Spec: Redemption By Wicca (Toniamcm@aol.com) This is a work of amiture fiction not intened to infringe on the rights of Anne Rice or anyone working for or with her. Warning:There is a hint of homosexuality and if the idea of two male vampires showig affection for each other makes you chringe then please don't read this story. Major Spoilers for TVL and IWTV, minor ones for the rest up to MtP(which doesn't exist in my little world of denile) =) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ That face. It haunted him, night and day. Vince began to dread going on stage for fear that he would see that face. A mask it seemed, all smooth and white. Not a flaw on it. No expression passed over it, inhuman it seemed. It would appear for a split second then disappear. It had gotten to the point that Vince had begun to doubt his sanity. Then one night after not seeing the face of a week, Vince saw it again but this time it spoke. just ever so softly, but his lips did not move or so it seemed that way. "Killer, My wounded killer." Was all it said, then it was gone. Once back at the hotel Vince made his way to Nikki's room. Knocking lightly on the door, Vince waited for a response. "Who is it?" "Nikki?" Suddenly the door swung open nearly knocking Vince in the face. "Vince?!? Hey, Come in." Nikki said holding the door back. Entering the room Vince settled in a chair in front of the window, his back turned towards it. Leaning forward, his hands folded in his lap, Vince lowered his head and started at the floor. For some reason he couldn't muster up enough courage to look Nikki in the eyes. Vince was scared that Nikki would think him crazy, silently he prayed that this would not be the case. Sitting across from him Nikki settled on the corner of the massive queen size bed. He was silent for a few minutes, waiting for his friend to speak. During this time Nikki watched Vince closely. Something was bothering him and Nikki couldn't tell what that something was. "Vince? What's wrong?" At this moment in time Vince suddenly hated the fact that Nikki was blunt in his manner of speaking, hated how he had to get right to the subject. Taking a deep breath Vince finally looked Nikki in the eyes. The look he found there made Vince catch his breath, nothing but pure sincere concern. It made Vince want to cry but crying would solve nothing right now. Right now Vince need to talk and desperately. "Well....It's a long story and I don't want you to think that I'm crazy so just let me finish and then make your comments, o.k?" Vince asked, pleading. "O.k Vince." Taking a deep breath Vince continued. "Well it started about two weeks ago. While on stage I'd look out and see this face just staring at me." "Vince, everyone's staring at you." "That's not it! It appears then disappears, and it spoke to me as well." "What did it say?" "It said 'Killer, my wounded Killer' then it would disappear. "Vince said. He was getting anxious now. It seemed as though telling Nikki was a mistake. "Maybe it's just someone playing a practical joke." Nikki said trying to be the voice of reason. "Maybe. Anyway, I'm tired. I guess I'll turn in. Bye and thanks for listening. Maybe it's just a practical joke." Vince said as he left the room, closing the door softly behind him. ####Later that night###### "Killer......Wake up Killer" In a flash Vince's eyes were open, a dark figure loomed over him. Black eyes blazed and fanged teeth were bared. Vince opened his mouth to scream but only a silent whimper came out. Seconds later Vince was lifted from the bed and enfolded in a strong embrace. Powerless against the enemy all Vince could do was pray. "Your prayers won't help you now Killer" Smiled the fiend that held him. A wave of fear passed through him. He recognized that voice. It came from the face he had seen so many times before and in a last ditch effort he screamed. ####Next day##### "What do you mean you can't file a report?" Nikki said all but screaming into the phone. "No you look.....Oh forget it! Fuck you!" Nikki yelled as he slammed the phone down on the receiver. "Well?" Tommy asked from the door way. Looking up Nikki replied. "They won't file a report." "What do you mean they won't file a report? Vince is missing!" "Tommy don't you think I know that?" Nikki stated. "So why won't they file a report?" "They won't because Vince has to be missing for 24 hours before they do anything." "Great. For all they care he could be dead by then." Tommy said getting rather excited. "Hopefully he won't be." Nikki said laying down on his back. "I hope so too. "Tommy said wrapping his tattooed arms around himself. Nikki rolled his head to the side and looked at his long time friend. At six foot two Tommy had always made an impression on people. It was hard to ignore someone of that size but now standing there in the door way he seemed small and fragile. His head bowed brown hair barely covering his forehead. Turning his back to Nikki it was obvious that Tommy was trying to hide his grief. *Always the proud one* Nikki thought as he watched his friend. Getting up Nikki walked over to the doorway where Tommy stood. Lightly tapping Tommy on the shoulder Tommy turned to face Nikki. Looking into Tommy's eyes Nikki found grief and nothing more. Close to tears Tommy began to speak. "Nikki we can't lose him now.....We can't! For God's sake Nikki we just got him back! We can't lose him again!" Putting his arms around Tommy Nikki held his friend tight. Silently he prayed for a miracle that he didn't think would happen. ###That night#### A single candle illuminated the room casting it's eire shadows across the wall. Even with this small amount of light Vince still cringed. The light hurt his eyes and it seemed it would be a while before they adjusted. Minutes later Vince finally sat up. His mind was foggy and his neck sore. Cautiously Vince opened his eyes. The room he was in was shabby at best. A crude straw mat was all that he had for a bed and a small antique in table stood at the far wall. Suddenly Vince heard the door behind his open then close. Turning around Vince saw the most beautiful and horrifying sight he had ever seen. Standing in front of the wooden door was a man but he wasn't an ordinary man. Long black hair fell just past his shoulders and his dark eyes seemed to command a life of their own. His skin was a deathly pale and smooth beyond any human compression. He just stood there still as a statue, he seemed unreal like a vision but when he did move he was all to real. Finally the figure stood directly in front of Vince peering down at him with those fierce black eyes. Then he smiled, an all knowing smile. This unnerved Vince. Something was wrong here and he didn't quite know what. "Hello Killer" It said in a soft hypnotic voice. A slight accent traced his words. "Wh...Who are you?" "You'll find out." Before Vince could speak the man grabbed him and pulled him up for the ground. Vince struggled to get free but to no avail. Bending his head down the man placed his mouth directly on the large vein of Vince's neck. A sharp pain surged through Vince followed be immense pleasure unlike anything he'd felt before. Images danced in and out of his vision and soon they began to tell a story. The man holding him was not a man but a vampire and an old one at that. 4,000 years had passed since this thing had been human. Vince soon found out that his name was Azen and that he had been borne in ancient Egypt. Several times Vince saw the figure of a large man with a mane of shiny brown hair and friendly brown eyes. This gentle creature had given the gift to this thing that now held him but who this creature was Vince did not know. As suddenly as they had appeared the visions vanished leaving Vince weak and light headed. He soon felt the cold tile floor beneath him. His head rested in Azen's lap. "So Killer do you want it?" Azen asked. "No." Vince managed to say. Darkness was claiming him and fast. Vince felt a peace come with the darkness and he didn't want to leave it. Lifting his wrist to his mouth Azen's fangs sank into his own flesh piercing it. The blood swelled up from the two puncture wounds. Pressing his wrist to Vince's mouth, Azen uttered one word only. "Drink" Vince tried not to but as the blood made it's way past his lips he found he had little control over what happened. His instincts had kicked in and now he was drinking the blood that poured from Azen's wrist. How long this went on or how much Azen had given him Vince didn't know. All he knew was that it seemed to end all to quickly this time leaving Azen weak and light headed. Lying Vince down on the straw bed Azen stood and went to the pile of wood in the center of the room. With just a thought the wood caught fire and Azen turned to look at his new borne fledgling. He was even more beautiful than Azen had hoped for. Blonde hair now thick and shinny and his skin not quit the pale color it would soon be but it was Vince's eyes that made Azen catch his breath. Hazel then a light golden brown, his eyes seemed to catch the faint rays of light coming from the fire and the candle. He was strong and he would survive, Azen knew this and now he could go in peace. "I have some last words for you my child. I am going into the fire now. You are strong and you will be my heir. All of this as well as my fortune is now yours but I must warn you. The intense rays of the sun and the heat of a burning fire like this one can destroy you. Stay away from them and you will survive for centuries. Now once the fire has died scatter the ashes. The stronger the vampire the more likely he will return if his ashes aren't properly scattered. Do you understand my brave Killer?" All Vince could do was nod as he watched his maker jump into the very heart of the blaze. Vince sat and watched as the fire consumed Azen making him a living torch. An eternity seemed to pass before the fire died down. Standing Vince opened the shutters and picked up a pile of the ashes. Leaning out the window Vince threw the ashes into the wind. He did this over and over again till none of the ashes remained. Before closing the window Vince uttered a single phrase. "Goodbye Azen, Good bye." Vince closed the shutters and laid back down on the straw mattress. The sun was coming up and he could fell the pull of sleep coming over him. Tomorrow he would find out just what it meant to be a vampire. As soon as the sun settled over the horizon Vince began to come too. At first Vince didn't want to believe that he wasn't alone but as soon as he opened his eyes he found that he wasn't. Two figures stood in the far corner of the room. One, a young boy with rich auburn hair, and the other a man with brilliant violet eyes stood watching him. Standing Vince walked toward the two men. "Who are you?" "The question is who are you?" asked the young boy. "Me? I my name is..." "Vince yes we know already." Said the man beside the boy. "This is Armand and I'm Daniel." The man with the violet eyes said. Extending his hand Daniel stepped forward. "Hello. Vince welcome to the world of the undead." Daniel said as a huge grin spread across his face. "Umm...thank you but that still doesn't tell me what your doing here and who you are." Vince said. This time the young boy who was called Armand spoke. "We are here to help you. See your about 20 miles outside New Orleans and Marius my maker sent us to bring you to the town house. The others are there." Walking forward Armand placed a small delicate white hand on Vince's arm. Looking up and smiling Armand's big brown eyes sparkled in the moon light. "Just hold on and you'll be fine." Armand said as they prepared to leave. ####New Orleans#### Walking through the crowded streets of New Orleans reeked havoc on Vince. The hunger in him rose every time he passed a mortal making it harder and harder for him to control himself. He needed to feed soon. "Don't worry we can stop up ahead if we have too." Armand said as if reading Vice's thoughts. "Oh and yes I can read your thoughts. We all can. The only person whose thoughts you can't read are that of maker and fledgling. I'll teach you to shield your thoughts later." Armand said as he glided through the crowed at an almost in human speed. Soon they came up to the Lafayette Cemetery. The place seemed dark and uninviting. The gates still remained open but it seemed as if no human could possibly still be there. "Well hunt here. Daniel you don't mind if I stay with Vince do you? It's his first time." "I don't mind in the slightest. I'll meet you here in an hour." Daniel said as he headed off to find his victim. Putting his arm around Vince, Armand led him into the cemetery. They seemed to go right to the heart of the place before Armand uttered a single word. "First off you do know that you must kill nightly to survive?" "Yes, I've heard all the legends." "Ahh good then you have some idea. Now next you must find a suitable victim. There are several ways to do this. I for one prefer those who want to die, while others may kill randomly or only the evil doers." Armand paused for a second before continuing. "Also you must never drink once the heart has stopped, least the death take you down with it. You must never drink dead blood and finally you must hide the kill. We wouldn't want the human authorities finding out about us. Do you understand?" "Yes it all seems fairly simple." "Good now to find you a victim." Armand said as he began to lead Vince further into the cemetery. As soon as they rounded a corner their eyes fell upon a lady. She was kneeling down in front of one of the tombs. She had been crying and her pain came from her in waves. This woman was suffering and Vince knew immediately why this was so. Slowly walking up to her Vince placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. Turning her head upwards eyes soon locked onto Vince's. Neither said a word, there was just a sense of quiet understanding and a longing for peace. Vince would giver her that peace. Rising up her eyes still locked to Vince's, Vince placed a gentle kiss on the side of her neck then quickly but gently drove his fangs into her neck. Armand could her the woman sigh as Vince drained the life from her. Armand watched in wonder as this new born fledgling took elegant care of the victim he was now draining. An old master he seemed even though he was only just starting his trip down the Devil's Road. Gradually Vince with drew his fangs from the woman's throat. She now lay limp in his arms. Her eyes now forever closed. She had found her peace and Vince had given it too her. Armand felt oddly guilty from watching such a spectacle. This seemed to be a private matter and he seemed to be the intruder. Laying her body down on top of the grave Vince gave a solemn glance before her body burst to flames then to dust. Nothing was left of the woman, the only evidence that remained was the small beaque of flowers that she had laid in front of the grave. Armand walked quietly up to Vince placing one hand on his broad shoulder. "I believe it's time we left. Daniel is waiting." "What about you?" Vince asked. He seemed concerned that Armand needed to feed as badly as he had. "Don't worry about me. I don't feel the hunger as strongly as you do. Now let us leave." Armand said as they left the cemetery together. ####Motley camp#### "What's taking so long?" Tommy asked from his seat in front of the window. "Why aren't they doing anything?" "I don't know Tommy I really don't know.". Nikki said near exhaustion. They had been up for the past two days with very little sleep. The police had finally taken their story seriously enough to come out and talk to the entire road crew. The last person that they talked to was Mick. After what seemed like hours of waiting Mick finally came out of the small conference room the police had set up. "Thank you for your time and we will be getting back to you. Now just stay where you are and don't leave the city." Then the police left taking their man made circus with them. "Well it's about time. What did they say to you?" Nikki asked sitting up on the bed. "They wanted to know when was the last time I saw Vince and if I held any grudges towards him. They made it sound like I'd killed him." Mick said. "You too? They did the same to me and Nikki. I just don't get it. Why would they suspect us?" "Who knows. Just be glad that they are finally doing something about it." Nikki said. Just then the phone rang startling everyone. Nearly jumping up from where he was sitting Nikki lunged for the phone picking it up on the second ring. "Hello?" "Who is it?" Tommy whispered. Waving his hand for everyone to be quiet Nikki continued. "Hello? Is anyone there?" "Nikki? Is that you?" Came the familiar voice on the other end. "VINCE!! Where are you? Are you all right?" Nikki blurted out at once. "God Damn it Nikki! Not so loud! I'm fine. I'm still in the city. Look I need to talk to you and soon." "When? Where?" "Friday night. I'll find you just wait in the lobby." "Vince! No!" Nikki almost screamed. "Look it's either Friday night or never." Vince said "O.k but are you sure your all right?" Nikki asked worried. "I'm fine just meet me Friday night. I've gotta go bye." Then the line went dead. Nikki sat staring at the phone for what seemed like forever. The whole room was quiet and no one moved. Tommy was the first to break that silence. "What did he say? Where is he?" "He wants to meet us Friday night. He said he needed to talk to us." "Then where is he?" Tommy asked again. "He's in the city. As of where in the city I don't know." Nikki said sighing. ####Rue Royal#### With a heavy heart Vince hung up the phone and handed it back to Armand. Sighing he looked up into Armand's expectant brown eyes. "Well? What happened?" "Their shocked. I think that they'd rather have me come back right away but you know that can't happen." Vince said with an audible sigh. "True. Well lets go in. We can't stand out here all night, besides the others are curious and they won't leave me alone. They want details." Daniel grinned. "What they don't know them already?" Vince sneered. "No you've done a fine job shielding yourself. And yes it's time we went inside." Armand turned and led the way up the mental stares to the flat. As soon as they got to the door it swung open and Lestat stood in the entrance. "Hello Armand, Daniel. Now who is this?" Lestat said peering at Vince. Vince backed up a bit as Lestat drew closer. The taller of the two Vince looked up at Lestat as he approached. Blond hair the same length as his but curly was tied back with a black ribbon. His slender arms wrapped themselves around his broad chest as he waited for Vince to answer. His blue eyes sparkling. "Well? Do you speak." "Yes, and who are you?" Vince asked. "Me? You mean you don't know who I am?" Lestat asked shocked. "No I don't know who you are." "I'm THE Vampire Lestat and rock star." Lestat boasted. "Really? When did you come around?" Vince questioned. "Mid-eighties. I was bigger than every body." "Are you sure? I've never heard of you." Vince said, not believing Lestat. "Are you calling me a lair?" "I didn't call you a liar I just don't believe you." "Look here fledgling what do you know of rock n roll anyway?" Lestat said losing his temper just slightly. "A lot......." Vince started before Daniel interrupted him. "Lestat this is Vince Neil from Motley Crue. Which was THE biggest band in the eighties. AND their even bigger now." Daniel said, a grin on his face. Turning to Daniel Vince replied. "You make me sound like some sort of God." "Well you guys are my favorite band." Daniel admitted. "Lestat? Calm down. He is who Daniel says he is. I remember the shirt Daniel always wore that Armand finally burned. I believe it had something to do with girls." Louis said from behind Lestat. Looking over Lestat's shoulder Vince forgot to breath. Louis stood in plain view. He was dressed simply in black jeans and sweater. His black hair hung loss and fell gracefully around his face. Louis's emerald eyes sparkled with a hint of humor as he smiled at the new comer. "Yes....That was one of our shirts. From the 'Girls, Girls, Girls' album." Vince finally managed to say. Pulling Lestat back from the doorway Louis greeted them. "Hello Armand, Daniel." Louis said pausing to hug the two. "It's nice to meet you Vince. Won't you come in? The others are waiting." Louis said with a gentle smile. "Others?" Vince swallowed. "Yes.. most of the coven is here." "How many others?" Vince asked getting increasingly nervous. "Well you'll meet them inside. Now come." Louis said putting his arm around Vince's shoulder. Soon they entered a large room. Old antique furniture was scattered everywhere mixed in with a few modern comforts. The room was nearly full with people. All in their own little groups, talking. When they walked in the whole room got quiet. Vince felt as if every eye was on him. They are cherie Louis smiled at Vince. *What?* *Yes we can talk like this. Only maker and fledging can't* *Armand said something to that effect.* Vince pondered. A tall man dressed in red velvet approached them. His white blond hair tied back at the nape of his neck. His soft blue eyes were warm with kindness. Once he reached them he looked directly at Vince and smiled. "Hello young one. My name is Marius. Yours is?" Taking his hand Vince replied. "My name is Vince...Vince Neil." "No reason to be frightened young one." Marius smiled. He was beginning to see the obvious charm of this new fledgling. Putting an arm around Vince Marius led him to a near by chair. It looked like it belonged in a museum. The old wooden chair looked hand carved and the cushion showed little signs of wear. Over all Vince was afraid to touch anything. The house was a relative museum representing the past 200 years. *It is an antique. Well it wasn't when I bought it.* Louis smiled at Vince reading his thoughts. Smiling Vince put his shields in place. If Louis could read his thought that meant the whole room could. Sitting down Vince surveyed the room. There was a total of ten people in the room including himself. Marius, Armand, Daniel, Louis, and Lestat Vince already knew but the other four Vince had never seen. Near the French doors there was a tall blonde woman. She resembled Lestat in many of her features, or rather Lestat resembled her. She was now dressed in simple khaki shorts and shirt, her blonde hair a perfect braid down the middle of her back. It seemed that nothing could phase this woman. The man closest too her was tall with a light brown glow to his otherwise pale white skin. A mop of golden brown curls rested on his head and he had kind brown eyes. Looking to the left of this man was another man. He was pale white like the rest with a luxurious mop of black hair. His eyes were black and fierce, they seemed to pierce through the soul. His head was turned down wards studding the chess set in front of him. His opponent was a tall man with broad shoulders and fine brown hair. A large white hand swiped away a stray strand from his forehead. Sensing Vince's eyes on him the large man looked up and smiled. This one was a friendly creature and from the look in his eye it seem that there was nothing to fear from this creature either. Just then Vince realize that this was the man from the visions he'd seen. This kind gentle creature was Azen's maker. As if reading Vince's thoughts the man nodded and went back to his chess game, one which he was winning. Lastly a young woman sat off by herself. She seemed lost in her own thought. Her short brown hair feel just at her shoulders and her soft brown eyes seemed to stare off into space. She looked like a delicate flower, one which if the wind blew too hard would break, but looks were deceiving and they certainly deceived her. Strength radiated from her that let one know she could be someone to reckon with if provoked. "Well lets get started shall we?" Lestat asked getting impatient. Lestat had settled on the couch with Louis. The two men seemed one with the way they tangled themselves together. "Start what?" Vince asked, his nerves on edge. "Don't worry Vince. Lestat makes this sound worse than it really is." The blonde woman said. "We're just here to find out who you are." "Couldn't you have just read my mind? I mean why all the trouble." "Sarcasm will get you no where." Lestat said. "Oh darn. You mean your the only one whose allowed to be a smart ass?" Vince sneered. "Watch it fledgling, or I'll turn you into a torch." Lestat said seething. "Oh really? I'd like to see you try that." Suddenly Lestat was on his feet, seconds later he had Vince pinned to the wall. "No look fledgling you have no idea what your getting into." "No you look, you will not tell me what I can and cannot do and secondly I don't like being man handled." Vince said right before he send Lestat fling across the room. He would have kept going if Marius hadn't stopped him. "Now look you two. There will be no fighting. No one is on trail here." "Then how come it feels like it?" Vince demanded. "We just want to know how you came to be and who you are." Marius said calmly. "Well" Vince said "If that's the case then I'll just show you." Then Vince opened the flood gates and let everything about his life poor forth. From his earliest memories right up to the present. He even let them see the most painful moments of his life and the happiest as well. Once he was finished silence settled over the room. Everyone just stared at him. Turning his head Vince looked from one face to another, only Louis met his eyes. Tears where streaming down Louis's face. Vince just stood there not knowing why. *Oh but you do know why.* *No I don't. What made you cry?* *Skylar* Vince cringed at the name. So many emotions came from that word. Anger, pain, grief, and sadness welled up inside him at once and it took everything inside him not to cry. "Louis what's wrong?" Lestat asked as he jumped up and made his way to his lover's side. "It's nothing Lestat. Just leave me alone o.k?" Louis pleaded. Standing Louis left the room. Everyone was silent for what seemed like eternity, finally Lestat broke the silence. Glaring at Vince, Lestat came toward the young vampire, death in his eyes. "What did you do?" Vince was quiet for a second before looking Lestat in the eye. Once they made eye contact Lestat was taken back. A fine rim of red lined Vince's eyes, soon a single blood tear feel down over his cheek. "What is it?" Lestat asked putting an arm around Vince protectively. "He said he was crying because of Skylar." Vince choked. "Who was Skylar?" This time it was the blond woman who sat near the French doors. "Skylar was my daughter. She...." Vince started but couldn't finish. Tears welled up in his eyes and soon they over flowed down his soft white cheeks. Lowering his head Vince closed his eyes trying to get himself together. "Skylar was that little girl wasn't she?" Armand asked. "The one who died." All Vince could do was nod in agreement. "How old was she?" "Four" came Vince's weak reply. Looking up Armand voiced Lestat's concern. "Claudia" Lestat nodded. Pulling Vince closer Lestat began to murmur softly. Whatever he said it seemed to work. Vince finally stopped shaking and the tears ceased to fall. "Are you o.k cherie?" "Yeah I'm o.k." Vince said wiping away the tears. Looking over at Lestat Vince smiled. "What is it?" Lestat asked confused. "A minute ago we were ready to kill each other." The only reply Vince got was Lestat's deep laughter. A few minutes later once Lestat calmed down he finally answered Vince. "It seems you've beguiled me with your charms." Lestat said. Snickering Vince replied. "If you say so." "Hey are you calling me a lair?" Lestat feigned mock anger. "No I'm calling you a bullshit artist." Vince grinned. "Oh well in that case I must agree with you there." "Lestat sit down. I would like to get this little introduction over with." Looking in Marius's direction Lestat grinned. "Yes Daddy." "Lestat....." "Yeah yeah. I know the damnedest creature.." Lestat waved away. "Lets get this over with. I want to go to Louis." "Louis wants to be alone right now" It was the blond woman again. "Now to get this going, Vince cherie My name is Gabrielle De Lioncourt." The woman said as she greeted Vince with a warm smile. "You look almost exactly like Lestat." Vince said taking Gabrielle's hand. "That's because she's my mother." Lestat quipped. "You're his mother?!?!" Vince asked shocked. "You don't look old enough to be a mother." "Why thank you cherie. You see two centuries ago it was common for women to have children at a young age." Gabrielle gushed in the obvious complement. "Things haven't change a bit." Vince muttered. "What to do you mean, things haven't changed?" Armand asked. "Oh about women having children at a young age. Only now days they do it with out being married. Trust me I ended up with a son that way." Vince stated. "You have a son?" the dark haired vampire asked. His accent was Italian. "Yes he's 18 years old now. I was in high school when he was born. I also have another daughter, she's 14 years old now. I haven't seen her since she was six." Vince said regretfully. "I take it that you miss her?" "Yeah, I regret not being there for either of them." Vince sighed. Quietly the large vampire at the chess set got up and made his way to Vince. His smile broadened as he approached and there was a sparkle of warmth in those brown eyes. "I'm Khayman, Azen's maker." Khayman said extending his hand. Taking his hand Vince was shocked at it's hardness. "Most of the young one's are." Khayman smiled. "I guess you get that a lot huh?" "Yes I do, but you get used to it" "Most likely. Anyway it's nice to meet you." Vince smiled back. "It was my pleasure." Khayman said returning to the chess set. Vince just sat there for a minute, looking at Khayman. He wondered how such a gentle man could be a vampire. *You'd be suprised* Khayman grinned Laughing Vince looked up at the others. "So whose next?" The next reply came from the dark haired vampire in the corner. "I'm Santino. And that is Pandora." The Italian vampire said pointing to the woman who sat by herself. "She's not...how do you say it...very sociable?" Santino grinned. "O.k well I'm sorry to bail on you guys but I'm getting rather sleepy and.." "Say no more!" Lestat said jumping up. "Follow me." Getting up Vince waved goodbye to everyone and followed Lestat down a long hallway. There were several doors leading to different rooms and when Lestat reached the one he was looking for he stopped turned and grinned. "I think you'll find this room to your liking cherie..and don't worry it's secure from the sun." Lestat quipped. "Thank you. I really appreciate it. Ummm can I ask you a question?" "Sure" Lestat said. "Umm tomorrow or now it's Friday and tonight I have to meet the guys and..." "You would like me to come with you, no?" "Yeah....I just don't want to face them on my own." Vince said looking down. "I understand...but as long as you'll come hunt with me." Lestat said some what hopeful. "Sure. I'll go hunting with you." Vince said with a shrug. "Good! Then I'll see you tonight mon cherie." "Good night Lestat." Vince laughed shaking his head. ############################# ####Hotel Lobby, Friday Night##### "Where is he?" Nikki asked paising. He was nervous. He didn't know why Vince wouldn't meet them that day and he didn't like not knowing. "I don't know and will you stop paising! He's be here." It was Mick. He hardly ever spoke but when he did, people usually listened. "Now I'm sure he'll be here, we'll just have to wait." Mick stated. "I know. By the way, where did Tommy run off to?" Nikki asked looking around. "He's at the bar getting a coke." "Oh." Nikki said returing to his own thoughts. He didn't even look up when Tommy sat down across from him. He was too preoccupied. Two figures stood quietly near the entrance of the hotel. Both tall and blond and dressed to kill. The shorter of the two clung to the taller one. He was nervous about something, and that he couldn't hide. "There they are." Vince said pointing in the direction of his friends. "So are you going to tell them?" "Tell them what? Oh..that. I don't now." Vince sighed. "Well it's now or never." Lestat said making his way over to the others. Vince followed closely behind. "Well this is such a happy group of people." Lestat joked as he plopped down next to Tommy scaring him half to death. *LESTAT! You didn't have to do that.* *Oh were's your sense of humor?* *It took a walk, a very long walk* "VINCE! Are you alright!? My God your pale!" Nikki said holding his friend. "I'm o.k really." Vince said looking around he continued. "Lets get out of here. We need to talk in private." "But..." "No. Whatever it is no." Vince said looking at Lestat. "Hmmph. Your no fun." "I know now lets go." Vince said heading for the door. "You can have fun later." "Your right. I have eternity!" *Lestat* *O.k..I know bad pun* ####Rue Royal#### "Vampire? You've got to be kidding." Nikki said after Vince was done telling his story. "Nikki I'm not kidding and no Tommy I'm not on anything." Vince said reading his friends thoughts. "What?!?" Tommy asked amazed. "Yes I read your thoughts. It's one of the perks." Vince said sarcastically. "Your serious aren't you?" Mick asked. Vince turned and looked at Mick. He was pale even for a human, but he always had been. His black hair fell past his shoulders as he looked up at Vince. His blue eye showing nothing but concern. "Yeah." Vince sighed. "Prove it." Nikki said. "Oh Nikki stubborn as ever." Vince said. Suddenly Vince stood directly in front of Nikki. Nikki hadn't seen him move from his spot across the room, but there he was. "How..?" "Same way you would have done it...just faster." "Really Nikki why are you so suprised?" It was Lestat. "This does not concern you." Nikki said standing. "Oh really cherie? Well if I think it should concern me then it does." "Please..." Vince started but Lestat didn't listen. He was now nose to nose with Nikki and neither seemed content on backing down. "You listen here buddy, I don't know who you are and personally I don't care but I want you to leave Vince alone. I don't know what you've gotten him into but.." "SHUT UP! You've tried my patience! You will not talk to me that way." Lestat roared. Usually this would frighten humans but not Nikki. "Don't tell me to shut up you French Bastard." Lestat was seething now. Through clenched teeth he continued. "Now listen you puny mortal. I could kill you with a thought, so if you don't watch it you'll be meeting your maker." Lestat said jabbing a finger in Nikki's chest. "Been there, done that, burnt the t-shirt." "What do you mean?" "He's already died once, they brought him back." Vince started as Lestat interrupted him. "Well I'll give you that. You've done something I've never done. BUT your still going to die for calling me a French Bastard." Lestat said as he reached for Nikki's throat. The mortal didn't even flinch when Lestat sank his fangs in, nor did he surrender to the swoon. "LESTAT!!!!" Vince screamed as he ripped Lestat away from Nikki. Soon the whole house shook as Vince threw Lestat against the wall and held him there. "Now you listen to me for a change. Leave them alone. If I catch you doing something that stupid again I'll torch you with out a thought. Got it?" Vince seethed. "Yeah I've got it 'Killer' " Lestat said trying to irritate Vince. "Good...'Wolf Killer'.." Vince smiled. "Who??" "Armand" Vince smiled again. "Why that no good....." "Lestat leave Armand alone." Vince said. By the tone of his voice Lestat knew that it was finale. "Well fine if your going to be that way, then I'm leaving. Have fun" Lestat said as he sauntered out of the room. Flopping down into a chair Vince sighed and rubbed his closed eyes. This was going to be tougher than he'd thought. Opening his eyes Vince looked up to see Nikki sitting on the couch surrounded by the others. "Are you alright?" Vince sighed. "Alright? Your asking me if I'm alright? Your the one who went off and got turned into a fucking vampire so you tell me am I alright?" Nikki said. Vince flinched at the sound of Nikki's voice. It was obvious that the remark had hurt Vince. "Look Nikki I'm sorry, but I really didn't have a choice in the matter. The least you could do is to try and understand." "Understand? Understand what? That your a monster? That your dead?" "Nikki don't say that.." Vince said close to tears. "No Vince. I don't get you. You bring us here and tell us this sob story expecting us to understand that from now till the end of the world you'll remain the same, and that you are now a killer. So please tell me how do we understand this?" Nikki yelled. "Nikki it's all true. Why would I lie to you" Vince said, blood tears now streamed down his pale cheeks leaving red river in their path. Taking a deep breath Vince continued. "What do you want from me?" "What do I want? I want some answers and I want them now." "Like what? I've already told you everything." "Oh for instance, who are you?" Nikki said folding his tattooed arms in front of him. "Nikki you know me..." "No I don't Vince. I don't know you...so tell me who are you?" At this Vince's face fell and the tears came down in droves. Standing Vince fled from the room faster than their eyes could see. He couldn't stand being in the same room with them, not now and defiantly not at this moment. "You shouldn't have done that." Looking up they saw a teenage boy standing in the doorway. He had flowing auburn hair and large brown eyes. His small arms were folded around himself and his face was stern. "Who are you?" "I'm Armand...and you shouldn't have done that." "Oh really Armand...and why is that?" Nikki asked sarcastically. "Because he is much loved already and we are protective of those we love." "How can you love him, you just met him." This time it was Tommy. "Easy. My kind feel more keenly than you do and when we love someone its more intense than any mortal love could ever be." Armand shrugged. "I don't get it." Nikki said voicing Tommy's question. "I do." Heads turned when they heard Mick's voice. He'd been quiet all evening but this was not unusual for him. "What do you mean?" "I understand completely what he's saying and what Vince said." Mick stated. "And what is that." Nikki asked. "It's simple really. First off Vince want us to except him for what he is. He knows that after a while we'll have to quit before people relies that he's not aging but until then he wants to continue. You see Vince is not a quitter. He never has been and he's not about to quit now, we'll just have to except him for the way that he is." "You mean a killer?" "Nikki, Vince is already a killer, in the human sense. Now what Armand here is say is that since their senses are heightened that they feel things more keenly than we do and that is only natural since vampire's aren't human anyway." Mick finished. Smiling Armand respond. "Finally a voice of reason. Now since it's late we'll be retiring and I must warn you that you must stay away from us, including Vince, while we sleep during the day or we might unknowingly strangle you. You guys are welcomed to stay here and I will see you at sunrise." Armand bowed and left the room. Sitting there in silence, weariness in their eyes, they all agreed that it was best to stay there for the day and wait for the others once the sun set. ###Sunset##### A cold breeze swept threw the room. Sitting up in bed Vince released that the window was open and that he hadn't dreamed it. the room over all was dark but Vince could still see the fine details. The sheer white curtain billowed in the wind, a light tint of color sparkled when the curtain hit the moon rays just right. Vince didn't know how long he'd sat there watching the curtain when he released that he wasn't alone. "I'm sorry if I disturb you. I just felt that we needed to talk." The figure said from the corner. He was seated in an elegantly made French antique chair. Long legs crossed and arms folded in front of him, a smile spread across his handsome features. "It's o.k. I just didn't see you there." Vince laughed. Getting up Vince looked around, he had no clothes in which to wear so the next best thing was the robe sitting on a near by chest. Grabbing the robe and belting it Vince sat on the edge of the bed, giving Louis his full attention. "I know how it is. It's like that for all of us....in the beginning." Louis sighed. "Louis what's wrong?" "Oh I was just wondering something..but it's nothing." "This is about Claudia isn't it?" Vince asked. Upon seeing the pain in Louis's eyes Vince knew he'd guessed right. "Tell me about her." "What's there to tell?" Louis shrugged. "Anything like oh lets say what was her favorite thing to do?" "Well she always loved it when Lestat and I would perform Shakespeare for her." Louis smiled at the memory. "It sounds like she enjoyed it." "Oh she did. She used to clap her tiny hands in delight and beg for us to do more." Smiling Vince found it hard to resist Louis. He was so beautiful and he understood Vince's grief. Vince felt he had finally found someone who he could talk to about Skylar and not get the typical "Time heals all wounds speech". Looking up at Vince, Louis continued. "She sometimes even joined in and her and Lestat would mess up the lines and before we knew we were all laughing in a heap on the floor." "I used to do that with Skylar, not Shakespeare, but Dr.Souse." "Really?" Louis said arching one eye brow. "Yeah. She loved 'The Cat In the Hat'." Vince said. "Did she ever want you to do the voices for the characters?" "Yes always. Did Claudia do that with you?" "Yes she did. She loved Lestat's take on 'Macbeth' and insisted that I be Lady Macbeth." Louis laughed at the thought. "Skylar used to insist that we watch 'The Little Mermaid' over and over again. Soon she'd be singing the songs before they started." Vince said relishing the memory of Skylar sitting there on the couch, her face alight, as the song 'Under the Sea' began to play. "You miss her don't you?" It was Louis. He'd picked that much up from Vince. "Yeah, and you still miss Claudia don't you?" "Yes I do." Louis said softly. "It's irritating how those your closest to really don't understand how you feel." Vince reasoned. "That it is. I know Lestat grieves for her but I still feel that he doesn't understand." Louis said fist clenched. Getting up Vince crossed the room and placed a hand on Louis's shoulder. Bending down and resting on the balls of his feet Vince looked Louis squarely in the eyes. "Louis I understand. Skylar was only four when she died. To this day I still don't feel that I can talk to Sharries about her." "But....." "No buts Louis. You lost Claudia, I know she was a vampire like you but that doesn't make it any different. She was like a daughter to you and you loved her like one. It's the hardest thing in the world for a parent to lose a child. I know I've been there and I'm still there." Vince said gently but firmly. "I know....but it's just so hard." Louis said trying to hold back the tears. Wrapping his arms around Louis Vince spoke softly in the vampire's ear. "I know Louis...I know." It was all Vince said. He just sat there holding Louis as he cried, not interrupting him or telling him that it was o.k. For Louis or him losing Claudia and Skylar wasn't o.k and the pain would never go away. Hours later Louis finally sat up and looked at Vince. Wiping the remaining tears from his eyes he smiled apologetically. "Sorry about the robe." Looking down at the robe Vince saw that it was ruined. "Don't worry, it wasn't even mine." Vince shrugged. "HEY! What's going on in here?" Lestat quipped from the door way. "Greiver's anonymous. You know like Alcoholic's Anonymous but instead of getting up and introducing ourselves we just sit around and cry. What to join?" Vince joked. "Cute. Well I've found some clothes for you now put these on and lets go do something." Lestat said tossing the clothes onto the bed. "Wait Lestat, where are the guys?" Vince asked getting up off the floor. "Oh them....their in the living room. That Mars guy and Armand are discussing life and all that boring stuff." "How come I'm not suprised? Anyway I'll be out in a minute and his name is Mick." Vince said reaching for the clothes. "I know...I just like messing with his last name." Lestat grinned as he left. Before Louis left the room he turned to Vince and smile. "Thank you." Was all Louis said as he too left. Laughing to himself Vince slowly got dressed and headed for tonight's chaos. Minutes later Vince entered the living room. To his suprise he found Nikki and Tommy in deep discussion with Daniel and a new girl. She was small and delicately made. Her curly red hair bounce up and down every time she moved and her green eyes reminded him of a cat's eyes. Mick was seated comfortably in a corner with Armand, there was nothing new there. Shrugging at the sight Vince walked up to Nikki and Tommy. Daniel turned to great him. "Hello Vince glad to see your finally up." "Well I had an unexpected delay." Vince said. "And what was that?" Nikki asked. "Louis." "Oh really? And your still in one piece? I'm suprised." Quipped the small red head. "It was NOTHING like that. We just talked that's all." Vince stressed. "Anyway what'd I miss?" "Oh nothing much. It's been pretty boring around here. I wish things would liven up." The red head sulked. "Can I ask you a question?" Vince said looking at the girl. "Sure" "Who are you?" "Oh! I'm sorry. I'm Jesse." "Hi it's nice to meet you Jesse." Vince said taking her small delicate hand. "Well since you got introductions out of the way, why don't you guys find something useful to do?" Lestat said coming up from behind them. "Why don't you go fuck yourself?" Nikki asked sarcastically. "Watch it tattooed freak! I will kill you without a thought." "And then I'd just have to rip you to shreds won't I?" Vince shot back. "I really wish you guys would stop this. Your acting like children." "Oh but it's so much fun! Isn't it Mr. Dicks, I mean Sixx?" Lestat sneered. "What did you say you fucking queer?" Nikki asked stepping up to Lestat. They were eye to eye now and neither would back down. "Hey! Why don't you guys go and get something to eat o.k?" Vince suggested. "And you Lestat come with me." Vince said dragging the blond vampire off into the other room. Vince could hear Jesse giggling in the back ground. "What is it with you?" Vince seethed. "What are you talking about?" Lestat asked acting innocent. "Don't give me that innocent act. You know damn well what I mean." "You mean Mr. Sex, I mean Sixx?" Lestat asked. "Will you quit messing around with his name? It's Nikki got it?" "O.k o.k....geeze I was just having fun with the guy." Lestat shrugged. "Good. Now that we've come to an understanding, lets get back out there before questions are asked." Vince said leaving the room. Lestat just stood there for a minute a big grin spreading over his face. A minute later he followed Vince out the door. As he approached he could hear Vince talking to his friends. "Nikki could you please be nicer and stop starting fights. Once you get started Lestat hardly shuts up." Vince begged. "What do you mean I hardly shut up? I don't talk that much." Lestat stated, arms crossed. "That could be debated love." Louis said sliding his arms around Lestat. Vince and Jesse just grinned. "What's so funny?" It was Mick. Armand stood quietly next to him with a hint of mischief in his big brown eyes. Pushing back a few stray strands of auburn hair Armand answered. "Lestat has just been told that he talks way too much and needs a muzzle." "I can't argue with that." Nikki muttered. "NIKKI!" Vince said shooting his friend a deadly look. "What? I didn't say a thing." Nikki said acting innocent. "Oh I give up!" Vince said throughing up his hands in dispare. "Go right ahead and kill each other. See if I try and stop it again." "Touchy touchy..Well Vince don't you think it's time for your friends to go and get something to eat?" Armand said giving him a sideways glance. "Yeah I think that would be a good idea." Tommy said standing. Looking at Tommy Armand's brown eyes got larger as he looked up. "My god your taller than Lestat." Armand breathed. Shrugging Tommy replied. "I'm used to it. Well I think we'd better be off before the restaurants close." "Your right. Come on Mick lets go." Nikki said heading for the door. "We'll be back in about an hour or so." "O.k and guys be careful." Vince said holding the door. "I wish we could say the same for you." Nikki said as they left. Sighing Vince closed the door and turned to the others. "Don't worry Vince, they'll get used to it. They've stayed this long haven't they?" Jesse asked rubbing Vince's arm. "Yeah I guess so. Oh by the way were is everyone?" "Gabrielle left with Pandora, Santino went back to Rome, Khayman, Marius, and David took a room at the hotel." Louis answered. "Oh so they satisfied their curiosity huh?" Vince asked. "I guess so but you will see more of Marius, Khayman, and David later on." Lestat said. "Cool, so now what?" "Now we eat!" Jesse quipped taking Vince by the arm and leading him out the door. "Hey! I want to go to!" Lestat said. "You can come to Lestat. Louis how about you?" Vince asked looking over his shoulder at the green eyed vampire. "I don't know..." Louis muttered. "Don't worry, no one will follow you when you hunt but you can at least go out with us." Vince said trying to convince Louis to come with them. "Oh..o.k" Louis said getting his jacket. Elated by this Lestat promptly attached himself to Louis's arm as they began to leave. Seeing the uneasiness in Louis's eyes Vince tried to comfort him. *It's o.k Louis. He just wants to be near you.* *I don't like publics displays* *Oh I know but people now days don't care, a man and a woman together do worst things than you and Lestat holding hands* *True..* *Then you'll let him hold your hand this once?* *Yeah I guess so. It can't be that bad.* *Good. You just made Lestat very happy.* Vince finished with a smile. All Louis did was smile, he knew Vince was right. Just from looking at Lestat he could see Lestat's head bob up and down as he walked. Louis just shook his head at this and walked on. Once they got to their destination Lestat, Jesse, and Vince went in one direction and Louis in another, all four promising to meet within the hour. ###################### ###Cafe'###### Sitting in the small dimly lit cafe Nikki, Tommy, and Mick talked about the problem at hand. The cafe was tiny to say the least and not very many people were inside. A few people occupied the table next to theirs and the one near the door but that was all. Picking up a French fry Tommy asked the question they were all wondering. "So what do we do?" "I don't know." "Well we can't just quit and if we get a new singer it will just be like it was before." Tommy said. "I say we stick it out." Mick answered quietly. "O.k so how do you explain to people why Vince is never out during the day?" Nikki asked looking at Mick. "They don't ask about me so why would they ask about Vince?" "He has a point Nikki." Tommy said leaning on the table. Reaching forward he grabbed another French fry and popped it in his mouth. "People don't ask as long as they get what they want." "True, so I guess we just stick it out huh?" Nikki asked looking from Mick to Tommy, both nodding their heads in agreement. "Good now that we've got that out of the way we have other problems to deal with, but those concern Vince as well so we'll deal with those when we see him." Nikki said as he raised his glass. There was a small amount of coke left in the bottom of the glass and as he drank it Nikki tried to keep his thoughts to other things than the current problems facing them. ####Rue Royal#### "When are they going to get back?" Vince asked passing. "When's who going to get back?" Tommy said through the open door. Sighing Vince replied. "Nothing, nothing at all. Just come in." Vince said pulling Tommy in by the arm. "Where are the others?" "They're coming." "You shouldn't worry so much young one." "HOLY SHIT! Marius don't do that." Vince yelled. Putting his hand on his chest Vince could feel his heart racing. "You scared me half to death." Laughing Marius place a hand on Vince's shoulder. "It's o.k young one. You didn't know I was here." "When did you get here?" "Just before you got back." "Are you going to let us in or what?" Nikki said from behind the semi-closed door. "Oh sorry, I was preoccupied." "I can see that." Nikki said entering the flat, Mick right behind him. "Did you enjoy your meal?" Marius asked addressing Nikki, they were almost eye to eye with Marius just a bit taller. "What do you want me to say? That we had a wonderful time? Sorry to disappoint you." Nikki finished and walked off. Going out on to the porch Nikki clutched the railing and bowed his head. He could see the garden from below. They were only on the second floor. Sitting on the railing Nikki propelled himself off the balcony and landed safely on the ground below. Walking over to the fountain, he sat down on the edge and put his hand in the cool water, completely absorbed in his own thoughts. "Nice landing" "What?!?!" Nikki exclaimed looking up. He hadn't realized anyone was out there. "Oh it's just you." Nikki said turning back to the water in the fountain. "You never cease to amaze me." "How nice. I'm flattered." "You should be, I could have killed you by now." "Lestat death doesn't scare me." Nikki said thinking back to his over dose years ago. "How long were you dead?" Lestat said reading Nikki's thoughts. "Why don't you just find out for yourself." "I'd rather hear you say it." "Over seven minutes. I rode to the hospital with a sheet over my head. Happy?" Nikki asked sarcastically. "Where did you learn to jump like that? Most mortals would have hurt themselves." "Nosy aren't we?" "No just curious." Lestat said sitting down next to Nikki. "I used to sneak out a lot as a kid. I know all the tricks." "Hmmmmm.......interesting. Rebellious were you not?" "Rebellious is not the word for it, but you could say that." "And I bet you hate authority. Don't you." "It's not that hard to see." "So you ran off to L.A to become what you are today." Looking up into Lestat's grey eyes Nikki sighed. "So what if I did? What do you care?" "More than you will ever know cherie." Above them Metallica's 'Creeping Death' played. Slowly the music reached them below. "How fitting a song." Lestat muttered. "What did you say?" Nikki asked. Just as the chorus came Lestat sank his fangs into Nikki's neck. He could hear the words clearly as they played on. ::::Die by my hand / I creep across the land killing first born man::::: *How fitting indeed* Nikki thought as he slowly began to lose conciseness. Suddenly Nikki's eyes flew open. Something was being forced into his mouth and all he could do was drink. It seemed like pure energy to Nikki. The blood poured through him, burning his whole body. He could clearly see Lestat above him, and he realized that it was Lestat's wrist that he was drinking from. "NNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOO" As soon as it started the flow stopped. Nikki winced in pain as death took it's toll. Nikki could see the faint rays of dawn as the sun peeked over the horizon. That was the last thing he saw as the death sleep dragged him down. #####Early Night##### Slowly Nikki came too. The room was dark, but he could see clearly. Stretching Nikki sensed that someone was in the room with him. Turning his gaze he focused on a lone figure next to the window. Blonde hair just to his shoulders, built but slight in form. "Vince?" "Good evening Nikki." "What are you doing here. What time is it?" "It's 7:30pm. Do you remember what happened last night?" Vince asked still facing the window. "Barely....I remember talking to Lestat then.....Oh god" Nikki breathed placing a hand over his mouth. The realization dawned on him as the memories of the night before came crashing down upon him. Opening his mouth Nikki felt two tiny sharp fangs. "Oh god..." "I should have never brought you guys here." Vince sighed speaking only to himself. His shoulders sagged against an invisible weight, baring down on him. Getting up from the bed Nikki stood. As soon as his feet hit the floor Nikki marveled at the new sensations that over came him. Never had he realized just how soft the carpet was or how many lights remained while no lights shone. Looking at his hands his nails had already taken on a translucent sheen and his skin not quite the white parlor of the others but still abnormally pale compared to humans. A mirror hung on the wall above an antique dresser, Nikki's reflection seemed a mystery to him. His fine features now evident more than ever, a sculptor's dream. His short black hair a thick shine mass atop his head, the gel from the other day almost gone. Walking up to Vince Nikki placed his hands on his friends shoulders and for the first time feeling their hardness. "You too will be like this soon." "I know." Sighing Nikki continued. "Vince don't blame yourself." "Why not?" "You didn't do this. Lestat did, and in a way I guess I did want it." Turning to face his friend, Vince looked Nikki squarely in the eyes. Faced with the sight before him Vince wanted to cry. Here in front of him was his friend, his brother for 15 years and now he seemed a stranger. "Why? How could you want this?" Vince asked. "Vince, there is truth in Lestat's words. No one can refuse the Dark Gift, not even me." "But......" "Vince, you know me. Do you think I'm going to roll over and play dead? Did you?" "No I didn't and I should have known you wouldn't." Vince paused. "So what are you going to do about Lestat?" "Hmmm? Oh, Lestat. Well...I don't know really. Don't look so suprised Vince. I have all eternity to harass Lestat." "True...so true." "So I think it's time to face the music and I think I need to umm...feed?" Nikki asked raising an eye brow. "Ha Ha, very funny. Come on. Lets go. I'll help you with your feeding." Vince said exaggerating the last of his words. As soon as they entered the living room all eyes were on them. Louis sat off in one corner his hair masking his face. Lestat was no where to be seen. "I'm sorry." Louis mumbled from his corner seat. Walking over to the green eyed vampire Nikki lifted his face so to look him in the eyes. "Sorry for what? You didn't do anything so why are you sorry?" "Lestat...." "Stop making excuses. Lestat did this not you, get over it." "Nikki?" Tommy said approaching him slowly from across the room. "I'm o.k Tommy." Nikki said quietly. "Nikki, we have to go." Vince said placing his hand on his friends arm. Slowly Vince lead Nikki out the door, the only sound to break the silence was the closing of the door. The leaves rustled in the cool night breeze. Lights burned from the street lamps, illuminating the road and side walk around them. The stars sparkled dimly as the clouds rolled by. The pair walked slowly down the battered old side walk, neither saying a word. Finally Vince spoke. "Are you alright?" "What do you mean?" "You know after all that happened." Vince said referring to the night before. "Oh...that." Nikki answered with a sigh. Stopping and putting his arm on Nikki's, Vince turned and look his old friend in the eyes. Taking in deep breaths, Vince tried to collect his words, to bring them forth but emotions won out and the blood tears swelled and spilled over. Long red rivers carved their paths down Vince's cheeks, no matter how hard he tried the words would not come. Sighing, Nikki wrapped his tattooed arms around his friend, feeling the distance between the vanish. Pulling away Nikki looked down into his friends eyes. They seemed to carry a tinge of purple in the moon light. Leaning forward Nikki kissed Vince's forehead softly. Vince clung to his friend, fearing that if he let go he'd lose him forever. The kiss came as a suprise to Vince. Staring up at Nikki, Vince lifted his head and Nikki lowered his. Their lips met, an audible sigh excaping from the darkheard vampire. Their kiss deepened as emotions ran high. Both clinging to the other in desperate hope, the only thing unchanged in a once familiar land. For the longest time, they just stood there holding on to each other in love and fear. It appeared that they were the only ones alive that night, no living soul seemed to stir in the infinite darkness. The slight rustle of leaves brought Nikki to the real world. Stiffening he backed away from Vince, realizing what had just happened he quickly turned and left. Vince watch, his heart bleeding, as his friend and his beloved walked away from him. The dark night seemed to swallow him whole leaving no trace that he had even been there. Turning Vince slowly walked back to the flat, his thoughts in chaotic turmoil. Something had happened in that small amount of time and no words could explain it. #####Rue Royal##### "Lestat?" Louis asked, entering the finely decorated bedroom. Lestat sat quietly on the edge of the bed. He uttered no words nor did he move in the slightest when Louis sat down next to him. "Lestat?" "What ?" "Why did you do it?" Louis asked, referring to Nikki. "I don't know." "Yes you do Lestat. You never do anything for the hell of it. You always have a reason behind to ones you give." "What if I told you that I wanted him, that I loved him? Would you believe me then?" Lestat asked, still facing the window. "Maybe." Louis replied softly. "Well it's the truth. I can't explain why I love him. He's brash, arrogant, opinionated, stubborn......." "And just like you." Louis finished for him. "He accomplished what you wished you could have done if only your father hadn't stopped you. Nikki is the man you wanted to be." Turning, Lestat looked Louis squarely in the eyes. He had his own question to ask and didn't know how to ask it. "Louis..?" "Yes." "Do you love Vince?" "Yes, Lestat I do. Does that bother you?" "Yes....." Lestat answered softly. "Well it shouldn't Lestat. I'm not going to leave you for him. I love him as a friend and companion. Lestat he knows my pain and suffering over Claudia. You Lestat I love for different reasons but I love you no less." Louis said looking deep into Lestat's blue eyes. Wrapping his arms around Louis, Lestat pulled them down onto the bed and there they laid for the rest of the night. ####Next Night##### Vince woke up alone. The darkness seemed to swallow the room whole. In his mind he replayed the events of the night before. It had seemed so right when it had happened, but now Vince wasn't so sure. A soft knock echoed through the room. Looking up Vince could see Louis standing in the door way. Sighing Vince laid back down on the bed and closed his eyes. "I wasn't sure if you were here. I didn't hear you come in last night." "I got back late." Vince stated flatly. Eyes still closed Vince felt part of the bed sink in under Louis's weight. "What happened?" "Nothing happened." "Vince, cheri you are not fooling anyone. Your emotions can be seen clearly on your face. What happened last night?" "I don't know." Vince said, swallowing a lump in his throat. "Yes you do." Turning Vince could see Louis's face. The green eyes filled with compassion, head tilted to one side. Rising up on his elbows Vince looked Louis squarely in the eyes. There was nothing that he could hide from Louis. In the short time they had known each other they had become close. They understood each other better than anyone alive or dead. "You love him don't you?" "Yes, but how could I not? He's my best friend and brother. We've been through so much together. We've done so much....." Vince tried to continue but words failed him. Taking Vince's hand in his Louis pulled Vince into a tight embrace. The younger vampire exhausted, let the blood tears flow. "Vince, I understand. For almost two centuries I tried to deny how I felt. I never wanted to believe that a creature such as I could love. I believed I was damned and unworthy of love." "But you and Lestat, you are.....Aren't you?" Vince asked slightly confused. "In a way we are lovers, but never could we be the way I've always hoped we could be." Louis sighed. "You mean happy?" "We're always happy in the beginning, but then it starts up again. The fighting, the pain and guilt. Then I leave and come back again and it starts all over again. no Vince I don't believe we could ever truly be happy." "And why not? Have you ever talked to Lestat about this?" "No, he wouldn't understand." "I think it's about time you did talk to him. Tell him how you feel." "Vince?" "Yes?" "I think we both need to take your advice." "What do you mean?" "Nikki just got back about an hour ago. He's in the living room with Lestat." "Oh..." "Come on. I'll talk to Lestat and you can maybe straighten things out with Nikki." "Alright. Besides, I think it's time we talked anyway." ####Living Room###### "I see you sent them away." "Yes. I think it's best if they stayed out of this for now." "Good decision. They were a distraction." Lestat stated pacing the room. "Lestat?" Looking up from the bookshelf Lestat saw Louis and Vince standing in the entrance to the living room. "Louis? What is it?" "Lestat we need to talk." "What about this time Louis? Are you leaving again? So what if you are. Have fun and thanks for telling me this time." Lestat said with a wave of his hand. "Lestat, it's nothing like that. I think we just need to talk that's all." "Whatever you say Louis." "Lestat, get out." "What??" Lestat asked startled. Vince had entered the room and stood a few feet from Lestat. "I said get out. I need to speak with Nikki and it's obvious that you and Louis need to talk now get out." "Look here fledgling. You can't tell me what to do....." "Oh yes he can." Louis said coming up beside Vince. "Lestat we need to talk and it's clear that Vince and Nikki need privacy. I thought maybe we could go for a walk." "Alright." Lestat grumbled as he walked out the door. *Good luck* Vince sent to Louis. *Good luck to you to my friend.* Louis sent back as he closed the door. Turning Vince walked over the were Nikki sat. Wearing a dark leopard print shirt and black pants Nikki had perfected the "out of bed" look that turned on so many of their female fans. "What is it Vince? I'm busy." "You know what it is." Vince said snatching the magazine from Nikki's hands. "Look at me Nikki." Vince said trying to get his friends attention. "Look Vince this is going to have to wait. I'm really busy...." Nikki began avoiding the subject of last night all together. "GOD DAMN IT NIKKI LISTEN TO ME!" Vince roared. Startled Nikki stood frozen in place. "We can not pretend last night did not happen. We both know it happened." "It was an accident nothing more. It meant nothing." "Nikki what do you take me for? An idiot? Something did happen and it did mean something, if it hadn't meant something we wouldn't be having this conversation." "What are you trying to say Vince? That you love me? Well get over it because nothing happened and nothing is going to happened ever again." "So what if I do love you Nikki?" Vince said. "So what if I do? And Nikki don't look at me like that." "How can you say that you love me?" "How could I not? Your my best friend, my brother. We've known each other for 17 years. We've done so much together and we've been through so much. How could I not love you?" "Look Vince...." "No Nikki, last night did happen. It may have been a mistake, I don't care but I'm not going to lose you over a silly mistake." Sighing Nikki sank back into the plush leather couch. "What's happening to us? What's going on?" "I don't know Nikki but I do know that we're going to have to get used to it. Everything's changed. We've changed. The whole world has been turned upside down and we have to figure out how to make it right again." "You've always had a way with words." Sighing Nikki continued. "So what do we do know?" "Move on. We can't ignore what happened last night but maybe in time we may come to understand it." "True, and I hate to bring this up at a time like this but what are we going to do about the show?" "Oh shit....I forgot. When is it?" "It's in two days." "Fuck. What are we going to do?" "I already know. We rehearse at night and they crew sets up during the day, a sound check at 7pm and the concert starts at 9pm. That give us time to do what we need to do and what Tommy and Mick need to do." "I'm glad your here. I would have screwed everything up." Vince laughed taking a seat next to his friend. "Your just unorganized. I mean what would you ever do without me?" "OW! What was that for?" Nikki asked rubbing his arm. "That was for being a smart ass and sounding like Lestat. We can not have you sound liking Lestat." "Ha ha...very funny wise guy." ###First Street##### "Lestat?" "What?" "You haven't said a word since we left." "So?" "Lestat don't do this..." "Don't do what Louis? Every time we talk it's always because your unhappy and you always leave. Why don't we just skip the middle part and you leave." "Lestat do you want me to leave?" "No..." "Then listen to me." Louis said. "I don't want to leave you." "Then why do you?" "Because I don't like fighting with you. Lestat, I love you, don't you know that?" Louis asked desperate. "Not all the time. Sometimes I know then other times it seems like you can't wait to get away from me." "Lestat, do you love me?" "Yes...Louis I do love you." "Then why do we fight? Lestat, I want us to be together." "As lovers?" "Yes...as lovers." Smiling Lestat took Louis in his arms, no more words were spoken. Looking into his beloved's eye's Lestat felt warmed to his core. How could I have ever thought other wise? Lestat thought to himself. Leaning forward Lestat kissed Louis and to his suprise and delight Louis returned the kiss. "Louis?" Lestat said once they had finished. "What is it Lestat?" "Lets go home." "That sounds like a good idea." Louis finished as they turned and walked home together. #####Show Night##### "What's taking so long?" Lestat grumbled from the first row. "The show should have started 30 minutes ago." "Oh quit complaining Lestat. You sound like a spoiled brat." Armand snapped. He had been listening to Lestat gripe the moment they had gotten to the arena. Folding his arms Armand sat down in his seat. Dresses in a t-shirt and ripped jean Armand fit right in. With his long auburn hair tied back he looked like any other teenager in the room, but Lestat, he stood out. Always the attention getter. Armand thought. Next to Armand Daniel squirmed in his seat. "When is this thing going to start?" "In a minute Daniel. Their almost ready." Louis said. "And Lestat will you sit down?" "Alright, alright." Lestat said flopping down in his chair. Crossing his jean c lad legs Lestat looked around. "These people need to learn how to dress." "Lestat this is not the opera it's a rock concert. This is normal for these types of shows." Daniel said motioning to the scantly clad girls and the leather and ripped jeans that the guys wore. "Still they have no fashion sense." Lestat said crossing his arms. "Lestat love, listen Daniel is right. It's a custom for mortals to dress this way for such events." Louis said holding on to Lestat's arm. Changing the subject Lestat began to survey the room. "Where are the others?" "Khayman is here, he's in the balcony with Marius. As for everyone else who knows" Louis shrugged. Just then the lights dimmed, three shadows could be seen from behind the screen in front of the stage. Soon a distorted sound came from the speakers and the crowd because excited. People were on their feet in no time ready for the show to begin. Suddenly one single word blared through the speakers as the first song began. "DESTROY!" After that Nikki ripped through the first verse of the song, the screen still in place. Then the curtain dropped to reveal Vince sitting on top of a chandelier. The crowed went wild. The crowd stayed on their feet till the end. Leaning over to Lestat as the crowd filled their way out of the auditorium, Louis whispered in Lestat's ear. "Do you think they will ever be like us?" "I don't know. Maybe in time." "Come one you two love birds, Vince and Nikki are expecting us back stage." Armand said interrupting them. Daniel stood at his side. He was anxious to get back stage. It was clear that Daniel was reliving some part of his past. He looked like every other mortal who would be back stage with the band. Rising from their seats Lestat and Louis took each others hands and lead the way back stage. Leaning over to Armand Lestat whispered. "I give them 10 years. You?" "5 max." Armand said shaking Lestat's hand. "What are you two doing? Your taking bets aren't you? Oh mon dui! What am I going to do with you two?" Louis said. "I give them at least 20 years." Daniel piped in. Louis how about you? Care to place your bet?" Lestat grinned. "No. I don't. I'm not going to make bet's on how long it will take Vince and Nikki to sleep with each other!" Louis said stalking off. "Put him down for a century." Lestat giggled from behind as they disappeared through the curtain pn their way to meet the band. The End