Disclaimer: I own nothing.

Author Note: Fic title is a lyric from the song 'December, 1963 (Oh, What A Night)' by Clock. The Vampire world, very much known to Humanity in the modern world here, is based on True Blood and on the stories of EricIzMine which are absolutely worth checking out.

CHAPTER ONE: A VERY UNSOCIAL CALL

Aramis laughed, that was what Athos remembered afterwards. Aramis laughed, his head thrown back, his arm possessive around Porthos' waist. Athos shook his head, he'd known Aramis for years and still the man's laugh made him smile more than it should. Porthos chuckled, muttering things against Aramis' temple that Athos could hear all-too-clearly despite the distance. Porthos was definitely doing it on purpose, turning his head to fix laughing eyes on Athos.

Athos was about to say something about having their invitation to his house rescinded when he sensed someone's approach, anger and grief swirling thickly, faintly edged with something sickeningly familiar, and then Athos was swinging easily to the right, avoiding a knife blow. Porthos and Aramis were at his side instantly, grabbing the man's – the boy's – arms with a vampiric strength that made the boy hiss.

Athos picked up the stake that had clattered to the ground with the knife and looked at his attacker. He was young, human, and very beautiful. He smelled very strongly of Vampire, a stranger that Athos definitely didn't recognise which could be a very bad sign. Athos enjoyed looking at him for a moment or two, in a way that made both Porthos and Aramis smirk. Athos raised an eyebrow at them both before turning back to the boy.

"Is there any particular reason for this very unsocial call?"

The boy looked furious and oh, there was that familiar note of scent again. Jasmine. Of course it was.

"You killed my father!"

Athos took the knife off him. "I doubt it."

The boy scoffed and Athos approached him slowly, taking in how fast the boy's heartbeat was, but not from fear. He wasn't frightened by the group's displays of Vampire traits and he definitely believed what he was saying. He smelled like pained grief, anger and arousal. Behind his blank expression Athos was admiring the boy in return. Sadly the boy also smelled like Athos' ex-wife and sex.

Athos sighed. "No doubt a beautiful woman told you this, with long dark hair, a sinuous manner, and a mesmeric gaze?"

The boy frowned and Aramis groaned. "You should have ended her decades ago."

Athos eyeballed him. "I thought I had."

"I've told you, you need help with your follow-through."

Porthos snorted and loosened his grip a little on the boy. "Name?"

"D'Artagnan."

Not a lie. Athos shook his head. "I don't know it."

"He was Alexandre d'Artagnan, from Gascony. There was a hold-up in the Flying Horse; one of them said his name was Athos."

Porthos looked incredibly unimpressed. "Because a Vampire butchering people in a pub is going to make sure his name is remembered? Générals don't take that kind of thing lightly."

Athos inspected the boy, d'Artagnan, he was grief-stricken, it was clear to see without vampire senses, and he truly believed in what he was doing. Milady had likely only pushed him a little, eager for her ex-husband to suffer if not die. She knew how much he preferred not to interact with humanity.

"There've been several human murders recently, apparently committed by Vampires. Directeur Général Treville believes it's a religious group hoping to stir up violent prejudice against Vampires. I'm sorry, but it seems that your father was one of their unfortunate victims."

Aramis swore in Spanish and let go of d'Artagnan to call Treville. D'Artagnan watched him, his form now limp in Porthos' powerful grip. Athos couldn't stop looking at him, he really was beautiful.

"I'm sure I can't convince you of it, but I've been in Paris for the past month, the Directeur Général will swear to it."

That seemed to get d'Artagnan's attention, his face pinching in a frown. "But that woman, the one who confirmed…she knew you."

Athos' expression twitched, centuries later and he still couldn't remain completely blank at the mention of his former lover. "Milady de Winter is the name she currently appropriates. She was my wife."

"Should have killed her," Porthos reminded him.

"I thought-."

"Should have done it yourself."

Yes, possibly he should have. He acquiesced with a nod and then held out a hand. "Right. Phone."

D'Artagnan gaped. "Why?"

"You clearly belong to a Vampire, I can smell them. I need to let them know where you are and what you've done."

D'Artagnan looked as though he was going to protest but instead produced a phone. Clearly he had had some training in Vampire relations. "Constance Bonacieux, Vampire Général of Gascony."

A Général, no less. But how was it she'd let her human boy run off and attempt to murder a knight of King Louis? Athos thumbed through the phone's contacts and then called Constance. He put the phone onto speaker, so that d'Artagnan could hear his mistress's wrath.

"How's Paris?"

"Général, my name is Athos. Your pet just tried to end me; he was under the mistaken belief that I killed his father."

There was the briefest pause and then Général Bonacieux swore magnificently in Gascon. Aramis, finished with his own phone call, looked very impressed. At least she didn't seem to be the sort of pet owner who indulged their pet's bad behaviour. Still, how did she not know of d'Artagnan's intentions? D'Artagnan was wincing; clearly he knew he was in deep trouble.

"I take it you were unaware of his plans?"

"He told me he was going to Paris to see friends and he wasn't lying. He needed a break from everything here after his father's passing. Alexandre, his father, was my day man, a position he'd held since before d'Artagnan's birth. We all miss him."

So Alexandre and his son had known about Vampires before the Great Revelation. Interesting.

"He had help in his beliefs."

"I assume she was very pretty," Général Bonacieux did not sound amused or surprised. "My husband played his part too. He's not happy about d'Artagnan living in our house. He's sure d'Artagnan has designs on me turning him, even though I've made it clear that I don't want to become a Maker yet."

"Jealousy."

"He probably encouraged d'Artagnan to make this trip. He must have had an idea about the real reason for it."

A perfect cocktail and Général Bonacieux really didn't sound happy about it. Clearly d'Artagnan was more of an adopted child than a traditional pet, it was evident she cared for him despite her husband's envy. And from the way d'Artagnan was reacting to her voice, he cared about her in return. That spoke well of them both.

"It sounds like Alexandre's death was the latest perpetrated by a gang who want to implicate Vampires in Paris. Directeur Général Treville has been informed; you may be called about d'Artagnan."

"I'll expect the Directeur Général's call."

Athos paused but continued, because Général Bonacieux deserved to know what was going to be dumped on her doorstep. "Also d'Artagnan's female friend unofficially works for the Cardinal; a fact d'Artagnan was unaware of, so you may get a call from His Eminence. I doubt he knew about his employee's activities, she likely saw d'Artagnan as an opportunity to use against me."

Général Bonacieux swore again. "Thank you for the warning."

Athos gestured and Porthos released d'Artagnan, the boy taking the phone from Athos' hand and raising it to his ear with sensible apprehension. Athos stepped back towards his large sleek town-car, where Aramis was waiting, happy to lean his weight against Porthos who tucked in beside him. They were very tactile for Vampires, just as Athos was the very opposite. He still stood close to Aramis though, too used to his friends' touches by now. It amused his Maker no end.

None of them even pretended that they weren't listening in on d'Artagnan and Général Bonacieux's conversation.

"Of all the comprehensively stupid things you've done, d'Artagnan, your father taught you better than this, I taught you better than this!"

"Constance, I…"

"Did you even know that you were going after one of King Louis' favoured Musketeers?! Not only that, a Musketeer who's not known for his tolerance of humanity?"

D'Artagnan darted a look towards Athos, Aramis waved at him with an entertained grin. "You're famous, Athos."

"Just what I've always wanted."

Général Bonacieux was not letting d'Artagnan say much. "…And I know this has been hard for you, we all miss your father, even Jacques and don't get me started on the fact that you listened to him instead of me."

"Constance. I'm sorry, I…I just finally got a lead and I couldn't not know and…"

"Got a lead," Général Bonacieux sounded dangerous now. "Tell me you didn't use my name to crack open any police files that you had no business even knowing about."

"I didn't! I swear."

D'Artagnan looked offended now and he was telling the truth. Athos cocked his head and looked at the boy, he really was a pretty sight and he knew enough vampire etiquette to be impressive and more than a little alluring. He was a treat, as Aramis might say. Aramis and Porthos weren't interested in him though, they never shared men now - previous forays in that direction had ended very badly and had a name that was never spoken – Marsac. In fact, there was only one exception to that rule; Athos. Athos fed regularly from live donors and when he felt the irresistible urge, he found someone to fuck as well, because according to Aramis and Porthos, he was a steaming pain to live with when he wasn't getting laid. If they had their way, he'd be out every night. He enjoyed their intimate company though; they were the exception to his rule too. He trusted them.

The fact was that, despite the abrupt absurdity of their introduction to one another, Athos was drawn to d'Artagnan and from the darting glances and potent smell of arousal; d'Artagnan was just as interested in him. It was a peculiar situation and another one to amuse his Maker, Athos expected to get a call soon from Methodius, inquiring about the sudden sexual interest he was feeling, was Athos ill?

Aramis snickered, his expression full of mirth. "Congratulations, you might have finally graduated past adolescence."

"And of course it's someone who tried to kill you," added Porthos, just as amused.

"I can have you uninvited."

"Ha. Agnes likes us far too much for that."

It was sadly true. Athos sighed, his gaze drawn back to d'Artagnan, and made a decision. He was aware that it had been a considerable amount of time since he had thought about anyone, human or vampire, in the way that he was currently thinking about d'Artagnan. And of course it would be a human, a young one at that, and yes, one who had attempted to end him. It was a ridiculous idea, but he'd sworn to his Maker that he wouldn't let Milady ruin the rest of his existence and after several decades spent trying to forget her and everything else in the most unhealthy manner possible, Athos had recently, finally, been able to truly begin obeying the command.

Aramis nudged him gently. "You could do a lot worse. And it'll infuriate Milady."

That was true, but probably not the healthiest reason to want to spend time with someone. Yes, Athos was very interested in tasting d'Artagnan and he did have an idea, one that would suitably punish d'Artagnan for his actions, help out Général Bonacieux, and allow Athos to explore this possibility. D'Artagnan stirred something in him, that was reason enough to get to know d'Artagnan better. And from Aramis and Porthos' expression they weren't getting any red flags from the Human.

Athos abruptly stepped away from the car and held out a hand to d'Artagnan. d'Artagnan glanced at him for a moment and then handed the phone over without a word, a very relieved look on his face. Général Bonacieux had made sure that he knew how displeased she was, as well as she should.

"Général, if you're willing, d'Artagnan can become my day man here. Currently my…housemates and I share a day person between us and she recently became a mother. It would be a good punishment for the boy, relieve him of returning to Gascony and give you and your husband some time and space together."

D'Artagnan's eyes widened but he didn't protest, he looked intrigued. Général Bonacieux made a considering sound and Athos made his way back to the car, sliding into the back and closing the door firmly.

"Only my friends will hear us now, and they'll know not to repeat anything," he assured her. "The boy hasn't any prejudices or attitudes that will cause problems here?"

"He treats some vampires with more derision that he should, but he's the same with some Humans. Growing up amongst vampires has made him a little blasé."

"So if he met a particularly hardline Général …"

"He might tell them what he thought of them, yes," Général Bonacieux sighed. "I haven't allowed him to visit other cities very often because there's no telling what he might say or do, even though he knows the consequences."

"A quick temper, but he knows protocol."

"Absolutely. And his father was the best day man I've ever had. It's a very kind offer, but I know you work closely with Directeur Général Treville and the King might…"

"Général, I don't enjoy the company of Humans. Believe me, nothing short of an order from my Maker or my King could force me to spend time with most people, but d'Artagnan has interested me. That's rare and I would like to know him better."

There was a surprised thoughtful pause. "You want him to become your pet?"

"While he's here, I'll have to claim him, he's beautiful and has the sort of sharp attitude that could gain the attention of Vampires that I doubt he'd enjoy the company of. It won't be a hardship for me, do you think he'd be amenable?"

"He's never been offended by the concept of being claimed and if he assures me that he wants the same thing, I have no problem with him becoming Yours."

Athos' smile twitched triumphantly. The idea of d'Artagnan as his was extremely pleasing. Yes, Methodius was definitely going to call him.

"If he misbehaves, particularly publicly, I will punish him."

"Good. I haven't cosseted him and he respects me as a Vampire and as Sheriff, but he's known me all his life. Threats from me can only go so far."

Athos nodded. Of course, d'Artagnan probably viewed Général Bonacieux almost like family, which was quite a thought. A Vampire aunt or sister. No wonder the boy treated Vampires so casually, to him they were part of his everyday life, nothing special and perhaps nothing to be feared either. How did other Gascon Vampires view him?

"I'll have him call you regularly. I'm sorry for any communication you'll have with the Cardinal."

"I hold d'Artagnan responsible for that, not you. And I'm glad he'll get to learn from you, he could have insulted a much less amenable Vampire."

Athos wondered how much Général Bonacieux knew about him. There were many stories about Athos, about what he'd done alone and about his misadventures with Aramis and Porthos. They were only three of the Vampire King of France's Musketeers, but they had become notable through their vicious exploits on his behalf. King Louis himself especially valued them, which was why they were still his Musketeers and why they'd chosen to come back to live in Paris. Sometimes the Human authorities, the French President included, tried to pin violent incidents on the trio and their comrades, or conversely they asked the Musketeers for help with certain Parisian problems. The more things changed…

Athos finished up his call to Général Bonacieux and took a moment to himself before stepping outside. Aramis and Porthos probably thought this was hilarious. Like Athos, neither of them were the kind of Vampire who had pets. Aramis loved beauty in Vampires and Humans, but his admiration was restricted to brief but thorough encounters. The only one he had any long-term interest in was Porthos, a conclusion he'd come to about a century after their first meeting. Porthos had been remarkably patient, he'd realised that Aramis was the one for him within a decade or two of first laying eyes on him.

And here was Athos, agreeing to take on a Human pet, as a political move, because the Cardinal would no doubt wish to possess d'Artagnan, likely believing that the boy could gain him Général Bonacieux's favour and confidence, always useful when trying to control a country. Or perhaps he'd think that d'Artagnan had found out about Milady's connection to him or that the boy could reveal Athos, Aramis, and Porthos' weak spots. The Cardinal was obsessed with ridding France of the King's Musketeers. What did King Louis need them for? The Cardinal's Red Guards were much more loyal and trustworthy; the Guards didn't have the Musketeers' 'unstable' reputation either.

Unstable. If the Cardinal claimed any of his Vampire Guards were stable, he was more of a liar than Athos gave him credit for.

Still, Athos had d'Artagnan now, a fact which made something heat under his skin, a very unusual sensation. And the thought of d'Artagnan's skin, Athos' teeth breaking it, made Athos' mouth water. His fangs dropped down and he took a moment to withdraw them. There was only so much mocking from Aramis and Porthos that he could take tonight.

He exited the car and addressed d'Artagnan, throwing him his phone. "You're Mine while in Paris. Général Bonacieux and I think you could do with more of an education. If you don't believe me, call her."

D'Artagnan was staring down at his phone in slight shock, thumbing through what Athos assumed was a text message. Général Bonacieux was likely ensuring that d'Artagnan obeyed instructions. D'Artagnan swallowed, his throat bobbing very temptingly.

Athos refocused. "You'll be part of my day staff. I expect that tomorrow night we'll be visited by Directeur Général Treville and one of the Cardinal's men, if not the Cardinal himself. You're a piece in his game now, I'm afraid."

Aramis clapped a hand to d'Artagnan's shoulder. "There's plenty of room at the Comte de la Fère's mansion."

Athos slanted his eyebrows at such a description as d'Artagnan paled a little. "You're the Comte de la…"

Porthos laughed. "I think you broke him."

"Pity. That should have been Athos' job."

Athos rolled his eyes and opened the car boot. Porthos grinned and quickly swept d'Artagnan up into his arms, dropping the very surprised human into the boot before he could even begin struggling.

"What-."

"Lesson one, any action taken against a Vampire has consequences."

D'Artagnan began protesting and tried to struggle out, which Porthos easily prevented, until Athos met d'Artagnan's gaze firmly and cut in. "I don't hurt Humans for fun, but I am not reluctant to use violence if you push me."

D'Artagnan nodded slowly, there was something yearning in his expression that squeezed Athos' insides. That was something best explored at a later date. D'Artagnan yelped when Athos went to close the car boot.

"You can't leave me in here!"

"You're not claustrophobic?"

"No."

"Then you'll survive."

Athos shut it without another word, ignoring the loud bangs caused by d'Artagnan knocking his fists against the underside of the boot. Athos got behind the wheel, Aramis and Porthos took up the backseat.

"Once again I feel like your chauffeur."

Aramis made a considering noise. "I'll buy you a hat for Christmas."

Porthos was chuckling at the noise d'Artagnan was making. "Think he'll keep that up the whole way?"

"Probably," Athos drove neatly away from the bar that they'd spent a large part of the evening in. "He's got spirit."

"Mmm, and a few other attributes that you're interested in."

"Funny how that made you come over all altruistic."

Athos shot a glance at his friends, who were both smirking, their limbs intertwined. They looked like a pair of Weres rather than Vampires. No wonder other Vampires continued to underestimate them, never quite comprehending them as highly-respected elders and Musketeers. He shook his head.

"I'm sure the two of you will be wonderful influences on him."

Aramis snorted but looked like a little more serious. "His Mistress was right, he could have come to a very sticky end if he'd been pointed in most other Vampires' direction."

"So we educate him?" Porthos sounded understandably doubtful. "Is he housetrained?"

"According to Général Bonacieux, that's not his primary problem."

Aramis hmmmed. "And he caught your attention. Should we check him for particularly ruthless homicidal urges?"

"That would make him appealing to most Vampires," Athos pointed out.

"And if he asks questions?" Porthos wanted to know.

Athos shrugged slightly, his eyes on the road. "Use your best judgement. He kept Général Bonacieux's secret before the Great Revelation."

His friends lapsed into contemplative silence until Aramis leaned forward to switch on the car radio, allowing new recordings of seventeenth century opera to waft over them all. There was a great deal to think about, and yet it felt remarkably like a good night. Athos mulled over such an idea as his home, which hadn't felt like home again until Aramis and Porthos had begun living there with him, drew closer.

TBC