Vampires and Lovers ch.9

Seamus awoke with a smile. He stretched sumptuously. He was the only occupant of the bed and he had expected nothing more. Coleran was not his lover. He felt a pang of sorrow for the unrequited love the other man felt for Marten. It was not unknown for their kind to take a lover who was not their Chosen. The bond Coleran could share with Marten would not be as strong as with a soul-mate, but it would be as loving. Neither vampire would then feel the desire to find their Chosen, their binding effectively replacing it. Nor was there any fear of being sought in turn. Once one bonded the silent siren call, if the other was of their world, would be stopped for both. It was Seamus' choice to continue and hope, one day, to find the other half of his soul. The comfort and release he had found the previous night made his step lighter than it had been for some time. He quickly dressed and went to seek out his family.1

Seamus found the others at breakfast in the dining room. As he entered, he found himself with his arms full of lithe brunette who scrutinised him intently before being apparently appeased by what he could see beneath the surface. He smiled as David came to join them and, unwrapping one arm from Wyl, gathered the small blond and hugged both tightly.2

"I am a lucky man and in future I will count my blessings," he said. "I'm fine, boys," he added more quietly, touched deeply by their love and concern. The solid, heavier hands of Gabriel and Vincent had Seamus basking in the freely offered affection and the last of the dark emptiness that had gnawed away inside him since Vincent's bonding, finally diminished in the light of his family's love.3

"We were planning on spending some time in the pool," David said enthusiastically. "Then we can rest and go into the woods as evening comes round."4

Seamus found himself grinning widely. David was fairly vibrating with excitement and, now satisfied that Seamus was alright, Wyl was looking just as enthusiastic. He looked up at the two other males and laughed at the twin affectionate smiles of men who knew any decisions had been taken out of their hands.5

"David seems to think I would benefit from a long run," Gabriel said, with a theatrical, resigned sigh. However, the bright twinkle in his blue-brown eyes showed just how much he was actually relishing the idea.6

"It has been a long time since you could run free, my friend," Seamus agreed.7

****8

The pool was housed in a huge conservatory at the back of the castle and was of Olympic dimensions. Around the sides were a selection of comfortable loungers and whilst Seamus, Gabriel, David and Wyl played an energetic game of water polo, Vincent lay watching and chatting companionably to Coleran.9

As the frenetic game finally ended, Vincent opened his arms indulgently to allow his dripping mate to lie snuggled close. The bigger vampire sighed contentedly and watched through hooded lids as Seamus stretched out nearby, falling quickly into a light sleep and Gabriel settled himself with his blond mate atop his darkly-furred, broad chest. Vincent nuzzled his mate, glad there was no need of chlorine in the swimming pool. A soft murmur of happiness reached his ears before his love slipped into sleep. Vincent noticed a servant whisper into Coleran's ear and then the older man quickly vanished. He frowned briefly, but the rhythmic breathing of those around him soon had him slumbering peacefully.10

****11

It was much later before anyone saw Coleran again and in an agitated state. He was protective of his small town and had been informed of a second brutal death of a young woman. In both instances the victim's throat had been savaged, but death had been apparently from heart failure. Seamus offered to accompany Coleran into the town to try and find out anything more. Both men insisting that their friends were to enjoy themselves as planned. Although the others were initially reluctant, they accepted that just Coleran and Seamus might access information quickly and draw less attention. They agreed that when the two men returned, the whole group would discuss the incidents. It was clear from the Irishman's mien that he wanted to find whoever was responsible and deal with them personally.12

Once out in the castle grounds, Gabriel morphed into his feral, wolfish form and began to run, David laughingly giving chase. Left alone, Vincent began to kiss Wyl tenderly, slowly lowering the unresisting form to the soft, mossy ground. As their kisses increased in heat and passion, their clothes slowly melted away. Vincent's mouth worshipped his lover's body as the lithe brunette writhed under his expert ministrations. He slid a single finger into Wyl's downy declivity and growled his approval at the slickness he felt. 13

Delving deeper he began to slowly sweep his finger over his lover's sweet spot. More fingers followed, relaxing the tight sheath and encouraging more of Wyl's natural lubricant until, moving to lie between widely-splayed limbs, Vincent sank his erect flesh into the narrow channel, stretching and filling Wyl to a low moan of bliss. Smooth limbs encircled his waist and slender hips canted to pull Vincent deeper. It was more than the bigger man could resist. His mouth still nipping and kissing his young love, Vincent began to drive deep and hard into the slick tightness, rubbing effortlessly over the younger man's hidden jewel. 14

It was perfection. The darkening sky above them lit the lovers with a myriad of twinkling stars and the smile of a crescent moon. Beneath them the ground was soft and warm and the smell of moss and earth mixed headily with the scent of their arousals and the slick elixir Wyl produced to welcome Vincent into his body. They gazed into each other's eyes as they slowly approached a shared zenith. All the love they had for one another seemed to create a nimbus around them and they were each oblivious to anything but the man in their arms. The increase in tempo of Vincent's hips reflected the urgency they both felt to complete their union and, with a shared cry of ecstasy and triumph, both men's seed flowed as a tribute to their joy.15

****16

Gabriel had picked up the increasing levels of his mate's pheromones even before the chase began. He knew David was overhead, keeping watch over him. He saw a thickening of trees and darted swiftly towards it, hiding from his lover's penetrating gaze.17

David frowned as Gabriel vanished and landed, staring into the thick undergrowth where his mate had last been seen. A slow smile spread across his face.18

"If you think I will fall for that little game, you are sadly mistaken, my love," he said, amusement evident in his tone. "However, I am willing to limit myself to the ground and *if* you catch me, you may have me." Even as he finished speaking, he was little more than a blond blur, hurtling away at phenomenal speed. He laughed at the howl from his mate, knowing the chase was on and that it was a game neither could lose. David had no intention of making things easy for Gabriel. He feinted and dodged, aiming for the thickets that would be more difficult for the bulk of his husband to negotiate. He could hear his pursuer closing the distance. He effortlessly vaulted a fallen log and ducked beneath a couple of others. He could no longer hear his lover behind him and, as he leapt to clear another tree, found himself enveloped in strong arms as Gabriel tackled him from the side.19

The Lycan caught his earthly angel and ensured it was his own bulk that absorbed the impact as he grounded David. Their bodies rolled together; dark and light, muscular and lissom, and began to tussle for dominance. Gabriel was already naked, hard and leaking and he tore away the offending material that prevented his touching and tasting pale, satin-soft skin. David laughingly resisted, listening to his lover's growls growing in intensity. However, the fight was over quickly. Gabriel held David pinned beneath him, his eyes glowing amber with a mix of excitement, arousal and love. With a swift movement the smaller man was bent over a mossy mound, a large, preternaturally strong hand holding him in place, whilst another and powerful thighs pushed his legs wide apart. In this vulnerable position, the tiny entrance to the blond's body was displayed to his dominant mate's avaricious gaze. Gabriel dropped his head, pushing his cold, wet nose to scent the alluring portal.20

David shivered with anticipation as a furred muzzle nudged at his bared skin and the salivating maw wetted his furled flesh. He could feel his own juices flowing and channel dilating with arousal and he moaned his need. Instead of his lover's shaft, a long, thick, more agile muscle pushed inside. David wailed his appreciation as Gabriel's tongue pressed and probed, tasted and teased. The blond shuddered helplessly as his sweet spot was laved over and over until with a primal scream, his semen jetted free.21

Gabriel flipped the pliant form, keeping David's hands pinned underneath the slender body, gazing with adoration at the glowing visage as he resumed his full human form. He kissed his mate's reddened lips, teeth tugging playfully at the lower lip and slipping his tongue into the warm, wet cavern to a wanton moan as David tasted himself. Moving lower, Gabriel licked clean all evidence of his lover's sexual surrender. Shifting quickly, he positioned himself to push his aching arousal into his mate's mouth as he began an insistent suckling of David's sated sex.22

David sucked enthusiastically at the head of Gabriel's engorged penis. His big mate still had him pinned helplessly and he loved every minute, the alpha male's primal dominance an electrifying aphrodisiac. David quickly realised Gabriel had no intention of spilling in his mouth. The Lycan never let more than the flared dome push past the blond's lips and David groaned as his shaft was worked effortlessly back into full hardness by a wickedly talented tongue. He gave a low groan as Gabriel moved swiftly. His knees were pushed back to align with his shoulders and his lover's hard, thick flesh rammed inside him setting up a hard, fast and deep rhythm. The blond's head thrashed mindlessly from side to side as his prostate was pounded mercilessly; it was the only part of his body he could move. He keened as he was inexorably pushed towards a second incendiary climax. Wave after wave of pleasure built up low in his belly and with a bite to his throat as the final catalyst David came hard.23

Gabriel could sense his mate was getting close. He could feel tiny pulses of his lover's channel urging his own shaft to erupt. He concentrated on keeping up his thrusting, determined to bring David to completion first. His single-mindedness was repaid by the moan of his name as he bit down on David's throat with sharp teeth. He felt his husband's release bathe their bodies and he threw back his head to howl his own climax. He felt his seed fill his lover's spasming channel and he continued to thrust long after the last drop of his semen had buried itself in the beloved body.24

"Feed," David's voice whispered huskily. Gabriel obeyed, sinking his teeth into fragile flesh and tasting the sweetness that was his mate. As he did he began to caress his lover's body. He tugged and teased taut, reddened nipples and stroked at sweat-sheened, satin skin. The soft cries of pleasure the erotic touches engendered had the big male swelling with pride and possession. *His* mate, his beloved David. He lapped closed the tiny wounds and moved to suckle at the breasts he'd tormented with his fingers. Small hands, having freed themselves from behind David's body, carded through Gabriel's now mussed mane of hair. Wordless sounds of contentment replaced heavy breathing as the lovers touched and soothed.25

David pushed insistently until Gabriel lay back and then straddled his bigger mate. As large hands skimmed over his flanks, back, buttocks and thighs, the smaller man rooted out dark, thick nubs hidden in Gabriel's opulent chest fur. Thumbing one gently, he bathed the other with tiny licks before taking it into his mouth. For a long time the couple relished the simple intimacy, their touches expressing the depth of their love.26

****27

Wyl and Vincent turned as they heard the sounds of David and Gabriel approaching. The big Lycan appeared, dressed only in somewhat torn jeans, carrying his mate with ease. Vincent's laugh echoed around the glade as he saw the petit blond only wore Gabriel's shirt. Wyl's softer giggles bubbled free and soon all four were laughing as David was lowered to stand and stare at his barely-there clothing.28

"Next time I let you out for a run, my husband, I'm taking spare clothing for me," the blond snickered. He was pleased to see that, although Wyl's cheeks had pinkened, the brunette was not overly embarrassed by his lack of attire. Even better, as they began to slowly meander their way back to the castle, Wyl was willing to join him and Gabriel in a game of running and dodging. 29

David's sparkling sapphire eyes met Vincent's contented cerulean as the older vampire continued at his more sedate pace. He was overjoyed to see that Wyl was fast becoming an integral part, as much as a beloved member, of their family.30

****31

Once back in the castle the couples changed their clothes and their moods. It was a sombre group that met in the spacious lounge. To their shock, the two experienced vampires were unable to say assuredly what had killed the women.32

"Their life-force was sucked from their bodies," Seamus said. "There also seems to have been sexual release, but not intercourse. If it was an incubus, it was none like I have ever encountered."33

"Neither succubae nor incubi kill their victims," Vincent put in. 34

"Nor do they gouge out a victim's throat," Coleran agreed. "In truth I have not heard of anything that attacks its victims in such a manner."35

Wyl looked anxiously at the serious faces around him. Sometimes his new world seemed a place of wonder, at others a place of unutterable darkness. That those around him were unable to identify what had killed the poor women had him not a little frightened. He began to shiver slightly.36

"Could it be some hybrid beast the rogues have created to terrorise humans?" Gabriel asked.37

"I think not," Vincent mused. "They would test it elsewhere and use it where it would cause most fear -- a large metropolis. This place is too small. Coleran would know immediately if there were any of our more common adversaries in the area. This seems a single, premeditated attack. It is ... different ..." Vincent stopped his musings as he felt the tremors that now wracked Wyl's slender frame and he turned to see his lover staring with wide, frightened eyes towards the French windows.38

"C ... cold," Wyl said, as he raised a shaking finger to point out at the darkness beyond.39

Vincent rose immediately to his feet to be flanked by Seamus and Coleran.40

"Protect our young ones," Vincent ordered Gabriel. He did not pause to even glance at the Lycan who had shifted into his larger, more dangerous form to stand growling menacingly in the direction of Wyl's fear. Instead, followed by Seamus and Coleran, he streaked outside. He would allow nothing to harm his Chosen. He had felt nothing until Wyl had spoken and then, at the periphery of his awareness, he had felt a malignant presence, something of infinite darkness. Whatever their nemesis was, it hid itself well that so many experienced individuals had failed to detect its presence. A motion had him, plus the others, swooping silently to restrain a struggling form.41

They took their captive back to the castle only to find their prize was Marten looking angrily at them.42

"Marten," Coleran sighed. "I have told you not to leave here alone until you are more in control of your powers. You could be hurt."43

"I needed some freedom," Marten snarled, dragging himself free of Seamus and Vincent. "I'm going to bed."44

Vincent watched him vanish. Something about the youngest vampire troubled him, but his concern was dragged back to Wyl.45

The brunette was being held tightly by David, the smaller man rocking Wyl gently, and crooning nonsense softly, as the tremors abated. As the others looked over, David raised his head, still keeping his grip on the other man.46

"I think Wyl may become a Sensitive," he declared.47

"What is that?" Wyl asked, looking with concern into David's warm, turquoise depths.48

"It's possible that although your normal five senses will be enhanced beyond that of a human, they may remain slightly less than one of us. Instead, your most enhanced sense will be your sixth." The blond gave a reassuring smile. "Whatever our adversary is, it can hide itself from us but not from you. At least not when it gets close," he added. "If you were more trained, you might be able to track it even further away."49

Vincent held out his arms and David released Wyl to let the brunette burrow into his mate's protective embrace. He nuzzled into soft curls. The sour scent of fear was lessening and Vincent's protective instincts consequentially abated ... fractionally.50

"Tomorrow evening Seamus and I will transverse the town. I may not sense it as strongly as my Chosen, but when we were out there I felt its presence." Vincent said as he held tightly to his lover.51

"I will come with you," Coleran insisted. "It is my town, they are my people. I will not sit back and see them slaughtered as sheep."52

Seamus nodded his agreement, seeing the fear in Vincent's eyes. Wyl might be the most sensitive to their unknown enemy, but none of them would willingly risk the youngest and most vulnerable member of their family.53

****54

Although Marten had been instructed to remain in the castle, he was restless. He needed to be outside and a raging erection throbbed angrily between his legs. He had already tried to assuage the sensation by use of his hand, but almost as soon as he had come, arousal reheated his veins and his shaft quickly refilled. He growled with a mixture of anger and frustration and then flung open his windows and took to the air.55

He searched out his prey and dropped silently to take her from behind. She was pushed to all fours on the ground and Marten ripped frantically at the scrap of flimsy material that covered his intended goal. He pushed inside her, ignoring her whimpers of denial, and fingered her hidden mound. Within a couple of minutes he was rewarded by her first shuddering climax and he groaned his enjoyment as his shaft was milked, but he wasn't ready to come just yet. He tore at her blouse, fondling at her breasts, tugging at their firmness and the tight nipples. He licked at her throat reaching again between her legs as his hips pistoned frantically. He felt her approaching a second orgasm as he reached his own and, for a few minutes, all was grey as he emptied himself into her. As he floated in the aftermath, he felt pressure at his own throat and gave a soft moan. As awareness settled over him, he glanced furtively round, frowning, and rapidly ascended to return home.56

The woman gasped at the intensity of the pounding. Although she did not want this, she was unable to resist the unsought pleasure the brutal attack brought with it. She moaned piteously as an unwilling orgasm was wrung from her, her body bucking against the strength of the one behind her. She whimpered as fingers reached again between her labia. Suddenly she realised that there was no pressure, nor fingers, nor was she penetrated, however her eyes were unable to open. She fought to see what was happening. She peeled back her leaden lids and her mouth opened in a silent scream of unbridled terror at the black, leathery visage that leered down at her. It did not stop her second orgasm. Even as it peaked, she felt herself sucked into a glacial, midnight-black vacuum. Her life had fled before the sharp teeth ripped the flesh at her throat. She never saw her attacker ascend into the air.57

Sensing the malignant presence, three vampires swooped as one. Marten struggled furiously in the grip of Vincent and Seamus as he was returned to the castle.58

****59

Marten sat in stony silence as Vincent and Seamus questioned him about the blood on his shirt. They had begun their questioning as Coleran had been called away by one of his servants; however, despite their best efforts the younger man remained unspeaking. It was only when Coleran returned with a second bloodstained shirt that the detached, unconcerned facade began to fracture.60

"You were wearing this two nights ago," Coleran said, his voice hard, clipped and icy. "The night the second victim was killed. Are you going to attempt to deny you were out?"61

"I don't know where the blood came from," Marten said sullenly. "I didn't do anything wrong."62

Before Coleran could speak again, he was approached by his butler. All watched as the message was relayed and Coleran's face drained of what little colour it possessed. He remained silent until the older man had left and then stared at Marten with undisguised loathing. 63

"Another woman died tonight," he hissed.64

"It wasn't me," Marten said, rising to face his Sire. "Coleran, please," he added, reaching to the older man. "I haven't killed anyone."65

"I curse the day I found you," Coleran said, refusing to face the younger vampire. "I should have left you to die."66

Marten's veneer of arrogance and indifference vanished and the others saw the soul-deep pain in response to Coleran's words.67

"I swear," Marten insisted, his eyes now frantic. "Coleran, I would never ... "68

"I put you in Seamus' hands. He may do with you as he wishes."69

"I haven't killed anyone," Marten wailed, tears beginning to spill making him look like the fragile youth he actually was.70

"I believe him." The small voice had all turning to look at Wyl with surprise. "I believe him," he repeated, a stain creeping over his cheeks, as he became the centre of attention.71

"Why would you believe me when my own Sire will not?" Marten sniffed. Of all in the room, Wyl seemed the least likely to have taken his side and it left Marten confused as well as scared and distraught.72

"The cold," Wyl whispered. "I can feel it ... out there," his eyes darted quickly towards the window. "But I've never felt it in you. I don't understand and I can't explain it," he added, looking desperately at his mate.73

"Wyl has not been fully comfortable since we arrived," David said. "It has to be sensitive qualities beginning. What we thought was a past memory on arrival must have been his sensing our foe. Does the cold feel close, Wyl?" he asked.74

"No, not close." Wyl frowned, wishing he could verbalise exactly what he felt. "But there's something familiar ... like when I know someone's a vampire."75

"I may have turned someone," Marten said in small voice.76

"Impossible," barked Coleran, turning to look at the young man.77

"I was restless, I wanted to be loved. You always looked sorry you'd saved me, especially given my ... preferences. About two weeks ago I found myself with a woman. I'd never wanted women before, but she seemed so familiar, so desirable. We had sex and I remember her wish to be bitten. I've met up with her three times since."78

"Two nights ago and again tonight for example?" Seamus asked. He received a nod in response.79

"All this time I thought you resented me turning you," Coleran said, his voice softening. He came closer to the young man and then frowned. "Seamus, Vincent, what do you make of this?" He reached to touch Marten's throat.80

The three oldest vampires gathered around the perplexed younger man and studied marks at his neck.81

"He's been bitten, but these are no bites from a vampire," Vincent said, frowning.82

"I said I'd turned someone," Marten sighed, unconsciously nuzzling into Coleran's hand, needing to feel the older man was no longer angry with him. He looked anxiously into the stormy, jade orbs. He gave a hopeful smile as Coleran's thumb began to stroke his jaw line.83

"You aren't mature enough to turn anyone, Marten," David said. "Even Wyl couldn't. It would be disastrous if new vampires could turn others before they were comfortable with their new abilities. It will take many years."84

"Another vampire's mark would have vanished by now," Vincent added. "Whatever fed from you is not of our kind."85

"It seems to need sexual release," Gabriel growled. "That is the common factor between what Marten experiences and what happens to the victims. Is it feeding on the sexual energy in some way?"86

"There is a powerful release of energy with orgasm," Seamus said. "That's really what succubae and incubi feed on. This thing wants more, though. It drains the very living essence from its victim, probably at the highest point of sexual release."87

"There are many things that emerge to feed for short intense periods and then sink back into hibernation," Coleran said, his arm now around Marten's waist, holding tightly to the other man. "I think we have one of these creatures here. If we fail to find and stop it, it could disappear once more."88

"I start feeling in real need of release," Marten husked, embarrassed. "Using, um, my hand, isn't enough. I have to go and find her."89

"Marten, how do you feel after ... well, after," Gabriel queried.90

"Drained as well as sated," the younger man confessed. "I just thought it was part and parcel of my new life. Um, she ... it ... wants me to be rough," he added, clearly distressed.91

"Emotional energy," Seamus muttered. "I would suggest it feeds from Marten's emotional state as well as taking his blood, then in some way re-enacts its coupling with Marten with its human victim, draining them of all life in the process."92

"How are we going to find this thing?" Marten asked, leaning into Coleran's embrace.93

Eyes turned to Wyl who huddled close to Vincent.94

"I'm the only one who can feel it," he whispered. "I have to find it."95

"I think we have exhausted what we can do tonight," Vincent growled. "It's getting light. I suggest we retire and rest. We seem to have one night to find it before it will seek a victim and start to exert its influence on Marten once more."96

****97

Once alone, Coleran turned the young man in his arms. Their height and build were almost identical and they gazed, tentative turquoise into resolute emerald.98

"I thought you despised me for being gay," Marten whispered. "You seemed so distant."99

"I fell in love with you the moment I saw you," Coleran murmured, his nose rubbing against that of his mate-to-be. "I wanted you even as you lay recovering. My fear was that you would think I had purposely turned you simply to have you. I hoped to woo you over time, to show you it was not base lust that motivated me, it was something much deeper, much purer."100

"Then show me now, Coleran, please," Marten pleaded. He would get on his knees and beg if he had to.101

"Come with me," Coleran whispered.102

The two men ascended to the turret bedroom that Coleran had shown Seamus. He stripped Marten slowly, savouring the sight of each new piece of skin he uncovered before worshipping it with hands and lips. He took the straining erection into his mouth, instantly triggering Marten's climax, and joyfully swallowed all the younger man could produce. He laid the spent male on the bed and rapidly denuded himself. He stalked predatorily over the sated form, his smile feral and possessive. He had yearned so long to do this; nothing would stop him claiming the dark-haired youth for his own.103

Marten groaned at the sight of Coleran crawling towards him, the desire in the darkened, verdant eyes making his sex twitch in anticipation. Part of him wished he was still virgin, another was simply rejoicing that he was finally going to be one with the handsome older man. He spread his legs invitingly, receiving a smile in return that made his stomach flip with undefined expectation. He began to writhe, even before Coleran's hands touched him, soft whimpers of need spilling from his lips.104

Coleran pushed the long legs back, displaying Marten to his hungry gaze. There was no lubricant in the room and Marten was a long way from being able to produce his own. Coleran kissed the tightly closed portal, licking gently at furled flesh and revelled in the pleasured cry. He was aware of Marten's arms sliding under his own knees to hold himself open to his mate and growled his approval. His hands were now free. Still licking lightly, Coleran began to stroke and knead the alluring globes, then parting them. His thumbs slid towards the saliva-slick rosebud and slid inside, encouraging it to bloom. Marten's cries urged him on and his tongue pushed imperiously into heated depths. It stroked the silken inner walls, tasting, wetting, opening, making his mate ready to accept the flesh that would unite them.105

Marten wordlessly begged his mate for more. He tried to pull himself impossibly open, making himself exposed and vulnerable as Coleran's tongue possessed his most intimate entrance. Again and again it delved, the older man's face now pressed hard against Marten's wide-spread cheeks until, with a drawn-out wail, the younger man felt it lave his sweet spot. Once, twice and then he was bereft of his mate. Before he could whine his distress, he was being filled with long, hard, thick flesh. Coleran's mouth ground possessively against his and he opened immediately, letting it own him. 106

Coleran's hips thrust a solid shaft urgently inside him, ramming his prostate with every movement. Marten felt possessed, ravished, and loved beyond any doubt that might have tried to lurk in the insecure corner of his mind. A masterful hand began to stroke his neglected erection and teeth fastened at his throat. He was barely able to draw enough breath to breathe, much less vocalise his appreciation. As he felt the soft sucking, he fell apart. His orgasm thundered through his body, wracking him helplessly with its intensity. He moaned as he felt hot, wet juice fill his still clenching channel, the final part of his surrender to, and possession by, the older man. He let himself fall into an unending abyss of pleasure; sure his mate would be there to catch him.107

Satiated orbs opened slowly, Marten gazed up at his lover, a contented smile on the older man's lips.108

"I love you, Coleran," Marten said, burrowing against the solid strength of the warm body holding him tightly.109

"I dreamt of hearing those words," Coleran said huskily, kissing his lover's brow. "I love you."110

"But, but I'm not your Chosen," Marten suddenly gasped, trying to move.111

"I have chosen you," Coleran said, soothing his mate. "There will be no other for me, or for you," he added with a dark, possessive growl. "I have claimed you and you are *mine*. There is still much for you to learn and understand, my love, but of this you can be assured. From this day forth, you are bound to me and I to you."112

"Coleran, Coleran." Marten grasped tightly to his lover, as if afraid that if he let go the older man would vanish.113

"Feed from me," Coleran's voice brooked no refusal. Panting, Marten positioned himself. He had only tasted the older vampire as his body had healed. Whimpering needily he pressed his teeth against the offered throat. He tasted power, passion and loyalty and let the warmth dissipate the last of his doubts. He *was* Coleran's mate. Carefully he licked closed the wounds and let the older man position them comfortably. He nestled close, sleep quickly overtaking him. 114

As he rested, his new mate kept jealous guard swearing that, whatever their adversary was, it would not use his beloved again. He tightened his grip as Marten tossed restlessly, finally settling the younger man once more. As if he could keep the nightmares at bay by watching Marten, Coleran's eyes never left the younger man's face.115

****116

The next day passed slowly. Everyone felt the weight of the unknown presence although not even Wyl could sense it, despite his best efforts; Seamus and Coleran surmising that the creature rested by day and only became active at night. Vincent was clearly unhappy with the thought of Wyl being in danger. His possessiveness was also reflected in Gabriel and Coleran's behaviour, all men keeping their mates close and constantly ensuring Seamus was nearby. As evening approached, the men made their farewells. Seamus, Gabriel, Vincent and Wyl were going to scour the town in the hopes that Wyl would be able to track its presence. David was remaining with Coleran and Marten, no one certain of the influence the creature may have over the youngest vampire.117

Gabriel hunted from the ground, going over the places of all three deaths to see if there was any residue, however faint, of the creature that he could use to track it to its lair. Above him flitted his family. Vincent almost wrapped around Wyl as the younger man tried to connect in some way with the presence they sought. He halted as he saw Wyl come to a standstill, hovering above him and then all three men descended.118

"What is it?" Vincent asked. "Do you feel something?"119

"No and that's what's worrying me. I feel, a ... an echo. I don't know how to describe it, but I can tell it's nothing recent."120

"Perhaps this is not where it hides, but where it feeds," said Seamus, his tone edged with worry. "You felt it strongest at the castle, but we thought you were picking up something from Marten."121

"Then the thing actually dwells near there and if it has some kind of link with Marten ..." Vincent gasped.122

"And our more vulnerable members are at risk now," Seamus said, already streaking towards the castle.123

The others followed as fast as they could.124

****125

Coleran watched anxiously as Marten tossed in his arms. The younger man had become aroused and his flesh strained against his pants, a damp patch steadily growing. His soft whimpers were almost more than Coleran could bear.126

"It's out there," he growled. "I need to take care of it before it hurts him," Coleran said, surging to his feet.127

"No, Coleran," David said quickly. "Marten will respond best to you. I will go out." The blond was already heading for the windows as he spoke. He reached out mentally to his mate, urging Gabriel to hurry, with a reassuring smile to Coleran he sped through into the dark woods.128

It was just a few moments later when Marten gave a cry of denial.129

"She's hurting him," he shouted to his lover. He raced outside, Coleran in his wake.130

The older vampire had no difficulty in feeling their enemy. The cold that Wyl had felt seemed to reach into his bones. He gasped at he caught his first sight of the beast.131

It might have been male, female or asexual, it was impossible to tell. Its upper half seemed to be a black leather-covered skeleton, the back covered in spines and ridges from which large, black wings were extended. Its arms terminated in long, razor-sharp claws. It stood on two powerfully-muscled, hoofed legs. The head was little more than a skull with an elongated maw filled with teeth that were long, thin and preternaturally sharp. Its skin looked almost burnt onto to its body and yet it possessed incredible suppleness. It twisted to see them approaching at an angle that seemed impossible. 132

David struggled weakly in its embrace. Coleran could see skin had been torn from its chest and yet that seemed to have had no effect. Coleran couldn't suppress the shiver as he gazed into malevolent, vertically-slit, red eyes.133

"Don't touch it," he warned Marten. He could see that the creature was somehow draining David of energy. "Try to pull David from its clutches as I attack."134

Coleran circled the creature from above and it bent and twisted to follow his movements. He feinted once, twice and then dove for its throat in a flurry of teeth and claws. He was gratified that it seemed to relinquish its hold on the blond, younger man allowing him to attack with all the ferocity he possessed. The two combatants rose from the ground. However, each blow to the beast seemed to leave Coleran weaker without truly disabling his foe. 135

He was taken by surprise by a manoeuvre that seemed to almost rotate the entire upper half of the beast and found himself slammed into the solid trunk of a large tree. As he shook his head to clear the dizziness, he saw the thick branch, aimed like a javelin, the creature thrust at him. Before he could react, Marten had intercepted the weapon. His scream of denial was matched by Marten's of pain. As the younger man fell, the older renewed his efforts. He was the only thing that could protect those in his care.136

"You cannot save them." The voice in his head was like the dry rustle of dead leaves and sent a cold chill down Coleran's spine. This wasn't an unthinking beast. He could feel its intelligence, its malice, as well as an impression of great age. Yet there would be no reasoning with it. He could also sense its enjoyment of physical and psychological pain. It enjoyed killing, it was a part of its very nature. His own fears and worry fed it as effectively as his blood. "I will make you dust, the dark boy, too. He served his purpose well, but he is no use injured. His devotion to you will make your pain all the greater and sustain me longer. I will take the light child. Eventually he too will become dust, but by then I will be far away and able to rest for years to come."137

A shriek of fury heralded David's return to attack, his teeth biting hard at the creature's throat, but sliding on the leather-like skin. Coleran moved to help, but a pain across his chest took his breath away as the creature gave a back-handed blow, spines cutting into Coleran's flesh. He dropped to the ground, close to his injured mate, and tried to gather his strength. He knew that the beast could not be beaten by one vampire alone; especially one already weakened by the creature's sapping abilities. He groaned with empathic pain as David's slight form was slammed brutally into the unforgiving wood of one of the trees. He forced himself to his feet and, as he did, heard the unmistakable shrieks of vampires in full blood-fury.138

Vincent and Seamus simultaneously attacked, leaving Wyl to catch David and bring him to lie alongside Marten and Coleran. 139

Attacked by two powerful vampires, the creature used other methods of defence. It sent visions of a beautiful woman pleading not to be hurt, then a beautiful young man. It showed them coupling with imaginary lovers, but the men remained resolute, attacking with teeth and claw. Then the pictures became of Wyl and David, bleeding and dying, pleading with the men to stop and still they slashed and fought. The creature gave a screech that heralded its realisation that the vampires could not be shaken. It tried to escape, using brute strength to begin to take to the air. Vincent latched to its back, his teeth biting at the point where a wing was attached to its body and it gave an undulating shriek as the joint was broken. The three bodies fell to the ground, a tangle of limbs, claws and teeth.140

A howl echoed through the woods as Gabriel raced to join the fight. The Lycan attacked mercilessly to protect his mate and pack. His powerful jaws were more damaging than Vincent's or Seamus'. Their adversary's shrieks became distorted sounds as he savaged at its throat, instinct guiding him to his prey's weakness.141

Coleran saw Wyl transfixed by the sight, his expressive eyes wide with shock and he realised the youth had not been fully involved in a battle before. He reached for the younger man and pulled him unresistingly to his chest. He positioned his body to ensure neither Wyl nor Marten could see the carnage. Under the combined attack, the creature was fading. Black fluid now oozed from multiple breaks in its hide and both wings were badly broken. Coleran watched as Gabriel ravaged the beast's throat until he had bitten his way through and the head fell severed from the body. A triumphant roar came from all three men as they surveyed the carcass. Then they turned towards Coleran and the others.142

As Coleran finally relaxed, Vincent and Gabriel checked out their mates. Coleran now saw that Wyl had tended to Marten, pulling the makeshift stake from his shoulder and binding the wound. All-in-all, the older vampire felt that they had been fortunate. The creature had been more dangerous than expected. He smiled at pale-blue eyes that tried to assess Coleran's own injuries.143

"I am fine," he smiled. He bent to kiss Marten gently. "We are all fine," he added. He watched as Gabriel, Seamus and Vincent dismembered the creature, keeping Wyl distracted by having him tend to David and check on Marten. Then it was bundled into sheeting that Seamus streaked to the castle to secure. Once they had it back home, Coleran would take them to the lower vaults and the thing would be incinerated in the large furnaces below the castle. He wouldn't feel settled until the foul beast was dust itself.144

****145

Gabriel and Vincent disposed of the beast's remains in the castle furnaces as the older man suggested. Its destruction by fire was overseen by Coleran who confessed he would only feel at peace when the flames had consumed the remains. They then returned to the lounge and gazed at the changes made. Chairs and ottomans had been pulled together as makeshift beds and the sofas were also covered in bedding. They had been positioned close to the roaring fire and where each could be seen by the other. Marten was feeding from Wyl's wrist on one converted sofa, David from Seamus in another. Coleran saw Vincent's nod of approval and moved to relieve Wyl, his mate nestling close as they cradled tightly on one of the converted sofas. Gabriel gave Seamus a grateful hug as he took his place with his mate.146

Vincent settled with Wyl lying on his chest in one of the 'chair-beds', Seamus the other. For long moments the men were content to simply enjoy each other's company and know their enemy was no more. It had been a salutary lesson. The creature was an ancient evil none of them had encountered and it had taken combined strengths to defeat it. The wounds to lovers and friends could so easily have been so much more devastating. Vincent kissed Wyl's temple. He wished his Chosen had not experienced something quite so malignant so early in his new life. He smiled as Wyl reached to caress away the frown that furrowed his brow. He took the hand and kissed the palm, Wyl hugging him close in response.147

"How is he, Gabriel?" Vincent asked, gazing towards at the small, blond form almost buried in his mate's embrace.148

"Weak and bruised, but will be fine," the deep voice rumbled. He stroked the golden silk of his sleeping mate. "I am concerned at how tired he is."149

"The fell beast drained life energy, my friend," Coleran supplied. "It ..." he sighed, Gabriel deserved the truth. "It was going to kill me and Marten and take David to sustain it before it resumed hibernation."150

The low, feral growl came as no surprise as Gabriel tightened his grip on his mate.151

"But it didn't." The voice was soft and weak, but still held enough defiance to make the others smile. Exhausted turquoise eyes gazed lovingly at Gabriel and the big Lycan nuzzled gently, kissing his lover as he stroked David's brow. 152

Soon only Seamus and Vincent remained awake, their eyes flitting between each other and the members of a now extended family. Coleran had finally slipped into a healing sleep, as entwined with Marten as Gabriel was with David. The creature had reached deeply into the souls of the men. They had felt its emptiness, its desire to kill, a being that killed to live and lived to kill. It would take some time for the coldness that had touched them to dissipate. 153

Vincent was not surprised to find that the lounge had become a bedroom. He felt the need to keep those he cherished close, just as he knew it was in the hearts of Seamus and Coleran. The love they shared would slowly reach deep inside and melt the beast's iciness. Vincent settled a little more, the imbued warmth of Wyl's soft body and rhythmic breathing beginning to work its magic on the bigger male. He reached out a hand and clasped Seamus' more chilled one receiving a smile of gratitude. As if the younger man was awake, Wyl's slender hand moved and came to cover their joined ones. Warmth permeated both older vampires and Vincent smiled at his mate, adoration in his eyes. They would all be fine.154