Precious Love

by InLoveWEric

Revised and re-posted due to Errors: When Eric finally regains his lost memories, he realizes the depth of his feelings for Sookie. Only to find that he's too late. Can he fix what has happen? What lengths will he go to for his Precious Love? E/S AU Mature audiences, please

20. Chapter 20

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Chapter 20

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EPOV

As stealthy as Dalia is, I can hear her moving around the house. Godric, I would expect to be silent, but Dalia, well, maybe it's because I know her scent.

I take the moment I have to myself to reflect on what we were made privy to this evening. Don't get me wrong, I know that we haven't been made aware of everything but much is clearer than before. I suspect that Sookie knows more than I at this point. She's been waiting for longer than I have. Goddess, how could I have forgotten so much? This and other things I will need to discuss with my Sire. He has been keeping secrets. Oh hell, who am I to say anything. I've kept my fair share over the years. But how could he have done this? In the last timeline he went to the sun with this information hidden from me. Did he know that my Promise was with us on the roof of that hotel? Did he know when he saw her at the church? Did he know when he spoke to her before he met his end? If he did, why would he continue on with his plan. Knowing that I had no knowledge of who and what she was.

And what of Adele? She knew all of this and Sookie, my other Sookie knew none of it. I don't remember her having dreams or visions before. Could it be that she was unaware of it? Or was it just not the same in the other time? Regardless of what I don't know, I do know one thing. Sookie is indeed My Promised One. I knew this already. However, to not remember that I've known her since before my Turning is not sitting well with me.

Regardless of Godric or Adele, had I known this in the other timeline at some level? Is this why I was so adamant about having Sookie for my own? Had I known that she was to be mine and just not believed it because I had lost hope that I would ever find her? Could some part of me have known this and just refused to remember? I'm not sure if this is the case. Unlike many of my kind, I've retained most if not all of my human memories. If I hadn't remembered, it is probable that in another timeline, I had not been privy to know my Sookie. On the other hand, could the magick that kept her veiled to the outside world also veil her memory from me? I shake my head. Thinking on this will just send me in a circle with no answers. As much as I would like to solve this riddle, it will do no good in the here and now. I have my Sookie and that's all that truly should matter

Then another realization hits me. We are to have a legacy. We are to have children.

The vision that Adele shared with me showed me it to be so. Our children. Our children playing with Sookie out in the sun. I was in the sun. Was that just to show me her or was that a vision of what is to come? And what of this child who has swirling blue eyes? Could he be of our hearts and not our loins? Are we to raise others as our own? According to Fintan, her cycle is now and Sookie should be fertile. Well if her insatiable state is any indication, I would have to agree with him. Though her current state is one I will be enjoying, it doesn't change the fact that it is occurring so that we may have children. Sons, daughters the like of which the world has never seen. I smile. I know it as I know she breathes. We are to have several sons. How many, I am unsure. I feel like we will have a few. Perhaps Godric will have knowledge of this, as he seems to know a lot more than he has told me.

I cannot help smiling at this news. We are to have a family. My Beloved will bear me children. I can't wait to see her ripe with child. As her body forms and fills out to accommodate my son, I will cherish her and worship her. Women alone hold the power to create life, nurture it, and sustain it. I will treasure that time for what it is, a blessing from the Goddess herself.

I close my eyes and can see our children running and playing in this yard as Adele showed me. I see Sookie watching several playing at her feet while she has one at her breast. I see her smiling and laughing in the sunshine. I see the calmness and serenity on her face as she feeds our child. I watch the joy in her eyes as she laughs at our boys running in the grass. Sookie and I are to have everything she has ever wanted. If I want to be completely truthful, I have wanted it as well. Suddenly I am eager to begin our destiny.

I hear Dalia and can tell that she is on her way downstairs back toward the kitchen. I don't hear Godric nor do I feel my Sire. He must have left her and gone to the club.

I look up to see her walking in.

"Sheriff, I'm going to make my way around the grounds. Godric informed me that he will meet you at the club later. I will wait down here for you and Lady Susannah." She says with a smile.

I nod to her and she walks out the back door without looking back.

I can hear Sookie upstairs but have no idea what she could be doing. She just got dressed before our company arrived and I know she doesn't have any other clothes here. Other than checking her face, what could she possibly be doing?

I walk up the stairs and pause, listening at the second floor to see if she is down here. I know that she didn't explore much today, I would have smelled her around more than just in a handful of rooms. We will need to rectify that soon enough. Alcide's friend, Crystal Norris will be calling Sookie soon and she will need to decide what she wants in every part of the house. No, not house, our home. Sookie will need to decorate our home suitable not only for the Lady that she is but for a future Queen. It is apparent that Sookie is not only a Faerie Princess but also a most favored daughter to the Goddess. Which takes precedent, I am unsure, but I know that both puts her on a playing field that a title of Queen will just intensify.

The knowledge of who and what she is pales in comparison only to whom she is related too. I am certain that the old coot will just about blow a gasket when he realizes what has happened around him. I knew before, I couldn't trust him. Vivi warned me, both in this time and the last, and now I have proof that he will do anything and everything to gain control of my Sookie.

It is also apparent that Adele, not Niall is the oldest member of Sookie's family. Even if she is a woman, she is a Handmaiden to the Goddess. Her position outranks Niall's by a mile. Even without Fintan's presence, we don't need Niall's approval for anything.

I smile at this and make my way up the stairs to locate Sookie. I'm certain the Delegation from the Council will be at the club within the next several hours and our attendance will not only be expected, but also demanded.

I walk through the suite doors and see Sookie's dress lying on the floor. I pick it up, wondering if something has happened to it and then I feel the pull. I look up quickly and feel what Sookie is feeling wash over me. I place the dress back down, walk passed it and then find her panties and bra dropped on the floor as if they are a trail of breadcrumbs to a very wonderful treasure. Again, I feel her emotions wash over me like a wave. Walking into our bedroom, I am caught off guard by the intense smell of pure desire and the waves of lust, want, love, and need that hits me when she catches sight of me.

I look to see Sookie lounging on our bed. One heeled foot on the floor, the other on the bed, bent so her foot is resting on the comforter. Her left arm is draped over her head resting on the headboard while the other is running gentle lines up and down her thigh.

I stop in my tracks to take in the vision that is My Bonded. I allow my eyes to trail up and down her beautiful body. I watch as her beautiful golden skin warms under her own touch, how her pert nipples harden with anticipation. Her hand moves over her thigh as if it is touching silk. My eyes trace her curves until they come to rest on her beautiful face. Her eyes are black with desire, her cheeks slightly flushed, and her beautiful lips curled into a slight smirk.

"See something you like?" She smiles at me.

"Susannah, we need to talk…" I start to say when I'm hit with another wave of lust and want.

I begin to walk toward her out of my own need and desire. "Sookie, you need to know…" I say as her hand moves up to rest on her breast.

"Eric, I need you." She says to me.

"Min Kara, you must understand what is going on here." I say to her. "You are in…"

I have been walking toward her as I'm talking and just as I am about to say something else, she wraps her arms around me and kisses me.

"I know, Eric," she says, "I need you inside me, please." She begs me.

Faster than a blink, I have my clothes off and make my way to her. Pulling her down further on the bed, I kiss down her neck as I allow one hand to move to her breast as the other is checking her for her readiness.

"Min Kara, so wet, so warm," I growl into her lips.

"For you, Eric, only for you," she says. "Please, I need you." She begs again.

Before she can ask again, I enter her. The moan she lets out and the feel of her around me almost sends me into orbit.

I look into her eyes as we move together. As her need and desire for me rolls off her in wave after wave I answer it with my own desires and need. In over a thousand years, I've never felt anything so raw, so passionate, and so divine as how Sookie feels in this moment. I've had sex before. I have had unbridled orgies with Kings, Queens, even Gods and Goddesses. Never have I felt this passion, this love. We are not making love; we are dancing a dance that has taken over a thousand years to choreograph. Days, nights, light, dark all converge as they did last night. I feel the building of our passion as I increase my speed. Sookie answers my body by thrusting up to meet me. With each thrust, I hear her passionate screams of my name.

"Mo Rí chomh fada mé leat . Sookie moans.

"Min Älskade, skulle jag ha väntat i tusen mer för tillfället. I say between thrusts.

"Erik, min Krigare Kung. Allt jag är för dig !" Sookie screams as she falls over the edge.

The intensity that I feel from her walls literally milks me and takes me over with her.

I growl out as I start to release. "Min vackra drottning, jag lovar mig själv att du !"

In all my years, I've never known a coupling to be this intense and complete. I feel like it will never end and just as I think we are finished, one final thrust from me sends Sookie back over the edge with me following. I feel the whole room somehow change. I hear nothing but Sookie's cries for me and I believe I am calling her name. I feel the room breathe with us and know that if I open my eyes, I will see the blue tint of Sookie's dome around us. The air moves between us, in us, consuming us with all the love and compassion that took a thousand years to create. I know this is the moment I've waited for my entire existence. It doesn't even compare to our Bonding. This is more, I wish I had the words to explain it.

I am about to open my eyes when I hear a voice, " Tosaíonn saol nuair a dhá cheann. Gharda do chroí go maith."

I open my eyes to see Sookie staring at me. "Did…did you hear that?" She asks me.

I nod and kiss her softly. "I did, Min Kara ."

She smiles and then I feel a fear roll through her.

"Susannah, what is wrong?" I ask her.

"Eric…I…I'm so sorry." She says to me.

I lean up on my elbows and brush her hair from her face. She is frightened. "What could possibly have you so frightened my beautiful girl?" He asks me.

"I shouldn't have…Eric I know that I'm….we needed to talk and I…" She puts her hands on my arms to start to move.

"Sookie, stop," I say to her. "What has got you so upset?" I ask her.

She closes her eyes and sighs. "Eric, I know that I'm…well, what Gran and Vivi said. I shouldn't have done this to you without asking you how you feel about all of this. I mean…it's all so fast and you haven't had time to process what you are getting yourself into and I know this is Fate or Destiny or whatever, but we still have choices and…"

I have to stop her so I kiss her again, sending warmth, love and desire through the bond.

As I feel her emotions calming, I pull out of her and move to her side. I can hear her whimper at the loss of me and I have to admit, I feel the same.

Once I feel her calm, I release her lips, kissing her cheeks, her moist eyes, and then the tip of her nose.

She lets out a cleansing breath and moves into my side.

I look down at her. "Sookie," I say and wait for her eyes to open. Once she does, I can't help but smile at my beautiful Bonded. "You have nothing to be sorry about. I've waited just as long for you as you have for me. The difference is I knew I was waiting for you. You had the knowledge taken away from you." I say to her.

She reaches up and places a hand on my face. "No, Eric," she says. "Even without the knowledge of you, my heart waited for you. I felt the pull to you. I knew I was to wait for your hands on me; for your lips to touch me, for your warmth to consume me. I may not have remembered, but I felt it." She says.

I smile at that. "Yes, Min Kara , I know what you mean. NO other has ever had my heart." I say and kiss her again. "As for the rest, I know what we are to have and I know what we are to do." I say to her. "Susannah, I have never allowed myself to wish for a family or children. After a thousand years, I thought the Prophecy was false or at the very least, meant for someone else. I would never allow myself to hope." I say to her.

She looks into my eyes. "Eric, I'm not Human. You pursued a Human woman to be by your side. You wanted a Telepathic Southern Belle and you have me." She says.

I laugh at that. "You are still a Telepathic Southern Belle, you are just more." I kiss her again. "You are my Fae Princess; you are a gift from the Goddess herself. You find favor in Her heart, I believe. You have the skills and strength of both your Fae and Dae decedents. You have compassion and love beyond measure. Sookie, you are My Dream, My Destiny, and My Future. You are to be my Queen, my Life Mate, and the mother of my children. Fate and Destiny aside," I kiss her again. "Without the knowledge I have of who and what we are, I would have pursued you and made you mine."

I mean every word of what I am saying to her. Before, when I laid eyes on her for the first time, all I knew was that she was more beautiful than any woman I had ever seen. Once I knew she was Telepathic, I found her a gift. After that, I found her to be of Faerie descent and it was just the icing on the cake. I wanted her from the moment I saw her. All of this is just confirmation of what I already knew. My soul knew it's other half before I knew what it was looking for. She is indeed my one and only Precious Love.

I kiss her again, sending her all the love and desire I can. I want this. I have always wanted this. I wanted her in my bed, in my heart and consuming my soul. Others may see my love for her as my weakness but they have it wrong. My love for her is my strength. It will be our secret weapon in days, months even centuries to come. My greatness and accomplishments will be all because of her. I know this as I know the sun will rise tomorrow. She is everything to me and now that she has been returned to me, I will never let her go.

I take her again without question or request. This coupling is slower, more relaxed. Her lust and desire are still there but the beast that lives in both of us is quiet and allows us to be soft with one another.

Once we are done, I look to the clock and see that we are cutting our time short. We get up and hurry through a cleanup. There will be Creatures we will need to deal with this evening. Not to mention that I will need to deal with Pamela. This is not something that I'm looking forward to.

I'm not doing much to hide my apprehension because Sookie comes up behind me as I pull down two towels for us.

She kisses my back. "It's going to be fine," she says softly. "Just speak with her."

I turn in her arms and look at her. "How did you…."

She places her hands on my lips and smiles. "Eftersom jag vet att min Viking hjärta".

I lean down and kiss her softly. But before she can deepen it, I pull away. I feel the rejection in the bond.

"Sookie, we must get to the club," I say softly as I touch the side of her face. The jolt in desire is almost palpable. "There will be time for that later, Min Kara."

She gets a wicked smile on her face. "There better be, Viking," she says with a smile.

We continue to dry off and redress from our little escapade.

"Eric," she calls to me as she fixes her hair in the mirror.

I turn to look at her. "What would you have done if I claimed to be Bill's?" She asks me.

I look at her for a moment. Is she remembering? Does she know that this time is different from a time before?

"Why do you ask?" I walk over to reclaim my shirt from where I threw it.

"I just want to know," she says.

I walk over to her and pull her close. I want to tell her everything but I know that there is no value in any of that. All I can do is try not to allow history to repeat itself.

I kiss her once on her nose and look into her eyes. "I would have done everything in my power to bring you to me. As Sheriff, I would have requested your gifts in business ventures. I would have kept you close enough to protect you from anything that tried to harm you." I smirk at her. "I would have propositioned you at every turn." She giggles and pulls me closer. "I would have done anything and everything to show you my intentions and I would have waited for Compton to make a mistake and I would have swooped in and claimed you." I say to her.

She looks in my eyes. "You wouldn't have walked away?" She asks.

I shake my head. "Sookie, I may not have known what you were and what we were to be, but I felt the pull to you the moment I saw you walk into my club. I would have pursued you to the end of time to have you in my arms." I say to her.

She smiles and pulls me close, resting her head on my shoulder and breathing deep.

"You smell of musk and sandalwood. Now I know why I love those scents," she looks up at me. "It is how I remembered you." I see the tears fill her eyes.

"Little one, do not cry," I say as I touch her face. "We are together now, that is all that matters."

She nods and takes another breath.

"Eric, I want to talk to you about this Blood Oath that Alcide and Stefan want to make." She says. "Also how does the oath that Vivi, Dalia and Amelia made to me play into our Bond."

I look at her confused. "What do you mean?" I ask her.

"Well," she begins, "if they made an oath to me, since I'm bonded to you, is that the same as my line being connected to yours?"

I smile down to her. "In a way, yes," I say to her. "Once we Pledge, all that is mine is yours and all that is yours is mine. Since Pledges don't usually happen between Vampires and other Creatures, I would think that a life oath given to you would be the same as a blood oath," I say and then think about it. "I would need to confer with Godric or even Fintan but I would say, yes, once we Pledge, you and your handmaidens will be part of my Genealogica."

"But Eric, as your Bonded, aren't I part of your line now?" She asks.

I pull her closer. "You are, but the Pledge will bind you to me forever. In front of all that are part of both our lines and the Council." I say. "Then it will be witnessed and any that belong to you will then belong to me."

She looks up to me. "Are all Pledgings witnessed by the Council?" She asks.

I touch her face. "Depending on the importance, one or all would be in attendance, yes." I say to her. "But you heard Adele and Fintan. Her Grace herself will be acknowledging our Bond and Pledge."

She looks down for a moment, sighs, nods and looks back at me.

"Too much, Min Kara?" I ask her.

She shakes her head. "No, I'm okay," she says softly. "I'm just worried about what Niall is going to do when he finds out." She shivers a little.

I pull her closer still. "He will never hurt you, Min Kara." I growl.

"I know, Eric," she says as she wraps her arms around me tighter. "I know. He wanted me to save his own skin. It's his enemies that I'm worried about. Momma and Gran were always so much more upset when they thought others were coming for me other than Niall." She says.

I pull back a little. "Do you know who the others were?" I ask her.

She nods. "I think so," she says with a faraway look on her face, "but that is a long story to tell and Pappa would be a better one to tell it," she says. "I've got another question, though."

I nod and she smiles. "Alcide and Stefan, they will be making a blood oath to you?" She asks.

I nod. "Yes, they wish to bind themselves to us, to you," I kiss her softly. "I would expect nothing less than a Blood Oath from the creature who has been appointed your personal guard."

She looks confused. "But Dalia didn't offer a Blood Oath." She says.

I shake my head. "No, but she made the Oath to you. She made you a Life Oath. She's sworn her life to you. It is a way of the Fae and Daughters of Avalon. All three women have pledged their eternal lives to you. You are not Vampire. If they were to pledge to me, they would offer the Blood Oath." I say.

She nods. "Okay, that make sense," she pauses. "So, are Godric and Tomas going to witness the Blood Oath?"

I nod. "You may too, if you wish," I say to her. "As my Bonded, you are mine and I am yours. You can witness this."

She looks at me for a moment. "I'll think about it," she says. "It's one thing for me to take your blood, it is quite another watching others." She says.

I look at her for a moment. "Sookie, I told you the last person before you to have my blood was Pamela." I say. "Do you think I lied?"

She shakes her head. "No, I just don't know what it entails."

"Then be present during it and you will see. They are pledging to me," I say. "You may be surprised at the way it is done."

She nods and I lean down to kiss her once more.

"Now, come," I say to her. "Dalia is probably waiting on us and we have much to do this evening."

She laughs. "Please tell me this suite is soundproof." She says.

I laugh with her. "Yes, Min Kara, it is. However, I must tell you, that we are Supes. The passion we have for one another is like no other. There may be times when others hear us."

She laughs and turns as red as she did when her Gran asked if she had lain with me. It is quite adorable.

"I guess I'll have to get used to that, huh? But I'm going to tell you now; I draw the line at giving them a show. They can listen and imagine all they want. Peepshows are not on the table, Viking."

I look back at her. Yet again, this is another thing that I will have to get used to with this Sookie. She is far from the modest girl she once was. Perhaps it is again part of the more that she now is. On the other hand, maybe it's because of me. Either way, I'm okay with it.

We walk down and I see Dalia sitting at the small kitchen table waiting on us.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Dalia," Sookie says to her.

She smiles. "Under the circumstances, I am surprised to see you down so quickly." She laughs.

I look over and see Sookie's blush rising in her cheeks just a little. She looks up at me and I feel her lust and desire building again. Fintan wasn't kidding about her being in her cycle. I smile to myself thinking that I may not be able to keep up with her but I will do my best to try. I will need to talk to Sookie about this later. Now, we need to get to the club.

"Yes, well," I say. "Business will not wait." I say as I escort both women out the door and to the waiting SUV.

The drive to Fangtasia is a short one from our new home but long enough for Sookie and her guardian to get more acquainted.

"You will be staying with us?" Sookie asks her.

I look up and see her nodding in the rearview mirror. "As soon as you have the room, I will be moving in to guard you, Lady Susannah." She says.

Sookie smiles at her. "When we are alone, you can just call me Sookie." She says. "I know we need to do the whole protocol thing in public, but I would like to keep our home as calm and relaxed as possible." She says.

Dalia nods and smiles. "As you wish," she says.

"Where will you sleep until the house is done?" Sookie says.

Dalia looks at me and I nod for her to continue.

"Sookie, I'm a Guardian. For thousands of years we have walked this earth. We are beyond things such as rest and nourishment. Although, I partake in both, they are not needed. I will be fine. I will be here when your Sheriff goes to ground daily. I will be by your side, always." She says.

I don't think Sookie took Dalia's pledge to heart and now I have confirmation. Sookie will be remembering things as time goes on. I'm sure that the reason she's so calm is that everything didn't coming rushing back to her. She will remember what Guardians are as well as other creatures. I feel that with Fintan as her grandfather and Adele as her grandmother, she was told much in her youth. It will just take time for it all to come back to her.

The silence in the car for the rest of the trip is not uncomfortable but rather soothing. I can feel almost a hum between Sookie and me. I feel her emotions and love but it's something under the surface. I smile to myself. If every creature was able to feel this, Bonding would be common, not the exception.

I pull around to the employees parking and move quickly to help Sookie and Dalia out.

Dalia takes point behind us as I move to the back entrance.

We walk through and Pam is waiting for us in the hallway followed closely by Tomas. I've known her level of agitation since she rose. However, I knew that my brother would be with her and keep her together until my arrival.

"Pamela," I say to her.

"I was about to call you, but Tomas insisted that I should wait." she says. "There are some things we need to talk about, Eric." She says with a growl.

I would usually comment on this but I know she is upset. Considering what Godric revealed to her before her rest, I will allow her to have her anger, for now. .

She looks from me to Sookie and then to Dalia.

"What, a Guardian?" She looks at me. "What the hell is going on here?" She yells.

"Hello, Pam," Sookie says. "It's nice to see you."

Pam looks at her and then back to me. "Does your Pet know this is a Vampire bar? That dress is not only unacceptable but makes her a beacon to every Vampire in the place?" She growls.

I can feel the jealousy in Pam. She hates wearing the attire I require for the bar. She would much prefer a nice Chanel suit or silk slacks and sweater set. Instead, she is standing in front of me in a black leather strapless gown with her hair pulled back and elbow length red gloves. It is appropriate for the fantasy we are trying to create, but still not to Pam's liking.

"Mind your tone, Pamela." I say to her as a warning.

She looks Sookie up and down again. "She looks like she's going to a God damn tea social." She huffs.

"I'll take that as a compliment." Sookie laughs slightly.

I look at her and smile. "I think you look beautiful." I say to her.

I feel the warmth and love shoot through us once more.

"Eric!" She yells at me. I know that all the Vampires in the bar have now heard her. "We don't have time for you to play with your food…"

I grab her arm, affectively stopping her from finishing the rest of that statement.

I pull her closer to me and look at her as I address Tomas. "Take Susannah and Dalia and enjoy yourself in the club," I pause. "There is much I need to discuss with Pamela." I say.

"Eric…we have…" she looks from me to Tomas and then to Sookie. "A guest downstairs and I think…"

I squeeze her arm again. "You will not think, you will do," I say softly to her.

I close my eyes to reach out to my Vampires. I feel Maxwell, Clancy are down with our guest now. Out in the bar, I feel Irina and Long Shadow. I smile when I feel that Thalia and Felicia have returned. Opening my eyes, I look toward Tomas.

"Have Felicia go down and find out what she can," I say. "Nothing is to be said about what we already know."

Tomas nods to me. "I will fill her in and make sure she knows her parameters."

I nod. "My childe and I will return soon." I go to pull her away but she is resisting some.

I pull her close. "Do NOT make me throw you over my shoulder," I growl.

"Eric," I hear from beside me.

I turn to Sookie. "Remember," she says softly, "she is who you chose."

I look into my Bonded's eyes. I give her a smile and send her love through the bond. I know Pam feels it as well because her eyes become as wide as saucers.

I walk out the back door, Pam in tow. Picking her up, I head to the sky. This isn't the first time I've flown with her so, like a good childe, she says nothing.

I soon land on the banks of my properties on the backside of the lake. I do not wish anyone to be near to hear our conversation.

"So are you going to tell me what is going on?" She folds her arms over her chest.

"Pam, I understand you are upset but you WILL mind your tone with me."

"Understand, UNDERSTAND," she throws her arms up in the air. "I….I don't know WHAT to understand." She says and begins to pace.

"Will you stop so we can discuss this," I say to her.

"Oh, NOW you wish to discuss things with me? What do you want to discuss with me Eric?" She paces in front of me again. "The fact that both Godric and Tomas are here and I have no clue why. How about this little WITCH you are attached to? Or that the Fellowship had information about us under your nose. Or that Compton was put into your area by the Queen and you have no idea why. Or that Godric is lying…"

Tired of her rant, I grab her and push her down to sit on the ground. She lands with a thump and looks up at me.

"What did you do that for?" She asks me.

"If you are going to act like a childe having a temper tantrum, then I will treat you as one."

I see the red tears welling in her eyes. "Wh…why are you doing this to me?" She asks. "What have…have I done?" She asks as the tears begin to fall.

She bends her head and I feel the sorrow flowing from her as her tears follow.

"Lilla," I say and squat down next to her. "Why do you think this is about you?"

She looks up and I see the trails of tears down her eyes. "You…you have been so angry with me. Ever since the other night, you have been angry and…"

I sigh and put my hand on her head. Have I been angry with her? I was angry with the other Pam. But I didn't… I stop my own train of thought. I was angry with her and I didn't even realize it.

I sigh again. "I'm not angry with you," I say to her in a soothing voice. "I'm not happy with how you've been acting, Lilla, but I'm not angry." I say to her.

"What Godric said…" She trails off. "Am, am I the only one?"

I look into her eyes. I know it's time for truth.

"LIlla , search your feelings and you will know the answer to that." I say to her.

She shakes her head. "NO. She says and jumps up. "No more riddles. No more cryptic answers, I can't take it anymore. Please, Eric, just…just tell me." She says.

I stand and go to move toward her. She puts her hand up. "Eric, please. I've never known you to lie to me. Just tell me."

I stop and sigh. "You are not my first, Lilla. But you are the last Vampire I made." I say to her.

She gasps and slowly falls to the ground. I move to her and pull her toward me.

She cries for what feels like hours. When she finishes, she looks up at me.

"Why…why didn't you ever tell me? All this time, all the things we've shared. You couldn't share this with me? Why would you lie to me like this?"

"I didn't lie to you Lilla ", I say to her.

She moves away from me. "No you just kept the fact that I have siblings away from me. Omission is just the same as a lie, Eric." She says.

"Pamela, I didn't lie to you. I know you are upset about finding out that you aren't my only childe. I can't believe that you never thought about this before." I say to her. "You know that most powerful Vampires have schools of children. What makes you think that I wouldn't have others?"

She jumps up and walks closer to the water. "Because you never told me. You made me believe that I was special. That I was who you chose. Now I find out that I've been living a lie."

I move toward her. "You were chosen, Lilla. I chose you. I made you. I saw you in that hall, being offered up that vial creature like lamb to the wolves. I'm the one that saw the fear on your face. The innocence in your eyes, the tremble of your unkissed lips as your father explained you to that man as if you were a rug or carriage. Telling him all about your fine features. I saw the child in the body of a woman before those two men, trembling in fear. The child who only wanted to be cherished and treasured for the precious little girl that she was. I saw all that. I saw you shiver when you're father offered that MAN your hand. I saw the unshed tears when you were sent to your rooms to pack. I saw the relief in your eyes when I explained to you that you could be released from your fate and what it would cost you. I saw the love, need and pleas in your eyes when I told you that I would take care of you. You wanted to be my only. You wanted me to have none other above you. I gave you what you needed." I say to her and move to the water's edge looking at how the moonlight dances across it.

I wait a moment before I continue. "A thousand times I wanted to tell you. So many times I needed you to know. Then I would look at you and see the lost child and couldn't do it. I didn't want to harm you. I didn't want to put more hurt where it had taken me so long to erase it. I wanted to keep you safe, Pamela." I say to her.

There are a few more moments of silent before I hear her moving. "You…you were the one that rescued me from my fate. You have been more of a father to me than my own. You've kept me safe, loved and protected. I will always be grateful to you for that. But Eric, how could you have kept something so big, so important away from me? Do the others know of each other?" She asks.

I nod.

"And yet, you couldn't trust me with this knowledge? I feel like such a fool." She says softly.

I spin around. "You are not a fool, Pamela. You have been a spoiled childe for a long time. That is my fault. I should have taught you differently. I just wanted the little girl to be happy." I say to her.

She closes her eyes and I can feel her pushing on the Sire bond. I know she is searching for others with my blood. It takes several minutes before she opens her eyes and looks at me.

"They….how…how could I not know?" She asks.

I smile at her. "You didn't wish to, Lilla." I say to her.

"There is more I need to know. What is going on? I already know you have Bonded to this…Human," she rolls her eyes. "So why have you defied our Queen, had me place Compton under arrest and not tell said Queen." She shifts her weight and continues. "Andre has already called and I have gotten word that a group will be at the club tomorrow by midnight to question our guest." She says.

"You will address my Bonded in the manner I would expect from my Childe. She is now your Mistress and you will address her as such. As for what is going on, if you weren't being such a spoiled brat you would know by now. As for what is going on with Sookie, all you need to know now is that she is my chosen life partner. I've Bonded to her and soon I will Pledge to her." I growl out.

"Eric, what the hell are you doing? You are risking your life for a Bloodbag." I give her a look. "Fine, a Human girl that doesn't have the sense to stay away from Vampires smelling as she does. I could smell her from the parking lot. Are you insane? Now I assume that you are planning on taking out our QUEEN? For what? I know she's crazy, but that has been a fact for some time. We are fine and happy in our little bit of the world. This is just suicide. Are you telling me that you are ready to leave me, to leave this earth, because, I'm not ready for you to leave." She moves closer to me. I feel the desperation in her. She's afraid this is because I want to meet the sun. "If you need to leave, leave but this will bring us all down with you."

I look at her. "Is that how you really feel, Pam?" I ask her.

"Eric, I would follow you into battle every day of the week and twice on Sunday. You know this to be true, but I don't understand why you are doing this. So that Sophie won't be tempted to take what you have claimed. I know what she can do would be beneficial to any Monarch's retinue but she's a Human. Granted she has a few tricks and she has pretty packaging, but seriously, you think that this, Human is what was promised to you?" She sits down. "Come now, Eric, you are a warrior, surpassed by none. You have lived over a thousand years and there is no one in power that doesn't owe you a debt. You have fought in Human as well as Supe wars. You have bedded the likes of Dignitaries, Royals, and members of Higher Beings. You can't possibly think that your little Human from the backwoods of some unheard of town in Louisiana is what was Promised to you so long ago. What could possibly make you think that this Sookie is the one?" She asks. "She is a childe. She hadn't even lived until you took her the other night. Please Eric, I need more to understand."

I look at her. "You are my childe and I shouldn't have to give you a reason. My saying so should be word enough. However, considering the magnitude of what Sookie and I know and what the result of my decision to Bond with her will be, I feel that you should know more to be fully informed and prepared. What I'm about to tell you is for your ears only." I say to her.

I tell her about the vision I had so long ago. How Vivianne came to me and initially told me of my destiny and how I would one day meet my Promised One. This story is one she has heard me speak of before and is not surprised. Though I'm sure she hasn't believed it, she listens intently. Then I tell her of our meeting this evening and what was told to both Sookie and I. The visions Sookie has had and the memories she has helped me remember. Pamela's eyes widen as I go on and when I'm done, she sits silently for a moment.

"You are telling me that little girl is…" She points to the in the direction of Fangtasia.

I nod.

"How could I not tell?" She asks looking at the door. "Every Vampire in that building should be clawing around trying to get at her. Yet all she smells is pleasant." She looks at me. "How can this be?"

I smile. "You have not been around many Fae in your short life, my Childe. Many of them have mastered the skill of masking their own scents. Her shields and masks have limited our knowledge of whom and what she is. I think that she does it without thinking; unusual most certainly but not surprising considering her heritage. I think you will see her differently now that you are aware of whom she is." I say to her.

"She isn't Human?" She asks.

I shake my head. "No more than Dalia or Vivi." I say. "Sookie is what has been Promised to me and you will do well to honor that. I will not submit her to your words or actions from this point foward, Pamela. If you aren't going to obey me on this, you will be sent away until you can behave." I say with a growl.

I know Sookie can feel me because she sends me back comfort. I appreciate it and send her love in return.

"You…you would send me away?" Pam asks. I can see the blood tears pooling in her eyes.

"Pamela, your jealousy and spoiled behavior could harm us. I will not allow that to happen. Too much is at stake for me to worry about how your feelings are going to get hurt. You are my Childe. I chose you. I may have spoiled you but I have taught you how to be the warrior and the Vampire you are today. However, seeing your reaction to my Bonded, I fear that you may be more of a hindrance than help in the upcoming months. You will behave or I will have to find a place for you." I say to her.

She looks down into her lap. I feel the fear and pain in her. She doesn't want to leave. She is spoiled and outspoken, but she is still just a child in Vampire ways.

"I…I don't know what to say, Master." She says. "I don't wish to leave you. Now more than ever, I feel you will need me close. I promise not to get in the way of you and your Promised One. I will even attempt to be kind and get to know her if that would please you. I fear that my words and thoughts are ill founded when they come to her. Her masks make her seem small and insignificant to me. I should have known that you would not risk yourself and those faithful to you without proper reason, my apologies for my outburst."

"Pamela, our entire genealogică will be needed to make this happen. Many things will be coming together. Those I've made, those who have Blood Oathed to me and sworn fealty will be in danger. I can not risk you causing us harm." I say to her.

She nods. "Eric, I swear to you as my Sire and Sange Cap that I will not cause any more problems. I may be spoiled and unruly but I was concerned on how you were acting with your Bonded. I will do my best to learn how to be a better childe and make you proud that you turned me." She says to me.

I walk over to her and kiss her forehead. "There are other things that will need to be discussed. But I feel that is enough for now. Come, we need to get back to the club."

I lift her once more and fly back to Fangtasia. Once inside, we make our way to my office.

I go to sit behind my desk as Pam sits in on the couch. "Now what do you have for me?" I ask her.

She sits back on the couch letting out a breath that she doesn't need to calm herself. It is one of her Human traits that she has kept. I find it somewhat endearing.

"Andre called about an hour after sunset. Delegates from the Council were on their doorstep not a moment after sunset. Sophie-Anne's been ordered in front of the Council in one week's time. All she knows is that one of her subjects has been found in possession of damning information about the Council and others of high importance. She is wanted just for questioning at this time." She pauses. "Andre is furious and wants to know if you contacted the Council about our little problem. The Delegates are investigating everything at the Compound. Sophie has been sequestered to her suite until such time as she is brought to Kentucky to meet the Council." She says. "She is allowed contact with her Attorney but he too is being sequestered as to not cause damage or further harm to any in the State. Andre was allowed to call the Sheriffs to inform them that in the interim you are to be the contact."

I look up from the file that Bobby had left on my desk regarding several of my properties and business plans. I look up at Pam. "Why didn't he call me personally?" I ask her.

She shrugs. "Council Delegates made the call for him. For whatever reason, members of the Council informed them to contact you here and leave a message if you were not available." She says. "I had just arrived when the call came in. After I spoke with Andre, the Delegate informed me that someone would be contacting you later this evening regarding some details. Andre questioned this from the background but was informed to attend to his own affairs as he was being sequestered as well."

They are sequestering her just for questioning. This is highly unusual and I know that Council is using this as the last nail as I suspected. If this does not work in my favor, the mere fact that I contacted Council would be considered treason. I would either have to fight Sophie or leave the state. Knowing that I would never run from a fight, Council has made it that either way; Sophie will lose her territory and possibly her existence. They are very clever.

I nod. "I will wait until they call." I say to her. "What else?" I ask.

She nods. "Rasul called to talk to you. He gave me a secure line for you to call him back." She points to the number on my desk. "He says he has information for you regarding all of this." She says.

"What else have you?" I ask.

"I heard from the guards that all Compton has said is that he is willing to talk," she says.

I am not surprised. Compton is a rat and is willing to jump ship if needed.

"Very good," I say to her.

I look at my emails. Several of them are from Council and I'm alerted of when they will be here tomorrow. I will need to make sure everyone is aware of this. In addition, without any other information, Council is requesting Sookie and me in Kentucky to discuss this with them. There is another email from Stan asking if I could make a trip to Dallas before hand to discuss something. I'm sure I will talk to him soon on this.

I see my update from Bobby and look in the corner of the room to see that he has indeed collected many of Sookie's things from the house. He has also listed several things he thought would assist Sookie in her transition and I look through them. He also makes mention that he has looked up Sookie's information in public records and can't find anything on her. I'm not surprised that her birth is not on record in Louisiana since I know that would probably be impossible. However, legal records, her social security, tax records, driver's license, and the like should be easy to find. Making several notes, I send a reply back to him asking him to recheck and that I will confirm with Sookie herself.

I also see a decree from Council that Sophie's pledge to Peter has been approved and legal as of midnight tonight. The formality of the ceremony is just that, and is scheduled for the time that Sophie had declared to me the other evening. This is most confusing.

I sit back and think on this. Why would the Council approve a union between Peter and Sophie if she is about to be dethroned? Nothing that the Council has done has been without calculation. What end could this possibly serve? Yet something else I will need to discuss with Stan. If I'm the one who will be doing the heavy lifting in this situation, I want to be better informed.

I look at Pam. "Make sure that our patrons are gone before our guests arrive tomorrow," I say to her. "We will publicize a drink special for later this week to make up the profits." I say to her.

"Anything else you need?" She asks. "Do you need me to…?"

I look up at her. "I'm Bonded now, Pamela." I say to her.

She looks at me and nods. "I understand, forgive me." She says and leaves.

I feel that this transition is going to be harder for Pam than I first anticipated. In the other timeline, she found Sookie amusing and fun. In fact, she said it to me on numerous occasions and had even been pushing me to her before and after my curse. This Pam seems different. I am just hoping that time will soften her to my girl.

I hear a knock at the door. When I look up, I see Godric and Tomas walk in.

I nod to both of them.

"You spoke to Pamela?" Godric asks.

I just look at him. "It was my place to do so with everything, my maker," I say to him.

He smirks. "You treat her as a childe, Eric. She needed to know." He says. "She was going to cause more damage than you could imagine if you didn't give her the information she needed."

I nod. "Yet, it should have been in my time, Godric." I say.

He shakes his head. "You were out of time."

I sigh. I know he's right. Sookie even said it was beyond time to tell her. It was just not how I wanted to do it. If I'm honest, I've no idea how I wanted to tell her. Regardless, it is done, for the most part.

I look at both men. "What have you found out about the database?" I ask them.

"We have transcribed the database," Tomas pauses. "Every Monarch, and Eric, I mean all of the Monarchs including those on the other continents sans deCastro and Sophie are in it. All the Council and their Delegates, Representatives, and Liquidators, as well as some others had entries. That information is easier to achieve and granted most of the information is incomplete, but they are in there. Most of the Sheriffs' information is included as well. It looks like he was trying to find information on the bloodlines and Sange Caps as well. There are a few that have been listed but with little to no information about the lines. Some of the newer vampires are listed with their Sires but the older lines and limited in its information. Looks like he had started on the Handmaidens and he was attempting to find information on Vivianne and someone named Adele." He waits. I hadn't given him Adele's name so it didn't ring a bell to him but I can tell that Godric sees the seriousness of this information.

He continues. "Niall was in there from the Council but only the first names of several of his children were in there. Compton hadn't found any other information on the Fae other than three of them living in Shreveport." She says.

I nod. I know of Claude and his sisters.

"Make sure that we have the information for the Council. However, make sure that the listing that we are to give to them doesn't include the information about Adele. It's quite possible that they will not wish to see anything and just order us to eliminate the disks. But I believe that they will want the information when they question everyone." I say.

"As you wish, Sange Cap," Godric nods.

I return the gesture. "Good. Now we need to go down and see to our guest."

Hitting the button on the desk, I walk down with Tomas and Godric in tow. I move past the door and tell both of them that I will be right back.

Moving into the playroom, I walk past the double king size bed and make my way into my bathroom. This one is like many others I have had built in several of my houses. The playroom has had its use over the years. Pam and I have had much fun in there, but I've also used it when I didn't need or want to travel to one of my houses. So the shower and bath have been a necessity. Contrary to what many Humans think, Vampires enjoy the comfort and tranquility of bathing. If we want to be frank, Vampires enjoy any form of pampering and luxury. Many of us have lived countless centuries. Luxury and opulence make it entertaining.

Moving to a painting on the wall, I move it aside to show my private safe. Opening it, I look at its contents and smile. I have had several of the things nestled in there for many moons. Now I have the distinct pleasure of taking several of these things out for good.

Picking up one of the boxes, I put it in the inside pocket of my jacket and move back through to the waiting Vampires.

I nod to the guards waiting for me and they move aside to open the door.

I walk in to see Tomas, Godric and Felicia in the room. I look to the right and the left of the door to see two other Vampires that have been here since an hour after dark. They nod to me and then I turn to face the Vampire of the hour.

Bill Compton looks up from his chained position on my wall. I can tell that the silver cuffs clasped to his wrists and ankles, though covered in leather, has been doing some damage. I can see that Felicia has been exerting her influence on him as well. He looks worn out and half drained. It is Felicia special gift to inflict pain with her mind. I can tell that Compton hasn't been too cooperative. Since we haven't given him any blood, I doubt he will be healing tonight.

"I trust your accommodations have been suitable?" I ask him as I move to stand closer to him.

"You have no right to keep me here." He yells at me. "What right do you have to chain me with no recourse or provocation? I told your childe that I would tell you anything you wanted to know. There is no need for such tactics." He spits at me.

"Oh, but this way is so much more fun," I laugh and then turn a bit more serious. "As for no provocation, I am your Sheriff, Compton. I need no provocation to bring you in for questioning regarding issues in my area." I say to him.

I look to Felicia. "I am happy to have you back with us," I say to her.

She nods her head in my direction. "I've not enjoyed being abroad, Sange Cap. I must admit that I enjoy life in your territory much more." She says.

"Felicia mou Kápoios tha skeftótan eseís kai to paidí sas tha protimoúse na eínai mazí mou apó ta gí̱peda sto spíti sas ." I say to her.

She chuckles and then turns serious. "te Kýriós mas , Sange Cap , kanéna állo méros tha to kánei."

I smile and touch her face. "o̱ pollá na sas po̱ . Allá gia tó̱ra, ékthesi̱ ."

She nods. "Our guest has been most forthcoming. He has no knowledge of why he is here and what you would want with him. Other than some Human named Sookie?" She raises her eyebrow. "He demands to see her and for you to release him." She shrugs. "He hasn't liked being detained and has a low tolerance to pain. He has offered up anything from information regarding Queen Sophie to King Peter and everything in between. He was going on about something about a database and how it could make you rich. However, he is insistent upon telling you."

I nod. "Very well," I say and look at Compton. "You have information for me?" I ask.

"Ask your questions." He spits at me.

I shake my head. "No, the questions will not be coming from me, Billy," I say. "No the questions are being asked by Council."

He looks up at me and fear clouds his eyes. That's right Bill start thinking. What could Council want with you?

"Wh…why am I being questioned by Council?" He asks.

I smirk at him. "You will learn soon enough." I say. "But if there is anything you would like to tell me before they arrive, this is your chance." I say to him.

He shakes his head. "I….I will wait and address these action with Council. You have no cause to keep me here. First I'm trapped in my house. Now I'm detained without cause," he laughs. "The Queen will have your head for this, Sheriff." He growls the last part.

I laugh. "Well we'll see about that, now won't we." I turn to the guards. "No one comes in or out. Guards will be here an hour before dawn." I say to them.

They bow to me and I walk out with the rest in tow.

Once we are up in the office, I turn to Felicia.

She kneels to me and I look at both Tomas and Godric.

"Felicia," I say.

"I've already see Irina. I've heard what's happened with the Fellowship, Sange Cap. I swear to follow you and your newly Bonded into any battle you see fit. My Oath is one I've taken without reservation. It belongs to you and yours now."

I look at her for a moment. Looking up I see smiles on my makers and brother's face. Turning back to Felicia I see a slight smile on hers as well.

"I thank you, Felicia. You are one of my most valued assets. My Bonded and I are grateful to your service. Please go and enjoy the club this evening. We will talk more tomorrow."

She rises and smiles. "I can't wait to meet her." She says and turns to leave but stops just inside the door and turns to look at me. "It's about time, Eric. We all knew this day would come."

I nod and she exits.

"You need anything?" Tomas asks.

I shake my head. "No, go enjoy the club. Make sure that my Bonded is secure and see that Pam is all right for me. She may still have some trouble with all I've told her."

They nod and head out to the club.

I have a few more things to do before I catch up with Sookie. I can feel through the Bond that she is having some fun. I smile thinking of her. I feel a wave of lust build in her. This concerns me and I send her some of it. As quickly as it came, I feel it subside and she sends me tenderness and love.

This is something she and I will need to discuss. I am aware of her heritage now and what that knowledge entails. However, I will not permit her to take on other lovers besides me. This may be upsetting to her and I know she will find it backwards and conservative. I'm a Vampire for Goddess sake. However, I am a Bonded and hopefully Pledged Vampire soon. I need to make Sookie aware of what that means. Before, I didn't even think that my sweet young Sookie would think of taking any others. Now that I remember who she is, I know the situations she has been exposed to either physically or through the memories of others. She will just have to be satisfied with me. Other women I could handle if I had to, but only with my permission. No man will ever have her while I still walk this earth.

I sit back and close my eyes for a moment, feeling the love and tenderness flowing through the bond. I can't help but see the little girl before me who knew of her feelings for me and mine for her before I had time to process them.

I had just walked out of the woods, fixing my tunic and laughing with my brother when I saw her in the grove.

Her hair glistened in the afternoon sun and her smile was as bright as a sunrise. Her little body bouncing from here to there as she looked up and saw me.

"Little one, what are you doing out here?" I ask the little girl who couldn't have been more than five years old.

"Waiting por you." She says to me.

"Me, do I know you, little one?" I ask her.

She smiles. "Your heart does," she says.

I go to pick her up. Once she is in my arms I feel as if I'm instantly home. I feel her warmth, her light, her love.

"Who are you?" I ask her.

"Your Pwomise, my biking." She says and places her small hands around my neck and pulls herself close to me.

My brother looks at me and me at him. The look on his face is one of wonder but I don't even think to question her words. Her very soul is singing to me and I never want to be without that feeling.

I close my eyes and send love and warmth to my beauty.

I know that it's time to meet up with her.

I walk out and just as I see her, she turns and sends me love and tenderness. I love this Bond. I truly do.

***0***

SPOV

I know that Eric and Pam need to talk. I have been able to glean much from Pam in the few short times I've met her. She is a great Childe and partner to Eric, I'm sure, however she is very spoiled, and I can tell just by her reactions that she is not use to sharing. She is going to need some time to adjust and I know that having me there when he is reprimanding her will not make it any better. Not to mention that it's time he told her the truth. I pray to the Goddess that he does it while they are speaking this evening. I fear that keeping her in the dark now will only cause us more than we are willing to lose. Eric should have told her years ago. Hell, he should have told her when he changed her. But he had his reasons and I will respect them. Regardless of those reasons, however, they are moot now. We need every one of Eric's line on board and 100% with us or we will be headed for disaster. This is a very dangerous time for us. Much rides on the strength of those around my Viking. We can't afford weak links.

"She'll come around in time, Sookie." Dalia says to me as we walk down the hall.

I shrug. "I hope so. She is not going to be happy if she doesn't. I might not remember everything yet, but I've lived a very long time. She may think I'm a little girl from Bon Temps, but she is going to be sorry if she tries to underestimate me and get between Eric and me." I say to her.

She nods. There really isn't anything more to be said on the subject.

We walk out and I am bombarded with thoughts from everyone in the room.

I saw her here the other night. What was she doing in the back?

She was with the Master the other night. Does she honestly think he's going to take her looking like that?

NO! It's my turn. I've got to get close to him when he gets out here. I've waited so long for some time with the Master. I heard he likes cleavage. That's why I got these stupid implants. He's mine tonight!

I have to laugh at that one.

She will not stop me. He was looking at me the other night. I know he enjoyed our last time together and I want him again. I'll take him and that Blonde girl vamp together. I want down in the playroom. I heard it's fun. She thinks she's so smart dressing like that. He won't have her.

That cow is back. Ugh! He likes them like me. I know how to treat a vampire. I'm getting what's mine.

"Mistress," I hear from behind me.

I turn around. "Irina, how are you feeling?" I smile at her.

"Much better, My Lady, thank you for asking," she says. "Mistress, I'm so sorry that…"

I put my hand up. "You don't need to say anything. I'm so sorry I didn't warn you. Please forgive me?" I ask her.

She nods at me. "You are too kind," she says. "I am humbled by your understanding. I promise that I will never let you down again." She says motioning Dalia and I to a booth. "Come, the Master would want you to sit in his booth. I will have a waitress attend to you." She says.

We follow Irina to the booth and I see Amelia and Vivi standing by the bar. I wave them over and they come to sit with us.

The waitress comes and everyone orders. I just ask for a ginger ale. I know, boring. Nevertheless, we are going to have business to deal with tonight and the last thing I need is to be tipsy. Plus, I have a harder time with my shields when I drink and I really don't need to hear any more of the "vermin" than I need to.

I'm not jealous. Okay, I'm not jealous, much. I know who and what my Viking is. He is a bad ass Vampire that has lived, and I mean lived for a thousand years as a Vampire in every sense of the word. He has seen things, done things and I think knows more than most anyone else on the planet. Yes, I'm in awe of my Viking and I always have been. I may have been waiting to couple with him, but I know that he has been sleeping, fucking and doing Goddess knows what for a millennium. He's a VAMPIRE. Most Supes don't mate for life. Hell, other than Shifters and Weres I'm not sure that they even keep the same mate for the night.

I remember stories. Okay, I was five, but I was five for a very long time. I remember hearing stories of parties and joining. I remember couplings at great halls that went on for days. I was never allowed to attend, but it didn't mean I didn't see it in the minds of those around me. Even my parents partook in rituals and events. I don't want to think about it, but it was and still is commonplace in many of the Supernatural Communities. I mean, some of the Goddesses and Gods couldn't help but incite riots and orgies with their lust. Projection of emotions over crowds is a common gift. Just because I intend on staying faithful to my Viking doesn't mean that I'm not aware of what others do around me. Hello, Telepath, I hear everything everyone thinks whether I want to or not. I just hope that Eric knows that I will not be a number. I'm his Promised One. His days of fucking through a decade are over as far as I'm concerned.

So let the worthless creatures who throw themselves at the feet of my Viking think whatever they want. I know whose opinions matter to me and these creatures are not worth my time.

"Sookie, come dance with us," Amelia says.

I nod and smile at them.

We get up and move around the dance floor together. The music is hypnotic. I close my eyes and feel the warmth of it flowing over me and I can't help but think of my Viking. How his hands feel the same way on me. Instantly I am filling with lust and desire.

I know Eric feels it because he sends curiosity and concern to me. I check myself and send him back tenderness and love.

I stop dancing and both Amelia and Vivi look at me.

I shake my head. "Umm, I'm going to go sit down and wait for Eric." I say.

They smile at me. I'm sure they know what just happened but they are considerate enough not to say anything.

I watch as they walk further out onto the dance floor and soon they are joined by a few of the patrons. I smile as I watch them enjoying their night.

I look to see that Dalia too has joined me.

"Dalia, you could have kept dancing." I say to her.

"Sookie, I'm not here to have fun, I'm here to protect you while your Viking is detained." She says.

"Oh, but, I don't think that means…" I say and she cuts me off.

"Sookie, until I hear otherwise, my job is to protect you. Don't worry about me. I'm fine. I know what my duties are concerning you. There will be plenty of time to have fun, but if your Viking isn't with you then I will be." She says.

I figure I'll just speak with Eric on this later.

While my new friends are entertaining themselves, I scan the club and find a few underage kids that got past the door. I wave Irina over to tell her and she insists that she'll take care of it.

I hadn't seen Pamela but I know that Eric is back in the building. I've felt a barrage of emotions flowing from him but none that should cause me concern. I do my best to damper my side of the bond to give him space but still not close it completely so he knows I'm here. I just send him waves of love and happiness and hope that it's enough to make him feel that I'm close.

Our waitress walks back over and I scan her, quite by accident actually as I start to try reading a group of women that just walked in.

Remember the blue bag. He said it would be in the blue bag. God, if the Master finds out…

I look at her as she comes over to me. "Can I get you anything else?" She asks.

She goes to take a glass off the table when I place my hand on her arm. "Who is giving you a bag, Ginger?" I ask her.

She looks at me and tries to pull away. Whether it's Eric's blood or the fact that I remember who I am, I'm not sure, but she can't pull away.

"What are you talking about?" She asks.

In her mind, I see the bartender giving her a bag after her shift last night and instructing her to take it to his bank. That he will catch up with her after he has finished for the night.

I look at her. "Sorry," I say. "I thought I heard you say something about a Gucci bag and I've always wanted one." I say with a smile.

She smiles back. "Well, since you seem to be the Master's new Pet, maybe he will take you to get one, huh?" She says and walks away.

"What was that all about?" Dalia asks.

I shake my head. "Something regarding the bar," I say. "I'll need to talk to Eric."

I'll have to talk to Eric as soon as the night's activities are through. Long Shadow is playing some kind of a game with the register and Eric is not going to be happy.

I turn my attention back to the door where I see Alcide and Stefan walking in. I wave to them and they come over to greet me.

"Hello Sookie," Alcide smiles at me. "Enjoying your night?" He asks.

I smile. "Yes I am, thank you," I say.

I turn to see Tomas and Godric. Both sets of men address each other and then they address Dalia. Moving into the booth, they start discussing security. What is in place and what still needs to be done to secure the estate and me.

Since, I'm sure that Eric will address these things to me when needed. I decide to tune out. Soon, Amelia and Vivi return and start up another discussion with everyone already seated. I pay attention to what is being discussed but I'm also busy listening to the patrons. I continue to get some awful thoughts from the Fangbangers, but nothing else.

Before long, I need to handle my Human needs and tell everyone so. Without saying a word, Dalia stands to follow me.

"Dalia, I think I'll be fine." I say to her.

"Sookie, where you go, I go." She says.

I decide that it isn't worth arguing over so I make my way back to the bathrooms.

I walk past Eric's door and can tell that he is still in there with Pam. I decide not to bother them. There is much going on and I'm sure that once Eric has it all sorted, he will tell me all about it.

I do what I need to do and then move back out into the main room.

I'm stopped by a beautiful Greek looking Vampire.

"Yes?" I ask her.

"Forgive me, Mistress," she says with a bow of her head. "My name is Felicia Kanovas. I'm Oathed to the Sheriff," she says softly. "I just wanted to meet you," she says with a smile.

I know instantly that this Vampire is somewhat like Irina. She is very beautiful but strong and old. I sense that she has some sort of gift or strength that makes her particularly favored.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Felicia," I say to her. "I'm sorry I've not met you earlier."

"I just returned to the area last night and heard what you did for Irina. I understand that you are a gift to the Sheriff and to us. She is most humbled by your strength and generous nature. I'm so pleased to hear you are with Our Master. I hope that we would be able to speak again soon." She says.

"I would like that Felicia."

She nods again and leaves.

As soon as she's gone, I feel love and joy and know that my Viking is near. Before I can turn around, I feel his arms around my waist and he moves to kiss my neck.

"Hi," I say.

"I've missed you," He says to me in a low growl. "Have you been enjoying yourself, Min Kara?"

I nod and turn in his arms. "Everything go okay with Pam?" I ask him.

He nods. "It will take her some time. Has she approached you?"

I shake my head. "I haven't even seen her since we entered the club tonight."

He nods. "Give her some time. She has learned a lot and will need time to process it."

I nod. "Alcide and Stefan are here," I say to him and motion to the table where they are sitting with Tomas and Godric.

He nods. "Yes, I know," he says.

Before I can say anything, all four men have come to meet us.

Eric looks at them. "Are you prepared for this?" He asks.

They nod.

Eric looks at me. "Do you wish to sit in on this or stay with your handmaidens?" He asks me.

I look at him and then the others. "I would like to attend if that's okay."

I must admit that I'm curious about this whole blood oath thing.

Eric kisses my hand. "Come." He says.

We walk back to his office and Eric informs Dalia to stay outside the door.

Instead of staying in the office, Eric touches a button and I see a door open that I didn't know was there.

Eric leads the way and once we are all down the stairs, I hear the door slide back in place.

We pass the first door that has two guards at it. I'm assuming that is where Bill is. I don't give it much thought. A lot of things will happen in the next few days and I will deal with them then.

We walk down the hall to another room. Eric opens the door as we all go in.

At the center of the room is a table covered with a purple cloth. On one side of the table is a Kirpan. I don't know why I know that but I do. It is similar to an Athame but not the one that Eric and I used during our bonding. Next to it is a small golden goblet. I see that it has Eric's seal on the side of it.

Eric leaves me standing next to Godric and Tomas and moves to the table.

***0***

EPOV

I take Sookie downstairs. I notice that she looks at the room with the guards posted. I'm surprised she says nothing but feel a fluctuation in the bond. I decide to leave that discussion for later.

We walk into the Oath room and I leave Sookie by the door with Tomas and Godric.

I walk to the table and turn. "Who comes forth to pledge to Our Line?"

Stefan and Alcide but step forward. "We have come for such purpose," they say in tandem.

I nod. "You are aware of the repercussions of such an act?" I ask them.

They nod. "We are giving our life, blood and will over to you, Eric the Northman," they say.

I pick up the Kirpan and hold out my hand. "Come forward," I say.

Alcide gives me his hand first. "Do you give yourself to me?" I ask him.

"I Alcide Herveaux blood oath me and all that descend from me to Eric the Northman. I give this of my own free will." He says. "I pledge to honor him and all that hold him as Sange Cap. This is my Oath, my blood, my desire."

I quickly slice into his palm and hold his hand over the cup.

Once a few drops of his blood have spilled, he closes his hand.

"Your blood, my blood, so has it been, so shall it be." I say to him. He bends to one knee.

I turn and repeat the same thing with Stefan.

Once he has bent to one knee, I look up. "Who comes to witness this?" I ask.

Tomas and Godric come forward. To my surprise, Sookie also comes forward.

I reach for Godric first. "Do you swear on this oath?" I ask him.

"I Godric, who have pledged and Oathed myself to you, Eric the Northman, swear to this oath. I've witnessed this in line of our laws and rituals of old." he says.

I slice his hand and do the same that I did with the weres.

Once I am done, he bends to one knee and I repeat this with Tomas.

Then I turn to Sookie. "My bonded, my heart, two have sworn allegiance and Oath to my bloodline. Do you honor this pledge?" I ask her.

A glazed look comes over Sookie's face as she begins to speak. "Eric the Northman, My Bonded mate, I stand before you to witness the Oath of these two creatures. So they have spilled their blood, their oath is sealed. In ritual of old and in the light of the Goddess. As the Goddess shows favor on you, so shall she show favor on all that call you Sange Cap."

Sookie holds out her hand. "My blood to your blood, My Bonded."

I slice into her hand and allow several drops of her blood drop into the goblet. Once it does, I see the blood swirling. I hear a gasp but am not sure where it's coming from.

"Blessed be," she says.

When I'm done with Sookie, I place her hand to my mouth and seal her wound. She goes to move but I stop her.

I pull her to my side. "I accept your Oath freely and with the honor that it possesses." I say. Picking up the cup, I cut my own wrist and allow several drops to spill into the cup. Taking it to my lips, I drink it down. I can feel the power of the blood filling me. Before it is all gone, I hold the cup to Sookie.

She looks at it for a moment and then takes it. Drinking it, I can feel the connection created between all of us. I know that the Weres feel it because when I look over to them, they have bent to one knee.

"Our lives for you," they say.

I look at Sookie. The power is flowing around her, through her and by extension through me. I can't believe how beautiful it looks on her.

I turn to them. "Your Oath is complete. May the Goddess shine on all of us."

They all nod.

I look back at Sookie and can feel power, love and lust all mingling through the room. I've got to act fast or the lust may spill out into the others.

I pick her up and run down the hall to my playroom.

I close the door without putting her down. Spinning around, I put her up against the door and Sookie's legs immediately wrap around me.

I find her mouth and begin kissing her as I make quick work of both our clothes.

I release her mouth and start moving down to her delicious breasts.

"OH…Goddess…Eric…I ….I need you, please." She says.

I move her further up the wall so I can take her luscious folds into my mouth.

"OH…OH…Eric…more…more.." she groans. I move slightly and begin entering her with my tongue.

"YES!" She screams. I feel her lust building as the walls of her center begin to close. A few more ministrations and she has met her end.

Before she has time to calm down, I speed us to the bed and position myself on top of her.

***0***

SPOV

Before I can even breathe, Eric has us on the bed and is entering me. He thrusts in with one movement and I almost come off the bed.

"Eric!" I scream.

"Uhhh, Min Kara, You…that…we are one in all now…" He pants out. "I…I…Min KARA!" He growls at me.

I've no idea what he is saying. All I know is what he's doing to my body.

Everything I am, everything I need is happening between my legs and it's all because of my Viking.

I hear someone screaming and after a minute, I realize it's me. Before I can ask what's going on, Eric has moved my arms up to the headboard and I hear the faint sound of clicks.

When I try to move my arms, I notice that I can't.

"Be still, Min Kara," he says and begins moving in me again. "You aren't allowed to release until I tell you," he says with a growl.

I nod at him. Afraid that whatever I say will not be coherent.

Eric is moving in and out of me with Vampire speed. It feels like his hands are everywhere. I don't know what is what. Then he suddenly places a finger and my back entrance. I should be shocked, but all I feel is lust and want.

He is entering my front and soon, he's slipped a finger into my back.

"Now, Min Kara," he says again with a growl.

I don't know what happens next. It feels like a constant orgasm. It could have lasted minutes, hours or even days. I have no idea.

When I finally calm down, my hands are released and I feel soft kisses all over my face and shoulders.

"Eric," I say softly.

"Shhh, Min Kara, I have you," He says.

I notice that I'm moving and soon realize that I'm shaking.

"Shhh, relax, Min Kara, I'll take care of you."

I needed no more encouragement. I close my eyes and that's the last thing I remember.

***0***

EPOV

I couldn't help pushing Sookie a bit tonight. But I'm so glad that I did. She responded so beautifully.

She was out of her head and I knew that to push her more tonight would be too much. But soon, soon she would be ready and we would both enjoy it.

I pull her out of the restraints and start massaging her arms, shoulders and chest. I can feel her starting to shake and know it's the emotional release.

I send her calm and love and soon she is asleep.

I quickly move to the bathroom and clean up. Bring back a cloth, I clean and redress her. Picking her up, I make my way back upstairs. Dalia is right where we left her. I know that the club has been closed for over an hour and that we need to return to the house.

I allow Dalia to drive as I hold Sookie in the backseat.

Once home, I walk in, say goodnight to Dalia and move us to our suite.

I quickly undress Sookie and place her on her side of the bed. I undress as well and slide in behind her.

"Eric," she says softly.

"Yes, Min Kara?" I ask her.

"I love you," she says and pulls herself closer to me. "Please, I need you."

"As I you, Min Kara," I say. "But you are so tired, I can feel it in the bond."

She turns her head. "Please, I just need to feel you. I hate that you are away from me for so long." She says.

I nod. There is no way I could deny her anything.

I hit the switch on the new shutters so we are not disturbed.

Lifting her leg, I slowly move into her. The sound she makes is almost euphoric. As if it's the most wonderful feeling, she has ever encountered.

I take her in long strokes. I lost count after awhile at the number of times we both fell.

I soon feel her drifting off. I continue my movements inside her until I know she is asleep. Once I know she's deep in her slumber, I pull out and go to get something to clean us both up. Once I'm satisfied that she will not wake uncomfortable, I move back into bed and pull her close. I can smell her and feel her. If I wouldn't consider it blasphemy, I would think she is as sweet as the Goddess herself.

I watch her sleep well beyond dawn. Once I know that the day will be taking me, I slip out and put on a pair of lounge pants and retreat to my day room.

Pulling out the computer, I see the notice regarding the Council and that they will have the representative to the club by midnight. I see several other emails and answer what I can. I finally feel the pull and walk over to the cold bed that I will spend my day on.

I close my eyes and try to see Sookie. I smile when I see her curled up on our bed with a beautiful smile on her face.

I have to smile myself. Tomorrow is another day. One that is filled with many events. I allow the day to take me with thoughts of my beautiful bonded on my mind.

****0***

Bill's POV

What the hell is going on? First, I can't leave my home. Once I can, I'm taken by thugs and brought here. Then I'm left here with no word or reason.

I awake to find my captors back in the room. Eric isn't stupid so I know that there have been guards on me all day.

But why am I here? And when did Felicia get back? The last Sophie knew, she was in Greece with her child. I hadn't found anything on her from my program but she did call Eric Sange Cap. Does that mean that she is his? I couldn't smell him on her. I wouldn't be able too. I'm too young for such skills. But I thought that Felicia's maker was old world. At least that is what we were led to believe. I hadn't been able to find out about her Sire so I just assumed that he or she was of the old world. I have very little connections over in Europe and it's proving to be difficult to get any to speak with me. Even if I can boast connections and approval from Sophie, it doesn't seem to hold much weight.

I pull on the chains again and a pain shoots through my arms and into my shoulders. I've not been chained in silver for decades. I've forgotten the pain and am not eager to repeat the sensation. I hear a chuckle from the other side of the room. Looking up I can see a smirk on my abductors face. He seems to be enjoying this. Well that smirk will be wiped off soon enough.

I refocus on what I've learned this evening. If Felicia indeed belongs to Eric than that is more information my Queen would like to know. Not to mention others who would pay big bucks to know that the great Eric Northman has children he hasn't reported. I can't see why Felicia would Blood Oath herself to Eric. He has no real power outside of Louisiana. With a flick of her wrist, Sophie could take that away. Why she hasn't by now is beyond me. He may be old, he may be strong but he has nothing. So the only logical explanation is that Felicia is Sired by Eric.

I sigh as I hang in the chains.

Being left here is an insult that will soon be dealt with. If it wasn't bad enough, I had to hear Eric take someone down the hall. Even if I wasn't Vampire, I would have been able to hear what was going on down the hall. Though it was rather vulgar, I have to laugh at Eric's stupidity. If there is one thing I know it's that Sookie will not tolerate Eric taking anyone else to bed. I must find a way to inform her of this. It will do well to assist my cause in regaining her trust. She will soon see the error of her ways and will be back with me and I will bring her to yield. She will soon be a great asset and Eric will have nothing to say about it.

Until then, I will need to stay strong. There is no way Sophie will allow this to continue. She will probably have Eric's head for interfering the way he has. If she hasn't heard by now, I know others will learn of this travesty and be here in no time. I will just have to bide my time.

I feel the pull for the day and the last thoughts I have are of my Sookie.

***0***

Dalia's POV

I walk the parameter of the house one more time before heading back to the sitting room. I'm sure that Stefan is close. I can feel him. Though I wasn't downstairs I know what transpired this evening both during and after the Oath. I wonder if Stefan and Alcide are aware of the repercussions of Eric's actions. I know that I, Tomas, and especially Godric felt the shimmer of power. I wonder if it was strong enough for the Weres to feel.

If Eric doesn't discuss this with Susannah tomorrow, I will have to find a way to explain it to her. Though I know she is regaining her memories, Vampire law and ritual is especially precise in its meaning. Eric has joined them all in a way that I'm not sure he even knew was possible.

I suspect that the Pledging will be just a formality at this point. I've never seen two auras so entwined in all my days.

I hear my phone vibrating taking me out of my thoughts.

Picking it out of my pocket, I check the caller ID. I'm surprised at the caller.

"Yes?" I ask.

"Is that anyway to answer me?" He asks.

I smile. It has been a long time since I've heard his voice.

***0***