Fealty and Family

Part 5


Connor settled the boys in their older selves’ room, with strict instructions not to break anything.

As an afterthought he hit the controls on the panel beside a large picture on the wall opposite the bed. Like in his own room, it rose to reveal an enormous screen.

Two little boys, now perched on the end of Spike and Xander’s enormous bed, now sat wide eyed as Connor fiddled with the remote, finally finding one of the fifteen ‘for children’ channels in English offered by the global networks.

An ancient rerun of the film ‘Mary Poppins’ was playing. Connor groaned, but turning toward the bed, noted that the two little fellows were instantly enthralled. Particularly William, though Connor could also smell fear. He sidled up beside William’s side of the bed and put his protective adult arm around the little lad.

“You OK with this?”

William’s replied in a whisper, “Can they get out of the wall?” Then yelped with fear and immediately buried his face in Connor’s chest (with teddy pulled tight too) as the movie depicted the Admiral’s gun firing its shot to mark the hour. The surround sound gave it a rather overwhelming reality for young William, who barely managed to peep over Connor’s protective arm to view the ensuing scene.

Xander was whooping with joy at the ‘movie experience’, it was even better than when his Aunt Agnes had taken he and his mom to the Care Bears Movie for his fourth birthday! But paused, mid ‘whoop’ as he noted his new little friend’s distress.

He carefully set Panda up to keep watching while he crawled over the bed to where William was trembling in Connor’s arms. Xander could see that Will had his bear with him but also noted that the blonde was not watching the movie.

He knew that feeling.

Willow’s older cousin David had been in town and was given the task of looking after them for a night while Willow’s folks went out for a meal. They had seen ET on video, causing Xander to be so frightened that both he needed the light on all night and leading David to find an infant’s feeding bottle at the back of the cupboard, filling it with warm milk and pushing it into Xander’s grateful hands some time around midnight. (David careful to strike a deal – Xander would join Willow in sleep in exchange for David not telling anyone about the bottle). Xander didn’t remember it as all bad. David was big and strong and gave his young charges all the reassurance they needed at the time.

Concerned brown eyes met adult blue, “Is Will OK? ‘cause he can have Panda as well if he needs to, I seed this movie afore lots of times an’ *really* like the horses an’ the kites.”

“Thanks sweetie but I think it’s OK. Will just hasn’t seen TV or movies before.”

Xander’s eyes widened in shock… No TV??? Inconceivable!
Connor saw the amazement and worry in the face of the little boy so simply included Xander in the hug, and they sat for a while. As the Mary Poppins, the new nanny, arrived on the scene in the moving, William sat up and focused hard on the screen, before turning back to Connor to announce with pride, “*My* nanny’s much prettier than her and real name’s Nancy…” then added in a conspiratorial whisper, “She told me that when we were at the park!”

William saw bits of London that he knew – though the hats the men were wearing were odd, as were the dresses the Mary Nanny wore (Nancy *never* had *her* ankles showing!). But the household was rather familiar and Connor felt little William finally relax.

He eased himself away, grabbing the pillows and cushions to construct a back rest for the boys. Both little fellows were utterly engaged in watching the movie, so did not even gave him a passing glance as he handed Xander the panda then watched as William clutched his bear tighter, before a thumb unconsciously made its way back to the little boy’s mouth as a rather ‘scary’ part came up.

…………..

Connor thought he would find Anton in the study room but instead he found him wandering in the conservatory, cell phone planted firmly to his right ear and speaking in rapid Italian. The Immortal noticed his Childe and beckoned him forward, and took him in a warm one armed hug whilst concluding his conversation with a number of rather abrupt instructions.

Connor returned the embrace and looked up into the calm visage as Anton finished an obviously emotional phone call.

“Is everything OK, Sire?” And in that moment, Connor really did feel like a true Childe and realized just how comfortable he was in the Immortal’s embrace. Anton felt like stability and home… in every way… ‘Sire’… and another part of Connor was reconciled.

“It’s not really, dear Childe, but I am hopeful it will be soon. It seems that Wolfram and Hart in Paris and in Rome were not directly to blame for the debacle with the Fl’aath – indeed are as distressed as we are that this obsessive dead middle manager for the senior partners has, in the process of targeting you, compromised the entire balance of the region. The repercussions, if the outcome of this ridiculous wraith/woman’s plot cannot be redressed, will have a ripple effect worldwide that will seriously damage the Senior Partners and Wolfram and Hart for years.

“Needless to say – they were quite pleased that we have the children safely home here – but Senior Partners are apparently still tight lipped regards the movements of or their intentions for their renegade employee Ms Morgan. The Italian office is attempting to contact them. In the meantime we will need to be vigilant.”

Connor saw the concern and knew that it was not just the boys at risk – it was a balance of power, stability, prosperity, for not just themselves but all those living under the jurisdiction of the ruling couple.

“O…K… but surely the reversal…” Connor was cut off before finishing.

“Is not a possibility at this time, and even if the spell is found, The High Wiccan Lady Willow is adamant it is still best performed at the full moon, which has just passed.”

“But the court…?”

“… will survive with your guidance and my assistance until then, as will the business interests of our family.” Anton pulled the worried Connor in for a reassuring hug before briefing the High Master’s full blood brother on a few matters that needed attending to urgently.

Connor was a fast study and Anton was quietly relieved as he observed the well educated and poised Connor managing a number of difficult clan issues with thoughtful competence. He certainly was not the High Master, but Anton could see that the choice to pull Connor back to his Aurelian family was the right one.


Connor was pouring over some of the documents regarding the Aurelian interests globally – increasingly amazed by the comprehensive spread and extraordinarily well managed complexity. Anton was just finishing a brief phone call to Buffy in Italy when Gregor arrived at the door.

“Beg pardon Masters but I thought the children might be ready for some late lunch.”

Both Anton and Connor looked a little guilty. They had been so engrossed in the current concerns of the Court and the Aurelian interests (plus Xander’s building industry responsibilities), that they had all but forgotten the little lads upstairs. It was over two hours since they had been left to their own devices.

Connor thanked Gregor, nodded at Anton who gave him a kindly smile, then took off up the stairs now desperately worried regards the two small boys and his lack of attentiveness.

What he found was a little unexpected. The television was still on but the two lads were sitting on the floor with their backs to the entertainment.

The two lads had migrated onto the floor and were happily drawing pictures for each other. Little William had obviously found a few pieces of writing parchment, and some sketching pencils in the bureau next to the right of the television. It was obvious that the blonde boy had clambered onto a chair to obtain said prizes. Though Connor noted with some relief that Spike’s Mont Blanc granite & diamond fountain pen, the laptop, and various very breakable antique pieces remained untouched.

William looked up rather apologetically but it was Xander who flinched away as Connor approached the boys. As Connor squatted down to the boys’ level and moved closer, Xander whimpered a little and moved behind William, beginning a mantra of, “We didn’t we really…, ‘cause the show was over and we… we… I…”

Connor saw fear, then could not fail to notice the smaller blonde’s resolute face and hand snaking behind to touch his distressed friend, before William noticeably swallowing and stood to look Connor bravely in the eye.

“I got the things down Sir. I know you said we shouldn’t touch anything, but the people in the box finished after the kites and usually nanny lets me draw if cook is late with…” William’s eyes suddenly went wide as he seemed to come to some inner conclusion, before continuing with quiet stoicism, “Please don’t punish Xander any more. He is ever so hungry, and it’s my fault we touched the drawing things.”

It was Connor’s turn to look surprised and more than a little distressed, he opened his arms and waited while two rather worried little boys sat riveted, unable to decide what was afoot. Connor patiently waited whilst explaining in low tones, “I am *so* sorry! We didn’t mean to leave you so long. We are both sorry. Anton and I… well, we just got caught up with some… matters of business and… Gregor has organized a lovely meal for us all… You did the right thing William – a lovely thing. Can you show me your drawings?”

Both four year olds grabbed their art from the floor and dove into arms that were both welcoming and reassuring, and proceeded to explain their illustrations. Connor could not help but notice William’s beautiful script even for a child twice his age, his initials perfectly penned in the bottom right hand corner of his picture and the word “Wills kit” at the middle top. The little blonde enthusiastically explained that this was his “best drawing of the kite and the people ever”. Connor smiled at the round bodies and enormous faces, with hands and feet in stick formation, but did not fail to notice that little Xander waited quietly, looking rather forlorn on Connor’s other knee.

Connor noted the withdrawal, “Can I see yours?”

Xander failed to look up simply thrusting Connor a paper crumpled in a tiny fist.

Connor opened the page and smoothed it a little. Xander’s signature was a series of scribbles and his people were little more than blobs with expressions, fingers and toes. What struck Connor was the angry/sad looks on the faces of the people, then noticed off to the right side - another blob. It was much larger than the rest and was smiling a broad grin and seemed to be carrying something, another large scribbled ball.

“Who’s this?”

“My Aunt Agnes, and this is her cat John. She’s like the lady who fed the birds and she’s nice and brings me candy for Christmas. My dad is scary like the one in the movie.”

“It’s a lovely picture Xander!”

The little lad let out a breath he had been holding and looked so relieved that Connor gave the two a warm hug. Finally released Xander pushed the page toward Connor’s chest, “You can have it ‘f ya want.” Almost begging, chocolate ‘puppy’ eyes looked up at their guardian from under impossibly long lashes.

“I would love to… and can I have yours too, William? We can put them up somewhere so everyone can see them.”

It seemed crisis over. Connor gentled the two up to standing, tucked the two pictures under his arm then held hands with the two and proceeded down to a delicious (if somewhat late) lunch on the breakfast patio. The only glitch being the need to find extra cushions for the boys so they could reach the table.

Anton joined them after a short delay and the lunch was swiftly followed by a short adventure on the quad bikes, William in between Anton’s strong legs and Xander riding with Connor. The half hour drive to various spots on the property finished at the stables where a surprise awaited the two young boys.

A pint sized pony was standing, already saddled and ready with a young woman controlling him, bridle in hand. She did a slight curtsey as the adults entered then addressed the group.

“Bonjour Monsieur Anton, Monsieur Connor, je suis Chantelle et c'est Fusée.”

Anton answered in perfect French, thanking the girl for her services – and her pony’s - at such short notice, then introduced the boys.

William said a shy but polite “Bonjour Mademoiselle”, while Xander mumbled a “H’llo” as he stood transfixed by the sight of the rather stocky black pony.

Connor squatted down in front of the brunette, “You ready for a ride Xander?”

“But… but… it will cost too much and… and… I can just watch if you want… it’s OK I can just watch.”

Connor pulled the little boy in for another protective hug. “It’s OK Xan, the pony is here just for you and William. Chantelle has brought him over just for you, and she will lead you if you would like a ride?”

Xander nodded and tiny voice said “Yes please”, into Connor’s shoulder, before the destroyer heard “Can Will ride wiv me?”’

An hour later Chantelle had the pony’s lead in hand and was on her own horse. The last part of the afternoon was spent with her leading Fusee (Rocket) and his two tiny riders (resembling red topped mushrooms in their rather oversized riding helmets) all the way to the bottom of the property and back. Other than the bit, saddle and the lead to the other horse, the pony might as well have been simply exercising for all the weight he was carrying.

Upon their return, Chantelle was engaged three afternoons a week for ‘Kindergarten riding lessons’ followed by a bit of ‘hacking’ on the property. Initially it was for two weeks – with an option to continue. Connor saw the flicker of a worried expression pass over Anton’s face as Chantelle agreed to the conditions, the Destroyer knew full well that they were no closer to changing the boys back and that the option looked likely to be needed.


Later that evening, following supper, a bath and story (courtesy of an ancient volume of Faerie Tales by Brothers Grimm – happily translated ‘on the fly’ from German into English by Anton), the situation was brought into sharper relief. Anton raised the need for a Nanny.

Connor was shocked then relieved to find that his new ‘Sire’ had already engaged one of the local wiccans. She came highly recommended and was to arrive the following day along with Willow. The senior witch wishing to be on site to assure the boys’ safety and determine any particulars that may have been missed regards the regression spell.



As Willow and the young Stephanie arrived, Anton and Connor received the news that the Fl’aath eggs had both hatched successfully and two beautiful new male Fl’aath had emerged to aging but relieved parents.

…………………

Lilah was livid, one of the Senior Partners had the audacity to chastise her for her obsession with Angel(us), but she *knew* her focus on the vampire – and his line - would bring the Partners dividends… Why couldn’t they realize that!??

There was a yellow slip under the door when she rose that morning. “Dear Ms Morgan, Your current focus on the vampiric ruling line of Europe is misplaced. The need for balance defines our future. You must cease and desist your pursuit of the inheritors of the Aurelian line.

Should you choose to persist in your vendetta, we will find you duties in alternative… dimensions that would perhaps better suit your nature. Have a nice day, T.S.P.”

Lilah took the memo, screwed it up, and threw it into the shredder. The whirring sound gave her a boldness that would perhaps have been best spent on reorganizing her shoe cupboard, nevertheless…

She immediately employed a number of contractors and gathered them on the eighth day following the bungled warlock incident, “I want those two little bastards in our custody by the end of today. Kill anyone who gets in your way.”

Two Wolfram and Hart mercenaries looked at each other with concern. They had done their research, the entire Paris branch knew of the manifesto from the Senior Partners and there was no indication that the Senior Partners were backing the venture.

Just before they were to move out, their own commanding officer, Jean, pulled them aside and was adamant. They were to do as Mlle Morgan asked, however their instructions from the Senior Partners’ liaison in Paris was clear- take the assignment from her, and keep track of the Mlle Lilah and her plans, but under no circumstances injure the small boys currently on her agenda, or any of the ruling line – particularly not the Immortal!

Lilah’s instructions were clear. “Capture them and kill anyone who gets in your way.”

The young captain neither nodded nor denied the order, simply indicating to his men to move out. Lilah was almost bouncing with glee. Soon the Senior Partners would see just what she was capable of when she worked independently.



Part 6


Willow and Stephanie arrived with little fanfare. Instead, the welcome was rather that which might be afforded favorite cousins. They were ushered into the study by Anton in the early afternoon.

Willow remembered Connor a little from their brief encounter in Angel’s hotel some fifteen or more years ago, and had seen a rather worried looking Connor somewhat obscured by shadows during their video conference, a week previously. But that seemed to have little relation to the confident man she was now facing. He was obviously just over the cusp of thirty and had a calm and presence that made the white haired wiccan relax and smile broadly. She did not hesitate in breaking all protocol and move forward to give a warm hug to first the Immortal, then Connor in turn.

And Willow certainly wasn’t what Connor had expected.

As soon as she entered the room it positively prickled with the magic flowing from her. White haired and extremely attractive, she had a serene timelessness about her that gave the impression she would carry her true age as a secret for many decades to come.

Connor followed Anton’s lead as the Immortal formally took the witch’s proffered hand, and pressed the back of it to his forehead, then heart and finally kissed it. “High Mistress Willow, we are deeply grateful of your presence and welcome you to our home.” The formality was repeated by Connor as a rather overawed Stephanie was also graciously greeted.

The dialogue between High Wiccan Willow, soon to be ‘Nanny’ (the acolyte Stephanie), the Immortal, and the Full Blood, Connor Aurelius, was surprisingly easy. All in the room were concerned for the balance, the future… and restoring the boys, but in the meantime, ensuring that their time was spent in a stimulating and loving environment.

Stephanie was a trained early childhood teacher and spent much of her time (outside her wiccan responsibilities and studies) as the director overseeing the Berkshire coven’s childcare centre and kindergarten – it was one of the English covens’ five facilities. She was also being personally groomed by Willow to become a High Mistress.

Stephanie was a natural born witch with mixed heritage. Her father’s twin had been made werewolf at the age of seventeen, and her mother was a lay healer – sadly never schooled in the arts of magic, but as a natural earth mother, was able to heal many regardless. Sadly for the thirty something wiccan, motherhood eluded her and her efforts on behalf of the children of the coven increased tenfold as a consequence.

Stephanie had a pixie sweet face, raven blue-black hair, classic red ‘bow’ lips and near black eyes framed by lashes that were impossibly long. She was petite but exuded a strength and kindness that had a presence of its own. Connor and Anton knew instantly, the woman was a perfect choice for their boys’ Nanny.


To the visiting wiccans, Anton was most obviously the patriarch – his extraordinary age, experience and imperviousness to elimination something that gave him a perspective unavailable to the others. And his benevolence and role as surrogate Sire to the line also apparent as he and Connor explored options for reversing the spell with Willow, and discussed Stephanie’s role in the interim.

As the adults discussed some of the most worrying aspects of the current challenges faced by the Aurelian Court, the little boys were having their mid afternoon ‘quiet time’. The term more a euphemism for William’s trying *very hard* to stay still and rest, than for Xander who napped easily at any time of the day or night.

The hour had been instigated after day four when a full blown tantrum by one small brunette had followed the misplacement of Panda. After much sobbing, the beloved soft toy was located by Anton when the laundry staff found a rather soggy black and white bear amongst the already washed, bed linen.

Following the discovery and a very restless night, William and his teddy were allowed to keep a patient vigil with Xander the following day. They seated themselves on the ground under the clothes line for most of the morning while Panda (pinned by his ears) swung in the wind and dried.

Despite the reassuring discovery of the beloved bear, there was still the issue of the ‘mid afternoon moodiness’ until Jon – their lovely human cook and father of five – identified near exhaustion as the key factor regards the ‘aberrant’ behavior of the two boys. Two days later, all was calm again, with the youngsters encouraged to sleep following luncheon and before their afternoon activities.

And so it was, on the day of Willow and Stephanie’s arrival, William had been instructed to simply stay lying down to ‘rest and read’ if he couldn’t sleep in the afternoon.

Expecting guests made the idea of slumber all the more difficult, so Connor sat with the little lad for a time while the sleeping Xander snuggled into his restless friend’s side. Connor was rather surprised when he queried the small blonde about one or two of the books William was looking at, realizing belatedly that the little lad really was reading a significant number of the words, and not just looking at the pictures.

Connor whispered, “You read very well.”

William positively glowed with pride, “That’s why Mother and Papa gave me ‘The Fairy Shop’ for Christmas. It has wonderful poems and pictures, and it’s bound!”

William was too busy describing the treasured tome with his hands and expressions to notice Connor’s amusement.

“Nanny has me read it to her if it’s too wet to go to the park, and Papa says if I am really clever and work very hard at my studies, I will go to University just like he did.” Connor looked down at the little lad, noticing the half worried expression on the boy’s face. He decided to comment, “You’ll be much older by then. I went to University too – I loved it… Living in the house with other students, it’s lots of…” Connor realized he wasn’t helping so leaned over and took the petite form in a loose hug before inquiring, “Why the sad face Will?”

William’s tone had dropped its enthusiastic edge, “Well… Who will look after Nanny and Mother if I have to go to University to live?”

Connor noticed Xander stir a little but continued to focus on the concerned blonde boy, “Oh, I’m sure it will be fine William. A clever boy like you? I’m sure it will all work out.”

Connor was just about to say more when Xander sat up bleary eyed and little William seemed to completely forget about the previous worry or conversation. He dove across the bed to his waking friend to sit in front of the still blinking Xander, and began a rapid monologue.

Connor could not help but smile. One minute the weight of the real world seemed to be bearing down on the small boy, and the next he was entirely ready to fight dragons, lead daring explorations and ride wild horses, with the obligatory caveat “…so long as we’re both home for tea of course!”

Sadly for the boys, their afternoon adventures were to be temporarily curbed. “That’s lovely William, but I need you both to come and meet someone – well two people really. One of the ladies is a very good friend and the other lady is a person I am sure we will all like.”

And so, a few minutes later, two hastily groomed small boys entered the sitting room hand in hand with Connor.

“Mistress Willow Rosenburg, Mistress Stephanie D’Arth, I would like you to meet Alexander Harris and William Bartlett.”

Xander looked wide eyed at both women then quickly dropped his gaze pushed himself firmly against Connor’s leg and staring at the floor. William knew he was expected to be polite when meeting adults, so released Connor’s hand and gave as good a bow as he could manage, whilst saying, “Please to meet you, Mistress Rosenburg… Mistress D’Arth…”

Willow’s heart skipped a beat. William was just adorable, all enormous blue eyes and white blonde curly hair, but she was even more overwhelmed by the sight of the very young Xander.

He was just as she remembered from old photos of the two of them at kindergarten and daycare all those years ago. Big chocolate brown, innocent eyes, thick auburn hair with just enough curl to guarantee it was never quite neat, and a friendly smile that had remained across the years she knew him – nearly always able to disguise the often trying life he led.

She immediately rose from her chair and knelt down in front of her lifetime friend, not missing the little blonde’s immediately protective move, shuffling around the back of Connor so he might stand shoulder to shoulder with his friend Xander as the white haired woman came closer.

Willow found herself rather emotional but finally managed, “Well hello there Alexander… William… It is lovely to see you… I … um… I used to live in Sunnydale so I’ve met you before Xander… although you might not remember…” Willow saw the confused look, “Oh… it’s OK honey… Anton here tells me you’re learning to ride?”

Xander’s fear instantly dissipated and within moments he had released Connor’s hand and stepped forward with William in close pursuit, as he explained their wonderful pony rides and how they had “… gone all the way down to the gate and I even had the reins with *no lead* the o’ver day! An’ Will was wiv me – but he just had to hold on, ‘cause it wasn’t his turn! An’ Chantelle said I was really good, and Fusée (that’s his name) even licked some salt from my hand after! ”

William quickly jumped in, palm extended as though to feed a pony, adding, “And mine too… he licked mine!” Willow didn’t miss the two little lads exchanging a glance before Xander added, “And he licked Will’s too.” before commenting, “But he licked mine first!”

William looked at the ground for a moment then conceded the point, “He did… He licked Xander first… but that’s fair. Xander was really good with the reins. Do you think Fusée will lick me first next time?” Hopeful blue eyes were raised to Willow’s emerald green as the witch tried hard not to giggle at the innocent babble.

“I’m sure Fusée just takes in turn don’t you think?” Apparently Willow’s response was perfect, as two little boys grinned then settled on the floor cross-legged in front of the senior Wiccan. At that point Willow took the opportunity to introduce Stephanie less formally.

The young wiccan was ideal – in her late twenties, the dark haired woman seemed to have an instant affinity with the small boys. The boys took an immediate like to their lovely new nanny and were soon heading outside to “Show Nanny S around…”

Willow watched the two excited boys lead a beaming Stephanie to meet Chantelle and Fusée, barely hearing the end of the explanation by an increasingly confident Xander, “You might be too big to ride wiv us… but we could do walking couldn’t we, Will? … And there are the big bikes. But you will need Uncle Connor to come then, ‘cause they’re too hard by yourself… But maybe Chantelle can…” The conversation petered out as the trio disappeared into the late afternoon sun. And the ‘elders’ turned to more serious matters.

Anton addressed the still smiling wiccan, “She is ideal. Thank you Mistress. But I must address more urgent matters. Correct me if I am wrong but… it will be nineteen days at the earliest until we can change them back?”

Willow sobered instantly and faced the Immortal, her elder by at least two millennia. “Indeed Master Anton, though our research has revealed a complication in the reversal process when it comes to the High Master.”

Connor saw a measure of anguish and sadness grace Anton’s usually unreadable, handsome face, before the old one quietly answered their guest. “Dear Lady, I feared as much. You must know that I hold you and the coven in the highest esteem, and hope that you will agree to restoring Xander at the end of this month – along with our Fl’aath friends, but I also entreat you to stay on. The restoration of the High Master William will, as you have indicated, require a more difficult process…”

Willow was just about to comment but was stayed by Anton’s kind hand resting on her knee and silenced her by the near whispered, baritone address. “I know we must restore the man and the demon… and as you realize that includes his age and status as High Master. My resources are vast, dear lady, but for the restoration of the true leader of the vampire world – and his consort… I trust you dear Mistress Willow. I entreat you to restore my Childer. You have my full support. It is well that you are with us High Mistress, as I, like you, know it will be a process requiring *all* our resources and *much* resolve.”

Willow simply nodded then added in a rather small voice, “As you are their Sire in all but origin, I respect all that you ask, and am honored that you request this of me. Your Childer may need some of your blood in the interim, and that of the full blood Connor. I realize your responsibilities are vast but wonder if you might be available for the full moon so we might proceed with William’s restoration. The coven will have completed all necessary ceremonies prior to the full moon.”

Anton smiled, “You have my word. Indeed it is my intention to stay on until the day. Oh and note also that I have arranged for you to fly to our home for a day or two after the High Master’s restoration – as I believe you owe Buffy a ‘mocca and a chat’? She did say to call.”

Willow all but squealed her delight, and gave in to rather uncharacteristic, impetuous glee as she kissed the Immortal on the cheek and all but danced from the room, mobile phone in hand and a thousand questions ready for her old friend.


…………………..

“She is very nice.”

“I know”

“She’s nothing like my real Nanny.”

“So?”

“Oh… nothing really – they’re both nice… I just… I just miss Nanny… and Mother… and… and… I’ve been *ever so brave*, so where are they? I … I just thought if I was brave… Cousin George said that school is when you have to go away to learn. Do you think that we’re in school – ‘cause I was good and I tried to learn my lessons and I am sorry the chalk broke… and the board got wet… but it dried later... so…”

The two little boys were in bed after supper, allegedly attempting to settle for the night, but William was on the point of hysteria. The High Mistress Willow ‘gave him prickles’ and was still putting him on such an edge that he could not begin to process the confusion, so simply gave in to the lovely warm cuddle from his Xander shaped friend.

Stephanie came to check on her two small charges some half hour later and grinned as she spied the two small bodies intertwined. She tucked the covers up to their chins then flicked off all but the night light before retiring herself.

……………….

The mercenaries struck ten days after Stephanie’s arrival, as she and two small boys were spending a joyful afternoon on a large rug near the swing Connor had hung from the broad branches of the ancient oak close to the house. The boys had exhausted themselves with countless turns on the swing followed by a few bouts of rough and tumble, and an aborted attempt to climb the enormous tree.

Eventually their lovely wiccan Nanny had convinced them to draw a picture of their tree for Uncle Connor and Sir Anton. William had insisted that the older relative was Sir Anton after hearing Connor referred to him as “Sire, Anton” over dinner on their second day at the house.

It took Xander almost a week before the concept that it was possible to have a knight without armor sunk in. But the presence of swords, shields, and artifacts of war displayed around the mansion, along with witnessing Anton and Connor fencing one afternoon, convinced the young lad that Anton’s chain mail and horse must just be hidden somewhere.


Before she even realized what was happening, the dart that hit the young witch’s arm had delivered its anesthetic and she was on the ground in black oblivion. Xander saw Spike grabbed from behind as he reached for a red crayon. Fortunately for both boys, he screamed his alarm and kept screaming for William, even as he was pulled from the ground by an individual clad in a balaclava and army fatigues.

William kicked and struggled for several seconds then went limp, just as his old Nanny back home said one should do if ever attacked by the gypsies.

Pleased that his charge was compliant so quickly, the young private relaxed somewhat, and William struck. The tiny blonde kicked with all his might, managing to get his little boots to strike the large individual’s groin with enough force to cause a yelp, then took advantage of the few seconds of shock to wriggle out of the man’s grip, and begin to make for the stranger holding a struggling Xander.

The terrified little Xander had managed to keep hold of his red crayon and by a mere stroke of luck, and a lot of flailing arms, had struck his captor in the eye with the writing implement – hard enough that he was dropped unceremoniously on the ground.

William grabbed his friend’s hand and they began to run for the house – but there were more mercenaries emerging from a black van that had sped across the lawn toward them.

Xander cried out a second time as the now angry individual he had escaped from, caught him again. This time the man had help. Xander was held firm as his mouth was taped followed by his wrists and ankles. William had the same treatment.

As they were tossed unceremoniously into the van, William saw their lovely Nanny Stephanie sprawled on the ground and began to cry silently. He was sure they had killed her, he had seen a dead person in the street once, and that lady had been sprawled too.

The soldiers were speaking in rapid French. Sadly William knew only enough words to know something even worse than the tape was about to happen.

“Just give them a quarter of the usual – anymore might kill them.”

“But Sir, is it really necessary? They are restrained now, surely…?”

The lead mercenary growled back, “It’s an order Cherloitte, not a discussion point!” The soldier’s eye was still visibly red from the ‘crayon incident’.

“Sir, yes Sir.”

William felt a sharp pain in his right leg and all went black.

The young soldier was leaning across to Xander when a commotion in the front of the van signaled they had trouble. Then their whole world stilled. Frozen in place, even the drip of anesthetic from the syringe refused to obey gravity.


Connor had heard Xander’s initial cry of distress and though it wasn’t unusual for the boys to rough house or yell out, something of the tone put him on edge so he did a quick check out the window, expecting to see some minor hurt, only to view all their nightmares. Stephanie was on the ground and he could see the boys being manhandled by men in fatigues.

Anton felt his distress before any words were even exchanged, so simply cried out to Willow who was in the library researching, before following Connor. Vampiric speed and agility saw both launching from the balcony to the ground then all but flying toward their boys.

Connor pulled the driver from the vehicle, knocking him out with a single punch in the process. He was about to tackle the other four mercenaries when Willow’s spell hit the scene. Anton looked back to the house and could just make out the witch standing on the first storey balcony, arms extended and hair flying as if in a wind tunnel.

Lilah’s attack squad were all aware but unable to move of their own free will, so had wrists and ankles bound and mouths gagged before being neatly piled into the back of their own vehicle. The unconscious Stephanie and William were gently eased into the rear of the van also, while a now freed but sobbing small Xander was cradled in Anton’s arms as Connor drove the van the few hundred meters to the house.


The men were moved to the winter barn where the animals resided during the frozen months of December and January. Still groggy from the spell, they were stripped of their equipment then shackled together in a single stall. They had water and a toilet bucket but no food since both Connor and Anton knew it was only temporary. Neither had any desire to hold prisoners for longer than was absolutely necessary.


Stephanie came to first, crying out her belated alarm before the disorientation of being tranquilized truly began to lift. She recognized Willow but did not relax until her elder whispered, “Sweetie, the boys are fine… they’re fine… Rest now.”

Connor and Anton flanked the two tiny figures in Spike and Xander’s bed. Both boys had been freed of their restraints and Xander given Panda and cup of warm milk by Connor with reassurances that if he had a bit of a sleep, William would be awake when he roused.

Anton’s hand remained on the little blonde’s chest and a worried look firmly in place. It was obvious that the dose of anesthetic had been a hefty one for such a small person, William’s breathing too shallow and erratic to oxygenate the blood properly, and his heart failing to compensate. The boy’s lips and fingertips were slowly taking on a blue tinge.

Gregor arrived seconds later as though by magic. He handed Anton a small oxygen mask and twisting the key on the bottle. It hissed as the precious contents began to flow.
After several minutes and a gradual restoration of pink to William’s color, Anton lifted his free wrist and bit down hard. He then removed the mask from William’s face for a few seconds and allowed a mouthful of his own blood to drain into the boy’s mouth.

William gagged a little but eventually swallowed the precious fluid. Anton returned the mask and proffered the still dripping wrist to Connor – who accepted gratefully before laving the wound closed.


……………..

Lilah stormed impatiently around her luxury suite. It was hours since her team was deployed and the last time they had checked in, the report had been that they had captured the targets and were about to return.

She was aware that she had stepped a little out of line regards the Senior Partners but still couldn’t wait to begin negotiations with Angel’s full blood son, and was sure Connor would see the ‘advantages’ of working for her… and perhaps, one day, even for Wolfram and Hart. The Senior Partners would be impressed.


*Crane, Walter, (1870) The Fairy Shop, UK.




Part 7

William did not return to consciousness, and over the ensuing hours his breathing became more and more erratic as his tiny system struggled to eliminate the huge dose of anesthetic from his body. The local doctor was summoned and Anton sent urgent word to his personal friend and internationally renowned pediatrician, Prof. Jan H Wildhaber.

Anton’s deepest fear was that the huge dose of anesthetic had damaged the little boy permanently. Anton and Connor took turns acting as nurse to the young female physician, Dr Illiffe. A native of Nigeria, the brilliant young Edwina had seen far too many children die. Her lovely Swiss husband (podiatrist Jean) was called to warn that their two toddlers needed care as she was required to monitor her patient - the unconscious William - through the wee hours and likely needed to travel with him to a larger hospital.

Jean heard the emotion in his dark, statuesque wife’s voice and knew that she would not ask to travel with a patient unless absolutely necessary. Learning that it was a child, he knew why. They had met in a hospital in Mozambique, she tending a ward of small children dying of AIDS, he working for the UN. No child would be left to die if Edwina could possibly help it.

…………..


Little Xander was unable to sleep, so was permitted to visit his little friend around midnight as it became evident that William would have to be transported to a major hospital as soon as possible. Xander was not told the reason for the permission, just that his friend was still ‘very sick’.

Xander arrived at the door, one arm tightly around William’s bear and the other holding the white haired Willow’s hand tightly.

Willow lifted her young friend up so he could place the teddy beside the inert figure, whispering most seriously to Willow as they left only minutes later, “Now he can wake up, ‘cause he will *know* that his Teddy is there.” Willow squeezed the boy’s hand affectionately and whispered, “I’m sure he will sweetie”, at the same time shooting a worried glance back at a rather exhausted looking Connor holding vigil beside William’s bedside.

Ten minutes later an unconscious William, accompanied by Anton, Connor and Dr Illiffe, were transported by ambulance to the emergency ward of the main hospital in Basel.

Arriving at around two in the morning they were grateful to find Dr Wildhaber waiting.

Anton hovered as his friend performed a similar battery of tests to the local doctor, praising the young woman as the initial blood tests she had conducted enabled he and his team to assess their challenge swiftly.

It transpired that the tranquilizer used was not designed to be human specific, and it certainly was not intended for children. Dr Wildhaber, himself a father of a litter, growled (literally) and allowed Anton to see his eyes change from their normal grey blue to an eerie black as his wolf came to the fore.

In their haste to satisfy Lilah’s dictate (had the team been successful), the two boys would most certainly have died in the back of the van from a combination of asphyxiation and organ failure. It was also apparent that the mercenaries were either incredibly ignorant or simply not particularly worried by that fact that the subjects of their raid would be ‘DOA’.

According to the blood tests, William’s tiny body had been assaulted by a tranquilizer designed for ‘cross breeds’, a combination animal and human sedative with a magical element that would bring down any demon or individual of magical heritage. Sadly the little lad was all human.

Nanny Stephanie had fared better due to the strength of her natural magicks, her age and adult size - plus, it was surmised, the dose she was given was only aimed at disabling her for minutes, not for the hours of transport expected for the boys. It was welcome information for the coven but no more reassuring for the House of Aurelius.

By five in the morning, Dr Wildhaber had called in two specialist anesthetists – both regulars in his own operating room, one for human and the other specializing in ‘unusual’ patients. The boy’s little body was failing.

William had not regained consciousness and despite the excellent combined efforts of Dr Wildhaber’s staff, his condition continued to wane over the ensuing hour. An emergency breathing tube was inserted as his lungs ceased to work automatically and catheters, drips and additional monitoring equipment piled up around the tiny body. He was still alive, but only just as the rest of the household arrived.

Willow, Connor and Xander were led into the ICU in silence. Gregor had seated himself silently on a chair in the hall opposite the door, ever watchful, another of Anton’s men was positioned at the emergency exit giving him a full view of the hallway. Willow paused briefly to create a ward around William’s room.

Nurse Liebentisch looked up from her book then vacated her seat and moved out of the way in deference to the family. Connor and Anton were already flanking their tiny relative and the white haired woman looked on the edge of collapse. The nurse had seen far too many families trying to cope with critically ill children before. It was never easy, particularly for the other children.

The supervising nurse found her throat tightening as she reflected, the little lad in the bed resembled her own first borne, her beautiful boy - a wonderful sportsman and gifted scholar who was struck down by Hodgkinson’s Disease at age nineteen and died four months later after as his body destroyed itself for no apparent reason.

It tore their family apart, the anguish involved was still raw for her even ten years on. But she would be there for others whenever needed.

The kindly nurse edged out of the door as she watched a little brunette boy that could not have been more than four or five run forward, only to be stayed by an adult worried that the enthusiasm of a child might dislodge the life-giving tubes. The seasoned pediatric nurse was still moved as she departed the room to a small boy repeatedly calling for his friend Will to wake up before being collected into a warm hug by his ‘Aunt Willow’.

She left the small group to their initial greeting but returned to guide the distressed group to their hospital's family assistance section. Even this late they had arranged accommodation right next door to the hospital and found something to ‘nibble on’ as a late night snack.

Willow had been watching little William for hours as he fought body and soul (literally!) for his life. He had been injected with a serum to reverse the affects of the physical tranquilizer, but it was up to Willow to provide an antidote to the deadly magical mojo without damaging the little boy.

An hour after it was confirmed that the serum had done all it could, the white haired wiccan sat in a deep trance, encircled by candles, and remained lost to the physical world for nearly thirty minutes. The glow that had surrounded William as Willow’s magic began to work ended in a blinding flash after which the Wiccan collapsed, William convulsed violently, then began to breathe on his own.

Connor and Anton both fed the little boy tiny amounts of their own blood in the ensuing hours as William began to recover, their contributions exacting a swift improvement in the patient though the critical change was credited to Dr Wildhaber’s team and the wonderful witch.

Anton and Connor had taken a break and were outside in the hospital gardens as the morning sun peeped over the horizon marking the fourth day of William’s stay in the hospital. Anton lit a clove cigarette then leaned over to Connor with a silver hip flask. Connor took a long draft of fine brandy and noticed that Anton had lines of exhaustion marking his otherwise timeless features.

Venturing that the fatigue was not just sleepless nights, Connor commented as he handed back the welcome drink, “We’ll be going home in no time, Sire.”

Anton took a long pull on his cigarette and blew the smoke skyward after a meaningful pause. “We have missed the moon and he will still likely be too weak to withstand the restoration even next month. I will not risk him again.” Then added, “My wonderful strong William… He really *is* my Childe now in all ways, and I failed him, my dear Connor, I failed all of you. You are all mine to protect and I failed...”

Connor moved forward and wrapped his arms around his senior’s slim waist then tilted his head to the side, offering his neck. “You failed none of us, Sire! Please Drink, you are tired and need this. Take what is yours.”

He felt Anton stiffen then relax a little, and gave a slight groan as the Immortal slid his fangs delicately, and almost painlessly, into Connor’s flesh. Barely two mouthful’s later the wound was licked closed. The two remained in an intimate embrace for some time, Anton’s head resting on the smaller man’s right shoulder until Connor felt Anton waver a little and realized that his elder was nearly asleep on his feet.

“Come Sire, let us see to some proper rest for you.”

………………

Three days later the family was home, though William was still very weak and slept for much of each day. Xander was his constant companion, the little boy insisting that if William was in bed then he should be there too. He chatted to his friend when Will was awake and lay quietly watching the television, looking at picture books or drawing whenever his blonde companion slept again.

If he did venture outside at Stephanie’s insistence, he made sure to report all exploits back to William as soon as he returned – even waking his little friend to extol his own expertise on the swing or explain some new game that he had planned for when Will was well enough to join him.

Stephanie was fully recovered and attended to the boys’ daily needs from the moment they came home, helping William to the toilet when necessary, bathing, dressing and arranging meals, and any other entertainment she could devise.

Xander went riding with Chantelle – though now Gregor accompanied them at Anton’s insistence. Xander quite liked Gregor – he was quiet and looked very strong, plus always had a smile for the little brunette. Gregor, for his part, had always admired the Consort and now quite enjoyed seeing just how much of the boy’s loyalty, strength of character and good nature was evident even at such an early age.


The tension in the house increased as full moon approached some seven weeks after the ruling couple’s initial regression. The cause? Xander’s return to adulthood was looming.

The coven was contacted and the Fl’aath formally invited for the event that would see their infant sons restored as promised.

Reluctantly, a decision was made a week before the event. William would be forced to stay a child for at least another month as he had only just begun to play outside again, still required morning and afternoon naps, and took the daily recommended boosts of Anton and Connor’s blood disguised in some grape juice.

On the night before the ceremony, the Fl’aath families arrived, two females at the back cradling their tiny green babies. They were settled into the guest wing and a supper of their traditional chilled nettle and raw liver (animal) soup, accompanied by a roulade of bacon, herbs, chic peas and thinly sliced raw kidney and washed down by a cocktail of mulled red wine and the cream of goat’s milk. The meal was a triumph with chef Jon being called for at its conclusion to be congratulated by all the Fl’aath elders. The Aurelian court had demonstrated, yet again, its willingness to extend not only assistance, but a warm welcome and respect for traditions to the peaceloving demon species in its domain. The ‘nobless oblige’ would not be forgotten.

…………….

Connor and Anton slipped into William and Xander’s room just after dinner on the evening of the reversal. Collecting the boy was bound to upset both little lads as it had to conclude with Xander leaving. It had been preempted by several conversations and much anticipation in the days before Xander’s stay finishing. Stephanie had deliberately only packed a small backpack, with Panda poking his nose out the top so as to ‘see everything. She made sure both boys saw that Xander’s clothes and favorite things were still in place as they were to be ‘reunited in a month or two’.

Xander had said his farewells to Chantelle and Fusee, and was pleased to learn that William was to have some individual lessons while he was away since his blonde friend had missed so many when ill.

Xander drew Will a special picture and had Stephanie write a long letter on the back to William it started “To my best Friend William”, and ended “From your Friend Forever, Love Alexander”.

William was dressed in his pajamas, sitting cross-legged on the bed next to a dressed and backpacked Xander, William letting Xander hold Teddy “Just ‘cause…” The two boys held hands for a short time before William turned to the Immortal,“Sir Anton, will I be here when Xander gets back?”

“Oh I’m sure you will be William. Now we really must get going, so why don’t you give each other a big hug. You will be together again in no time, I promise.”

Teddy was momentarily forgotten as the boys embraced, Xander whispering, “You are my bestest friend ever!” before kissing his little companion hard and jumping off the bed to take Anton’s outstretched hand. He turned momentarily at the door, grinned and said “Seeya later alligator!”, William attempted a cheerful smile and waved back as Xander allowed himself to be led away.

William pulled Teddy close and sat silently for a moment. Stephanie gave him the time then moved in, worried that the parting might have proven all too traumatic for the little lad. She was understandably surprised, therefore, when perfectly clear crystal blue eyes were leveled at her moments later and the blonde asked, “Do you think Uncle Connor might take you and I to the town on Friday?”

Stephanie, quite taken aback, looked a little puzzled before asking, “Why would you want to do that sweetie?”

“Oh, I just thought we could buy some stamps, ‘cause I have to write to Xan a lot. Chantelle said that’s what she does with her best friend.”

Stephanie simply nodded her approval and smiled. She helped the little boy under the covers of the enormous bed (taking care to tuck Teddy in too) before replying fully, “I’m sure Connor will take us to town, and perhaps we can see a film or a play together in the afternoon. Would you like to do that?” She stroked the pale blonde curls affectionately as an already drowsy William yawned and snuggled into Teddy a little before adding quietly, “I suppose… Umm… Can you stay Nanny S?...”

“Of course I’ll stay, honey.” Stephanie flicked off the main light and lay down beside the little figure, tugging a comforter over herself in the process. She put a protective arm over the boy and teddy, and waited for sleep to claim him. The covern was present, and she could feel the ceremony begin, but her duty was to the little one whose blonde tufts poked from under the duvet.

……….

Thankfully, Xander too was in the ‘Land of Nod’. After being led from the room, he happily trailed after Anton down to the study where Willow and some other ladies stood. Willow had kissed him and sprinkled him with some sparkling dust that made the tiny brunette’s nose itch a little. But the instant she pulled him into a hug across her lap, he fell into a deep sleep.

The two Fl’aath babies and Xander were placed on a broad blanket that lay in the center of a circle of candles and the chanting began. The Fl’aath parents of the two and Connor and Anton also formed part of the circle, silent until Willow nodded and they entreated the benevolent powers to reverse the spell borne of ‘ill intent’.

A flash of light and blast of hot wind marked the restoration and the blanket was suddenly covered with three large bodies, still all unconscious, but certainly in the form they had been on the fateful day almost two months previously.

The respective families lifted their still unconscious, restored relatives and took them to their rooms to recover. Members of the Inverlaken Coven also retired after much praise and thanks from all present.

An exhausted High Mistress Willow followed the Aurelian family to Anton’s private quarters to await the awakening of her dear friend, the Consort Alexander.



Part 8

It was well into the morning of the following day when a very disorientated, once more one eyed adult Consort awoke.

Xander groaned and rolled toward the middle of Anton’s large bed, and reached for…“Ssssspppiii… hmm… Sspike?”

Anton was at his bedside in an instant, immediately assaulted by the re-established, emotional link he had with the Mated Consort… his other Childe, the blonde, was still a preschooler, and was without a Sire/Childe link while awaiting restoration the human child’s physical recovery from near death. How could he explain the events of the last two months to Xander?

The Immortal stretched to touch the Consort’s shoulder gently. “Xander? Xander… it’s Anton… do you know where you are?”

Still trying to make sense of where he was and why, the brunette turned slowly, his remaining eye filled with panic and brimming with tears. “S…Sire?? I can’t feel him, Sire! Why can’t I feel him?? Oh Ggg….hhh”. Xander’s distress increased exponentially as he frantically sought the link with his mate. Even asleep he could always feel Spike… yet now? Nothing.

A hitched series of anguished sobs almost disguised the desperate words, as Anton sat and gathered the now grieving Consort into his arms, “Noooooo!!!.... He… he *can’t* be! We… we… He… Ohhh Sire!” Anton could hear Xander’s heart racing beyond what was healthy and could smell the terror and grief rising.

He immediately pulled the man close, let his fangs drop, and opened his wrist. Pushing the precious fluid past his boy’s lips, he bit down hard on Xander’s neck. It was enough to cause pain and not something he was comfortable doing – but knew it was necessary.

The act and the blood had a threefold effect. It grounded and calmed the Consort instantly; renewed the connection with his ‘Sire’ Anton; and … triggered a flood of memories from the previous weeks as a young child. Xander fell back into a semi-slumber as his mind attempted to process the maelstrom within. New memories had been inserted as a somewhat confused, yet lovely, holiday into his rather fuzzy recall of a miserable ‘first time around’ as a four and a bit.

The original had no family holidays as his father was retrenched when Xander was two. Xander remembered his mother crying a lot and always being tired. His mother had taken a secretarial job and did ironing and cleaning after hours to try to keep their household afloat and Xander eventually went to a long daycare centre where he met Willow.

His father did odd jobs and was finally offered a menial ‘starting’ job as a mechanic’s assistant by a friend. It eventually saw his father as head mechanic, but close to a year out of work and then having to ‘start again’ had already done the damage. His mother was given promotion… and was earning twice as much as her husband by the time Xander was four. It didn’t help the family dynamic.

The senior Harris started drinking, his wife buried herself in work, yet also began to console herself with the occasional ‘Zinfindel’ – initially to keep her husband company, but ultimately it was joined by valium and a combination of other remedies - their purpose - to blot out reality when at home and… to endure.

Some time when he was around five, after close to six months of screaming matches and angry silences, his parents made the decision to ‘stay together because of the child’. It saw Xander become the embodiment of their unhappiness and a reminder of what they had apparently lost. As an adult Xander realized that their anger and alienation was not due to him, nor was it directed at him particularly.

The contrast between his loving memories of his time at the Aurelian house and his own ‘real’ recollections from the same age were almost laughable. The love and strength of Anton and Spike… and the extended household, the sense of family, was absolute, whereas the unhappy individuals in his original home were unable to rescue themselves let alone a child.

Xander’s eyes fluttered open as he turned to his Sire, but was still only able to express two mumbled words in amazement, “Unconditional Love!”

Anton added a few of his own as the statement, “Yes my dear Childe. Unconditional Love… then, now and forever.”

A tear tracked down Xander’s cheek, finding its way to his chin, and joined by two more as he allowed a confusion of emotions wash over him. His desperate feelings as a then four and a half year old; the delights and worries of the recent joyful ‘holiday’ with his (now) family at that age; his love for Spike and the regressed William; and everything in between. Xander finally gained his composure and plucked up the courage to ask, “ So… Spike… or William…???”

“Is still regressed, dear heart. He was not strong enough, and I would dearly have liked to change you together, but we needed you to return. The court needs you, and Spike will need you all the more when he returns.

“Connor and I have done our best, but it is you and the High Master who keep the balance of power. We will restore William as soon as we can… but the quarterly meeting of clan leaders is to be in a fortnight. I am sorry Alexander, but you must carry the mantel once more.”

Xander nodded resignedly, “I understand, it has been done before, Sire.”

Anton all but breathed his reply, “I dearly wish you did not have to do it again…”

They both contemplated the previous time he had deputized for the badly injured Spike and just how very close both Spike and Xander too, had come to final death in the car accident… so much pain for so many months.

“The Clans will be satisfied with you at the helm. So let us focus on William and make his return to health and this special time with us a joyous one…” Anton saw the worry in the Consort’s face, and gently brushed away a tear that had begun to track down from Xander’s good eye.

“Dear one, he, like you, will remember. And he, like you, has loved his Mate for *far* longer than either of you could possibly comprehend… ” There was a moment of silence as the message sunk in before Xander addressed his Sire in an emotion filled whisper. “I know…I have loved him forever – even as I fought against my own feelings as a teenager, I know I loved him… May I see him Sire? Please?? Can I see William?” Xander’s tone was so reminiscent of the little boy he had been until so recently that Anton hugged the man just a little bit tighter before answering.

“Of course – but at the moment he’s out on a riding lesson.” Xander seemed to slump for a moment against Anton, then took a deep breath and seemed to be trying to gather his thoughts again.

“Come, he will only be an hour. We may even spy him from the balcony.” Anton eased them both to standing, supporting a still very unsteady Consort, and walked them both onto the sun drenched patio of the late autumn morning.

Xander was still for a moment, attempting to process the scene of the small William on the pony he remembered so well, accompanied by the lovely, patient, Chantelle and protective Gregor. He could still recall all the French words Chantelle had taught him as they went for the long ride at the end of each lesson, though now Xander was fluent anyway, courtesy of the years in their current location and some very deliberate study and practice.

Anton’s gaze lifted as he saw Willow and felt Connor, his new Childe, standing on the broad balcony, belatedly noting the witch’s pallid visage. It was obvious, the restoration spell had been costly and it was not just William who would need another month to recuperate. He smiled his welcome, then caught Xander as the man’s legs faltered. He lifted the brunette easily and carried him back to Anton’s own bed. Within seconds, Willow followed and had her old friend in a warm hug.

Connor waited until Willow remembered where she was before moving toward the bed. Willow moved to sit along side her old friend, continuing to hold his right hand and stroke her friend’s hair – no doubt more to reassure herself than comfort Xander.

Connor leaned forward and took Xander’s left hand, raising his other wrist to Anton as he did so. Anton bit down to open the wrist but took nothing. The open wound was pressed wordlessly against the mouth of his restored ‘brother in blood’. Xander took it and felt Anton’s fangs on his own left wrist. He groaned with the familiarity and the wonderful flood of ‘family, love, relief, worry, love…” flowing through the restored link with Connor along with the link intensifying as Xander’s blood was passed on to both relatives.

Willow kissed her old friend again (accusing him cheekily of ‘blood breath’) then settled onto the bed with the other two to spend the remainder of the hour discussing matters of the Aurelian Court. There was little to report, other than the fact Mistress Minna and Connor seemed to have established a strong friendship and found that they were very much kindred spirits in terms of their professional interests, business practices and loyalty to the ruling couple.

It was almost two hours before they heard tiny William racing up the stairs to his room calling for Stephanie, and followed by the ever watchful Gregor. Anton choosing to let the little boy keep to his regular schedule of luncheon with Nanny Stephanie and an afternoon nap before introducing an ‘older relative’.

Xander was nervous, to the point of feeling quite ill, as the door of the study opened to reveal Stephanie and his little friend, William. Xander was struck by how very small the boy looked – and how pretty, even at such a young age.

Connor, Anton and Xander all stood as the pair entered the room, before Xander was formally introduced by Anton as the “Esteemed Aurelian Consort, Alexander”.

Xander squatted down in front of the boy and held out his hand, noting how clumsy and huge he felt as his friend’s tiny pale hand slipped into his for a ‘manly shake’. But it was the wide eyed William’s innocent awestruck question that eased the tension, “Are you a pirate? Because Nanny S says that pirates all have patches and beards and a peg leg…and… Do you have a peg leg?” The little boy leaned forward a little to stare hard at Xander’s dark casual pants. Xander looked up to Anton a little unsure of what to say but grinned as he saw a very bemused Anton holding back laughter.

Xander belatedly realized that his ‘Robin Hood’ goatee and moustache, eye patch and classic collarless, white button-up shirt might well fit the impression of pirate to the small lad. Xander would have argued that he had no bandanna or gold teeth, however realized that his shoulder length brunette locks pulled back in a leather tie probably counted as almost the same to the four plus boy.

When Xander smiled at the little lad rather than answering, William seemed to gain confidence, “Do you have a sword? Uncle Connor has a sword. Are you going to fight Sir Anton – just for pretend… you know… ‘cause he does fencing like this!!” William thrust forward his rear hand up in a rather good parody of a fencing move, before all but bouncing on the spot as he asked conspiratorially, “Do you have a buried treasure?...” After the last of the rapid fire questions, William was gently shushed by Nanny Stephanie.

The little lad silenced immediately, looked at the floor and blushed with embarrassment and distress. He worried that he would be sent to his room – even at four something, he knew his place, and in adult company he should not have spoken out as he did. But this Alexander had such a friendly face, and William felt like he knew him already.

Xander smiled up at Stephanie before reaching out to the obviously worried William. “It’s OK, William. No I’m not a pirate, though I have seen my share of action. Yes, I do have a sword – several in fact and look forward to training with Sir Anton and Connor. But for now, would you like to show me around?”

The crestfallen look disappeared instantly as the little boy nodded profusely and Xander stood to garner approval from the other adults present. The others smiled their encouragement as William’s hand found his large friend’s.

“Oh yes please – we can start in my room, and I know nearly everywhere good for playing!”

“That would be lovely William, thank you, but you should check with Nanny Stephanie?”

The little boy turned begging blue eyes toward his lovely carer, “Please Nanny S, may I show Alexander around? Please??”

Before the hour was out Xander had been dragged through almost every room in the enormous house and half the gardens besides. They visited the swing under their favorite tree, Xander now far too big to fit in the narrow tyre seat, but wonderful at pushing.

William all but dragged him to the stables where Fusee had taken up residence when not needed by Chantelle, before racing back inside to introduce him to Teddy, and proudly show off a number of new drawings and a letter he was about to send to his friend Xander, “Who is away at the moment – but he’s coming back because we are friends.”

Late afternoon found them sitting on the floor of his own suite – Spike and Xander’s suite – though now filled with toys, activity materials, and children’s books. William was sitting on Xander’s right thigh, enthusiastically helping his new friend read a poem from AA Milne’s, “Now We are Six” called “King John’s Christmas”. It seemed that little William knew most of the words, and added sincerely after the poem, “He needs a friend to play with too… If I were king I would make sure everyone got presents and had lots of friends!”

Xander gave the little lad a quick hug, “I’m sure you’d make a fine king.” William beamed then fell serious again, “What’s an Esteemed Consort?”

Xander swallowed hard and hugged the little boy, “He is the partner of the High Master.”

“Is it the High Master who owns this place?”

“Yes, but he’s away at the moment.”

“Do you miss him? ‘cause I miss Mother and Papa – and my other Nanny… oh and Xander… Is the High Master your best friend?”

“Yes William, I love the High Master and miss him very much. But he will come back soon… And until he does I have you don’t I? Hmm?”

Little William jumped up to hug the big man around the neck “I think we can be good friends…” He stayed for a quiet moment, then released Xander and exclaimed excitedly “Now… Can you play pirates with me?”


Part 9

William was collected by Stephanie for a bath before supper. The young witch adored her young charge, but also appreciated the afternoon off her Nanny duties thanks to the distraction that was ‘Captain Alex’. She had been able to attend Mistress Willow, returning to William’s rooms drained but far more relaxed as she knew her own healing spell and gift of energy for the senior wiccan was appreciated.

Xander spent the hour in the study with Connor and Anton. It was but days before the Aurelians would be playing host to the Clan leaders again, and Xander had a power of work to catch up with in terms of his own projects. He was amazed at how easily Connor had ‘covered’ for him in his absence – though admittedly the two major projects were well underway and superbly managed on site by individuals hand picked by Xander (with Jim’s advice).

Anton went out for a smoke and quiet sherry before supper while Connor and Xander caught up properly regards a new project in central Prague. The demolition of the existing building (complete with one of the only facades to survive from the seventeen hundreds in tact) was not an option. The entire block was owned by one of the oldest Czechoslovakian demon clans who could trace their line back to the human lines of the Hapsburgs and ….

The project was complex with many caveats on the design – but the chief consulting architects were known to the Aurelian court, and had a fine track record. They were also keen to have the Consort’s company engage in the work having seen some of their projects in Helsinki and Bonn. Connor had begun the project tender but was relieved when Xander stepped back in to his professional role. Connor only belatedly realized how very passionate (apart from how talented) Xander was regards project management on this scale.

The brunette threw himself into a barrage of swift phonecalls and concurrently shot Emails to a number of different contracting groups that might be used. Within the hour the tender was to the Aurelian lawyers for final review and would be on the table of the Szoeke Group before their Executive meeting in the morning.

The two men were still in deep conversation regards timing and some of the more mundane aspects of the Prague Project when they noticed a little bear toting figure join Anton on his balcony chair to receive a pre supper hug, so paused their dialogue to simply smile and watch the interaction.

Anton was deep in thought when the little pajama and dressing gown clad lad arrived and stood politely within the adult’s line of sight. Anton’s almost empty sherry glass was immediately placed on the ground and clove cigarette flicked over the balustrade before he opened his arms and William raced over to Sir Anton for his nightly hug and ‘daily report’.

Connor smelled and saw Xander’s emotions playing openly as the Consort watched the little boy gesticulating excitedly, hugging Anton and demonstrating the various events of the day using Teddy as one of his props. Loving adoration, sadness and longing, plus a mixture of joy and… hope flowed from the newly restored brunette.

Even after these several months with his Aurelian family household ‘The Destroyer’ was still coming to terms with his own vampiric instincts coming to the fore so easily where family was concerned, but had also learned to follow his natural responses. Feeling Xander’s distress, he opened the tiny Swiss army knife on his key ring and made a deliberate cut across his wrist. Connor then offered it to the Consort who absently fixed his mouth over the wound and took two slow drafts before pulling off with a sudden awareness of what he was doing. Xander laved the injury closed before pausing for a moment to settle his thoughts.

“I’m umm… Gahh sorry… Why did you…??”

“You needed it… I know I’m not him… but I figured you needed… the connection.”

A choked, “Yeah” was Xander’s only reply and the two watched for several minutes before returning to the task of packing up the office for the evening.

……………..

By the time Xander and Connor entered the dining room William was seated in his usual place swinging his legs a little waiting patiently while Stephanie, Willow and Anton were quietly discussing the upcoming clan meeting and the participation of the coven and other demon clans, and the possible attendance by a representative of the Wolfram and Hart Paris office.

Xander was directed to the chair beside William – the chair that so recently had sported an extra cushion like William’s – so both boys might reach the dining table with ease.

The meal passed easily with the adults all engrossed in conversation regarding the coming Court gathering. Finally William leaned over and politely asking Xander if the man would mind cutting his veal into bite sized pieces. Xander obliged immediately, realizing belatedly that William’s fine table manners had caused him to be all but ignored, and that he was looking somewhat sad.

After slicing up the food he leaned over and whispered, “Is something wrong Will?”

“Oh… not really… but might you read me a bedtime story later? I’m sure Nanny Stephanie won’t mind just this once, and I know she marked where we finished last night.”
When Xander nodded his agreement, William brightened, “Can you read Peter Pan – you know the bit where Peter fights Hook - it’s very exciting! There’s Tinkabell – she’s a fairy and there’s a crocodile with his clock and there’s ever so many pirates…And if you like we can play…”

Stephanie leaned over and cut him off quietly, “William, sweetheart, I’m sure Xander is happy to read to you, but how about you eat a little more of your dinner before it gets cold. You can plan for tomorrow after OK?” She gave the little boy an affectionate pat on the knee, though William’s face fell and his cheeks fired red.

He’d done it again. Perhaps Papa was right, he should not come to the adult table until he had long pants, but they had given him long pants, so now he was unsure of the rules. He had just been… He took one more mouthful of the veal Xander cut for him, before the lump in his throat suddenly curbed his appetite. He knew that he should have simply answered the question nicely then been good.

Xander noted the instant change and surmised the reason. He could not help thinking that they were both, in a sense living the Peter Pan life, and loved the little boy all the more whilst yearning desperately for his Spike.

He leaned over, cupped and raised a rather wobbly chin then locked his brown eye with William’s baby blues, saying sincerely, “Peter Pan it is. I’m sure he’d love to have you on his side.”

William looked a little hopeful. “Like Michael or John?”

“Of course… like Michael or John.” Xander smiled then took another mouthful of his own meal, and focused back on the adult conversations.

William immediately remembered his place again and pushed around the meat again, making a valiant attempt at one more piece before pushing the remains neatly to the side and placing his knife and fork parallel. He knew he had not earned pudding, so sat with his hands in his lap and head down, desperately wishing that his friend Alex might come back soon. It was so easy to be good with him around.

Stephanie had not missed the change in William’s behavior, and had really not been trying to reprimand the little lad, rather, she knew William needed to keep up his strength and eat well.

When she saw the effect of her comment, she surmised the reason and without the others noticing sent a message to the kitchen, organizing with the wonderful Jon, that her own, William’s and the Consort’s dessert (crème brulee) be delivered to William’s suite rather than the table.

She excused herself and William from the adult table, and invited Xander to join them. William politely said good night to all present, but was really still too miserable to notice the extra person following them up the stairs.

Xander flashed a quick look to his Sire and apologies to Connor and Willow – and Anton at the door – but all knew that the time was precious and needed, and that Xander, so newly restored, probably needed the sleep as much as his still small friend. Anton squeezed his Childe’s hand and whispered “Embrace your time with our young friend, and sleep well. There is much to be done in the coming days.”

Two hours later, after dessert, teeth cleaning and a story, Stephanie entered William’s bedroom, carefully took the book from the sleeping Consort’s hand and smiled as Xander rolled to place a protective hand on William’s side, before she spread an extra duvet over the sleeping man and retired to her room.

…………………….

Apart from an hour or so after William’s morning ride and a regular story reading engagement after dinner, Xander had little time to spend with his pint sized friend over the following four days. And the ensuing three day lead up to the convening of the court left no time for interaction with the ‘youngster’ as the older Aurelians all adjusted back to vampire hours.

William sat under the old oak of an afternoon. Nanny Stephanie offered to push the swing, but for the last few days he had politely declined her offer. Preferring instead, to sit on the swing and let it gently sway back and forth as he drew pictures and wrote hopeful letters to his friend Alexander. He was lonely and wished he too could go home but knew he must be patient and stay out of the way.

Little William remembered the feeling of ‘being in the way’ all too well. Mother and Papa were ‘not to be bothered by small children’. He knew that… but Xander, Sire Anton and Uncle Connor had always seemed so pleased to see him before, yet now he was not even invited down to dinner. Like at home, all meals were taken in his rooms (the nursery) before he was ushered downstairs to bid a polite goodnight to all present.

Despite Alexander warning William that there were some family and business matters to be dealt with, the tiny blonde was sure that his exile was to do with the outburst at the first dinner with Alexander. That was until the first of fifty or so limousines and taxis arrived at the front entrance of the castle on the following night. Then he understood. Mother had talked about big parties at the houses of royalty – she had attended them as a girl, though he knew she had always gone in a carriage – not these new horseless vehicles.

Nanny Stephanie had gone downstairs, so he took Teddy, eased off the bed and out the door to sit looking through the first floor landing’s banister. He could see them from his vantage point. As the guests arrived and were greeted by Sir Anton and Alexander before moving on to Uncle Connor. They all seemed terribly polite, and kissed Alexander on the hand like he had seen people do to Priests and the Queen in paintings.

Some of them seemed to be in costumes, others had masks on, one group made William giggle a little – they had dressed up like lizards! He wished he could stay up to watch the dancing (Mother said there was always dancing) but yawned and resigned himself to another lonely night with Teddy.

But as he crawled back into bed, Sir Anton slipped into the room.


The older Aurelians had been so engrossed in the lead up to the clan meeting, that it was only when a rather nervous Stephanie touched Anton on the arm as he made his way to luncheon late afternoon, that the Immortal realized his error.

“Master Anton, I wonder if you might talk to William. He has no understanding of what is going on and is missing his family and Alexander dreadfully and pines for your attention – and that of Connor. I know it is difficult with the Clan meeting tonight, but it is a confusing time for him… and he misses you too.”


Anton sat on the edge of the bed, then leaned down to kiss the little boy’s blonde curls. “I’m sorry we have been so busy of late William. Nanny Stephanie said you were feeling a little out of sorts. Is there something I can do?”

William was so relieved to receive some attention from Sir Anton that he almost embarrassed himself by crying. Instead, he bit his bottom lip hard, took a deep breath then cleared his throat like his old Nanny used to advise should he ever feel tearful.

“I… I just got a little umm…” William paused and worried his bottom lip. If he said too much he might seem ungrateful, or Nanny Stephanie might be reprimanded in some way, or he might be seen as too naughty to be bothered with and sent home in disgrace like Cousin George had been from school that time. His father had told him about Cousin George!

Anton sat quietly, wondering what on earth was going on in the little boys head.

William picked at a loose cotton poking from the bed sheets for a time, until finally the little boy raised his eyes enough to look at the elegant belt buckle on Sir Anton’s pants. Despite his best efforts to speak clearly, all he could manage was a rather broken whisper as he begged for a second chance, “I’ll be good Sir Anton… I just got a bit… sad… But I’ll be good! Please… Please! May I just wait to see Xander again before you send me home?” With the last statement William finally let a tear fall as he raised his watery baby blue eyes to meet Sir Anton’s warm green gaze.

Instead of the disappointment William expected to see there, however, he found only love and contrition on the part of the adult before being pulled into a wonderfully warm hug.

“Oh my dear William, I have been *so* remiss… *We* are all so happy that you are here, and far be it that you have done something wrong! It is we who have hurt you by our absence!” Anton shifted the little boy until William was cuddled close against a powerful chest, then continued, “We have been so busy with matters of Court … I am *so* sorry that it had to be so – as, I am sure, so are Alexander and Uncle Connor. But it was certainly not your fault. We are hoping to arrange for you to be reunited with your best friend Xander in around two week’s time. Will you agree to stay with us until then do you think?”

Now nestled in the protective arms of Sir Anton, William finally relaxed but blinked wide and whispered, “Oh yes…” then added with more than a little amazement, “Court? So… You *are* a king!”

Anton smiled magnanimously as the little boy blinked wide eyed up at him, “Me?? Oh no dear heart, it is the Consort Alexander and High Master’s court. I am merely an… advisor – like an older uncle.” He swiftly decided to distract the little lad for a time, “Do you have an uncle?”

The remainder of the hour was spent talking about relatives. Anton drew from ancient memories of his original family (though editing carefully) after which William cheerfully related stories of his dear Aunt Mercia’s attempts at spinet playing; Christmas at the house of his Great Uncle Charles; and his adventures as he and Nanny sat on the landing at the top of the stairs when there was a dinner party, just so they could hear his mother sing (she was ‘very good’ apparently).

Finally the little lad was all talked out, and yawned widely. Anton eased the tiny blonde under the covers and stroked the curly locks as William snuggled down to hug Teddy and give in to dreams of home.

……….

The meeting of the clans was surprisingly easy – particularly considering that the Covens of Europe, a contingent from the Fl’aath and representatives from Wolfram and Hart Paris were present on the second day.

The High Master was missed but the clans more than impressed by the presence of the Consort Alexander, the Immortal and the Full Blood Aurelian, Connor. Also the report from Willow had Spike returning in under two weeks.

Apart from the usual clan matters, the dilemma of Lilah Morgan was one concerning all at the table, and most particularly the Fl’aath. It was not just their clan at the table. Other groups owing them allegiance stood alongside as they expressed their concerns regarding balance of power – and then pledged their ongoing support and practical assistance to the Aurelian Court. The gesture was graciously accepted – as was the apology to all present from two extremely nervous young lawyers from the Paris branch of Wolfram and Hart.

What had not been foreseen by the Clan leaders, was the presence at court of one of the senior officers involved in little William and little Xander’s attempted kidnapping. The rest of his hapless team had been ‘disposed of’ by Lilah as their failure became apparent, but Corporal Carlos had given himself up to the three Wolfram and Hart operatives that cornered him in a Bayern beer house one evening. He expected a swift and painful death, but instead had been ‘kept’ - delivered to the vampire Court as a gesture of apology from the Paris branch.

The apology was accepted as the hapless Carlos was drained and turned by the Paris Master. As a relatively intelligent minion, his knowledge of the clandestine workings of the militia of Wolfram and Hart would be useful.

The message from Wolfram and Hart was that there would be no further assistance given her by the Senior Partners. Indeed a there would be a debt created were any other group to effectively rid this plane of her presence.

The three senior Aurelians all heard the last statement as it was intended and immediately knew what needed to be done.

………..

As the Fl’aath prepared to depart at the conclusion of the Court proceedings, one of the restored Fl’aath demons, Treth, remained behind with an interpreter. He cornered the High Wiccan, Willow, “Mistress, a moment of your time?”

Willow smiled and moved toward the Fl’aath.

“I wished to privately thank you. Without your assistance, I… we… would not have been restored.” A cool green scaled hand stretched out to grasp Willow’s warm human one, and the young demon held her gaze with an impassioned stare before continuing through his interpreter. “The thing is… I do not regret the experience. Indeed, I am grateful for my new memories as an unborn and hatchling. I now carry *clear* recollections of the love of clan for one so young. I remember my mother’s heartbeat as she held my egg, and my father’s strong yet gentle caresses and constant attention after I hatched.

“Mistress Willow, my female and I have eggs about to hatch… We would ask that you do us the honor of blessing them as they emerge… And if there is a girl, we request that you allow her entry into the coven for her education when she is of age.”

Willow was extremely moved. Treth’s touch warmed against her skin, and in doing so conveyed his gratitude and hope for the future with no more need for words.

She lifted his hand to her forehead, then kissed it as was Fl’aath custom, before replying, “I am humbled by your request. Of course, your children will always be welcome in our covens should they wish to learn with us.”

She watched them depart then turned to find rather worried expressions on Anton and Xander’s faces. Connor was to one side speaking in rapid Russian to Minna’s beautiful mate and PA Anna but paused as anguish flooded the link.

They all knew, it was but ten days before William would need to make the change.


Part 10


As the day of William’s reversion approached, tension in the household rose once more.

The adults all knew the little lad had been fed increasing quantities of blood from Anton, Xander and Connor over the last fortnight in order to prepare his system for the change. But the resulting dreams had been disturbing and required much hugging, presence of Teddy, and distractions during the day.

William had been reassured by Anton’s visit, but also felt something was amiss as each of the significant adults in the household tried to ‘do things’ with the little boy.

Uncle Connor took him around the property on the quad bike twice, then drove Nanny Stephanie and Little William into town to see a puppet show at the town hall. The traditional fairytales were worrying enough for the little boy to end up in Connor’s lap (along with Teddy) as the Big Bad Wolf approached the third pig’s house. Stephanie was quite amused as William relived most of the stories, and with the utmost sincerity, confessed to her that he thought Goldilocks was rather naughty, and that he felt sorry for the baby bear.

Willow spent two afternoons playing with William and modeling dough and crayons under his favorite tree. He was doing yet another illustration to send to his friend Xander when the Consort Alexander joined them. Willow and his big friend sat on the blanket opposite him and they all drew in silence for a while until Willow and Xander both reached for the yellow crayon at the same time. Gales of laughter ensued. William decided that sometimes adults were just too confusing – and really rather silly!

His regular riding lessons on Fusee continued and he was thrilled to jump a small log while Sir Anton looked on in the training paddock. William felt a little guilty about the fuss made – it was really Fusee who was the brave one!

Sir Anton’s early evening chat with the small boy continued and William enjoyed being welcomed into the man’s arms for a pre-dinner snuggle, reveling in the exclusive attention from *his* elegant knight. Yet it was Alexander who sought him out most often.

The Consort played endless hours of pirates and all manner of pretend games and had taken to riding along side him when Chantelle and the ever-present Gregor took their little charge for his regular lessons. Xander took him for long walks – the larger brunette regularly returning home with the little lad atop his shoulders whooping with delight as the rather exhausted adult tried a parody of a canter as they crunched up the gravel driveway toward the front door.

Xander was everything a favorite older cousin, or cherished uncle might aspire to, even offering to help William push when a giggling Nanny S agreed to ‘have a go’ on the swing under the big tree. But despite all the adults’ efforts, William sensed that there was something amiss and rounded on Xander the night before he was to be restored.

William became more and more nervous as the evening progressed. Nanny Stephanie had said “Goodbye” rather than “Goodnight” as she tucked him in after dinner ready for Alexander’s story reading. Gregor had shaken his hand after their ride in the afternoon and told him how much he enjoyed their time together. Chantelle was keen to tell him how well he had *done*; and Fusee had nuzzled his hand as though to say farewell.

Even at slightly less than five years of age, William decided that a direct approach was best and cornered Alexander on (unbeknownst to the tiny lad) their last afternoon together.


“Consort Alexander, am I sick?”

Xander was utterly thrown and his panic flowed freely through the link to his Sire and less strongly to Connor. “Umm… Pardon?”

“Is there something wrong with me? When Cousin Emily died, everyone had to be extra nice for weeks! Mother even made us learn her favorite song – and it was *very hard*!”

Even as the Consort tried to form a reasonable answer, Anton and Connor were sprinting toward William’s suite. The two relatives stood at the door, unwilling to break the moment, Connor lifting his wrist to his Sire moments after Anton offered his own blood to his full blood Aurelian charge.

Xander’s answer was a rather choked whisper, “No! No… nothing like that. Things are going to change for us but I hope we will still be dear friends…”

William turned to face Xander and held his gaze, “But everyone is worried about something to do with me aren’t they? If I’m not sick, am I going home? Can I ask Mother and Papa for an extra few days… *please* - otherwise I will miss Xander – you said we would be together again soon… Please Alexander, can you ask?”



They all knew that reversing the regression spell would involve draining the tiny boy, turning and re-ensouling him all in the matter of seconds that were involved in chanting the reversal. With the absence of his original Sire, the only Aurelian blood would be that of Xander and Connor, and that the roll of Sire would ultimately fall to Anton. Despite their plans and consultation with the Wiccans and (surprisingly) the Paris W & H contingent, all were terrified that their careful preparations might result in an out-of-time human, or a fledgling vampire, rather than restoring the High Master with all his memories and skills in tact. At least the issue of the soul was settled – it would be permanent regardless.

Despite all the planning, none of the adults had been able to bring themselves to explain the future to their young human charge in any way that really made sense.

Though surrounded by Alexander’s strong arms, William hugged his teddy tight and his trusting and tearful blue eyes met Anton’s gaze as the older man entered the bedroom. Despite Connor’s blood, the expression on the small lad’s face very nearly ‘undid’ the Immortal.

Anton sat on the bed and placed a gentle hand on the boy’s knee. “Dear heart, we are going to help you to return home tonight. We would love you to stay, but know that this is for the best. You are always in our hearts and will be with us again soon… And be assured, that you will see your dearest friend again.”

William’s eyes went wide, “Xander is coming to see me?”

“You will be together again, yes. Now… it is a long journey so we must begin soon and it’s late so we will wait until you are asleep before you start your journey. Alexander will hold you of course, and when you awake you will be home. We will be here – we will all be here when you return.”

Anton stroked the beloved boy’s face and met the blue orbs with his (now slightly swirling) green. Thrall really wasn’t something the Immortal used often, but the little push allowed William to fall into a light sleep and relax back into the brunette’s arms as Willow’s coven joined them. The witches set up the candles and pentagram swiftly and began to chant.

Part way through Anton leaned over the tiny figure, and eased fangs into the soft warm neck, allowing all the love he felt for his Childe and for William to flow through the tenuous blood link as he did so.

The only indication of the little boy’s departing life was his Teddy dropping onto the mattress beside Xander as the little arms lost all ability to grip. As the beloved bear fell Xander’s tears began to flow freely. He grieved for little William and for his beautiful Spike, and he prayed to every deity he could think of to make process succeed.

Anton and Connor could both hear the faltering heart and the three Aurelians opened their wrists and joined hands as they dripped the combined blood into the little mouth and massaged the throat until the unconscious figure swallowed.

Xander barely had time to think that he was never more pleased to see someone swallow, before a blinding flash and accompanying energy surge rendered all in the room unconscious.


……………

Xander felt like he had been hit by a train as he returned to consciousness and attempted to roll over.

He was aware that there was a large inert body on the bed beside him and a hive of activity in the room. He tried to open his eyes and say something, but only managed a whimper before a dripping wrist was pushed against his mouth. He drank from Anton gratefully then rolled toward the cool inert form beside him and gave in to sleep.

Two hours later, the Consort was sitting hand in hand with an exhausted looking Anton waiting, while Connor and Willow gave the coven members supper and sorted their sleeping arrangements for the night. Anton was waiting patiently for the certainly physically larger Spike to regain consciousness, or rather rise – as the life signs were most definitely missing.

Xander insisted that the electric blanket be turned on, knowing that Spike and his earlier persona William both loved the warmth. Xander understood that it could be hours before there would be change, yet his distress grew as the link with his beloved partner remained silent and the vampire unmoving.

………………..

Well after midnight on the following evening found Xander seated beside the ‘deathbed’, his head on the mattress, hand holding the artificially warmed one of Spike’s and sleeping restlessly.

The only warning was the twitch of the pale hand in his before the psychic equivalent of a scream across the Mating link blasted him awake and barely preceded his own very real one as the newly risen vampire forced him off his chair in a flash of speed and planted deadly fangs into the Consort’s neck.