{This is a sequel to Dracoola}
April 19
By God! I am utterly surprised and somewhat delighted. I have received a letter from an anonymous horseman with long flowing black hair not thirty minutes ago. It was addressed to me so I opened it. And here is what it says:
"Dear Charles H. Whistle. It is I, D. I am most sorry for the inconveniences of our earlier meeting. I was very sickly and not behaving as my usual self. Therefor I would love for you to revisit me in my castle. I trust you remember the way. -D
PS. I almost forgot, I would like you to meet someone on the road to my castle. He will be on a train tomorrow. He is also visiting me for the second time. Catch the train and please do befriend him. His name is Herald F. Frankoonstein. A rather short fellow, the only one on the train, I'll make sure of that.
PPS. Oh, and do come on the 25th of this month, thank you."
{______
April 20
I'll recap the last twelve hours.
I awoke to a start. I had a dream last night. That a huge beastly fellow stood over my bed. Horrible looking, sown together I presume. Greenish skin and a fat mans head. He stood there groaning and snorting. And shot off. That's when I awoke.
I got out of bed, toileted, gathered my trappings and made for the long road to the castle. On foot I might add. By God I walked along the train tracks which I had not noticed were right beside the road the previous journey. Maybe they were newly added. I fainted when I heard a howl in the distance.
I awoke on the tracks to the sound of an engine. It was the train! It stopped before running me over, thank the Lord. I got up and walked around to the side door. There a small fellow let me in. Then it came to my attention this kind man was none other than Herald Frankoonstein. I befriended him and told him my name and business there.
I turned and walked out to get my trappings left on the tracks unaware that the train had started moving again. By God did I take a tumble.
I fainted and awoke to a start. I was on a horse, behind a man with long flowing black hair, that smelt like.... like... by God it smelt like OIL! It must have been the driver of my previous journey!
He informed me that we could not catch up to the train, but he would take me to the castle himself. I said thank you and nice to meet you again. He turned his head around and looked at me, to see who I was I'm sure. He grinned wide and said: "Yes, yes, nice to meet you again." By God his eyes were red.
I write this now still on the horse, by candle-light. It is quite jolting. I'm tired, I think I'll sleep.
{______
April 23
Two days ride. On horseback mind you. Faster than last time, but just as terrifying. Wolves again, and ogres I thought. Many times we caught up to the train, but never to the side door. And I thought I heard that small chaps voice. By God. I would awake beside the train, the driver gone, just me and the horse at full speed, then awake later to the driver in front of me again. Covered in blood I thought. Very odd by God.
Something just hit me in the face horribly hard. Something small and shiny I thought. By God I screamed. It put quite a knot on my left cheek I presume.
{______
April 24
This morning was rather pleasant. Birds sang in their nests. The sunlight danced on the leaves and blossoming flowers. We arrived at the castle no more than thirty minutes ago. In-fact no more than ten minutes after the train. That horse was quite amazing, a huge beast of a horse.
Since I am to arrive on the twenty fifth, not today, I will camp in the bushes outside the castle, until tomorrow. I am hungry, and thirsty. If only I had my trappings. Oh well.
{______
April 25
By God, By God, By God! It must be past midnight. I'm in the bushes on the edge of the forest, writing this by candle-light. I hear noises! Grunts! Howls! Snaps! Distant screams! By God I'm frightened. I'm toileting myself!
{Still April 25}
I'm aright. I'm in the castle. I'll tell you what happened.
After finishing my entry earlier I fainted. I awoke later to a start. It was still dark, very. And it was raining, I was soaked. That blasted thing was above me again! Moaning and snorting! It was not a dream. Then that must mean it was not a dream before! By God that thing had been following me! I toileted myself and it shot off!
I lay there trembling and on the verge of fainting, in-fact i did.
I awoke to morning. Grey and cold. Still raining. A letter on my chest, soaked. Here is what it read:
Come in. EAT! -D
So I got up and walked to the great door. It was open oddly enough. I walked in and the smell instantly was remembered. The smell of a toilet. There stood the Count. In a doorway at the entrance to a hall. A way that was closed on my previous stay.
"Ah, hello again!" I said smiling.
"Yes, yes, hello, dear Charles." he answered with an odd grin. "It is so nice to see you again. I'm so glad you came!"
He was wearing the same clothes as before, except no cape, but a black hat. He looked the same as before but this time he had a long grey beard.
I complemented him on the hat, but got no reply.
"Follow!" he said quite loudly, so I obeyed.
We went down the rather small hall. The front door slammed shut behind, then the hall door, the one we had just walked through. I started. We traveled to the very end and went through the left door.
There before my eyes was a great living hall. Two fireplaces burning, three great sofas, tapestries of medieval battles on the walls. And many cases of books. Brilliant!
He led me to the end of this fine room, and through an archway on the left. There was a rather small room and a bed against the opposite wall.
"Your room, sir." Smiled the count. "Toilet and join me in the living hall, just outside your room, of-course."
"Of-course." I said.
I looked around the room, and back toward where the count was standing to ask him something, and he was gone. A quiet walker I presume.
I found a toilet bowl in the corner with some newspapers beside it, and made a hasty one.
After I wiped, I walked back out into the living hall. There, in front of the closest sofa, was a table adorned with freshly prepared food. On the sofa sat the Count.
"Eat." he said gently. He did not.
As I sat on the sofa beside the Count, I studied the fine meal I was about to indulge upon. Scrambled eggs, bacon, a warm freshly baked loaf of bread, boiled eggs, bananas, some sort of pudding for dessert, and a pitcher of water with no glass to pour it into. I ate and the count watched the fireplace. The food was excellent; I said so and he smiled, his eyes never leaving the fire.
When I was done, I said so. He turned away from the fireplace and looked at me.
"lets talk then." he said. So I did.
"Ok. ah yes, there was a question a meant to ask you earlier. If you don't mind me asking, where is that small fellow I met? Frankoonstein."
"Ah yes, he is in his room asleep." The Count answered, then was silent.
"Will I see him again?" I asked, trying to break the silence.
"I should hope so." He replied. "Sometime I sure."
I nodded and smiled. "Ok. Why is he here?" I said.
"To help me with something." He answered, and coughed a great cough. It rattled my heart I thought.
"Excuse me" He said. "I'll see you tomorrow. But please, stay here and read until dark. Then bed. I have business with Herald." He got up, and left.
I sit now in bed. I read for eight hours and now am bedding. I do wish this room had a door. I here noises outside the castle. Bumps, moans. I don't know why I came back to this place. Perhaps it's the fabulous eggs. By God.
{______
April 26
It is morning.
Last night went by quicker than I feared. Although I awoke to a start in the middle of the night by a scream, I thought. Inside the castle, somewhere. By God I toileted myself and fell fast asleep.
I awoke to music, classical music, and Opera. It was nice. I got out of bed, toileted, and trotted out into the living hall. The music was coming from the far left corner, on the right side of the room. It was the Count. And by God the music was coming from his mouth! It was wide open but his prominentia laryngea was fiercely jumping up and down. Violins! Drums! By God a woman's voice! I remarked on it and apparently he had not known I was there. He started and screamed. His eyes turned to flame, and his brows turned to a solid bar of iron! It later fell off.
As I write this I'm in a carriage. I believe the same one I ventured in on my first visit to this place a year ago. Dracoola said he would like to give me a tour of his land, so that's what we are doing. It's quite great. The day sky is quite grey but not dark. His land is, well quite dank. Old, dead trees, old, dead grass, stinky bogs, and all around this winding dirt road through the forests are dead things. Seemingly drained of life, holes in their necks. Everywhere is riddled with these corpses of animals, and a few people. By God I can't reason why. I shall ask him.
Ah! He has told me there was a battle recently fought here. Brilliant!
We have aparked at a garden of the most strange flowers. Brown flowers, huge. Brilliant! The Count is eating one.
A werewolf! I had to be! Leaping through the forest. I will tell the Count.
Ah, he said there is no such thing. I am at ease now.
Although this journey through the Count's land is quite fascinating, i fear I am falling fast asleep.
I just awoke from a long slumber. I'm still in the carriage, but the Count is gone! Just me and the horses. Wait... There is a note on my lap. I'll open it... Here is what it says:
I forgot to do something back at my castle. Please, finish the ride, the horses know where to go. -D
I am at ease. I will finish the tour.
Three hours has gone by. No end to this ride has come about.
Three more hours. It's getting dark. By God when does this end?!
By God! That blasted werewolf again! Running through the forest! Great and hairy, long black flowing hair! Yellow eyes! Huge teeth! A trail of glistening spit streaming out of it's mouth, flowing behind it like some sort of strange scarf. I am frightened. Ah! I see the castle! Thank you Lord! We are nearing it. The werewolf, where is it?! It doesn't matter, I'm running for the castle. Here I go. God speed.
I made it. I'm in the living hall connected to my room. It's been four hours since I last wrote. I'll tell you what took place.
As I ran for the great door I glanced back behind me, by God the werewolf was hot on my trail. I reached the door, but by God it was locked! I was in panic. Not knowing where to go I shot off left, running as fast as I could around to the left side of the castle. I glanced back, the werewolf was still hot on me, but rather far away, and slower than i thought. I reached a regular sized door, and tried to open it. It too was locked, but I hadn't the strength to run any longer. In a last desperate attempt I banged on the door, screaming: "Let me in! Help! Let me in!" And by God the door swung open, and I ran in and flung myself down on the hard floor.
And by God the fellow that let me in was Herald! Herald Frankoostein!
He slammed the door shut, locked it, and turned to me. Concern and surprise on his face.
My heart was pounding, I had to toilet badly. But by God, it gladdened my heart to see him.
"Thank you Herald!" I said, sprawled on the floor.
"You alright?" he said, I could tell he was happy to see me.
"Yes, thanks to you. A werewolf was hot on me."
He helped me up and we talked for a while. He told me he was here to help the Count turn corpses right again, or something of that manner. I told him I was here for the second time because my first visit here was unpleasant, and the Count wanted to make up for it. We then parted our ways.
I somehow found my way back to the main entrance and was greeted by the Count. He was holding a large bowl of scrambled eggs. I salivated.
"How was your ride, Charlie?" he asked.
"Rather long but rather fascinating." I answered. "Ah yes, I was chased by a werewolf! I would have been surly eaten if it wasn't for kind Herald. He let me in and saved my life."
"Charlie, Charlie, there is no such thing as a werewolf." he said calmly, convincingly. I almost believed him but snapped out of the foolishness.
"No, no, your wrong!" It was a werewolf! It was right there, I saw it! It chased me!" I yelled. by God I think that was the first time I've ever raised my voice to the Count.
He looked rather angry. Then very angry! He grew in height! His eyes turned to flame! His brows, to a solid bar of hot iron! He threw the bowl of eggs into the wall, shattering it, eggs flying everywhere, then he screamed, it was terrible. "CHARLES! THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A WEREWOLF!"
I toileted myself and fainted.
I later awoke where I sit now. On this sofa, next to the burning fire. I will bed now. I am exhausted.
{______
April 27
It is morning, I slept through the night peacefully. I am on a sofa again. I do hope the Count is not angry still. When I see him I will ask to be forgiven. I do forgive him.
Here he comes with my breakfast. It looks to be a bowl of spaghetti. Mmmmm.
I just told him I was sorry and that I forgive him. But he said he didn't know what I was talking about, and left. Most strange. I will eat.
By God I am poisoned! The noodles! It must have been the noodles, or the sauce on them! I am fainting.
Oh no, by God, oh no! I just awoke. I am on the top of a horribly high tower! By God what is happening? I'm strapped down to a table! My hands are barely free enough to write this. A wind! The Count is here.
"What are you doing?!" I yell.
"I'm feeding you to my wives." he said.
Oh my God! I see them flying toward me in the distant sky! By God! I have met my doom! No, wait! The cross on my neck! The cross I always draw there with a quill! It saved me before I think. It will save me again. I will show it forth!
I ripped off my collar! It's working! By God they are all repelled! Even the Count! I am unstrapping myself!
I'm freed from the table! I'm going to go for it! I'm going to leave this place once and for all! God speed.
I made it past them and down many flights of stairs and many halls. I am writing this as I run through the castle. I don't believe they are chasing me.
I'm at the great door!
I through the lock back, opened it, and ran out! The carriage, it's straight ahead. I will jump in!
I'm in! "Ya!" I yell to the horses. "Ya!" It's working! They are running down the road! I made it out! Thank God!
By god! That small fellow just crashed through the roof of this carriage and onto the seat beside me! He is unconscious but alive! I will take him to town, and to the hospital. God speed horses! What amazing beasts!
- Stefan
Aug 20, 2008
Aug 19, 2008
The letter.
{This is a sequel to Frankoonstein}
April 20
Hello again, my diary. I have received a fair letter in the morning of this fine day. It reads as follows:
"Greetings, my good friend. We seem to have had the most inappropriate of meetings in the month of February. I know not whether you remember it or not, therefore I will remind you, and give you an accounting of my intentions.
When you came into my castle, you see, I mistook you for a pig. I know not whether you enjoy fresh, uncooked swine or not, but I most certainly do. And in the rush of excitement I couldn't help but feast upon you. I only noticed that your were human when you sent a cool wave of water upon me. I am most sorry.
Perhaps we can reunite back at my castle, to get acquainted with one another. See you then.
PS. Take the evening train. There will be a kindly chap there to greet you. Befriend him, I bid you.
- D"
I shall go, I presume; however, I find it strange that this letter has no return address. Luckily I have a fine memory, and know just where to find that castle, and I will take the letter along with me also. I do not have a memory of this "Evening train", but I think I do hear it! I will pack my belongings and report back when I am on the ride, if I find it.
--- (-)---
Odd, very! I am sitting on this train as the sky fades, and just a moment ago an odd thing happened.
I was drinking a glass of cold tea when the train hit a rut, and bounced like a bunny, sending my drink all over me. It missed my diary, thank heavens, but struck my letter from D. And slowly a hidden inscription was out-stood! It reads as follows:
"" In high demand, the red foot will land! - D"
I am most confused and frightened. Maybe he will explain it to me when I reach him.
---(-)---
I think.. no.. nope. Never mind.
---(-)---
Yes, do mind! My monster just ran by the train, headed the other way! Unless my mind is leaving!
---(-)---
No sign of anything now. Too dark to see anything outside. I have now realized I am the only person aboard this train. This is most odd, and frightening. The noise of the train is the only thing to hear; and the rushing of wind out my huge window... and maybe.. fast footsteps?! I will look out now, and investigate the sound.. I saw something, a figure, something tall; a horse and a rider, I think. The rider has long flowing hair, I think.
---(-)---
The running sounds are gone now, my train has stopped. All is still dark. I will await the instructions of the driver. Here he comes now. Wait.. this is not the driver. It is a rather tall fellow. I shall greet him.
How strange. He tells me his name is Whistle, and that he has also received a letter from D. He too carries a diary.. though his is much fairer to look upon. He says he will meet D upon the 25th. I will meet him first, i presume. Ah, he tells me that D's full name is Count Dracoola. Amazing.
Hmm... I turn my head to talk more and the man is gone. Very odd.
---(-)---
The driver has informed me that the train had stalled for a small while, tough we are running now; faster than ever! Wow.
That driver was an oddly man. Tall he was, and his head of hair was intimidating to say the least!
I believe it has to be past midnight, therefore I shall start a new entry.
April 21
Wolves, I hear. Many of them.
---(-)---
I have awoke to another fine morning, very foggy though. On we tread! Though I have not heard nor seen any sign of Whistle. I will pray for him.
I should have told him about the hidden inscription! Damn! I do hope he finds his, if he has one on his letter also.
... I hear those blasted footsteps once more! I will scream out my window at them, for it is too foggy to see. "Leave me, you rat!". They have stopped. I laid it to him I did.
---(-)---
What is this? A small item I have found laying beside me, odd. Looks like a small glass globe filled with blue smoke. It rather, if I do say so myself, smells like a half ripe blueberry! I do love blueberries! I think I'll keep it in my luggage.
The wind coming through the open window is quite chill. I want to roll it up yet I cannot seem to find the knob to do so. "Driver!" I yell... nothing. "Driver!"... nothing. I do believe I have to get up and go to him. I shall try.
---(-)---
Very odd. As I approached the drivers compartment I heard the most God awful sounds of slurping and gargling. I through open the door and I found the driver covered in blood I did! And under him was a fair lady. I was shaken, yet I asked him what he was doing. His answer sounded truthful enough, and here it was:
"You see, my friend, this poor laddie is chocking on a grape. I simply am preforming CPR upon her. Now leave me to finish!"
And leave him I did. That brave fellow!
---(-)---
Not much has happened these past 5 or so hours. I have just been watching the day awake out my window. I am quite hungry. I believe I have forgotten to pack food, I will check by bags.
I found myself a loaf of bread! I am eating my 6th slice! I have no beverage, I will ask the driver if any refreshments are on board.
---(-)---
I cannot seem to find him! All I found was blood all over the place!
... I hear thumpings above me, I will look out my window. Nothing, I am afraid. Yet.. maybe I did see something.
---(-)---
It is passing into night now. I still await any sign of the driver. I do believe I have never wanted water more than now. I will try to bed upon this unexpectedly soft seat.
April 22
Ah! The driver is on board again! He gave me great food and drink! Along with gracious letters from the Count. Here is how they read:
"Greetings again my friend! I have sent to you the most scrumptious of meats, bread, and drink. Please do enjoy. -D"
"How nice a day it is! I am steadily awaiting your arrival! -D"
"I do hope you found the meeting of sir Charles H. Whistle delighting. He is a great man. I will be meeting him after I meet you, if he forgot to mention it.
Oh! and If you don't mind, I would enjoy it if you discard of any mirrors you may have brought upon your journey. You see, I have recently installed many great burning lamps in my castle, and they would burn your eyes if caught in a shiny surface. Thank you, and see you soon! -D"
I do say that the wine was a bit bitter though. My 12 mirrors I have tossed from the train! I do think I heard a yell as they flew away... Oh well... As my father used to say: "Dammed stupid is a man of many mirrors!"
April23
The past day was very pleasing. I watched the landscape pass out my window with glee. It is full of old run-down farm land, though I have not seen a soul. The air seems to be getting darker, if that makes any sense. I have enough food and drink here to last many-a-train rides.
Oh, before I forget, the driver is gone again.
---(-)---
At last, the train has stopped! I have been having to use the bathroom out my window! But at last I might can use a normal one again. The driver is calling me out, I will write back as soon as possible.
---(-)---
The train had actually stopped beside the castle, and even more odd was that the tracks ended there! The driver, not saying a word, escorted me to a side entrance, and was gone. He carried my belongings all in one hand! Strong he was, I say.
I do not know why, but as I sit here in the cold dirt writing, I have an odd feeling that someone is directly behind me looking around a bend in the wall! I will look... nothing.
---(-)---
Good heavens, I believe I saw a troll just then. Odd. It is very dark now.
---(-)---
Ah! the door opens! I presume I should walk in, no one is here to greet me. The smell of this place rushed out at me like a great memory!
---(-)---
I am now in a bedroom with a very nice bathroom made of all gold I presume. All I found was a letter lying on the floor. Here is how it read:
"There is a small, yet cozy bedroom on your left. Go into it and lock the door behind you quickly. -D"
I did! And as I shut the door I saw a ghastly figure charging at me from a great distance! It was in a long dark hallway straight ahead of me. That was horrid! It reminded me of that blasted creature I had made!
Oh no! I just turned the letter over, and here is what I read!:
"PS: Be sure to shut the entrance door also! -D"
I will not! I shall sleep instead!
---(-)---
Knockings and scrapings upon my door have jolted me awake! "Hello?" I say. No answer. I am going to ignore it and go back to sleep.
April24
This day was most odd. When I awoke it was just beginning morning. I used the golden bathroom and went out of my room. The entrance door was shut, very odd, I thought. And before my feet laid another letter. I opened it swiftly and read:
"I do hope you slept keenly. I noticed you didn't shut the door, so I did it for you. Only seven horrible creatures slipped in during the few hours it was open, and they are now very dead.
Please do meet me in the living hall. Follow the red chairs. -D"
I did so through many rooms and halls. Some very worn and terrifying. Others extremely pleasing, yet not! When I reached the living hall I saw that it was very vast. Some 200 feet across at longest length I guess!
There he stood. Seeming old and worn. As much a part of the house as the statues along the walls. As if many Autumns had wizened him with great knowledge; ancient secrets seemed to be hidden in his thoughts, yet he also seemed quite stupid as well. An odd taste was ever present in my mouth as a stared at him! Many hours I looked upon his red-brown eyes. Then alas, he spoke. So loud and startling it was, that I laid him out with a swift blow to the cranium! (I used a long rod which I keep folded in my back pocket.)
I stared down at him for a short while. He was wearing a voluminous crushed blue velvet robe, and blue gloves. As I was pandering at his fine garments he shot up, no, more like flew up! Some 20 feet I presume, and fell back to the floor, yet landed with only the sound of a small foot-step.
It's very odd now that I think back, what he said to me then...
"You see, my robes let me glide like a feather."
Over the next hour or so I asked him many questions, and he answered them swiftly and calmly. Then at last I told him about the hidden message on my first letter I received from him. I do say, his face turned a gray color. Yet he answered...
"Ah, my friend. I have a pesky helper named Grojoft. He enjoys doing those type of things. He must have snuck into my study and scribbled that inscription. I assure you, it means almost nothing."
I was relieved. Then I asked him the most obvious question...
"Why did you ask me to come here?"
He answered swiftly and calmly...
"I want you to meet a dear friend."
At that he screamed so loud that I thought I heard glass break nine floors above!
"Aaarradal!"
By God in walked a man which can hardly be described by words! He was bent, and crooked. His eyes were sagging; his nose, lofty; his arms were short and thick. I was frightened still! Though to my relief the man dropped dead within 3 feet toward me. Poor bastard.
"This is why I need you!" Said the Count. "My creations keep dying on me. Yours continued to live!"
The memories rocketed back into my head of that awful being. The green shining skin! The bald fat head! The height of that buggered! But I quickly calmed and agreed to help him.
He led me down many dark cold tunnels lined with small burning torches. The passages were so small that Dracoola was bent down near my level. His robes were touching the flames yet did not alight! He stopped abruptly and turned.
"These were the burning lamps I mentioned in one of my letters." he said to me, and was off again.
I think I followed him for 10 leagues.
Alas we entered a small room. On a table in the middle was the body of a woman. She was most definitely dead I could tell. He turned to me once more.
"Bring her to life please." He said.
"I'll see what I can do." I answered. And the Count left me with the body. I labored on it for what seemed like days! Then I heard scooting sounds coming from the tunnels. The Count! was my first thought. But no... The sounds were too slow for him. I hid in a cabinet, the door I left slightly open. After a minute or so it walked in. It blew out the 4 candles I was working by. My heart was jumping to my neck. It huffed and puffed. Growled and groaned. Sniffed and Piffed.
Then walked away, back down the tunnels. I screamed for the Count out of cold fear. Suddenly a hard wind swept through the room from down the tunnel! And the Count was there! A bright lamp held in a strong grip.
"Yes?" He asked.
"Someone came in here and blew out my candles!" I answered in one breath.
"Ah, don't worry! It was only Grojoft! The helper I mentioned earlier. Come, I will carry you to bed. You have done well."
And with that, he took me in his arms, and swiftly breezed away into my bedroom, and laid me down. I am now writing this as I bathe. So, if you don't mind.
April 25
It is morning, and raining. The clouds block out the sun so that all is gloomy and gray. Lighting I see in the far distance. Yet thunder is unheard. I sit by a high window awaiting the count. I am 4 floors above my bedroom; a letter by the Count told me to come here. He said he would meet me in no more than an hour. I have been watching an old clock for 45 minutes I presume.
Ah! I hear him coming.
---(-)---
He said he will bring me the body of the woman I was working on yesterday. I told him that I need electricity to run through her corpse. He said not to worry, and was off. I can tell you, I am most worried.
---(-)---
He has returned. I ask him for the electricity.
My God, he stuck his finger on her wrist and lighting shot out in many bolts! I think his eyes are flaming! His eyebrows turn to a flaming bar of iron! It just fell off.
The body is not alive. She is burned to a crispy crisp! I fear the count is angry at me. His face is as red as cherries. He turned with a huff and left.
April26
I am in my bedroom now, it is turning night. This past day was most boring. I journeyed long through the long castle. So many locked doors. The Count was nowhere.
I now hear strange sounds coming to the entrance door outside my room. A man yelling. Roaring of some unnamed beast! Now the man bangs upon the door, screaming! I will go to his aid!
---(-)---
What a fine surprise! It was Charles Whistle! I asked him what all the ruckus was about. He answered in harsh breaths.
"I am chased by a werewolf!"
I do say, I believe him. I greeted him, and likewise. I told him some of my business, and he told me that he is revisiting the Count due to an unmannerly first meeting. Then we gave best our wishes and parted.
---(-)---
I will use the bathroom and go to bed. It is quite late now I presume. I only guess because I do not have a clock in here. Wait, I do believe I may have brought one with me. I will check my luggage. I think I hear the most awful screaming of words! It sounds like the Count.
Upon my scramblings I found that odd blue smoke-filled globe. how did I forget about it?!
Tomorrow I will ask the Count about it. Until then I will set it on my nightstand.
April27
A have just awoke to find the globe gone! Who did this?! My door is locked tight! I must find the Count! I am going outside my room.
"Count Dracoola!" I yell.
A cold wind is rising. Faster it comes! The Count is here!
"Yes?" He says. Oh Lord, he looks so young! barley out of his 20's! His hair is healthy and dark!
I remark upon this oddity. He answers.
"My friend, I am like fine wine, or cheese! The older the better. Now what do you need?"
I will tell him about the globe.
He looks most bewildered.
"I know nothing of what you speak." He says. "I will bring you another body to reanimate!"
He just left.
---(-)---
He is back, holding another lady. He lays her down on a table, with some medical tools.
"Now, I will leave you to work." He says and is off.
I am tired of this! I will make it to where the body comes alive and goes after the Count! Bastard!
---(-)---
I am covered in body fluids, yet I am done! The body jolted alive when I shot a spark into it with a lamp cord. She destroyed the table she was lying on into a thousand pieces! Her skin glows yellow! Her eyes are burning with rage! She sniffs for the Count and is running through the castle. Time for your doom Count! Ha ha!
---(-)---
It has been 20 minutes. Two times I have heard my creation run past my bedroom door. Now she has stopped. I will investigate.
Oh heavens! The Count his holding her aloft in his left hand! His eyes are flaming! His eyebrows are a hot bar of iron! Ah!! He screamed into her head and she exploded!
"So you try to deceive me?" He says. "You will be PUNISHED!"
His voice is horrible and booming!
He is carrying me somewhere!
"Help!" I yell. "Help!" Nothing.
---(-)---
With his cunning strength he tossed me from the castle roof. I write now as I fall. So long fair world. Now I go to God!
- Joey
April 20
Hello again, my diary. I have received a fair letter in the morning of this fine day. It reads as follows:
"Greetings, my good friend. We seem to have had the most inappropriate of meetings in the month of February. I know not whether you remember it or not, therefore I will remind you, and give you an accounting of my intentions.
When you came into my castle, you see, I mistook you for a pig. I know not whether you enjoy fresh, uncooked swine or not, but I most certainly do. And in the rush of excitement I couldn't help but feast upon you. I only noticed that your were human when you sent a cool wave of water upon me. I am most sorry.
Perhaps we can reunite back at my castle, to get acquainted with one another. See you then.
PS. Take the evening train. There will be a kindly chap there to greet you. Befriend him, I bid you.
- D"
I shall go, I presume; however, I find it strange that this letter has no return address. Luckily I have a fine memory, and know just where to find that castle, and I will take the letter along with me also. I do not have a memory of this "Evening train", but I think I do hear it! I will pack my belongings and report back when I am on the ride, if I find it.
--- (-)---
Odd, very! I am sitting on this train as the sky fades, and just a moment ago an odd thing happened.
I was drinking a glass of cold tea when the train hit a rut, and bounced like a bunny, sending my drink all over me. It missed my diary, thank heavens, but struck my letter from D. And slowly a hidden inscription was out-stood! It reads as follows:
"" In high demand, the red foot will land! - D"
I am most confused and frightened. Maybe he will explain it to me when I reach him.
---(-)---
I think.. no.. nope. Never mind.
---(-)---
Yes, do mind! My monster just ran by the train, headed the other way! Unless my mind is leaving!
---(-)---
No sign of anything now. Too dark to see anything outside. I have now realized I am the only person aboard this train. This is most odd, and frightening. The noise of the train is the only thing to hear; and the rushing of wind out my huge window... and maybe.. fast footsteps?! I will look out now, and investigate the sound.. I saw something, a figure, something tall; a horse and a rider, I think. The rider has long flowing hair, I think.
---(-)---
The running sounds are gone now, my train has stopped. All is still dark. I will await the instructions of the driver. Here he comes now. Wait.. this is not the driver. It is a rather tall fellow. I shall greet him.
How strange. He tells me his name is Whistle, and that he has also received a letter from D. He too carries a diary.. though his is much fairer to look upon. He says he will meet D upon the 25th. I will meet him first, i presume. Ah, he tells me that D's full name is Count Dracoola. Amazing.
Hmm... I turn my head to talk more and the man is gone. Very odd.
---(-)---
The driver has informed me that the train had stalled for a small while, tough we are running now; faster than ever! Wow.
That driver was an oddly man. Tall he was, and his head of hair was intimidating to say the least!
I believe it has to be past midnight, therefore I shall start a new entry.
April 21
Wolves, I hear. Many of them.
---(-)---
I have awoke to another fine morning, very foggy though. On we tread! Though I have not heard nor seen any sign of Whistle. I will pray for him.
I should have told him about the hidden inscription! Damn! I do hope he finds his, if he has one on his letter also.
... I hear those blasted footsteps once more! I will scream out my window at them, for it is too foggy to see. "Leave me, you rat!". They have stopped. I laid it to him I did.
---(-)---
What is this? A small item I have found laying beside me, odd. Looks like a small glass globe filled with blue smoke. It rather, if I do say so myself, smells like a half ripe blueberry! I do love blueberries! I think I'll keep it in my luggage.
The wind coming through the open window is quite chill. I want to roll it up yet I cannot seem to find the knob to do so. "Driver!" I yell... nothing. "Driver!"... nothing. I do believe I have to get up and go to him. I shall try.
---(-)---
Very odd. As I approached the drivers compartment I heard the most God awful sounds of slurping and gargling. I through open the door and I found the driver covered in blood I did! And under him was a fair lady. I was shaken, yet I asked him what he was doing. His answer sounded truthful enough, and here it was:
"You see, my friend, this poor laddie is chocking on a grape. I simply am preforming CPR upon her. Now leave me to finish!"
And leave him I did. That brave fellow!
---(-)---
Not much has happened these past 5 or so hours. I have just been watching the day awake out my window. I am quite hungry. I believe I have forgotten to pack food, I will check by bags.
I found myself a loaf of bread! I am eating my 6th slice! I have no beverage, I will ask the driver if any refreshments are on board.
---(-)---
I cannot seem to find him! All I found was blood all over the place!
... I hear thumpings above me, I will look out my window. Nothing, I am afraid. Yet.. maybe I did see something.
---(-)---
It is passing into night now. I still await any sign of the driver. I do believe I have never wanted water more than now. I will try to bed upon this unexpectedly soft seat.
April 22
Ah! The driver is on board again! He gave me great food and drink! Along with gracious letters from the Count. Here is how they read:
"Greetings again my friend! I have sent to you the most scrumptious of meats, bread, and drink. Please do enjoy. -D"
"How nice a day it is! I am steadily awaiting your arrival! -D"
"I do hope you found the meeting of sir Charles H. Whistle delighting. He is a great man. I will be meeting him after I meet you, if he forgot to mention it.
Oh! and If you don't mind, I would enjoy it if you discard of any mirrors you may have brought upon your journey. You see, I have recently installed many great burning lamps in my castle, and they would burn your eyes if caught in a shiny surface. Thank you, and see you soon! -D"
I do say that the wine was a bit bitter though. My 12 mirrors I have tossed from the train! I do think I heard a yell as they flew away... Oh well... As my father used to say: "Dammed stupid is a man of many mirrors!"
April23
The past day was very pleasing. I watched the landscape pass out my window with glee. It is full of old run-down farm land, though I have not seen a soul. The air seems to be getting darker, if that makes any sense. I have enough food and drink here to last many-a-train rides.
Oh, before I forget, the driver is gone again.
---(-)---
At last, the train has stopped! I have been having to use the bathroom out my window! But at last I might can use a normal one again. The driver is calling me out, I will write back as soon as possible.
---(-)---
The train had actually stopped beside the castle, and even more odd was that the tracks ended there! The driver, not saying a word, escorted me to a side entrance, and was gone. He carried my belongings all in one hand! Strong he was, I say.
I do not know why, but as I sit here in the cold dirt writing, I have an odd feeling that someone is directly behind me looking around a bend in the wall! I will look... nothing.
---(-)---
Good heavens, I believe I saw a troll just then. Odd. It is very dark now.
---(-)---
Ah! the door opens! I presume I should walk in, no one is here to greet me. The smell of this place rushed out at me like a great memory!
---(-)---
I am now in a bedroom with a very nice bathroom made of all gold I presume. All I found was a letter lying on the floor. Here is how it read:
"There is a small, yet cozy bedroom on your left. Go into it and lock the door behind you quickly. -D"
I did! And as I shut the door I saw a ghastly figure charging at me from a great distance! It was in a long dark hallway straight ahead of me. That was horrid! It reminded me of that blasted creature I had made!
Oh no! I just turned the letter over, and here is what I read!:
"PS: Be sure to shut the entrance door also! -D"
I will not! I shall sleep instead!
---(-)---
Knockings and scrapings upon my door have jolted me awake! "Hello?" I say. No answer. I am going to ignore it and go back to sleep.
April24
This day was most odd. When I awoke it was just beginning morning. I used the golden bathroom and went out of my room. The entrance door was shut, very odd, I thought. And before my feet laid another letter. I opened it swiftly and read:
"I do hope you slept keenly. I noticed you didn't shut the door, so I did it for you. Only seven horrible creatures slipped in during the few hours it was open, and they are now very dead.
Please do meet me in the living hall. Follow the red chairs. -D"
I did so through many rooms and halls. Some very worn and terrifying. Others extremely pleasing, yet not! When I reached the living hall I saw that it was very vast. Some 200 feet across at longest length I guess!
There he stood. Seeming old and worn. As much a part of the house as the statues along the walls. As if many Autumns had wizened him with great knowledge; ancient secrets seemed to be hidden in his thoughts, yet he also seemed quite stupid as well. An odd taste was ever present in my mouth as a stared at him! Many hours I looked upon his red-brown eyes. Then alas, he spoke. So loud and startling it was, that I laid him out with a swift blow to the cranium! (I used a long rod which I keep folded in my back pocket.)
I stared down at him for a short while. He was wearing a voluminous crushed blue velvet robe, and blue gloves. As I was pandering at his fine garments he shot up, no, more like flew up! Some 20 feet I presume, and fell back to the floor, yet landed with only the sound of a small foot-step.
It's very odd now that I think back, what he said to me then...
"You see, my robes let me glide like a feather."
Over the next hour or so I asked him many questions, and he answered them swiftly and calmly. Then at last I told him about the hidden message on my first letter I received from him. I do say, his face turned a gray color. Yet he answered...
"Ah, my friend. I have a pesky helper named Grojoft. He enjoys doing those type of things. He must have snuck into my study and scribbled that inscription. I assure you, it means almost nothing."
I was relieved. Then I asked him the most obvious question...
"Why did you ask me to come here?"
He answered swiftly and calmly...
"I want you to meet a dear friend."
At that he screamed so loud that I thought I heard glass break nine floors above!
"Aaarradal!"
By God in walked a man which can hardly be described by words! He was bent, and crooked. His eyes were sagging; his nose, lofty; his arms were short and thick. I was frightened still! Though to my relief the man dropped dead within 3 feet toward me. Poor bastard.
"This is why I need you!" Said the Count. "My creations keep dying on me. Yours continued to live!"
The memories rocketed back into my head of that awful being. The green shining skin! The bald fat head! The height of that buggered! But I quickly calmed and agreed to help him.
He led me down many dark cold tunnels lined with small burning torches. The passages were so small that Dracoola was bent down near my level. His robes were touching the flames yet did not alight! He stopped abruptly and turned.
"These were the burning lamps I mentioned in one of my letters." he said to me, and was off again.
I think I followed him for 10 leagues.
Alas we entered a small room. On a table in the middle was the body of a woman. She was most definitely dead I could tell. He turned to me once more.
"Bring her to life please." He said.
"I'll see what I can do." I answered. And the Count left me with the body. I labored on it for what seemed like days! Then I heard scooting sounds coming from the tunnels. The Count! was my first thought. But no... The sounds were too slow for him. I hid in a cabinet, the door I left slightly open. After a minute or so it walked in. It blew out the 4 candles I was working by. My heart was jumping to my neck. It huffed and puffed. Growled and groaned. Sniffed and Piffed.
Then walked away, back down the tunnels. I screamed for the Count out of cold fear. Suddenly a hard wind swept through the room from down the tunnel! And the Count was there! A bright lamp held in a strong grip.
"Yes?" He asked.
"Someone came in here and blew out my candles!" I answered in one breath.
"Ah, don't worry! It was only Grojoft! The helper I mentioned earlier. Come, I will carry you to bed. You have done well."
And with that, he took me in his arms, and swiftly breezed away into my bedroom, and laid me down. I am now writing this as I bathe. So, if you don't mind.
April 25
It is morning, and raining. The clouds block out the sun so that all is gloomy and gray. Lighting I see in the far distance. Yet thunder is unheard. I sit by a high window awaiting the count. I am 4 floors above my bedroom; a letter by the Count told me to come here. He said he would meet me in no more than an hour. I have been watching an old clock for 45 minutes I presume.
Ah! I hear him coming.
---(-)---
He said he will bring me the body of the woman I was working on yesterday. I told him that I need electricity to run through her corpse. He said not to worry, and was off. I can tell you, I am most worried.
---(-)---
He has returned. I ask him for the electricity.
My God, he stuck his finger on her wrist and lighting shot out in many bolts! I think his eyes are flaming! His eyebrows turn to a flaming bar of iron! It just fell off.
The body is not alive. She is burned to a crispy crisp! I fear the count is angry at me. His face is as red as cherries. He turned with a huff and left.
April26
I am in my bedroom now, it is turning night. This past day was most boring. I journeyed long through the long castle. So many locked doors. The Count was nowhere.
I now hear strange sounds coming to the entrance door outside my room. A man yelling. Roaring of some unnamed beast! Now the man bangs upon the door, screaming! I will go to his aid!
---(-)---
What a fine surprise! It was Charles Whistle! I asked him what all the ruckus was about. He answered in harsh breaths.
"I am chased by a werewolf!"
I do say, I believe him. I greeted him, and likewise. I told him some of my business, and he told me that he is revisiting the Count due to an unmannerly first meeting. Then we gave best our wishes and parted.
---(-)---
I will use the bathroom and go to bed. It is quite late now I presume. I only guess because I do not have a clock in here. Wait, I do believe I may have brought one with me. I will check my luggage. I think I hear the most awful screaming of words! It sounds like the Count.
Upon my scramblings I found that odd blue smoke-filled globe. how did I forget about it?!
Tomorrow I will ask the Count about it. Until then I will set it on my nightstand.
April27
A have just awoke to find the globe gone! Who did this?! My door is locked tight! I must find the Count! I am going outside my room.
"Count Dracoola!" I yell.
A cold wind is rising. Faster it comes! The Count is here!
"Yes?" He says. Oh Lord, he looks so young! barley out of his 20's! His hair is healthy and dark!
I remark upon this oddity. He answers.
"My friend, I am like fine wine, or cheese! The older the better. Now what do you need?"
I will tell him about the globe.
He looks most bewildered.
"I know nothing of what you speak." He says. "I will bring you another body to reanimate!"
He just left.
---(-)---
He is back, holding another lady. He lays her down on a table, with some medical tools.
"Now, I will leave you to work." He says and is off.
I am tired of this! I will make it to where the body comes alive and goes after the Count! Bastard!
---(-)---
I am covered in body fluids, yet I am done! The body jolted alive when I shot a spark into it with a lamp cord. She destroyed the table she was lying on into a thousand pieces! Her skin glows yellow! Her eyes are burning with rage! She sniffs for the Count and is running through the castle. Time for your doom Count! Ha ha!
---(-)---
It has been 20 minutes. Two times I have heard my creation run past my bedroom door. Now she has stopped. I will investigate.
Oh heavens! The Count his holding her aloft in his left hand! His eyes are flaming! His eyebrows are a hot bar of iron! Ah!! He screamed into her head and she exploded!
"So you try to deceive me?" He says. "You will be PUNISHED!"
His voice is horrible and booming!
He is carrying me somewhere!
"Help!" I yell. "Help!" Nothing.
---(-)---
With his cunning strength he tossed me from the castle roof. I write now as I fall. So long fair world. Now I go to God!
- Joey
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