Fifth part in the Five Gold Rings series:

Part 1     Part 2     Part 3    Part 4

Recreation and Renovation

by
Rngrdead

Part Six

Anton was waiting smiling at the two as they alighted from the car. He greeted both men with the traditional kiss to both cheeks followed by a firm handshake. Xander feeling in that moment rather silly for his former outburst as the genuinely welcoming smile and brotherly backslap gave him a sense that Anton was actually his family too.

The castle was impressive. The ancient eight inch thick, black forest pine doors groaned in protest as their brass hinges were forced to move and admit the newcomers.

Xander stood for a moment and ventured his view upward. Enormous iron candelabras hung from inch thick loops of chain attached to an ornate ceiling at least a hundred feet above them. The sweeping staircase with a banister wide enough to ride even the largest adult, had walls decorated with a progression of ‘family portraits’ documenting at least eight hundred years of ruling occupants in the incumbent family.

Xander was again amazed by his partner. Spike looked utterly at ease, thanked Anton for his hospitality and went on to comment in a complimentary mode regards some of the images of relatives on the first landing. Anton was obviously pleased and began to fill ‘William’ in on the various foibles and failings of said ancestors (or in the case of the immortal, his ‘inheritors’).

As the afternoon progressed, Xander learned to his utter amazement that Anton had begun his life somewhere back in the times of ancient Greece. He didn’t even recall if they had studied that period at school but knew the story of Troy from the movies ten or so years ago.

Anton seemed to sense the importance for Xander to understand the history and the dynamic they were about to face, so shared with both Spike and his consort his own ‘story’ to begin the process. For Spike it was revelatory, but not unexpected. For Xander it was utterly amazing.

Anton was borne the youngest son of the youngest cousin of Kleisthenes (the head of the Alcmaeonid clan) the year he came to power in 510BC, ruling Greece with an all but reformistic (some would suggest liberal) agenda. As a consequence, Anton had grown up in a very wealthy household in Athens. It was still an ancient kingdom then, fielding threats from warring neighbors – particularly the Persians. Despite that, changes to slave laws and rules regarding democratic decision making were introduced under his uncle’s rule and issues of state permeated all their family discussions.

As was the custom amongst the rich, he was initiated into the art of love-making by a favorite aunt at seventeen. A devoted teacher she trained him carefully, just as he was also trained in the art of war by an elderly warrior then attached to the household as mentor and sparring partner, and educated in the literary and mathematical disciplines of the time by a friend of his father. He had a wonderful male cousin, a few years his senior, with whom he explored other bodily delights, expected behavior for the men of his time. Yet it was not always to be so….

Within months of Anton’s minor participation at the win against the Persians at Marathon (he was held back as son of a noble until the last assault), he was faced with an eternity of decisions rather than a lifetime.

By that stage, he was twenty eight, married and destined for a ruling position in one of the clan’s regions just west of Athens, but one fatal night was turned at a drunken victory party at the villa of a friend.

Oddly he was never really part of vampire culture, as his Sire, (a Master from the Hittite era, though hailing from Egypt) was the epitome of a hedonist, and exhibitionist of the first degree, setting up camp in one of the local temples and attending parties, engaging the locals with gay abandon. Unfortunately, two nights after he turned his second Childe, the lovely Anton, he fell foul of a low lying broken tree branch as he staggered home from a drunken orgy, dusting himself only hours away from Anton rising.

Anton awoke as a fledgling Childe with no Sire, laid out as if a sacrifice on the alter of Artemis. Confused and disoriented, the newly made vampire fell to his knees and prayed to the Goddess of the Hunt for forgiveness considering himself to have defiled her sacred place with his inebriated presence but not yet understanding his ‘revised’ status. Whether it was Artemis (Diana in Roman terms) or the Powers or whoever… he never knew, but he was granted the blessing (or curse) of being immortal, and had his soul restored. The latter was thankfully made undetectable to the demon community, but both ‘states’ still left him on the outer edge of human and demon contact for close on a thousand years.



As they wandered towards the conservatory and the comment on his own ostracism (a term invented by his uncle Kleisthenes) was offered, both Spike and Xander observed the normally dispassionate Immortal as being quite forlorn. Spike grabbed his own wrist bit down hard then offered the blood of family to Anton… Xander felt the hope and need through the link and understood. He too reached for the Immortal, pulled the free hand to his lips and kissed it, then placed the back of the same to his forehead as a sign of fealty. Xander felt… safe, and now understood Spike’s need to have this ancient warrior as his proxy Sire.

For Anton it was two and a half thousand years before he chose a settled ‘partnering’ with a Slayer, Buffy, and another ten before he felt the tug of ‘family’ in a way that had not drawn him since his own turning. The sudden entrance into his existence of William and his Consort somehow completed a link that he had not even realized he was missing, until it happened... and now he was….content. For the first time in two and a half millennia he had a sense of wholeness again, it was extraordinary… and something he was not willing to let go… the latter being a second epiphany for the afternoon.

Anton had not really ever aspired to the control of Europe, but the protection of family was quite a different issue. The plans for the following day fell into place as Xander was given a crash course in traditional Consort etiquette, and Spike tried desperately to remember all the names and various political agendas of those due to arrive. He could not have done it without Anton and his staff.

…………………….

They were seated on classic leather couches sipping port in the enormous library, Anton obviously enjoying his role as host, when matters fell to the serious reason for their visit.

“William….Alexander… I am sure you are aware of your role here as Named Successor and his Consort, along with the basic expectations… and must say that your choice of attire will impress. However I am also fairly certain that even you William may be unprepared for the challenges.

Anton held his hand up to still Spike’s automatic move to protest.

“Little brothe,r it is the order of things… they may challenge you physically, mentally or magically, indeed your consort will no doubt be included, but it is only so you might prove yourself to this disparate group. Prove yourself worthy and you may rule with impunity and abdicate in favor of Connor at any time should you wish it.”

Despite a variety of different questions, Anton remained silent regarding the exact nature of what might be to come, though Xander learned of his expected position during meetings… in Spike’s lap! Something that made them both snigger then become concerned as his larger size was hardly conducive to Spike ‘doing business’. Anton eventually suggested a ‘cross’ position where Xander might actually sit on a cushion beside his partner yet continue to intertwine legs and show open affection as was custom.


After several more drinks (alcohol rather than blood) and ‘finger food’, Xander and Spike retired to their quarters.

They were lying on their backs side by side on the biggest circular bed either of them had seen, though utterly in keeping with their surroundings… The suite was extraordinary, the ceiling painted almost in Schloss Neuschwanstein style, all stars and angels. Xander could not help but wonder what demon would create such… beauty.

“Penny for your thoughts luv.”

“What?”

“Penny for your thoughts…? What is it in that noggin of yours that’s worth pondering so hard as to cause you to ignore this….” Spike licked from Xander’s navel to his right nipple for a second time… apparently without effect…

“It’s just so…. The ceiling… how could one person see that and recreate it and…” Xander rolled to lie on his side facing his beautiful partner. “You know I thought I was *so* good with my whole working with wood and then the whole construction gig but I come to Europe and these guys have been doing *unbelievable* things for thousand of years… It’s all so much better than me! You know… the buildings that we put up today back with Jim… someone will bulldoze in twenty years... but these guys…” He gesticulated around the room, “These guys built it knowing that it would be here forever… like Anton… like you… Like you Spike… and I’m like the crass southern Californian high rise…. Ready to be bulldozed after twenty years or so….” He trailed off.

Spike had thought about discussing the turning of his consort as he knew there would be no problem installing a soul given his contacts… but it was not the time. Spike was also fearful that it seemed to have escaped Xander’s attention that if Xander died so did Spike, and there was nothing magical about that …. He simply could not live without his consort and would walk into the sun. The shy Victorian, and wounded lover in him was not game to ask, quite yet, if the reciprocal was true.

Spike felt the anguish through the link but really could not begin to give an answer, so chose to bite rather than speak. How could you explain eternity or even two hundred years to someone who had only lived thirty something? He was struggling after the Immortal’s revelations…. Two and a half thousand years…. Angelus had had two hundred and fifty with some change…. Darla four hundred… the master maybe seven but they were all babies compared to this ancient.

Yet now the Immortal named William Aurelius as brother, and had stepped in to ‘second’ him in what was the most significant shift in vampire rule across the world for five hundred years. Spike’s chest tightened and tears threatened as that thought came to rest. Two and a half thousand years and yet Anton had taken him – a slim blonde, hundred and sixty year young vampire - as brother…


But Master William Aurelius chose to let his consort worry for the moment. Reminding him any possibility of an immortal status was redundant. Instead he nuzzled into his lover’s neck and fell into game face then pushed as much love and desire as he dared through the consort’s connection before offering his own dripping wrist and taking his partner’s neck exchanging enough blood to force the human to a relaxed to sleep. He would feed him master’s blood again upon waking to bolster his consort’s strength before meeting the court… until then, Spike simply cuddled the inert figure to his chest and joined him in slumber.

Part Seven

Despite his exhaustion from the long trip, Xander woke before Spike. It was late morning. He rose, threw on the thick ankle length dark blue robe and slippers provided by Anton, then carefully slipped between the curtains to access the balcony. He was conscious of not opening them too wide for fear of scorching his nearest and dearest. He smiled a little and had to confess the danger was minimal, as soon as Xander had shifted, his blonde vampire snuggled into the vacated ‘warm spot’ somewhere beneath a mountain of duck down duvets.

They had arrived in darkness, now Xander had a chance to enjoy the view. They were in a hilly region close to the border of France and somewhere outside the village of Dornach apparently.

Xander took a deep breath of the icy air and noted that ears and nose were definitely noticing the difference in temperature. Sacramento was wintery, but this…. It all simply looked like a classic Christmas card picture… the entire vista covered in snow, with occasional perfectly shaped pines pushing their greenery through, and traditional houses and barns dotting the landscape on the lower land for as far as the eye could see. He noticed that he could just make out a few spires of Donarch, and the roof of their huge Goetheanum building that Anton had informed them served a variety of civic purposes – impressive for such a small town.

The position on the balcony revealed that the castle itself was built on the edge of a steeply sloping and rather rocky hillside, though still fertile enough to support vegetation and graze sheep and goats in summer. Obviously they had driven up from the opposite side of the building last night, as there was a road winding its way around the hillside well below. The whole structure appeared to have been built almost exclusively from grayish/brown stone with a hotch-potch of natural rock and manmade buttresses supporting the base. Xander marveled at the masons’ skills and idly wondered who had to carry all the materials up that hill. Anton had spoken of the extensive grounds, Xander had to assume they were on the same side as the entrance hall.

Xander stood for some time, his mind drifting to ponder what might be to come today, tomorrow… for the rest of his time with his Master Vampire. Might it be that the challenges they were about to face would cut that time together short. As if on cue, a gust of icy wind whistled up from below, catching Xander’s robe and causing a reflexive shiver. He took one last look at the sunlit vista, then pushed past the heavy curtains, returning to his now stirring partner and to face the day.

Xander could not help but grin broadly as the untidy pile of bedcovers began to move, complete with snuffling and several animalistic growls, before a very rumpled, half asleep blonde sat up, rubbing his eyes with his fists and yawning a little. The image was adorable, the sheer size of the bed gave him the appearance of a small child, and Xander could not hold back a snigger as he imagined a teddy bear tucked under his boy’s arm.

Before Spike could gather his wits fully, he was bowled over again as Xander launched himself onto the bed, pushed his partner down and kissed him soundly.

Spike gave a surprised yelp, then managed to push his attacker away for a moment, “Oi you git!” [another kiss] “gerrrroofff you’re face… bloody freezin’!” At which point Xander dove under the covers to rub his icy hands and face over his lover’s bed warmed torso.

“Why you!!!!” Spike retaliated, swiftly joining his consort under the covers and delighted to find that Xander was somewhat hampered by the long robe he was wearing. What ensued was a little difficult for either party to work out afterwards, but ended up with Xander tightly wrapped, caterpillar style, in both his attire and the bedlinen with Spike straddling him. Still a little surprised by his success, the vampire unwrapped just enough of his consort’s nether regions to give a good morning welcome of the ‘tongue and nipping’ variety until Xander was incoherent, begging and arching off the bed.

Spike kept his partner on edge as he unwrapped all of his prize. He quickly prepared them both, then threw a large duvet over their combined form and proceeded to give a ‘warm winter welcome to Schweiz’.

They emerged just after, freshly coiffed and dressed for lunch. As they descended the stairs to the dining room, it was impossible for Anton to miss the extra few touches and scent of both men, and smiled to himself with approval. The Master and his Consort would need each other like never before if they were to get through the next few days.
The meal was pleasant, Xander discovering he was ravenously hungry and willing to tackle anything. Traditional French onion soup, a classic spatckcock and a variety of cheese and *fruit*. As Xander collected a second helping off the cheese platter, Spike leaned over and whispered “Gone are the days of Twinkies as a food group ‘ey pet.”

Xander simply grinned, chewed down on the grape he had must popped in his mouth and replied, “Never.”

Anton and Spike both partook in the first part of the meal, but were served with a ‘warm red’ to finish. Spike had wondered if Anton still needed blood given his status but had never been game to ask. The Immortal saw Spike’s eyebrows lift as he recognized the flavor as human.

“Donor blood, little brother, willingly paid for. I need far less than you to live as age always determines but it is still necessary.”

“It must have been hard for you in early times…”

“I’m not sure of that. In our sanitized world now, much goes to waste that was available then and the blood of animals is acceptable in hard times. Until I became a more ‘well known’ let’s say, my unwillingness to kill, unless necessary, made things… difficult at times.” An empathetic look flicked from Spike had Xander realizing this discussion was no longer just about the blood.

“But your influence across the world… especially Europe…?”

Extraordinary pale green eyes met agean blue,“…Is not to do with bathing in the blood of others, though some may well deserve it. I spent hundreds of years traveling and studying, watching and learning… the privilege and the curse of the timeless. One begins to see patterns, solutions, opportunities… the wisdom of the ages can be a powerful tool, others will pay for it, in currency, favor or kind.

“The importance is to be… enigmatic. It is as simple as remaining uninfluenced by the agendas of others yet understanding them; strengthening ones own spiritual centre without trying to influence others; refusing to seek power yet able to exert it when needed; living in the times (perceived odd even by some mortals); allowing others forget your age and experience, and misinterpret your youthful appearance; and be willingly to be underestimated by the arrogance or prejudice of others if it gains tactical advantage. But then, I suspect we are together now because we have all used the latter to fine effect.” Anton idly fondled the large pearl earring he regularly wore and turned his attention from his brother vampire to catch Xander’s eye with a fond and knowing look.

Xander felt the gaze like a caress to his very soul. That praise had only ever been afforded him by one other, the blonde vampire in the room. As Spike reached over to squeeze his consort’s hand, reinforcing the Immortal’s words, Xander struggled to pull his emotions back under control.

They were interrupted as Gregor cleared his throat politely, “Excuse me, Master Anton but we have just been informed that the Dowager Alenka and her entourage will be arriving in just under an hour. Ivan is apparently with them. Shall I inform Bothes and Stefano?”

“Thank you Gregor, I think that is wise but only to reassure them that the Dowager gives her word he will behave, so we are confident that there will be no trouble from him for any in attendance. There should be few other surprises.”

“Very good. Is there anything else?”

“No thank you Gregor… we’ll finish up here and prepare.”

Gregor had stood at Spike’s back during the rescue of Xander, the vampire now stared at the immaculately dressed ‘PA’, and tried to reconcile the fierce warrior with corporate Switzerland. Mused that even Anton’s staff were edging on the enigmatic… then suddenly comprehended the content of the message, “Ivan?!!! I thought he would have dusted years ago!? He made Angelus look like a bloody pussy cat, murderous bastard…. Right sack of hammers… Why’s he…?”

“We are all aware of his…. particular tendencies in the past, William… but he dusted a certain Master Vampire’s Grandchilde, Peter in an argument in seventy one, forfeiting his existence. But the Dowager decided instead to take him as Pet, and now simply will not go anywhere without him. We must have her here to gain the approval of the northern clans.”

“Alenka’s? Peter? Damn shame he was a right lad… Still… Ivan… a Pet!... Bloody hell! Daft, aristocratic, old bint!...” The flash of fear in Spike’s eyes gave Xander no doubt that, despite the state of his ‘hammers’, Ivan just may have received his comeuppance.

Anton smiled indulgently then stood and addressed Xander. “I know you understand my role as surrogate Sire in this process, Alexander. And I know that both you and William given particular attention to making the link between you as strongly as you might, in both coupling and blood, but I now must ask that you accept my blood and I yours. I will ask permission first from William and then from you as is custom. You do not have to agree but I feel it will allow you both, and William in particular, to succeed in the challenges.”

Xander turned to Spike who looked as surprised as Consort. If this was to be a formal exchange then… He racked his brains for all the lessons in Vampiric Law Darla had beaten into him. He need not have worried, as Anton took the lead Spike recalled the memorized words.

The Immortal stood in front of the blonde and too his hand, resting it palm up in his own as if in a dual offering, “William the Bloody, Master Vampire of the Aurelian line, in the place of your true Sire, will you allow me to taste of your Consort and gift him with the blood of an elder of your family, strengthening us all in this time of need.”

Spike looked momentarily at Xander but saw there was only love and trust, and a determination that was so … Xander that Spike hesitated but for a second. “Yes I do Sire. And offer you my blood in gratitude as I so offer it to my Consort on this day.”

Anton then repeated virtually the same act with Xander, “Alexander, Consort to Master Vampire William the Bloody, in the place of the true Sire, will you allow me to taste of your blood and gift you with the blood of an elder of your family, strengthening us all in this time of need.”

Xander found the words of the impromptu ceremony profoundly moving. This really was family and blood, and so much ‘bigger’ than the couple that was ‘Spike and Xander’. He belonged, they belonged, at each other’s sides and now also to a far more complex picture that was only just beginning to emerge. He did not know the correct words, so did his best to remember Spike’s, and adlibbed the rest, “Yes Sire, I give you permission to taste me, and I wish to accept your gift and thank you… and I will offer the same to William the Bloody too.” The last few words, not so much an afterthought as a confused one, were blurted out so quickly that Xander blushed with embarrassment, Anton’s eyes twinkled with mirth and Spike refrained from rolling his.

Anton gently pulled Xander toward him until they were in an intimate embrace. It felt warm and welcoming, and the brunette let out a breath he did not even realize he had been holding.

Spike watched fascinated, he had never considered Anton with vampiric features. Xander’s back was to Spike and he saw the ethereally beautiful change for the first time… not like others of their race but changed nevertheless. The eyes remained green but his face did shift a little, ridges appeared making his visage darker and eyes appearing larger than ever. The fangs were pure white and with incisors bearing more in common with a big cat’s than the jagged edges of virtually all the vampires Spike had seen before. An immortal panther came to mind, and Spike smiled.

Xander felt the familiar sting of the bite, then the pleasant tug as blood was drawn but thankfully did not succumb to the usual (and in this circumstance, rather embarrassing) instant arousal that occurred with Spike. Instead, he felt a sense of calm and strength. Anton withdrew, laved the punctures once, and leaned back a little to open a cut on his neck using a metal thimble fitted with a minute blade. He pressed Xander’s mouth over the wound, stroking the Consort’s his hair as he drank.

The blood did not taste like Spike’s, it had a strange rich, almost smoky flavor to it, like very old Brandy, but with a definite ‘kick’. Again it was nothing like the experience with Spike, and released after three pulls as he felt the wound closing over. Feeling quite dizzy, Xander was grateful for the ongoing embrace.

Spike moved closer, tore open his wrists and shared them between Consort and ‘Sire’. This time Xander all but passed out. The ‘buzz’ Xander always received from Spike’s blood and the charge through the link was now multiplied tenfold. As soon as he released Spike lifted him from Anton’s arms and carried him carefully to a padded dining chair moving his arms onto the table and resting his head on them to recover for a moment.

Anton waited patiently then opened his arms to William inviting an embrace. “Thank you for your gift, now take of me Childe.”

As Spike bit down over the place where the already healed cut had been made, and a quiet hand stroked his hair and held him in place, a tear of deep gratitude rolled across his nose ridges and joined its twin, to drip onto Anton’s jacket, the dot marking family, love and thanks.

William licked the wound once then moved from the hug and looked at the Immortal with emotion filled eyes. “Thank you, Sire.”

Little else was said as Xander and Spike retired to their suite to await the guests. It was suggested that they join the ‘throng’ after most of the visitors had arrived. This suited both of them. Spike insisted that Xander take more of Spike’s blood, now infused with that of the Immortal, and Xander donated some of his back in return. Taking the activity lying down on their bed in the late afternoon and with aught else to do an inevitable the after dinner shag and pre meeting snooze was enjoyed. But neither could help thinking “Calm before the storm”, as they embraced and drifted off

Showered and dressed, Spike fixed his partner’s black eye-patch in place, noting the plain thick gold earring that had replaced the usual ‘matching pair, and tweaked it. Xander just smiled a somewhat nervously, made worse by Spike’s uncharacteristic fussing in the previous fifteen minutes, “Hey!...OK…. Just figured.. you know… thigh high boots and eye patch, and pretty blonde on the arm, figured I may as well go the whole pirate theme. Watch out for the parrot at next year’s party.”

Spike ignored the attempt at levity and pulled his partner into a firm hug, as much for his own courage as Xander’s. Upon release however, he gave a customary sniff, lifted his chin and headed for the door, his Big Bad with Consort persona firmly in place. Xander followed with his own slight smirk and thoughts of ‘Ho yeah… we are in the building!

Both attired in their leather as planned, they made a striking impression of solidarity and confidence as they descended the broad marble staircase in step and apparently utterly at ease. All eyes were immediately on the pair. Assessing, measuring, noting, considering, some, no doubt, plotting.

Anton moved to the first landing to greet them, stopping the ‘guests of honor’ not standing on ceremony, but simply leading them into the various groups for introductions, and some reunions as it turned out. Xander noted that despite his Consort feeling a little overwhelmed, Spike was attentive to a fault and made him feel utterly equal in the confusing procession of meet and greets (despite the number of languages that Xander didn’t speak).

Spike’s initial suspicions were confirmed, as many supporters of his claim as there were contenders, yet none able to deny his blood right. He recalled the silly Monty Python tape his Consort had played over and over, years ago when he was tied to a chair in that horrendous musty basement “Crucifixion.. line on the left… one cross each” His executioners given the right chance were certainly all here.

He took Anton’s advice to heart. Listened analytically, assessed on his ‘Sire’s’ advice regarding the ‘leanings’ and agendas, and all the while attempted to be charming, ‘underplayed’ … and protective of his Consort!

Xander was rather shocked at the gathering. Some clans were distinct in their ‘look’ (Masters seemingly only to have turned blondes or males or folks who liked jazz… go figure!?); some went for ‘traditional team look’ (admittedly not so much the corporate team, rather... creepy game face and vampire features); but the groups that stood out for Xander were those like Spike, Anton, Stephano, and [he hated to admit this.. at times] Angel, Drusilla, and Darla… dressed for, and blending with the world of high fashion, high flyers or high society whenever they chose.

Xander politely nodded to a clan covering the Basque region and ‘to the south’. He was desperately trying to remember where on the map that was, but thanked his SoCal heritage for recognizing the odd word or two of Spanish but was still unwilling to ask where exactly. Thankfully Spike engaged the group in a rapid conversation, asking a few key questions then appearing most concerned and offering condolences more than once. Xander nodded and attempted a ‘sincere condolences look’ (apparently with success) yet still had no idea for whom, when or what he was ‘in sympathy’.


He was almost relieved when Anton drew them from the main hall to a slightly quieter alcove near the library where Anton led toward a seated figure obviously surrounded by what appeared to be attendants. Logic told him this had to be the aged Dowager Alenka, and sure enough Anton announced rather formally, “Madam Alenka, may I present William the Bloody and his Consort Alexander.” The group parted to allow the incoming party to meet the ‘lady’ herself.

Xander was completely stunned. In front of them sat, knees neatly to the side, chin high ready for visitors to greet and admire, an extremely attractive voluptuous red head. She was dressed in classic couture of deep satin green gown with beading to make any diva weep. She could have been a movie star, but for the odd fact that there was a collared and restrained snarling vampire kneeling at her feet and she all but wreaked of arrogance and malice.

The luscious husky, ‘come hither’ voice, and calculated smile soon dissuaded Xander of any notion that she might be any less than the danger he felt as they discussed her after lunch. He had anticipated deadly… and manipulative but he was struggling, she was hardly the vision of a wizened elderly alpha bitch of the royal vampire ‘socialites’ he had mentally prepared for.

Spike stepped forward took the hand that was proffered and kissed it politely. “Good evening Madam Alenka. My Consort and I are most honored that you have graced us with your presence.”

Part Eight

The Madam Vampire addressed her fellow vampire in near perfect English apparently for the benefit of Xander as she leveled her gaze on the human. “How lovely to see you again *darling* William. It is always a pleasure to be in the presence of one of the original line particularly after so long, and with your own pretty pet I see. What a pity he is flawed, such fragile creatures… still I am sure he has his uses.” There was no warmth in her eyes as she leveled her gaze at Xander. He had the odd impression of being watched by a deadly snake and a sudden urge to grab Spike’s hand and pull them both away. Xander shivered under her serpent’s gaze and was grateful to feel Anton’s reassuring touch on the small of his back, and calmed a little as Spike politely continued to converse with the female in her preferred tongue of German.

The sound of the dinner gong the proceedings shifted to the ballroom and the more formal part of the evening. The room had been set up as an enormous board room, a circle of tables with all members seated to face the centre. An obvious space had been left to for the ‘guest of honor’ and his consort to the right of Anton.

Xander was sitting as close as possible to Spike without being in his lap. His left leg was draped over the top of Spike’s right, the other leg wound entangled underneath. Spike’s right arm was around Xander’s shoulders, while his left hand petted and caressed his consort. Xander’s left arm was around Spike’s waist while his right slid inside the vampire’s coat to rest easy on the taut torso muscles. Far from feeling embarrassed by the odd position in a room full of vampires, the lone human felt reassured. He was made even more confident by the affection flowing between them through their mating link.

Anton began proceedings, Xander surprised that he began in English.

“We gather today to ascertain the worthiness of the named successor to the leader of the clans of Europe, the Master of Masters. The original Aurelian lineage has precedence, William the Bloody has agreed to the challenges. His full blood brother Connor – created of Angelus and Darla – is very young and yet to be trained educated fully in Vampiric Law. Something that now named proxy Sire, I will address in due course.


“Should you agree to William the Bloody leading our clans, it will be his right to share power with his brother Connor or hand over power to him with approval from the clan masters’.

“Your fellow Masters mark that you have been chosen but three contend your claim - two on the grounds of your soul, one on your Siring. Three of our delegates have queried your worthiness on the grounds of your American interests, a further three contend your ability to lead on the grounds of your ensouled status, and one challenges your *human* consort and his loyalty.

At the challenge to Xander, Spike’s grip on his consort tightened and his growl was heard across the room, but was not permitted to speak until permission was granted by Anton.

Alenka grinned broadly. If she could only convince the three other clans of her power over Spike’s mate then his weakness would be apparent and his claim to the ruling position would be lost Ivan would then be able to ‘tidy up’ any loose ends. But she began slowly. The hunt was just as much fun as the kill after all.

A large vampire from on of the French clans, spoke up in his native tongue, “Why don’t we get the easy things out of the way Anton??” He gestured toward Spike falling into game face and snarling, “This… ex-patriot from England has wandered between continents… living on another for the time the previous master ruled. And his Sire was worse! Why is it we are now to bow to this vagrant?!”

Anton answered him, very deliberately in English, “Because all others eligible have been eliminated, but more than that. William the Bloody has survived….” Anton went on to detail Spike’s lineage, age and status. He made mention of the early exploits of Spike, emphasizing his influence along with that of others in his direct line, finishing with detail of the financial success of the Aurelian estates, and Spike’s part in the recent success with the initiative in Italy.

A smaller red headed vampire in full game face snarled at Anton, then stood pointed a crooked finger at Spike and yelled, “He’s a traitor!! He ran with the Sunnydale Slayer… and then took her little friend here as a lover! He’s weak and unworthy as a vampire… let alone to lead the clans!” The speaker half stood and spat across the room in Spike’s direction. He missed.

Anton replied with his usual calm, “The situation on the Hellmouth was unique and to survive, with an Initiative chip, surely an extraordinary and testimony to his strength! I wonder have you killed *two* of the original Slayers? Did you survive the hand of Angelus and Darla as Grandsires, or run with the mad seer Drusilla? Have you fought a God or eliminated the Turok’han and faced the First? Have you been burned to dust and resurrected? Or suffered the Nabbucco trials and won? Did you face the hellions of the Black Thorn and survive? I would take care who you name weak.”

The other vampire growled loudly then stood and screamed, “I will not be ruled by Ensouled filth!!” while launching himself over the tables to land directly behind Spike. He launched himself at the still seated Spike but miscalculated the Master Vampire’s speed and barreled headlong into the back of the chair.

Faster than Xander’s eye could track, Spike had grasped the back of the back of the other vampire’s neck and hauled him to vertical again. This was followed by the smaller, and according to his current captive, ‘weaker’, blonde effortlessly removing the other’s head with a speedy twist and tug on the neck. The room was silent as the dust settled.

Anton finally spoke and Spike took his seat again. “I am sure William the Bloody would be happy to engage anyone else who queries his weakness….” Silence reigned for some time, until one vampire who reeked of age, stood and addressed the group in a heavy German accent.

“I have no doubt of the strength of William of Aurelius… anyone who is of the old Master’s line and who has survived Angelus must have of physical fortitude beyond measure. But my protest is made on the grounds of his lack of *European* knowledge. He is not schooled in our ways. He has lived in America for too long, he is *British* by birth…” Spike muttered under his breath “English, I’m bloody well English!!”
Anton interjected, “It is right that we test the traditions, error will mean loss of standing.” then proceeded to test Spike with a variety of questions pertaining to Vampire Law using an ancient dialect of Czechoslovakian. There were only three around the table who fully understood William the Bloody’s prompt and fluent answers.

Anton’s last question related to Spike’s understanding of the relationships between all the clans.

“Shall I tell them their place in their own tongue, Sire.” Spike looked up to the Immortal with faux innocence as he questioned.

Anton grinned, answered, “By all means William.” Then sat back to listen as Spike proceeded to go around the table using the native languages of each delegation, giving their relationship to the Aurelians and a justification as to why they should bow to him.

Alenka smiled sweetly as Spike addressed her, though Xander noticed that the good humor never reached her eyes.

As Spike finished the round, there were many in the group who were obviously beginning to relish the idea of following William the Bloody.

It was time. Alenka stood fluidly and addressed the group.

“Do you really think it is necessary to further test the Master Vampire? Is it not obvious that he is powerful and capable?? My concern is the loyalty and the resilience of his Consort. After all, if there is a weakness, then it must be his *human* consort. Humans are always so deliciously unfaithful…. unreliable….. edible.”

Spike was immediately in game face, growling menacingly, but Anton put a calming hand on one arm while Xander held the other hand and sent reassuring, loving messages through their link.

Anton addressed the female vampire, “What are you proposing?”

Part Nine

Madam Alenka smiled gracefully as she took the floor, “Oh nothing too complicated… I only ask that I have a few minutes to connect with our little human friend here. Anton, I’m sure you will agree to me discovering his ‘leanings’, perhaps even in private… no harm no foul… Hmmm?”

The others around the table cowered in turn as she leveled her deadly gaze at each of them, challenging anyone to comment.

The vampiress was magnificent… a combination of the murderous Catherine de Medici and Caligula’s mother. Lilah Morgan of Wolfram and Hart would have kissed the very ground she walked on. And the backroom powerbrokers of the media and ‘society’ would do well to take lessons from this dowager of evil. It was unrelated to having direct power but using any or all influence and deviation to make or break an out of favor incumbent, or even prospective leader. All the malice and conniving packaged... not in an immaculately coiffed and coutured, nipped and tucked and strapped, starved and lifted, body of a sixty something super bitch, but in a timeless body of an utterly voluptuous red head with a spectacular figure of a 30 something woman. She was utterly at home with her assets and deadly in her intent with some 250 years of vampiric experience in the Russian and European region at her beck and call...
Spike was immediately on his feet growling, but a calm hand on his shoulder from Anton staid his attack. “You may work with him in public, here in the centre of the room.”

Alenka was delighted but gave a feigned pout of innocent submission, “As you wish.” Now it was simply a matter of publicly controlling this weak creature and William the Bloody’s claim would be null and void.

As he shifted to moved to stand between the tables, Xander whispered “Please…The Link!”, and gained such a strong jolt of possessiveness that he felt that things might just turn out.

He stepped forward to face their most dangerous adversary yet.

“My Darling Anton, I would have Master Spike do me the courtesy of ceasing contact via the Consort blood link, and of course request that you too refrain from accessing his thoughts.” She looked pointedly at Spike, then reviewed the room to garner their approval. Many heads nodded in agreement. They all knew that if anything were to happen to Spike, there would be little left to favor his Consort.

Anton seemed impassive, nodding at the Madam Vampire and indicating the floor was hers. “Of course, dear Alenka. But also note that once tested the results will stand for all time.”

“Oh… Of *course* darling… of course!”

Xander stood in the centre, now feeling more vulnerable and threatened than in grade seven during the Math pop quiz when the mercenary Mr McCullen decided to embarrass the young Xander by standing him in front of class for the entire test.

Spike looked on, desperately attempting not to convey his panic. He had to comply or risk them both. There was nothing he could do. It was now up to Xander.

Alenka now stood in front of the human Consort and took his chin in a silken gloved hand. “No need to fear me dear boy.” She began to sway just as Dru used to do when taking her thrall victims. “Come on my pretty, that’s it… just watch me… you are soooo pretty… do you know you’re pretty?... answer Alenka…”

Xander was now also swaying in time with the vampire in front of him. He nodded obediently.

“Would you like to tell us all who you are?”

Xander answered in sleepy fashion, slurring each word slightly, “Alexander Lavelle Harris, Consort of William the Bloody, he the Master of Aurelius d’ja know that? Huh [sniggers]”

“Why do you laugh Consort of the Aurelian Master?”

“Cause Spike! ‘n Me.. [rolls his eyes over dramatically] Phew! Whatever.” He gave up trying to control his tongue and began to babble, but Anton realized it for what it was, he frowned as the ‘boy’ continued, “We’ve been… ya know friends… friendly friends... well he didn’t know at the start but hey… beware the sock puppet with your name on it [sniggers again]”

“So you were in lust with our master Vampire?”

“I was in orgasms Madam … And pffft !!! Still am!! Hah! So take that and shove it up your whatever it is … a f#$% ….” Xander’s head lolled to one side but his eyes never left the lady vampire.

The Mistress stepped forward to take the slack chin in her hand. “Do you want pleasure?”

“Yes”

She circled him again and found a chair… seating him in a virtual trance state. “Power?”

“Yes.” Xander continued to sway even though seated.

“Will you comply to get it?” Alenka continued to circle the seated figure, to the point he felt dizzy trying to follow her progress.

“Ohhh, Yes”

Standing behind the seated figure she reached over to stroke his manhood to erection then sat on his submissive lap.

“Do you acknowledge the blood ties?” She ground their pelvises together.

“Oh Yes!”

“Even mine?”

Spike was on his feet in full game face but Anton restrained him.

“Yes.”

She opened his fly and tugged his pants down a little, releasing the turgid member. Then she lifted her skirts revealing her nudity and readiness to the audience present.

She stroked him publicly several times and encouraged him to bend his neck… just so… before opening her own wrist and stating for her audience, “Ahh my darling shall we drink to your new union?”

But instead of drinking, Xander stood, still exposed to the group, and now apparently instantly flaccid. “No.”

Alenka was immediately in game face and screaming, “No??!! What do you mean *no*?! You are the *food*! You don’t say no! I can give you the world and more… How can you say no!?”

Xander was very, very calm. There was no more ‘babbling youth’, this was the Consort and the man speaking, but also the hyena and the soldier. “You really don’t understand do you. You poor deluded *old* *girl*! I am the Consort of William the Bloody. I am a child of the Hellmouth. I ran with the Slayer and am a known demon magnet. And I am *gay* !!! Not sure which memo you missed but… to thrall you have to exchange blood or be willing? Ding… missed on both counts…”

“But you … you … there is no link!”

“Oh c’mon! Spike? Who needs a link?… Who in their right mind would give up that!?? What you thought I’d do that just for… well you?!!” Xander snorted and turned his back on the dowager, intent upon leaving his current ‘exposed’ position.

Alenka was openly livid and snapped her fingers. Ivan leapt to her command, landing in the middle of the ring set to attack Xander, but Spike was quicker. He broke the chair he’d been sitting on and threw the wooden shard at Xander.

Few saw the move, but those who did were more than impressed. Without looking Xander caught the flying weapon, spun, and all but flew at his attacker, embedding the stake to the hilt in the still moving assailant. He dusted the deadly Ivan in an act that was to have him spoken about in vampire circles with deep reverence… for decades.

Xander still held a second shard of wood as the dust settled in the small centre space of the room.

Alenka did the only thing she could do. She fell to her knees in full submission in front of the human, though still figured she had one more card to play. Spike saw the twitch, so did Anton, but it was Xander, working on adrenalin and instinct that took her as she moved to strike him again. The shower of dust had several of the delegates brushing their clothes furiously. It was a given, the Northern clans would bow to William Aurelius… and his deadly Consort, and any power struggle due to Alenka’s demise would be determined by the will of their new Master.

As Xander zipped himself and rejoined his Master, it seemed that …there were no more questions from the floor.

The meeting was adjourned.

Part Ten

Both Spike and Xander were sobered by the whole encounter. They both always been the obscure figures standing outside, or at best at the edge, of any politics and power before, now it was clear, they were firmly… the focus.

Following the ‘consolidation’ of Spike’s power and the acknowledgement of Xander’s position, they slept away a rather disturbed morning intertwined. Both awoke knowing it was Anton they needed to regain some balance.

Hand in hand they entered his quarters to strains of Chopin’s Nocturne in E flat, something that should not really have surprised them… it fitted…. The Piano sung out and the gentle strains wandered through Anton’s suite along with the sweet scent from the numerous vases of freshly picked, late spring alpine flowers.

Xander couldn’t help but smile. Anton once admitting to them, in their last visit, that he only owned works of people he knew personally. Of course he had met and associated with Chopin, and an eclectic music collection was a given, but Xander noted a sudden tear in Spike’s eye as the next CD began… Somehow as Rigoletto’s ‘Gualtier Malde’, sung by the now retired diva, Joan Sutherland, touched the ‘punk rocker’ in a way that Xander had no way of accessing… He thought he heard a sigh and whispered word ‘Perfection’, wondered again at how little he knew of Spike but decided now was not the time to ask personal questions of his vampire.

Spike broke from the reverie of his listening to see the slightly worried look in his consort’s face He squeezed the warm hand, but there was really no need… the love and pride flowing across the link in both directions was so profound and so strong…. Xander pulled the pale hand up to his lips and kissed it… Words were sometimes so… redundant.

The doors to the wide balcony had been flung open. Anton was sitting, his back to them, in a classic design, wicker chair, with his feet on the balustrade. A thin trail of smoke from a clove cigarette wound its way up before dissipating, the pleasant, unmistakable odor permeating his rooms ever so slightly. Xander could see a glass of red wine being held loosely. It was the picture of a man relaxed and comfortable in his surrounds. The cigarette bearing hand waved them in with an accompanying, “Come through, William, Master of Aurelius, and Consort Alexander, you are welcome. We have much to discuss.”

Spike and Xander joined their host, Spike accepting a cigarette and both guests pouring themselves drinks. Anton had two bottles under the small table and glasses for three. He’d been waiting for them. There was a platter of flatbread, dips and anti pasta, plus a large bowl of fruit on offer.

“Expectin’ the troops mate?”

“Just you two…” Anton paused and gave an uncharacteristic sigh, “William, I wonder, will you do me the courtesy of using your true accent this afternoon? I am feeling… a little melancholy.”

Spike was both confused and distressed that he might somehow have hurt his new Sire, their host. He complied immediately, but the panicked look on his partner’s face and Anton’s ‘pained expression’ distressed Xander also… the feeling flowing freely through the link. Spike reached again for his consort’s hand. It was readily given and squeezed. The vampire master addressed the Immortal as requested. The ‘King’s English’ was never better expressed, “I’m sorry Sire, it is habit… and was never done with the intent to offend.”

Anton pulled his feet down from their resting place and turned to face Spike,“ Oh my dear William, you and your consort are my pride and my solace, especially today. You have not offended, it is merely that I wish to speak to the soul and the demon, and it will be easier today…. just today… if that might be in your ‘natural’ tongue… dear Childe, you willingly do me this favor and I am grateful. I confess that the last few weeks have been a little draining. The soft tones of your original speech were always so soothing…”

Spike looked at the Immortal and realized that, despite the relaxed pose, he appeared very tired. So taking a chance, and replied in the ancient Greek tongue he’d studied so many years ago. “Would you prefer I spoke in your mother tongue, Sire.”

Anton sighed, smiled lovingly with eyes that threatened tears, then replied also in that language, “Will this not offend your Consort?”

“I think he will understand, Sire.” Anton nodded at Spike’s words and closed his eyes with unfettered fatigue as the vampire quietly explained to Xander that he and the Immortal would converse in Greek, but that Spike would translate everything they needed to know, and that he and Xander would discuss all matters concerned together pre dinner.

Xander had seen the near exhaustion of their host, and decided on his own slightly different course of action. “If it is OK with Anton and you, Master William, I would prefer to go for a ride around the property… Sire?... Anton? … would your riding master put up with a rank amateur?!”

Anton turned to Xander with a genuinely relieved smile on his face, but the address was as much for Spike as the consort when he replied, “You are indeed the diplomat and the heart. How unsurprising the new Master of Aurelius took you as Consort, or that you were found worthy by the most powerful Vampire court in the world… And equally, it is pleasing that I am able to be both grateful and thankful that you are part of my family.

“Gregor will take you riding, simply ask for him. The stable hand will arrange you both with a horse (or a quad bike!)” At the last statement Xander gave a look and a near ‘bounce’ so akin to
a sixteen year old who had just been told he could ‘take the Porsche for a spin’, that Anton laughed out loud… “Quad bikes it is then!” and contacted Gregor’s cell phone to that effect.

Xander kissed Spike and left his two Greek speakers to discuss vampire matters for an hour or two.

Anton was still smiling at Xander’s thoughtfulness but as the man left, he dropped all pretence of human interest and spoke in his original tongue, “Come sit by my feet, Childe.” Spike complied without thought and bared his neck as he did so. As Anton took a cursory draft and offered his wrist to his ‘Childe’, the mood relaxed.

“What did Angelus teach you of the old Masters, William?”

“Not a great deal … um… Only the basics really… Oh Sire, Angelus was *never* about absolute vampire power or politics, that was Darla! I umm, I … need your help now… Sire… none would teach me. And Dru just…” Spike halted again, this time knowing that accusing his family, grand sires and sire(s) of neglect was, both disrespectful and a betrayal, even a century on.

Anton knew the reason for the pause, and rather than take offence, kissed the forehead of the youngster in his charge, his new Master of the European clans. Anton felt the surge of pride that any guardian relative might of the successful son who had matured, and proved a worthy family successor. “There is no need for fear or apologies dear William. I bow to you now also… and offer you my service.”

“No Sire… *no* you can’t! I won’t…! It’s… Please Sire… I need your help not your tribute!” Spike was very close to inexplicable tears, but instead knelt up in front of his mentor, his now Sire.

Anton took the floor with him. “There is no need Childe… no need for this… I am so proud of you…”

“But…I have no idea what it is I need to do… Sire?”

“This is only my opinion… as *you* are The European Master not I, but it is my thinking… the first and foremost priority is to address the concerns of the various clans. Once done, you must appoint the successor to Mistress Alenka.”

“Well that’s all well and good, but what are their concerns? They have obviously come to you before…?”

“No Childe. They would not approach me for such solutions. Each clan has asked for time with *you*. We have allowed each fifteen to twenty minutes’ audience with you to put their case. I wonder if you might take a little advice.” Spike’s respectful gaze and a nod caused the Immortal to continue, “You should deliberate during the evening, then convey your wishes in the morning. To proffer your opinion in any shorter time would be seen as impolite, and indicate that you not considering their case or their clan worthy of your attention. To alienate the clans so early would be an unwise move for any new Master.”

Spike rolled his eyes a little and did a quick mental calculation. There were seven major clans involved and a smaller bunch of affiliated minor courts who would see him as a group. It would be two to three hours of meetings. Longing thoughts for time with his consort shot across their link. Xander replied with love and trust and a small measure of ‘thrill’.

Spike sat at the end of an impressive library room, complete with leather bound tomes to the ceiling and ladder for access. He was a little dwarfed by the enormous, deep burgundy leather chair, yet that simply seemed to add to his mystique. Anton sat off to one side like the benevolent relative he was. He appeared disinterested, merely present to idly thumb through his ancient text as each delegation entered with their appeal to their new leader.

Spike was initially surprised at the deference afforded him, then a little shocked as master vampire after master vampire began their audience by kissing the Aurelian ring Angel had gifted him. It was the first time since the first decade or so of his turning, that he felt part of the formal vampire society. And certainly the first time he understood his ‘regal’ position in it.

William the Bloody had run as a ‘maverick’ member of the formal Aurelian court for most of his existence. Angelus was hardly one for the court, though (as it turned out now, thankfully) Darla had beaten traditional protocol into all of her direct line. They had all been presented and accepted by the ancient Master.

He had found Dru in Rome toward the end of the war… having scrambled back to Europe any way he could, after the nasty ‘Nazi sub incident’. He had been somewhat shocked to find Drusilla happily ensconced in the lair in a section of the catacombs under the city, hosted by the local vampire master. Her visions were invaluable, though in truth, mostly indecipherable, nevertheless the other master was enamored by the dark mistress and she had found sanctuary.

Darla had apparently departed for the USA in the late nineteen eighties to join the old Aurelian Master, who had left Europe a couple of decades earlier, intent upon establishing himself as ruler of the Hellmouth in the ‘New World’.

Dru and Spike spent much of the mid to latter decades in Paris, Amsterdam, Rome and Athens with healthy doses of Brussels, Nice and London. The period was (if Spike were truthful) one of ‘cool parties’ and decadent behavior behind closed doors! Dru and he, the Aurelian couple, were quite part of the ‘in’ crowd, the ‘jetset’ of late fifties through to early seventies in Europe. After that, Spike had indulged his dark Princess and moved to New York for a time, returning to Europe with yet another Slayer scalp to his credit. They had left after the incident in Prague, to seek out help from their direct line, all of whom had now apparently emigrated to ‘the colonies of tea partying traitors’.

The rest was a very bizarre history, and now as Spike listened to the rather petty concerns of each clan, he was somewhat pleased he’d endured it all. Anton smiled to himself from his ‘observation post’. He saw the mature vampire, the true Master of Europe, and was confident that the region was in good hands. And he loved ‘his boy’ just a little more.

Spike took notes on a tiny tablet computer happily provided by Anton. The sleek silver object was perched neatly on a convenient side table, and already loaded onto the database was a summary of each region he was meeting, their powerbrokers and a brief history. Some of the more traditionalists attending the new supreme Master were rather taken aback by his obvious ease with the new technology. Others saw it as a fine sign that their new leader had a command of all the tools naturally required by a ‘powerbroker’ of the age.

Spike knew from the outset that the evening was to be a necessary but rather tedious one.

First up, there was the petty squabble between the two German clans over ‘supremacy’ regards the naming of their Childer. The ‘Master’ put a quick stop to the debate, dismissing them all and emphasizing his displeasure at being dragged in to such a ridiculous family squabble regarding the ‘true line’ given that the original Masters had been twins and turned simultaneously. Despite this, Spike also expressed his magnanimous willingness to resolve the matter with ‘a decision by tomorrow evening’.

Next, the clan who controlled the south of France, came with concerns that three of their wineries were still classed as ‘Cru d’ Chateau’, and were desperate to improve their standing. Another clan from Spain were similarly challenged with the marketing of their fine tequila and absinthe (the latter still legal in Spain). Spike asked both groups for their marketing strategy, and following a brief summary, suggested that they look at one that broadened to encompass countries outside Europe. He casually pointed out the merits of a merger under the Aurelian umbrella, thereby availing themselves to the use of the court’s international contacts. However again, did as his ‘Sire’ suggested and requested that both groups come back for a second meeting in two days’ time to work through the details of such a venture.

He was then faced with quite a different issue. The dear vampires ‘managing’ an existence on the Steppes of the old USSR were worried that the human population were suffering due to political persecution, industrial pollution and severe weather, and simply were asking for some sort of three year subsistence support from the Aurelian line which would (apart from keeping the clan alive for the next three months) enable them to bolster crops and stock… the humans who were living happily with their philanthropic vampire neighbors, would also benefit and be more willing to barter and ‘donate’ (animal and human blood), as had been their tradition for some hundred or so years. Anton nodded, Spike gave his agreement without slowing down, however still requested a second meeting, asking them to consider what they thought a ‘reasonable amount’.

Various other squabbles from the UK and the Ukraine were tabled by what became a seemingly endless line of representatives.

The group from Alenka’s court entered looking rather lost and very nervous. Theirs was a problem he knew of. They had no need for worry, as it turned out. Spike was magnanimous and conciliatory in his approach, and promised to resolve the leadership issue by the morning.

The next conversation regarding some international banking concerns due to the Euro and a number of ‘hunting territory issues’ around the Czechoslovakian border. It was almost ‘more of the same’, but as Xander stepped into general view, it seemed that the room shifted. The delegation speaking at the time was somewhat relieved that Spike brightened at the entrance of his Consort, and appeared more willing to review their case for the morning. They took their leave quickly.

Xander (and Gregor for that matter) looked deliciously handsome, all covered in sweat and dirt. The human wearing a boyish grin and the combined scent of petrol, dirt, ‘the outdoors’ and arousal. Spike smiled as Anton scented Gregor as well, and wondered for a moment … then dismissed the notion as he saw the loyal assistant’s gaze drift toward a rather lovely blonde chef du jour, who apologetically entered the room to confirm the dinner arrangements with Anton. Gregor’s slow blink and a reciprocal shy smile from the young chef confirmed Spike’s suspicions, and as he turned to his new Sire who was gifting his loyal servants with a paternal smile each, and was equally pleased. Anton had much to teach ‘Master William’ yet Spike felt that there could be no better role model than his current Sire.


He was broken from his reverie by Xander’s very public kiss as the final appointment was led into the room.

Spike noted the particularly arrogant London Master and his ‘P.A.’, both grumbling about the delay due to ‘the human pet arriving’ (all within easy vampiric earshot), followed by several snarky comments comparing the ‘service’ to ‘High Street Specialists’ and ‘pretentious new QC’s’.

Master Reginald, and his PA Stephen, had missed the original meeting and were apparently reluctant to agree with the ‘European groupies’ of Anton’s regarding the ‘trumped up claim of some renegade Childe of Angelus’.

Reginald refused to kiss the Aurelian ring, merely waving his lips over it, then took his seat in front of Spike, legs apart, leaning back in the chair and obviously challenging the new Master. He began without appropriate greetings and a tone that spelt disrespect, “Right well, we have several demands that you need to deal with…”

Anton raised his eyebrows at the behavior, and whispered, “Some individuals should really…” But before he was finished, Spike was out of his chair, and in a flash of speed that surprised even the immortal, had the recalcitrant Reginald hauled down and pinned to the floor with his fangs penetrating his subject’s thick neck. Reginald’s second, Stephen, fell into game face and was about to react in defense of his master but instantly found the human Consort Xander standing calmly, with a stake mere millimeters from his unbeating heart. The vampire stilled, wide eyed, then slumped and submitted to whatever punishment the new Aurelian Master, or his Consort, decided to incur.

Spike took three long drafts of the other Vampire’s stolen blood, continuing to pull the liquid until he heard a whimper and felt the shift in the body. The blood began to carry traces of fear and compliance, and finally full submission. Spike withdrew, stood and returned to his chair. As Reginald slowly retook his own seat, Xander moved back to stand behind Spike’s chair, the ex-Scoobie realizing with some amusement that ‘Reggie’ had lost his toupee in the foray and was quite bald but for the fluffy mouse brown hair that skirted his now nude cranium. Somehow the defeated, and ‘follicly challenged’ vampire, now had a rather pathetic air about him, and his offsider seemed even less confident, curling almost into himself and keeping his gaze firmly fixed on the floor.

Spike licked the last of the other’s blood from his lips, then leaned back and began to review Master Reginald’s ‘holdings and associations’ on screen, before addressing the meeting as though nothing had happened.

“Now, you had some concerns Master Reginald. I appreciate your appeals and am happy to review your requests but it is late in the day, so if you would do me the courtesy of Emailing them, even submitting them via fax would be fine, I guarantee I will give them due consideration, and request that we meet again in a day or so… I trust this is agreeable to you?”

The contrite vampire simply nodded then all but whispered, “Very good Master William, Stephen will arrange a time that suits you.” The two ‘guests’ rose and scurried from the room.

Anton could not suppress his grin as he picked up the forgotten ‘fur piece’ from the floor between finger and thumb, holding it rather like a deceased small animal, before dropping it into a large envelope, and marking the stationary in prominent black letters, “UK delegation, lost property, Master Reginald”. All present were smirking by the time Anton rang for one of his household assistants to return the item to its owner.

Gregor excused himself politely shortly after, and closed the library doors as he departed.

Anton was the first to speak, “Once again Master William, Consort Alexander, you have proven yourselves. I do not believe there will be further internal challenges for some time. Reginald has much influence. His submission to you Master, and the act of your consort, will be long remembered.”

“Thank you Sire.” Spike and Xander had spoken in unison without thinking, both grinned a little sheepishly, then were rewarded by Anton throwing his head back in a swish of black locks, as he gave a wonderfully welcome belly laugh.

“Ah my spectacular boys. The Clans have so much to learn, to gain, with you at the helm. Now let’s take some exercise while dinner is prepared.”

Xander groaned a little, “Ummm Anton? Spike? Stinky human here…” But gave up his protest as Spike nuzzled into his neck, lightly cupped his consort’s fast hardening groin and purred… “Smell fantastic pet… all musk and man… feels like your ‘up and ready’… Now ‘Cmon luv… Old Anton here might even give us some space and we can have a nice roll around near the poplars at the front.” Spike grinned toward his ‘Sire’. There was a subtle nod.

Dinner would be obviously be 'late'.

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