Tears in the Rain

TITLE: Tears in the Rain 
PAIRING: Julian/Frank/Sonny/Daedalus 
RATING: NC-17 
DISCLAIMER: No mine... Just playing...  
SUMMARY: Takes place after "Cabin in the Woods". Just what is Frank going 
through when we see him standing out in the rain, watching Archon's 
funeral... seeing Sonny among the Kindred? 


Tears in the Rain 

by Asa Meda 

 

It had taken four hours to make the two-hour journey. Heavy rains blurred the lines on the road, obscured the twists and turns. The radio stations warned it was dangerous to drive tonight. But he didn't care. It didn't matter anymore. It was the First of December. It was the day terrible things always happened. People died... people he cared about even if that caring was buried deep inside himself. 

His car skidded to a stop, barely missing the cars parked at the cemetery at Magzanita Springs. When he had learned of Kindred, he did some research. Magzanita Springs was important to Julian Luna's past, to the history of many Kindred in this area. During this past weekend, Luna had been there with Caitlyn Byrne. During this past weekend, the Kindred had had a civil war. 



[Five Hours Before] 

"Julian is dead." 

The words struck him like a bullet. Frank stared into the eyes of Cameron, the new Brujah Primogen. His mind and body were suddenly numb as he failed to hear the rest of Cameron's words, barely aware of the threatening tone. His mind tried to fit itself around the declaration. His soul cried out in denial, sensing deep inside that the words were a lie. "Luna's dead?" 

"That's right." Cameron continued his threatening diatribe, warning of fatal consequences. But Frank almost laughed inside. What did it matter? Julian was dead. Alexandra was dead. Linda... 

The Brujah stopped speaking and looked up, his attention distracted. Frank followed his gaze, surprised to find his partner, Sonny Toussaints, standing in the doorway separating offices from the squad room. Sonny's expression 
was one he'd seen before... somewhere. Frank searched his memories, disturbed to find nothing but a strange void, a missing puzzle piece. In Sonny's eyes there was a warning to the Brujah, an odd protectiveness in his stance. Without comment Cameron and his escorts walked away. Feeling oddly disconnected Frank tried to find something to say to Sonny. But before he could open his mouth, his partner was gone. Later that afternoon Sonny called in, speaking of a death in the family, claiming bereavement leave. 

By the end of his shift an unyielding urge to go to Magzanita Springs was too much to bear. In spite of the dangers he began his journey. It was the First of December and he needed to know, even at the risk to his own life... 

Explosive thunder startled Frank out of his reverie. With purpose he got out. The atmosphere beyond the shelter of his car was raw and uncaring. His jacket and clothes were instantly soaked through. But Frank ignored the discomfort. Trusting his instincts he allowed his feet to guide him, feeling the presence of Kindred grow stronger as he walked among the old graves of a long closed cemetery. 

Then he saw them. Six people gathered around an open grave, their umbrellas raised, providing poor insulation against the elements. Frank's chest constricted. It was over. No more chances to change what could have been. 
//I'm sorry, Julian. I never had the guts to tell you...// 

Lightening flashed. Frank's heart skipped a beat as the brief light caught the features of the one standing apart by the coffin. //Julian.// Kohanek swallowed hard, his grief turning to confusion, then anger. //What the hell 
is going on! Who's in the--// 

The coffin's lid closed with muffled finality, leaving the silent question unanswered. Memories emerged to haunt him. He stood among near strangers, witness to a ceremony that no longer held meaning as a priest said the ritual phrases that were meant to give comfort to the living in honor of the dead. The air was moist and frigid, the others present were respectful and kind. But they had been her friends, her associates. He didn't have more than one or two of those, and only one could make the time to come. 

The cause of Linda's death had been clear. Suicide. By rights, she shouldn't have been buried here on holy ground, but the Diocesan ruled that his wife had not been in her right mind, therefore no sin had been committed, only tragic circumstance. Yet Linda's family refused to come, would not acknowledge what had happened. Instead they let Frank know that he was to blame, for all of it, for driving their daughter to her death, for what began this tragedy two years before. 

Frank remembered watching the tombstone as some came to lay flowers at the end of the ceremony, some patting him on the shoulder as they past him to leave. There was already a name inscribed there, the one who had gone 
before- 



//A piercing scream echoed in his mind...// 



Thunder cracked across the dark sky. Frank sniffed, letting raindrops drive back the tears burning in his eyes. His body shook as the cold rain penetrated deep into his skin. He took in the faces of the others standing by the unknown grave, curious to see who had come, recognizing Lillie... and the tough guy... Cash... and... 

//Oh shit!// Sonny's dark face peeked out from under an umbrella, his attention focused on the ritual, his expression silently mournful. Frank touched tree beside him for support as his sense or reality tilted and his  head began to throb. Images skittered through his mind, half remembered dreams became actual memories. An enraged Kindred had tried to break his neck, thinking him a threat to a young boy. But then Sonny was there, stopping the attack, holding Frank upright with unquestioned strength, his dark eyes glowing with familiar power. //You're one of them!// Frank had managed to spit out painfully, shock warring with a sense of betrayal. 

Sonny attempted to calm him. But Frank was beyond listening. Sonny's grip shifted. A dark hand passed over Frank's face and a void filled with frustration formed within his soul... 

******* 

"Bastard!" Frank muttered bitterly. As if hearing Sonny's face tilted upward. Their eyes met with knowledge and understanding. Kohanek saw the others turn as well. Their eyes glowed in the gloom of the waning storm. Frank's heart throbbed into his throat as he spotted the largest of them, the one who had tried to kill him... Daedalus. The object of his nightmares leaned close to Julian, his lips moving in quiet words. Julian nodded then stepped towards Frank. //I'm dead,// he told himself. //It's too late. Julian can't let me live... I shouldn't have lived after Alexandra...// 

Uncertain, Frank stumbled back then ran. Adrenaline surged through him. He needed to get away... go home. It had all been a lie. The Kindred had known his every move through Sonny. They played with him... lied to him. Maybe he could get out of San Francisco before they could get to him. There wasn't anything left here for him. Another life gone... 

//Oh god, Frank... What life? What were you thinking? You should have gotten a clue when Alexandra died... when Julian--// 

//But I thought--// 

//Thought what? That Julian liked you? You and he--// 

Tears flowed freely down his face, mingling with the freezing rain. It had all been a lie. Like all the Kindred, Julian had played him for a fool. Finally Frank understood everything. He didn't belong. Not with Kindred. 
Not with his own people. Not with anyone. His whole life had been one terrible mistake that cost others their lives. 

//Take my hand. Linda, please take my hand... Linda!// 

Frank clenched his hand, his fingertips tingling with the remembered sensation of barely touching his wife as she jumped to her death three years ago. His eyes caught the dull gleam of the wedding band he still wore. A reminder of his crime, and punishment. 

Some instinct warned Frank. Kindred were drawing near as he reached his car. The rain faded to a drizzle. Thunder and lightening were becoming more distant. The air was still, wet and cold. Frank shivered as he saw quick 
shadows gather around him. Close. Too close. He didn't want to confront them; didn't want to talk to them; didn't want them to touch him. 

His fingers trembled as he pulled car keys from his jacket. He cursed as his hand that held his keys jerked from the lock as his muscles spasmed. But with effort he focused and the key slid home. A moment later Frank folded himself into the driver's seat then locked all the doors, feeling an odd sense of triumph as a dark calm filtered through him. In an instant the Kindred were around him. Two stood in front of his vehicle, clearly ready to block him, Sonny and Daedalus. For a single moment Frank's eyes met the larger Kindred's. In contrast to savagery that marked their first meeting, Daedalus' presence projected a calm concern, a waiting. 

"Open the door, Frank." 

Julian's voice came from just outside the driver's side window. //Fuck off!// Frank threw back silently, refusing to look, knowing his mind would be taken the moment he did. They were not going to let him leave, he realized. Anyway, where would he go? Both Julian and Alexandra had said the Kindred were everywhere. They would find him. And all he wanted to do was be left alone, to do what he should have done the day after his wife died... after what had happened the year before her suicide. All he wanted 
was peace, to silence the voices and the cries that whispered constantly within his soul. 

Frank reached into his jacket, feeling the familiar heaviness of his weapon, coming to a final decision. Three years ago he had thought his wife a coward for leaving him behind when she took her life. Now he understood. 
She had been right... 

//I can't live with it, Frank! I'm not strong like you! Please let me go!// 

//Linda no! Linda, take my hand... don't jump! Please don't jump!// 

//I'm sorry, Frank! I love you--// 

"Frank!" 

Julian's cry nearly stopped him. Something hard slammed against the car door. //Do it now!// he ordered himself, knowing his chance would be lost in a single moment. His thumb quickly unlocked the safety as he drew the gun under his chin. He would make the voices stop, make the sham that was his life end... 

"Frank! No!" 

Frank pulled the trigger. Instantly there was an explosion of sound. Pain radiated up his arm from his wrist. Frank found himself grabbed and pulled then steadied. An icy wind blew over his face, further numbing already frostbitten skin. 

"It must have jammed," he heard a familiar voice state. 

Jammed? Frank blinked open his eyes, surprised by the cold water that flowed into them. //Alive... I'm alive... no...// His gaze roamed. His heart beat into his throat as he saw two Kindred women, Lillie and another, standing to either side of him, their umbrellas held out above him in a gesture to protect him from the elements. 

In front of him, Sonny handed a gun to Julian. His partner's expression was thoughtful as he scanned Frank. Luna simply nodded and handed the weapon to Cash, who also spared Kohanek a glance. Jammed? Frank tried to move but 
hands clasped his upper arms and shoulders from behind, holding him in place. To his right he could see his car, the driver's window smashed, the door opened at an odd angle, barely attached. 

He had failed

*********

"Frank." 

He felt more than heard Julian's voice. Compelled, he met Julian's gaze. One brown eye, one black eye. He'd never heard of someone with eyes like that. Blue and brown; a friend he had gone to school with had that. But not eyes like these. They captured him in there depths. 

Julian Luna's brows knitted together as they studied each other. "Why?" the Prince asked, clearly confused. 

Why? Frank closed his eyes. Did it matter? Wasn't this best for everyone? He swallowed hard. Voices filled his mind, accusing. The echo of a child's piercing scream shook his already battered nerves. It was all his fault... 
all his fault... 



//We did everything we could. But his heart failed. I'm sorry to tell you--// 



"No!" The rage spiraled within him, burning away his stupor. How dare they stop him! How dare they make him live like this, with the shadows he could no longer bear! They lied to him! They didn't give a damn! They didn't 
understand! Frank broke. Using all of his training as a police officer and his knowledge of Kindred, he struck out. But his opponent was stronger. As he tried to kick back, he was turned and his wrists seized in a firm grip. 
Frank found himself face to face with Daedalus. The Kindred's eyes glowed with power, but his expression was soft as if seeing something more in Frank's attack. "Let me go!" 

"When my Prince commands it," the larger man stated flatly. "Your soul tears at itself, Frank Kohanek," he declared as he examined the human, his brow wrinkling in puzzlement. "What are you really fighting when you fight 
me?" 

//Oh shit!// Frank was paralyzed by the words that cut through all his well-woven barriers. "Fuck you!" he threw out, hoping to enrage the Kindred. //He wanted to kill me once before. Shouldn't take much...// 

Two cold hands surrounded his face, turning his head. Julian's eyes once again met his and Frank instantly found the shadows within his own soul begin a slow retreat, leaving behind the rage... the shame... 

"Why the hell do you care!" he cried out desperately. The rains began to fall again. Thunder rolled around them. Another storm approached. "This is what you wanted, isn't it?" he reasoned with the Kindred Prince. "I'm doing you a favor!" Their precious Masquerade would be protected! What the hell did they want from him! 

An odd look crossed creased Julian's face then faded. Luna's hands loosened their grip, his thumbs caressing Frank's cheeks. "I vowed to protect you." His voice rose above the sudden downpour that fell upon them. "Even from 
yourself." His left hand moved, gliding over Frank's face. "Sleep." 

And he did. 

************************** 



The Conclave had assembled in tense silence, to wait. As Julian entered he saw a new man sitting at one end of the table. He had already been told Cameron would be here, that the Brujah clan had finally recognized him as their Primogen. Julian's memory stirred as he studied the sullen face, seeing a light of intelligence and cunning that Eddie Fiori never had. This one was a leader, a Brujah not prone to rash decision. 

//Shame,// he thought as he approached, his Beast within stirring. This man was also Archon's killer and would not be leaving this meeting without finding True Death. But then the terrible truth was revealed, one he himself had already started to suspect in his encounter with the Brujah in Magzanita Springs ten years ago. Archon, Prince of the City at that time, had sent him to kill all the Brujah there. His reasoning had been just, approved by the Conclave. 

But it was a bloody memory. Even at the time Julian had felt something wrong. The Brujah were surprised. Some pleaded for mercy as they died. For the first time Julian questioned his Sire's command, the sanity of the killing. In a single moment of clarity Julian stopped, suddenly sickened by the smell of Kindred blood spilled, by the overwhelming feeling of terror he was receiving from his victims. He returned to Archon, ready for his punishment. But his Sire merely nodded, his own expression dark with 
regret. After that day the slow process of change began. Archon encouraged Julian's vision of uniting the clans in peace, even supported Luna's need to create closer ties with Humans. Three years later Julian Luna was recognized as the new Prince of the City, his power based on cooperation rather than domination. 

Yet now he fully understood the darkness that lurked within his Sire after the slaughter at the Old Mission Winery. The killings had not been just but Archon's own personal revenge against the Brujah. His Sire should have been given True Death for his actions then, but the deception had held, revealed only in the last moments of his life. Cameron's killing had been just. And as Prince, Julian was forced to accept this judgment. 

However, Julian made his position clear. The Brujah Primogen would be held to the Law with no room for leniency. Cameron, with his ambition to be Prince, was wisely silent until Julian sat down. Then the Conclave meeting officially began. 

"Speaking of stepping wrong, Julian," Cameron asked calmly, his expression bright. "What about your little indiscretions?" 

Julian sighed, knowing that the Brujah was right, that the time had come to take control and clean his own house. He leveled his gaze at the younger Primogen, conceding the point with a nod. "Caitlyn Byrne has been made to forget," he said, his heart giving a single thud. He recognized what he had been trying to do with Caitlyn and Alexandra. Each had been an image of his long dead wife, a promise of a second chance. He had allowed his obsession to resurrect Emily's shadow to harm these women, even if they had come to him willingly. "I will be meeting with her later today, to see if she's all right. Then I will distance her from the Kindred in this city... and myself." He had already made arrangements for her to be "wooed" away to a 
paper in Los Angeles with an offer she wouldn't refuse. Cyrus, the Prince of that city, promised he would protect her, so long as she did not violate the Masquerade. 

"And what about Frank Kohanek?" Cameron challenged. 

//And what of Frank Kohanek...// 

Julian met Cameron's gaze, suddenly sober, then glanced to the others, his allies. "He had an accident earlier tonight. My childe is caring for him," he said quietly. "He knows about Sonny and this time I don't think he can 
be made to forget." 

Cameron's eyebrows raised in interest. "So what do you plan to do, my Prince?" he asked, his tone challenging. "You know the Law... yes?" 

Luna frowned then sighed. "He will have to be Embraced... or die," he declared. He paused, glancing to the Nosferatu Primogen. "Or... there is an option." 

"What option!" Cameron rose to his feet. "That is the Law! The only Law! As the Prince of the City, you are bound by them! You've held yourself above the Law for months, keeping this mortal as a pet! Now you have to choose!" 

**********

Julian felt his inner Beast stir once again and savagely suppressed it. Control was needed, careful control. "There is another option, Cameron," he said with cold calm. "An option that might benefit all of us." For an instant his eyes met those of Daedalus, their thoughts blending, confirming the decision they had made while they drove back from Archon's funeral, as Julian held Frank in his arms as the mortal slept fitfully. 

"There have been times," the Nosferatu began quietly, drawing Cameron's attention. "When we have forged a bond with Humans to maintain the Masquerade. They can move without chance of discovery but they are bound to the Kindred, bound to our Laws above mortal laws." 

"Bound how?" Lillie asked curiously. 

"By blood," Julian answered. "There would be a Binding but not an Embrace." Luna shifted, his mouth filling with a familiar metallic taste, his teeth aching with the thought of the taste of Frank's blood. His heart moved in a  single, audible beat. To his surprise Lillie's expression softened into mild amusement. Her eyes were bright with gentle approval. 

"But the Human must be a part of it," Daedalus continued, filling the awkward pause. "He would have to participate, be willing to become a shadow, caught between two worlds." He blinked. "It can be a painful way to live. Eventually those Bound become Embraced to save their sanity. But for a decade or more he could provide a kind of protection we haven't had in a long time." 

Cameron lean back, his expression neutral. "And you'd do this with Frank?" His eyes swept over Julian. "You show your weakness, Luna. Your weakness for mortals... for love." 

"I would like to hope, Brujah," Julian returned without hesitation. "That love would be what will ultimately bring Human and Kindred together as friends, not enemies. If Frank is willing then he will be Bound. If not," he lowered his eyes, stealing himself for what needed to be said. "Then he will be brought into our world or killed as our Law directs." He looked around. "I could simply make it a command but I would prefer a vote." 

Though no one spoke, their expressions were clear. Lillie gave a quick nod. Cash seem to consider then also nodded, sparing a contemptuous glance towards Cameron. Daedalus lips moved with a hint of amusement. "He is a good choice, my Prince," the Nosferatu Primogen declared. "The Nosferatu vote with their Prince." 

Julian smiled at his friend then faced the Brujah Primogen. Cameron's expression was dark but controlled. He stood. "Seems my voice is little more than a whisper here." He straightened his clothing then stepped around the table, stopping to stand above Julian, his eyes glittering with hatred. "Make your lap dog, my Prince. But train him well. Brujah will be watching every time he takes a piss. And if he should break our Laws, even once, I will demand his final death." 

With nothing more to say, he bent, quickly taking Julian's hand to touch his lips to the Prince's ring. "In respect of the Prince," he murmured then left the Conclave. 

********** 



They were yelling at each other again. He was late... again. But tonight was different... their worst yet. Linda was furious and he was to blame... 

Frank jerked. His hand clenched. Fear and anger raged within; the knowing and not-yet-knowing gnawed at his heart. He needed to listen, to pay attention. Linda looked so desperate... so sad... 

//Come on, Linda. You knew this was going to happen!// He was newly promoted. He was up for review. He had no choice. Yet his soul cried out to stop, to make the outcome other than what he knew it would be. But his 
pride was more important. His need to win dominated. Still, he tried. He offered to make peace, to show Linda he loved her-- 

//Too late!// Linda stirred the pot briskly a few times then turned on him, her dark eyes flashing. I can't do this anymore. //I've seen a lawyer today, Frank! I'm filing papers!// 

Frustration surged even as the familiar words taunted in an endless cycle. He had to stop. He had to pay attention. But his reason abandoned him. Everything was falling apart. He felt but ignored the gentle tug on his pants. Everything tumbled forward as it had thousands of times before... 

//Fine!// It was done. Frank swept out his hand out in an expression of his anger. //Fine! Do it--// 

Heat touched his hand, moving as his arm moved. Horror seized his soul as the action played itself out as it always did. 



//And a child screamed a terrifying scream...// 



Frank opened his eyes. His heart pounded as the images faded, as the screams retreated back into their long familiar echoes. It was an old play with a predictable ending. Frank wiped his hands over his face as he sat 
up, feeling the sheets cling to him from the sweat that poured off him. His eyes moved over the walls of his bedroom, drifting to the small window on the far wall. Dim light bounced off the top of the apartment house across 
the street. Was it sunrise or sunset? He looked at the clock on his nightstand. Nearly five-thirty at night. Sunset. The alarm wasn't set... 

"Shit!" Adrenaline poured through him. What was he doing? He missed his shift? Sonny would have-- 

Time stopped. A shudder ran through Frank's body as memories of his partner's face peeking out from under an umbrella in the pouring rain skirted around his mind. He had been standing in the middle of a storm, his clothes soaked through, his emotions darkened by hurt and grief. He had thought Julian was dead. But the funeral he witnessed was for someone else; someone who had been special enough to warrant the attendance of the Prince 
and his people. Someone special enough for Sonny to leave his job, to stand among them... 

Sonny was Kindred... had been Kindred... 

********** 

"Son of a bitch!" A kaleidoscope of emotions assaulted him. Sonny had lied to him. They had all lied to him! Frank threw his covers back then stopped. He was in his bed. The last thing he remembered was being held as 
Julian's face came close, the Prince's hands touching him. 

"Damn them!" He launched himself from the bed, breathing hard as he looked down at himself. He'd been soaking wet, but was now clean and dry, dressed nothing more than a pair of old sweatpants. They had brought him home and 
put him to bed. Was that all? Frank sprinted from his bedroom towards the bathroom, his hand on his throat. Flipping on the light, he leaned over his sink, inspecting his neck, his arms. Nothing... 

"No one touched you, Frank." 

Sonny's voice caused him to spin around, his surprise quickly fading into cold anger as he came face to face with his partner. "What the fuck are you doing here!" 

Toussaints was dressed casually, a simple shirt and pants. His arms were crossed in front of him. His expression was watchful yet calm. "I'm here to look after you." His eyes slid over Kohanek. "What the hell were you doing, Frank?" he countered evenly. 

Kohanek stared at him. His palm itched with the remember pressure of holding his gun. He had tried to shoot himself. They had stopped him... saved him. For what? "What the hell do you want from me!" he challenged, 
shamed by his failure, angered by their interference. 

"We didn't want you to die, Frank." 

Sonny's answer was genuine. Frank found his only response was to walk past him into the bedroom. "You guys should have left it alone," he muttered as he searched the drawers of his bureau and pulled out a sweatshirt. Putting 
it on, he pushed past his partner to go into the living area. "So what did you tell our boss about my no-show this morning?" 

"You're sick," Sonny answered smoothly. "The flu. I'm still on leave for Bereavement." His lips turned in a small smile. "They'll have to do without both of us for awhile." 

Frank absorbed this with a shrug as he lost interest in the conversation. //Fine... Whatever.// Time to go. "Well... thanks for helping... let Julian know..." He searched for his keys... wallet... "Where did you guys 
put my stuff?" 

"Everything is safe, Frank," Sonny replied lightly. "You're not going anywhere," he added. 

"Fuck you!" Frank shoved at his partner. To his surprise the Kindred seem to be taken off balance and let him go. He took advantage of this and ran for the door. He could get to where he needed to go somehow. 

"There are two Kindred outside your door, Frank," Sonny supplied calmly. "You have nowhere to go." 

Frank confronted Sonny, ignoring the dangerous glitter in the dark eyes. "You bastards can't do this! I want out of here!" 

"My Prince... my Sire... wants you to stay here until he gets here or he tells me otherwise," Sonny said. "And his is the only Law I follow." 

Toussaint's words struck him like a slap on the face. For almost a year he had tried to figure out his partner, to be his friend. But the self-composed man who stood before him was a stranger all over again. "I remember what you made me forget," he said evenly. 

Dark eyebrows went up, expressing surprise. "You're... different," Sonny replied. "When we make Humans forget we interfere with the chemical process and cut the pathways to their most recent memories. Sometimes we can even 
give them the suggestion of new ones if we have to but that's harder. Many times, Humans unconsciously help us and we can use their own need to suppress their memory of an encounter with us to block our true nature from 
them. " His eyes slid over Frank. "But you've always been the different one." He seem to hesitate then his lips smoothed into a small smile as he added; "Kindred admire minds like yours." 

Sonny's tone changed as he spoke, a hint of seduction blending into his words. Frank's own response surprised him. His crotch tingled. "What are you trying to do, Sonny?" he challenged. 

His partner's stance loosened. His smile faded. But his eyes remained on Kohanek, openly examining him. "Just wanted to see where you stood, Frank. Don't get upset. I promise I won't... bite." His smile returned, showing a 
hint of fangs as his lips parted. "At least not without your permission." 

Nervously Frank glanced away and eyed the door leading out of his apartment. Living in San Francisco, working as a detective undercover, it wasn't the first invitation he'd ever received. But it was the first from a man he knew... and Kindred. Well, maybe not the first Kindred. The image of Julian's face came to his mind. The steady gaze from the Prince always sent a surge of confusing warmth into more intimate areas of his body. 

//But that's your imagination, he reminded himself. You're not gay... not anymore. And you've never seen him court anyone but the ladies.// He met Sonny's gaze once more, seeing only the human named Sonny Troussaints, his partner in crime fighting. 

"Some ground rules, my friend," Sonny began, his tone more professional. "Rule one. You are not leaving. Julian's coming as soon as he can. Then we're all going to have a long talk. Rule two. If you give me any trouble," his drew close and his hand came up to caress Frank's cheek, his 
expression changing again, his eyes taking on a glow, "I'm going to put you out." 

Kohanek gasped as the Kindred's presence whispered through his mind, leaving a gentle calm. "Am I clear?" 

**********

Frank slapped away the other man's hand. //What the hell are you doing to me!// Shaken, he turned away to return to his bedroom, to be alone with himself to think through his options. 

"No, Frank." Sonny's arm came around his waist from behind. Frank found himself pulled up against the Kindred. "I need a response, or I'll put you out now." His fingers danced over the back of Kohanek's neck then drifted 
around to caress his cheek invitingly. "Are we clear?" 

Kohanek tried to move but Kindred strength kept him still. He understood that if he didn't say what Sonny wanted to hear, he would lose what little control he had on the situation. //Why the fuck am I so important to them?// 

"Frank, tell me what you want," Sonny commanded, his touch now centered on Frank's temple. "Personally, I'd prefer walking, talking company. But I'm not going to fight with you and I'm not going to let you hurt yourself." 

"Okay," Frank conceded roughly. //Whatever you want.// Sonny's cool breath caressed the back of his head then stilled. His hand left Frank's face and an arm wrapped around Kohanek's shoulders, completing a loose embrace. All at once Frank gave in, yielding to the Kindred's comfort, sensing nothing more than an offer of contact, a contact that seem to ease an ache in his soul. "What's going on, Frank?" Sonny spoke quietly after several seconds, his tone quietly concerned. "I know today is the anniversary of your wife's death. And I know you loved her, Frank. But why do you want to join her?" 

Frank tensed. Images stirred within him. He sighed as the odd peace between them ended as quickly as it came. "None of your business." He separated himself from Sonny. Frustration welled up. "What's going on, Sonny?" Frank began pacing, unwilling to look at his partner, slightly 
embarrassed by the intimate contact they had just had. "For almost a year you guys alternately threaten and push me away." He stopped, leveling his gaze on Sonny. "Wouldn't my death solve all your problems?" 

Sonny's brows knitted together. "We like you, Frank. Yeah, you're a pain in the ass. But you always want to do what's right." He shrugged. "Maybe in the beginning, when we-- when I-- didn't know where your head was at... only Julian's command kept you alive. But it's different now." 

//Different how?// Frank walked to the window. It was dark now. The streets were unusually quiet, filled with a couple of bikers parked in front of the building across the street. A man and woman stood at the corner casually talking. There was a car parked in front of his own building. With all of these sights came a sensation, a knowing whenever he took the time to focus. He had felt it, even with Sonny, though something had kept him from making the connection, until now. "They're all Kindred," he said, almost to himself. "I can feel them." 

"We know." Sonny's voice was close. "That's Alexandra's blood, her gift to you. Usually the talent fades after time, but--" A hand gently landed on Frank's shoulder. Sonny's profile came into view on the edges of his 
vision. "There's just something about you, my friend. You made my life difficult enough when I had to work just to keep you from sensing me. Forget my own orders to keep you from getting killed or blowing the Masquerade." 

Sonny's tone was casual, even amused. Frank shrugged as he continued to scan the darkness outside. It doesn't matter what he tells me, I know. My status as protected Human is over. A calming wave filtered through him from Sonny's touch, spreading warmth into his soul. Sonny seemed so open now... so... Frank found himself relaxing as his partner's touch moved from his shoulder to the back of his neck, sending tingling sensations down his spine, silently inviting him to let go... let Sonny-- 

"No." Frank turned and walked away, relieved when Sonny let him go without comment. He walked to the couch and sat down, glancing at the clock on his VCR. Six-thirty. He had to get out, get away from them. Their care... Frank smirked as dark thoughts enveloped him. They didn't care. And if they did... He glanced down at the coffee table, at the small book set on top of a pile of old mail and newspapers. Most of the time it was stored away, brought out on every Thanksgiving to be gone over, his crimes 
reviewed, his losses tallied. Then it would be hidden away again, his past once again buried, at least from the sight of others. But the dreams remained, his mind flashing to a single moment when it all could have been very different... 

Frank buried his head in his hands, fighting to stay composed. It was his fault... his fault... all of it... 

//A child's scream wafted through him, beseeching... blaming...// 

//Oh God... I'm so sorry... so sorry...// 



"Frank--" 

Sonny's presence whispered through his tortured mind. A firm hand laid on his back in a supportive gesture. Every fiber of his being wanted to answer the silent offering, the need within his own body, the need he sensed from 
the man sitting next to him. But unnamed anger surged up to destroy the peace he desired. Kohanek exploded off the couch, away from the wanted... unwanted contact. "Just leave me alone, Sonny!" He paced around the living area, careful to steer clear of the door, his thoughts moving in several different circles as he focused on escape. 

Sonny frowned as if trying to figure a puzzle. "Man, what is eating you up? This isn't about Alexandra... or your wife." 

Frank froze in place. His anger turned to rage. "Get out of my head!" he spat. 

Sonny stood, drawing himself up to his full height. "I'm not in it, at least not more than I need to keep you here." He held out his hands in a genuine gesture of aid. "You're going wild inside and I just want to help. What is it, Frank?" 

"Nothing!" Frank blinked as his mind froze on a plan. He mentally kicked himself for not having thought of it before. His eyes moved to the bathroom door. "I'm taking a shower." He glared at the other man. "Do I have your 
permission, or do I need a note from my parents?" 

A glimmer sparked in Sonny's eyes as if he were aware of the change in Frank's thoughts. Frank knew his partner was going over the bathroom's layout, realizing there were no windows, no second door. He shrugged. "I'll be here, Frank," he offered sincerely. His lips switched. "I assume 
you can do this by yourself." 

"Fuck you," Frank threw out. He slammed and locked the bathroom door behind him then started the shower at high spray. He stepped over to the toilet and bent down then reached under and behind the tank, oddly satisfied when 
his fingers brushed the leather of his spare holster then the weapon it held, a twenty-two caliber. With purpose he pulled it out, letting the 
familiar weight settle into his hand. 

He had a gun. Feeling strangely calm by that revelation, he turned the weapon over in his hand. It was something he kept in here in case intruders came at an inconvenient moment. //It's loaded.// He released the safety. //Only a second then you'll be all right... safe from the shadows. You'll see Linda and Timmy again... Everything will be like it was, like it should have been...// 

"Frank... you okay in there?" 

//Shit!// His heart pounded into his throat, Frank managed to swallow. //Calm. Stay calm. Don't tip him off more than you have.// "Why wouldn't I be?" he challenged, using aggression to cover his fear. 

There was a moment of silence then; "Don't do something stupid, Frank. You've got three minutes then I came in and help you finish." 

Frank gathered his nerves. "Fine. You do that." 

No words followed. Frank examined the weapon he held a moment longer, tasting the freedom it offered. //If I do it here, they might save me... change me.// 

//Would that be so bad?// a tiny voice within asked. 

//Shut up!// he ordered himself, unwilling to acknowledge any lingering doubts. He was a mistake waiting to happen. He would destroy the Kindred just like he destroyed everything else. 

He put the gun down on the floor and opened the linen closet door. It was something no one would think to look for if they weren't familiar with the building's history. This had once been a small office building later converted to apartments. This part of his apartment had been a utility room with a panel built into the wall to access the elevator shaft for repairs and maintenance. Occasionally his landlord still needed to use it for 
repairs. 

Frank quickly pulled out all the towels and sheets, careful to make as little noise as possible. Moments later he gently removed the three shelves that rested on top of molding hammered into the walls, giving him access to 
what he really needed... 

*********** 

"Never in a million years, Julian. I never thought to look--" 

"None of us did," Julian Luna dismissed as he studied the small opening in the back of the linen closet. An access panel to the elevator shaft had been removed. A ladder was just inside, leading up to the roof. //Very clever, my young friend,// Julian thought to himself. //You'll be a 
valuable addition, if we find you alive.// That conclusion caused Julian to hiss in frustration and turn away. "Cash, I want all of your people on the streets now. Frank has to be found before Cameron finds out he's gone... before..." He met Daedalus' eyes. "He's going to harm himself," he said without a doubt. "I just wish I understood why." 

"His soul is deeply scarred, My Prince," Daedalus offered then glanced away. "I should have understood... when I first saw him." He returned his attention to his prince. "I misjudged him." 

Julian sighed. They had already had their discussion several weeks ago concerning the Nosferatu Primogen's near fatal attack on Frank. Julian had been furious until he understood. For Daedalus the Human had been a source of pain for his prince, a threat to the Masquerade and, at that moment, a threat to the boy Daedalus had taken under his protection. Everything was understood in the end. But the damage was done. Even with Sonny's help in making Frank forget, the Human detective was not nearly as trusting to the Kindred as he had once been. Memory of the events had been suppressed, but the strong emotions lingered. 

"I told you then, Daedalus," Julian said finally. "We've all done things to Frank. We tried to drive him away then we tested him... perhaps more than we needed to." He glanced around at the Kindred present. Sonny stood in 
the bathroom doorway next to Cash. Four other Gangrel and Ventrue guards stood behind them, waiting. "Frank is to be brought to me, completely unharmed. Put him out only if you have to." He met Cash's eyes. "No Brujah are to touch him." 

"Yes, My Prince," Cash responded, his tone lacking even the token hesitation to acknowledge authority. 

"Julian, there's something else you need to know," Sonny spoke out. "He knows." He glanced at Daedalus. "He remembers." 

//He remembers.// Julian rubbed a hand through his hair as he absorbed the information. Frank's mind was resistant. Though an uncommon ability, it was always a factor to consider when Kindred dealt with Humans. 

"And there's something else." 

Julian growled, his patience thinning. There was always something else with Frank. //Which is why you are so attracted to him, Prince of the City. Which is why Alexandra was willing to end her existence for him, for you.// "What else, Sonny?" 

"In here." Sonny walked back into the living area and sat down on the couch. He picked up a small photo album. "Today's the anniversary of his wife's death, Julian. She jumped from their apartment window three years ago. From what I read in his files he was really hurt but he seemed to bounce back, get on with his life." His expression darkened as he opened up the cover. "Even so, around this time every year, he just takes off. The Lieutenant just seems to expect it. Doesn't force Frank to work around 
Thanksgiving. Says something about his wife... and San Diego. Last year was the first time I was around him. Frank was short tempered and anxious just before he left but he was better when he got back." He flipped another 
page. "This year he didn't take off and he seemed better. But there was always something else, Julian. And it wasn't about his wife's suicide, not all of it." 

His eyes were reddened as he looked up. "When we were talking I touched him." His hands trembled as his hand brushed the photos in front of him. "He's nearly out of his mind with guilt and self-hatred." 

Apprehensive in seeing his own childe's discomfort, Julian sat down next to him. There were various photos and cards carefully preserved behind a plastic sheet. There was a dark woman in a plain shirt and pants holding an infant in her arms. There was another of the child, a little older, smiling toothlessly in a highchair. Then another of a young toddler standing unbalanced, his toothy grin and bright gold-hazel eyes flashing from under a mop of dark curly hair. Julian's heart beat a single, painful stroke as something in the child's features caught his attention, reminding him of-- 

"It's his son, Julian." 

//Son?// A dangerous cold crept through his body. Son? His senses began drawing out what was uniquely Frank in the darker face of this angelic child. His hand reached out-- 

"Sire, don't!" 

His fingers barely brushed the surface even as the warning came and Sonny drew back. Julian hissed as pain flashed through him with terrifying intensity echoing in the piercing scream of a child. He met Sonny's gaze, seeing the strain in his childe's face, which must have mirrored his own. "What was that!" 

Sonny swallowed then flipped the page. A newspaper clipping was neatly arranged in the center of the plain adhesive board and sealed by the plastic overlay. He reached out again, prepared, shaking his head as Sonny again attempted to protect him from the emanations. "I want to know," Julian told him. 

The book was surrendered. Immediately pain, fear and panic surged through him. He was burning. Loud voices screamed in confusion and anger. Each breath became more agonizing than the one before it. 

**********

//My Prince... draw back.// Daedalus' presence easily entered his mind. Do not lose yourself to the understanding. The Nosferatu's power took hold of 
him. //See without becoming trapped in what was.// 

Julian blinked, his body protesting his return to awareness. His Beast within fought to emerge, drawn by the imagined smell of death. The coffee table was over turned, the glass inlay broken, the photo book lay against the wall where it had obviously been thrown. Daedalus knelt before him, his hands cradling Julian's head, his face transformed into the fullness of the Nosferatu clan, his lips showing hint of dark blood. Julian looked down. 
Blood was lightly smeared his left wrist and the cuff of his shirt. A red haze blurred his vision. "How has he lived?" he whispered to himself. 

"His spirit is strong," Daedalus said in answer. Waves of reassuring warmth wove their way into Julian's being, holding back the horror. "It is past... Franks' past. It is destroying his mind and soul. He needs to be free of 
it before he can become a part of us." 

Julian nodded. He took out his handkerchief and absently wiped away the blood tinged tears that had rolled down his face. In front of him Sonny and Cash waited, their own eyes haunted. "He has to be found." 

"Where could he have gone?" Sonny wondered. "How do we know he hasn't--" 

"He hasn't!" Julian growled. Within himself he knew with absolute certainty that Frank lived... that he had not yet been Embraced, not yet. He met Daedalus' gaze. "I can sense him." He hesitated. "Somehow I feel I've always been able to..." 

As his features faded into his normal Kindred appearance, Daedalus caressed Julian's face. Luna felt a deep probing then a careful withdrawal. "The bonding is deeper than I thought," Daedalus told him. "You and this Human are closer than either of you have been willing toacknowledge. It explains much," he concluded. His hands fell to Julian's shoulders, gripping firmly, his expression hardened into concentration. "Let me guide you, my Prince," he offered. "Use your bond to seek him out." 

Without hesitation, Julian opened himself to the Nosferatu. //I trust you with my life,// he sent to his friend as he closed his eyes. //Help me find him.// 

Power moved within him, joining him to the Nosferatu Primogen. The stimulus of the outside world fell away as he was silently commanded to focus on that thin thread that connected him to the Human he desired. //Frank.// Slowly, images emerged from his inner sight. Stone and mortar melded into angles, old and classic, highlighted in a gentle glow. "A church," he said absently. Around him stood a field of markers and statues, each having its 
place. "A cemetery..." 

"St. Marks!" Sonny called out. 

Julian opened his eyes, startled back into awareness by his childe's words, his nerves raw with need and fear, his own feelings... and Frank's. "Tell me," he commanded roughly. 

"St. Marks," Sonny repeated. "I read his wife is buried there. It's less than five miles away." 

"Let's go." Julian moved to the door, suddenly knowing there was no time left. No time for Frank. "Cash, send your people now!" He barely hesitated as he impatiently waited for the others to join him in the elevator before closing the door. He focused on his childe. "Sonny, you'll 
drive us." He glanced at his own Ventrue guards. "Go with the Gangrel." He led the way out of the building. He heard Cash's orders and motorcycles blaze into life. He eyed Daedalus as he approached his car. "Come with me. 
I'm going to need you." 

********** 

Most of the journey passed as a blur, but Frank could definitely feel the effects of the cold as his muscles stiffened with each step as he entered the gates of the cemetery at St. Marks church. He had never worshiped here, 
never counted himself as faithful to any religion. But his wife had been Catholic and his son had been baptized. And he had respected this, had done all he could to be a part of this aspect of his son's life. But after... it 
didn't matter. He could find no faith in a God who let this happen. Frank grunted as he walked along the narrow path between the gravestones. He was forced to escape his apartment and walk the streets and alleyways barefooted. Small cuts and bruises accumulated quickly. But somewhere 
along the way he had found an old pair of shoes on top of a garbage can. They were filthy and a size too small, but they were better than the alternative. 

Up ahead there was the pale shadow of a white marble bench. It was unique here, put up by a grieving family so the wife could visit at the grave of her husband. He was told that had been back in the early 1960's, before 
Frank himself had been born. Now it stood as a memorial for both husband and wife, even a daughter who died two years ago. 

His heart pounded as Frank walked around the bench and sat down. By coincidence, it was angled so it stood sentinel over another grave, one more precious to him than his own life. The tombstone itself was very small, the best they could afford at the time. The moonlight and the sparse lighting surrounding the church cast a dull illumination, highlighting the inscription they had done six years ago... 



Timothy Joseph Kohanek 

October 3, 1989 - December 1, 1990 

"An Angel Under God's Folded Wing..." 


Frank drew his arms around himself. That December had been warmer, almost like Spring. People stood respectfully as the priest spoke, as his wife sobbed, as he watched helplessly, reliving the moment that had brought them 
here. //Mr. and Mrs. Kohanek, I'm sorry to tell you--// 

Surprised he could still cry after recent events, after all these years, Frank felt warm moisture roll down his cheeks. But still there was more. Nearer to the ground there was more. The letters were smaller, less elegant, but no less heart felt... 



Linda Simon-Kohanek 

December 1, 1993 

Beloved Wife 



Frank sniffed and wiped his eyes. He didn't have time for this and it didn't matter. He rubbed his hand down the sleeve of his sweatshirt, feeling the comforting weight there. Soon he would be with them. He didn't think that God would deny him this after all he'd been through... 

//Frank.// 

//Julian?// Suddenly the Kindred's presence whispered through him. Startled, Frank turned his head, squinting into the darkness. But there was only a cool breeze, the peaceful silence among rows of tombstones. //My  imagination,// he scolded himself. //Why the hell would he care anyway?// His hand enveloped his weapon with practiced ease, sensitive fingers checking to be sure the safety was released this time. With a last look at the tombstone he made himself ready. It was time... 

"Well look what we have here." 

***********

//Shit!// Frank raged inwardly as he heard the familiar voice. He carefully drew his hand out of his sleeve. Kindred had found him. Cameron had found him. //First they want me to go away, now they won't leave me alone!// 

"I'm talking to you, Detective Kohanek," the Brujah Primogen challenged, his voice closer. "Are you deaf?" 

Frank ignored him. Yesterday morning Cameron had threatened his life. //Maybe I can piss him off and get him to finish the job.// Cameron's presence drew closer. Peripherally, Frank watched the Kindred casually sit 
down next to him. //Probably likes to play with his food before killing it.// Frank folded his hands in front of him, suppressing shivers, convincing himself he wasn't afraid. "Get the hell out of here, bloodsucker!" he snipped. 

Cameron snorted. "Oh... the Human called me a name!" he cried out with feigned horror. "I'm crushed." 

Frank shrugged, suddenly disinterested. Each moment crawled by painfully and all he wanted to be released from his pain. 

"So... Julian let his pet out already?" 

//Pet? Is that what I was to him... to them?// Frank's temper flared. "Fuck off, asshole! Julian didn't let me out! I let myself out!" 

"Really?" Frank felt Cameron's eyes on him, scanning. "You look a little rough around the edges. I can see you left in a hurry, barely the clothes on your back. I thought Julian had a reputation of being a considerate lover." His and barely grazed Frank's cheek. "Kindred love a little too rough for you?" 

"Asshole!" Frank stood up, moving away from the unwanted touch. Blood began to pound into his temples as he faced the Brujah. Cameron sat casually, an enigmatic smile gracing his lips, his eyes glowing with an odd, soft light. //A hunter eyeing its prey.// Instinctively, Frank took a step back. "You know, if you want to kill me, you have your chance now." 

"Kill you?" Cameron's head tilted back as short laughter escaped him. Then his eyes hardened with purpose. "I don't want to kill you, Frank. You're too valuable to me." He tipped his head towards the headstone. "Who are they?" he asked curiously. 

Frank lowered his eyes and shrugged. "My wife and son." 

"I'm sorry." 

The words were sincere. Frank's head snapped up as pent up emotions burned through him. His hands rolled into fists. "Shut the fuck up!" he raged. "I don't want your sympathy! I don't want to play games! Do whatever it is you want to do or leave me the fuck alone!" 

Cameron considered him a moment then stood. "Fine with me," he agreed. He kept his eyes on Frank as he striped off his gloves, letting them fall on the marbled bench. "Of course it's not polite to talk to your Primogen that 
way. But I'll overlook it this time. You're upset." 

Primogen? Icy fear shivered down his spine. Cameron's face blurred then reformed into the altered stated he had learned Kindred could take, their more savage form. Suddenly he understood. Cameron didn't want to kill him, 
not with Julian alive. He wanted-- "No!" Frank stumbled back. His hand thrust into the sleeve of his shirt, grasping his gun, undecided if he was going to use it in self-defense or-- 

The cold, wet ground impacted his back as he was thrown. His arm was twisted, his weapon taken. Frank looked up as Cameron's body pressed against him, the Brujah's arousal unmistakable through their mutual clothing. "You bastard!" Frank arched up to throw his attacker off but he only succeeded in bringing his impotent crotch in contact with the Kindred's heavy genitals. "Get off me!" 

"When I'm done." Cameron growled, his voice deeper, rougher. His hands held Frank's wrists in a bruising grip. "I like you, Frank. I've heard a lot about you. You have a strong spirit... a strong mind." He leaned closer, inhaling deeply. His eyes were lit with passion. "I could use someone like you in my clan. Once you're Brujah, I can turn this passion you have for Julian into something more useful to me, to all Brujah!" 

Oh god... this was not what he wanted. "I won't help you get him, Cameron!" he declared as he stopped struggling, realizing it was a waste of energy. 

"No?" Cameron smiled darkly. "Don't worry, Frank. You'll feel differently after you change, once Brujah blood makes you see the truth about Julian and his Ventrue clan." 

"I already know the truth about Ventrue!" Frank spat at him defiantly. "I've already taken Ventrue blood!" 

Cameron hissed. His head dropped, his teeth grazed Kohanek's neck. Frank stiffened as he felt the bite, heard the quick swallow followed by the cold lap of a tongue. "Hmmm... you do taste of Ventrue," Cameron agreed, his 
voice calmer. "But not Julian... another... oh yeah... Alexandra... one of Julian's failures." 

"Go to Hell!" Frank threw out as he worked to control his panic. He knew he was going to be Embraced but he wouldn't go without a fight. 

"I'm going to be your Sire, Frank!" Cameron corrected, his grip tightening, threatening to break bones. "The first time you dirtied your diapers is my business!" He moved, rubbing himself against the Human. "Come on, Frank," 
he cooed seductively, his lips again brushed against Kohanek's neck. "Relax. It's not that bad. In fact it's the best lay you're ever going to have. I promise you." His body lifted slightly. One hand pulled at the elastic of Frank's sweatpants. "I'll teach you everything. And you'll understand. You'll want Julian dead, too." 

"Never!" Taking advantage of Cameron's distraction, Frank heaved his whole body up in one powerful surge. But Cameron simply pressed down. Frank cried out as he felt the Kindred's hard cock push at his own exposed flesh. 
It was going to happen and there was nothing he could do to stop it. "You're making a mistake!" he warned as he used the only weapon left to him, his own words. "You will never use me as a weapon against Julian Luna!" he jerked his head away from the Brujah's kiss. "I know how it is! I'll be Kindred but everything won't change right away! And you can't watch me all the time until it does! I swear to you I will expose myself to the sun the first chance I get!" 

Cameron's passion filled face came up, his eyes burned with primitive power. He seem to hesitate then growled; "We'll see--" 

********** 

"No you won't!" 

Julian's tone held something Frank had heard before, weeks ago. There had been a Kindred turned serial killer and Luna had confronted him, taken the Kindred's head to protect both Kindred and Humans. And now he heard the 
same deep voice, the unquestioned authority that thrilled and scared him at the same time. Frank let out a long breath, wondering if he was just imagining the gentle tickle that washed through his mind, through his body. 

"You're too late, Ventrue!" Cameron hissed. His attention was focused on something above Frank's head, his grip on Kohanek's arms relaxed slightly. "I found him outside of your protection! He is mine to kill or Embrace." 

"Julian is Prince of the City." Another voice... Daedalus. Frank strained to twist his head, to see what was happening. But Cameron's body laid more heavily on him, almost molding him into the damp ground. //Now I'm a door 
prize... wonderful...// 

"My protection extends even here, Cameron," Julian stated. "Frank is already a part of my clan." 

"Not yet!" Cameron countered. "I can still clean out the faint stench of Ventrue in him!" 

"Don't challenge me, Brujah." Julian's voice deepened. To Frank's surprise Cameron's suddenly expression changed, showing surprise then a hint of fear. //What the hell is going on!// 

"One day the Nosferatu are going to realize their mistake and come to me!" Cameron pushed up and stood then he gazed down at Frank. "One day you're going to wish I finished what I started here." He walked around Frank then away. 

Frank grunted as he forced himself to sit up. His muscles and joints screamed; his skin burned with bruises. His heart hammered into his throat as he turned his head. Julian, Sonny and Daedalus stood above him, their 
features altered. Sonny's features were more pronounced, his fangs showing. Daedalus looked something from horror films he used to see as a kid. But Julian... The Kindred Prince's appearance reminded him of pictures of demons he had once seen. Julian's face was altered but in a way Frank sensed was not common for Ventrue. His stance was powerful, his eyes glowed, his hands were clawed. 

Noise caught Frank's attention. Beyond the three familiar Kindred he could make out Kindred moving, one group remaining stationary while another group continued to walk away. 

"Frank." 

Kohanek turned his head towards Julian's call. Luna's features were normal as he knelt down beside him. Daedalus joined him, flanking Frank on the other side. Sonny remained standing, his attention clearly split between 
watching him and observing the area around him. Frank flinched as Julian touched his shoulder. "Are you all right?" 

All right? Frank shivered. It was freezing cold. He felt traumatized and exhausted. He caught the glint of metal on the grass next to his leg. //I tried to shoot myself.// He stared at Julian, seeing a mixture of concern, even anger in glittering eyes. "I'm sorry." 

Luna's lips firmed into a thin line. His fingers brushed strands of hair from Frank's forehead then curled under his chin. "Listen to me carefully, Frank," he began in a commanding voice. "You are wanted and loved among 
Kindred." His finger tenderly traced along Frank's jaw. "You are wanted and loved by me." 

Frank closed his eyes as the truth of Luna's declaration sent waves of desire through him. Julian loved him? Did he love Julian? He hesitated, torn by conflicting emotions as all his previous conclusions concerning Julian Luna were shattered. He glanced up, seeing Sonny stare back at him. 
//He said Julian was his Sire... I didn't think about that... Geez, I'm not gay!// 

//That's a load of shit, Frank Kohanek! his own mind countered. Don't even start that bullshit with yourself!// 

"Come on, Frank. Let's get you back to the mansion." 

Frank blinked. Mansion? He grunted as he was lifted to his feet. Pain from the tight shoes made it nearly impossible to stand. Every muscle in his body screamed in protest at the thought of moving. He was so cold he no longer shivered. All he wanted to do was sleep... slip away from all of this... 

********** 



"Julian, his mind and body are overwhelmed," Daedalus warned. He glanced aside, at a small tombstone. "This is his past." 

Julian followed his gaze, his expression turning grave. "Then we have to be his future." He studied Frank. The Human stood only with Daedalus' support. He was half-unconscious; his face was pale, his lips turning blue. 
On his way to this place, even as he came to Frank's side, his desire to alternately discipline and join himself to this man warred within him. But now he only wanted to be gentle, and careful. "You are a blessing and a curse to me, childe," he murmured to Frank. 

"Make it stop," Frank muttered as he leaned more heavily against the Nosferatu Primogen. 

Julian sighed. He carefully pulled up Frank's sweatpants then he striped off his own dark coat. "Give me your jacket, Sonny." 

The garment was offered without hesitation. With Daedalus' help, they wrapped the coats around Frank then Julian picked the human up in his arms. Kohanek groaned then was silent, molding himself against Luna. Frank's mind sank into a dreamless void. "Maybe we should take him to a hospital," Julian wondered out loud. 

Daedalus pressed his hands against Frank's head then his chest. "He will recover," he declared. "I have what we need to care for him." 

Assured, Julian began walking towards his car. The motion stirred Frank who rolled his head and whispered his son's name. Luna held his charge closer as waves of guilt and anguish broadcasted into his heart from Frank's tortured soul. //I will end it, childe. I promise you I will end it.// 

**********

//Da Da...// 

Frank smiled as he watched his son pull himself up then stand. "Hey buddy," he encouraged, holding out a favored toy. "Come on." The child gazed at him uncertainly then squealed as he stepped awkwardly, closing the small space between the chair he had been holding on to and his father's arms. Frank delighted in witnessing his son's rite of passage. Linda had called him, asking him to come home early to celebrate their son's first steps. But, as was the nature of his job, he couldn't do it. At two in the morning he walked quietly into his son's room, waking him up. Just a few minutes... Frank laughed as Timmy fell into his arms, giggling as he took his toy from his father's hand. 

//My son is walking!// Proudly he held his son up, meaning to lift him into the air before taking him back to bed. But suddenly Timmy was a dead weight in his arms, his face melted, disfigured... 

"Oh my God! Oh my God! What have we done to our baby!" 



Frank bolted up. //Timmy!// 

"You're safe, childe. You're in my home." 

Frank blinked, disoriented. He was in a large bedroom, simply furnished and decorated. He looked down. He was in a huge bed, covered with a thick comforter. //I was at St. Marks... Cameron...// He looked up. Julian was settled in an armchair next to the bed. His clothes were casual, a dark turtleneck and pants. Julian was watching him with a penetrating gaze that made Frank's cheeks to burn. 

"How are you feeling?" Julian asked as he got up and sat down on the edge of the bed. "Frank?" 

//Tired.// Kohanek tore his gaze away, assessing himself. He was shirtless again but had on a pair of draw string pants. //They've cleaned me up again,// he realized, embarrassed by the implication. His chest, arms and hands revealed shallow cuts and spots of bruising. His feet ached. His head whirled as his stomach growled noisily. He was starving. But how did he feel? "I don't know." 

"Some food is coming up," Julian said. His hand rested on Frank's cheek, drawing his attention. "You had quite an adventure." 

Frank flinched, confused by the signals he was receiving through the Kindred's touch. "What do you want from me?" he asked plainly. 

Julian's eyes glittered deep emotions. "You are alive. That's what I want more than anything else. I have your loyalty... that is a gift you gave of your own free will." He slowly reached out again, carefully taking Frank's 
hand into his. "I heard what you told Cameron." 

//What I told--// A chill spread up Frank's spine as he remembered. Cameron was on top of him, his teeth had... Frank shook himself free of the image. "It was the truth," he said honestly, unwilling to say more as he looked around, desperate to distract himself, and Julian. Full sunlight drifted into the room through a small window. "What time is it?" 

"About two o'clock in the afternoon. You've been asleep over twelve hours." 

Frank nodded. It was December second. He studied Julian. "What's going to happen?" 

Julian sighed. His free hand rested on Frank's shoulder. "We will talk about it, Frank. I promise you will understand everything." He smiled a little. "No more lies and mistrust, childe." 

Childe. Frank vaguely remembered the reference. It was important to Kindred... something about being a child... but age had little to do with it. It could be, he suddenly understood, a term of endearment. Frank's face tingled in reaction. Before he realized his own hand was on Julian's 
face feeling the smooth, cool skin. //What am I doing?// 

//What you've wanted to do all along...// 

Julian's expression softened, his posture relaxed. He brought Frank's hand up to his lips. "We are going to work this out," he promised as he brushed Frank's knuckles with a soft kiss. 

Frank trembled as Julian's desire filtered into him, as his own body responded in kind. //Oh god... I can't... He closed his eyes. I want to... but I can't...// By force of will he pulled his hand back feeling strangely isolated as he lost contact. He opened his eyes expecting to see Luna hurt by the rejection. But Julian's hands were neatly folded in his lap, his expression open and patient, if even still aroused. 

"Julian--" Frank wiped his hands over his face in hopes of clearing his head. Everything was changing too fast and not fast enough. "I-- I'm--" 

"It's okay, Frank," Julian absolved. "You've been through a lot." 

Kohanek looked away, frustrated and embarrassed. In the silence a familiar sensation made itself known in his crotch. Frank sighed. "You got a bathroom here?" he asked as he scanned the room. 

"Of course. Over there." 

Julian indicated a door across the room. Frank nodded and moved to stand, hissing as his feet hit the carpeting. They were swollen and bruised. "Damn!" 

"Do you want help?" Julian offered. He stood far enough away to give Frank room but close enough to aid if needed. 

Frank shook his head. He wasn't going to have anyone help him take a leak. "Thanks but no thanks." Step by step he limbed to the door. As he touched the doorknob, Julian made one last comment, his tone both teasing and warning. "There aren't any access panels or elevator shafts in there, Frank. So I expect you to come out the way you went in." 

******** 

The bathroom was large with a separate tub and shower. Frank quickly did his business and started to wash his hands. Without thought he gazed at his reflection in the mirror, surprised to see the spots of bruising all over 
his exposed skin. //Looks like I had the shit beaten out of me.// He smirked. //I did have the shit beaten out of me.// 

He ran a hand over his face, feeling as well as seeing the faint beard growing around his lower chin, fading slightly as finer hairs grew along his jaw line. //The Miami Vice... "Don Johnson" look,// his wife used to tell him. She liked it. He didn't so he usually shaved. But he didn't see anything he could shave with handy. //Probably hid all the sharp and pointy objects away,// he mused. 

//Considering the act you pulled, you should be surprised Julian's letting you out of his sight to take a piss.// 

Frank chuckled as he silently agreed with himself. He continued to stare at his reflection, continued to take inventory of his minor injuries as his thoughts churned. //You really are a piece of work, you know that, Kohanek? 
In the beginning it was all a simple undercover assignment. Help a senior detective to get Eddie Fiori. Period. No one told you to even glance in Julian Luna's direction much less date his girlfriend. Even your partner 
told you what a bad idea it was. And did you listen? No.// 

Frank sighed. Now he was in Julian's mansion under the Prince's protection, about to be... Embraced? Julian said there would be a choice, that all would be explained. //No more lies and mistrust...// Frank shivered as he remembered Julian's touch, as his mind understood what it all meant. //He wants me... Do I want him?// 

//Of course you do, you idiot... but you can't. He's a guy.// 

//I've been with a guy.// 

//Oh yeah... right... you kissed a guy... a kid like yourself... you guys managed to jerk each other off before you both chickened out... yeah... that counts...// 

Frank swallowed as he remembered his father's angry voice when Frank had been seen. //These bruises are nothing compared to what he gave me then...// he commented to himself as he remembered the beating, his father's outrage-- //That's it!// Frank pound his fists on the counter. //I'm not even going to go there! Dad's dead. Julian's here. And I'm-- oh god...// 

Frank froze as he gazed at his hands, really looking for the first time since entering the cemetery at Magzanita Springs. His wedding band was gone. Anxiety rolled up his spine as he looked around. Where could it be? Did they take it? Did he lose it? 

Something shifted inside of him. Tears welled up and rolled down his face. He clenched and unclenched his hands. Gone. The only thing he had left of them that meant anything. Frank screwed his eyes shut in an effort to hold 
back the tide. //It's not gone. It's not gone. You've misplaced it.// A sob escaped him. //It's here somewhere... Here... Has to be... Has to be...// 

A child's piercing scream ripped through his mind, shattering his composure as his own anxiety triggered that deeper grief, that darker shadow. Frank griped the edge of the sink, willing himself not to cry, not to explode... 

//I'm sorry, Frank. I love you--// 

"Oh jesus fucking christ!" The mirror shattered as his fists impacted with the surface. Frank heard a knock at the door then felt Julian's body against his, hands carefully gripping his arms, pulling him back-- 

Frank fought Luna, cursed at him. But the Kindred simply held him still, speaking quiet words as he screamed out in pain. //It should have been me! I killed them... I killed them! It should have been me!// 

//Calm, childe. Calm.// 

Julian's mind-voice commanded. Frank fought the influence but lost as the Prince Dominated him. //I killed them, Julian! Just let me die!// 

//Hush, Frank,// Julian commanded. //Open your eyes and look at me.// 

Unable to resist, Frank did as he was told. He sat among the shards of glass littering the bathroom floor. Kneeling in front of him, Julian hands were on his shoulders, his face was barely inches away. Frank sniffed feeling ridiculous and angered by his own lack of control. Julian's attention shifted from his face to his hands. Luna's long fingers carefully touched and examined Frank's palms and arms. Tiny glass crystals glimmered on his skin, but there didn't seem to be any fresh cuts. 

"You're going to sit here and stay silent for a moment," Julian ordered as he stood. And Frank found he had no desire to do otherwise as Luna took a towel from the rack and wet it down then wrung it out. He returned to kneel 
before Frank and wipe the glass from Kohanek's hands and arms then from his face and neck. Then a comb appeared in Julian's hand. "From this point on you're going to let me take care of you, my young friend," he intoned. 

Frank tried to turn his head as Julian began combing his hair, carefully brushing out small pieces of glass. "I can--" 

"No you can't, Frank. This is the end of it." Julian's tone was firm, nearly parental. The comb moved with purpose through his wavy hair, encountering glass and tangles. "I think I understand some of what's going 
on with you," he said quietly as he continued to work, as his fingers carded through Frank's hair. "I already knew about your wife. But now I know about your son as well." 

******** 

Frank stiffened. "Then you know I killed him," he confessed. He felt strangely relaxed, free from the frantic, violent panic attack of a few minutes before. 

"I know there was an accident. But I don't know all the details." Julian's hand petted Frank's hair. "What happened, Frank?" 

Frank shook his head, breaking contact with Julian. "I don't want to talk about it." he declared. 

Julian's hands enveloped Kohanek's face, forcing him to face the Kindred Prince once more. "You have to, Frank," he informed him without compromise. "Or we'll lose you." 

Frank blinked as a hand passed in front of his eyes and an all-consuming lethargy spread into his body, paralyzing him. //Julian don't...// 

"Don't be afraid, Frank. I need to see... to know." With the towel he held, Julian brushed aside the broken glass on the floor and moved Frank so that his back rested against the soft material of Luna's woven shirt. Then 
his arms came from behind, wrapping around Frank's chest. "What happened, Frank?" Julian repeated, his voice more compelling as his breath brushed against the back of Frank's neck. 

Frank groaned as he resisted. //You don't want to see!// 

"Yes I do, childe. There's nothing you have done that will turn you away from me. Trust me." //Tell me...// 

Frank shivered as Julian's presence spread into him, groaning as a soft sting at the back of his neck gently rippled through his body. In an instant the years fell away. Kindred were unknown. He was opening the door to his apartment, grateful he was getting home as early as he was, hoping it was early enough. Linda had asked him to be home on time and he tried. But as the newly promoted detective, he was given the shit work. He was home by seven, a record for him. 

** 

"Da! Da!" 

A toddler squealed, his feet making hard clumping sounds as he ran to him. 

"Hey, big boy!" he said as he picked up his son. Timmy giggled happily as he threw his arms around his father's neck. 

"So you're finally home." 

Linda. Frank sighed already hearing the challenge in her tone, his own temper flaring in spite of his best efforts. //What the hell does she want from me! I tried!// He held his son close as he walked into the kitchen to face his wife. He worked to keep his voice level and calm for his child's sake. "I couldn't get out, hon. I got home as soon as I could." 

Linda threw her hands up and walked over to the stove, pouring spaghetti onto the boiling pot. "It's okay, Frank," she stated flatly. "I only begged you this time, seeing that it was our anniversary." 

//Oh fuck.// Frank carefully put his son down. "Honey... I'm--" 

"I don't want to hear it!" she yelled back. She glared at him. "You don't even remember, do you?" 

"Of course I do!" he lied, unwilling to give her more ammunition. "Linda, I told you after the promotion I'd be working crazy hours until it settled down." 

"Frank, that was six months ago!" She held a wooden spoon up for emphasis. "How long does it take to... settle down?" 

"Come on, Linda. You knew this was going to happen!" Frank felt a tug at his pants. Timmy was between them, watching their fight. Instinct told him to pick the child up, to end this and take his son out of the kitchen so he and Linda could cool down. But his pride this evening was more powerful. Agitated, his hands flailed in expression of his emotions. He cursed once as his hand grazed the hot cooking pot. 

"There's a dozen investigations going on that I have to write up and submit by the end of the week. My supervisor is evaluating me next week! I have to do what I have to do!" He saw her expression darken further and knew he 
was in a lot of trouble. He glanced down at their son who looked up with his brow wrinkled, his fingers in his mouth as his eyes moved from one parent to the other. Frank sighed as he felt himself give in. He could see Linda's point and it was his fault he forgot their anniversary. Anyway, Timmy really didn't need to see this. "Look Linda, I'm sorry. Okay? I have three days off in a couple of days. We can celebrate then..." 

"Too late!" Linda stirred the pot briskly a few times then turned on him, her dark eyes flashing. "I can't do this anymore. I've seen a lawyer today, Frank! I'm filing papers!" 

The shock of her declaration fueled a resurrection of Frank's anger along with a sense of betrayal. Great. If that's what she wanted... His hand made a grand sweeping motion. "Fine! Do it--" 

** 

"No... please no..." Frank tried to withdraw, to escape from Julian's mental and physical hold on him. Vaguely he sensed another presence join with Julian, felt a sharp sensation at his wrist, a gentle pulling of his blood. "Julian, stop-- I can't--" 

"Tell it all, childe," Julian commanded, his warming breath in Frank's ear. "Tell it to be free of it..." 

Like a slow motion movie, Frank watched the pot of boiling water tip then fall. Over the years he had tried to move, tried to grab his son or catch the pot. But every time it was too late. It landed, covering his son's head like a helmet, boiling water and pasta flowing over his little 
shoulders like lava. For a single moment there was a chilling silence. 

Then his son's piercing scream filled his ears; a frightened, painful, startled, gurgling sound. "No... no... no..." Ignoring the burning heat, he snatched the heated pot off his son's head. His wife ran for the sink 
and turned on the water. Their fight was all but forgotten... 

"His face... his eyes..." Frank tried to strip off the pasta to see the injuries he knew were underneath. But the dark skin came away to reveal pale tissue beneath. //Oh god... Oh god...// Frank grabbed his son, ran out of the apartment and flew down the stairs to the parking lot. 

The hospital was three miles away. He knew every side street and alleyway. He could get there in less than two minutes. His wife followed, calling to him. She wanted him to wait, to allow her to wash Timmy down, to call 911. 
Frank opened the passenger side door. His son was quiet now, his cries silenced. But his small body shook violently. Shock. "Get in the car!" he ordered. 

"You're over-reacting! He's--" Her words stopped abruptly as he handed her their son, now limp. "Oh my God! Oh my God! What have we done to our baby!" Her hand reach for the pasta that covered his face then drew back in 
horror. "Oh god, Frank! Hurry! I didn't know... oh god I didn't know! Hurry!" 

And he did, driving at speeds and in ways he knew could get someone else killed. "We got to the hospital in a couple of minutes," he said aloud to Julian. He was still sitting, his body held securely against Luna, his eyes 
closed, his hands held in a firm but gentle grip. "They tried... God, they tried!" 

//Mr. and Mrs. Kohanek... I'm sorry to inform you--// 

********** 

"I killed him, Julian! I killed my son!" he wailed as the grief overtook him. "Linda was never the same. We didn't get a divorce but I spent all my time working my ass off. She tried to warn me about her depression but I told her she just had to get over it!" He opened his eyes, his vision tired and blurred. "For awhile I thought it was okay. We even talked about having... another baby. But then she just got depressed again and we stopped talking. One day I got a call. Linda was on the ledge of our 
bedroom window." He tried to pull his hands back to wipe his face and clear his vision but other hands silently commanded stillness as a cool, moist cloth was wiped over his eyes, his cheeks and lips. 

"She was right there," Frank clutched his hand in a remembered gesture, his fingertips remembering the sensation of brushing fabric as he made one last 
desperate grab for her. "I tried to talk her down, tried to grab her..." 

//I'm sorry, Frank. I love you--// 

"I killed her, too." 

"You feel pain at their loss, Frank," a voice deeper than Julian's told him. "You feel responsible because you have a conscience. You work to destroy your own soul because of the guilt you feel... because you survived when they did not." 

Frank blinked then froze. Daedalus knelt in front of him, his eyes glowing as they watched him, his more powerful presence whispering gently among his thoughts. Fear rippled through Frank's gut as memories of their last real 
encounter surfaced. 

"We are both here for you, Frank," Julian said softly from behind. "You have nothing fear," he soothed. His hands lightly rubbed over Frank's stomach, his presence within Frank projecting warmth and reassurance. 

Daeldalus' lips moved into a small smile. His hand came up to graze over Frank's neck. "I'm sorry our first meeting has left you with even more pain." His fingers lingered over Frank's skin. "I'm Daedalus," he said as he continued his caress. "I'm the Nosferatu Primogen." 

Nosferatu. Images of a clip from an old silent movie came to mind. Ugly and savage... Frank studied the Nosferatu's face. And compelling... 

"You are not responsible for your wife and son's death," Julian told him. His arms tightened as he hugged Frank closer to him. "You have a place here with Kindred... with me." 

Frank closed his eyes, feeling tears roll down his face, burning already raw skin. "But I keep seeing it, Julian! I keep hearing him scream and I can't stop it!" 

"You already have, Frank." 

Daedalus' voice jarred him. He shook his head in denial. His son still screamed. His wife still jumped. Frank stared down at his hands, missing the ring he constantly wore, noting the faded scars on his thumb and wrist 
from the burns he had gotten in carrying his son... 

//You remember them,// Daedalus' mind-voice assured. //You remember what happened to them. But you have passed through the pain, Frank. You understand what you did not understand before.// 

Frank stared at him in confusion. His son giggled in his mind, walking for the first time into his arms. Linda laughed as she sprayed him with a hose, as he grabbed her in a playful hold, beginning a long, deep kiss. And a moment later he stood by her bed as she lay back, exhausted, as the delivery room nurse placed his newborn son into his arms... 

None of the trauma shadowed his memories, no shift to the moment he had lost them both. Frank trembled as he began to realize what had been done to him. His son's death was separate from the pleasure of his life. The love he had 
for his wife was clean of the guilt that forever prayed on his heart. His son's cry, the image of his wife falling still brought grief but without the agonizing darkness, the need to end it by ending his own existence. 

The universe was suddenly calm and silent... 

********** 



Julian swallowed hard as he felt the human he held relax against him completely, the young man's head falling back against his shoulder. He gazed at Daedalus as he tried to integrate the experience he had just had. 

The Nosferatu Primogen raised Frank's wrist to his mouth, lapping at the small wound he had made then took the cloth he had used to wipe the human's face to clean away the excess blood. "The open wounds within his mind are 
closed, my Prince," he said in the silence between them. "Now he can heal." 

Julian nodded. He lowed his head, his tongue caressing over the wound he had made on Frank's neck. It had been necessary. Frank's mind, even Dominated, would not let them in without the tie of blood. "I wish I could give him time to deal with this before he has to choose his future." 

Daedalus stared at him intently. "Few of us ever have that luxury, Julian. Frank understands more than he realizes... and he's already made his decision. He only needs to understand the path he must choose." He looked around. "He did this?" 

Julian glanced around, suddenly remembering. "He has a temper," he commented dryly. "Something he's going to have to learn to control." 

Daedalus made no comment but moved more pieces of glass out of the way as he examined Frank's feet. "His wounds are healing quickly. I'll put more salve on his feet. He should feel much better when he wakes." 

?????????? 

"You and I need to talk," Julian said as he reluctantly shifted Frank in preparation to getting up. If he had it his way, he would stay and hold his charge, hoping he could wake the human with a kiss. But there wasn't time. 
"Damn Cameron!" he muttered. 

"He has a right, Julian," Daedalus reminded him. "He doesn't have to show patience or kindness in regards to Frank. None of us do." His eyes scanned the sleeping man. "But now I can't conceive of treating him any other way." 
His fingertips brushed over Frank's forehead. The human took a deep breath then seem to relax even more. "He is also going to be my childe... in a sense." 

Julian watched his closest friend caress the young man, wondering what Frank's reaction would be if he were awake, knowing Kohanek was going to have to make a lot of adjustments this evening. "There is a lot of passion 
inside of him," he said quietly as his hands wandered over Frank's abdomen, straying to the cloth covered crotch as he remembered the taste of Frank's blood, the experience of this man's essence. "He wants this... with me. He 
and Sonny..." He smiled a little as surprise crossed the Nosferatu's face."Sonny wanted to comfort him... distract him. He could sense Frank's attraction to him, his need for contact. But it seems our young friend was raised with very traditional values." 

"I wouldn't be too concerned, Julian," Daedalus assured in an amused tone. His fingertips slid over Frank's cheeks to trace along his jaw. "He willingly tasted Alexandra's blood... even after knowing she was Kindred. I don't think there will be as many barriers as you imagine. He simply needs encouragement to do what he already desires." 

Julian smiled. //That's definitely something we can do for him.// "Let's put him to bed and go. We need to get ready and you need to instruct me so I'm clear on my role in this ritual of yours." 

Nosferatu eyes shifted from Prince to human. "Your role has already started, Julian." He reached over Frank's shoulder to caress the Prince's cheek. "The ritual has already started." 

********** 



Nothing caught his attention as he opened his eyes. He had been dreaming but he couldn't remember about what. He only knew he wasn't waking in a cold sweat with his heart racing, his mind in tormoil... 

Frank sighed and rolled over. He was back in the bed in the room the Kindred had brought him to. Dim light streamed through the window at the other end of the room. Late afternoon? 

"Might not even be the same day," he muttered to himself as he sat up. Julian and Daedalus were gone. Frank ran a hand through his hair, frowning as crumbs dropped down on the comforter. //No, not crumbs,// he realized as he examined the particles. //Glass.// 

Frank grunted as he got out of bed, as memories played themselves out. He looked down at his arm, seeing nothing of the wound he knew should be there from one Kindred's bite. He rubbed the back of his neck, still feeling 
nothing. //They drank my blood.// He absorbed this. //They got into my head... made me relive my son's death...// 

//And took away the shadows.// 

Frank sat down again as he remembered. His son was dead. His wife was dead. He survived... and it was okay. Part of him just wanted to sit and cry. But he had done too much of that. He was allowed to remember the pleasures of their lives without being punished with the last moments of their lives. Now he had a future. 

//With Kindred.// 

Frank shivered. What was going to happen? Julian said he was going to explain. Where was he? He spotted a folded piece of paper on the night table and grabbed it. His name was written in elegant script. He opened the paper to reveal the same elegant handwriting, a brief note: 

** 

My Childe: 

Daedalus and I have to take care of something before we return this evening. Some clothes have been left for you and food will be brought to you. 

As I told you before, I will explain everything to you and you will choose. In the meantime, please make yourself comfortable in my home... your home. Let anyone know if you have any questions or need anything. 

Just don't leave the grounds. My protection of you only extends that far for the moment. Don't test it. 

Julian. 

** 

Frank warmed as he read the note again, feeling adolescent as he folded the paper and set it aside, meaning to put it somewhere safe, keeping it as he would keep a love note. 

There were clothes neatly piled at the foot of the bed. A pair of jeans and a t-shirt. There were underwear, socks, and a new pair of sneakers. //All my size,// he noted. Frank glanced down at himself, seeing a lot of the bruises were already fading as were the shallow cuts. His feet felt stiff and achy but the cuts and bruises were virtually gone. //They care, you know,// his conscience informed him. //They want you.// 




Part 16 

Frank fingered the clothes thoughtfully. His skin crawled with dried sweat. His face felt raw. //Shower,// he ordered himself. //Then change... then food,// he added as his stomach growled aggressively. He vaguely remembered breakfast yesterday morning. //Was it really only yesterday morning? Geez I feel like it's been years...// 

Going into the bathroom, he expected to be greeted with shards of broken glass but it was as if nothing happened. The mirror looked untouched, the floor clean of all remains of what his fists had done. There were towels set on the counter as well as a new toothbrush and a small container of toothpaste still in its box. //All the comforts of home,// he remarked then hesitated. //My home?// 

//... please make yourself comfortable in my home... your home...// 

Frank forced himself past the moment. It was time to stop analyzing and start accepting. //Or I'll drive myself crazy again.// 

The water was warm as it flowed over him, soothing minor aches. Frank lingered, taking time to enjoy a long shower without the pressure of shift starts or real life obligations. As he rubbed soap over himself, he indulged in a moment of fantasy. He remembered his wife's hands... then Alexandra's caressing his skin... beginning the familiar pleasure. But then the imagery changed, as it had been doing over the past several weeks. For an instant he allowed himself to imagine Julian's hands slipping over his skin, touching him in places he like to be touched. 

Then stopped as he realized where he was. His hand hovered over his genitals, alternately aroused and embarrassed. Shortly he was going to know what Julian's hands felt like as he was made a part of the Ventrue clan... Kindred. //Is he going to want... sex?// 

Frank's hand cupped his cock, rubbed against his balls. //Sex with Julian... Kindred?// He had had sex with Alexandra and his experience with her had been different than his experience with any other woman he had ever been with. In growing up, he had been taught to take some care with women, to always keep in mind he was the heavier and stronger partner. But Alexandra taught him to forget this lesson, encouraged him to give into his desires, assured him it would give her pleasure and she would not be hurt. 
And he found it to be true. She gave as much as she received. In the throes of passion, she seem to get inside of him, knowing exactly where to touch, where to kiss, where to stimulate him quickly or slowly. He remembered she liked to bite playful nips that shook him but never seem to leave a mark. 

Now he understood her secret. She had taken his blood, perhaps shared a little of her own over a period of time. He knew he should be outraged by the revelation but he understood her reasoning... her needs. Frank licked his lips as he remembered the one time he took her blood of his own free will. The taste had been odd but not what he expected. In fact, after a moment, the taste didn't matter as the blood seem to penetrate every cell in his body, destroying and creating in the same instant. 

Frank groaned, his hand again slipping over his aroused cock. His first reaction to Alexandra's blood had been mixed, his stomach turned painfully. But afterwards, his cock was aroused for hours, his mind distracted by the 
need to help and save Alexandra while fantasies of tasting her blood again whispered like a siren through his veins. When he saw Alexandra fall from the bridge, his passions turned to rage. 

When he confronted Julian on Alexandra's balcony, a myriad of confusing emotions emerge. Rage. Betrayal. Attraction. He wanted Julian to hurt as much as he did. So he shot him, not once but twice. Part of him wanted to push Julian to kill him too, but in the end Julian made it clear he was bound to protect Frank. As the Kindred Prince walked away from him and out of Alexandra's apartment for the last time, Frank sensed a pain coming from him that went beyond the physical hurt he had just inflicted. But it would be several minutes before he realized just how vulnerable Julian had been, how much Frank had already been trusted. 

//No bodyguards then. Shit, he could have torn me apart the first time I shot him.// 

Trust... and love? Love and attraction? His hand moved with experienced ease, giving into the need for sexual release, letting Julian's fantasy fingers do what he wanted, the Kindred's mouth engulfing his cock, drawing 
him deep. Frank leaned against the shower wall as he thrust into his hand, as his imagination fueled his needs. All at once he shuddered as his cock released its fluid, as he imagined Julian's teeth sinking into his neck, as 
he thought he sensed the Kindred's presence whisper through his mind in shared pleasure... 

For an eternal minute he stood still, breathing hard as the pleasure of the orgasm ran its course, as he recovered from the experience. //Fantasy.// He picked up the bar of soap, cleaning himself then running soapsuds through 
his hair. //That's all it's going to be. My imagination. It's not going to be the same when I'm really with him... for one thing I'm such a fucking virgin... not what a man whose older than my great-grandfather would have been is going to like... Sure he likes me... but it's not going to be like that...// 

Feeling more stable, Frank accepted his own conclusions and finished his shower. He quickly toweled himself off and opened the door, ready to get his clothes and find something to eat. Already he imagined the smell of cooked food reaching his nose... 

"Detective Kohanek, I've brought something for you." 

********* 

Frank froze. A young man stood in the middle of the bedroom, dressed in a formal suit, standing by a small round table and chair that had been set up. He was pale and blond. His eyes were bright blue as they watched him... Kindred. //Fuck, I'm naked!// He thought of covering himself and backing into the bathroom to grab a towel but his visitor merely smiled and turned away to fuss over the table he had set up. 

Taking the cue, Frank decided to play it casual and walked past his visitor and his set up to the bed, quickly donning the underwear and pants before turning back. His visitor was watching him, his expression openly appreciative. Frank sighed. "Who are you?" he asked as he pulled on his shirt and sat down to put on his socks. 

"Jordan," his visitor answered. He gestured to the table. "Prince Julian let me know what you liked." 

Feeling uncomfortably like he was being waited on, Frank studied the covered dishes, his stomach growling angrily as he suddenly noticed the smell of meat and spices. He lifted one of the covers to reveal a steak dressed with 
potatoes and vegetables. He lifted the other cover, surprised to see a small bowl of bread pudding. //I love bread pudding... how did he know?// 

"All right?" Jordan asked quietly. 

Frank glanced at him as he sat down, his eyes taking in the bottle of Coors. "Yeah, it's great," he said. He noticed Jordan standing aside, quietly watching... waiting. "Um... You don't have to be here," he offered. 

Jordan nodded, smiling a little. "If there's anything else you want, let someone know and I'll bring it up." 

"Okay," Frank agreed, knowing that he wouldn't do it. He silently hoped this wasn't going to be part of the deal. As Jordan left, he sighed with relief. He preferred to do things himself. 

The steak was very rare... just as he liked it. Frank ate, careful not to eat too quickly after his self-imposed fast. At the end, he felt more alert, more able to think clearly. He got up, wondering what he should do about the dirty dishes then realized that someone would be coming back. 

He eyed the door. //Julian said I could wander... a bit.// He opened the door. Just outside a young woman looked at him expectantly. He smiled a little and walked out. When she made no move to stop him, he walked down the hallway his eyes taking in his environment. He had been in Julian's mansion a few times, but only on the main floor and only on the path that took him from the main doors to Julian's office. He had no idea where he was but he was determined to find out on his own. He found a stairway 
leading down. At the bottom was a grand room, a library. Books lined floor to ceiling bookcases. Expensive leather chairs and small tables were scattered throughout the room, with a partitioned area with two computers set up. There were a few people, some sitting and reading, some standing, speaking quietly to others. As he stood there, all eyes turned to him. Some smiled politely. 

Knowing he should probably go, Frank looked around. There were four doors. He wondered which one he should take. A man stepped forward, his dark eyes studying Frank. Then he stretched out a hand. "I'm John Harrison," he introduced. "I'm Ventrue and one of Julian's accountants." 

//Oh.// Awkwardly, Frank shook his hand, not sure of how to introduce himself. 

John smiled. "Don't be nervous, Mr. Kohanek. We know about you. Everyone here does." He waved a hand towards one of the doors. "If you want to get to the more common areas and the main foyer, use that door. These two doors," he continued, pointing to the ones furthest away; "lead to the Prince's more personal areas." He pointed to the fourth door. "This one leads to the back and the gardens." 

Gardens. Outside. Frank nodded. "Thanks." 

"My pleasure." 

Frank stared at him. John gave him a friendly smile then winked before turning away. //Before they barely gave me the time of day... now I'm part of the family.// 

//Welcome to your new life,// he quipped to himself as he gave up trying to understand everything at once. He walked to the door leading to the gardens and found himself entering a glass-enclosed room. Outside was a stone patio 
leading out to well arranged vegetation mostly stripped of their foliage and color, dormant for the brief winter. As he walked out he welcomed the sensation of the cool, crisp air that surrounded him, making him feel alive. To the left was a stone railing overlooked part of the bay. The sun was just touching the horizon, setting of streams of colors. It was a beautiful sight, something Frank rarely got to watch in his line of work. //Linda used to like it,// he remembered with quiet sadness and regret. //I'm 
sorry I didn't take the time to share it with her.// 

He sensed a presence approach and turned to find Sonny standing behind him. His partner stood tall, his expression neutral, his eyes glittering in the fading light. //Probably pissed off I gave him the slip.// Frank turned back to watch the rest of the sunset. "I'm sorry," he said meaning the words to cover several faults that lay between them. 

"You're forgiven," Sonny said quietly without emotion. "Just don't do it again. As Primogen I'll have your ass the next time." 

**********

Primogen? Frank faced him again. There was something different in Sonny's stance, an added weight. "If you're Primogen then Julian--" 

"Is Prince," Sonny finished. "A Kindred Prince can be of any clan... whoever the rest of the clans will listen to. But then the clan he or she is from will have a Primogen like all the rest. Archon... died a few days ago. He had been Prince then became Primogen when Julian took over." He pointed to himself. "My Sire has honored me by appointing me Primogen of the Ventrue clan." 

Frank took the information in, realizing he was just beginning to understand Kindred and their culture. "So... congratulations?" 

For the first time, Sonny smiled. Then his expression turned more serious. "How are you feeling?" he asked. 

Frank took a deep breath then shrugged. "I'm okay... I think." 

"You think?" Sonny lips curled into a smirk. 

Frank felt his cheeks grow warm. By himself he imagined he could face all the issues he knew he was going to have to deal with. But talking to one of the people he was having issues with... Frank threw his arms up in a gesture 
of defeat. There was no one else to talk to *but* the people who were intimately involved in his future. "I feel like I've been dumped on an alien planet," he admitted finally. 

Sonny shrugged. "In a sense... you have." He stepped up to Frank. "But as your brother I'll help you through this, Frank." 

Brother? The word was spoken with casual acceptance... established love. Frank turned away, confused and momentarily overcome. //Just like that... it's all out in the open...// His eyes drifted over the horizon, catching 
the last wisps of light as day turned to night, as the stars began to emerge. 

Strong hands gripped his shoulders from behind as a firm body leaned against Frank's back. "Take it in slowly," Sonny advised in a soothing tone. "For right now you're in a safe place surrounded by safe people. Take advantage 
of that because though you'll always be safe here with us, you're going to learn that Kindred politics can be very volatile, and you're going to be an unknown factor." Experienced fingers dug into Frank's shoulder to work at 
tense muscles. "Some are going to see you as a threat. The Brujah are going to hate you on sight." 

Frank snorted. "Gee... thanks for telling me, Sonny," he responded sarcastically. "Should I just jump from here now or--" 

Frank's vision blurred as his body was pulled and lifted then pushed up against a glass paneling. Sonny's face was altered. His eyes glowed. His teeth were bared. "Don't!" he growled. 

Fear worked down Frank's spine. "Sonny--" He hesitated as he understood what he had said to set his friend off. "I didn't mean--" 

Sonny softly slammed him against the glass again. "Then don't say it, Frank! Don't joke about it! Not to me... not to anyone who cares about you! Do you understand?" 

Frank understood. At that moment he realized how his attempted suicide, his disappearance, had upset his friend. He awkwardly brought his hands up to grip Sonny's elbows. "I understand," he said clearly. 

Sonny let out a rush of air. His face shifted into more normal proportions. "Your life is important to me, Frank," he said more calmly. "Never forget that." 

Sonny released him but didn't move away. Frank felt the Kindred's warmth pressed against him. //Warmth?// Normally Kindred were slightly cooler though Alexandra had been warm when they were together. //They're always warm after they feed.// With that realization, Frank found himself shifting involuntarily to ease the sudden pressure in his crotch. He could imagine Sonny seducing... his teeth sinking into another's skin... the rush of blood... 

"Frank..." Sonny's voice was deep and husky. His eyes traveled over Frank's face, his gaze as soft as a caress. Frank gasped as his own body responded to the silent invitation. But his will was stronger and he drew back. 

Sonny laughed lightly, easing closer again. "Something else you need to know about me, my friend." Sonny's voice was smooth and feral. "I'm not Julian. He tends to be cautious when he senses hesitation. That's his way." Sonny put his hands on Frank's hips. "You wanted me when we were in your apartment but I let it go." His lips brushed against Frank's as he spoke. "But this time I'm not going to wait for you to make the first move." 

Sonny's lips drew Frank's into a passionate kiss that forced and teased, allowing no room for escape. Frank tensed, his body warring with his reason, his hands rigid at his sides. "Just say no, Frank," Sonny whispered, his breath grazing across Frank's ear. "I can smell your 
excitement... hear your blood rush. But I won't force you, Frank. Say no and I'll stop." 

Stop? Frank groaned as his arousal rubbed against his underwear, as his skin burned where Sonny touched him. But there was someone else to think of, someone he wanted even more. "Julian." Frank managed to blurt out. 

Sonny pulled back. His brows knitted in confusion. "This isn't about Julian, Frank," he said then smiled. "Kindred are not monogamous," he added lightly. "Not in the way you think." He traced a fingertip over Frank's mouth. "I promise you he won't think anything of it... beyond the pleasure we might have." 

**********

Pleasure. Frank felt as if he had running a marathon as he continued to resist Sonny's passion. The Kindred's body was full against him, a tell-tale bulge rubbed against Frank's own jean covered erection. //What are you waiting for?// his libido argued. Frank closed his eyes. "I-- 
haven't done this... with a guy," he said, hoping and fearing it would end everything. 

Sonny stopped his seduction and studied him closely. "Never?" 

Frank felt Sonny's scrutiny dance lightly within his mind and relented. "When I was a kid, this other kid liked me... and I liked him. We jerked each other off. My dad found out." He winced as the memory of that moment came and went. His relationship with his father was never the same. "I didn't do anything... after that." 

"But you wanted to?" Sonny licked his lips as gave Frank a little space. "I like guys... always did. But the ladies can be fun." His hand caressed Frank's face, petting at the faint beard that was growing. 

"Gender isn't as much an issue with Kindred. It's the blood, Frank... and the power." He cupped Frank's chin in his hand so their eyes met. "Trust me?" 

Frank knew what he was being asked and thought a moment before nodding his head. "I trust you." 

"Good." Sonny quickly kissed Frank then held him out at arm's length. "I'm going to Dominate you, Frank. I want you to just let everything happen and don't fight it. Okay?" 

A nervous twinge sparked in Frank's gut, though he couldn't tell if it was fear or anticipation. "Okay," he consented. 

Sonny kissed him again then passed a hand in front of Frank's face. Immediately Frank felt the mind-altering influence of Kindred power flush through him then fade to nothing. He frowned as he stared at his friend, feeling unchanged. "What--" 

"Shhh... Just relax," Sonny commanded as both his hands encircled Frank's head. "Just let your real feelings come out." He kissed Frank, his lips teasing. "You know, I can smell your cock, Frank... smell the need." He kissed him again, nipping lightly. "I can hear your heart beating a mile a minute." Kiss. "Don't hold back, Frank. I want this too and I won't let you get hurt." 

The Kindred's words seem to drive away all doubts and fears. Frank took a deep breath, taking in the scent that was building between them. His hand played over Sonny's face, taking pleasure in the textures, in the cool warmth that wasn't quite human. As Toussaints leaned forward for another kiss, Frank pulled the Kindred to him, his mouth covering Sonny's hungrily as he gave into long-repressed desires, his body gliding against Sonny, thrusting lightly with sharp need. Sonny's taste was different from 
Alexandra's, darker and more exotic. Addictive. 

"That's it, brother," Sonny encouraged, his own hands exploring, pulling up Frank's shirt. "Feel it, childe. I know there's more in there." 

Frank cried out then groaned as fingernails gently raked down his bare back. He wrapped his arms around Sonny's shoulders as his crotch slid along Sonny's thigh, needing release-- 

"Frank... wait..." 

Sonny command froze Frank even as his mind and body protested. "Sonny--" he pleaded. 

"It's all right," Sonny assured. His gentle caress was a command. "Just changing position, partner. Making it better for you." He smiled an enchanting smile. "Close your eyes and turn around." 

Frank found himself obeying even as he opened his mouth to question. Sonny's arm encircled him from behind drawing Frank's back against his body. //What's he--// 

"Just let it happen," Sonny whispered. His free hand roamed intimately. "I love you, Frank." 

Frank swallowed hard, shivering as his fly was opened, his jeans drawn down. "Sonny, I--" 

"Shhh... This is going to be good, Frank. You need this, my brother." His hands delved under Kohanek's shirt, searching for pleasure points. Frank groaned, settling back against his partner, hesitating as he felt Sonny's 
uncovered arousal press against his exposed buttocks. "Trust me, Frank," Sonny encouraged, his compelling voice reassuring. "Nothing will happen you don't want to have happen. I promise." 

Frank relaxed, his body taking command over his remaining doubts and fears, conscious of where Sonny's warm flesh contacted his own overheated body. Experienced hands explored his cock, creating gentle pressure, causing Frank 
to cry out in unexpected pleasure. Then his universe narrowed as his cock was suddenly enveloped in a warm, soft haven. His hips thrust as a moist tongue licked. Then the lips closed, creating just the right pressure, sucking with an aggressive rhythm. Without thought, Frank reached down, his hand encountering smooth, silky hair on top of a head that bobbed with purpose. At the same time, hands rubbed over his nipples, a warming erection rubbed against his back. Another set of lips continued to explore 
his neck, leaving a tingling trail. 

//Yes...// Frank couldn't tell if that was his own straying thought or another's. It didn't matter. He felt alive... vital. With abandon he grabbed hold of the head at his crotch, his hips forcing his cock deeper into the sweet mouth. Hands wrapped around his thighs, encouraging the punishing thrusts. Frank cried out over and over as his body gathered, as he felt the heady sensation of Sonny's lips against his neck, Sonny's cock trapped between their bodies. 

********* 

Then he came, his hand tightening their hold on the head of the one who swallowed his cock as he emptied himself, as he heard a growl then felt the faint sting of a bite at the base of his shoulder, as Sonny thrust against him once more and warm moisture coated the small of his back. 



"Damn, I didn't think he had it in him." 

Frank felt his deflated cock carefully wiped then his pants were pulled up, his fly fastened. He wanted to speak but the muscles to his mouth seem paralyzed. 

"He has more than his needs in him. He just needed permission to express it." Pause. "Thank you." 

"Don't thank me, Sire. I've wanted this a long time, believe me." 



Frank blinked then focused. Julian stood in front of him, his expression as soft as he could ever remember seeing it, his eyes glinting with amusement and gentle concern. The Kindred's mouth was moist and slightly swollen, his 
hair completely disheveled. "Fuck." 

"Not yet," Julian remarked lightly. His finger curved under Frank's chin, drawing him forward until their lips met. The taste of Julian's mouth was different from Alexandra's and Sonny's but there a common base... the blood. And there was another taste added. //Me.// Frank realized as he followed the Kindred's lead, his tongue thrusting into the Prince's mouth to taste it all, his arms embracing Julian. 

//Welcome to my clan, childe,// Julian's mind-voice whispered into his mind. He studied Frank's face. "There are things we need to finish tonight," he stated seriously. 

Frank stared at him then glanced around. Sonny was gone. His presence was merely a hint of a whisper within his mind. Then he returned his attention to Julian, his cheeks burning as he realized what he had done. "I--" He 
shifted uncomfortably. "I'm kind of lost here," he said. 

Julian smiled, his eyes taking on a glow. "Did you enjoy what Sonny and I shared with you?" 

"Yeah... But--" Frank stopped as Julian's fingers touched his lips. 

"Then you're just as you should be, childe." Julian scanned him. "Don't forget that passion tonight, Frank. You're going to need it for what we need to do." 

//There's going to be more?// To his surprise Frank found his cock stirring at the prospect. "What's going to happen?" he asked, hoping it was time for an answer. 

Julian took his hand, pulling him towards the stone railing until they stood side by side, gazing out over San Francisco Bay. "Tonight you and I will share blood and you will be Kindred... or something more even more special." 

"What do you mean?" Frank asked, confused. 

Julian smiled softly. "You have a good idea of what it is to be Kindred... of how we are created... of how we live. But occasionally there is a human who can remain human but have some aspects of Kindred. That person can walk in sunlight without feeding, sustain injuries without healing right away and who would be all but invisible to Hunters... unless they knew what to look for." Luna's brows knitted together. "But that person would be bound by 
blood to Kindred and would require Kindred blood to sustain him or herself." 

"What's the advantage?" Frank asked curiously. 

"For as long as possible that person would be the bridge between humans and Kindred. He or she could better monitor what humans know of us, could better counter the myths and lies that surround Kindred, could be our first warning in case the Inquisitions returned." Julian watched him. "That 
person would be extremely valuable to us if he chose to do it." 

Butterflies gathered at the pit of Frank's stomach as he understood. "You want me to be that person?" 

Julian pursed his lips. "I want for you what you want, Frank. But if you wanted to be... a ghoul then you would be able to help us protect ourselves and humans in a way we haven't been able to in centuries." His hand cupped 
Frank's cheek. "Either way you would be bound to me and that's all that's important to me." 

Kindred or... "Ghoul?" Frank shivered as he turned away to look over the dark waters, the city lights. "Um... I'm assuming here that they're not like I've read about in some Stephen King book." 

"Some lies are based on truth," Julian answered. "Ghouls are not monsters but their diet tends to be high in protein and their meat tends to be more rare. But they don't hunt and kill innocent humans or animals. At least no more than the evil among any other species do." 

Okay. Frank turned his head towards Julian. "Why me?" 

Julian laughed openly then sobered quickly. His powerful eyes held Frank's. His mind invaded without effort. //Because we are already bound, my young friend. And because you are the only person who is not yet Kindred who I can trust with my life and soul.// 

The silent words washed through Frank, enveloped in threads of love and need. Overwhelmed, Frank sought a private moment by turning his attention back to the open night. //Geez, all I do is fall apart in front of them.// 

//That is a part of being human... and Kindred.// Julian's warm body pressed against Frank from behind. His hands rested on Frank's shoulders. "It's all right, childe. Tonight and until you adjust, you're going to experience a lot of extreme emotions." His lips brushed the back of Frank's neck. "Don't be afraid to express them. I'll be here for you. Sonny will be here. Daedalus will be here for you as well." 

********* 

Daedalus. Frank bowed his head, wondering if he should start laughing or screaming. //My life is getting crazier and crazier.// Frank watched the cars cross the Bay Bridge. //Frank Kohanek died last night... long live 
Frank Kohanek.// 

"I know this is difficult for you," Julian said gently. "If I had a choice, I would give you more time." Sigh. "But I don't. Everything must happen in the next few hours." His hands began a firm massage on Frank's shoulders. "I'm sorry." 

//Apology.// Frank relaxed as Julian's fingers dug into the base of his skull. He feels guilty, Frank realized. "You shouldn't," he said out loud. 

"I regret a lot things, Frank." Julian's hands began to card through Frank's hair. "And I can't fix all of it. But I can fix this." He gently tugged, pulling the human around to face him. Julian's expression reminded Frank of that evening when the Prince had killed the Nightstalker. Only then he hadn't understood what he was seeing. "I love you, Frank. I've told you that. Your destiny now is to be Kindred, to be a part of my clan." He smiled. "Your choice is how you want to do this." 

"Ghoul or Kindred?" Frank laughed. "You know if I was having this conversation at any other time I would be looking for a hidden camera." 

Julian cocked his head good-naturedly. "Choose, Frank," he prompted. 

Frank became serious. "Which would help you the most, Sire?" 



//Sire.// Emotions filled Julian. He studied the human to be sure Frank understood what he was saying. Frank gazed back without hesitation, his eyes clear, his thoughts focused for the first time since they took him from 
Magzagnita Springs. Gathering his thoughts, he replied in the same serious tone as Prince to his childe. "I want you bound as ghoul to the Kindred, Frank. That's where you would be the most valuable to Kindred and humans." 

Frank seem to try to maintain a more formal posture but failed. He shrugged, smiling shyly. "Then I guess that's what happens." His hand gripped Julian's shoulder. "I love you too," he declared. 

//Archon is gone... but now I have Frank.// Julian gathered Frank to him in a tight embrace, pressing his body to the human's, absorbing the warmth of the body and soul. "Daedalus is waiting for us, childe," he said after a moment as he drew back. 

Fear coursed through Frank's mind followed by a flurry of chaotic thoughts. Then his childe agitated from foot to foot as his mind focused on one question. "Are we-- Will Daedalus--" Frank threw his hands up in frustration. "What's going to happen?" 

//Sex... Blood...// Julian wished all of their concerns were as simple as this. He focused, sensing Daedalus' presence fill him through the blood they shared a short time ago. Then he joined himself to Frank. //Daedalus 
is with us now, childe. Do you feel him?// 

Frank stared at him then his expression changed. Julian felt Daedalus' mind serge carefully beyond the bond they shared to draw the human. He watched as Frank blinked. The scent of fear dulled to apprehension and a hint of 
sexual excitement. //He waits for us.// he added, letting his own need and arousal meld with Frank's and Daedalus'. 

Frank's eyes were dilated, his heart racing. His eyes looked once more at San Francisco Bay then nodded and stepped towards him. Julian smiled, letting his fangs show, his Kindred self to emerge. He put an arm around 
Frank's shoulders and together they walked back into the mansion. 

*********

They walked comfortably down the hallway, passing through the library. They encountered no one as Julian opened the door and guided Frank into a brightly lit hallway with paneled walls and sparse but impressive artwork hung here and there. The detective in Frank took in the details, seeing ways of entry and exit, his ears sensitive to sound. He knew his life was about to be permanently changed... had been permanently changed. His mind 
was filled with the presence of Kindred, comforting and enticing. His body wavered between excitement and hesitation. 

Julian was silent, lending his presence. After a short walk he lead Frank through a door. "This is my suite," he told Frank. "This is one of the few private places where I can be myself." 

Frank looked around, seeing he was brought into a sitting room. The walls and furnishings were comfortably modern and uncluttered. There was a fire blazing in the fireplace. Casual furniture was neatly arranged. Warm and 
comfortable. Julian Luna's inner sanctum. "This is nice," he commented. 

"I'm glad you like it," Julian replied from behind. 


Frank heard the husky tone in Julian's voice and turned, surprised to see the Kindred had already shed his shirt, revealing the well developed torso beneath. He met Luna's gaze as he tugged at his own shirt, pulling it up and over his head. As he dropped his shirt to the floor he saw Julian in the midst of pulling down his pants, his dark gaze fixed on Frank. Frank's eyes wandered over Julian now naked body noticing the lack of differences. //Well, why would it be different?// his mind reminded him bluntly. 
//Alexandra wasn't any different than any other woman you had been with, not in appearance at least.// 



Julian's body was strong without being too muscular. His skin was dusky yet held a hint of paleness. Frank swallowed as he saw Julian's aroused cock standing out from a nest of dark curls. Within himself, Frank felt the 
presence of the other Kindred sharing the vision, lending strength to Frank's own appreciation of the sight. //Wonder what the big guy looks like under what he's wearing...// 


//Come into the bedroom as see for yourself, childe.// 


Daedalus' mind-voice was clear and seductive. Frank began to tremble as he felt Julian's scrutiny, wondering if he was going to be able to do this. //These guys are going to fuck me and kill me tonight and I'm going to let them.// 

A puzzled look crossed Julian's face. "Neither of us will harm you, Frank," he reassured as he stepped closer. "You won't die, childe." His hands slid over Frank's bare shoulders. "If this could wait a few more days I would 
wait." His fingers brushed hair away from Frank's forehead. "But tomorrow there has to be proof that you are bound to Kindred. Cameron has demanded this and I have to do what needs to be done to keep the clans in balance." 

Politics. Frank's arousal cooled as he understood. "So this isn't because you want--" 

Suddenly he was crushed against Julian's body, his mouth taken in a hard, painful kiss. //I want this more than my life, Frank Kohanek,// Julian's mind-voice stated in an iron tone. His one hand kept Frank pressed against him as his other hand quickly opened the detective's fly, delving in to lightly touch Frank's cock. "I understand your fears," he whispered aloud in Frank's ear as his hand stroked gently causing Frank to gasp then moan. "After all you've been through it's hard to trust anyone completely." His lips brushed over Frank's throat, his tongue lapping over the area Sonny had just taken from. Frank cried out as his head snapped back from the sharp sensations that shot through him. "But tonight and for the rest of your 
life you will have to trust me completely... trust those I tell you to trust... completely. Otherwise this won't work." 

"I'm sorry," Frank managed to breath as he fought to stay in control. His own hands caressed Julian's bare skin, sliding over Luna's shoulder and down his back. //I want this.// He thrust against Julian's body. "I trust you, 
Julian," he declared aloud. //But I can't get it through my head this is all happening!// 

Julian pulled back. His expression was concerned and determined. "This is happening, Frank. Tonight I'm going to make love to you, exchange blood with you. " His fingers trailed down Frank's cheek. "There will be some 
pain. Your body is going to change. But you won't be alone." 

//Not alone.// Tears blurred his vision. //Damn!// 

"Don't hold back, Frank," Julian commanded softly. Frank found himself drawn against Luna then gently rocked within a strong embrace. "This is going to be hard... all of it is going to be hard, Frank. But you'll be fine. You have the will and the passion to be something very special. And 
like anything special, I would sacrifice my own soul to protect it." 

Frank hung onto Julian, riding out the storm of emotions, feeling the comfort of Julian and Daedalus... and even Sonny stream through his thoughts. //Childe.// Their acceptance solidified within his heart, wrapping around him like a warm blanket. His awareness drifted, his 
thoughts easily mingling with the Kindred who held him, with the Kindred who waited. 

//Time to begin this, my friend.// Julian briefly tightened his hold then drew back. "All right?" 

Frank nodded then took a step back and finished undressing, sighing with some relief as his hardened cock was freed from the confines of his pants and underwear. Julian's eyes roamed over him, his features turning feral as they lingered in places. "Like what you see?" he asked, meaning to tease, embarrassed to find his tone uncertain. 

"You'll do," Julian replied lightly. He held out a hand. "Come on." 

Frank tried to pretend he had done this a thousand times as he walked into Julian's bedroom for the first time. The paneled walls made this room darker but warmer, lit by the glow of many candles. Around him the furnishings were more formal, more fitting of a man who ruled a people. But 
Frank found his gaze immediately drawn to the wide stately bed in front of him and the being who sat cross legged in the center, its broad naked back to them. Curious Frank approached cautiously, walking around the bed, drawn 
by the stillness that touched his mind. //Daedalus.// Captured, Frank studied the Kindred's profile, sensing a waiting. //He tried to kill me,// his instincts warned. 

Daedalus moved. His head turned. His eyes opened to meet Frank's gaze. "Kindred are ruled by their passions, Frank Kohanek," he said, barely breathing. "Sometimes our passions are not under our control... even for one as old as I am." 

Frank heard a deep sadness in the deep voice, disturbing the stillness. "I can't say I can just forget it... not this time," he added as he tapped a finger against his head. "But I'm beginning to understand... why." He stepped closer. "Thank you," he said sincerely then paused. What could he say that wouldn't be embarrassing? 

"Come join me, Frank." 

******** 

The Nosferatu held out a hand to him, his expression showing a hint of amusement and something deeper. Suddenly aware of his nudity Frank hesitated. //What's going to happen?// He searched the room, surprised to find Julian sitting on a chair, his legs crossed as if he were fully dressed and about to start a meeting. His dark eyes watched Frank but his expression was neutral, his body motionless. Frank turned his attention back to Daedalus. The Kindred had not changed. His hand was still held out 
to the human. 

//Oh what the hell.// Frank took Daedalus' hand, meaning to climb up onto the bed. But a muted growl escaped Daedalus as he pulled Frank to him, moving to lie on him side as Frank wound up on his back. Too shocked to be 
afraid, he gazed up at the Kindred's face. A feral smile graced Daedalus' face as the larger Kindred leaned over him. "Wait!" Frank put his hands on Daedalus' chest, pushing back. //Too fast!// 

"Be calm, Frank," Daedalus said quietly. His fingers trailed over Kohanek's abdomen, sending shivers through Frank's body. "I won't harm you. We're past that now." He gripped one of Frank's hand that rested on his chest. 
"You have a strong spirit... and a passion that attracts me." Daedalus pulled the hand to his mouth, pressing a kiss into the open palm. "Let me show you." 

Erotic sensations moved through Frank's mind and body as Daedalus leaned closer, his lips teasing Frank's. //Oh man...// Frank found himself responding without hesitation, opening his mouth, instantly tasting the 
difference in this Kindred's mouth. //Not Ventrue...// He groaned. //Like the earth... old and solid...// His own hands began to explore as contact between them intensified. Daedalus' skin was cool, his body hard and 
muscular. Frank cried out and arched as the Kindred's touch found a sensitive place, his body turning to flame as Daedalus laughed in his ear. 

//Desire, childe,// the Nosferatu encouraged silently. //Let loose your passion.// 

Frank panted as his engorged cock rubbed against his lover's thigh. In response, Frank could feel Daedalus' arousal against his own leg as their mouths and bodies continued to learn from each other. Then fingers began to 
explore his back, followed by the sensation of sharp kisses along his spine. //Julian.// his instincts told him and he pushed back. //Make love to me, Julian!// 

//Relax, Frank,// Julian assured as his lips continued to stimulate, concentrating on the back of Frank's neck. //We will both make love to you.// 

//Oh god...// Frank stared into Daedalus' eyes as the Nosferatu studied him with a powerful gaze. Need exploded within him, centering in his groin, his whole body craving something more he couldn't quite understand. Daedalus 
smiled. His hand caressed Frank's brow. "Let our minds flow together, childe," he commanded aloud. //Let us become one.// 

It was the last individual thought Frank could remember having. Time cease to have meaning. Touch and the need to be touched merged as the Kindred drew him into their minds, their thoughts, their world. Hands and mouths merged with his, guiding and stimulating, giving and taking. Frank knew Julian was within him, felt the pain and pleasure of a hardened cock within his body. Daedalus' presence was took on a role of observer... instructor... counselor then participant, his own cock thrusting against 
Frank's engorged member, confirming the rhythm and pace of the others. Frank knew he was screaming, knew his was holding Daedalus in a death grip as his body struggled for release even as he will the sensations to 
continue. 

Finally he felt the fall, heard the cries of those who surrounded him, felt the sharp sting of sharpened teeth in his neck... his arm... the pull of life from his body into those he trusted to renew him, change him... 

//Drink, childe.// 

The mind-voice was odd... melded. Frank struggled to understand, to pay attention. But his body was tired... drained. Better to sleep... 

//Drink now, childe. We cannot force this... you must do it of your own free will or die.// 

The tone was urgent and pleading. Die? He would die? Frank's throat felt dry. Breath heaved from his lungs. His eyes saw only dim blurs among the shadows. 

//Don't leave now that you've come to us... to me...// 

//Julian?// Memories flashed. They had made love. They had taken his blood. They urged him to drink. Strong scent caught his attention. Drawn Frank reached out, feeling soft flesh and thick moisture. //I need this...// He pulled the flesh towards him, opened his mouth as drops of the mysterious fluid fell on his lips, stimulating an unfamiliar need. He sucked on the fluid, swallowing quickly, feeling the elixir dissolve into his body, fill empty spaces, burn into his living cells. 

//Oh no!// Agony suddenly replaced the brief satisfaction. In defense Frank pushed away the offending flesh, forcing his body to move, to escape... 

//Pain is a part of birth, childe,// Daedalus' mind-voice told him. //Use your will to keep yourself from the full Embrace.// Strong arms held him immobile, preventing escape. //Hold to your humanity even as Kindred blood 
calls to you! Find your place in the shadows!// 

Shadows? Frank fought to comprehend even as his mind acknowledged the command. More flesh touched his lips, more fluid leaked into his mouth. Different... ancient. //Noferatu...// Frank swallowed even as more pain erupted and his body rebelled. //Make it stop!// he cried out in the void. 

//You have the ability, Frank! Control yourself... accept the change!// 

Frank screamed. //Control...// His body argued with itself; willing to bind with the alien blood, to become what it wanted to make him even as his mind fought to maintain who he was. In a brief vision he stood among many 
people, all Kindred... all once human. They smiled at him, their teeth sharpened by their adopted heritage, their eyes holding to what they once were. One man stood among them... someone Frank had seen before. Someone who had been with Julian at The Haven... had been a part of the long files he had kept when he had first gone after Luna. He was an older man of medium height and build. He wore casual clothing and a comfortable sweater. His expression was caught between amusement and concern. 

//You stand on the edge, childe,// the man told him in a lightly accented voice. //I am Archon... Julian's Sire.// He drew closer. //I failed my Prince but you will not.// His hand whispered over Frank's cheek. //He will lead his people far... to another time I couldn't have imaged when I was at his side.// He smiled. //You are his worthy shield as he will be your sword. Work together, childe.// Archon stepped back and scooped up a child that suddenly ran to him, laughing brightly. Frank's blood ran cold as he recognized the toddler. 

//Timmy?// He fought to move, to touch the laughing child who bore none of the horrific injuries. //Oh god... Timmy...// 

//It isn't your time yet, childe.// Archon held the child close. //But remember what you see.// His hand patted the child's curls. //Julian is right.// 

Archon's ghostly touch had sent a chill thought Frank's mind. As the mysterious man's thoughts wove into his mind, the image began to shift. //No... Timmy...// Confused, Frank tried to hold onto what he was seeing, starving for one last look at his son. 

//Stand with your Prince, Frank Kohenek. Help him find his vision...// 



Pain. Frank drew a shallow breath then a deeper one as he struggled to regain his balance, to overcome the agonizing burning in his muscles, the crippling nausea that commanded his attention. "Timmy..." 

"He's returning to us, my Prince. His spirit hasn't left him." 

"Thank god!" 



Voices. Frank concentrated on the voices, on the touches on his body, on the sense of near panic coming from one of those who held him. "Julian," he managed. "I saw--" 

"Don't talk, Frank." Arms gathered him, pressing him close to the flesh of another, rocking him as one would a child. "Don't. It's all right. You'll be all right." 

"You left us, childe." Daedalus' voice was deep with concern. "I'm glad you decided to return." 

//Yeah... me too.// Frank's thoughts swam, his memory faltered... all except the strange image of an old man holding his son. "Cold," he whispered as his body quaked. Immediately thick fabric surrounded him. Slow the intense pain faded to uncomfortable burning. With each breath he 
became more aware of Julian and Daedalus lying to either side of him. But as he blinked he found he could see only darkness without even the hint of 
light. //Blind? Am I--// 

"No, Frank." Julian's voice was in his ear, speaking quietly. "Your body is changing. Your senses are adapting." Soothing fingers brushed over his face and forehead, lending strength. " You are human but with Kindred blood. You are now bound to me, Frank. Your clan will always be Ventrue. But you are also bound to Daedalus... to his clan in a different way." Julian sighed. "From this point on you will never have to fear from our two clans. Remember that." 

Frank felt too weak to nod, too overwhelmed to speak. A deep hunger suddenly drew up from within, making him groan. He needed-- 

"Take from me, childe." Julian's flesh, moist with fluid brushed his lips. Understanding Frank took the offering, his body protesting only a moment before accepting. The burning faded further, his mind focused. His vision 
began to clear. 

"I'm okay," he croaked as he stopped feeding. 

"You're beautiful," Julian corrected. His lips caressed Frank's. 

"You need rest, Frank," Daedalus said firmly. His hand brushed over Frank's hair. "In a few hours you will need to feed again... then again." 

Feed? //I'm not Kindred... I thought--// 

"You are ghoul, " Daedalus supplied to the wary thought. "You will need to eat as humans do to sustain your body. But you will also need Kindred blood to survive. For now, the blood should come from the clans who created you. 
But eventually you will be able to feed from any of Kindred blood." 

Caught between. Frank understood. He sighed. He was tired. "Don't go," he murmured weakly, afraid to lose his connection to them. 

//We will be with you, Frank,// the dual mind-voice reassured. //And if not, you will be with someone who will help and protect you. Trust us.// 

Frank thought he felt himself nodded as sleep claimed him.