by Dr. Ruwan M Jayatunge
12th March
Today,
we had the opportunity to host James Murray and his wife at the abbey, a visit
that brought a significant sense of relief to both Mina and me as we grappled
with our concerns about our son, Quincy. During our discussions about the
future, it became increasingly evident that our current emotional distress was
impeding our ability to create a supportive and nurturing environment for
Quincy, which could ultimately compromise his educational prospects. After
extensive contemplation, we arrived at the heart-wrenching decision to
temporarily place Quincy under the guardianship of James Murray. To facilitate
this transition, I took the necessary steps to enroll Quincy in a school in
Glasgow and reached out to Sir Edward Carson to secure the financial support
required for Mr. Murray to manage Quincy's expenses.
The
decision to part with our son was particularly agonizing, especially for Mina,
who was profoundly affected by the circumstances. Nevertheless, we understood
that our emotional challenges left us unable to provide the care Quincy needed, and we believed this course of action was in his best
interest. We reassured Quincy of our commitment to visit him regularly, and
both James and his wife pledged to offer him the love and attention he rightfully
deserves.
Despite
the knowledge that Quincy would be in capable hands, the moment he departed
with James and his wife was filled with profound sorrow; Mina wept throughout
the night, and while I too experienced a deep sense of loss, I endeavoured to
provide her with comfort during this incredibly painful period.
4th April
It
has been almost a month since we took refuge in the abbey, and during this
time, we have embraced a more spiritual lifestyle that has significantly
alleviated the stress and anxiety that once consumed us in the presence of
Dracula. While the haunting memories of our past occasionally resurface, they
do not weigh as heavily on us as they did during our days in London. Each day
and night, I traverse the sacred halls of the abbey, finding solace in the
knowledge that this holy ground offers us protection from Dracula's reach.
Nevertheless, I remain acutely aware of his cunning nature; he is a master
strategist who exercises remarkable patience, waiting for the opportune moment
to strike when we least expect it.
Today,
I received a letter from James Murray, who expressed his intention to visit us
alongside Quincy. It appears that Quincy is no longer attending school in
Glasgow and has settled into a quieter life at James's home, where he spends
time with James's young sons.
8th April
Today,
I received a collection of documents by post that pertained to Professor Van
Helsing, which had been preserved by the police. These documents were handed
over to my legal assistant in London, who subsequently forwarded them to James
Murray, who then mailed them to me.
As
I approached the contents of this correspondence, I was troubled by a sense of
trepidation. Van Helsing's writings presented a disturbing theory about the
possible revival of Dracula, suggesting that he may have arrived in England
concealed within a large shipment of wool. His coffin was likely concealed in
this woollen material. The shipment, ordered from Varna, was linked to a man
named Diverus, a Romani gypsy and horse dealer residing in Gipsy Hill, South
London, who likely facilitated Dracula's plans through his connections in
Transylvania. A private detective, Bernard, who sought to confront Diverus at
Gipsy Hill, met a grim fate, presumably at the hands of Diverus under Dracula's
orders, as he was strangled to death. In a calculated move to eliminate any
traces of his involvement, Dracula subsequently killed Diverus, draining his
blood before the act. It is further posited that Dracula lay in wait for Arthur
Holmwood near Lucy's grave, and upon encountering the vampire's sinister
visage, Arthur suffered a heart attack. Following this, Dracula's wrath turned
towards Dr. John Seward, who met a brutal end, stabbed with Dracula's Turkish
dagger, an ornate weapon crafted from gold, whose location in Seward's office
was known to the vampire.
Upon
reviewing the notes penned by Professor Van Helsing, it became evident to me
that Dracula was not merely a creature of the night but rather a daunting
strategist, adept at orchestrating his plans with meticulous precision. It is
likely that, while compiling his observations, Professor Van Helsing may have
failed to fully acknowledge the extent of Dracula's capabilities, perhaps
underestimating the threat he posed not only to others but to himself as well.
This
realization evokes a sense of sorrow for the professor, as I grapple with the
weight of his untimely demise; my grief is overshadowed by a profound fear that
prevents me from mourning him openly. Nevertheless, my thoughts often drift to
the memories of Van Helsing, along with Arthur, Dr. Seward, and my private
investigator, Bernad, who tragically lost his life while pursuing an assignment
I had entrusted to him. In the quiet moments of reflection, I find myself
offering prayers for the souls of those who have departed, hoping that they
find peace in the afterlife.
As the clock chimed three in the
morning, the young physician stationed at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital in London
found himself irresistibly drawn to the weathered pages of an elderly man's
diary. The contents within provided not only valuable clinical insights and a
deeper understanding of the patient's medical history but also contained mysterious
elements that piqued his curiosity, transforming the reading experience into
something akin to a gripping narrative. Immersed in the text, he became
oblivious to the passage of time and the surrounding environment, fully
dedicating his focus to unravelling the layers of the man's life and
experiences, which unfolded before him with an almost magnetic allure.
The patient remained in a semi-conscious
state, exhibiting minimal awareness as he gradually shifted his right hand in a
subtle motion. Despite the young doctor’s attempts to engage him by calling out
his name, the patient did not respond.
The physician quenched his thirst with a
glass of water, yet he was acutely aware that a few hours of rest would have
been beneficial for his well-being. However, the allure of the old man's diary
proved irresistible, pulling him in with an almost magnetic force. As he delved
deeper into the pages, the weight of his earlier fatigue seemed to dissipate,
replaced by a burgeoning curiosity that compelled him to explore the contents
further. Without hesitation, he gathered the scattered papers that accompanied
the diary, making a concerted effort to arrange them in chronological order to
the best of his ability. With a sense of urgency and anticipation, he began to
read once more, eager to uncover the stories and insights contained within
those worn pages.
…………….
The summer season brought with it an intense heat, transforming the forest
adjacent to the abbey into a picturesque landscape adorned with lush green
trees and vibrant flowers. Over the course of more than two years, Mina and I
have settled into the abbey, gradually becoming well-acquainted with the
natural beauty that encloses us. On occasion, following our midday meal, I
would take long walks with Mina through the nearby woods, relishing the tranquillity
and charm of our surroundings. However, I always exercised caution, ensuring
that we returned to the safety of the abbey well before the sun dipped below
the horizon.
The
fearful reflections regarding Count Dracula, coupled with our previous dreadful
encounters with his malevolent deeds, have diminished my fear to a considerable
extent, primarily because I recognize the abbey as a hallowed and safeguarding
sanctuary, impervious to any nefarious influences that might seek to harm us.
Nevertheless, a sense of vigilance lingers in my thoughts, as I am acutely
aware that Count Dracula is relentless in his pursuits; he remains ever-watchful,
biding his time for the opportune moment to launch his next attack. This
awareness instills a cautious mindset, reminding me that while the abbey offers
us protection, we must not underestimate the cunning and persistence of our
adversary.
The
tranquil nights at the abbey create an atmosphere of profound serenity that
envelops us in a comforting embrace. The gentle sound of prayers being recited
by the monks resonates through the stillness, fostering a sense of peace that
permeates the air. Accompanying this auditory experience is the soothing aroma
of melted wax from the flickering candles and the subtle scent of sacred
wafers, which together contribute to an ambiance that promotes mental clarity
and emotional release. This harmonious environment facilitates restful sleep,
allowing us to drift into slumber free from the disturbances of nightmares,
thus enhancing our overall sense of well-being and tranquillity.
Every
two to three months, James Murray and his wife make the journey to visit us,
bringing along our son, Quincy. During certain weekends, Quincy has the
opportunity to stay with us at the abbey, allowing for cherished moments
together. Currently, he has become quite comfortable in his new home with James
and his family, where he is adapting to his school environment. As time passes,
it appears that Quincy is developing a Scottish accent, which suggests that he
may be gradually losing the London accent he once had.
Mina
has recently formed a friendship with Sister Felicia, a bond that has blossomed
through shared moments of prayer and leisurely evening strolls in the adjacent
forest. These walks not only provide an opportunity for companionship but also
allow them to connect with nature and reflect on their thoughts. However, I
consistently emphasize the importance of safety during these outings, urging
Mina to return home before the sun set, ensuring that she remains secure and
avoids the potential dangers that twilight may bring.
As
the winter season drew near, we found ourselves captivated by the enchanting
beauty of the snow-covered mountains, which stood majestically against the
backdrop of shorter daylight hours and the capricious nature of the weather.
The days were illuminated by a stunning, low-angle light during what is often
referred to as the "golden hour," casting a warm glow that contrasted
with the chill in the air.
As
night fell, a profound stillness enveloped the landscape, characterized by the
crispness of the freezing air and an expansive darkness that seemed to
encourage life to retreat indoors, cocooned in the warmth of blankets. The
gentle snowfall served as a natural sound barrier, absorbing high-frequency
noises and creating an atmosphere of serene silence that was both muffled and
tranquil.
On
these winter nights, the moon ascended to an unusually high position in the
sky, casting sharp, stark shadows that danced across the ground, formed by the
bare branches of trees reaching out like ink-black silhouettes against the
white canvas of snow, enhancing the ethereal quality of the season.
The
tree shadows evoked a profound sense of dread in me, and it was reminiscent of
a particularly unsettling night I spent at the Golden Krone Hotel in Bistritz.
On that occasion, the towering trees surrounding the hotel transformed into
animated, fearsome figures, their monstrous shadows looming ominously in the
darkness.
The
experience of my carriage ride into the Carpathian Mountains remains etched in
my memory as one of the most chilling and atmospheric moments of my life. It
was a night marked by an unseasonable cold, despite the calendar indicating it
was May. Heavy, black storm clouds rolled ominously across the sky, effectively
obscuring the moon and plunging the mountain pass into an impenetrable
darkness.
The
wind howled through the towering pines, carrying with it a biting frost that
seemed to seep into my very bones. The tall trees cast shadows that resembled
enigmatic figures, their elongated arms reaching out as if to grasp at the
night. The only source of light came from the flickering lamps of the carriage,
which illuminated the surroundings in a ghostly glow, creating long, twisted
shadows that danced along the dense walls of the forest, heightening the sense
of unease that permeated the air.
In
the winter months, particularly on nights illuminated by the moon, I found
myself reluctant to venture outdoors, and when I did, I made a conscious effort
to avoid gazing at the imposing trees and their elongated shadows that seemed
to stretch ominously across the ground. While residing at the abbey, I
experienced a complete abstinence from alcohol, embracing a lifestyle devoid of
its influence. However, on certain frigid evenings, I would indulge in a modest
amount of brandy, primarily for its digestive benefits, allowing myself this
small concession amidst my otherwise disciplined regimen.
In
the month of April, Quincy paid us a visit accompanied by James and his wife,
Peggy. During this delightful gathering, we took the opportunity to formally
designate James and Peggy as Quincy’s godfather and godmother, a decision that
filled us with joy and reassurance. I am now increasingly confident that Quincy
is in capable and caring hands, especially as we navigate the complexities of
our own emotional challenges stemming from past experiences. In light of this,
I have also recommended to Sir Edward Carson that he arrange for a generous
monthly stipend to be sent to James, utilizing my funds to cover Quincy’s expenses,
thereby ensuring that he receives the support he needs.
April's
weather is notoriously capricious, characterized by swift transitions that can
shift from the lingering chill of winter to the invigorating warmth of spring
sunshine within a matter of moments. This month is emblematic of the
quintessential Scottish experience, often described as having the ability to
showcase "four seasons in one day." It is not uncommon for a radiant
afternoon to be abruptly disrupted by a sudden onslaught of hail or sleet, only
to return to clear skies shortly thereafter.
As
the month progresses, the length of daylight increases significantly,
culminating in approximately 14 to 15 hours of natural light by the end of
April, which provides ample opportunity for outdoor activities and exploration.
Mina particularly cherished the unpredictable nature of April's weather, often
seizing the chance to take leisurely walks with Sister Felicia through the
nearby forest. These excursions not only allowed her to immerse herself in the
beauty of the changing landscape but also provided a profound sense of
emotional tranquillity, enhancing her overall well-being.
23rd April
Following
lunch, Sister Felicia visited Mina, and together they took a stroll in the
adjacent forest. Mina, who had a deep appreciation for flowers, aimed to gather
various blooms, including Wood Anemone, Primrose, and Lesser Celandine. As
usual, I advised her to come back before sunset, and she agreed. Then I took a
nap.
Upon
awakening from a deep and restorative nap, I was startled to find that the
evening had progressed significantly, with the sun poised to descend beneath
the horizon. A sense of urgency washed over me as I realized that Mina had not
yet returned. An unsettling panic gripped my heart, prompting me to call out
her name repeatedly, but the silence that shrouded me was deafening. Driven by
a mix of fear, anxiety, and desperation, I dashed into the woods, my voice
resonating through the trees as I continued to shout for her. Despite my
frantic efforts, there was no sign of her presence, and the growing darkness only
intensified my confusion and dread. As the last rays of sunlight faded away, I
felt an overwhelming sense of helplessness, propelling me to run through the
forest like a man possessed, my calls echoing into the void, unanswered and
forlorn.
For
almost two hours, I searched for her, but the approaching darkness of the night
made it increasingly difficult to navigate my surroundings. The trepidation of
remaining alone in this remote forest, far removed from the safety of the
abbey, weighed heavily on my mind. Recognizing the peril of my situation, I
resolved to make a swift dash back to the abbey in hopes of finding assistance.
I
rushed to the abbey in a state of frantic urgency, my voice echoing through the
hallowed halls as I cried out in distress, startling several monks from their
evening prayers. I urgently informed them of Mina's disappearance, expressing
my deep concern that she might be lost in the surrounding forest and in dire
need of assistance. Responding swiftly to my plea, five young monks, led by an
elderly Sub-Prior, gathered to aid in the search. Each of them wielded a
flambeau, their flickering flames casting eerie shadows against the darkened
landscape as we set off into the depths of the forest. The night was filled
with an oppressive darkness and an unsettling chill, yet despite the cold, I
found myself drenched in sweat, driven by a mix of fear and determination to
find Mina before it was too late.
For
nearly two hours, we scoured the dense forest in search of her, driven by a
growing sense of urgency and dread. The elderly Sub-Prior, a man
well-acquainted with the intricacies of the woodland and its surrounding
terrain, proposed that we venture towards the nearby mountain where the forest
came to an abrupt end.
Trusting
his judgment, we followed his lead, our hearts pounding with anxiety. As we
approached the mountain's edge, a figure lying motionless on the ground came
into view, prompting us to sprint towards it with a mix of hope and
trepidation. It was Mina, unconscious and vulnerable, and my heart sank at the
sight, fear gripping me as I braced for the worst possible outcome. With the
flickering light of the flambeaux illuminating her pale features, I anxiously
examined her neck for any signs of vampire bite marks. To my immense relief, I
found no such marks, though her laboured breathing indicated she was in
distress. The dress she wore was marked by mud stains, and the gold cross that
had hung around her neck was missing.
The
young monks, displaying remarkable strength and compassion, gently lifted her
into their arms, and together we made our way back to the safety of the abbey,
our minds racing with concern for her well-being.
Upon
our arrival at the abbey, we carefully laid her down on a bed, ensuring that
she was comfortable and warm by draping additional blankets over her frail
body. The elderly Sub-Prior of St. Benedict’s Abbey, Dom Boniface, who
possessed a modest understanding of medical practices, approached with a sense
of urgency and compassion. He examined Mina's heart with a practiced hand,
listening intently to the rhythm of her pulse, while simultaneously employing
techniques to assist her breathing. His gentle yet firm demeanor instilled a
sense of hope in the room, as he worked diligently to stabilize her condition.
Dom
Boniface also engaged in the practice of spiritual healing, a vital aspect of
his ministry. He began by lighting two wax candles, their flickering flames
casting a warm glow in the dimly lit room, and positioned a crucifix
strategically within Mina's line of sight, ensuring that she could focus on the
symbol of faith during her time of need. Following this, he meticulously
sprinkled holy water throughout the bed and the surrounding area, invoking a
sense of sanctity and protection. As he performed this ritual, he recited a
Latin chant, "Asperges me, Domine, hyssopo, et mundabor,"
Mina
lay in a state of tranquillity, her unconscious form exhibiting a steady and
rhythmic pattern of breathing that suggested a return to a peaceful state.
Remarkably, her body bore no visible injuries, raising a multitude of questions
about the circumstances that led to her current condition. The mystery
surrounding her plight piqued my curiosity, compelling me to ponder the events
that had transpired. Additionally, the absence of Sister Felicia added another
layer of intrigue to the situation; I found myself questioning her whereabouts
and the nature of her involvement in the unfolding events. What had transpired
between them, and what could have possibly led to this moment of stillness for
Mina?
In
my conversation with Dom Boniface, I discovered that he possessed a profound
understanding of the occult, which was particularly intriguing given his
background as an exorcist. Feeling a sense of trust, I decided to share my horrendous
experiences with him, recounting the assignment I undertook in Transylvania on
behalf of my law firm, which involved a fateful encounter with Dracula himself.
I detailed the chilling revelations I had about Dracula's demonic essence
during my stay at the castle and the dreadful escape that followed. I also
recounted the tragic events that unfolded when Dracula came to England, first
preying upon Lucy before turning his attention to Mina. I explained how
Professor Van Helsing, Arthur, and Dr. Seward diligently pursued Dracula,
ultimately leading to his defeat in Transylvania.
Furthermore,
I shared the aftermath of those events, describing how, after seven years of
grappling with our past traumas and seeking to affirm that Dracula had been
vanquished, we returned to Transylvania, only to encounter a series of
misfortunes at his castle. This return ultimately cost us dearly, as we lost
Arthur, Dr. Seward, and Professor Van Helsing, compelling us to seek refuge at
the Abbey. Throughout my narrative, Dom Boniface listened intently, his
unwavering belief in my account evident in his demeanor, as he absorbed every
detail of my story.
Upon
hearing my narrative, Dom Boniface remarked, "Mr. Harker, you have faced
the embodiment of evil itself, and alongside your adept companions, you managed
to vanquish him. However, upon your return to his lair after a span of seven
years, an inadvertent drop of blood from your physician friend triggered the
resurrection of this malevolent being, who is now intent on pursuing you.
Nevertheless, your spiritual fortitude and extensive experience equip you to
confront this adversary once more. It is evident that this sinister entity
harbors a deep-seated fear of you, yet he remains resolute in his quest for
vengeance, seeking to systematically dismantle your support system by targeting
your loved ones and eroding your circle of friends. However, we possess the
means to destroy and ultimately triumph over him again."
The
words of Dom Boniface instilled in me a sense of courage and hope that I desperately
needed in that moment. When I inquired about Sister Felicia's whereabouts, he
appeared perplexed, as he seemed unfamiliar with her identity. Subsequently, he
directed me to the Master of Novices, where I provided a detailed physical
description of Sister Felicia in hopes of eliciting recognition. However, to my
dismay, he too was unaware of her existence, stating firmly that no sisters
were residing in the abbey. He did, however, suggest that we could send a
message to St. Scholastica’s Convent the following day to inquire about Sister
Felicia, offering a glimmer of possibility amidst the uncertainty.
Throughout the night, I remained by Mina's
side, gently holding her hand to provide comfort and support. As the clock
struck midnight, Dom Boniface decided to retire for the evening, allowing us a
moment of solitude. By the break of dawn, Mina appeared somewhat more settled,
though her condition still warranted concern. She attempted to speak, but I
quickly interjected, recognizing that she needed to conserve her energy for
recovery.
For
breakfast, she was served a nourishing chicken soup, of which she managed to
consume a few spoonfuls, a small but encouraging sign. By 8 a.m., Dom Boniface
returned, bringing with him a selection of indigenous Celtic folk medicine and vernacular
plant remedies, which he administered with care. In addition to these
treatments, he also performed a spiritual cleansing session, aimed at restoring
her vitality and promoting her healing process.
In
the afternoon, Dom Boniface dispatched a messenger to St. Scholastica’s
Convent, providing a detailed description of Sister Felicia along with
information regarding her last known location. After several hours of
anticipation, the messenger returned with disappointing news: there was no
record of an individual by the name of Sister Felicia residing at the convent.
This revelation raised questions about the identity and existence of Sister
Felicia, leaving Dom Boniface to ponder the implications of this unexpected
outcome.
Dom
Boniface inquired about Sister Felicia, probing into the circumstances of our
initial encounter with her and the frequency with which Mina accompanied her on
evening strolls. After attentively absorbing my account, he discreetly led me
aside, ensuring that Mina remained unaware of our conversation.
He
said: “Mr. Harker, this so-called Sister Felicia is an apostle of Satan, a
demonic entity who came to get Mina and you. Do you know yesterday was St.
George's Day? It is the one night of the year when all supernatural barriers
fall. It is the exact moment when all the evil things in the world will have
full sway. It marks the exact moment evil successfully traps its prey."
She specifically selected this day to trap Mina. I think she took Mina to the
forest and took her crucifix out so a sinister power could approach her. Upon
realizing Sister Felicia's true nature, Mina got frightened and ran away.
Anyhow, she was lucky she was not attacked by the vampire. But we still don't
know whether she is possessed or under Dracula's power. We have to be cautious
and protect Mina day and night.
The
unsettling revelation from Dom Boniface has made me acutely aware that the
sinister influence of Dracula has extended even to these remote highland
regions.
His
reference to St. George's Day triggered vivid memories of my initial journey to
Transylvania, particularly the frantic pleas of the innkeeper’s wife in
Bistritz, who implored me to reconsider my travel plans due to the ominous
significance of the eve of this day. At that time, I approached the notion of
St. George's Day with a blend of skepticism and mild amusement, dismissing it
as mere superstition rooted in the fears of the local peasantry. However, as
the night unfolded, my initial lightheartedness gave way to a profound sense of
unease, confusion, and an overwhelming fear as I encountered inexplicable,
supernatural phenomena that defied all rational explanation.
The
abrupt and unnatural drop in temperature, coupled with the all-encompassing
darkness of the mountain pass, created an almost suffocating sensory
deprivation, leaving me feeling utterly isolated from the civilized world I had
known. During my midnight carriage ride to the castle, I was struck by the unnatural
sight of blue flames flickering along the roadside, an unsettling spectacle
that further deepened my sense of dread and foreboding.
I
feel an immense sense of gratitude for having Dom Boniface as an ally, as his
presence provides us with a layer of protection that is both reassuring and
vital in these uncertain times. However, despite this comfort, I find myself
grappling with a profound anxiety about the future; the unpredictability of
what lies ahead fills me with trepidation, leaving me to ponder the potential
challenges and dangers that may await us. My concern extends particularly to
Mina, whose recent experiences have left me unsettled. Although Dom Boniface
has assured us that she was not directly attacked by a vampire, the nature of
her encounter was still distressing and could very well lead to a significant
emotional toll on her well-being. Compounding my worries is the unsettling
possibility that Mina may be vulnerable to supernatural influences, such as
dream invasions orchestrated by Dracula himself, which adds another layer of
complexity to her already fragile state.
Mina
was required to adhere to a regimen of strict bed rest each day, a necessity
that arose from her deteriorating health. During this challenging period, Dom
Boniface made regular visits, bringing with him not only essential medication
but also engaging in spiritually cleansing rituals aimed at restoring her
well-being. While these interventions did yield some improvements in her
physical condition, Mina remained lethargic, her senses dulled, and she began
to experience episodes of semi-conscious trances, a stark contrast to the
vibrant mind she once possessed.
I
refrained from probing her about the events that transpired in the forest,
respecting her silence until the fifth day when she unexpectedly inquired about
Sister Felicia. Concerned about alarming her, I fabricated a response, stating
that Sister Felicia had left the abbey. However, Mina's subsequent revelation
that Sister Felicia had whispered to her in the night, urging her to meet in
the forest that evening, sent a wave of terror through me. The fear of her
potentially succumbing to a sleepwalking episode, reminiscent of Lucy's
experience, compelled me to take immediate action. I secured the doors and took
the key with me, ensuring that she could not open a window without my
knowledge. To further protect her, I placed a new crucifix around her neck and
sprinkled holy water around her bed, creating a sanctified space. Throughout
the night, I remained vigilantly by her side, my eyes wide open, unwilling to
succumb to sleep as I watched over her.
2nd May
Mina
has developed a troubling pattern of frequent sleepwalking, seemingly compelled
by an irresistible force to venture into the forest that Sister Felicia once
introduced her to. This nocturnal escapade has taken a significant toll on her
during the daylight hours, leaving her in a state of chronic fatigue
characterized by a noticeable pallor and a decline in her physical strength. In
stark contrast, the night transforms her into a vibrant and energetic
individual, occasionally exhibiting an unsettlingly aggressive demeanor. It is
evident that she is experiencing emotional withdrawal, as her behavior suggests
a disconnection from her surroundings and a struggle to engage with her
emotions in a healthier manner.
I
ensure that she consistently adorns herself with a crucifix around her neck, which
is for protection. However, the instant I divert my attention, she discreetly
discards it, casting it aside as if it holds no significance. Once it is out of
my view, she swiftly removes the crucifix and carelessly tosses it away.
Last
night, as the clock struck midnight, she abruptly rose from her bed, propelled
by an unexpected surge of energy, and uttered a phrase in German that resonated
in my ears with startling clarity. I am almost certain that the words she spoke
were: "Denn die Todten reiten schnell." This phrase echoed in my
memory, as I had first encountered it many years ago during a nocturnal journey
through the eerie Borgo Pass in Transylvania. At that time, one of my fellow
passengers in the coach had uttered the same words upon witnessing the arrival
of Count Dracula's private carriage. In that moment, Dracula, who was cleverly
disguised as the coachman, responded with a chilling smile that revealed his
hard mouth, vividly red lips, and sharp, ivory-white teeth. The sight was
enough to instill terror in the hearts of the other passengers, who
instinctively turned away and crossed themselves in a desperate attempt to ward
off the impending dread.
Upon
hearing the chilling words uttered by Mina, a wave of fear washed over me,
leaving me to ponder the origins of such a phrase. The expression "Denn
die Todten reiten schnell," which translates to "For the dead travel
fast," struck me with a profound sense of dramatic irony that I had
previously overlooked. Initially, when I encountered this phrase from a fellow
traveler at Borgo Pass, I dismissed it as mere superstition, clouded by Victorian
logic and modern reason. However, my experiences during my time with Count
Dracula have unveiled a deeper, more sinister meaning behind those words. I
have come to understand that the dead who were touched by the Count are not at
rest; rather, they are in constant motion, seeking, hunting, and encroaching
upon the realm of the living.
The
unsettling question arose: how did Mina come to possess this phrase? When she
spoke it, I sensed a disturbing reflection of her psychological deterioration
and the gradual erosion of her humanity. I find myself questioning whether it
is Dracula or Sister Felicia who is attempting to infiltrate her mind. Is Mina
merely a vessel for the vampire's voice, or has she become an unwitting
participant in a dark and malevolent game?
The
door was firmly secured, reinforced by an additional padlock and an iron chain,
measures I had taken to ensure Mina's safety during her episodes of
somnambulism. Despite my precautions, I was caught off guard when Mina
unexpectedly rose from her bed, revealing that she was in a deep state of
sleepwalking. In an attempt to restrain her, I reached out, but her unexpected
strength was overwhelming; with a forceful shove, she sent me tumbling off the
bed. Undeterred, she approached the door, and with a single, powerful push, she
managed to break through the locked barrier, shattering not only the door lock
but also the iron padlock and chain that I had believed would keep her secure.
The sheer, unexplainable strength she exhibited in that moment left me
bewildered and fearful, as she stepped into the darkness.
I
came to the stark realization that I lacked the physical strength necessary to
overpower her, and it became evident that there was no feasible way to halt her
advance. In that moment of desperation, my only recourse was to call out for help.
Responding to my urgent plea, a group of young monks quickly approached, and I
directed them towards the path she had taken. Without hesitation, the monks
pursued her trail, ultimately discovering her wandering through the forest
under the cover of darkness. The task of bringing her back proved to be
immensely challenging, yet they persevered. As they attempted to guide her
home, Mina resisted, prompting the monks to restrain her and keep a vigilant
watch over her until the first light of dawn. As the night wore on, her
agitation gradually subsided, and by the time morning arrived, she had found a
sense of tranquility, falling into a deep sleep reminiscent of a small child.
In
the early hours of the day, Dom Boniface arrived to perform a ritual of
spiritual purification, asserting that Mina was ensnared by the malevolent
influence of Sister Felicia. He proclaimed that Mina was not merely afflicted
but was, in fact, possessed by a demonic force that sought to seize complete
control over her physical being and mental faculties.
According
to Dom Boniface, this possession was manifesting as a phenomenon known as Dual
Consciousness, which indicated a struggle within Mina's psyche that needed to
be addressed urgently. He emphasized the necessity of combating the evil entity
attempting to infiltrate her soul, as it was part of a larger, sinister agenda
orchestrated by Dracula. The ultimate aim of this dark force, as articulated by
Dom Boniface, was to instill despair, undermine human faith, and render
humanity feeling utterly despicable and unworthy of divine love. He elaborated
that Sister Felicia was acting as an agent of this malevolence, systematically
eroding Mina's identity and personality in the process.
Dom
Boniface shared with me the results of his extensive research into the
enigmatic figure of Sister Felicia, a character steeped in darkness and
intrigue, who is said to have emerged from the depths of hell to serve under
the notorious Count Dracula. According to his findings, Sister Felicia is
believed to be the vessel for the malevolent spirit of Darya Saltykova, an
infamous 18th-century Russian noblewoman whose legacy is marred by her heinous
acts as a ruthless killer. Saltykova's reign of terror was marked by the brutal
torture and murder of 138 peasants, predominantly young women, including
brides-to-be, from whom she derived a twisted sense of power and gratification
as they suffered and pleaded for mercy. Following her capture, she was condemned
to a life of imprisonment, confined to a dark, windowless dungeon within a
convent, where her final years were characterized by profound isolation and a
gradual descent into madness. In her cell, she would often lash out at
passersby, hurling insults and exhibiting erratic behavior, a reflection of her
tormented psyche. Upon her death in 1801, it is said that her soul descended
into hell, where it was subsequently claimed by Sister Felicia, who, empowered
by Saltykova's dark essence, set her sights on Mina, a young and devoted wife,
as her next target.
I
recounted to Dom Boniface the tormenting details of Mina's past, specifically
her "vampiric baptism," a dark initiation that irrevocably tied her
to Count Dracula's lineage through the act of consuming his blood. This act not
only marked her as his "companion" but also ensnared her within the
confines of his unholy family, a fate that was both violent and inescapable. I
described the moment when Van Helsing pressed the Sacred Wafer against Mina's
forehead; the immediate and excruciating burn it inflicted left a lasting scar,
a vivid reminder of her connection to Dracula that persisted until we
ultimately vanquished him. Strikingly, the scar vanished the instant Count
Dracula met his demise. After a moment of contemplation, Dom Boniface expressed
a grave concern: should Dracula ever be resurrected, the bond forged through
blood would reactivate, re-establishing the connection that had been dormant
since his death. He explained that while the source of the blood link had been
destroyed, it had not been erased from Mina's history; rather, it lay in wait,
ready to awaken should Dracula return to life. This resurrection would not only
reopen the psychic doorway between them but would also render Mina's mind susceptible
to the insidious influence of a vampire once more, marking her as
"endangered" and tainted by evil. The weight of this revelation
filled me with dread, as I feared for Mina's safety and felt an overwhelming
sense of impending loss, believing that this time, we might be without
salvation. Nevertheless, Dom Boniface reassured me, emphasizing that through
faith in God and the power of Christ, we could confront and ultimately overcome
this malevolent force.
6th May
Dom
Boniface is consistently engaged in spiritual cleansing sessions with Mina, and
she is beginning to show some signs of responsiveness to the process. However,
there are troubling developments during the night when she occasionally awakens
with an overwhelming surge of strength and a compelling, almost demonic, desire
to flee into the forest. In response to these alarming episodes, a group of
young monks has been assigned to monitor her during the night, ensuring her
safety by physically restraining her should she attempt to leave the confines
of her quarters. Conversely, during the daylight hours, Mina exhibits a sense
of calmness and, at times, appears to revert to her former self, which adds a
layer of complexity to her condition. This nighttime turmoil has escalated into
a significant concern.
Today,
James Murry and his wife visited Mina, but they made the decision to leave
Quincy at home. I find solace in their choice, as I believe Quincy should be
shielded from the distress caused by his mother's illness and her ongoing
suffering. While I hold the conviction that Mina's condition stems from demonic
possession, James is firmly convinced that she is experiencing a nervous
breakdown and would benefit from the expertise of a reputable physician, such as
Sir William Macewen in Glasgow. Given the strength of his arguments and the
slow pace of Mina's recovery, I have concluded that it would be prudent to take
Mina to consult with Dr. William Macewen.
(The end of Part 5)
