Fic: Honorable Sons
Author: josieh
Pairing: Spike/Angel
Rating: Mature Audiences (M/M sexual content)
Parts: 16 - 20 of ?
Summary: The final battle came at a terrible price. Can our boys recover some of what they've lost? Do they want to?
Spoilers: Post end of S5 AtS so Minor if any
Author's Note: Don't own the characters etc and bow down to their original creators Joss, et al., plus all the wonderful online writers who continue to give them life.
#16
They had sent Connor back in the limousine solo at close to one in the morning, having paddled (as Spike liked to put it), eaten nachos and talked for hours about nothing in particular. There was a commitment to meet again within the month, and a promise of contact on a regular basis, particularly if Connor 'needed to talk'. Spike had empathized deeply with the young man, having lived with his mother dying from what he now knew to be tuberculosis. The connection, and the support from 'his family' would hopefully prevent more of the horrendous killer dreams that Angel had been channeling of late.
The two weeks following Connor's reentry into their lives had seen Angel's recovery accelerate incredibly. Spike continued to feed his Sire at least once a day, but in the second week admitted quietly to F'Iaid that it was more for their mutual comfort than ongoing need. F'Iaid had smiled enigmatically at the confession and encouraged Spike to continue his fine efforts as carer.
The wheel chair had given way to a general 'walker' for longer distances; which after four days, was relinquished in favor of dual walking canes; and by the end of the second week, Angel found that only a single cane was needed.
The convalescent had walked to the pool unaided for the last two nights, including taking the stairs. Spike felt a prick of pride as his Sire turned with a wide grin at the milestone achievement of walking all the way back to the apartment door unaided for the second time in a row, even after his exercises in the pool.
As they entered the apartment, Spike threw the keys on the side table in the hall and made for the kitchen to heat up some blood for both of them. "You right to shower solo pet?"
Still slower than his partner, Spike was well out of sight before Angel shut the door, so he called out, "Sure, but still rather share."
Spike belatedly realized the tone and the implication. His Sire really was getting better, but Spike was beginning to realize something new. This was somehow a less broody ensouled vampire than pre dragon; this was a Sire who now apparently saw his Childe as unlife companion; who seemed to consider 'his Will' an equal in every way. For Spike it was, in equal measure, the most frightening and exciting thing he had ever discovered.
Arousal was not necessarily piqued by the blonde's musings, however standing in the doorway observing his nude Sire step into the shower signaled instant arousal. Spike gazed lovingly at the figure, rounded pale buttocks and slim but increasingly muscular legs, the broad chest and now defined muscles in his arms. Angel stood under the jet of water, face into the heated cascade, the steam giving the impression that he was standing amongst the clouds. Spike groaned and stripped with preternatural speed.
Angel knew his Childe was in the room, but was still surprised when strong arms on his thighs while his chest leant across Angel's back. His significant other's hand stroked Angel's manhood to swift arousal and he slid down to caress the treasured muscular cheeks of the backside with his tongue. He smiled at his Childe's concept of joining him for a wash.
Along with the caresses from his kneeling Childe, Angel could just make out the continuous faint purr and the occasionally sighed word… "Sire."
Angel was grateful for the wall as Spike's ministrations continued. The older vampire closed his eyes and rested his forehead against his arms, now crossed on the shower wall. He pushed his backside against the onslaught. Spike breached the tight ring of muscles once, then removed his mouth and hands, and stood. He gently cupped his Sire's chin and turned the elder vampire, kissed him passionately, then waited for permission to go further, with eyes down submissively, as was vampiric custom for a Childe.
"Please Will… Just…! Need you inside, please!"
Spike looked toward the bedroom, silently questioning the brunette as to whether he needed physical relief by shifting their activity to a more horizontal venue. Angel simply whispered "I'm OK. Please… Just… Please!"
Permission granted, the blonde maneuvered Angel to face the tiles again, grabbed the conditioner, and squeezed a liberal amount over his fingers. Spike's chest rested on his Sire's broad back and he reached around to take his lover's hardness with one slicked hand.
Angel leaned against the wall again, water cascading down his back and groaned. Spike whispered "I've got you… I'm gonna love you 'til you scream… Just relax luv, just relax," then breached him swiftly with two fingers. Angel pushed back, encouraging the third finger and enjoying the renewed feeling of confidence in his strengthening body. The tip of Spike's middle finger ran over his prostate, pressing into it in time to the renewed rhythm of the hand on his hardness. Angel arched a little, pressing back further onto the intruding hand.
"You ready for me, Sire? OK to stay here while I take you?" Continuing to stroke Angel's rock hard shaft, Spike withdrew his fingers from the hole and waited.
Angel pushed back as the hand withdrew and began to beg. "Oh God Will! Just do it, please. Please! Now… Please!"
Spike took the conditioner again, this time slicking his own rock hard erection and sunk in with one swift movement. Watching his marble hard shaft pushing into the tight rear almost caused him to come on the spot. The older vampire hissed his approval, waited momentarily to adjust, before pushing back enthusiastically and growling, "Please… deeper… harder."
After months of gentle loving, this rigorous move from Angel was unexpected but thoroughly welcomed. "Hold on Sire, we'll get there yeah… let's just…" Spike flung his free arm around the larger vampire's waist taking some of the weight and began slow powerful thrusts, gradually increasing the speed and intensity. Angel lost himself in the exquisite sensation, groaning and panting his approval in time with the blissful penetration and stroking.
Spike's grip tightened around his partner's erection and he sped up even further, the tingle in his own groin signaling the beginning of release. He whispered "Come with me, Angel, come on lover…" then bit deep into the shoulder in front of him. Angel screamed his release and washed the wall in front of him with jet after jet of cool seed. As Spike felt the muscles around him spasm and squeeze impossibly tight, his own orgasm erupted and he joyfully filled his Sire. Spike slumped forward, wrapping around his partner's back as they both came down, then began to lick the skin under him in a gentle caress.
Both sated and relaxed, they stood up in the now cooling shower. Angel turned off the water, eased around to accept a passionate kiss from his lover then smiled as Spike reached for a large fluffy white towel, wrapping the older vampire in it before grabbing his own. "C'mon pet, not sure how your legs are holding up, but I need a decent snuggle and snooze to get over that…"
Spike woke under soft covers to the sensation of a hand stroking languidly down his cheekbone and cool legs beginning to entwine his own. His azure blue gaze met affectionate dark chocolate, as eyes fluttered open. He reciprocated the loving smile he saw there, snaked one arm under his Sire's neck and flung the other over the hips in front of him. He pulled Angel close for an adoring hug, and they both smiled with satisfaction as reciprocal happy purrs began.
Spike eventually broke the embrace to look at the time. "You hungry?"
Angel blinked slowly then gave his lover a seductive smirk, "For what exactly?"
"You couldn't possibly! After last night! Thought you were a bloody invalid!" The incredulous tone didn't quite match his actions, as Spike snuggled closer and felt his partner's hardening member pushing against his own hip.
"Haven't buggered you for… ever Will. Now that I am almost healed, will you do me the honor of letting me take you, making us one?"
Spike snorted and was just about to give a disgusted retort regarding his own impaling of himself on his sire just nights before, when he realized the question. This was not a simple discussion of 'who topped whom'. A tight feeling in his chest and sudden burn in his eyes accompanied his next question, "Are you asking what I think…?"
Angel began to stroke the blonde's face again. "I want to be in you Will, I want that now. But I think you know that I am asking for more than that." Angel looked up hopefully, "I'm asking you to partner with me, to declare us mated, according to vampiric lore." When Spike said nothing, Angel continued with his justification. "I will be well enough for the ceremony in a few weeks… Spike? And… well, Willow will be back by then, and I can ask Connor for his approval tonight,… if you agree, that is."
Spike took an obvious breath in and a tear tracked across a well defined cheek, "Course I will you bloody idiot, did you think you needed to ask?"
"I'm not talking Sire and Childe, Spike, I want you as lover, as friend, as partner, confidant,…" Angel began accompanying his words with gentle kisses across Spike's forehead and down to his willing lips, "As paramour, mentor, my darling, my love match… my soul mate, my only… my beloved…" As he trailed the kisses below the blonde's jawline, Spike arched his neck back, inviting confirmation of the words in blood. He was rewarded by the searing pain of a bite and ultimate pleasure as several drafts were taken, then his Sire's neck was offered in reciprocation. The truth was in the blood. Angel was almost healed. Angel was happy. Angel wished to mate with him formally, as vampires did.
#17
Despite Angel's recovery Spike had prepared himself and insisted on beginning the encounter with a gentle coupling lying on their side. His back against his lover's torso, the blonde welcomed the straining member of his Sire into his body with a sigh, and let Angel take control.
Once embedded, Angel paused for a few seconds to let his partner adjust and felt down to grasp Spike's sex. He slowly licked and nipped up the back of Spike's neck, finally settling his mouth over the ancient siring mark as he began to move his hips at a leisurely pace. The hand on Spike's member was caressing and stroking in time with the relaxed thrusts of the bigger vampire. Spike began a mantra of heavy sighs and 'I love you' s timed to match the rhythmic touches.
Almost an hour later found Spike desperate to increase the pace and the pressure. Angel had discovered the perfect angle to touch his partner's prostate with every slow stroke, some time in the previous half hour, and was gradually sending the blonde insane with need. "Please, Sire. Please go harder if you can… please!"
Angel pushed his partner onto his front, Spike bending his knees slightly and spreading them wide. "C'mon pet, finish me off… please…" After the lengthy, loving warm up, Angel had no trouble thrusting back in. He re-established the best angle, then took Spike's manhood in hand again. Spike began to meet each thrust with equal force as the pace sped up. Angel looked down and watched as the hard shaft entered and withdrew repeatedly. For the first time in over a year, Angel felt truly powerful, and adored the beautiful vampire he was coupling with even more. As climax approached, the pace became erratic, and he leaned forward to bite hard at the juncture of neck and shoulder. Spike arched in ecstasy, spilling his seed on the bed beneath and tipping his Sire over the edge. Spike felt the flush of cool liquid in his bowels, seconds before they both collapsed onto the bed.
Some time later, Spike's eyes fluttered open to the sensation of a large body covering him and a semi hard member still deeply embedded in his rear.
"You OK luv?" When no answer was forthcoming, recent history kicked in and Spike became concerned. "Pet?" Still no response. "Please Sire… You alright?" This time Spike felt the body above him shift a little. "Sire?"
Angel groaned a little, then slid out as he rolled off his partner. "Wonderful... Ahh Will… Perfect… Just… I love you so much…" Angel finished his speech by claiming Spike's lips and snuggling until they were completely wrapped around each other.
The only reply from Spike was, "Love you too."
With that, both fell into a satisfied sleep that lasted over twelve hours, well into the mid afternoon.
Spike woke first, lying for several minutes simply enjoying the sensation of being spooned by the larger body behind him. Eventually the arm over his hip squeezed him tight, and a happy purring from behind began to vibrate them both. Spike smiled and turned a little toward his partner, "Afternoon pet."
His healed wound from the previous night was licked lovingly before a sleep roughened voice replied, "Hey lover."
Spike melted back into the embrace until a shrill, persistent ring-tone forced him to answer the phone.
"Dad?"
"Hey Connor, I'll just get him."
Spike handed over the phone and watched as Angel rolled onto his back and took the call.
"Hi… Yeah… Oh a lot better, really good workout last night." Spike wiggled his eyebrows and stroked his partner's sex, receiving a knowing grin, then a silent plea to cease and desist.
"How's your mom?... Oh… well, that's good right?... That's great… so umm… would you like to go out and we can celebrate? Spike and I have something to tell you too… No!... Of course not, we like it here… OK… say 7.30 for dinner? Seafood OK?... Right, well, I thought Farallon, Union Square?... You OK to get a cab and we'll meet you there? Don't worry about the cost - our treat."
Arrangements were finalized and Angel had only just finished the call when the phone rang a second time.
"Hello? F'Iaid! Something wrong?... No, no, sorry… So?... Oh!... When?" Spike, listening in, was initially worried, but as Angel smiled with the conversation, he relaxed and snaked his arm around the brunette's waist again.
"Do you think she will be up to a meal out?... No, tonight with Connor – something we'd like to share… Farallon at 7.30…That would be great! Even if you get there late,… booking will be under 'Aurelius'… terrific, hope to see you… You too." With that, Angel hung up and turned to kiss his partner soundly.
"Any clues pet?"
"Willow's back"
"Already? The dark witch must really be something!" Spike gave a wicked grin, but knew that they both felt genuinely pleased by the fact that Willow had found someone special.
A few hours later, both vampires had eaten prior to leaving and were dressing. Angel had already spent a great deal of time getting ready. So much so, that Spike had begun to mutter insults that harked back to their days in LA. This all ceased when Angel pulled out two beautiful silk shirts, thanked Spike sincerely for purchasing them for him, then asked his Childe to choose his Sire's outfit.
Another smile was evoked when they both realized that they had dressed with matching black ribbons tying back their, now long, locks. Spike leaned forward and whispered, "Just like old times, ay Sire?" Angel simply stroked the soft blonde curls below the ribbon and answered, "No. Better."
Angel left his cane at home for the first time and was standing unaided at the door of the atmospheric restaurant with an air of accomplishment, as Connor joined them.
"Hey."
"Connor." Angel smiled and shook his son's hand.
They were led to their table, Connor noting the elaborate decor, chandeliers in the shape of giant jellyfish, intimate sea colored arches, sea themed sculptures and original art on every inch of wall space. Just as they were settled, Spike, who was facing the entrance, stood, smiled broadly and nodded his head in acknowledgement. Seconds later, F'Iaid and Willow were ushered over to join then.
Both Angel and Connor also stood as they greeted and reintroduced.
Dinner and wines were ordered, Angel taking charge of the latter. Two bottles of Veuve Clicquot vintage arrived on the table promptly and orders for the remainder of the night were dealt with swiftly. The dinner was a mixed affair – all parties preferring to share their fare, rather than order large solo meals. In the end, the helpful waiter 'Georgio', suggested then provided, a veritable feast of finger food platters to share. Angel noted the amiable young man's willingness to assist, well above and beyond what would normally be expected. He determined to thank him generously later.
They caught up with Willow's news first. Connor had not seen the witch since the LA/Angelus encounter some three years earlier, and was still in awe of her power and composure. Angel held the floor as he explained the happenings in San Fransisco since Willow had left, squeezing Spike's hand as every harsh memory was relived. Then reaching to Connor, to reassure his boy as Willow was reminded of the very recent nightmares and their cause.
F'Iaid had hardly spoken all night. She finally squeezed her partner's hand and leaned forward conspiratorially to Spike. "You must tell them!" The others heard and stopped the conversation.
Suddenly in the spotlight Spike paused, "Right… Well…" He reached over and took Angel's hand, found approval in the adoring eyes and cleared his throat.
"We've decided to go through with the ceremony… to mate… according to lore… and… well… we'd like your approval Connor… as a member of the Aurelian clan we need that… And we would like your blessing witches… if you are willing." Spike paused, looking hopefully at their fellow diners.
Connor was the first to speak, and surprised all present by answering with a formal vampiric statement of fealty, love and familial approval, "I acknowledge you William, as Childe of my father and soon to be his beloved chosen mate. I bow to your seniority and your place in the clan and congratulate you father, and you William, on your partnership." With that, Connor kissed both his father and Spike on their left cheeks, whispering "I love you, I trust you, just be happy OK?"
As dessert and coffee were ordered, the date was set for a week hence, the ceremony discussed and the venue fixed - F'Iaid's abode easily the best choice.
The remainder of the evening was pleasant, to the point where none of the group saw the tall figure approaching as they waited at the entrance for the final taxi to arrive. Angel was just about to reach for the door of their ride, when a tall figure stepped in front of them menacingly, "Vampires…!"
#18
It was Connor's turn to feel fear through the link. He had only just shut the door of his taxi when the jolt through the blood bond caused him to stop the driver and jump from the vehicle.
The Witches were in the cab directly behind, and did likewise as they witnessed Connor's act.
Within seconds, Connor had pushed Spike and his father aside and had the assailant' who seemed to be threatening the pair, pinned to the car, twisting his weapon arm behind his back until the hand dropped the stake it was carrying.
A female form skidded to a halt at the rear of the taxi. "Rob… Angel?" Angel frowned then recognized the grinning brunette as she stepped from the darkness. "Faith?"
"Geez Big guy! How? Man 's good to see you! Andrew said you got taken out. Last big battle that sort of thing." She then nodded at Connor "See you still haven't got junior there a muzzle. Might have one at home you could use. You mind lettin' go my other half there…. Connor wasn't it?"
Angel nodded at him. Connor gave his charge a final threatening push, then relented, released his captive and moved over to stand by his father.
Spike stepped forward from the shadows to join his Sire.
Faith stared in amazement. "You too? What? You guys got a permanent revolving door on the whole death gig or what? Nice t' see you blondie – and gotta say… the matching hair ribbons? Very San Fran."
The man Connor had been restraining looked a little taken aback by Spike's emergence, but acknowledged the vampire, "Spike."
"Wood." Spike folded his arms around himself protectively.
Angel looked confused, as did Connor, but both felt the tension through the bond, so stepped back to flank the blonde.
"Heard you were dust."
Spike's eyes narrowed. "Yeah well, sorry to disappoint. Shouldn't always believe everything you hear."
Faith stepped in front of her partner. "C'mon lover, play nice."
Spike noted his Sire's legs beginning to falter and snaked a supportive arm around the slim waist, then turning to Connor gave a brisk, "Gotta get our ol' Da off his pins, can you get the door?"
Connor moved toward the taxi, Faith and Robin stepped aside to let him open the door. He gave the driver curt nod, "You'll be paid for your time."
Spike led Angel to the car and eased him into the back seat just as Willow and F'Iaid joined the group.
"Wills? Geez the gang's all here! Thought you were slayer training with Giles? 'Sup?…" Faith stopped mid sentence as the regal figure of F'Iaid came into full view, "And I thought I'd cornered the market on tall, dark and beautiful! I am assuming…?"
Willow blushed and smiled knowingly at Faith.
"Well, you go girl!" The dark slayer stepped forward and offered a handshake, "Hi, I'm Faith and this is my 'sig' other, Robin."
F'Iaid graced the woman with a stunning smile, took the offered hand and squeezed it slightly, "F'Iaid."
Faith then turned back to the cab where Spike was crouched between the knees of a seated Angel, hands in his, kissing each in turn whilst whispering reassurances. Connor stood only inches away looking concerned. Faith had heard of the vampire relationships between Sire and Childe, yet was struck by the devotion and adoration apparent in Spike's actions, and by the loving reciprocation from the brunette. She shook her head a little, and began to look at Angel more carefully. Seated, it was clear he was far thinner than she remembered, certainly a far cry from the imposing form of Angelus during their Los Angeles encounter.
Spike turned to the group. "Listen folks, me ol' Sire here is a bit knackered. We've got a nightcap and floor space, if you're inclined come with. But, I'm takin' the old bloke home."
Willow was looking equally exhausted. She touched F'Iaid on the arm, then answered for both of them. "I would rather if we visit in a day or two. Nice to see you Faith, Robin…"
Connor leaned into the car and kissed his father on the forehead. "Sleep well, Dad. I'll call you tomorrow." He nodded to Faith as the three moved to find transport.
Faith smiled briefly at Robin, then turned to the vampires. "Guess that's our cue. So… you guy's got a cell or somethin'?"
Spike borrowed a pen from the somewhat bemused cab driver and scribbled their number onto Faith's arm.
"'S been fun, blondie. Talk soon, yeah?"
Spike grabbed the dark slayer's hand and squeezed it affectionately, "Cheers luv."
Little was said on their way home, Spike content to simply hold his Sire's hand, as the exhausted elder shut his eyes and rested. Recognizing his partner's limits, the blonde carried him from the cab to their bed, refusing the weak pleas for independence in favor of expediency. Having settled his partner comfortably, he downed three bags of blood in quick succession, then opened his wrist and let his Sire suckle until they both succumbed to slumber.
The days following their evening out and the impromptu reunion comprised a strange combination of high's and low's.
The high's were easy. Connor rang twice on the first day. The first time to check on F'Iaid's address, followed by another call to excitedly report his results for the previous semester - all high distinctions. He rang again mid-week to ask if his two college friends would be able to come over to meet his 'real Dad'. Angel was thrilled beyond measure. There was a definite low that accompanied the high however, as Angel drove Spike almost mad with his obsessive attention to the appearance of the apartment, insisting that everything be just 'perfect' for his son's visit.
A definite high occurred mid-week, coming in the form of Willow and F'Iaid. The two enamored witches graced the vampires with their combined calm presence almost every day, and quietly advised and assisted with all the details for the mating ceremony that was to occur at the weekend.
Faith also phoned mid-week. She and Robin had been called away for a few days, something about helping out at the Cleaveland Hellmouth for a short time. Spike told her of the coming ceremony, then practically heard the wicked smirk through the phone as she wished them well, then asked if they needed a sisterly chat regarding honeymoons and nuptial expectations.
One low was harder to cope with. Angel continued to struggle with his still recovering body, acutely aware of his limitations as he and Spike increased their training and began sparring. His body remembered fighting moves, but residual muscle weakness meant his balance was still unreliable. The lack of speed left him with little choice but to defend more often than attack, and absolute fatigue saw him beginning to shake uncontrollably toward the end of a mere half hour of light sparring on the first day. They both knew his full strength was returning, but it still did not stop him from sulking for several hours the afternoon Spike pinned him to the mat with three easy moves.
One night later, Spike had left their bedchamber in a huff after Angel refusal to hurt him, despite repeated requests, along with the far too timely appearance of an elegant, hand-crafted, black leather riding crop, and antique ivory handled boning knife. They had not broached the issue of pain/pleasure needs in vampire love-play as their own coupling had begun again during recovery, but Angel recognized the issue as one that would need to be resolved before the weekend – even if only with a promise.
Another high occurred toward the end of the week. Connor stopped on Friday evening with his two college friends. They were on their way to a party somewhere in Berkeley, as Connor called from his cell phone to ask if the timing was appropriate. Spike had his doubts about pulling Connor 'back to the fold' but Angel was so pleased with the thought that Connor was including him in his 'real life', that the blonde could not refuse.
The soft knock on the apartment door announced the arrival of the trio – Connor, John and 'Shorty' (alias Anthony). The latter had apparently been the smallest student in the class entering the first year of junior high. Now he measured just shy of six foot six inches, with a substantially broad chest and thick muscles to match, yet somehow the name had stuck. John, on the other hand, was slender, more of Spike's stature, and reminded both vampire's of Wesley in a way – the blue eyes, the slight build, the dark hair and studious looks.
All three students were struck by the affectionate welcome Connor's birth father and his partner Will, afforded them. Both vampires smirked as they stood in the kitchen fetching drinks for their guests and listened in to the hushed conversation out on the deck.
It was Shorty's baritone that was most audible, "Man he must've been young when he had you! Seems pretty cool about the whole 'out' and parent thing now though, right?
Connor had not given an answer before the voice continued, "Have they always been… you know, he and Will… Not that I wouldn't if I was a switch hitter….God! Did you see those blue eyes, and the lashes!"
Connor interjected, "'S been good to find him again now mom is sick. And he kind of gets it 'cause he's been out of action for almost a year too, had a bad accident. Will nursed him back," Connor went silent for a few moments. "Anyways, he and Will are tying the knot Saturday… kinda cool that."
It was John's turn to speak, "So you gonna have an adoptive dad, a birth dad and a step dad! Man that's kinda weird, I mean not bad just… San Fran really isn't it."
Angel heard Connor's good natured muttering, "Oh you don't know the half of it," and smiled to himself… no they really didn't.
#19
Spike was fidgeting again, fussing with his wallet and complaining about flawed cab driver etiquette for the fourth time in as many minutes (apparently a generic population group as far as the vampire was concerned). So it was up to Angel to knock on F'Iaid's door.
Angel's face lit up when it was Connor who answered.
His son pulled him into a warm hug, then turned to Spike with a wicked grin and thinly disguised fake-shocked expression on his face. "Hey Dad… Thought you weren't supposed to see the bride before the ceremony!"
Spike's eyes narrowed, then flashed gold, "You watch who you're bloody well calling the bird in this scenario mate… could be your ol' Da here wears the skirt! God knows he's got the whole cleaning thing down pat."
"Yeah, yeah…" Connor pulled the blonde into the hug and smiled as Spike relaxed easily into the embrace, then gave him a 'manly' peck on the forehead for his trouble.
"Thanks for bein' here pet."
Willow was almost bouncing in the doorway of the lounge as they stepped inside. "Well…. Come on… Oh Goddess, I am so… just… Well… we're all ready and…" She ushered them into the room with a series of gestures and half finished sentences.
It was F'Iaid who took control of the proceedings.
"If you are ready, we will begin."
Both Spike and Angel stilled instantly, then reached for the hand of their, soon to be, mated other.
"You will remove your clothes, wash and put these on. You must kneel in the circle – we have marked your place. You must cleanse your bodies alone to begin... Who is to be first?"
The two vampires noted the pentagram of salt with a circle at its centre on the floor of the room, and also the fifty or so strategically placed candles. F'Iaid handed them both what appeared to be oversized, black, button-down shirts with no collar, and indicated the door to their left. There was a shower room and space to change.
Spike deferred to his elder – habit of the last year dictating his thoughts that the less time Angel needed to stand, the better. Regardless of Angel's recovery, it now seemed Spike's perpetual roll to be 'concerned'. He need not have worried, after only minutes, the water turned off and he was the one washing…
Returning to the ceremony room, the vampires knelt side by side facing the north, a position marked by one of the points on the pentagram. The shafts of light from the carefully placed candles smacked of an accuracy that would have made even the most finicky of a Feng Shui masters proud.
F'Iaid, Willow and Connor approached them with a large polished grey marble bowl. Both vampires breathed unnecessarily as they smelt the combined blood of the three in the ground out hollow of the vessel Willow was holding. The ceremony had begun.
The three began to chant.
"We bless you both with the Blood of family. Nos beatus vos utriusque per Cruor of prosapia." Connor held up his still dripping wrist.
"With the Blood of a friend. Per Cruor of amicus."
Willow exposed the cut on her inner elbow.
"With the Blood of a healer. Per Cruor of a vigoratus."
F'Iaid revealed the deep slice across her palm.
All three wounds dripped their precious fluid into the bowl.
"Please, acknowledge our blessing. Commodo , agnosco nostrum bona"
The three knelt before the vampires just outside the circle.
"And join our beloved brothers in blood. Quod suo nostrum carus frater in cruor."
Willow held out the bowl, Spike took it and placed it just in front of Angel and his own knees.
"For all time and in all dimensions, acknowledging these two as one for all to see. Pro totus vicis quod in totus dimensions, agnosco illa duos ut unus pro totus video vidi visum."
With the last words Spike held his wrist up to his Sire's mouth and a reciprocal action was played out. They bit down simultaneously with razor sharp fangs then held their dripping wounds over the bowl. As the first two drops of combined vampire blood mixed with the contents of the bowl, the effect was near explosive.
A swirl of light came from the liquid mixture, spiraling upward and engulfing the two ancient creatures in a blaze of light.
Inside the circle, Spike and Angel were almost oblivious to the stunning light show being witnessed by their three onlookers.
Utterly engrossed in each other, each took their counterpart's dripping limb in hand and laved it until healed. Then instinctive urges began to drive their movements. Urges stronger than any either had experienced anytime previously, overshadowing the bloodlust, instinct, or even the fealty to Sire on their night of emergence from turning. They moved toward each other in full game face, each lifting their left hand to caress the ridges and trace the feline like features from forehead to razor sharp canines. Fingers pricked by the incisor of their 'other', light trails of blood were traced from mouth to navel.
Spike pulled them both down until they were lying side by side facing each other within the confines of the pentagram. Spike face to crotch with Angel.
The smaller vampire sighed heavily at the musky scent, then gave in to instinct and bit hard into the femoral artery exposed by the simple act of lying 'sixty nine' fashion. As he did so, the artery of his own inner thigh was pierced and the cycle of blood began.
Both vampires felt their erections fly to instant hardness as the blood was sucked rhythmically from so close to their sex.
Spike reached around to take his Sire in hand at the same moment as the blood began to flow. His own hardness was taken by a strong fist at the same moment, and a pumping began as he felt sharp pain of arteries breached and the circle of blood completed. They sucked in time with the action of their hands.
As they both approached completion, fangs withdrew and words in the demon tongue of their ancestors sprang forth instinctively. Moving with synchronized precision, the two vampires shifted until they were lying side by side, facing each other, still within the sacred space. Both faces now bore the blood markings of recent familial feeding.
Spike spoke first. In a husky whisper he managed to grind out, "I offer you all that I am. I offer you me, your Childe. Me, your lover. Me, Master vampire of your own line, and master of the line of Aurelius. I am blood of your blood. Everything I have is yours. Everything I am, I give to you. I wish to join with you for all time. When you die, I wish to perish with you. If you accept me, then from this moment forth you are the north for my compass, my partner in unlife, my savior, and my god. This is my vow. I commit myself to your being, in essence and in soul, from this day forth. If you accept, then I am yours totally, an ownership that cannot be undone."
Angel repeated the phrases, simply replacing 'Childe' with 'Sire'.
As he concluded the vows, He felt the tortuous white agony of his soul being torn from his being. His screaming form arched and writhed, matched in pain and action by the vampire next to him. The witches and the son watched in horror as the two forms in the circle contorted in excruciating pain, then gave up that which both had held so precious… At that moment Willow realized what F'Iaid already knew, and placed a magically strengthened hand on Angel's son before he followed his instincts and broke the circle in an effort to 'rescue' his father.
White light rose from each of the writhing figures, followed by a stream of vivid blue, and finally a combination of red and deep gold. Each stream of power seemed to intertwine with its counterpart of the same color then flow through both writing bodies only to rise again and eventually explode and shower the couple with sparks just above their heads.
As the gold shower finished, the two figures became inert. Willow continued to restrain a now openly weeping, Connor.
As the witnesses watched, the vampires began to move. Connor was relieved and thrilled as he observed the two bodies move toward each other, kiss passionately, then begin to move in unified rhythm, their lower hands obviously being put to good use as they ground together.
Like two magnificent beasts of prey they growled their climax as joint fangs descended, took reciprocal drafts of familial from their mate's neck, and completed the ceremonial circle of sex and blood.
Too caught in the joy and amazement of his fathers' joining, Connor realized rather belatedly that he should have been horrified by the scene before him. Rather than feeling repulsed by the blood and sexual exchange, he felt utterly thrilled and somehow at peace at last. He shrugged off the 'Dr Phil' moment in favor of simply appreciating the beauty of what he had just witnessed, and the sense of sated completeness it brought at the most instinctive of levels. He knew through his entire being, that what he had just been a part of, was something so profound in ancient lore, that he, the pure blood son, was now one of a mere handful of beings in thousands of years of vampire history to share a small part of such a profound bond.
Without further thought, Connor lay his head in Willow's lap as she and F'Iaid collapsed onto the cushions, thankful that the dark witch had thought to place behind them, prior to the ceremony.
They all slept.
Angel woke an hour or so later limbs still intertwined with those of his mate. He wriggled a little and was assaulted by an unexpected and erotic set of images of possible couplings from that moment on. Instinctively recognizing them as Spike's thoughts, he snaked out a tongue, licked the pale shell of the ear in front of him and whispered, "Be careful what you wish for."
Spike received the reciprocal images and sat up abruptly to slap his companion. "Bloody hell! You dirty old man… there are ladies present!"
Angel gave a hearty laugh, sat them both up and kissed his partner firmly on the lips.
For the first time… ever… Spike felt love and contentment permeate every cell of his being. His demon was joined with its Sire. His soul was intertwined with the soul he had come to adore. And his essence was married to the essence of the being he loved. The world had not changed, but they had. He felt strength and confidence at a level that he was sure he had never attained before. He looked into the beautiful eyes of his mate and saw a realization of the same phenomena dawning there too. The darker vampire picked up his mate's hand, and looked with wonder into his beloved's eyes, then began kissing each finger in turn.
Willow's voice broke the moment.
"Umm… We're going out for coffee… and umm… a cold shower!" She fanned herself with dramatic flourish accompanied by a wide grin. "Anyway, F'Iaid says the guest room is through there. Ummm there's some blood in the microwave…" The mated vampires refocused and looked up lovingly at the three figures standing outside the circle.
Spike was the first to speak, and in a voice rough with previous activities said, "Hey Red, Pup, F'Iaid… just… Thank you…"
Angel turned to them also, and gave a smile of pure, almost innocent joy, "My mate has said it for us… Willow, F'Iaid…. Connor… We are forever in your debt."
As the trio retreated, the mated pair stood and made their way to the guest room to consummate their partnering further. Afterward they would in the safe haven of each other's arms.
#20
Spike heard the key in the lock turn and felt his partner stir. He began to pull from the encircling arms but was stopped by a slight squeeze and low growl. "No sweetheart. Don't move, just feel it, just for a moment. Stop and feel it!"
The blonde snuggled back down, eyes closed, against the chest of his maker and now mate, and let sensations take him: The profound contentment; the sense of completion, of wholeness; the sense of fathomless unconditional love pulsing through his inner core. This was the background now coloring everything in afterglow of being 'completed', of belonging.
As the wash of feelings subsided, he smelt salty tears and sensed a confusing range of emotions flowing from the brunette in his arms. Then noted that he too was crying… Tears of joy and sadness, highs and lows intertwined, memories and hopes mixed and confused - some fulfilled, others now deemed irrelevant.
Spike did the only thing he could conceive might help and pulled Angel's mouth to his, kissing him passionately, soundly, lovingly, and was deeply moved as he felt his mate return the sentiments.
Connor stepped into the open door of the guestroom and politely cleared his throat.
The two vampires broke their embrace and gave their next of kin dual smiles. There was a small jolt of pleasure through the link. Spike recognized it as the response from Connor seeing his two closest relatives so very happy in each others' arms. What surprised Spike, was the profound sense deep devotion and barely contained youthful delight permeating the link as the boy continued to smile at the tableau on the bed.
Sitting up, it was Angel who held out a hand to his son. Once it was taken, he pulled the young man down to lie on top of the covers flanked by his (apparently nude under there!) vampire relatives on both sides. Ensconced comfortably, he was soundly kissed on each cheek, by both vampires, and reassured of his place in their lives. 'Boy lost' became, on so many levels, 'boy found'.
For Angel, the Sire, and now mated vampire, there was something powerful and fundamentally different transpiring. William/Spike, his eternally mated partner, had joined with him very literally, on so many levels (physically, vampirically, soulfully, emotionally)… but that now apparently meant that they shared all the memories of Connor, and all the paternal connection with the miraculous full blood… and somehow that evoked tears of joy for Angel. To share such pain and pleasure with the person to whom he was joined forever… such a privilege. The tears were shed in thanks to whoever was responsible for his son's existence. The same tears thanked the powers for the extraordinary blonde in front of him, and tears silently begged that this time, the blessing might be one that truly lasted.
Connor felt his father's grateful joy, watched as the brunette allowed a silent tear of happiness escape and be seen, then accepted another of his father's chaste kisses to his forehead. He decided to lighten the mood a little, so turned to Spike.
"So what do I call you now? Technically (and ahhh, Jerry Springer moment) you're my half brother who is now my father's mate… soooo let's see… could go with 'Dad and Papa', or how about 'Father and Daddy Will', or Mistress Will and …"
"You cheeky sod! I've a mind to exercise m' parental rights and put you over m' knee for a good seein' to. Second thoughts…"
Willow and F'Iaid heard a strangled scream and flew to the doorway of the bedroom to be graced by the scene of two sets of fangs, three squirming bodies and six hands in full attack mode. Apparently all three were intensely ticklish. No sooner had one of the wriggling, giggling males tipped off the bed in pseudo agony, than he jumped back on to take advantage of his attacker. Connor seemed unreasonably ticklish on his feet, while it was obvious that Spike's weakness was his neck. But the previously restrained, post-soul-reluctantly-tactile Angel, seemed vulnerable to these two just about… everywhere!
Willow rolled her eyes and grabbed F'Iaid by the hand, leading her out to the kitchen. "They'll be a while honey. Trust me, Queen of the Tickle fest here, Xander and Jesse never stood a chance… Yay for small fingers and girly flexibility!" She gave her partner's hand a squeeze, "Hee hee… it always ended in tears… the kind that happen 'cause you can't laugh any more. By the looks that's already close… which is… really nice. " Willow turned to her new lover, smiled a dazzling 'they'll be a while, come hither' smile then reached up and kissed her regal companion with such passion and warmth that she fancied feeling F'Iaid melting completely into her arms.
The redhead witch broke the kiss, tugged her sister witch by the arm, and led her to the broad couch in the lounge room to continue reducing her lovely friend to a blob of F'Iaid shaped 'goo'.
Spike was the first of the three 'lads' to stop laughing – or strictly speaking, panting. The tickle game had fast become a domination-submission exercise only three hyperactive (quite feral!) brothers/fathers/mates/sons could come up with. The mated blonde rolled off the bed to admire his Sire/mate pinning Connor to the bed, arms locking the boy's arms above his head, then changing to his human form to giving the still smiling youth a heartfelt, and utterly loving, kiss to the forehead. What Spike did not anticipate was the wicked grin that following, and the overly-dramatic collapse of the bigger body onto his son, along with a mirth filled grunt of "Squasher wins."
The end of the game came when a still fully dressed (though somewhat disheveled) Connor took back control, virtually tossing his father off the bed into Spike's waiting arms. Then with a smirk and a "Tag you're it", sprinted past them the pair, now grinning wildly, to lock himself safely in the guest en suite.
Spike shrugged, maneuvered his partner back to the bed, lay on top of him and kissed him soundly, then let the excitement of the past few minutes simply wash away in an exchange of tongues and loving touches. It was a 'coming down' rather than a precursor to more, and as such felt wonderfully comfortable and relaxed.
Spike paused for a moment to send a silent 'thank you' to miscellaneous deities that might have had a metaphoric hand in allowing even one moment of such quiet contentment.
Connor emerged from the bathroom a short time later to observe his two blood relatives, his true father and his father's mated Childe, sitting with their backs against the headboard, chatting quietly. Angel had his arm thrown around Spike's shoulders while the younger vampire held his other hand, idly stroking the fingers. The domesticity of the scene brought a loving smile to the young man's face. For all the angst and torment and craziness that had been their lives before, this just felt right. Not wanting to interrupt he began to move to the door of the bedroom, but Spike extended his free hand. "C'mon pet, after the fun, we all deserve a bit of calm yeah?"
Connor sat on the edge of the large bed, a little unsure of his place in such an intimate scene.
Spike noted the young man's concern, "Come here sprog", immediately rectifying the situation by grabbing the young man's hand and tugging until Connor had no choice but to join his 'fathers' against the headboard.
"Thought you might want some time… you know… alone."
"Yeah well… just figure 's nicer to share the alone with family." Spike gave his younger relative a dazzling smile.
Angel reached across Spike a little further, connecting with Connor's shoulder and gave him a reassuring squeeze, then kissed his partner's hair with all the gratitude that might be conveyed in such a simple move.
They sat for a few moments in silence, simply enjoying the company. Contentment was an unfamiliar and most extraordinary feeling for all three men. It ebbed and flowed through the blood link between mates and less strongly, but still present, with the son. Without conscious thought Angel began to purr.
Connor grinned and studied his hands intently, and tried not to ruin the moment by giggling at something that was obviously a 'vampire thing', but when the answering rumble started in Spike's chest, he could no longer restrain himself. He laughed openly and rolled toward his father(s) noting the continued affectionate and chaste stroking happening between the two.
"That is so cool! You think I could purr too?"
Spike turned to give the boy a lascivious grin, "You ever had a reason to pet?"
"Gahhh! Personal or what! And TMI if that's what you two… when I…" Connor tried to look shocked as he indicated the bathroom, but ruined the image of pious dismay by breaking into a knowing grin.
"Not just talkin' bout shaggin' you cheeky pup, 's about bein'… content, happy, sated."
Connor's expression immediately shifted to one of seriousness, affection and more than a little longing.
"You think I'll ever feel that? You know… completely?"
"Not about complete pet, 's just about enjoyin' the moment and lettin' your body do the talking."
"In that case, I guess right now probably comes close for me too, at least with the content and kinda happy stuff. Maybe not sated but… What?"
Spike smirked and raised a scarred eyebrow as his eyes pointedly drifted toward the bathroom door.
Connor's sat up abruptly, "Hey! Not everyone jacks off whenever they wander in there!"
Angel had been silent but for the purring rumble during the entire exchange, though could not prevent a snigger at the last comment, Spike's slightly guilty look and the jovial (if a little defensive) reply, "Oi! Not every time, whelp!" The blonde's slim fingers began to repeat their tickling attack on the human.
Connor rolled into a protective ball, "OK! OK!"
Spike ceased the wriggling fingers and petted the young human to calm the mood again. He leaned over to kiss Angel, reaffirming their mutual desire to recapture the previous peaceful moments.
"So what's it like?"
"What's what like?" Spike turned to stare at the boy again
"I mean I get the being in love and the whole gay thing. And I think I understand the Sire/Childe stuff. But what does the mate thing feel like?"
Angel squeezed Spike's on the thigh and answered for them both. "It's like… completion. Nothing can be hidden anymore, memories, thoughts, feelings, all shared willingly, unconditionally. It's just feeling… whole, strong, loved… And now with you too…" Angel trailed off, stared into an imagined distance, and continued, "It's like a tiny corner of what I imagine… heaven to be like…"
Overcome with the moment, a glistening tear tracked down the dark vampire's face. Spike leaned over to nuzzle his lover's neck, kissing and licking the claim mark, and rolling a little to press himself closer to his mate.
Angel could just touch Connor and with Spike's move, reached over to smooth and stroke his son's hair with a gentle hand.
"But I thought you had the whole curse thing, you know, if you were perfectly happy… and…"
"The last time Willow secured it, it was for good. No malice. No clauses. But at the time… well you were there…"
"Yeah… although Jasmine, and happy, and…"
"And it just goes to prove, but I guess things have been such a mess since then, that I never thought about it… But now…" Angel paused, withdrew his hand from Connor's hair and pulled Spike up to place a feather-light, but no less passion filled, kiss on the beloved lips.
Connor sat up, swung his legs off the bed and turned with a genuinely affectionate smile in place. "Well, I'm really pleased for you, and for us. But you know some of the lecturers give extra credits at Stanford if I can introduce them to my gay dads."
Angel's looked up in horror, "They wha'!"
Spike used preternatural speed to retrieve a pillow from underneath himself, and soundly walloped the boy in the stomach. "Cheeky blighter!" Despite the pillow, Spike grinned into the remorseless, sparkling blue eyes with an expression that meant some more Angel baiting incidents were not altogether unwelcome.
"Well, I better head off. Congrats and all that again. See you Friday?"