#But this time it's more like father and daughter and Van Helsing is not a living threat to Lucy

[immediatebreakfast]

This entry is really good in exemplifying the gothic themes around Lucy, and the men that now surround her because of her illness. It's not only the gift of the medicine flowers and the promise of silence, it's how Van Helsing has been acting in a more so paternal like way towards Lucy up to today that she now has enough information to put on the correct act once again.

"These are for you, Miss Lucy," he said. "For me? Oh, Dr. Van Helsing!" "Yes, my dear, but not for you to play with. These are medicines." Here Lucy made a wry face. 

Van Helsing, and Lucy's dynamic it's both simple, and complicated once one is aware of what kind of power he can have over her, even without meaning it. Our professor is a very much older, wiser, and a little bit intimidating man while Lucy is the perfect picture of a victorian young lady. So, it's not really a surprise that Lucy immediatly shapes her attitude to play in a social dynamic in which Van Helsing has the benefit.

If Van Helsing unintentionally wants to act like a father towards Lucy, then her only cards to play is act like a daughter. I say unintentionally because Van Helsing never overstep from his role of doctor in the more practical sense, but sentiments and human emotion don't have lines cut in steel. I think this is also amplified with the absence of a literary father figure in the Westenra household.

"No trifling with me! I never jest! There is grim purpose in all I do; and I warn you that you do not thwart me. Take care, for the sake of others if not for your own." Then seeing poor Lucy scared, as she might well be, he went on more gently: "Oh, little miss, my dear, do not fear me. I only do for your good; but there is much virtue to you in those so common flowers. 

Van Helsing telling Lucy what the garlic flowers are for, but also including that she cannot "play" with them, mentioning how he could tell Arthur about her scrunching her nose, downright scolding her for questioning the flowers then comforting her when he noticed Lucy's fear. All of these acts let us see how Van Helsing is infatilizing Lucy which extends in how the gothic criticizes the social roles that allow Van Helsing to do this in the first place.

In the gothic genre, masculinity is presented as a threatening power depending on who wields it. Is It a father, a villain, a lover, a suitor? No matter who, all of them represent an anxiety, a fear, or a reflection of the attitudes of the victorian era that the Gothic aims to show.

Lucy is a gothic damsel whose age, gender, and illness makes her extremely vulnerable to the social expectations of the time, so in response, she uses her social wits to make the best out of a situation when she finds herself in front of someone who can put power over her. This is why Lucy acts more childish towards Van Helsing as he lectures her on (specifically) obedience. It's almost the picture of a father teaching his daughter to both obey, and listen.

[vickyvicarious]

I think I may have found a Van Helsing-Mina dynamic pattern. Mina piping in to show that she knows something that Van Helsing just asked but wasn't expecting her to know.

First, it was when they first met and Van Helsing doubts her having "good memory for facts, for details?" as it's "not always so with young ladies", and then Mina going "I'll do you one better" and then trolling him a little with a sleigh of shorthand. Van Helsing praises her.

Now Van Helsing says

"To begin, have you ever study the philosophy of crime? ‘Yes’ and ‘No.’ You, John, yes; for it is a study of insanity. You, no, Madam Mina;"

Then Mina doesn't say "actually, I have", she instantly proves his assumption wrong. She begins dropping Latin as much as he just did, and cites two contemporary sources on the philosophy of crime (though it's all now debunked pseudoscience) to back up her assessment on Dracula's mind.

I wish I could think of a way to maintain this banter in an adaptation but without a different subject matter, like the study 15th century history instead of criminology.

Anyway, Van Helsing ends up praising her again.

On a slightly different vein, another Van Helsing-Surprise Mina dialogue, followed by his praise:

“When does the next train start for Galatz?” said Van Helsing to us generally . “At 6:30 to-morrow morning!” We all started, for the answer came from Mrs. Harker. (...) "Wonderful woman," Van Helsing murmured.

I don't know if it's a teacher/student dynamic or teacher/young teacher...

Yes, it's so fun! I especially like the way she doesn't get all offended and interrupt to tell him "actually, I-" each time. It's a very characteristic detail. But just as important is the way she doesn't just meekly let his assumptions stand. Instead, she simply demonstrates her knowledge to him, proving that he really shouldn't make underestimate her. And he's astonished and impressed every time because he keeps doing it anyway and it's always fun to watch happen.

It's definitely a recurring detail. The shorthand diary, to an extent also Jonathan's diary, when she anticipated the need to not tell her things after she'd been bitten, when she surprises him with the news that she needs to come along with them, knowing the train schedule (though that was less focused on her from his part), the criminology discussion...

Not every single time I mention is as clearly expressed in dialogue with the exact pattern you pointed out, but in general we keep seeing him thinking she wouldn't know something or needs to be protected from something, only to then find out she's already thinking the same thing if not well ahead of him.

It feels like Van Helsing keeps defaulting to teacher/student or even father/daughter (in a paternalistic benevolent sexism way). But Mina just keeps quietly proving that no, actually they're equals. I guess that could lean towards teacher/young teacher (which actually, they literally were to an extent - Van Helsing was Seward's professor back in the day and before her marriage Mina was an assistant teacher) though it doesn't feel quite analogous to me for reasons I can't put into words.

As for the pseudoscience... I do think the best way to get around it would be to discuss more generally history or battle tactics. Focusing even more on Dracula's past and personality, and Van Helsing's own expectation of what kind of education a man would have had (he has to expect Jack to know it, after all, unless that is changed too) versus a woman. Unfortunately that loses the association of modernity, but I'm not sure what a better option would be to still get across the idea there while maintaining the direction of the conversation.

[icycoldninja]

I actually didn’t expect you to do my request ( the Van Helsing one ) since I’m used to my request being ignored but I’m thankful nevertheless

Can you make a headcanon of the DMC men with a reader who is basically the daughter of Loki, the bastard offspring of the Jotunn.

She’s a deity who is forsaken by the other gods, including her father due to her grotesque form. In order to be accepted, she wears a disguise of a woman but her real form looks somewhat like this and the reason for her disguise is that she herself detest that form because that’s the reason of her father’s abandonment and she fears that anyone close to her would leave the same way he did when they found out who she truly is.

She’s a deity who guards the Norwegian forest and basically turn anyone into a “Twitter hashtag” if they do not respect nature, take more than what’s given and skim through their subconscious to find they’d done bad deed

( Her abilities and appearance based on the 2017 The Ritual’s Moder )

Bro, I'd never ignore a request, even if I had to turn it down, I'd still say something. Here you go and enjoy! 💜💜

Sparda boys + V x daughter of Loki!Reader headcannons

¤ Dante ¤

-Your human disguise captivated Dante; it was more beautiful than any woman he'd ever seen.

-When he saw your true nature, and how you'd been shunned for it, he immediately walked over, threw his arms around your neck, and told you he still loved you no matter what you looked like.

-He tells you that there's no need to feel ashamed of your abilities, and that your dad abandoned you cause he was a jerk, not because of anything you did. You are amazing person, with supernatural powers that you should be proud of.

-He honestly found it kinda cool that you guarded forests and destroy those who disrespect nature and commit evil deeds. It's what he would do if he were a mighty, magical deity.

-He considers moving to Norway to be closer to you, but he first has to figure out how to relocate Devil May Cry.

-Really, really, really wants to ride on your back but is worried your spine will break or will poke him in places he shouldn't be poked in.

■ Vergil ■

-Vergil was impressed when he saw your true form, as it was a testament of your POWER.

-He was astounded when you told him your father abandoned you and that you had been shamed for your true nature. Why would anyone do that? Vergil was sure you had to have been the coolest deity in heaven--there is absolutely no reason for you to resent your true self.

-He motivates you to accept who you are, but he won't stop you from using your human disguise because it is quite beautiful.

-Spends more time outdoors, specifically in the forest, because he knows you guard them.

-He has nothing to say about what you do to those who disrespect the forest or commit bad deeds because he simply doesn't care, but wonders if you would use these powers to kill demons.

-He can feel it when you scan his mind and decides to mentally tell you he loves you whenever you do.

□ Nero □

-Nero saw your human form and was enthralled; you're the hottest chick he'd ever met.

-Then he saw your true form, and was absolutely terrified, which is understandable considering his girlfriend just morphed and changed into a monster straight out of a horror movie before his eyes.

-It takes him a moment, but then he pulls himself together and reminds himself that you are still you and...hey...this whole monster thing is starting to work for him.

-He's sorry to hear how you were treated because of your lineage and abilities, and promises to not let you feel that way about yourself again.

-He is proud of you and what you do, taking the time to head to the forests to visit you whenever he can.

-He also constantly reminds you that you are worth more than the world and that you are an amazing deity whom he will always love, even if you're a scary monster.

● V ●

-V was attracted to you, though not because of your human disguise. It was because of something else.

-You just captivated him, for no discernable reason. This reason was soon unveiled when you revealed your true and terrifying self to him.

-Though some might be disgusted or even frightened, V was amazed, charmed; bewitched. He'd never seen anything like this and he loved it.

-V can't take his eyes off you, his hungry gaze searching over you, memorizing each and every detail. He's going to write so many poems about you.

-He loves you and wants you to know you were cast out for a ridiculous reason. You are incredible; you always will be, and you should be proud of who you are.

-Makes sure to tell you that every chance he gets, either through poetry, his own words, or both.

[soulsforscrapbooks]

How the Dracula Stage Play Influenced Future Adaptations

So I wanted to let people know about the stage adaptation of Dracula, because it established a lot of tropes that have come to define the novel as well as vampire fiction in general, despite the fact that large changes were made when bringing the book to the stage. Sometimes, honestly, it seems like more adaptations pull from the play than the book. Okay:

The original stage adaptation of Dracula was written in 1897 by Stoker himself! Here you can see the manuscript in his own hand:

Apparently he hated how it turned out, because he called it “dreadful” and it was performed only once and then never again. The role of Mina was played by Edith Craig, a well-known figure in the suffragist movement and the daughter of Ellen Terry, Stoker's friend, whom he mentions in the book. The next attempt at adapting the novel would not be until the 1920s, after Stoker had died.

The 1924 adaptation by Hamilton Deane stays fairly close to the events of the novel. Some key points:

The entirety of the action takes place in the Harkers' house

Mina and Jonathan are already married

Dracula is already in England, and the storyline involving Jonathan as a prisoner of the Count has been omitted

To accommodate the female members of his theater troupe, Quincy is now a woman! Her name is still Quincy, and she is described as “feisty,” and is a close friend of Jonathan and Mina. (There don’t seem to be any photos from the 1924 play, sadly.)

It is in this first major adaptation that the idea of the Count as suave and debonair is brought into existence. This change is to allow Dracula to interact more easily onstage with the other characters, whereas in the book he stays an offscreen threat for large amounts of time. This is also the first instance of Dracula wearing a high-collared pointy cape, which was originally done to hide the actor better whenever Dracula had to “disappear” through trapdoors. 

Here is Raymond Huntley as Dracula in the 1924 stage adaptation:

The play was a success, and quickly moved to Broadway:

This version, adapted by John Balderston, was a complete revision not just from the book but from the 1924 stage play, and a LOT of changes were made:

Quincy, Arthur, and MINA have been removed from the story. Mina is mentioned as having died mysteriously before the play takes place.

Jonathan’s relationship to Dracula has been completely removed. He is not involved with bringing the Count to England at all. He is also now wealthy, and has traveled Europe extensively, where he has heard folktales about vampires.

Lucy is now engaged to Jonathan, and her last name is now Lucy Seward. This is because……..

John Seward has been aged up and is now Lucy’s father. 

The action takes place at Seward’s house/asylum.  

Renfield is allowed to just sort of…wander around Seward’s house when the plot requires him to be there. He gets dragged away by attendants whenever he needs to be offstage. He also survives. 

The Broadway version also made large changes in characterization:

Lucy is weak and feeble when we meet her in the play. She is helplessly preyed upon by Dracula, and yet is sexually tempted by him when under a trance. She and Dracula share a passionate kiss at the end of Act II, right before she willingly exposes her neck for him to bite. 

Jonathan is still concerned for Lucy as she is slowly turned, but he is more wary of her and goes along willingly with Van Helsing’s ideas regardless of how Lucy feels.

Renfield is portrayed as actively malicious, through fearful and subservient to the Count. 

Seward is seen as a strong-willed father who leads his asylum with a firm and confident hand. He believes Van Helsing more readily when confronted with the existence of vampires.

Dracula himself is once again depicted as charming and suave, and he spends time during the first act as a mysterious but pleasant dinner guest of the Sewards.

Despite these massive revisions, the Broadway version was a hit, partially to due the charisma of Bela Lugosi, who originated the role. (Below is Bela Lugosi as Dracula along with Seward, Van Helsing, Jonathan Harker, and Renfield on the floor:)

Bela Lugosi, of course would go on to star in the 1931 film adaptation. Other famous stage Draculas include Jeremy Brett and Frank Langella (Langella's revival would also give us this amazing Edward Gorey art:)

So we can see that the stage plays influenced many versions that would later come, as well as the idea of vampires in pop culture at large. It’s interesting how the motifs and themes we expect when we hear the word “Dracula” were actually the creation of people besides the author, and these differences don't seem to have been majorly disputed in the last 100 years. Has this happened with other classic novels? I'm not sure, but I'd love to see an accurate adaptation of Dracula in stage or film form, and see how it might influence filmmakers and directors for the future.

[princesschas-blog]

Sano x Angelica - The beginning Chapter 1

The beginning

Chapter 1

The clock struck 8. It was time. Angelica stood straight, with faded brownish-pink hair reaching to her knees, clouded green eyes, and a few stray beauty marks pricked her skin, in a uniform drenched in black, despite her petite body,  made her look more dignified and proper, she held her chin high and a briefcase by her side. She was the daughter of Gabriel Vanhelsing, the multi-billionaire demon hunter, who was the current head of the Vanhelsing clan; he was one of the thousands before him, holder of the title “Gabriel,” given by God himself. Angelica had every right to hold her head high, she was practical royalty. 

There, who cautiously stepped into the lobby of the luxurious Helsing Plaza, were the ambassadors of The Demon Integration Alliance, otherwise known as the D.I.A., their leader, Joseph F. Lee led from the front and upon greeting the young heiress, he bowed, took her gloved hand, and kissed an emerald green ring that glittered on her pointer finger.

“It is an honor to meet you, Ms. Van Helsing.”

Angelica’s eyes idly remained at the top of his head, then flicked up to stare daggers into the five wary members behind him, those eyes, that face, the epitome of beauty, as she was known for across the country. She studied in uneasy silence, like she was burning their faces into her head. Perhaps to hunt them later. Then she smiled.

“...Likewise, Sir. Lee, but please, call me Angelica.”

“Yes, yes of course, Angelica…”

He seemed surprised, but did his best to keep it from showing.

“Ah…allow me to introduce our head ambassadors. They are the most prevalent members, who’ve done much for our cause.”

“I’m sure.”

Angelica nodded, and signaled with her hand, urging him for introductions. A red headed woman spoke up first, holding her hand out to shake Angelica’s.

“My name is Karina. Karina Grey.”

Angelica took her hand in hers. 

“A pleasure.”

She stated softly. 

“Seungbin Choi.”

“Segun Barlow.”

Their introductions were short, all except for the last one. He patted the man’s shoulder affirmatively and smiled,

“This. This is Dr. Kojima. One of my leads, his healthcare is infamous, I’m sure you already know, progressing research by decades, and very passionate about the integration movement.”

Angelica looked up, he was a big man, standing tall at at least six-foot-five. His hair, slicked back, was black, darker than her uniform, he wore blue square lenses, behind them were his heterochromatic blue and gray eyes, and even with the pinkish scar carved across his olive toned face, he was deathly handsome. His aura itself was intimidating, but she knew him, he was the adoptive son of Cain Zeitgeist, yes, she was all too familiar. 

“Sano Kojima.”

His deep droll sounded, 

“Pleased to be your acquaintance. Ms. Angelica.”

“You must be proud of your accomplishments, their quite impressive,”

She followed with a small chuckle, and Sano nodded.

“Of course.”

As her gaze lingered across each one of them, she caught wind of the tension painted on their faces. There was no mistaking it, their defenses were up, and they were ready to pounce. The collective few noticed the plaza’s lifelessness, the absence of human life. All but Angelica.

“I won’t strike if you don’t.”

Her voice broke through the thick air, and she pushed her glasses further up the bridge of her small nose. The glint of light blocking the sight of her eyes.

“It’s only a precaution. I pray you understand. Do not worry. You are protected here. As we agreed upon.”

Angelica spun on her heel and began to stride towards the elevator.

“Well, We shouldn’t stall any further. My father is growing impatient.”

They reluctantly followed suit, entering the elevator with her, as she hit the button for the 100th floor. The silence felt so loud, but as soon as they landed on the 100th floor and the elevators opened she spoke again,

“Follow me.”

She led them down a corridor, and to two giant double doors, where they slowly creaked open. Inside was a large wooden table, a hanging glass chandelier, and windows overlooking New York City as the sun began to set.

“Father.”

Angelica bowed her head, and walked to sit beside him at the long meeting table. There were only a few attendants, one who took Angelica’s coat, one attempting to take care of the ambassadors and another who set refreshments down. Gabriel stood up.

“Welcome to our home.”

He smiled, but the sunset shining through the big glass windows blocked out his face.

“You have met my beautiful daughter already, yes? These are my sons, Micahelis and Ezekiel.”

Angelica watched from her seat as they exchanged pleasantries, greetings and small conversation. Soon after, they took their designated spots, Gabriel sat down and hummed.

“Where do we start…hmm? How about your cause? What is it exactly that you want?”

He lit a cigar and leaned forward, resting a hand near his lips.

“Well. Mr. Van Helsing.”

“Gabriel.”

“Ah-Gabriel. Our main goal is to push for a complete integration of the demon race, by the end of the year.”

“Five months. How bold.”

“Yes, but surely you can see-”

“Why do you need us?”

Angelica lowered her head.

“Our family is quite busy.”

 “ The safety of millions of human lives weighs on our shoulders. This...would only serve to burden us further.”

“Mr.Gabriel. We are well aware. Which is why I have sought your family out. We need your support, to bring an end to demon hunting. Not only protect the lives of humans, but demons too. Surely you know the struggle we face with the underground, people who are trying to discern our organization's efforts.”

Sano watched as the smaller of the four looked to the side, as her brothers and father shared stern glances.

“Demons. Demons who discern your efforts. But Why should we help you? You are not people, you have no humanity, you are not God’s creations.”

“With all due respect, Dr. Kojima was born between a human and a naga, so does he retain only half of his humanity? Only half you should protect? There are more like him.”

Gabriel quickly countered him.

“I know what he is. I know who his grandfather is too. Raised by that man, I can only imagine what has influenced him.”

Sano scowled, then scoffed.

“Is that so?”

Sano spoke lowly, 

“What your… “Hunters” do, how is that any different then brutal genocide?”

“Genocide of a race that has threatened the livihoods of good people…and what good are you? Who is born of sin?”

“This is a peace meeting, we don’t need to throw unnecessary slander.”

Karina interjected, she crossed her arms as she frowned, feeling offended by his words.

“I concur.”

Muttered the now stoic Segun. That helped nothing, however, words began to be thrown back and forth. Angelica seemed in a daze, looking down at her now cold tea. As the bickering amongst those at the table began to rise. Both parties talking over one another, even her brothers throwing shots. A grimace arose on her face as she felt overwhelmed by the constant dispute. Her fist hit the table, silencing the parties, signaling her father. She slowly signed with her hands.

“Father.”

She locked eyes with Mr.Lee, and for a split second, Sano.

“You are not listening. Father. Hear them out. I believe you are looking over a valuable possibility.”

Her eye contact switched back to her father, as he seemed to suddenly understand her position.

“Speak, Annie.”

“I personally, do not see the issue with bringing upon the end of demon hunting. It has always been an exhaustion of our resources, and overwhelming for our forces.”

She paused.

“That does not mean I wish to end it completely. Rather, I think it's time we began to shift our focus onto demons who pose immediate threats to the well-being of the people and demons themselves. It has been impossible to keep the underground contained and subdued with the amount of concern we place on demons and devils as a whole. It's festering. If we do nothing about it now, it will be a bigger problem in the future.”

Gabriel thought for a moment, and before he could speak Micahelis agreed,

“She is correct. Father. I believe it to be a better course of action.”

“We can change the name too.”

Ezekiel mumbled.

“Well…I don't see why not.”

Gabriel reluctantly voiced.

“Then, I also think it will support our family. Not only will the human race back the C.C.E, but the demon race too. It could prove to be beneficial later on. Nothing is wrong with good press.”

Angelica locked her fingers, and rested her chin on her hands.

“And one more thing…”

Angelica hummed.

“perhaps…we can fix a marriage proposal. A form of union. And a symbol to both kinds of unity, I think it would make a pretty good covenant.”

There was a hush stillness in the room, as they anxiously awaited Mr. Gabriel and his response. The D.I.A. would not hesitate to accept such a term, it benefited them too much to refuse. He was a little stunned, but realization settled in as he understood just exactly what his daughter was inferring. An arranged marriage, Gabriel had been searching for a suitable partner for her all this time, and there it was, his golden ticket. Angelica, marrying one of the ambassadors, easier to control, meant access to confidential information, and she could be his eyes. Although, he didn’t know who he would choose, it would be one of six present in the room. 

“Ambassador Lee, do you agree with such terms?”

Gabriel cocked his head, dabbing his cigar out in a tin tray. While Joseph Lee looked for approval, he quickly spoke.

“Yes. We can make something work.”

Gabriel chuckled, a foreboding, sinister chuckle. 

“Then let’s talk details.”

[ninadove]

Nina reads Dracula 🦇

September 21st 💜🕊️🎂

Happy birthday to me! Let’s all celebrate at Lucy’s funeral. 🎉

"She makes a very beautiful corpse, sir. It's quite a privilege to attend on her. It's not too much to say that she will do credit to our establishment!"

Mayyybe keep that thought to yourself.

I noticed that Van Helsing never kept far away. This was possible from the disordered state of things in the household. There were no relatives at hand; and as Arthur had to be back the next day to attend at his father's funeral, we were unable to notify any one who should have been bidden.

Someone hold him

You forget that I am a lawyer as well as a doctor.

In another life, Van Helsing was Dracula’s pet sollicitor…

For me, I watch here in the room and in Miss Lucy's old room all night, and I myself search for what may be. It is not well that her very thoughts go into the hands of strangers.

OK I really like him.

I want to cut off her head and take out her heart.

GDHJSKSLSKSJS OKAY

Friend John, I pity your poor bleeding heart; and I love you the more because it does so bleed. If I could, I would take on myself the burden that you do bear. But there are things that you know not, but that you shall know, and bless me for knowing, though they are not pleasant things.

Mayyybe do not keep these thoughts to yourself.

"You need not trouble about the knives; we shall not do it."

"Why not?" I asked. For his solemnity of the night before had greatly impressed me.

"Because," he said sternly, "it is too late—or too early. See!" Here he held up the little golden crucifix. "This was stolen in the night."

"How, stolen," I asked in wonder, "since you have it now?"

"Because I get it back from the worthless wretch who stole it, from the woman who robbed the dead and the living. Her punishment will surely come, but not through me; she knew not altogether what she did and thus unknowing, she only stole. Now we must wait."

The readers wondered why Van Helsing would not trust the maids.

Oooooh but he was right all along!!!

During lunch he told us that Mrs. Westenra had for some time expected sudden death from her heart, and had put her affairs in absolute order; he informed us that, with the exception of a certain entailed property of Lucy's father's which now, in default of direct issue, went back to a distant branch of the family, the whole estate, real and personal, was left absolutely to Arthur Holmwood. When he had told us so much he went on:—

"Frankly we did our best to prevent such a testamentary disposition, and pointed out certain contingencies that might leave her daughter either penniless or not so free as she should be to act regarding a matrimonial alliance. Indeed, we pressed the matter so far that we almost came into collision, for she asked us if we were or were not prepared to carry out her wishes. Of course, we had then no alternative but to accept. We were right in principle, and ninety-nine times out of a hundred we should have proved, by the logic of events, the accuracy of our judgment. Frankly, however, I must admit that in this case any other form of disposition would have rendered impossible the carrying out of her wishes. For by her predeceasing her daughter the latter would have come into possession of the property, and, even had she only survived her mother by five minutes, her property would, in case there were no will—and a will was a practical impossibility in such a case—have been treated at her decease as under intestacy.

She must have known, somehow. Damn this is sad.

I did so, and left him at the door of the room, as I felt he would like to be quite alone with her, but he took my arm and led me in, saying huskily:—

"You loved her too, old fellow; she told me all about it, and there was no friend had a closer place in her heart than you. I don't know how to thank you for all you have done for her. I can't think yet...."

Dracula characters: raising the bar for men since 1897

"Jack, is she really dead?"

"I only used that name because I was in doubt. I must not call you 'Mr.,' and I have grown to love you—yes, my dear boy, to love you—as Arthur."

Arthur held out his hand, and took the old man's warmly.

Van Helsing strikes me as very lonely, and therefore distrustful of the people around him, while also craving their warmth… I don’t know if we get to learn more about his past, but something tells me he did not get the same kindness the locals showed Jonathan during his first encounter with the paranormal, and that left him stunted, in a way.

Perhaps this is part of the reason he doesn’t tell Jack the truth. So he can feel needed. Hmm.

"Call me what you will," he said. "I hope I may always have the title of a friend. And let me say that I am at a loss for words to thank you for your goodness to my poor dear." He paused a moment, and went on: "I know that she understood your goodness even better than I do; and if I was rude or in any way wanting at that time you acted so—you remember"—the Professor nodded—"you must forgive me."

You know, I’ve seen people complain Arthur doesn’t get a lot of personality, and I don’t necessarily disagree: he has one dominant characteristic, and that is his grief.

But isn’t it beautiful to be defined by what you’ve loved and lost?

"And as it is all yours, you have a right to deal with it as you will. I want you to give me permission to read all Miss Lucy's papers and letters. Believe me, it is no idle curiosity. I have a motive of which, be sure, she would have approved. I have them all here. I took them before we knew that all was yours, so that no strange hand might touch them—no strange eye look through words into her soul. I shall keep them, if I may; even you may not see them yet, but I shall keep them safe. No word shall be lost; and in the good time I shall give them back to you. It's a hard thing I ask, but you will do it, will you not, for Lucy's sake?"

🥺

"And you are right. There will be pain for us all; but it will not be all pain, nor will this pain be the last. We and you too—you most of all, my dear boy—will have to pass through the bitter water before we reach the sweet. But we must be brave of heart and unselfish, and do our duty, and all will be well!"

HELL YEAH TO THAT

… Is Quincey still outside? Does he even know Lucy’s dead???

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[mxsoyo]

Watching every Dracula adaptation! #2

Dracula (1931) starring Bela Lugosi

Next up is the first authorised film adaptation of Dracula. The movie is actually based on a play adaptation from 1924, which explains some of the changes they made.

Should you watch it? Yes, but not for the reasons you might think. The movie is very funny (not intentionally), great to watch with friends. It is also free to watch on the Internet Archive. It is still recognizably the story of Dracula, but a lot of the details have been changed, especially the characters, so beware of that if that bothers you.

↓ Character and Story Changes + notable moments under the keep reading. ↓

Character Changes: -Renfield takes up Jonathans role of the young solicitor traveling to Transylvania in the beginning of the movie. Until he is put under Draculas influence where goes back to his book version after that. Dwight Fryes performance as essentially both Jonathan and Renfield are both very entertaining. Like that man is giving 200%. -With Bela Lugosi starring as Dracula, this movie was definitely the starting point of the sexy-fication of the character. Even thought I think this Dracula has even worse social skills than his book counterpart. -Mina is actually Jack Seward’s daughter in the movie, I assume this change was made to explain why the main characters would be hanging around at the sanatorium. Personality wise she is a bit blander than her book counterpart, partially because she spents a good chunk of her screen time under Draculas influence. -John Harker (just John, not Jonathan in this version) has been definitely changed for the worse. They made him the sceptic that doesn’t understand what is going on and is constantly doubting Van Helsings advice. He feels a bit more like a douchy version of Arthur than Jonathan. -Like I said, Jack Seward is Mina’s father in this version and is the character in name only and in the fact that he owns a sanatorium. -Lucy (her surname has been changed to Weston) is a single girl since Arthur and Quincey don’t appear. She has a stronger interest in the macabre and has a small crush on Dracula (despite everything about him). -Van Helsing gets a lot of good lines in the movie, he seems a lot less eccentric, and Dracula remarks that he has heard of him. But he is not yet the badass expert vampire hunter later movies make of him. -The movie also added two prominent characters the sanitarium worker Martin the and nurse Briggs, which both serve as a kind of comic relief. Story Changes: -As far as I know this is the first time the female vampires (Draculas roommates) are referred to as his wives. -We get a lot more scenes from the point of view of Dracula -Dracula actually introduces himself to the main characters as their next door neighbour and casually comes over for conversation before they find out he’s a vampire -Lucy dies very shortly after being introduced, but the plotline of the gang trying to keep her alive was given to Mina instead - The ending is surprisingly anticlimactic. They find Dracula lying in his coffin in Carfax Abbey, Van Helsing kills him off-screen, while John looks for Mina. -Afterwards Van Helsing also says they should leave without him, they do and then the movie just ends

Notabel Moments: -The movie starts with Swan Lake out of all songs and then is dead silent when it comes to background music afterwards -The opossums and armadillos (classical Romanian wildlife)

-this GIANT BEE (totally not a normal sized Bee jerusalem cricket in a miniature coffin)

-The BATS!!! Oh my god the spirit halloween bats! The bat driving the carriage?! -the spirit halloween plastic spider on a string -”I never drink... wine.” is such an iconic line, that I was surprised it’s not from the book, this also goes for ”the strength of the vampire is that people will not believe in him” -The best scene in cinema history! I cant do it justice by explaining it, you’ll have to watch it yourself, it’s at 1:03:20

Next Up: Dracula (1958) starring Christopher Lee

[thewritersplace]

Writeblr Intro

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Hello, all!

My name is Kendra, and this is my writeblr introduction. It's a bit simple stylistically, but that's how I am. Now, onto the intro!

I'm currently twenty-seven, use she/her pronouns, and am an asexual, demiromantic, biromantic cisgender woman (may as well cover all the bases, right?). I was born and raised in Northern California, spent my undergraduate years in Oregon, and then returned to NorCal, where I still reside.

I have an MA in History, a BA in Religious Studies, and a double minor in History and Psychology.

I've been on this website for over a decade (via my main blog), and have been writing in general for almost fifteen years. I started out with original works, then discovered fanfiction, and worked solely on that for over a decade, before slowly venturing back into original works again. Nowadays, I write both concurrently, though I admittedly do still find fanfiction easier, and my original works often take a backseat to my fics. Yet, somehow, I've ended up with a (current) total of six WIPs — all of which I will introduce you to today.

It's been a long time since I've shared my original works with such a large audience, so I have some natural apprehension, but ultimately I'm looking forward to doing it again.

Now, without further ado, I present my WIPs!

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The Road To Eternity Is Paved With Blood (drafting)

Dracula's Daughter (outlining) (prequel/sequel to Road To Eternity)

The Wrath Of The Vampire Queen (outlining + drafting)

For The Love Of A Goddess (outlining)

The Other Side Of Paradise (outlining)

Red Thread Of Fate: Love In The Modern World (outlining + drafting)

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The Road To Eternity Is Paved With Blood is a Dracula retelling of sorts that was inspired largely by Hellsing, with other snippets of inspiration taken from Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992) and Dracula Untold (2014). The story begins in the 1880s, and extends at the very least to the early 1900s. It follows the life and times of Rose Rowan, a beautiful noblewoman, and her relationship with her husband, Vlad Draculea (former Voivode of Wallachia, and member of the House of Drăculești), as they navigate eternity and a life of vampirism together. Her twin brother, Judas, is also featured prominently — as are his experiences with vampirism, which contrasts some with his sister's. Of course, as with every good Gothic novel, there is darkness to be found within this tale. Abraham Van Helsing and his ilk have made it their mission to bring about the end of Vlad Draculea, and anyone connected to him. The challenge in this quest, however, lies in said connections that Vlad has — namely Rose, who will stop at nothing to protect him from the infamous vampire hunter. She will have her fairytale ending, even if it has to be achieved through darker means. For while the road to hell may be paved with good intentions, the road to eternity is paved with blood.

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Dracula's Daughter is a sequel/prequel to the above story, and focuses on Beáta, the daughter of Vlad from one of his late wives. She is also a vampire, and has been living for centuries, though largely on her own. She has lived many lives, and is a worldly young woman, though at the beginning of our story she has come home to Wallachia to see her father again after his most recent remarriage, and to meet his new wife. While she ultimately becomes fond of her new step-mother, she also has to contend with the sinister plotting of some of her father's immortal brides — namely The Queen — who would like nothing more than to rid Vlad of his new wife. Thinking herself as perhaps the only one who can bring peace and stability to the family, Beáta wrestles with who she should side with, or if she should side with anyone at all. There is more to her new step-mother than meets the eye, however, and Beáta soon finds that perhaps she is not as alone in this fight as she thought. In fact, for the first time in centuries, she has someone on her side who will fight with sharp claws and bloodied teeth to make sure such a conflict will never come to pass again.

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The Wrath Of The Vampire Queen is a story somewhat inspired by Dracula Untold (2014), as well as the life and times of Vlad the Impaler. The tale begins in the mid-1400s, where Vlad Draculea and his wife, Senka Slavkov (born Deirdre Delacroix) are navigating the wars and politics of his reign. It then extends well into several of the following centuries, where Senka is still searching for her husband centuries after his disappearance (which occurs some years after his historically recorded death). Her brother, Didier Delacroix (who adopted the name 'Renatus' upon arriving in Wallachia), a dhampir, accompanies her in her search, as they are the only family each has left, and his connections with the Church and various religious organizations consistently prove vital to their search. Senka believes she knows exactly who took her husband — Hungarian and Turkish enemies from his mortal life, now vampires themselves. Didier, however, is not so certain, as some things don't add up. Still, they both believe that Vlad is out there somewhere, and will continue their search until they find him — be it alive or truly dead. If it is the latter, then there will be no saving his former captors from the wrath of Senka Slavkov, the vicious and vindictive Vampire Queen.

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For The Love Of A Goddess is a story set in the present day, and follows two young women — Megara and Zarina — as they navigate their lives as best they can. These two women are the best of friends, and share in many things — including being chosen by two goddesses to be their mortal partners in this iteration of their immortal lives. Megara, a historian and religious studies scholar, caught the eye of Athena, who admired her intellect just as much as her beauty. Zarina, a librarian with a previous background in psychology, attracts the attention of Aphrodite, who finds her beauty to be dazzling, and the depth of her kindness and compassion to be a rare thing in such an egocentric world. While very happy with their respective partners, Megara and Zarina find that being with immortals comes with a variety of challenges — and not just the more obvious ones. Athena and Aphrodite are just two of an endless list of deities who are trying to survive in a growing atheist world, and if they lose this fight, they may very well disappear for good. Not wanting such a thing to occur, all four women come together to try and create a plan to prevent this disappearance from happening �� though they face difficulties in the form of other various deities not wanting to band together to save each other from extinction. After all, immortals are just as egocentric as the mortals they so often think of themselves as better than, and much more difficult to persuade. Thus, the four women must not only enact a plan to prevent the extinction of various deities, but also contend with the fact that they may be the only ones in this fight. With time very much not on their side, this group of mortals and immortals must figure out a way to ensure that they do not lose this existential battle, and keep the existence of so many deities alive.

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The Other Side Of Paradise is a retelling of Genesis in some ways, with the focus being on Lilith and Eve, rather than Adam and Eve. It begins in the Garden of Eden, with Eve pondering the idea of a world outside of the garden, and curiosity about her husband's alleged first wife, who had fled Eden long before Eve's creation. Eventually, Eve dared to venture to the edge of the garden, and it was there she saw Lilith. The two spoke over the wall, and met every day thereafter, eventually becoming friends. Lilith tried to get Eve to leave both Eden and Adam, but Eve was just the slightest bit apprehensive. Eventually, after tasting the forbidden fruit from the tree, Eve was expelled from the garden, and Lilith was there to greet her upon her exit. Eve, who was excited by the prospect of seeing the world, happily took Lilith's offered arm, and went off with her. The two spent many eons together, though not always in the same physical forms, as souls eventually begin to outlast bodies. In the present day, their souls have come to reside in the bodies of two young women who have never met, but are destined to find each other — as that is what souls do.

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Red Thread Of Fate: Love In The Modern World is a story about two young women, Shu Nazhi and Zhou Xue Li, who live in similar yet vastly different worlds. Shu Nazhi is a businesswoman who runs her family's company with the help of her older brother, Hou Zhu Zhi, and younger sister, Shu Nuan. Zhou Xue Li is a model, actress, and singer, who is down on her luck when it comes to love. The two are introduced by a mutual friend (Nazhi's foster sister of sorts, and Xue Li's close friend) under the guise of Nazhi being Xue Li's new bodyguard, and become close over the course of Nazhi's assignment. After Nazhi finds herself falling for Xue Li, she turns in her letter of resignation, and then promptly asks Xue Li out upon the latter's acceptance of said letter. Xue Li, already secretly head-over-heels in love, happily accepts, and the two spend the day doing various activities throughout the city. The relationship, blissful as it is, also comes with the complications of things like paparazzi, work commitments, as well as their differing personalities and lifestyles. As the two women navigate these challenges, they begin to wonder about what it would have been like to love each other in a different time, and if they ever did — for they know that the red thread of fate works in mysterious ways, and that some souls are always destined to find each other.

(Disclaimer: Zhou Xue Li was created by/belongs to @bwaldorf, who was kind enough to allow me to use her in my story)

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Tagging @bwaldorf, @veneritia, @helioselene,

@moariin, @socialmediasocrates, @lasbrumas

(Please ask to be added or removed from the taglist)

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[rosetyler42]

Ericka Pregnancy Dump Part 3!

1.Had the idea of Ericka reassuring Drac for a while, and I've been playing with the idea that, while Ericka is pregnant, Drac sometimes likes to stick around her when he can to make sure she's doing alright. Sometimes that includes him resting on her shoulder in bat form. Ericka, of course, doesn't really mind him being around, but she's still trying to keep him from fussing over her too much. After all, he worries enough as it is.

2. Speaking of Bat!Drac on Ericka's shoulder, I was in a sleepy cuddles mood again!

((Bonus: I hid some fun surprises in the registry book. XD))

3. With the 20th week just past, I thought I'd do Drac finding out that one of the twins is a boy which means he's finally having a son. (He loves that he's having another daughter too. I just thought I'd give the guy his moment since, judging by HT2, he did want a boy at some point.) Ericka's amused by his reaction and Mavis...well, after seeing her father dance in drag around the room after finding out about Dennis, she's not surprised.

Like Mavis, Ericka personally doesn't care what she gets. She's just happy her and Drac's monster-human legacy is actually happening. Whatever combination they come in. Mostly, they found out because these two are both planners who if they knew you COUKD find out before definitely would and plus... well, we've seen how Drac is when it comes to surprises and "Wait and see" situations. XD But beyond names and maybe clothes ("Even that's a matter of preference"), having one he didn't get to have last time etc. Ericka doesn't see why gender matters all that much. Van Helsing apparently didn't seem to care much what gender Ericka was, as long as she could do what was expected of her. Plus, she's also a martial artist. Which, in fighting, gender doesn't make as much of a difference as you'd think, and as a matter of fact female warriors are respected due to their ferocity (coming at it from a mental perspective of being an underdog.) I'm sure being Pan helps too. Her answer to "Do you want a boy or a girl?" Would most likely be "...I want babies." Either that, or just "Yes." XD

4. Wanted to draw some pregnancy stuff with Ericka and Mavis bonding (since Mavis has had a kid of her own already and they both became moms without having a mom themselves.) But I ended up making things feelsy. As much as they are two sides of the same coin, Ericka and Mavis came from very different worlds. And I kinda liked the idea that Mavis, being the more emotional and much less traumatized one of the two, could bring a nice outsider perspective, pointing out some of the more messed up things about Ericka's upbringing that she herself tends to be "This is fine. :)" about. Similar to how Ericka can be the practical brutally honest outsider perspective for Mavis. Plus, the idea of her getting upset on behalf of the stepmom she once tried to crush is both sweet and funny. XD

5.Some pregnant Drericka fluff inspired by some partner in love with pregnant belly prompts I found a while back involving the partner kissing the belly bump and tickling the other person. X3 Which is even sweeter with how touchstarved Ericka is and how strict her childhood was/how she was expected to act. Another one of those "bringing out each other's playful sides" things.

6/7. Was in a pregnant!Ericka mood yesterday morning. Ended up working on these longer than was intended but they turned out great. I've had the idea of Ericka discovering the "belly press-baby kick" game for a while. And of course loving/protective and Sleepy mama are always fun to do.

8. Dracula comforting an exhausted, achey, and very dramatic pregnant!Ericka as she flops onto his legs/lap.

Been meaning to do some Drericka fluff, and I had the "I'm going to be as big as the Legacy by the time they get here" joke for a while. Don't worry, as much as the guys joke, she's not going to get THAT big. They're just messing with her and Ericka's just being her usual dramatic self. As she would say "Look, hon, I can't help how I am. Being Dramatic is LITERALLY in my code. Besides, we're pretty much finding almost every possible way to void the human body warranty with these cute lil imps. And with almost ZERO idea what ANY of us are doing, I might add. I have EARNED my right to be dramatic."

9. Was in the mood for some Mama Ericka fluff. Plus, I haven't drawn Eve much lately. I like the idea of Eve being one of those cats who like cuddling up to their owner's pregnant belly/rubbing it with their paws and purring.

10. Some sleepy pregnancy fluff. While she IS willing to change position, Ericka's not about to give up her favorite pillow (Drac) just because she's having twins. She sleeps better hugging him and resting on his chest or shoulders where she can feel the rise and fall of his breathing anyway - the heartbeat is optional. (Plus, with her body temp higher than normal, the difference in body temp probabky feels REALLY good right now.)

@gothicthundra @ebevkisk @neo-storm @that-obsessed-gay-girl @sine-qua-noon @chica-chuu @animatedpixie @erickadracula @ericka-van-helsing @erickaanddraculasblog @ericka4ever @elenadracula @drericka @drericka-prompts @drericka-is-lyfe-blog @drerickastan @thenerdynightprincess13 @thesecreatoroftrans @f-mhoteltransylvaniacomicseries @kittyball23 @lovelylivelyv

[grimmswan]

Dracula in Storybrooke part 2

For Captain Swan Supernatural Summer 23

Once Upon a Time missing storyline/AU

Killian noticed a man staring at Emma.

He had on leather pants, leather boots, and his shirt was opened clear down to near his naval. Revealing a well toned chest.

“But greatly lacking in chest hair.” Killian thought smugly.

The man who introduced himself as Drake, gazed at Emma with fascination.

“My, my, you are by far the most beautiful creature I have ever seen. The very sun is dim in comparison to your golden hair.”

Killian rolled his eyes. Just who did this git think he was. It irritated him more to see that Emma was actually smiling at the fool.

Neither man knew it, but Emma’s smile was due to her seeing that the two men, who seemed to be trying to one up each other, were very much alike.

“I really must have a type.” She thought to herself.

Both men had dark hair, deep blue eyes, and accents.

Drake wore a shirt with most of the buttons undone, reminding Emma of Killian’s wardrobe before he started wearing modern clothes.

She sometimes wished Killian would go back to wearing those clothes, at least on some days. She had always loved how sexy and dangerous he looked.

Yet Killian was staring daggers at the man, as if he considered him a rival.

Killian didn’t like the pure hunger he saw in Drake’s eyes as he stared at Emma. It was too possessive.

“It’s strange how in this world, a woman can cover her whole body, and still her lovely form is revealed.” Drake’s eyes moved over Emma. “I look forward to discovering what other wonders this place has in store.”

“He’s a smooth one.” Granny commented. “My mother always said, “Beware of a silver tongue. It tends to lay next to the sharpest tooth.”

“He was awfully flirty with Emma.” Snow remarked in puzzlement. “She was pressed against Killian nearly the entire time. Obviously her heart belongs to him. But that didn’t stop Drake from showing his interest.”

“I think we need to keep a close eye on that guy.” Charming said with a scowl. Father’s instinct warned that Drake would bring nothing but trouble in his daughter’s life.

Just as the Sun had slipped under the horizon, one figure walked up to another in the shadows of the alleyway near Granny’s Diner.

"I would stay away from Emma Swan, if I were you. Captain Jones won't allow anyone to take her away from him."

"Captain Jones is a mortal. An ordinary simple man. What is he compared to one such as myself?"

 “Captain Killian Jones is far from being a simple man. The pirate captain has faced God's, demons, and monsters and survived. You may be powerful, but you are far from the worst thing Captain Hook has faced.

There is also Emma Swan. She is not going to be easily seduced away from the man she went to the underworld for. Especially not by a man spouting fancy words and performing magic tricks that she could beat. One would wonder what it is you think you can offer her? From what I heard, your grand castle is in ruin."

“There are other castles. From what I understand, there are two castles long since abandoned in another land. The former residents now live in this world. In this town. If I understand correctly, Emma Swan would inherit both, should something happen to those former owners.”

“Even you can not believe that you could charm a lady into accepting you after killing her entire family.”

“The blood lust made my other brides accept the same. I do not think Emma Swan will be any different.”

“I think you will find that Emma Swan will be very different. But you have a tendency to be far too confident in your own prowess to see reason. I still want to caution you. I feel I owe you something, since you once offered me immortality. Would have given it to me, if you hadn’t been outwitted.

 That bloodlust only works if you're in power. Mina was willing to forgive you in regard to her dearest friend Lucy when you blinded her with your seduction. But once Jonathan Harker and Dr. Van Helsing sealed you in that tomb, she reverted back to her old self. And she hated you for what you did.”

“I was careless. I didn’t anticipate Harker’s strength of spirit. Or his devotion to Mina. I shall use more patience. And will pay closer attention to the players. I underestimated my opponents before. I will not again.”

The Count from Transylvania smiled. “Despite your insistent loyalty to the man who stands between me and the woman who holds my salvation, it is good to see you again, Renfield.”

“It’s good to see you again, Vlad. But it’s Smee, now. Renfield got the reputation of a lunatic. No one would take him seriously. I had to change my name and do business in another port, to escape the shadow of your story.”

“Perhaps the ending to this story will be more to each of our likeings”

Smee didn’t say it, but he was certain this story’s end would be the same as the previous one.

"Emma, I think Count Drake is dangerous." Killian spoke in earnest, hoping to get her to understand that she should stay away from the man.

"I know he is. I think he's a vampire." She said it so matter of factly, it made Killian’s jaw drop.

"Oh, come on. Count Drake. Count Dracula. It was pretty obvious. Plus, he stayed away from the windows? Out of direct sunlight?"

Killian wanted to kick himself. His jealousy had blinded him to the real threat.

Emma wrapped her arms around Killian's neck. "You really need to stop being jealous of every guy who looks like he might be my type. I have my perfect man, the man I love, right here. I would never do anything to mess that up."

"I do trust you, love. It's me I don't trust. I can never be rid of the thought that I don’t deserve you. That you could have someone better."

Emma opened her mouth to argue with him, 

"I know what you're going to say, love. But knowing that you love me and think I'm a hero is far different than actually believing it myself."

Emma knew what Killian was saying. But she still wished she could find some way of convincing him how important he was to her.

He always knew what to say to help her understand how special she was to him. She wished she had his gift with words, so she could return the favor.

An idea on how to remind him that he was one of the most important people in her life came to her.

She might have been bad with words. But she was really good with her actions.

Drake snarled in frustration. He wanted to burst in through the window and tear the lovers apart. He vowed that he would find a way to kill Killian Jones, and take Emma Swan for himself.

Killian’s instincts warned him that the woman he loved was in danger. He couldn’t shake the feeling that all of these attacks were only a precursor to a much bigger problem.

He wanted to find out more about the beings that were called vampires. He believed that knowing your enemy was the best way in the path to defeating him.

And while he did not think that Whale was lying to the group, Killian was certain that the doctor did not actually know as much as he thought he did.

So Killian went to the one person who had traveled the many realms and has encountered various beings of power.

William Smee.

Killian suspected his former first mate knew more about what was going on than he had admitted.

Smee was not without his resources, he knew how to protect himself from the monsters that constantly invaded Storybrooke.

@cssns

[carnivorous-horses-lover]

For the ship bingo! (Sorry, I was in a hurry this morning and forgot 🤦‍♀️) Quincey Morris/Jack Seward, Beatrice Baudelaire/Bertrand Baudelaire/Lemony Snicket, and, since I remember you reblogged W.I.T.C.H. fanart recently and I'm reading the comics now, Irma Lair/Cornelia Hale?

Thank youuu ;))))) Apologies if the pictures are are a bit sloppy, I was editing them on my phone. This turned out longer than I expected, so I put them all under read more!

Quincey Morris/Jack Seward

I like them! I really do. Though, I will admit that I'm more insane interested with every side of suitor's trio that has Arthur in it - mostly because I feel like he's a bit underappreciated!

All three suitors are so tender with each other, and the way Jack immediately brightens when he sees Quincey while having the worst day of a no good very bad pretty terrible week is saying so much! Another thing about them: I feel like from outside perspective it might be surprising that this is not a friend of a friend situation? An amieble aristocrat being friends with wealthy American and a pretty well-off doctor is not too surprising, but two people with (seemingly) completely different interests and personalities!.. Except they like each other! A lot! They think the other one is delightful all around! And have common hobbies of being adventurous and ride-or-die for people they care about. Them being paired together for the last roadtrip is even more sad - they might've met on the roadtrip too!

It was probably comforting, to have the person you trust and love travelling with you again, especially because of how high the stakes were this time! But with your dear friend you both settle into familiar routine, and it makes you breathe easier.

And then it ends.

The another guy (s) is the rest of their friend group, including Lucy and the unnamed post-canon wives. Except Van Helsing, the proud father figure!

Lemonberry Ice~

OT3!! Throuples of any kind and formation are my weakness, my Achilles heel. So is angst. And Lemonberry ice caught me, hook, line and sinker! I love, love when a person who seems to be only in love with one of the couple has actually fallen for both! I love when the couple is also smitten with said person. I love when said person has to fake their death/pretend to be dead. I love it when it happens so many times they no longer have any hope of knowing whether it was truth this time. I love when they get married, all three of them, with the small group of trusted friends as guests, only for one to go on the lam. When they have never been together, but cannot help but wish, wish, wish. When B. and B. share their wedding night with a person they cannot keep for more than that.

When L. tries to look after their children, is always few steps behind or ahead, but never in time. When their children do not know what 'Lemony' means. When they might've been told, but the distressed chronically late narrator has no way of knowing and even less desire to think of this possibility and what it could mean.

When L. and B. had the same chaperone. When B. and L. have the same flair for dramatics. When B.'s eldest daughter might have the eyes of a family that shares a taxi, and not his own. When their youngest once thought about pushing one wicked man in the right direction. When their middle child loves knowing the right word definitions.

Also movie!L having big awkwardly cut photograph of B. and B.

Do you ever think if Baudelaire household had too many teacups? Had an odd number of silverware? If Beatrice and Bertrand were strangely attached to certain little things that neither of them really used? If their children never put too much thought into it, but also started treating these things with more care than others?

Would B. and B. keep L.'s favourite mug? His old shoe that somehow found its way in the attic? Was there a third chair near the too-big a fireplace where usually there are two?

And of course. How did Lemony learn of the fire? Was this day no different from all other days, until he picked up a newspaper to read? How was it - to learn such devastating personal news through a newspaper? To feel how the world starts to rearrange itself into something more bleak and sinister, with the desperate hope for this to turn out to be another scheme still dwindling down.

They make me a little cray-cray =))

Irma Lair/Cornelia Hale

I see your vision! To tell the truth, this ask made me reread the beginning of the comics - I forgot how good they were! It also made me realise that both Irma and Cornelia realised what they could do first - and that Cornelia was the most skeptical and suspicious about their newfound powers (very Susan Pevensie of her! She might've survived in Madoka Magica!). And how their reactions to suddenly having magical powers were something like this:

Irma: Oh this is so nice! ☺️ I can have a little fun in the bathroom with water! (And maybe cheat on the tests too?)

Cornelia: No one knows how good I already am with my power! Just one wish was enough for my room to be clean again!! I can't wait to see what else can I do!!

This made me think that Cornelia could make a wonderful mad scientist!

I like their banter, the way Irma is more easygoing and more likely to crack a joke and Cornelia more witty and strategic, but also very caring.

The other guy is mostly there because I remember enjoying the dynamics between Cornelia and at least one of her boyfriends from later chapters, so!

Also the way these two often share a smirk is adorable! I like that they don't often see eye to eye too - it makes them all the more interesting!

[fezwearingjellybananas]

I'm writing Flash (TV) fic and reading Dracula Daily and so here's a Flash Dracula AU that I'm not going to write:

(Warnings: Major Character Death, Child Death, Bad Doctoring. It's a Dracula AU)

Casting:

1. Kamilla Hwang as Mina Murray

Our opening character, currently holidaying in [Whitby] with a dear, dear friend of her fiancé who should be joining them any day now, but he doesn't seem to be sending any letters...

2. Caitlin Snow as Lucy Westenra

Wanted a nice relaxing time at the seaside really getting to know her bestie's new fiancée and thinking about her own upcoming wedding, but her mother is clearly trying to hide something and her own fiancé's father is ill and her best friend appears to be missing and now she appears to have fallen back into her old sleepwalking ways...

3. Cisco Ramon as Jonathan Harker

Kamilla's fiancé and recently made a full solicitor. This will be an easy first job they told him. Travel overseas, get some signatures on this paperwork, he'll be home in no time.

He has been having The Worst Month

4. Ronnie Raymond as Arthur Holmward

Caitlin's fiancé. Loves her so much. Would be with her but his dad's not been doing so well

5. Julian Albert as Quincey Morris

Adventurer. Ronnie's old bud. Also in love with Caitlin but just really, really happy for his friends. Down to shoot a bat.

6. Hunter Zoloman as Jack Seward

There's got to be a twist somewhere, right? He's the head of an asylum. He should not be in charge, really, especially not with that one patient he's dubbed his 'favourite'. Also in love with Caitlin. Bitter she did not choose him. But there's an idea for how to change their fates...

7. Iris West as Abraham Van Helsing

Not a doctor but a journalist, Iris has ended up studying local legends and mythic creatures ever since the loss of her daughter and the rapid decline in her husband's health. She's something of a vampire expert- not that she believes in them, but understanding might give her a way to help her husband. She did not expect it to actually be practical knowledge, but then she hears from Zoloman about the state of his friend Caitlin and maybe there's some truth to the tales after all

8. Barry Allen as Renfield

The latest patient admitted to Zoloman's asylum and his latest source of fascination, Barry is convinced his mother was not murdered by his father but by some monstrous creature she managed to save eleven-year-old Barry from, but one he could not save his own daughter from, and Barry has sworn revenge. Probably has some pet spiders. He gets lonely. Doing some dubious science in his cell. Also gets bored and really, really wants to kill this one guy.

9. Eddie Thawne as Patrick Hennessey

Actually takes good care of everyone in the asylum. Feels bad for Barry. Hopefully someone will promote him when Zoloman winds up dead. Knows a little more than he's letting on

10. And, of course, Eobard Thawne as Dracula

A massive dick

Notes:

We get the reveals as Kamilla does- so what happened to Cisco at Castle Thawne when she reads Cisco's journal, what happened to Caitlin when she gets to read the notes, ect.

This includes the reveal Hunter Zoloman is the one working for Thawne

He's the one who lets Thawne into the asylum to go after Cisco- who was left behind out of concern for his mental health

Luckily Eddie had the bright idea to enlist Barry's help when he figured out what was going on

Zoloman had to bright idea to think Thawne would a) make him immortal and b) make Caitlin immortal and c) this would mean she'd pick him instead of Ronnie

Only Iris knows what this mysterious new "Killer Frost" wandering the nights is and stops her before she can kill anyone, with help from Ronnie and Julian

Barry does fight Thawne and gets very injured for his troubles. This means he's left behind with Eddie when the gang go on a "let's track down Eobard Thawne and murder him" quest, but he does live (it seems unfair for Iris to lose Nora and Barry)

Zoloman's like super dead though. Eobard kills him so he doesn't let any secrets slip not realising Zoloman went and recorded everything in his diary.

Caitlin's dead too. Sorry. Maybe she can be a ghost

Everyone gets a go at stabbing Eobard Thawne

[yallemagne]

I'm sobbing why does my dash have to be filled with reminders about Phantom Blood.

So, the thing about... actually crossing over Dracula and Phantom Blood is. It's complicated. So, Araki looked at vampire lore and said "this ain't gonna do it for me. not sexy enough. not enough gore. where are the man-dogs?"

Religious iconography doesn't kill vampires (it makes an honest effort. Dio gets impaled by a statue of Venus but he lives unfortunately). They use breathing martial arts to harness the power of the sun (which Bram doesn't even explicitly say harms vampires. what the fuck Bram, toss me a bone). AND EVEN THEN! I swear to god, ninety percent of the time Hamon doesn't even work against vampires because all of the highly trained Hamon masters get fuckin' decimated by a guy who turned into a vampire last week.

I feel like maybe crossovering the plots would be weird... but to have the characters interact would be interesting. And I'm not just saying this because I've spent too much of my life working on Phantom Blood rewrites. I love these characters, I hate what happened to them. Jonathan Joestar dies at twenty-one. Unfair, illegal.

But so, since I keep thinking about this and I've already posted nonsense about crossovers, I might as well dip my toes.

Warning that I don't go deep enough into Jojo lore to make this comprehensible to non-Jojo fans.

Okay so, Phantom Blood takes place from 1880-1889. So, not really a viable time to crossover with Dracula. I know some are more fast and loose about crossovers, but I'm the guy who gets mad at people who think Frankenstein was set in Victorian times. I'm insufferable is what I'm saying. The earliest you might place Dracula is 1890 since that's 7 years before the publication, but some people go with a later date (for context reasons? shit about New Women and stuff) or even 1897.

But whatever. I guess... you can lie about things to make a crossover work... but you can't change the timeline of Jojo's bc Araki is an author that actually tells you what fucking year it is in his manga which makes him a god in my eyes.

So, probably the best way to connect the Joestars to the Crew of Light initially is that Jonathan Joestar is nobility. Perhaps the Joestars have met the Holmwoods? Jojo and Arthur could bond over having no mom? And later, their dads dying at a very inopportune time? And their wedding plans being ruined?

Dio Brando was a lawyer (or still in university to become one?) but I don't think he would have gone into property law?? I think canonically, he planned to be corrupt and take bribes from criminals, but I've seen fanfics that hint at crossover potential just being Harker and Dio knowing each other because of their lawyering. I think that's neat. Dio thinks this man (with the same damn name as his stepbrother) is so insufferable. And Harker doesn't even have the excuse of being rich or having a stable family, he's literally also a poor orphan, it vexes Dio so much, "stop being so happy you're not allowed, you're supposed to be bitter like me".

Erina Pendleton is the daughter of a doctor and later gets into medicine herself to nurse Jojo back to health after his first... well his first BIG LETHAL fight with Dio. Her father could know Van Helsing? Or Seward's parents? I assume Seward's father would also be a doctor but I dunno. You know he got that asylum through nepotism. Anyway, bullies call Erina's father a quack, so maybe he could indulge in theories about vampirism like Van Helsing? We see nothing of him, but he gets sponsored to do some medical research in India. It seems like big deal research to me, but I wouldn't know. It wasn't plot relevant, it's just the explanation for why Erina is gone for the seven-year time skip.

Also. isn't it funny that Phantom Blood and Dracula both have a seven-year time skip?

But here's the big issue I keep slamming into like a fly knocking against a glass window. Phantom Blood takes place in Liverpool where the Joestar estate is. I mean, there's also some cavorting in London, and Dio is from London, but the characters all spend the majority of their time in Liverpool. Maybe I'm just... I'm thinking too deeply. After all, most of the locations in Phantom Blood are made up. And England is just so small.

Mixing the vampire lore would be the hardest. Vampires are OP in Phantom Blood, and I refuse to give Dracula that much power. Vampires don't even... use their teeth here. I guess the sharp teeth are just for se-- *gets shot* They just stick their fingers into your skin like silly straws and suck it out that way. And they are created either by wearing the Stone Mask or by feeding vampire blood to someone/just spilling vampire blood on a corpse.

There's not really themes to the vampires in Jojo's. Dio and Jonathan themselves represent duality, but like... vampire are not Un-Dead in Phantom Blood. They're just... hyper-evolved humans? How the Stone Mask works is that it pierces specific areas of the brain to crack some evolutionary code and give you cool powers at the cost of not being able to walk about in the sunlight. People who are turned using blood tend to become ravenous monsters or have to serve the vampire whose blood turned them, but those turned with the mask retain free will.

Dio can fucking... make his blood so cold that he can trap people's entire bodies in ice. He gets sliced in half with a cool sword and walks it off. His entire body is destroyed by Hamon but he cuts off his own head and places it on Jonathan's body. It's fucking wild, and I refuse to give Dracula that power. Also, anyone who turns into a vampire turns young immediately, no need to drink blood. I honestly still don't know why Jojo vampires even drink blood. I think it's just to be edgy. Nothing can kill these fucking cockroaches except stands and Hamon... and sometimes the vampires have stands... and sometimes the vampires have Hamon. And that's illegal, but it's happened more than once.

I'VE GONE ON A TANGENT.

THE GIST OF IT IS MAYBE JUST-- WOULDN'T IT BE COOL IF, ON TOP OF HIS KHUKURI, JONATHAN COULD BREATHE ON DRACULA AND KILL HIM IN AN INSTANT??

There, I said it.

[theatricswithkoda]

Dracula’s Daughter (1936)

Review: Dracula’s Daughter was a very intriguing watch, a beautiful cast of actors and actresses. Countess Zaleska played by (Gloria Holdon) gave a very hypnotic and gothic performance in this movie. She lures you in with her rather reserved personality. It’s safe to say she steals the spotlight and rightfully so. Moving onto the scenery and cast I have to say the scenery is rather limited as most of the movie is shot indoors and in offices and studios, there isn’t much to look at artistry wise with the set design of the movie. But what lacks in the scenery is made up in the beautiful and elegant dresses that our main character Countess Zaleska wears throughout the movie. Let’s not forget the wonderful performance of Doctor Garth played by (Otto Kruger) he gives an amazing on stage presence and plays his character very well along with Janet played by (Marguerite Churchill) the two seemed to have an instant chemistry as soon as you lay eyes on them and their scenes together proved this.

My Summary: The movie starts with a slight comedic and not so serious tone, you get a feel for certain characters and their complicated but obvious attraction to each other especially with Doctor Otto and Janet. Soon the movies tone seems to shift into a more serious and interesting style as Countess Marya Zaleska appears and finds herself trying to rid her body of the disease known as vampirism. She finds herself enamored with the doctor, hoping he could cure her need for human blood. The Countess goes on to lure women and men with the help of her servant Sandor played by (Irving Pichel). The vampire finds herself unleashing her secret with the deaths of her victims, Doctor Otto is suspicious as one of her victims relayed enough information on who had attacked her, giving away Zaleskas whereabouts before the victim died. The doctor finds The Countess and persuades her to tell the truth. Towards the end of the movie we find Countess Zaleska has kidnapped Janet where soon Doctor Otto finds them and pleads for the Countess to take his life instead of Janet’s. Before Countess Zaleska is able to transform the man she is shot in the heart by her servant Sandor and is declared dead. Doctor Otto and Janet share a moment with each other as they soon realize that they care and love each other more then they had let on earlier. The movie ends with a shot of a dead Countess Marya Zaleska with the last words of Van Helsing. “She was beautiful when she died, a hundred years ago.”

Queer Thoughts: Moving on I would like to discuss some things I noticed while watching Dracula’s Daughter. The coded Queerness between Countess Zaleska, Janet and a character with little screen time Ms. Lili played by (Nan Grey). There are two small scenes in which these three women have interesting encounters with one another. In one scene the Countess lures Ms. Lili into her private studios, requesting for Lili to pose for a new painting the Countess wants to paint. You watch as the girl slips her blouse down a bit, the Countess gazes upon the woman almost longing for her. It holds a tone of yearning and to add to this the way the camera captures the longing emotions of the Countess. The last scene is towards the ending where Zaleska has captured Janet in her fathers castle. Janet lays unconsciously, Countess Zaleska leans in gently and the camera captures a very tender moment we’re it seems as though the Countess is leaning down to kiss a sleeping Janet. It’s very evident what the movie was going for with the queer representation even though it was meant to portray Queer people as impure, perverted and monstrous it most certainly failed and would most likely fail with the generation of this time as the characters displayed nothing but human emotion such as loneliness and the need to be loved.

[burygods]

NEW ORIGINAL CHARACTERS ALERT

gemma roth and theo estrada, of original vampire apocalypse lore

okay so basically, on the same vein as the series van helsing, which this lore is heavily inspired by but not an exact replica of ... a cosmic disaster resulted in the sun shifting causing it's uv rays to diminish allowing for the vampiric race to come out of the dark and claim what they think is their rightful place as apex predators. ancients and dwellers alike came forth and started a bloodbath as they spread across hunting and eating. there are many kinds of vampire not just the ones we seen in movies, i'll write more on that at a later date. across america were set up compounds and human safe havens, many went underground to protect themselves. those above ground have utilized artificial sunlight to keep vampires at bay. it's a hard life, but humans still have to live it. vampire hunters came forth to train a select few to protect those within the compounds, as soldiers and guards, like they had been doing before the rising. that's where we meet theo estrada

theo estrada is the youngest son of one of these generational hunters, something him and his brother had been trained to do for years even before. they helped their father train volunteers in one of the human safe havens ( haven't named it yet. ) and if he's being honest his life hadn't changed much pre to post apocalypse. one day on a scavenge they were cornered by dwellers and their ancient leader, leading to the death of his father and the turning of his brother. he was bit a few times and still has the scars over his body, but because he hadn't consumed vampire blood and human blood thereafter he didn't succumb to the same fate as his brother

then we have gemma roth, a dhampir who had been in hiding from her birth. daughter of an ancient and a human woman, her mother ran before repercussions could be put into effect for birthing a half human, half vampire child, as the dhampir race were seen as abominations and immediately destroyed. she doesn't need human blood to survive but it does enhance her senses upon consumption, giving her the same advantages as a vampire. while she does feel pain and can be injured, she heals quicker than most mortals

[rosetyler42]

HT Drac: Greyrose married to a Pan Ally (Who was also raised by Aroace Van Helsing.) He also has an aspec daughter and grandson. On top of this, his colors are purple and black, it's a fun vampire subversion, and his book inspiration has that "You never love!" "Yes, I too can love" line.

Audrey Drew: Aroace. She's too busy surviving ink hell to think about dating. And even without that, she'd probably be happiest drawing in the corner with her coffee and donuts. She was made from the ink machine, has no love interest in her game... Her father, Joey, is possibly ALSO aspec, maybe aspec + gay. He built a world to torture his friend that left him for a romantic relationship and has said dating isn't for him. (Could be him being gay in the 30s-50s, but the being upset his friend abandoned him seems aspec to me.)

Kim Possible: Alloace. "I like boys!...Sometimes."

Shego: Aroallo. Very little desire for romance, likes attractive spa guys. Also, she's green.

Coraline Jones: Possibly Aspec. She's got the colors and seems more focused on other things. (Probably disgusted by PDA) Though I do ship her with Wybie and Norman.

Evelyn Deavor: Aroace. She's more into tech than people.

Abby Yates: Aspec, possibly aroace. Not only is she the only one of the group not to find Kevin attractive (and needles Erin about her choices) but she also strikes me as more interested in paranormal investigation than dating.

The Doctor: Demi. He's only shown genuine interest for around 3 or 4 people in 900+ years, has been stated as an asexual character, it's debatable whether his race even reproduces sexually anymore...there's alot of reasons.

Ping Po: Some flavor of aspec. While I like the idea of him and Tigress, there's very little canon romance in the KFP verse. And the one time they truly tease anything with Po, he seems very uncomfortable when a girl panda flirts with him. Plus we all know his true love will always be kung fu, come on.

Ash Ketchum: Some flavor of aspec, possibly more arospec. He's been into girls like a couple of times I think, but has never dated anyone. Is more interested in pokemon and making friends. May have been somewhat confirmed, I'm not sure.

sexualizing your fav characters? Nah mate you got me wrong, I’m asexualizing them, that one’s demi now