He mumbled. "Try to capture some of the blue fire and see if that might melt it." The shining little figures suggested. Edward had no time to answer. Three new bats came flying in. Edward combined the Mars and Salamander cards, sending a powerful wave of flame toward them. He spun around and sent a second wave at the frozen half which had appeared where he'd first climbed the stair. Edward threw some holy water at the other bats and then continued toward the torch. For a moment he just stood watching the mysterious blue flame. He tried seeing beyond the obvious, a Belmont ability. Still he could see nothing wrong. Slowly, awefully, Edward filled the bottles he'd found in that other cave. "Bats are coming in!" Rose warned. Edward cracked the chain-whip at them, then threw some holy water. Some of them went past his defences. Edward shivered with cold as they hit home. "Aple of life!" Pizie used her magic to give him one of her aples. Edward ate and felt strength and energy return to him. He combined the Diana and Salamander cards before he flailed the chain-whip at them. Fireballs flew about, taking out the nearest bats. Edward sent some fireballs at the embedded chest. Nothing happened. Edward then brought out one bottle. He droped the blue flame upon the ice who immediately melted. Edward did the sign of the cross. Then he opened the chest. Inside Edward found a scroll of old permanent. "It's a map of the mine." Rose cheerfully explained. Edward asked her to point out where Saria was held. Before the fay could answer they heard cracking noises from the ceiling. "Hurry!" They urged him. "The ceiling is shot." As if he couldn't have discovered it himself. Edward forced away the smile on his lips and instead began running.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
The white witch glared upon the three Bael seated around the table. "You fools." She told them. "Your lack of action have just given the Belmont the weapon he needs to reach our location." "Sorry my lady." One of the three said. "We only did as you said we should." The third said. Liza Bernhardt roused her wand at them. Then she reconsidered. "He has no choice but to return to the pond chamber." She speculated. "You are to go there. He must be stopped." The Bael did not move. "We cannot do what you demand of us." The second Bael finally said. "We must retain the mother gemstone or the mine will melt." The third Bael reminded. The white witch gave the circular blue jewel situated at the centre of the table a loock. The white stone of the table reflected the soft blue glow of the gemstone in which she had focused nearly all her magical power. The white witch went back and forth for a moment. Then she dismissed it all together. She smiled, exposing her fangs. She still had a few tricks up her sleeve. The white witch saluted her servants, and then she left the control room. She had other things to attend to.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Edward stepped out into the chamber with the pond. This time he was sure to not step on it dough. Due to the collapsed ceiling Edward had only one blue flame left. He carefully inspected the map as he walked closer toward the two blocked entrances. "This corridor leads to the cells." Rose said while fluttering closer to the leftmost tunnel. "I think you should go this way instead." Pixie suggested. "According to the map it leads to the enemy's stronghold." Edward scratched his head. He was unsure which way to take. If he'd only had one of those old coins. Edward shrugged. He had to chose for himself. Taking a deep breath he went to where Rose was flouting. Edward was unsure if a true Belmont would do it this way. He could choose no other way. Making the sign of the cross Edward pulled out the bottle. He opened it and dropped the blue fire down. The ice immediately melted. Edward quickly moved forward. "Watch out!" Rose warned. "Icicles are coming." Edward threw himself to the side. Icicles like huge blades of solid frost fell where he'd been mere seconds ago. Edward got to his feet with his sword in hand just as more bats came flying in. Edward threw his cross at them. He used his bloodline gifts to make it rain with holy water and then flailed the chain-whip about. The bats cept their distance. Edward recoiled his whip and instead drew his sword. He turned and forcefully began cutting through the standing icicles blocking the corridor. To Edward's surprise it was easy clearing the way. Then again, they where not blue. To one side was another chest embedded in blue ice. To the right was another torch with blue fire. Edward frowned. It was to easy. Before him the corridor continued onward. "Just do it Edward." Rose encouraged. Pixie threw her a envious look. "With this flame we can go back to the enemy." She then said. Edward frowned. Again he was unsure what to do. Edward went it through carefully. Then he stepped forward, filling his bottle with more blue fire. Then Edward melted the magical ice around the chest. "Stay back you two." He told the feries. "It might be a mimic." Prepared for a back-flip Edward opened the chest. Again it was only one object inside the old box. Edward frowned. He didn't get it. It looked like a compass made out of blue snow flakes. "Now we have them." To Edward's surprise Rose began dancing around in mid-air. "Pull out the map." She told him. Edward did so. Then he gasped. Blinking dots of light had appeared upon it. "It's the compass of the dungeon." Pixie explained. Now she'd grown just as merry as the other ferie. "The blinking dots tell you where important secrets are hidden." Edward slowly nodded. He saw one such dot was blinking just beyond the area in which he stood. "I'm sorry I disagreed with you Rose." Pizie said. Rose made a dismissing gesture with one delicate hand. "Think nothing of it." She said. Then Rose began shining a clear red. "I wasn't really sure I was right either." She confessed it. Edward paid them little attention as he was busy whipping at bats coming his way. He then ran to avoid more falling icicles. The corridor went strightly downward. Suddenly Edward stopped. Before him a group of lizard-men was ready to meet him. The cold mist inside this portion of the mine had made it difficult to see. Edward had barely time to bring forth his chain-whip as they where upon him. Edward combined the Mercury and Salamander cards. Flames burned around the chains of the whip as the lizards went on the offensive. Soon Edward was pressed against the wall with lizards all about him. With the whip in one hand and his ancestors Bowie in the other Edward fought with all the strength he could muster. If he'd been alone he would soon have been defeated. The feries fluttered about, creating confusion among his enemies. Edward combined the Diana and Salamander cards to give the whip greater power. When all the lizards where dead Edward also fell to the ground. For some time he just lay there, grateful for each breath. The two feries fluttered around him, affording him comfort. Rose made a shining powder fall around as Pixie gave him another apple. Edward got back up, feeling refreshed by their accomplishments. "Thank you." He smiled up at them. The two feries shone a grateful blue. Edward gathered himself and began walking. He cracked the chain-whip but nothing happened. Edward continued walking. A few bats and more icicles fell down. Edward held his shoulder, one icicle had cut a large gash. Rose, who'd become quite a healer, closed it. Edward used his second blue flame to melt a second wall of magical ice. "Pizie, Rose." He asked his companions. "Could you go bring me some more of these flames?" The feries exchanged glances, then they flew away. Edward continued walking. Behind the second wall he found some empty caves. Edward shook his head. It felt so long ago Rose had told him that that Saria was held here. Mist shrouded the caves, old chains hung everywhere. Edward slightly shuddered. The floor was stained with old blood. It was like this was the cages of a vampire. Edward had heard countless legends about his ancestor's vampire hunting. He didn't like this, didn't like it at all. Perhaps they'd taken Saria already? Edward shivered by the mere thought. "Edward." Edward almost jumped. It was Rose and Pixie who returned. "Thank you." Edward gathered himself and put the bottles into his backpack. Together they continued forward. Colder it became as he went. Then he finally got it. "Come on." Edward challenged, cracking his whip. Then he quickly side-stepped. Two frozen halves appeared on either side, releasing their magic power at where he'd been. Edward smiled. They'd tried that trick before. He threw holy water. One of them burst into flames. The other however dodged. It made snow fall all throughout the cavern. Edward shivered with frost. Although the feries did their best to warm him it still wasn't enough. He struggled through the snowy piles, chasing the evil ghost. The frozen half laughed at him and threw more frost at him. Edward fell to his knees, shaking with cold. He knew he was dying. With his last strength Edward combined the Apollo and Salamander cards. The power exploded and sent Edward right back into the snow. He thanked God for this who saved his life. He had no time to pounder the gift. Edward struggled back up. He picked the whip back up from the snow. The frozen half where nowhere to be seen. Even so the snow still lay everywhere. Edward did the sign of the cross. The bats, seemingly attracted by the battle, came flying in. Edward threw holy water at them. He combined the Diana and Salamander cards, and then sent fireballs to spread them. Although they kept their distance they continued chasing him. "Don't worry." Pixie said. "We'll warn you if they come to close." Rose added. Edward somewhat absently nodded. They'd entered into a circular room with cages all around. A stairway lead deeper into the underground just past this chamber. "So Edward Morris." Edward did a quick back-flip as a ghostly image appeared before him. "Finally we meet." It was a woman, which was to be sure. The ghostly apparitions was shrouded in white. Edward sent his throwing-cross toward her. He gasped as it passed right through. He stepped back from her as the spectical image drew closer. She laughed at him.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
The boy stood watching the body of the white witch. Liza Bernhardt was in a state of trance, her spirit being far away. The boy speculated if he should kill her. Not that it really mattered. It was the dryad who was important. The white witch knew it although she was brided to take no part in it. The shadow of Dracula had made certain of it. The boy wondered why dough. Why would the fallen Dark Lord give him everything? Lord Dracula had not given clear support to either of them. He went to the mirror. A useful little toy. The white witch was dangerous. She was powerful. No wonder she ruled Barnsdall. He would have to attend to the matter at hand dough.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
The ghost of the witch fluttered right before him. Edward did the sign of the cross. The appearition snarled, exposing her fangs. Then the smile reappeared. "You have no power here." She said. Edward grasped inside his coat for his crucifix. "I know who you are." The ghost continued. "I know what you search for." Edward held the holy image up before him. The ghost drifted slightly backward. "You have fought gallantry. Saria is waiting for you." The figure's smile became a wicked grin. "But I will not let it happen." Then she was gone. Edward blinked. "I don't like this." He knew he was repeating himself. Since he'd entered the mine he'd been challenged harder than ever before. Not even the Ravenberg power-plant could've been worse than this. "What was that?" Rose pointed at the bulky figure of iron. Edward inspected it closer. It was a doll of iron, laying limp near the other end of the cave. "I think I agree with you." Pixie said. "I don't like it either." Edward was about to answer, when the iron doll roused to its feet. "Pixie." He told Adrian's fairy-familiar. "Go and tell the other we've run into some trouble." Edward cracked the chain-whip. "Ask Alicia if she might wait before going at the second ruler." Pixie nodded before disappearing. "Stay sharp." He told Rose. "This isn't going to be easy." The iron doll lingering toward thjem. Somewhere it'd picked up a huge iron knife. Edward flailed his whip at it. Nothing happened. He combined the Mercury and Salamander cards, still it wasn't enough. The iron doll was so slow that Edward could easily outrun it. But the enemy had closed all gates. Edward had to find a way to destroy it. He tried the combination of the Apollo and the Salamander cards too. The only reaction dough was that the iron doll was thrown sky high. But then it only got back up and continued chasing him. "I got an idea!" Rose shouted. Edward threw some holy water at the doll. Even dough the holy liquid left some scars in the metal plating it didn't deal any real damage. "Use ice on it!" Edward blinked. Then again, it could work. Edward had heard the myth of Nathan Graves and the iron golem. Suddenly the iron doll threw the iron knife at him. Edward just barely managed to dodge. Then he combined the Mercury and Serpent cards. The chain-whip lit up with sapphire light. Edward made the sign of the cross. The iron doll again threw his knife at him. Edward was cut, blood spread from his wound. Rose made magical powder fall upon it. Edward slashed the chain-whip at the iron doll. The ice made the plates shattered. Strangely another shell of iron appeared beneath the first. The iron doll threw the iron knife at him. Edward dodged. But this time it returned back to the doll. It cut Edward so more blood was spilled about. The damage wasn't anything but fatal. But it was irrating. Edward tried to stop the blood by closing the wound. This was painful. Rose healed him and then Edward combined the Diana and Serpent cards. He flailed the whip and multiple icicles was spread about. It was like the iron doll exploded. When Edward could see again the iron doll was nowhere to be seen. Then he screamed. The iron doll's outer armour was gone, but the doll itself was still alive. The little skeletal lizard bounched about and repeatedly stabbed and cut at him. Edward whipped at it. The doll collapsed into a heap of crimson bones. Crimson. Edward shuddered. He knew what to expect. The iron doll began to rebuild itself. Each time Edward whipped at it, the iron doll collapsed into a heap. But each time it merely rebuilt itself. Edward combined the Mercury and Thunderbird cards. He whipped at it and the iron doll screamed. Bones was knocked off and flew at him. Edward dodged but then was hit by another one. Edward screamed. It was like boiling acid. Edward knew he was cursed. He combined the Venus and Unicorn cards, thus lifting the curse. He combined the Diana and Thunderbird cards. Edward whipped at the remaining loose bones, making them crack. From the whip there flew multiple electrical currents. Upon impact that same eerie scream resounded throughout the room. The knife felled Edward to the floor. He screamed as more bones hit home. "Curse you bone-bag!" Even through the pain Edward shook his head. He'd never heard Rose use such words. She healed Edward although he still felt pain surge through him. Gathering himself Edward combined the Apollo and Thunderbird cards. An electrical bomb blew the remains of the iron doll into pieces. Edward smiled. Then he made the sign of the cross. Afterward he collapsed into a heap.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Saria sat meditating inside her cell. She kept her spirit close. Saria couldn't use the power of plane-walking. Although she could reach outside of herself for her life-tree. Her pendant was here. Saria tried to ignore it. Instead she tried reaching out for the tree itself. Great distance lay between them. It was inside Old forest, beyond Ravenberg. Several months had passed since she and other members of her tribe had begun the hunt. Evil spirits had entered the forest. The unicorn, the warder of the forest, had summoned them, all the ancient tribes of the forest. Saria opened her eyes. This wasn't time to dwell with what had been. "Saria." Rudolf stood there. "Go away." Saria softly said. "I don't wont anything to do with you." Rudolf smiled, a sweet childish smile. Then Saria noticed what he carried in his arms. For an adult human it wouldn't be that much. But for a boy in Rudolf's age it had to be heavy. It was her weapons. Saria recognised sword and shield, bow and quiver. He even had her tree-pendant around one wrist. His warm blue eyes met her. Saria somehow got the idea Rudolf was pleading. "I lay them on the table outside." Rudolf told her. "I'll make no demands of you." Before he vanished, Rudolf let the pendant fall before her. Saria walked toward it. Slowly she picked it up. Saria could see nothing wrong with it. The only change was the tree-shaped relic of her life-tree had become golden. Saria almost dropped it. The pendant. What was happening with her? The white witch had told her she was the chosen one. It was crazy. Still, something was happening with her. Saria was unsure what to make of it. She got to her feet. Saria heard running feets down the tunnel. "She have to be here." Saria smiled. She knew that voice. Soon the fence was risen and Edward stood there. His coat was torn and he looked like he could need a bath. But to her he looked wonderful. Suddenly she didn't mind being the lady in distress. Edward bent down and took Saria into his arms. "Ive been so worried about you." He whispered into her ear. "I never doubted you would come for me." Then she began kissing him. "Excuse me." A coice suddenly cut them off. Saria looked up, blushing heavily. Rose and the fairy-familiar fluttered above them, shining a embarrassed orange. "But isn't there still work to be done?" Edward got back up. "You're right." He grunted something below his breath. Saria nodded. She didn't like being interrupted either. But the feries where right.

The boy stood watching the Belmont and the dryad leave the cave. Should he have done anything different? She had to enter the ancient area of her own free will. A pity. But that was the way ancient magic worked. The Light created such magnificent weapons. The only problem was that His followers so often refused to use them. The castle in Barnsdall contained so much power. Power which could possibly challenge the creature of chaos. The boy smiled. He would have to leave them for now. He had other tasks to see to. Dimitri Blinov still presented problem dough. No matter. That would be taken care of. The boy summoned his power and then vanished.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
The white witch went back and forth through the command centre. Then she decided. "I want all Bael to the pond chamber." She commanded. "My lady." One of the Bael seated around the stone table protested. "We cannot leave." The second of the trio pointed at the circular blue gem at the centre of the white marble table. "Without the core stone the mine will face a considerable set-back." Liza Bernhardt dismissed the matter. There where other servants who would serve her. The white witch turned toward the Bael. "Protect the core stone. I will take care of the Belmont myself." They did not turn away from the blue orb. Still they nodded. Liza Bernhardt turned. The other Bael of the control room had gathered. The white witch nodded. She was pleased. She could not touch the dryad. But the Belmont would have to die.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Edward used the magic blue fire to melt the ice blocking the last corridor. Saria fired an arrow through the melted ice and made one of those eerie bats drop to the floor. Edward stepped forward and carefully scouted the ceiling. The dryad gave him a mystified look. Edward pointed at the heavy icicles hanging from the ceiling. "Don't mind the bats." He said. "Just run." Edward threw a glance backward. When they'd first returned here he'd been mindful to not get close to the pond. Still Edward didn't like hanging around. Saria nodded. She shot a few more bats. Edward waited until she'd hunged up. Then he grasped her hand. "Run." Edward said. Then he shot forward. Saria was beside him as they passed beneath the falling icicles. They entered inside a new chamber. Ponds shrouded in mist occupied each corner. Hanging icicles hang from the ceiling. Edward blinked by the view of the floor. It looked like countless small ice-cubes moulded together. Saria shook her head. "A little to grandiose isn't it?" She dryly commented. Edward couldn't help but laugh. Then he became serious. Edward cracked the chain-whip as the ice-dancers drew close. From this room lead two more tunnels,
Each blocked by the mysterious ice. The two feries fluttered above them, sheding light upon the darkened cave. Saria drew backward as the ice-dancers spread out, bringing out her bow and arrows. Edward barely avoided a wave of icy projectiles. An arrow flowered from the chest of one ice-dancer who fell to the floor. Edward combined the Mercury and Salamander cards. He whipped and the next wave of ice was shattered. The female lizards drew slightly backward. Arrows flew from Saria's bow and dug into two more ice-dancers. The four remaining ice-dancers exchanged glances then went on the offence. Edward was thrown to the floor by a two-handed attack. Frost made him shudder. For a moment Edward almost believed he would die. With his final strength Edward combined the Venus and Salamander cards. Warmth returned to him. Still, he didn't rise. The ice-dancers had gathered around Saria. One more ice-dancer fell to the floor. Bats had gathered but where still keeping their distance. Edward summoned his bloodline power as he drew a knife from his boot. Edward got to his feet and threw the knife at the enemies. It split into three and buried themselves into the ice-dancers. Saria fiered arrows and some bats fell to the floor. "Thank to your God you're all right." Saria cheerfully cried while embracing him. Edward smiled, returning her gesture. "Bats!" Pixie only had time for one word as a swarm of bats shot their way. Edward cursed, releasing Saria. He combined the Diana and Salamander cards. Edward cracked the chain-whip and fireballs was sent flying. Several bats burned into ashes. Saria brought out her bow and arrows, firing at the small flying enemies. The bats which remained scathered, leaving them alone. Edward used the time to whip down some candles, picking up the crystals falling out. "This is the audience room." Saria said, inspecting the map. "The western corridor leads into the command centre and then to some sort of hangar." Edward nodded. He stepped toward the tunnel she'd pointed out. "Wait." Saria advised. "The northern cavern leads into the throne room and the master's private chambers." Edward considered it. Then he stepped toward the northern tunnel. "We'll melt this way first." He said. "Then I'll go back and pick up more of that blue fire." "Then what?" Saria asked. "Where shall we go to find our enemy?" Edward didn't answer as the blue ice melted away. Then he spoke. Edward didn't like it, but it was their only choice. "We must split." He began. "We don't know where he is so we have to check each area." Saria went to stand beside him. Mist welled out of the tunnel's opening. When he could see again Edward did the sign of the cross. He wouldn't have to return to the pond room. Just beyond the opening was another torch lit with blue fire. "Edward." Pixie came to flutter before his face. "Marcia just told me the others are about to face the other enemy." Edward quickly filled the two bottles. "Here." He handed one bottle to Saria. She gave him a look. Then she turned away from him. "I'll go with her." The fairy-familiar offered. Saria glared at them, and then smiled. She blew him a kiss. Then she melted the other doorway. Edward cracked the chain-whip. Together with Rose he went forward. Cold eerie mist shrouded them.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Saria refilled the bottle before leaving the audience room. For a moment she actually considered chasing Edward. But she couldn't, or could she)? Saria shook her head. This wasn't the time for this. Pixie patiencly fluttered above her head, waiting for her decision. That cursed mist shrouded the corridor and made it dificult to see. The lizards where almost on top of her before Saria noticed. Saria immediately dropped her bow and arrows. Sword and shield in hands she awaited their approach. The two first where dead before reaching the floor. Their light leather armour was no match for her blade. She was to small and agile for them to hit her. Saria could pass beneath their guard before they could gather after an attack. Pixie fluttered about, blinding the lizard-men with her bright light. "Triple gemstones!" Saria was glad she'd spent so much time studying forign languages as tcognise the spell. Three blue gemstones flew through the air. Saria just barely managed to dodge. The duo appeared from the mist. "Frozen gesture!" "Triple gemstones!" The Bael cast their spells. "Star bow!" Saria recovered her bow just in time to take down one Bael. The second tackled her to the floor with a blast of freezing ice and snow. Saria shivered with cold. Inside her heart something helped her resist the spell which would otherwise tear her apart. "Magic arrow!" Somehow she'd been able to hold onto her bow. Saria's arrow dug into the Bael right between the creature's breasts. The surprised look vanished from the lioness's face and was replaced by the glazed look of death. Saria had no time to celebrate. "Triple gemstones!" "Winter gesture!" Three new Bael approached, releasing their magic against her. Saria was sent flying. She lost her bow and arrows again. Saria cursed and drew her blade just as two of the ancient monsters came at her. They where good, no doubt about that. Blood ran down the side of Saria who desperately defended against the two Bael. They where quick enough to regain after each failed blow. Saria took another blow on the shield. It cracked. Saria felt her blood turn cold. She knew she was going to die. What did Rudolf's ranting mean to her now? Still Saria refused to give in. She drew a short knife from her boot and continued the battle. The Bael carried a light-armoured tunic and spiked shell-protection on their upper body. Saria knew she never could get high enough to hit the head. She gathered herself, then Saria threw herself forward. She went right between the Bael and came around just in time to cut one down. "Blizzard gaze!" Two parallel beams of blue light shot from the Bael who'd stayed out of reach. Light at her. Saria side-stepped. Only to throw herself right against the wall. "Winter gesture!" This time Saria couldn't dodge fast enough. Already shaken by her encounter with the wall she was caught square on. Saria found herself frozen stuck against that same wall. "Any last words?" One of the Bael taunted. "The white lady wanted her alive." The second Bael reminded. "I don't care." The first said. "She killed two of my kin-mates." "No matter." The second insisted. "You don't give me orders." The first one said, bringing out her sword. Then Pixie came at them. She darted right into the face of the first Bael. Saria screamed in unison with the Bael as the fairy-familiar popped the eye out on the ancient beast. The second Bael swung at Pixie. Instead of hitting the fairy she cut into the face of the poor creature. She pierced the brain. The Bael was dead before reaching the floor. "I cannot touch you." The Bael snarled. "But you." She glared at the fairy-familiar. Saria struggled to break free. The Bael laughed. "Stay cool." She said while turning toward Pixie. "It'll soon be over. Sword of ice!" Her blade began shining an eerie blue. Saria became almost frantic. This monster wasn't going to kill Pixie. She wouldn't allow it. There was nothing she could do. Saria uselessly struggled against the ice holding her. Bael was tormenting Pixie by merely hitting her with the sword. The blade didn't harm the magic creature. But contact with her twisted spell made Pixie scream by each hit. A rainbow spot in Saria's heart began to glow. It was like a seed who'd been long in the earth finally began to blossom. Saria felt like the few times the tribe's holy tree had merged with her. Only this was stronger. It was like Saria was a plant drawing water from the entire forest. Saria opened her mouth. She sang. Saria had never been among the warders of the forest. Those dryads which could heal and protect the forest through their strong magical lyrics. It just felt so easy, so natural. Saria remembered how Torah controlled bough human and dryad magic. The ice holding her shattered. The Bael turned. Saria threw her knife at her. The Bael collapsed into a heap. Saria reached for Pixie. Again she song. This was different however. Saria could feel how strength and health returned to the fairy-familiar. "You really are the chosen one." Pixie whispered. Saria shrugged. The mysterious power had already left her. The sound of running feet alarmed them. Saria picked up her weapons. She prepared her bow just as another pack of lizards appeared out of the mist. First then Saria noticed she'd been healed too. "Triple gemstones!" "Winter gaze!" Two more Bael cast their spells at her. Saria managed to dodge. The first lizard-man fell with her arrow in the troath. Then she dropped the bow and instead brought out her sword and knife.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Edward dropped himself to the floor. These whip-guards where good. He threw his boomerang-cross at it and the lightly-armoured bone-man shattered. Edward retrived the cross just in time to dodge the other whip-guard. The third bone-bag hit him square in the chest. Groaning Edward picked himself up from the floor. He threw holy water around and the last whip-guards burned into oblivion. Edward wished the DSS-cards could be used more directly to heal. Beyond his mail and other protection those bags of bones had scored several hits on him. Rose couldn't help that much either. Sure she could close the wounds. But the pain they'd inflicted remained. Edward shook his head. No time for ishful thinking. Edward continued down the corridor. The mist seemed to be finally clearing. Without warning the mist seemed to gather and concentrate into two lioness creature. Edward recoiled his whip and drew his sword and Bowie-knife. Al had warned him about these creatures. The Bael where excellent fencers. Edward combined the Venus and Griffon cards to enchant his mobility. They looked surprised. They tested his reach then. Edward drew backward. This was no duel of honour. He knew what he had to do. Sorry about it Edward combined the Mars and Salamander cards. His blade caught fire and their blades shattered. They tried to withdrew. Edward cut the first down although he didn't feel happy about this. The other said something Edward didn't understand. Although it clearly wasn't flattering. Suddenly a flurry of perfect blue jewels shot through the air. Edward shattered one with his burning sword. The others missed. A wave of snow shot forward. Edward summoned his bloodline power and made a wall of holy water rise around him. Then he threw his cross at her. Bael easily dodged but was cut down on its return. Edward retrieved his weapons. Then he knelt. "Lord." He prayed. "Forgive me of my sins." There was no time to spare. Edward didn't care. He had to do this. The way he'd tricked the Bael was a disgrace. The fact they would've killed him didn't matter. The mist was gone now. Edward went down the few steps to the door at the other end. The whip-guards seemed to rise right out of the floor. Edward was sent to the floor as the first whipped at him. Now he noticed they'd hid among the pillars lining the corridor. Not that it mattered. Edward rolled to the side as they whipped at him. Edward threw holy water about, keeping them at bey. He got to his feet. His sword was lost somewhere on the floor. Edward put back his Bowie. He threw more holy water and then whipped at them. One of the whip-guards collapsed into a heap. Edward retrived his hat before they could step on it. Then he whipped at them, blocking their blows. Still one of them hit him. Edward gowned with pain. There was nothing more painful than being whipped. Was this the way Christ had felt it? It gave him strength thinking about it. Christ had died so he might live. Edward didn't intend to throw away that gift. Edward threw his boomerang-cross, then summoned his bloodline magic. The cross split into multiple crosses, slashing the whip-guards to pieces. Edward retrived the throwing-cross. Then he picked up the other weaponry. In the candles he found some crystals. Edward also found some food. He thanked God as he ate the hot chicken. The warm meat made Edward feel how cold it really was. He'd been in this cave to long. It would be a blessing getting out of here, to feel the true fresh cold of a natural winter night. Edward used the blue fire to clear away the ice upon the door before him. Rose sat upon his shoulder. She summoned her magic as she again tried to heal him. It felt better although it couldn't compare with the fairy-familiar. No matter. Pixie was better of with Saria. Making the sign of the cross Edward stepped inside.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. Of December 2098 A.D.
Saria dug her sword into one of the lizards. Inside one of the candles she'd found another shield. It was a miracle. Without it Saria doubted she would still be alive. Saria fell to one knee to dodge another lizard. She blocked the second blow on her shield and then dug her sword into its soft belly. "Watch out!" Pixie's warning came just in time as another pack of lizards came running down the corridor. Saria grunted. She'd managed to kill the two last Bael but now it looked like the lizards would kill her instead. But there wasn't as many of them this time. "Magic arrow! Blue bow!" The magical projectiles fell at least four of them. That left only three of them. Saria fired a second arrow, felling yet another lizard, before she ran forward. One of them struck her in the shoulder. Saria screamed. The arm became numb. She dropped the shield and then managed to cut down one of the lizard-men. The second lizard continued the battle. Pixie flew in, making an attempt on blinding it. The lizard waved the fairy aside, then Saria's sword pierced him. "Here." Pixie gave her an aple of life. Saria felt grateful when her arm became alive again. She picked up her weaponry as Pixie landed upon her shoulder. The mist shrouding the corridor suddenly cleared. Saria almost tripped. The way forward was blocked by another wall of magical blue ice. The enemies must've had some other way to get past these things without breaking them. Not that it really mattered. Saria opened the bottle and used the blue flame inside to melt the ice. She put away the bottle, then Saria stared. The tunnel opened into a large oval room. The air was completely silent. The small sounds from the half-ring concoles. The only light came from the multiple computer screens. The room was cold, colder than the winter's heart. It was colder than even the magical coldness surrounding the Bael. Upon the white marble table in the centre of the command-centre an eerie blue light shone, summoning Saria's soul. Seated around the table sat three more Bael, all dressed in the same black cloak. "Finally I got you." Through the other door at the far end of the room two figures approached. Saria couldn't help taking a few steps backward. She knew who they were. They where dark wanderers. But even dough they terrified Saria more then anything else she still had a weapon against them. "These where forged long ago." Saria's tribe elder had told. "In another world they where ment to give evil its last momentum." Saria hadn't even told Edward or Adrian about them. Saria drew a silver arrow and fired. She knew she could never truly defeat the wanderers. But she could banish them back to Dracula. The silver arrow shot through the air and dug into one of the wanderers. It snarled and collapsed into a heap of cloth and armour. Saria only had three of the silver arrows. A sound behind her made Saria turn just in time. Another Bael swung at her. This was no ordinary Bael. Instead of the yellow tunic, black shirt, boots and trousers it carried a full suit of armour. The mysterious blue light was reflected in blue paint and steel. Saria licked her lips nervously. If she wasn't wrong this had to be a tribe-commander. A ring-leader in the Bael society. She had no choice. Saria dropped her bow and again brought out her sword and shield. At the other end of the room the other dark wanderer silently stepped toward her.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. Of December 2098 A.D.
The white witch was pleased. The dryad had awaken some of her power. Liza Bernhardt was not intending to involve herself in that matter. She stroke the dark pearl. The white witch cast another look upon her spell. It would keep the Belmont from using those accursed DSS-cards. Without them he would be no match for her power. She knew how to handle him. He was here, now. The white witch roused. It was time.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. Of December 2098 A.D.
Saria crutched behind one of the computers. The two evil ones had chased her all across the control center. Saria thanked the great Ones she'd chosen to be a warrior in the first place. Saria had at least gotten a breather. The Bael sat at the other side of the room, cluthing at one of her arms. Saria grimaced. The blow had made blood splash all over. She wasn't proud about it but Saria actually hoped the Bael was going to bleed herself dry. Still there was something about this who bothered her. Why wasn't the other Bael adding their ring-leader? She snapped back to reality. The dark wanderer had used her momentary lapse to draw closer. Saria quickly aimed the second silver arrow at it. That ugly pale light around his dagger made Saria's mouth go dry with fear. Pixie fluttered around her head. The fairy-familiar had used her power to heal Saria twice since the battle begun. The eerie blue glow on the white stone table still called upon her. Saria didn't like it at all. If she could only do something about it. Saria never knew why she did it. Something greater than herself for a moment used her fragile body for a greater purpose. Saria let go of the string. The arrow shot through the air and dug into the mysterious light. Saria knew it had to be some sound. But it was too high for a dryad to notice. She got back up on her knees. Saria blinked. It was incredible. The white table had cracked. The light was gone. Broken machinery littered the floor. The Bael lay dead on the floor. Saria swallowed. Several of them had been turned to pieces. The room shock. A pile of machinery and rubble was cleared away. The Bael staggered to her feet, aided by the dark wanderer. It was bizarre how the undead wraight seemed to give aid to someone living. "Your fool." The Bael snarled. "You destroyed the core stone." Saria didn't care. The floor cracked. Lava erupted from the rocky surface. "You are doomed." The Bael spat. Then she fell to the floor. The wanderer picked her up. Saria didn't care. Rocks fell from the ceiling. The dark wanderer forced a bottle against the lips of the Bael. Saria didn't stay behind to watch. She spun around and ran.

Barnsdall forest, Warakiya. The 23d. Of December 2098 A.D.
Gilles De Reis sat off his horse. He tied it to one of the nearby trees so it might feed on the branches. Gilles threw back his fur-coated cape before he walked out on the clearing. "They should be here by now." Malpheffa threw back her own cloak. Gilles acknowledged her comment. Then, from the other side of the clearing another figure emerged. "Greetings master Grey." Gilles De Reis offered a gallantry bow. Aaron Grey returned the favour with a short nod. Gilles frowned. The man-beast was too pompous for his own good. Malpheffa gave him a seductive smile who did not reach her eyes. The sound of steps made them all turn. From another direction the final members of their little gathering approached. "It is over then?" Aaron asked. Shaft and Actrise bowed as lord Malus retained his human form. "Very well then." The young boyar smiled, exposing his fangs. Malpheffa dismissed the matter. "Why have you summoned us my lord?" Gilles moved back into a defensive posture. It was uncise to ask question of the Dark Lord candidate. The only reaction dough was that Malus's smile grew wider. "We are to resurrect the Dark Lord." Now lord Malus had become serious. "We are to resurrect the Dark Lord now." Gilles nodded. So that was it. Lord Dracula had told him what to do. This was going to be most interesting.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. Of December 2098 A.D.
Edward felt the
Evil magic gather around him. "Master." Rose whispered in his ear. "There is something wrong here." The fairy shone a concerned glow. "You cannot use your DSS-cards." Suddenly the door closed behind him. Edward cast a careful look throughout the chamber. The room was large. Because of the mist it was dificult to know how large. Figures or sculptures of frost roused from the floor. Through some twisted craft they looked like different marine species trapped forever in uttermost pain. Edward didn't like them. He didn't even wish to watch them. At the far end of the hall a pond reached out into the mist. There were no sounds except for the bats fluttering and circling among the stalagmites above him. Edward made the sign of the cross. Before the pond was a mysterious throne, seemingly carved of frost and pointed icicles. It was empty. The attack came without a sound. The large white wolf appeared out of nowhere. Edward barely dodged. He cracked his whip, summoning his bloodline magic. His whip caught fire as Edward flailed it about in an attempt to keep the warg at bay. It snarled and leaped out of reach. It disappeared. Then again reappeared from seemingly nowhere. Edward threw his dagger at it. To his surprise the white wolf managed to snatch it out of the air and then threw it aside. It dashed toward him. Edward whipped at it. The wolf howled as he hit home. Edward advanced forward. Again the warg disappeared. This time Edward was prepared. Or so he thought. The white wolf was smarter then that. It glided right beneath Edward's whip. Then it dashed forward. Edward was tackled to the floor. Then the warg suddenly howled. Pain and rage in its voice. Edward watched with horror how his crucifix burned the beast's white fur like hot iron. It bit at his troat. Edward forced the crucifix into its mouth. Before he could kill it however that devil had once again disappeared. From behind him Edward felt the cold presence. He spun around and doused the white wolf in holy water. It howled. Before Edward's eyes the warg melted into snow. An eerie wind blew the snow together. Edward prepared himself. The snow built itself up, higher and higher. Then a lady in white stood before him. "Impressive." She smiled, exposing her fangs. "You really are a true Belmont." Edward didn't answer. Rose fluttered around as he bowed, to pick up his hat. "I'm not afraid of you." Edward challenged. The white witch laughed. "You will be." She said. In her right hand she carried a long shining wand. Edward moved into a defensive posture. "Your move." Edward challenged his opponent. Again the white witch smiled. Edward prepared for what was to come. Then the white witch became snow. He tried to gather himself, to see beyond the obvious. The white witch reappeared. From her wand came a beam of blue light. Was fiered. Edward dodged behind one of the sculptured. It shattered, sending splinters of ice everywhere. Edward's coat was ripped by the shoulder. He felt blood run down his arm and soaked his cloth. Rose used her power to close the wound. She even used them to repair his coat. Edward ran forward. The white witch had already reappeared somewhere else, firing her magic. Edward held up his crucifix, blocking the spell. Edward remembered the words of the Bible. "I shall be with you to the end of the world." The image of Christ focused his faith and made it stronger. The white witch vanished and then reappeared. Edward threw holy water forward. He summoned his bloodline power and made it wave forward. Legend told it was one of John Morris's favourite offensive tactics. The white witch burned. But then it began snowing. Edward gaped. It was impossible. Snow! Indoors and beneath the earth! He shook his head. "The Darkness is the pathway to many a wonderful secrets." The white witch smiled by his bewilderment. "The Darkness is the only true power of the world." Edward could feel it. Her evil magic was all around him. Rose had warned him about it. No matter. If he only believed the Lord would be with him, Edward was sure of it. Before he could react however the white witch had already disappeared. She reappeared. Edward prepared to dodge. This time however it wasn't a single beam. Instead the white witch released a spread-shot of icicles. It was like when she'd shattered that sculpture. Only this was far worse. Multiple wounds where inflicted. Rose did her beast but the pain wasn't something he could shed that easily. Edward gathered himself and whipped the final icicles into oblivion. The white witch disappeared like snow. She reappeared and released repeated blue orbs outward. Edward ran to dodge the repeated onslaught as other of the sculptures was crushed. Edward glided beneath her offensive and whipped at her. Since she was involved in casting the spell she couldn't teleport. She snarled at him as the enchanted metal hit home. She sent one last orb right at him before she vanished into snow. Edward was sent flying. Cold ripped through his body. Edward shivered. Rose fluttered above him, spreading a soft red light about. She loved him. It was a truly wonderful discovery. Edward blinked as the cold subsided. Edward was unsure of the exact words. But he believed that the compassion between a magician and his familiar was needed before the familiar could gain its true power. Never mind. Edward got back up on his feet. The white witch reappeared like a wave of snow, firing a beam of blue light. Edward dodged and then threw his boomerang-cross. He smiled as the white witch disappeared like snow. Edward's enemy reappeared, releasing series of circling orbs. Edward retained the throwing-cross and then summoned his bloodline power. Holy water rained throughout the room. It'd been one of Richter Belmont's foremost attacks. The white witch used her magical snow to protect herself. It didn't matter. Edward threw his dagger and made it split into a wave of knives. They dug into the witch but didn't pierce his heart. Edward frowned. He had to get rid of that rod somehow. His thoughts where cut short as the white witch released a second onslaught of icicles. Edward roared as multiple deathly shards cut into him. Rose healed every hit. Edward repeatedly whipped but missed every time. The white witch disappeared like snow. She released a second wave of icicles. Edward snarled. He drew his Bowie-knife and dashed forward. The witch tried disappear again. Edward then slashed. The white witch screamed as her wand became shattered. The white witch then stared at him. Edward shuddered. He could read a cold promise of his own death in her cold eyes.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 21st. of December 2098 A.D.
Saria tripped forward. She picked herself up. Pixie fluttered around her. When the core stone was destroyed the mysterious light had also faded. Saria tripped into the pond room. She'd tried to find Edward but things had been to chaotic. A solid boulder had knocked out the Bael but the wanderer was still chasing her. Saria regained her composure and continued running. Or so she tried. The pond erupted and lava splashed outward. Then a cold hand touched her shoulder. "Finally I found you." A poisonous voice hissed in her ear. Saria screamed.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 20th. of December 2098 A.D.
Edward wondered which way he was going to die. The white witch's jewelleries where all made of white gold and decorated with a fortune of white diamonds. It was all rubbish. Edward made the sign of the cross. "I am Liza Bernhardt." She roused her hands toward her neck. She opened the pin and the white cloak fell to the ground. Beneath she bore a black west of gold decorated leather and baggy black trousers tied together with a cloth belt. Edward couldn't help but feel attracted. Liza's hair fell down a straight back and her clothing couldn't camouflage her shapeliness. "It will be a real pleasure killing you." She reached her long slender arms into the air. A flash of light almost blinded him. When Edward could see again the white witch held a whip of black snake leather in her hands. Edward gathered himself. This wasn't going to get easy. Edward saw himself as a nice fencer. But he'd never fought whip to whip. He recoiled the chain-whip and instead brought out the sword St. Nicolus had given him. Just then the mine shock like a giant among giants had struck it with a giant hammer. Edward was thrown forward. The floor cracked and rocks fell from the ceiling. The pond erupted and lava splashed about. Then a tiger dived toward him. A tiger! It was all madness. It circled him, looking for an opening. Edward didn't give it a chance. He summoned his bloodline power and holy water roused around him like a wall of fire. The tiger was burned into oblivion. Then the white witch came at him. Edward got up just in time to get whipped back down. He held up his crucifix and the vampire retreated. Her black skin got an unhealthy green greyish look to it. She snarled at him, her fangs exposed. Edward shivered. In her flaming eyes he saw Hell's devils. Edward struggled back up. He threw his boomerang-cross at her. She dodged and then dived toward him. Just then another tiger jumped upon his back. Edward knew he should've been dead. Nobody survived the onslaught of a tiger. But something mysterious happened. When the tiger grew close to the rosary on which his crucifix hung, it snarled and let go of him. Edward had no time to gather. The white witch landed on top of him. "Do not try to resist." Her voice had that irritating sound of an expert hand playing on glasses. The tone seemed to resound all through his soul. "I know what men desire." She cooed in his ear. Edward couldn't help but register her strong young body pressed against his own. "Saria!" It was like the cry of someone drowning. The name kicked in with several memories of the dryad he loved. It gave him strength. The white witch was already preparing to bite into his neck. "Never!" Edward stamped the crucifix upon her face. She screamed. She jumped off of him. Already another tiger was coming at him. Edward doused it with holy water. He retrived the throwing-cross and sent it flying. Edward summoned the bloodline power and the cross split into multiple crosses. Fire and water was two of Edward's foremost powers. He still had that water medallion he'd taken from the armoured lord. Pity it was to now use here. He caught the cross on the return. That devil of a witch had turned into snow and thus avoided his attack. She sent two more tigers at him. Edward had figured it out by Now. They where no real tigers. They had to be some sort of familiars. Again the room shock. Not so violent this time. But it was still strong enough to throw bough of them off balance. Edward sent holy water at the tigers. Then he ran to knock down the candles. The white witch snarled. But it was already to late. Inside the candles Edward found the crystals he needed to continue the battle. Not only had he found the crystals dough. He'd also found some food to replenish his energy. Liza became snow. Although most of the ice had melted by now it was still difficult chasing her. Edward was busy with other things dough. The earth quake had disturbed the bats who came flying toward him. Edward brought out his Bowie. For some time he was to preoccupied defending against those bats to worry about the white witch. That was a mistake, of course it was. She reappeared directly before him and delivered repeated whip-slashes, sending Edward flying. She dived and landed on top of him. Edward had dropped his weapons. However, he brought up his crucifix. But she expected the move. Edward growned as the bitch of Satan bit into his arm. Edward felt how his strength was drained from him. Then Rose flew in. She still wasn't that much of a healer. But she managed to raise some of his energy. At least he hadn't been infected with some of Liza's blood. The mere thought made Edward turn cold with fear. Never was he going to become one of them. Two more tiger-like familiars began to circle him. Edward mercilessly burned them with a ring of holy water. Then the white witch came flying like a freezing blizzard. Edward shuddered and was forced to withdraw. "Am I not beautiful=" The white witch whispered in his ear. Still shaking with freeze and cold Edward shook his head. She whipped at him, slashing him in the face. Edward felt disgust as she landed ontop of him and licked the blood off of his wound. He smelled a diabolical sweet scent from her. It clouded his mind like sulphur. Her tongue reached Edward's lips. "You know I know how to please you." The earth shook and more lava splashed outward. Liza's black skin became reflected in the red light like dark marble. The white witch had thrown off her west, exposing her breasts. Edward was almost in a dace as he reached out, touching her bosom. A devilish look lit in his enemy's eyes. Then her eyes burned with green flame. They bough looked down. Edward had no idea when he'd drawn his ancestor's Bowie. He'd dug it right between thr breasts. She screamed, almost making Edward go deaf. He lost no time with getting back up, retriving his weapons and of course, his hat. Then he ran like Hell, Rose in close presuit. Behind them Liza burned into ashes. He opened the door before continuing. Again the earth shook.

Pain. Everything was a universe of pain. The white witch felt like being teared apart. Anger burned like wild fire. She hated Edward Morris like a clan enemy. With her last breath she cursed at him. She closed her burning hand around the black pearl the Dark Lord had given her. She would show him. She would show them all! This was the true power of the world. The power of Darkness!

Edward entered into the audience room where he and Saria had split path. The floor shock and pieces of the ceiling fell down. "Edward of the Belmont clan!" The coice was so filled with hatred it almost made Edward tripp. It filled him with a indescribable dread. "How do you expect to defeat me mortal?" Edward looked back, almost expecting to see the white witch appear out of the gloom. Eyes glanced, but still burning with ugly green fire. "I have achieved eternal life!" Edward didn't care. He moved to Rose so she might hurry up. Edward would never confess it, but he had a bad feeling about this.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 21st. of December 2098 A.D.
Saria watched helplessly as she was about to become a slave. A third dark wanderer had waited out in the pond room. It had acted upon the moment the other dark wanderer reached up to her. Saria didn't know if it was the one she'd fired on with a silver arrow or if it was another one. Not that it mattered. The soul-trap in its hand would seal her fate. She could actually feel their pleasure in turning her, soul and body, into a plaything of the evil powers. There was something inside her which still refused to give herself up. The first wanderer held her, Saria shuddered by the cold touch and the scent of decay. It was like the smell of a newly opened grave. The wanderer witch the soul trap drew a knife from a hidden scabbard. It shone with a fuel yellow light, like the flickering of a pyre. Saria searched inside herself. Her magical powers wouldn't help her this time. Saria was held to tight to use her weaponry. If she could only summon that rainbow power she'd felt earlier. The dark wanderer stabbed at her. Saria threw back her head and sung. The rainbow seed in her heart blossomed. The soul trap shattered into pieces. The dark wanderer shrieked as its gloved and hooded cloak caught fire. It threw away the outer cloak. Saria would've celebrated it, but her joy turned into horror. Beneath the black hood the dark wanderer carried yellow robes which made Saria think of the flame on a burning candle. It wasn't that which made her soul shrink however. Above the neck there was nothing. The wanderer had no head, no head at all! Still Saria felt evil dead eyes glare at her. Just beyond its sleeves the ugly dagger flouted in the air, like it was held by an invisible hand. The second dark wanderer drew a blade surrounded by a pale light. It was like a bleak star was drawn out of a scabbard. Saria song again and the wanderer let go of her. Bough the undead wraights turned on her. Saria licked her lips. Adrian's fairy-familiar shot toward them. The knife fell to the floor and beams of yellow fire shot outward. "Pixie!" Saria shouted. She dropped to the floor. The unnatural dread spread by the evil spirits shrouded her. Saria shivered with fear. The same fear which nearly crushed her before. She still felt the rainbow glow in her heart. She continued to sing. The two dark wanderers drew backward. They cursed her. Pixie came drifting to flutter by her side. Saria didn't know what to do. She couldn't keep them at bey forever. The power of the forest was mend to ward and protect the sources of life. Saria had used them to kill the Bael. But these creatures where beyond the laws of nature. Pixie couldn't help them either. She too was a warding spirit of the forest. Her kind's powers where only useful against other living creatures. It was all rubbish. If Saria could only keep some distance she could fire at them with her bow. She slowly began drawing backward. The two dark wanderers chased after her. Saria quickened her phases. The wanderers drifted closer. "Saria!" The familiar's warning came just as she was about to fall into the underground lake. Snow was falling through the crack in the ceiling. Saria brought out her sword and shield. The two dark wanderers just some meters away. They moved toward her, silent like death. Suddenly it began to rain, not through the crack. It splashed over the wanderers and burned into them. They shreecked like mad cats. Edward entered out of the cavern behind them. If they hadn't been in danger Saria would've ran to embrace him. "Magic arrow! Star bow!" Saria fiered her bow. Two arrows, powered by elemental magic, dug into their enemies. One of the wanderers collapsed into a heap of black cloth, sent back to its Dark Lord. The one in the yellow robes however didn't vanish. Instead it turned and sent two blasts of yellow flames toward them. "It's the mourning wizard!" Edward shouted at her. "It's one of the leading dark wanderers!" Saria shivered. No strange she was so terrified by him. All dark wanderers disturbed the living. Their undead ecistance disturbed the order of nature. She shook her head. This wasn't the time for this kind of speculations. She dodged as the mourning wizard fiered anew. Flames was sent flying. Edward spread out a wave of daggers. Then ran again. From the empty yellow robes there came a distant laugher. Rocks became torn loose and thrown against them. Saria dropped beneath his guard. She fiered at him. The arrow flew right through the empty robes. Saria was picked up herself and thrown to the ground. She grunted as all air was forced out of her. Edward made holy water hammer at the elusive figure. The enemy shrieked. Flames sent her boyfriend running for cover. With her body acing with pain Saria struggled to her feet. Saria couldn't help but shiver. Rocks and flames was sent against Edward as the dark wanderer hammered mercilessly against his defences. Saria didn't care. She had to stop it. The rainbow power was still inside her. Saria drew out her second silver arrow. The first had vanished when the control room collapsed. She fiered. The mourning wizard exploded into fflames. A final shreek made Saria crawl together. She curled into a ball, dropping her weapons. She closed her airs. It was like claws scratched inside her ears. The dark wanderer didn't even leave his clothing behind. It was all reduced to ashes. "I hope he'll give Dracula a greeting from me." She grunted. Saria walked over, picked up her arrow. She cleaned away the ashes. She shook her head. The arrow wasn't even warm. It was incredible. Saria shook her head. She put the arrow back in her quiver. Saria got to her feet and walked toward Edward. Mysteriously he hadn't moved since the last attack on the dark wanderer. Saria opened her mouth to speak. Edward moved his hand to silence her. "Don't move." He formed the words with his lips. The two fairies fluttered behind him. Saria froze in place. It was fear in his eyes. Saria slowly turned. She instinctually opened her mouth to scream. Saria somehow managed to restrain herself. She should've known it wasn't over yet. It came from the bottom of the lake. It was a demon spawned from the depths of the underworld. Still Saria knew her. The white witch had come for her.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 21st. of December 2098 A.D.
How was this possible Edward had seen the white witch burn. Rose had been with him. But even the fair-familiar gazed at their enemy, shining a bright glow of disbelief. The winged apparition darted forward. Her scaled green legs extended into large bird-like talons. She slashed toward them. Saria managed to dodge as Edward sent out a splash of holy water. He watched with horror dough how the holy liquid froze into ice and shattered against the floor. "She've encapsulated herself with evil power!" Pixie shouted. "You have to use fire if you are to do any damage!" Rose filled in. Edward was already on the job. He combined the Salamander and Jupiter cards. Their enemy however was already ahead of him. She screamed as to make the dark wanderers proad and then released four globules of rebounding frost. Edward sent his fireballs away from the whiin his palms Edward forged a single flame. Then he threw it forward. It covered up long enough for him to dodge the other globules. Saria then fiered at the magic, making them explode before making an impact. Edward combined the Diana and Salamander cards. As Liza-demon released a single ice cap outward, Edward released a flurry of fireballs from his chain-whip. Blood splashed from their enemy's chest. Edward noticed that although she carried most demonic features her upper body was still like the vampire which had nearly seducted him earlier. Liza-demon flapped fiercesly with her wings, making blood sprinkle throughout the battlefield. Then the wounds suddenly closed. She smiled with such wickedness that it made Edward turns cold with fear. Another frozen cap then shot outward. Edward whipped at it, combining the Mercury and Salamander cards. His whip caught fire and made the cap melt. Even so it sent chills through his body. Edward dodged as first a second and then a third ice cap came at him. Edward knew he would become ice if they hit home. And even dough he could wound her with his fire he couldn't really wound her. "Edward." He almost jumped. Saria had come so silently that Edward hadn't noticed. "I think I've got it." They ran to dodge as the white witch fiered at them. "My silver arrows might finish her off." Edward combined the Jupiter and Salamander cards to defend against another cap of ice. "Be the will of God." He made the sign of the cross. "I'll occupy her." Edward sent another flame outward. "Fire at will, when you get an opening." Saria nodded. Then she blew him a kiss before disappearing with Pixie close behind. Edward couldn't help but smile. Saria was just so cute sometimes. Always she would be beautiful in his eyes. "Watch out master!" Liza-demon released a second onslaught of freezing globules. Edward dodged and then blocked with a wave of holy water. Then the demon shot out a flurry of caps which made Edward shudder Edward combined the Mercury and Salamander cards, making his whip turn on fire. Then he prepared his weapons. Edward released a rain of holy water. Then he threw the boomerang-cross. He made it go on fire using his bloodline power and then made it split into three. This time he hit home. Edward almost staggered as Liza-demon flapped her wings and stabbed her claws into her chest to dig out the cross embedded in her chest. Then she sent a double javeline of frost. From one of the sheets flouting on the lake an arrow shot forward. Edward sent out a wave of holy water. It was to late. Liza-demon countered bough attacks and then released her own attacks. Two new javelins of frost shot outward, hammering against the wall. Snow continued falling rough the crack in the ceiling as boulders dropped down. Edward ran and dodged as he combined the Salamander and Diana cards. Fireballs shot outward and covered up the last outbursts "Lord help me." Edward mumbled, making the sign of the cross. Where in the world was Saria= Liza-demon sent out another array of frozen caps. Edward ran to dodge.

Boston, USA. The 10th. Of January 2099 A.D.
The board of directorate in the company of Brent Corporation was gathered. The light of the windows overlooking the cityscape of Boston lit down upon them. Herbert Brent, his brother Phillip and his step-sister Celina Hardenbrook. The sun was about to set. Still it gave more then enough light. At the other end of the oval conference-table sat the representatives of their possible contractors. The N.O.D.A. had shown an impressive show of force when offering their insights sow that Brent's directorate could see the results of their investments. Four of the royal knights, the elite force of their partners, stood motionless at attention beside the doors leading out. Herbert Brent was a business-man above all else but he admired military perfection when he saw it. The light of the sunset did not however lit up the other side of the table. Brent did not know if it was by magic or a mere optical trick. He and his family where all dressed in neutral brown and grey suits. It was a clear difference when compared with the soldiers Japanese armours painted in angry red and black. "My lord is willing to forfit a new contract for 3 billion Euro." The lead negotiator finally agreed. The female in black hood and robe finally stated. She gestured toward one of her fellow negotiators who brough forth a suit-case. The unknown individual gave all three members of the board of directorate a shudder as it plased the case before them. The hooded apparition returned to its seat as Philliph Brent opened the suit-case. Inside the case lay 13 purses, uncomfortably light due to their containment. Celina Hardenbrook opened one purse. Even Herbert gazed as the finest pearls, white and black alike, flouted out. Philliph closed the purse before continuing on to the next. Gemstones with all the colours of the rainbow fell into his hands. Then came more pearls and white diamonds. Herbert Brent sat back into his seat. He had been sent to transfear with them when their contractors had first approached them. His financial aids had valued the gemstones and pearls to be the correct value. Due to protocol Brentcorp had dealings with these people since the first Great War and even before that. Their ancestor Sigmund Billroit had used his incomes wise when investing his accounts in the weapon industry in Germany. He signed to Celina who went over to their contractors with the binding contract. He and his siblings had already signed the bill in case of receiving their demands. Now lady Carmilla and the two dark figures too signed on behalf of their Dark Lord. It was finished then. Bough sides would gain a copy of the contract. Now it was time to move onward. Brentcorp already had the congress within their power, most of it anyway. With enough money you could purchase even the USA without much difficulty. The nation was mostly built on finance. Wherever economics where involved corruption would soon blossom. The entire American rule of government was corrupt in its buildup. A pity the US was unable to see it. Lady Carmilla smiled. Herbert frowned. It should not concern him. Her religious stances was nothing to him. Still it was irritating she actually seemed to believe she was the vampire Carmilla. There were no such things as vampires. The woman gestured for one of her military advisors. Mister Richter Von Krohnsteen and Mister Dieter Hoffman tried to look like "vampires" too. The white-haired old man marched over to them with their contract. When the contract landed on the table Carmilla roused. Then she roused a hand and a fireball appeared. It split into four and shot forward. Herbert screamed in unison with his siblings. He threw himself away from his seat. This was impossible! No flame thrower was so small. He got to his feet just as Carmilla reached him. "I am no fool." She said as she drew him upward. Her strength surprised him. She was stronger than any girl her age could possibly be. It was madness. All madness. "I embrace darkness." Carmilla said. Her eyes burned. "You will learn to surrender." She then just let go of him and then stepped back. "By the will of lord Dracula." Herbert watched with rising horror as the small woman disappeared, shaping into a bat. Krohnsteen was gone too, replaced by a menacing wolf. Herbert gasped, or Philliph and Celina. Just then Hoffman became mist. "I embrace Darkness." Carmilla repeated as she became human again. Then the four royal knights and two figures in black formed a protective circle around the vampires, they had to be vampires. Herbert doubted it no more. "You will learn to surrender." Carmilla repeated the enigmatic words before she and her comrades left the office. Herbert shakily returned to his seat. Celina went to the house telephone, ordering in some alcohol. Herbert felt like he could really need a drink.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 21st. of December 2098 A.D.
Saria gathered her momentum before jumping across. She landed upon dry land. Liza-demon was to busy with Edward to really care. There was no point hanging around one area dough. Just then Pixie broke through the surface, carrying her lost silver arrow. "Thank you Pixie." The tiny little figure nested herself in her palms. Saria pressed the little creature to her heart like that could warm the shaking little fairy. Saria almost growled. She should've known the lake was kept open with some form of magic. For not the first time she wished Torah was here. Saria's half-human half-sister understood magical far better than she did. Releasing one hand to pick up the arrow Saria felt Pixie's shivering slowly subside. "The warmth of your care really makes you who you are." Pixie said almost mystified. "I foresee you will become a great warder of the forest." Saria shook her head. She was not so sure about this as the little fairy-familiar seemed to be. No time to worry about that now. Saria ran to dodge the rocks falling down as their enemy continued leaching out for Edward. Saria frowned. She couldn't be of any help before Edward got through her magical protection. Edward slashed his whip about, releasing multiple fireballs. Rose flew around his head, shining a determined orange. Liza-demon sent out another series of those globules. Edward slashed his whip and a series of rocks was sent out to block the attack. Then he generated a rain of holy water. Saria smiled. Edward Morris was a vampire hunter, no doubt about that. She knelt down and sent away one of her arrows. Blood dripped from Liza's demonic frames, like she'd been doused in boiling acid. It was incredible the power holy water had on these creatures. Her silver arrow dug into one wing. The demon which once had been the white witch screamed as silver flames burned through her body. Saria gasped. It was like the demon turned into dust. Then Edward threw his boomerang-cross, delivering the final blow. The throwing-cross flew through the air and through the demon's neck, remocing its head. Finally it was all over. Liza-demon burst into burning pieces which then became ashes. Saria ran toward Edward as Pixie flew to retrive her arrow. Edward coolly retrived his weapon. Then the underground lake froze. "It's over." Edward pulled off his hat, scratching his beard. "Pity with the lake dough." He joked. "I really could use a bath." She laughed as she put her arms around him. Edward picked up Saria, letting go of his hat. She couldn't help but giggle. That he let go of his hat just for a moment showed that he really cared about her. Then they gathered themselves. Saria put back the silver arrow in her quiver. She still had two of them left. Edward put on his hat and recoiled his whip. "Let's go." He said. "We're not out of it yet." Saria nodded. That was all to true.

Brugge, Belgia. The 21st. of December 2098 A.D.
Cathrine Bernhardt roused from the bed. Something was amiss, she could feet it. "What is it?" Angilique drowsily asked. Cathrine didn't answer. Angilique got up. Still now Cathrine couldn't help but behold her half-sister's beauty. She was tall and lean, with graceful bearing and a heavy mane of gold hanging down her back. Angilique was one year older than Cathrine, making her 17 years old. She didn't look the least the necromancer she was. Then on the other hand, Cathrine didn't look much like a witch either. Then again, she still had over a year left to go on the dark school of magic before she could call herself a true witch. Cathrine shook her head. Strange how your mind venture when things didn't feel as they should. Never the less she gathered her magic, litting the pot on the fire. She had plenty of potions ready to work with. "What is that mirror doing there?" Angilique suddenly asked. That was it, of course. Cathrine summoned her deadliest elecsir in case of an attack. Carefully they bough stepped forward. The mirror turned pitch black. Cathrine tried to step back. She tried to throw her potion. She could do neither. She was completely frozen in place. From the mirror a face appeared. "Hear my words and heed them well. The blood of my kin, the blood of Walter Bernhardt. I bestov my power upon thee." Already the face was about to fade. "Upon thee I entrust my artefacts, my riches and my legacy. Serve the lord of Darkness." The mirror became a mirror again. Angilique staggered over to their bed and picked up her cell-phone. She dialled the numbers and spoke in English into the phone. Cathrine shakily sat down upon one pine-chair. "It seems our acaunt in England has received a great sum." The half-sisters exchanged glances. "We're rich." Angilique said in a shaky tone. "We're damned rich." Cathrine slowly shook her head. Walter Bernhardt was mentioned in magical history. Heraldic scetches also told he was their ancestor. Cathrine was prepared to choose the black robe when she was finished with her education, just as her sister had already done. Many of the youngsters from Angilique's class had already gone to serve in the N.O.D.A. Cathrine seemed to remember that one young Luna Sarranow had jumped out of school to go join the new rising. Things never seemed to go as expected.

Barnsdall mine, Warakiya. The 21st. of December 2098 A.D.
Edward lead the way across the now frozen lake. The tunnel leading deeper into the mind behind them had collapsed. The way onward was still open however. Edward only hoped the way into the countryside. "Edward! Saria!" The two fairies came darting in from the crack in the ceiling. Edward had sent the shining duo to scout in case the evil ones where planning something. "Jam wasteland is gone." The fays shone a enthusiastic gold. "The forest is returning." Rose filled in Pixie's remark. "The curse is over." Pixie circled his face as like dancing. "Even the other side of the valley is clear." Rose grew slightly graver. "There is still something wrong with the western and central regions of the forest." Edward shook his head. "I hope Alicia and Alucard will be alright when returning to the train." Edward made the sign of the cross. "Saria put a hand into his. "I also worry about them." Edward squeezed her hand. "The Lord will be with them." Or so Edward hoped, so he prayed. Then something caught his attention. At the spot where their enemy had fallen there lay an orb of perfect crystal. Edward knew what it was. He'd seen it before. His family's chronicles where filled with references to such crystals. Edward told Saria to stay back as he went to pick it up. "I will be with you." It was the same voice he'd heard after the battle with the queen of Moss. Edward pulled off his hat. Again he made the sign of the cross. Edward was unsure if it really was the Lord. But so be it. Edward felt comforted by the voice. The orb vanished and Edward felt strengthened and refreshed. Edward felt his magic grow. Fire, water and his other talents became more powerful. Edward shrugged. Be the will of God. He put his hat back on and returned to Saria and the fairies. The clouds spread and then the sun shone down upon the ice. Edward smiled, Saria made a clumsy sign of the cross. It was good feeling the sun again. Together they walked across the ice and into the cave on the other side. The cave was dark after the light outside. However the two fays gave enough light for Edward and Saria to see. No matter, they saw more then they needed. "Blast it!" Edward couldn't help but curse as he saw the exit out of the mine was blocked. Thus the only way onward was to go deeper into the mountain. Edward didn't like it. He didn't like it the least. With a sigh he cracked his chain-whip. Saria gave him a look, and then she drew her bow and prepared an arrow. Then they where at it again. Edward did the sign of the cross. Then he led the way into the unknown.

Dabis path, Warakiya. The 22nd. Of December 2098 A.D.
Dimitri Blinoc smiled with triumph. Drolta's voice roused in intencity as Dimitri felt his power rising. There was nothing which could stop him now. Nothing! Dimitri Blinov would become the next incarnation of the Dark Lord.

Castlevania, Warakiya. The 23d. of December 2098 A.D.
The Dark Lord Dracula sat upon his throne. The game-board reached out before him. Several of his check-pieces lay in shambles. Other was not even toutched. It angered him that neither of the Belmonts had fallen. Some of their allies had fallen but none of them where fatal. Dracula let his eyes land upon the piece representing his son. His fury deepened. So Alucard insisted on siding with their enemies. It was all that wore Sonia Belmont's fault! He forced himself to relax. It would come together all in time. Christmas would set a hindrance to his plot. No matter. 100 years had passed since the failure in 1999. Had he not been a mere shadow Dracula would have grined his teeth. Again he calmed himself. Darkness would rise. This time the Belmonts had no Soma Cruz to send against him.

(A.N: Sorry for the late update. I've worked with this chapter a long time. I hope you like it anyway. Have a nice time.)

Back