Pawns of Kings -- Parts 14-26
Jarvinia


Pawns of Kings (14/52)

For an hour, Nat and Tracy listened to both the show, and Nick.  Their
occasional questions ranged from wanting an elaboration of the events,
to asking if the actors looked much like the real people.  He gave
detailed answers to some questions, while glossing over the others.  By
six, Nick had returned to what more or less passed as normal.

As commercials flitted by on the screen, Tracy's curiosity won out.
"Have you taught before?  I wish my history teachers had been more like
you.  Mine were so boring....  They were dustier than the books."

As the morning news began, the newscaster grabbed Nick's attention.

"From what we presently know, the Vampire Community usually remains
isolated, most contact only being with others of their kind.
Apparently, as we now know, not all vampires seclude themselves.  For
the past six years one has masqueraded as a mortal.  One who was
trusted by this city in this and many other matters."

His lips parted in surprise, missing a couple of words.

"...Toronto Police Department, Detective Nicholas Knight.  In a
situation that has yet to be detailed, Knight possibly saved his
superior, Captain Joseph Reese's, life.  Previously, Knight was the
liaison between the Community, and both the police department and
mayor's office.  It is unknown whether-"

Abruptly, Nick reached across to the table, taking the remote and
flipping the TV off.  Resuming his seat, he calmly commented, "Didn't
take long to hit the news, did it?"

Natalie wasn't sure what to say.  Despite the evenness of his words,
beneath it, she could feel his anger.  She couldn't explain how, only
that sometimes she could feel Nick's presence, even pick up on his
moods occasionally.  Other times, she felt nothing at all.  Glancing at
him, she could see a slightly shocked Tracy past him.  At least the
detective wouldn't say anything to make Nick feel worse.  "Nick,
everything will work out-"

"And I'll be hunted by the mortals because of what I am," he stated,
turning to her.

"No," Natalie firmly told him.  "You're not just a vampire, Nick.
You're much more than that.  What vampire would save a mortal's life,
something you've done countless times?  Your actions will be
considered."

"They may be considered, but that doesn't change what I am, what I have
done...."

Tracy silently listened to Nick trail off.  For the first time realized
the full implication of what he was.  Nick was a vampire.  He'd
undoubtedly killed in the past for the blood he needed to survive. Yet,
all of that was in his past.  "But, what you have done is in the past. 
It doesn't affect the present."

Meeting her eyes, he continued evenly, "No, it's not, Tracy.  That
'past' was months ago.  I couldn't tell you how many times I've killed
in the past year, I can't count them."  Nick bowed his head.

A few seconds later, Natalie dared to brush her hands against his
cheek.  When he didn't push the touch away, she gently guided him
toward her.  Again, Nick allowed the action, finding himself being
pulled down into her lap.  Not feeling like protesting, he rested in
her hold.

Tracy watched her partner, not sure what to do.  About to comment,
Natalie sent a glare at her, and this time, the detective obeyed.

As Nick lay across her lap, Natalie ran the fingers of one hand through
his hair, the other gently rubbing his back.  Every thirty to forty
seconds she would feel him take in a breath, the length increasing as
time passed.  After ten minutes of silence, his muscles relaxed and his
breathing stopped.  Sleep, that's what Nick needed right now.
Continuing her actions for several minutes, she eventually turned to
Tracy.

"Nat," she started hesitantly.  "He's killed within the past year? Why?
I mean, that's not like Nick...is it?"

Natalie stopped her ministrations.  "No, it's not, Trace.  Or, at least
it wasn't...but now, I'm not sure...."  Brushing a stray strand behind
his ear, she added, "In some ways, Nick has changed a lot, but he's
still Nick."

"Has he really killed more people than he can count...all in the past
year?"  Natalie kept silent.  "Nat, please, tell me.  I need to know,
not because of what he is, but I just need to know.  Nick's my friend.
Nothing is going to change that."

Absently, she again ran her fingers through Nick's hair.  He was her
friend, and other than herself, Tracy was the only one anywhere close
to him.  If Nick chose to live among mortals, he would need as many
friends among them as he could get.  Making her decision, Natalie told
her, "When Nick was gone and didn't have all of his memories.  He also
wasn't exactly himself.  At one point, he had none of them, and
his...father used it against him.  At first he was merely hunting, but
soon it became more than that.  Nick started killing for no reason,
something that could endanger the Community.  After that, his father
again removed his memories.  A few months later, he found his way
here."

Nick hadn't just killed for survival, he'd outright murdered.  Tracy
swallowed, taking the piece of information in.  "But, he didn't have
his memories...so he wasn't really in control, right?"

"That's what I've told him, but he won't listen.  Nick remembers what
he did, and he doesn't feel guilty for it.  He also knows what's right.
That's one of the reasons he came back to work."

It was just like Nick.  He never listened if it had to deal with his
opinion.  Whether he was right or wrong, he held his belief no matter
what.  He often acted on impulses, at times putting his career, or even
his life, on the line.  If Nick had been mortal, he would have been
dead long ago.  "So, what now?"

The question she couldn't really answer.  "I'm going to stay here, at
least until Nick wakes up.  You should get some rest, you're going to
need it with the reporters that will be hounding you."

Tracy shook her head.  "I can't go home, not now.  I think I'm going to
go back to the precinct, talk to Reese.  I'm not going to let Nick get
turned into something he's not."  She stood, planning on leaving, but
paused.  "Nick's my partner.  Nothing will change that, not now, and
not in the future."

Watching the detective leave, Natalie wished she had friends like
Tracy.  Nick was more than her partner, but to Natalie, she was a mere
acquaintance.  Tracy saw the good in Nick, couldn't believe he could be
anything else.

It reminded Nat of her first meetings with him.  She had refused to
believe that Nick could be all of the things he had said.  Despite all
he'd done to push her away, either on purpose or not, she had
constantly been there.

Looking down, she could tell Nick was still asleep.  Natalie resumed
rubbing his back, hoping it would help give him a dreamless sleep. Nick
had been through so much in the past couple of years, she was amazed he
was still in Toronto.  The past two months had been the worst.  There
was no way she could imagine the stress he'd been under.

After everything that had happened, last night had probably pushed him
the farthest.  Revealing himself to the precinct had to be difficult,
not to mention restraining LaCroix.

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

"Captain, we can't just let Nick get fired.  He's done nothing wrong!"
Tracy argued, standing across from Reese.

Sighing, he answered with a hint of frustration, "I know he hasn't, but
I don't make all the decisions.  The Commissioner wants him fired, but
it's too soon.  There aren't any laws either against, or for vampires.
Unfortunately, Nick is on suspension, for how long, I don't know."

"What does that mean for me?  If Nick's on suspension...."

"You'll work with another pair of detectives until the situation is
straightened out.  Then, you'll either go back to working with Nick, or
be assigned a new partner."

A new partner.  She firmly shook her head.  She didn't want a new
partner.  It had been hard enough to get used to Eric when Nick went
missing.  Now, he hadn't disappeared, but was suspended until further
notice.  "What are you going to do?"

Reese met her eyes.  His detectives, both Nick and Tracy, had been
through a lot.  He wanted to get Nick back into work, but that depended
on both the detective, and whatever the 'rules' would be.  The
Commissioner would have a bit of influence in making suggestions for
what the new laws would be.  Whether or not they would let vampires
into the police department, he didn't know.  "There's not much we can,
at least for now.  Basically, we can back Nick up.  If he wants to come
back, we can try to help.  The sooner we find out what he wants, the
better.  Do you know what Nick thinks about this?"

"He's not sure yet.  He mentioned having to talk to someone, who, I'm
not sure," Tracy said, lying somewhat.  She guessed it was LaCroix he
wanted to talk to, especially considering the elder vampire's comments.

He nodded.  It was only reasonable.  Everyone in the precinct had only
had a few hours, not even a day, to deal with the discovery of one of
their detective's true nature.  Nick was probably having the worst time
of all.  "Give him a couple of days, then try to get an answer.  As far
as I'm concerned, he's still one of my detectives until he makes his
resignation final of his own will."  Reese paused for a second.  "Make
sure he knows that."

About to comment, Tracy turned at the door opening.  She watched, open-
mouthed as her father entered the office.

He practically ignored her as he went directly to the front of Reese's
desk.  "Reese, you must make a statement.  The reporters won't wait for
long, not with a killer in such a position."

"Nick is not a killer!" she stated, her anger barely under control.

"He is a vampire.  Vampires are killers, murderers, whatever you want
to call them.  Think about how much he's lied to you, to our world."

"He also saved Reese's life and, in case you've forgotten, mine as
well."

The elder Vetter shot her a glare.  "And how many times has he put you
and other officers in danger?  Their kind sticks together.  Perhaps he
has saved Reese now, but soon that will change.  How long before he
turns on us?"  Turning his attention back to Reese, the Commissioner
continued, "I want him out of this precinct, resigned, now."

Reese held his ground.  "At the moment, I can't do that.  There are no
laws that determine where vampires can, or cannot work.  I can put Nick
on suspension, but that's as far as I can go.  You know that."

Holding in his anger, Vetter stated, "Knight won't be back to work, not
as a detective, and not as my daughter's partner."

"When Nick returns, he will still be my partner!  I can make my own
decisions and this is one of them!"

Vetter listened to his daughter’s firm words.  She would do everything
she could to help Knight, and apparently, so would Reese.  Not wanting
the argument to become anymore involved, he told her, "I will finish
this conversation later.  For now, Reese and I must speak."

Tracy nearly dropped her jaw at the dismissal.  Then, she wanted to
scream.  All her father did was make decisions for her, and she was
getting more than a tad annoyed at it.  "Fine.  But no matter what
happens, Nick is my friend.  I will stand up for what he wants."
Spinning on her heel, she exited the room, the door rattling on its
hinges as it slammed shut.

She had become a cop because that's what she wanted to do.  Her father
had pushed her.  At first, she hadn't minded it, but now he was going
too far.  Her first goal had been to make detective.  Although she had
originally planned to keep going, that was no longer what she wanted.
Being a detective was enough for her.  She enjoyed being able to do
something that actually made a difference.  Her father just couldn't
get that in his head.

Leaving the building, she walked straight to her car.  Pulling out, she
could swear one of the TV stations had just arrived.  Great, now they
would have the full story, and would soon be after both her and Nick.
Perhaps it was time to get some rest while she still could....


Pawns of Kings (15/52)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nick stood in the shadows.  LaCroix was watching him, no doubt, but he
didn't care.  Silently, he watched a couple from afar.

They were talking, barely loud enough for his ears to hear.  The girl
muttered about love, her boyfriend returning in kind.  Both were on the
bare edge of adulthood.  Their carefree attitude, despite the early
hour and the darkness around them, revealed their innocence.  The
mortals had no idea what hid in the night.

As they passed within a few feet of his position, his eyes glowed
golden in anticipation.  Soon, they would know the dangers of the
night.  Yes, soon they would know....

Slipping away from the wall, he moved behind the two mortals, grabbing
the boy from behind.  A split second later, his fangs tore viciously
into the mortal's neck.  The warm fluid gushed into his mouth, the
mortal's life flitting in his mind.

The boy's name was Paul Masters, just shy of his eighteenth birthday by
a month.  In the fall, Paul had planned to attend the University of
California on a full scholarship, but that was no longer possible.

Pulling away, the mortal lay limp in his grasp, his life nearly gone.
As his eyes met the girl's, she backed away silently, abruptly turning
and running for her life.

Quickly, he used his canines to tear at the wound, changing the
appearance enough to disguise the cause of death.  Letting the mortal's
body fall to the ground, he allowed his senses to hone in on the girl.
She hadn't made it far, her rapidly beating heart giving her location
away.  Lifting into the air, he quickly found himself merely a couple
of feet from her fleeing form.  Landing, he watched her halt, coming to
a dead end.

As she realized she was trapped, the girl spun, only to freeze a second
time, finding the creature standing before her.

He watched her with fascination.  So far, she hadn't screamed, the only
betrayal of her fear being her rapidly beating mortal heart.

"Wha...what are you..." she stammered, not sure what else to do.

His eyes flashed crimson.  Gliding ever closer to her, he put on a show
of licking his fangs.  "Perhaps a better question would be;
what...are...you?"  Allowing his eyes to flash once again, he
approached and began to circle her.  As he arrived behind her, she
bolted, but never even made it a step.

Holding her firmly in his grasp, he bent down to her ear.  "For what
time you have left, know that you are the hunted, the prey, and I...I
am the predator."  He heard her swallow nervously, the mortal's
heartbeat racing in his ears.

Lowering his head, his fangs brushed against the supple pulsing skin of
her throat.  His lips repeated the action, and he took in her scent--
fresh apples.  For a moment, he paused, relishing her aroma.  Then,
without a second's hesitation he struck, pulling the wonderful flavor
into him.  She struggled until her last breath.  A few seconds later,
her heart ceased its futile attempts at survival.

His fangs released the mortal, barely eighteen years old.  Feeling his
sire brush his consciousness, he smiled.  This hunting was enjoyable;
it was something he would have to do more often.  Lightly kissing the
wound, he prepared to disguise the kill.  When her body was discovered,
her death would be blamed on a predator.  Little would they know that
the predator was walking around disguised as its prey.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nick jolted awake, nearly falling off the couch as he sat up.  The
action woke Natalie and she moved to steady him.  Seeing the faint
tinge of red to his skin, she immediately assumed a nightmare.  "Nick?
You okay?"  When he gave a silent, hesitant nod, Natalie continued, "A
nightmare?"

"No...memories."  He turned away.  Despite the memory, he could still
taste the girl's blood in his mouth.  It was almost as if he drained
her seconds ago, but it had been several months.  Blood.  He needed it
now, right now.

Pushing Natalie's beating heart away, he quickly stood, going straight
to the refrigerator.  Pulling out the closest bottle, he upended it,
stopping when half the contents were gone.

She had followed him.  Lowering the bottle, Nick turned to meet her
eyes before turning them back to the object in his hand.

"Nick, are you sure you're okay?"

"I will be.  Just give me a few seconds.  I...I can still taste her
blood, smell her aroma.  Fresh apples..." his voice trailed off, the
corner of his mouth twisting up.  As the blood from the bottle overrode
his memories, his expression suddenly sobered, letting his head hang
down.  "What frightens me, Nat, is how much I enjoyed it, and still
do."

Slowly, she reached up to his face, guiding it to look at her.  "Is it
you, or the vampire that's enjoying it?"

"I don't know...I-I'm not sure."

As he again turned away, she asked, "What part of you was craving the
blood just now?  The vampire, or the man?"

Nervously glancing to the bottle, he turned his attention to Natalie
for a mere second before returning his focus to the blood.  "Both.
That's why I don't know the answer."  Returning to the couch, he took
another drink from the bottle.  He turned the container, watching the
blood coat the sides.  "I need the blood to keep control, but it's not
entirely about need.  I-I want it, Nat.  It's not just the vampire,
either.  It's like a drug...a very powerful, fulfilling drug where all
of the effects are good.  The blood nourishes us, gives us strength,
and lets us feel life.  Without it, we are nothing."

"But you've gone without blood for days at a time.  When you arrived
back here, it had been more than two months since you had any-"

"And what does it do to me?  Either I lose control and go on a binge,
or I starve, becoming weaker than a mortal.  That's not much of a
life."  Becoming silent, he finished off the bottle.  "Whether I like
it or not, I need the blood.  The last few years my body has protested,
trying to explain that fact to me.  All of the stress had only
amplified its needs.  I didn't listen, and the first thing I did was to
ki...nearly kill you."

Natalie considered his words.  Although they had deviated from the
original question, what he was saying actually made sense.  The less
blood he had and the more stress he was under, the closer the vampire
was to the surface.  Or was that what was happening?  Was the vampire
separate from the man, or were they the same entity?  In the past, she
would have said they were separate, but she was beginning to doubt
herself.  If they were the same, all of her theories would be blown
skyhigh.

"Nat?"

She turned to look at him.  He wanted to say something and she was
curious as to what it would be.

"I need to distance myself from this.  With my nature out in the open,
it won't be long before reporters start following me."  He paused,
knowing she wouldn't approve of his choice.  "Tonight, I'm going to go
to the Raven.  I'll stay there a few days, maybe longer."

Natalie was stunned.  Nick was going to stay at the Raven, stay with
LaCroix.  He wasn't being forced, but going of his own accord.  She
couldn't help but wonder if she would lose him over present events.  If
this, along with his bloodlust, would make him go back to LaCroix
willingly.

"Please, unless it is very important, do not come to the Raven."  When
she didn't respond, he continued, "Nat, please don't come."

"Because you don't want me there?" she asked, fearing he really was
returning to LaCroix.

Shaking his head, he explained, "No, because the Raven is dangerous for
mortals.  Don't tell anyone where I am.  I'll give you the number to
the Raven, both the bar's and LaCroix'.  They'll be on your desk when
you go to work."

Standing, she voiced, "Do you want me to go?  If you do, I will."

Nick's arm shot out faster than her eye could follow, a subtle reminder
that he wasn't mortal.  "You don't have to leave," he quickly told her,
releasing his grasp.  "I would rather you stayed.  That is, if you want
to...?"

His uncertain gaze and what appeared to be not just a request for her
to stay, but a need as well, made her heart skip a beat.  It reminded
her more of what he was than his previous action.  Vampires had amazing
abilities; speed, immortality, flight...but they were also very
sensitive to their environment.  A single word, or movement, could
change them from nearly helpless, to enraged, and visa versa.

At her silence, he was about to repeat his request.  Instead, he told
her, "It's okay.  You don't have to-"

She pressed her fingers to his lips, halting his words.  "I'll stay.  I
just didn't know if you'd want me here."  Sitting on the couch, Natalie
pulled him toward her, and leaned into the corner.  She held his head
firmly to her shoulder.  After a moment, she felt his arms wrap tightly
around her.

Even though she hated seeing Nick this way, it also showed her that
they needed comfort as much as any mortal, something she hadn't seen
much of in their Community.  But, then, even though she was supposedly
an honorary member of the Community, she was still an outsider to them-
-a mortal who knew their secrets.

Trying not to move, she only had to wait a few minutes for Nick to fall
asleep.  Her thoughts kept her awake for nearly an hour, wondering,
hoping, that everything would work out.


Pawns of Kings (16/52)

Rubbing the bridge of her nose, Tracy wished everything was back to
normal.  It had been five days since Nick had been suspended, but it
seemed like longer.  Reporters had merely asked her a few questions at
first.  They wanted to know what she knew about Nick.  Not only did she
refuse to answer for Nick, but she also didn't even know the answers to
begin with.  Reese was being pressured just as much for answers, but
only Nick could answer them.

The limit on Vinatierre's shipments had been raised, allowing more
blood into the city.  From what she knew, it would only be a couple
more days before negotiations started.  Hopefully, the laws that came
from it would be fair ones.  Otherwise, Nick might not be able to come
back to work.

That raised another question, one that she was supposed to find the
answer to.  Did Nick want to return to work?  She didn't know and had
tried going by the loft several times, but each time she found it
empty.  Nick wasn't there.  After talking to Natalie, she assured
herself that he hadn't left town either.

At the same time, she didn't know where her partner was staying, but it
was apparent that Natalie did.  Reese wanted an answer no later than
tomorrow night, which meant she had to talk to Nick.  Watching Natalie
walk into the precinct, dropping a report off, Tracy caught her arm
before she could leave.  "Nat?  I need to talk to Nick.  Reese needs to
know what Nick wants to do...if he wants to come back to work or not.
Can you take me to him?"  As Natalie began to shake her head, she
continued, "I won't tell anyone where he is, I promise."

She considered her response, and figured it would be all right.  Nick
wouldn't mind, but LaCroix might.  "Okay, come on."  She walked out of
the precinct, Tracy following right on her heels.  Once out of the
building, she added, "I need your phone."

Tracy retrieved it, and as Natalie took it, dialing a number, she
asked, "Who are you calling?"

"I'm letting him know we're on our way.  I don't think it would be a
good idea to show up unannounced."  Abruptly turning her attention to
the phone, she said, "I need to speak with the owner...Dr. Lambert...."

Watching Natalie pause for a moment, then enter into a short argument;
she was curious as to whom her friend was talking to.  It couldn't be
Nick.  Suddenly, the phone was back in her hand, and Nat had started
toward her car.  Tracy got in, and they were quickly out on the road.

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

A little more than five minutes later, Natalie pulled up in front of
the Raven.  Without a word, Tracy followed her friend up to the main
entrance.  At first, it looked like they wouldn't be allowed in, but
the bouncer seemed to change his mind upon seeing Natalie.

They walked in, Natalie going straight for a door near the bar. Opening
it, they found their way up a flight of stairs.  At the top were a
landing and two doors.  Natalie rapped hard on the first door. After a
couple of seconds, it was opened, revealing LaCroix.

"I told you, Nicholas is unavailable.  Now, leave," he hissed, his
attention focusing on Natalie.

"He said he would be here, and I'm nearly positive he is.  Let us speak
to him."

For the first time, LaCroix seemed to notice Tracy, barely sparing her
a glance.  "Nicholas is unavailable," he repeated.  "Return later when
he is awake."

As the Roman made to shut the door, Natalie caught it, grateful LaCroix
stopped his movement.  "If he was sleeping, you should have told me.
Then, I would have waited.  When will he be up?"

"Let them in, LaCroix.  I'm awake now," Nick stated, coming up behind
LaCroix.

The elder vampire turned to find his son, a faint glare looking back.
"Fine.  I will be in the club."  Roughly, LaCroix brushed past the
mortals, fully aware his presence would merely anger his son.  Reaching
the door at the bottom of the stairs, he slammed the door, causing all
three to wince.

A few seconds passed, then Natalie and Tracy entered, Nick closing the
door behind them.  Natalie was the first to speak, simply asking,
"Stress?"

When Nick nodded, Tracy became confused.  Apparently, Natalie not only
knew what Nick was, but she knew LaCroix as well.

"I see you haven't been awake long," the doctor continued, glancing at
his pajamas.

Nick mirrored her action.  Then, with a slight smile, he answered, "Why
do you say that?  I'll have you know these are very comfortable."
Walking into a fairly large room, he sat down on the couch, one that
was almost identical to his own.  "So, why are you two visiting?  I'm
sure it's not to comment on my wakefulness."

Natalie followed, sitting next to him on the couch.  "Well, I think we
both want to know how you're doing."

"Better, although I don't think my presence is helping LaCroix.  I'd
almost say I'm contributing to his stress."

Tracy decided now would be a good time to jump in.  Besides, she didn't
want to hear anything related to *that* vampire.  "Reese's under a lot
of stress too.  He wants to know if you're going to come back to work
or not.  So, what do you say?"

That was one question he'd thought a lot about over the past few days.
He wanted to return to work, but just about everything and everyone was
working against him.  "If I can, yes.  But, what I am is not going to
be overlooked."

She understood.  Her partner might want to return to work, but that
didn't mean he would be able to.  "So, then...what's happening on your
side of the city, or can you say anything?"

"Not much.  The Community is waiting for what is to come.  LaCroix
wants me to go with him, but I'd much rather stay clear of all of this.
But if I refuse, he'll force me, so I don't have much of a choice."

"Why?  He doesn't own you," the detective stated, and then wished she'd
never opened her mouth.  Apparently, by Natalie's wince and Nick's dark
look, she was wrong.  "Okay...then why does he have so much control
over your life?"

He sighed.  "He's my master, Tracy.  He made me what I am."

"LaCroix brought you across?  But, from Va-" she cut her sentence off.
"You knew about that, didn't you?"  He nodded, waiting for her to
continue.  "I had assumed each generation alternated sexes, one being
female, the next male.  I didn't know it could work that way."

Nick considered her comment, quickly seeing what had led to her
assumption.  Vachon was brought across by a woman, and if Tracy knew
about Urs' relationship to the Spaniard, that would become the basis of
a loose theory.  Come to think about it, most lineages did alternate.
One generation being largely, if not entirely, female, the next male.
He was one of the least common of his 'generation,' having far more
sisters, than brothers.

"Well, obviously it does."  Nick paused for a second.  "What does the
Commissioner think of me working?"

A faint touch of embarrassment faded, immediately being replaced with
anger.  "If my father had his way, you'd never be able to work in any
job, ever.  He views vampires as pure evil.  Killers and nothing more."

Meeting her eyes slowly, he reminded her, "Tracy, we are killers.
There's no way around it."

"But you're also so much more," Natalie added, hoping Nick wouldn't
make this into another argument about the differences between vampires
and mortals.  "And the Commissioner probably won't get what he wants.
To begin with, it would be discrimination."

"If we're viewed as a minority, and a part of the human race...yes, it
would be.  If we're classified as a separate species, then they can do
anything they want to about that."

"But vampires are more or less human.  My research has shown that. Your
bodies function differently because of the virus that changes the
blood's DNA."  As she finished her comment, Natalie realized her
mistake.  Tracy knew nothing about the details of her and Nick's
relationship.  The detective was aware that she'd examined Nick
thoroughly on several occasions, but probably never considered that she
might have been let in on a lot about vampires.  Natalie had a general
idea of what caused his vampirism, just not how to destroy it without
destroying the host.

"Wait a second...vampirism is caused by a virus?  You mean, that's the
only difference?  How do you know?  Did Nick tell you, or...?" Tracy
questioned, looking from one to the other.  Apparently, Nick trusted
Nat more than he did her, something she wasn't sure how she felt about.

Nat glanced to Nick a moment before explaining, "Sort of...it acts
*like* a virus, a lot like HIV does, but different.  And no, Nick
didn't tell me.  However, through examining his blood and testing his
vitals, I have a pretty good idea how things work.  I'm not really an
expert, but I, personally, would say that Nick's human."  At her last
statement, she crossed her fingers in her mind.  All of her educated
guesses and thoughts were based on separating the vampire from the
human, but now she wasn't as sure of herself.  Nick's recent comments
were beginning to lead her thoughts in a different direction.

After a moment, Nick reminded her, "Yet, only you know that.  None of
the Community will allow themselves to be examined.  Which means our
classification will be based on simple observation of our actions."

"And LaCroix is royally screwing you guys over, isn't he?" Tracy
blurted out.  Receiving disbelief from both Nick and Nat, she demanded,
"Come on, Nick!  He is, isn't he?"

About to answer, he felt his sire's mind brush against his.  Standing,
Nick watched as the mentioned vampire entered the room.  Nat and Tracy
stood as well, both silent.

"Well, Nicholas....  I'm very curious to know your answer as well,"
LaCroix purred, a hint of gold glistening at the three.


Pawns of Kings (17/52)

Nick was stunned.  He hadn't been paying any attention to his link with
LaCroix, and now his sire stood in the same room.  LaCroix waited
patiently for an answer.  Keeping his voice even, he told the other
vampire, "Two weeks ago, I would have said no.  Now...I have to agree
with Tracy."

The Roman moved several steps closer, the gold intensifying.  "And why
has your decision altered?"

Reflexively, Nick swallowed.  LaCroix wouldn't like the answer, but by
refusing, he would only anger the elder vampire more.  "You've lost it,
LaCroix.  You've always told me control of our emotions was everything.
You've seemed the embodiment of it for centuries.  Now, here, you're
losing your grip on it, something that in the end will hurt the
Community.  If what happened in the precinct happens again, imagine the
view the mortals will have of us.  It will give them reason to hunt us
down."

Turning his gaze slightly to the left, he demanded, "And, Dear Doctor,
what do you have to contribute?"

"I agree with Nick," she stated.  After a second, she inquired, "What
is causing this lapse of control?  Is it coming from within the
Community, or from someone else?"

He considered ignoring her question, but her questions deserved an
answer.  "I do not enjoy being a pawn in someone's game.  That, coupled
with the present situation, I believe, is what is causing this
'lapse'."

"So, you don't have much choice in all of this.  You appear to have
complete control of the city, but in reality you've been reduced to a
piece to be moved around at whim."  As she finished, Natalie saw Nick
flinch out of the corner of her eye.  LaCroix' reaction, however, was
not what she expected.

He stood, his anger apparently dissipating, not completely, but enough
that it could be considered normal.  He seemed more relaxed than he had
been since all of this began.  "A council is deciding the fate of the
Community, and they are too trusting of the mortals.  They wish
everything about us to eventually be revealed, our identities, our
strengths and our weaknesses."

"And it is their decision that I stand by your side," Nick added,
LaCroix' request and silence on the matter making sense.

"Yes.  I do not agree with their decisions.  Yet, if I disobey their
instructions, I will lose my position in this city."

Natalie nearly replied aloud, but stopped herself.  If LaCroix lost his
position, then she supposed it would be taken over by the next eldest
vampire in the city.  Nick would then have LaCroix' position, something
she was aware LaCroix wouldn't allow.  His need to control Nick
outweighed everything else.  As a result, leaving him no choice but to
comply with the Council's orders.  LaCroix really was a pawn in their
game.  Nothing more than a figure piece to be their representative and
do their bidding.

Looking over to Nick, she could see him thinking as well.  Giving a
quick glance to Tracy, she turned her attention back to LaCroix.

Meeting her eyes, the Roman commanded, "Nothing you have heard leaves
this room.  No mortal, or immortal ears will know of this conversation.
Understood?"

Tracy nodded slightly, Nick and Natalie not moving a muscle.  The three
watched LaCroix leave the apartment as quietly and quickly as he had
entered.

The young detective regained her voice, immediately commenting, "I
guess I should keep my mouth shut around here.  I thought he was going
to bite my head off for that, but thankfully, he didn't."

"He didn't take your question as an insult.  Instead of letting it work
against him, he turned the comment to his advantage, letting it remind
him of what his choices were."  Sliding past Natalie, Nick made for the
kitchen.

The two mortals followed, watching as he retrieved first a mug, then a
green bottle from the refrigerator.  Natalie didn't comment as he
poured the cup full, leaving the bottle uncorked on the table.

Tracy tried to keep as calm as she could, her eyes following her
partner's every movement as he quickly drank the cup's contents.  Then,
she continued to watch as he filled the mug a second time, the dark
liquid flowing lazily into it.  As he put the bottle away, her
attention remained focused on the mug.

Picking the cup up, he brought it to his lips in the intention of
taking a sip, but stopped when he met Tracy's astonished gaze.  "What?"

"Nothing.  I just thought...I've never seen...."  She stumbled over her
words.  For a second time that night one of her assumptions about
vampires was blown sky high.  Gesturing to the mug, she figured Nick
would figure out what she was trying to say.

Glancing to the mug, he asked, "Would you rather I drink it straight
from the bottle, or from a wine glass?"

"No," Tracy quickly replied.  "I just assumed....  I mean, from what
I've seen.  Vachon didn't tell me a whole lot about you guys.  Whenever
I would ask a question, he would just gloss over the answer and not
tell me anything."

Nick nodded.  He knew Vachon had tried to tell Tracy as little as
possible.  As a result, her curious mind was filled with unanswered
questions.  Needing to know the answer, she had used the younger
vampire as an example, formulating the answers.  But, the Spaniard
wasn't the norm, nor could he name a vampire off the top of his head
that could be classified as 'normal'.  "We're not all like Vachon."

"So I've gathered."

"If it makes you feel any better, a lot of this is new to me as well
and I've known what Nick is for over six years.  Until all this broke,
I had to pry answers out of him.  They don't let outsiders in.  We're
both lucky we're being trusted, not only by Nick, but LaCroix as well."

"LaCroix trusts no one," Nick interrupted.  "He respects Natalie's
medical knowledge, and tolerates both of you.  In the past, he's
usually killed anyone with knowledge of the Community, no matter how
useful the mortal may be while alive."

Tolerates.  Tracy didn't like the sound of that.  As Nick took a drink
from the mug, she faintly wondered if LaCroix had his 'breakfast' in a
mug as well, or if he opted for something else.  As he sat the mug
down, she returned to her thoughts.  If LaCroix merely tolerated her,
what stood between her and his sharp, angry fangs?

And an even bigger question:  What did Nick think of her knowledge? Did
he merely tolerate it, or did he even care what she knew?  Over the
past week she'd realized that she knew nothing about her partner, not
even his real name.  What was he really like?

Watching Tracy's features drown in worry, he assured, "He won't kill
you.  If that was what he wanted, you would have been dead for a while
now."

No one spoke for nearly a minute.  Tracy considered staying a while
longer, but looking at her watch, decided otherwise.  "Well, I guess I
better go before my father finds out where I am."  Pausing slightly,
she remembered the reason of her visit.  "What should I tell Reese?
That you would like to come back to work, if you can?"  After her
partner nodded in response, she turned to Natalie.  "I need a ride back
since you drove me here."

Natalie had forgotten about that.  Although she would much rather stay
and talk with Nick, she not only needed to take Tracy back to the
precinct, but get back to work herself.  Nodding, she then turned
toward Nick, "Do you mind if I drop by after work?  It'll be just after
dawn."

"I guess....  I don't think LaCroix will be thrilled, but he won't
throw you out."

"I'll see you in the morning, Nick."

As he took yet another sip from the mug, its contents nearly empty, he
watched Natalie lead Tracy out.  Eventually, he would have to fill her
in, if only to prevent her from assuming too much about their kind.

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

"Okay, I understand that it's the Council that wants me to go with you,
but why?  They've never shown any interest in me before, not unless you
count that obsessed Ancient...." Nick trailed off as he caught his
sire's gaze.

Continuing to the kitchen, the Roman poured himself a glass of blood,
needing to calm his senses.  Returning to the couch where he'd been
attempting to relax, he sighed as Nicholas sat on the other end.  His
son's questions were getting annoying.

All night the child had been pestering him for the answer.  Not only
that, but Nicholas had also mentioned Dr. Lambert would be visiting
shortly after dawn, which was quickly approaching.  It would be better,
both for the mortal and the Community, if she would stay away from
Nicholas.  He also knew that it would be useless to protest her
friendship to his son.  It would only push him away, an event he wasn't
going to allow.  At least her visit would keep his son occupied for a
while.  It would also give him some peace and quiet.

"Why, LaCroix?" Nick demanded tersely, LaCroix' silence tweaking his
anger.  "Why have they singled me out?"

"Because of your involvement with the mortals."  The Roman again
sighed, adding, "Now, be silent."

"My 'involvement' has always been looked down upon.  Does it have
anything to do with that Ancient's attempts to change me?  Is the
Council going to try to-"

LaCroix cut off his son's question, flying him into the far wall.  "You
are mine, Nicholas.  I will not allow one of them to lay a finger on
you.  Now, be SILENT!"  He held his son against the wall, slightly in
the air.  LaCroix kept the position for over a minute before once again
letting Nicholas' feet touch the ground.

Turning, LaCroix found himself nearly face to face with Dr. Lambert's
angry glare.  Returning it, he moved passed her, wanting to know how
she got in without him noticing.  Perhaps Nicholas was indeed right
about his loss of control.  Peace and quiet, that's what he needed.
Without a backward glance, he left the apartment for the club below.

Natalie approached until she was standing right in front of Nick.  "I
guess he really is teetering on the edge.  Is there anything you can
do?"

"Go back to the loft and try to keep my emotions to myself.  It might
help a little, but it also might make things worse.  I've never seen
LaCroix quite like this before.  I mean, he's been angry with me in the
past, but not because of something like this.  Hopefully, it's only
temporary."

"And hopefully he's more...controlled tonight.  I don't want to know
what would happen if he lost it."

Nick met her eyes, considering her comment.  Nothing good, that's what
would happen.  Sliding past her, he resumed his earlier position on the
couch.  "So, you found out about tonight."

Keeping her expression even, she sat next to him.  "Nick, the entire
world knows about tonight.  It's the beginning of what will create new
laws in Toronto which will eventually be used across Canada, and
possibly in the US as well."  She paused, quietly asking, "So, how are
you, really?  And don't just say 'fine,' I know that's not true."

"I don't know," he began, shaking his head faintly.  "Everything's a
mess.  The Community's discovery, my life, LaCroix...pretty soon I'll
end up like him."

"And you'll tear each another to shreds," she concluded, seriously.

He winced.  The accuracy of her statement with its tone was just a
little too much.  They *would* tear each other to pieces, over and over
again.

"Okay, but how are *you*?" Natalie prodded further.

At that, Nick looked away.  "I'm always hungry.  If I wait too long
before feeding, the littlest things will bring everything crashing
down--literally.  The blood is the only thing that's letting me keep
control.  After tonight, I'm hoping it'll be better, but I don't
know...."

When Nick trailed off, she could tell he really didn't want to talk
about that.  The fact he hadn't once met her eyes added to her
thoughts.  "So, what do you get to do at the meeting?"

"As far as I know, nothing.  I'm just there to be there.  LaCroix will
be doing all of the talking."

"Well, then you can make sure LaCroix is talking and not something
else."  Watching him, his features still turned away, his body
uncomfortably squirming under her gaze, she realized he probably wanted
to be alone.  He had no reason to want to answer a too curious mortal's
questions, but every reason not to.  Natalie stood, watching as Nick
mirrored her.  "I'm going to head home, I guess.  I'm sure you'd like
to get some rest."

"You mean, try to get some rest," he corrected, his frustration peaking
through.

"You'll rest.  Even if I have to come back and drug you, you will
rest."

Catching the mock seriousness, he couldn't help but smile a little.  "I
don't think you'll have to resort to that."

"Good luck, then," she mentioned, and then started toward the exit.  As
her hand met the doorknob, she felt a hand on her shoulder.  Turning,
she felt Nick's lips press lightly against her forehead.

"Thanks, Nat.  I'm glad you came by."

Natalie was a little surprised, not only of his actions, but his words
as well.  She had figured he didn't want her there, but he was thanking
her for visiting.  Checking his opinion, she inquired, "Do you mind if
I drop by again?  Perhaps not tonight, but in the next couple?"

"Sure," he shrugged.  "Unless I tell you otherwise, I'll be here."

Nodding, she left, leaving Nick alone in the apartment.  LaCroix was
still down in the club.  Although he still wanted to know the Council's
reasons for having him accompany LaCroix, he would not bother his sire.
Instead, he started toward his room, planning on taking Natalie's
suggestion.


Pawns of Kings (18/52)

Near the end of her shift, Natalie had stopped by the precinct, finding
many of the detectives and officers gathered around a small TV.  Tracy
was watching, and Natalie approached her.  "What's this?"

"Remember that meeting I told you about yesterday?  Well, it's just
getting out."

Turning to the screen, she watched the reporter explain what was
happening.  Apparently, the meeting had gone nearly from dusk to dawn,
focusing on getting each side out in the open.  It would be several
days before they discussed anything further.  As the newscaster
reminded the watchers that no official information would be released,
she also mentioned that perhaps they could get a comment.

Behind them, the building's doors opened, letting out its occupants.
The reporters in the scene divided themselves nearly evenly, half
surrounding the mortals, the other half moving toward the vampires. The
shot followed Nick and LaCroix as they made their descent, Nick leading
the way through the mess.

Nick expertly dodged the reporters and their questions, undoubtedly
muttering 'no comment' to them.  LaCroix, however, appeared silent, but
with a glare that could freeze hell ten times over, the reporters
backed up, apparently realizing their predicament.

As they once again crowded Nick and LaCroix, the camera panned back to
the newscaster.  The woman spoke, and those gathered around the screen
became silent, curious to what she had to comment.

'That was Lucien LaCroix, Toronto's Elder, accompanied by Nicholas
Knight.  The reason for the second's presence is, as of yet, unknown.'

Mentioning they would return to sports after a short commercial break,
someone switched the device off.

Nathan Marks, one of the senior detectives, wasted no time voicing his
opinion.  "He's probably some type of Elder backing up the other one,
LaCroix," he said with distaste.

"Knight's one of our own, Marks," another detective countered.  "Not
only is he a fellow detective, but he's filled in for many of us so we
could take a day off, you included."

"As far as I'm concerned, Knight is no detective and never was one.
He's not even human," Marks sternly stated, shooting a glare at Tracy
before quickly moving to his desk.

"Jerk," she muttered under her breath as everyone dispersed.

The detective that had spoken, Brian Garrison, approached her,
agreeing, "I would have used something more descriptive, but you've got
the general idea."  He paused, getting only a mild glare from Vetter,
and a raised eyebrow from the coroner.  "If he can say Knight isn't
human, he isn't either.  Knight might not be mortal, but he sure looks
and acts human to me."

Tracy nodded.  Brian was on Nick's side, but was anyone else?  "Nothing
anyone says will change my opinion of Nick, not even Nick himself."

Brian suddenly seemed a little uncomfortable, and after a moment of
hesitation, asked, "Is Knight coming back?  I don't know if I would
with an angry Marks after me, but I'm not Nick."

Tracy looked to Natalie, not sure how to answer the question, or if she
should.

"Nick wants to come back, but might not be able to.  It depends upon if
the new laws will allow him to," Natalie explained.

"Well, I hope he can.  I'm pretty sure most of the precinct would
agree.  Other than Marks, I haven't heard much against Nick."  Stopping
for a moment, he smiled faintly, "Besides, I think Reese would lighten
up a bit.  I've been lectured a half a dozen times on being late, and
that was just for a couple of minutes."

The blonde detective nodded again.  Everything Brian said matched with
her observations, both on Marks and Reese.  "Yeah, but I don't think
it's entirely due to Nick being gone."

"Once you find out when Nick's coming back, would you mind telling me?
Don't worry, I won't tell Mar-"

"When we find out, we will," Natalie replied, pulling Tracy toward her
desk.  "Have you heard anything from Reese or your father?"

"No, or at least not anything relevant.  My father's trying to get me
to transfer, but I'm not going to.  As a result, I'm guessing that
there's probably a very good chance that Nick's going to be allowed to
come back."

"Otherwise, there would be no reason to push you to transfer," Natalie
surmised.

"Exactly.  Hopefully he can come back soon.  I don't mind working with
some of the other detectives, but I'd rather work with Nick."  She
paused for a second, and then asked, "Are you going to talk to him
after work?"

"Umm...no, I don't think so...not tonight," she began, the answer still
indecisive.  "Maybe tomorrow.  I want to give him a break after
tonight."

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

Three days later:

"Doctor Lambert?  Could I speak to you for a moment?" Reese prodded as
she walked through the precinct.

Something was definitely up, that was for sure.  "Yeah, what about?"

He looked about the room before heading to his office.  As soon as she
had passed through the door, he closed it.  Prior to sitting down, he
began, "Nick's going to be allowed back to work."

Surprise lit up on her face.  She had figured it would take longer for
a decision to be made.  "When?"

"Whenever he wants."  Reese slowly sat in his desk, pausing before
continuing.  "Until a formal decision is made, Nick can work just like
any other detective."

She knew it.  There had to be some kind of condition to him returning.
"And depending upon the formal decision, he might have to resign."

"Perhaps, but I don't think he'll have to.  I think a good portion of
the decision will be based off of both the observations of his
coworkers and myself.  Most of the precinct's opinion of Nick hasn't
changed much."

"Except for Marks," she accidentally voiced aloud, immediately
flinching.

"Don't worry about it.  In his mind, vampires are pure evil.  It's
going to take a lot to convince him otherwise, but Marks isn't going to
try anything in the meantime.  However, before Nick comes back, I want
to talk to Marks.  You should also tell Nick what to expect from him."

Natalie nodded, wondering what Nick's reaction to all of this would be.
Although she had said she'd visit, the last time she spoke with him had
been four nights ago.  But, had he already been told?  "Does Nick know
yet?"

"No, he doesn't know.  I thought it would be better if the news came
from you.  Besides, I assume he's staying at the Raven, and I suspect
you have access."

She held Reese's gaze for several seconds.  He had figured out where
Nick was, and undoubtedly so had others.

"Natalie, I'm aware you and Nick are friends, and that you probably
know a whole lot more about what he is than anyone else here."

Again, she nodded.  "I guess I'll tell Nick after work, then."

As Natalie stood, Reese also stood.  "If you want, you can go over
there now.  I'll have the morgue let you off early."

Shaking her head, she started to protest, "No, that's okay, I'll just
wait-"

"Go ahead," he pushed.  "I'm fully aware you don't have any 'patients'
at the moment.  Besides, I think you need a couple of hours off, even
if you do wait until morning to talk to Nick."

Natalie paused, considering his words.  Apparently, she hadn't managed
to keep her worry hidden, at least not from Reese.  Her worry had
centered on Nick, how he was managing, and even a little for LaCroix.
Continuing to the door, she mentioned, "I'll go tell him," then left.

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

Reaching the Raven, she made her way up to the apartment.  She didn't
go through the club, not wanting to disturb LaCroix.  Knocking, no one
answered.  Cautiously she turned the knob, finding the door open.
After entering, she quickly discovered the apartment to be empty.  It
only took a moment for the situation to hit her.  If LaCroix found her
up here....  Quickly, she started for the door, only to run smack into
the Roman turning a corner.

"What are you doing in my home?" he hissed, leaning in toward her.

Suppressing a flinch, she kept her response even.  "I want to talk to
Nick.  Where is he?"

The vampire glared at her.  After a second he clenched his teeth,
commanding, "Follow me.  He is downstairs."

LaCroix turned, and without a word, she followed.  Once in the club, he
nodded toward the back corner.  Keeping his silence, he started for his
office.  Natalie kept her eyes on Nick, then made her way across the
room.  She could feel eyes following her form.  About halfway there,
Nick looked up at her and her step faltered.  Everyone in the club were
probably vampires, at least, except for her.

Finishing her journey, she sat in the booth, Nick across the table from
her.  She watched him slowly take a drink out of his glass, then turn
toward her.  His eyes were mostly blue, gold seeping its way in. "Nick?
You're drunk, aren't you?"

He managed a partial smile.  "I guess you could say that."

Slowly, she took the bottle next to the glass, and brought the opening
to her nose.  Blood mixed with wine, and by the look of the glass, she
guessed it was about half and half.  Putting it back, Natalie
hesitantly prodded, "Can I ask why?"

"I had to do something," he began.  "Do you have any idea how boring it
is to do nothing?"

Looking down, she had no choice but to answer.  "No, I don't.  I've
always had to keep busy."

"Try warding off boredom for eternity."  His lips tweaked up again.
"It's not possible, so I have to find other ways of...wasting time."

Wasting time, that's what he was trying to do.  Well, then she had news
for him.  "Hmmm....  Why don't you go to the precinct and waste it
there?"

Immediately, Nick perked up.  "What?  But...."

"You can come back to work whenever you want to.  I'm sure Reese would
be glad if you showed up tomorrow night even.  Tracy definitely would.
She's been working with Garrison and Chambers."  When Nick didn't
respond, she continued, "Do you still want to come back?"

"Yes.  It's just...what should I do?"

"What do you mean?  If you want to come back, then come back."

Nick completely downed the glass' contents, and then took in a deep
breath.  "What am I supposed to say to them, Nat?  I've worked next to
some of them nearly as long as I've known you, pretending to be one of
them.  I've betrayed their trust.  I don't know if they can forgive
me."

"Let them try, Nick."  Pursing her lips, she added, "I think you'll
find mortals are more forgiving than you give us credit for."

Nodding, he grasped her hand across the table.  "Okay, but not
tomorrow.  At the earliest, it'll be the following night.  It depends
upon tomorrow night.  I have to go with LaCroix again."

Natalie cursed to herself.  She forgot about that.  Starting tomorrow,
the real work would begin.  Nick would have to sit through discussion
of what could be compromised on, what couldn't, in the end being one of
the first to listen to the final decision.

She focused on her hand, watching as Nick released his grasp, only to
first entwine his fingers with hers, then turn her hand over and
massage her palm with his thumb.  The action was unusual, and
unexpected.  If this had been a couple of years ago, she wouldn't have
thought twice about it.  But as of late, Nick had kept his distance,
like he didn't want to be around her.  Right now, that certainly wasn't
the case.  Faintly, she could feel her cheeks become warm.  Fully aware
that Nick would notice, she knew they were turning even redder.

Abruptly, he pulled back.  "Sorry, I didn't mean to-"

Before he could finish, Natalie took his hand, assuring him, "You did
nothing wrong.  Don't worry about it."  As far as she was concerned, he
could hold her hand whenever, and as long as he wanted to.

As her hand surrounded his, Nick could feel her pulse quicken, it's
repeating rhythm stirring the already aroused vampire.  Gently, he
pulled his hand away.  "So, if I'm going to return to work, would you
mind giving me a ride?"

"Sure, but why not take the Caddy?"

He shrugged.  "I want to be a little freer.  I'll let Tracy drive.  If
I need to leave early, I'm not bound to a vehicle."

All she could do was shake her head and smile.  "Well, at least ask for
a ride home before transporting yourself back.  You can't just fly
everywhere."

"Yes, I can," he replied with a twinkle in his eyes.

"And I suspect you would if you could.  Am I right?"  All she'd heard
about flying from him had been positive.  He enjoyed it, perhaps a
little too much.

"What can I say?  It's a stress reliever."

As his eyes continued to sparkle, she decided to get back on topic.
"What time do you want me to be here?  About sunset?"

"If you want.  Earlier is fine too."

"Do you want me to call first?  LaCroix didn't seem too happy tonight
when I just dropped by."

"No, it wouldn't have changed anything if you called.  Besides, I'm
sure he already knows you're coming."

Following his gesture, she turned to find LaCroix standing just outside
his office, the Roman's attention clearly on them.  "Then, I suppose I
should go.  Are you sure you'll be in the night after tomorrow?"

"Yes, even if I don't stay the whole night, I will come in.  I
promise."

Natalie stood, glancing at LaCroix for a second.  Then, she focused on
Nick once again.  "I'll see you later."  As he nodded, she turned and
walked to the entrance, turning before reaching the door, her hand
pulling it open.  From her position, Natalie could see Nick looking her
way.  Letting her eyes wander in LaCroix' direction as the door swung
closed, she was just able to see the focus of his attention--her.

The night air met her face, the last image she'd caught freezing in her
mind for a couple of seconds.  The expression on his face had been
missed, but it was probably some kind of detest.  LaCroix didn't like
her being as close to Nick as she was, and she knew it.  She brushed
the thought off, heading to her car, her destination being her
apartment.


Pawns of Kings (19/52)

"Nick?" she called, finding the apartment dark.  She had hoped Nick was
awake, but things didn't want to go the way she wanted them to.

When no one answered upon arriving, she'd used Nick's keys to get in.
She knew he was here, he had said he would.  Not only that, but LaCroix
had to be around somewhere.  In fact, she was surprised he hadn't shown
up yet.

"Nicholas is...getting dressed."

Natalie spun, finding LaCroix standing just inside the hallway.  He was
wearing pajamas identical to Nick's in every aspect except for their
color.  Until now, she'd never considered the vampire in white, or
ivory as the case was.  Other than make his pallor more apparent, it
was a flattering color.  Although he stood as stoically as ever before
her, she couldn't help but comment, "Shouldn't you be dressed by now, I
believe the Raven opens in just under an hour."

Approaching, he passed her on his way to the kitchen, coming within
inches of her.  "For the night, it is closed to the general public."

She followed, leaning against the doorframe as LaCroix went about
getting his breakfast.  "I assume the back door will be open for the
normal clientele?"

"Of course," he mentioned, wasting no time replacing the bottle in the
refrigerator.

So far, LaCroix had done nothing to intimidate her.  Not a word, not an
action, nothing.  He wasn't entirely pleased at her presence, that she
could tell, but neither was he ready to throw her out.  "You seem your
regular self again."

"And I suppose you want to know the reason?" he inquired, leaving the
kitchen.

"I am curious...."

She was too curious for her own good, at least in his opinion.  Sitting
on the couch, he decided to indulge her.  If he didn't, it would be no
doubt that Nicholas would do so later that night.  A smirk lighted up
his face.  "Negotiations are going in our favor.  Nearly everything is
completely on our side, or is a compromise we're willing to make."

"When is everything going to be final?  Do you know?"

The question broke his calm, gold flashing in his eyes.  "No.  That
depends upon bureaucracy," he hissed, the anger being directed at the
far wall.

Feeling something, Natalie turned just in time to see a dark form glide
into the kitchen.  Less than a minute later, Nick moved effortlessly
past her, sitting next to his sire on the couch.  Out of the three, she
was the only one left standing, and she suddenly felt awkward.  As
unobtrusively as possible she walked across the room, sitting in a
well-used armchair.

"Are you ready for tonight?" she asked, watching Nick tense at the
question.

"That will be discovered later, won't it?"  Quickly, he averted his
gaze, taking a long sip out of his mug.

Nick wasn't sure about tonight.  Perhaps he needed to get his mind off
things.  "I take it last night went well?"

"As well as it could.  The future will tell the rest."

The elder vampire nodded.  "Yes, Nicholas, it will.  It always has in
the past."

LaCroix seemed calm, as did Nick, but all was not well.  Perhaps
tonight would not be a good time for Nick to come back to work.  "Do
you want to wait another day or two?  There's nothing that says you
have to come back tonight...."

"I said that I would come tonight.  I'm not going to change that
decision."

Nick's eyes bored into hers with quiet determination.  He would get
through tonight, no matter what he had to do.  Watching Nick put his
mug on the table, she was suddenly thirsty herself.  Without a word,
she stood, took Nick's mug, and started for the kitchen.

Entering, she was relieved that Nick, or LaCroix for that matter,
didn't follow her.  Putting Nick's mug down, she first went to the
refrigerator.  Finding nothing but bottles inside, she took the closest
one, pouring a mug full of the red liquid.  Replacing it, she got
another mug, filling it with water from the tap before returning to the
other room.

"So, what is this for?" Nick asked as she handed him his mug.

She shrugged, stating, "I refilled it.  I figured you'd like a little
more.  Is that okay?"

"It's fine, just...unexpected."

Drinking a good portion of her water, Natalie could feel the slight
dryness dissipating.  "What time do you want to leave?"

"How about as soon as I finish this?" he suggested, raising his mug and
taking a sip.

Looking at her watch, she could see it was still nearly fifteen minutes
till sunset.  "Don't you think we should wait a little longer?  The sun
hasn't yet set."

"I'll be fine."

"Perhaps you should listen to the doctor.  The sun can do a great deal
of damage, especially this time of year."

"I said, I'll be fine!" he hissed to the elder vampire.

If Nick was this close to the edge, there was no use for her to try
arguing with him.  "Okay, we'll leave when you're done.  Just be
careful, all right?"

Hesitantly, he nodded.  Then, Nick quickly drained the remainder of the
mug.  He stood, disappearing into the hallway, returning wearing his
shoulder holster.

Natalie watched the two vampires glare at one another, initiated by
LaCroix.  Apparently, he didn't agree with something.  Whether it was
Nick returning to work, or him leaving before sunset, she couldn't
tell.  As the elder man angrily looked away, Nick started to the door.

By the time she caught up, Nick was nearly outside.  "Are you sure
you'll be all right with the sun?  There's still several more minutes
before it sets...."

"Don't worry about it.  It won't do too much damage."

As he led the way out onto the darkening street, she watched as he
cautiously avoided the remaining sunlight.  It took no time at all for
him to get in her car.  Once she started the ignition, she asked, "I
take it you and LaCroix got into another argument?"

"Yes, and with minor injuries, I won."

Minor injuries.  She didn't want to know what he meant by that.  "Was
it about coming back to work?"

For a mere second, he met her gaze before turning away.  "I don't want
to talk about that.  Let's go."

Swallowing another question, she pulled out into traffic.  Occasionally
she looked over at him, wondering what was going through his mind right
now.  Although she wanted to ask, she kept her mouth clamped shut.  The
entire ride to the precinct was spent in silence.

Pulling into the parking lot, the sun disappeared behind the horizon,
night finally arriving.  She followed a step behind him as they walked
up the steps.  Placing a hand on his shoulder, Natalie watched as he
turned, but didn't shrug away from her touch.  Instead, he took her
hand, squeezing it slightly before continuing up the steps.

Upon entering the precinct, nearly everyone meet his eyes for at least
a second before returning to their duty.  About in the middle, Tracy
sat at her desk, her back to him, completely unaware of his arrival.
Slowly approaching her, he stopped just behind her.  "Hey, Trace,
what's up?"

She spun, a look of utter surprise on her features, Nick and Nat
standing nearly right next to her.  "Nick, it's barely dark!  What are
you doing here?"

"Coming in for work," he stated simply.

"I can see that."  Gesturing toward the office, she explained, "Reese
wants to talk to you."

"Then I guess I should go do that before he calls me-"

"Too late I fear," Natalie interrupted, gesturing toward the Captain's
office.

"Knight, get in here.  I've got something for you," Reese commanded.

Obeying, Nick closed the office's door behind him.  "What did you want
to talk to me about?"

"Are you up to full duty tonight?  I know you've been gone for a while.
And Nick, I want the truth."

"Yeah, I guess."

Reese wasn't sure about the answer, but took it anyway.  "Here, you'll
need these back," he said, placing Nick's badge and gun on the desk.
"There's a homicide at Eaton Centre, and I'm putting you and Tracy on
the case."

Nick stood, becoming uncomfortable when Reese didn't continue.  "Do you
want us to go now, Captain?"

"Yes, and take Dr. Lambert with you."  As Nick turned to leave, he
mentioned, "And Knight, don't let anyone get to you.  Not here in the
precinct, or at the scene.  You got that?"

At first, Nick merely nodded in answer, but then he added, "Yes, sir,"
and left the office, gun and badge in hand.

Arriving back at his desk, he put the gun in his holster, the badge in
his back pocket.

"I guess you needed those back," Tracy mentioned, not even knowing
Reese had taken her partner's badge and gun.  "So, what did he have to
say?"

"We have a case.  A homicide at Eaton Centre."

"Where?" his partner prodded, following him to the exit.

"At Eaton Centre."

Natalie pondered throttling him.  How could he be so thick headed?
"Where 'in' Eaton Centre?"

At the bottom of the steps, Nick came to a sudden halt.  "We'll find
out on the way.  I guess you'll need to come with us."

Natalie nodded, "And since Nick didn't drive, looks like we'll both
ride with Tracy."

"You didn't drive?  But then, you don't really need to, do you?"

He winced at his partner's comment.  Until then, Tracy hadn't mentioned
anything about his other abilities, ones that weren't revealed to the
public.  It reminded him once more that he needed to have a talk with
her.  "Not really, but no one else knows that.  Give me a couple of
days."

"Well, if I'm driving, you get the radio."  The detective unlocked her
car, and watching Nick sit in the passenger seat, she reminded him, "We
might want to know exactly where we're going before we get there."

Picking up the radio, he mumbled, "Why Eaton Centre...."

Natalie leaned back in her seat, just barely hearing Nick.  She
understood what he meant.  Eaton Centre hadn't quite closed yet.  There
would undoubtedly be people there.  Those people could easily recognize
Nick.  Whether anything would be said, though, was an entirely
different matter.


Pawns of Kings (20/52)

Nick led the way to the centre, going down into the subway.  He caught
a few glances, but passed them off.  Approaching the scene, he could
smell the strong scent of blood.  Just a few meters from the edge of
the platform lay the body of a security officer, his heart already
stopped, blood pooling beneath him.  A few feet away stood another
security officer being questioned by one of the officers already on the
scene.

The three split up, Natalie going to the body, Tracy following Nick to
talk with the officer.  "What happened?" he asked calmly, smelling a
faint scent of fresh blood coming from the man's arm.

"This guy pulled out a gun.  At first he was threatening the woman over
there...." the man said, gesturing to a woman speaking to one of the
other officers.

"Trace, why don't you go ahead and interview her?"

She hesitated for a second, and then nodded, walking toward the woman.

"Then what happened..." he glanced down to the security officer's
shirt, "...Mr. Stewart?"

"When we, Reed and I, approached, he panicked, but instead of shooting
the woman, he pushed her away, aiming at us.  Reed reached for his
weapon, and the man took a couple of shots.  When Reed went down, I
raised my gun, trying to get the man to put his down, but he fired.  I
shot back.  I think I hit him, and then he ran, getting on the subway.
He just made it before it left, and I had no time to pursue."

"How many times did the man shoot?"

"Four.  Three times at Reed, and once at me."

As Stewart stood next to him holding his arm, Nick could still smell
blood flowing.  'He's a pretty good shot,' he thought to himself, his
mind focusing on the wound.  "Where was he standing when you fired?"

The security officer took the hand covering the wound, momentarily
pointing beyond Nick, the blood on Stewart's hand pulling the vampire
dangerously close to the surface.  Following the security officer, Nick
let his instincts guide him to the blood, finding several drops, a
trail leading toward the edge of the platform.

"Nat?" he called across the short distance separating them.  As she
turned to him, Nick asked, "Could you come over here?  I might have
some evidence for you."  As he waited for her to arrive, Nick asked,
"Could you help us get a sketch of the man?"

"Of course, I got a good look at him...."

Natalie approached, and Nick gestured to the blood on the ground, "It
could be the suspect's.  He was shot before getting on the subway."

"Well, if you get a suspect, we can match his DNA."  Natalie retrieved
as much of the blood as she could.  Standing, she noted Nick's slightly
stiff stance.  A second later, she noticed the security officer's
wound.  "Look's like you took a hit."

Uncovering his arm, the blood began to flow once again.  "Just a
scratch, but it won't stop bleeding."

Natalie caught a faint wince from Nick.  It was clear he could smell
the blood, but he was reigning in the vampire well.  "I could take care
of that for you."

"You wouldn't mind?"

"I'm a doctor, of course I don't mind.  It'll only take a few seconds."

As Nick received a questioning glance from Stewart, he mentioned, "Get
that taken care of.  I'll go and make sure you have a ride down to the
precinct."

Natalie took a look at the man's wound as Nick slinked away.  The
security officer's wound was no more than a scratch, but as he had
commented, it was bleeding rather profusely.  Retrieving her bag, she
bandaged the wound, watching as he stared straight ahead, occasionally
turning ever so slightly.  Following his gaze, her eyes focused on
Nick.  Clearing her throat, she stated, "All finished.  It should stop
bleeding, but if it doesn't, you'll need to get it checked out."

Stewart turned to her for a mere moment, and then refocused on the
detective.  Something was familiar about Knight, both his name and
appearance.  Then, it hit him.  Knight was that detective, the one that
wasn't human.  Knight was a vampire.  He tensed, realizing the
detective must have certainly noticed his wound immediately.  As Knight
approached, he tried to keep calm.

Nick heard the security officer's heart rate increase.  Stewart's eyes
had also changed, going bright with a tinge of fear.  "If you'll go
with Officer Carlson, he'll take you down to the precinct so you can
get started on the composite."

Meeting the detective's eyes for a second, Stewart turned away, heading
toward the uniformed officer Knight had been talking to.

"He recognized me, didn't he?" Nick asked, his attention focused
squarely on Natalie.

Silently nodding, she started back toward the fallen officer, tugging
on Nick's sleeve when he didn't follow her.  "Patrick Reed was shot
twice in the chest.  I'm figuring a .38 caliber, but won't know for
sure until I get back to the morgue.  Then, I'll also know if he died
of the bullet, or blood loss."

Nick nodded.  Then, catching the familiar heartbeat of his partner, he
spun toward her, asking, "Did you get anything?"

Pushing her surprise away, she continued a few more steps to reach Nick
and Natalie's position.  "The woman, Tammy Monson, didn't get a very
good look at the suspect.  He came up behind her.  By the time he had
released her, she was too shocked to do much of anything.  Right now,
most of the shock has worn off, but then, I doubt she's ever seen a gun
up close, let alone had one pointed at her.  I had to remove my weapon
before she'd let me question her, let alone get a coherent syllable."
Tracy paused, before suggesting, "Why don't we head back to the
precinct, you look a little tense."

At first, her comment made him stiffen even further.  Realizing the
truthfulness of her observation, he relaxed, nodding in agreement.

The ride back was spent in silence.  Occasionally, Tracy would glance
over to the passenger's seat, watching her partner's empty stare out
into the night.  She hoped he was all right.  Looking in the rearview
mirror, she could see a hint of worry on Natalie's features.  Arriving,
she walked with Nick toward the building.

Watching Nick ascend the stairs, Natalie told him, "I'll pick you up at
the end of your shift."  Catching a glimmer of protest, she lectured,
"I'm picking you up whether you want a ride or not."

He gave her a faint nod, and then followed his partner toward the
entrance.  As she reached the door, Tracy warned, "Watch out for Marks,
he's not exactly thrilled with your return."  Seeing him flinch, she
explained, "He doesn't have anything against you, not personally.  He
just doesn't like...."

"...what I am," he finished.

She stopped just inside the door.  "Nick, just don't let him get to
you, okay?"

Instead of answering, he started toward his desk.  Tracy sighed, hoping
Nick would take her advice.  Marks hadn't been in when Nick arrived for
work, but now, he awaited them.  Watching Nick slump into his desk, she
watched as Marks made his move.  It was too late to hope he'd wait.

"Knight."

Hearing Detective's Marks' voice, Nick froze.  "Yes, do you need
something?" he asked civilly, turning to face the other detective.

"For you to leave and never show yourself in this building again."
Marks glared at Knight, trying to get the vampire to break the stare.

"I am here to work, Marks."

"What?  Work on picking victims for your murderous hunger?"

At that, Nick's eyes faintly glowed.  His fangs itched, wishing to
descend, but he kept them hidden.  "I do not murder for my survival."
His eyes held their intensity.

Marks was about to comment when Tracy appeared at the desk.  She stood
behind him, resting her hands on her partner's shoulders.  "Why don't
you leave him alone?  Nick's done nothing to you."

"This isn't over," the taller, dark haired detective promised, moving
off toward his own desk in a fury.

She rubbed her partner's shoulders, trying to get him to relax once
again.  Gently, he pulled out of her grasp.  "You okay, Nick?"

"Fine."  Rolling his chair closer to the desk, he found its surface
empty.  There was nothing to occupy himself with.  Leaning back, Nick
watched her sink into her own chair, focusing on him, waiting for an
answer.  He sighed.  "He didn't waste any time, did he?"

"No, he didn't.  But then, Marks wouldn't."  A smile twitched into
place.  "Wonder how Marks would react if he knew your strength?"

Nick glanced momentarily at the other detective.  Marks was about 6'3",
a little taller than LaCroix, his muscles well defined under his loose
t-shirt.  The other man's well tanned complexion, almost black hair and
dark brown eyes were in stark contrast to his own.  Yet, compared to
the strength the vampire gave him, Marks was weak.  If Marks picked a
fight and he fought back, the larger detective would be no match for
him.  No matter what was said, Marks wouldn't react until he was
helpless.  "Disbelief.  He would just consider it another quality that
makes me inhuman."

"It would give him quite a shock though, wouldn't it?  Especially if he
found out first hand...."

He threw her a glare that quickly changed to mirror her smile at the
recognition of her teasing.  "Yes, it would, but I'm not going to do
that."  Sobering for a second, he added, "At least, not intentionally."

Nick's last comment made her lose her smile as well.  She knew how he
could react to Marks.  Her partner would either brush it off, or his
anger would come to the surface.  Then, Marks would see just whom he
was threatening.

She watched her partner fade off into his mind, hoping she could get
him back.  "Here," she mentioned, handing a handful of papers across to
him.  "Since you're back, you can help me with some research on the
Hansen case."

Taking a look at the papers, he found a list of relations to the
deceased.  Work was exactly what he needed right now.  Asking about the
case, he listened attentively to Tracy's explanation.  Perhaps tonight
wouldn't be so bad after all....

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

Nick turned his computer off.  Work had gone well after the first few
minutes back in the precinct.  Marks had left him alone.  Tracy had
left almost a half hour before.  Now, he was just waiting for Natalie.
Although he could just leave, he didn't want to worry Nat anymore than
she already was.

"Hey, Nick."

Turning toward the voice, he found her walking toward his desk.

"How'd everything go?" she prodded.

"Fine, at least most of the night.  Tracy just left a little while
ago."

"Ready?"

Nodding, Nick stood, following Natalie out to her car.  Now that his
shift was over, he was going back to the Raven--and LaCroix.  If his
master said a word about tonight, he would not respond kindly.

She silently watched Nick slide into the passenger seat.  He seemed
okay, but whether he was or not, she wouldn't know yet.  "So, to the
Raven or your loft?"

"The Raven."

The simple answer made her stop further inquiries, the ride quiet.

Driving to the Raven, Natalie pulled up to the front curb.  "I guess
I'll see you tomorrow night."  When he didn't get out, she asked, "Is
something wrong?"

Meeting her eyes, he looked away for a second, and then turned back.
"Would you mind staying the day?  You don't have too, I just...."

"I'll stay, but what will LaCroix think?"

"I don't care what he thinks.  He won't be happy, but he can deal with
it."

She raised her eyebrow.  Nick was purposely angering LaCroix.  "Why
don't you just move back to the loft?  Both of you need a break from
the other."

"Perhaps I will, but not now."  Nick paused, carefully considering her
words.  He didn't want to push her into staying if she didn't want to.
"Nat, you can go ahead and go home.  I'm sure you'd rather spend your
day there instead of here, amongst the creatures of the night."

Abruptly, he got out of the car, starting toward the entrance.  She
hastily followed, locking the car and nearly slamming her skirt in the
door.  "Nick, wait..." she called, catching up to him just before he
reached the door.  "I don't mind staying here, Nick, you know that."

He halted in his steps.  "I just...."

Touching her fingers to his lips, Natalie stopped his thoughts.  "I'm
staying because I want to stay, you got that?"

Soberly, he nodded, then led the way into the club and up to LaCroix'
apartment.


Pawns of Kings (21/52)

Not even halfway through the day she found herself sitting up, wide-
awake.  Why, she had no idea.  The room she was in, Janette's room, was
completely silent.  She couldn't hear a peep from anywhere else in the
apartment.

Slowly, Natalie slipped out of the bed.  For a moment, she stood still,
then carefully made her way to the door.  As she walked, her feet
slipped on the ends of Nick's pajamas.  Making her way down the hall,
she stopped at Nick's room, pushing the door open enough to peek in.

Inside, she found not only Nick, but LaCroix as well.  Entering, the
latter vampire made no sign of sensing her approach.  The Roman was
methodically rubbing his son's back, the action seeming familiar to the
elder vampire.  "LaCroix?"

He looked up to her before returning to his task.  "Return to sleep,
Doctor."

Brushing the near command off, she moved closer.  "What happened?"

"A nightmare, by my guess.  Presently, he is sleeping.  I would like
him to remain so."  He shot a glare at her, gesturing toward the door.

She made no action but to return a glare of her own.

"I will meet you in the kitchen.  Now, please...."

As LaCroix gestured to the exit a second time, Natalie was stunned.  He
was actually asking her to leave, not ordering, but asking.  Turning,
she left the room, glancing back for a split second before going toward
the kitchen.

In that moment, she saw LaCroix bending over his son, the vampire's
lips brushing against the back of Nick's shoulder before moving toward
his ear.  This was something she wasn't meant to see, that much she
knew.

Once in the kitchen, Natalie poured a glass from one of the
refrigerator's green bottles.  Upon his entrance, she handed him the
goblet, which he took from her without a word.

"How come he was still asleep?  I didn't see anything wrong."

"That's because to a mortal, nothing appears wrong.  Through my
connection with him, I felt his turmoil.  When I had originally felt
his distress, he appeared to be sleeping soundly, as he is now."

"Then, why did I wake up?"  He didn't answer, merely taking a sip of
the blood.  "LaCroix, sometimes I can feel Nick before he approaches,
I've even felt you."

There was no denying her words.  Nicholas had even commented on this
situation on a couple of occasions.  "You have grown sensitive to our
kind and, I'm sorry to say, but apparently to Nicholas' moods as well."

The topic was something she'd thought much on.  It was a question she
needed to know an answer for.  "Is this from Nick taking my blood?"

"Possibly, but it could also just be something you've unconsciously
learned.  Either way, if it becomes stronger, you will need help to
block us."

Confusion began to fill her mind.  LaCroix was giving her a warning,
not in the form of a threat, but advice.  "Why?"

"Even I cannot keep Nicholas' thoughts from invading my own.  He is
completely unaware of what he is doing.  If you become too sensitive,
he will unintentionally drive you mad."  Finishing off the glass, he
kept hold of the goblet.  "I wish I could free my son of his troubles.
I have tried and...failed."  His grip tightened on the glass.  Within
seconds, the material imploded within his grip.

When the vampire made his hand into a fist, raising it, she could see
his blood flow down his arm, staining the ivory satin.

Instinctively, she took his hand, prying his fingers loose.  Pieces of
glass were embedded deep into his hand, the blood flowing freely.
Looking up at him, his eyes were closed, seemingly in pain.  The
emotion was something she'd rarely seen on any vampire's features, let
alone LaCroix'.

"Damn," she cursed, staring at the protruding pieces of glass.  "Sit
down, I'll be right back."  Natalie nearly sprinted from the room,
going into the bathroom and searching the drawers.  On the third try,
she found a pair of tweezers.  They would have to do.

She took the tweezers, and turned the water on the hottest setting.
Running them under the water, her mind faintly recognized the action as
unnecessary, but cleaned them anyway.  Turning the facet off, she went
back to the kitchen where LaCroix hadn't moved a muscle.

"Sit down and give me your hand," she commanded, pulling him toward the
table.  As he sat at the end, Natalie sat in the chair next to him,
taking his hand and putting it on the table.  Without hesitation, she
began the process of removing the shards.  "What was this for?"

The vampire glared at her, the pain still visible, but the glass, or
its removal, wasn't causing it.  "I told you, Doctor.  I...failed,"
LaCroix hissed, the words foreign to both their ears.

At that moment, her hand slipped, the ends of the tweezers digging deep
into his flesh.  "Sorry," she muttered, returning to her task.

"We don't feel pain, not from something as trivial as this."

Pulling out the last piece of glass, she watched as the skin began to
heal.  Slowly, the skin knitted itself back together, the healing
process beginning.  Once again looking up into LaCroix' face, she could
still see the pain.  "But, you are in pain.  I can see it."  He didn't
comment, but she knew he wouldn't.  "Wash your hand off.  While you do
that, I'll get you something to drink."

LaCroix stood, heading for the sink.  Only once the water was turned on
did she go to get him another glass and open the refrigerator.  Turning
back, he was gone.  She immediately left the room, going straight for
the hall.  The Roman stood outside Nick's door, staring in.

"How is he?"

Sighing, LaCroix took the glass, walking into the main room, finally
sitting heavily on the far end of the couch.  "Troubled, as always."

When a vampire said always, it meant eternity.  Yet, how could that be?
"Surely, at one time Nick enjoyed himself, didn't have these nightmares
plaguing him?"

He looked over at her, his expression stone cold.  "I have never seen
Nicholas at peace, not for more than a few days before something would
disturb him.  Even as a child..." he trailed off, the slip already
noticed.

"You knew Nick as a child?  Does he...." she trailed off, her surprise
overwhelming her.

"No.  I took those memories away.  I've never given even a hint of them
back, nor do I plan to."

Her curiosity flared at this piece of information.  "When did you meet
him?  How old was he?"

Somehow, he felt he could trust this mortal, something that had only
happened once in the past, many years in the past.  "A long time ago,
the turn of the century, or to be more precise, the year 1200."
Pausing, he raised the glass to eye level, staring into the deep red
liquid, but not tasting even a drop.  "I was riding through Brabant.  I
had stayed just outside the village, as there was no available lodging
within.  It was late summer, dusk barely fallen.  As I passed near the
castle walls, I saw two boys...."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Brabant, 1200

Riding along the path, LaCroix heard children's laughter.  Continuing,
two blond heads peeked out through the inky darkness.  Both boys became
silent at his approach.  The older boy, about seven, perhaps eight
years old, kept turned away from him.  The second boy, appearing just
younger then the first, glanced in his direction, two deep blue orbs
locking with his for a mere second.

Passing, he stayed on his path, only to stop once out of sight of the
boys.  Tying his horse to a nearby tree, he walked back toward the
children, staying in the shadows.  What they were doing was unknown to
him, as was anything about them.  Despite his enhanced hearing, they
spoke so quietly that he could make out no more than a murmur.

Silently approaching closer, he was able to get a good look at the two
children.  As he had noted earlier, they were both blond, a very light
golden color.  It appeared to be kissed by the sun, mocking him and his
nature.

Abruptly, he heard movement down the path.  Soon after, he watched the
boys hush once more.  A woman, probably a servant of the castle, came
toward them.  He ducked quickly back into the shadows before she saw
him.

Watching, the woman walked straight to the boys, grabbing each one by
the arm, pulling them toward the road.

"Nicolas, you are not to be out here," she scolded the younger boy. "It
is dangerous, not only for you, but Henri as well.  Your father is
looking for you two.  He will not be pleased."  After a few steps, she
picked the younger up, pulling the older along behind her.

As they disappeared down the path, LaCroix moved out into the road.  He
nearly followed, something about the younger boy, Nicolas, drawing him
closer.  The woman led them into the castle walls.  Abruptly, he
realized that these weren't any common children.  If they were
servants, their clothes would not have been as clean and well made.
Nicolas' and his older brother's father was most likely the master of
this castle and land.

Rarely had he become so attached to a mortal child, but immediately he
sensed something about the boy, something he had lost long before.
Despite it being more than a millennium since he'd seen sunlight,
Nicolas was the walking embodiment of it.  Even as he'd been forcibly
carried down the road, he had shown like a beacon in the darkness.

This child would bear watching...but it was too dangerous.  What if
Nicolas saw him, became curious of who the stranger hovering in the
distance was?  No, he would leave and never return.  Stalking back to
his horse, he mounted, planning on continuing on his way.

Again, the vision of Nicolas' bright, yet dark, blue eyes drew him in.
He would drown in their depths if he got too close.  That night, he
again stayed near the village, his curiosity asking question after
question about the castle's occupants.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Yet, you didn't actually meet Nick then.  You merely saw him from a
distance.  What did you do?"

"That night I discovered much about the Brabant family.  My focus, of
course, was on Nicholas.  He was six at the time, to be seven later
that year.  The next night, I forced myself to leave."

"Was the other boy his brother?"

"Yes.  At the time, he also had a younger sister, another sibling on
the way."

Her own curiosity pulled at her.  Nick had never mentioned any family
to her other than his sister, Fleur, and a few passing thoughts of his
mother.  She wanted to know what happened, but if needed, could ask
Nick.  "When did you actually meet Nick, or did you?"

"For the next several years I periodically returned, watching as close
as possible, but still from afar.  Over the period of a couple of
years, I was unable to visit.  By the time I did, Nicholas was
fourteen...."


Pawns of Kings (22/52)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Brabant, 1208

At his arrival in the village, he had first gone to the castle,
hovering outside of Nicolas' room.  No one was present, neither
Nicolas, nor any of his siblings.  After a few moments, he found all of
the bedchambers empty.  Stretching out his senses, he only heard a
handful of heartbeats within the structure.  None of them matched
Nicolas or any of his siblings.

Something had changed since his last visit.  But, what?  Taking off, he
followed the sounds of other heartbeats, trying to pick out the boy's.
Several minutes later, he was led into nearby woods.  A single
heartbeat, one that matched Nicolas', was moving slowly through the
trees.

Landing nearby, he watched from a distance, as he always had in the
past.  Nicolas was armed with a dagger at his waist and a bow in his
arms.  Quickly, the boy pulled out an arrow, preparing his aim.

Moving a few steps closer, he stopped as Nicolas looked up.  The boy
had heard something.  Extending his senses, he found them alone.  There
were no mortals or animals in the area.  Nicolas had heard him.

As the boy looked in his general direction, he could see the same blue
eyes he'd seen eight years before.  As they had every time in the past,
they drew him in, and he took a single, careless step closer.

The bow was raised, being pointed nearly straight at him.  "Who is
there?" the boy demanded to the darkness.

Silence.

"Who is there?" he repeated.  "If you are a man, speak up!"

Silence.

"Speak up!  I heard you, I know you are there."  Nicolas paused.  "I
will ask once more.  If you refuse to acknowledge yourself, I will take
aim, be warned!  I ask, who is there?"

The boy's words were even, calm.  He had no doubt Nicolas would follow
through on them.  Preparing to take flight, he heard an arrow slicing
through the night air.  As his feet left the ground, he felt the arrow
dig into his chest, the wood just barely touching his heart.
Involuntarily, his lungs unleashed an inhuman scream.

As he fell to his knees, Nicolas' approach pounded in his ears.  The
boy stopped just out of arm's reach.  The bow was again aimed at him,
another arrow waiting to be released.  He was helpless against the boy.
At this range, Nicolas would have no trouble shooting him through the
heart.

"I warned I would shoot!  Are you a foe, is that why you answered with
silence?  Speak!"

"Friend, not foe," he whispered, feeling the pain begin to take control
of him.  "Please, Nicolas, remove the wood...."

The boy immediately became suspicious at mention of his name, the arrow
being pulled back further.  "How do you know me?  I have never seen you
before."

He could feel unconsciousness lapping at him.  "Please, remove the
wood.  Then, I will answer your question."  At the boy's hesitation, he
continued, "I am at your whim.  Either leave me to die, or remove the
wood."

Nicolas kept his stance.  Then, as the man before him fell to his
hands, he lowered the bow, slowly placing it on the ground.  His hand
faintly touched the arrow, a low growl issuing from the man.  "What do
you want me to do?"

"Break off the arrow's tip, and then pull the remainder out," he
outlined, the pain beginning to overtake him.

As the man began to fall on his side, Nicolas did the best he could to
soften the fall.  Within his hand, the boy took the tip, breaking the
wood as cleanly as possible.

LaCroix moaned in pain as the shaft shifted.  Calming himself, he felt
the boy hesitate before gripping the end of the arrow.  In one smooth
motion the wood was yanked out, eliciting another scream of pain from
his lungs.

Moving to the front of the fallen man, Nicolas pulled back suddenly at
the sliver of gold peeking through the man's nearly closed eyes.
Watching the eyes close, all he could do was mutter, "Demon...."

*****

Awakening, LaCroix knew his eyes were blazing golden, his fangs having
already descended with his need of blood.  Nicolas stood, again just
out of reach, the bow once more pointed at him.

"What are you?"

"Something...very...very different from you...Nicholas," he hissed,
pronouncing the last consonant, listening to the sound of the boy's
name.  His lips quirked into a smile, a fang becoming visible.

Nicolas tensed, drawing the bow's string back another couple of inches,
the arrow not quivering in the slightest at the action. The young man
eyed the other, his aim steady and right on target. "Are you a demon?"

"Demon....  That is...an interesting conclusion.  No, not quite.  More
of a wolf in sheep's clothing."  Standing, LaCroix met the boy's eyes.
No fear looked back, only curiosity.  As he straightened, Nicolas
followed him with the weapon.

"Who are you?  Where are you from?"

"Lucien LaCroix.  As to where I'm from...I've lived in most parts of
the world.  I'm not really from anywhere in particular."

Nicolas loosened the tension on the bow, letting it rest in front of
him.  Stepping nearer, he reached up to the man's face.

Roughly taking the boy's hand, LaCroix glared down into Nicolas' eyes.
As they swallowed him up, he released his grip on the mortal's hand.

Seconds later, he felt that same hand brush against his cheek, the warm
pulse beneath the skin enticing him.  "Please..." he breathed, trying
to warn the boy away.

Nicolas didn't listen to his words.  Within a second, LaCroix saw the
boy zone in on his sharp teeth, his fingers slowly approaching.

Suddenly, he felt the pressure on one of his canines, which only made
his hunger stronger.  With a slight movement, his fang sliced the end
of one of the boy's fingers, a hand gripping his wrist in a split
second.  His eyes burned brighter as he licked the blood off of
Nicolas' finger.  As the blood flow stopped, he again released the boy.

Slowly pulling his hand back, the boy stated in wonder, "A
vampire...that's what you are."

The corner of his mouth twitched, a smirk not far away.  "Yes...."

"The arrow," Nicolas muttered.  "I nearly killed you, didn't I?"

LaCroix made no comment.  Yes, Nicolas had nearly killed him.  Few had
come that close.

Glancing at his finger, he made another realization.  "You're hungry.
You need...blood."

Slowly, Nicolas took a step closer, looking up into his eyes.  After a
second, LaCroix recognized what was being proposed.  Nicolas was
offering him his own blood.  Faintly shaking his head, he tried to push
the boy away, but couldn't.  Nicolas turned his head to the side,
revealing his neck, the blood pulsing and ready for the taking.

He tried one last time to push his hunger away, but his body needed
blood to heal.  Amazingly, Nicolas' heart rate remained calm, not even
a hint of fear.  If he'd been more aware, that piece of information
would have concerned him.

Instead, his need drove him closer.  In one quick motion his fangs sunk
into Nicolas' neck, taking his life force.  The blood was rich in its
flavor.  It was everything he'd ever imagined and more.  It was a
combination of pure, unscorching sunlight, spices virtually unheard of
in this area and a good dose of honey, all of which accompanied the
flavor of the most intoxicating wine he'd ever tasted.  In other words,
it was ambrosia.

On the edge of his senses, he felt the boy's fingers digging into his
skin.  Just as quickly as he began taking Nicolas' blood, he stopped,
quickly licking the wound closed.  The boy continued to clutch to him
despite the effects of blood loss.

Nicolas' deep blue eyes locked with his own.  "Why didn't you kill me?
Why?"

LaCroix was speechless.  The boy had wanted to die, but why?  Nicolas
had always seemed full of life, him and his brother always getting into
trouble without a care of the consequences.  Nicolas rarely went
anywhere without the older boy, yet since he'd arrived, there had been
no sign of him.  Something had definitely happened since his last
visit.

As he thought, Nicolas closed his eyes, his body unable to hold onto
consciousness.  Gently, he picked the child up, absently grabbing the
dropped bow.  Looking down for a moment, LaCroix took to the air,
flying back to the castle.

He flew directly into Nicolas' chamber, laying the boy gently on the
bed before sitting at a nearby table.  He glanced tiredly at its
surface, several books and papers cluttering it.  Although curious as
to their contents, LaCroix felt his exhaustion overtake him.  Within
moments, he found himself quickly drifting off to sleep.

*****

It was nearly dawn when he suddenly found himself awake.  Nicolas'
beating heart was running a marathon, something that no matter how hard
he tried, it was impossible to ignore.  Seconds later, the boy abruptly
screamed, sitting bolt upright with a look of shock.

LaCroix cautiously approached.  Ever since he'd become a vampire, he'd
purposely avoided mortal children.  They were too curious, perceptive,
and unpredictable.  Nicolas was no exception to the rule.  In fact, he
was the embodiment of every one of those characteristics.

Looking into the boy's eyes, all he saw was pure terror.  He felt he
had to do something.  Firmly, he turned Nicolas to him.  After calling
his name several times, LaCroix succeeded in catching the boy's
attention.

"Sleep, Nicolas..." he purred, repeating the command nearly a dozen
times before it had any affect.  Pulling the boy toward him, LaCroix
began rubbing his back, trying to calm him.  Slowly, but surely,
Nicolas went back to sleep, now laying across his lap.

His ears alerted him to another mortal, one who was quickly
approaching.  Unable to move lest he wake Nicolas, he continued his
actions as a woman entered.

She froze at the sight of the stranger with her son.  "Who are you?"

"Lucien LaCroix."

Eyeing the bloodied garments, her suspicion built until she saw her
son, calmly sleeping in this man's hold.  "Are you a friend of
Nicolas?"

"I suppose you could say that....  How long has he had these
nightmares?"

She looked away.  "He has always had nightmares, ever since he was very
little.  But these, these are much worse.  They've been a problem for
just over a year, ever since....  Please don't ask Nicolas this
question, nor anything about what happened."  His confusion must have
been apparent, as she explained, "Nicolas is one of my two living
children, the others were killed...murdered....  He has a younger
brother, but Nicolas avoids contact with him.  Perhaps it is because
the child was named Henri, the same as Nicolas' older brother.  They
were very close.  I'm sorry, I can't say anymore, not now."  Absently,
she ran her hand over her flat abdomen, her eyes fixed on the floor.

In awe, he reached out with his senses, barely able to confirm the
meaning of her action.  "You are with child."

"Yes.  I've only known for about a week," she quickly replied. "Nicolas
doesn't know yet.  I'm not sure what his reaction would be, to know
that another baby was on the way.  I'm not even sure I can last much
longer.  Everything has just been too much."

He could imagine Nicolas' experiences, but only imagine.  He didn't
know exactly what had happened, but losing three siblings, not to
disease, but murder, would undoubtedly have an effect on the boy.

"I will prepare a room for you and get some clean clothes.  You are
about my husband's size.  I'm sure he wouldn't mind."

As she turned toward the door, LaCroix focused his attention once again
on Nicolas, still sleeping soundly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The glass of blood remained untouched.  As his grip tightened, Natalie
moved forward, taking it from him before he shattered another glass.

"You drank his blood," she stated emotionlessly.  "He was just a boy."

"And I was injured.  You know what happens to us when we're injured.  I
was lucky not to kill him," he hissed at her.

She swallowed, still trying to process the last of what LaCroix told
her.  Three of Nick's siblings had been murdered, something he'd never
mentioned to her.  "How did they die?"

He abruptly stood.  "Only Nicholas can answer that.  Now, get some
rest, Doctor.  The day isn't even half over."

Watching the vampire leave the room, she felt awful.  No wonder Nick
never talked about his childhood.  Much of it had been ripped away from
him.  Perhaps she would eventually ask him, but not now.

Stifling a yawn Natalie stood, her feet carrying her to Nick's room.
After peeking through the door, she went back to Janette's, planning on
trying to get some rest.

She had nearly made it asleep when she suddenly felt a presence in the
room.  Turning, she found Nick standing next to the bed.  "Nick...I
thought you were asleep...."

"So did I."

Faintly, he was shaking, barely visible to her mortal eyes.  "How are
you?"

Nick shrugged.  "Tired."

He didn't move, nothing more than the slight tremors.  Natalie sat up,
pulling the covers back.  "Come here, Nick."

Hesitating, he prodded, "You don't mind?"

"You know I don't."

Carefully, he slipped under the covers, almost immediately turning away
from her.  Natalie reached out, first making him face her, and then
pulling him to her.  "Just rest, okay?  You'll be fine."

She held his head to her shoulder.  With one hand, she ran her fingers
through his hair, the other gently rubbing his back as she had seen
LaCroix do earlier.  Feeling the trembling stop and his breathing slow,
Natalie tried not to tremble herself.  She hated seeing him like this.

Again feeling a faint presence, she turned her attention to the door.
LaCroix stood just beyond its threshold, worry casting a hint of
emotion over his normally stoic features.  As suddenly as he had
appeared, he moved out of view.


Pawns of Kings (23/52)

At her neck was a light touch.  At first, it seemed like a dream, but
as Natalie opened her eyes, she could see that it wasn't.  Nick lay
nearly on top of her, his hands wrapped tightly around her back.  His
head rested in the crook of her neck, his unshaven face just barely
making contact with her skin.

Shifting slightly, she watched Nick raise his head, revealing one of
his boyish smiles.  To top it off, she could see an oh-so rare twinkle
in his eyes as he stared at her.  Then, after several seconds had
passed, he abruptly averted his gaze.  Quickly, he carefully slipped
out of the bed, and a moment later, out of the room as well.

Sitting still in the bed's center, she considered following, asking why
he had left.  At that moment, her stomach decided to alert its owner to
its hunger.  Pushing it away, Natalie stood, leaving the room. Faintly,
she could hear the shower running.  Following its sound, she found
LaCroix directly in her path.

"I suggest you take this time to prepare yourself for work," the Roman
advised, not letting her continue down the hall.

"I'm staying until I can tell Nick...."

"He can hear our conversation.  Now, I suggest you leave."  Before the
mortal could comment, he heard the doctor's stomach grumble, trying to
get her attention.  "Besides, you might want to take care of that.  I
have nothing for you to eat here."  When she made no move to comply, he
turned her by the shoulders, firmly leading her back to Janette's room.

Stopping in front of the door, he left her there.  She nearly spun in
protest, but was it LaCroix who wanted her to leave, or Nick?  Yet, why
would Nick want that?  She desperately wanted an answer, but also knew
LaCroix wouldn't grant one.  Closing the door, Natalie quickly dressed.
The old Roman was right about one thing...she was hungry, and there was
nothing here for her to eat.  She also wanted to shower and change
before work, but she didn't have any clothes with her, which would make
that a hassle.

Haphazardly making the bed, she grabbed her things and left the room.
The sound of running water had ceased, but as she started further down
the hall, a hand appeared on her shoulder.  Turning, LaCroix stood
there, glaring at her.  He then glanced to the door and back.  Clearly,
he wanted her to leave--now.

'Fine,' she thought, 'I can just talk to Nick later.'  Sighing, she
nearly stormed from the apartment, wanting to wipe the pleasure that
was probably plastered across the vampire's face.

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

As the door slammed, LaCroix let out a sigh of his own.  He had asked
the doctor to leave because of Nicholas' mood.  Upon waking, it had
abruptly become much darker.  Being unaware of the cause of the change,
he had taken action.  With everything going on, he didn't need Nicholas
creating problems for himself, namely any guilt that he might feel for
his actions toward Natalie.

Feeling his son's mind brush against his own, he turned, finding
Nicholas just a few steps away.  His son was wearing the same clothes
he had slept in: a t-shirt and pair of pants that he had allowed the
younger to borrow.  The slightly large clothes made his son, whose damp
hair was dripping profusely, appear even more like a child.  Only
Nicholas' faintly glowing eyes betrayed that image.

"Why, LaCroix?  Why did you tell Nat to leave?"

"The doctor was hungry, she must eat, and there is no food here.  You
know that as well as I."

Re-running the conversation he had overheard, he countered, "But that
is not why....  You told her to leave, practically shoving her out the
door.  Why?"

"Then, when you see her tonight, you can ask her," LaCroix mentioned
before heading toward the kitchen.

The younger followed, trying to get a sense of his sire's present mood.
"LaCroix...you could have waited, should have.  It was impolite to...."

"Impolite!  This is my home, Nicholas.  I am its overse-"

"More like General," he scoffed, cutting the other's sentence off.

LaCroix barely allowed himself to set the bottle on the table before
flying at his son.  Holding his child firmly against the wall, he
hissed, "Do NOT call me that!"

"Why...that's who you are, what you are...General Lucius of the Roman
army, later General Lucius of Pompeii, a long dead ci-"

Increasing the pressure on Nicholas' neck, he cut the younger vampire’s
words off.  "That is enough!  I am no longer mortal," he spat.  "Lucius
died along with the rest of Vesuvius' victims!"  Roughly letting his
son fall to the ground, he returned to his task.  Coming close to
overfilling the mug, he brought the container to his lips, taking a
long sip of the smooth liquid, letting it calm him.

"Lucius is you, LaCroix.  How long did you use that name?  Decades,
centuries?  Even the youngest fledglings in this city speak of you as
'the General'....  I'm sure the Council calls you Lucius, after all, it
is your name."

LaCroix held his temper.  Finishing the mug, he poured another, only to
have the bottle torn from his hands.  Watching, his son up-ended the
bottle, taking a good draught before replacing it on the table.

Raising an eyebrow, LaCroix smoothly commented, "And you call me a
barbarian for my actions...what about you?"  As he felt the anger rise
in his son, he smirked.  He turned fully toward Nicholas, slowly
approaching.  "You are standing in *my* kitchen, wearing *my* clothes,
drinking straight out of one of *my* bottles, and dripping on *my*
floor!  Not only that, but you ask me why I asked the good doctor to
leave *my* home!  Something doesn't seem quite right about this...."
His eyes burned golden for a second, backing his son out of the
kitchen.  "I believe you were getting ready for work, I suggest you
finish!"

Nick stood, stunned as LaCroix spun, heading back into the kitchen.  He
didn't have too many choices on what he could do.  He could either do
as LaCroix advised, or protest.  The latter would almost undoubtedly
give him several injuries, while the former would force him to hold in
his emotions.  Locking gazes with his sire, Nick slowly turned, taking
his time back down the hall.

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

Since the beginning of his shift, Nick had been tense.  His argument
with LaCroix had been unexpected.  Even now, he was unsure what had
caused him to provoke his sire.  In addition, Marks had been pushing
him to the edge for over three hours.

Tracy watched as her partner fiddled with his pencil, absently staring
at his computer screen.  Suddenly, the wood snapped.  She watched him
wince, but decided to keep her silence.  After a few seconds, she saw a
tinge of red making its way down the remnants of the writing utensil,
at which she became concerned.  "Nick, are you okay?"

"Fine," he hissed.  Then, flipping his hand over, he released his grip
on the pieces.  One of the broken ends had dug its way into his palm.

Seeing the wound, she flinched.  "That's got to hurt...."  Tracy made
to stand, asking, "Do you want me to-"

"I'll be fine."

Nick stood, disappearing into the restroom.  About the same time, Tracy
watched a woman enter the precinct, one who looked vaguely familiar.
On a hunch, she pulled out a picture she had been given over a year
before, one she had never told Nick about.  It was of a Janette de
Brabant and her brother, Nicholas.  The man in the picture was
undoubtedly of Nick.  The woman across the room had to be Janette.
Glancing back at the photo, she realized they each matched the subjects
of the picture precisely, even with the dark light of the photo.

Her dress remotely reminded her of both Nick and LaCroix, the black
fabric contrasting with her fair skin.  When Nick returned, he stopped
at sight of the woman.  At first, her partner merely gave her a glance.
Then, as he turned away, she approached, stopping him with her hand.

Curious, Tracy stood, approaching the two.  Nick glanced at her,
quickly muttering something.  At that the woman turned her way as well.

Nick stiffened, introducing, "Janette, this is my partner, Tracy
Vetter."

As Janette nodded, Tracy was at a loss for what to say.  Instead, she
simply returned the gesture.

"As I was saying, Nicolas, LaCroix wants you back at the Raven."

"And I asked what you were doing here.  The last time I saw you, you
wanted nothing to do with-"

"I was angry, surely you can understand."  Janette moved closer, taking
his hand in her own.  "I'm here, at least for a while.  You and LaCroix
will destroy one another without a mediator.  Besides, he has a
situation that requires all of us, and he wishes to tell you as soon as
possible."

Her cryptic words made him consider the request.  He pulled out of the
familiar grasp, needing to distance himself in an attempt to squelch
the emotions that surfaced at her touch.  "Fine."  Turning to his
partner, he mentioned, "Trace, I'll be gone for a while, hopefully not
too long.  Tell Reese I had to talk to LaCroix."

Tracy stared as Janette led Nick from the building, a few glances
following them.

"Probably some Elder's meeting...." Marks hissed in her ear.  "That
woman has an air about her, just like Knight and LaCroix.  They're
planning something, and whatever it is will be the end of us."

Turning, she just wanted to hit him.  "And what can you do if it is?"

The tall detective smiled to himself.  He had loads of ideas of what he
could do, although he'd never dare to carry any of them out.  Vetter
would do more than comment if she knew what he was thinking, although
he didn't know what Knight would do.  She'd done more to defend the
vampire than her partner had.  All Knight did was ignore him, but, that
would be no more.  Smirking, he left the blonde detective to her own
thoughts.

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

As he and Janette landed behind the Raven, she led the way in. Reaching
the office, she boldly entered.

LaCroix was standing behind his desk, hands supporting his frame as he
leaned forward, glaring at another vampire.  It was Antonius, who for
his part, stood calm under the elder man's gaze.

Closing the door, Nick asked, "Why did you send Janette to the
precinct, and what is she doing here?"

"I asked your...daughter to come.  We need her assistance."

"We...what...why?"

"Time has allowed the mortals to make a decision, but they want to have
three representatives from the Community.  Obviously, they should be
the three eldest."

Antonius jumped at the opening.  "And I am the third."

"No, you are the fourth," the Roman once again hissed.

Nick was becoming confused by the conversation, reminding, "LaCroix,
Janette is no longer a member of Toron-"

"She is for the duration of her stay!" he snapped, cutting his son off.
"Now, I must speak with you later tonight, Nicholas.  I merely wanted
you to be aware of the situation."  His glare quickly shifted to the
Italian, golden specks simmering at the younger vampire.  "As for you,
Antonius, get out of my office!"

Nick followed Janette and Antonius out of the office.  Janette gave him
a quick glance before heading up to the apartment.  Starting for the
back door, he felt a hand on his shoulder.

"Nicholas, LaCroix is doing everything in his power to keep me out of
this.  Ever wonder why there haven’t been any tribunal meetings
recently?  If we ban together, we can overrule him, and he doesn't want
that."

Although Antonius was right, if he went against LaCroix, he'd really be
in for it.  The elder vampire didn't tolerate rebellion well; he knew
that first hand.  He also knew that if it were direct, it would only
make matters worse.  "I'm sorry, Antonius, I can't.  We may be able to
overrule him, but imagine his reaction.  You've never had him hold a
stake to your heart--he won't hesitate."

Nick exited the club, flying straight to the precinct.  Landing, he
found Antonius merely a couple of seconds behind.  "I'll take that
chance.  But, we can't just sit by and let LaCroix do what he wants."

"You never had a problem before."

"Perhaps not, but that was before our discovery.  Now, it is different.
LaCroix is making choices for all of us, making the Community to be
viewed as he wishes."

"He doesn't have a choice in any of this, Antonius," Nick hissed, fully
aware of what LaCroix thought of the decisions he was enforcing.
"LaCroix is under Council orders.  To disobey would be foolish, and
LaCroix is not that.  We have no choice but to go along with the
orders.  These orders will determine how the Community is treated and
viewed by not only Toronto, but the world."  Turning on his heel, Nick
started for the front of the building.

"He might not be foolish, but he is balancing on the edge.  If he tips
over, who will the Council appoint in his place?"  Antonius watched
Nick halt in his steps.  Approaching, he answered, "You, Nicholas,
that's who.  I would rather have you as City Elder than LaCroix.  Much
of the Community feels the same way."  He stopped just over a foot
behind the detective.

Nick turned, his eyes quickly locking with Antonius'.  "I will not, can
not, betray him.  However much I despise LaCroix, I will not do as you
suggest."

"Then you are just like him.  LaCroix only has as much control over you
as you allow.  Apparently, he can even control your thoughts."

A low growl began within him, quickly increasing in intensity.  In a
split second, Nick held the younger vampire immobile against the side
of the building.  "I am no puppet of LaCroix!  My thoughts are my own,
remember that!"  Releasing Antonius, Nick finished his journey into the
precinct.

The Italian leaned against the wall, his neck sore from the force of
Nicholas' grip.  The detective was no weakling as far as physical
strength went; he would give him that.  But then, Nicholas was one of
LaCroix'.  The General would never tolerate a weak child.  Yet,
Nicholas' sense of self had been nearly destroyed over the past several
hundred years.  If the crusader would just stand up for himself, he
would be a force that even LaCroix might not be able to stop.


Pawns of Kings (24/52)

Arriving back at the Raven after work, Nick found LaCroix sitting at
the bar, stewing over some matter or another.  Thankfully, his sire
didn't stop his journey up to the apartment.  Going straight to the
kitchen, he poured himself a glass of LaCroix' stock.  Taking a sip, he
felt Janette's presence a mere second before her arms were wrapping
around his waist, holding him tight.

"Nicholas, you are home from...work," she commented playfully, although
a tinge of distaste remained on her last word.

Upending the glass, he wondered at her game.  "Yes, and I'm hungry," he
forced, hoping she would leave him alone for the time being.  Then, he
made to pour the glass full once again.

Taking both the glass and the bottle from him, she set them on the
table.  Slipping between the surface's edge and Nick, she rested her
hands on his shoulders.  "I'm sure there's something you'd much rather
have than simple human blood."  Eyeing him seductively, she moved to
kiss him on the neck, but he was no longer there.  Turning to the now
departing form, she pouted.  "Come, now, Nicolas....  I know your
thoughts, you broadcast them in waves."  Janette approached a second
time, the tips of her nails just barely brushing against his cheek.

Watching as his eyes closed and lips parted, she could feel his nature
responding.  She smiled at his reaction.  Nicholas hadn't forgotten her
and what they had once had.  Taking her other hand, she nipped the end
of one of her fingers, letting a few drops of blood come to the
surface.  Lightly touching his lower lip, she left a single drop off
her blood there, enticing him to take it.

Instinctively, he licked the blood away.  Her blood was something he
hadn't tasted for some time, and it brought back memories and feelings
he had been trying to push away since their last meeting.  Within a
split second, his fangs dropped, his eyes burning golden.  As Janette
pulled his collar down, revealing more of his neck, Nick roughly pushed
her away.  "No, Janette, not now."  Turning toward the door, he stopped
cold upon seeing LaCroix.

"My, my, the children are fighting...." the Roman tsked.

Janette stiffened at the description.  "I am not yours anymore,
LaCroix."

"Perhaps, but as Nicholas', you are subject to his whims.  If he
doesn't want to play your game...then I suppose you must stop.  At
least, for now...."  LaCroix shoed Janette out with his gaze, smiling
to himself.

Slowly, he glided over to the table, taking the bottle in his hands.
Letting the glass Nicholas had gotten where it was, he retrieved a wine
glass, filling it full with the ruby liquid.  Pausing, LaCroix quickly
slit his thumb.  Keeping his actions shrouded from the younger vampire,
he allowed what blood that could flow before the wound closed to drip
into the glass.

Approaching his son, his eyes glinted gold: a rich, deep, gold.
"Nicholas, you really should have taken her offer."

"I cannot.  Not after what I did-"

"Janette has forgiven you.  In fact, she seems glad in her new position
within my family."

Nick shook his head.  "Perhaps she has forgiven me, but I haven't
forgiven myself.  Besides, Na-"

"In case you haven't noticed, my foolish son, your Doctor friend is
mortal.  Unless you plan on killing her or adding her to our family, I
suggest you keep away."

His sire's words were more advice than anything else.  As such, Nick
kept quiet, although he wouldn't be taking the suggestion.  LaCroix
moved closer, backing him up toward the wall.

Swirling the glass' contents, he made sure the liquid was well mixed.
"Your emotions speak more truth than your words, Nicholas," he purred.
"Drink, mon fils, assuage your thirst...."

LaCroix' voice pulled him in as it always did.  The glass was handed to
him which, after a moment of hesitation, he took.  It was only blood;
cold, thick, human blood.  Bringing the rim to his lips, he took a sip.
The flavor nearly made him lose what little restraint he had left.  The
blood wasn't solely human.  LaCroix had added some of his own, and
those few drops were nearly too much.

"Yes, you like that, don't you?  Finish it, Nicholas, it is yours to
have...."

The urging pushed him just a little too far.  Before he knew it, the
glass was nearly empty.  Finishing the last mouthfuls, Nick closed his
eyes, leaning against the wall.

"Very good, very good indeed," the Roman approved, not only of his
son's reaction, but his own plan.  "Nicholas, come closer, drink from
me...."  Across their bond, he continuously repeated the words, urging
his son to obey.

Leaning closer as his sire wished, he watched as LaCroix turned his
head to the side.  When there were merely a few inches, if even that,
between his fangs and the blood he so dearly wanted, Nick pulled back,
trying to regain his composure.

"Nicholas...mon fils...."  The elder vampire's lips twisted into a
smile.  Nicholas was so close to the edge.  If only he would
drink...Nicholas would again be his.  He felt his son's nearness, and
then came a sudden change in their link.  Focusing on his child,
LaCroix watched him pull away, shaking his head as he backed up.

With a whoosh of air, Nicholas was gone, the glass tumbling silently to
the ground.  LaCroix closed his eyes, paying no attention to the clear
shards scattering themselves across the floor.  Opening his eyes, they
burned scarlet.  He'd been so close to regaining his Nicholas.  If need
be, he could wait another century, but he wanted him back *now*.

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

That evening, Nick entered the kitchen, getting his breakfast as
LaCroix left, scrutinizing him quietly.  Following the elder vampire,
he began, "You never explained exactly why Janette needs to be here.
You mentioned something about the mortals wanting three
representatives...but, for what?"

Sinking into his chair, LaCroix carefully watched his son sit on the
couch, waiting expectantly for an answer.  "The end of these ridiculous
meetings, that's what.  They wish to have more than just three
representatives, but the three eldest."  Seeing the concern flit across
his son's features, LaCroix continued, "I do not agree with it, but if
it must be the three eldest, I'd rather have Janette instead of
Antonius.  The Italian gets on my nerves."

Nick mostly ignored the last part of LaCroix' answer, catching on the
first statement.  He hadn't heard any of this, but then, he knew that
LaCroix was the first to receive information on the meetings.  "The
end?"

The Roman sighed.  "Yes, Nicholas.  In a week's time, the mortals will
have laws for us...and be assured, they will enforce them."

"When?" he prodded, for the first time feeling the weight of
everything.

"Two nights from now.  The mortals have decided that enough has been
done, and I agree.  That night, the final touches will be added.  I
have been informed it will be a video conference with several other
mortals I don't remember the names of...."

LaCroix seemed unconcerned with the apparent lapse of memory, but then
it might not be a lapse.  His sire often left out information that he
deemed unimportant.  Despite wanting to press the issue, he was fully
aware that now was not the time.  LaCroix was calm, too calm
considering everything.  "LaCroix?  Do you want me to stay here
tonight...I could call in?"

The elder man looked up at his son's words.  The offer was unexpected,
but it proved Nicholas was coming back to him.  "No," he decided,
against what he truly wanted.  As he took a sip from his glass, he
nearly hissed, "Go play your games with the mortals."

"They're not games," Nick whispered, standing.  Slowly, he left the
room in an attempt to not act on his anger.

"I know, Nicholas, I know," the Roman muttered, as Nicholas went
downstairs and out of earshot.

*+.*+.*+.*+.*+.

"Hey, Nick," Tracy called as he approached his desk.  "Did you see the
news?"

"No, I haven't watched it lately...why?"

"The woman who was here last night, Janette?  Well, it was announced
that she, along with you and LaCroix, were the three eldest in the
city."

Wincing, he gritted his teeth.  "Great, now the whole city, if not
more, knows our relative ages.  LaCroix, I fear, will loose his cool."

"Knight, I see you know about the little announcement."

Nick shot his gaze up, staring behind Tracy.  Marks now had proof of
his earlier statements.

"Elder, you are...along with LaCroix and that woman.  Wasn't she here
last night?  You can't miss someone like that.  I'll bet that you three
not only have control over these meetings, but your damnable
'Community' as well," the detective sneered.

As her partner smoldered under the words, Tracy stood, spinning on
Marks.  "Bug off, Marks.  We're trying to work, something you don't
seem to be doing much of lately."

Narrowing his eyes, he turned his attention back to the vampire.  "And
why doesn't he speak for himself?"  Turning back to the youngest of the
pair, he continued, "Or, is he your keeper?"

Tracy glanced at Nick, a hint of gold creeping into his gaze.  "Unless
you want Nick to do more than listen to your barbs, you better back
off.  As for Nick being my keeper, forget it."

"Too late for that, I fear," Nick hissed, moving between his partner
and the other detective.

Marks backed up less than a step, a retort already on the tip of his
tongue.

"Nick, come on," Tracy urged, pulling him away from his spot, nearly
shoving him into the break room.  Following, she thankfully noted it
was empty.  Ignoring the gold filling her partner's eyes and the low
growl issuing from his chest, she warned, "Nick, watch yourself. You're
getting too close to the edge."

Taking several deep breaths, Nick forced his nature to retreat.  Even
as a few metallic flecks remained, he nodded, commenting, "Marks is
pushing too far."

"I agree on that.  Despite wanting him to be scared to death by you, I
don't think it would be good for you to lose control in the precinct,
not when a final decision hasn't been made about you returning."  She
paused