CASTLEVANIA: Huntress of Darkness

Part 11 : Old Friend (volume 2)

Uploaded on May 10th 2024

A/N: I've gotten several requests to continue writing this story, so I am opting to post a few chapters here in order to avoid creating a separate book as a sequel. Those never work for me :) Tell me if you liked this one, because I might delete this and keep it as completed if it flops.

The cover was found on pinterest as I tried to find a version to depict a version of the character from this chapter.  

PART 11 - Old Friend 

I held the reins lightly while Gara was galloping. Despite the fast pace, my horse moved smoothly and effortlessly. We were moving through the forests and villages, not taking any breaks. I didn't have time to afford them, because I also had to counteract monsters on the way. No matter what era, you can always count on some occultist to summon an entity - or a horde of those - just for the sake of power. People tend to make pacts with Evil due to various reasons. Some do it because they feel inferior. Some jus thirst for more power. And some just love wreaking havoc. I assume my father fitted all the categories.

Surely, a crafty handwriter could easily falsify letters if paid a handsome amount of gold for it. These news may only be a false ruse to make me rush towards the Bathory estate. The parchment was fresh, the contents were relatively brief, and written in my mother's handwriting. It was an elegant but rushed cursive, and she asked me for one thing only: to not fall into this trap.

"My dearest Ilona,

I bring terrible news, so try to remain as calm as possible. By the time you read this, I might not even be alive. I am currently being held captive, and I am waiting for my execution. I beseech you to stay strong - and firm - in upholding my last wish. I'm letting you know about my demise, hoping you'll find some solace in these words: I've loved you with all of my heart, and I am always immensely proud of you. Keep that in mind when dark nights threaten to crush your heart. Toss those feelings aside and focus on many happy memories we created instead. You made my life so much richer than I'd ever hope to imagine. I can't have you risk your own by returning home.

My captor aligned with Carmilla during Vlad's final quest. She fulfilled Stephen's lifelong wish – to turn him into a vampire. It must come as a great surprise. And much like he's not a human, that creature isn't your father anymore either. Don't try to hunt him for my sake, revenge isn't worth it.

I had a long, prosperous and fulfilling life, and I wish the same for you. I've been ready for Death for quite some time now. I urge you not to feel any guilt over this, for you had no part in my ending. I know how you are, and he also knows you'd rush to save me if you can. Don't do it. I know you are destined for great things, so just be yourself, and try to do well by others. Hold me in your memories.

You are my greatest fortune, and my biggest pride.

With my utmost love,

Your ever grateful mother,

Justina."

It was like her – not wanting to be used as leverage. However, her words not only made me feel feverish... but also very determined. I couldn't honor her plea. I couldn't accept the idea of knowing she's captured, and not do anything.

What was the point of being able to use magic, if not to try and reach her in time? In my heart, I knew one thing. All power required some sort of sacrifice. Even basic principles of alchemy attests to this. I withdrew all my remaining link to Adrian, to Gresit, to Castlevania... and filled a surge of power when I transformed into a dhampir. I needed to feel every fiber of my being. Every ounce of my strength. Before he even turned, he was immensely strong human.