Blood Line

Holy War

Once they hit the open countryside, Emeritus' let the Ferrari out. He gunned it, accelerating to a hundred and eighty mph causing his passenger's head to snap back hard against the headrest. The car's red RPM needle blew way past its limit as the luxurious cabin vibrated with an animalistic sound as if a ferocious creature scrabbled in the engine bay, anxious to break free.

Vlad smiled with pleasure approving of the powerful technology that had evolved during the last five hundred years. The car's power gave him an exotic thrill equal to drinking the fresh blood from a young, fresh, innocent kill.  I must have one of these beautiful machines to escort my new, seductive companion.

As the road flew by, he surveyed Italy's vibrant country side. "I'm pleased the lush vineyards laden with robust grapes, remain unspoiled."

Within half an hour, they pulled up in front of the Kent estate. As Emeritus drove through the open gate, His Holiness frowned observing  a large garrison forming on the cultivated grounds. The Pope furiously rounded on his passenger, cursing in rapid Italian.

"What is this! Una Bella's amassing an army?"

Vlad calmly observed the swarming garrisons privately impressed by the raw number of seasoned combatants he saw swelling the ranks.  He answered with a calmness that belied his paternal pride. "I would say Una Bella's called upon the ancient mercenary hordes. She is planning a campaign to retake my former Castle."

"As usual you've made another blatant understatement! This is an act of war! Did you know of this?"

His old enemy's accusatory tone caused Vlad to laugh without mirth.

"I told you Emeritus, I've just awakened. I had nothing to do with  planning this military campaign. All I want is a different future than my past. One without war." He paused for a minute before adding, "Especially, a Holy war."

The other vampire was deadly still before breaking his angry silence. "Get out! Now. Insanity follows you like a plague. Go find your daughter and stop this madness!"

After Vlad lithely exited the vehicle, Emeritus executed a squealing u turn, sending billowing clouds of red dust to settle onto his ancient compatriot's clothing. Nonchalantly brushing the debris from his coat, Vlad calmly walked up the main road towards the estate. He stood for a moment admiring the battalions with their  brightly colored flags moving smoothly under the orders of their commanders.

Soon he spotted a young man with dark hair giving orders. Momentarily closing his eyes, he sensed not only his daughter's blood flowing through the handsome commander's esprit de corpse, but also the ancient blood of Vampire royalty. Maria Von Scwartzenberg. Ah, Una Bella has chosen well for a mate.