From: zeke@rt66.com X-Sender: zeke@rt66.com Date: Thu, 03 Apr 1997 17:43:27 -0700 To: Cynthia Hoffman Subject: Western Sky (1/7) This is a season 3 story. It starts right where "Northern Nights" left off. Several people asked me how Natalie handled the NN situation. (I think she did very well!) Disclaimer: most of the characters are not mine. I'm only borrowing them for fun. Please send comments , good or bad, to me at zeke@rt66.com. I love the feedback! * * * * * * * * * * * Western Sky (1/7) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) "I'm *sure*, Nick. I want you to bring me across. I love you." Nick took a step closer. He stared intently into her eyes, his head tilted slightly to one side. "So this is *really* what you want?" His voice was filled with concern. "Yes." Natalie took a half a step forward so that her face was only inches from his. Slowly, Nick's deadpan expression grew into a grin. "Good," he hissed. His eyes began to glow, first flecks of gold, then bright red. His grin became perfectly evil as his lips parted to reveal the fangs. Still staring into Natalie's eyes, the tip of his tongue brushed one fang. Natalie felt a sudden chill of terror. The beast in front of her was not the one she wanted to give herself to. Her stomach turned; she was sure she would be sick at any moment. This was a huge mistake. Natalie turned to run. With a speed close to that of light, the vampire grabbed her arm and jerked her back. "You said you wanted this," he growled. "It's too late to change your mind now." Natalie pushed on his chest with both hands, totally ineffective against the steel grip Nick had on her right arm. His grip was cutting off her circulation, causing an ache that was spreading toward her hand. Her fingers were getting numb. "Nick," she screamed, "you're *hurting* me!" "Aw," he growled, his voice dripping with sarcasm, "that's too bad." Ignoring her struggle, he swept the hair from her shoulder with his free hand. "Nick! Stop!" Natalie yelled at him. His only response was that he dropped his eyes from hers to her neck. Natalie felt tears welling. Her voice changed to a desperate pleading. "Please ... Nick ... don't." Grabbing her hair roughly, Nick pulled Natalie's head back. With no pretense of tenderness, he sank his fangs into her neck. The searing pain was only surpassed by the pain in her arm that was now spreading upward to her shoulder. Natalie tried to cry out, but felt her voice being drawn from her body with her blood. The room began to spin, and then darkened. Natalie felt as though she had been pushed backwards off of a cliff. She had no idea where the bottom was, and just fell and fell, spinning as she went. She suddenly stopped. Every muscle in Natalie's body jerked as she opened her eyes. In the light that was coming from behind her, she saw Nick's fireplace on its side. No, the fireplace wasn't on it's side... she was. Natalie looked down at the quilt that covered her. The pain in her arm was so intense that it caused her to moan as she tried to sit up. Her deadened, useless arm unfolded from beneath her head with the movement. "Nat?" The whisper from just behind her head caused her to jump. She turned quickly to find Nick smiling at her from behind the sofa, mug in hand. "You okay?" he asked, his voice filled with concern. "Ug," Natalie replied, trying to shake the blood back into her arm. "I must have slept wrong." Nick waited patiently until Natalie had regained the use of her appendage, then handed her the steaming mug. "Careful," he whispered, "it's hot." The aroma filled Natalie's nostrils before she actually took the mug. This was real coffee, not the usual instant stuff. Natalie took a sip and felt her eyelids opening without effort. "Thank you," she said as she crossed her legs and pulled the covers over them, careful not to spill the coffee. "You're welcome," Nick whispered into her ear. He kissed the side of her head. Without thinking about it, or meaning to, Natalie pulled away from his kiss. She closed her eyes. She felt Nick looking at the back of her head for a moment before he walked slowly into the kitchen. Natalie took a deep breath and blew it out. She threw the quilt off, stood up, and turned toward the kitchen. Nick was standing at the table, his back toward her, carefully pouring three glasses of steer's blood. The memory of the night before flooded Natalie's brain. She saw the chilling look on Nick's face when he was about to take Anna's blood. She remembered the horror she felt as she watched Nick draining the willing young woman. The vampire's growl of pleasure filled her ears. The dizziness the memories caused sent her backwards into the coffee table. She stumbled, sloshing some of the steaming coffee onto her hand. Biting back a yowl, Natalie switched the mug to her dry hand and shook the remaining liquid from the wet one. She then gently wiped the burning hand on the back of her pants. Having regained her balance and most of her composure, Natalie tiptoed into the kitchen. Nick was still standing at the table. He had finished pouring the glasses, and was now leaning forward on both hands with his head was bowed. Natalie touched his shoulder as she approached and felt the muscles under her palm stiffen as Nick lifted his head and straightened up. "Nick, I'm sorry ..." "No, Nat," he interrupted, "don't apologize." His voice was laced with pain. When he turned to face her, Natalie saw the pain reflected in his eyes. His forced smile did nothing to lessen it, and faded quickly. Nick turned away from her. He picked up the nearly empty bottle and returned it quietly to the refrigerator, then walked around the corner. Leaning back on the kitchen counter, he looked thoughtfully at Natalie. She had the distinct feeling that he was trying to decide what to say. Nick glanced up at the ceiling. "Our guests are ... awake," he said as he looked back down. Natalie wondered exactly what that meant; she couldn't hear anyone walking around upstairs. Suddenly, Nick frowned and closed his eyes. He gripped the counter behind him with both hands. Natalie walked carefully toward him. "Nick?" When Natalie was within arm's length, Nick suddenly grabbed her shoulders. The movement caused more steaming coffee to jump from her cup, but this time it missed her hand ... fortunately. Natalie looked up at Nick. The eyes that met hers were a vampire blue, speckled with gold flecks. "It's good that you're afraid of *this*." His voice was low and hoarse. He glanced up again, and then closed his eyes for a moment. When he opened them, Nick's eyes had returned to normal. "*I'm* afraid of it," he said. He looked into Natalie's eyes, waiting to make sure that she understood. She returned his gaze evenly, her face filled with concern rather than fear. Nick dropped his hands to his sides and sighed. "I need to get out of here," he muttered. Suddenly, sparked with an idea, Nick walked quickly to the sofa and grabbed the quilt. He then walked past the table, picking up one of the glasses and motioning to Natalie with a nod. "Come on," he said, flashing a smile. Natalie followed him, tiptoeing. Nick tossed the quilt over his shoulder and held the door open for her. "Nick," Natalie cringed, "where are we going? I'm barefoot." Nick didn't answer, but started up the concrete stairs. "Fine," Natalie mumbled as she followed him. Her feet were starting to sting from the cold. At the door, Nick turned to her. "Wait right here," he said, then stepped out onto the roof. Natalie held the door open and watched him set his glass down and spread the quilt out next to it. He returned and, without warning, scooped Natalie up into his arms. She managed to keep all the coffee in the mug this time. Nick gently placed Natalie in the center of the blanket and wrapped the ends neatly around her feet and legs. He then pulled the back up over her shoulders and tucked the corners into her lap. Standing back to examine his work, he smiled at the success and sat down beside her. He put his arm around her padded shoulders and held her close. "I feel like I've just been cocooned!" Natalie exclaimed with a chuckle. "Well, are you warm?" Nick asked. "Getting there," Natalie replied, resting her head on his shoulder. Nick picked up his glass and sipped on it, and Natalie worked on what was left of her coffee. They were facing west, where the last pink of the sunset was fading quickly. Stars were appearing, one by one, to take its place. They both smiled as a meteor flashed across the sky in front of them. "Nick, have you ever wished on a falling star?" Natalie asked. "I've been doing it for centuries," he replied, squeezing her shoulders. They sat in silence for a long time, enjoying the sunset and each other. End part 1. From: zeke@rt66.com X-Sender: zeke@rt66.com Date: Thu, 03 Apr 1997 17:44:23 -0700 To: Cynthia Hoffman Subject: Western Sky (2/7) Please see part 1 for disclaimers. Western Sky (2/7) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) "Nick," Natalie started hesitantly, "why are we up here?" Nick pulled away from Natalie enough to look down at her face. She was looking up at him expectantly. "I wanted to share the sunset with you," he answered, a tinge of hurt in his voice. "Are you uncomfortable?" "No, of course not. But that's not what I meant. Why did you need to get out of the loft?" Nick dropped his arm from Natalie's shoulders. He pulled his knees up in front of him, wrapped both arms around them, and twirled the stem of his glass in his fingers. He stared at the glass for a minute and then looked at Natalie and cringed. "Do we have to talk about this?" he asked. Natalie looked into his eyes, still visible in the fading light. They held so many secrets, and so much pain. There was also a bit of fear, something she hoped he didn't find in her eyes. "We don't *have* to," Natalie answered honestly, "but I'd like to. Nick, you're not going to scare me off. I stayed last night because I wanted to ... needed to. I need to understand. I ... care a great deal about you." The last comment caused a smile to dance across Nick's face. It disappeared quickly. He stared at his glass again, not wanting to see her eyes as he spoke. "Human blood is a powerful thing, Nat. Sharing blood creates a very intense link ... for a while. It's impossible to explain. You can feel the other person's emotions ... their presence. I can feel Anna in the loft. I felt her emotions ... as she and Randolf were exchanging blood." Nick frowned at his glass. "And it's difficult to return to *this* after tasting human blood again." "Can Anna feel your emotions, too?" Nick sighed. "I doubt it. She didn't taste my blood, only Randolf's. I mean, I don't know for sure. I've never created another vampire without giving them my blood." Nick looked at Natalie, nearly matching her scientific, analytical expression. "I would imagine that this is a one-way link." "Can you feel her now?" Nick turned his face back towards the darkening skyline and closed his eyes. He sat perfectly still, only blonde fringes moving in the soft breeze. After a few seconds, he smiled. "No," he said, "but LaCroix is upset about having to restock the beer fridge at the Raven." Natalie's eyebrows shot up in surprise as Nick smiled at her. "And we need to get ready for work. Shall we go inside?" Nick asked. Natalie nodded reluctantly. "Here," he said, handing her his empty glass. "Hang on," he warned, as he turned to kneel beside her. Nick carefully picked up Natalie, quilt, glasses and all, and carried her downstairs. By the time they had maneuvered through the door to the loft, they were both laughing. He set her carefully on her feet and took the empty glass and mug from her. "Where are my shoes?" Natalie asked, lifting enough of the quilt from her feet to be able to walk. "On the other side of the sofa," Nick replied from the sink. Natalie shuffled toward the sofa, and jumped when she nearly ran into Randolf as he rounded the corner silently. "Yikes!" "And good evening to you, Natalie," Randolf purred with a bow. "I apologize for startling you." "That's okay," Natalie responded, recovering her balance for the second time. "I just didn't hear you. Good evening." She smiled into the perfect face. Randolf's eyes were glittering to match his cheerful smile. Natalie was about to ask him if he slept well, but thought better of it. She continued on in search of her shoes, leaving Randolf to Nick. Nick and Randolf spoke in low tones in the kitchen as Natalie sat in the leather chair to pull on her shoes. Natalie looked up when she realized the conversation in the kitchen had stopped. Both men were staring toward the stairs. Natalie followed their gaze. Anna was walking slowly down the stairs, looking around as if seeing the room for the first time. Her blonde hair fell neatly around the shoulders of her black sweater, and seemed to move with independent life at each step. Her movements were flowing and sensuous. Somehow, she reminded Natalie of Janette. As she reached the bottom of the stairs, her green eyes seemed to fill the room. Natalie felt clumsy and unattractive as she stood up and folded the quilt. Randolf floated across the room and handed Anna one of the glasses. As she took it, they exchanged a long smile filled with intensity. Natalie averted her eyes, embarrassed by the sudden feeling of intruding. She looked over at Nick and found him still in the kitchen, refilling his glass. The couple parted. Randolf headed back to the kitchen and Anna made her way to the sofa. Natalie was glad that she would get a chance to talk to this woman this fledgling vampire. She had so many questions. Natalie sat in the chair facing Anna. The transformation was amazing. Anna had been very attractive when Natalie first met her, but now she was beautiful. The pallor of her skin just seemed to make her eyes that much brighter. Natalie noticed the two marks on Anna's neck that were healing as Natalie watched. Anna took a long drink from her glass, then flashed Natalie a smile. "Good evening, Natalie." "Good evening, Anna. How are you feeling?" "I feel ... wonderful!" Anna answered enthusiastically. "It's absolutely amazing, Natalie! I wish I could describe it. Everything is so ... bright!" Anna's smile broadened. She was obviously aware of Randolf's silent approach. He placed his hands gently on her shoulders. "It will take a while to adjust. I only hope that you are as enthusiastic when you realize that we will be spending eternity together, my love." Randolf kissed the top of Anna's head and returned to the kitchen. If Anna had been capable of blushing, Natalie was sure that she would be doing it now. Instead, she grinned sheepishly. In the kitchen, Randolf joined Nick at the table, sitting very close. "I must admit, Nicholas, that I'm a little nervous," Randolf confided quietly. "It has been so long since I was brought across. I don't remember it very well." Nick smiled. It had been much longer for him, but he remembered it like it was yesterday, and he had helped several fledglings through their first weeks. Each one had been completely different. Nick placed his hand on Randolf's arm. "Maybe you should stay close by for a little while. This will be a long week for her. She loves you, and she's strong, but this is quite an adjustment." Nick squeezed his arm reassuringly. "You're welcome to anything that I have, you know." "Thank you, Nicholas," Randolf smiled with relief. "I think we will stay in the hotel here for a few days. And I will take you up on several bottles of this drink, if you have enough." "Of course." Nick got up from the table and disappeared into the back room. He emerged a few moments later with an empty wine case, and began filling it with bottles from the refrigerator. He frowned at the conversation he heard coming from the living room. "... a bright light, and I was about to step in. Then I heard Nicholas, and I heard Randy," Anna was describing quietly, "and I knew I had to come back." "Wow," Natalie exclaimed under her breath. She was amazed at how closely this description matched the one Nick had given. Maybe there *was* more to it than just the brain reacting to the lack of oxygen. Randolf interrupted as Natalie was about to continue her questioning. "We must be going, Anna. We have much to do before sunrise." Anna took the hand Randolf offered and rose. She turned back to Natalie. "I hope that we will see each other again soon, Natalie." Natalie agreed. She still had many questions. "You know where to find me," she replied, and also rose, following the couple to the kitchen. Nick handed Randolf the case. "If you need more, don't hesitate to ask," he said. "And keep in touch." Randolf nodded. Anna walked up to Nick slowly. Natalie thought he was going to back away from her, but he seemed to resist the urge and stood his ground. Anna placed a hand on each of Nick's shoulders and kissed his cheek. "Thank you," she whispered. Nick responded with only a smile. Natalie wondered if he was hiding his fangs. The two of them watched the couple walk into the elevator, arms intertwined. "Well," Natalie started, pulling her coat from the rack, "I guess I'd better get home. I only have an hour before work, as do you." Nick swallowed hard, and stepped behind Natalie to help her with her coat. "I will see you in a little while," she said into her ear, his voice a little hoarse. Natalie grabbed her bag and opened the door. Since the elevator had not yet returned, she would use the stairs. She looked back at Nick before closing the door behind her. She saw him leaning against the kitchen counter, bottle in hand, watching her leave. He smiled weakly. Nick waited until the door closed before draining the rest of the bottle. End part 2. From: zeke@rt66.com X-Sender: zeke@rt66.com Date: Thu, 03 Apr 1997 17:45:14 -0700 To: Cynthia Hoffman Subject: Western Sky (3/7) Please see part 1 for disclaimer. Western Sky (3/7) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) "So what do you think?" No response. "Nick?" Tracy's voice broke through the fog. "What?" "I *said*, what do you think?" Tracy didn't try to hide her impatience. "About what?" Nick looked over at his partner, completely puzzled. The road had pulled away his concentration ... again. Tracy sighed. "What's going on, Nick? For the past two days you have been zoning out even more than usual! Did you and Natalie have a fight or something?" Nick frowned and turned his attention back to the road. "Something," he mumbled. Tracy realized she wasn't going to get any more of an explanation out of her stoic partner. "Look, Nick," she said, trying, unsuccessfully, not to sound like she was talking to a three year old, "if you'll just try to stay focused for another hour, the shift will be over and you'll have two days before you have to come back to work. Can you do that?" Nick frowned at her reprimand, knowing, however, that he deserved it. He resisted the urge to 'yes, Mother' her, and nodded. "I promise I'll try," he said, turning the Caddie into the precinct parking lot. When he shut off the engine, he turned to Tracy and winced. "I'm sorry, Trace. Really. I appreciate you covering for me." "Hey, it's okay," she answered, returning to her perky state. "You've covered for me plenty of times." They shared an understanding smile and both stepped out of the car. As Nick closed his door, he felt a familiar tingling. He looked around quickly and spotted Randolf stepping out of the shadows. Tracy followed her partner's gaze and watched Randolf approach. His movements were not as smooth as they were the last time she had seen him. He was clearly agitated. Randolf stopped in front of Nick, not even acknowledging Tracy's existence. Nick looked over the top of the car. "Trace, I'll be inside in just a minute, okay?" "Sure," she responded. Tracy closed the car door and headed inside slowly. She was dying to know what was going on. Nick's friend was obviously upset. Nick waited until he knew that Tracy was out of earshot. "What's wrong?" he asked. "You were right, Nicholas. Anna is having a rough time of it. She said she wanted to be alone for a while and left the hotel. I don't know where she's gone, and I'm worried about her." There was a touch of hysteria in Randolf's voice. "I'm sure she's all right." Nick tried to sound reassuring. Realizing that there were other cops around, he took Randolf's elbow and led him away from the parking lot. Stopping at the sidewalk, Nick fished around in his pockets until he found the matchbook from the Raven. "I want you to go to this place and wait for me. I've still got an hour of work, and then I'll look around for Anna. The owner of the Raven is LaCroix ... the one who made me." Randolf's expression turned instantly from concern to shock. He obviously remembered Nick's stories of LaCroix. "It's okay. Things are different between us," Nick assured him. "Tell him that you're waiting for me. He'll look out for you." Randolf took the matchbook that Nick offered and studied the address. He nodded and turned to leave. Nick started to head back into the building, but stopped. "Oh, and Randolf," he called, "make sure he gives you some of my stock, not his own." Randolf nodded and then continued on his way. Nick walked into the building, shaking his head. This certainly wasn't going to help his concentration. Only one more hour. * * * * * * * * * * * * "Natalie, there's someone here to see you," Grace called out from the doorway. "Who is it?" "Says her name is Anna something. Says you know her?" Grace said incredulously. "Oh?" Natalie was more than just a little surprised. "Please send her in, Grace." "Okay," Grace responded. Her tone said 'if you're really sure you want me too.' Natalie closed the report file and stashed her pen in the desk drawer. She had decided to take off a little early tonight, and was just finishing up anyway. Natalie looked up and watched Anna enter. She walked in very slowly, looking around the room intently. Her movements reminded Natalie of Sidney's reaction to a new place. Natalie tried to hide her smile. Anna stopped in front of Natalie's desk. "I hope I'm not disturbing you, Natalie." "No. Actually, I was just finishing up for the night. What can I do for you?" "Well, I really don't know where else to go." Anna's voice broke. She cleared her throat and continued. "I guess I just need someone to talk to." Natalie suddenly realized that Anna was on the verge of tears. A crying vampire was not something she really needed in her lab. Natalie walked around her desk, shedding her lab coat. "Come on," she said to Anna. "Let's get out of here. We can talk at my place, okay?" Anna nodded through a grateful smile and followed Natalie out of the morgue. End part 3. From: zeke@rt66.com X-Sender: zeke@rt66.com Date: Thu, 03 Apr 1997 17:46:10 -0700 To: Cynthia Hoffman Subject: Western Sky (4/7) Please see part 1 for disclaimer. Western Sky (4/7) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) Nick strode across the nearly empty dance floor to the bar where he could see ... and feel ... both Randolf and LaCroix. His master was leaning nonchalantly on the bar, sipping from a crystal goblet. Randolf sat with his back to the dance floor. LaCroix watched Nick approach. "So good of you to join us, Nicholas," LaCroix purred. "Randolf and I were just getting acquainted." Nick rested his hand on Randolf's shoulder and smiled guardedly at LaCroix. He still worried a bit about LaCroix's reaction to Randolf, even with their renewed understanding. Nick's master was prepared to kill the vampire from New Orleans less than a century ago. In LaCroix's time frame, a century was but the blink of an eye. If LaCroix only knew that Randolf was responsible for Nick's return to the 'family', maybe his attitude would be different. - - - - New Orleans, 1921 - - - - - Nick smiled at the young couple as he stepped aside to allow them room to pass. He couldn't help but watch as they continued on down the sidewalk, hiding their interlocked fingers in the folds of the young woman's skirt. Nick wished he could share in their obvious joy. Turning back to continue his journey, Nick's smile faded as he thought about Janette. It was true that she had betrayed him by leading LaCroix to him, but he missed her nonetheless. Nick yearned to be close to her ... to taste her blood again ... to feel her body against his. Nick shook his head in a vain attempt to clear the memories. There was no way that he would ever be able to return to LaCroix. He knew that his master would kill him if he didn't give up on his search for a cure. For that matter, LaCroix was probably angry enough to kill him no matter what his attitude. A shiver ran through Nick as he stopped at the steps to Randolf's house. He looked up to find Randolf leaning against a pillar, watching him. "What's wrong, Nicholas? Are you not enjoying this pleasant evening?" An evening breeze, carrying the scents of magnolia and wisteria, brought a smile back to Nick's face, although it was unconvincingly weak. "Nicholas, it is time for you to return, isn't it?" "I can't," Nick replied to the sidewalk. "Why not, my friend? You are much happier now, are you not?" Randolf furrowed his eyebrows and tilted his head slightly. Nick looked up and met the dark-eyed gaze. "I'm happy here ... but it would be the same as it was before, if I returned. I can never be what LaCroix wants me to be." "What does he want you to be?" "He wants me to be happy as a vampire, Randolf. I *can't* be." Randolf crossed his arms over his chest. "Why not?" "I can't *kill*, Randolf." "Does one necessarily require the other?" Nick felt a wave of exasperation. "I've told you how it is. I long for human blood, Randolf." Nick marched up the stairs to join Randolf in the darkness of the porch. "But I do not," Randolf continued, dropping his voice to a whisper. He unfolded his arms and grabbed Nick's arm. "And I'm quite happy to be what I am." "I know, and I don't understand why or how." Randolf released his hold on Nick, unbuttoned his sleeve, and rolled the sleeve up to his elbow. He held his bare wrist up to Nick's face. "Find out," he said, staring intently into Nick's eyes. Nick winced and covered his mouth with the back of his hand. "I can't," he protested. "Yes, Nicholas, you can," Randolf replied. Nick felt Randolf reaching out to him with his mind. It had a calming effect on Nick, and encouraged him to take the offer. Nick felt the vampire responding, and gently took Randolf's arm. With ease that came from practice, Nick punctured Randolf's wrist and closed his eyes as the cool blood filled his mouth. Nick swallowed. A warmth assaulted Nick, starting from the inside and bubbling out through every pore. At first it almost hurt, but within a few seconds it turned into a pleasant tingling. Nick felt his legs giving out and dropped to his knees, still clinging to Randolf's wrist. He took another swallow. A white light grew in Nick's head, blossoming like a rose. He couldn't remember when he had ever felt such peace. He released Randolf's wrist and sat back on his heels, his eyes still closed. He felt the vampire, but didn't feel the war within him that he had known for so long. Just peace. When the tingling subsided, Nick opened his eyes to find Randolf smiling at him. He smiled sincerely back, knowing that he could face anything ... and anyone. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Nick shook himself from the memory to find LaCroix observing him with interest. The ancient vampire had been furious with Nick when Nick returned to Los Angeles, and had nearly killed him. If it hadn't been for his curiosity about Nick's changed attitude, and his rage at the one who had helped Nick find peace, he would probably have done it. By the time the effect of Randolf's blood had worn off, nearly three months later, LaCroix had been placated enough to put up with Nick's renewed unhappiness. Nick had never told him of his time in New Orleans, but LaCroix had picked up bits and pieces in his thoughts. "Randolf, tell me what happened," Nick said as he tugged gently on his friend's shoulder. "I don't know, exactly. After we brought Anna across..." "We?" LaCroix interrupted. "Yes, we," Nicholas responded, his eyes not leaving Randolf. He had no desire to see the look of amusement that he was sure adorned LaCroix's face. "Afterwards," Randolf continued, "I tasted something unexpected in her blood. It was something I never found in Marie's blood. A restlessness, or something. A longing for more than I could give." A chuckle from LaCroix drew both of the younger vampires' gazes. LaCroix drank slowly from his glass. "What is it?" Nick finally asked. LaCroix looked as though he was having trouble stifling a laugh. "How did 'we' bring the woman across?" LaCroix asked, placing his glass on the bar. Nick frowned, but did not lower his eyes. "I drained her, and Randolf brought her back," he replied quietly. LaCroix raised one eyebrow. "Why?" he asked. "Because she could not taste my blood, LaCroix, without knowing the blood lust. And Randolf has never tasted human blood." The annoyance in Nick's voice was obvious. LaCroix observed Randolf with renewed interest. "Ah," he said, with just a touch of sarcasm. "Such a unique solution." Turning back to Nick, he whispered, "You must have such trouble being near her, Nicholas." Nick dropped his eyes and, this time, avoided Randolf's stare. "Yes, " he responded. He looked up at his master. "And I don't understand why." "Because," LaCroix replied, crossing one foot over the other behind the bar, "you did not complete the ritual. It is similar to unrequited love, my dear boy. The longing will remain as long as you do not share your blood with her ... and she lives." "And as for her 'restlessness' as you call it," LaCroix directed his comment to Randolf, "it is not surprising. Just because she did not taste Nicholas' blood does not mean that she did not share his emotions. A certain amount of our thoughts are projected onto our victims." LaCroix took another long sip. "It's just that they don't usually survive," he added. Randolf and Nick turned to each other. Randolf's shock was met with Nick's grimace. "We must find her before sunrise," Nick said, no longer reassuring. "Do you have any idea where she would go?" "No," Randolf replied. "She knows no one here except you and Natalie." Nick suddenly felt a wave of panic. If Anna felt his desire for human blood, and was with Natalie ... "You go to the loft and wait," he directed Randolf. "I'll check with Natalie." Nick started to leave, then turned back to LaCroix. "Thank you," he said simply. LaCroix nodded and lifted his glass. "Bonne chance," he said to the backs of the two disappearing vampires. End part 4. From: zeke@rt66.com X-Sender: zeke@rt66.com Date: Thu, 03 Apr 1997 17:47:02 -0700 To: Cynthia Hoffman Subject: Western Sky (5/7) Please see part 1 for disclaimer. Western Sky (5/7) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) "Have you had anything to ... uh ... eat tonight?" Natalie asked from the kitchen as she turned the fire on under the kettle. "Yes, I have." Anna settled onto the sofa, looking around. "Nice place," she said, her voice raised so that Natalie could hear. "Thanks," Natalie responded. She emerged from the kitchen and sat on the other end of the sofa, facing Anna. Anna smiled weakly at Natalie, and then studied her own hand. It was obvious that Anna wanted to talk, but didn't know how to start. "So, you need someone to talk to?" Natalie prompted. "Yes. I feel kind of strange talking about it, though. I haven't spoken to anyone about being a vampire, other than Randy." "It's okay, Anna," Natalie said as she reached over and touched the woman's arm. Even through the sweater, Natalie was aware of the lower body temperature. "My best friend for the last few years has been a vampire. I doubt there's much you could say that would surprise me." Anna sighed with relief and smiled more sincerely at Natalie. "Besides," Natalie reminded her, "I was there when you were brought across." "Yes, I remember." "Are you having problems with Randolf?" Anna looked down at her hands again. "No. And yes." "What has he done?" "Oh," Anna looked up quickly, "he hasn't done anything wrong. He's a very dear man and I love him with all my heart." She stopped. "Then what is it?" Natalie asked, confused. "Do you know what it's like to suddenly know everything there is to know about someone ... someone who was once such a mystery?" Natalie admitted to herself that she didn't know, but she just smiled at Anna, waiting for her to continue. "I *knew* that all I wanted was to share myself with him, and to know his secrets, his soul. But now ... I want something more ... and I don't even know exactly what it is." Natalie was leaning forward to hear Anna, who had dropped her voice to just above a whisper. She was startled when the kettle suddenly broke the silence with a scream. "Hold that thought," Natalie ordered. She ran to the kitchen and reemerged in record time with a mug of tea. Natalie settled back into her seat. "Please continue," she suggested, taking a careful sip from her steaming mug. Anna got up and paced the room as she spoke. "You and Nicholas are very close, aren't you?" Natalie shrugged to herself. "About as close as we'll ever be." "Has he ever taken your blood?" Anna stopped at this question, facing Natalie. "Um ... no." "Oh." Anna started pacing again. Natalie waited, and then realized that she wasn't going to continue. "Why do you ask?" Anna sat back down on the sofa, closer to her host than before. "I felt something when Nicholas drank from me, something that I don't feel from Randy. I don't know how to explain it, exactly. It's an excitement ... a danger ... a longing." Anna's eyes were dancing as she spoke. Natalie blushed at her sudden pang of jealousy. She knew Anna was not trying to make her jealous, just stating fact. It hurt anyway, and it was unexpected. "You felt something from Nick?" "Yes. And I have a great desire to taste human blood. Of course, Randolf has no such desire." Natalie's hand went reflexively to her neck. Anna's expression changed from excitement to hurt, and she turned quickly to a forward position on the sofa. "I don't mean that I want to kill," she whispered. Natalie frowned at the offending hand and wrapped it around her mug. "I'm sorry, Anna. I didn't assume ..." "It's okay, Natalie. I'm just not used to the idea of being a vampire." Natalie jumped again at the sudden forceful knock on the door. Some of the hot tea spilled onto her lap before she could set the cup down. , she thought as she got up, wiping her lap. Before Natalie could reach the door, it opened of its own volition. Nick stepped in, looking as surprised by Natalie's appearance at the door as she was by his. His hair was wild, windblown, and his black coat was still billowing behind him when he stopped in front of her. "Are you all right, Nat?" he asked, nearly breathless. "Yes," she said, her eyes still round with surprise. Natalie shook her head. "What are you doing here?" Nick looked over her shoulder at Anna. His eyes lightened slightly and he frowned. "I ... sent Randolf to the loft. I wasn't sure ..." he stammered. Natalie stepped forward and grabbed Nick's arm. "It's okay," she reassured him. Nick breathed a sigh of relief and closed the door. He followed Natalie into the living room and sat in the chair facing the two women. Natalie returned to her seat. "Anna and I were just talking," Natalie explained. "She's having some problems, Nick." As LaCroix had predicted, it was difficult for Nick to control the vampire when he was so close to Anna. Natalie could see how tense he was as he sat very straight in the chair. He managed, however, to keep the beast at bay. "What kind of problems?" Nick asked Anna. She was staring at him, her eyes nearly blazing, and only pouted in response. "Nick," Natalie started, drawing his attention from the woman, "Anna felt something from you when you ... drank her blood." Nick leaned forward in his chair and frowned at the carpet. "LaCroix said that would happen," he mumbled. Natalie raised her eyebrows in response and continued. "She feels the need to taste human blood." Nick lifted his eyes toward Anna. "Is this true?" he asked. Anna nodded. "I can't seem to help it," she explained. "I don't even know why I want it." Her tone was rather pathetic, and Nick winced. "I do," he stated. Nick dropped his head into his hands and muttered something in French that Natalie couldn't quite understand. "Nick," Natalie said, "isn't there something you can do?" Nick shook his head in his hands several times, and then froze. He slowly lifted his head, looking at Natalie. There was a spark of an idea in his eyes. End part 5. From: zeke@rt66.com X-Sender: zeke@rt66.com Date: Thu, 03 Apr 1997 17:48:06 -0700 To: Cynthia Hoffman Subject: Western Sky (6/7) Please see part 1 for disclaimer. Western Sky (6/7) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) "Maybe there is," he said slowly, his eyes narrowing. "Nat, do you have a crucifix?" Natalie drew her head back in surprise. "Yeah. Why?" "Please get it. If this doesn't work, I want you to be protected. Do you understand?" The seriousness of Nick's look made Natalie's heart rate speed up. She knew he could hear it. "No, I don't understand," she said, as she got up and went into her bedroom. Nick heard her frantically looking through drawers and cabinets. He turned his attention to Anna, his voice stern but kind. "Anna, your desire for human blood comes from me. You need to understand what that desire can do so that you can resist it. Once you have tasted it, you will never be what you are now ... like Randolf." Anna listened intently to Nick. Nick stood up and offered her his hand. Anna took it and rose gracefully from the sofa. They stood in the middle of the room, only inches apart. When Natalie returned to the room, clutching the crucifix, she was surprised to find Nick standing so close to Anna, his eyes golden and his fangs showing. She stopped just inside the doorway. "I want you to listen to me," Nick said. His voice was low and seductive. "We have a connection. I want you to surrender your thoughts to me." Anna's eyes fluttered closed, and Nick wrapped his arm around her waist to steady her. "We are in a forest," Nick whispered, also closing his eyes. "We have just drained a hunter, and are intoxicated by his blood. He lies on the ground at our feet. Can you see him?" Anna nodded her head slowly. "I see him," she whispered back. Natalie saw the tips of her fangs and shuttered involuntarily. Nick lifted his free hand to the side of Anna's neck. "There is a voice in the distance. A woman's voice. She is calling for her husband," Nick continued. Natalie started when the door to her apartment flew open again. Randolf charged in and stopped, still clutching the doorknob. "No!" he growled. Natalie's stomach turned as she realized she was standing in a room with three full-fledged vampires, and she tightened her grip on the crucifix. She ran to the doorway and stopped in front of Randolf, holding one hand up to his chest to stop him. "No, Randolf," she said, as quietly as she could, "it's okay." Randolf looked down at Natalie, his eyes blazing red, completely confused. She gave him the most reassuring smile she could muster. "Nick's helping her. It's okay," she repeated. Randolf closed his lips over his fangs, to Natalie's great relief, and looked over her at the scene in the middle of the room. Natalie closed the door behind Randolf and stood next to him, holding his sleeve. "We're hiding behind a tree ... watching," Nick's continued hypnotically. "There's the woman. She's running into the clearing. She is kneeling beside her dead husband. She's crying ... she's mourning. Can you feel her pain? Can you feel the love we have stolen from her?" For several moments, Nick and Anna stood in the middle of the room silently. Natalie could see Anna's face becoming distorted with pain. She could only see Nick's back. A scream filled the room. It was a blood-curdling scream of agony. Anna fell away from Nick onto the sofa, her mouth still open from the scream. Natalie and Randolf dashed to the sofa. Anna opened her eyes and blood tears flowed freely down both cheeks. She looked at Randolf with horror, then fell into his arms sobbing. Natalie turned around to check on Nick. Nick still stood in the middle of the room. His eyes were closed and his head was lowered. Natalie could just see his face enough to see the pain etched in it. It broke her heart. She got up and walked to Nick, gently grabbing both of his arms and stooping to look at his face. "Nick?" When he didn't respond, Natalie gently shook his arms. "Nick?" Nick raised his head with his eyes still closed. He leaned his head back and took a deep breath, blowing it out slowly. Natalie knew that he was trying to chase away a very painful memory, and watched silently. Nick opened his eyes and looked at her. His eyes were fading back to their mortal hue, but his face was still filled with pain. Natalie wrapped her arms around him, and felt him respond with his own embrace. They held each other for a long time. When Natalie finally felt Nick relaxing, she released him reluctantly. There was silence from the sofa, so she turned to follow Nick's gaze. Randolf sat on the sofa, gently rocking Anna in his arms. Blood from her tears was dripping down the sleeve of his coat. "I think I'd better get a towel," Natalie said. Nick smiled at her sensibility, and nodded in agreement. Natalie disappeared into the bedroom, and Nick slumped into the chair. Natalie returned with a wet towel that she handed to Randolf. He thanked her and pulled away from Anna enough to wipe her face. Anna had regained her control, but still looked absolutely miserable. After her face was clean, she took the rag from Randolf and wiped off his coat as much as was possible. Natalie perched on the arm of the chair and leaned down to Nick. "Did it work?" she whispered. Anna answered from the sofa. "Yes. The desire is gone. I could never kill a mortal, and I have no desire to taste their blood." Natalie saw Nick turn his head away as the look on Anna's face changed from horror to pity. Randolf stroked Anna's hair, pulling her face back to him. "I love you," he said, smiling at her. He glanced toward the window and back. "It is nearly dawn. We must be going." Anna nodded. "Where will you go?" Natalie asked. Randolf looked over at her. "To the hotel, for the day," he answered. "Then maybe we'll head west. There are so many interesting places to visit. San Francisco?" he asked Anna. She nodded, her smile broadening as she watched him speak. He turned back to Natalie. "San Francisco," he said decisively. Randolf rose, lifting Anna with a gallant hand. Nick slowly pushed himself out of the chair as they approached. Randolf grabbed Nick's arm with both hands. "I don't know how to thank you ... again," he said, staring into Nick's eyes. "You don't need to, Randolf," Nick said, staring back. More passed between them than just words. Natalie marveled at how deep their friendship must run. As Randolf moved away, Anna approached Nick. With a hand on his shoulder, she kissed his cheek. Nick leaned into her kiss stiffly and flinched a little. Natalie touched his arm, trying to reassure him, and felt him grab the sleeve of her blouse with two fingers. Anna didn't say anything, but released Nick and joined Randolf, sliding her hand into his. He smiled and lifted her hand to his lips. Natalie opened the door for the vampire couple. "Good luck," she said, not able to think of anything else appropriate. "Thank you, Natalie," Randolf said with a bow. "I hope to see you again one day." Natalie smiled as the couple passed through the doorway gracefully and disappeared silently down the hall. She closed the door and leaned against it, sighing with relief. Nick looked at her and smiled. "I guess I better go, too," he said. "I must admit, I'm tired." Natalie could see the truth of his statement and shrugged. "Okay," she said. "See you tonight?" Nick stopped at the door as Natalie opened it for him. He held her arm and kissed the side of her head, lingering for a moment. "Tonight," he whispered. Natalie closed the door behind Nick and dragged herself to the sofa. Now that her adrenalin level was approaching normal, she was beginning to feel the effects of this long night. "Blah!" Natalie said out loud as she sipped from her cold tea. She returned the mug to the coffee table with disgust. Natalie jumped when Sidney suddenly landed in her lap. "Jeez, not you, too!" she scolded. As she started to pet her feline companion, Natalie realized her hand was still in a fist. She opened the fist and stared at the red marks in her palm and the crucifix resting in the center of the marks. She had held it so hard that it nearly broke the skin. Natalie gently deposited the crucifix on the coffee table next to the mug. "Glad I didn't need that," she told Sidney through pursed lips, gripping the fur on each side of his face. The cat meowed in protest as Natalie kissed his head. "Yeah, yeah," Natalie said to him. "I know it's time for bed. And no bad dreams," she ordered, lifting him into her arms. "For either of us." End part 6. From: zeke@rt66.com X-Sender: zeke@rt66.com Date: Thu, 03 Apr 1997 17:48:47 -0700 To: Cynthia Hoffman Subject: Western Sky (7/7) Please see part 1 for disclaimer. Western Sky (7/7) by Sarah Baker (zeke@rt66.com) Nick listened to the approaching footsteps, smiling when he realized who they belonged to. He buttoned the last button on the sleeve of his blue silk shirt. Natalie let the door close behind her. "Good evening Detective Knight," she said with flare. Nick bowed. "Good evening Doctor Lambert," he replied. Natalie placed the brown paper bag she carried on the table. "To what do I owe this pleasure?" Nick asked, continuing the formality. "I'm here to invite you to a sunset," she answered with a smile, pulling a comforter from the bag, followed by a *cold* Diet Coke. "Well," he answered, donning a devilish grin, "I'd be delighted." He crossed the room to stand beside Natalie, and she shoved the comforter into his arms. "Umph," he said, as he took the comforter in the gut, causing her to laugh. Natalie walked to the refrigerator and removed a bottle. Closing the fridge with her elbow, she headed toward the stairs with a can in one hand and a bottle in the other. "Come on," she said with a nod, "before we miss the whole thing." Nick chuckled and held the door open for her. When they reached the roof, Natalie led the way. She waited while Nick spread out the blanket, then handed him the bottle and sat down, patting the spot next to her. Nick sat beside her, leaning on one arm. Natalie popped open the can and held it up for a toast. "You don't mind?" Nick asked, indicating the bottle. Natalie shrugged. "There are worse things." Nick winced. He pulled the cork from the top and tapped the side of her can with the bottle. "To the western sky," he said. "Cheers," Natalie responded, taking a healthy swig from the can. Nick took a sip from his bottle and placed it beside him. He moved closer to Natalie until they were touching and put his arm around her. She rested her head on his shoulder, and Nick laid his head on hers. They smiled at the orange fingers fading from the sky. "I guess they're out there somewhere," Natalie said thoughtfully. "I guess so," Nick answered quietly. "I hope they will be happy." Nick was relieved that the longing had left with Anna. He knew he could never be around them, but he would always hold a special place for both Randolf and Anna in what there was of his heart. He breathed deeply of Natalie's scent and smiled. "Me, too," he whispered to both Natalie and the sunset. THE END