Date: Wed, 12 Mar 1997 23:42:53 -0700 Reply-To: Sarah Baker Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories From: Sarah Baker Subject: Northern Nights (1/6) To: FKFIC-L@PSUVM.PSU.EDU This is a 3rd season story - near the end but before the 'final four' episodes. If you've read "Southern Breeze", this is sort of a continuation. If you haven't, don't worry, you don't need the background. But be warned -- Dark Knightie tendencies are kicking in. The usual disclaimers apply -- I'm not making money writing this (I wish! ;-) ) Please e-mail -- I love the feedback, good or bad. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Northern Nights (1/6) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) "So, Nick," Tracy smiled at her partner as she plopped into her chair, "you look much better since your vacation." Nick looked up from the computer terminal and returned her smile. "I feel much better. I guess I didn't realize how much I needed the time off." Tracy nodded, more enthusiastically that was necessary, and Nick shot her a joking glare. After sharing a chuckle with his partner, Nick returned his attention to the screen. Background searches on victims could be very tedious, but someone had to do it. At least his attention span had increased a little lately, after his so-called 'vacation'. He felt a twinge of guilt when he thought about how close he had come to losing control, but it was stifled by the feeling of renewal that the rest of the trip had given him. It was amazing that Randolf always seemed to have such a positive effect on him. In nearly 800 years, Nick couldn't recall meeting another of their kind who made him feel so good about himself ... so hopeful. And Natalie had certainly seemed to enjoy the rest of the visit ... ---------- New Orleans, three weeks earlier ------------- "Oh, Nick," Natalie exclaimed as they descended the winding staircase, "I can't believe how beautiful this place is when it's cleaned up!" Nick felt her excitement through her grip on his arm. The room below them glistened with light from a chandelier and four or five dozen candles. Guests had been arriving for at least an hour, and were filling the main room in small clusters. They were dressed in tuxedos and blue jeans, and everything in between. In the far corner of the room, a string quartet filled the house with soft music. "Nicholas! Natalie!" Randolf met them at the bottom of the stairs. "You both look ravishing!" By way of slipping his arm through Natalie's free one, Randolf pulled her from Nick. "Come," he said to them both, "there is someone I want you to meet." Nick followed them across the room. They stopped in front of a woman who was obviously awaiting their arrival. "Nicholas, Natalie, may I present Anna Erbelding?" Nick was momentarily stunned by the woman's beauty. Blonde hair framed her delicate shoulders that were exposed by the black evening gown hugging her shapely figure. Her green eyes glistened like emeralds caught by a stray sunbeam. With a smile that was truly warm and kind, she offered Nick her hand. "If you two are responsible for this delightful change in Randy, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart," she said in a voice that was as warm as her smile. "I had almost given up." Nick took her hand and kissed it with a nod. He watched the color rise in her cheeks. "No wonder!" she exclaimed, "you're two peas in a pod!" Anna smiled coyly at Randolf as he slipped his arm into hers. "Anna has been my one true friend. She has visited me faithfully since ... since Marie ..." Randolf's voice faltered. Nick reached over and squeezed his arm. "I guess I didn't realize what I had until you two showed up," Randolf continued. "Well, I'm glad we could help," Natalie smiled. Nick stepped closer to Natalie and put his arm around her waist. It felt so good to have her close. She was the only woman in the room who could outshine Anna. "There are so many more people that I want to introduce you to," Randolf said half-heartedly. "Don't worry, Randolf, I think we can mingle on our own," Nick responded. "Besides," he said, turning to Natalie, "this is one of my favorite waltzes. Would you care to dance?" "I would be delighted," she replied, and followed him to an empty spot in the room. Nick took Natalie in his arms and led her in a slow waltz. They neatly avoided bumping into anyone, and were soon joined by several more couples on the makeshift dance floor. "Well," Natalie whispered conspiratorially, "it looks like Randolf found a very good friend at the party." "Yes, it does," Nick agreed. "Nick, is she ..." Nick leaned close to her ear. "Mortal," he whispered. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - "Nick?" Tracy's voice broke through. "Did you hear what I said?" "No, Tracy, I'm sorry. I was just thinking." Tracy nodded at the phone. "I *said* that was Jenkins from the front desk. You have a visitor." "Oh, thanks," Nick answered, rising from his chair. As he approached the front desk, his pace slowed. A mild tingling ran through his body; there was another vampire in the room. It wasn't LaCroix. Apprehension was taking over as he rounded the corner. All eyes in the front room were on the pale man who stood uncomfortably at the front desk. Even in his modern sports coat, he looked completely out of place in time. The wavy brown hair was longer than fashionable, and his dark eyes smoldered with dark secrets. "Randolf!" Nick exclaimed as he pushed through the swinging gate. The two vampires embraced, oblivious to the surprised onlookers. "What are you doing here?" Nick asked, his hands on Randolf's shoulders. One look at the younger vampire's face melted Nick's smile. "What's wrong?" he asked in a low voice. "Nicholas, I'm here to see you." Randolf glanced quickly around. Nick, suddenly aware of where they were, dropped his hands from Randolf's shoulders and also scanned the room. Each face that he saw was turning politely away from them, trying to find something else to look at. "Come with me," Nick said as he grabbed Randolf's elbow and lead him to the bullpen. "Tracy, this is a very good friend of mine who has just dropped in from out of town. Randolf, my partner, Tracy Vetter." Tracy closed her mouth as she stood up. She offered Randolf her hand, which he took and kissed. "Charmed," he purred. Tracy didn't respond. She was frozen, staring at the tall, pale man. He moved as if he was liquid, and his eyes were nearly black against his translucent skin. His face was flawless. "Tracy?" Nick interrupted with a smirk. "Uh ... yes ... uh, nice to meet you. From out of town?" "Yes. I'm visiting from New Orleans," he replied with a smile. "Wow," Tracy said, having recovered her wits, "that's a long way to come for a visit." Randolf shrugged and smiled. "Look, Randolf, let me give you directions to my place. I'll meet you there as soon as my shift is over," Nick said. "Uh, Nick, I can cover for you if you want to take off. There's only an hour left anyway." Tracy spoke to her partner, but couldn't stop staring at the visitor. If she didn't know better, she would swear he was a ... , she told herself, "Are you sure?" Nick asked her. "Yeah, I'm sure. You go ahead. There's nothing much happening anyway." "Thanks, Trace," Nick said as he grabbed her arm. "I owe you one." Nick nodded to Randolf and started toward the door. Randolf smiled at Tracy and turned to follow. Tracy watched the two of them leave together. Strange how similarly they moved. , she thought, End part 1. Date: Wed, 12 Mar 1997 23:45:36 -0700 Reply-To: Sarah Baker Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories From: Sarah Baker Subject: Northern Nights (2/6) To: FKFIC-L@PSUVM.PSU.EDU Please see part 1 for disclaimers. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Northern Nights (2/6) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) Nick crossed the loft with two glasses and handed one to his guest. "So what's going on, Randolf?" he asked as he sat on the sofa and sipped from his glass. The younger vampire didn't answer right away. He enjoyed a long drink with his eyes closed. Nick waited patiently. "Nicholas, do you remember meeting Anna?" Nick smiled at the question. "Of course." He watched his friend's eyes move up from the glass to meet his own. Randolf matched Nick's smile. "She *is* incredibly pleasing to the eye, isn't she?" "Yes." Nick broke the gaze and looked down at his own glass. "And she's much more than that, Nicholas. She is the loveliest soul I've met since Marie. I do believe," Randolf paused, dropping his voice to a whisper, "that I've fallen in love with her." Nick looked up and found Randolf watching him as if waiting for a response. He wondered what response to give. Nick thought about Natalie. He understood the joy Randolf felt, but he also knew what was in store for him. The muscles in Nick's stomach tightened as he thought about the desire he felt constantly when he was around Natalie ... the desire that could not be quenched ... the desire that nearly cost Natalie her life just a few short weeks ago. How could he tell Randolf that he was truly happy for him? "Nicholas?" "Randolf," Nick began tentatively, "there are many problems involved in a relationship between a mortal ... and a vampire." Nick frowned at the thought. "My poor Nicholas," Randolf smiled with pity. Nick looked at him questioningly. "You have told me of your desires, but I do not have those." Nick's questioning look turned to disbelief. "What do you mean?" "I mean that I do not desire Anna's blood. I have never tasted human blood, Nicholas." "Yes ... I know that." Nick stood up and paced the room as he spoke. "But you're telling me that you can be ... close to Anna ... and not want her blood?" He stopped and looked at Randolf. "Yes." Nick's face darkened. "I don't understand." "Neither do I, my friend, but it's true." Nick glared at the fireplace. He felt anger growing inside him. If he had to be a vampire, why could he not have been like Randolf? How could a vampire exist that was not truly evil? It was not fair that he had to work so hard at controlling the Hunger. He wanted to scream, or hit something. The glass in Nick's hand shattered. Randolf flew to Nick's side and put his hand on the older vampire's shoulder. "Nicholas," he whispered, "I'm sorry that I have upset you." Nick felt the anger and frustration pulled from his body by the hand on his shoulder. The effect was truly amazing, and he closed his eyes to enjoy it. How could he be angry about the good fortune of this man? He would think about his own shortcomings later. Right now he needed to help Randolf in any way that he could. Nick opened his eyes and covered Randolf's hand with his own. "I'm sorry. I guess you just took me by surprise. I'm all right now. I *am* truly happy for you." Nick smiled sincerely. Randolf released Nick's shoulder and returned slowly to his chair. Nick left him just long enough to wash the glass and blood from his hand and pour himself a new drink. He decided he would clean up the mess on the floor later. Nick returned to his seat on the sofa. The two vampires sipped their drinks, silently enjoying each other's company. They both knew that dawn was not far away. Nick remembered when they had been together like this recently, waiting for dawn. - - - New Orleans, three weeks earlier - - The air on the front porch was releasing it's pre-dawn moisture. Nick drew circles in the dew droplets on the arm of the wooden porch swing and enjoyed the sounds of the distant locusts in the oaks. The city was nearly quiet. "Ah, Nicholas, that was fun, was it not?" Randolf asked as he stretched out in a whicker chair to Nick's right. Nick smiled into the darkness. "Yes, it was. But your parties were always fun, my friend." "I do believe that you were enjoying yourself," Randolf raised one eyebrow suggestively. "Yes," Nick nodded. "I would not have believed that I could be so close to Natalie and be ... in control ... after the other night..." Randolf touched his friend's arm reassuringly. "It must be your influence, Randolf. I don't understand why or how, but you are very good for me." "I don't understand either." The front door opened and Natalie stepped onto the porch carefully. "Where in the heck are you two?" Natalie jumped as Nick appeared instantly at her side. "Here," he whispered into her ear. "Nick! I asked you not to do that!" She steadied herself with his arm. "I'm sorry," he said, grinning wickedly. "Please join us." Nick led Natalie through the darkness to the swing, where he sat down beside her and put his arm around her shoulders. She shivered slightly at the cool dampness and snuggled closer to him. "And did you enjoy the little get-together, Natalie?" Randolf asked. "Oh, is that what you call a party with a string quarter and fifty people?" she quipped. "A 'little get-together'?" All three of the porch inhabitants chuckled. "Yes, Randolf, I did enjoy it," Natalie added more seriously. "Thank you very much." "Ah," Randolf sighed, "you are more than welcome. I had forgotten how much fun it could be." Silence reigned as they enjoyed the soft stirring of the cool night air. A stronger breeze brought a hint of traffic noise in from St. Charles Avenue and caused Natalie to shiver. "Are you okay?" Nick whispered to the top of her head. "Would you rather go in?" "I'm fine, Nick," Natalie answered with a smile in her voice. "This is nice." Nick wanted badly to agree out loud, but refrained from commenting. "So, Randolf," Natalie said quietly, realizing that both vampires could hear her quite well, "Anna is really something." Natalie could neither hear nor see his nod, but imagined it and continued. "Have you ... told her?" "No," he whispered back. "Will you?" There was a moment of silence before he answered. "Probably. It isn't the kind of thing you keep from someone you care deeply for." Nick squeezed Natalie's shoulder to emphasize the truth in Randolf's comment. "Of course ... there is the fear of scaring her away." "Well," Natalie responded, "it looked to me like she also cares deeply for you." "Do you really think so?" Randolf asked with the eagerness of a teenager. "Yes, I do," Natalie answered. Nick thought he felt her suppressing a chuckle. He immediately saw the humor in a mortal woman in her thirties giving a two-hundred year old vampire love advice. He was not as successful at holding back as Natalie had been. Soon they were both laughing, and trying hard not to. "What is so funny?" Randolf asked indignantly. Within a few minutes, he had joined their laughter, even though he had no idea what they were laughing about. - - - - - - - - - - - - - "Did you tell her?" Nick asked, breaking the silence. "Yes," Randolf responded with a frown. Nick assumed from Randolf's expression that it did not go well. "What happened?" "Well, she was surprised. Then she was intrigued." Randolf sipped his drink. "She actually accepted it quite well." Nick's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "That's good, isn't it?" "Yes," Randolf answered with a brief smile. "Randolf, I don't understand. What's the problem?" "The problem is that I must bring her across." Randolf sighed. "She's dying, Nicholas. Anna has cancer and will not live another year." Their eyes met in an intense stare. Again, Nick was at a loss for the appropriate answer. What would he do if he was faced with the same situation? Would he bring Natalie across? How could he condemn her to the hellish existence he endured? And, yet, would he be able to watch her face an early death? He honestly didn't know. He had certainly brought others across for less reason. "Randolf..." he began, but stopped. "Nicholas, I know what you want to say. We have considered this decision in great length; it certainly wasn't made lightly. It is what we both want." Randolf stared at his glass. "I want this more than life itself." The intensity of this statement sent a shiver through Nick. "So have you come to me for advice?" Nick asked, still confused about the reason for this visit. "No, Nicholas, I've come to you for help." "Help?" "Yes, help. You know that I have never tasted mortal blood, Nicholas. I am afraid that, if I ever do, I will suffer as you have. I am here to ask your help in bringing Anna across." Nick stared at the younger vampire in disbelief. He realized in a flash that Randolf was completely serious, and expected him to bring Anna across. Nick jumped up and crossed the room. He stood on the far side of the fireplace, glass in hand, and faced his friend. "Randolf, I owe you my life. You know I would do anything for you, but this ... I can't do what you ask. I'm truly sorry." "Nicholas, I'm begging you to do this for me." Nick's voice deepened. "I can't. You don't understand. If I brought Anna across, she would be like ... me. She would hunger for mortal blood. She would share my eight centuries of torture with the first taste of my blood." "Yes, I understand this, Nicholas. I *have* thought about it. It must be my blood that she tastes. It would have to be a collaborative effort." Nick stepped closer to the seated vampire. "There's more to it than that, Randolf. I have fought very hard to avoid human blood for a long time. You *saw* what nearly happened just a few weeks ago. What you're asking is ... unfair." Nick walked back across the loft and stood with his back to Randolf. "Nicholas, if there was anyone else that I could ask ... and trust ... I would. But there is not. I'm trusting you with something more precious to me than life." Nick cringed and closed his eyes. How could he do this? But how could he deny Randolf any request? "I also know that you have ... experience in these matters. I do not," Randolf added quietly. Nick nodded his head. "I do, but it has not always been successful." "I understand the risk, and so does Anna." Nick stood silently for several moments. "I need to think about this, Randolf. Can we continue this discussion tomorrow night?" "Of course, Nicholas." Randolf rose from his chair, gently placing the glass on the coffee table, and headed toward the door. Nick caught the movement out of the corner of his eye. "Where are you going? I assumed you would stay here." Although he was still upset about the nature of his friend's request, there was hurt in Nick's voice. "I'm sorry, Nicholas. Anna is here with me. I left her at the hotel and promised I'd return. I will be back tomorrow as soon as the sun sets. Will that be all right with you?" "Yes, of course." Nick joined Randolf and walked him the rest of the way to the door. "We will talk more about this tomorrow night." End part 2. Date: Wed, 12 Mar 1997 23:47:12 -0700 Reply-To: Sarah Baker Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories From: Sarah Baker Subject: Northern Nights (3/6) To: FKFIC-L@PSUVM.PSU.EDU Please see part 1 for disclaimers. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Northern Nights (3/6) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) "He left a little early," Tracy whispered as she worked her way into her coat. "A friend of his showed up from New Orleans, so I told him I'd cover for him." "Randolf?" Natalie asked, not attempting to hide her surprise. "Yeah, I think that was his name. Incredible looking guy . . . black eyes and long, dark hair." Tracy raised her eyebrows to emphasize 'incredible'. "Do you know where they went?" Natalie wondered why Randolf would show up in Toronto so shortly after Nick's visit. From what little Nick had said, she'd gathered that the time between their last visits had been considerably longer. "Sounded like they were headed to Nick's place," Tracy answered while locking her desk drawer and pocketing the keys. "Thanks, Trace," Natalie responded. "See you tonight." "Sure thing," Tracy replied, her voice only slightly perky after the long shift of paperwork. Natalie walked from the building and to her car. She hated to show up at Nick's unannounced, but she wanted to help entertain Randolf. He had certainly been more that just a gracious host to them. She could call, but it was so close to dawn that they would probably be asleep. Maybe she could sneak in and wake Nick up, if he wasn't completely 'asleep' yet. Something was tugging at the back of Natalie's consciousness. Why had Randolf come here? Had Nick asked him to? Was there something going on that she didn't know about? Nick had seemed much better since they returned; she hoped that was truly the case, and that Randolf had just shown up to visit. * * * * * * * * * * * * "Nick?" Natalie called quietly as she tiptoed into the loft. The kitchen light was still on, but it was the only one lit. Maybe Nick was asleep on the sofa. He would certainly have given Randolf his room. "Over here, Nat," a deep, gravely voice answered from the sofa. Natalie knew it was Nick, but she certainly didn't like the sound of this. Assuming that Randolf was asleep upstairs, Natalie gently laid her purse on the table and quietly crossed the room. She could just make out the top of Nick's head over the back of the sofa. Natalie felt her heart rate jump as she rounded the corner of the sofa and saw Nick. He was stretched out with his feet crossed in front of him and held a bottle on one thigh. Although Natalie couldn't quite see his face, she could see his eyes glowing. "Nick?" she asked tentatively, "what's going on?" He didn't respond. She felt his stare boring into her soul. Natalie walked quickly to the stereo and flipped on the light. When she turned back to Nick, he had turned his face away. She sat down on the sofa, several feet from him, and watched. After several moments, Nick slowly turned his face back towards her. The vampire was gone, but he looked haggard. "What's going on, Nick?" Natalie asked again. "Is Randolf upstairs?" "No." He looked as though he was going to continue, but didn't. "But he's here in Toronto, isn't he?" Nick suddenly got up from the sofa and walked to the fireplace. He stared at the cold, dark logs. "You shouldn't be here, Natalie. I have something to work out, and I need to do it on my own." "Oh, and you're doing such a *good* job," Natalie said as she rose from the sofa, her voice dripping with sarcasm. Nick glared at her for a moment, and then looked back at the fireplace. Natalie took a deep breath and released it quickly. She walked to Nick and put her hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry, Nick. I don't know what's going on, but please don't shut me out. Maybe I can help." She felt Nick sag under her hand. "Nat, you can't help this time." Nick's voice was nearly a whisper. "How do you know? I can do a lot of things," Natalie responded, squeezing his shoulder playfully. Nick turned his head towards her slowly, capturing her eyes with his. He raised one eyebrow. "Can you make a vampire?" he asked seriously. Natalie dropped her hand to her side. "What?" "You heard me." "Nick, what are you talking about?" Nick walked past Natalie and place the bottle on the coffee table. He flopped down in the leather chair and waited. Having recovered from the initial shock his question had caused, Natalie sat on the end of the sofa closest to him and waited. After running his hand through his hair, Nick relayed the story of Randolf's visit to Natalie. She listened in silence. When he stopped speaking, Natalie asked, "What are you going to do?" Nick threw his head back on the chair in frustration. "I don't know," he said to the ceiling. "I've been thinking about it for hours." "Nick ... " Natalie hesitated, "I don't pretend to understand the relationship you have with Randolf." Nick rolled his head to the side and looked at her. His eyes told her that there was no way she could understand it. Natalie tried to ignore the hurt that looked caused; there were so many things about Nick that she would never truly understand. "And I'm sure you know how I feel about you drinking human blood..." Nick rolled his head back towards the ceiling. "But, I'm not going to try to influence your decision," Natalie continued. "And I want to help you ... whatever you decide to do." Nick turned his head toward her more quickly this time, his eyes filled with question. "I'm serious, Nick," she added, her eyes meeting his with intensity. Nick broke the gaze as he sat up and dropped his head into his hands. "Damn," he muttered. Natalie rose from the sofa and stood next to Nick, rubbing his shoulders gently. "Look, Nick, you need some sleep. This is getting you nowhere. Call me when you get up, okay?" Nick simply nodded into his hands. Natalie smiled down at him, her heart filled with pity. She hadn't seen him struggling this hard in a long time. She knew that what she had told him was true, that she would help him no matter what he decided. Natalie walked to the elevator, picking her purse up on the way. She stopped halfway through the door and looked back. Nick hadn't moved. * * * * * * * * * * * * The demand of the phone pulled Natalie from her fitful sleep. It was all she could do to wake up enough to find the ringing monster. "'lo," she mumbled into the receiver. "Nat, I *do* need your help," Nick's voice responded. Natalie sat up in bed, suddenly awake. "How?" she asked. "I need ... three pints of blood." "Nick ..." Natalie hesitated, her body suddenly shaking, "you've decided to do it?" "Yes," came the quiet reply. "Any special requirements?" she asked. There was a moment of silence before he answered. "Just that it be human." Natalie pushed back the tears that were threatening to attack. The thought of Nick drinking human blood made her heart sink, but she had promised. "Okay, Nick. I'll be there in a little while. I'll have to swing by the lab first." "Thanks, Nat." His voice was lacking the smile that usually laced his phone calls. Natalie returned the receiver to the cradle and stared at it for a minute before throwing back the covers and jumping out of bed. Sydney complained in earnest when the comforter suddenly covered his head. End part 3. Date: Thu, 13 Mar 1997 12:28:28 -0700 Reply-To: Sarah Baker Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories From: Sarah Baker Subject: Northern Nights (4/6) To: FKFIC-L@PSUVM.PSU.EDU Northern Nights (4/6) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) "I'm not sure that you truly understand the dangers," Nick said, pacing the room in front of the sofa. Sitting, watching him pace, were Randolf and Anna, holding hands. The conversation was interrupted by the arrival of the elevator. Natalie appeared in the doorway, black bag in hand. The three of them turned to watch her enter. Natalie rested the bag on the table and opened it. She pulled out three plastic containers and placed them gently next to the bag. Nick crossed the room, followed by Randolf. Anna stood in front of the sofa. Randolf stopped a few feet in front of Natalie, Nick at his side. "Natalie," he purred, "it's very good to see you again." Natalie looked at him seriously. "I can't say that I agree with this." "Yes, I know," he responded, dropping his head apologetically. "Nicholas has explained your feelings to us. I am all the more grateful for your help." Natalie gave him a half-hearted smile. Nick stepped up to Natalie and held her arms. "Thank you," he whispered as he kissed the side of her head. "I'll call you later." Natalie ignored the dismissal and started to remove her coat. "What are you doing, Nat?" Nick asked as he stepped back. "I said I would help," she answered as she deposited her coat over the back of a chair, "and that's what I'm going to do." Nick stood in front of her. "No," he said emphatically, "you can't stay for this." "And why not?" she asked, matching his tone. Nick looked at her and winced. "I don't want you to see this, Nat." "What exactly is it you don't want me to see?" she asked, one eyebrow raised. "Me, Nat," he said, his voice lowered. "I don't want you to see me." "I've seen you do this before, Nick," she reminded him, her voice also lowered. Nick thought about Richard and winced again. "But this is different, Nat." "How so?" she asked as she stepped around Nick and reached into her medical bag to rearrange the contents. Nick looked around the room, searching for a reason. He didn't want to explain to Natalie how much he hated for her to see the vampire. She was right; she had seen it before. Too many times. Every time it happened, it tore him up inside. "I'm not even sure this is going to work," he said, realizing how lame this excuse sounded. "All the more reason for me to stay," Natalie stated. Nick knew by the tone of her voice that the decision was made. He couldn't make himself push her away. Randolf returned to Anna's side and took her hands in his. Natalie stole a glance at them and then watched Nick as he picked up the bags of blood from the table and walked to the kitchen counter. In silence, he snipped the top off of one bag and poured it into a glass. He then took a bottle from the refrigerator and poured it into a second glass. Both glasses in hand, he walked slowly into the living room. "You'll need this," he said to Randolf, as he handed one of the glasses to him. Randolf released Anna's hands and took the glass. "Thank you," he said as he motioned Anna to the sofa. They sat together as Randolf dutifully drank from his glass. Natalie carried her bag into the living room and tucked it beside the chair where she sat quietly. Nick settled into the chair across from her. He looked purposefully into her eyes as he took a long drink from his glass. Nick had not had human blood since his shooting incident, more than a month ago. The taste was sweet as it slid down his throat. Although this blood was not completely fresh, it still contained a hint of the young man who had donated it. His head reeling with the influx of emotion, Nick slowly closed his eyes. Deep inside him the vampire moaned with delight. He took another drink, and then finished off the glass. When the emotional onslaught subsided, Nick got up and refilled his glass. He brought the bottle of his own stock from the kitchen for Randolf, handed it to him, and returned to his seat. The silence was getting uncomfortable for Natalie. She leaned toward Anna. "Are you sure you want to go through with this, Anna?" All eyes rested on Anna, waiting for her response. She squeezed Randolf's hand and smiled into his eyes before looking at Natalie. "Yes," she said with determination, "I'm sure. I have waited all my life for love, and now that I've found it, I'm not giving it up without a fight." Natalie looked at Nick, obviously identifying with this remark. He avoided her look and drank from his refilled glass. The new waves of emotion pulled Nick away from the conversation that continued in the room. He needed to adjust very quickly to the effects, so that he would be able to maintain control at the critical moment. Even as the vampire was surfacing to take over his thoughts, there was still enough of Nick left to feel panic and fear. It had been such a long time since he'd taken the life's blood from a human. He knew how possible it was that he'd take too much in the overwhelming heat of the moment. The memories of all those who had died in his arms over the past centuries began to rise. Nick felt the pleasure and desire, as if it each kill had been only moments ago. He felt the vampire taking over, and stopped resisting. A low growl filled the room as Nick opened his eyes. "It's time," he hissed. The other three occupants of the room jumped slightly at the sudden appearance of fangs. End part 4. Date: Thu, 13 Mar 1997 14:06:53 -0700 Reply-To: Sarah Baker Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories From: Sarah Baker Subject: Northern Nights (5/6) To: FKFIC-L@PSUVM.PSU.EDU X-Status: Northern Nights (5/6) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) Nick carefully placed his glass on the floor beside the chair and rose. His motions were completely fluid and slow. As he walked toward Anna, he pushed the coffee table aside with no apparent effort, and without slowing his progress. Anna, Randolf, and Natalie stood. Randolf released Anna's hand and moved aside as Nick stopped in front of her. The vampire stared into her eyes, his own eyes taking on a red glow. Nick listened, waiting for the beating of her heart to fill his ears and head. It started softly, and grew until it was nearly deafening. The vampire soared with delight. The human in him fought to maintain a small degree of control. He reached out and placed his hand behind Anna's neck, enjoying the warmth and fear. Her entire body shook under his touch. He released the vampire and allowed his thoughts to reach out for hers. The scent of her blood was calling to him. He pulled her closer until her face was only inches from his. "Do not resist," Nick whispered, his voice low and seductive. "Release your will to me." Natalie watched, both horrified by and drawn to the sight. She felt her stomach turning at the smile on Nick's face. It wasn't the smile that had greeted her so often in the past few years, full of warmth and friendship. It was purely evil and terrifying. Natalie grabbed her stomach and backed up a step, unable to pull her eyes from the vampire. Randolf stood close to Nick, one step behind him. He reached out and touched Nick's shoulder, both in fear and support. He had never seen Nicholas like this, and had not quite imagined it correctly. "No!" Nick roared. "Don't touch me!" Randolf jerked his hand back. The touch had threatened to shake the vampire from it's mission. The unexplained calming effect that Randolf usually had was not what Nick needed at this point. Once the distraction was removed, the vampire focused again on the willing prey before him. Anna's eyes began to glaze over as the vampire pushed his way into her mind. The force was seductive and powerful, impossible to resist. Her last conscious thought was that she would not have been able to escape if she had wanted to. Nick wrapped his free arm around Anna's waist to hold her up as she threatened to fall backwards. When her eyes closed, he pulled the blonde hair away from her neck. It was so easy to spot the pulsing vein just below her skin. He watched it rise and fall, resisting the urge to rip it open instantly and release the flow of warm, sweet blood. The vampire sang with joy in Nick's head, matching the beating of Anna's heart. With a low growl, Nick closed his eyes and pushed his fangs gently through the warm skin and into the fountain of hot blood. He pulled Anna close so that her entire body was pressed against his and slowly drained her life. Natalie was unable to suppress the gasp that escaped when Nick's fangs entered Anna's neck. His movements were so incredibly sensuous that she felt a rage of jealousy rising. At the same time, she was appalled and repulsed by the act. Natalie couldn't remember when her emotions had been so strong and so mixed up. It felt as though there was some external force working on her brain. Nick listened to Anna's heartbeat fading. The Beast urged him on, urged him to drain the last drop from her limp body. The emotions he felt in her blood were intense and immediate. He felt her lonely childhood, a rich and isolated girl afraid to venture from her room. He saw her caring, but usually intoxicated mother, unable to supply the nurturing the girl so desperately needed. He felt the disappointment of a father who so rarely appeared in her life, and never shared himself. Nick knew, as if the experience was his own, the excitement she felt at meeting Randolf. He felt the intense love, and experienced the lovemaking they had shared. The image of Randolf, his eyes human and full of love, filled Nick's head. The effect was nearly the same as Randolf's touch, and with something close to a roar, Nick pulled his fangs from Anna's neck. Nick easily lifted Anna's chilled body and laid her carefully on the sofa. He knelt in front of her and tenderly pulled the hair away from her eyes, stroking the side of her soft, beautiful face. Listening as he knelt, he heard the slow, desperate beating of her failing heart. "Now!" Nick growled back at Randolf. Randolf rushed forward and knelt next to Nick. His eyes were frantic as he looked from his dying love to the vampire beside him. "What do I ..." Randolf pleaded. Nick grabbed his friend's arm roughly and ripped the flesh of his wrist open with his fangs. Randolf winced, but did not resist. Nick held the open wound over Anna's unmoving lips, making sure the blood dripped between them. "Talk to her," Nick demanded. "Tell her to drink. Now!" Randolf leaned forward, stroking Anna's head with his free arm. "Drink, my love," he whispered to her. "Come back to me. Please!" Nick listened to the heartbeat fading. Anna was not responding. He knew she was standing at the doorway, and he needed to call her back. The vampire could not allow her to cross over into the light. "Anna," Nick growled softly, "come back. Drink!" Responding to his command, Anna swallowed. She reached up and wrapped her hands around Randolf's arm, greedily pulling it to her mouth. Nick released his own hold on Randolf's arm and sat back on his heels. He watched carefully, trying to gauge how much blood Anna took. He knew that Randolf would not know when to withdraw and remembered the urge he had felt to give all of his blood for a fledgling's first drink. When Randolf started to slump, Nick lunged forward and pried Anna's fingers loose. "Enough!" he commanded. With Randolf's arm removed, Anna opened her eyes. They were a vampire's eyes, but much softer than any Nick could remember seeing before. Randolf smiled at her and then took her into his arms. They held each other silently. Nick backed across the floor until he reached the chair. Leaning against it, he drew up his knees and dropped his head onto his arms. The vampire raged, demanding to be released. The blood had not satisfied the longing, but intensified it. Nick fought, recalling the picture of Randolf. If he could only hold that picture in his mind long enough, he would be able to subdue the Beast. Natalie was frozen in place, watching all that occurred. She had not expected it to end so tenderly, and was deeply touched by the sight of Anna and Randolf embracing. She watched Nick withdraw. Her heart ached at the thought of his struggle. Her first instinct was to run to his side and hold him, but some spark of sanity stopped her. She had just witnessed a side of Nick that truly terrified her. What amazed her, though, was that it didn't dampen the love she felt for him. The scientist in her tried to analyze this phenomenon, but failed miserably. Subconsciously, she filed it away for later examination. Having won the hardest part of the battle, Nick raised his head and rested it on the seat of the chair. His eyes were closed, because the remnants of the vampire remained. It was much easier now, however, because it was the only the bit of the monster that he fought daily. He took a deep breath and slowly blew it out. "Nick?" Natalie's voice was timid, something he wasn't used to. Nick smiled. When he was sure that the vampire was under control, Nick opened his eyes and raised his head. His eyes met Natalie's. She was close, kneeling in front of him. Her hand was outstretched, but she hesitated to make contact. Nick reached out and took Natalie's hand. He held it to his lips for a moment, reassured by her presence. "I'm okay now," he whispered into her palm. Natalie reached forward with her free hand and replaced a stray blonde curl. Nick looked completely worn out. Now that it was over, she wondered how far back he would be pushed by this. In spite of her concern, she smiled at him reassuringly. End part 5. Date: Thu, 13 Mar 1997 14:08:14 -0700 Reply-To: Sarah Baker Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories From: Sarah Baker Subject: Northern Nights (6/6) To: FKFIC-L@PSUVM.PSU.EDU X-Status: Please see part 1 for disclaimers. Northern Nights (6/6) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) Hours had passed since Nick brought Anna across. The marks on her neck had completely disappeared. Natalie was surprised at how relaxed Anna looked, sitting on the sofa next to Randolf, sipping a glass of Nick's private stock. It was certainly different than it had been with Richard. Natalie remembered Nick's warning about getting too close to her brother in his early days of vampirism. She felt no threat from Anna. Natalie looked up from the couple to watch Nick trot down the stairs. His hair was still damp from the shower, and he looked completely refreshed. The black shirt he wore made his blonde hair nearly glow, and certainly did nothing to hinder his attractiveness. , Natalie thought, She cringed as she realized that it was probably the effect of human blood. Nick picked up the glass of steer blood from the coffee table, and sipped on it as he propped himself on the arm of Natalie's chair. "So, Randolf, Anna, will you be staying in Toronto for a while?" Natalie asked. She smiled to herself when she realized that it sounded like an ordinary question that one would ask ordinary guests on an ordinary night. This whole thing was anything but ordinary! "No," Randolf replied, looking at Anna. "I think we need to be alone for a time. Anna needs to explore her new life." Anna nodded in agreement. "Well," Natalie continued, glancing down at her watch, "it doesn't look like you will be going anywhere tonight. The sun is about to rise." Randolf looked quickly at Nick. "We must hurry back to the hotel." "I'm afraid it's too late," Nick replied, not needing Natalie's warning to know that the sun was peeking over the horizon. "You will take my room. I'm more than comfortable on the sofa." "No..." Randolf protested. "Yes," Nick stated firmly as he rose. "Go on, now. I know you're both tired." Nick picked up the used glasses from his guests and carried them into the kitchen. Randolf and Anna rose. "You go ahead, my love," Randolf said tenderly to Anna. "I'll be there shortly." Anna smiled at Randolf and Natalie, and headed up the stairs. Randolf walked into the kitchen and stood beside Nick. "I don't know how to begin to thank you, Nicholas." "You don't have to," Nick said, shaking his head. He looked into Randolf's eyes. "She truly loves you, my friend. And she is very special. Take care of her." "You have my solemn promise," Randolf vowed. His eyes reinforced his statement. The two vampires embraced. Nick felt the kindness flowing from Randolf and reveled in its magic. With a sigh, he released his friend and returned to washing the glasses. Randolf crossed the room to Natalie, who had overheard their conversation. She was embarrassed at having eavesdropped, but couldn't help herself. "Thank you again, Natalie," Randolf said with a bow. "You're welcome," Natalie replied, her composure intact. "I wish you both all the happiness possible." Randolf smiled at her and then, with a glance toward Nick, headed quickly up the stairs. Having finished the dishes, Nick walked around the room turning off the lights. The task complete, he sat on the sofa close to Natalie's chair. "Well," Natalie said, as she pushed herself up from her chair, "I guess I better head home. This whole thing wore me out." Nick grabbed her hand and pulled her toward the sofa. "Nat," he whispered, "don't go yet." "What am I going to do," she asked sarcastically, "share the sofa with you?" "Yes," Nick grinned playfully at her. Still holding her hand, he stretched out on the sofa and pulled her over the top of him. Natalie screeched as she lost her balance and rolled over Nick. She landed on her side in the space he left between himself and the back of the sofa. Nick wrapped his arm around her and pulled her head onto his shoulder. "Ummm," he purred into her hair, "that's better." Natalie relaxed and draped her arm over Nick's chest. "Okay," she conceded, "for a little while." Nick took a deep breath, inhaling her scent. He smiled and held her tighter. Her closeness and warmth was exactly what he needed right now. "Nick," Natalie whispered into his shoulder. "Why didn't you want me to stay?" Nick sighed. "Do you remember," he whispered back, "when Randolf said that he was afraid of scaring Anna off?" Natalie nodded. "I guess that's what I'm afraid of, too." Natalie thought about his answer. She could see where he had cause to worry. If she didn't care so much for him, she would have been half way across town by now. "I don't scare that easily," Natalie whispered. They both smiled into the darkness as they drifted off to sleep. THE END