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

Gheata part 4 finale

**Castle Poenari, 1462 - Night**

The castle was eerily quiet, the shadows long and ominous as Gheata made her way through the dimly lit corridors. The devil's voice echoed in her mind, his presence a constant, oppressive weight.

"The time has come, Gheata," Satan whispered. "To complete the ritual, you must kill your sister Justina. Only then will you ascend to your true power."

Gheata's heart pounded with a mix of fear and resolve. She had come too far to turn back now. Her mind raced as she approached Justina's chambers, rehearsing the facade she needed to maintain.

**Justina's Chambers**

Justina sat by the window, her hand resting gently on her swollen belly. The night was still, and the stars shone brightly in the sky. She prayed silently for her husband's safe return from battle, worry etched on her face.

A soft knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. "Come in," she called, her voice tinged with surprise.

The door creaked open, and Gheata stepped inside. To Justina's astonishment, Gheata looked like her old self, her eyes warm and her smile genuine. "Gheata!" Justina exclaimed, rising to embrace her sister. "It's been so long. I've missed you."

Gheata hugged her tightly, fighting back tears. "I've missed you too, Justina. I'm sorry I've been distant. So much has happened."

Justina led her to a chair by the window, eager to catch up. "Tell me everything. How have you been?"

They talked for hours, reminiscing about their childhood and sharing stories of their lives. Gheata listened intently as Justina spoke of her hopes and fears, the bond between them momentarily bridging the chasm that had grown over the years.

Justina smiled her hand on her belly. "I can't wait for the baby to arrive. I just hope Vlad returns safely."

Gheata's heart ached with the weight of her mission. She forced a smile, reaching out to take Justina's hand. "You'll be a wonderful mother, Justina. I'm so proud of you."

Justina's eyes filled with tears. "Thank you, Gheata. That means so much to me."

The moment of tenderness was shattered as Gheata's resolve hardened. She stood, her expression shifting from warmth to cold determination. "Justina, I'm sorry."

Confusion flickered in Justina's eyes. "Sorry? For what?"

Gheata's grip tightened on Justina's hand as she pulled her towards the balcony. "I have to do this," she whispered, her voice breaking. "Forgive me."

Before Justina could react, Gheata shoved her forcefully. Justina's scream pierced the night as she toppled over the edge, her hands grasping at the air in a futile attempt to save herself. She plummeted to the ground below, the sickening thud echoing in the silence.

Gheata stood frozen, her breath coming in ragged gasps. The devil's voice filled her mind, triumphant and cruel. "Well done, my queen. The ritual is complete. Your power is now unmatched."

Tears streamed down Gheata's face as she looked over the edge, the sight of her sister's broken body a haunting reminder of what she had done. The power she had sought now felt like a curse, the weight of her actions crushing her soul.

**Castle Courtyard**

The following morning, the castle was abuzz with the news of Justina's tragic fall. Victorine and Gabriel were devastated, their grief palpable. The prince, still away at battle, was unaware of the loss that awaited him upon his return.