A/N – I own nothing but some of the plot and the original characters. The rest belongs to the great CH and AB (well, maybe not great in the latter, but you know what I mean). On with the show…..

*********PL**********

Chapter 25

*********PL**********

SPOV

I turn around once, then twice taking in the scenery around me. I can hear the waves and know that the shore is very close. I look down and the grass is as green as I've ever seen, the rocks creating a path around the whole area. I follow the path and look up. I close my eyes and sigh as the sun falls on my face.

"Okay," I say out loud. "Where am I?"

But as soon as the words are out of my mouth I hear the answer in a whisper on the wind; "Avalon." I continue to follow the path up a hill and stop just on the edge near the top.

Looking around as I hit the clearing, I see a marble white bench placed almost completely in the center of the grove I now find myself in. In front of the bench is a white carved arch of stone. How curious to put something such as this structure in the middle of the grove. It looks like it should be the greeting mark to a flower garden, or atrium. Not in a grove inviting you to walk through it to well, nothing. I walk over to it and sit down on the bench staring through the arch to the grass behind it. I lean to the side to see if the view is any different. Nope, same view. What could it possibly be?

"What am I doing here?" I ask again.

As if the air is answering me, I feel a charge of energy begin to surround me. I can feel it on my skin and it's making the small hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. It rolls over my skin with the softness of butterfly wings. I look around, expecting to see the cause of the energy but see nothing. That doesn't necessarily mean that there is no one there. I close my eyes and feel with my gifts. I feel the water close by, the vibrations from the earth but find nothing that could be causing this level of power.

With no answers from my scan, I look again in front of me. In the arch, where I could see through it just a moment ago, now seems to be filling with some sort of liquid. I see white and blue ripples that start to move as the water moves to the shore. I can almost feel the movement in the pit of my stomach. As the waves begin to do more of a spiral, so does the feeling in my stomach. Soon the colors change from blue and white to multi colors and finally start to form a shape. The shape becomes clearer and clearer until it begins to become recognizable. I stare at the figure that is appearing in front of me. I watch as the shape becomes more defined until I'm looking into her smiling face. My own eyes trace every inch of her expression and finally land on her eyes, her beautiful violet eyes. I had almost forgotten them, the color of soft spring violets with hints of white and gold in them. Eyes the color of the early morning sky on the island where I was born. When I would think of that sky, I would think of her. I close my eyes and will the tears to recede. Opening my eyes to her once more, I'm welcomed with a soft tender smile. How could I've forgotten something so beautiful? I take the rest of her in. Her hair the color of sunlight and her skin as soft and white as porcelain come into view, her lips soft and red, the touch of which on my cheek always felt comforting.

"M…Momma?" I ask.

She smiles and nods.

I swallow twice before trying to say anything else. This image of her is more vivid than any I've ever had in my dreams. Then it occurs to me that this is a dream.

"Am…am I dreaming?" I ask her.

"In a way, mo áilleacht ," She says with a voice that sounds as clear as a spring morning. "But should that make it any less real?" She asks. "I am here, you are here and I for one am grateful."

I shake my head. "What…what are we doing here?" I ask her. "One minute I was talking to Eric and the next…."

What had happened? I suddenly felt dizzy and everything went black. I remember being frightened and wanted to ask someone what was happening. No, that's not right. I wanted my mother. She would have known. I didn't want Gran, Adele or Vivi. No, I wanted my mother. Even though she hasn't been…. I allow that thought to trail off when I hear her voice again.

"It is you that have called me," she says. "I could not come here without you wishing it so."

I get up to come closer but know instinctively not to touch her. "I…I don't understand." I say to her. "Could I always do this?" I move a little closer to the arch. "All these years," I pause. "Could I've really called you?" The idea is almost too painful to bear.

"Calm yourself, my daughter," she says. "You wouldn't have been able to call me before. Not without your memories," she says. "You wouldn't have been able to find yourself here." She says motioning to the grove. "Without the magick here, this wouldn't be."

"Are…are you really here?" I ask her softly. "This isn't my mind playing tricks on me?"

Her smile goes soft, almost sad. "I'm here in a way I can be, mo chailín milis ," she says. "I've moved forward and this," she points to the arch," is a gateway. I see you as you see me."

"I…I miss you Momma," I say to her. "I've had Gran, but I've missed you." I say to her. "You and Dadi. So many times…" I choke up again. "And now, so much is going on. So many…" I choke up again.

"Susannah, you have become a beautiful woman. You are strong, smart, beautiful and brave. I'm so happy that you've finally found yourself and your Viking. You have done me so very proud."

I shake my head. "I didn't know who I was, Momma." I say to her. "How could I make anyone proud?" I look down.

"Susannah Aslin," she says in her stern voice. The one she always used to get my attention. It still works.

"You have always known who you were. Poppa didn't take away you, only your memories." She says. "And he didn't take them away either. You could have pulled them to you at any time if you needed to. He didn't keep you completely in the dark and you always held the power. You kept the Veil in place, not him."

I confused by this statement.

She laughs a little. "Susannah, you knew what needed to be done even if your young self didn't tell your new self." Okay now I'm even more confused, my young self telling my new self? Does she mean Sookie Stackhouse.

"Momma, that is very circular logic." I say to her.

She smiles. "It very well might be but no less true. You kept the Veil in place for so long. Granted once you reconnected to your Vampire, well, it would only be a matter of time before you remembered everything. That was by design. However, I suspect that you have had a dream or two over the years? Perhaps of places like this." She points around her. "Or small cottages in places you've never seen." She smiles softly. "Come now, Susannah, you cannot tell me that you've never dreamed of your Viking." She asks.

I think about it and nod, blushing slightly. "But I didn't remember…."

"Susannah, did you know that you were loved?" She asks.

I nod.

"Did you know that Dadi and I would do anything for you?" She asks again.

I nod once more.

"Did you know that Gran was always close?, that she would do anything to help you become who you needed to be?" She asks.

I smile softly and nod.

"You see, you knew who you were. You my darling girl are Susannah Aslin Brigant," she stands a bit taller. "Sookie Stackhouse was make-believe. You always knew who you were regardless of your name. You are my daughter, Adele's granddaughter and the light for all of us. That neither changed nor faded in a thousand years."

I can feel the tears welling in my eyes. "Momma, I don't know what I'm doing most of the time. I know I have powers and yet…" I trail off thinking about how my anger swelled several times today and how easy was it to unleash it on someone. It was almost frightening.

She puts her hand up. "You will know when and where to use them. You are relearning. Goddess knows your patience was never perfect. Your temper got in the way more times than not," she laughs. "Your father…oh, how he would get frustrated with you."

I smile at that. I remember them both being tested with me. I think I kept them quite on their toes for many years.

"I'm glad you find humor in your mine and your father's frustrations." I steal my face. I hadn't noticed I was smiling. She smiles softly at me. "But this is not why you called me here, Susannah. What is bothering you?" She asks.

"I…if the prophecy comes to pass and I….well when… I mean….Momma, how am I supposed to do all of this without you? Gran says that she may not be here for me either. I…when….I need your help." She says.

She smiles softly. "My sweet, sweet girl," she says softly. "You have me, Adele, Dadi and so many more." She pauses, "in your heart, my darling. You will always find us in your heart."

I take a deep breath. "Momma, I'm supposed to…"

She puts her hand up. "You will be a beautiful mother, a wonderful wife to your Viking and a most gracious queen. I saw it ages ago. You will be everything we ever dreamed for you."

I touch my belly. "Am I?" I ask.

She smiles once more. "You need not me to tell you that," she says. "Look within yourself and you will know." She looks up and then back at me. "It is time for me to leave, Susannah." She says. "You need to awaken. Your Vampire is most concerned."

I hadn't felt anything from the bond. However the moment she said it, I could feel him. He was so worried. I could feel the anxiety rising in the bond.

I nod knowing that Eric needs me to awaken. "Will I see you again?" I ask.

She smiles and this time it makes her eyes bright. "Oh, if the Goddess is willing, I'm sure you will."

"I…I love you Momma," I say to her.

She touches her fingers to her lips and then her heart "as I you, Susannah, always."

My mother starts to soften around the edges and then the colors begin to blend. Soon, the entire vision fades and I can see through it once more.

I sit for a moment thinking of my mother. Then the pull of Eric changes my focus.

Closing my eyes, I focus on the feel of Viking. I feel myself getting lighter and the air around me getting thicker. The wind of the grove fades and then I hear Eric.

"Min Kara," I hear him and feel his hand against my head.

"My Liege, I've called Dr. Ludwig," I hear Dalia's voice.

"Find Amelia," he says. "I want to know if the wards are up or if something has gotten through."

"My Liege," Dalia says again. "I don't detect any magick other than her own around her."

"What do you mean by that?" Eric asks.

I take a deep breath and open my eyes and the conversation quickly is forgotten.

"Min Kara," he says and pulls me from my prone position into his arm. "I couldn't feel you," he says. "I…Sookie, are you unwell?" He asks me. "Min Kara, say something. What happened to you?"

"I…I'm sorry I frightened everyone," I say into his neck. He hasn't released me yet. "I'm okay, Eric."

He pulls back and looks at me.

I smile softly at him. "I…I haven't eaten since before we left for the club and I think I just have low sugar is all." I say to him.

I can tell that he doesn't quite believe me.

Picking me up, he rises and looks at the room. It's surprisingly quite full with almost everyone who is in the house.

He looks to Dalia. "When will Ludwig be here?" He asks.

"She said in about ten minutes," she answers him.

He nods. "When she arrives, send her upstairs. I'm taking your Mistress back to bed."

"Eric, I'm fine…" I try to say.

His look informs me not to argue. Eric is in full protection mode. Nothing I say at this point is going to talk him down.

In a flash, we are back in our suite and Eric is laying me back on my side of the bed. He moves in beside me and places my hand on his heart. I feel a thud and a moment later another one.

Looking up into his eyes, I know that he is frightened and that is angering him.

"Eric, I'm fine," I pause, "just a little lightheaded."

He shakes his head. "Susannah, when you are lightheaded, you do not faint dead away. If I didn't see your chest move with your breathing and hear you blood pumping, I would have sworn to Odin and the Goddess herself that you were…" He stops and looks away.

I can feel the anxiety and fear rising in him once more.

"Hey," I say as I tap on his chest. "I'm right here. Nothing happened to me. I'm right here, my Viking."

He turns back to me and I can see the red rim of tears in his eyes. "Susannah, I don't…I couldn't exist if something…" he pulls me close. "I cannot lose you. Not…not again. I wouldn't survive it this time." He says.

I hold onto him, brushing my hand over his seal and sending him love and comfort. He is so worried. What has gotten him to such a state? We will need to talk about this. However, I suspect that this is not the time. There are too many other things we need to deal with that take precedence.

"Eric I feel the same way," I say softly. "But it was nothing. I promise you that everything is okay and I'm sorry I upset you so."

He pulls back. "Where did you go?" He asks.

I look at him with a burning question in my eyes. What does he mean, where?

"Where did you go? I know you weren't all here. I couldn't feel you. You were in my arms and I couldn't feel you. It was the worst feeling in the world. Promise me…Promise me that you will never do that again."

I want to promise him but I don't know how I did it.

"Eric, I didn't do it on purpose. I promise you this," I say softly to him. "If I figure out how I did it, I promise to never shut you out like that. I can only imagine what you thought." I say.

He pulls me closer still. "I never wish to have that feeling again. It was a wave that rushed over me. No, a void. It almost knocked me off my feet. If I hadn't recovered when I did, I would have never reached you before you hit the floor."

I smile. "You caught me?" I ask him.

He nods. "I will always be there to catch you, Min Kara." He says.

I sigh and lean into his arms.

"Were you dreaming?" He asks.

I think about it for a moment. "I…I think I was. I believe I was in Avalon." I say.

"How is that possible, Min Kara?" He asks. "I've never known any to travel to Avalon only in their mind."

I shrug. "I don't know. But I'm sure I was there," I pause for a moment. "I was talking to my mother," I say to him. "I...She said I called her. But I've no idea how I did it. Or why I chose that moment to call her."

He is quiet for a moment then touches my face again. "I felt your feelings when you rose. I know you were worried. Then you felt dizzy and fainted. Were you afraid of how you were feeling? Did tonight upset you that much?"

I think about what he is asking. "I…I wasn't upset about what happened with the Council delegation." He looks at me and I laugh softly. "Okay, I was upset about what Bill said. I knew he was scum but I didn't know how much. I was okay once we got home." I say to him.

"Then what made you wish to contact your Mother?" He asks me. "To call her all the way from The Summerlands, that is a feat not many can perform."

I can feel my eyes going wide. "So you think I did that?" I ask him. "You don't think it was just my imagination?"

He shakes his head. "Min Kara, I'm certain that there in much you can and will do," he says and kisses me. When he releases me from the kiss he looks into my eyes. "But you haven't answered my question."

Before I can, we hear a knock at the door.

"Come," Eric says.

The door opens and I see a little squat woman with dark brown hair and wide rim glasses walking through it. She reminds me of something out of the Hobbit and I know that I'm not too far off. Though, no one has ever really told me what she is exactly, I know she isn't human. She doesn't even try to pretend. I've seen Dr. Ludwig before, just not in some time.

She nods to Eric. "Regent," she says, "I didn't expect you to call me this quickly."

"Yes, well..." he looks to me.

"I heard that the meeting with Nan was quite civil. What has happened that you are in need of me so soon after your appointment as Regent?" She asks.

He gets up to greet her. I sit up further on the bed and go to put my feet on the floor but as soon as my feet swivel over the side, I get another wave of dizziness stronger than the last."

"Oh," I say and place both my hands on either side of me attempting to steady myself.

"Sookie?" Eric turns to me and goes to grab me. I swear I feel like I'm going to fall right off this bed. Everything seems different. It's as if I'm looking through a tunnel at the room.

"Stay where you are, little one," the little woman says to me.

Eric helps me to sit up a little straighter but makes it clear both in his expression and through the bond that I'm staying put.

The doctor moves closer to the bed once I'm situated. I wait for a moment and just having my feet back up seems to help. Another minute and I'm feeling better.

The squat little woman turns to Eric. "I take it you've Bonded?" She asks.

Eric nods and then she turns to me. "Let me see your mark," she says.

I look at Eric and he nods to me. I pull the side of my nightgown away to show it to her . She nods and looks at Eric. "You know the meaning?" She asks.

"We have been told most of it, yes." He says.

She huffs "Silly rituals and even sillier secrets. When will the powers learn that keeping the secrets is what caused this to be so delayed." She grumbles.

Neither Eric nor I say a word. One because I believe we both sort of agree with her. If we had been told everything from the start, maybe we wouldn't have had to have so many "do overs." At the very least, maybe I could have been with Eric centuries ago.

Okay Susannah, no use crying on things that can't be changed.

The other reason is because, well, what do you say when someone has the gumption to criticize fate? Yeah, nothing.

I look back to the doctor who is now looking at me as if she's waiting for me to stop my inner monologue. Could the woman be able to listen in my thoughts like I can with others? She answers me with a smile. "Do you remember who you are, Little One?" She asks.

"How…how do you know?" I ask her.

She laughs. "Lady Susannah, who do you think was with your mother when she delivered you?" She moves closer to me. "I was there time and time again when your parents were in need of advice. Do you not remember?" She asks.

I do remember her and seeing her with my parents over time. I know I've never been sick so perhaps they were consulting with her on other issues.

The doctor nods as if in agreement with my logic. "I've known this day would come for some time. I'm looking forward to seeing what you," she turns to Eric, "what both of you will be capable of."

Eric comes to sit back at my side. "What do you mean?" He asks her.

She smirks. "All in good time, Regent," she says and looks back at me. "But for now, let's deal with Your Bonded, shall we?"

She places a medium size carpet bag on the bed and opens it. I can't help thinking of Mary Poppins and wonder what the good doctor will be able to pull out of it. I mean if Mary Poppins can pull a hat rack, a lamp and a mirror out of hers, who knows what Ludwig will be able to pull out of hers. The thought tickles me. I know Eric feels it because he looks at me and sends me confusion. I believe the Disney movie reference will be lost on him so I just send him love in return.

"You have been dizzy?" She asks me.

I shrug. "A few times," I say, trying not to make a big deal of it. Eric has been so upset since my fainting spell. I don't want to worry him more.

"Nausea, vomiting, headaches," she asks.

"Ummm, Nausea. I haven't vomited or had headaches," I respond to her.

"When did it start?" She asks.

"This morning I felt off. But I had some crackers and tea and felt better." I say to her.

She takes my wrist in her hand, then the other. She looks into my eyes when she continues. "Who gave you the tea?" She asks.

"Our housekeeper, Sally May." I say to her.

Ludwig looks over to Eric," Were?" She asks.

Eric nods and Ludwig returns it.

"Good, have her give it to you any morning you are a little off," she says. "The woman knows what she's doing."

She proceeds to look into my eyes, touch my head and then turns her attention to my feet and toes.

"Okay, Little One, lie down." She says.

I look at Eric who helps by moving the pillows so that I can lie flat.

She touches my hips, and then my belly gently pushing on it one way then the other. She nods and turns to her bag and comes back with surgical gloves. Putting them on, she looks at me. "Bend your knees, little one," she says.

I look at her and I can tell that she can see my fear.

"Tell me you have never had an internal exam?" She asks.

I shake my head. "Gran… Gran said I didn't need one." I say to her. "I…I didn't…" I shake my head.

"Well, it's probably good," she says. "They would have taken blood and would probably not be able to make heads or tails out of it." She sighs when I still haven't bent my knees. "Little one, I need to make sure that everything is good and where it should be in your birth canal. It will not hurt. You will probably only feel a little pressure," she says.

I nod slowly as I bend my knees. I lay back and close my eyes. I can feel Eric take my hand as he sends me love and calm. I feel a bit of pressure but not soon after it started, it stops.

I hear her pulling off her gloves so I open my eyes to look at her.

"Pull your gown down," she says. "I need to see your breasts," she says.

I look at Eric. He helps me to a seated position and takes off my robe as I move the straps down to expose my breasts. The doctor moves in close and looks at them. Pressing on them she watches them for a few minutes and then examines my nipples. Nodding, she moves away.

"You can redress now," she says.

"Is…Is everything okay?" Eric asks.

"She's a little dehydrated and needs to eat more," she says and looks at Eric. "She also needs more blood. That's why she's dizzy."

He looks almost panicked and I can feel it in the bond. "Have I been taking…"

She puts her hand up. "No, Regent, you aren't taking too much. Your exchanges are important," she looks to me. "Especially now," she says.

We both look at each other and then back at her. "Are you saying…."

She nods. "Comparable to about six weeks in a human term," she says. "You will probably go about four months. Perhaps shorter since you will be taking a lot of your Bonded's blood." She says.

"Why would I be taking a lot of Eric's blood?" I ask her.

"You need it, he needs it, and the child needs it." She says "at least once a day. But you Little One, you need more," she says. "You are building a child, one like no other. The child needs blood right now and is taking yours."

I shake my head. "I'm not drinking from…." She puts her hand up.

"No need to finish that, Little One. I wouldn't think you would be agreeable to taking another's blood." She looks at Eric. "Royalty Blended may suffice. The more refined the better. The highest grade would be the best. I assume you have some on hand?" She asks and Eric nods. "Good," she says. "If that doesn't work, you may have to get her bagged blood," she turns to look at me. "Her blood is different but AB positive would be the closest. Try two bottles a day to start and work your way up if needed. If you find yourself drinking more than eight a day and you are still dizzy, then switch to the bagged blood." She looks at Eric. "Instruct her day people that if she has any hint of a headache that they should put her to bed and give her at least a pint of blood. If you are around, you can give her some of yours."

Eric looks from me to the doctor. Back to me and then the doctor. "She…Susannah's with child?" He asks.

The doctor lets out a laugh. "Of course she is, Regent. This is what you were told would happen, weren't you?" She asks. "I would have thought this is the first thing that would have been revealed to you."

He touches my hand. "I thought it would take a few more days. We only found out…"

"You have been Bonded for several days, have you not?" She asks.

We both nod.

"Well, then, you have your answer." She says. "I suspect that nature and destiny saw their opening and took their course at that very moment."

I wait a moment, waiting for Eric to say something. After a minute, I can't take it any longer. "Eric…you are okay with…."

He looks up and I begin to feel his love, joy and pride welling inside him. He smiles and I smile back.

"There now," she says. "It has begun," the good doctor says.

I turn back to her but I'm still partially focused on the emotions bouncing back and forth between Eric and I.

"Is…is the baby okay?" I ask her.

She nods. "He or She is," she says. "I want you to stay as calm as possible for the next week," she looks to Eric. "You are going to Kentucky?"

He nods. "We will be leaving for Dallas in two day's time. We are staying with King Stan for a few days and then heading to Kentucky." He says.

She nods. "Good," she moves to her bag, "that will get you both away from here for a few days before you need to deal with Council." She looks to me and then to Eric. "She has had a lot of excitement today. Let us limit that for a few days."

"Do…Do I need to stay in bed?" I ask her.

"No, but I wouldn't mind if you had a few calm days."

"There are a few things I need to speak with Sookie about," Eric says.

She looks at him. "Can't it wait?" She asks.

Eric looks at me. Shaking his head he pulls me toward him. "It is important. Sookie will need to do a few things once she awakens for the day. It's important to her and now my Son's safety."

I look at him. "Son, huh?" I ask.

He nods and looks at me deeper. "I've seen him, Susannah. He's beautiful."

I lean closer to him and lean my head against his chest.

"Fine, but if that is the case, I want her lying down when you tell her and drinking at least three bloods. If she gets upset, give her your blood Viking. This is a crucial time. Her health and the health of your child is what is important. Once she has gone another three weeks, they will be in a better place. But for now…"

Eric nods. "I understand, doctor. All will be notified to keep an eye on her," he says.

Okay, they need to stop talking like I'm not here. "She is right here," I say. "And SHE wouldn't do anything to hurt the baby, Eric." I growl at him.

He brushes my arm. "I know Min Kara," he says. "We just want to look out for you."

I feel love and joy coming from him. You know, it's really hard to stay angry when someone is pumping you full of joy.

"Okay," says the doctor. "I will leave a list of foods you can and cannot eat with your Bonded, your cook and your guard, Little One," she says. "Iron and lemons are an absolute NO. Make sure that iron skillets are not used in your kitchen, nor are you to have anything with high percentages of man-made iron in it. Natural forms will do you no harm. There are several foods that they shouldn't cook with. I will leave them the list." I nod and she continues, "Okay, Little One. We need you to rest. We need to you take blood, both from the bottle and from your Bonded. You need to stay calm and eat right. I want you to rest when you can, and be out in the sun when you have time." She looks at Eric. "She has help, yes?" He nods. "Good, you may want to find someone to be with her as a Ladies' Maid. Someone that has experience with babies and au pair duties. One that knows about Supe deliveries and has dealt with Supe children would be best. If you can't find someone, tell me. I will see who I can find." She looks at me too. "You may want someone who can do aromatherapy or massage." She adds. "It will go a long way in helping her relax and stay grounded." She looks at me. "You have much to do, little girl, you need all the help your Bonded can give you."

"I've got Dalia, Amelia and Vivi," I say to her.

She shakes her head. "They are good, but not enough. You will need much in the upcoming months. They are here to guard and to teach. You need someone to be here for you and for the child." She says. "You will be tired, this is normal. You will see your breasts increasing. Probably sooner rather than you may have seen with human women. This is to be expected," she says. "It is not something to worry yourself over. I've been told that more will become apparent in the upcoming weeks." She says.

Told? Told by whom, I wonder...

"Is that why you were checking My Bonded's breasts?" Eric asks.

She nods. "That and to make sure you will be able to give your baby what it needs."

"I…I don't understand," Eric says.

The doctor looks to me and then to Eric. "You want to explain it to him?" She asks me.

"Eric," I say to him. He looks at me. "I think I understand. Momma told me when I was little that children of Faerie and Daemon descent take both milk and blood from their mother's breast. Since I've got both," I look at the doctor.

"Since your Bonded has both of these lineages, the child will no doubt need both. I was making sure that your Bonded had this capability," Ludwig says.

"She has the ability to give both from her breasts?" He asks.

The doctor smirks. "Of course Regent," she says. "I will not go into detail, but her breasts have two different areas of secretion. One will serve as a way to give her milk, the other her blood."

He looks from the doctor to me and I can feel his confusion. I send him love once more. He really doesn't need to know the details. As of a few days earlier, I didn't remember the details. All he needs to know is that I am capable of giving our children what they need.

"Do you have any questions?" She asks.

"I have one," I say to her.

She nods for me to continue. "Well, Pappa said I was fertile when he came to see us." I say. The doctor nods. "But if what you're saying is true, I was already with child?"

"What is your question then, Little One?" She asks.

"Well, the thing is," I look at Eric and I know that a blush is spreading across my face.

He takes my hand. "What my Bonded is trying to say is that she has been a little insatiable," he gives me one of his wicked grins that I feel all the way in my toes.

"Some women's libido increases while they are expecting. I would think that is the cause of your heightened need." She says.

"Will it last?" I ask.

The doctor laughs. "I think it will. Many kinds of Supes are quite amorous when expecting," she turns to Eric. 'I'm sure you will have no complaints."

He laughs. "None."

She nods. "Good, because that type of connection is good for the three of you. Also, the orgasms will help Your Bonded."

"So we can continue…" I blush again.

"Of course, Little One. Do whatever you feel comfortable with. The connection and the blood will assist you and this child."

I nod, careful not to look in her eyes. Goddess, this is more embarrassing to talk about with her than it would be with Gran."

"Do you have any more questions?" She asks.

I know I should have about a dozen. But for the life of me, I can't think of any. So I just shake my head.

She nods. "Okay, Regent, get me on speed dial with anyone who is assigned to your Bonded. I'll be available to either of you until the birth." She says.

"Should…" I look at Eric. "Should we wait to tell others?" I ask her.

She looks at Eric and then me. "Tell whomever you feel needs to know," she pauses. "Her Grace will need to know." Eric nods in agreement. I've no idea why she needs to know. But I'll wait to ask about that later.

"She will be able to confirm this child as yours, Northman. Once you two are Pledged, then things should be fine. Allow your Bonded this time to become accustomed to being with child. She is going to need this time..." she pauses. "Much will happen in the upcoming month use this time to your advantage."

"What…what is going to happen?" I ask her.

She smiles. "Much," she says, before we can ask anything else. The little Hobbit of a doctor turns on her heel and is gone.

***0***

Sophie-Anne's POV

Stretching my arms over my head, I look at the clock one more time. It's ten minutes after the last time I looked. I still have several hours before sunrise. Ugh, I hate this. I should be working on my little problem and dealing with the even bigger one. There is no time for this petty foolishness and interference from Council. Who do they think they are anyway? I have a lot to do and not a lot of time to do it in. Not now, considering that my original plans have gone so awry. Being stuck in here is just not conducive to me fixing the problems, starting with William Compton.

My beloved Viking Sheriff hasn't checked in from the previous night. Not that I would know, anyway. When I've asked the guards at my door, they have not said a word. You would think that they would have more respect for a Monarch than that. I don't care what Council believes they have on me. I'm a Queen and they should at least give me the respect the title deserves.

I have no doubt that Eric will take care of the situation at hand with the utmost expedience. I honestly will be surprised if William returns to me with all his body parts. I have to smile. There really is no love lost between those two. Not that I'm surprised. William may be a very good subject and a better procurer. However, his ability to lick boots is not considered an admirable trait by my Viking.

However, to know that Eric has his hands on my Telepath, that is just not acceptable. I should have known that the fool Compton couldn't get her. Compton may be good at what he does, but he's nothing compared to the Viking. Then again, according to my beloved pet, he should have swooned the Telepath when he turned on his southern gentlemen façade. If he kept to the plan and did what he was told, I would have her with me right now. I smile. A matching set, of blonde beautiful women. My Hadley may not have any supernatural gifts. But the fact that the other one did, would make up for it.

My only warning to Compton was NOT to allow her near Northman. I knew all that Viking had to do is smell that she was part Supe and he would do anything to get her and claim her. I should have just insisted that Bill bring her to New Orleans on the first night that they met. However, Bill said he had a better idea and like a fool, I believed him.

Shit, I should have known better! I'm the fucking Queen for goodness sakes. I should have just sent someone to get her and tested her here. Why did I believe that Compton could pull off what he insisted would be an easy job? Oh, and why did I not demand that the database be done here? Bill will pay for his ability to be so damn persuasive and his inability to deliver. And where is my Viking? He hasn't contacted me so that I can move forward. All we need is for the Council to get their hands on that blasted database. Eric is right; the database is a weapon, MY weapon. I will do with it what I must to seize control of as much of the Country as I can. I look at the sky from my window and smile. They will not know what hit them, any of them. Me and mine will be in the exact position that we always should have been. Maurice was right, Louisiana is not big enough for me.

I remember a night not soon before his death.

"What are you doing?" He asks as he walks into his study.

"I've been looking at these territory maps," I say to him.

I look back at the maps I'd laid on the table.

"What has you so interested in them, my little vixen?" He asks as he moves in behind me and wraps his arms around me. I lean back and allow he to envelope me in his embrace. I feel the power that he possesses and it does things to me. He has not once used it, but it's there. He's also been good to me. Everything that I've wanted has been laid at my feet for the taking. Maurice has spared no expense to keep me satisfied. In return, I've kept him very satisfied. Andre hates him with a passion. I find it humorous.

"Is there a jewelry store you need me to buy you in another territory?" He asks as he kisses down my neck and undoes the robe I'm wearing. As he pulls it down, it exposes my bare shoulders which he begins to lay soft kisses on as well.

I giggle and turn in his arms. "No, I was just looking at the areas around your Kingdom, Maurice. You could easily take Arkansas .Mississippi would be an easy takeover, as well." I say to him. "You could triple your territory within months, My darling," I say to him. "You could be the richest Monarch in the country." I wrap my arms around him as he begins to explore the rest of my naked body with his strong hands.

He laughs at me. "What is Louisiana too small for my little vixen?" He growls into my neck, grazing his fangs over where my pulse once beat hard. My head rolls back at the feeling. He always knows exactly how to touch me.

"Maurice, I'm serious." I moan out to him, trying to get his attention.

He pulls back so that he can look into my eyes.. "You are, aren't you? Where is this coming from?"

I smile at him. "Think about it, Maurice," I pull him closer again and he immediately begins to massage my breasts. "We could rule the world, if you wanted."

He shakes his head at me. "Vixen, you let me deal with my kingdom. Your job is to keep you King happy," he growls at me. Picking me up with one hand, he uses to send the items on the table to the floor. In a second, his own clothes are discarded and he plunges into me.

I smile out the window once more. He thought I could do nothing. He thought I was no better than a pet. Well, I'm here and he's ash. Now, who had the last laugh?

I look at the clock again. They would have told me if something had happened. Wouldn't they? That means that Eric hasn't called in. If I got my hands on my computer I could find out.

Ugh, I have to find out what is happening with the goddamn database before Council gets wind of it! I hope that Eric didn't include them in his report to me. He may not have called in, but I know that he would never miss his report. Are the Council guards looking at my emails? My phone calls? That would be disastrous. All I know is that I am being sequestered. From what or whom, I haven't a clue. If someone doesn't inform me of what is going on I will have to demand my immediate release. I'm a Queen. Where is Andre anyway? He wouldn't stand for this. And where is Hadley? For the sake of everything, I hope she heeded my warnings about staying hidden when Council is in the compound. No, they can't find Hadley. That too would be disastrous.

Then there is my other problem. Peter Threadgill, the very thought of him just gives me the chills. How could that naïve, weak Vampire think that I would want him simply for himself? He was almost a sap when I suggested our joining. No, I planned to take him and then his kingdom. I have to smile at my simple plan. Our pledge is ratified and he is nowhere to be found. Now I have his state. One down, one to go. Then I'll start work on the other states.

I walk away from the windows and sit down. I need to get my database. I need to get my Hadley and I NEED to get out of this ROOM!

Closing my eyes, I wait for the rage to subside. Nothing will come of losing my temper now.

Once I'm in control of myself, I smile again. They may be able to lock me up for now, but the Council will feel my full wrath soon. No one will question my power once they learn of my disposal of my Pledged. If that doesn't prove me worthy of their admiration, then when those arrogant fools on the Council lose their existences they will most certainly know. They will all know.

I look at my watch once again. Ugh where is everyone? Why hasn't anyone come for me? I had an important meeting tonight. The little witch should have been here by now. She is my ace in the whole, so to speak. She is going to guarantee that I have the Viking by my side for eternity. She promised me that her little spell would work on him. She promised that nothing would go wrong. So long as she planted herself close to him. She is supposed to go over her plan with me this evening. I want her to make sure that everything is in order. I may not be able to get out, but she should be able to get in. What is keeping her?

I look around again. God, I'm bored. I haven't had any contact with anyone other than the damn lawyer for two days now. When they let him in, I demanded answers. All he would tell me is that Council representatives were looking into all the documents but he was rushed out of the offices before he got a look at what they were into. What could they be looking for? I know there is much that they could find, but who would have tipped them off? No one close to me would give the Council one ounce of information on me. Everything that would need to be hidden, was.

I lie down on my bed and look up at the ceiling. I want my Hadley. I frown. I wonder where she is. They could have at least let my newest Pet in with me. Not that they would know that she is my Childe... She went to her own room last night and I'm hoping that Rasul has followed protocol and hasn't had her exposed to the Watchers. However, she needs me right now. She needs me close and there is no way for me to get to her. Even the Maker's call would only get her to the door.

Speaking of which, why haven't my trusted guards freed me yet? There is no way that they wouldn't come to my aid, unless they were also detained or dead. Since I can still feel them, I know that it's the former.

UGH - This is an outrage! I will have all their heads for this. How dare they lock me away without just cause? Why haven't they told more to Cataliades. Other than searching the files in my office, he did say that one of my underlings has been accused of something most heinous. What that was hasn't been revealed and I shudder to think that it's Compton they are speaking about.

Cataliades also suggests that this incarceration is more for my protection than anything else is. I disagree. My phones don't work and the computers had been taken almost instantly. I walk over to the window once more to watch a sliver of sun reach the horizon before the shutters move into place. I need to get out of here and do damage control. Otherwise, this could very well turn into a blood bath.

***0***

SPOV

I'm pregnant. I'm actually going to have Eric's baby. We are really starting our family! I know we knew this would be but, well, Goddess, this is my most precious dream come true.

I smile up at Eric.

"You are very happy," Eric says. It isn't a question but a statement.

I nod. "Are you?" I ask him. "I know this is all quick but," he stops me with a kiss and the feelings I'm getting from him are anything but upset. I move down in the bed while he moves over me, his need mingling with mine. I know we need this connection. It is what we both desire.

Quicker than a thought, Eric has us both naked and he is hovering over me. I love this flying thing. I'll have to remember it for another time. Right now, I need to feel him. I rake my nails over his strong chest, down his stomach and around his hips. As I move, I can hear a small growl coming from deep within him.

"Eric," I say softly.

He opens his eyes and looks at me as he moves into position. With one thrust, he is in me and I'm complete with him inside me.

"OH, ERIC!" I groan as he starts moving.

"Min Kara, Min vackra kärlek , Du är min hela, mitt allt, mitt ljus ."

"Min...Min...Min Kung," I say as he thrusts into me.

"MIN!" He growls.

Not two thrusts later, we are both over the edge. Again, I see stars, lights, and other things that I can't find words for. As we come down, Eric leans into me and places soft kisses down my chin, neck and across my collarbone.

I feel his weight on me and love it. "Am I hurting you, Min Kara?" He asks me.

I shake my head. "No, Eric I'm fine." I say to him.

He pulls away and out of me. I pout a little which makes him laugh at me.

"You need to drink from me." He says.

I look confused. "I've already taken your blood Eric." I say and blush a little, remember his office. Goddess was that really just a few hours ago?

"Yes, but you heard the doctor," He sits up and moves me in front of me. "Let me give you my blood, then we can dress. I'll call the guards to bring you some Royalty Blended. Then, then we will speak about what's happened since you went to rest."

I nod and move into place. I can hear the crunch that is the sign that Eric has bit into himself. Placing his wrist in front of me, I start to pull on his wound. I feel the love, lust and desire coming from him. I can also feel his gracious plenty on my back and know that if this was any other time, we would be at it again.

"Ah," I hear him moan as he moves his hips in rythmn with my pulls on his wound. Without warning, I am over the edge once more and Eric is right behind me. As we come back to ourselves, I lick his arm clean.

Eric moves and pulls me with him. "Come, let's clean up quickly so we can talk." He says.

This shower is not as pleasant as others that we've had. There is much to do and I know we need to talk. I feel through him that dawn has approached and our time is running short before he will need to leave me.

Once back in the bedroom, I notice that the shutters have been slid into place. Eric comes out of the closet dressed again in lounge pants. I smile as he hands me another nightgown. Again, one that i hadn't owned before today.

He helps me back into bed and smiles at me.

"Dalia?" He calls out.

She opens the door. But before he can say anything, Amelia and Vivi come rushing into the suite, each holding a several bottles.

"Ludwig popped in downstairs before she left," Amelia says. "Is...is it true?" She asks with bright and smiling eyes.

I smile to all three women and nod. A shrieking squeals goes up in the room. The likes of which I've not heard since Tara dragged me to one of those beefcake review shows in Menlo for my twenty first birthday. I look over at Eric. Yeah none of those so called beefcakes could hold a candle to my Vampire. Hmmm, maybe I can get Eric to do one of those strip dances for me sometime. Yum, yum.

I blink when I hear something and turn back to the ladies.

"M'lady, are you feeling okay?" Dalia asks.

I nod again. "I feel much better now, thank you," I say.

Amelia hands me one of the bottles. It feels about room temperature. I look at Eric and he pulls me closer to him.

"Try it, Min Kara. It isn't too bad. Much better than those horrid True Bloods." He shakes his head.

I sigh. "Well, Doctor Ludwig said I need this so here it goes."

I start to drink and honestly it doesn't taste too bad. It's sweeter than I thought it would be. I had imagined that it would taste metalic or bitter. Not that Eric tastes like either of those things. But I don't suspect many if any Vampires would taste as good to me as Eric.

The thought of Bill's blood crosses my mine and I almost gag.

"Do you not like it?" Eric asks.

I shake my head. "No, the blood taste finds. It was just a memory, is all." I shrug.

Eric looks at me for a heart beat. I beg him with my eyes to drop the subject. Thankfully he does, albeit begrudgingly.

"Oh M'Lady, there is so much to do," Amelia says. "Do you know when we will have the blessed event?"

I look to Eric and he answers for me. "About four months. Perhaps earlier," he looks back at me and I can once again feel joy and love coming from him.

He turns back to the women. "If you wouldn't mind," he says. "I know you are all excited. But there is much I want to talk to Sookie about and I've not much time before I will need to retire."

I look at him and then at the three in front of us. He must have informed them that he could stay up past dawn.

They nod and say that they will be back later. The put the rest of the bottles on the night stand and exit our room. I feel them in the other room and soon, Vivi and Amelia go back downstairs. Leaving Dalia outside the doors.

I look back at Eric. "Okay, what's up?" I ask him and take another sip of the blood.

He sighs. "Very well," he begins. "But I want you to keep drinking. If I sense that that this is all too much, we will talk again when I rise." He gives me a look that tells me that this is not up for negotiation. I simply nod. Well there isn't much more I can do now is there?

He takes my hand in his and moves so we are facing one another. I take another sip of the Royalty Blended as he begins. "First off, I want to tell you that a witch named Hallow took Bill from the caravan." He pauses.

"A witch?" I ask. "Why would a witch take Bill?" I ask him.

"I am unsure yet. However, I am aware of who this witch is. In fact, she is who I hired Amelia to search for. She...She has caused trouble in the previous timeline, Min Kara. I wished to remove the problem before she could cause trouble in this timeline."

I nod. It kind of makes sense. Obviously this Hallow made a big problem for Eric in the past. So much so that he thought it wise to take offensive action. It still doesn't explain why she took Bill though.

"I am unsure why she took Compton or even how she knew where to find him. It is, however, apparent that she is working for someone." He pauses for a moment. "It never occurred to me that Hallow was doing things in our previous time for any other reasons than her own. It is possible that she was working for someone then as well. Though, what she wants with Bill is still a mystery." He shakes his head. "Regardless, security has been increased and Amelia has put some wards up around the compound." I'm about to ask him what kind of wards when he continues. "As an added precaution, her teacher will be coming up from New Orleans to assist in our protection. She should be here by the time you rise this day."

I take another sip and nod. Okay, Eric is doing everything to keep us safe. I wouldn't expect anything else. Maybe I can help with the wards. If I'm so powerful, I should be able to do something.

Eric touches the side of my face. "I want you to know that everything being done is for your protection. I am aware that, with your talents ,you would be able to take care of yourself. However, you have not used them in such a long time and what you have used has been under duress. You will have several guards besides Stefan and Dalia until the threat is resolved or eliminated. Please do not argue this, as we are doing it to keep you safe."

I would argue it. But I see in his eyes the fear that I saw earlier. Plus, now we have a little one to worry about. I place my hand on my belly. Eric smiles at me and places his hand over mine.

"Eric, I'm not going to argue with you," I say. "I know there is more going on and I will do anything to keep you and our family safe."

He sends joy, love, and pride to me and I return it.

We stay like that for a few moments until we return to our conversation.

"I also want you to be aware, that you can come to the safe room any time you feel you need to." He says. "But, the entire area in encased with iron." He pauses. "It is protection against any Fae intrusion. With your family history, I feel that the iron would weaken you. It probably wouldn't damage you permanently, but, with the forces coming after us, I wish not to take that chance. You will need to be at your strongest. If you feel that threatened, however, come to me. No others will be able to enter and you and our child will be safe." He says and looks down at my belly once more.

I nod. I wouldn't do anything to put me or the baby in harm's way. I may be stubborn, but I'm not stupid.

"Good, now with respect to safety, I've spoken to Stan. We will be heading to Texas the night after next at first dark. I feel that this will be a time for you to be a bit calmer before we need to meet with Council. I thought it was a good idea before. Now I think it even a better one." He smiles slightly. "You will need to shop today for clothes to wear to court. Once in Dallas, you can shop as well. I know that your things have been brought to you from the farmhouse. However, I'm sure you remember that there are certain protocols and requirements that need to be adhered to in the presence of a Monarch.

I'm sure either Adele or Patricia instructed you on the politics of it all. It will become part of our daily life soon. We should get used to it."

"But Eric, we shouldn't have to stand on ceremony with Stan, should we?" I ask him.

He shrugs, "when we are alone with him, no. But if we attend his court for any reason, we will need to keep up appearances. We do not wish to show our cards so early in the game." He smirks.

Cards? This feels more like a life size chess game. Moving pieces into play, setting up strategy and counter strategies to combat moves. Yes, I would think this is more of a chess game than a card game.

He continues. "Next is something that is most important for you to know." He says. "It is why Bobby had difficulty finding information on you and why the dog came to the club." He pauses. I know it's not a long pause but it sure feels that way.

"Eric, what?" I ask.

He picks up another bottle and hands it to me. I look down. I hadn't noticed that I finished the first. I hand him the empty bottle and take another long gulp.

"Min Kara," he says softly. "Susannah, you know that you are not a Stackhouse." I nod. "You also know that the spells used to hide you gave you that identity." I nod again.

"But when Pappa connected our two pendants, I remembered." I say to him and take another sip.

Eric nods. "Exactly the point," he says. "I instructed Bobby to look into some of your documents the other evening so that we could complete your contract. He couldn't find anything on Sookie Stackhouse." Okay, what?

"Sookie, he could not locate a birth certificate, driver's license or even a tax return. This is what the Shifter was talking about when he was yelling at the club."

I have no documents? That's crazy. My driver's license is in my bag. I've submitted tax returns for the last few years. There must be something I'm missing.

"Eric, what…what do you mean there is nothing on record about me?" I ask him. "What has happened to me?" I ask.

He motions for me to take another sip and I do.

"As I understand it, the wards and spells that Fintan used to place the magick around you could only be accomplished by tapping into your powers. As long as you thought you were Sookie Stackhouse, everyone else believed it too. Now that you know the truth, the veil is coming down around them. As far as Bon Temps is concerned, Sookie Stackhouse doesn't exist."

He stops there for a moment. What does this all mean? I don't exist as a Stackhouse? What does he mean; I don't exist to the people of Bon Temps? These are people I see every day. People I work with, some I consider my friends. If I don't exist then who the hell am I? I take a deep breath and close my eyes.

"Min Kara, drink please." He says. "I feel your anxiety rising and you need to stay calm. You must stay calm. Think of our child."

I nod and sip, still holding my eyes shut. I focus on my breathing and the feelings of love coming from Eric. The three things begin to sooth me. I open my eyes to see the worry and pain in Eric's face. I try to smile but I know it doesn't reach my eyes.

"We can stop there," he says to me.

I shake my head. "No, I need to know, Eric."

"Min Kara," he begins.

"Eric, I'm okay. You can't leave me thinking like this. I need to know the whole story so I can deal, please?" I ask.

I feel resolve in the bond. He nods and continues.

"I have spoken to Fintan and there is no way around this. The veil is coming down and it cannot be put back. Any humans that were under the spell are not aware of you any longer. Supes, on the other hand do remember. That is why the Shifter still knows who you are. I have also learned that Jason will remember you, because the magick done to change his mind was not the same as what Fintan used to hide you. Vivianne equates it to Vampire glamour. Jason's mind was wiped of his old memories and false ones were put in their place. We may have to deal with him later. But we will discuss that at some other time."

I nod in agreement. There is enough to deal with, without throwing Jason into the mix. For now, I'll focus on the issue at hand.

"This is a double edged sword, if you will," Eric continues.

"How do you mean?" I ask him.

"Well, the good news is that you no longer exist as Sookie Stackhouse. Therefore, the Fellowship will not be able to locate you. This is very good in that they will be chasing a ghost. Any one of them that goes looking for Sookie Stackhouse will come up empty and Jason's stories of you will not be able to be proven. Even if they have documentation on you already, it will be false. Every way they try to find you, they will find nothing." He says.

That's true. If they are looking for Sookie Stackhouse the road will lead to a dead end.

I look up at Eric. "What about the house, my things, Gran's things?" I ask him.

"Your things were brought here by Bobby. I'm sure that Fintan has seen to Adele's needs. As for the house, from what the Shifter said, it looks like it hasn't been lived in for years."

Hasn't been lived in? How could that be?

I look at him and he can see and feel my confusion.

"Min Kara, I don't pretend to understand all the magick that was used to keep you safe. I suspect you would understand it more. This veil has come down and all the illusion has been stripped away."

I sigh. "The last twenty years was just smoke and mirrors," I say.

"Susannah," he says to me. I look up into his beautiful eyes. "All was done to keep you safe. I'm sorry this is distressing you. But it doesn't change who you are. You have always been my Promise and you always will be, regardless of your name."

I look at him for a moment. It is almost exactly what my mother had said to me.

I smile at him and he smiles back.

"Fintan will be sending documents to you. He said if we look for you, we will find information to support your identity under your true name. I believe that the papers will inform you of your new identity. Rather, it's your very old identity with some modifications to bring it up to date, I would assume. We needed to do this with Vampires before we came out into the public eye. I would suspect that any creatures who live as long as us would have needed to do the same."

I nod. "I guess if Joe Smith was over a hundred years old, people would find it curious that he doesn't look a day over thirty." I say to him.

He nods. "I will leave you Fintan's number to call him if you have any questions after you've read the papers."

I sit there for a moment absorbing everything he's told me. I should have expected something like this. I mean, I knew the magick wouldn't be permanent. It was only to keep me safe until I was ready to go to Eric. Now I have him, and Gran can be with Fintan. Now that only leaves…

I look wide eyed at Eric. "What about Niall?" I ask him.

I know he can feel my fear and anxiety rising. He pushes love and calm to me.

"Drink, Sookie," he says in a very stern voice.

I drink down the bottle and he hands me another one. I finish half before he begins again.

"Fintan says that you will be able to ward him off until we meet with Council. True, with the veil down, he could track you. The question is, after all these years, would he?"

I suspect he never stopped. But I leave that little bit of information to myself.

"Fintan assures me that you will be fine. The wards will keep you and our child safe until the Pledge. After which, it would be suicide for Brigant to come after you. Well," he shrugs, "it would be suicide now. However, the Council would be involved if he interfered with a Pledged pair," he pulls me close, "especially one that is Pledged out of love."

I let him take me into his arms. I think we both need the closeness.

We sit there for a very long time. I can feel through the bond that Eric is starting to feel the pull of the day.

I look up at him. "You need to rest," I say to him.

He looks down at me. "I'll leave once you fall back to sleep," he says.

I lean back into him and allow myself to relax.

Yes a lot has happened but I won't let it upset me. There is too much at stake now. I need to be strong, not only for Eric, but for our baby as well.

I drift off thinking of Eric, me and our children running around in the sunshine and laughing.

***0***