[Completed] Sanguis quid Ligurat (NC17) [Archive] - Page 18 - NS Forums - Your number one site for Chloe and Lex (Chlex)

ruafair

8th May 2006, 13:05

Hey all... I'm back. I adored Paris, such a beautiful city.... ;) . It's going ot be quite a few chapters before Lex and Chloe are reunited... but hopefully what will be happening between now and then will still keep you hooked.... :P .... Fiona

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Chapter Hundred and Fifty Six – Making Acquaintances

After introducing himself Oliver moved slightly away from Chloe and settled in the chair beside her bed.

Chloe watched him, and he was secretly pleased that while her heart was still thumping, the scent of fear coming from her wasn’t as strong as it had been when she first saw him.

‘This is all wrong,’ thought Chloe. ‘I must have got hit very hard in the head. I am so not sitting opposite the killer demon that has Lionel Luthor scared. Granted he doesn’t look like said killer demon at the moment… in fact he looks well, rather attractive.’

Chloe shook her head at that last thought trying to convince herself that she did not think Oliver was attractive. ‘Definitely a bump to the head,’ she told herself.

Oliver bit back a chuckle at the emotions that played across Chloe’s face. ‘Philip was right, having her more alert is helping to drug take effect.’ He was going to enjoy this, she was a sexy intelligent young woman, and she would look just perfect by his side. He said nothing, just sat there content in watching Chloe, who grew ever more uncomfortable under his gaze.

She shifted on the bed, grimacing as the movement caused pain to shoot through her legs.

“Are you ok?” asked Oliver.

“This is all wrong,” she murmured, dropping her eyes from his.

“What is all wrong?”

Chloe raised her eyes to his again and nibbled on her bottom lip for a moment, “why haven’t you killed me?” she blurted out.

Oliver cocked an eyebrow and leaned forward in his seat. “I wasn’t aware that you were in such a hurry to *expire* Chloe… But of course if that is what you want I’m sure I can make the necessary arrangements. Is that what you want my dear? For me to kill you?”

“Of course I don’t want to die,” she replied, rolling her eyes, “and I am not your ‘dear’,” she added. “I’m just curious as to why I am still alive. I was under the impression you were setting about destroying the Luthors. And *I* am a *Luthor*.”

That final comment didn’t sit well with Oliver. “I have my reasons Miss *Sullivan* for keeping you alive, and for the moment there is no need for you to worry.”

“I’m being held by a maniacal demon hell-bent on taking over the world, I think I have every right to be worried.” Despite the seriousness of the situation Chloe couldn’t help but lose her temper. Oliver seemed to be treating her like a child, and she didn’t like the weird feelings she was experiencing in the demon’s presence. She didn’t find him as unpleasant and frightening as she thought he would be. Arguing with him was safer ground, she could understand him being angry with her, and even violent, those would be actions she would associate with him. Plus there was still that moment when he saved her from Etienne… he had killed the other vampire in her presence. She still hadn’t worked out what that meant.

‘Such a spitfire,’ thought Oliver. He stood up and walked over to the bed; pleased when she didn’t draw back even though he knew she was fighting the urge too.

“I wouldn’t recommend trying to leave this room,” he said, “you are very weak, and the guards have been ordered to ensure you don’t escape. They have been told to use any means possible to do that save killing you. I shall have food brought to you. Rest...” He gently touched her face and Chloe on reflex slapped his hand away.

She then gave into her urge to draw away from him when he eyes turned red.

“Like I said Chloe, rest.” He turned and left the room.

As soon as he was gone Chloe let out a sigh of relief. Taking a few moments to compose herself she then struggled to get off the bed. Once again the pain shot through her legs but she gritted her teeth and moved across to the bathroom attached to her room.

“A bath, and then I need to plan my getting out of here,” she murmured. “And I have to find a way to contact Lex.”

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After giving orders on what food and who was to deliver it to Chloe’s room Oliver headed back to his own room.

He watched on the monitor as she struggled out of the bed and hobbled to the bathroom. He had lied when he told her that his guards could use pain to stop her. In fact it was quite the opposite. Oliver had no doubt that she would try to escape, sooner rather than later, but his implicit orders where that she was not to be hurt, and anyone who did cause her pain would have to answer to him.

A low purring sound emanated from his throat as he watched her disrobe in the monitor as her bath filled.

“What have you done to me?” he whispered. “No one has ever affected me the way you have. A mere human child, and you have me captivated.” The purring increased and was accompanied by a growl as he watched her naked body struggle, but eventually get into the bath.

He turned up the volume on the screen and groaned as Chloe let out a moan of relief as the hot water worked against her aching muscles.

“Beautiful,” murmured Oliver, his hands opening his pants and freeing the erection he’d been sporting since he caught Chloe as she fell. Oliver had not touched himself from gratification since his *return*, having never been short of male or female partners to take care of those urges. But since Chloe had been brought here he had not had sex, deciding that the moment she submitted and allowed him between her legs it would be an incredible experience.

But watching her naked body on the screen Oliver allowed himself this little indulgence, and as his hand moved to his cock, he imagined he was sharing her bath.

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Bristling at the indignity of being reduced to serving the Luthor whore her food, Lynette stomped into Chloe’s room, making as much noise as possible.

“Fuck, where is she?” muttered Lynette when she saw the bed empty.

Slamming the tray down on the table the brunette vampiress heard a noise coming from the bathroom.

Oliver had told her that Chloe was very weak due too a combination of the drugs. But she was becoming more and more alert. He had also warned her about causing Chloe any pain.

“That doesn’t mean I can’t have a little fun and cause her mental pain,” grinned Lynette. Taking the seat beside the table she had laid the tray on, she settled back and waited for Chloe to exit the bathroom.

------

“Now what is she up too?” mused Oliver as he watched Lynette sit down. He knew the vampiress was angry at being treated as a servant. But he also knew, that unlike Etienne, she wasn’t stupid enough to hurt Chloe.

He had enjoyed himself watching Chloe in her bath, and now was looking forward to the after show.

“Be very careful Lynette that jealous streak of yours will ultimately lead to your downfall, and I think that my future queen will be the catalyst to set it off.

------

Breathing hard from her excursions Chloe left the bathroom, and leaned against the dresser before attempting to move any further. ‘This is ridiculous,’ she thought, ‘why have I got no energy?’

She didn’t notice the other figure in the room, she felt so tired and all she wanted to do was crawl into bed. Her escape plan would have to wait till tomorrow when she’d had a good night’s sleep.

Chloe managed to move a few steps when Lynette decided to make her appearance known.

“You really should eat my dear,” an English accent sounded, “it will help bring your strength up.”

Chloe turned, albeit slowly to see an elegant brunette sitting in a chair. She was dressed in what looked like a cocktail dress and was dripping in diamonds and gold jewellery.

“Eh hello,” said Chloe, staring at her curiously.

Lynette looked Chloe up and down. And suddenly feeling very self-conscious, Chloe tied the robe that had lain open over the emerald green nightgown she had put on. A sneer appeared on the vampiress’ face. “I don’t know what the attraction is,” she said.

“I’m sorry, what are you talking about?” Chloe shuffled closer to the bed, increasing the distance between her and Lynette.

“My name is Lynette, I’m a *friend* of Oliver’s. And I use to be a close friend of Lex Luthor. In fact Lex and I go way back.”

------

“What the fuck are you doing Lynette,” growled Oliver as he heard what she had said. Growling he left his room and hurried towards Chloe’s, wanting to be close to Lynette to shut her up should the need arrive.

------

“That’s nice for you,” replied Chloe. “Also seeing as Lex is 250 years old, I’m sure there are a lot of people that he goes ‘way back’ with.”

“I would have never expected him to pick someone like *you* for a mate,” continued Lynette. “Blondes weren’t top of his list back in those days. Brunettes now where a different story, there wasn’t a brunette vampire in Europe that hadn’t been fucked by Lex or Lucas Luthor.”

“If that’s your subtle way of telling me that you had sex with him, you shouldn’t have bothered. I am well aware of Lex’s sexual past. He has told me that back then he’d gone through many a brunette whore. Now he wouldn’t touch one with a barge pole.”

------

Oliver inwardly chuckled when he heard Chloe’s reply. ‘Good girl,’ he thought, ‘I like a woman who won’t back down from a verbal fight.’

He was standing outside Chloe’s room. The door was slightly open and he could see Lynette on the chair, but couldn’t see Chloe. Neither knew he was there, and he intended things to stay that way. He would only get involved if Lynette got violent. ‘And then maybe I can play the hero again,’ he thought with a wry smile.’

------

“Well then Chloe, oh may I call you Chloe?” she asked. “If you know all about Lex’s past,” she continued when Chloe nodded her head, “you won’t have any problem swapping sex stories. I’d be interested to know how much he has improved… he wasn’t much when he and I were together.”

‘Lying cow,’ thought Chloe. ‘My body may be drained of energy, and my mind may be more than a little fuzzy but I do know that you are lying about that last comment. You’re jealous, obviously Lex gave you the heave-ho and you’re still pissed about it. Damn it Lex when I next see you we are going to have a little chat about your psychotic ex’s.’

“Actually Lynette, I’d rather *not* discuss my mind-blowing, incredible, out of this world, hot and sweaty, sex life with you.” Chloe couldn’t help be smug as she said this, and felt even more gratified as Lynette looked like she would burst with rage.

“Jumped up little whore,” spat out Lynette, her eyes turning gold.

“Oh that’s rich coming from you, how many have you fucked over the decades? And don’t try the flashing eyes at me, I’m mated to a master vampire, you don’t scare me.”

“I could snap your neck like a matchstick,” growled Lynette, fully vamping out.

“I know you can, but you won’t,” taunted Chloe. She knew this was dangerous, baiting the vampiress, but for the time being her only weapon was her snarky mouth. “You won’t do anything to me, because Oliver won’t let you. I don’t know what his plans are but I do know that for the moment he doesn’t want me hurt.”

“May be, but while you’re stuck in here, Lex is all alone looking for you. He’s probably going out of his mind… he may need comfort…”

Chloe snorted, “ok first off, he is not alone, he has his family and friends… all of whom who assist in searching for me. Second while yes he may be going out of his mind, comfort isn’t what he needs, tearing apart anyone involved in taking me is what he needs. So if you want to help him feel free, I sure as hell wouldn’t care if he tore you apart.”

“Bitch… I am going to…”

“Ah ladies, glad to see both of you getting acquainted,” announced Oliver as he entered the room.

‘Told you so,’ Chloe mouthed to Lynette, pleased to see the other woman struggling to hold herself back.

“Well we mustn’t keep Chloe from her dinner, she needs to build up her strength. Come along Lynette,” he grabbed by the arm and squeezed it hard. Chloe could hear the bones crack.

“Good night Chloe,” he said to her.

“Yes goodnight Chloe,” said Lynette, her voice filled with pain, as Oliver squeezed her arm again.

Chloe watched as they both left, Oliver closing the door behind him. And when she was sure they had moved away she fell back against the bed and sighed in relief.

-------------------------------------------------

Oliver dragged Lynette down the corridor and threw her into an empty room, causing her slide across the floor.

“What the fuck did you think you were playing at?” he growled, stalking over to her and kicking her in the stomach. “Where my instructions not clear enough for you? Do you not remember what happened to Etienne?”

“I’m sorry, I only meant to tease her,” gasped Lynette, struggling to get to her feet.

“No you didn’t. You are a vicious and vindictive bitch Lynette, and you are one fuck up away from me separating your head from your body. I want you out of my fucking sight and away form here.”

“For… for how long?”

“Till you can obey the simplest of requests. I want you gone within the hour,” and with that Oliver strode out of the room, leaving a crumpled Lynette behind.

pipersmum

8th May 2006, 13:32

I loved it Fiona I am really intrigued to see what happens with Oliver and Chloe and I can't wait for more. I can't but help thinking that Lynette now will get found by Lex now that will be interesting to see what Lex does to her???

A low purring sound emanated from his throat as he watched her disrobe in the monitor as her bath filled.

“What have you done to me?” he whispered. “No one has ever affected me the way you have. A mere human child, and you have me captivated.” The purring increased and was accompanied by a growl as he watched her naked body struggle, but eventually get into the bath.

He turned up the volume on the screen and groaned as Chloe let out a moan of relief as the hot water worked against her aching muscles.

“Beautiful,” murmured Oliver, his hands opening his pants and freeing the erection he’d been sporting since he caught Chloe as she fell. Oliver had not touched himself from gratification since his *return*, having never been short of male or female partners to take care of those urges. But since Chloe had been brought here he had not had sex, deciding that the moment she submitted and allowed him between her legs it would be an incredible experience.

Nice to read Chloe is captivating the men for a change even if they are vampires!! :)

I can't wait til next Monday.

letia84

8th May 2006, 15:23

‘This is all wrong,’ thought Chloe. ‘I must have got hit very hard in the head. I am so not sitting opposite the killer demon that has Lionel Luthor scared. Granted he doesn’t look like said killer demon at the moment… in fact he looks well, rather attractive.’

:irefuse: She thinks Oliver is attractive. YUK!! Stupid drug.

Lying cow,’ thought Chloe. ‘My body may be drained of energy, and my mind may be more than a little fuzzy but I do know that you are lying about that last comment. You’re jealous, obviously Lex gave you the heave-ho and you’re still pissed about it. Damn it Lex when I next see you we are going to have a little chat about your psychotic ex’s.’

LOL Lynette Thought she would get to Chloe LOL:rofl: So pissed she got dumped. Great for Chloe glad to see her awake but again with the her and Lex will be a part for a while:eek:

Always far to short and can't wait till next Monday. Great update

Gaia

8th May 2006, 15:43

You go Chloe- driving vampires crazy:D
Great update as always Fiona.

katieandjason

8th May 2006, 16:58

Hee! Go Chloe! Way to tell her off, and defend your man at the same time. :D

And stupid, stupid Oliver. Beating up and turning away Lynette. Tsk Tsk Tsk. Don't you know that a woman scorned is a very dangerous thing? And a 'vicious and vindictive bitch' will make sure to harm you in the worst way possible.

Can't wait till Monday!

sarah_7174

8th May 2006, 17:21

Gr8 update,

carebear72884

8th May 2006, 18:21

wonderful! You write chloe snark perfectly. For the moment I am inclinded to wait for you to bring chloe and lex back together, because I know you will do a grand job of it. But don't take to long, I am not very pacient.

lj715

8th May 2006, 20:19

OMG!!! Great update. I'm woirred that Chloe doesn't think Olover's as bad as seemed originally but, am intrugued by the fact that he might really fall for Chloe. This could get him into trouble & cause him to mess up. Had to laugh @ Lynette thinking she was going to tease Chloe. Stupid vampire. Can't wait for the next chapter...as always.

meeaz

8th May 2006, 20:40

so here's to hoping that lynette decides to help the luthors out-there's nothing like a woman scorned. i'm glad to hear that chloe and lex actually do get reunited, so i'm willing to wait.

great chapter! and of course, we'll stick around.

westwingwolf

8th May 2006, 21:17

I loved how Chloe put that bitch in her place. And Chloe should use Oliver to her advantage. She knows as long as she doesn't get too pissy with him, he won't hurt her. Be cautious Chloe, don't let Oliver trick you into anything. Let's hope that Lynette is an idiot who goes to Lex and tells him what she knows and he kills her. Because I'll be happy if she does that, but I still want her dead.

Mondays are great because of these amazing updates, but they are sad after I finish and have to wait til the next one. Guilt? What guilt? Is it working?

slayer44

8th May 2006, 22:15

Oh how I absolutly love Mondays.

Even though there was no Lex in this chapter, it was still amazing! I was really hoping that Oliver would have killed Lynette instead of letting her go, with her taunting, it made me want to strangle that bitch.
It's beginning to scare me a bit when Chloe said that Oliver was "rather attractive"? NOOOO she can't be falling for him...those damned drugs!

Gina41283

9th May 2006, 01:21

lol you're killing me!!!!! i'm glad you had a great time in paris but i NEEEEEEEEED to know what's going to happen next, =PPPP i swear ur such a fanfic tease!!!!!! ^_^ please update soon!!

star del mar

9th May 2006, 04:09

Chloe is out of it and yet still manages to work things to her favor...Lynette certainly got put in her place :) But the idea of Oliver slowly insinuating himself into Chloe's psyche makes me do a full body shudder...that and him watching her take a bath, eww. Great update!

Steph*

planetcal

9th May 2006, 04:26

Please don't let Chloe and Oliver get together.....Lex has got to find her soon!!!!!!!! Great update. Can't wait for next Monday!!!!!!!!!!!!

bluebrise

9th May 2006, 06:50

Wonderful update - it's great to know that Chloe hadn't lost her snark while incapacitated. Oliver is interesting - creepy, freaky and definitley psychotic, but interesting - I can't wait for him and Lex to meet head on.

teb85

9th May 2006, 14:58

Fantastic update as usual , I loved it and can't wait until next monday !!

Possibilities Unknown

9th May 2006, 19:43

Ohhh! Great update! I can't wait to see what happens! I love how CHloe put that bis snatch in her place! I'm really hyper right now, so I have to go, but...GREAT UPDATE! MORE PLEASE!

lilinny

10th May 2006, 01:34

Keep the faith Chloe, Lex is coming for you!!!!!

angel18

11th May 2006, 14:21

i just hope chloe does't get sucked in by Oliver at all.

SVgirl71

11th May 2006, 20:34

This story is fantastic! I am totally hooked! Great job Fiona!

SinnerSaint

12th May 2006, 04:33

I know I have said it before but I will say it again : I love this story. Each and every chapter. It's just brilliant.

stwbrrydelight

13th May 2006, 11:55

grr...not only is Oliver a slimy creature, Lynette is such a bitch ...but Chloe knows how to that sort...now if only the Luthors could get closer to finding Chloe and helping her destroy Oliver

meg20

13th May 2006, 14:12

Great update!
I'm so glad that Chloe told that bitch off!!! And well good to get rid of her. Hope Lex finds Chloe soon even if you say it takes some time!!:D

Blue-Moon4321

14th May 2006, 02:28

First off let me say Great Update!! Also Go Chloe!! standing up the stupid Lynette. Gotta love Chloe's moxie. Good thing that she isn't buying Oliver's game too easily either. Love the story. Looking forward to monday.

stay inspired,
Blue Moon

keyo9387

15th May 2006, 04:05

i really love this story. i can't wait for more. good work.

Dark Topaz

15th May 2006, 04:57

can't wait for the next update

letia84

15th May 2006, 17:17

Huh... yeah... right...Where's my the update. I think I am going crazy here without my update.:ecstatic:

ruafair

15th May 2006, 18:39

After a really, really crappy day at work... posting here for you lot makes everything so much better.... I adore and cherish every one of your comments... :hug: ... This is for Diane, hope you feel better soon hun... And for Blue-Moon, for keeping me inspired :P . Fiona

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Chapter Hundred and Fifty Seven – The Breakthrough

Lucas and Clark made it to San Diego in record time, and just before the bank closed. After much pleading by Lucas, the guard let the pair of them in. Quickly they made their way to the manager, and again thanks to Lucas, although this time his ‘charm’ won her over.

She led them to the safety deposit box room. They moved around until they reached box number 1471.

She inserted her key and then turned to Lucas, “you have about ten minutes and then you will have to leave. We do need to close.”

“Ten minutes is more than enough,” grinned Lucas, grabbing her hand and kissing it.

She giggled softly and left them alone. Lucas turned to Clark who just rolled his eyes at him.

“Just because you’re not a hit with the ladies Kent, doesn’t mean you have to be jealous of me,” he grinned.

“Oh yes, it’s my life goal to be as popular with the *ladies* as you are,” deadpanned Clark, as he inserted the key they had got from the safe.

“Wait, before opening it, hit it with that x-ray vision of yours… just to make sure there is anything we should be avoiding in there,” said Lucas, his voice serious.

“Good idea,” murmured Clark, and focussed his vision on the still closed box. “Looks like another envelope, a bag, or pouch of something and what seems like a small vase,” said Clark after a moment.

“Ok, all sounds harmless enough,” replied Lucas, “open it.”

Clark turned the two keys at the same time and the door popped open. Reaching in he pulled out the slightly larger than average deposit box, brought it over to the small table in the corner and placed it on it.

“Let’s see what this is all about?” he said, opening the box. He took out the envelope first, tearing it open. “This looks like the same list of artefacts that was found on Reddy’s computer,” he said, handing it to Lucas.

“You’re right, only this list has about half of them crossed out,” said Lucas, scanning it, “Gabe will be interested in this. What else is there?”

Clark took out the small velvet pouch and pulled open the drawstrings. He tipped the contents out into his hand.

“Oh wow,” said both men as they looked at the yellow diamond in Clark’s hand. It was about the size of an egg, and sparkled in the light.

“This must be worth a fortune,” whispered Clark.

“It could also be used for a spell or something… we’ll take it back with us to Smallville,” said Lucas. He took the diamond from Clark and after placing it back in its pouch he put it in his pocket.

“Last item,” said Clark, taking it out and placing it on the table.

It was a china container, standing about 8 inches tall and about 4 inches wide. It was decorated with Chinese symbols and the lid was sealed shut.

“Don’t open it,” said Lucas, when Clark reached for the lid.

“Why not?”

“I don’t know, I can’t explain it, but... just don’t open it.”

Clark cocked an eyebrow at Lucas, but did what he was told and left the lid alone. “Well take it back,” he said, placing it carefully in the inside pocket of his jacket.

A few minutes later the two men stood outside bank. Glancing around, they hurried across the street and down a dark alley.

‘We are on our way back,’ Lucas told his father. After once again checking that no one was around, the two took off towards Smallville.

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“From what I can ascertain from my first look through the list of artefacts is that they are all linked to ‘power’ in one shape or form,” said Gabe.

“Power,” said Christine, “in what way?”

“Well,” continued Gabe, “every item on the list is mentioned at one time or another among various myths, legends and prophecies. This item here, it’s a great sword is mentioned in Celtic mythology, it is said the one who can wield it will be granted the power of an army of the dead. And the others are similar, all promising great power and victory to anyone who finds the item and uses it the right way.”

“May be Oliver is trying to gather them all in able to help him in the battle against Lionel,” said Karl.

“That does sound the most likely explanation,” murmured Sergi.

“And it’s not good news for us,” said Elena, squeezing Karl’s hand.

“And it’s about to get worse,” announced Lucas as he and Clark entered the room. “We found this among the things in San Diego,” he handed the page with the list of artefacts on it to Gabe, “and I think the items crossed off could already be in Oliver’s possession.”

“Not good, not good,” mumbled Gabe, scanning the list. He quickly grabbed the list Nikolas had got from Reddy’s computer and compared the two. “If what you say is correct Lucas,” he said after a few minutes, “then Oliver has about 40% of the list.”

“What else did you find?” asked Christine.

“Where are my parents?” asked Lucas.

“Lionel is on the phone to Byron and Zhang,” said Karl, “and your mother, Anna and Natasha are upstairs preparing to try magic again.”

“Thanks Karl,” said Lucas, “and sorry Christine, we also found this,” he took the small velvet pouch from his pocket and emptied the contents out into his hand.

“Whoa,” murmured a few of the room’s occupants when they saw the diamond.

“Beautiful,” whispered Elena.

“Any idea why it was there or what it maybe used for?”

“None,” said Clark. “Is there any mention of diamonds or gems on the artefacts list?”

“Not specifically,” replied Gabe, “but that’s not to say that they are not related. If you like you can help me later go through everything in greater detail.”

“I’d love to help,” replied Clark, smiling at him.

“Is that everything you found in the safety deposit box?” asked Sergi.

“No, there was one other item,” said Clark, “this…” He reached into his jacket and took out the vase, placing it on the table for all to see.

“Doesn’t look like much,” said Gabe, reaching out to take the lid off.

“NO,” cried all the vampires in the room.

“What? Why?” asked Gabe, looking around at them in confusion.

“I don’t know,” said Karl and Nikolas at the same time.

“Can’t explain, it’s just a…” said Sergi and Elena.

“…Feeling,” finished Lucas, earning nods of agreement from the other vampires. “We need to wait for the others before opening it,” he continued, “when my parents, Anna, Natasha and Lex are here, we’ll see about opening it then.”

“Can you tell what’s inside it Clark?” Gabe asked.

“Not really,” replied Clark, “no matter how hard I concentrate all I can see is black… and yet if you shake it gently you can hear something inside it. It’s weird.”

“Very strange,” murmured Gabe. “But I’d say it’s powerful, judging by the effect if seems to have on your kind,” he directed at Lucas.

“I agree; there is a power within it. While we wait for the others, let’s see if any of the items on the list leads us to the vase and/or the diamond.”

“Good idea,” said Gabe, turning to face the computer again, and began directing the others towards various books and pieces of paper strewn about the table.

-------------------------------------------------

Lillian, Anna and Natasha sat cross-legged in a circle, all facing the centre where a single blood-red candle was lit.

Around the room there were a number of other candles, all white in colour, and the scent of lavender filled the room.

The three vampiress' had spent the last hour cleansing themselves both physically and spiritually. They had avoided contact and communication with everyone but each other from the moment Lucas and Clark had left for San Diego.

Now here they sat, ready to try once again to locate Chloe. Lillian had explained exactly what had happened when she had tried to focus in on exactly where Chloe was. Anna had surmised that Lillian had been hit with a very powerful blocking spell. This led Natasha to believe that Lillian had got very close to locating Chloe and the spell had been activated to prevent her finding out too much.

So here they all sat, hopeful that three powerful vampires would be enough to get through the spell.

“Is everyone ready?” asked Lillian. “Good,” she continued when both said yes, “now remember if any of you feel like they can’t hang on, then breakaway immediately, there is no point in getting injured.”

“Make sure you adhere to that yourself Lillian,” said Natasha.

“Of course I will,” she replied, “ok, enough of this, let’s get down to business.”

All three closed their eyes and took a couple of deep calming breaths. Then Lillian started chanting softly in Latin. One minute after Lillian had started; Natasha started chanting, this time in Greek. Again one minute after Natasha started; Anna began her chant in Egyptian.

As the three voices grew louder all the candles except the one in the centre began to go out. After a while the only light in the room was the blood-red candle. A crack of lightening sounded and all three opened their eyes, golden gazes focussed on the candle as each looked beyond the light. Their sight looked beyond the current plane and began searching through the veils of space and time for a sign of Chloe.

A gasp escaped Anna’s lips and within their trances the other two turned their inner sight to where she was looking. Like the last time, Lillian could sense Chloe, and the feeling was stronger.

They pushed themselves towards where the strongest feeling of Chloe was coming from. Three powerful essences drew closer and like Lillian had encountered the first time she tried the spell, they hit a shield.

‘Focus,’ Lillian’s voice sounded in the mist, ‘we must break through.’

All three drew back slightly and gathered the powers into one single source, Lillian.

‘NOW’ all three cried and Lillian surged forward, buoyed on by the added power of Annaleise and Natasha.

She screamed as pain exploded through her, but still she pushed on. She could hear the cries of pain from her friends but no one stopped, they pushed harder and harder…

With one final blast of their combined powers they pierced through the shield… a blinding light filled the room and with a small explosion the three women where thrown against the walls.

Groaning in pain they looked at each other and all gave soft smiles…

“She’s alive,” whispered Lillian… “Alive and in Scotland!”

------

Lex screamed as he shot up in the bed… He had been dreaming about Chloe… she was calling for him, begging for him to come. Then he felt this presence, calming at first, but it changed quickly, becoming painful.

All of a sudden it stopped, then there was one final explosion of pain behind his eyes and he saw her… saw his Chloe, lying in a bed, tossing and turning, calling his name. Lying in a bed in… SCOTLAND.

-------------------------------------------------

Upon hearing the different sets of screams Lionel, Sergi and Gabe rushed towards the room where Lillian, Anan and Natasha were.

All the others ran towards Lex’s room. Upon bursting through the door they found Lex still up in his bed…breathing heavily.

“Lex, you ok bro?” asked Lucas, approaching the bed.

It took a moment for Lex to focus and when he saw his brother, a large smile appeared on his face. The first smile anyone had seen on Lex since Chloe’s abduction.

“I found her,” he gasped, grabbing Lucas’ shoulders, “she’s in Scotland, she seems ok, and she is calling to me.” He pulled his brother into a hug.

While the brothers hugged the others stood staring in bewilderment.

------

“My darling are you ok,” cried Lionel, helping Lillian to her feet. Sergi and Gabe followed suit with Natasha and Anna.

“I’m fine my love,” she replied, “just a little drained. Oh but wonderful and great news Lionel, we’ve found her, she’s being held in Scotland!”

-------------------------------------------------

Chloe shot up in the bed, breathing hard. She could feel him… feel Lex. And for a moment she thought she could sense Lillian as well.

She lay back down again, one hand resting over her racing heart. She couldn’t feel him in her mind, and anytime she tried to contact him that way she ended up with a throbbing headache. She had fallen asleep dreaming about him and then she was filled with a strange sensation… like someone trying to find her. And through that haze she felt Lex... and Lillian.

Oh how she missed them… all of them, but especially Lex… her heart ached at being separated from him.

“Oh Lex,” she murmured, her eyes filling with tears, “please find me.”

pipersmum

15th May 2006, 18:54

Thanks Fiona for the mention at the beginning and an update from you always makes me feel better ;) Woohoo they have found her and shes in Scotland!! Glad that Lex felt it as well not only the 3 women! So the next chapter should be very interesting I think. I wonder whats in the vase though I can't wait to find out!! Roll on Monday :)

lj715

15th May 2006, 18:56

Great update!!!!! SO glad that Lillian, Anna & Natasha have broken thru the shield & now know where Chloe is. I just wonder what the diamond is for & what the hell is in that vase. Seems pretty dangerous whatever it is. . I hope Lex & Chloe won't be apart too much longer..... I want them together again. As usual...can't wait for the next update!!!!!

Gaia

15th May 2006, 19:22

They'll find her!!!!!!!!
So what in the wase thingy?

hfce

15th May 2006, 20:03

That was great as usual. :D

katieandjason

15th May 2006, 22:21

That's all we get? THAT'S ALL WE GET?! You're a damn TEASE, that's what you are! But I love you. :D

What a great update, though it left me with more questions than answers. I'm superstoked that Chloe herself was able to send a message to Lex, even through the blocking spells and Oliver's medications. However, I'm very very very concerned with the mystical artifacts that Oliver has in his possession, as well as what is in the container. I'm hoping that it is a very good thing the Luthors found those specific artifacts, and not simply a trap from Oliver. Hey! Can that canister be like a Jenie lamp?! Oliver can open it and get sucked in, forever trapped in a tiny little world, at the mercy of the Luthors. :D

PS: I really can't wait for the two of them to be reunited. After the danger, seperation, and battle that will lead to her release, I have a feeling those two are going to come together in a sex scene that will melt our screens. And then they'll make love. But first they'll have to claim each other all over again.

SinnerSaint

15th May 2006, 23:19

Oh I hope that they rescue Chloe soon and then Lex and Chloe can have happy reunion sex !

kcsgirl82

15th May 2006, 23:28

I hope Lex is going to find her soon!!!!!!! I can't wait for them to be reunited they love eachother to much to be away from eachother for to long!!!!!!
Please keep up with the awsome updates!!!!!!

teb85

15th May 2006, 23:41

Fantastic update, I loved it as usual ! I hope they find Chloe soon and I can't wait to find out what is in the vase. Looking forward to next update !!

Gina41283

16th May 2006, 02:28

lol yay i'm sooo happy!!!!!! ^_^ now lex is gonna charge in all sexy and vamped out, kill oliver and save his mate!!!!! TeeHee and i wouldn't say i wasn't anticipating the welcoming she'd be receiving from lex either... ^_~

letia84

16th May 2006, 02:45

“She’s alive,” whispered Lillian… “Alive and in Scotland!”

“I found her,” he gasped, grabbing Lucas’ shoulders, “she’s in Scotland, she seems ok, and she is calling to me.” He pulled his brother into a hug
They found her!!!! :beg:

“Oh Lex,” she murmured, her eyes filling with tears, “please find me.”
Poor CHloe so alone.

This sounds good but I won't be tricked what do you have up your sleeve. What is in the box. OH God I have to wait till Monday. I man go insane.:ecstatic: Great update.

westwingwolf

16th May 2006, 06:05

I'm sorry about your crappy day, just so you know your posts make our days better too. I'm so happy that they know where she is. I'm glad that Lex and Chloe's bond appears to be stronger. Any day now they will get to her, I'm sure of it. Clarky got a jab on Lucas, way to go. I wonder what is in the vase, and what the diamond is for. I first thought that Oliver wanted to give it to Chloe as some kind of engagement/mating thing, but I like the idea of using it for a spell better. Speaking of which I can't remember if any of them know the true reason for why Oliver wants Chloe. Do they think he took her just to get back at the Luthors (partly true) or are they aware that he really wants her for a mate? I'll have to reread to find out, at least it will give me something to do while I wait til next Monday.

star del mar

16th May 2006, 09:20

Finally! A breakthrough. I have to say that I'm a little excited by the fact that they at least have an idea as to where Chloe is right now...though I have a feeling that won't last for long. Oliver has been too careful all along to get stupid now but I guess I'll just keep my fingers crossed :) Great update!

Steph*

Willower

16th May 2006, 10:55

yay! they finally found chloe at last...now it's time for oliver to get what's coming to him.

buckles squared

16th May 2006, 15:19

It's like we crested the hill and racing toward the bottom. Looking forward to an exciting ride!!

carolannw5

17th May 2006, 04:35

I really hope Lex finds Chloe quick!

This story is awesome!

:D

Shy Butterfly

17th May 2006, 08:14

I'm so happy that they finally know where Chloe is being held at!!!!!!!

Great, beautiful, AMAZING update!!!!

carebear72884

17th May 2006, 22:43

Yeah! They know where she is and Lionel has a way to distroy him!! I can't wait! Monday couldn't come faster, I know this next update will be great. More soon!!!

lilinny

18th May 2006, 00:52

“She’s alive,” whispered Lillian… “Alive and in Scotland!”

------

Lex screamed as he shot up in the bed… He had been dreaming about Chloe… she was calling for him, begging for him to come. Then he felt this presence, calming at first, but it changed quickly, becoming painful.

All of a sudden it stopped, then there was one final explosion of pain behind his eyes and he saw her… saw his Chloe, lying in a bed, tossing and turning, calling his name. Lying in a bed in… SCOTLAND.

I actually clapped when I read this part!! Now go get your woman Lex!!!!!!!!
Fantastic chapter.

Lillian

18th May 2006, 20:59

Please Lex hurry up and rescue your love!
chloe, bear a little more, Lex is in his way.
A great, great chapter. I eager for more.

slayer44

19th May 2006, 05:33

I almost fell off my chair when I read that they finally knew where Chloe was located! You have me so excited that in some time Chloe and Lex will be back together. And it's very interesting to see Lucas and Clark teaming up together, good combo :)

ruafair

22nd May 2006, 18:34

'lo all.. hope everyonre had a good weekend... I did :grin3: I became an aunt again... I have a beautiful niece..... Ok enough of that, back to the fic... Just remember, it will be another while before Chloe and LEx are back together.. but just stick with me... Fiona

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Fifty Eight – The Vase

Oliver’s face clouded with anger as he watched Chloe cry for Lex. She was still as devoted to him as she had been before he started with the drugs.

“This will not do,” he murmured. “Things are just not progressing along fast enough. Maybe I was a little too hasty in killing Etienne. There was always the possibility that he would decipher the spell.”

He leaned back in his chair his eyes still glued to the screen where he watched Chloe cry softly. “What to do? What to do?”

His eyes were drawn to another screen where it showed Lynette sneaking back into the property and heading towards one of the cottages on the estate.

“Harper,” he called out, and within seconds a large ugly vampire was at his door.

“Sire,” he said, bowing slightly.

“Harper, head down to the fourth cottage and bring the lovely Lynette up here to see me.”

“Yes sire.”

“And, if she doesn’t come along willingly, you are allowed to use force… just make sure she can still stand and talk when you get her here.”

“I will sire,” grinned Harper bowing again and leaving.

“I think I may have a way for you to redeem yourself Lynette,” Oliver whispered with a grin, turning his attention back to Chloe.

-------------------------------------------------

Everyone was gathered in the main drawing room as Lillian and Lex relayed everything that had happened. While the outcome of Lillian and the others spell wasn’t that much of a surprise, the fact that Lex had dreamt of Chloe’s location was a mystery.

All eyes turned to Anna, she being the most *magical* of them all.

“I don’t have an explanation,” she said. “The only thing I can attribute it too is the bond between Chloe and Lex. But even that is a flimsy reason, as you are barely mated and Chloe isn’t even a vampire yet.”

“I don’t care about explanations,” said Lex. “I know where she is, and I know she is still alive, that is all that matters. And the sooner we get to her the better.”

“You will not be traipsing off to Scotland Lex,” said Lionel, “at least not immediately.”

“But we know where she is,” cried Lex, standing up. “What’s stopping me from going to get her?”

“Lex, sit down and shut up,” growled Lionel, “think for a moment. You know quite well why we can’t go charging in. We need to plan this very carefully, yes Chloe is alive… But what’s to stop Oliver killing her at the slightest hint that we know where she is being held. At the moment we have the advantage, Oliver doesn’t know that *we* know where she is being held. You going charging in will relinquish that advantage. I know you want her back, we all want her back… but we must make sure we get her back in one piece. Ok Lex?”

“Yes sir,” mumbled Lex, refusing to meet his father’s eyes.

“There is one other thing you should know Lex,” said Lillian, sharing a look with Lionel.

“What’s that?” he asked.

“Oliver had Etienne working on spell, a very special spell,” she began. “It was one for unbinding mates.”

“WHAT? How long have you known? Why are you only telling me this now?” Lex had jumped up again, and was pacing, he eyes bright gold.

“For awhile,” admitted Lillian, “I felt it better that the news was kept from you.”

“KEEP it from me, keep it from me! How fucking dare you? You had no right.”

“Alexander, you will not speak to your mother like that. She did what she felt was best at the time, and had I been here I would have done the same thing.”

“But…”

“But what Lex,” said Lucas, “what would have done had you known? Had you been told you would have went further off the rails and we might not have been able to bring you back.”

“But a spell to unbind us… I can’t lose her.”

“And you won’t,” said Gabe. “Look at it this way Lex, it obvious he hadn’t cast the spell… I am guessing you would know if she wasn’t your mate anymore.”

Lex nodded.

“Also you wouldn't be dreaming of where she is, and she wouldn’t be calling out for you if you weren’t together. From the information Lillian got, Etienne hadn’t deciphered it yet, and in fact he was struggling to do so. Besides, it will take more than some stupid spell to stop my daughter loving you. She’d resist it out of sheer stubbornness if nothing else,” he added with a grin.

That comment brought a small smile to Lex’s face. “Thanks Gabe,” he said, and then turned to his mother, “sorry mom.”

“It’s ok my darling.”

“Sorry to interrupt,” said Clark, “but before we go planning this assault, shouldn’t we try to find out what in this vase that you are all worried about opening.”

“Yes, go get it Clark,” said Nikolas, “and I fill in Lionel and the others who weren’t here when you first arrived.”

-------------------------------------------------

Sipping on a glass of red wine mixed with blood Oliver watched as Harper threw a bloodied and battered Lynette onto the floor.

“Thank you Harper,” he said, “you may wait outside.”

The large vampire nodded and exited the room, closing the door behind him.

Lynette coughed and groaned in pain as she rolled over onto her back.

“Please stop that annoying noise Lynette and get up off the floor. I don’t want to talk to you while you’re lying about like that.”

With great effort Lynette dragged her body across the floor to an armchair opposite Oliver. Harper had beaten her so badly that her vampire healing was having trouble healing. Biting her lip to prevent another cry of pain escaping her, she eventually managed to pull herself up into the chair and faced Oliver.

‘Bastard,’ she thought as he sat there smirking at her.

They sat in silence for a while, and Lynette welcomed the quiet time as her body slowly began to heal itself.

“How are things with Chloe?” she asked, and despite the pain she was in, Lynette couldn’t keep the sarcastic tone out of her voice.

“You are already on very thin ice Lynette, one word from me and Harper will come through that door and finish you off,” replied Oliver. “So I don’t think this is the time for you to be trying my patience.” He drained his glass and placed it on the table.

“Would you like to be back in my good graces?”

“Sorry?” she replied.

“Do you want to be back in the fold, to be one of the favoured again?”

“Y-Yes, yes of course,” she cried.

“Well I have a little *errand* I’d like you to run for me,” he said with a smirk.

‘Oh this doesn’t sound good,’ thought the brunette. “Em, what kind of little errand?”

“I want you to take a little trip for me… to see a vampire about a favour.”

Lynette kept quiet, and waited for Oliver to continue.

“I want you to go to Budapest. There you will find a way to arrange a meeting with Claudio, a very, very old vampire. He is over 1500 years old, and tends to keep to himself. Lionel Luthor tried contacting him when I first made myself known but he refused to meet with him. He wont take sides, but I’m hoping he maybe persuaded to part with some books I know he has.”

“Can’t you just go and take them from him?” asked Lynette, “Surely he is no match for you.”

“Do you think I would be asked you to go and see him if I could take the books myself,” growled Oliver. “He is very knowledgeable in magic, and can not be easily found.”

“And what makes you think I will have any luck?”

“He is rather partial to brunettes,” grinned Oliver, “especially those in distress. And I’m thinking a poor battered woman like yourself turning up at a haunt he is known to frequent will be your opening.”

“Battered?” asked Lynette.

“Of course… Harper will accompany you to assist in making that part of the trap look real. You had better hope you meeting after the first attempt, if not Harper will continue to *refresh* the bruises until he does.”

“I see,” replied Lynette.

“So my dear, will you run this little errand for me?”

“Of course I will Oliver,” she replied. ‘It’s not like I have any other choice,’ she added silently.

“Splendid. You leave within the hour. Run along and pack.”

Lynette struggled out of the chair and headed towards the door.

“Aren’t you forgetting something Lynette,” Oliver’s voice stopped her.

She turned to face him, “thank you for this opportunity Oliver,” she said through gritted teeth.

“You are very welcome,” smile Oliver. “Now don’t disappoint me Lynette.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” she muttered and left the room.

-------------------------------------------------

“Such a small insignificant looking thing,” commented Lionel.

“Yet the power emanating from it is incredible,” said Lillian.

Everyone sat around staring at the small vase.

“Has anyone deciphered what the writing on it says?” asked Christine.

“Power... Hope… Destruction… Worthy…” said Lex, “those words are repeated over and over on it.” He was the only one of the vampire’s present that didn’t see any problem with opening it. Yes he did feel the power coming from it, but unlike the others didn’t sense any danger from it.

Lillian stared at her eldest son for a moment; his gaze was still focussed on the vase. There was something different about him. Ever since he’d had the dream about Chloe there had been this air around him. Lillian couldn’t quit put her finger on it. Her gaze moved from Lex to the vase then back to Lex again. ‘It’s worth a try,’ she thought.

“Clark,” she said after a moment, turning to the dark haired boy. “Try and take the lid off the vase.”

“Lillian…” “Mom.” Gasped Lionel and Lucas at the same time.

“Trust me my dears,” she said. “Please Clark, just try.”

Shrugging his shoulders Clark picked up the vase and went to pull off the lid… It didn’t budge, and with a confused expression Clark tried again, using his full strength, but still the lid refused to move.

“Weird,” commented Lucas.

“Clark, try breaking it,” said Lillian.

Wrapping his hand around the vase, Clark squeezed hard but the vase remained. Slightly frustrated at not bring able to crush a small vase he threw it against a wall, but instead of shattering all it left was a dent in the wall. “Oops sorry,” said Clark sheepishly.

“That’s ok,” said Lionel to him. Then turned to his wife. “You knew he wouldn’t be able to break it, didn’t you Lillian?”

“I wasn’t 100% sure,” she replied. “I’ve been going over the events of the last few hours in relation to the spell and Lex’s dream. Lucas and Clark had arrived back from San Diego *with* the vase as we were performing the spell and Lex was sleeping. We had our breakthrough, and Lex had his dream all while that vase,” she gestured to it where it still lay on the floor, “had been in the house. All of us, those that are vampire, with the exception of Lex have had a weird reaction to it. A reaction that none of us can really explain. And now it seems that not even our out-of-the-world friend can even break it.”

“Mom, you’re not making sense,” said Lucas, “what are you trying to get at?”

“That vase, your reaction to it and your dream,” she directed at Lex, “are all connected. I’d be willing to bet that *you* Lex can open it.”

Clark ambled over and picked the vase up from the ground and crossed the room to Lex. He held it out for him.

Lex’s eyes turned gold as he stared at the vase. Reaching out a slightly unsteady hand he took it from Clark’s hand.

“Oh,” he gasped as he felt a warmth surge through his body. He vamped out and purred as the warmth intensified.

“Open it bro,” said Lucas, his voice equal parts concern and excitement.

Cradling the vase gently in one hand Lex moved his other to the lid.

Everyone watched in anticipation as Lex took the lid off. There was nothing for a moment, then a clap of thunder and a golden light burst forth and engulfed the entire room…

-------------------------------------------------

It was the feeling of being watched that woke Chloe up. She blinked a few times and rubbed a hand across her eyes and the other hand fumbled to switch on the lamp beside her bed.

“Crap,” she exclaimed when she saw Oliver sitting in the chair watching her. “What are you doing here?” she clutched the covers closer to her chest.

“Just seeing how you were after your exertions from earlier,” he replied with a grin, his eyes devouring her sleep tousled form.

“Well as you can see I am fine, so off you go, run along,” she made a shooing gesture to emphasise her point. ‘Way to go Chloe, completely dismiss the scary demon guy,’ she thought to herself.

But when she looked at Oliver there was no anger in his face, in fact he looked more amused than anything.

“Is your strength improving?” he asked, knowing quite well that it was. He had almost completely cut out the sedative drug from being administered to her.

“Yes, soon I’ll be able to get out of here,” she retorted.

“I’m glad it’s improving, you are going to need it very soon,” replied Oliver. He ignored what she had said and stood up, crossing over to her. “Get your sleep,” he bent down and brushed his lips gently against her forehead.

He had straightened up and left the room before Chloe had a chance to react.

“Oh,” she murmured, lifting a hand to the spot where his lips had been, “that was weird.”

She lay back down, going over what had just happened, “oh,” she said again, sitting up, what does he mean that I will need my strength! Damn demons!”

letia84

22nd May 2006, 18:48

OMG:ecstatic:

What was the light around Lex, what is Oliver talking about she will need her strength, why do you always end the chapter to soon? So many questions and I can't wait for the answers. Wonderful update next Monday is just to far away.

Congrats auntie Fiona:wub:

lj715

22nd May 2006, 18:57

ACK!!!! Omg, Chloe..please hold on to your strength ! DOn't let Oliver's magic or whatever...influence you. I wonder what the power in the vase is? Ugh..this is getting so good & I want Lex to get Chloe NOW!!!!! I really hope they get rid of Lynette too.

Nooo....now I have to wait a whole week for more.

Great chapter!

Krysia

22nd May 2006, 19:14

No. Don't stope here. What's in the vase? And how will, whatever it is, help Lex kill Oliver? [ coz that's what I'm hoping whatever it is will do :)] More, please.

westwingwolf

22nd May 2006, 19:34

Please tell me that the light fro the vase now means Lex has the power to kick some Oliver ass or in the very least has the power to keep him and Chloe from being unmated. Loved Gabe's comments about Chloe's stubborness, so true. And I laughed at Clark awww shucks routine when he dented the wall.

Congrats on becoming an aunt again. I have some auntly duties to perform next week. I'm going on vacation with my parents, sister, and nephew so I probably won't be able to read next week's update until the following week. Is there any way I can guilt you into making sure it's really good? I mean I know it will be good because you are writing it, but is there anyway to get some significant Chlex or at least some really hot possessive Lex? No pressure because I'm sure I will love it no matter what.

pipersmum

22nd May 2006, 21:21

I have been so busy today that I totally forgot about this update OMG!!!! If you hadn't of PM me Fiona I might not have remembered until tomorrow :eek:

This was a fantastic update and so many questions about what has happened to Lex, and what is Oliver upto now! Clark not being able to open the vase was funny!! Gabe is absolutely right about Chloe being to stubborn about de-mating from Lex. LOL As usual I can not wait til monday and I promise to remember this time :)

carebear72884

22nd May 2006, 21:24

argh! I can't belive you left it there. I hate cliffhangers, at least I don't have to wait all summer to see the next part of this story like I do the tv shows. More soon.
Congradulations on your niece.

Gaia

22nd May 2006, 21:30

So the vase is somehow connencted to Lex and his dreams.... Chloe is about to need her strength.... You like to keep people thinking don't you Fiona:D?
Loved the update as usual.

lilinny

23rd May 2006, 05:45

That part with Lex opening the vase was intense. Fantastic chapter.

Queen Of Tact

23rd May 2006, 05:51

OMG, I just became an aunt again a couple weeks ago too! I have a new little niece also...... Congtrats hon *hugs*

As always wonderful ch... Works been keeping me way busy, so I haven't been able to leave as much fb.... I love what you have going on in the fic, it's great, and as always I can't wait to read more.....

CC

SinnerSaint

23rd May 2006, 06:29

Ooh...what was in the vase ? What was that wierd light about ? And ewww Oliver is so damn creepy !

star del mar

23rd May 2006, 06:53

Ughh. Oliver is very annoying to me...well he was been all along but it's just intensifying. He's just so cocky and I bet he hasn't fully prepared himself for the fight that Chloe will have in her. She's not going to go down easily. And the vase is very curious, especially since Lex was the only one able to open it. I'm hoping the lights and thunder lead to good things, I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Steph*

xiaoyouangel

23rd May 2006, 07:04

thanks for another update....i sooooo agree with Gabe that it will take more than spells for chloe to fall out of love with lex...im hoping that lynette will have plans of her on..perhaps join with luthors after getting the book to get back at what oliver had done to her...hehehe!!

cant wait for chloe and lex to reunite...and say bye-bye Oliver...

teb85

23rd May 2006, 21:23

Fantastic update as usual Fiona !! I'm curious about the power in the vase and its connection with Lex ! I have lots of questions that I'm sure will be answered over the next few chapters so I really can't wait until next Monday ! Keep up the great work !!

Alizaleven

24th May 2006, 03:55

Oh my gosh!!!! I only just started reading this last night and I havent been able to stop reading it, well i had to stop reading it since my internet connection got cut off early this morning around 3. I was like grrrr and i had to wait until today to start reading it again, it took me a few hours but I'm all the way caught up. And wow...

This story is amazing.. there are hardly words that can describe it so I'm just gonna say wow :D

Amazing work, update soon please :D

I cant wait to read what happens next!! I hope that evil guy with the name that starts with an O (i'd rather not type his name he is so disliked) doesn't seduce Chloe, and I hope everything turns out ok.... and i hope there are many many more chapters to come :D

Btab12207

25th May 2006, 05:28

Please let Lex get to Chloe soon!

peapod

25th May 2006, 06:05

I cannot wait for Lex to kick some ass! update soon

Lillian

25th May 2006, 18:38

What the hell is in the vase? I can't wait for find out.
And what about Lex? why is the only one capable open de vase?

Update!!!!

arkakitty

27th May 2006, 11:08

Great update :) Really. Now update some more :) They found her.....finally :blinkkiss

slayer44

28th May 2006, 06:07

Argh what can be in that vase!?!?!?! You've racked my brain with all the possibilities it could be. And I'm definetly not liking this Oliver/Chloe stuff we're getting, it can lead to nothing but trouble. I'm just glad that she is still as devoted to Lex :D. Amazing chapter and of course, I look foward to Monday.

ruafair

29th May 2006, 18:41

This is for Diane... whose PM's on a Monday always brighten what was usually a shitty day at work... :D .... And a big hello to the new groupies... Fiona

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Fifty Nine – Dreamscape

Chloe didn’t go back to sleep for a long time. She lay there, staring at the ceiling thinking. Going over everything that had happened since she was taken from Smallville. ‘Why was Oliver treating me like a summer guest rather than a prisoner,’ she thought. Everything Chloe had heard about the demon, hell she had even seen the recording of how he killed Dominic, all pointed to a completely psychotic vampire. But Chloe had yet to see that side to him… When she had found out who had her she expected to be hanging by chains in some dungeon being tortured on a regular basis. ‘Not that I *want* to be hanging in a dungeon being regularly tortured,’ she added silently.

Chloe was under no illusion that she was being used as bait to lure Lex and the others out into the open. The baffling fact was how she was being treated. Also she knew she was being drugged, and that the sedative was now being tapered off. Her strength was returning in leaps and bounds and her mind was much less fuzzy.

She had tried contacting Lex, but couldn’t sense him at all. The only place where she really felt his presence was when she was dreaming. Her heart literally ached at being separated from him.

But she couldn’t focus on that right now, there were other matters that took precedent. What were Oliver’s plans for her? What were his plans for Lex and the others? Where exactly the hell was she? And how the hell was she going to escape?

Sighing Chloe turned over and switched off the light. She closed her eyes as the room was plunged into darkness.

------

“What’s going on in the mind of yours Chloe?” murmured Oliver.

Harper and Lynette where on their way to Budapest, and Oliver was feeling caged in. He needed to get out and hunt… Chloe Sullivan was driving him crazy and he didn’t quite know what to do about it. He didn‘t know whether he wanted to kiss her or kill her.

Confident that Chloe was asleep Oliver left his room and headed out of the mansion. Little hunting would help clear his mind.

Killing Etienne so soon was a mistake… He should have just *hurt* him for attempting to rape her. While the unbinding spell would remain a mystery, Oliver could have still used Etienne’s magical skills for other means.

But there was no use dwelling over past mistakes. In his grand scheme this was a blip, and Lynette’s little trip to Budapest would redress the balance.

“Claudio will give me what I need,” said Oliver, changing into his demon form and taking off into the night, “and Chloe will be mine,” he cried out.

-------------------------------------------------

When the golden light had subsided Lex still held the vase in his hand.

“What the hell was that?” groaned Lucas, as he rubbed his throbbing head.

“Is everyone ok?” asked Lionel.

There were murmurs of yes from everyone.

“Well I do have this headache,” said Gabe.

“Me too,” replied Clark and Karl at the same time.

“Anyone NOT have a headache?” asked Lionel.

Nobody answered him, “what about you son?” he asked Lex. There was no answer, Lex just stood, still vamped out, staring at the vase in his hand.

“Lex sweetheart are you ok?" asked Lillian approaching her son. She reached out her hand to him. But as soon as she touched his shoulder, Lex cried out and collapsed to the ground. The vase fell from his hand and landed on the carpet.

“Lex,” cried Lillian dropping to her knees.

Soon everyone was around them while Lillian pulled Lex into her arms.

Anna moved away and picked up the vase. She hissed and dropped it. “Powerful,” she said. “Lillian, there have been some powerful magics released from this.”

“Good or bad magics?” asked Gabe.

“That I do not know. But whatever they were Lex was the one to release them. No one else could open the vase…”

“Lionel,” sobbed Lillian.

“Hush love he will be ok,” he soothed his wife pulling her into his arms while Lucas and Karl lifted Lex up.

“Take him to his room,” said Lionel, holding a crying Lillian.

Lucas nodded and the two men carried Lex out of the room.

“Anna, you and Gabe see what you can find out about that fucking vase. I don’t care how obscure or far-fetched the information you find is, I want to know what the hell it is.”

“I’ll help,” piped up Elena.

“We will as well,” said Nikolas and Christine.

“Good,” nodded Lionel. “Come on Lillian,” he coaxed his wife out of the room. “Sergi, check on Lex,” he said over his shoulder, “And Natasha make sure Lucas is ok.”

------

After laying Lex on his bed Karl slipped out of the room to see what was going on. Lucas stood over the bed looking down at his brother.

“I thought I was the one with the flair for dramatics,” he said trying to keep his voice light. But the worry and concern for his brother crept in. “Anna said there were powerful magics released from the vase, they better have been good magics. And you’re only knocked out… because, because if it’s anything most serious… I don’t know if I could handle it bro, you have to be ok. So, we’ll make a deal, you wake up from this your usual anal-retentive self and I’ll go easy of the teasing. What do you say bro? Do we have a deal?”

The figure on the bed made no move or sound.

“I’ll take your silence as a yes to the deal,” said Lucas. “Get well Lex,” he whispered, squeezing his brother’s hand gently.

There was a light knock on the door.

“Come in,” said Lucas, his eyes still on Lex.

“Any change?” asked Natasha, entering the room.

Lucas shook his head, “how is mom?”

“Very upset. Your father has taken her to their room; perhaps you should be there as well. I think this has been the breaking point for her. She has held herself together so well since Chloe’s disappearance, but this was the final straw.”

Lucas looked up at the older woman. He was torn between staying with Lex and going to his mother.

“I will inform you the moment there is any change,” continued Natasha, smiling.

Lucas nodded, gave Lex’s hand one last squeeze and left the room.

------

As Natasha had surmised Lex’s collapse was the final straw for Lillian. Having kept up a brave face in the wake of Chloe’s disappearance, especially with Lionel being out of contact, and organising information gathering Lillian had buried all her concern. She had to show that she was in control, her family and friends looked up to her. If she had shown nerves and indecision, the knock on effect would have been disastrous.

She sobbed in Lionel’s arms, letting all her tears out. Lionel held her tightly, murmuring into her ear.

“Come in Lucas,” he said softly when he sensed his youngest son at the door.

Lillian lifted her head from Lionel’s shoulder and gave a watery smile to her son. “Come here love,” she said and Lucas willingly entered his mother’s arms.

“He’ll be fine mom,” said Lucas, “Lex is too damn stubborn to give up.”

“I know,” sniffled Lillian.

Lionel smiled and wrapped his arms around his wife and son. All three Luthors stood in their combined embrace, drawing strength from each other.

-------------------------------------------------

He was standing in a poorly lit corridor that seemed to stretch on forever. There were numerous doors on either side, large wooden double doors, designed to keep things in rather than let them out.

“What has that vase done to me?” murmured Lex as he moved to stand in front of the first door.

‘Don’t go in there,’ his demon screamed.

“We need to get out of wherever this is,” he replied, “and if I have to open every door to do that I will.”

As he placed both hands on the doors to push them open his demon continued to tell him not to open this one. But undeterred Lex pushed hard and both doors swung open with creaking sound.

Beyond was a darkened room, but Lex could make out movement in the corner. He cautiously moved into the room and made his way to the corner.

‘No, No, NNOOO,’ screamed his demon.

Ignoring the warning Lex moved closer. “Oh fuck no,” he gasped, falling to his knees.

There, lying on a large four-poster bed was his Chloe, naked, and currently being fucked by Oliver.

Lex tried to look away but he couldn’t. He felt his eyes fill with tears as he watched their bodies move as one.

“Oh Oliver,’” gasped Chloe, “harder.”

“It’s not her, it’s not her, it’s not her,” murmured Lex over and over. Chloe would never betray him, just as he would never betray her. This was all a sick joke… He covered his ears with his hands, trying to block out the moans and groans coming from the bed. He pictured his Chloe, the woman he mated… not this fake who was rutting like an animal with that bastard Oliver.

‘Get out of here, NOW,’ screamed his demon. ‘This is not our love, not our Chloe.’

Struggling to his feet Lex backed away from the forms on the bed, his eyes still firmly closed. A litany of ‘not my Chloe’ sounded in his mind, a sentiment echoed by his demon. The gasps and moans from the bed began to fade. After backing a few more steps away the sounds stopped completely and a cool breeze wafted around him.

Lex stopped moving and opened his eyes. He found himself back in the corridor; the doors he’d just entered had disappeared. “One down a multitude to go,” murmured Lex.

He visibly shuddered trying to rid his mind of the images he had just seen. He moved to the next one and stood in front of it, waiting to see if his demon said anything. Lex had decided to listen to what his demon said in relation to the doors.

But silence was all that greeted him as he stood before the doors. Shrugging Lex pushed them open and was greeted by sunlight. Hissing he jumped back against the other wall, making sure the sunlight didn’t touch him. He peered through the door wondering if the sunlight was an illusion like the scene in the other room. Cautiously he approached the door and thrust his arm into the sunlight.

“Son of a bitch,” he swore, jumping back as the light burnt his hand. “Ok, not an illusion, real sun.”

A woman’s laughter drew his attention and looking through the door he saw Chloe. He had to stop himself from moving. He watched as she twirled and danced in the sun… the sun… Chloe in the sun. He sagged against the wall; being with him meant her life in the sun would be over. As soon as it was her time to become a vampire, her time in the sun would be over.

------

“Chloe,” whimpered Lex.

“Hush Lex,” murmured Natasha, mopping his brow as he whimpered Chloe’s name.

“Any change?” asked Lillian entering the room flanked by her husband and son.

“He has been getting more agitated,” replied Natasha, “and keeps uttering Chloe’s name.”

Lillian nodded and took her place beside Lex.

“Is there anything else you want me to do Lillian?” asked Natasha.

“No thank you my friend, I’ll be ok from here.”

Natasha squeezed Lillian’s hand gently. “I’m going to see how the others are doing,” she said and smiled at both Lionel and Lucas as she left.

When she had gone Lucas shut the door and he and his father took their positions around Lex’s bed.

------

‘Did that matter to Chloe?’ he thought. ‘Does she actually realise what she would be giving up in exchange for an immortal life? I’ve just assumed, I’ve never asked her.’

‘Silly vampire,’ Chloe’s voice sounded in his head. Lex looked through the door again and saw the illusion of Chloe standing looking at him…. Smiling…

“Chloe knows exactly what she is getting into,” he murmured, “she would have never mated me if she’d had any doubts. I just need to make sure when she is home and safe that she enjoys what time she have left in the sun.”

*Chloe* laughed and disappeared. Once again the space where the doors stood was now empty.

“Fucking mind games,” muttered Lex, “I’ve had enough of them. Ok whoever you are,” he called out. “As fun as all this has been it’s time for it to stop. I’m not moving from the spot, or looking through anymore of your mystery doors until you tell me what the HELL is going on?”

------

“Not a thing, not a goddamn thing about that stupid vase,” sighed Gabe, pushing the book away angrily.

“I couldn’t find anything either,” said Nikolas. It was a sentiment uttered by everyone. They had been searching books and the Internet for ages, looking for anything that could lead them to what the vase actually was.

“Maybe it is only a vase,” said Elena, “just a stupid little vase. I know we sensed something from it, and something happened to Lex when he opened it. But what if that’s all it was for, just a vessel to hold whatever magics where in there. Correct me if I’m wrong on this Anna, but vessels for magic don’t have to be magical themselves.”

“You are correct,” said Anna. “I see where you are going with this. It’s not the vase that we should be researching, but the actual magic inside it.”

“Well done Elena,” exclaimed Gabe. “Ok, let’s start looking for other mentions of what we’ve seen this magic do. Freaks out vampires, only one can release it…2

“Blinding lights when it is released,” offered Karl, before leaning down and kissing Elena gently. “Well done love," he whispered to her.

“Exactly,” agreed Nikolas. “Ok new plan… let’s get researching the magic.”

------

True to his word Lex didn’t move from his spot. He didn’t say anything, just leaned against the wall and to occupy his mind and prevent himself from losing control he thought of Chloe… comforted himself by thinking back over their good times.

“Such impatience and stubbornness,” a voice sounded eventually after Lex’s rant. “So like your father. Despite the controlled façade he puts up underneath he is a very impatient man. And you Lex seemed to have inherited that trait.”

“Who is this?” Lex called out. “Show yourself.”

The corridor shimmered and disappeared. Lex felt his demon get agitated as a mist descended around them.

“My name is Altair,” the demon emerged from the mists, “and you and I young Luthor are going to have a chat!”

lj715

29th May 2006, 18:55

WOW!!!!!!! Great chapter! So, the magic in this vase is a test for Lex. Kind of like the tests ALtair put Lionel & Sergei thru. I'm very glad that Chloe knows that Oliver is using her to draw the Luthors out. I want Lex & Chloe to be together soon. I hope everyone makes it thru this ok. Can't wait for more. Love it!!!!

slayer44

29th May 2006, 19:01

I nearly screamed when that image of Chloe and Oliver...*shudders* Poor Lillian, having to watch her son, it was only natural that sooner of later she was gonna have a breakdown.
I must say, the way you wrote Lucas in this chapter was just so adorable. I'd love to see him restrain from teasing Lex as much.
Great chapter, and now I wait excitedly until next Monday.

letia84

29th May 2006, 19:02

“My name is Altair,” the demon emerged from the mists, “and you and I young Luthor are going to have a chat!”
Of course its Altair playing mind games with Lex. Poor Lex having to see Oliver and Chloe. That better never come true. I don't think I could take it.

Lillian is so drained. She has been so strong in all this. It was nice that her men were there for her when she finally let go a little.

I hope the can find something on the vase. What is Altair up to now. Oh I can't wait till next Monday. So evil for ending this chapter so soon. :devil:

kimmie

29th May 2006, 19:12

Poor, poor Lex he is in hell I hope Altair has some sort of a resolution for him. I know Lex is strong enough to pass any test Altair sets for him just like Chloe who is strong enough to fight Oliver.

pipersmum

29th May 2006, 19:35

Thanks for the dedication I love Mondays we get to chat and I get an update too! Poor Lex his eyes must be burnt from the image of Chloe and Oliver having sex :eek: Is this a test for him?? I was not expecting it to be Altair that was a surprise.

Poor Lillian she has been so strong up til now, but Lucas bless him he was really sweet. We all know that he is kidding himself if he thinks he can go easy on teasing Lex! LOL.

I can't wait until Monday to find out more.

katieandjason

29th May 2006, 20:01

SWEEEEEEEET!

I gotta say, I was sooo confused that there was an update! I am off of work today but stopped by to get some things done and swung by here to read some comments. Lo and behold there was an update! I'm thinking to myself, 'She updated on a Sunday?! YES!' Then I realized that it is indeed Monday, and I am an idiot. But a lucky one at that because this is a KILLER UPDATE!!

WEEEEEE! Lex/Altair interactions!!! I had no idea what to expect from the vase but as soon as Lex started ranting about headgames I thought to myself 'Finally! Lextair is in the house!' I've been waiting and hoping for some interaction between those two. Since Lex is Lionel's successor I had a feeling Altair would want to test him before lending support to his side. And you didn't disappoint. I can't wait to see how those two personalities interact, you've got me on pins and needles.

Lune

29th May 2006, 20:18

Wow! That was an interesting turn of events! Can't wait for the next update.

Gaia

29th May 2006, 20:25

Altair contacted Lex directly....?
Interesting....very interesting.
Keep going on our drug of Chlex Fiona:D Please

teb85

29th May 2006, 21:09

Fantastic update !! Once again you keep me on the edge of my seat ! I can't wait until monday for more !!

Gina41283

29th May 2006, 22:59

lol good ol' Altair!!!!! he's like the relative you never want!!! ^_^ i can't wait to see what happens next!!!!!!!!

lilinny

30th May 2006, 01:30

Is Altair going to teach Lex a few things perhaps? I can't wait to read more!!!

xiaoyouangel

30th May 2006, 06:17

i almost had a heart attack on the oliver & chloe lovemaking....that is not and will never materialize coz lex is the only person allowed to touch chloe..its good to know that chloe's brain is still working despite of the drugs...now that oliver has gone out perhaps chloe and lex will communicate again by means of altair...im betting my ass that altair is on luthor's side...hehehe!!
hope to see and update soon..

Alizaleven

30th May 2006, 08:51

oooo great update, the chloe/oliver stuff yuck. But i understand since its a test sort of thing for Lex, oh goodness I hope everything turns out ok!!

kcsgirl82

30th May 2006, 20:18

I hope Lex can get Chloe back soon!!!!!!!!!! Maybe alltair will help Lex get chloe back its a long shot but its a shot!!!!!!!!!!! Please update soon!!!!!!

star del mar

31st May 2006, 06:56

Are you serious? You stopped there! I wonder what Altair has up his sleeve for Lex? Well besides the freaky let’s find out what’s behind door number whatever. Not cool and a total mind fuck, the last thing he needs is to believe all the bad things that could happen. Though I am strangely surprised that it was Altair that set that up for Lex, the weirdness of it screamed Oliver. But I guess he has Chloe to occupy him for the moment, gross. I can’t wait for the next update! I have to know what Lex and Altair are going to talk about.

Steph*

Willower

31st May 2006, 09:19

Whoa, Altair showed up to talk to Lex in person and the whole vase thing...the plot thickens. Kudos to your dedication to this fic...over one-hundred chapters...that's crazy, but we all love it.

keyo9387

1st June 2006, 02:38

i love this story. i can't wait for more. do you know how much longer this story is going to be.

Shy Butterfly

1st June 2006, 12:16

This story is so amazing and this was also a great update!

carolannw5

2nd June 2006, 07:13

Great Update!

How Lex can get help from Altair!

That was a horrible vision the Chloe and Oliver!

Love this story!

Can't wait to read more!

Lillian

4th June 2006, 01:29

I agree with carolannw5: That was a horrible vision the Chloe and Oliver!

I hope Lex can pass the Test that Altair has for him and can save Chloe. And hope too Lex wake up... so that Lillian can to ease off.

westwingwolf

4th June 2006, 02:29

You know a sure fire away to drive a person crazy is to make them spend a week with their family in a small hotel room with no internet access. The only thought that kept me sane was I would get to read your latest update as soon as I got home.

That was amazing. I'm glad that Chloe is well aware of her situation. So this means that Oliver can't unmate Chloe and Lex. Hooray! He can't be sorry that he killed Entienne now, it's his own stupid fault. I'm so happy that evil geniuses or rarely genius.

All Lucas is so cute when he's been all sweet and trying not to show it. Lex will be sorry he missed that whole speech.

Will people ever stop torturing Lex? Poor Lex didn't need to see that horrible vision, that's just scarring. Should have listened to his demon. And Altair is up to his mind games again, those Godlike characters just love to screw with people.

I know I must ask this every time I update, but just how long before Chlex is reunited?

whodunit??

5th June 2006, 06:52

wow, ok so i have a month's worth of updates to review on. forst off i just want to start by saying how jealous i am that u went to paris but im glad u enjoyed ur time there and second congrats on ur new niece.

i dont even know where to begin. i am glad that chloe is still focused on lex and trying to contact him and all that. i am rele rele starting to hate oliver a lot, he creeps me out and i rele hope that lex and the rest of the luthors and all their friends are able to get to chloe before sumthing horrible happens. next this vase that seemed to bring lex to altair, i hope its only for the good and that he is there to help lex bring chloe home to smallville.

i love this fic, and i cant wait for the next update.

Heather

ruafair

5th June 2006, 13:16

'lo all :P .... This is for CC, for the wonderful note she sent.... Also Mindy, it will be another few chapters before Lex and Chloe are reunited.... There's still a bumpy ride to go. Lots of hugs to the new readers..... The Sanguis groupies are growing in number, soon I'll have an army to take over the world.. oh wait sorry, that's another thing completely. :rofl:.... Fiona

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Sixty – And The Balance Shifts Again

BUDAPEST

“Now don’t you just look the perfect victim,” grinned Harper as he pushed the very battered body of Lynette out in front of the bar door.

‘Bastard, fucking bastard,’ thought Lynette as her body screamed in pain. Harper had spent two hours beating her, and since she was being deprived of blood, the injuries where healing very slowly.

When they arrived, he had checked with a local informant as to Claudio’s whereabouts. He was told the old vampire was often seen at a small local bar in a small village outside Budapest. So as soon as it was dark enough, Harper dragged Lynette into a small wooded clearing and beat her solidly for two hours.

He only stopped when *she* couldn’t take anymore… beating her to death was not part of their plans. But Harper made no secret of his hope that Claudio wouldn’t find her tonight, so that he could repeat the process again and again.

With a groan Lynette rolled onto her back as Harper loomed over her. “Now my dear, let’s make sure you scream.” And with an evil grin kicked her in the ribs.

Lynette screamed, curling into a ball. She was in so much pain she couldn’t even coax her demon out.

“One more for luck,” growled Harper and drew his foot back to kick her again…

… But he never made contact with her body as he was lifted into the air and thrown against a tree.

“Such a brave demon,” growled Claudio in Hungarian, approaching a slightly dazed Harper. He picked him up by the scruff of the neck and slammed him a few times against the tree.

Through pain-laden and blood filled eyes Lynette watched as Claudio beat Harper. She would have smiled if the pain weren’t so great. Her vision grew darker as Claudio pounded on Harper.

Harper tried to talk but the grip on his neck was too great. It wasn’t supposed to happen like this. He wasn’t to be bettered. He clawed at the hand holding him, but it was too strong.

Claudio glanced over to see that the female had passed out.

“Goodbye,” he said and sank his fangs into Harper’s neck. The younger vampire screamed as Claudio drank his him, the screams fading as his life faded.

When he had drunk enough Claudio pulled back and grabbing a branching from the tree, embedded it into Harper’s heart. He stepped away as the body fell into dust.

He approached Lynette gently, licking the blood from his lips as his human face appeared. Smiling he picked up her battered body into his arms and disappeared into the woods.

------

Smiling, the figure that had been watching the proceedings took out his phone and dialled a number.

“Well,” the voice sounded on the other end.

“All went according to plan sir, although Harper didn’t make it.”

“He was expendable,” said Oliver. “You stay there and let me know how things progress. I want to know when Lynette had completed her task, or if it looks like she might have a change of loyalty.”

“Yes sir,” and with that hung up his phone, and slowly began making his way in the direction Claudio went.

-------------------------------------------------

Back in Smallville at the Luthor castle there was no sign of Lex waking up. He tossed and turned a number of times, and murmured Chloe’s name… but showed no real sign of waking.

Lillian busied herself by contacting the heads of the main families, and the lesser ones. She relayed what had happened to Chloe, but left out the fact that they did know where she was being held. She also neglected to tell them about what happened to Lex. Thinking of her son lying there, not knowing what was happening to him caused a feeling of helplessness and pain course through Lillian. A feeling she had never felt before. During everything she and her family had dealt with over the centuries she had always got through it by drawing on the strength of her family. But now, now that it was one of her family that was in trouble, she could feel her faith faltering slightly.

She stood, staring out the window overlooking the Luthor estate. Her mind on Lex and Chloe.

“Lillian,” a soft voice sounded behind her.

She turned to face Anna who was smiling at her.

“Good news,” she asked.

“Kind of,” replied Anna, moving closer. “We researched, and I have to say, Gabe Sullivan has definitely found his niche in life… No wonder Chloe’s talents lean towards journalism,” she added with a grin, pleased that her comment produced a smile on Lillian’s face.

“The vase is just that, a vase, it’s what was contained in it that is important. We searched through various magics, using the affect it had on us, the blinding light, and the headaches afterwards. What we have come up with is the magic in the vase is a form of transference magic, usually linked to one specific person, or demon.”

“Lex,” said Lillian.

“Exactly,” said Anna. “Now the good news is that 99.9% of the time the magic is not dangerous, it is used mainly for the demon equivalent of an Indian spirit walk.”

“But the bad news is 0.1% of the time it is dangerous,” said Lillian.

“Well no, that’s not the bad news. The bad news is that we cannot wake him; he must finish whatever the magic has started. If we try to rouse him, we could lose him forever.”

Lillian took a deep shuddering breath, and the ache in her chest increased.

“He will be fine Lillian. Lex is so very strong, and his need to find Chloe will get him through this. There is no way he will allow himself to fail knowing Chloe is out there, being held by Oliver.”

“You’re right Anna,” said Lillian after a moment, “my son *is* strong… he will survive this… test or whatever it is.”

“Of course he will… now come on my friend and let’s getting started on the plan to rescue Chloe.”

“Yes, excellent idea Anna, that way when Lex wakes up, we’ll be all ready to head to Scotland.”

A smiling Anna followed Lillian out of the room, happy that her friend seemed to be getting back to acting more like her old self.

-------------------------------------------------

BUDAPEST

Lynette moaned as the scent of blood hit her nose. Although still in pain and unable to open her eyes, she vamped out as the bleeding wrist was placed to her mouth. She struggled for a moment, but then instinct took over and she sank her fangs into the flesh, growling at the blood filled her mouth and flowed down her throat.

Claudio smiled down at her as she drank. He could already see the bruises beginning to heal and fade. Giving her his blood ensured a speedy recovery. He allowed her to drink for a few more minutes and then extracted his wrist.

Lynette whimpered and tried to reach out to grab his wrist again.

“You have had enough,” he said in English, a hint of warning in his voice and his face hard. But his expression softened when he saw Lynette lower her head slightly and looked up at him through her eyelashes.

“I see you are much better, but trying to seduce me won’t work,” he chuckled.

Lynette sat up, grimacing at the aches in her body. She saw that she was in a large bedroom. There was nothing remarkable about it other than it seemed to be overflowing with books. Her gaze retuned to Claudio, and she really studied him for the first time. She knew, from Oliver, that he was very old, at least a thousand years he had said. Appearances wise he looked liked he was about fifty, had thick greying hair, and deep brown eyes, filled with intelligence. While not handsome there was something very distinguished about him, and Lynette liked what she saw.

“Harper,” she said, her voice hoarse.

“Wasthat the bastard name?” asked Claudio.

Lynette nodded.

“You don’t need to ever worry about him again.”

“Dust?” asked Lynette, and a grin appeared on her face when Claudio nodded ‘yes’.

‘Ha take that you fucker,’ thought Lynette. ‘Getting yourself dusted wasn’t part of the plan, looks like that bit you in the ass.’

“I’m assuming by your smile, his passing is no great loss,” teased Claudio.

“Good riddance to him,” growled Lynette. She then gave Claudio a small smile and once again let her gaze travel around the room.

“Like to read do you?” she asked with a grin.

“This is a collection built up over the last nine hundred years. There are books here that man and demon would *kill* for,” he replied, gazing lovingly at his books. “And women for that matter,” he added, turning to look at her with a very different expression on his face.

“I like a good thriller myself,” she said with a small laugh, feeling a little uneasy. “And the odd romance now and then, I am a woman after all.”

“Yes you are,” replied Claudio. “I have always thought of women as the deadlier of the species. I always found them far more… devious than men,” he continued, his tone conversational. “I think it’s because there are really the more intelligent sex. They use their brains before their brawn, and will usually get the better results that way. Don’t you think so my dear?”

“Well I’ve always thought women were far better at everything than men,” she replied with a smile.

“Spoken like a woman. Oh I don’t think during all the excitement that I caught your name at all my dear.”

“I do apologise,” smiled Lynette. “My name is Lynette,” she held out her hand, “thank you for saving me.”

“Delighted to meet you,” replied Claudio, taking her hand and kissing it gently. “My name is Claudio, but you already knew that didn’t you?”

“What?” exclaimed Lynette. “Know your name? I don’t know what you are talking about?”
“Come now my dear,” he said, his tone amusing and still holding her hand. “Please do not insult my intelligence. All of this,” he gestured to her healing body, “was a set up.”

“I think you have lost your mind,” replied Lynette, extracting her hand from his.

“What is it that you are after?” he said grabbing her hand again. “One of my books perhaps. And are you only the messenger? Have you got an employer who wants you to take something of mine?”

He watched as she fought to let any emotion cross her face lest she give herself away. But she couldn’t control her eyes, and at the mention of an employer they darkened slightly.

He stood up and moved way from the bed, “There are two ways we can do this Lynette. You can either *willingly* tell me why you are here. Or I can *make* you tell me.”

“I thought you didn’t condone violence to women,” said Lynette, her voice breaking slightly. ‘Take it easy,’ she told herself. ‘*Your* own survival is far more important than anything Oliver wants. Play it cool.’

“Who said anything about violence,” chuckled Claudio. He leaned against the wall and watched Lynette.

“But you said something about making me.”

“That does not mean violence my dear. There are other ways to get information without actually inflicting pain on another.”

Despite her situation Lynette could not help but snort at that statement. “The only way to get information or reluctant co-operation is through violence.”

“While I’d love to get into a full scale debate with you about it, this is not the time. Now, are you going to answer my question about why you are here, and who you are working for?”

Lynette held her chin up in defiance, although she was shaking with fear inside. She was trying to work out which coarse of action would be the most dangerous to her life. Would if be better to face Claudio if she didn’t tell him, or Oliver if she did.

Claudio left her to her inner battle and turned to the one of the bookshelves. He automatically found what he was looking for and gently withdrew the ancient tome from its shelf. Then returned to leaning against the wall.

The noise of him turning the pages caught Lynette’ attention and she stared at him. Her eyes dropped to the book, but she couldn’t read the title, the language unknown to her.

“This is a very powerful spell book,” said Claudio, his eyes not moving from the page. “The ancient Babylonians owned it, and it does contain some very *imaginative* ways of getting information, and surprisingly *none* of them involve violence. Isn’t that interesting?” he lifted his eyes and met Lynette’s.

“You’re scared, I can tell,” he continued. “Obviously this employer of yours is dangerous. But I will protect you, if you tell me everything I will make sure he or she doesn’t get you.”

Lynette took a deep shuddering breath. The offer was protection was very tempting. She thought back to her times with Oliver, times that had led him to ordering her a savage beating. Her mind flew back to earlier in the evening, when Harper had enjoyed beating her again. Hell the fucker had got a hard-on from it. She’d had enough, here was her out… an ancient vampire named Claudio.

“I work for Oliver… I’m sure even you have heard of him.” She glanced up and saw Claudio nod his head and place the book to the side. “He has kidnapped Lex Luthor’s human mate. He has plans to seduce her and make her his own. He has a spell for unbinding mates but it hasn’t been deciphered yet. Etienne was working on it but he tried to rape the human and Oliver killed him… it was all planned to try and get her to trust him. He has this doctor, who has been administering a drug to her, I’m not 100% sure what it is, but it’s suppose to have calming qualities among other things.”

She took another breath before carrying on. “Oliver is getting antsy, Chloe, Luthor’s mate, is not succumbing to him. So he sent me and Harper here to get you to hand over a couple of your more archaic spell books… ones that will bend Chloe to his will.”

She looked at Claudio to see him smiling at her, his eyes showing his thanks that she had willingly told him everything.

------

The young woman had heard enough and entered the room. She had what she came for.

“Who? What?” spluttered Lynette, as the dark-haired woman entered the room. She looked wide-eyed between Claudio and the young woman.

“Did you hear everything?” Claudio asked her.

“All of it,” she replied. “Thank you Claudio.”

“Oh nonsense, it was a pleasure my dear.” He smiled at her and then turned to Lynette.

“Oh I’m sorry,” he said after a moment. “Where are my manners? Let me make the introductions.” He continued with exaggerated drama, eliciting a giggle from the woman.

“My dear,” he turned to the dark-haired woman beside him, “this is Lynette,” gesturing to the brunette on the bed.

“And Lynette,” he faced her, “this is my goddaughter… Alyssa Romanov.”

Gaia

5th June 2006, 14:24

“And Lynette,” he faced her, “this is my goddaughter… Alyssa Romanov.”
Talk about tables turning:D Next part has to be with Lex talking to Altair:)
Words really can't say how much this story of yours Fiona is causing an addiction! But keep it coming and we all will be very VERY happy.

buckles squared

5th June 2006, 15:16

Magnificent ending to the post! Oh, how I love all the twists and turns in this story! Thanks!

katieandjason

5th June 2006, 15:27

F'in A right, doggie!!! Woot Woot!!! Yay Claudio, what a spin that was. :D

Take THAT, Oliver. First you underestimate the power of a bond. Then you fail to research family trees. One more strike and you're out! Do you know what that strike will be? Lex winning Altair to their side.

And all because you underestimate and sneer at basic vampiric principles. You LOSE!

lj715

5th June 2006, 16:08

HA!!!!!!! Screw you Oliver!!! Lynette better ask for protection from Claudio because she's done for when Oliver gets her. This is all getting better with each chapter. Can't wait for Chloe & Lex to get back together.

kcsgirl82

5th June 2006, 16:25

Thanks for the update!!!!!! I hope Lex wakes up soon so that they can go and rescue Chloe from the dreadful oliver!!!!!!
Please continue the updates when convinient!!!!!!!

letia84

5th June 2006, 16:27

“And Lynette,” he faced her, “this is my goddaughter… Alyssa Romanov.”
Always ending to soon. My word that was a wonderful update. This was a shocker a good but still I look like this. :ecstatic:

Poor Lex has wait until Altair is done with him. I hope he can in list his help. Gabe is he man. I love him this story so much always there to help.

Lynette is dumd. She might get killed anyway telling him the truth or not. I like Claudio I wonder what he's going to do next. He sounds l like him, sounds like a sexy older vamp. :yeahbaby:

OH...I can't wait till Next Monday.

pipersmum

5th June 2006, 16:28

wow you updated early I forgot it was Bank holiday in Ireland. I love the way you surprised us right at the end there! Oliver is really slipping up and making mistakes :devil: he is doomed. I can't wait to see if Altair helps Lex to bring back Chloe or if he just messes with his mind!

slayer44

5th June 2006, 18:33

Oh yeah, it looks like things are going to finally start to go right for the Luthors. That was a nicely executed trap for Lynette. Oliver thought he could outsmart the Luthors, psh, shows him that he doesn't stand a chance.

Gina41283

5th June 2006, 22:20

lol WOW!!! i sooo did not see THAT coming!!!! ^_^ woohoo things are looking up for the good guys!!!! please update soon!!!!!

westwingwolf

6th June 2006, 02:13

See I knew asking the question that I wasn't going to get the answer I wanted, but well I had to try.

Okay I knew that I was going to end up liking this Claudio by the end of the chapter. You got to love a vampire with morals. So what will happen to Lynette? If she goes back to Oliver and tells him what she knows, then he will be aware of the Luthors advantage and Lynette will of course be killed because one is always killed when they think they are trying to get back into one's good graces. But if she stays then Oliver will know something is up and might be able to prepare himself. And I have got to stop over analyzing because it isn't good for my sanity, which let's face it wasn't that great to begin with. (I'm getting Deja Vu, I know I've said this before. Oh well.)

So Lex has to go on a spiritual walk to prove himself, well I for one can't wait. I know Lex can do it, and soon hopefully so they can get over to Scotland and save Chloe from that evil, stupid bastard and his evil, stupid bastardly ways.

Alizaleven

6th June 2006, 02:44

ooo good update but *sigh* no chlex in that one.. can't wait for the next chapter hehe

lilinny

6th June 2006, 03:17

Yikes!!! You just never know what'll happen in this story. But will we read more of what Altair has in store for Lex? Fantastic chapter.

LovelyLily

6th June 2006, 04:05

Loved this chapter as usual though I can't wait to see something from both Lex and Chloe's point of view but I have to let you know how incredibly obsessed I am with this story. I had an icredibly busy day since I had an exam and some family obligations and I'm dog tired and was about to go to bed when I realised it was Monday and I hadn't checked for an update so I had to do that immediately fatigue be damned. This story makes me like Mondays I am officially a Sanguis quid Ligurat junkie. Can't wait for more.

star del mar

6th June 2006, 04:26

Oh snap :) I definitely did not see that one coming, but it was quite the twist. Lynette is very annoying to me but at least she served a purpose this time...without knowing it though of course :D At least they have an idea of what is happening to Lex, hope is not lost yet! Great update.

Steph*

liz122474

6th June 2006, 04:49

I LOVE this story and have been on the look out for updates since about chapter 30. And everytime I do a little happy dance when I see an update. A great story with great story line and really well written.

Willower

6th June 2006, 05:10

two words: Hell Yes! Lynette is about to get schooled. :grin3:

Queen Of Tact

6th June 2006, 06:48

Baby that was so good! i loved it... I only wish I could have seen the look on that little bitches face when she found out who the other girl was!!!

I can't wait to read more......

*hugs*

CC

Shy Butterfly

6th June 2006, 10:41

Thanks for the great update!!!!!

angel18

6th June 2006, 17:46

loving this story, i just hope lex gets out of his dream soon.

Btab12207

7th June 2006, 01:20

The twists...I hope Oliver gets what's coming to him. Lex needs to wake up and him and Chloe NEED to be back together!

teb85

8th June 2006, 20:56

Fantastic update ! can't wait for next chapter !!

Blue-Moon4321

9th June 2006, 05:45

Okay first things first, I just wanma say thanks for giving me a mentionable notice in one of your chapters Fiona, I'm hope that a good writer like yourself nmever lose your imagination and talent for written word.

Also, sorry about not posting eariler, my computer had a stroke lol, (among other things) and i couldn't get my internet back up, so I'v just started to read the recent chapters.

In Additon, I have to say FINALLY! The luthors and Co. knows where Chole is. I also liked the little scene between Lucas and his brother and with his mom and dad. Gotta love yo family!! Also, Lex fianlly meets the strange and scary Altar, I know the tests Lex will go through will be tough. Also nice twist at the end of chapter 160. I like your view of claudio, he sounds like a well-educated man, he peeped Lynette's game. Go Claudio!! However, almost felt sorry for Lynette's beat-down. Almost. She still try to attack my girl Chole, so i can't muster too much pity for her.

Also, congrats on being an auntie and i'l l see your next chapter on monday or hopefully earlier than that. A girl can hope can she? *Crosses fingers*:grin3:

jadewoe

10th June 2006, 06:57

First let me say I found this story by finding the video that this story inspired. :blinkkiss WOW! Then I found out that there was a story... it did take me a while to read the entire thing up until this point! But I have to say... when you're hot ~ :devil: you're hot! Please keep going!

Lillian

10th June 2006, 17:06

Great chapter. Alyssa and Claudio, wow!
I hope Lex wake up soon, I really need that Chloe and Lex be together again.

ruafair

12th June 2006, 18:50

Alright my pretties..... Some Lex in this one.... There's a another good few chapters to go before the reunion.... :devil: ..... Fiona

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Sixty One – Revelations

After sending Clark to *retrieve* a map of the area where Chloe was being held. Nikolas and Karl worked on bringing up three-dimension images of the same area on the computer.

Gabe, Anna, Elena, Lucas and Christine sifted through books and search the Internet for anything mystical surrounding the area. They were making sure that other than a psychotic demon holding Chloe hostage in a mansion heavily protected by wards, spells and other demons there were no other surprises.

Lillian and Natasha were sitting with Lex, while Lionel was speaking with Byron in England.

Sergi had been assisting the others, but got an excited *call* from Alyssa, and he left the room to speak with her more privately. She was so excited she couldn’t mind-speak with him, so he had to use the phone to speak to her.

Her excited voice spoke rapidly down the line. She was so eager to tell her father everything she babbled on in Russian instead of English. As she told her story the small grin on Sergi’s face grew into a huge smile.

“Oh sweetheart well done,” he said when she finally finished. “I am so proud of you. I want you back here as soon as possible. Give Claudio my best.”

“I will dad, love you,” said Alyssa.

“I love you too, see you soon.” Sergi hung up the phone. ‘Natasha my darling, bring Lillian, I have incredible news.’

-------------------------------------------------

Ever since Claudio had made his introductions Lynette had sat, unmoving, in the bed. It had taken a few moments for the name ‘Romanov’ to sink in but when it did she felt like crying. Romanov, meant the Luthors. So if Alyssa Romanov was his fucking goddaughter, then he was well in with the Luthors. Damn Oliver had said that even Lionel couldn’t get anywhere with him, and yet here he was, obviously an old family friend.

She was in a state of shock, once again she had put her trust in a man and he had fucked her over. Only this time there hadn’t even been the sex beforehand. She barely heard Claudio and Alyssa talking, and didn’t register the dark haired woman leaving the room.

“Stupid, stupid, stupid,” she murmured to herself. For one tiny moment she thought that things were going to be ok. She believed she had met someone who would help her. But no, Claudio turned out to be like everyone she’d ever met, he was just using her.

‘Ok damage control,’ she thought. ‘I need to get out of here. But where to go? I can’t go back to Oliver, I don’t even want to think what he’ll do to me when he finds out Claudio is on the Luthors’ side. But where do I hide? It’s not like I have many *friends* who’d be willing to hide me.’

Claudio watched Lynette and marvelled at the emotions running across her face.

“You know, I’m not in the habit of breaking promises,” he said after a moment.

“What’s going to happen to me?” asked Lynette, not registering what he had said.

“That depends on you,” he replied. “Like I said earlier I’m not in the habit of breaking my promises.”

“What has that got to do with anything?” Lynette got up from the bed, swaying slightly as her strength wasn’t back to being 100%. “Beside, everyone breaks promises, especially the male of the species.”

“Well I’m the exception. I told you that I would protect you if you told me everything and that offer still stands. Yes I lulled you into a sense of feeling safe so that you would willingly give me the information. But I do know that Oliver will kill you, well torture you first then kill you if you leave here without those books. And I can guarantee that you aren't getting them, I won't stop you leaving if that is what you want to do to. But you will be leaving empty-handed.”

“I can go if I want?” she said incredulously.

Claudio stepped away from the door and gestured towards it. “Be my guest,” he said.

“And you won’t try and stop me?”

Claudio nodded and Lynette frowned.

“Do you want me to prevent you from leaving?” he asked, a smile on his face. “Would that make it easier?”

“What are you talking about? Easier?”

“If I *make* you stay in your own mind your *betrayal* has some sort of justification. But staying off your own back makes you feel guilty, well in your mind anyway. Unfortunately I don’t work like that. As I said you are free to go, but if you want to stay my offer to protect you from Oliver stands. The decision has to be yours Lynette. You have to stay because you want too.”

“He’ll find me anyway,” she said after a few moments, her voice thick with tears. “I’m betting he already has someone watching to make sure I’m following his orders. I’d say this watcher is waiting for me to make an appearance outside to see what the status is.”

“Would you recognise him if you saw him?”

Lynette shook her head, “he’d have been told to approach me.”

“Perfect. And meet him you shall. We will concoct an answer for him, and that will bide us some time.”

“And give your goddaughter a chance to get home and relay her story,” added Lynette, a small smile now on her face.

“Of course,” smirked Claudio. “Does this mean you are going to stay Lynette?”

“It’s not like I have anywhere else to go,” she replied, shrugging her shoulders. “And heading to Oliver’s and my immediate demise is just not an option. I’ll stay and we’ll see what happens. Of course you do realise that this doesn’t necessarily mean I’m all for the good side or such. I’m purely in it for my own survival.”

“Never doubted that for a moment,” replied Claudio, a smug smile on his face. “Come now, let us get your story down for your *unplanned meeting* with Oliver’s mole.”

-------------------------------------------------

‘How fucking surreal is this?’ thought Lex. ‘My body is lying unconscious in Smallville, and my spirit is, well I’m not sure exactly where I am. But there is a very large and ancient demon acting as my host.’

That was another thing… Altair. Lex, of course, had heard his father talking about the demon, but that still didn’t prepare him for actually meeting him.

After introducing himself Altair had led Lex to a large room, gestured for him to sit down, and then proceeded to completely blow his mind with what he revealed.

“Are you ok young Luthor?” asked Altair, as he took notice of the far away look on his face.

“Call me Lex,” he replied automatically. But he knew it wouldn’t have any effect. The demon insisted on calling him ‘young Luthor’ and delighted in telling him his father was addressed by the same moniker.

“I do of course realise everything I have told is most overwhelming, but I would be very disappointed if you weren’t to take it all in your stride. You are a Luthor after all.”

“Why all this?” asked Lex, gesturing around the room. “Why not tell my father when he was in Egypt? Or why did you not just come to Smallville to tell me?”

“I have a flair for the dramatic,” chuckled Altair. “And despite my power, I am still bound by certain laws and rules. Making the initial direct contact is one such law. I need to have those I wish to tell something to seek me out first. And like I said after thousands and thousands of years I do enjoy a flair for the dramatics.”

“Is Chloe ok?” asked Lex.

“Please young Luthor don’t ask me that. I can not answer you.”

“Another one of these rules you mentioned.”

“Yes unfortunately,” replied Altair. “But I will tell you this, she still very much belongs to you.” He grinned at Lex.

Those words were enough, for the moment, for Lex. It meant Oliver hadn’t touched her… Gods he missed her so much… They had never been apart like this since they got together. Even during the time after he claimed her, when she was coming to terms with him being a vampire, they were still *together*. During that separation he never felt the deep sense of loss that he felt now. He had to get her back, and soon… He needed her. He needed to feel her in his arms… wrapped around his body.

He closed his eyes, and took a deep breath.

“Be strong young Luthor,” Altair’s deep voice sounded. “All will be well. I’ve always had faith in the Luthors. You are by far my favourite family over the millennia. I fully intend on being introduced officially to your mate… and I fully expect in the years to come to hear of and again eventually meet your children.”

“Can I tell my family what you have told me?”

“Not all of it… Another rule. When you get to something you shouldn’t be revealing you will find yourself unable to… And no amount of magic can loosen your tongue.”

“That’s fucking ridiculous, what’s the point in telling me then?”

“I don’t make the rules… they have been around since time began. I don’t question them; only obey them. Now I think you have been separated from your family for long enough. I expect the lovely Lillian is most concerned about you.

“But… I have…” Lex began but continued no more as a bright light exploded…

“Good luck young Luthor, you’re going to need it,” murmured Altair… “But like your father before you you’ll justify the belief the fates have in you for burdening you with this threat to the demon and human world.

Sighing wearily Altair disappeared and reappeared back in his underground cave in Egypt. “I am getting far too old for all of this,” he murmured, and allowed himself a small chuckle.

-------------------------------------------------

Sergi relayed everything that Alyssa had told him to a captive audience. He told them about Lynette and the plan Oliver had concocted for her. He had also included the details of what kind of books Oliver wanted… ones to help him seduce Chloe.

“Thank goodness Lex is still knocked out,” murmured Lucas.

“Amen to that,” replied Karl.

Sergi finished by saying that Alyssa was on her way back with some books that would help disable the spells and wards that Oliver had around the property where he was keeping Chloe.

“He’s getting desperate,” said Lionel. “He is seeking out alternative ways. Obviously his own plans aren’t working out so he reaching for alternatives.”

“Alyssa also mentioned that Etienne was no longer in the picture. She said Lynette didn’t know exactly what had happened but it was Oliver that ended him.”

“Etienne probably suffered his fate because he couldn’t decipher the unbinding spell,” said Elena. “At least that’s a plus.”

“I know what I’m about to ask sounds crude,” began Lucas. “But I don’t understand why Oliver is bothering to seduce Chloe, why doesn’t he just… rape her and leave it at that?” Lucas cringed slightly as the look of horror that passed everyone’s face, especially Gabe’s.

“I’m sorry Gabe, I don’t mean to be cruel,” he said apologetically.

“I know you don’t,” said Gabe, smiling at Lucas. “It’s just a shock hearing someone say it out loud. I must admit that it is a question I have asked myself.”

“Seducing Chloe… having her willingly give herself to him would damage us far more than him just taking her.”

All heads turned to see Lex standing in the doorway.

“Oh my darling,” cried Lillian rushing to him and pulling him into a hug. “I was so worried,” she whispered, tightening her arms around him.

“I’m ok mom,” replied Lex, hugging her back.

It took a moment for Lillian to compose herself and when she did she released Lex. Taking his hand she led him further into the room and they sat down.

“Are you after an Oscar for most dramatic vampire Lex?” teased Lucas. “Because if you are, you’re looking like a dead cert.”

Lex just smiled at his brother, sensing the concern hidden underneath the teasing.

“Good to see back among us,” said Gabe… A sentiment echoed by the others.

“Back to what you said when you entered the room Lex. About Oliver taking Chloe willingly,” said Lionel.

“Think about it dad… If he takes her against her will, that just makes us, well me in particular, angrier and more hell bent on destroying him. But if Chloe where to succumb to him... well I don’t even want to dwell on the devastating impact that would have.” Even as he spoke the words Lex had to fight down the feeling of revulsion and despair that welled within him. But he had to be strong, and there was still what Altair told him to help guide him.

Sergi quickly updated Lex on what had happen in Hungary. He told him everything, including what books Oliver was looking for.

“Now that was a mess up on Oliver’s part,” said Lex when Sergi finished. “He never knew of Claudio’s relationship with your family.”

“Not many people do,” said Natasha, “other than yourselves, no one else knows Claudio is Alyssa’s godfather.”

“And poor Lynette chooses the wrong vamp again to get involved with,” chuckled Lucas.

“At least Claudio will protect her if that is what she wants,” added Lillian.

“Is that everything that has happened since I got knocked out?” asked Lex.

“Yes, that’s pretty much all of it,” said Anna.

“Ok, let me tell you what happened to me,” began Lex. “I found myself in this corridor, with large doors either side.”

With this revelation Sergi and Lionel shared a look.

“I won’t go into details as to what was behind those doors, suffice to say they weren’t pleasant,” continued Lex. “After a while I met Altair,” he looked at his father.

“I knew it,” exclaimed the older Luthor. “As soon I heard you mention the corridor and doors I thought Altair.”

“It’s exactly like something he would do,” added Sergi. “Why can’t he just contact people normally?"

“I asked him the same thing, he mentioned something about rules and laws,” chuckled Lex.

“What did he tell you son?” asked Lillian.

“I can’t tell you everything,” said Lex. “If I try to reveal something I shouldn’t I will be stopped. And no, I don’t know how I’ll be stopped. Altair said again this was all part of the laws and rules. What I can say is that all of this has been prophesised. My mating with Chloe… Dominic’s demise… Oliver’s resurrection… The war that is upon us all of it, prophesied. And like with any prophecy there are a number of outcomes.”

“Of which you can’t discuss,” said Nikolas wryly.

“Exactly. But all is not lost; we do have a chance to come out of this victorious. And our chances of victory will be greatly increased if, no when we get Chloe back.”

“Is Chloe part of this prophesy?” asked Clark.

“Yes, very much so,” whispered Lex. “I can’t tell you much more.”

“We understand,” said Gabe, patting Lex’s shoulder.

“Ok, so what happens now?” asked Christine.

“We wait for Alyssa to get back, and Byron is on way here as well. We’ll need him to figure out the wards around the property,” said Lionel. “I don’t want to go anywhere near Scotland until we are properly *armed*.”

“Our main goal should be of course to get Chloe out. I’m not even bothered about Oliver at this stage,” said Lex. “Yes, if the opportunity arises to take him out we’ll go for it. But getting Chloe is far more important.”

“I agree son,” nodded Lionel. “But we will bring the horns Altair gave me just in case the opportunity presents itself.”

“Ok, let me see the plans for where she is being held... We need to know it all inside out,” said Lex, his voice all business.

lj715

12th June 2006, 19:07

Excellent chapter. Very tricky of you for not letting all of ALtairs's revelations to Lex out yet. I think Lynette will actually help the Luthor's ( maybe...later on). Seeing that Claudio did offer her protection & he won't go back on his word. Ohhhh, this is so good. I want Lex to get Chloe soon! Can't wait for next week.

letia84

12th June 2006, 19:09

Omg.:ecstatic:

I hate this rules thing. I want to know what Altair told Lex. :tantrum: But I guess I will find out sooner or later:devil:

Wonderful update. Stupid Lynette she's switched sides but it looks like everyone is out to kill her. They are so close to getting Chloe I can't wait for her and Lex to be together again.

Next Monday is to far away.

Alizaleven

12th June 2006, 19:57

Ooooo this was a good update! I can't wait for the chlex! hehe good job :D

slayer44

12th June 2006, 21:00

Why can't they just kill Lynette. She serves no purpose, she's just an annoyance. I was soooo happy about the whole prophecy stuff, at least we know things will eventually be right. Altair, ah man, I'm already loving him.

kcsgirl82

12th June 2006, 23:15

excellent update!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope this means that Lex and Chloe will be together again soon and maybe Oliver will get what is coming to him!!!!!!!

pipersmum

13th June 2006, 00:31

I have been so busy I forgot what day it was again!!! I loved it Fiona and I should have known we will have to wait to find out what Lex was told!

It won't be long now and they will be back together right???

westwingwolf

13th June 2006, 01:21

Man do I love it when Lex is all take charge. Oh and Altair really is kind of fun in his own sort of way. Poor powerful demon, stuck all alone in that cave. He deserves to have some fun in any way he can. OK, am I suppose to feel sorry for Lynette? B/c I don't like that I kinda do. Oh I'll just wait to see how that all pans out. And I really like that Chloe and Lex's mating was prophecized. I'm mean I know the whole idea that she turned out to be his mate, should be enough on the whole 'meant to be' front, but I love it even more that there is some like written down fate or destiny and their love has a big impact on the world. Yeah, maybe that only made sense in my mind, but again I say 'oh well.' I feel so bad for Lex, I'm missing the moments when Chloe and Lex are together too. Still going to make us suffer, huh? Fine be that way, it's not like I'm going to stop reading now.

star del mar

13th June 2006, 06:07

Well at least Altair was good for something :) Granted Lex can't tell his family any of the good stuff but now they have an idea of what is going on. They're getting the upper hand, finally! Oliver has severely underestimated the Luthor family. I'm sure they'll have Chloe back in no time. Great update!

Steph*

Gina41283

13th June 2006, 06:57

lol i'm still getting over the whole claudio thing..... ^_^ please update soon!!!! i wanna know what's going on on chloes side!!!!

xiaoyouangel

13th June 2006, 06:59

another amazing chapter...
hey lex! if you cant tell your family and friends what has been revealed by altair to you, perhaps you can tell it to us? ur supporters....:yeahbaby:
cant wait for the next update...

Gaia

13th June 2006, 09:28

A prophesy? Nice. And it would be most likely that Chloe plays a big part in something like that. After all she is a Luthor:) mated and everthing. Chloe Luthor- a master vampire. Has a nice ring to it.
Anyway- go and make Oliver's as being kicked Fiona!

Shy Butterfly

13th June 2006, 11:53

That was a great update.
I like the idea with the prophecy that was just amazing!

lilinny

14th June 2006, 02:40

Lex is back and in charge. Great update!!!!

Lyl

14th June 2006, 05:47

Nicely done...I've been on the edge of my seat for the past month or so....
Can't wait to see what happens next.

sarah_7174

14th June 2006, 16:40

Finally they are going to rescue chloe, luv the story, update soon

Lillian

15th June 2006, 19:04

Great update. A prophesy,wow! And Choe and Lex are the chosen, great.

I can't wait to find out what Altair tell Lex.

teb85

16th June 2006, 02:16

Fantastic update, as usual ! I can't wait to find out about the prophecy ! looking forward to next update !!

westwingwolf

17th June 2006, 12:29

Ok I know I already gave a review for the last chapter, but over the last few days I reread my favorite parts, skipping some parts about Dominque (man would I give anything to have him back instead of Oliver) and stopping where I gave my first review of this story, because I couldn't bare the angst again. It's nothing against your writing, in fact it's your amazing skills that made me do so because I couldn't bare the heartache again.

However, in rereading some of your comments I noticed how coy you were being about who might live and who might die. Now, I feel that in exchange for some of the lives that you were thinking about killing, I will be okay with you killing some others. Who? Well, there's Oliver and his minions, and you can have Lynette. What is this list not appealing because it's not surprising? Oh ok, then I'll add Lana and Nell. Still not surprising? Well, then I don't know what to do for you because I will not budge on anyone else. It's your own damn fault for making the rest of the characters likable.

I know the story of Lana and Nell is on the backburner for obvious reasons, but I loved it when Lucas was messing with them, and I can't wait for Chloe to come back so he can finally tell them off and she can be there to see it.

Oh and Gabe has to be turned because he has to be around to see his grandchildren.

And finding out that Lucas has a mate will be good when that time comes. I vote for Alyssa because it would be cool to have the Luthors and Romanovs bonded and you said they are similar.

In exchange for all those wonderful, good characters to be spared, I will continue to reply and read this amazing story, but if one of them dies then I'm just going to have to quit right then. What? What do you mean it's an empty threat? That I won't be able to stay away? It's true I tell you. TRUE!!! MUAHAAHAAHAA!!! ...... Um I've got to go back to my padded cell now.

keyo9387

17th June 2006, 20:03

woot woot..i can't wait for them to get chole out. good work.

stwbrrydelight

18th June 2006, 12:29

promising, very promising...Lex and family are now prepairing for battle, yum.
Sounds like the future of a united Lex and Chloe may be near...now if only the update that would make it so were to appear!

meg20

18th June 2006, 13:58

This keeps getting better and better!
Liked the spun with Alyssa being the old man's god - daughter and glad that they now have a way to get Chloe back. Also lovely idea about that prophecy!

ruafair

19th June 2006, 13:23

Crappy weekend.... I was sick and a couple of other shitty things happened.... Anyways this is for Emily North.... she's knows why... Fiona

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Sixty Two – Stepping Up a Gear

The following morning Chloe was able to get out of the bed with relative ease. There were still a few aches but nothing like the pain she had felt before. Her mind was also starting to feel much clearer, and there hadn’t been anymore fuzzy thoughts about Oliver.

Moving slowly across the room she made her way to the window. Pulling across the curtains she marvelled at the wonderful expanse of land that greeted her. She still had no idea where exactly she was… “But I’m definitely not in Kansas anymore,” she murmured.

It was raining this particular morning, not heavily, but enough to cause a mist to settle over the grounds. Chloe sighed; she missed Lex… Now that her mind was clearer she really felt his absence.

She had tried contacting him through the mind speak, but all she got for her efforts was a blinding headache. She figured they were too far apart for it to work.

Leaning closer to the window Chloe breathed against the glass, causing a small section to fog up. She drew a less than perfect heart in the cloud with her finger and wrote Lex’s name in it. Smiling sadly at her *attempt* she left the window and headed to the bathroom.

------

A loud chuckle erupted from Oliver’s throat as he watched Chloe draw her heart… but the chuckle turned into a growl when he saw the name she wrote in it.

“Get me Philip,” he shouted out. And heard the frantic footsteps of the man standing outside his office as he ran to comply with his order.

His gaze was drawn back to the monitors and he watched Chloe get into the shower. But he switched off that monitor as he heard the hurried footsteps of the doctor approach.

“You wanted to see me Oliver,” the doctor’s hesitant voice sounded as he stood in the doorway.

“Yes,” smiled Oliver. “Please do come in Philip… and shut the door behind you.”

As he turned his back to shut the door Philip swallowed the lump that had suddenly appeared in his throat. He willed his heart to slow down as he turned to face Oliver.

“Philip, let’s cut to the chase,” began Oliver, his body slowly morphing into it’s demon form. “I am very disappointed with your methods. There has been no progress made with Chloe. I stopped the sedative at your advice; we increased the drug a little… But all that came of that *bright*idea was the fact Chloe doesn’t seem to be afraid of me, and she recovered her strength.” He paused for a moment as he allowed his wings to unfurl a little.

“I don’t like being disappointed Philip,” he continued, approaching the terrified doctor. “Chloe’s capitulation is integral to my overall plan succeeding… And at the moment it’s just not happening. Now why is that?”

‘Maybe it’s because she is just not interested in you,’ thought Philip, although he would never voice *that* opinion.

“Well Philip,” growled Oliver when the man didn’t answer.

“I don’t know Oliver,” he replied, his voice shaking. “All my research into the drug came back with favourable results. There is no logical reason as to why it is not affecting her. She is only human, and a young one at that, plus her mating with Luthor is still relatively fresh… the drug should be working. I don’t understand why you just don’t take her. It’s not like she could fight you off,” he finished with a mumble.

“But it isn’t Philip. And as for not just taking her as you so eloquently put it, I have already explained my reasons behind that.” Oliver walked right up to the man, towering over him and staring down with glowing red eyes. “Now I want you to think very carefully before answering my next question.” One clawed hand shot out and grabbed the man loosely around the neck… “Because your answer will determine whether or not I let you live.”

Philip’s eyes widened and he fought the urge to struggle against the demon. Knowing that doing that would only infuriate Oliver more.

“The question is how do you fix it to make the drug work on her without overdosing her on it of course?”

Philip’s heart thumped wildly as he struggled to come up with an answer that would not get him killed. But to his dismay he couldn’t. He didn’t know why the drug wasn’t working. And if he were to tell Oliver that it would result in the demon snapping his neck. A sudden thought appeared… while researching the drug he had come across another. ‘It’s very risky,’ he thought, ‘but unfortunately for the girl I believe *my* life is more important.’

Philip cleared his throat as best he could with a hand wrapped around it. “I may have… something,” he began, licking his dry lips.

“I’m listening.”

“During my research I came across this hallucinogenic drug. It contains has a number of ingredients, some of them rather obscure. I don’t remember them all to hand. But one of the many components was a combination of venom from a number of deadly snakes. The beauty of this drug is that is works on a subliminal level. You administer it to a sleeping victim and then plant messages or images into their subconscious.”

“All this sounds very interesting Philip, but what aren’t you telling me. There are the obvious pluses you’ve just mentioned, but what are the minuses?”

“The drug is highly illegal… in fact he hasn’t really been tested. Any subjects that were exposed to it went insane. But it, to my knowledge, has never been tried on a vampire. And yes I know Miss Sullivan is not a vampire, but she is mated to a vampire and a very powerful one at that. I believe that gives her an edge over many others.”

Oliver seemed to regard the man for a moment; He had let go of the doctor’s neck, but stood staring at him. Philip for his part tried to remain calm and hold the demon’s stare.

“How soon could you have this drug?” Oliver asked, as he slowly transformed back into his human appearance.

Inwardly breathing a sigh of relief, Philip replied with “four days at the most.”

“Make it so,” said Oliver, returning to his seat, all signs of the demon gone. “And while you are waiting for the drug to arrive you will gather all the information you can on it, including the results of these failed tests.”

“I’ll get right on it,” said Philip, rubbing his neck. Sensing that Oliver wasn’t going to say anything else he moved to the door.

“Oh Philip, this is your last chance. If this doesn’t work I will kill you, slowly and very painfully. Is that understood?”

“Yes, understood,” gulped Philip.

“Well off you go then, you do have a lot to do.”

And Philip hurried out of Oliver’s room; the demon’s laugh echoing in his ears.

------

Before turning back to his monitors and Chloe Oliver’s phone rang.

“What?” he barked down the line.

“I made contact with Lynette. I am meeting her tomorrow night,” the voice on the other end said.

“Excellent,” replied Oliver, his tone changing. “I want to know every detail of the meeting.”

“Of course.”

“Actually, kill her anyway,” said Oliver after a moment.

“Even if she doesn’t have the books?” the surprised voice asked.

“Yes. Lynette is a liability. If she has the books make her death quick. If not, I’ll leave it up to you. Either way I expect you on your way back here after the meeting.”

“Yes sir,” and the man hung up.

Allowing himself a small smile Oliver disconnected his own phone and turned back to the screen. He let out a laugh as he watched Chloe rummage around the room. Her strength returning in leaps and bounds. She was completely dressed, wearing a long green silk nightgown with a matching robe, items not very appropriate for wandering around or planning an escape. But she would find no other clothes in her closet and drawers. Oliver had them stocked with all forms of nightwear, and lingerie.

So watching her pull apart her room in a vain attempt to find an escape route, dressed as she was made Oliver laugh.

“MMM maybe it’s time to expand her surroundings,” he murmured, rising from his seat. He crossed the room to a small dresser and took the white box lying on it into his hands.

-------------------------------------------------

“Damn,” muttered Chloe and gave a chair a kick. “Stupid windows that won’t open.”

After her shower she had raided through the closets but was dismayed to find nothing much nightgowns... long, short, see-through… And while yes there were beautiful and obviously expensive they were not items of clothing that Chloe would lounge around in.

She suppressed a shudder at the thought of Oliver picking out the garments. And it wasn’t just the nightgowns; there were drawers of underwear as well. Like the gowns the lingerie was undoubtedly expensive… and some of it very sexy.

After picking the plainest underwear and gown to wear Chloe set about examining the room she was in. Now that her strength was almost at 100% she felt it was time to start planning a way out of here, or at least a way to get a message to Lex.

But her searching proved futile. The room was secure. Not one of the windows in the bedroom or bathroom opened. The closets etc contained no hidden doors… hell there wasn’t even a ventilation shaft in either room. Oh she had noticed that the main bedroom door had no lock on it, but when she had peeked outside the two rather large and ugly vampires standing outside made her close it again very quickly.

She sat down on the small couch and sighed. Escape wasn’t looking like a viable option… So maybe she should focus her energies on getting a message to Lex.

‘But what to say, I don’t even know where I am.’

Her attention was drawn back to the door when she heard the two vampires saying “sir.” And the door opened and Oliver strolled in, carrying a box in his hands.

“Good morning Chloe, and how are we today?” he asked cheerfully, laying the box on a table.

“I’m as well as anyone being kept against their will and away from the loved ones could be,” retorted Chloe.

“That’s nice to hear,” replied Oliver. “How do you like your room?”

Chloe cocked an eyebrow and glared at him.

“Under the *circumstances* how do you like your room?” he asked again, a small smirk playing on his lips

“It’s ok,” she said with a shrug. “There is a nice view out of the windows that don’t open.”

Oliver laughed, the sound rumbling around the room.

‘He is attractive,’ thought Chloe. ‘Not as attractive or sexy as my Lex, but he is easy on the eye.’

“So any hints at what the view is?” she chanced. Hoping that maybe he’d let something slip seeing as he was in such a good mood.

Oliver knew quite well what she was up to and decided to dangle a carrot for her. “I’ve always found the Highlands wild and beautiful to look at,” he said, staring at her.

‘Highlands… Scotland,’ thought Chloe. ‘Ok that’s a start.’

“I have some business to attend to,” said Oliver, interrupting her musing. “But I wanted to inform you that I will be expecting your company for dinner this evening. Please be ready at 8.00pm and you are to wear what’s in the box. I have no doubt that among your now vast underwear collection you will find something to match.”

‘Yeah right,’ thought Chloe`. 'If he thinks I’m wearing anything from that box he’s got another thing coming.’

“Oh and if you’re not dressed by 8.00pm, I will have your two *friends* outside the doors strip and dress you. The choice of course is yours my dear. Either way I still get to have dinner with you wearing the dress. You enjoy the rest of your day.” He winked at her and left the room.

“Bastard,” Chloe called out. And she stubbornly remained seated on the couch determined not to rush over and see what was in the box… At least not yet.

-------------------------------------------------

THAT EVENING

Chloe left it as late as possible before rising to dress. Again ignoring the box she took a quick shower and came back out wrapped in a fluffy towel. Taking a deep breath she approached the table and lifted the lid form the box. Peeling back the layers of pink tissue paper, her hands touched something silky.

“Oh fuck,” she gasped as the dress was revealed to her. “He’s got taste, I’ll give him that.” She gently lifted the dress out and held it up to look at it properly. It was black satin, with spaghetti straps that were made of tiny crystals. A long slit on one side of the dress was also lined with the same crystals.

She placed it to the side and took out the shoes that came with it. Again they were black and had the tiny crystals sprinkled over them.

Sighing she laid the shoes down and went over the one of the underwear drawers… She rummaged through it for a minuet and came up with a black bra and matching panties. Deciding not to give them too much thought she hurried over to the table gain and grabbing the dress went into the bathroom.

------

Oliver chuckled as he watched Chloe enter the bathroom. He switched off the monitors, wanting his first sight of her in the dress to be when she arrived for dinner.

He left his room and was met by one of the *guards* that was normally stationed outside Chloe’s room.

“Call for her at 7.55pm, and bring her to the main dining room.”

“Yes sir,” growled the vampire and turned to head back to Chloe’s room.

“Now, let’s see what happens this evening,” said Oliver with a grin, and walked towards the dining room, a bounce in his step.

Gaia

19th June 2006, 13:39

Chloe should strangle Oliver with that dress...when Lex finally rescues her:D
Keep the updates coming please:D

pipersmum

19th June 2006, 14:18

Sorry your not well relax and put your feet up :) Every week I am left wanting more I can't wait to see what happens with this new drug Oliver is considering!! Great update Fiona I would say I am looking forward to Monday but I am going to be on holiday so I have to wait :eek: :eek: It will seem like ages for me!!

lj715

19th June 2006, 15:07

Great update, as always. I loved Chloe making a little heart on the window with Lex's name in it. I hope Lex & everybody can save Chloe before this drug is ready to be given to her. It sounds very dangerous. Don't like Chloe thinking Oliver is attractive & that he has good taste. She should wear some granny panties under it. (lol) Can't wait for the next update. I hope Lex & Chloe get together soon. This is driving me crazy!

letia84

19th June 2006, 20:01

OH this is such a nice treat after my horrid exam. :D

‘He is attractive,’ thought Chloe. ‘Not as attractive or sexy as my Lex, but he is easy on the eye.’
So glad Chloe is awake but I don't like her thinking Oliver is good looking one bit. He should look horrid to her I don't care if he's good looking or not. I hate Oliver. KILL KILL!

Chloe should strangle Oliver with that dress...when Lex finally rescues her
HA! I 2nd this one. I hope this dinner just makes Chloe hate him more.

More please. I really want Lex to get closer to finding her but damn it all I know your going make me what. :evil:

This review seems harsh but take it the wrong way I love this story.

carebear72884

20th June 2006, 00:06

good, but, more.

Gina41283

20th June 2006, 00:54

hmm... interesting.... lol but where's my lex arriving to the scene and kicking olivers hiny action!?!?!?!?!?!? ^_^ please update sooooooooooon!!

westwingwolf

20th June 2006, 01:28

I'm on board with everyone who thinks that Chloe thinking Oliver is good looking in any way is wrong. She knows he's evil and he's the one that made the bomb that almost killed her father. I'm thinking that any point of looking good is negated if someone tries to kill a family member (despite the opinions I have expressed in Zannie's Untouchable, different circumstances allows for different views). I'm going with the idea that any positive thoughts of Oliver are coming from the previous drugs and not personal opinions of Chloe's. I don't care to learn anything different even if it is the truth, I love my life in denialville.

Ok Phillip can go on my list of people I'm willing to see die, here's hoping that he can't get the drug. If he does manage, than here's to it not working and having no bad effects on Chloe.

I'll spend the week hoping that Chloe will be able to break a leg off the dinner table and plunge it into Oliver's heart in the next update.

lilinny

20th June 2006, 01:45

I hope he underestimates her a she finds a way to escape. Oliver will never conquer her!!! I hope you have a great week!!! Great chapter.

xiaoyouangel

20th June 2006, 06:20

i hope chloe will keep mentioning lex and her love for him during dinner so that oliver will be so pissed and will send her to her room before he can even make his moves on chloe

Shy Butterfly

20th June 2006, 12:11

Great update! that was an amazing chapter!!!!

Lune

20th June 2006, 23:28

Go, Luthors/Romanov's! Go! Weeeeee! It's getting closer and closer, can't wait to see what develops next.

Willower

21st June 2006, 01:34

ugh! that oliver just doesn't give up...i can only take comfort in what i know will be his imminent demise.

stwbrrydelight

21st June 2006, 12:40

evil, evil, evil...and not the good kind (like a vamped out Lex)
now lets just hope Chloe has a snap to her and gives Oliver what he deserves

emnorth2002

21st June 2006, 13:24

Crappy weekend.... I was sick and a couple of other shitty things happened.... Anyways this is for Emily North.... she's knows why...

Hurray for updates, and hurray for dedications! I feel so important now! *wink* I'm sorry that That Idiot played a role in your crappy weekend, but I'm glad I was able to make you feel a little better. Thanks for the lovely chapter! I can't wait to see what happens during dinner!
:-)
Em

SinnerSaint

22nd June 2006, 22:00

I totally hate Oliver. I hate him so much I am considering composing a song about it. Really. I love this story though ;)

uncfaery

25th June 2006, 00:01

So, I was going to wait and give feedback when I caught up to the current chapter...but considering that I'm 24 hours into reading this and only on Page 171 out of 452, I figured that giving feedback now would be better.

This is possibly one the greatest fanfic of any fandom, ever! I love it. The original characters have depth and style and I'm as vested in them as I am the canon characters. I absolutely adore your Lillian and find myself reading the story for the actual story and not just the Chlex (which is odd). I'm new to the fandom as I didn't start watching Smallville until a couple of weeks ago (thank god for Netflix and seasons on dvd) but I knew immediately that my otp would be Chloe and Lex. And your story has totally cemented that for me (really cemented it...after this I doubt I'll be able to ship either one of them with anyone else...ever). For an AU story to do that to someone (me in particular) well, that says something for the story doesn't it?

I'm now officially a vested reader of this fic and I'm sure once I wrap my head around the absolute GENIUS of it, I'll be able to actually, you know, give real constructive feedback like a good little reviewer. But until then just know that you've sucked a newbie into the Chlex fandom and into the exquisite universe that you've created within it.

edited to add...

Okay, now that I've finished it I can give more feedback. I love and adore this story. 162 chapters and it STILL has me captivated and wondering what the hell is going on. Your grasp of plot and timing is superb! You've kept me guessing and other than a few minor plot points most of the things that are supposed to be surprises until the moment that they happen have actually remained surprises until the moment that they happen. I'm so vested in this story that now that I've caught up I'm kinda sad that I've caught up...because now I'll have to wait like everyone else for updates. But I guess that's the price you have to pay for exceptional fanfic. Bravo on the exceptional writing and characterizations (even though I think I said that earlier it bears repeating). Bravo!

~uncfaery
(Ashley)

ruafair

26th June 2006, 16:56

Still sick with the stupid flu.... and feeling like crap.... So reading Ashley's words made me feel so much better.... Thank you so much... Welcome to the Sanguis groupies.... CC and Diane will show you the ropes... LOL Again thank you for your kind words Ashley... now on with the show.... Fiona

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Sixty Three – Dinner for Two

Chloe jumped when she heard the knock on her door. “One moment,” she called out.

Smoothing down the front of her dress she inhale and then exhaled a deep breath. She had discovered a matching wrap in the box Oliver had brought, but she left that behind. Also she had pulled her hair back from her neck, making sure Lex’s marks were visible. She had a feeling Oliver wouldn’t be very happy about that, but for some unexplained reason she just couldn’t bear the idea of covering the marks up.

Giving her appearance one last look over in the mirror she opened the bedroom door. Standing on the other side was a rather large vampire.

‘This is the first time I have been out of this room since I got here,’ she thought.

“This way,” grunted the vampire and began walking down the corridor. Chloe followed him slowly, her eyes darting back and forth as she searched for a possible opening in which to escape.

“If you attempt to run away little miss I will get you and drag you back,” growled the vampire, still walking along. “And the master has promised us the if you do try and escape... we get to bathe you for a week. So think very carefully before you do anything stupid.” He looked over his shoulder and grinned at Chloe.

“Bastard,” muttered Chloe, but continued to follow him. And despite his warnings, her eyes were still alert to anything that may serve as a way out.

He led her along corridors and down flights of stairs. All the while she could her whispers and murmurs. And a couple of times she caught glimpses of others peeking at her through slightly open doors.

‘I feel like I’m on display or something,’ she thought. ‘This is going to be a very trying night.’

She was lost in her thoughts and as a result almost walked into the back of the vampire.

“We are here,” he said, standing in front of a large door.

“So what are we waiting for? An invitation?” she added, a grin on her face.

The vampire growled at her. “The master,” he replied.

“The master,” repeated Chloe, in a mocking voice… “You know it would sound more convincing if you put on a Igor-type accent. You know, one like the old Dracula black and white movies,” she chuckled at her own silliness.

The vampire just glared at her once more and turned to face the door. Although Chloe could swear there was the beginning of a smile on his face but he covered it with the glare, and he did roll his eyes. ‘Interesting,’ she thought. ‘Maybe there is a sense of humour there. I’ll file that away, I might be able to work with it later.’

------

Oliver was in the large dining room, pacing slowly back and forth in front of the door.

He heard Chloe approaching and stopped his pacing. He moved back from the door, and casually leaned against the arm of a chair. He was wearing a black suit with a deep grey silk shirt.

He knew Tony would not enter until he had given the word. Glancing at the table behind to make sure everything was in place, Oliver faced the door again.

“Now Tony please,” he called out.

------

On the other side of the door, Tony grunted as he heard Oliver call out. He placed his hands on the door and pushed it open. “Miss Sullivan,” he said and moved to side.

Oliver’s eyes widened as Chloe was revealed to him. His eyes hungrily moved up and down her body. “Beautiful,” he murmured, his eyes flashing red.

“You look delightful my dear. Allow me to escort you to your seat.” He approached her and held out his arm.

Chloe contemplated not taking it, but his eyes still held a hint of red so rather than antagonise him Chloe took his arm.

He led her to the table and after releasing her arm held out her chair for her.

Chloe murmured her thanks as she sat down. Oliver allowed his hand to trail over her bare shoulders before straightening up and taking his own seat. He had seen the marks on her neck, and knew she had left them uncovered on purpose. But he wouldn’t let that get to him.

The moment he was seated a waiter appeared with a bottle of wine. He held it out for Oliver to see and the demon waved him away. “The lady may taste the wine.”

The waiter hurried to Chloe and uncorked the bottle. He poured a small amount into her glass and nodded at Chloe. Biting back a sigh Chloe picked up the glass and took a sip of the wine. It was delicious, and she couldn’t help but tell him so. “MMM,” she said, “that is perfect.”

“Excellent,” grinned Oliver, “Mario, you may proceed.”

The waiter bowed slightly, filled Chloe’s glass then Oliver’s.

“The first course will be served in about ten minutes sir,” said Mario. “Is that acceptable?”

“That’s fine, thank you,” replied Oliver, once again waving his hand for the waiter to leave.

Mario bowed to both of them and left the room.

“A toast I think,” began Oliver, raising his glass and staring a Chloe.

She repeated the action.

“To getting to know each other better,” grinned Oliver.

“Won’t that be fun,” mumbled Chloe sarcastically, and took a sip of her drink.

-------------------------------------------------

Philip had spent the last few hours making phone calls. He had contacted everyone he knew in a bid to gather all the ingredients to make the drug. He had also managed to procure the services of a chemist… one that had a reputation for brewing substances of an illegal nature. For the right price of course, he would make the drug for them, and he was not ignorant to the world of vampires and demons. The man in question would be arriving tomorrow morning.

Philip had severe reservations about doing this, but his survival was on the line. It was unfortunate that the young girl had to suffer but he valued his own neck above hers.

He checked the list he had brought up on the computer… going through each item and comparing it against what he had already procured. There were still a number of items missing, but he earlier phone calls had taken care of that. The missing ingredients would be arriving over the next thirty-six hours.

Sighing he left his desk and headed to the drinks cabinet. Once there he poured himself a very large whiskey, and downed it in one go. Shuddering as the bitter liquid burnt a path down his throat, he poured himself another and moved back to his desk.

He sipped his drink this time while once again perusing through papers. He had only two days to have everything ready to be presented to Oliver. He needed to make sure everything was perfect. And to ensure that it was perfect he had to have a quantity of the drug ready for testing on Chloe Sullivan.

“Poor, poor girl,” he muttered. “If this drug doesn’t kill you, it will turn you into his slave and drive you insane in the process.”

But he pushed the thoughts of sending a young girl to either her death or a life of servitude out of his mind, and concentrated on the more important matter in hand.

-------------------------------------------------

BUDAPEST

“Are you ready for this?” asked Claudio.

“No, not really to be honest,” replied Lynette.

“You will fine,” he said, rubbing her shoulder in comfort. “He won’t be able to do anything. I will be watching the two of you all the time. If he tries, I will take him down. Come on now Lynette, I’ve heard stories of how much a bitch you are… Surely you’re not going to let some minion of Oliver’s scare you.”

“Bet you have a pile of books about reverse psychology?” she said with a small smile.

“Worked didn’t it?” grinned Claudio.

Lynette shook her head and chuckled softly. She had gotten to know the old vampire a lot better during her time with him. She found him to be highly intelligent and have as wicked sense of humour. But there was also an underlying temper… He had told her stories of growing up, of his friendship with the Romanovs. She had questioned him about a mate, wondering where she was… she figured a vampire as old as Claudio probably already had a couple of grandchildren. But he had answered saying that his demon had never looked for one…

“I have quite given up hope on that,” he had said, “it’s not like I’m alone… I have had many wonderful relationships with some incredible women over the centuries… I’ve quite resigned myself to not having a mate.”

Lynette had smiled at this. He really was quite unlike anyone she had ever met, and that included Oliver.

“Our friend has arrived,” murmured Claudio, rousing her from her thoughts.

“Guess its show time.”

“Just remember what we planned. You’ve gone through it enough times to know it. You will be fine Lynette.” He gave her a comforting smile and kissed her forehead gently.

Such a simple and gentle gesture was nearly Lynette’s undoing… No one, not even her parents had shown her so much care.

“Ok, let’s sort this guy out,” she said a moment later, her voice like steel. Squaring her shoulders, she left Claudio and headed in the direction of Oliver’s lackey.

“Good girl,” whispered Claudio, smiling at her retreating back.

-------------------------------------------------

All through their first course and the beginning of the second Oliver had chatted away. He told Chloe about the history surrounding the mansion they were in. He also took great pleasure in pointing out the even if she managed to get out of the mansion, the surrounding grounds, and forests were very heavily protected by spells, wards, and other demons

Chloe had kept her side of the conversion to one-word answers, and the odd comment. She found herself concentrating on her host more so than on what he was actually saying. As he continued to speak she could hear his German accent. Over certain words it was stronger. The other thing she noticed is that his eyes never moved from her while he spoke… and that she found unsettling.

“Well I seem to have been doing all the talking,” he said, pulling her from her thoughts. “Don’t you have anything you’d like to say?”

‘Where to start?’ thought Chloe.

She laid her knife and fork on the table and took a long sip of her wine. “Why did you stop sedating me?”

Oliver placed his elbows on the table and rested his chin in his steepled hands. “I find you much more fun fully awake,” he grinned.

Chloe cocked an eyebrow at him.

“If you are upset that you are not being sedated any more Chloe I can start it up again. Is that what you want?”

“No, no not at all. I prefer being alert…” she replied. “Easier to plan my escape that way,” she added with a smirk. And she was pleased to notice that Oliver frowned at this. ‘HA, take that. You are sorely mistaken Oliver if you think I am going to play the passive victim in all this. I am going to make your life hell. You have *no* idea how stubborn I can be,’ she thought.

“Plan away my dear… I will wait for your first attempt with bated breath,” replied Oliver.

“You don’t need to breath,” she muttered. “How did you get involved with Dominic?” she asked a moment later.

“Met him in Munich… he had need of my *explosive* talents,” said Oliver.

“Did you know he was a vampire?”

“Yes. I had heard stories from the people that arranged our meeting. I had met my first vampire when I was a teenager and I was fascinated. Over the next number of years our worlds crossed paths. Then I met Dominic, and found myself completely immersed in their world.”

“But you didn’t become a vampire immediately, why?” she asked. Despite whom she was talking too, the reporter in Chloe couldn’t resist a story. Plus she might find out more about what he was planning if she continued asking questions.

“As much as their life attracted me I wasn’t ready for that step yet,” he said with a shrug of his shoulders. It was refreshing that she was talking to him… and talking to him with curiosity, and not fear.

“Ok, so blowing up the plant in Smallville made you ready, why?”

“Ah I see the Luthors told you about that.”

“Oh not at the beginning… at the time of the explosion the only thing I was concerned about was the my father was in a coma… as a result of your and Dominic’s plan. You didn’t know that my dad worked for the Luthors,” she added at the look on his face.

‘Shit,’ thought Oliver, he didn’t know that information. ‘How the fuck did I miss that?’

“He was in a coma for months," continued Chloe. “The doctors didn’t know if he would come out of it. Actually the only good thing that came out of all that was that Lex and I got closer.”

“I’m so…”

“Don’t even think about it,” she interrupted. “You are not apologising for the people that died, you’re only apologising for my dad… Sorry doesn’t cut it, what about those families destroyed by the explosion, are you going to say sorry to them?”

“Be very careful little girl,” growled Oliver, allowing his anger to get the better of him over her almost condescending tone. How dare she speak to him like that… his demon was incensed. Yes he admired her spirit and passion but she needed to know her place. As his chosen queen she would never be his equal, and she needed to know that.

“Or you’ll do what? Kill another bunch of innocent people and then make it all better by saying sorry,” Chloe spat back sarcastically. She hadn’t intended on letting things spiral like this, but when he had the audacity to apologise over putting her dad in a coma, well something inside her just snapped.

Oliver growled and in the blink of an eye Chloe found herself pressed against the wall by him. “You would do well to remember your place,” he growled as he let his demon form take over.

“Or what?” she choked out, holding onto the hand that was around her neck.

“Or you will find yourself hanging naked in a dungeon… and I will ensure you are intimately acquainted with ever single vampire in this house. Do I make myself clear?”

Chloe nodded.

“You maybe special… but if you continue to push me I will have you begging for your death.”

He stared at her… savouring the fear flowing off her in waves.

“Tony,” he barked out, and within seconds the large vampire appeared.

“Sir.”

“Take her to her room, and make sure she doesn’t leave,” he all but threw Chloe into other vampire. “NOW.”

Tony took a shaken Chloe by the elbow and hurried her out of the room.

“DAMN, DAMN, DAMN, DAMN,” muttered Oliver as he morphed back. “That could have gone better. Mario.”

The waiter appeared.

“Get me Philip now.”

He stormed over to the table and with a roar overturned it.

“Fuck this… as soon as Philip is here I will tell him to forget the tests… He will brew the drug and it will be administered to her immediately.”

lj715

26th June 2006, 17:23

ACK!!!! I don't like this drug one bit. I only hope that Phillip finds some sympathy for Chloe & screws with the drug or something to that effect. Lynette is Claudio's mate....isn't she? Oh, I hope either they, or Phillip , can come thru for Chloe. I was so glad that she snapped when Oliver started to apologise for her father getting hurt in the plant explosion. If Oliver didn't know that, there must be some weak spot the Luthor's can exploit to get Chloe back.

Great chapter!!!!! Always want more!!! Hope you feel better & can't wait for the next update!!!!!

Kit Merlot

26th June 2006, 18:45

Just caught up on this fic, and I must say, GO CHLOE!

Good for her for throwing it in Oliver's face that his bomb hurt her dad. Does he still think his charm is going to work on her? Not bloody likely.

But now we have this horrible drug to worry about. The Luthors and their crew need to get Chloe out and pronto.

But I wonder if Tony, who smiled at Chloe's joke, will help her in some way?

Excellent work , FI:D

katieandjason

26th June 2006, 20:50

Gah!!!! WHAT?!?!?! Well, take THAT, seduction-minded Oliver. Chloe is much more than you expected, and shame on you for underestimating her.

And whoa! Chloe! What were you thinking?! It's one thing to be fearless, antagonistic, and spunky... it's another thing entirely to forget self-preservation entirely. 'Know thy enemy.' Lex says it all the time, haven't you picked up on it yet?! But, I've got to give you mucho credit for standing up to him the way you did and for totally ruining his seduction plans, that's one worry off my back.

Fiona, FABULOUS UPDATE!!! I've been waiting and waiting and waiting for Oliver and Chloe to interact on equal footing and you didn't let me down.

elitekat

26th June 2006, 22:56

It took me 3 days to read up to date. All I can say is WOW! Vampire Lex and Vampire Lucas. YUM! I'm looking forward to see how the fic progresses. You've done a great job in creating another backdrop for our favorite Smallville couple. I love the fact that it has some basis in the Smallville that we watch every week and your interpretation of it. I especially love that Lucas and Lex are great brothers and that Lillian is alive...unalive? All in all, I just want to say thank you for sharing this and I hope you update soon. I'm so hooked that I don't even want a cure for this addiction. :drool2:

westwingwolf

26th June 2006, 23:00

Way to go Chloe for showing Oliver who he is dealing with. Chloe doesn't settle for anything less than equality, so Oliver will just have to get over having Chloe for his queen. And this new drug thing that they are trying better not work in any way. And why is when I try to hate a character like Lynette you keep writing her in a way that makes me change my mind. I guess I can live with it as long as she doesn't screw up anything. When is Lex going to get to Chloe? Be prepared for me to ask that everytime until he does.

maire78

26th June 2006, 23:44

Great chapter (as alway). Don't much like the thought of that drug, here's hoping the Luthors plans are getting close to fruition.

letia84

27th June 2006, 00:53

Awww... Fiona so sorry your not feeling better. Get your rest!

I enjoyed this update. I love that Chloe is awake and still her self. I couldn't help reading this if the first drug worked on her. Oliver let is demon get the best of him, he should have known better then to mess with her.

Philip is an asshole if she dies, he dies. It really isn't a win either way for him. How can he do this to her. Poor Chloe.

I wonder what this drug will do to her. If it will work but not drive her mad. Poor Lex holding on to hope that she will always be his and Oliver resorting to drugs to take her away from him. I can't wait till they catch him and Torture is in order for him.

Wonderful update. Feel better and next Monday is so far away.

Gina41283

27th June 2006, 02:44

EEK!!!!! goooooo chloe!!!! lol omg it's like a race against time on who's gonna get to her first!!! lex or the drugs!! please update ASAP!!!!!!!!

uncfaery

27th June 2006, 03:03

Don't think of the words as so much being *kind* as being true. I said what I meant so they aren't really that kind, just sweetly factual. (Sorry I tend to go all poetically verbose when caught in a moment, it's the southerner/lit degree in me...)

Anyway...

I hope you feel better. The flu sucks majorly.

Now, on to the important feedback... God, and I thought Oliver was evil before, but now with this other concoction in the works, I don't think I have words. An enslaved Chloe...that's, that's, well, borderline blasphemous. But I have faith, please let it be so, that Lex and the rest of the "family" will get there in time. At least I hope they do because enslaved Chloe gives me nightmares.

~uncfaery
(Ashley)

Queen Of Tact

27th June 2006, 07:10

*hugs* Sorry your not feeling well hon.....

That was a wonderful updat... I must say I love Chloe... I'm so glad she told that ass off... like the others I don't likethe sound of that drug one bit.... I have a feeling the clock is ticking and it now a race for Chloe's life..... I can't wait to read more....

CC

Gaia

27th June 2006, 10:28

Drug...killed....or inslaved...neither sound very tempting. That means that Lex and the gang need to save her before the drug is ready.
About that flu Fiona- try some really warm milk, with honey and some drops of sunflower oil. Or linden blossom tee with honey. If anything else, they will help to sleep better and give energy.

katieandjason

27th June 2006, 16:07

Hey, here's a quick question for you...

Has Oliver found out that the Luthors raided his stash yet? Considering that the vase was meant for Lex, it seems that collection of Oliver's consisted of objects meant for the Luthors that he was holding to keep the power in his court. That's not something Oliver will just let go... Am I nitpicking on a little detail that bears no further mention or will there be a little scene where Oliver is further upset? I'm only asking b/c I think it could be a great reason for Oliver to speed up his timetable, which would leave him open to more mistakes, and could in some way benefit Chloe.

xiaoyouangel

27th June 2006, 17:23

nooooo...no drugs..i hope lex will arrive soon before the drug hits chloe...

lilinny

28th June 2006, 03:42

Yikes!!!! Lex better find her soon. What are they up to anyway? Great chapter.

biscuits

28th June 2006, 04:16

I discovered this fic yesterday and already I am totally at the mercy of your next update. I am amazed and impressed at the motivation and creativity you must have to continue this epic fic.

On a different note, have you read any of Laurell K. Hamilton's books? She has two extended series: one about Anita Blake, a vampire hunter who falls for a vamp, and one about a sidhe royal. They are nearly as delightfully evil, smutty, and torture filled as is your fic and I highly recommend them.

Lune

28th June 2006, 05:46

OMG! oooo is she gonna make Tony like her ^.^ I hope so... take /that/ Oliver ;p

Dark Topaz

30th June 2006, 11:24

the calvary can arrive any time now

Willower

30th June 2006, 17:50

take that oliver! i love how chloe just let him know about...that's my favorite smart mouth. about this drug...wtf mate? i hope lex and co. find chloe straight away.

pipersmum

30th June 2006, 19:22

It has almost killed me waiting til today to read this I have been on holiday so I had to wait for my weekly fix :eek: !!!

I loved Chloe standing up to Oliver although I do feel she didn't think it through properly and it would be really nice for Lynette to be Claudio's mate :) Phillip with the drugs what can I say I felt a GrangeHill moment coming on 'Just say NO!'

Sorry if your from the Uk you should know what I am talking about and also if your over 28!! LOL God I am showing my age now and I seem to be rambling. Ok all that is left to say is I hope you feel better soon Fiona and I am eagerly awaiting Monday.

~Diane~

Lillian

2nd July 2006, 01:04

Good for Chloe, she's a very brave girl.
I hope Lex rescue Chloe before Oliver can give the drug to her.

Great chapter, baby.

teb85

2nd July 2006, 22:45

Great update ! I too have been on holiday and couldn't wait to get back to read my weekly fix !! I'm not likeing the drug idea, fingers crossed it goes wrong before he tries to give it to Chloe or Lex and the gang will rescue her before !! Can't wait until tomorrow for next update !!

ruafair

3rd July 2006, 18:23

Ok, for the number of people who asked how long this fic will be, I have set myself a target of finishing by Chapter 200...... and I'm planning on doing just that... Also, if people are interested, I am *thinking* of doing a sequel... I already have a few ideas floating around, but it depends on my muse and whether or not people still want to read about Vampire Chlex LOL... Anyway before any of that, let's get on with this story... :grin3: Fiona

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Sixty Four – Reinforcements

Lex stood on the balcony outside his and Chloe’s room. He rested his elbows on the smooth marble and leaned forward. He looked out over the moonlit bathed grounds of the Luthor estate.

He bent his head from side to side, trying to work out the muscles in his neck.

He had spent, with his father, brother and Sergi, the entire day bent over the plans of where Chloe was being kept. Ideas for her rescue was offered and discarded. While they all had merit none was the perfect plan. And the strain of trying to come up with one was taking its toll on Lex.

His body and mind was tired. Even the blood he had earlier did nothing to help his energy levels. All he wanted to do was sleep. But even there he wasn’t free… his dreams were filled with Chloe. And each dream just increased the ache he felt at her absence.

‘There had to be a way,’ he thought. ‘There has to be some chink in the armour that Oliver hasn’t thought about. But what is it?’

“Lex,” he heard Gabe’s voice call out as he knocked on the door.

“Come in Gabe,” he said.

A few moments later Gabe entered the room and joined Lex on the balcony.

“Are you ok?” he asked, leaning against the marble.

“I’m just tired Gabe,” replied Lex, smiling at him.

Gabe gave him a pointed look. “Lex you may be several decades older than me, but I am still a parent, so I know when I’m being fobbed off. Remember one of, if not the most stubborn person in the world is my daughter. I have had every trick in the book used on me to try and convince me all was ok…”

Lex chuckled softly as he could easily imagine Chloe trying to talk her father into believing she was ok.

“It is mainly tiredness,” he admitted. “But there is also a hint of feeling totally frustrated. I want to just storm the castle so to speak… Even though I know that would be suicide. I just feel helpless,” he finished in a whisper.

“We all feel like that son,” said Gabe, placing his hand on Lex’s shoulder. “When I first heard that Chloe has been taken I wanted to hunt down the people who took her. Well actually the first thing I wanted to do was curse your family and punch you in the face for dragging her into your world, but that feeling only lasted a second,” he added with a grin.

“I blamed me for dragging her into our world,” admitted Lex.

“This is not your fault Lex, this isn’t anyone fault. Oliver is a sick bastard…”

“But Chloe was taken because of her relationship with me,” cried Lex.

“Still not your fault. But if you want to feel that way then it’s my fault as well.”

Lex gave him a dubious look.

“Well I’m Chloe’s father, I had a hand in her existence… You can then add the fact that it was me who brought her to Smallville in the first place thus opening her up to being dragged into your world. Then there is…”

“Ok, ok,” said Lex shaking his head, a smile on his face. “I get your point. No more feeling guilty… at least not around you.”

“Feeling guilty is a weakness Lex, and you’re no use to Chloe if you’re not completely focussed. I have *complete faith* in you, I wouldn’t trust anyone else to get her, and that includes the rest of your family.”

“I think you’ve been hanging around with my parents for far too long Gabe,” teased Lex. “You’re beginning to sound like my dad. But on a more serious note, thank you… Your faith in me means a lot more than you could imagine. We will get her back.”

“Damn right we will,” grinned Gabe.

-------------------------------------------------

“Oliver obviously hasn’t got much faith in you,” commented Claudio as Lynette took her seat beside him. “Could that vampire be any stupider?”

“He wasn’t the brightest spark in the fire that’s for sure,” she replied with a smile.

The meeting had gone exactly to plan. Lynette had told Oliver’s spy, Vincent, he said his name was that she had convinced Claudio to hand over the books. He was to meet her at the same place tomorrow and she would have the books.

Vincent wasn’t sure whether he should agree or not. And what she told him this he excused himself for a moment and checked with Oliver. Surprisingly Oliver seemed in a good mood and told him to give Lynette one more day. But when he got the books from her she was to be killed. Vincent had returned to the table and told her that he would meet her tomorrow for the books.

They made arrangements for the time, and again this had already been planned with Claudio. When Vincent had left, Lynette waited for about 10 minutes and then made her way back to Claudio’s side.

“He will no doubt be ordered to kill you tomorrow when he gets the books.”

“But won’t get the chance, as we will capture him,” grinned Lynette. She had to admit working for the ‘good’ side so to speak was a lot better than working for Oliver’s side. ‘Less chance to being tortured,’ she thought. ‘Plus the companions are a hell of a lot more amiable,’ she added, looking at Claudio.

“I don’t hold much hope that he will be able to actually tell us anything,” said Claudio. “But you never know. I will relay everything to Sergi later, just to keep him up to date. I also want to see if the books I sent back with Alyssa where of any use.”

“Have you told them about me?” asked Lynette.

“Not yet. But I plan to tell him later. Are you ok with that?”

“I don’t know,” she replied honestly. “Part of me doesn’t want you to. My history with the Luthors, particularly Lex, is not a very good one. I don’t think they’d be too happy about me helping them. But then again there is a part of me that is very happy that I’ve stood up to Oliver so to speak. I would like families such as the Romanovs and Luthors to know that. My reputation in the vampire world is not a good one; I am a whore to anyone with power they say. And I can’t really argue with that. But helping them against Oliver would go a long way to rebuilding my reputation.”

“So do I tell Sergi?” asked Claudio with a smile. He knew she had talked herself into a ‘yes’.

Lynette thought for a moment. “Yeah, do it. Tell him,” she replied.

“An excellent decision Lynette,” he said, kissing her forehead gently.

-------------------------------------------------

“Byron my friend, so good to see you again,” greeted Gabe, pulling the Englishman into a hug.

“The feeling is mutual Gabe,” smiled the older man. “Although I wish it were under much better circumstances.”

“We’ll get her back soon,” said Gabe.

“Byron, glad you made it,” said Lex, stepping forward and shaking his hand.

Byron took note of Lex’s tired face, and even paler than usual pallor, but said nothing about it. “Your father has told me about the property where Chloe is being held. That area has always had a strong supernatural aura… his wards will be very powerful.”

“Which is why you are here, and why Claudio sent some very interesting books with Alyssa,” said Natasha.

“Byron, you will work with Anna, Gabe and Natasha,” said Lillian. “Karl and Elena have headed to Scotland…they will contact us as soon as they land.”

“Are you sure it’s safe sending them there?” asked Byron.

“No, it’s not,” admitted Sergi. “But Karl volunteered, and then of course Elena refused to let him go alone. They know they are not to get too close to the property, just enough to see what kind a protection is around it.”

“And they are to get out of the country at the first sign of trouble,” added Lucas. “Zhang is still in your place in London, and that is where they are to go.” Lucas was still feeling a little put out that he wasn’t allowed to go, but both Lionel and Lillian had been adamant that he stayed until they launched their rescue.

“Ok, well let me dump my suitcase and freshen up a bit and then we’ll get started.”

“Come with me Byron,” said Anna. “I’ll show you to your room.”

-------------------------------------------------

“I still think this is the best route,” said Lex, pointing to the plans. “See, there is only one way in.”

“And only one way out,” said Lionel.

“But that is to our advantage,” said Clark. He had been listening to the various plans over the last hour and he had to agree with Lex’s. Going underground was the best way.

“Ok Mr Kent, why?” asked Lionel.

“With there only being one way in we don’t have to worry about being ambushed as we enter. We can leave someone posted at the entrance should there be any trouble. Yes I know it limits our escape route. But I think when we get Chloe we’ll be leaving through the front door.”

“Damn right we’ll be heading out the front door,” said Lucas. “Hopefully with Oliver’s head on a stick as well.”

Lionel smiled. “Very well Lex… we go with your plan. You will lead the rescue… which means you pick the team to go.”

“Thank you dad,” he said smiling at his father.

“Right,” he said a few moments later. “This is what we are going to do…”

Lionel watched on with pride as Lex explained the plan to those around the table.

-------------------------------------------------

SCOTLAND

“At last,” groaned Elena flopping onto the bed.

“Come on lazy bones,” said Karl. “We are not here on vacation, we have work to do. I will contact Tracy, and let her know we are here. You call the Luthors and tell them we arrived.”

“Just five minutes Karl, I am so tired.”

“We need to do a few things first and then you can have a long hot bath,” he said. “I’ll even scrub your back for you,” he added with a smirk.

“Now there’s an incentive,” replied Elena sarcastically. But she did get up from the bed.

They had arrived in Glasgow airport and where met by associates of Lex. They had a car for them, and Karl and Elena took off immediately for the highlands. Driving for hours, they eventually stopped at a small farmhouse just before dawn. The farmer, a friend of Byron’s, showed them to a room and left them alone.

Karl knew Elena was as tired as he was, but they needed to make contact with everyone before they could relax for a few hours.

He dialled Tracy’s number, she was a *friend* of Charlotte’s who ran a few clubs in England. She was also a fierce supporter of the Luthors. She would provide them with equipment and spells to get close to where Chloe was being held.

The female vampire answered immediately. And while she and Karl talked he set up his laptop, feeding in information and coordinates as Tracy gave them to him.

While he was doing that, Elena made a call to Smallville and spoke to Lillian. She told her they had arrived, and would remain indoors until it got a little darker. The forecast was for mist and rain in the highlands so they would be able to venture early enough without having to worry about the sun.

She hung up the phone with Lillian’s words to ‘take care’ ringing in her mind and made her way over to Karl. She wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her head again his shoulder.

“I’m nearly done,” he mouthed over his shoulder to her.

“I’ll start the bath,” she whispered softly in his ear. And before pulling away, kissed the side of his neck gently.

Karl smiled as he felt her move away but his attention was drawn back to the phone again. “Sorry Tracy,” he said, “just got sidetracked for a moment. Please carry on.”

He was finding it hard to concentrate on what was being said. He could hear the bath running and Elena humming softly. But thankfully the call was almost finished.

“So that’s everything I’ve got,” said Tracy on the other end. “Be careful you two and the best of luck.”

“Thanks Tracy. Bye,” said Karl, and hung up when he heard Tracy’s goodbye. He placed the phone on the table beside the laptop.

“Oh Karl,” Elena called out.

Smiling he turned towards the bathroom and was hit with something in the face. Peeling it away he discovered it was a bra…

“Water’s getting cold,” she said.

He hurried to the bathroom stripping off as he did. They had a few hours before they had to leave again. ‘Might as well enjoy it as much as I can,’ he thought entering the bathroom and closing the door.

A few seconds later there was a splash and a shriek from Elena, laughter followed but within a minute soft gasps and groans could be heard from the bathroom.

-------------------------------------------------

SMALLVILLE

“It is a very good plan son,” said Lionel when every one else had left the room. “I am very proud of you.”

“Well hold that thought till we get her back,” replied Lex with a smile. He felt much better, his talk with Gabe, plus his father letting him take the lead in the rescue attempt had done wonders for him. The feelings of guilt and anger at what had happened had gone, replaced with a steely determination to get his mate back.

“We will get her back,” said Lionel. “Have you decided who you are bringing?”

“Yes… but I’m going to upset some people.”

“Sentiment can’t come into Lex…this is too important, you need to bring those who will be best suited. So who have you chosen?”

“Lucas, Alyssa, Sergi, Nikolas, yourself, Karl and Elena,” said Lex. “And Clark Kent.”

“Why Kent? And your mother is going to be pissed... not to mention Natasha, Gabe, Anna…” he trailed off with a grin.

“Well despite Clark’s reluctance to violence, his other powers will be of great use. He loves Chloe as well, and will want to help. Also most of Oliver’s staff will be demons so hurting them won’t affect his morals as much,” smirked Lex. “As for mom and the others… it hurts me to leave them behind, but as you said, I need to pick those best suited. And that means no humans… I know Gabe wants to help, but I wouldn’t be able to protect them when we get started. While mom would be an asset in a fight, I need her here with the others, disabling the spells and basically keeping an eye on all of us via the video-link. All I have to figure out is how to break the news to those who aren’t going.”

“Just tell them the truth Lex… they will see the reasoning behind your decisions, they won’t like it, but they will accept it,” said Lionel. “To lead, you need to make unpopular decisions.”

“I suppose I better start letting them know now what the decision is,” sighed Lex. “This is *not* going to be pleasant…”

“Good luck son, especially with your mother,” he added with a grin.

lj715

3rd July 2006, 18:50

First of all, I just want to say that I'll read this fic for however many chapters it ends up being. I'd love this story to go beyond Chloe getting rescued into her being turned a vampire & them , eventually having baby vampires but, I don't know if that's what you've planned. I guess what I'm saying is that I'd LOVE a sequel if you decided to do one.

Really like this update starting with Lex & Gabe telling him how much confidence he has that Lex will get her back. Great that Lynette is working to help Claudio & the Luthors get Chloe back. I still think she's Claudio's mate for some reason. I hope they can get Vincent to tell them some useful information.

Elena & Karl were getting hot but you ended it too soon. :grin3:

I like the team that Lex has put together to rescue Chloe. I think Lillian will be angry but, he has to pick the best people for the job. Think that Clark will be a great help.

Another excellent update, I was waiting all morning for it.(lol). Can't wait for next Monday ( as always).

letia84

3rd July 2006, 19:02

Since I'm the only person in the lab right now (lazy bastards) there is no one to read over my shoulder while I enjoy some Vamp Chlex.

Fiona please don’t tease us with a sequel. If you have ideas please, please write them. I will read and love it for sure. 200 Chapters? Now I have to count down to the end. I don't like this idea. I liked it better when I didn't know when this would be over. Like lj715 said I would love to read about Chloe becoming a Vamp and how her life will change b/c of it. I would really love to see the new Luthor family when Lex and Chloe have a child and how they train and raise him or her as a vampire. Whatever you write *if*you write it I will read!

Okay on with the update.

I love the Lex and Gabe talk. They both need to be reminded that this is not either for their faults. Put the blame where it should be and that’s with evil Oliver. GAH! I hate him.

They have a plan! They have a plan! I can't wait for them to "storm the castle" and bring Chloe home. Lucas was right Oliver’s head on a stick is what I'm looking for :devil: Sorry gotta tell my demon to calm down.

Wonderful update and I can't wait till Next Monday.

Lillian

3rd July 2006, 19:11

Great, great chapter.
A sequel? Of course I'll will want to know is the Chloe's life like a vampire... and maybe with children? It could be wonderful!!!

But the first is the first; When will be Chloe and Lex together again? I can't wait.

kimmie

3rd July 2006, 19:28

Oh I definitley love the idea of a sequel, i love vampire Chlex, I am so missing the chlex smut though now that Oliver has Chloe but I can't wait until Lex rescuses her and the get 'reacquainted'!

-K-

buckles squared

3rd July 2006, 19:38

Wonderful, as usual. But I am really missing Chloe and Lex interacting.

Thanks!

pipersmum

3rd July 2006, 21:06

You already know I would LOVE an sequel :) Wow you have decided on when to end it. Was it a hard decision ? Do you think you will manage it or will it go over? So many questions!! Like it said in field of dreams 'write it and they will read it!' :rofl: I know, I know I made that bit up!

You have such huge following Fiona I think we would be very disappointed if you didn't write a sequel so a big thumbs up from me :)

I am glad Lex and Gabe had a chat and also that the plan of action included Clark I really feel he will be able to help especially in protecting Chloe while they take out Oliver!!!

I can't wait for next weeks episode! I mean Chapter. LOL

~Diane~

Alizaleven

3rd July 2006, 23:34

I was already addicted to this fic since the beginning I started to read it.. and then I finished reading what you had then throughout the whole night... soo I'll definitely read until your ready for it to be finished. I'm sure that when you are officially finished with this fic I will be kinda sad :( Until then!! I shall enjoy all the new updates you have.. and it would be totally fine to have more then 200 chapters hehe

westwingwolf

4th July 2006, 02:34

Let me do some quick calculations. 200 hundred chapters means at least 36 more chapters to go. A chapter a week is 36 weeks, which is 9 months or 252 days if you think of it another way, so we can now compare this fic to pregnancy (which is strange and yet similar and I need to get off this topic) . I think I can stand the torture, because I know there's no way you'd make us wait til the very end to rescue Chloe. Because the rescue scene seems very close, and of course there is the smutty Chlexy reunion to look forward to (which I think needs to last at least 5-10 chapters, they have a lot of time to make up for), and all of the loose ends need tying up, so you couldn't possibly make us wait that long for the rescue :rules: .

Now as for a sequel well of course I want one, I'd even deal with a bit of angst if I knew everything would be okay. And maybe this one won't have as many chapters or at least make us wait til chapter 99 for the smut (I kid b/c I love).

Now for the actual review. I love Gabe, he is superdad to those who aren't even his. Way to get Lex out of his funk, he will need his focus to save Chloe. Poor Lex, he has to make all the tough decisions, but I'm glad that Gabe won't be going b/c I don't want anything bad to happen to him. Lionel's right Lillian is going to be pissed, but hopefully she'll understand. Ok still hoping for the safe return of all of those involved. I know logically that's not entirely possible, but we aren't dealing with logic, this a fic and it's fantasy, hence impossible situations occur. Okay I'm going to take that tranquilizer and try to remind myself that this is just fanfiction and I shouldn't let it control my life.

Great work as always, thanks for making Mondays better.

Gina41283

4th July 2006, 04:19

^_^ great update, lol things are finally getting on their way with the rescue mission!!!! ^_^ can't wait to see what happens next!!

lilinny

4th July 2006, 04:43

I was hoping for more steamy stuff from Karl and Elena. Oh well. Lex is taking charge at last. Fantastic chapter.

Lune

4th July 2006, 04:46

I would absoulutely LOVE a sequel to this... and if there is any possible way i could get an e-mail when it starts I'd be thrilled... I don't come to this site for anything other than this story really, so I won't know if you start one.

Poor Lex, I wouldn't want to tell Lillian either >.>

eternitychlex

4th July 2006, 05:18

I am loving it..........This story is simply magnificent, and I can not wait for more..............Please update soon....................and a sequel sounds awesome!!!!!!!!!!!! I know I will be reading it.............

planetcal

4th July 2006, 05:31

Great update!!!! I would love to read a sequel!!!!!!! I hope Lex's plan works to free Chloe soon!!! Can't wait to read more soon.

Btab12207

4th July 2006, 08:18

Would we want a sequel? If anyone says no, there just crazy. I LOVE this story and a sequel would be awesome! Great update. Can't wait for the next one.

Shy Butterfly

4th July 2006, 10:32

Amazing update. I just love this story soooooooo much. I would definitly want to read more about Chlex as vampires!!!!

uncfaery

4th July 2006, 19:09

I started to read this as soon as I got home from work yesterday, but to my utter embarrassment...I fell asleep! Do not take this as a statement on your writing, as I actually fell asleep, at the dinner table. After thirteen hours of sleep, I returned to my laptop (which still had this page up on the screen) and read. In retrospect, reading it today instead of yesterday was the best idea ever. Not only because today I have higher brain functionality but because it made my July 4th!

This was brillant as always. I wanted to hug Lex in that first part, but Gabe took care of it for me...in the typical alpha-male take care of emotions sort of way (you know, without the actual hugging). And the Karl and Elena interlude was a lovely, nice way to break the emotional tension going on without ruining it so completely that we would loose the flow when the story went back to the Lex/Chloe plotline. Expertly done...again.

Gaia

4th July 2006, 20:56

36 chapters to go then....:D

carebear72884

4th July 2006, 22:38

yay! almost rescure time, but if I know you Fi, you will drag it out long as possible, just to make all of us loving fans suffer! More soon!

teb85

5th July 2006, 12:28

I agree with the others a sequel sounds like a fantastic idea to me !
Great update as usual and can't wait for the next installment !

catseyes

7th July 2006, 17:30

hi i love your story i have just spent 4 days straight reading it and nothing else. hope you update soon, i think you are a great writer .lorraine

summer_enchanted

7th July 2006, 22:27

Great update. Thisis really getting good. This is one of my favourites on here right now. :)

whodunit??

8th July 2006, 12:42

Gabe gave him a pointed look. “Lex you may be several decades older than me, but I am still a parent, so I know when I’m being fobbed off. Remember one of, if not the most stubborn person in the world is my daughter. I have had every trick in the book used on me to try and convince me all was ok…”

Lex chuckled softly as he could easily imagine Chloe trying to talk her father into believing she was ok.

i'd just like to start off with this by saying that i absolutely adored the interaction between gabe and lex. it's so familial and comforting and so how i would picture a conversation between the two of them to play out. it was perfect.

secondly, you could make this fic 500 chapters and i would still sit here at my laptop and read it and review. this fic is absolutely amazing and you practically have me salivating at the thought of a sequel. i would LOVE a sequel!!!

so with that said, update soon cuz i'm really looking forward to the rescue mission

Heather

p.s. i love karl and elena they are soo cute together... and lynette and claudio are also awesome, i like that she's coming over to the good side i just hope oliver doesnt kill her during the battle, cuz that would suck.

Willower

8th July 2006, 22:48

finally, operation: rescue chloe is officially on.

SinnerSaint

9th July 2006, 00:28

I am so crossing my fingers that they can rescue Chloe soon. I am totally freaked out by Oliver. He is so disgusting and simply not Lex. Only Lex should be with Chloe.

angelines

10th July 2006, 06:27

can't wait for more

Queen Of Tact

10th July 2006, 15:38

yeah it's monday... The only good way to start off the week by reading an update...

Fi you know my birthday is on wed, and because i've been a good girl this year maybe you can tell me a few spoilers:beg:

*hugs*
CC

ruafair

10th July 2006, 18:24

Ok... the build up to Lex and Chloe being reunited gets seriously kicked off now.... How will it go? Will everyone be ok? How many chapters will it take?...... You'll have to wait and reead.... :devil: Fiona

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Sixty Five – A Chase Begins

After being *escorted* back to her room Chloe quickly changed out of the dress into another one of the many robes and nightgowns Oliver had got for her.

She paced back and forth in front of the door, chewing on her thumbnail.

After a few moments of pacing she opened the door and shut it again quickly when she saw her two guards stationed outside.

Looking around the room she dragged one of the chairs over and put it under the door handle. After securing it in place she stood back. Chloe knew quite well the chair wouldn’t hold Oliver or any other vampire for that matter, but somehow having it there made her feel a little better.

“Ok Chloe,” she muttered to herself as the pacing resumed. “You probably shouldn’t have antagonised him like that… But what’s done is done. You need to start thinking about damage control. Because you have to admit you haven’t been treated too badly here… And you so do not want him to hang you in the dungeon.”

She stopped her pacing and sighed deeply as she looked up at the ceiling.

“Oliver could be now still fuming and plotting to have me tortured,” she said. “And as usual you will have no one to blame but yourself. You and your big, don’t know when to stop, mouth.”

Sighing again she stalked over to the bed and flopped onto it. She turned onto her back and again returned her gaze to the ceiling.

Chloe figured things would be different now. She wasn’t quite sure *why* she thought this, but there had been a shift this evening. Ever since he had stopped the sedative being administered to her and her mind had cleared, Chloe noticed the Oliver seemed to be going out of his way to be nice to her. Up until the dinner she hadn’t seen him lose his temper. Well she did have a vague recollection of the night he stopped Etienne from raping her. But her mind had been still fuzzy and clear pictures of what had exactly happened that evening were not very forthcoming.

Other than that Oliver had been an almost perfect gentleman. Something Chloe found hard to swallow. She had seen him in demon form rip Dominic’s head from his shoulders. This Oliver shaped shell held an ancient demon according to Lionel, and being nice was not something it was known for.

Chloe knew he was attracted to her… she had seen the way he looked at her. She was a vampire’s mate, she could see and read all the signs. If he wasn’t a mass murdering demon and she wasn’t mated to an incredibly sexy vampire she’d be flattered. Chloe would, reluctantly of course, admit that Oliver was a handsome man.

That was another thing; there were times when she felt things. Not strong feelings, but at the odd time, if she had been in Oliver’s company for a while, she was left with weird feelings. She had, for the lack of any real concrete theory, put it down to some mild form of Stockholm syndrome.

He had shown his true self earlier, and Chloe knew things had changed. His carefully crafted façade had been shattered… And while Chloe slightly smug at being the one to bring it down, the rest of her worried about the fallout.

“I have to get out of here,” she murmured.

-------------------------------------------------

Chloe was partly right… Olivier was still fuming, but not planning her torture. Instead he was planning what he saw as her final submission. The drug would be used on her… and if by some twist of faith it didn’t work, then Oliver would unleash his demon on her and just take what he wanted. And what he wanted was Chloe Sullivan beneath him as he fucked her into oblivion.

A harried Philip entered the dining room.

“I want the drug administered… now,” announced Oliver.

“B-B-But… Now… The drug,” stammered Philip.

“Pull yourself together Philip, I thought you were an intelligent man,” snapped Oliver. He really was not in the mood for babbling humans this evening.

I don’t have all the ingredients; they won’t be here till the day after tomorrow. Also the chemist isn’t due to arrive till tomorrow morning… There isn’t a batch available.”

“What about the sample you had for running your tests? What happened to that?”

“There is barely any left,” replied Philip. “I doubt there’s enough for a full syringe.”

“Doesn’t need to be a full syringe. I just want her started on it.” Oliver strode over the dining room door and tore it open.

“You,” he barked at the man standing outside. “Go to the doctor’s lab and bring back the drug.” He turned to Philip. “Where is it?”

“I…It’s on my desk, in a small blue vial,” replied the doctor, his voice shaking. “The syringes are in a container beside the microscope.”

“You heard the good doctor,” said Oliver. “Off you go.”

“Sir,” said the man and ran off.

“This is not a good idea Oliver,” said Philip. “I haven’t even finished my tests… there is still…”

He never finished his sentence as Oliver moved and slammed him against the wall. “I don’t give a fuck what you think. I am sick and tired of you doctor. You have been nothing but a failure since I employed you. The hallucinogenic drug wasn’t worth shit and has been discontinued. I thought this latest venture would be your salvation but no… you are still whining and moaning. Idiots like you have turned my carefully constructed plan awry. Not only do I have you to put up with your incompetence but also I have to listen to you question almost all my orders. This will not do,” he finished by slamming Philip’s face against the wall, smashing his nose.

Philip cried out and clutched his nose, blood spurting all over his hands.

The scent of blood and fear coming from the man enflamed Oliver’s anger, and he allowed his demon out. Philip raised his head and his eyes widened as he saw Oliver.

He held one hand up, blood dripping frm his fingers. “Oliver…what…what’s going on?”

There was a knock on the door and it opened almost immediately to reveal the man Oliver had sent to the lab. “Sir, I brought you,” he trailed off holding out the vial and a syringe.

“Thank you,” growled Oliver, taking them. “You may go.” He placed them on the table. The man quickly glanced between the demon and the bloodied doctor then quickly closed the door.

Philip stared at the closed door, the feeling of dread rising in him.

“Where is it to be administered?” said Oliver, leaning his massive frame against the table. He unfurled his wings the tips of each hitting the walls on either side of the room.

“T-The base of the skull, about here,” whispered Philip, indicating the area at the back of his own head. “Also she must be conscious when you do this.’

“Then what happens?”

“If it is successful, she will fall into a trance like state… It is during this phase that you can ‘program’ her.”

“How long will this state last?” Oliver picked up the vial and looked at it.

“Probably about 10 to 15 minutes with the dose you have there. She will… she will then fall unconscious, that could last from an hour to a few hours.”

“And when she wakes, she should be a little more accommodating to my advances,” grinned Oliver, laying the vial back down onto the table.

“Yes, she should,” mumbled Philip.

He took a deep breath, grimaced at the throbbing pain in his nose and began speaking again. “But you must be made aware Oliver of the dangers.”

The demon growled as he stood up, but Philip was not to be deterred. “If she suffers an allergic reaction to it, it could send her into a coma, cause brain damager, or possibly *kill* her. Even if she does accept the drug into her system, there is still no guarantee that it will work like it should. This drug is highly dangerous and illegal for a reason. As I told you before all test subjects died… The very same could happen to her.”

“While your concern for Chloe is admirable,” grinned Oliver, moving closer. “You just let me worry about what may or may not happen to her. Anyway Philip you should know that I won’t let her die. If the drug has, adverse effects on her I will just turn her. I was always going to make her a vampire, the drug may force my hand and make me do it earlier than originally planned.”

The doctor barely repressed a shudder at the nonchalant way Oliver dismissed the idea of the young girl dying and him turning her.

‘No one to blame but you,’ he thought. ‘You helped drag the young girl into the mess. And to top it all off you were the one who mentioned this drug in the first place… To save your own ass I believe.’

Philip shook his head causing his nose to throb again. “Any…Any word from Lynette?” he asked in a blatant attempt to move the conversation away from Chloe and in turn himself.

“That is not your concern,” answered Oliver, although the question struck a note with him. He hadn’t heard from Vincent, and he should have met with Lynette well before now. Pushing that aside Oliver made a mental note to make contact with Vincent later.

His fixed his red eyes on Philip and noticed the doctor wasn’t as scared as he had been earlier. His little speech seemed to have instilled some confidence in him. ‘We can’t have that,’ he thought.

He turned away from the good doctor and took the vial and syringe from the table. Philip watched intently as Oliver put both items into a drawer.

Oliver felt the doctor’s eyes on him and when he turned to face him again a sly smile was on his face. “We wouldn’t them, especially the vial getting broken now would we?”

“No-no no not at all,” replied Philip, his tone one of confusion.

“I always find things get broken when I’m throwing bodies around the place,” continued Oliver, stalking towards Philip.

“Ok…” said Philip, feeling the fear rising in him again. Everything within him was screaming ‘danger’ ‘run’. He glanced at the door, even though deep down he knew there was no chance he could outrun Oliver.

“Do you know doctor how long it takes to break every single bone in a human male?” asked Oliver conversationally. “Oh but of course you do,” he said without giving Philip time to answer, “you are a *doctor* of course.”

Philip swallowed hard as his heart thumped in his chest. He could feel the sweat bead on his forehead and he could hear the blood rushing in his ears.

“And another thing you would know is that it is possible to break all those bones without spilling a drop of blood,” smirked Oliver standing in front of him.

He was going to die. And the realisation didn’t scare as much as he thought it would. He knew throwing his lot in with a demon like this was going to result in his death.

“But what you, as a human, wouldn’t know is that draining the blood from a body with every bone broken is quite stimulating. Now Philip, let’s see how long it takes before you fall unconscious with the pain.”

-------------------------------------------------

Chloe had the strongest feeling that she needed to get out… NOW. A shiver of fear ran down her spine. Something bad was happening, and something even worse was about to start.

Since her return to her room she had scored the entire place for anything that might help her. And her salvation had come in the shape of a trapdoor in her closet. It would be a tight squeeze but Chloe felt she could get through it.

All the clothes that used to be held in the walk-in closet now lay in a pile of the floor. Chloe was currently dragging a small table over to the wardrobe when she espied a pair of pyjamas in the clothes pile.

“Hello, never saw you before… And pants would be better.” Leaving the table she quickly changed into the red silk pyjamas. “Yes, much better,” she murmured as she returned to dragging the table.

When she reached the closet she pushed the table into it as far as it would go. Breathing hard as adrenaline began pumping through her views Chloe began dragging the furniture she could move over to the min door. She had already jammed a chair under the handle, but began piling more chairs etc in front if it. She knew any vampire could burst through it, but having the obstacles in front of it may give her a few more precious minutes.

“It will have to do,” she mumbled. Brushing her hair from her face she turned back to the closet and climbed up onto the table. She just about reached the trapdoor and placing her palms on it she gently pushed up.

“Thank god,” she gasped as it moved. She pushed harder and it lifted up. She manoeuvred it to the side and standing on her tip toes peered into the space. It wasn’t that dark inside and seemed to be a ventilation shaft or something like that.

Chloe pushed herself further up on her toes and locked her elbows. Her arms lay either side of the opening. Taking a deep breath and lowering her feet and then used them to push herself up. Using the momentum she dug her elbows in and lifted herself up. Her legs dangled as she squirmed.

“Fuck it, not going to work,” she gasped. She moved her hands looking for something to grab onto. Crying out when they hits something hot, Chloe saw what looked like water pipes. “I have an idea…” After a few moments of wriggling she once again stood on the table. She jumped down and grabbed one of the robes from the floor. Ripping it, she bound a couple of strips around each hand and resumed her position on the table.

“Right, attempt two,” she said, her voice cracking slightly. That feeling of dread was increasing. It was like time was running out for her.

Once again she manoeuvred herself and this time she grabbed the pipes with both hands. Yes they were hot, and she knew the silk around her hands wouldn’t protect for too long. Again she huffed, squirmed and with a great effort pulled herself up. She lay on the ground panting hard.

“Come on Chloe, get up… you need to move,” she told herself. She took a look at where she was. There wasn’t enough room for her to stand but she would be able to crawl easily enough. She grabbed the cover and placed it back over the trap door, sealing it shut again.

“Onward…” and she began crawling.

-------------------------------------------------

After finishing with Philip, Oliver, still in demon form, strode though the mansion. Behind him trailed Mario, carrying the vial and the syringe.

As he drew closer to Chloe’s room he stopped and looked up at the ceiling.

“Sir?” said Mario.

Oliver chuckled slightly and began walking again. The two guards where not directly outside her room but rather they sat in a room opposite, playing cards. They jumped up when they saw him.

“Anything?” asked Oliver.

“No sir,” said Tony. “She moved around a bit and was mumbling to herself for a while. But it has been quiet for the last ten minutes or so.”

Oliver walked to the door and opened it. IT didn’t open immediately and pushed harder against it. “What are you up too my dear,” he murmured and pulled the door of it’s hinges. Tables, chairs, and a lamp greeted him.

“We have been a busy little bee.” Oliver easily pushed the furniture out of the way, entering the room. He saw the clothes on the floor and the table in the open closet.

“Sir, where is she? She didn’t come past us I swear it,” a nervous Tony said behind him.

“And so the chase it on,” grinned Oliver, ignoring Tony. “Clever girl.”

He pushed past the others and stood in the hallway. “Tony, make sure everyone stays in their rooms, I want no one in the corridors.”

“Of course sir,” he replied, confusion colouring his voice.

Oliver ran down the corridor and through the window at the end, his wings unfurling as he hit the sky. He flew around, “I’m coming to get you my dear Chloe,” he called out.

-------------------------------------------------

Chloe stopped as she heard her name. “Oh fuck,” she cried and began crawling faster.

lj715

10th July 2006, 18:37

ACK!!! Omg, keep going Chloe! I hope she can stay one step ahead of Oliver. Was worried when she mentioned the " Stockhom Syndrome" but, I'm glad she realizes what Oliver's true nature is . How am I gonna stand this until next Monday? Great chapter, I'm in for the long run here.

teb85

10th July 2006, 20:22

I have no idea how I am going to cope waiting until next week for an update!! That was fantastic, I hope Lex and the gang arrive before Oliver catches up with Chloe because I really am not liking the idea of that drug being given !!!

biscuits

10th July 2006, 20:30

That torture scene with Oliver and the doctor-creepy AND creative. I feel really bad for and worried about Chloe although I'm very glad that she has at least a temporary reprieve in the form of a conveniently placed and discovered trap door. I always wanted a secret door in my closet-trapdoor, hidden panel, etc. I spose it was from reading The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe too often.

Sorry about that, back on task. I get the feeling, partially from Lex's blackout a chapter or so back and Altair's cryptic ramblings that Chloe and Lex are a really big deal in the mythical sense. Like them being together is essential for the general good of vampire-kind. Or that they're gonna have a baby that's like 'the key' or 'the sign' or just really smart. Could I be reading too much into things? Yes, quite possibly, but I'm gonna do it anyway.

I have several theories about what's going to happen to Chloe, especially if Oliver gives her the drug, but won't write them here in case I'm right. Wouldn't want to spoil the surprise:D

pipersmum

10th July 2006, 20:47

OMG!!! That was a great chapter I loved it and you ended it just as it was getting to the good part! I am going to find it hard to wait til Monday! What am I talking about I always find it hard waiting til Monday. :rofl:

westwingwolf

10th July 2006, 21:02

Oh Thank God! Chloe found a way out! Please keep her away from Oliver for at least a while so Lex has time to get there. I don't want Oliver to get the chance to give her the drug, since I don't see that ending well. I definitely don't want him to be the one to turn her, since that implys loyalty. I also like seeing that Chloe is doing something to get herself out of this and she's not being the helpless victim.

You are killing me Fiona, the wait on the reunion is going to drive me insane, and probably a few others too. Mental institutions are filled to the brim because of you.

ldydee81

10th July 2006, 22:36

oh my god, this is so great. the chase is on :) please hurry and update again soon :)

maire78

10th July 2006, 22:53

I'm seriously hoping Chloe can stay hidden long enough for the rescue mission to kick in. Great installment as always.... Will be waiting anxiously for the next update.

kimmie

11th July 2006, 00:26

Oh my god is Oliver gonna turn Chloe into a vampire?

I bet that's what will happen, the drug will have an adverse affect so he'll turn her.

How will this affect her relationship with Lex. Oh please don't let that happen!

But if the drugs work does that mean that Chloe will respond to Oliver's advances, oh I don't want that to happen either. Please, please, please let the Chlex reunion happen really, really, really soon!

Brilliant update as usual Fiona and i'm already really looking forward to the next chapter!

-K-

Alizaleven

11th July 2006, 00:57

Oh my gosh! He's gonna give her that drug?! I hope it doesnt work! I hope she doesnt get brain damage or die or even worse..succumb to him and his evilness eww that would be wrong and gross!

Wonderful Update! I'm looking forward to more :)

Kit Merlot

11th July 2006, 02:53

Fi, wonderful update!

So, Chloe realizes that she is attracted to Oliver, but she's passing it off as Stolkholm Syndrome. Interesting. Good for her for trying to escape, but I don't think she will get very far.

Now Oliver is going to give Chloe that horrible drug which will either kill her, give her brain damage or make her fall in love with Oliver. And it does seem as though Oliver wants her to willingly have sex with him.

What is going to happen? I'm almost afraid to know.

lilinny

11th July 2006, 04:05

I was actually cheering for Chloe!!!! She needs to get out fast. Where's Lex? I'm on pins and needles!!!!! I can't wait for the next installment.

Gina41283

11th July 2006, 05:34

lol omg run chloe run!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ^_^ awsome chapter!!! that doctor got what he deserved!!!!!!!!

planetcal

11th July 2006, 06:10

Oh please let Chloe stay hidden so Lex can find and rescue her!!! I can't wait for next monday to come. Great update.

Gaia

11th July 2006, 15:20

Chloe has to be safe....and really fast. And where is Lex and the Scooby Gang?

Shy Butterfly

11th July 2006, 16:36

Oh I hope that Chloe is rescued soon and that she can stay hidden that long!

This fic is just amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!

eternitychlex

11th July 2006, 16:51

I hope nothing bad happens to Chloe................I can not wait to see what happens next.............Hopefully Oliver is not able to find her, and if he does, I hope he doesn't hurt her................Please update soon..........I can not wait for the Chlex again.......

katieandjason

11th July 2006, 18:32

Smart girl! I just hope it's not too little too late. I was worried Oliver would go directly to the video and review the last ten minutes, which would give Chloe no time whatsoever to crawl out and hide. Fortunately the big idiot loves to feel omnipotent, and hunting Chloe appealed to his balls sack more than doing the smart thing. Lex, hurry your fine ass up.

Fiona, you ARE a sneaky devil. You are ENJOYING our cries for Mondays, and purposefully tease us in your authors notes. I've got a new name for you, my darling, and it sounds a lot like Moliver.

Lillian

16th July 2006, 00:59

I hope Lex finds Chloe before Oliver does. And I hope she is fine.
I can't wait for the Monday. At least today is Sunday, only one day more.

ruafair

17th July 2006, 18:41

Things are heating up towards the reunion.....
Also, and this is off topic, a lot of people have been asking me about the beginning of the Reluctant Queen.. if anyone wants the story, and don't mind receiving it as a word attachment, send me an email with your addess and I'll send it to you.
Now back to Sanguis....will everyone be ok?!?!?!? Fiona :devil:

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Sixty Six – Chloe’s Battle

Lex’s body was thrumming with adrenalin. The plans had been finalised, and in about two hours time they would be leaving for Scotland. And Chloe… Karl and Elena had called from the outskirts of the property where she was being held. They hadn’t gone close, but had been able to see a number of guards. Plus Karl said you could practically feel the magic emanating from it.

A jet was on standby… and no ordinary jet, but one Lionel had *procured* from the army. Only this one had been modified to accommodate a larger number of people but while still travelling at the same speed.

Despite his eagerness at setting off, there was a part of Lex that regretted having to tell his mother she was to remain. To say Lillian was unimpressed was an understatement… she was livid. She ranted and raved, Lex had never seen her so angry… he explained why she had to stay behind… Her anger then dissipated and was replaced by sadness, and that hurt him more.

But his father was right; to lead you had to make unpopular decisions. Besides he was comforted by the fact the Natasha was not even speaking to Sergi and hadn’t been since he told her she wasn’t going either.

All in all there was an air around the castle… equal parts tension, nerves and anticipation.

------

Clark had spent the best part of the day with his parents. School was closed and he was telling them of the trip to Europe the Luthors had offered to take him on. He was going as Chloe’s guest…

Martha was thrilled for him… Jonathan was a little more concerned.

Clark hated having to lie to his parents but he thought telling them: ‘we’re off to take on an ancient demon to rescue Chloe, who by the way is mated to Lex, who is a master vampire,’ wouldn’t go down very well.

In addition to hating having to lie, he was getting unnervingly better at it. He had spun the same story to Pete and Lana who replied with good-natured jealous excitement and downright venom respectively.

Now he stood in the room given to him by the Luthors at the castle. He was looking out into the distance. He was nervous… very nervous. Despite everything he had seen in Smallville, this didn’t compare. This was evil… and on grand scale. This guy, this Oliver could take over the world if he wasn’t stopped, and that was a sobering thought.

“Having second thoughts?” a voice sounded behind him.

Clark spun around to see Lionel standing there. He turned again to the window and then back to Lionel.

“Sorry,” he said sheepishly, “I forgot about the reflection thing. Second thoughts? More like ninth and tenth thoughts.”

“This *is* my battle so I can’t walk away,” replied Clark. “Chloe is my best friend. Not only that, but this guy has to be stopped for the greater good. His threat is enormous. I’d never forgive myself if I didn’t help.”

“I can’t walk away,” replied Clark. “It’s Chloe. And not only that, this guy has to be stopped. In the bigger picture his threat is enormous. I’d never forgive myself if I didn’t help.”

“Lucas said you weren’t very comfortable with their methods in Metropolis.”

“I wasn’t and I still have difficulty with them. I help people Mr Luthor, and I try to do so by causing a minimal amount of hurt… Even to those who are the ‘bad guys.’”

“And that is very noble of you Clark,” smiled Lionel. “But sometimes unsavoury measures are needed.”

“I know… and I know that we are dealing with are demons who wouldn’t think twice about hurting anyone. But I will do what I have to do to save Chloe.”

“Even if it leaves a bitter taste in your mouth,” teased Lionel.

“Especially if it leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.”

“You will be fine Clark,” he said. “Get some rest, we leave soon.

-------------------------------------------------

“Oh god, oh god, oh god,” panted Chloe as she crawled faster and faster through the tunnels. “I swear I’ll be good… I’ll never say anything bad about Lana Lang. I’ll even be nice to her. Just let me get out of this… please.”

She had been moving through the crevices and hidden tunnels in the house for what seemed like hours. Her hands and knees were bruised and scratched, and her body ached. Also she could feel her energy starting to wane.

She paused as she heard a shriek, followed by the sound of wings flapping. And this time it sounded much closer than before. She remained still, holding her breath. The speed of the flapping wings increased and grew even closer. Chloe willed herself not to move.

She let out a breath of relief when there was another shriek and the sound of the wings grew faint. “Close call,” she muttered.

------

Oliver screeched louder as he circled over the mansion. Those damned wards and spells he had all over the place where blocking Chloe from him. He could faintly make out her heartbeat, and he knew she was crawling in the various tunnels and ventilation shafts. But thanks to his plan to shield them from any outside magical forces he had made finding her take a little longer.

‘Not to matter,’ he thought. ‘I will at least build up a hunger… a hunger that she can help sate when I get her.’

Flying higher and higher he looked down on the mansion. Concentrating he tried to make out Chloe’s body heat or heartbeat…anything to give an indication to where she may be.

Growling he swooped down and moved around the back.

-------------------------------------------------

The moment they had caught sight of the demon in the air, Karl and Elena pulled away. They drove far from the property and settled in a small farmhouse they had procured.

“Wonder what has him so fired up,” said Elena as Karl turned off the engine.

“Not sure I want to find out,” replied Karl.

“Poor Chloe. Stuck with that monster all this time. Not knowing what was going on. Oh Karl we have to get her out.” The pair made their way into the farmhouse.

“And we will sweetheart. There is no way Lex is going to rest until she is back.”

“I know,” sighed Elena. “But…”

The rest of her sentence was cut off as Karl’s cell-phone rang.

“Hello,” he answered. The person on the other end spoke. “You are not serious,” said Karl after a moment. “I don’t fucking believe it. This is not good…”

“What is not good? Karl, what is it,” Elena’s voice held a note of panic.

Karl held up his hand for her to be silent. Elena paced up and down in front of him… chewing on her thumbnail. The look on his face did nothing to ease her fears. Whatever was happening it was not good.

Karl hung up the phone and swore.

“Please Elena, not now,” he said when she was about to speak. “I need to speak to the Luthors. Let me call Lionel and then I’ll tell you everything.”

Elena nodded and resumed her pacing as Karl dialled Lionel’s number.

-------------------------------------------------

Lionel slammed his phone onto the table. He looked around to see Sergi looking at him. They were in one of the cabins on the plane; everyone else was in the main body.

“That was Karl,” Lionel explained. “Things have taken a very serious turn.”

“What? What is it?”

“Make sure the door is locked,” Lionel whispered softly in ancient Egyptian. “And speak the old language I don’t want the others to hear this.”

-------------------------------------------------

Tony breathed a sigh of relief as he hung up the phone. If Oliver knew he was telling *secrets* to the Luthors, well he didn’t want to think what the other demon would do. But at the moment, luckily for Tony, Oliver was focussed on capturing Chloe.

“Poor girl… I hope Karl and others get here soon. Because if he gets her, and injects her, then they will be too late.”

He looked around, his demon whispering to him. “I can’t,” he murmured.

‘You have to,’ his demon hissed.

Shaking his head Tony ran through the house.

-------------------------------------------------

The tunnel had come to an end and Chloe found she could stand up. She stretched her back and bit back a cry as pain shot through her spine. Her arms and legs throbbed and all she wanted to do was sleep.

In front of her was a small ladder, leading up to another small trap door.

“Getting higher is not a good idea,” she muttered. “Big flying demon outside. But the only other thing is to go back the way I came and head to my room. Where no doubt there are *friends* of Oliver’s waiting for me.”

Sighing she climbed the ladder and pushed on the trap door. It opened easily enough to reveal, well an attic of sorts. She climbed up the rest of the way and through the door. The only light in the room was that of the moon through the few small windows scattered around.

“Creepy,” she whispered.

Moving slowly as not to make any noise Chloe made her way deeper into the room. Through the light cast by the moon she could see there were boxes, both wooden and cardboard dotted around the room. The room had that musty smell of neglect, and cobwebs hung from the ceiling and the items of furniture stacked against one wall.

She backed closer to the wall, avoiding the window. Then another shriek sounded in the night. Chloe dropped to the ground, pushing herself further again the wall into the darkness.

‘Don’t move… barely breath,’ she told herself.

------

A faint heartbeat caught Oliver’s attention and he flew over the roof of the mansion. He hovered in the air as he looked down.

“Come out my dear… you are only delaying the inevitable,” he called out.

He circled around twice before landing on the roof.

------

Slapping a hand over her mouth Chloe bit back the scream as she heard the noise coming from the roof. She could hear Oliver calling her name in a teasing voice. He was walking across the roof… Chloe could follow the noise of his feet.

“Are you over here?” he called out and Chloe jumped as a crash sounded.

‘Please,’ she thought, tears filling her eyes.

She crawled across the floor, looking for something that could be used as a weapon. There were more crashes, as Oliver seemed intent on destroying the roof. A particularly violent crash sent a number of cardboard boxes to the floor, some of them hitting Chloe. She bit her lip hard to not cry out. One box broke open before her and a number of daggers fell out. Grabbing a few Chloe crawled into another corner.

She put one of the daggers down the back of her pants, the handle sticking out so she could grab it easily. Placing one knee and foot on the ground Chloe clutched a dagger in each hand and readied herself. She knew she had no chance of defeating him but she’d be damned if she wasn’t going to put up a fight.

“Or are you in HERE,” Oliver called out and came crashing through the roof of the attic.

-------------------------------------------------

It took Sergi, Lucas and Clark to hold Lex back when Lionel told him what Karl had found out. Lex was all set for jumping out of the plane. They were literally minutes from landing. And from there they would be travelling on foot to the grounds. *That* should only take them about ten minutes.

Lionel thought about knocking his son out, but discarded it. Chloe would need his anger.

Lex slumped to the floor, Clark and Sergi letting go of him. Lucas followed his brother to the ground and continued to hold him, but this time in comfort.

“Landing in five minutes,” the pilot’s voice came over the intercom.

‘Lillian, begin NOW,’ Lionel’s mind called out to his mate.

-------------------------------------------------

Chloe could feel her heart thumping in her chest. The debris continued to fall from where Oliver had crashed through the ceiling. She could hear him throwing obstacles out of his way.

Then, there he was, standing in the light of the window, his red eyes glowing.

“I can smell your fear Chloe,” he said. “Come out now and let’s get this over with. You will have a much better outlook on life and me when this is over. Let us finish this game of hide and seek, you’ve had your fun.”

Chloe didn’t budge, just tensed her body even more.

Oliver growled.

‘Lex, dad, I love you both,’ thought Chloe as Oliver drew closer.

“There you are,” he cried and Chloe screamed as one clawed hand came towards her. She lashed out with the daggers catching him across the palm.

“Bitch,” he hissed as the sting. “And a silly girl, you can not destroy me.”

Chloe sprang forward and sank one of the daggers into his foot. Leaving it in there as Oliver howled Chloe ran for the door Oliver had pulled from its hinges. She ran into a corridor and down it to a flight of stairs.

Oliver pulled the dagger from his foot and threw it to the ground. He jumped through the window and flew down.

Nearly stumbling on occasion Chloe continued running down the stairs.

“Gotcha,” said Oliver, crashing through a wall.

“Bastard,” cried Chloe and slammed the dagger into his shoulder. She jumped over the banister, landing awkwardly. But ignoring the discomfort she continued to run.

Oliver shook his head and flew down the stairs, catching Chloe. He grabbed her around the waist and flew up. She struggled in his arms, trying to reach her final dagger.

Oliver flew though the roof again and into the night air.

“If you continue to squirm I will drop you,” he teased. But Chloe refused to stay still.

Oliver landed at the front door and dragged Chloe through it and into the dining room.

He threw her onto the floor and removing the dagger from his shoulder morphed back into his human form.

“Quite the little fighter,” he said with a smile. “I do so like that in a partner.”

Chloe struggled to her feet, placing one had on the table to steady herself. Unseen by Oliver she had the last dagger in her hand and hidden up the tattered sleeve of her pyjama top. “Fuck. You,” she hissed.

“Oh you will Chloe,” he grinned.

He moved to the set of drawers and taking out the vial and syringe he quickly filled it. Throwing the vial to the ground he moved towards Chloe.

Chloe’s eyes moved from Oliver top the syringe and then back to Oliver.

“This will make you more compliant to my wishes. Soon you will forget all about the Luthors and your mind and body will be focussed only on me.”

“I don’t fucking think so,” spat Chloe. “I’ll die before I let you touch me.”

“No, no dying my dear… Instead you will be begging for me to touch you.” He lunged at her, catching her easily.

“No… not this… No,” cried Chloe.

“Hush my dear, it will be over soon. He placed a hand around her neck and held her against the table. Although inwardly panicking Chloe willed her body to relax. She became a dead weight in his arms and Oliver released her to grab a tighter hold.

Taking the moment Chloe took the dagger and slammed it into Oliver’s face catching him in the eye.

He screamed in pain and stumbled back.

Chloe ran to the door, pulling it open. She could see the front door and made her dash for it. Two of Oliver’s minions appeared and began chasing her.

“No, so close,” she cried.

“GET HER,” screamed Oliver, the dagger still protruding from his eye.

Of one them grabbed her arm, but managed only to pull the sleeve off her top. Chloe ran out the doors.

“Imbecile,” said Oliver Taking the dagger from his eye and slamming it into the minion’s neck.

His eye throbbing Oliver changed into his demon form and took off after Chloe as she ran down the driveway.

Chloe could hear the wings behind her but willed her legs on.

“OOOF,” she grunted as she was pushed face first onto the ground the gravel digging into her.

“I have had enough of this,” hissed Oliver, ripping the top from her. Roughly pushing her hair out of the way he placed the syringe against the base of her skull.

“No, stop, NO,” she squirmed, but it was futile.

“LEX,” she screamed as the needle pierced her skin and Oliver pressed down on the plunger.