(AN) AUTHOR'S NOTES: AgainMy deepest apologies to everyone,dragonwriter24cmf wanted it get it handed into me this art two by the weekend as she wanted but she very determined to have the love scenario in this part to fit just right in her eyes. When my editor concentrates on something like this in particular area of the chapter, she becomes very dedicated my editor to seeing it becomes completely satisfactory and will not handed the chapter to me unless she finds it's ok 100% in her eyes. I also decided with her to stop the deadlines for each chapter of TBWC from this time forward, going back to how we updated before. The deadlines that my editor wanted to try and to work with are not really going in our favour and with all other responsibly and priories we have outside form fan fiction is bets to go back to what was working best beforehand originally. So to whose whom are familiar with what I talking about this, updating will go to how it was at the beginning whenever the chapter is ready and done by my editor in her spare time.

Other than that enjoy everything within part two. I think this chapter is finally what you guys have been asking about for when Abel and Ether will finally make it even more official I their relationship ^^. I'm not going to say anymore, we are interested me and my editor on your replies to this chapter in particular enjoy!.

[]dragonwriter24cmf Authors Notes: Seth plays match-maker, and these two have finally gotten things straightened out. Hope this satisfies the romance fans. For those of you hoping for a bit more action...Next chapter will be coming soon.

(*) As always many special thanks to my editor and co-partner in helping finally get this story off the ground and back burner dragonwriter24cmf. So far we have been getting by with this fan fiction by bit by bit with story and with you guy the fans that love reading each new chapter that comes out. Thanks to everyone, I appreciate your support through this 100% everyone. Keep the constructive criticisms, outgoing comments and reviews coming in.

DISCLAIMER: All rights to Trinity Blood was created and © by late Yoshida Sunao, the anime directed by Tomohiro Hirata and produced by the studio GONZO, as well as a manga drawn by Yoshida Sunao's friend Kiyo Kyoujou. All © rights revered by their respective owners. I own nothing except © to this story, it's plot and it's OC's that will eventually show within later chapters.

Warning:This fan fiction is rated (M) AKA Lemon. This story is ABSOULTLY NOT suitable for children or teens below the age of 16 [So if you're under the age limit turn back now, come back when you old enough to read this. I'd rather not get flamed nor sued by parents whom are just looking for trouble in places their underage children should not be looking nor reading for that matter. This story contains strong explicit adult themes and sexual ones such slight foreplay - as in hand sex, one-sided love , bisexuality, Attempted Rape, Explicit Sex or anything else mild to hard core kinky for that matter!, references to violence, and strong coarse language. If this disturbs you, do not read any further.

Notice: Trinity Blood War Continuum takes place one month after the events from the anime's finale episode 24 along with some elements, characters and things that will be used and taken from both manga's Rage against the Moons (RAM), Reborn on the Mars (ROM). In addition to some spoilers from stories untold notes left by Yoshida Sunao which he intended to finish off the manga series supposedly. Basically 50/50 will be used on both the anime and manga to those whom are more familiar with manga then others will see this implants as the story develops. Trinity Blood is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the Roman Catholic Church/the Vatican is portrayed as a military and spiritual power. The series also strongly implies major and controversial changes in the Church of present reality, such as women being bishops, cardinals as well as romantic relationships and marriages between members of the clergy. If this disturbs you of form or shape of or on imagination then do not read this story.

Trinity Blood: War Continuum - Chapter Twenty Seven –Christmas Desire: Part 02

Esther and Alessandro were busy working at the desk, with Seth sitting in, when a knock drew their attention from their papers. Esther blinked, then set her pen aside. "Enter."

Virgil strode into the office. He seemed a bit paler than usual, but Esther could almost believe it was the lighting. He moved forward, then bowed. "Majesty. If I may, I've come to collect the meeting reports. And...I have an update on Father Nightroad's condition."

"Yes?" Esther felt hope and dread mixing in her heart. She wanted to know Abel was all right, but, she feared that he wouldn't accept help, not like that.

Virgil met her eyes briefly, then inclined his head. "I believe his condition is now stable, and he will make a full recovery, if he has not already done so. I hope you will forgive the liberty, but I've already informed Cardinal Sforza of the situation, and asked Father Wordsworth to check on him."

"That's fine. Thank you for taking care of this for me. I appreciate it." Esther smiled at him.

"No kidding." Seth sighed, relief evident in the bright green eyes. "I thought for sure we were going to have to do something drastic. And I'd really hate to have to confine Abel." A sad smile appeared on her face. "Abel...he really doesn't like closed spaces. He can handle them, but I think they remind him of times he'd rather forget."

Alessandro blinked, then looked up at the Albion lord. "So...if he's stable...then...then sister won't...won't have to have him tied up? And he...he's really going to...to be okay?"

"I believe so, Holiness." Virgil nodded again.

"That...that's good." Relief washed over Alessandro's features. "I...I like Father Nightroad. I...I can't do anything, but...I don't...I don't think I want him to be hurt. And sister...I know she...she was really worried about it. So...I'm glad."

"Indeed." Virgil bowed. "I fear I may be slightly behind, Majesty. If you could spare the reports from this morning's meeting..."

"Of course." Esther extracted the pages from the folder, and handed it to him. "We've already finished reviewing and copying them, so you can take as much time as you need."

"Thank you." He reached out, and as he did so, Esther spotted a thin band of black wound around his wrist.

Is that...Abel's hair tie? But why? She looked up. "Lord Walsh...your wrist..."

He glanced down. "Father Nightroad lent it to me. I was...injured, looking into a problem in the Underground, and he used this to bind my wound."

"I see." She smiled. "Well, I hope it wasn't serious. You do look a little pale. You should probably rest some this evening."

"I intend to. However, in the meantime..." He bowed. "I will look over these very carefully, and return them to you tomorrow. If you will excuse me."

"Of course. Take care. And...thank you."

Virgil's eyes met hers. "It was my honor, Majesty." Then he turned and disappeared, back to his duties.

There was silence in the room for a moment, then Seth heaved a sigh. "Well. I didn't think he could actually force Abel to go that far, but it looks like he managed to handle him after all." She smiled, a rueful, somewhat exasperated smile. "I have to say, you've got an impressive adviser there. Not that I don't think Astha and Ion wouldn't have tried, but...he did well."

Alessandro blinked. "You think...you think Father Nightroad...that he..."

"Abel drank. Probably from that guy. After all, he looked pretty pale a moment ago, even for a Methuselah, or a guy who spends half his time underground. Besides, he doesn't seem like the type who'd ask someone else to handle that sort of thing. And Abel...it would have taken a lot. There aren't many who could talk Abel out of something when he's feeling that stubborn." Seth grinned.

"Yes." Esther looked down at her own paperwork. "I suppose I should be more concerned for Lord Walsh, but...I'm grateful that he took care of Abel."

"Uh-huh." Seth stretched, then leaned forward. "Well, since we've got that out of the way, we should get back to this paperwork."

"Right." Esther and Alessandro shared a smile across the desk, then all three of them bent to looking at their respective reports.

The rest of the afternoon and evening passed smoothly. Neither Abel nor Virgil joined the group at dinner, but Esther wasn't surprised, and she had a feeling no one else was either. Even with both men absent, the mood around the table was much lighter than it had been. The Professor showed up a few minutes later, and took the time to announce to the table that Abel's condition was stable, and dramatically improved. He also informed them that the Crusnik were back in their nearly dormant state, functioning at less than ten percent, and Abel seemed to be having no trouble at all, aside from his customary sweet tooth. The news brought smiles to everyone, and Leon offered up a toast to Virgil, which all of them took.

After dinner, Esther excused herself to her room. To her surprise, a familiar black-clad shape was waiting by her door. She slowed, stopping a foot away. "Abel..."

Abel looked up. "Miss Esther..." A sad smile touched his face, and he looked away from her. "Sorry to trouble you."

"It's no trouble. Is something the matter?"

Abel shook his head. "Well, if you don't mind...I was hoping we could talk. There was something I needed to say to you."

"That's fine." Esther gestured with her uninjured arm. "Please, come in."

"Thank you." Abel followed her inside, then stood silently watching as Esther removed the sling, flexing her shoulder carefully to relieve some of the stiffness. He seemed tense, but he didn't say anything.

Finally, the silence was too much to bear. Esther turned. "Abel? You said you wanted to speak to me."

"I'm sorry, Esther. Sorry...I...that things went so far." She saw him swallow.

"What do you mean?" Esther moved forward, to lay her hand on his arm. "If you mean last night..."

"Yes. I worried you. I'm sorry. I wanted to apologize for that. And..." He stopped, sorrow on his face. "I...placed you at risk, trying to suppress my Crusnik, trying to stay by your side, even when I knew...when I realized I was going to...to lose control. And I...to avoid having to leave, or imprisonment, I...I injured one of your people."

Esther reached up further, to touch his mouth. "What do you mean?"

"Lord Walsh. I..." He turned his face from her, but not before she saw the shame on it. "I...drank from him. To prevent the Crusnik from taking me over, I...took from one of your advisers. I...I'm sorry."

"I know." Esther traced her fingers along his jaw. "Lord Walsh told me this afternoon, what happened. But...it's all right. After all, he told me he offered to take care of you. Isn't that right?"

"Yes, but..." Esther silenced the words, placing her hand over his lips.

"It's all right. I know you only took what was offered. And really, that might have been the only solution. After all, if you hadn't shown up that one time..Ion and I..."

"I know. But I...even to protect you, even for everyone's sake...I am...ashamed, to have done this. That I...could not control it...that I...took the blood of an ally, and a friend. I am...deeply ashamed. And I...I am sorry, that you had to see me, like that."

"It's all right. I don't think you have anything to be ashamed of. And there is no need to apologize. I don't think anyone could have done anything else." She looked up into the pale face, noting the lines and shadows of weariness there. "Will you wait here, for a few minutes?"

"Yes. If you wish." Abel nodded. Esther studied his face a moment, then turned and entered her own rooms. Her dress was fairly easy to slip out of this time, and it was a matter of only a few minutes to slip out of it, and into her nightdress. She settled the dress over her shoulders, carefully strapped on the lighter brace Seth insisted she wear to bed, then turned and went back to her sitting room. Abel stood there, still leaning against the wall. He looked up as she entered. "Miss Esther?"

She smiled, and strode across the room to take his hand gently in her own. "You should come lie down, Abel." Her hand released his, to reach up to smooth the lines that crossed his face. "I know, you're probably very troubled, but...I've said this before. That's proof that you're a good person. So there's no reason to be so anguished. And I'm sure you'll feel better, once you've had a chance to rest."

Abel flushed. "After this...after what happened...you can't be thinking..."

"It's all right." She smiled and took his hand again. "After all, you said you'd be by my side, right?" She saw his eyes widen in surprise. "You...you stayed with me, even when it hurt you so much. It's really only fair to offer you at least one night of rest." She pulled him gently into the other room, then crawled into the bed. "Here." She gestured for him to sit down. "Just for a few hours." She smiled. "I promise, Abel. I won't let anything happen."

He hesitated a moment, then reluctantly nodded. But his hand released hers. "I should check, to make sure it's safe." He brushed her cheek, a mirror of the gesture she'd used moments before. "I'll return in a moment. Please go to bed."

Esther nodded, and watched as he strode into the other room. Unlike the previous evening, he didn't shut the door behind him. Esther watched the tall silhouette as he moved around the room. Then Abel returned, checked the bedroom windows, and moved to her side. A half-smile crossed his face. "It looks as if it's all right. I don't see any signs of trouble. Everything is secure." He looked down into her face. "You know, it's safe, so...if you don't really want me to stay..."

"No. I do want you to stay." Esther smiled. "After all, it's still a little cold tonight, isn't it? And anyway...you did say you would stay by my side."

Abel flushed. "Well, that is true, I suppose." He started to settle into the chair nest to the bed, but Esther touched his arm. He froze.

Esther smiled, letting a little nostalgia into her expression. "You said you were all right, didn't you?" Abel nodded. "Well then...I'd appreciate it if you'd stay with me a few hours. I've gotten used to you being here, so..."

Abel stood still, then sighed. "If that's really what you want..." He turned, removing outer cassock and crucifix, and draped them over the chair. He didn't bother to bend to undo his boots. Esther didn't see quite how he got them off, but when he stretched carefully across the bedspread, he wasn't wearing them. He didn't make any effort to come nearer than the edge of the bed, but neither did he pull away when she pulled herself over and rested her head on his shoulder. Instead, a feather-light caress brushed her hair back, and he murmured, "Sleep well, Miss Esther."

Esther closed her eyes and relaxed, but she didn't fall asleep. Instead, she remained awake, listening to the soft sound of his breathing, and the gentle rhythm of his heart. After a few minutes, she felt his breathing slow, falling into a quiet steady pattern she recognized from watching him sleep before. She opened her eyes, careful not to move too much.

Abel lay on his back, slightly turned to support her. He'd forgotten to remove his glasses, but his eyes were closed, and his silver hair fell into his face. There were faint signs of the ordeal he'd undergone, but his face looked relaxed, calm and at rest. Despite his obvious exhaustion, he looked better than he had in days, as though some terrible burden had been lifted from his shoulders. For the first time, she noticed how vulnerable he looked in sleep. She was used to him deliberately disarming people with his clumsiness, used to the way he appeared weak, so that others wouldn't see the terrible power he held within, but this...it was different. She'd often wondered, how much of that supposed weakness was a mask. But lying there, watching him sleep, she could see the mask stripped away, to reveal the man whose strong presence and carefully misleading attitude hid such a vulnerable, fragile soul. Beneath the smiles and the strength, she could see the weary warrior, the gentle priest...the man who wept for his comrades, and bore the weight of his actions.

Esther smiled, but it was a smile tinged with sadness. She knew this was a side few ever saw of him. Even when the mask slipped, as it sometimes did, he was always so wary of letting others witness his uncertainty, or his pain. And yet...the mask he wore to hide his vulnerability also hid his strength. Esther studied the face before her, seeing not only the lines of strain, but the strength and nobility in him. Even asleep, she could see the set of the jaw that wakefulness infused with determination, the creases of the eyes that would reveal smiles, or sternness.

Abel shifted in his sleep, sighing a little. She couldn't tell if he dreamed or not, but the movement somehow edged him closer to her. Esther smiled, then experimentally shifted her weight off his arm. Abel didn't so much as twitch. Moving carefully, Eshter pushed herself partially up, reaching for the light quilt thrown over the foot of the bed. It was awkward, trying to pull it to her one-handed, especially without waking him, but she managed. She hesitated a moment, then carefully draped the blanket over the thin frame, tossing the far edge over his shoulder and tugging it into place. She knew then that Abel was even more exhausted than he'd let on, because he didn't move. Still smiling, she pulled the glasses from his nose, set them aside, and snuggled back down next to him. Still asleep, Abel shifted close to her again. Esther smiled once more, then brushed some of the silver hair back, imitating the comforting gesture he used so often. "Sleep well, Abel." Then she relaxed, and allowed sleep to take her.

She woke the next morning with a warm presence beside her, and turned to find Abel, still fast asleep. From the looks of it, he hadn't moved at all during the night. His breathing was still low, even, and relaxed. Esther studied his face, noting the faint color in it, color she hadn't seen two days before. That, as much as anything else, told her he was recovering, at least somewhat. Then Abel stirred, and opened his eyes, looking directly into hers.

They stared at each other a moment, then Abel blushed. "Ummm...good morning, Miss Esther." He started to shift, then froze, only then noticing the blanket draped over him. "Ah..."

"It's all right." Esther sat up, smiling. "You fell asleep, but you looked a little cold, so I just got it from the end of the bed for you. I guess you were so tired you didn't notice."

Abel flushed again and sat up, nudging the blanket aside. "Really. I suppose I'm not worth much as a body guard then." He grimaced ruefully. "I do apologize."

"It's all right. I felt very safe with you there." She touched his hand. "To be honest, I rather like having you here, Abel."

"Yes, well..." Abel's blush deepened. He looked suddenly embarrassed. "I'm glad I make you feel so comfortable, Esther. But you know..." He trailed off.

Esther was suddenly aware of the warmth of his hand, lying on the bed beside her. And of the fact that, despite his attempts at propriety, Abel was...lying in bed with her. She felt the heat steal into her cheeks. Still...the knowledge didn't bother her nearly as much as she thought it would. In fact, when she thought about it, it was a good feeling. She felt embarrassed, and suddenly too shy to speak to him, but...she was aware that she wasn't unhappy to have him there.

They sat in awkward silence for a few moments, then Abel rose gracefully from the bed. "I think Seth will be here soon. Tell you what...why don't I go get changed, and then we can join the others for breakfast. How does that sound?" He turned suddenly, smiling at her. "It's been a while since I ate with everyone. And really, I didn't get any dinner last night so...I'm rather hungry."

"Well in that case, we ought to get you fed as soon as possible, my dear brother." Seth spoke from the doorway. She was leaning against the wall, a smile on her face. Abel actually jumped, startled, and her grin widened. "I see you're looking better, Abel."

He flushed. "Ah, yes. Well, actually, Lord Walsh gave me some assistance, so...I'm really feeling much better."

"So I heard." She moved forward. "In any case, why don't you go change, while I take a look at Esther's wound. Unless..." The gleam in her eye turned mischievous. "If you'd like to help Esther get changed for the day..."

Abel went scarlet. "I'm sure Miss Esther will manage just fine. Now, if you don't mind, about that shower..." He flushed darker. "Ummm...if you'll excuse me, I'll see you in a few minutes." He bowed his head to Esther, then ducked past his sister and out of the room.

Seth chuckled. "Poor Abel. He must really like you, you know. He only ever gets that flustered when he's with someone he cares about."

Esther smiled, despite the lingering embarrassment Seth's words had evoked. "I know."

Seth turned, then made an exasperated noise. "Seriously, that brother of mine..." She bent and took his cross from the chair. "If he leaves something like this lying around..." She glanced at the bed, and the look she sent Esther's way was pure mischief. "Hey, Esther. Abel didn't do anything improper, did he?"

Esther flushed. "No. He was just keeping me company. Like that night at the Vatican, when we took you to see His Holiness. It wasn't anything more than that."

Seth chuckled again, then moved over to start unwrapping Esther's bandage. "I know. Sorry. I'm afraid I've picked up Mirka's habit of teasing people I'm fond of. It's just...well, I like seeing Abel happy, and you happen to be very good for him. Even when he goes and does foolish things, like yesterday. I guess, I just want to see how the two of you progress."

"Progress?" Esther blinked.

"Yep." Seth grinned. "I've never told Abel this, and I probably shouldn't say it to you, either, but...I've thought for a while now that Abel could use a woman's touch. Honestly, when I first heard he was all right, I thought he needed someone, to help him finish healing from Lilith. But...that's changed since you came into his life. And so has Abel. He's a lot better now. But...he still needs a little work. After all, he doesn't need to be quite so shy, you know?"

Esther felt herself blushing. "Yes, well. I suppose that's just the way he is."

"Uh-huh." Seth grinned. "You're right about that. And, I guess it's fine too." She tested Esther's shoulder, moving it gently, prodding the wound. "Well, you're healing very nicely. I think next week you'll be able to come out of that sling. You'll still need a couple weeks to get everything working properly, and it'll be a while before you regain all the strength in this side, but...I'd say you're doing very well, Esther." She re-wrapped the bandage, then gave Esther another mischievous look. "Shall we go return Abel's cross, and collect my brother for breakfast?"

"That sounds like a wonderful idea." Esther returned the smile, and followed the other woman across the hall.

Abel answered the door when they knocked. His hair was still wet from the shower, but he was dressed. There was a troubled look on his face. "Ummm, sorry. I'm not quite ready yet."

Seth grinned. "Lose something, Abel?" She held up the cross, dangling from it's chain. "This, maybe?"

Abel blinked, then relief crossed his face. "Where did you find that? I was so certain I had it, but when I started looking..."

"It was in Esther's room. You left it on the chair when you made your escape." Seth smirked and handed the rosary to her brother, a wicked gleam in her eyes. "People are going to talk, you know, if you leave things like that lying about in her room."

Abel flushed, his eyes wide. He opened his mouth once, then shut it. "Now really..." He swallowed, turned and looked into his room. "Ah, well, if we don't hurry, we'll be late for breakfast. So, if you'll excuse me, I just need to find my shoes and...ah, there it is. I knew I had a ribbon around here." He ducked back into his room. He returned a second later, his boots on and his hands busy winding the familiar tie in place. He flashed both women a bright, slightly sheepish smile. "Well then, shall we?"

Seth and Esther looked at each other, then burst out laughing. Abel turned pink, but he didn't say anything. Instead, he turned and bowed slightly, gesturing the women down the corridor. Esther followed Seth, still giggling. Any fears she had about hurting Abel's feelings, or embarrassing him over-much were dismissed by the smile that lingered on his face and in his eyes.

The others were already in the dining hall, as usual, and all of them greeted Abel with smiles. There were warm, polite calls of 'Good Morning' from all around the table, and Leon even went so far as to stand up, drape an arm over Abel's shoulders, and punch him affectionately in the shoulder, which earned him a light scold from Seth. There was no mention at all of Abel's previous condition. As they settled into place, Virgil took a seat at Abel's left side. "Father Nightroad."

"Lord Walsh." Abel hesitated a moment, then sat down. As he did, Esther saw his shoulders relax, and the shadows in his eyes faded. Then he smiled, a real, untroubled smile, and turned to Caterina. "Good morning Miss Caterina."

Caterina smiled at him. "Good morning to you as well, Abel. I trust you had a pleasant evening?"

Abel's ears turned pink, though Esther thought she might be the only one to notice. "I did indeed."

"Well then, I recommend you eat well. There's a great deal of work to be done." Caterina offered him another smile, then turned her attention back to her food.

Breakfast was a light-hearted, informal affair. People chatted about the council sessions, the upcoming plans. Seth and the Methuselah with her planned to stay through the Christmas celebrations, before returning to the Empire. Caterina had similar plans, and she and Alessandro had been working hard to convince the Vatican that it was for the best, in light of international relations. William took the time to bring Abel up to speed on the meetings, and his responsibilities. Abel did look a little taken aback when he heard he was the Vatican representative to the Empire, but Seth only shrugged and pointed out, perfectly logically, that he was the best person for it. He had sympathy with Methuselah, he knew several of her chief advisers and envoys by name, and the Empire as a whole knew him to have a good reputation from the affair with uncovering the hard-liner plot.

Abel subsided then, but he was looking a little too serious, until Astha poked him with her fork. He blinked, and the blond Methuselah grinned at him. "Look at it this way, priest. You can have a choice. You can be the Vatican Special Representative, or I can put you to work de-fleaing my cat. Your choice."

Abel blinked. "Ummm...Miss Astha, I don't mean to be rude, but your cat is a tiger, and it tried to eat me."

The grin she gave him wasn't unlike a tiger's itself. "Exactly. And I should point out, you aren't allowed to hurt her. The Council Lords, on the other hand, could sometimes use a bit of shaking up."

Abel swallowed, but a faint grin crossed his face. "Well, in that case...I suppose I'll have to take my chances with the nobles. Although..." He blinked across at his sister. "Perhaps you can tell Lord Baibars not to chase me out of any second story windows this time? It's a pretty fair distance to fall, you know. And really, all I wanted to do was deliver a message and ask a few questions."

Seth snorted. "It's your own fault for sneaking in there without identifying yourself. After all, he didn't know you were my brother, and what else was he supposed to do with a strange man sneaking into the Empress' private quarters. If you didn't know who you were, you would have done the exact same thing. In fact..." she eyed him. "Didn't you do something similar, a long time ago?"

"Ah, well..." Abel stumbled to a halt while the rest of them laughed. Even Caterina was smiling, and under the blush, Abel was smiling too. The rest of the meal was punctuated by teasing and laughter, and by the time they all rose to go to the meeting, Abel had relaxed again.

The rest of the day, and the next few, passed in a flurry of meetings, planning and paperwork. Everyone agreed that the week of Christmas ought to be one of relaxation and celebration, as much for the season as for Esther's recovery and the cementing of their alliance. The celebration was scheduled to start the Sunday before Christmas, and end the Sunday after. In addition, they planned a second, much smaller feast to ring in the coming New Year. Esther looked forward to the upcoming holiday, but all of them knew there was a great deal to be done. Plans and schedules had to be finalized. Guard details and protection for both herself and the visiting envoys had to be managed, without depriving any of the men of their holiday as well. Food and supplies had to planned for, requisitioned, brought in and stored. Decorations had to be dealt with. There were a thousand and one details that had to be managed, and Esther was in the thick of it. She thought, more than once, that she'd have been lost if it weren't for the others.

Caterina had finally convinced the Vatican Papal Council that Alessandro's presence in Albion for the Holy Season was important. It helped that the young pope stepped in and expressed his own desire to stay. To ease the concerns of the church, it was decided that there would be three Christmas services on Christmas Eve. One would be in Westminster Cathedral, for the nobles and envoys. One would be in a smaller church, led by another priest and Caterina, for the common folk of Londinium who wanted to come. The third, smaller still and much less formal, would be held for the people of the Underground, after the parade and gift giving. That one was intended as more of a short blessing and extent of best wishes, but Esther knew that Alessandro, Virgil and Vanessa were all looking forward to it.

Mary took care of most of the security details and planning. She did ask Esther's permission for various supplies, and discussed the troop placements with Abel and Tres. Virgil was handling things both in the Underground, and in conjunction with the Palace Steward. Vanessa was assisting her brother with Underground preparations.

Esther dealt with all the paperwork, approving things and discussing plans with the others. Abel, the Methuselah envoys, and the remaining Vatican representatives, threw themselves into the preparations with a will, getting into everything. Tres was the only exception. He spent his time patrolling. Esther understood, but she couldn't help wishing that the android priest was able to find a little more enjoyment in the season. But the lingering unease over that was soon wiped away by amusement.

Astha and Ion were more than willing to help, but...they'd never been involved in Christmas before. The whole thing was completely new to them. The first day, discussing the tree, had resulted in confusion. Seth hadn't helped, teasing Ion unmercifully, and leaving Astha in Leon's hands. As far as Esther was concerned, it had been almost unbearable, trying not to burst into laughter while Leon explained about Saint Nicolas the gift giver, and...mistletoe. And when Seth speculated about having Ion dressed as a holiday elf, the young noble was nearly scarlet with embarrassment. Abel had finally recovered enough from his own laughter to take his sister and his colleague in hand. Leon reluctantly let Abel calm Astha down, but retaliated by announcing that the silver-haired priest had volunteered to choose the tree and bring it back in, while he watched Esther. Abel had refused, mollified only when Esther suggested that they could make an entertaining outing of having everyone go out looking. Caterina agreed, and within an hour, preparations were made to take the first afternoon of the holiday to go tree hunting on the palace grounds.

In between planning sessions, Esther thought of what she wanted to give her friends. Abel was an invaluable help, suggesting gifts for those he knew well, or even taking short trips to buy the things she requested. She was grateful for his assistance, but it also reminded her...she didn't know what to give him. She thought about asking Seth, but she wanted to come up with something special on her own.

Finally, they reached the last day of planning. Esther found herself in her office, with her last pile of paperwork. Virgil was working at a desk beside her. Alessandro was with Caterina, Seth was slouched in a chair on her other side, and Abel was perched in the window seat as usual, half his attention on his paperwork, and half on the grounds outside. Esther had been working for just over an hour when Seth spoke. "Hey, Esther there's something I was wondering about."

"Yes?" Esther blinked.

Seth stretched. "Well, that tall guy, he was telling Astha about the whole legend of Saint Nicolas, the guy who brings gifts."

Esther nodded. "Did you not know about it?"

Seth shook her head. "Well, it might not be the same as what you have here. When I was a child, we did have something like that. Santa Claus. I remember, we celebrated it once or twice, when I was very small." Her gaze flicked to the slender form in the window. "I think Cain might have too, but I don't think Abel ever did, for some reason. But I was wondering...do you still do that?"

Esther blinked. "I'm not sure." She turned to look at her adviser. "Lord Walsh?"

He considered. "I believe the tradition still exists within the city, however, it is not much celebrated among the court."

Esther nodded. Seth shifted. "How about the Underground?"

Virgil shook his head. "I fear not." His blue eyes met Seth's green ones. "As I suspect you may guess, we have not had much in the way of Christmas celebrations. As Methuselah, I fear we are not as familiar with the traditions as we might be. There is some gift giving, and some notice taken, however..."

"I understand. I was just thinking..." Seth grinned. "I don't know what your traditional Saint Nick looks like, but I thought it might be interesting, since we're going to hand out gifts, to have a guy like that."

"What was yours like?" Esther set her pen aside. She was genuinely curious. "We had our special gift givers in Istvan as well, but..."

Seth grinned. "Our version was tall, and fat, and dressed all in red, with silver-white hair and a beard. He carried a huge sack of presents and he laughed. Sometimes, they said he wore glasses too."

Virgil nodded. "Our version of the saint is much the same, however, version differ on his girth. I have seen him portrayed both as a slender man, and as a more portly individual." He stopped, considering. "I agree, your suggestion that such an individual would be a welcome addition to our celebration has merit. I believe it would be uplifting to my people and a beneficial way of bringing the humans and Methuselah closer. However, I fear that it will be difficult to find someone to take on such a role at this late date."

"I don't think so." Seth grinned, and this time the gleam in her eye was pure mischief. Her head turned, studying her brother in the window. "If you don't care whether he's fat or not, I think I've got the perfect candidate in mind." She grinned at Esther, then rose from her seat. "Hey, Abel."

Abel looked up. "Yes?"

Seth smiled at him. "Come here a minute, would you?"

Abel blinked, but rose obediently from his chair. "Um...is there something you need?" He shifted a little as Seth strolled around him, studying him. "What exactly are you doing?"

She gave him another of her mischievous, quick-silver smiles. "I have a favor to ask of you." She looked around Abel's arm. "So, what do you think, Esther? Think he'll do?" She glanced over her brother again. "He's a bit on the skinny side, but...I think it will work out."

Esther bit her lip on a giggle. Abel was staring at his sister with a mix of wariness and confusion. She knew he wasn't going to thank her for it, but the look of fun in Seth's eyes was too much to resist. A glance in Virgil's direction revealed he was having similar problems. Finally, she nodded. "I think he'll do perfectly."

The wariness in Abel's eyes increased. "Um, if you don't mind...what exactly is it I'm supposed to be doing? Not that I mind helping, but..."

Seth grinned. "It's fine Abel. Anyway, I was just telling Esther and Lord Walsh about the tradition of Saint Nick, and we all agreed we should have one for the gift giving in the Underground." She looped an arm around her brother's waist. "Thanks for volunteering. I know you've got a natural look for this sort of thing, so do your best, okay?"

"Wha..." Abel looked absolutely flabbergasted. "Seth...you can't be serious. I...I don't know the first thing about it."

She grinned. "It's easy. All you have to do is smile, and laugh, and hand out presents. I mean, we do have to dress you up a little, but that shouldn't be a problem. And maybe..." She grinned and poked him in the chest. "If you behave, we'll let a few of the kids in on the tradition of leaving cookies for Saint Nick, and you can eat them. That ought to satisfy your sweet tooth, and be good enough compensation."

"Compensation for what?" Caterina strode into the office, a sheaf of paperwork in her hands. She eyed Abel with a cool look. "What have you done now, Abel?"

"Nothing!" Abel flushed. "It's just..."

Seth shook her head, rocking back on her heels as she stretched. "Honestly, it's not Abel this time. But...since you're here, I'd like to ask permission to borrow my brother on Christmas Eve. Esther and I were talking about old Christmas traditions, and we agreed it would be nice to have Saint Nicolas the gift giver visit the Underground. Abel's a really good candidate, you know?"

"Indeed. He does appear qualified for the role. In fact, in light of his unique past and current personality, I'd have to say he is the best possible choice." Caterina nodded, and Esther saw the glitter of humor in her eyes. "Very well. Father Nightroad, you are hereby authorized to assist your sister with her request. However, I expect you to represent the Vatican properly, so be sure you do a good job."

"Caterina..." Abel flushed, looking absolutely terrified. Caterina said nothing, merely fixed him with her level, commanding stare. Abel froze in mid-sentence, then swallowed and nodded. "Ummm...if you insist, then I suppose I have no choice. If you'll excuse me..." He turned back to his work, his ears still crimson. The three women shared a look, then returned to their own paperwork.

Abel said nothing more about the incident, but he remained unusually quiet for the rest of the evening. Not that he didn't take part in the dinner conversation, but he didn't speak much and his responses were half-hearted. Leon didn't appear to notice, but from their concerned glances, Astha and William did. However, neither of them asked about it. He seemed pensive, and Esther wondered if the idea really bothered him, or if there was something else on his mind. She thought about it, then decided to ask him when he came to take up his nightly guard duties.

Abel was still quiet when he came in. Esther watched as he checked the windows to her sitting room, then caught his arm as he started past her into the bedroom. "Is something wrong?"

He blinked at her. "Not really. Why?"

Esther sighed. "It's just...you've been very quiet since this afternoon. I was wondering if something was bothering you."

Abel stared at her for a moment, then gave her a tired smile. "It isn't anything serious, really. It's just..." He trailed off.

Esther took his hand gently. "Do you really...does the idea of being taking that role really bother you so much?" She smiled. "I have to admit, I thought Seth was right. You really do seem suited for it."

Abel sighed again, slouching against the door frame. "Really...I don't know a thing about being Saint Nicolas. I...when I was here..." He turned his face slightly aside from her. "I don't recall celebrating that sort of thing much." She saw a small twist of a smile curve his mouth. "I suppose I wasn't a very obedient child, so...well, we didn't celebrate much. To be honest, I never thought much of it, until I started going to Christmas services with Caterina. But...that really is a whole different thing, you know."

"You mean, you never..." Esther swallowed. "But...at the Vatican...surely someone gave you a present at least once." She knew she had given him a box of chocolates.

"Well, yes, of course. Most of the AX members give each other gifts. And I do remember the gift you gave me a little over a year ago." There was a faint hint of a chuckle in his voice. "But still...it isn't quite the same."

"No. But...I think that's why she suggested you for the idea. Seth mentioned that she didn't think you'd had much experience with the holiday. I think she just wanted to give you something unique, a special memory to treasure."

Abel turned his head to meet her eyes, his own wide with surprise. "She...did?" he blinked a few times, then his shoulders relaxed, and a small smile touched his mouth. "Well, really I think she just wants to watch me make a fool out of myself. Still..." To Esther's surprise, he pulled her forward, into his embrace. "It's not the first time. Perhaps it won't be so bad." Amusement entered his tone. "It's less embarrassing than making a fool out of myself by accident, really. And if that was what she wanted..." His voice dropped. "I'll thank her later. But not until afterward." His voice was soft, teasing. "In that case, Miss Esther, I do have a favor to ask you."

"Oh? What is it?"

There was definitely laughter in his voice when he responded. "Well, I really do think that I need to get a special gift to give her at the end. After all, she is the oldest child here, you know." His chuckle resonated through his chest, send warm vibrations through her and waking a warm glow in her heart. Esther laughed with him, then broke free and headed for bed, lighthearted.

She woke the next morning feeling excited. Outside, a fine white dusting coated the ground. It wasn't really enough to be called snow but still, it awoke memories of joy. The knowledge that there were no meetings added to the excitement, and the prospect of searching out a Christmas tree had her positively bouncing out of bed.

"Hey Esther." Seth stuck her head in the doorway. "I see you're all ready to go as well." she grinned. "I sent Abel to clean up a minute ago." The smile widened. "He looks a lot better this morning." She stepped inside, leaning against the door. "I suppose we ought to have waited for you to wake but I confess, I'm looking forward to going on this tree hunt. I haven't done that in a really long time. And I think Abel's looking forward to it as well." She stepped forward. "Here. Let me see how you're doing."

Esther sat still while Seth took off the sling and began rotating the shoulder. After a few moments, the other woman stepped back, a pleased look on her face. "It's still got some healing to do, but...I'd say you're okay to take off the brace now. I'm going to re-bandage it, and you shouldn't lift anything heavier than a pen for a few more days, but you don't need an immobilizing unit anymore."

Esther smiled. "That's wonderful news."

Seth grinned back. "Consider it an early Christmas present." She set the bandages quickly, then skipped over to the wardrobe. "Here. We'd better get Abel before he gets too hungry. And then...we can find a tree." The smile on her face was infectious. Esther laughed and followed her.

The tree-gathering party assembled after breakfast. Caterina and Alessandro were going, and in their wake tagged the two inquisitors. Petros was scowling, but Esther had a feeling it was more habit than anything. William and Leon were coming as well, and the two of them dragged Abel into a huddle between them, Leon teasing the silver-haired priest as usual. Ion and Astha were reluctant to go out, even with Virgil's offer of UV gel and a dose of silver nitrate, so Seth volunteered the two of them to set up the tree stand and help Virgil and the castle steward find decorations. Mary accompanied the party out onto the grounds, guiding them to the spots where she thought there were likely candidates for the Palace tree.

The search took over two hours, and Esther enjoyed every minute of it. Seth and Alessandro discussed every tree that they came across, comparing it to the ceiling, discussing spots for ornaments, the color and everything else. William and Leon added their own critique. Abel didn't say much, but there was a sparkle in his eyes, and the flush on his cheeks was as much fun as it was cold. Esther joined the others laughing when Leon put a handful of snow down the back of his cassock. Abel yelped, lost his balance and fell headfirst to the ground, sitting up with a sheepish look on his face. His ears were red from embarrassment, but his eyes were amused, and Seth took advantage of Leon's laughter and cockiness to slip a palmful of snow into each of his pockets, followed by one down the back of his jacket. The look on Leon's face was enough to set even Caterina to laughing, though she managed to do it in a dignified manner. When they finally located the perfect tree, Leon and Abel cut it down, and all of them assisted in carrying it back to the Palace. Virgil met them with hot chocolate and snacks, and the afternoon was spent getting the tree into place. That evening, they had a quiet, leisurely meal, then Abel took her to bed, and sat beside her.

The next few days passed in the same manner. Though there were plenty of servants, Esther and the others elected to put up the decorations themselves. Tinsel was hung, the tree was decorated, and lights were put up. Holly and ivy wreaths and garlands decorated various areas. Christmas angels took up their various stations.

They also took a day in the kitchen, baking holiday snacks as part of their gift giving in the Underground. With two inexperienced Methuselah, and two very clumsy priests, there was less baking than hilarious mishaps. Abel and Leon both managed to get thoroughly covered in flour, and at one point, cookie batter. Abel compounded the problem by tripping and splattering Astha with eggs and milk. Caterina finally delegated him to sitting on the sidelines and test tasting the various recipes. Esther, for her part, enjoyed being able to cook again. She'd done the chore often enough in Saint Matthias church, and back among the familiar smells, she had to admit she'd missed it just a little. She enjoyed showing Ion how to mix things, explaining the oven controls to Astha, and supervising Alessandro's efforts. Seth and William, as it turned out, were both fairly decent cooks, and extremely helpful. Astha finally shoved Leon into the dishwater and told him to take care of clean-up, an order that Caterina re-enforced. Virgil assisted where needed, mostly in arranging the baked goods on sheets. He and Abel eventually set up a table to bag the finished products, preparing them for distribution.

Most wonderful of all, for Esther, was Abel. He was involved in everything. More than that, he was happier and more relaxed than she'd ever seen him. She was used to seeing him smile, but these smiles were completely genuine, with none of the shadows she remembered in his eyes. His laughter, always warm and caring, was also filled with joy. She remembered the first time she'd heard him laugh, in Istvan, and been touched by the loneliness in it. But the sad note was missing. He tripped up frequently, either accidentally or on purpose. She couldn't tell, but despite the embarrassment, he never stopped smiling, even when he blushed. To Esther, he almost seemed like a young boy, having his first Christmas. It was odd to think of him that way, and yet, entirely appropriate. And at night, when she went to bed, Abel curled up beside her. He still slept more or less on top of the blankets, but he had snatched a quilt, and his warm embrace made getting to sleep easy.

Finally, Christmas Eve arrived. Out of time considerations, they decided to hold the first service in the early afternoon, the second in the late afternoon, and then head down to the Underground. Esther attended the first service in the Londinium church more for show than anything else, sitting with Alessandro in the special seats while Abel and William served as Caterina's assistants. For the second service, in Westminster, she took communion. That time, she sat with Caterina and Seth both. To her surprise, Astha and Ion attended as well, mingling with the few Court officials still in Londinium, though they stayed close to Virgil. Afterward, they retired to the Palace, to get ready for the procession through the Underground. Abel disappeared to get his costume on, and Esther found herself waiting with Seth.

They sat in silence for a few moments, then Seth spoke. "You look like you've got something on your mind." She leaned back. "Abel again?"

"Yes. I was thinking, he looks really happy." Esther smiled.

"Yeah." Seth laughed. "Honestly, I've never seen Abel quite like this before. He's really enjoying himself. So then...what's worrying you?"

Esther grimaced. "It's just...well, I got him a bookmark, but..." She stopped, trying to sort out her thoughts. "I feel like I should do something more for him. He's been here, all this time, and I want to do something special for him."

"Well, I can see your point. But, you know..." Seth settled back against the wall. "I don't think you need to worry about it. After all, you're with Abel, right?" She looked up, meeting Esther's eyes. "That's probably the best gift he could have."

Esther blinked, startled. "You think so?"

Seth chuckled. "Trust me. This year, being with you, and with everyone else...I think it's the best thing that's ever happened to my brother. Abel...he finally has people he can be himself with, people he trusts with his past, and with his heart. He's finally opening up to this world. And honestly, I think it's because of you." she tilted her head back, looking up at the ceiling. "He's become more able to be open, because of you, you know?"

Esther blushed. "I'm not sure about that..."

Seth chuckled again. "Well, I am. But...if you want to be sure..." She grinned. "We're going to be having that little midnight feast after this, right?" She turned to grin at Esther. "I had that big guy, Leon, hang some mistletoe, just for fun. If you want proof, then try getting Abel under that, and see what happens."

Esther blushed, but she didn't have time to reply, because Abel's door opened. She looked up, and her breath caught in her throat.

Abel's costume had been a matter of much discussion. Instead of Albion crimson, they'd opted for a deep wine red. He wore boots, but these were a low cut, well-polished variety, instead of his usual AX combat style. Abel had flatly refused to be padded up to be fat, or to have a false beard. Instead, they'd given him a walking staff, decorated with ivy. Virgil had unearthed some old legends and descriptions, to decorate a beautiful beaded bag in which Abel would carry his handouts. He still wore his spectacles, but his hair was left loose, and threaded through with ivy, bound to a holly crown. The bright red berries complimented the outfit, and contrasted wonderfully with his silver hair, as did the green of the ivy leaves. He was even wearing a black belt, with a large silver buckle. Silver trimmed his pants, and the undershirt, while white fur decorated the jacket collar and cuffs, as well as the seam down the front. He looked both regal and disarmingly charming, even with the sheepish smile on his face.

Esther stared. Abel was good looking enough in his usual clothing, but this...just looking at him made her heart skip an odd beat, and there was an unfamiliar warmth in her stomach. Somehow, the red looked astonishingly good on him.

Abel let her stare at him for a moment, then shifted. "Ummm...Miss Esther...do I really look that bad?"

Esther jumped, then collected her wits. "Not at all. You look wonderful. Just like the Father Christmas the stories described."

Beside her, Seth whistled. "No kidding. I have to admit, it isn't what I expected, but I think I'm happy about that."

"Huh?" Leon's voice came from behind them. Esther turned to see him appraising Abel with a frown. "What's up Four Eyes?"

Seth grinned. "My brother agreed to be Father Christmas this year. It was kind of a last minute thing, but I think he's going to pull it off nicely."

Leon frowned. "Father Christmas, huh?" he studied the slender form in front of him, then shook his head. "Well, Father Christmas or not, you'd better be careful. An outfit like that might get the women interested in you, and if you steal my woman, I might have to thump you." He grinned then, flashing Abel a quick salute. "Do your best Four Eyes." Then he turned away.

Abel sighed. "Really now..." he shook his head, then turned to the two waiting women. "Well, shall we go?"

The procession took over two hours, but Esther enjoyed it, and she knew the others did too. And despite his protests, Abel did a wonderful job. He smiled, gave out presents, and spoke to anyone who happened to speak to him first. Several children showed up to speak with him, to whisper Christmas requests, or just to say something. Abel always listened attentively to each child, and several times, Esther heard him laugh, a sound of pure merriment. The sound brought joy to her heart.

Finally, they reached the end of the road. To her surprise, Virgil was waiting there with two children, a boy and a girl. Both were blond and freckled, though the girl looked to be the older of the two. At Abel's approach, both of them smiled, and the girl stepped forward. "Hello Father."

Abel's eyes widened, then he smiled, pure wonder sweeping over his face. "Miss Wendy! Peter!"

"Hello Father." The girl dipped him a curtsy. "It's nice to see you. I thought you might be tired, so I made you some tea. Complete with thirteen sugars." She smiled and held out a cup.

Abel's smile widened. "Why, thank you very much." He took the cup and drank a long sip. "Ah! It's just as good as the last time. You really do know how to brew a cup of tea." he frowned. "Ummm...you didn't put anything in this one, did you? I mean...not to be rude, but..." He looked a little sheepish.

"It's just tea Father, I promise. Consider it my thank you for having taken such good care of all of us." She smiled. "We had a chance to thank the other man some time ago, but I hadn't gotten a chance to thank you, so when I heard..."

"Hey there." Leon stepped forward, grinning. "I thought I heard familiar voices." he took another step forward and ruffled the boy's hair. "Huh. Looks like you might be getting taller."

"I've still got plenty of growing to do." The boy grinned up at him. "Just you wait. I'm still gonna be taller than you, someday."

Leon returned the smile. "And what are you going to do, when you're taller than me?"

"I'm gonna help Lord Walsh, and protect everyone." The young man smiled triumphantly. "I'll even be able to help you out, Mister."

Leon snorted. "Hey, I told you. Don't call me sir. Yo, Four Eyes." He looked over his shoulder. "You knew these kids were down here, right? Don't tell me you didn't bring anything for them."

"As a matter of fact, I do have something special for them." Abel grinned back, then bent down to rummage in his pack. "Now where...ah! Here!" He handed each of the children a package. "For you." He reached in and pulled out one final present, this one wrapped in bright green paper. "Now then, that just leaves one." His eyes glittered with amusement. "So then, why don't you two give me a hand? I need you to go down into this group following me, and tell the pretty little girl with the black hair that Saint Nicolas has a special present, just for her."

Esther chuckled, watching the two youngsters drag Seth out of the procession, and up to her brother, who offered her the gift with a mock solemnity totally belied by the twinkle in his eyes. She didn't hear what Abel whispered to his sister, but she saw Seth fling her arms around him, her eyes over-bright with joy and, just possibly, tears. Afterward, they gathered to listen to Alessandro's blessing of the Underground, sang a few songs, then returned to the upper world.

There was a light meal waiting in one of the reception rooms, mostly small snack pastries and a light wine. Abel didn't even bother to change out of his costume. Instead, he stood there, sipping wine and laughing with the Professor, one arm around his younger sibling. Esther watched him for a moment, then strode over to join them.

At her approach, Seth grinned and shifted free of her brother's embrace. "I'm going to get something more to drink. Need anything, Abel?"

"No." He watched as she skipped away, then turned. "Miss Esther. Are you having a good evening?"

She returned his smile with one of her own. "Yes." She stopped, trying to think of a topic of conversation. "I was wondering...how did you know those children? They seemed quite fond of you and Father Garcias."

"Ah, well..." The smile remained, but a shadow touched his eyes. "Actually, Leon and I happened to rescue them, a few years ago. They were being raised on an island by a man called Barrie."

Esther blinked. "I've heard of him. He was..." She stopped. He was involved in the Silent Noise incident, that killed Sister Noelle. And...didn't the Professor say he was involved in experiments to create artificial vampires? Neither of those things were subjects she wanted to bring up with Abel, especially not now.

Abel grimaced. "He wasn't a very nice individual, and some of the things he was involved with...really. He'd involved the children on his island in some of his...less savory experiments." He grimaced and took a swallow of wine, as if to wash a bad taste out of his mouth. "They were all rather traumatized by the time we found them, but I think Wendy and Peter were the worst. After we reviewed the information, Leon and I decided to send them here, where they could have a fresh start." The smile warmed suddenly. "You know...I always said Peter was going to be a good man. It's good to see him doing as well as he is."

"You're right." She looked noticed his wine glass was almost empty. "Would you like something more to drink?"

Abel grinned. "Actually, I was just thinking I'd see what kind of sweets there were available. You see, I'm just a little hungry."

Esther smiled back. "Well then, we should see what we can do about that." She took his hand, and started to lead him across the room.

They stopped by the table, where Abel took a few sugar cookies. Esther took one, nibbling it while Abel munched his. After he'd wiped the crumbs from his jacket, she pointed. "Shall we sit? You must be tired, after carrying that sack all the way through the Underground."

Abel nodded. "That sounds like a wonderful idea." He turned, offering her his arm in a show of gallantry. She took it, and started across the floor.

They were halfway to the chairs when Leon's voice broke through the low noise of conversation. "Hey, Four Eyes! What do you think you're doing?" The tone was faintly menacing.

Abel froze on the spot and turned. Leon was glaring at him, one eyebrow raised, and a half grin on his dark face. Abel blinked. "Ummm...I beg your pardon?"

Leon's grin widened. "You really think you're gonna get away with that?" he cracked his knuckles suggestively. "You know, I'm not about to allow you to do anything to Red."

"Get away with...?" Abel blinked again. "Ummm, Leon, I wasn't planning..."

Seth chuckled. "Better look up, dear brother."

Esther and Abel looked up simultaneously. There, suspended from an overhead light, was a large bundle of green, dotted with white berries. Mistletoe. Esther felt heat rising to her cheeks, and a glance confirmed that Abel was going red as well. He blinked down at her, eyes wide behind his glasses. "Miss Esther..."

The Professor chuckled from the other side of the room. "Well now, Abel. It looks as though you've got a pretty young lady underneath the mistletoe. I trust even you know what that means."

Astha grinned. "Even we Methuselah can understand that, Father Wordsworth. So...tovarish...what are you planning to do? You wouldn't want to be responsible for breaking a long and honorable tradition?" Her smile was almost as menacing as Leon's.

Leon cracked his knuckles again. "Since it's tradition, I'll let you get away with it just this once, Four Eyes. But...you'd better do a proper job with my Esther."

Abel was scarlet. "Ah...Esther..." He swallowed, looking horribly embarrassed.

Esther smiled. "It's fine." She understood that shy, sheepish look in his eyes well. She had plenty of butterflies in her own stomach. But still...

Abel was still standing there, looking shocked. Esther let her smile widen, then reached up with her good hand to touch his jaw. She drew him forward, till their faces were nearly touching, then whispered softly in his ear. "I love you." Before he could respond, she moved forward the last quarter inch, and kissed him.

Abel remained startled for just an instant. Then he relaxed, pulling her to him. Electric fire seemed to leap between them. The blaze of passion she remembered from their first kiss re-ignited, fueled by the intervening months when they'd both been so careful with their relationship. Abel's kiss burned on her mouth, and she felt the barely restrained outpouring of love and desire from him, threatening to melt her on the spot. It suddenly didn't seem to matter that they were surrounded by people. All she could think of, all she could feel, was the power and the passion in that kiss. All she wanted to do was return that fierce emotion with her own. It felt like the world might explode around them, like she might explode, but she didn't care.

"Hey Professor...think they're gonna breathe anytime soon?" Leon's deliberately loud whisper startled her out of her haze.

"I don't know." William was speaking the same way. "I hope so, for Esther's sake. I do hope Abel hasn't forgotten that she can't hold her breath as long as he can." There was a chuckle. "Though, right now, I'm not sure either of them care."

Seth's voice joined in. "We should let them alone. I think Esther looks perfectly happy to melt into my brother's arms. Besides...it certainly makes for an interesting picture, don't you think?"

The joking remarks were enough to break the two of them apart. Esther pulled back, and found herself staring into Abel's blue eyes. They were both a little breathless, and a little dazed. Abel was nearly as red as his outfit, and Esther had a feeling she was a good match for him. Then a sheepish smile lifted the corners of Abel's mouth. "Well, I think that satisfies tradition, don't you?"

Astha snorted. "I hardly think that describes it."

Seth grinned. "You did seem to enjoy it a lot for just tradition's sake, Abel. Even if Esther did have to give you a shove."

"Ah, well..." Abel trailed off, then turned back to Esther. "You know, I think I could use another drink. Shall I get you one?"

"Yes, please." Esther watched him walk over to the table, smiling.

The evening broke up soon after, with everyone planning to get up for breakfast, and informal gift opening among them. Abel escorted Esther to her chambers. He did a quick check of the rooms while she got ready for bed, but as she passed him to enter her bedroom, he stopped her. "Esther."

She halted. "Yes?" His blue eyes were surprisingly intense.

He stood a moment, just looking at her, then pulled her into an embrace. A soft, light kiss touched her mouth. "I love you, Esther." The words were barely a breath in the darkness. Then he released her, a gentle smile on his lips. "Rest well, Esther. I'll see you in the morning."

Esther went to bed, but the memory of Abel's kiss kept her awake. That, and his last words outside her bedchamber. The whole thing kept playing in her mind, making her restless. I...love him. And that kiss...She couldn't even think of words to describe the fierce emotions in that kiss. The warmth of his arms around her, the heat of his lips, and the slender frame pressed close against her. The memories made her restless. She felt both uneasy and excited, as if she wanted something, but couldn't quite put a name to it, or to her emotions. But...what...?

'You can't say it hasn't crossed your mind to want him. To want to be just a little bit closer to him.' The words came from nowhere, startling her. She gasped, pressing one hand to her mouth at the memory of Dietrich's perverted statements.

At the sound of her gasp, the door to her room opened. "Esther?" Abel's soft voice cut through the dark, soothing her immediately. "I thought I heard something."

"No. It's all right." She thought about asking him to join her, but the words in her mind stopped her. "I'm fine, I just rolled the wrong way on my shoulder."

"I see. Well then, sleep well." He turned and left again.

Esther rolled to her back, thinking. I...when Dietrich said that, I...it hadn't ever occurred to me. I thought he was handsome but, I thought he was Father Nightroad. I didn't think he thought of me as anything more than his occasional partner. An outsider, or maybe just a friend. I didn't think...that he cared about me at all, not that way.

But Abel had said he loved her, and she knew he meant it. The memory of their first kiss, and the one at dinner, rose up beside Dietrich's words. The fierce passion that had surged between them, and the barely checked desire she'd sensed from Abel. She remembered her own feeling of melting into him, and not even caring, not caring if the ground had opened beneath her feet.

She'd felt desire from Cain and from Dietrich both. But the thought of Dietrich frightened her, made her feel faintly nauseous, and the memory of his attempted rape of her still occasionally haunted her nightmares. And the memory of Cain's attempts at seducing her scared her even worse. As terrible as Dietrich's perversion was, that dark hunger in Cain's eyes had been truly terrifying, like his continued insistence. The realization of how much he was like Abel, at least physically, had only made it worse.

Abel...she wasn't scared of his feelings. The memory of that kiss caused a renewed warmth in her stomach, a feeling that combined relaxation with a tense excitement she didn't understand. She wondered what she would have felt, if Abel had approached her as Cain and Dietrich had done. But that wasn't who Abel was, and she knew he would never have tried to force anything on her that she didn't want. More than that, he wouldn't even make a move past kissing her if he thought it would cause her discomfort in any way. The thought relieved her, but also disappointed her for some reason she didn't understand. She was still trying to puzzle it out when she fell asleep.

She woke the next morning to a hand on her shoulder, shaking her lightly. "Hey, Esther. Esther, you seriously need to wake up already."

"Seth!" A second, wholly familiar voice intruded. "I did ask you not to disturb Miss Esther, now didn't I?"

The first voice, now recognizable as the Empress spoke again. "Ah, Abel, don't fuss so much. Everybody will be arriving for breakfast shortly. Besides...aren't you looking forward to opening your presents?"

"Be that as it may, there's no reason to be rude. You don't need to wake Esther up for something like that." Abel's soft voice was disapproving.

"It's all right." Esther sat up, rubbing the sleep quickly from her eyes. "I'm awake, Abel."

"Ah, Esther." Abel smiled, but a pink tinge touched his ears. "I hope Seth didn't disturb you." He looked sternly at the young woman he had hold of. "Honestly, I think being Empress all these years has made her forget some of her manners."

"That isn't true." Somehow, Seth wriggled free of her brother's grip. "Honestly Abel, it's tradition to wake people up to open presents. Alessandro's too polite. You and my nobles are all awake, and even I won't disturb Caterina. But Esther is a friend of mine, so it should be okay. Right, Esther?"

Esther smothered a laugh behind her smile. "It's fine. I was almost awake anyway when you came." She shifted to get out of bed. "Shall we join the others for breakfast?"

Seth nodded and turned to her brother. "Go on. I'll help Esther, unless you want to."

"No." Abel sighed, acknowledging defeat, then backed toward the door. "I'll join you in a few moments, as soon as we're both dressed."

Esther nodded, watching as he departed. She knew very well why he'd gone, and she was grateful, but at the same time...she was somehow disappointed.

She was startled out of her thoughts by Seth clearing her throat. "Esther, is something on your mind?"

Esther flushed. "No. Nothing in particular."

Seth grinned. "I see." There was silence for a moment, then the young woman moved across to help her pick out a gown. Together, they chose a relatively informal crimson gown, sewn with gold and silver embroidery. Seth helped her into it, then stepped behind her to help do up the buttons. She was halfway done when she spoke. "You know, if someone like Abel kissed me the way he kissed you last night, I think I'd probably want a bit more than a kiss. Especially if I enjoyed it as much as you seemed to."

Esther flushed. "I...well, I'm not sure. Besides...Abel...I don't know if he even thinks like that. Especially about me." She didn't see any point to denying her thoughts. In a way, it was a relief to have Seth voice them for her.

There was a chuckle from behind her. "Abel's a little strange, I'll grant you, but I can promise he's a normal guy in that department. And as for how he feels about you..." She finished the last button, and came to stand beside Esther, staring at the wall. "Trust me. Abel's never kissed anyone like that, and I didn't even think he'd kiss you at all, not in front of everyone. Not even with you encouraging him like that. For him to be that enthusiastic I think...Abel probably feels about you the same way you do about him."

Esther swallowed. "It's just...what happened with the Contra Mundi...and...I don't know...I can't even ask him."

Seth shook her head. "You don't need to ask, really. Just make your feelings known, and I'm sure the two of you will figure it out. Though you'll probably have to be pretty blunt, when it comes to Abel. He's not very good at picking up subtleties." She hesitated, then spoke more softly. "Cain and Abel aren't the same person, no matter what Cain says or Abel fears. And I think...being with Abel is more likely to resolve your issues than increase them." She sighed. "I guess it's not really my place to say any of this. But, like I said, you're really good for him, and I'd like to see the two of you get closer."

Esther sighed. "I'm just not sure what to do."

Seth shrugged. "Well, you have time. I just thought maybe I could help you. Sorry, I guess I shouldn't meddle too much in Abel's affairs, but..."

"No. Thank you. It helps to get a second opinion." Esther smiled, then rearranged the folds of her dress. "Shall we go? I'm sure Abel's waiting for us." Seth nodded.

They met Abel in the hall, and went to breakfast. Abel seemed merry enough, and the rest of the company was in good spirits. They made a leisurely breakfast of buttered bread, eggs, hot chocolate, sausage and a variety of fruits and other breakfast pastries. Afterward, they found seats around the tree, while Virgil, Ion and Abel passed out the gifts to their owners. Esther was surprised to find she had quite a stack, and glad to see that Abel seemed to amass a share of his own. The next hours were spent in unwrapping packages, exchanging thanks, and enjoying the presents. Leon and Seth even got into an impromptu contest to see who could land the most paper in the fireplace.

The rest of the day passed in laughter and games, focused on relaxing. Every so often, Virgil would disappear, or Mary or Caterina, but they rejoined the group later. As the time wound on toward dinner, even Caterina, Petros and Ion had lost some of their dignity enough to unbend and join in the general madhouse. Ion was fiercely competitive when he got started. He, Abel, Caterina and Wordsworth wound up in a poker game, with Leon, Astha and Seth urging them on from the sidelines. Esther was content to sit back and watch Abel, enjoying the look of happiness on his face. She noticed Seth watching her brother as well, but there were other things on her mind.

Seth's words stayed with her, circling in her thoughts. She knew no one wondered any longer when Abel spent the night with her, and she remembered Virgil's indications of approval. She knew that Abel's worst fear would be embarrassing her, but...it wasn't a problem. The only question that remained was whether or not she wanted to take the chance of loving him. Watching him, she was conscious of the mixed fear and desire she felt. When they finally rose to retire for the evening, she still wasn't sure.

Abel followed her to her rooms as usual, and checked the doors and windows. Esther usually went to get ready for bed, but she remained, watching Abel, trying to come to a decision. The moonlight and the soft light of the lamps illuminated his silver hair and pale skin, and highlighted the broad shoulders and slender waist. He was handsome enough to make her heart start pounding.

It was Chirstmas. She and Abel were together, after all they'd been through. She knew, that at any time, Rosenkreutz would come for her. Sooner or later, Abel would have to pursue Cain. And after that...she didn't know what would happen. Despite the promise between them, she knew there was a chance neither of them would survive. And...she did want to be with him, at least once.

That thought decided her. She watched him for a moment, then followed him as he entered her bedroom. She waited until he'd checked the window, then touched his arm. "Abel?"

"Yes?" he blinked down at her.

Esther blushed, fresh doubts in her mind. "I...I can't seem to get the buttons on this. I'd appreciate a little help."

"Of course." He stepped around behind her, his deft fingers going to the topmost button and slipping it free.

The warm brush of his fingers sent a tingling thrill down her spine, coalescing into a warm feeling in the pit of her stomach. She still felt nervous. After all, she had no idea how to say what she wanted, and even less experience in seducing anyone. She'd dressed as a street hooker once, on an undercover sting operation, but that hadn't involved much seduction, and anyway, the stakes were different. Still, the warmth did much to allay her fears.

"There." Abel slipped the last button free, and Esther caught the dress to keep it from immediately falling. She heard the rustle of fabric as Abel straightened. "If you'll excuse me."

"Wait. Abel." Esther turned and caught his sleeve. "There's something I want to ask you?"

Abel turned back, and his ears turned pink. "Ummm...well, you might want to wait until you're dressed."

"No." Esther shook her head, then stepped closer to him. Before he could back away, she reached up to grasp his shoulder and pulled him down, then kissed him.

Abel stiffened for a second, then leaned into the kiss, his hands on her shoulders as he bent to deepen the embrace. Esther let the hand on the back of his neck shift, to slip to his collar. Through the building heat between them, her fingers found the collar and pulled it free, then dropped to the first of his cassock fasteners. It was a bit stiffer, but she managed.

Abel pulled back, a dazed look in his eyes. "Esther? What...?" he blinked down at his shirt, already half unfastened, then at her dress, which she was barely holding up.

"I..." She swallowed, then looked up into the beautiful blue eyes. "I'd...I want you to be with me tonight."

"Well, I did say I'd stay with you this evening, but..." Abel stopped as Esther put a hand to his mouth.

"That's not what I mean. I mean...I want..." Esther blushed, and moved her hand to rest on his chest. "I want to be with you, the way...the way lovers are. Not just guarding me, but..." She stopped, too embarrassed to get the words out.

"Umm, well...oh." Abel blinked, his eyes widening in surprise. Then his gaze darkened. Gentle hands came up to take her shoulders. "Esther..."

"I know. But still...I want you."

Abel swallowed hard. "Esther, I...I don't want...you know." He hesitated. "I...care for you. I don't want to do anything that would harm you. Not your reputation as queen, not your position with your advisers, and not your position in the church. If we...if we did this..."

"It's all right." Esther smiled. "Lord Walsh, he told me that first night you comforted me, that it would be all right. He and Mary both know that you and I are together, and he said he trusts you to be discreet." She smiled again. "And as for my standing with the church, I was absolved of my vows when I became queen so, it's all right. Unless..." She frowned. "Did you...did you take a vow of chastity?"

"Umm, no, actually. I didn't quite dare." Abel blushed. "But...Esther..." he swallowed. "I..."

A tendril of cold fear touched her. "Is it...that you don't want me?" She hadn't thought that was the case, not the way he kissed her, but with Abel it was hard to tell.

He shook his head. "It isn't that. It's just I..." he stopped, and his head bowed. "I don't want to hurt you." The words came out as a whisper. "Not...not if something happens, and I don't survive. And...after hearing what Cain and von Lohengrin did to you...I didn't...I didn't want to do anything that would make you relive those terrible memories. Even if it means I can never touch you...I..."

Esther reached up to touch his mouth, stilling his words. "That's exactly why I want to be with you. I know we might both die, or one of us might. The Order won't disappear forever. And I... I don't want to risk losing you without ever being with you. As for what Dietrich and Cain did...I want you to erase it. Show me what it's supposed to be like, so I don't have to remember what they did."

There was silence between them for a moment, then Abel bent his head to kiss her again. It was a soft kiss, but there was no mistaking the passion in it. His hand slipped lower, to brush her shoulder. "We'll have to be careful, not to re-injure the shoulder." his voice was suddenly rough.

Esther wasn't feeling too steady herself. "Yes."

Abel swallowed again. "Promise me." He rested his head on hers. "Promise me that you will tell me, if I make you uncomfortable. If it's your shoulder, or...or anything else, promise you will tell me to stop. I don't want to hurt you, even by accident."

That was a promise she was happy enough to make. "I will." She pulled him closer for another kiss. Her dress dropped to the floor as she reached up to undo the last of his cassock clasps, leaving her dressed in her shift and undergarments. She got the last of the shirt undone, and pushed it back, running her hands over the smooth, hard muscles of his chest.

Abel shrugged out of the shirt, and somehow, managed to step out of his boots as well, leaving him dressed in nothing but his pants. They held the kiss a moment longer, then Abel pulled back slightly. He held her for a moment, his hands gentle on her shoulders.

Esther stood still. She had no idea what he was thinking, but she trusted him. Still she was surprised when he bent down and picked her up in his arms. He carried her to the bed and set her gently down, then knelt at her feet. Esther blinked. "Abel?" Her voice came out far too hoarse.

"It's all right." He tilted his head. "It's been...a long time, but I want this to be perfect for you." He smiled, a quiet smile that combined passion and serenity, and reached up to brush her face with a gentle caress. "I thought it might be best if we went slowly." One hand stroked her face, down her throat to rest on her chest. It was a light touch, but it burned, sending warmth through her.

Esther swallowed. "All right. What...what should I do?"

"Just relax." Abel's smile widened. His hand traced a slow sensuous path down her arm to the bed, then across her leg. He bent his head, then took her foot in both hands. One hand held her foot, gently massaging it, while the other traced a smooth path up her leg, shaping the contours of the muscle under her stockings, as if he meant to memorize every curve. Esther shivered as his hand slipped underneath her shift, up to the top of the three-quarter hose, then slowly, gently, pulled the hose down. The warm hand left a trail of heat behind it, contrasting deliciously with the kiss of the cool air behind. Abel pulled the stocking free, then bent his head to kiss her bare foot. His lips were even warmer than his hand. It felt like being touched with a live coal, and the feeling went straight to her gut. He held still a moment, then repeated the movement with the other leg, leaving another trail of warmth from Esther's feet to her thighs.

After the second kiss, Abel stilled a moment, letting her get used to his touch. Then he rose from he knees, still moving with that same sure slowness. His hands caressed her legs, then beneath the shift, tracing the lines of her hips, then upward to her waist, stroking across her stomach and leaving smoldering embers behind. His hands moved upward, lifting the shift to expose her belly as his fingers roved lightly across her ribs, then brushed across her breasts. The touch of his thumbs on her chest sent a tingling feeling through her. She didn't even tense as he gently lifted the linen garment over her head, careful of her injured shoulder. One hand dropped the clothing to the side, to land on the stockings, while the other traced down her cheek and throat, then tilted her head back for a kiss. He settled on the bed, his mouth still on hers and his hands framing her face. He held her there for a moment, then his hands dropped lower, to stroke her chest.

Suddenly, it was too much. Memories of Dietrich and Cain flooded through her, dousing the fire in her gut with ice. Esther stiffened, feeling fear sweep through her, even as her mind reminded her that it was Abel, not Cain who was with her.

Abel dropped his hands at once and moved back. Esther closed her eyes, taking a deep shuddering breath to calm the sudden storm of emotion. This isn't...it isn't like then. Abel isn't Cain, and he's certainly not Dietrich. This is...it's all right.

She swallowed, feeling her fears dissipate as quickly as they'd come. She opened her eyes, to find that Abel had not only moved back, he was standing a good three or four feet away, his eyes watching her with concern. He waited until she met his gaze, then whispered softly. "Esther? Are you all right?"

"Yes." She reached out, and he took her hand carefully in his own, his fingers tracing the back in a soothing pattern. "I'm sorry. I just..."

"It's all right." His voice was as soothing as his touch. "It's only to be expected, given the experiences you've had. And it's fine. We don't have to do this. If it's what you want, I can bring you your nightgown."

Esther shook her head. Even with the vestiges of fear pounding through her, she didn't want to let him go. "No. I still want to try. It's just...I just need a moment."

He inclined his head. "Can you tell me what frightened you?"

Esther swallowed, looking at him. In the dimness, he suddenly looked too much like his brother. The hair falling down his back shimmered golden in the lamplight, and the way he sat, wearing nothing but his breeches, reminded her far too much of the way Cain had appeared when he tried to seduce her. "It's just...the way you look in the light, the way you're dressed...you look like him. And somehow...I don't know why, but I felt like...like I was with Dietrich again. Even though I know it isn't true."

"It's all right. I understand." His hand brushed the tears from her face. "Well then. I'll just have to make myself as unlike Dietrich and Cain as possible, now won't I?" He sighed. "I can't help looking a bit like him, but...would you like me to put my shirt on again? Or...I suppose I can get my cross..."

"No. It isn't that." Esther shook her head. Her gaze slipped to the waist of his pants. Cain had always worn pants when he came for her. So had Dietrich. For a split second, her mind flashed to the members of the Fleur du Mal, the night he'd first rescued her. She reached out hesitantly, and laid a hand on his hip, brushing the fabric. "I think...it's not that I want you to be more dressed. Could you...?" She stopped, doubt assailing her as she remembered her feelings when Cain had appeared naked before her.

"I can take them off, if it's what you want. I hadn't planned to, but..." He brushed her cheek again, "You still look a little afraid."

His gentle touch guided her eyes to meet his. There was no impatience in his gaze, no anger or anything like that. Only concern. She looked away, spoke softly into the darkness. "He was always trying to seduce me, to take me from you. Sometimes, he would...just appear, with nothing. I...I'm not sure."

"Hmmm..." Abel's voice was thoughtful. "Well, why don't I try something then? And if it doesn't work..." He smiled, then bent and kissed her. "I'll be perfectly happy with simply kissing you to sleep."

She didn't have time to reply before he rose and disappeared into the bathroom. Nonetheless, the comment brought a smile to her lips, dispelling the cold in her lower abdomen and relaxing her once more.

Abel reappeared seconds later. He'd kept his hair tied back, but...he'd removed his pants, folding them over his arm. Instead, he'd wrapped a bath towel around his waist. He was slender enough for it to cover him, though barely, and the odd mix of modesty and vulnerability he projected was more calming to her than anything else he could have done. He hesitated a moment, then set his clothing aside, and moved once more to join her on the bed, sitting with one leg tucked under the opposite knee. The position afforded him some protection, but when she looked down, she caught a glance of his inner thigh. She flicked her gaze away before she had the urge to look any higher, feeling her cheeks burn with heat.

Abel's hand touched her jaw. "Esther? Is this...is this better?"

She stopped. She still felt oddly nervous and reluctant, but...it wasn't the same feeling. She was no longer afraid of him. She nodded. "Yes. But..."

He chuckled. "Believe me. I understand." His hand traced her chin and neck, then stroked her shoulder. "Lie down. On your stomach please."

Esther blinked, turning to look at him. "Abel...what are you...?"

He smiled, a disarming, almost boyish smile. "Well, your back is a bit tense. If you don't mind, why don't I give you a massage? Seth taught me how. It's been a while, but I think I remember." His hand rubbed a small circle over the back of her shoulder, gently coaxing the muscles to relax.

Esther didn't think, just rolled over and stretched out. She felt Abel shift position, his weight settling to either side of her waist as if he were kneeling over her. Then his hands, strong and gentle and warm, touched her shoulders. He worked carefully, gentle, smooth strokes. She felt him shift a little, avoiding the sensitive area on her left shoulder where the wound had been. Then his fingers dug in a little, rubbing in small circles and short brushes to coax her tight muscles into relaxing.

She had to admit, Abel was an excellent at massage. His hands were gentle, strong without hurting. The warmth in them was even more relaxing. Esther could actually feel her back unknot as his hands worked over the muscles. Warmth spread through her, relaxing her. At the same time, she felt an odd tingling, a low sense of pressure, and excitement. Her mind brought up the image of Abel, kneeling over her in nothing but a towel. The thought made her blush, but she couldn't deny the excited feeling that swept through her. She was half drowsing, lost in those feelings, when something snagged her bra. She started to stiffen, but Abel's quiet voice spoke from above her. "Sorry. It was in my way, so I just moved it a little."

"That's fine." Her voice sounded low and husky, even to her. She shifted upward, to shrug the clothing off her shoulders. "It's okay if you just remove it."

Abel didn't say anything, but his hands unsnapped the clasp, and slid it from underneath her. The movement brushed one of his hands across her breast. Fire danced through her at that gentle touch, bringing excitement to replace her hesitation.

Abel's hands worked for a few more minutes on her shoulders, then moved lower, to the middle of her back. Esther lay there, savoring the feeling of his warm hands moving across her body. Then his hands moved lower, hovering near her hips. He was still massaging her, but the feel of his hands that low was sending little darts of fire through her. Suddenly, her skin felt almost too sensitive. She twisted her head. What is he doing? Without thinking, she rolled over.

Abel froze, his hands now on the front of her waist, right above her underwear line. Esther found herself looking up at him, and in that position, the towel didn't conceal much of anything. Esther felt her cheeks burning, and his were just as red. He swallowed. "Esther..."

"Don't stop." She gathered her courage, clinging to the fire that was building, and reached up one hand to lay on the towel at his hip. "It's fine." And it was. The realization made her relax in his hands.

Abel nodded, and his hands began to move again, massaging her stomach. Heat built in her body, low and pulsing in time with his movements. She felt her body responding, her skin becoming sensitive to every little motion he made. Rather than fear, she now felt...desire. She wanted him to keep going. She watched as his hands moved lower, stroking ever closer to her hips and her groin. Then his hands brushed her underwear. She felt him hesitate a second, then one finger slipped under the band to caress her. It felt like being brushed by a live coal, and Esther fought back gasp of wonder as a small tendril of lightning passed through her. The feeling intensified as Abel slid his hand under the garment, stroking lower, brushing his hand lightly over her. His other hand slipped to her hip, and he paused, looking up in an unspoken question.

Esther felt herself nod, and shifted her hips, moving so the last of her clothing slipped downward, revealing the curve of her hips and the upper edge of her nether regions. Abel took the hint, rocking slowly back, drawing the underwear with his hands in the same movement he had removed her stockings before. But where that had felt like a light warmth, this felt like brushing a bonfire. His hands were actually trembling a little, and the shift of his body revealed that, under the towel, he was already more than ready to take her. But he held back, moving gently for her sake.

Esther didn't think, just lay back so Abel could see her, touch her. She didn't know what to do, but she was aware that he did, and she trusted him utterly. Hesitantly, she parted her legs a little for him, waiting for his next move.

Abel laid the last garment to one side. But instead of moving to straddle her, he shifted, laying carefully beside her. One hand moved to the towel, loosening it. He didn't drop it to the side, but the edges fell away, revealing tantalizing glimpses of his hips and his shaft, already hard. He laid one hand on her stomach, then bent to brush a kiss along her jaw. "Esther." The words was half-prayer, half question, and infused with a world of passion.

She wasn't sure she could speak. Instead, she reached up, running a hand across his chest, then down his arm to where it rested on her waist, giving him a slight nod. She ran it back up his arm, then lower, stroking across his abdomen, and heard his sharp intake of breath. She looked up into the intense blue eyes, the unspoken question. "Yes."

Abel's hand shifted lower, stroking across her body. He rubbed her nether regions a moment, gently coaxing her legs wider, then his hand slipped between her legs and stroked. Esther gasped as lightning danced through her at that simple touch. Abel shifted, stroking deeper, brushing almost completely insider her. The feeling sent heat straight to her belly, and seemed to set all her nerve endings on fire.

Abel stroked her a moment, then shifted his hand. Esther's back arched as one of his fingers slipped deep inside her, penetrating her and stroking along her core. She gasped, her hand clenching on his arm as he rocked his hand back and forth, almost withdrawing, then reaching deeper. Fire raced along her blood, but it brought pleasure, not pain.

Abel stilled then, leaning down to kiss her. He free hand brushed along her chin. "Are you all right?" His voice was rough, hoarse.

"Yes." her voice didn't sound much better. She took his hand in hers, then arched herself against his other hand. Abel bent his head, kissing her once more, then his finger withdrew. His hand stroked her hips a little wider, then, carefully, he inserted two fingers into her, stretching her, stroking her and stimulating her.

Lightning and wonder danced through her, arcing through her groin, her stomach, her chest. Esther felt herself gasping as heat flared stronger, and her legs parted involuntarily, her hand clenching on his arm. Abel stroked deeper, his hands hitting nerves deeper inside her to ignite more flames. His free hand held her face, tracing her jaw as he leaned in for another kiss.

Electricity crackled between them, and Abel froze, pulling back slightly. There was sudden fear in his eyes, penetrating the haze of heat and desire that had fogged Esther's senses. She reached up to touch his shoulder. "Abel?"

"I..." He was shaking. "I can't...they...my powers." He swallowed. "Just now...I felt them. And I..."

Esther reached up and laid a hand across his mouth. "It's fine." She smiled up at him, stroking his cheek. "I've told you, I'm not afraid of you. No matter what we're doing, or what you feel, it's fine."

"But...what they want..." He swallowed again, his fingers stroking her neck.

"It's all right. I want you." she brushed his face, then drew his head down, so his warm breath was on her neck. "I want whatever makes this a good experience for you too. Even if you drink a little blood, it's all right. I'm sure I've recovered, and so have you."

Abel lifted his head, doubt and hope and passion warring in his eyes. "Esther..."

"It's fine." She stroked his cheek, then carefully let her hand drop, tracing the curve of his hips in a gentle enticement to continue. She knew she should have been shocked at her own behavior, and a part of her was still afraid, but the fires Abel had stimulated were still burning, giving her courage. And somehow, then honor in him only increased her desire. She shifted, drawing herself closer to him, close enough that she could feel his shaft hard against her thigh. Deliberately, she moved her leg against him.

Abel's head went back for a moment, strain and joy both mixing in the features. Then his hand moved, stroking her again, and she felt his fingers press her wider, then slip into her once more, renewing the pulse between her legs. Three fingers entered her body stretching her still further, stroking deeper until Esther felt her hips come off the bed in helpless response.

Abel stroked her a minute more, then withdrew. His hands came up to catch hers, then he rolled so he was above her, kneeling with a hand on either side of her shoulders. The towel fell away from him, revealing his body. Esther swallowed, staring at his shaft, already hard. Then her gaze moved upward to meet Abel's eyes, and she nodded, shifting her hips to accommodate him.

Abel held her gaze, then slowly lowered himself over her. His shaft touched her, and he stopped, letting her get used to his presence, to the feel of him there. Then, slowly, he pressed forward.

Esther gasped, her hips arcing as Abel's body entered hers. Fire exploded through her, pleasure sweeping her away. Abel's hands caught her, holding her so she wouldn't hurt her shoulder. "Hold onto my hands, Esther." The words were commanding, but the tone, husky and full of desire, was as intimate as a caress, like a kiss.

Esther took hold of his wrists. His hands were burning, his arms trembling. She could see the strain in his face. He held himself still, then pushed forward, moving slowly.

Inch by inch, Abel's body entered hers. Esther felt as if she were drowning in fire. She shifted restlessly, but Abel didn't increase his pace. The slow friction of it was driving her mad, threatening to melt her, and she could see in his face that he felt the same way. Nevertheless, he continued in that slow pace, moving gently to avoid hurting her.

They both felt the resistance in her. Then Abel leaned down, breathing hard. "Bear with me." Before she had a chance to respond, his mouth took hers, a deep passionate kiss like the one he'd given her under the mistletoe.

Esther's world exploded, conscious thought disappearing under the whirlwind of emotions and sensations that kiss invoked. The passion of his lips, the brush of his chest against hers, the way his fingers twisted to twine with hers. She felt as if she were drowning in a sea of sensation. She felt Abel's hips shift forward, brief pain flaring deep inside her, but she was so stunned by that kiss that she almost didn't feel it. Then Abel leaned back, and pushed himself forward, so his body lay against hers, erection deep inside her.

They stayed like that, breathing hard, then his hand slipped from hers, to brush her face. "Are you all right, love?"

Esther smiled. "Yes." She shifted slightly, feeling a renewed pulse of lightning as his body moved in hers, and was pleased to see Abel's eyes widen. "Can we keep going?"

Abel didn't answer, but arced back, his face taunt. She felt him shift above her and in her. Suddenly, wings flared behind him, dark and strong, then curved to wrap both of them in a cloud of night. The feather softness sent little streaks of electricity across her skin. Abel moved then, pulling back, and began a slow steady rhythm. His body stroked in and out of hers, sometimes short strokes, sometimes so long he almost withdrew from her before pushing forward, always in the same slow movements.

Fire built between them, and electricity sparked both around her and within her. Esther felt like she was going up in flames, melting, and she didn't care. The pleasure was almost too intense to bear. She wanted to call a halt, and she wanted more. She could hear herself gasping, but it all her attention was focused on the feel of Abel's body against hers, his shaft pumping in and out of her in that steady rhythm, like the beat of his heart.

She felt as if she was going to shatter under the onslaught of stimulus. Then Abel's wings tightened, and he bent his head. His lips brushed her throat, a light nip that she barely felt, and his hips drove forward, pressing so deep their hips ground together.

Esther felt her body explode, catapulting her out of rational thought, out of her mind. Her body shuddered, clamping around Abel, and she felt it as an explosion shook him as well, both of them going over the edge together. Their backs arched as one, pressing them together at the hips as explosion after explosion rocked through them. Abel flung his head back, his expression filled with ecstasy, and she knew her face mirrored his.

Finally, the intensity faded. Abel dropped beside her, his body still inside hers, his chest heaving. Esther curled into him, listening to the wild beating of his heart as her own body relaxed.

They lay together like that a few minutes, too spent to move. Then Abel shifted, withdrawing from her, and reached down to pull a sheet over both of them. His hair was damp with sweat, his chest shining with perspiration, but he looked happy. He settled back beside her, the sheet cooling them both, and brushed a tendril of sweaty hair out of her face. "Esther? How do you feel?"

She smiled. "That was...wonderful." She remembered the small nip he'd taken, just before the climax. Her hand rose to touch her neck. "Did you get what you needed?"

Abel chuckled. "I got a great deal more than that. You were amazing." His hand stroked her cheek. "I honestly can't remember when I've ever felt that before. As for that..." His hand stroked her neck, and his eyes darkened slightly. "I suppose I shouldn't have, but I didn't drink your blood, not really." He flashed hera smile. "It was a compromise, of sorts. The mark should fade by morning."

"It doesn't matter." She leaned forward to kiss him, snuggling her body against his. "Thank you. That was amazing, Abel."

He laughed, and his arm went around her waist. "Thank you, Esther. For having me. For being with me. I...I can't even begin to tell you how wondrous this feels, to have you and be with you."

"You don't need to." She stroked his jaw. "I know exactly what you mean."

She leaned in and kissed him again. She felt suddenly tired, drained, and barely able to keep her eyes open. She struggled to stay awake, not wanting to let go of this moment.

Abel noticed, and his hand brushed her face. "It's all right. Go to sleep." His voice was low, soothing and caressing. "I promise, I'll still be here when you wake." He brushed her hair back, and she relaxed against him. "Sleep well, Esther." There was a breath of hesitation. "Love. Sleep well."

Esther smiled, and shifted closer to his warmth, and allowed herself to relax into sleep.