" I sniffed the air and figured out why Marta hadn't been able to finish her attack." I sniffed the air and figured out why Marta hadn't been able to finish her attack. "The garlic just plain smells bad on you." "Auntie Victoria... Are you really a... a... v-v-v..." the boy stuttered. He was fascinated, not frightened by his aunt. "Yes, Benjamin. But please, do not tell your parents. They would think that you are crazy, and I would not offer them any proof to the contrary." Victoria turned to the men, who were appreciably pale. "Please, join us for dinner. I have made arrangements for us all. We have a wonderful kitchen staff." Marta hissed once and left the room, giving our dinner guests a wide berth. My wife mouthed the word "garlic" and I nodded. "Simon, do you still not recognize me? I realize that it has been a little while, but not _that_ long," Victoria pouted. Simon gaped. "Victoria... Heresford?" he gasped. "I am truly Mina Harker's daughter, Victoria, so it is Victoria Harker. Except --" She proudly held out her hand, displaying her wedding band. "I am now Victoria Morton." She smiled warmly at me. Simon wasn't so happy. He wiped his brow feverishly, looking extremely pale. "Yes, your distant cousin is really the Countess Dracula, daughter of your family's ancient enemy. But that is past, I would hope." She clapped her hands and the soup arrived. "Let us eat. We may discuss business afterwards. |