Van Helsing (Dracula's Son) (#Wattys2024)

Gheata pt 3

**Castle Poenari, A Secluded Garden**

The castle grounds were vast, and Gheata found solace in a secluded garden where she could be alone with her thoughts. Under the cover of night, she made her way to a hidden alcove surrounded by tall hedges and blooming flowers. There, she waited, her heart pounding with a mix of fear and excitement.

The dark, calm voice she had come to know spoke softly from the shadows. "What do you seek, Gheata?"

Gheata took a deep breath, her voice steady. "I need to know how we can create a cult, one that will grow strong and support the prince's ambitions and protect my family."

A figure materialized before her, the same man with jet-black hair and piercing green eyes. Satan's smile was both alluring and sinister. "To create a cult, you need followers, symbols, and rituals. I will guide you, but you must be willing to embrace the darkness within."

Gheata nodded, determination etched on her face. "Tell me what to do."

Satan's instructions were clear and concise. "First, you must find those who are disillusioned with the current order, those who seek power and change. Speak to them of freedom, of power beyond the reach of the Holy Order. Use symbols that resonate with their desires — the serpent, the inverted cross, and the raven."

He paused, his eyes glinting with a dark promise. "Create rituals that bind them to you. Blood oaths, secret ceremonies held under the cover of night. Make them feel part of something greater than themselves. The prince must publicly denounce the Holy Order and declare his intention to lead a new path."

Gheata listened intently, absorbing every word. "And the prince?"

Satan's smile widened. "He must show strength and vision. His followers will look to him for guidance and protection. Together, you will build a foundation that cannot be shaken."

With a final nod, Satan faded back into the shadows, leaving Gheata alone with her thoughts. She knew the path ahead was treacherous, but the vision of power and security for her family drove her forward.

**Castle Poenari, Main Hall**

Meanwhile, Gabriel, the loyal knight and confidant of the prince, noticed the distance growing between them. He observed the prince more closely, sensing the weight of new and secretive burdens. But as he pondered these changes, his attention was drawn to Victorine, who moved gracefully through the hall, her presence a beacon of light amidst the gloom.

Gabriel found himself inexplicably drawn to her, and he approached with a hesitant smile. "Victorine, may I have a word?"

Victorine turned, her blue eyes meeting his with a warmth that chased away the shadows in his heart. "Of course, Gabriel. What is it?"

They walked together, finding a quiet corner of the hall where they could speak without interruption. Gabriel listened as Victorine spoke of her life, the struggles her family had faced, and the recent loss of their mother. Her voice was soft and filled with emotion, drawing him in deeper with every word.

"My mother was our rock," Victorine said, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "She held our family together. Now that she's gone, it's like a piece of us is missing."

Gabriel reached out, gently taking her hand. "I'm so sorry for your loss, Victorine. I can only imagine how difficult it must be. If there is anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to ask."

Victorine looked up at him, her heart touched by his kindness. "Thank you, Gabriel. Your words mean more than you know."

As they continued to talk, Gabriel felt a deep connection forming between them. Her strength and vulnerability resonated with him, and he found himself wanting to protect her, to be there for her in a way he had never felt before.