Chapter 11 – The Holy See
Basilica of Saint John Lateran, Rome
Pope Leo XIII awaited Daedalus and his companions surrounded by his closest advisors. The Cardinals each greeted the party respectfully as they entered the Conclave hall. Even Grace was treated with respect despite her scandalous reputation. After the introductions, the group sat at a large wooden circular table that appeared to be ancient, which accommodated exactly thirteen seats comfortably. Each seat was marked with a heraldic symbol, except the Pope’s which was marked with a golden crown. Daedalus and his companions were seated between various Cardinals, in extra chairs.
“My advisors tell me that you have news about the missing Vampires and the one called Varney, once believed to have been exterminated by you.” Pope Leo began the discussion. He then frowned when he noticed Grace not paying attention. Daedalus had noticed Grace looking intently at the table at which they were seated.
“Yes it’s the Round Table, of Arthur and the sight of the Last supper as well. Now please pay mind to the conversation and to the Pope when he speaks.” Daedalus whispered to her quickly.
“My apologies Your Eminence, My companion was distracted by the beauties of your hall. Let me begin by stating that a ship bound for Paris, had Zombies aboard of Italian heritage. The venom used in their creation was found to be that of a Vampire most likely on the list of your missing priests. Also it has come to light that Varney may indeed be once again at large. It would seem he has chosen to repay England and France for their quarrels with him.” Daedalus summarized.
The Cardinals began to whisper to each other and soon words fell upon the Pope’s ears. Pope Leo XIII listened to the Cardinals seated on either side of him and then spoke. “This is news most disturbing. It is also a problem that the Church cannot resolve. You, Daedalus must resolve this matter discreetly and with haste.”
“I will your Eminence, but first I need to know which of your Vampires disappeared first.” Daedalus inquired.
The Pope and his council of Cardinals gave Daedalus all the information they had in regards to the matter at hand. He listened intently doing his best to be polite where he was required by Church etiquette. Grace however was beginning to get bored and if not for Flamel’s company the ex-pirate would have started to consider how she could plunder all the riches within sight. The companions soon left the Pope’s council to rest in a local hotel and finalize a course of action.
“The Catholic Church is quite full of Vampires that is a rather unexpected twist.” Flamel stated flatly.
“It would be since it was founded by one.” Daedalus added.
“Well that is just blasphemy, Dr. Daedalus.” Grace laughed.
“No it is not. The one called Christ was indeed a Vampire, in fact so were his twelve disciples at least after the famous Last Supper and the Vampire blood ritual. I should also note that two of the original Apostles were in attendance at our meeting with the Pope. They were the Cardinals that sat on either side of His Eminence.” Daedalus offered.
“The real question here is what Varney is up to. How can he attack two separate countries?” The Alchemist deliberated. “It would take a vast army something he does not have.” Flamel reasoned aloud.
“That’s it he does not need to build a vast army when he can have it replicate itself.” Daedalus realized. “Italian ship was not an attack; it was an experiment.”
“Are you saying he plans to release Zombies in both Paris and France?” Flamel asked.
“It’s the only way this particular devil could ever create an army. It is also the reason he has kidnapped so many Vampires.”
The companions awoke the very next morning and made their way back to the Roman airport. The Pendragon was still docked there under instruction and the Admiral had used the time to perform maintenance upon his vessel.
Daedalus gave the Admiral a letter to wire to England to update the Queen on his progress. After that he boarded the Pendragon joining Grace and Flamel in the passenger cabin.