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| Anathema |
Part One
There was an advantage to his situation: Andre could bear the sunlight, even if only in small increments. As it was, however, the sun was setting, dropping the city below the mountain into growing darkness. Here, outside the city, things weren't as…hectic. Here he could rest for a bit and hunt.Food. His stomach growled loudly, reminding him that he needed to eat. Tearing his gaze from the city below him, Andre shifted. In his true form, he was free--happy to run with the moon shining above him, silver light sparking along pitch black fur. A small wild pig rooted in the dirt not too far away. When it squealed and ran from Andre, the were gave chase. Bringing down a meal proved to be no problem for the wolf.
Once he'd killed it, a peaceful still enveloped the woods and only the sounds of woodland life could be heard. A few moments later the earth beneath began to tremble then abruptly still. Whatever had caused it was unseen. An eerie silence settled throughout the small area, silencing even the insects.
The sound of a soft chuckle betrayed the presence of someone nearby, and the sound seemed to surround the were before a voice came out of nowhere. "Eat. But do not leave this spot."
Sitting back on his haunches, Andre half-shifted, while his legs remained those of a wolf and a light dusting of black fur still covered his light brown skin, the rest of Andre was very much human. Fangs still down, he licked one absently, and when he spoke, his voice was deep, almost a growl.
"And if I do?"
"You will not like what is in these woods." The voice faded from the air and another rumble sounded from the earth before it stilled several seconds later. The presence had gone, but for how long?
Eyes narrowed and stomach still growling; Andre shifted back into wolf form and began tearing into the pig's fleshy body. He still listened, however, body tense and ready to bolt if needed. When Andre had devoured a good portion of his meal; the small rumbling sounded again, revealing the returning presence. A question was fired at him, the tone sharp and suspicious. "Why is Dirk Raleigh hunting you, were?"
Andre tossed the carcass to the brush beside him. Shifting back to his half-form, he sat, licking the blood from his lips. "They say I should not live."
"Obviously, or he would not be waiting for you right outside my territory." Andre couldn't miss the subtle dryness in the voice. "You cannot make it through the woods, and you can't turn back. It does seem you have a serious problem, were."
"Says who? I answer to no one," Andre growled. "Especially disembodied voices."
An unearthly roar sounded in the distance. The vibration of it sent several small rocks tumbling down the incline near Andre. "None of my pets like strangers wandering my land. It makes them testy. Now, you have very few choices. Either return the way you came, continue through my woods, or answer to a disembodied voice. Which do you choose?"
“I will continue.” The words were short, clipped, Andre’s lips curling in another snarl. “Your pets are nothing but dinner.”
"Then continue. I'm not going to stop you." Complete silence reigned, and it seemed the voice was done speaking.
Distrusting but not quite caring what lay ahead, Andre stood. The beast's hunger was sated, but to keep his speed, he remained half-shifted. When needed, a wolf's legs would carry him much faster. He continued on through the woods, ducking under half-fallen branches. The forest was still and silent…almost eerily so. Andre could feel the faint tremor of pure hatred from Dirk. Damned vampire was persistent, if anything.
A rustle of movement sounded periodically beside Andre. At the moment, he wasn't alone. An angry snarl, carried by the wind, reached him from his uninvited companion. In answer to the noise, something stirred within the land itself and rose up into the air. It completely blotted out Andre's sense outside the property itself. Obviously, whoever this land belonged to didn't like even the smallest whispers of the vampire who hunted Andre.
Andre stopped for a moment and sniffed the air. "Who are you?" He started walking again, confident that his 'companion' was with him.
"A very pissed off person, were." The voice sounded, calm and unhurried, near Andre's ear. "I'm not happy to have a stranger on my land, but you are lucky. I hate having Raleigh near my land even more. Else you wouldn't have even made it this far."
The jolting thud of some enormous creature stirred some distance away. The vibration set the trees to shaking before an ear splitting crack sent several trees crashing to the ground.
"I don't Megiddo is all that happy either."
Andre froze. The muscles in his legs twitched, ready to spring as he stared into the woods. "What…is Megiddo?" Fear was not something he felt, but he did have a sense of self-preservation.
"Megiddo is my own creation. He is five times your size. Perhaps a slight bit more." His invisible companion sounded amused more than anything. "There is no equivalent to him, not in your understanding."
"Let me guess: he doesn't mind a little fur with his dinner," Andre said dryly.
"Only if you are lucky. If you are not lucky, he wouldn't kill you right away. He sometimes likes to keep things he finds as pets. At least for a while."
A pet. For something that sounded like an elephant on steroids? No, thank you.
"I assume that, no matter which way I go, he's going to follow me." Andre sighed. Things weren't exactly going his way tonight. "Going back is not an option." A growl rolled through him before he bit off his next words like something bitter. "I am at your mercy."
"I did tell you, but it seemed you preferred to learn it on your own. Now perhaps you will argue less. Please follow me."
The darkness suddenly lit with the silvery gleam of light. As it took shape, it looked to be a human form though there seemed to be nothing substantial to its features or body.
Andre hesitated for a moment before he nodded. "Lead on."
Turning back in the direction they had came from, the form flitted over the ground, never quite disappearing from sight. It led the way through the trees until it stopped at a rock face. Flitting through a crack in the stone, the glow disappeared into the mountain.
"Damned fairy." Andre squeezed through the crack and followed the wispy figure.
The only light in the midnight black of the cave was his companion. The enormity of the cavern was pitch black, leaving most of it unseen. Towering columns rose to an unseen ceiling and glittering flecks danced within the stone with the passing light.
As they enter a smaller passageway, the sand colored walls of the caves seemed carved to rippling smooth surface lined with rust colored veins through them. Between the huge boulder shapes of stone, dark cracks led into other caverns. At the end of the cavern corridor a set of rough hewn stairs led upward. The glowing figure headed up them and the voice spoke again. "I believe it will be more comfortable in here than out there. And I am nothing like a fairy."
Giving his surroundings a cursory glance, Andre followed. "So what are you then? Some weird spirit of the woods?"
At the top of the stairs an old wooden door opened into a long hallway. Cream colored walls were lined with portraits and several suits of armor stood guard along its length. The glow disappeared with the electric light. "I don't believe spirits require or have their own estates, were."
The sound of the voice proved his companion was still there. To the left, one of the doors opened for Andre. Obviously somebody's personal study. From the rich dark woods, and antique furniture, it seemed to be a rich somebody.
Andre stood in the doorway. "Then show yourself." He greatly disliked being toyed with, and no way in hell was he going any farther until he knew who his host was.
"I am Kieth Solomon, and you are on my property. When you are an intruder, it is considered bad form not to give in graciously once you've been caught." As he spoke, he suddenly appeared. The man in front of Andre wasn't overly tall. In fact, he couldn't be more 5' 7" at the most. Chestnut colored eyes watched the were in considerable amusement. His hair, the color of burnished iron, was tied back in a simple black ribbon. He didn't appear old at all, seeming no more 18 at the most. Though short, his build was wide-chested and muscular, and his skin a fair ivory flavor.
"You're shorter than I'd expected," Andre mused, a wry grin revealing elongated fangs. "I didn't know this land belonged to anyone. I've been traveling."
"When one is invisible, one sounds far more intimidating, would you say?" Gesturing towards one of the red brocade chairs near the fireplace, Kieth invited him to sit down. "You are very lucky that I am more upset at Dirk's presence too close to my territory than I am about you being in it."
Andre snorted. Settling into the chair, he still towered over his host at seven feet. "You're an amusing little man." He looked Kieth up and down, ruddy eyebrow raised. "I'd be more concerned about that golem on steroids that you call Megiddo."
In answer one of his brows quirked and he leveled a steady gaze on Andre. Settling in his chair, he smiled seeming unconcerned at Andre's attitude. "Megiddo serves his purpose, and generally is quite happy doing so. Should my enemy step one little toe on my land, he won't make it an inch more."
“So what do you have against Dirk?”
"That would be a very long story. And it's becoming longer because Raleigh is waiting for either one of my pets to take care of you, or for you to make it back to the edge of my property in one piece." Kieth reached over and tugged the ornately embroidered bell pull then settled back in his chair.
Silver eyes focused sharply on Kieth and Andre's voice dropped into a low rumble. "What are you?"
Kieth stared steadily at him and a heavy weight seemed to descend over Andre's body, leaving him unable to move. "Kindly answer my questions first. What is your name, and why has Raleigh decided to cut short your existence?"
The door to the study opened and a white haired servant entered, carrying a tray with a crystal cut decanter and two glasses. Turning towards the man as he set the tray down near him, Kieth said, "Thank you, Albertson. That will be all."
Andre growled and tried to move. When that proved impossible, the growl deepened and he bared his teeth. "Andre Trevino," he snapped. "And I'm assuming he's following orders, albeit with great fervor."
"Do calm or you will upset your digestion. You did just eat after all." Ever calm, Kieth poured two glasses of brandy and set the decanter down. "When you cease to growl at me, you will be able to move, Andre."
Picking up his glass, Kieth took a small taste, savoring the two hundred year old flavor. "This is a most excellent brandy. Do try some. Then tell me whose orders he is following."
Closing his eyes, Andre swallowed the growls that refused to really stop. Being unable to move was akin to torture. "I don't know their names," he said, projecting more calm than he really felt. Every muscle tensed and heated blood coursed through his cursed veins. "All I know is that they hunt me. They say I should never exist."
"Then I suppose I must get the information from Raleigh." There was a certain distaste on his features with the words. "Do I appear about to harm you, Andre? Is there something I'm projecting here that I am unaware of?"
"I don't…like…being bound," Andre ground out through clenched teeth. "Let me go. I won't touch you."
"You are bound by your word."
The heaviness lifted from Andre, leaving him greatly relieved.
"Now do calm before you get sick all over my carpet."
"I won't get sick," Andre grumbled. He leaned forward and took the other glass. He tossed back the liquor, closing his eyes to the slow, easy burn. It went down smooth, a blessed relief from the horrid stuff he'd had before. Whoever this man-Kieth-was, he had it good.
Pouring himself another glass, Kieth raised it to Andre in toast. "Relax and enjoy yourself. If I was going to harm you, you wouldn't be sitting here drinking brandy with me, now would you?"
"You don't seem to like Dirk much either." Andre stood, too restless to sit still for long. He paced a bit, looking at the room and its objects.
"The man is an obnoxious pain in the ass who believes he is far more important than he really is. What's to like about Raleigh?" He shrugged slightly.
Andre snorted. "He's been a major thorn in my side for some time. For the most part, I've managed to outrun him. He is persistent, though; I'll give him that." Andre turned and flashed a wicked grin at Kieth.
"He dislikes were as I last recall. Though that was never enough reason to go after one. Which means you've probably done something personally to him." Setting the glass, Kieth gave Andre a mild look.
"I've done nothing to warrant the attention of vampires," Andre said, turning away. "Not that I know of, anyway. Like I said, they claim I should not exist, but I've yet to find out why."
Carefully, Kieth studied him, a curious gleam in his eyes. "There would have to be more to it, Andre. There would be a reason, and I'm aware of very few reasons why a were isn't allowed to exist. So have you killed a vampire?"
Andre turned and fixed a serious gaze on him. "No. I've not killed anything but animals and only to eat. Perhaps they don't like the fact that I enjoy men," he said with a smirk.
"Afraid that wouldn't be case since Dirk has been after my ass for years. Though I really wish you would have said you'd killed a vampire." Sighing quietly, he folded his hands in his lap. "There's really only one other reason they'd want you dead."
Eyebrow raised, Andre leaned back against the wall, crossing his arms over his bulky chest. "And that would be?"
"Where is your tribe? Are they hunting you as well?" Standing slowly, Kieth moved slowly towards him. It didn't seem to bother him at all that Andre towered over him.
Unmoving, Andre watched him, eyes narrowed but alert. "Why?"
Looking up at him, Kieth smiled faintly and his gaze roamed over Andre. Though a great deal taller, the elegant, young stranger was an eyeful. Steel hued eyes watched him warily as Kieth raised his hand. But he only lightly touched one of the obsidian curls lying against the were's cheek. "Please just answer the question, Andre. I've already told you I won't harm you."
"Yes." The word was whispered, Andre's eyes lowering to take in Kieth standing before him. A spark tingled through him with the close proximity.
"Who bite you, Andre? Do you know?" Kieth's fingers took hold of the curl, lightly tugging at it, watching the glistening darkness uncoil for him before he twisted it around his finger.
Andre closed his eyes, a tiny shiver betraying thoughts he wished he could push away. Kieth was too inviting…too close. "I don't know his name," he said finally. "I fucked him in a dark alley--no names exchanged. When he bit me, he realized what I was and he took off, screaming and hurling threats."
"You are in a great deal of trouble, Andre. A were bitten by a vampire is Anathema. To be hunted down and killed by whichever side gets to the offender first. Even so, you are a rather beautiful creature." The silky strand of hair caressed to Kieth's finger as it twisted around his skin.
Andre's body tensed immediately. A low growl rumbled deep in his chest and he stared at Kieth. "Then I am dead no matter what I do."
"You look very much alive to me. I haven't seen one such as yourself for many centuries. They usually do get to the poor creatures before I do. Smile for me, Andre." With the words, Kieth lifted his hand higher, letting his finger tip trace slowly over Andre's lower lip. "Let me see your fangs."
Eyes never leaving Kieth's, Andre smiled slowly, abnormally long fangs lowering. "Very much alive," he growled softly.
Clearly fascinated, Kieth's gaze lingered on Andre's mouth and fangs. "Two in one. I've always found the combination of vampire and were to be something well worth studying. Yet my fellow vampires simply never agreed. Such a waste really. Dull witted at best."
His finger edged beneath one sharp tip, rubbing beneath it lightly. "Very wicked indeed."
The touch triggered a bite, Andre shuddering as the tip of his fang pierced Kieth's skin. Unthinking, he licked the blood away, sucking on Kieth's finger.
"And you hunger for our blood as you do for food." With the warmth of Andre's mouth on his skin, Kieth shivered and a slow smile curved his lips. He certainly didn't seem to be any kind of threat to Andre. In fact, he seemed more intrigued and interested in him.
Andre released Kieth's finger. "I've tried drinking from animals, even humans when I fucked them, but nothing satisfies the cravings."
When his finger was released, he lowered his hand back to Andre's hair. "No, it wouldn't, Andre. You are like us, yet not like us. Neither human nor animal blood would be enough. And I'm not at all averse to feeding you. You still need to hunt as would any were, but you also need our blood as well."
A long moment passed in silence. Andre leveled a considering look on him. "I'm not so sure you want to do that."
Quirking his brow, Andre asked quietly, "And why would you think that?"
Reaching up to hold Kieth's wrist in an iron grip, Andre said, "Because I'd fuck you."
"Did I say you couldn't? I would say I'm more flattered that you are interested in me, Andre." Kieth let the were keep hold of his arm.
Andre said nothing. With lightning speed, he twisted and shoved Kieth back against the wall. Then he took the kiss he'd been wanting, tongue pushing into Kieth's mouth, the pressure of the kiss almost bruising.
Without hesitation, Kieth met the intensity of Andre's kiss with a devouring need of his own. When his hand was released, it settled against Andre's chest, his nails scratching gently over the fabric of Andre's shirt.
A growl filled the kiss and Andre moved from Kieth's mouth to his throat, tongue teasing the smooth skin. "Need to taste you," he murmured, seconds before driving his fangs deep into Kieth's neck.
The painful burn radiated from his throat yet he still arched towards Andre's mouth. A sharp hiss of breath turned into his own soft growl when Andre began to drink his blood. Unable to still his shivering reaction, Kieth let the were fed from him. It translated to liquid slides of sensations teasing over Kieth's senses and body.
When he'd taken his fill, Andre licked the wounds closed and grabbed Kieth's waist, lifting him up from the floor and pinning him tightly to the wall. "Here or somewhere else," he growled, pressing hard against Kieth.
The tight grind to his body had Kieth's legs around Andre and brought another growl to his lips. "My quarters. Though you will have to put me down. It wouldn't do for the servants to see you carrying me."
Another grind of his hips and Andre stepped back, letting Kieth down slowly. "After you," he said, giving Kieth a wicked, toothy grin.
Once he was set down, Kieth headed for the door, an innate dignity in his movements. Turning left into the hallway, he led the way to the main stairs and up to the second floor. Every room they entered was immaculately clean and tastefully decorated. Understated wealth and age gleamed in each polished wood surface of the furniture. Various servants, tending to their own business, paid neither of them any heed.
Pausing in front of one of the closed door, Kieth looked back over his shoulder at Andre. "Just remember, no one here will hurt you, Andre."
Opening the door, he stepped inside a room that seemed to belong to a long gone era. Silver draperies hung from the ceiling, surrounding a huge carved wooden bed. The intricate designs were echoed in the rest of the furnishings. Moving towards the bed, Kieth began to undress.
Andre closed and locked the door. He walked up behind Kieth and slid an arm around the vampire's waist, pulling Kieth back against him. "And just who are you, exactly?" He brushed Kieth's hair from his neck and bent down, sliding his tongue along a bared shoulder.
His fingers slid into Andre's hair, encouraging the nuzzling. The warmth tingled against his skin, drawing out the desire for far more. "I am Kieth Solomon. A very old vampire. And the one interested in keeping you in one piece. Is there more you need to know?"
As he worked their clothes off with his free hand, Andre nipped at the slender throat exposed to him. "No coven life for you, then?"
"I have long passed the need for that kind of protection." Turning slowly, he help Andre remove his shirt. Slender, pale fingers run lightly over the heat of the were's skin while he slid the shirt off of Andre. "I am well enough protected here that I need no longer worry."
Arm still around Kieth's waist, Andre started backing the vampire toward the bed. "And you don't think I am an abomination?"
Tilting his head slightly to look up at Andre, Kieth let the were gently push him back to the bed. "You are too beautiful to be that, Andre. Both sides are in you, and now that I know what to look for, I can see it all."
Part Two
Andre chuckled, the sound husky, thick. Easing Kieth back onto the bed, he slid between the vampire's legs, pushing them apart with his own. "What is there to look for? I am me." His breath warmed Kieth's skin as his lips moved over it."You have no idea…" Kieth's voice trailed off distracted by the sensation of Andre's lips. His hands ran slowly over the were's arms then contoured over the muscles of his chest.
Talking forgotten, Andre moved over Kieth's body, tongue sliding across his skin, hair spilling down to brush Kieth's chest. One hand slid down to grip Kieth's hip, pinning him to the bed as Andre sucked Kieth's left nipple into his mouth.
Kieth's chest lifted slightly from the bed as he groaned softly. "Let me feel your teeth."
Gently, his nails raked upward to Andre's shoulders before one hand curled to his throat. His body squirmed slightly beneath the were, trying to feel all of him he could. Already having seen Andre's tall frame translated as well to cock size, Kieth was more than anxious to have that as well.
Andre's fingers curled tightly to Kieth's hip and he scraped his fangs over Kieth's chest. He shifted slightly and the length of his thick cock nestled in the crease of Kieth's ass. Andre sank his fangs in, sucking blood and nipple into his mouth.
The shudder of Kieth's body betrayed his own intense need when the pain and pleasure rippled through his body. Unable to stop the sound welling in his throat, his nails dug into Andre's skin but didn't break the surface. Letting go of the were, he reached quickly over, opening the drawer of the stand next to the bed. Drawing out the lube, Kieth had the feeling he really would be needing it.
"I know you can hear me. Make yourself ready for me."
Andre bit down harder and growled as his cock throbbed, full and aching.
Kieth could feel the intent beneath the hard edge of Andre's teeth. With the bite, Kieth dropped the tube. Yet he managed to fumble and get it open. Slicking his fingers, he shifted enough to insert his fingers in his ass, preparing himself for the were. As he wrapped his legs around Andre, he wiped his hand on the sheet beneath him.
"Gonna need more than that."
Grabbing blinding for the lube, Andre managed to get his fingers slick and stroked his cock before pushing two long fingers deep inside Kieth's body.
It was pretty damn clear, Kieth wasn't thinking too clearly at the moment. And when Andre's fingers entered him, he lost what little ability he had to think. His hips pushed to Andre's hand, body writhing to the pressure. "Andre. Sweet fuck."
Pulling away from Kieth's nipple, Andre licked the wounds and slid a third finger, working all three in and out of Kieth's body. Staring down into the vampire's eyes, he growled softly, "Yes."
Something in the intensity of the were's eyes should have warned Andre of what the were was doing. But all he could feel was the exquisite sensation in his body. The tightening heightened his arousal to a near unbearable level with the friction of Andre's fingers over his prostate. Desperately, his hands reached for Andre, curling tightly around his arms.
Just as he sensed Kieth on the razor sharp edge of release, Andre pulled his fingers out quickly and thrust his cock in, mouth crashing down on Kieth's as he surged deep into the vampire's body, stretching him open.
Pain blended with the mind-numbing pleasure and sent Kieth's body into a frantic rhythm, riding the cock inside him. Biting at Andre's tongue, his fangs pierced it, and he tasted the heady flavor of the heated blood. Every muscle in his body tightened as the pulses of his orgasm flooded him, leaving him completely lost within it.
Rocking hard against Kieth, Andre pulled back from the kiss and bared his throat, hips pushing him deeper inside the vampire's body. Claws pierced Kieth's skin and Andre held his hip, jerking him up to meet every thrust. "Drink…now!"
Raising his head, he struck quickly, fangs piercing Andre's throat. The tightening of his mouth drank deeply from the were, and the power within the blood left its own indelible mark on the vampire. Pain slid through Kieth's body with Andre's relentless grip on him, and his hips met the repeated, brutal penetration.
"Kieth!" The vampire's name echoed in a roar as Andre slammed into him, cock pulsing hard and deep. Andre's other hand was wrapped in Kieth's hair, holding the vampire to his throat.
Left in no doubt as to the possession of his body, Kieth clung tightly to the were, his fangs dug more deeply into his flesh with a sharper bite. The rich taste of the blood was far sweeter than what Kieth was used and when he'd finished, he finally released Andre's throat.
Andre slowed his movements, easing them both down from their mutual high. Groaning, he rested his head to Kieth's shoulder. "Damn."
Kieth was in a state of disbelief. Turning his head to see Andre, he looked totally bemused. "That would be an understatement."
Andre's chuckle was deep, highly amused. "Have I left the old vampire speechless?" He lifted his head and looked down at Kieth, grinning.
"Don't look so pleased with yourself, Andre." Chuckling, he slid his arms around Andre's neck.
"I can't say much," Andre murmured, lowering his head to brush his lips over Kieth's. "That stunned even me."
The touch of his lips molded to Andre's, and Kieth's tongue slid between them, tasting at the warmth within. He preferred to let his actions speak for him.
Without breaking the kiss, Andre pulled out gently and settled on the bed, pulling Kieth close. He smoothed his hands over Kieth's sides and back, just petting.
Relaxing fully beneath the touch, Kieth savored the taste of the were and his hands caressed every where he could reach. He had the feeling it would be a long night, and one he wouldn't readily be able to forget.
"Kieth, it is no laughing matter. As you well know." An indignant tone laced the words.
"But you come into my home, Dirk, then proceed to make ridiculous demands. And you expect me not to laugh at you?"
"You told me, and your exact words were, ‘I want your ass in my library in one hour. And I am here."
"I am tired of you camping out near my border, Dirk. You are here for me to tell you to take yourself elsewhere more healthy for you. You are not here to make demands of me." With a casual motion, Kieth draped his arm on the fire place mantle and drank his glass of brandy. He'd offered none to his guest which was a very bad sign, and one Raleigh was very conscious of.
"Kieth," Dirk sighed, twisting his hands together in an agitated manner, "I don't think you understand how dangerous he is. Andre Trevino is an abomination and must be taken out before he harms anyone."
Blinking the last of sleep out of his eyes, Andre froze in the doorway, body tense.
Kieth's silkily soft voice contained a thread of steel in its tone. "Do you wish to test my patience, Dirk? Shall we see who wins?"
Suddenly, an eerie aura radiated from Kieth. The sense of it swept through the room, chilling the temperature as he stared at Raleigh. Without even looking, he held his hand out towards Andre, beckoning the were to him and keeping Andre shielded from the menacing show of power.
Dirk tried not to cringe in his seat as he shifted uncomfortable. "No, I do not. It would be better if you simply handed him over. The council will take care of him as they see fit."
Andre walked around the edge of the room, sharp gaze fixed on Dirk sitting in the chair. When Dirk moved to stand, Andre growled. He slid his hand into Kieth's, and the look on his face dared Dirk to move a single muscle.
"I see," Dirk said, forcing himself back into his chair.
An odd smile curved Kieth's lips as his fingers curled to Andre's. "You see nothing. You will inform the council that if they wish to come against me, they are more than welcome to try. Until that time, you and they have no business with me. When you leave my home, you will take yourself back to the city. Am I understood, Dirk?"
Drawing Andre in close to his side, Kieth's eyes remained pinned on Raleigh. His features reflected an implacable firmness.
"He's Anathema, Kieth. You will regret it." Shooting a look of disgust at the were, Raleigh's lips curled in distain. "It is beneath you to protect one such as that."
Andre said nothing and turned his head. Brushing Kieth's hair away, Andre licked the side of the vampire's neck. His breath was hot as he slid his tongue over the smooth, pale skin.
"Disgusting," Dirk growled. He stood abruptly. "This is not the end, Kieth."
The slow tilt of his head encouraged Andre's attention, and his sharp voice cut through Dirk's words. "Enough. Get out of my house before you will have to be carried. If you remain anywhere near my property, you will face Megiddo."
Stalking towards the door, Dirk didn't answer him. One of Kieth's burlier servants escorted him towards the front door and out of the house.
Part Three
"They will come back for me," Andre murmured, lips moving over Kieth's throat.Relaxing beneath the warm drift of Andre's lips, Kieth chuckled. "Not likely. The council doesn't want to face an all out war with me. They will try to entice and bribe, but none are stupid enough to threaten me."
"You've yet to tell me who you are." Andre turned Kieth slowly, sliding his tongue over the hollow of the vampire's throat. "You hold quite a bit of power for one vampire, Kieth." Sliding an arm around Kieth's waist, Andre pulled him closer.
"I am older than even the council. That should suffice, Andre. And you are hungry. That is more important than any other matter." His hand moved upward, pressing the were in against his throat.
Andre fell silent and a soft growl rolled from his throat as he sank his teeth into Kieth's neck. He pressed Kieth back against the mantle, every strong pull of his mouth echoed in a push of his hips.
The mingling of pain and pleasure rippled though Kieth, and he responded to the press of Andre's body. A low groan rose in his throat as his fingers slid beneath the edge of the were's shirt. The dig of Kieth's nails raked over bare skin and the vampire's body went into full reactive mode.
Andre shuddered and closed the wounds before lifting his head. Staring into Kieth's eyes, he took one of Kieth's hands and moved it lower. Pressing Kieth's hand to his ass, Andre growled, "Fuck me."
Kieth's low growl answered him and his nails flexed into the fabric of Andre's pants. "Get upstairs."
The words were soft, yet undeniably an order.
Giving Kieth's lips a quick lick, Andre pulled away and left the room, tossing a ‘come hither' stare at the vampire before heading upstairs.
With the look, Kieth very swiftly moved up behind the were, caressing over his ass as they walked up the stairs. He'd been waiting for just such an invitation.
Crossing the threshold into the bedroom, Andre started undressing, letting his clothes fall to the floor where they may. By the time he reached the bed, he was nude. He turned and looked at Kieth, one hip cocked against the bedpost, arms crossed over his chest.
His gaze followed the were the entire time. Noting the cocky stance, he slowly undressed himself. Instead of just throwing his clothes around, he folded them and laid them on the dresser. "On the bed, Andre."
The velvet tone of the vampire‘s voice caressed to Andre's senses.
"Is this the part where I say ‘yes, Master?'" Andre's grin was positively wicked as he stretched out on his back, hands under his hand.
Though not as magnificently endowed as Andre was, the thickness of Kieth cock was damn close. Kieth was already as hard as a rock. Strolling towards the bed, he stilled at end of it, looking down at Andre. "I do like the sound of that. I'm going to have to make you say it more often."
The slow stroke of Kieth's hand ran up and down over his own cock in a tantalizing display, drawing Andre’s sharply focused gaze. "And how would you make me?" he asked, his voice gone deep and thick with lust.
A tingling raced over Andre's skin as the feel of an invisible hand ran slowly downward over his chest. Kieth remained where he was simply watching the were and playing with himself. A faint smirk appeared on his lips. "I'm sure I can find a way, Andre."
"Kieth…" Andre shuddered as the ghostly hand caressed his stomach, then lower to slide along the inside of his right thigh. Andre's hands dropped to the bed and he fisted the blanket, hips lifting when the hand cupped his balls. He spread his legs, hips rolling into the touch.
As Kieth knelt on the edge of the bed, his hand took over, gliding slowly upward over Andre's thigh. The ghost fingers brushed in feather-light touch over Andre's cock as Kieth's fingers slid beneath the were's balls, rubbing the sensitive skin beneath.
Andre spread his legs wider, gaze locked onto the vampire's. "Kieth." He groaned when invisible fingers wrapped tight around his cock. "Oh, God…"
Reaching for a jar that he kept on top of the nightstand, Kieth opened up and slicked some of the gel over his fingers. As he watched Andre squirm, his gaze darkened, taking a great deal of pleasure from the sight. The nudge of his fingers probed against the crack of the were's ass before a finger slid into him.
As the invisible hand stroked over him, the touch of other fingers pinched sharply at Andre's nipple. The whole thing was a simple exercise of power to Kieth.
Caught between dual sensations, Andre growled and fisted the blanket tighter in his hands. Legs spreading as wide as they could go, he pushed down on Kieth's finger. "More."
Adding another finger, Kieth stretched the tightness of Andre's ass, preparing him. The crook of his finger rubbed lightly over his prostate, adding to the welter of multiple sensations. A low growl emerged from the vampire as he fought the urge to just take the were. That tightness was a lure all its own.
"Fuck," Andre hissed, rocking his hips down hard on Kieth's fingers. "Please. God, please fuck me, Kieth."
The ghostly hands faded, leaving only the stroking and stretching of Kieth's fingers inside Andre. When he spoke, his voice was soft and careful. "You need to be prepared, Andre."
As he leaned forward, hovering over Andre, his fingers continued to work inside the were and Kieth pressed a lingering kiss to his lips.
"Never…" Andre gasped and whimpered, a sound quite unlike him. "You're the first." He groaned and grabbed Kieth's head, pushing his tongue deep into the vampire's mouth.
Returning the hungry kiss, his tongue stroked in circles over Andre's. Ending the kiss, Kieth lifted his head, whispering, "I know."
Uncertain of why Andre would offer himself to him, Kieth wanted to make sure his first time would be as painless as he could make it. As he withdrew his hand, he settled against him to guide the head of his cock to the crack of Andre's ass. As Kieth's cock stretched him open slowly, Andre groaned, fingers digging into Kieth's biceps.
"Relax and deep breath." Softly instructing him, Kieth's hand slid between them, curling to Andre's cock for a moment before a firm push of his hips penetrated the tight resistance. Once deep inside, Kieth stilled the movement of his hips but his hand continued stroking over the were's cock.
"Kieth!" Andre panted, struggling to relax his body. He didn't dare move, but it was so hard not to, so hard to keep from thrusting and rocking. "Kieth… Oh, God…" Eyes rolling back, Andre's breath left him and his hips jerked, thrusting up before rocking hard down on Kieth's cock. "Fuck me!"
Though he tried to still it, the writhing movement of Andre's body strengthened the need of Kieth's. With a groan, he rocked slowly before quickly withdrawing and thrusting back deeply into the were. The heat of Andre's body sent any hope of control or thought straight out the door. Lowering his head to the were's throat, Kieth's teeth nipped sharply at his skin as he began to fuck him with a brutal force.
The walls of the room seemed to vibrate from Andre's roar. Shaking violently, he came, clawing at Kieth's arms and back, baring his throat. "Yours," he growled. "Fucking do it."
He knew what Andre wanted, and what the were was doing. And Kieth allowed it to happen. As he bite into Andre's throat, several strong thrusts jarred Andre's body before Kieth came as well. Violent tremors rocked the vampire's in the explosion of pleasure. Kieth had claimed his body and now he possessed the were's mind as well, flooding him with the full knowledge power of who Kieth was. As he drank deeply from him, Kieth took everything that was freely given to him
Andre clung tightly to him, body trembling as the rush continued to wash through him. Speechless and breathless, all he could do was take in what he'd been given. He closed his eyes and held Kieth to him, his own mind forming an unbreakable bond with the vampire.
The hunger abated after a moment, and the tug of Kieth's mouth slowed to small sips of the were's blood. Bringing them both down gently, his hand caressed in slow, tender touches over Andre's arm and to his hip. Finally, he stopped feeding and lifted his head to look down at Andre. "You wanted me as your mate."
He wasn't questioning Andre. Kieth was making a simple statement of fact.
"I…" Realizing he couldn't deny it even if he wanted to, Andre nodded slowly.
Smiling slowly, his hand lifted to trace slowly over Andre's lips. "I've accepted what you want, Andre. I had the feeling you would be important to me in some way. I simply didn't understand it until now."
Andre parted his lips, licking softly at Kieth's fingers. "I realized I wanted you as my mate when I first kissed you," he whispered.
Kieth understood it would have been an instinctive need in Andre, and the vampire answered it. "I would protect you with my life if necessary. And you know who and what I am now. No one will harm you now. Not from your tribe or any of my kind."
The were relaxed with Kieth’s reassurance. For now everything was balanced in Andre’s world, and he was content to live in the moment.
Part Four
It had taken the Council more than a month to get up the nerve to send a message to Kieth. However, Kieth answered at his own leisure and it was three months later before he appeared in front of the Council, with Andre at his side. They were on Kieth's time now. The official Council meeting room looked stark and uninviting. Kieth was neither cowed nor impressed. In the middle of the overly large room stood one long table lined with uncomfortable chairs on which sat ten dour vampires.Pompous and arrogant, Dietrich started the proceedings. "You were called here because of the unacceptable nature of your alliance with that creature near you."
In a deceptively soft voice, Kieth interrupted him. "My alliance, as you call it, is of a deeply personal nature which is no business of this Council, Dietrich. And the man beside me has a name. It's Andre. You would be very wise to use it."
In a very short, effective manner, Kieth brought to their attention to two things: they didn't control the meeting, and he wouldn't allow them to classify Andre as a thing. The were glanced at each Council member, spending no more than a moment memorizing their faces.
When the outrage rose on several of the vampires' faces, Kieth reminded them of the true status they carried. Being the oldest by more centuries than they could count on their fingers, Kieth had no problem with the display. The spill of his power radiated outward from him and touched each member, following Andre's examination of them.
Only one dared to speak but Kieth sensed it was out of concern for him. "If he harms you…" Falling silent, Tatiana glanced at the other members before looking back at him. "We can't take a chance of that."
"Silence, Tatiana. Andre won't hurt me. A were cannot harm his mate, and I will protect my consort with my life."
The sound of their gasps echoed in the room, followed by protests.
"Impossible."
"He's an abomination."
Kieth made no overt movement with their outbursts and though his voice remained calm, the menacing expression was quite clear. "Andre is my consort. To speak against him is to speak against the one who created you."
Andre's hand slipped into Kieth's and the vampire could feel the were was doing his best to shield his own surprise. He'd known Kieth was powerful and far older than any of the other vampires in the room. He just hadn't quite understand his mate was the progenitor of the vampires.
Carefully Kieth studied each vampire. When he was done, he knew only two would give him a problem. Fixing his gaze on Raleigh, Kieth's tone maintained the same calm pace but was no less threatening. "Be very careful, Raleigh. Do not change my resolve to handle this matter peacefully."
The confrontational stiffness of Raleigh's posture eased, but he refused to meet Kieth's eyes. He appeared like he wanted to push it, but even Raleigh wasn't willing to repeat the abomination epitaph. To do so would be to call Kieth an abomination. None of them were willing to do that.
Once it became clear no one would refute the matter with him, Kieth continued, "You will extend the same courtesy and protection to Andre that you give to me."
After he finished speaking, three from his direct line stood up and bowed their heads to Kieth. With the show of unity the others stood as well and gave their own sign of agreement.
Tatiana spoke again, breaking the silence. "What of the weres, Kieth? They will not accept Andre."
"The Mother has agreed to meet with me after their Festival of Changing, so I will deal with them myself."
Andre blinked but showed no emotion other than a mild interest. A ripple of concern ran through the Council members, and Tatiana was the first to express it. She stood then walked towards Kieth. "You will need more protection than you have if she brings too many others with her."
"She will not." Smiling, he reached out for her hand then drew it his lips, pressing a light to the back of it. "You worry too much, child."
"You do not worry enough," she shot back with a wry smile when he released her hand.
Catching the jealous, suspicious look Andre directed at her, Tatiana laughed softly. "Already your mate is extremely territorial."
Smiling to show she'd taken no offense, she held her hand out to Andre. Hesitantly taking hold of it, he lifted it to sniff at her skin.
Several of the others stood from their seats then left the meeting. While they could do nothing, they still refused to deal on a one to one level with the were. However, those who were closer to Kieth remained.
Stepping back slightly, Kieth allowed the others to introduce themselves to his consort. Andre didn't seem to mind and because there were no shows of hostility, and Kieth relaxed against the back wall, watching silently.
***
When they returned to their home, the servants were busily preparing for The Mother's visit. Kieth wasn't at all nervous about it, but the same couldn't be said for Andre.
On the eve of her expected arrival Andre had taken to pacing back and forth in the library. Pouring them both a glass of brandy, Kieth watched him. "Andre, please do stop before you wear a hole in the rug."
"What if she doesn't accept me? Us?" In a gesture of agitation, Andre picked up his glass and downed the whole thing in one swallow.
"Whatever she decides you are safe here. And you always will be. I only asked to meet with her as a courtesy." Should matters escalate to an unpleasant level, Kieth would handle them.
"They won't accept me, and I don't have the power to force them to."
"Perhaps you are underestimating her ability to understand matters of the heart." Setting down his glass, Kieth stood and approached him. Laying his hand on Andre's arm, he pulled the were to him. "You are my consort, and I am your mate. Fate brought us together, and very few will seek to meddle with that."
The worried expression on the were's face softened. "I won't allow them to hurt you. I love you too much."
Andre towered over his lover, staring down at him then stooped enough to press a soft kiss to Kieth's lips. "You're my life now."
The sound of the butler clearing his throat drew them apart. Behind him stood a very old, fragile looking woman. "The Mother has arrived, Sir."
Kieth bowed gracefully to her as Andre froze beside him. Straightening, Kieth dismissed the butler with a small gesture then spoke to her. "Would you care to join us in a glass of brandy by the fire?"
Inclining her head regally, shrewd blue eyes glanced between them then she addressed Andre. "Sit down, pup."
Since she showed no signs of aggression towards Kieth, Andre moved to a chair near Kieth's and sat down. As she settled into another chair, Kieth poured three glasses of brandy then picked one up, handing it to her.
"It has been many years since I last talked with you, Kieth. I didn't even know you'd taken the young pup in until we heard the rumors of you choosing him as your consort."
Sitting in his own chair, Kieth ignored the incredulous look on Andre's face and took a sip of his brandy before saying anything. "The rumors are true, Askishka. Andre is my consort, and the council has been apprised of his position."
"Many of the younger members of my family were outraged as I guess were yours." She murmured then fell silent, taking a sip from her glass. A look of appreciation lit her face and she chuckled. "You spoil an old woman with such a fine brandy. Late 1700's if I'm not mistaken."
"You are correct on both points. It is 1782. I will make sure two bottles find their way to returning home with you when you leave."
Andre looked between them barely believing the conversation. Kieth laughed as his hand covered his lover's.
"Trying to bribe me, are you? Shame on you, Kieth. You haven't changed a bit."
"You expected me not to?" Kieth regarded her with an amused look.
"Mother, I--"
"Be quiet, pup. I will deal with you momentarily."
When Kieth's brow rose, she reached for the bottle of brandy, pouring herself another glass. "He is still partly my creature, Kieth. I will not reject him from the family. His tribe has already been punished for failing to inform me that he was bitten."
Directing a benevolent gaze at Andre, she gestured to him. "Come sit by me, young one. Your Mother will not harm you."
Her words relaxed the visible tension in Andre as he rose from his chair then moved to settle beside her.
"That's better." A gentle hand ran over Andre's hair, petting him as Akishka listened to Kieth.
"You have no problem with our relationship or with him?" He asked quietly.
"Of course not. You would be the best one, besides myself, to protect him."
"Then he need not remain here unless he wishes to." Thoughtfully Kieth studied Andre.
"That is between you and him, Kieth. None in my family will hurt him or they will face me." She continued petting Andre as the were glanced between them and stayed silent.
"I shall leave you two to talk." Nodding abruptly Kieth stood then bowed to her. Turning on his heel, he left the library and shut the door behind him.
Looking down at Andre, Akisha watched him solemnly. "It is your choice, child. You may remain here if you wish. Or return with me to your family." Lightly she patted his hand. "You decide your own fate."
Andre met her gaze and held it. "If I answer wrong do I get in trouble?"
"You think I don't already know your answer, pup?' Giving him a wry smile, she reached for the brandy decanter. "Kieth has left me well occupied so don't worry about leaving an old lady alone."
Not needing any more prompting, Andre jumped up and went for the door. He turned back for a moment, grinning at her. "Thank you, Mother."
"If you ever have need of your family, come to us. Now shoo." After waving him off, she settled back with her glass and sighed contently.
Shutting the door behind him, Andre hurried down the hall and towards the stairs. He had a feeling of where Kieth would be. Bounding up the stairs three at a time, Andre wasn't even out of breath when he reached the top. He opened the door and stepped out onto the roof.
"Kieth?" Andre stepped up behind the vampire and rested his hands on Kieth's shoulders, careful not to bump him from the precarious perch on the parapet ledge.
The vampire gave no answer other than to lean slightly back against Andre. He seemed lost in his study of the grounds below. Finally he spoke in a soft voice, "It is your choice what you do, Andre. Even I did not expect The Mother to be that lenient towards you."
"I want to stay with you," Andre said quietly. "But only if you want me. I don't want to cause trouble for you."
Frowning slightly, Kieth slowly turned to face him. Tilting his head to the side, his gaze lingered over Andre's face. "You are no trouble whatsoever to me. But what is it that really troubles you, Andre?"
Andre studied him in silence for a moment before speaking. "You're the Father. You created them all. How I can compare to any of that?"
"There is no importance to who I am." The frown altered to a slow smile and the tips of his fingers gently brushed over the curve of the were's face. "It is you and me, not what we are."
Turning his head slightly, Andre kissed Kieth's fingertips. "So long as you believe that, then I belong here. I would kill for you, die for you. You know this, right?"
"I know everything you feel, just as well as I know my own feelings." Sliding off the parapet, Kieth stood to nestle against him. "It was up to you if you wanted to remain with me, and you've decided that. You will be with me for a very long time."
Andre rumbled his pleasure and gripped Kieth's hair, tugging his head back for a kiss. With his other arm tight around the vampire's waist, Andre devoured Kieth, the kiss possessive.
Kieth answered the kiss without hesitation, allowing Andre to dictate whatever he wanted. A moment later he pulled back slightly, not saying a word He just led the were towards the doorway then down the stairs. When they reached their bedroom, he pulled Andre inside and quickly shut the door before he began undressing.
Growling, Andre swatted Kieth's hands away. Fixing an intent stare on the vampire, he asked, "Do you greatly value your clothing?"
Straightening with a laugh, Kieth shook his head as he held his arms up and away from his body. "No, not at all. Do whatever you will, my love."
Giving Kieth a rather toothy grin, Andre ripped the shirt in two, tossing the halves across the room. Kieth's pants quickly followed, meeting the same fate. Then Andre pushed him back against the door. Standing back, Andre only grinned as rich black fur began to cover him. Fingernails lengthened to claws and his teeth grew longer, the canines razor sharp. Though his body remained human, what stared at Kieth with golden eyes a moment later was wild, feral.
One hand ran through the softness of Andre's fur as Kieth slowly backed towards the bed. To Kieth, Andre was a perfect blending of the two lines. Someone to be treasured and loved. "You are such a beautiful creature and part of me as well."
Every step Andre took seemed to shake the room as he advanced slowly on Kieth. "My mate."
The deep timber of his voice and the words brought a shiver to Kieth's body. When the edge of the bed hit against his knees, Kieth slid back onto the covers. Lit with their own fire, his eyes never left Andre. "Aye, I am and belong only to you."
An iron grip seized Kieth's ankles and jerked him down until his ass was on the edge of the bed. Andre stood between his legs and what remained of the wolf's clothing drifted to the floor in shreds of fabric. Muscular thighs held Kieth's legs apart and Andre ran one claw up Kieth's body, from his waist to his throat. A scratch welled up, then healed slowly. Then Andre's fingers fanned out over Kieth's neck and he drug his hand downward, claws cutting through pale skin and drawing blood to the surface.
The slices left pain in their wake and Kieth made no attempt to stop him. Instead the arch of body and throat pressed into the cut of the were's nails, and the trembling reaction encouraged Andre. Staring up at him, Kieth rested his hands behind his head as he stared up into Andre's hungry eyes.
Gaze never leaving Kieth's, Andre slid his hand lower, a claw dragging along the hard flesh of Kieth's cock. "I could devour you. A feast laid out before me."
Laying back against the bed, Kieth's legs opened for him. As tightly linked to the were as he was, Kieth was aware of the sharp rise in intensity fully directed at him. "I would let you, Andre."
Andre muscled his way further up onto the bed, Kieth's thighs draped over his own. One massive hand rested on the bed beside Kieth's head and Andre leaned down. Within a few seconds, the wolf's face returned to that of a man's and Andre captured Kieth's mouth in a deep, forceful kiss.
Kieth's hands tangled tightly in his hair, keeping Andre's head down to prolong the bruising kiss. The need to be joined with his consort overwhelmed any other reason, and he squirmed beneath Andre, enjoying the rough feel of the fur against his skin. A soft growl pulsed from his throat, calling with its own urgent necessity.
Without breaking the kiss, Andre reached over to the bedside table and found the lube. He slicked his fingers and pulled back, intent on watching Kieth's face. Dipping his hand lower, he teased Kieth, one long claw scraping gently over sensitive, puckered skin.
His hips twisted anxiously beneath Andre with the scratch of his nail. Ending the kiss, a deep groan sounded from Kieth and his hands ran slowly over Andre's arms. When he spoke, his voice was a harsh whisper, "Take what yours, Andre."
The words were followed by a writhing of Kieth's hips, trying to impale himself. He little cared if there was pain or not. He wanted Andre too badly.
It took only the slightest bit of will and Andre's claw retracted, his finger pushing deep inside. A second finger joined it, then a third, all three stretching Kieth open, working in and out, twisting deeper inside him.
Mindless need overwhelmed Kieth, feeling Andre open him. He could only groan with it, his voice taken by the sheer sense of demanding desire. His fingers gripped tightly around Andre's arms as his ass pushed against Andre's hand, riding the maddening fiction.
Andre growled and withdrew his fingers. With a quick stroke to his cock to slick, he sank into Kieth in one hard thrust. Rising up on his knees, he grabbed Kieth's hips and tugged him up, driving his cock balls-deep as he let out an earth-shattering roar.
Kieth's deep cry filled the room as Andre took him. Joined as one, his body sought the deepest penetration. With no mind for anything else, the grind of his hip begged the were to fuck him. Each word from him came in in short, sharp tones. "Harder, love. Harder. Break me."
Andre pulled out and flipped Kieth over suddenly. Wrapping a hand tight in Kieth's hair, Andre drove back in, snarling as he jerked Kieth up and back, cock slamming into him over and over. He shifted again and snapped, sinking his teeth into Kieth's shoulder to pin him in place.
Not even wanting to struggle free, the jarring rhythm was meet by the hard line of Kieth's body straining back against Andre. His hand dropped to his own cock, beginning a frantic pace and pain echoed with the pleasure. He let Andre dominate him completely, and his thoughts opened to the beast possessing him.
Tearing away from Kieth's shoulder, Andre roared his victory as he came, filling Kieth with pulse after pulse of pure heat. Kieth's cry blended with the sound as his body shuddered uncontrollably with release before he collapsed back against Andre.
The shift back to human was quick and Andre eased them both down onto the bed, his cock slipping out of Kieth as they went. He peppered Kieth's shoulder with kisses where he'd bitten so hard only moments before. The beast inside was sated for the first time in all of his existence.
Twined quietly with his consort, Kieth relaxed as well. A soft murmur answered the press of Andre's lips to his skin. Turning his head slightly, Kieth studied his lover and the intimate details he loved so much. "Together we are one and always will be."
His kind aren't suppose to exist. Hunted on both sides by were and vampires alike, Andre runs for his life. Finding sanctuary within the Rockies, Andre hides from the vampire hunting him. His presence disturbs a very ancient creature, one who doesn't allow any others to disrupt his peace. And one who has the power to save or destroy Andre.
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