Cycle of Souls 2/3

[green]

CYCLE OF SOULS: MASTER POST (warnings, etc.)



They move into the old workhouse. Bob and Catherine have finished the master suite, and it is inviting and comfortable. Grand, fit for the Master of London and his consort.

Frank does not show any unease being around others. Gerard would have thought he would need time to become comfortable with other vampires and their human servants, but he settles into the life easily.

Cain and Lilith begin to bring in willing humans who are awed by Gerard and the court. They learn the ways quickly, and require little in the way of the mind arts. Gerard does make sure they feel pleasure when they are bitten, however. He does not know why he does this, why he cares for the humans other than because of their positions in his world.

His heart grows even softer towards Frank, and towards humans in general. When he goes out now, he picks off violent criminals, rapists and murderers.

When he comes back one night, Frank sits on a cushion at his feet in the throne room – Gerard does not know what else to call the former dining hall – and looks up at him. “I want to watch you hunt,” he says.

Gerard's mind recoils at the thought. “No,” he says simply.

Frank looks away and pouts. A moment later, he says, “Will you let me watch you feed?”

Gerard looks over at Bob, whose eyes are dancing. He wants to call Bob a filthy name for his amusement at the situation. “No.”

“Why not?” Frank asks. He leans his head against Gerard's knee and looks up at him with wide, questioning eyes.

Gerard sighs and flicks his hand. A human comes forward quickly, bowing her head. Frank's heart rate picks up, and Gerard can smell lust coming off him. For the human? No, he finds when he touches Frank's mind. For him.

Do you like to think of me as dangerous? Gerard sends to Frank. You know what I am.

You hide too much, Frank sends back.

Gerard searches Frank's mind and finds what he wants. It is almost unsettling. But Gerard looks at him with red eyes, his fangs extended, and sends, I will do as you wish. He only hopes Frank does not begin to hate him when he sees his true colors.

Gerard yanks the human forward, pressing on her mind, overwhelming her senses. She is young and excited, and as fresh as a daisy. She has never been bitten before, has only joined the court recently. Her fear mingles with her excitement, and the scent is delicious.

Gerard's hands are bruising on her wrists as he drapes her across his lap. She looks up into his face and her fear builds higher.

“Would you die for your Master?” Gerard asks in a low growl.

Panic finally takes hold of the chit and she struggles fruitlessly. Gerard pushes further into her mind, making his touch irresistible to her. She moans in pleasure as he tightens his grip on her wrists.

Gerard can feel everyone's eyes on him, and Frank presses closer, his breath quickening. He even reaches out and holds the girl's legs still. Gerard glances at his dark eyes and reads the excitement there.

He snarls and lunges for the girl's neck, fangs slicing through her skin messily. Blood drips from her throat to her bosom. Gerard doesn't latch on, instead he draws his tongue across the girl's skin, catching the rivulets of blood. He is careless – it does not matter to him if the girl bleeds out. Frank is enjoying himself and that is all that Gerard cares for at the moment.

“Don't kill her,” Frank whispers, and Gerard latches his mouth over the girl's wounds, sucking hard before healing her. She cries out, begging to be bitten again, but Gerard ignores her pleas.

Gerard sets the girl down on the floor and she writhes. He lulls her to sleep with his mind, then gently pulls out. She will remember this pleasantly, slightly ashamed at her wanton behavior. She will get over the latter, however, if she chooses to remain in the court.

Frank presses against Gerard's side, kissing his neck. “Take me to bed,” he says.

A titter of laughter comes over the room, and Gerard smiles. “No.”

“But-” Frank says.

“No,” Gerard says again, giving Frank a brutal kiss instead. “You can wait like a good boy until all my business is finished.”

He can feel the presence of another vampire at the door.

“What business?” Frank pouts. “You don't-”

But Bob feels the vampire, too, and he is making his way out of the throne room towards the entrance.

“Shh,” Gerard says, and orders Lilith to take the now-sleeping human to a bed. Gerard pushes Frank down into the chair at his left and straightens in his own.

Instead of Bob leading the vampire in, he trails behind him, smiling. Gerard can sense his happiness – he is projecting fiercely.

Gerard looks over the new vampire and feels a touch to his mind. It is almost familiar, and yet not. Gerard shields strongly, unused to being mind to mind with strangers.

He looks again to Bob. And then he understands.

Gerard stands and holds out his hand. The others in the room look on in confusion. Only Catherine seems to be at ease, and her own happiness is bright on her face.

“Brigh,” Gerard murmurs. “You are welcome in this court as the sire to my right hand.”

Brigh smiles brilliantly, and it takes Gerard off guard. He is a small man, and he wears clothing that looks as if he just stepped out of a fashion plate, pale colors all. He looks nothing like a vampire.

Except he exudes power. He nearly swamps Gerard's senses with it. Gerard has always been sensitive to power, ever since Azrael taught him to feel it. Now he wishes he never learned, because he can't think. He wants to go down on his knees for this vampire, to pledge his loyalty to him and him alone.

Brigh looks at him in understanding and then the power shifts away. Gerard can still feel it, but it does not overwhelm.

Regaining his composure, Gerard nods in gratitude.

“I have taken the name of Brian Schechter in this modern world,” Brigh says. “You may call me Brian.”

Gerard has studied many languages, and he knows that Schechter means 'slaughterer'. It makes him shiver, remembering the power. “Brian, then,” Gerard says. He forces his voice to come out evenly, though it wants to waver. He feels weak himself in comparison to this creature. “I am Gerard Way, Master of London.”

Brian smiles again, this time looking indulgent and friendly. “I was sleeping when you rose to power. My childe's excitement woke me.”

That makes Gerard smile. From what he knows, Bob doesn't show excitement. But he takes Brian's words and accepts them, understanding a sire's affinity for his childe.

With a wave of his hand, Gerard clears the room of humans. Frank and Catherine stay behind, however, and Cain knows enough to make himself scarce.

Brian kisses Catherine's hand and calls her by another name. She doesn't seem to mind, however. Gerard realizes uneasily that it is a name she held before this life. Brian knew her in the past.

Gerard pushes thoughts of past lives away and focuses on the present. He drops a hand to Frank's head and runs his fingers over the short hair there. It is growing, slowly, just as Frank is healing slowly. He is quicker to smile now, and his laugh is not unknown. Still, he has moments of quiet when he smells of misery. Gerard is always sure to kiss him out of such states.

“You have done well here,” Brian says to Gerard. “I would not have thought so young a vampire would take to ruling so fairly.”

Gerard almost laughs. He does not feel fair, or just, or anything a good leader should be. “I only do what I must.”

Perhaps it is too telling.

“You're a great Master,” Frank murmurs, turning his head into Gerard's hand like a favored pet.

Gerard doesn't need reassurance from his consort, he doesn't, but the words make him feel better all the same.

He and Brian discuss the politics of the humans, the squalor of the rookeries, the asylums for the poor and mad. They talk of the ton, of the society that mostly ignores those in the lower classes.

Brian talks to Gerard as an equal, which is surprising. Ancients – in Gerard's mind, at least – are egocentric and sometimes insane. But perhaps Brian's long rests keep him grounded. Gerard finds him to be capable and tolerant of humans, not at all interested in ruling over them. Which is good, because Gerard has no interest in that either, nor will he allow anyone to suggest such a thing. It was the downfall of vampire courts, Azrael once told him, that feral superiority. War with humans had happened in the past, and it was up to vampires like Gerard to keep the wars from starting anew. It was part of being a good leader.

Brian points out that Gerard has the makings of a great ruler, and that he could name himself king if he wanted.

Gerard laughs. He has no use for such a title. Even 'Master' seems absurd at times, but it is what he must take on to keep order in London.

He tells Brian of the fledglings, of their sire's death or abandonment. Brian growls for the first time at the story. Gerard shivers at the sound, unaccountably turned on. He has one wild thought that he could offer himself to Brian, but he quickly dismisses it. He has no idea what problems that would cause with the others. He must think of Frank and Bob, both of whom could become jealous. Still, a persistent feeling pulls at him.

He looks into Brian's eyes and sees understanding and a hint of lust returned. Gerard swallows and looks away. He's never felt like this before, not since Azrael, and even then he did not have this absolute burning in him to submit and be taken. With his sire, it was warmth and affection, but this is something new.

Perhaps it is Brian's power he is drawn to, he thinks. That must be it.

He looks down at Frank, who is watching him closely. Gerard swallows and then leans down to kiss him. He's gentle with him, almost always, unable to let himself be as feral as he wants. Frank is too fragile, even with the claiming in effect which makes him stronger and more. He is still human. Breakable.

His traitorous mind reminds him that Brian would not break.

Bob clears his throat, and when Gerard looks at him, he sees that he is smiling faintly. “Brian and you have much to discuss, Master,” he says. “We will take our leave of you now.” He takes Catherine's hand in his and then nods towards Frank. “Come with us. We are going to the tailor, and you are in need of a new wardrobe.”

Gerard feels guilty that he has not supplied new clothing for Frank. He bought ready made for him, and shared his own wardrobe, but he did not think to have Frank outfitted in his own clothes.

Bob shoots him an exasperated look. “Stop that,” he says brusquely. “You've had plenty on your mind.” Frank follows him to the door, looking confused as he always does when Bob reads Gerard's mind and speaks aloud of what he finds.

Gerard must be projecting to the vampires in the room. Being with Brian set him off balance, and now-

Now they are left alone, and Brian is watching Gerard intently. Gerard shifts uncomfortably and leaves his chair to pace. It is unbecoming of a ruler, but they are in private and Brian probably knows his every thought anyway.

Not every thought, he hears in his head, and the touch of Brian's mind to his is smooth and cool, intimate in a way it just isn't with others.

“What is this?” Gerard asks in confusion, deliberately saying the words aloud.

Brian's whole body shifts, and he stalks closer like a feral cat. His muscles are tense and he looks ready to pounce at any moment. Fear and excitement run through Gerard's veins, making him feel wild himself.

“You don't remember,” Brian murmurs, the words oddly soft.

Gerard shakes his head. “I've never met you before.”

Brian is close now, so close that he has to tilt his head up to look into Gerard's face. His power is coiled around him like a thick spring. Gerard inhales, catching his scent. It is a powerful thing on its own, old blood, more ancient than anything Gerard has ever experienced.

Then Brian does an odd thing. He loosens his cravat and pulls it away, baring his neck. There are strange markings there, blue and black tattoos that seem familiar in the same way Brian seems familiar – though Gerard is sure he's never seen them before.

Brian tips his head back, exposing more of his throat. Gerard's fangs extend at the display, and then he is looking into Brian's glowing eyes in question.

“Drink from me, and you will remember,” Brian says.

Gerard knows he is speaking of a past life. His mind rebels, but something else in him screams Yes.

He dips his head to brush his lips against Brian's marked skin. It is as smooth and cool as marble. Brian slides a hand into Gerard's hair and pulls his face closer. Gerard's fangs stab into Brian's neck, but Brian makes no sound. His mind, however, gives off the feeling of great pleasure and completeness.

Brian's blood is thick. Gerard swallows once, then twice, and he tastes colors. He closes his eyes and images flash before him. He knows, without a doubt, that they are memories.

See here, Brian says in his mind, helping him catch an image to examine.

Gerard falls forward. Brian catches him and lowers him to the floor, but Gerard barely registers the actions. He is too caught up in what he sees.

He sees himself, though not himself. He is looking into a stream. His hair is long and tangled, wild and unkempt. He is wearing little, just a bit of leather around his waist. His chest is lightly muscled, as are his arms. In one hand he holds a spear.

His name is Gearóid and he is meeting Brigh by the stream. He waits, but Brigh does not come. Instead, three of a neighboring clan arrive, and they stab him.

He is left for dead. Brigh comes as Gearóid lay dying. Brigh has been attacked, too, though he managed to kill off his would-be murderers. He gathers Gearóid in his arms, trying to pull him toward the village. It is too far, though, and they both know it.

They collapse in the woods, Gearóid in Brigh's arms. “The gods protected you,” Gearóid manages to say in a familiar language “You will do great things.”

But Brigh doesn't want to hear it. He calls out to their gods to heal his lover, but they do not heed his call.

Gearóid knows in his heart that they will meet again, in another life. Perhaps the gods will prepare a place for them both in the afterlife, or perhaps they will live other lives together as their souls are reborn.

The scene fades as Gearóid dies, though Gerard can still hear Brian's weeping.

It brings back memories of Gerard's human life, of praying to the Christian God to heal Michael. He shakes his head, his eyesight black. More memories press on.

Brigh, as a vampire, taking twins as his lovers. Gerard – no, that's not his name, but it will do for now – and...

Gerard gasps. Michael, he thinks, grasping at the bright memory. The two of them are swimming in the nude under the moon as their vampire lover looks on. They kiss in the moonlight and turn to Brigh, who slips into the pond to join them.

Michael does not look like himself, but it is him. Gerard can see it in his eyes and hear it in his laugh. His soul lives inside this strange brother of his, achingly familiar.

The memory stops. Brian has pulled it back. Gerard jerks, trying to find it again, but Brian is holding him tightly and shushing him.

“Not too much,” he whispers.

“Michael,” Gerard calls out brokenly, struggling to free himself. It's been so long since he's seen his brother, and he wants more, no matter what earthly body Michael inhabited.

“Shh. You will see him again,” Brian promises. “Souls return to one another, just as you and I have found each other again.”

But Gerard wants him now. He is shaking, he realizes, shaking and crying. Brian holds him tightly against his small but strong body.

“I'm sorry,” Brian says. “I did not realize you would see so much so fast.”

“When will he come back to me?” Gerard asks plaintively.

Brian shakes his head. “I don't know. It's been centuries since I last saw you, and it has taken this long for us to be together again.”

His voice is sad, and Gerard realizes he was waiting for a different reaction. He did not expect Gerard to see Michael, wanted only to show himself.

“Did you wait for me?” Gerard asks, remembering Gearóid's death in Brigh's arms.

“I searched for you. Long and hard I searched, and I finally found you again in Rome with your brother. We were together for years, but...”

“I was killed again. No, that's not right,” Gerard says, searching his mind. “There was a mob...”

“A war between vampires and humans,” Brian says. “I had turned you both, but you were attacked in your lair during the day.”

Gerard shudders and Brian strokes his hair.

“It is over, now.”

“I barely remember,” Gerard whispers. “But where were you?”

“Caracalla – the emperor of the time – had me brought before him. I was tortured for his sport.” He says it in an even tone, but Gerard can feel the pain behind the words.

Gerard takes a breath and searches his memory for the history of Rome. Caracalla was emperor of Rome in the third century. So much time has passed. Brian is truly ancient.

“How did you escape?” he asks.

“Caracalla had me turn his ill mother. Julia. She rescued me; her love for her sire more than that of her torturing son.”

“Did you find me again after that?” Gerard asks.

“Yes. But I will let you remember on your own, as it should be.”

“How long has it been since we met last?”

Brian looks down. “It was the same year I turned Bob. A hundred years before this life of yours. You were just a child, so I would not turn you. I waited for you to grow older, but then there was war where you were. There had been for some time, but I thought you safe. You... you died before reaching your tenth birthday. There was nothing I could do.” His voice is sad and Gerard thinks it is good that Brian had Bob during that period. Bob would take care of him, keep him well.

Gerard can see clearly again, and he sees there is still some wetness on Brian's cheeks. Without thinking, Gerard leans forward and licks the tears away. They are cold and salty on his tongue. Brian swallows and then wraps his arms around Gerard more tightly.

“It's been so long,” he says, and Gerard doesn't know what to do. He wants so much, but his mind is reeling and tired.

“Just keep holding me,” Gerard says, and closes his eyes. Sleep claims him, and he barely feels Brian picking him up and taking him to bed.

*

He wakes to warmth. He stretches out and wraps his arm around the heat, knowing without looking that it is Frank there in bed with him. He doesn't open his eyes, just watches as flickers of dreams dissipate. He was dreaming of his brother again, of praying at his sickbed.

Before, there was only emptiness when he thought of Michael. Now that he knows the truth, hope has taken root.

“You're awake,” Frank murmurs, cuddling closer. “You've been asleep for a night and a day.”

Gerard finally opens his eyes. Frank is clinging more than usual. Gerard runs a hand over his hair and asks, “What's wrong?”

“Do you think you will ever love me?” Frank asks. The question is small and muffled against Gerard's chest.

“Where is this coming from?” Gerard asks, avoiding the question. He does not know how to think of love in this way. He is fond of Frank, he wants to be with him, he wants to make him happy and keep him well. The kind of love Frank is asking for is an unknown concept.

“You love Brian,” Frank says simply.

Gerard startles. “I don't,” he denies.

Frank leans back to look into his face, seemingly searching for something. “You do and you don't know it,” he says after long moments.

“I...” Gerard starts to say, then shakes his head when he doesn't know how to follow it.

But Frank, instead of moping, does the unexpected. He smiles warmly and hugs Gerard. “You need to be shown love,” he says.

Gerard thinks of the two people he loves: Azrael and Michael. He loves Azrael as his sire, as his teacher. He loves Michael as a brother.

No, more than that. He loves Michael as a part of himself. He remembers the life they led when they were twins and lovers, and his confusion grows. Does he love Michael in that way? Or can he, in the future?

“I love you,” Frank whispers. The statement permeates Gerard's mind and he tries to say it back. The words do not come.

“I care for you,” he says instead. “And I will protect you.”

Frank smiles as if Gerard has spoken of love after all. “I know.”

It is too confusing. Gerard cuts off what else Frank might say with a kiss, gentle and caring. He doesn't know how to put his emotions into the action, but he tries. He sweeps his tongue into Frank's mouth slowly, then runs his hands down Frank's arms.

“I won't leave you,” Gerard promises. “There is no one who is going to take your place.”

“I've seen the way you look at him,” Frank whispers. “And I saw the way he held you while you were sleeping. It would be so easy to forget me and lose yourself in each other.”

Gerard shakes his head. “I can't explain what you are to me. I don't... I don't have the words yet. But please, remember this. I care for you more than I've cared for someone in centuries. I won't lose you. You're mine.”

Frank smiles a bit. “You usually say that with a growl.”

Laughing, Gerard pins Frank to the bed. He growls playfully and says, “All mine.”

“Yes,” Frank says, wriggling beneath him. “I'm yours.”

Gerard kisses him again, harder now. Frank returns it eagerly and Gerard tightens his hold on Frank's arms, pinning him harder. “What do you want?” he asks roughly. He rarely asks, because Frank likes to do what Gerard wants. But this time, Gerard needs to give something back.

Frank tips his head back and smiles. “Drink from me.”

A night and a day, that's how long it's been since Gerard has fed, but the hunger in him grows now as if it's been weeks. He feels starved for Frank, eager to possess him in every way.

“You wouldn't think red eyes would be so sexy,” Frank whispers, staring into Gerard's face.

Gerard dips his head to press his tongue to Frank's strong pulse. It quickens at the touch and Gerard growls again before sinking his fangs into the vein. It's dangerous to tap the source like this, but it's been days since Gerard has fed from Frank and the claim makes him resilient.

Blood pumps into Gerard's mouth with every beat of Frank's heart. It is hot and tastes, Gerard thinks, like sunlight. Some night in the future, Gerard will turn Frank and he will lose the heat and the pounding sound of Frank's heart. Not tonight, however. Not for a very long time. Gerard will protect his human and keep him well, feeding and fucking and caring for him. It will more than do for now.

“Oh,” Frank breathes, clutching at Gerard's hair. Gerard moans and then pulls back to seal the marks. Gerard kisses the bruised skin lightly, reverently.

“Have I ever told you that you taste exquisite?” Gerard murmurs.

“Yes,” Frank says. “Often. Just like you tell me I'm beautiful.” He giggles. “That doesn't mean you shouldn't tell me, though.”

Gerard smiles and drags his lips down to the hollow of Frank's throat. “I'll keep telling you until you beg me to stop.”

Frank holds on to Gerard, his arms strong around his shoulders. “I meant what I said, Gerard. I love you.”

“Thank you,” Gerard says. “I am... blessed to have you.” God or the gods and goddesses or the universe – whatever force is out there – something beyond Gerard's understanding has given Frank to him. He holds the secret of the Ieros' death close to his chest, not even thinking of it if he can help it. He wants, no, craves Frank's love. He will not go without it.

“What are you thinking of?” Frank asks, tugging gently on their connection. It is a rudimentary tug, but effective nonetheless. It reminds Gerard of the bond they share, and he carefully blocks off the part of his mind that holds the memories of Frank's parents' death.

“Why?” Gerard asks. “Did you sense something?”

Frank nods. “It's still too new for me to understand, though. I know your happiness, that I can pick up on. And your desire, I can feel that.”

Gerard projects a wave of lust at Frank and smiles. “Like that?”

Frank gasps and nods again. “You want me.”

“I always want you.”

“No,” Frank says suddenly. “Sometimes you want something I can't give you.”

Brian, Gerard thinks, and remembers the aura of power around the vampire that calls to him. His soul wants to be with him, too, but Gerard has little understanding of that. He knows power and desire, so he thinks of Brian in that way instead of in another.

“You're thinking of him,” Frank whispers.

Gerard closes his eyes and tries to close his mind. He can feel Brian downstairs, can sense he knows exactly what Gerard is doing and feeling. “I can't help myself.”

“I'm not jealous,” Frank says slowly. “I want you to be happy.”

Gerard is not sure Brian can bring him happiness in the way Frank is using the word. Ecstasy, yes. Fulfillment, absolutely. But peace of mind? Contentment? Brian seems to be the opposite of these things. Brian would overwhelm him, keep him wanting more. Gerard knows this without even thinking too hard about it.

“We... we knew each other. Before,” Gerard tries to explain.

“He was your lover?”

Gerard nods and rests his head against Frank's shoulder. “In another life. Other lives.”

Frank is silent for a few moments. “There is more to it than that. You didn't know that when you first met him, and I read your feelings then. I didn't even have to read them; it showed plain on your face.”

He is only human, he can't sense the power of an ancient vampire. Gerard doesn't know how to describe something he just knows. “It's because he's powerful.”

“You're powerful,” Frank points out.

“Compared to Brian, I'm an infant,” Gerard says wryly. “Like Cain or Lilith.”

Frank giggles. “I heard Lilith call Cain 'Georgie'.”

Their names are just too perfect; of course they're made up. Gerard has just never cared enough to ask them about it.

“So it's his power you want?” Frank asks.

Gerard begins to say, “I want...” but he trails off, not sure how to put this. “If I were human, I'd want to be claimed by him.”

“You want to submit to him,” Frank states boldly.

If Gerard was still able to blush, he'd be doing it right now. “Yes,” he admits. “But not without a fight.”

“And it's the fight I can't give you,” Frank says with insight.

“Do you mind?” Gerard asks. He rolls onto his back and sighs. “The last thing I want is to hurt you.”

“I understand better now,” Frank says with a shrug. “And I know he won't take my place.”

Gerard stares at him. “How do you know? I mean, it's true, but...”

“You told me,” Frank says, and moves to straddle him. Gerard slides his hands up Frank's thighs to rest at his hips. The bruises there are fading, and Gerard wants to make them bloom again.

“No one will ever take your place,” Gerard says softly.

“I want to ride you,” Frank says, grinding down against him.

Gerard's cock twitches with interest. “Prepare yourself first.”

Frank smiles and gets the oil. He slicks his fingers with it, then reaches between his legs.

He is beautiful, Gerard thinks. He's everything a lover should be. His body arches as he takes his own fingers, and his head lolls back. Gerard looks with pride at the marks at his neck, the sign of his claiming. He growls low when Frank moans in pleasure.

After he has prepared himself, Frank sinks down on Gerard's cock slowly. He squeezes around it when he's fully seated, and Gerard tightens his grip on Frank's hips.

Slowly – gods, must he go so slow? – Frank fucks himself on Gerard's cock. His eyes are shut tight in concentration, and Gerard touches his mind lightly, connecting them so that Frank can feel the edge of Gerard's desire.

Frank moans and rocks up and down faster. His hands are planted firmly on Gerard's chest as he moves.

I need you, Gerard sends him gently, holding back his passion. He is always careful with Frank, although he wants to overwhelm and own him.

Frank opens his eyes and stares at Gerard as he rocks. “You can take me, you know. Anytime you need.”

Gerard growls and rolls, shoving Frank beneath him. Frank likes it a little rough, and it appeases part of Gerard to do this. Frank's legs are drawn up to his chest, and Gerard thrusts hard – but not too hard – inside him. Frank gasps and moans loudly, uninhibited.

“Is this what you wanted?” Gerard growls.

Frank gasps again. “Oh God, yes, fuck me...”

Gerard does. There is no other word for it. He lets a bit of his feral side free and fucks Frank like he's begging to be fucked, hard and fast, until Gerard worries that it's too much. But Frank gasps, “More!” and Gerard's worry evaporates.

Gerard positions Frank's legs around his shoulders so he has better access, then turns his head and bites Frank's thigh. His fangs miss the femoral artery by scant inches, and Frank cries out in pleasure from the pain. Gerard swallows and licks at the blood, fucking Frank harder until Frank gasps in something other than desire.

Gerard is unable to still and give his apologies. He is too caught up in the blood and sex. He uses Frank's body brutally, and snarls when he comes.

Frank pants beneath him, and Gerard only then has the presence of mind to heal his thigh. Gerard swallows, looking down at Frank's wide eyes.

“I'm so-”

“Don't,” Frank says hoarsely.

Gerard does not know what to do, other than express his regret. “Did I hurt you?” He knows he did.

“Not much,” Frank says and tries to smile. It's just a crook of his lips that immediately turns downward again.

Gerard growls in warning. “Don't lie to me.”

Frank winces and shifts uncomfortably. “You hurt me. It's my fault. I told you to fuck me...”

“It's not your fault,” Gerard says, kissing his forehead. “Roll over.”

Frank does so with a dubious look. Gerard parts his cheeks carefully and sees the pink-tinged come leaking from his ass. He hisses at the sight. “I'm sorry.”

“Apology accepted,” Frank murmurs.

Gerard licks at Frank's stretched hole, gathering blood and come on his tongue. He stifles a moan at the first taste. He licks and sucks, using his saliva to heal. Frank wriggles and pushes back against Gerard's mouth, and Gerard can smell his desire coming back.

“Touch yourself,” Gerard says lowly. Frank does and lets out a low groan.

Gerard is so careful now, only introducing one spit-slick finger when he's sure Frank has healed. He pushes in slowly, then brushes against Frank's prostate.

Frank moans and rocks back, gripping his pillow. The lines from his back down to his legs are beautiful, Gerard thinks, looking over his body. The skin is lightly bruised, and there are bigger bruises at his hips, and a large one on the inside of his thigh. Gerard likes the marks, likes that he put them there. He is regretful that he hurt Frank more than he wanted, though. He will have to keep his head in the future, no more letting his feral side out to play.

Not with Frank, at any rate.

“Faster,” Gerard orders, and Frank obeys, his hand stroking over his cock with greater speed.

Gerard nips Frank's buttock with blunt teeth, barely hard. Frank moans and strokes himself harder.

“You're so good for me,” Gerard says, then presses against Frank's prostate again.

Frank moans and comes, spurting his release into the sheets. “Gerard,” he pants out.

Lying down beside him, Gerard gathers Frank into his arms. Frank clings, still panting.

“I'm sorry,” Gerard whispers again.

Frank smiles tiredly. “You made it up to me.”

“I can't make it up to you,” Gerard says, feeling guilty even though his darker nature tells him he's done nothing wrong. “And I can't promise it won't happen again.”

“I love you,” Frank says. “I accept what and who you are.”

He wouldn't if he knew what Gerard did to his family.

“I don't deserve your love,” Gerard says softly into Frank's hair, but Frank is already asleep.

*

Gerard hunts with Bob for the first time. Gerard hasn't hunted with someone else since Azrael left him. He finds he's missed it. The thrill is that much greater when you have someone to share it with.

After they feed, Bob is wiping his mouth when he says, “Brian told me about you.”

Gerard blinks and drops the corpse he is holding. “Told you what? When?”

“He's always told me of you, before you were even born,” Bob says. “Although he always speaks of you as Gearóid.”

A memory twinges in his mind and Gerard nods. “I remember a bit of that life.”

“It's always odd when you first remember,” Bob says.

It has been more than odd. It has been unsettling. All Gerard thought he knew is wrong. “Yes,” he says.

Bob gives him an understanding look. “Do you need to talk about it?”

Gerard shakes his head. “No, I was … I want to talk about something else.”

Bob sits on the stoop of an abandoned house and nods for him to continue.

“You have a human lover,” Gerard begins uncomfortably. “How do you... I mean...”

“How do I keep from hurting her?” Bob asks.

Gerard nods mutely.

“You hurt Frank,” Bob says, but his tone is not judging. “I knew something was wrong between you.”

“It was like I couldn't help myself,” Gerard admits. “And I couldn't stop, not even after I realized he wasn't enjoying himself any longer.”

Bob whistles low. “I can't say I've ever had that problem.”

“How could you not?” Gerard asks, genuinely perplexed.

Bob shakes his head. “You and Brian, you both have a darkness in you that I don't have.”

“I thought it was something all vampires had,” Gerard says.

“Brian has embraced the darkness over the centuries, and you... you have lost touch with your humanity.”

Gerard frowns. “I'm not human. I'm a damned vampire, Bob.”

Bob sighs. “You have the capability to feel everything a human feels. You've just lost that somewhere along the way.”

“I still don't understand,” Gerard says, shaking his head. “And this doesn't help me with my problem. I don't want to hurt Frank again.”

“I'll put it simply, Gee,” Bob says, reverting to the old nickname. “If you allow yourself to love Frank, you won't be so eager to hurt him.”

“I'm not eager to inflict pain on my consort,” Gerard says, stung.

“Really?” Bob asks. “Because from where I'm sitting, that's what it looks like.”

“What does love have to do with my vampire side?” Gerard asks.

“Love will temper the darkness,” Bob says simply.

Gerard mulls that over and then says, “I don't know if I'm capable of loving Frank.”

“Because he's human?” Bob asks.

Gerard runs a hand through his hair. “I don't know. Maybe.”

Perhaps he doesn't know how to love anymore. Perhaps that side of him died with Michael.

But Michael's soul lives on, and so does Gerard's love for him. Michael is human, wherever he is, with a human's wants and needs. Gerard shakes his head. He doesn't know what to think anymore.

Something in the air shifts, and both Gerard and Bob stiffen at the same time.

Do you recognize him? Gerard sends.

“No,” Bob whispers, crouching in front of him. Protecting him, Gerard realizes.

The power from the vampire is strong. He is old, though not as old as Brian. Perhaps as old as Azrael.

The vampire strolls into view, looking for all the world unperturbed at Bob and Gerard's presence. His red eyes flick from Bob, dismissing him as a threat, to Gerard.

“I am Vratis,” he says, leaning against the stoop across from them. His body is tense, though he tries to hide it. “So you are the great Master of London, are you?”

Gerard pulls himself up to his full height and nods. “I am. My name is Gerard.”

“Yes, yes, Gerard Way,” Vratis says with a flick of his hand. “I have done my research on you.”

“Why do you come here instead of introducing yourself at court?” Bob asks, but Vratis ignores him as if he never spoke.

“I have come for your head,” Vratis says to Gerard. “And to establish myself as King.”

Gerard wants desperately to roll his eyes. King, really? It sounds so ridiculous. Almost as bad as Master.

“You will not come closer,” Bob says, pulling a wooden stake from his topcoat. Gerard nearly startles; he was not aware Bob went around armed.

“That paltry stick will not harm me,” Vratis says in a bored tone. It's affected, Gerard can tell. Vratis has suddenly become more nervous. “I was not counting on a bodyguard, though. Can you not protect yourself, Mr. Way?”

“That's Master to you,” Bob snarls. “Show some respect before you meet your end.”

Vratis snaps at the air like an animal, then bounds towards them. Bob crashes into him in a blur, stabbing him in the chest. Vratis stills for a moment, then removes the stake. It must have missed the heart.

“You will both die this night,” Vratis growls, and lunges again, toward Gerard this time.

There is no time to think, only to act. Gerard has never killed another vampire before, has been repulsed by the idea in the past. But this is a kill or be killed scenario, and Gerard reaches out.

His hand tears through fabric and flesh. At his side, Bob removes one of Vratis's arms from its socket.

Vratis screams, but Gerard is not through yet. Without another thought, Gerard pulls, both with his mind and his hand.

And Vratis crumples to the ground, still screaming.

Gerard looks at Bob, sees his wide eyes, and then looks down at his hand. He is holding Vratis's black heart there. It is a small, ill-used thing, very nearly rotten. Gerard squeezes it in his palm and it turns to dust.

Vratis is dead.

Gerard crumples.

*

“I've got to stop doing things like that,” Gerard moans as he comes awake the next night. His head is sore, his mind in disarray.

He feels a gentle hand in his hair. Brian. Gerard opens his eyes and looks up at him, smiling faintly.

“Frank is gone,” Bob says from across the room.

Gerard sits up, holding his head. Brian helps him and stuffs a pillow behind his back for him to lean on.

“What do you mean he's gone?” Gerard asks.

“He wasn't here when we got back,” Bob says.

“I thought he was in here, but he wasn't,” Brian says.

“You didn't feel him go?” Gerard asks, but feels foolish immediately after. Of course they wouldn't feel a random human leave. No one but Gerard has that connection with him.

Gerard closes his eyes and feels for Frank, but his mind is too muzzy to find him.

“Stop,” Brian commands. “You'll wear yourself out again. That was some impressive mind magic you did to your enemy, tearing his heart out.”

Gerard cannot help but feel a little proud of himself for that feat. It was easy enough to tear out a human heart with a bare hand, but to do it to a vampire required what Brian called magic.

“I must find him,” Gerard says.

“I'll look for him,” Bob says.

“Why didn't you before this?” Gerard asks mulishly.

“Because I wanted to make sure you were well, first,” Bob says sternly. It is enough to make Gerard nod and give him a look of apology.

Bob leaves.

Gerard looks at Brian. “I hurt Frank.”

“He forgave you,” Brian says.

“How do you know?” Gerard asks.

“I just do,” Brian says. “That isn't why he left.”

Gerard frowns and lies back on the bed, closing his eyes. “Do you know why, then?”

“No. I wish I did.”

*

Bob comes back with empty arms. He has an idea and a lead, though.

“He hired a coach to take him to Derbyshire,” Bob says.

Gerard's heart seizes up. “No,” he breathes.

Frank has somehow found out the truth, else he's gone to find his parents for some unknown reason. No, that makes no sense. Frank wouldn't leave without something being wrote. He found out.

He found out.

A quick scan of the house and Gerard finds the answer. Loose lips, idle court gossip, and Frank must have overheard.

Gerard gets out of bed and dresses. Brian and Bob look on, and Bob tells him not to follow.

“I have to do this,” Gerard says.

“Then I'll come with you,” Brian says.

Gerard looks at him sharply, but Brian's gaze is resolute.

Brian is faster than Gerard, but he slows down to Gerard's pace, which is slower than usual. Gerard is still tired and worn, and halfway to Derbyshire, Brian takes Gerard into his arms and carries him the rest of the way.

They arrive before Frank at the burnt out shell of the Ieros' home.

“You did this?” Brian asks as he sets him down.

Gerard nods, not saying a word.

“You must have had good reason.”

“I thought I did at the time,” Gerard says. “Now, though...” He thinks back on that night, of the Contessa's face when she showed Gerard the attic room. He thinks about the bare mattress on the floor and the blood-scribbles on the walls.

She deserved to die.

But not at Frank's expense.

Brian and Gerard stand together in the rain, waiting. It was raining that night too, Gerard remembers.

He shivers and presses closer to Brian. “I have lost my humanity,” he says. Not mournfully, because he does not feel the loss. He says it plainly, without adornment. He is not human, but that doesn't mean he has to act like an animal.

“I'll help you find it again,” Brian whispers and presses a kiss to Gerard's cheek.

The coach arrives and Frank steps out. He soaks himself in the rain, walking up the path to the shell of the house. He doesn't see Gerard or Brian yet.

Gerard feels fear. He doesn't want to face Frank. Brian picks up on it and holds him closer for a moment, then walks away to leave Gerard to face Frank alone.

The instant Frank sees Gerard, he freezes. Then he points towards the house and yells over the sound of thunder, “You did this, Gerard!”

Gerard can't tell what he's feeling. He opens his mind and gently touches Frank's.

Frank is half-mad with grief. Family is, Gerard knows in that moment, everything to Frank.

They loved him. They hated him. They locked him away, but they loved him. They were his parents, and Frank loved them back.

And Gerard took them away.

“I will never forgive you, Gerard!” Frank screams. “Do you hear me?”

Yes, Gerard hears him. He just cannot believe him. Gerard is desperate to make Frank see what happened, to understand why.

Gerard moves quickly, grabbing Frank's arms and staring into his face. He pushes with his mind, pushes his memories and emotions into Frank's thoughts.

But Frank recoils from the memories, reeling backwards. Gerard catches him, but Frank struggles to get away.

“You fucking bastard,” Frank says brokenly, tears of rage in his eyes. “You think you did it for me.”

“I did,” Gerard says, still holding him.

“Let me go!” Frank says, and Gerard does. Frank stumbles and falls back into the mud.

“Frank, please,” Gerard says. “I'm sorry. I'm sorry this hurts you. I never ever meant to hurt you.”

Frank shakes his head and laughs, hysterical. “You shit-eating son of a bitch.”

“Come back with me,” Gerard pleads.

“Never,” Frank says. “I never want to see you again.”

“You said you loved me. That you accepted me,” Gerard says, his heart breaking.

“I do love you,” Frank whispers. Gerard barely hears him over the rain. “But I can't accept this. Not this.”

“Please,” Gerard says again.

But Frank is getting up and walking back towards the coach.

Gerard knows he can force Frank to return to London with him. He could place him under thrall. He could physically make him do as Gerard wants. But those things seem repugnant to him. He never wants to force Frank to do anything against his will. He just wants Frank, whole and in love with him, to stay.

But Frank is leaving. Forever.

The coach rolls out of sight. Gerard stands there in the rain and watches the space where it disappeared. Strong arms wrap around him, and he turns his face into Brian's neck.

“I've lost him,” Gerard murmurs.

Brian just holds him tighter.

*

Weeks pass, and Frank does not return. Gerard is morose, only barely going through the motions. Bob brings him his meals, and Brian holds him while he sleeps.

It is Catherine who finally snaps Gerard out of it.

“You are Master of London! Stop this pouting of yours. You have lost someone, it's true, but you have responsibilities. You have people who rely on you.”

It's true. More humans have come under Gerard's wing in the past few weeks that he would have ever imagined. And vampires have come, too, from the country to see the Master and participate in the court.

Gerard has to give them more of himself. He can't be seen like this.

Frank is not the only person he has lost in his lifetime. He will get through this.

Time passes. Brian is strangely aloof. Gerard is too busy to notice at first, and then when he does, he doesn't question. Perhaps Brian saw what Frank saw – a monster.

Two months after Frank leaves, Gerard visits Brian in his bedchamber.

Brian looks up, his eyes questioning. “Yes?”

Gerard comes closer. Brian has been sitting in front of the fire, warming himself.

“Do you believe in hell?” Gerard asks.

“I believe in an otherworld,” Brian says.

Gerard shakes his head. “I mean a place where the wicked are made to suffer.”

“Ah,” Brian says.

“Is it a sin, what I did to Frank's family?” Gerard asks.

“Frank believes so,” Brian says.

“What do you believe?” Gerard asks.

Brian holds out a hand and inclines his head. Gerard moves forward slowly, not knowing what to expect.

“I believe we all make mistakes,” Brian says. “And then we move on from them. Learn from them. Do you think I have never done anything monstrous in my lifetime?”

Brian's hand is warm from the fire. It feels almost human. Gerard curls his fingers around Brian's, squeezing tightly. He feels as if he needs a good cry.

“Why have you not taken me to bed?” Gerard asks softly.

Brian smiles and pulls Gerard closer. “Because I do not want to be second best. And I would be, while you mourned the loss of your consort.”

“I am done mourning,” Gerard says, and moves closer.

“You want me to make you forget,” Brian says.

It is true, on one level, but then on another... “I want you.”

Brian growls and pulls Gerard into his arms, then nearly throws him to the bed. Gerard gasps at the abrupt action, staring up at Brian.

“I have waited too long for you,” Brian says, his eyes glowing red. He unleashes his power and it swamps Gerard's senses.

Gerard closes his eyes, overwhelmed by the feeling. It seems to seep through his skin like a physical thing, but he can feel it in his blood, too. He feels it in his head as Brian's cool mind touches his, and he can do nothing but cling to Brian.

Remember, Brian whispers in his mind, pulling at the buried memories in Gerard's subconscious.

Gerard gasps as he remembers Brigh and Gearóid's first coupling. It was wild, they were wild, as uninhibited as two humans could be.

He remembers love. So much love between them, as bright as the sunlight Gerard hasn't seen in centuries. Gerard wants to weep from the memory, it is so powerful. He feels so much love for Brian, love he didn't think himself capable of.

Before, the memories were only mere glimpses, but this is so much more. He doesn't see things happening, he feels. He feels Brigh's – Brian's – strong hands on him, he feels the bite of his human teeth and the sweep of his tongue. Or is this happening now? Gerard doesn't know if this is memory or reality.

He opens his eyes and meets Brian's intense gaze. “I remember. I feel. I-” I love you, he finishes in his mind. He knows that Brian will hear him.

Brian slides his hand to Gerard's throat and holds him there, not too hard but not gently, either. He kisses him them, hard and demanding.

Gerard lets out a strangled gasp against Brian's mouth. He is overloaded with pleasure, and they have barely begun. He wonders if he will come before he is touched. It is not outside the realm of possibilities – his cock is hard and twitching like a live thing.

Brian undresses him fast, tearing the clothing from Gerard's body. The fabric rips loudly under Brian's hands, and soon Gerard lies bare like a ritual offering beneath him.

“Gods, you're gorgeous,” Brian says, making Gerard squirm under his gaze.

Then Brian leans down and sucks at Gerard's neck. Gerard remembers now, remembers that Brian sired him once. He wishes that Brian found him first in this lifetime, and that Azrael did not. But that is traitorous, and he feels ashamed for even thinking it. His sire is his sire, and that cannot change. But Brian is something else, their bond even stronger than that which Gerard shares with Azrael.

Gerard tips his head back to give Brian better access. “Bite me,” he breathes. “Please, Bri...”

Brian's fangs are razor sharp, slicing through Gerard's flesh like knives. He sucks Gerard's blood from his veins like marrow from a bone. He moans at the taste. Is he lost in his own memories? Does he wish...

It doesn't matter. All that matters is that their bodies and minds are pressed together, feeding from one another. Gerard slides a hand into Brian's hair and holds him there at his neck as he feeds.

'Love is patient, love is kind,' Gerard remembers. But this love is heady and rushed, too brutal to be what the apostle Paul wrote of. This is a love beyond human comprehension, the love of two vampires.

Brian's mouth is bloody as it crashes into Gerard's. Fangs slice at Brian's lips. Their blood mingles and the taste explodes on Gerard's tongue. He moans and arches up beneath Brian's, his body begging for more pain and passion.

Hands roam over Gerard's body, pinching and kneading his flesh. Brian twists Gerard's nipples and then lowers his mouth to them. The sensation is like fire spreading through him, and Gerard moans loudly.

Oil comes from somewhere, retrieved or conjured, Gerard doesn't care. It is warm on his skin and it drips over his cock, down his balls, over his thighs, between his legs. Then Brian's hands are moving over his skin again, slick and powerful.

Brian opens Gerard's body with strong fingers, preparing the way for his cock. Gerard is surprised he can think to be so considerate. Gerard is senseless with desire himself; thinking rationally is beyond his capabilities at the moment.

Gerard writhes under Brian's fingers, rocking onto them, pushing them deeper. He is impatient for more. He pulls at Brian, nearly fighting with him for his cock, and Brian growls low in his throat before thrusting hard inside.

Gerard wraps his legs high on Brian's back and tilts his hips, taking Brian deeper. Brian groans and thrusts again and again, slamming inside Gerard. The room is filled with noise: the loud slap of skin on skin and soft snarling from Brian. Gerard cries out as each thrust comes harder than the last.

The headboard crashes into the wall, its wooden slats splintering. Plaster dust is in the air as the wall itself crumbles under the pounding. Gerard feels as if he's falling apart himself.

An oiled hand wraps around Gerard's cock and he moans, rocking into the friction. He's trapped between the two sensations of rutting cock and squeezing hand. He's frenzied now, writhing and arching up, digging his nails into Brian's shoulders.

“More,” he begs, and Brian fucks him harder.

One hand is on Gerard's cock and then the other is at Gerard's mouth. Brian offers his wrist, and Gerard grabs it and bites down. Thick, ancient blood pours into his mouth and he moans around the broken skin. It would be ecstasy by itself, but added to every other sensation it throws Gerard over the edge, shoving him into the liquid fire of his orgasm. Their minds are so connected that the feeling of Gerard's release triggers Brian's own, and together they tense and then collapse.

They hold each other after, both of them gasping for unneeded air. Gerard nuzzles at Brian's neck and Brian holds him tighter.

“I've been so long without you,” Brian says. Then sends, You are a miracle to me.

Gerard understands that love words come easier to Brian when he does not have to speak aloud. Gerard sends Brian a wave of affection and love, showing him his feelings are returned.

Brian sighs and runs his hand through Gerard's hair. They shift on the bed until they're on their sides, just watching each other's faces. They're quiet on the outside, but their minds send to each other feelings and half-jointed sentences.

You are amazing, one of them thinks, and Gerard isn't sure which of them is speaking. Their minds are so entwined that Gerard doesn't know where he ends or begins.

Gerard feels the dawn approaching and he yawns, then rests his head against Brian's chest. No heart beats there, but the act still brings him comfort.

“How long did you sleep when you went underground?” Gerard asks sleepily.

“Only a few decades,” Brian says. “I hadn't planned on sleeping long; I was still searching for you.”

Gerard smiles and closes his eyes. “And now you've found me.”

Brian runs his fingers through Gerard's hair. “Yes. I have.”

Gerard hopes he was worth waiting for.

You were, Brian sends. Gerard smiles and drifts off. He feels Brian disconnect from his mind as he falls asleep, too.

*

The chair to Gerard's left stays empty. Gerard does not want to seek out another consort. When he has sex, it is with Brian, or – rarely – with Catherine and Bob. Lilith offers herself to him, but she is like a child to him, impetuous and fickle.

He misses Frank, keeps an eye on him from afar, but does not initiate contact. He accepts that Frank is gone.

Enemies appear, some of them more ruthless and aged than Vratis. Gerard fights them all, until they get smarter.

The next June, at a human ball, Catherine is attacked. Not killed, but she is scarred and frightened. Bob is not with her at the time, and she has no one to protect her. No vampire to heal her, not until the damage has been done.

Gerard bears much guilt over her attack. He should have known better. No one who is close to him is safe.

Catherine recuperates at Black House, which is what the court has begun to call their renovated former workhouse. She does not want visitors. She barely allows Bob to see her. She hides her face beneath a veil, ashamed of her scars.

Gerard can smell her misery and does his best to cheer her. He appoints human servants to tend to her needs, and hires a chef to make delicious food so she will continue to eat.

Catherine picks at her food and sends back full plates.

Brian comforts Bob. Gerard tells himself he isn't jealous of the attention.

They do not know who has done this to Catherine. Bob and Brian set out to (carefully) comb London until they find the one responsible.

Gerard understands that Bob needs to think of only revenge, else he'll tear himself apart in grief over Catherine's attack. Brian understands him more than Gerard does, and whatever they talk about in the night makes the tense lines of Bob's face ease.

Then one night, when Gerard goes to check on Frank, he cannot find him. He searches with all his mind, but it is like Frank is dead.

NO.

He can not, will not, accept that.

He searches harder, his mind reaching out beyond the normal borders. He feels a hand at the small of his back – Brian has felt something and came to him when he was needed.

“I can't find Frank,” Gerard murmurs.

“I sense someone,” Brian says. “Someone powerful, but they are blocking my mind.”

Gerard closes his eyes and tries to feel, and – yes, there is someone here. No, to the north. Someone ancient.

“They've … taken Frank,” Gerard says, looking at Brian with fear in his eyes. He's afraid to say the word killed.

“Can you sense him at all?” Brian asks.

Gerard shakes his head. “Why would someone do this?” he asks. “First the attack on Catherine and now this?”

“It is you they are after,” Brian says. “It's the only thing that makes sense.”

“No one is safe around me,” Gerard says. “What about you and Bob?”

“Bob and I can take care of ourselves,” Brian tells him. “Don't worry about us. The others will have to be protected, however.”

Dozens of humans and young vampires have come to live and serve at the Black Court. Gerard is responsible for their health and safety. With a new enemy out there, he feels this responsibility even more strongly.

“We must find this vampire who seeks to destroy you,” Brian says somberly. “We must put an end to this.”

Gerard nods and rests back against Brian, his mind reaching out beyond the borders of the city, to the north. He focuses all his being on finding the source of the power he feels.

North, and further.

“Yorkshire?” Gerard murmurs.

“Farther than that, I think,” Brian says. “You won't find them like that, you're going to strain yourself.”

“Add your mind to mine, then,” Gerard says irritably.

Brian does not argue, just lends his mind to Gerard. At first, the power is nearly overwhelming, but Brian does not seek to overpower him, merely help and add to Gerard's already impressive art.

Magic, something whispers on the wind.

Gerard sends his mind flying out over the countryside. Below him pass trees and homes and hills. Here, and horse. There, a pasture of cattle. On and on he goes, searching out the source of power.

There.

Northumberland.

Gerard sends his mind to the west, to the Cheviot hills, but finds nothing. No, it is to the east, in Bamburgh. The power shines brightest there. He senses something else, someone human...

It is too much. He sags against Brian, his mind too stretched to do more. “Frank,” he gasps. “Frank's alive.”

“I felt him,” Brian murmurs. “Shh. Sleep.”

Gerard blacks out.

*

He wakes in his chamber at Black House. Brian is talking quietly with Bob in front of the empty fireplace. Gerard keeps his eyes closed and listens.

“...Lilith is beside herself,” Bob says. “I'm thinking of sending her and Catherine away.”

“That might be best,” Brian says, and then turns to Gerard. “You've been sleeping for three nights.”

Gerard opens his eyes. Of course Brian would know when he woke. “What's happened?”

“A vampire attacked Cain and killed him,” Brian says. “Bob was able to stop him before he got to the others.”

“Does he still live?” Gerard growls. Cain was loyal and had served well in the past year. He was learning – slowly, but steadily – to be a proper vampire. Although Gerard had not adopted him, he still felt responsible for him.

And now Cain is gone. Lilith, Gerard is sure, will grieve long and hard.

“Yes. We have him chained in the cellar,” Bob says.

“Is he talking?” Gerard asks, sitting up on the bed and looking around for a pair of trousers.

Brian takes a suit of clothes from the wardrobe and helps Gerard dress. “He says only that his sire wants revenge on the Master of London.”

“Revenge for what?” Gerard asks. “I've done nothing.”

“There is another thing,” Brian says slowly as he ties Gerard's cravat into a Mathematical knot. “The vampire – his name is Jacob – smells... familiar.”

“Do you know him?” Gerard asks.

“No,” Brian says. “But he is family.”

Gerard stares. “That must be a mistake.”

Brian shakes his head. “I know the scent of my own blood.”

“Then who is he? Who is this sire of his?” Gerard asks, grabbing his hessian boots.

“I do not know. I have sired many in my lifetime,” Brian says.

Gerard finishes dressing quickly, then makes his way downstairs to the cellar. It is damp down here and smells of creeping mold and old blood. Bob has already done a job on Jacob, and the enemy vampire hasn't fed. He is half-stripped and not healing, starving for blood.

“Tell me the name of your sire,” Gerard orders, pushing his mind on Jacob.

Jacob laughs, high and hysterical. His eyes are red, but they do not glow with power, not anymore. He's been starved and bled too much. “I'll tell you nothing.”

“Let me,” Brian says, stepping forward.

Fear twinges Gerard's heart, that somehow this enemy will find a way to harm him. Brian gives Gerard an understanding look and says, “It will be all right.”

Jacob is still laughing. Brian's hand snaps out and slaps him across the face. “I am your elder, and your blood. Answer.”

Jacob shakes his head jerkily. His eyes are wide with fear. “She'll do more than kill me if I talk.”

Brian is silent for a moment, but then he takes Jacob's head in his hands and stares into his eyes. This lasts for a few minutes, and then Brian pulls back. “Kill him,” he says.

Bob growls. “He doesn't deserve an easy death. I want more of his blood.”

“He was only working on her orders,” Brian says. “He is not evil, though he is a threat to us.”

But Bob argues his case to Gerard. “I ask for the right to do as I wish with him on Catherine's behalf.”

Brian's eyes are on Gerard, coolly assessing. Gerard looks away and nods to Bob. “For two nights, you may do as you wish.”

“I won't need two nights,” Bob says. “But I thank you.”

Gerard nods, ignoring Brian's displeasure. They walk upstairs, Gerard fidgeting to leave and get Frank. He is worried, not knowing what kind of condition they will find him in.

“I'll deal with her. You stay here,” Brian tells him.

For a moment, Gerard is speechless.

“She is my childe, Gerard,” Brian says. “My Julia.”

Gerard remembers the story as if Brian has just told him. “The one who saved you from the emperor of Rome – she sided with you over her own son.”

Brian nods.

“You do not want to kill her,” Gerard says slowly.

Brian looks pained. He touches Gerard's mind and shares his grief and abiding love for his childe. Gerard shakes his head and blocks him out.

“She is my own childe,” Brian says again. “I could never end her life. No more than I could end yours.”

Bob is silent through this conversation. He listens, completely still. Gerard knows he is torn between family obligation and revenge for Catherine's attack.

“I must save Frank,” Gerard says.

“I will go alone,” Brian says. “I will bring Frank back to you, I promise.”

“That isn't good enough,” Gerard says. “I need to find him myself, and deal with Julia.”

Brian growls, pushing at Gerard's mind with blunt force. “I will not allow you to harm her.”

Gerard pushes back. He is no match for Brian, though. He becomes dizzy, and he thinks Brian will stop, but the more powerful vampire presses on. Gerard knows he should not fight else he'll wear himself out. But something inside him wants to battle with Brian's mind until he is overcome.

Bob exits the room, leaving them alone.

Brian's mind is like a thunderstorm now, wind beating against Gerard's thoughts. Gerard can barely hold his head up now, and his knees go weak. Brian catches him, but does not give up his mental onslaught.

I will bring Frank back to you, he whispers in Gerard's head.

Gerard continues to fight, even as Brian lifts him into his arms and carries him back into the bedchamber.

“She deserves to die after what she's done,” Gerard slurs, trying to push Brian away.

“You killed her childe. Vratis. This is why she has sworn revenge on you,” Brian says. “I saw it all in Jacob's mind.”

“Oh,” Gerard says weakly.

“She will be punished,” Brian assures him. He lays Gerard down on the bed. “Stop fighting or you'll be out for nights and nights again.”

Bring him back safely, Gerard sends, and then he stops pushing back against Brian's mind. Brian sends waves of tiredness to him and thoughts of restful sleep.

Gerard closes his eyes and that is all he remembers until the next night.

*

Brian tells the story with a grim face over Frank's bed.

How he found Julia – mad with grief and blaming Gerard for everything – in a castle in Northumberland. How they fought with fangs and fists, how Julia didn't even recognize her own sire at first. Then her tears, her intense and insane sorrow over Vratis's death.

He does not describe what happened to her, whether he killed her in the end or simply put her into a deep sleep that would last a century. Gerard knows he has the power to do either.

He talks of how he found Frank in the castle bailey – shackled and starving and tortured, then turned so he could endure more torture. Then starved some more. He is feral when Brian finds him, biting at his own arm to get to some blood, even if it is only his own.

Gerard holds a sleeping Frank close to him, his heart breaking for his consort. Turned against his will, starved, tortured – this is much worse than Frank has endured in the past. Gerard does not know if Frank will be able to get past this.

“He's strong,” Brian whispers.

Gerard knows this. He also knows Frank will need a sire.

“I will oversee the adoption, if you wish,” Brian says, reading Gerard's thoughts.

“He needs to feed,” Gerard murmurs.

Bob leaves the room and comes back with two humans who watch Gerard in awe. But Gerard has no time for court games, he simply grabs the nearest and rips into her wrist with his fangs, then holds her arm over Frank's body and lets the blood pour into Frank's mouth.

Frank doesn't swallow at first; he's in too deep a sleep. Brian knows his art well. Gerard tugs on the unraveled connection he shares with Frank and brings him to a half-aware state.

“Drink,” Gerard orders, rubbing Frank's throat gently. After a long moment, Frank swallows, then swallows again. “Good.”

Gerard looks up at the human who is sacrificing her blood and says, “Thank you. Margaret, isn't it?”

“Yes, Master,” Margaret whispers.

“You will be rewarded,” Gerard says, then looks back at Frank. He is still too pale. Gerard seals Margaret's wounds with his saliva, then reaches out to the other human. “He needs more, still.”

The man – John – nods and offers his wrist. Gerard is more careful this time, less rushed. His fangs slice through to the veins and blood once again pours into Frank's waiting mouth.

Frank makes a small, broken noise of hunger. His mouth makes a suction this time and he takes in John's rich blood. Gerard relaxes. It is merely instinct, he knows, but the small act is a good sign.

Frank drinks until Gerard pulls John away and heals him. There is a blood-flush to his cheeks now that he's fed, twin spots on his face. Gerard wipes his mouth with his handkerchief and Frank jerks, searching for more blood.

“We should perform the adoption as soon as possible,” Brian says in a low voice. “He can't survive long in this state without a sire.”

Gerard doesn't know anything about being a sire to an ill childe. But he will do his best for Frank, and Brian will be there to show him what to do.

“Now?” Gerard asks.

Brian gives Bob a silent order. Bob leads the others out of the room until Brian and Gerard are alone with Frank.

“I don't know where to start,” Gerard says. He is uneasy. Perhaps he will not be a good sire. Perhaps Frank will continue to hate him.

“I'll wake him,” Brian says, and does. Immediately, Frank begins to shake and cry out.

Gerard lies down and pulls Frank into his arms. He shushes him, but it does no good. Frank does not know why he's being touched, or that it is not malicious – Gerard can read that in his mind without even trying. Frank is projecting fear so hard Gerard can practically taste it.

“Drain him,” Brian says.

Gerard doesn't want to, but he knows he must. Frank will just take the pain as another torment... unless Gerard does something about it first. “I need to put him under thrall,” Gerard murmurs. “Make the bite seem pleasant.”

“Let me,” Brian says. “You need to focus on other things.”

Gerard shakes his head. “I want to do it.” He kisses Frank's neck, sees the scars there from Julia, and growls low in his throat.

It isn't an easy thing, taking over Frank's mind. Frank is wild and insane from his torture. Gerard lays his mind over Frank's like a blanket, containing the madness. He projects safety and protection. He nudges Frank's mind into accepting his fangs as pleasurable.

And then he tips Frank's head back and bites down.

Frank whimpers in pleasure, but he sounds nothing like himself. Gerard sucks hard, drinking deeply. Frank's blood is thin and weak. Gerard can taste that Frank is unwell. He can feel his ill mind, too. Beneath Gerard's mind, Frank's thoughts are fearful and only half-formed. His memories are buried deeply; even Gerard cannot access them.

Gerard projects warmth and affection to Frank as he drinks, petting his hair and the back of his neck. He drinks and drinks until fuzzy gray permeates Frank's mind.

“Now, pull back,” Brian whispers. Gerard has forgotten he was there, so caught up in Frank's welfare.

Gerard pulls away from Frank's throat and looks at the wounds there. The silvery twin scars of Frank's claiming have been violated by Julia's fangs. There is unhealed, torn skin there, where she must have bitten again and again. Gerard moves to try to heal them, but Brian interrupts.

“It's time,” Brian says.

Gerard nods and bites into his wrist fiercely, making a large wound that will bleed freely. Behind him, he feels the bed dip, and Brian lays a hand on his back.

Thick, ancient words pour out of Brian's mouth as Gerard holds his wrist to Frank's lips. The translation of the words has been long lost, but their meaning still holds true. Gerard can feel it in his blood and his soul.

“I make you,” Gerard whispers as Frank takes his first swallow. “I create you as my own.” Then, in his mind, he says, Drink as much as you can. Be strong. Be mine.

Brian continues to chant, now in a whisper, as Frank latches on to Gerard's wrist and sucks. Gerard can feel his own life force leave his body and take up residence in Frank's. He can feel their minds connect in a way that he knows is permanent. He can feel that Frank is of his blood now, as much his childe as any would be.

Love. It is overwhelming. Gerard forgets Brian is even in the room, nearly forgets his own sire. Is this what Azrael was permitting when he said Gerard could sire a childe? This bond swamps Gerard's mind and tugs at his soul. Could Azrael have felt this for him when he turned him? The thought is jarring. Azrael showed affection but never this burning, eternal love.

“Look at me,” Gerard murmurs. Frank's eyes open and he stares up at Gerard, focusing on his face. Gerard smiles. “I love you.”

Frank's eyes widen and he reaches out, touching Gerard's cheek lightly. Gerard turns into the touch and kisses Frank's fingertips. Frank's thoughts are fragmented, scared things that flit about like tiny silver fish in a pond. He is surprised by the kiss, frightened and confused by it. Gerard holds his gaze and says it again.

“I love you, Frank.”

Frank, Frank, my name is Frank... he thinks back, as if he's just now learning this. Maybe he is.

Gerard sighs and lowers his wrist from Frank's mouth. “Yes. Your name is Frank.”

Frank moves his mouth as though he's going to say something, but ends up just licking his lips instead. Gerard wonders if he can speak. Only time will tell.

Brian's chanting becomes louder, and Gerard feels a great power fill the room. It crashes over Frank and him like a wave, and Gerard has to lie back on the bed next to Frank.

He looks at Frank and sees that his eyes are closed, his lips slightly smiling. He is asleep. It is over. Gerard looks over at Brian and mouths, “Thank you.”

Brian nods and leaves the room. Gerard gathers Frank in his arms and holds him close, Frank's head pillowed on his chest. He lies there for a long while, just holding Frank, thankful he lives.

Eventually, sleep claims him.

*

Weeks pass, and Frank isn't much better. Gerard has to bring his meals to him and oversee the feeding so Frank doesn't take too much. Frank doesn't speak except mind to mind, and even then it is in fragments.

Sire, he sends one night. He does not call Gerard by name anymore. They are lying in bed, touching each other. Frank's touches are skittish things, and he shies away if Gerard touches him too much. Want to go out.

Gerard sighs. “It isn't safe for you.”

Prison, Frank gripes, turning his back.

Gerard frowns and places a hand on Frank's shoulder. “No, never that,” he says, remembering the way the Ieros treated their son. “I'd never hold you against your will.”

Out.

“Not out, not yet,” Gerard says. “But we can explore the house.”

Frank turns back, his eyes wary.

“We'll visit with Bob and Catherine, how's that?” Gerard coaxes.

Frank and Catherine have become friends. Frank seems to recognize something broken and familiar inside her, something he feels himself.

...Bri, too?

Gerard smiles. “Yes, Brian too.”

As they exit the bedchamber, one of their human servants comes to them. “There's a dispute we need your help with, Master,” he says.

Gerard nods and is about to send Frank back into the room when he changes his mind. Frank can come. If anyone tries to harm him, Gerard will tear out their heart. “Follow me, Frank,” he says, and Frank obeys.

Downstairs they go, until they're in the main room. Gerard sits on his throne and Frank does an odd thing. He sits at Gerard's feet, like a slave.

No, Gerard sends. He nods at the chair beside him, the place for his consort. The chair Frank used to sit in.

Frank shakes his head and turns his face away to stare at the two vampires in the middle of the room.

“Master,” says the first vampire who inclines his head. Gerard knows him, has met with him a few times in the past.

“Victor,” Gerard says. He looks at the other vampire. “And you are?”

“Dimitri Fangsblood, Master,” he says. Gerard fights not to roll his eyes. Some of the names vampires come up with for themselves are laughable.

Instead of showing his exasperation, Gerard simply nods and says, “What seems to be the problem between you two?”

At his feet, Frank watches silently.

The two vampires begin talking at once. Gerard shuts them up with a clap of his hands and says, “Victor, you may speak first.”

Victor bows and says, “I've always hunted to the north of the Thames, never crossing paths with this one unless we are at your Black Court. But lately Dimitri has begun hunting in my territory, terrorizing people. I hunt clean, never leave a witness. I don't need this bullshit.”

Dimitri scoffs and says, “You don't own London, you can't tell me where I can hunt and where I can't.”

“Silence,” Gerard says. This time has been coming. Now that there are more vampires in London, hunting grounds will become a dispute between all of them. He thinks for a moment and then says, “Dimitri, what is your side to this?”

“I've just told you, Master,” Dimitri says. “I think I should be able to hunt wherever I want.”

Gerard nods and looks around the room. Others are watching on in plain interest, some in feigned boredom. Brian stands at the far wall and smiles faintly. This is up to Gerard.

“I'll need a map,” he says, and a human servant fetches one for him from the study.

He can't simply divide London and leave it at that.

Lord Bob, Frank sends, giggling in his mind as if it is a great joke.

Despite Frank's amusement, it is an impressive show of intelligence. Gerard is surprised at Frank's understanding of the situation, and his conclusion, which is the same as Gerard's.

“All of you, gather 'round,” Gerard says to the vampires in the room. He points to Lilith and to the map. “Lady Lilith, I give you central London.” His finger outlines the territory.

Lilith is young, but she has learned much in the last year. A little responsibility will keep her mind off the death of Cain, as well.

Lilith gasps. “Lady?” she asks. “Who am I to command an entire territory?”

“Quiet, girl,” Bob says. “The Master has decreed it.”

Gerard gives Lilith a little smile and says, “I think you have earned the right. Now for the rest of you...”

He divides the city into five territories and gives them to those who have proven themselves loyal, trustworthy, and fair. He does not give a territory to William, who has been punished for cruelty towards their humans. He does not give a territory to Marlena, who turned five fledglings in one night without permission from either her sire or Gerard. Bob receives a territory, as does Brian. Victor retains the area to the north. One more vampire receives a territory, a half-century old scholar who has been helpful to the Court, and then Gerard is done.

“The rest of you will hunt under these vampires' supervision,” Gerard says. “They are the Lords and Lady of London, and you will respect them. My word is final.”

Frank stifles a giggle and Gerard looks down at him. Very good, Frank sends.

“I'm so happy I have your approval, childe,” Gerard murmurs.

Some of the vampires look unhappy, but in the end they abide by Gerard's orders.

Frank gives a fake yawn, and Gerard takes the hint. “Now, if you'll all excuse me, we're going to bed.”

Back in their room, Frank strips out of his clothes. He's hasty about it, impatient. Gerard watches him, wondering what exactly he's doing.

Take me to bed, Frank sends, standing awkwardly in front of him. He's naked now, his pale skin nearly glowing in the moonlight.

Gerard takes a step forward, then shakes his head. “You aren't well.”

Afraid? Frank sends. Because you hurt me?

“You remember?” Gerard asks.

Saw it in your mind, Frank sends.

Gerard pauses, then puts a hand on Frank's shoulder. “What else did you see?”

Frank shrugs and, in his typical fashion, changes the subject. I want markings like Brian has.

Gerard is stunned. “Tattoos? You want tattoos. Where?”

Frank shrugs again. Everywhere.

Gerard laughs and kisses him. “Maybe for your birthday,” he says.

Months away, Frank pouts. He wraps his arms around Gerard's neck and smiles. I can wait.

“Time flies by when you're a vampire,” Gerard reminds him. “Soon it will be Hallowe'en, and we will have a ball to celebrate.” He runs his hands down Frank's smooth arms.

Frank shivers and presses against him, then pulls at Gerard's clothes. Naked.

Gerard is hesitant to have sex with him. Frank is still fragile, his mind not entirely healed. Gerard wants Frank to be strong. He wants him to be Frank.

Please, Frank sends. Need you.

Gerard touches his mind and feels his desire. Frank is not as broken as Gerard has thought. He is brimming with lust and a need for his sire. Gerard nods and begins untying his cravat.

Frank yanks Gerard's topcoat away, down his arms until Gerard is free of it. Then Frank goes to work on the buttoned fall of Gerard's breeches.

Gerard's cock springs free before he even has his boots off. Frank sits on the edge of the bed and pulls Gerard forward, then nuzzles his cock. His tongue darts out to lick the head, and Gerard moans at the sensation.

Want to taste you, Frank sends, his thoughts impatient. Gerard runs a hand through his hair and nods.

Cool wet suction envelops Gerard's cock as Frank begins to suck. He's not hesitant, though they haven't done this before. Frank slides his mouth down Gerard's erection until his nose is buried in short, curly hair.

So good... Frank sends, bobbing his head. Gerard leans on the bedpost and moans out his pleasure. He locks his knees to keep from falling over.

“Frank...” Gerard breathes, unable to keep himself from thrusting forward shallowly. Frank positions his hands at Gerard's hips, holding him still.

Frank's tongue works against the underside of Gerard's cock, sliding thick and cool against the hardness. Gerard's hand tightens on the bedpost and his other sinks into Frank's hair.

Love you, sire, Frank sends, then moans around Gerard's cock. The words make Gerard moan more than the vibration, but both make his balls tighten.

“God, Frank. I love you, too,” Gerard says aloud.

Frank tugs gently on Gerard's hip, giving him permission to thrust into Frank's wet mouth. Gerard does so carefully, mindful that this is Frank's first time. His cock slides over Frank's tongue and the head bumps Frank's throat. Frank makes a small noise, somewhere between a whimper and a moan. He drops a hand to his own cock and begins to stroke.

Their minds are forever connected, being sire and childe, but right now they are meshed together more, feeding off each other's passion and love. It is not overwhelming to Gerard the way connecting to Brian is, but it is close. Gerard feels so much, his own emotions and Frank's, woven together, around and below each other's.

So much... Frank thinks, his large hazel eyes looking up into Gerard's.

“Yes. So much,” Gerard whispers, and slides his cock in, out, and into Frank's mouth again. Slowly at first, then faster as Frank takes it easily.

Frank squeezes Gerard's hip and strokes his own cock harder. It is leaking now; Gerard can smell the precome mixed with the musk of Frank's arousal.

Gerard... Frank sends desperately.

Not 'Sire', Gerard realizes. 'Gerard'. His name, which Frank has not used since his capture.

“Oh, Frank,” Gerard pants, tightening his hold on Frank's hair. He's close, so close to coming. “Come for me, baby,” he says, wanting Frank to reach completion first.

Frank can likely feel how close to the edge Gerard is now, and his own body reacts to the feelings and the words. He strokes his cock faster and then comes, spurting into his hand.

Gerard moans at the sight and scent of Frank's orgasm. His own is right there, he can almost see it...

And then he is plunging, no, flying into climax, coming hard down Frank's throat. Frank swallows enthusiastically, missing some so that it dribbles down his chin. Gerard leans down and licks him clean, then gives him a hard, sloppy kiss. Frank kisses back, his tongue slicking against Gerard's, and wraps his arms around him.

Gerard finishes undressing, then joins Frank on the bed. He's feeling languid and complete, happy in a way he hasn't quite been since Frank's return. Frank is doing much better, he knows, although he wishes he would talk again.

“Can talk,” Frank whispers.

Gerard startles and looks at him.

“Just haven't wanted to,” Frank says. “Easier to just. In your mind.”

Gerard holds him close and feels wetness prick the back of his eyelids.

“You love me now,” Frank says. His voice is both soft and rough from disuse at the same time.

“Do you remember the time before?” Gerard asks hesitantly. Do you remember why you left me?

Frank is somber when he says, “You killed my human family.”

“Yes,” Gerard says, burying his face in Frank's hair.

Frank begins to talk, then coughs and continues in Gerard's mind. You've given me a new family.

“You forgive me?” Gerard asks hopefully.

Frank sighs. In a way. He holds on to Gerard tightly. Gerard does not understand this partial forgiveness, but knows he will take what he can. He never wants Frank to hate him again.

Never hated you, Frank sends. Hated what you did.

Gerard can understand this. He hates that Brian did not kill Julia, but he could never hate Brian himself.

“I love you,” Frank whispers. “I've always loved you.”

He knows how to answer that, now. “I love you too, childe.”

*

Summer passes and Hallowe'en approaches. Frank is excited for the ball being given in his honor, but seems to be more excited for his birthday present. Gerard has sketched for months, showing all his designs to Frank, but nothing has been quite right until the last one.

Pumpkins are an American fruit, not found in England except by special order. But Frank wants a pumpkin jack-o-lantern tattoo, not anything else.

“They just look better,” he says. He uses his voice all the time now, speaking in full sentences again. “I want the face of Stingy Jack, carved into a pumpkin, on my back.”

Gerard has never even seen a pumpkin, but he does what he can. Frank is thrilled at his work, wanting the tattoo as soon as he sees it.

“You have to wait until your birthday,” Gerard says. He's found a tattooist, a Marori from New Zealand. His name is Hehu, and Gerard brings him into the Black Court as an honored guest. While he is there, he gives Brian another tattoo – a band around his wrist. Gerard can feel Frank itch with jealousy for a tattoo of his own. “Be patient,” he tells him.

Hehu laughs at the sketch Gerard gives him, but assures him he can do it.

The ball is a masquerade. Wine flows freely, as does blood from healthy donors, who walk around in elegant masks. Gerard himself is dressed in a formal suit of velvet, his cravat stiff and tied in a complicated knot. He wears kohl around his eyes, as does Frank.

Frank wants to get his tattoo in front of everyone. Hehu pronounces that as good, and Gerard rolls his eyes at Frank's exhibitionism.

The ball runs on and on until the sun is about to rise. Frank is smiling and smiling, and Gerard can't help but melt a little when he sees how happy he is.

Brian joins them in bed, kissing both Frank and Gerard drunkenly. He's fed from inebriated donors and is feeling the wine in his blood.

They fall asleep together when the sun rises, and when it sets the next night, they find pleasure in each other's bodies. Gerard has never shared Frank before, but he likes the experience. His childe is enthusiastic and sensitive to every touch. Brian moves between them both, kissing and biting and touching as if he's starved for it.

Gerard moans when Brian unleashes his power. For the first time, Frank feels and understands what Gerard has felt since first meeting Brian in this life. Frank can barely move he is so overwhelmed. But Brian doesn't mind, just moves him into position and takes him.

Gerard watches Brian fuck Frank, his fangs dropping in his mouth. He wants them both, he loves them both. He knows they will not always be together, though. He senses it. Brian has gotten restless at the Court, and will probably leave soon.

Gerard will not mourn for his loss. He will wish him well in his life. This is what he tells himself, anyway.

Frank is on his hands and knees and Brian is taking him from behind. They're both so beautiful like this, and Gerard moves under Frank so that he can take his cock into his mouth.

Frank is so overloaded with sensation that he comes almost immediately. Brian looks at Gerard and grins at him. Gerard smiles back eagerly.

Instead of moving to take Gerard's ass as well, Brian lies back and holds out his arms. Gerard slides into position and Brian whispers, “Fuck me, Gerard.”

There's only a little oil left, but it's enough. Gerard slicks his fingers and prepares Brian hastily, eager to be inside him. They haven't done this before, not in this life. Gerard has memories of fucking Brigh, but they are hazy, dreamlike things. This is real, this is now.

When Gerard finally pushes into Brian's body, it's a revelation. Brian is tight and the memory of heat burns in Gerard's mind. Brian clenches around his cock, making him groan. He thrusts deep inside him, then deeper, as hard as he can. Brian won't break.

He does moan, though, his voice echoing loudly off the walls.

“Jesus,” Frank whispers, watching from the side. His own cock twitches and he wraps a hand around it, stroking it to full hardness again.

Gerard can barely think to do anything but fuck Brian. He lets himself go, fucking hard and fast toward his completion.

Brian arches and rocks back hard until they are moving in concert. Their minds touch and entangle, feeding off each other in an endless cycle of hunger. Brian swings his legs over Gerard's shoulders, lithe and powerful, and Gerard is forced deeper inside him.

In their minds they dance like fire, flames burning into one another and roaring higher and higher until they reach something neither of them recognizes. Is it the bright, hot sun that burns their bodies inside out? Or are they flying in the cold, dark places between the stars? They do not try to define it, only let it happen. Beside them, Frank cries out as he comes, too.

Together, they come to awareness again. They are sticky with come and blood, their bodies thoroughly tired. Gerard feels debauched and used up, and Brian can barely move beneath him.

“Fuck,” Frank breathes. Gerard touches his mind gently and a flood of images comes to him. He sees himself and Brian, fucking so furious-fast that they are a blur.

Gerard blinks and the image is gone. He moves a little to roll off Brian, placing himself between him and Frank. Frank slides into his arms and rests his head on Gerard's chest. Brian presses along Gerard's other side and sighs in contentment.

“I'm a mess,” Gerard murmurs, looking down at himself.

Brian laughs. “Maybe we'll get you into the bath for a change.”

“Mmm,” Gerard says, closing his eyes. “Later.”

Brian bites his shoulder with blunt teeth, a playful nip that makes Gerard smile. “Don't sleep long. I'm sure Bob is tired of settling petty arguments when that's your job.”

“Bob would make a good Master,” Gerard says lightly. “Because he doesn't seek power. He would do good in my place.”

Brian sits up a little, propping himself up on his hand. “Are you thinking of leaving?”

Gerard can feel Frank shift to watch his face intently.

“You're going to go,” Gerard says to Brian. “Don't argue; I've seen it in your mind. You want to take Julia away and try to heal her mind.”

“If I can,” Brian says.

“I want to leave,” Gerard says. “And Frank needs to see the world.”

“You're restless,” Brian says. “I can understand that.”

“I wasn't made to lead,” Gerard says. “I never wanted it, not really. I just wanted to protect our kind.”

“And you have,” Frank says. “But where will we go?”

Gerard kisses his hair and smiles. “Anywhere we want. I think we'll start by giving you a Grand Tour.”

He doesn't mention the fact that he and Brian will be parting. But Brian must read his thoughts, because he says softly, “We will be together again. I just need some time with Julia.”

Gerard looks at him and forces a smile. “I know. We always find each other.”

Brian kisses him fiercely, blunt teeth nipping hard at Gerard's lower lip. “And you'll always be mine, no matter what.”

He speaks the way a sire would speak to a childe, and Gerard's smile becomes more genuine.

Frank closes his eyes and hums quietly. “I'd like to learn to play an instrument.”

Gerard blinks at the change in topic. “What?”

“So I could play what I can't say,” Frank says, and then he shares a look with Brian. Gerard can feel their energy reaching out to one another, and feel a connection that is stronger than he'd thought was there. Frank is saying he'll miss Brian, and that he feels strongly for him.

Gerard closes his eyes. “Piano?”

“No,” Frank says. “I'd like something I can hold.”

“I play guitar,” Brian says. “You'd probably like that.”

Gerard has a memory of Brian playing something that looks like a harp but isn't. He sits beside the bank of a pond and plays while Gerard and his twin brother swim.

He swallows hard and tries to focus on the instrument. It's a kithara, he knows suddenly. But his mind's eye is drawn back to the pond, where a laughing Michael – no, Mihaitus is his name – splashes water at him and then ducks beneath the surface. Gerard dives down into the water and hugs Mihaitus around the waist, bringing him back up. They kiss, and it's sweet and gentle with just a touch of heat. They turn as one to beckon Brigh to join them.

“Are you all right?” Brian asks gently, his hand on Gerard's shoulder.

Gerard opens his eyes and blinks hard, back in the present again. “I was just remembering your kithara,” he says.

Brian gives him an understanding look and kisses his forehead. “Sleep for a little while.”

Frank has already dozed off beside him. It's easy to let himself drift. He dreams of his boyhood with his twin, and then of Michael in his own lifetime.

Through it all, Brian and Frank hold him. It is selfish to wish for more, his mind whispers. But when he comes awake again, he still aches for his brother, and knows he will never be complete without him.

*

Part Three